Populate [GA] Broken Retreat — GA Populate of Aldhani

[Ran Serys]

Broken Retreat: Obj. III - Licking Wounds​

Tags: Roman Vossari

Ran simply nodded. She understood. "No one ever does imagine it this way, until they see it for themselves." Ran explained as she felt his resolve grow in the force.

"You are a courageous, and selfless young man, Roman." He inspired her in the moment. Many of the younger Jedi did. "I applaud you for your choices. To know yourself, and to know when you are ready for the things the galaxy sends our way, is a good quality. Great, even." She complimented. Her smile was warm. "And I thank you for extending your ear. I do. I really do." Ran said hurriedly before her expression turned. "But I'm not ready to be heard," She grimaced.

She was in pain, not physical but emotional. Seeing friends killed under one's care seemed to do that. No matter how hard their undertaking was, there would always be pain. But staring at the young Jedi reminded her of the others who depended on her for strength. Ran knew she couldn't hold the pain in. It would cripple her.

"At least, not here." She continued, shaking her head as if she were about to do something she didn't want to.

"This way." She said motioning to follow. She took a path out of the medical bay as most of their patients seemed to stabilize. She hit the hall but did not stop walking. She continued marching. Their destination, a mystery to Roman but not to her. "I couldn't talk in there," She explained. "Too painful for wounded ears." She referenced their patients. Some were fragile, and would need to fight to live. They needed hope. Not a sob story.

Ran planted herself onto the floor of the catwalk that overlooked the hangar bay. She rested her body and forehead on the guard rails as her legs dangled over the edge, and then invited Roman to sit next to her. The catwalk was quiet, even if the hangar below was noisy. Ships were being repaired and refueled after close escapes over Sluis Van.

"Roman, I'm hurt and I'm sad, not just because I lost friends, or because I failed to stop the Sith Emperor's ritual. I feel this way because I've lost myself. I was proud. I was arrogant. I made mistakes and it cost lives. Even now as I am explaining this to you, I am doing it selfishly. Trying to make myself feel better, trying to find the words that'll allow me to push forward and justify my self absorption." She paused. A faraway stare held on her face. "I've become attached to an idea of who I think I am, of what I believe I am capable of, and I am wrong for becoming so." She took a deep breath in an effort to calm herself. "I'm sorry if what I've shared feels disjointed. I just… I think what I'm trying to say is I don't feel very much like a Jedi right now, and I want to. I want to serve selflessly. I want to do my duty and protect those who cannot protect themselves. I want to do that without ego, at least I think I do." She finished.

"Do you see a Jedi before you? What do you think a Jedi is, Roman?" Ran asked the padawan as she stared out the hangar bay viewport at the lines of hyperspace.

 

[Roman Vossari]

​

Roman walked quietly behind Knight Serys, grappling with a whirlwind of emotions that threatened to spill over at every turn. He was painfully aware of the weight in the air, a tension that hummed like a lightsaber poised for ignition. Each step she took was filled with purpose, yet he could sense the turmoil that clawed at her insides. The way she held herself, the slight tremor in her posture--she was trying to project strength, but he could see the cracks that ran deep beneath her exterior.

Roman took a moment to gather his thoughts as they exited the medical bay. Sensing her emotional pain was unlike anything he had encountered before; it wrapped around him like a thick fog, pressing heavy against his heart.

When she finally stopped at the catwalk overlooking the hangar bay, he followed her lead, descending to the floor beside her. The noise below--the roar of engines, the chatter of crew--seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them suspended in that space, framed against the backdrop of war.

Roman sat with his hands clasped together, absorbing her words as they poured out, each one laced with sadness and a struggle for clarity. Despite the chaos around them, he felt a strange serenity in being there, just listening, a silent witness to her vulnerability. He gazed at her profile, the furrow of her brow and the way her forehead rested against the cool metal railing.

"I'm hurt and sad." she had said, and in her admission, Roman felt a wave of empathy wash over him. He hadn't known much loss in his life, not like this. Yet, the idea she had watched comrades fall, felt the loss settle of friends, broke a piece in his heart. But the fact that she was sharing this with him--opening up about her own loss--felt like a privilege, even in her darkest moment.

He mulled over the question, realizing that she was searching for an answer more than he could muster. "A Jedi is… someone who serves others," he began, his voice quiet. "Someone who protects those who can't protect themselves. Someone brave. But also..." He hesitated, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on him. "Someone who feels. Who faces pain and still chooses to move forward, even when it's hard. Even when it hurts."

Roman turned to face her, trying to offer reassurance in his gaze. "You're a Jedi, Knight Serys. Just standing here, admitting your hurt… that takes courage. It's okay to feel lost. I think it's part of being a Jedi too. If you didn't care, you wouldn't feel this way." He hesitated, unsure if his words were reaching her, but he pressed on.

Roman felt powerless to erase the pain she carried, but he realized he could be there--physically present, emotionally open. "You're not alone. I'm with you." he said finally, his voice earnest, hoping it conveyed the depth of his support.

With that, he settled into silence beside her, letting the hum of the hangar envelop them both.

​

Tag: Ran Serys

 

[Judah Lesan]

Tag: Cambria Zadira | Connel Vanagor

There was a light and a song within it. Judah could hear the words his wife had often said to him. He was going to be okay. He just needed to focus on the light. She was his light. How he wished she were here, alive, able to hold him, but she couldn’t. Judah had always portrayed himself as the strong one, however Katara knew different. His strength had always come from the private moments when he could rely on her, lean on her.

Judah did not have that anymore. Yes, he had those he was close to, and there were times when he shared significant moments with another, but when he went home, Judah was often alone. His bed was cold, but that was not why he felt alone. His path was one which often led to a lonely place. Shadows were meant to be hidden, and often it followed him wherever he went.

Why had he not waited for Cambria Zadira ? She would have tried to stop him, maybe. There were moments when he needed someone to tell him he was being reckless, but other times he needed people to let him do what he thought was best. The Jedi was a stubborn creature, and it had landed him in the Bacta tank. Should he have even gone to Echnos? According to Srina Talon , the answer was no. She would have him convinced he had been lied to.

What did Cambria want him to believe? That he should have not gone as well, or at least waited for her to go with him?

His eyes fluttered open as machines started to beep. Judah was active, but his eyes were still closed. They were still focused on Red. She was running from him, and as much as he tried, Judah could not catch her. Her laughter filled his heart, but all the while she remained just out of reach. It was both frustrating and fantastic. He was whole, or would be the moment he held her in his arms again.

She ran into the light, and Judah followed her.

His eyes opened and where he hoped to see her, Judah saw his friend and partner, Cambria Zadira.

His mind reached to hers. Maybe it was a mistake to let his feelings for the woman out from the fortress they were held prisoner in. They knew. They both knew. It was something the two agreed not to talk about, but death was funny. It made people say and do things they would not otherwise.

// “Bri… I…” //

Judah stopped himself. Though it was too late.

// “I’m sorry I didn’t wait.” //

 

[Connel Vanagor]

​

​

"In my experience,
when you think you
understand the Force,
you realize just
how little you know"​

[COMM TRAFFIC]

LOCATION : Celestial City Sickbay | OBJECTIVE : Rest/Heal |TAG (FRIENDLY) : Judah Lesan , Cambria Zadira

​

Yeah, I found him in rubble. Him and those two soldiers over there. I managed to get them to a ship. I wanted to go back for more, see who else I could find but everything was so chaotic… He shook his head and sucked on his gum line as the thought of what happened just made him sick to his stomach.

It’s nice to meet you… I’m Vanagor… heh… the younger one, Connel… He’s basically had a planet and the Force itself run through him... He observed, looking up at the floating Master. … but I think he’s got some fight left in him. Connel was himself exhausted, having been told several times by several personnel to get some rest, but he was not going anywhere. There were too many here that could use a presence to help them through, and Judah was one of them. Almost on cue… he spoke…

With a deep sigh, he quipped… Speak of the Nexu…

 

[Silas Westgard]

Location: Aldhani
Objective: Save the pilots
Tag: Avery Vaaki

Upon slicing the blaster of a sith soldier and kicking them off the building, the knight wasted no time in jumping down to the two pilots to help defend them. Without hesitation, he ran at the first enemy with frightening speed to stab his lightsaber straight into the man's chest, before snatching the blaster from his holster to turn and shoot his squad mate who was looking to avenge his fallen comrade. By the end of the quick exchange, two bodies lay on the ground, there were still many more to come.

If they waited around a few minutes more, they were sure to get overrun.

"Are you two alright back there?!" Silas shouted as he began to deflect the blaster fire of the ever growing Sith numbers "The ship will be circling back to us in a few moments, I need you both to be ready to evacuate okay?" the knight continued, his ear awaiting the comms signal from the camouflaged ship coming back their way.

Lifting one hand in front of him, the blaster fire coming towards him suddenly stopped only a few inches away in midair. One after the other the shots built up to a point where there was a large cluster, something which was putting great strain on him due to the amount of energy it was requiring to keep them there. However, with a big grunt, Silas flung their firepower right back at them, in turn peppering multiple troops at once and giving him a few vital seconds to move backward safely.

Silas lifted a huge slab of concrete that had been dislodged from a building and hovered it in front of him to give them all cover "Get behind me, our transport is almost here." he grunted as he prepared to move backward towards the pickup point only a few feet away.
​

 

[Alexander Hayes]

Location: Behind Enemy Lines
Objective: Survive
Tags: Amelia von Sorenn

With his aching body now muffled with a mix of stims and adrenals, Alex made short work in making his way back down to the ground level. Being up on the rooftop had its advantages, but the K’paur knew his time was potentially limited. If the Alliance was still actively retreating and evacuating, then there was a clock ticking down to when it would be too dangerous to remain planetside.

He only hoped his message had been noticed by someone above.

With his mind resolute and focused, Alexander began his trek through the war torn streets. He took in his surroundings, that while relatively quiet, he could still hear the sounds of conflict close by. That meant two things in the soldier's mind. One, the enemy were likely not going to be in large numbers this far in. Two however, it was equally as likely they were in active pursuit of the retreating Alliance forces, and the K’paur would no doubt run into them on his way.

Alex had no knowledge of where the Sith would’ve stored their ships, but he at least knew the location of where the Alliance’s LZs would be. Unfortunately, they were still quite the distance away from his current position.

Though as the K’paur turned a corner, his earpiece suddenly crackled to life.

"This is Sanguine-One to Alliance Forces, approaching via Star Fall, ETA minus five... May the Force Be With You."

Alex had to quickly duck into an alcove, dodging a Sith patrol as it passed by. But moments later, everyone’s attention was drawn to the sky. A shower of fiery debris was soaring down from the atmosphere. To the Sith, it no doubt seemed like just the wreck of another ship descending. To Alex? It was hope of an escape, or one hell of a coincidence.

However, as the K’paur continued his trek he realised something. If his mental calculations were right, the Alliance vessel wasn’t going to be landing anywhere close. He needed to either pick up his pace tenfold, or find some other means to make the journey quick. After all, there was no telling how long the ship could remain before the Sith forces were upon it.

Fortunately for Alex, he found his answer three streets down, and almost missed it. His eyes lingered across to some rubble, catching the shine of something metallic underneath. At first he thought nothing of it, until something in his head just clicked. Sure enough, as the K’paur pulled away some of the initial rubble, he discovered a speeder bike.

He thought about it for a moment, before a grin formed on Alex’s face. I’ve had worse ideas in the past.

Being careful to not alert any potential nearby hostiles, Alex used his cybernetic arm; and a bit of enhanced strength, to fully uncover the vehicle. It wasn’t one of the enemy’s models, but rather something more civilian. Certainly wasn’t kitted out for combat, but it looked fast. The K’paur only hoped it would actually work.

Taking a moment to familiarise himself with the general control scheme, Alex swung a leg over and sat on the bike. With a quick boot and activation, it thrummed to life.

“Well, let’s hope this thing has got enough in it to reach that ship.”

 

[Tuli]

tag: Liram Angellus

It was nice to see him smile, to see the weight that had lain heavily on his shoulders disappear as they spoke. She noted the names on the tags as he collected them, allowing the Admiral to simply speak, nodding as he asked if he could call her Tuli. She was only a padawan, she didn;t expect any sort of title to come with that.

She paused in thought at his question. Her eyes drifted again to follow the line of dead.

"I was taught to rejoice the dead because they had rejoined the force, to celebrate the life they led and not to mourn in their passing, for the force has a path laid out for all of us." her ears twitched in thought. "I still believe that, but I think we should remember their names. I think those that get to live on, those that enjoy their ice cream, should know the names of those who gave their lives so they should."

 

[Iris Arani]

​

Good, Zaiya focused up.

Iris nodded once before she turned her attention back to at least guiding. Zaiya would fill the colors, but they still needed some guidance to be effective. They needed out. And out was where they went. She'd have the civilians funnel into the shuttles, the soldiers protect them on their way out, have Zaiya stay with her. Every moving piece now was under her guidance. Thy needed to leave before whatever this terror was consumed even her colors.

She could feel it on the edges of her reach, draining the colors and life from them all.

Her brow furrowed, but they'd made it into the ships. One by one they launched, though the one Iris and Zaiya were within would be the last. Once they were far enough away, the leeching of the colors wouldn't affect them. They'd go last only to ensure they were keeping people safe.

Once they were off though, once Iris could take a moment to breath and let Zaiya free of the world of colors, she'd settle back and gently pat the top of the girl's head. It was awkward, as Iris ever was, but, she knew all too well what Zaiya was going through now. What she would continue to go through. Silent comfort, for now, was the best Iris could offer.

Zaiya Ceti

 

[Mahsa]

Location: Somewhere within the Dorvalla mines...

---

"This way!"
"O-Okay!"

Despite having managed to slip away from their unexpected adversary and his immoral creations neither padawan was able to celebrate—or even begin to process—what had transpired deep within the mines. Instead their focus lay on finding an escape route, a safe way out of the underground labyrinth they had descended into, so they could eventually relay the horrors witnessed deep in Dorvalla.

Her breathing was labored as Mahsa focused on keeping one foot in front of the other, determined to not linger behind and slow her friend as she followed Vera’s lead.

"I c-can’t believe it…" Part of her had been certain the Jedi would prevail and emerge victorious, believing they would successfully liberate Echnos City and the the mines, before reality washed over them like a cold bucket of iced water. "T-They… They’ve gone too far!"

Vibrant citrine and amber hues stained the snowy strands of hair, their brightly saturated color a visible reflection of the turmoil still present in the young girl at the atrocities the Sith continued to develop. Given her own background, perhaps it wasn’t a surprise that they struck the young Kazelrrian so close to home…

"We’ll m-make it, Vera!" Her own doubts were pushed aside as Mahsa tried to reassure the brunette, unwilling to entertain negative thoughts that would chip away at their hopefulness. The dull headache beginning to throb at the side of her temples was a small price to pay as her mind stretched outwards through the Force, seeking to avoid an accidental crossing with another dark user while searching for someone—anyone—that could help them get off-world and away from this nightmare.

"Vera!" She’d felt a small blip as the presence of someone else brushed against her mind, her hand instinctively reaching out for the brunette's to grasp it tightly as Mahsa pulled them both into a halt. "There’s someone else, someone c-close… c-can you feel them?"

---

Apparel

Devices

Weapons

【✶】⋆【✶】⋆【✶】

【✶】⋆【✶】⋆【✶】

【✶】⋆【✶】⋆【✶】

Allies

Hostiles

Minerva Fhirdiad | Vera Noble

—

​

 

[Aris Noble]

"Protecting it is. Seszil."

The slumbering sword on his back stirred at the call of their name. In an instant it became the shield to many of the retreating soldiers, carving through foes and scattering their shots to the wind. Aris himself fell back near the troops, bringing his blade up to batter away the volleys sent to them. He wasn't too skilled at knocking them back, but he could keep them safe.

Or as safe as he could.

Valery Noble | Amelia von Sorenn

 

[Liram Angellus]

5th Reactionary Fleet​

For anyone that wants to read it, The Angellus family history to this point Is here.
Angellus
Ewan Isaacs - CAG/SCAR Teams CO
LCaptain Halpern "Celestial City CO"
Captain Zev Tantor "Silver City" CO
Captain Rojuh Pouil "Valhalla" CO
Captain Scott Pouil - Flight Director 5th Fleet
Chief Gribbs - NCOIC 5th Fleet.
S.E.R.A.P.H.I.M. - 5th Fleet A.I.
[ANY COMMUNICATIONS INSIDE THESE BRACKETS ARE THE RESULT OF COMMS COMMUNICATION]

​

SECTOR: Hyperspace
ORDERS: Taking a headcount (Obj 1, Maybe 3)
ENGAGING:

WINGMATES: Tuli

It’s funny.

He was beginning to hate being around Jedi, around the Force… sure… he is related to two, but the thought of being around those who believe them above you was getting old. Then the most inspiration he, or anyone could ever get comes from the tiniest of sources. The smallest acts of kindness or the smallest words of encouragement can make the biggest difference. These seemingly insignificant moments are often the ones that last the longest in a person's life, no questioning on how he received this reminder, he was just glad to.

Sounds truly meaningful. He collected a few more nametags, wings, and dogtags before speaking up again. Not out of any awkwardness, but because there was more to do, so to speak.

I was not going to tell you this, not out of disrespect to you, but because there was no real reason to. However, I am related to two Jedi. The two “Vanagors”, if you know of either of them. I’m not saying this out of any hubris, or to namedrop, simply that I can respect your thoughts and where you are coming from as a whole. He didn’t know Tuli’s line of personal thinking, and did not try to, all he could do was speak his mind and from the heart.

Tuli, I call you by your name as I would hope you do I… Liram… as I have come to now consider you as a “friend”. Where your mind is right now… keep it there. Do not lose that enthusiasm you have, no matter how you are tested. You are already something special, but if you take who you are now and apply it to your future… you are going to make the type of difference in the galaxy that you read about. Another smile and a nod, and he went back to collecting items from the fallen, there weren’t many more to pick up but it had to be done.

 

[Avery Vaaki]

TAG: Silas Westgard
Location: Aldhani
Objective: Escape!
Key: Avery, Ori

'Did..he just stop a blaster bolt mid-air?' Avery was a bit shocked to see such powers in action. This was her first time seeing the Jedi in action and it made her certainly glad that they were on the side of the Republic. But the Jedi's shouting made Avery snap back into reality as the pilot went to immediately help her partner out. She went into their emergency medical kit and pulled out a syringe, before leaning down next to Ori. "Here this is for the pain."

She would inject the pain killer into Ori's neck gently so the medicine can do it's job. She would wrap Ori's arm with some torn pieces of cloth from her uniform. Not the best material but they have to make do. Avery picked up Ori, having the Twi'lek lean on her for support as they shuffled over to where the Jedi was, as he lifted up a large piece of concrete to block more incoming fire. Their astromech droid also following them, sometimes emitting panicked beeps and boops as the blaster bolts whizzed by it.

"You..have our thanks Master Jedi.." Ori would say. "I thought this was it..."

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Dorvalla​

Tag: Vera Noble Mahsa

I hate tunnels. Minerva thought disgruntledly in the midst of the search

She has always had since old enough to walk. Not enough room to maneuver and plenty can go wrong in tight places. Of course when embracing the way of a Mandalorian it is not an easy path and never meant to be. She didn't intend to quit it now. Minerva shifted her rifle's focus from right to left and vice versa, looking for any sign of life.

The night vision within helped a great deal and so the commando didn't bother turning her weapon's flashlight. She didn't want to give away her position to possible enemies. Just as Minerva was about to round the corner on the left side when hearing struggling footsteps. Placing herself on the wall she listened as carefully as possible. It sounded like two people by the footsteps, one of them definitely young by the sound of her voice.

Of course it didn't mean they were friendlies. Minerva pulled out a flashbang and slowly but surely inched her helmet to view what was coming this way. It was then she paused. Two young ladies with lightsabers attached to their belts and one of them was carrying the other on her shoulder. With a longer examination revealed to her who they're with by the attire however battered.

Jedi. Likely padawans.

Putting up the flashbang she lowered the rifle before stepping out meters away from them and turned on the helmet flashlight. Soon the duo would see the Mandalorian's t-visor. Raising her right arm she said.

"Don't be afraid, I'm with the Alliance. Looking for survivors."

To emphasize her point Minerva showed off the Galactic Alliance emblem on her right pauldron.

 

[Zaiya Ceti]

​

Outfit: x x x x x | Equipment: x x x x x | Weapons: x x x
Interacting with: Iris Arani

Zaiya tried to focus on the colors -- on the swirling hues that Iris had pulled her into. But in truth, she wasn't really focusing at all. She was letting herself be carried by the current, swept along in the vibrant ocean of emotions and exhaustion. Mentally, physically, inwardly -- she was drained. Completely.

It was a blur; the retreat, boarding the ships, hearing the roar of engines as they went airborne. By the time Zaiya felt the gentle pat on her head from Iris, the last thread holding her together snapped.

She hadn't wanted to cry. Especially not now. Not here, in the middle of the ship, surrounded by people who needed medical attention, surrounded by so much chaos. But the tears came anyway, hot and uncontrollable. Zaiya flung herself against the Jedi Knight, clutching onto Iris with a desperation that made her whole body tremble.

Everything inside her collided like a violent storm. Fear. Relief. Failure. The desperate ache of loneliness mixed with the uncertainty and doubt that gnawed at her core. She couldn't shake the words of the Sith, or the overwhelming wave of dread the Dread Queen had unleashed across the city. But in the midst of all that darkness, there was Iris -- a flicker of light. A small but stubborn glimmer of hope.

The ship rumbled beneath them, its engines roaring as it soared out into the black, jumping into hyperspace moments later. Orders were shouted. People cried out in pain. The air was thick with turmoil. But in that moment, all Zaiya could do was cling to Iris as if she were the only thing keeping her from being swept away.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." Zaiya sobbed, her face buried in the rough fabric of Iris's tunic. "I just... I just need a moment. Just a little bit longer."

Her voice cracked, barely a whisper now. She wasn't sure if she'd ever really be okay. But maybe, just maybe, with Iris's help, she'd be able to hold on. To make it through this.

Maybe.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's eyes remained sharp and focused, her violet blade flashing as she deflected incoming blaster fire, staying close to Aris and the retreating soldiers. "Stay focused," she urged, her tone calm yet commanding, despite the rising tension in the air. The imminent rescue brought hope, but their survival until then depended on their ability to hold the line.

"We need to buy Amelia more time," Valery said firmly, her voice cutting through the chaos. She pivoted gracefully, deflecting a bolt aimed at Aris before taking a deep breath to center herself. With the Force guiding her, she stepped forward, extending her arm toward a group of enemy soldiers ahead.

With a powerful push, a wave of energy rippled through the air, sending several of them tumbling back, giving their forces a brief reprieve.

"They're regrouping," Valery muttered, eyes narrowing as more Imperials emerged from the shadows. "We have to hold until the ship arrives."

Turning her head slightly, she glanced at Aris, admiring his resolve as Seszil shielded their comrades. She then quickly activated her comm again, her voice steady, <Sanguine-One, extraction zone is clear for approach — we'll cover you.>

Right as she spoke, one of the Imperials primed and threw a thermal detonator right for the Jedi Master.

Aris Noble Amelia von Sorenn ​

 

[Iris Arani]

​

"Right now, you can take all the time you need."

Iris continued to pat the top of her head. She could see all the emotions rippling through the poor girl. There was so much turmoil now, so much pain. Her expression tightened some. Zaiya was her Padawan now, and the last thing she wanted for the girl was to face that level of darkness so soon. And yet, she knew it'd only make Zaiya stronger. After another awkward pause Iris just hugged her. Gently, still awkward as ever.

"Take all the time you need, Zaiya."

Zaiya Ceti

 

[Aris Noble]

Aris saw it first. His gaze focused on the thrown object before he moved. He caught it in his hand, pulled it to his chest, and squeezed. It shattered in an instant, and the resulting explosion didn't seem to phase him, though. His clothing charred, but he himself stood calm, if now glowing bright red all over his body. The heated glow faded after a moment as he narrowed his eyes towards the offending trooper.

Seszil took care of them.

"Don't let your guard down, Master Noble." He glanced to his mother, giving her a cheeky smile. "Let one of them handle messaging."

Valery Noble | Amelia von Sorenn

 

[Vera Noble]

Dorvalla

​

Tag: Mahsa Minerva Fhirdiad

​

As Mahsa's hand tightened around hers, Vera's breath caught for a moment. She could feel the fear and anxiety radiating through the bond they shared, but she forced a small, comforting smile to her lips despite their dire situation.

"Hey, it's going to be okay. We're almost out," Vera whispered, squeezing Mahsa's hand gently. She let herself draw strength from that connection, calming her own racing heart in an attempt to soothe her friend.

Closing her eyes for just a second, Vera focused inward, stretching her senses out through the Force. That's when she felt it — a presence, steady and determined, approaching their position. It wasn't like the oppressive darkness of the Sith they had fled from; it was something else. A presence that felt... familiar.

"Wait, there's someone..." Vera's voice trailed off as she turned her head down the tunnel, her eyes narrowing as she tried to focus.

Before she could finish her thought, a figure emerged from the shadows, helmet light casting harsh shadows across the walls. Vera's breath hitched, and she instinctively shifted herself in front of Mahsa, one hand gripping the hilt of her lightsaber.

"Don't be afraid," came the voice, calm and firm. As the helmet light moved, the emblem of the Galactic Alliance became visible on the Mandalorian's armor.

"Alliance?" Vera repeated, shoulders relaxing slightly as she registered the sight. She glanced back at Mahsa, offering her a reassuring nod. "We're going to be okay."

She took a cautious step forward, steadying herself, and called out, "We're Jedi, Padawans. We've been separated from the others. Please… we need to get out of here. The Sith are everywhere." She hesitated, eyes pleading behind the exhaustion on her face. "Is there a way out? Can you help us?"

​

 

[Zaiya Ceti]

​

Outfit: x x x x x | Equipment: x x x x x | Weapons: x x x
Interacting with: Iris Arani

The weight of everything crushed down on Zaiya, suffocating her under the overwhelming sense of failure. The Phobis Device had dredged up the deepest terror from her past, blending it with the horror of the present. It was as if had been trapped in a nightmare, reliving the moment her parents died, the concussive force of the building falling, trapping her in the nest -- feeling her parents lives slip away through their connection. But now, she also felt the lives of others being snuffed out, one after the other through the Force, and she had been powerless to stop it.

It wasn't just fear anymore. It was hopelessness, despair... failure.

So many things buzzed in Zaiya's mind, things she wanted to say, to explain, to apologize for. But instead, all she could do was feel it. And those feelings? They crashed through her like a storm, relentless and unforgiving. When Iris told her to take all the time she needed, it hit her the same way it had when Corazona von Ascania said the same after her anxiety attack -- back when she'd been terrified that she might be manipulating her friends into liking her through the Force.

Only this... this felt so much worse.

Zaiya didn't know how to handle it. How could she? All she could do was cry in Iris's arms, clinging to the only person she felt could hold her together at that moment. The tears came, harder and faster than she could control, and she hated it. Hated that she couldn't hide her emotions, couldn't block them out, couldn't stop the way they bled through the Force or muted the colors on her skin. Every raw, painful feeling leaked into the space between them, her patterns a chaotic swirl of dull, shifting colors, reflecting the inner storm she had no way to control.

She squeezed her eyes shut tighter, trying to block it all out, but the memories wouldn't stop. Her parents. The screams from the afflicted civilians, how they had looked at her in fear and attacked her, the Sith's parting words. The emptiness that followed. The lives that flickered out, one by one, like lights being snuffed out in the darkness. And all Zaiya could do was stand by, powerless.

She wasn't strong enough then -- and it made her feel as if she just might never be.

 

[Silas Westgard]

Location: Aldhani
Objective: Save the pilots
Tag: Avery Vaaki

Picking up the two pilots as he carefully walked back, Silas smirked slightly when they thanked him for his support "Don't thank me yet, we still haven't got back to the ship!" he grunted as they began to get further away from the ship. They were safe for now but Silas didn't know how long he could keep the enemy at bay. It only seemed like more were coming to their position and before long he'd have to drop the concrete and leave them all exposed.

"Where in the galaxy is that-" "Prepare for arrival, ramp is now opening!"

Just a few feet away the transport ship uncamouflaged and began to swiftly land under fire from the Sith. Some were finding their mark, but that wouldn't matter as long as they got in and out "Go! get on the transport" Silas shouted while two crewmembers armed with blasters gave them covering fire. In the meantime, Silas himself had to make his own escape. Bringing the concrete back to him for a few moments he suddenly force pushed the large debris to a hovercraft mounted with a turret. Slamming into it with a loud crash, the vehicle exploded and sent a small shockwave through the street, temporarily stopping the blaster fire.

Silas jumped backward onto the ramp and ran into the ship, a flurry of blaster fire returning in his wake as the ship wasted no time to get back in the air. Watching the ramp finally shut, the knight took a deep breath and looked back to the pilots with no expression. They were lucky to be alive and in one piece, many of the pilots that had taken part were shot down long ago or unfindable on their systems.

"What a mess... I'm glad you two have made it out" he said at first while he began to casually dust himself off and motioned with his head for one of the crew to check on their injuries.

"Do you have any information on your fellow pilots? you were some of the few we could track."
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