Faction [GA] The Hapan Crisis

[Lycus Merita]

Objective Two

The 283rd
Chapter Two: The Siege​

Tags: Drystan Creed , Open

---

"Sir, they're dying..." he heard Captain Compton mutter beside him.

Major Merita remained silent, staring through his Macrobinoculars at the cluster of buildings in the depression below. Salvos of artillery were falling across the town, debris the size of main battle tanks flung into the air like children's toys. Fusillades of blaster fire from advancing Consortium infantry formations coming from the settlement's southern flank were battering the few remaining standing structures. Merita could see figures between the rubble running and cowering.

But no returning blaster fire.

He couldn't watch any longer

"There's no Crimson Veil forces in that village. God damn this ROE." Merita almost threw his Macrobinoculars to the ground. What was the point if the 76th Pathfinder Regiment had been deployed here if her Battalions were just going to stand by and watch this happen? Orders from the top had been clear that Alliance forces in this region were to only fire if fired upon due to the large mismatch of the arrayed forces. Intelligence reports from SIA suggested that local forces were outnumbered ten-to-one here.

Negotiations had been a bust. Consortium forces were refusing any communication hails from local Alliance forces.

Years had passed since the humiliation of the 76th at Zoist, but many eyes within the GADF still watched eagerly for the Pathfinders to make a slip-up. Any excuse to dissolve the regiment and take a share of its allocated funding. If one of her children's battalions suddenly decided to go rogue and disobey explicit orders he might as well put on the blindfold and wait for the firing squad.

Still, he couldn't just sit by and let this slaughter happen.

Zoist had happened because at a critical moment, leadership froze.

"Sir," Comms-Officer Lipton ran up to Merita, "Colonel Sol Stazi wants a report on the situation. Wants to know if ROE is still being followed."

Merita was silent for a moment, "Report back that we're having communication issues but that the 283rd Battalion is going on a patrol of our perimeter."

"Which Company are we moving?"

"Not a company. The entire battalion."

Behind him, the engines of the 283rd Pathfinder Air-Assault Battalion roared to life.

---

Iram Kennel gave the order to continue the assault. About five hundred Chume'doro and Hapes Home Guard troopers were advancing across the open paddy fields against the village of Jadot, spraying their blasters with reckless abandon from their hops. Jadot had been deemed guilty of the crime of holding Crimson Veil operatives several months before. Retribution had been demanded. A restoration to the rightful order of the Galaxy.

When one of her officers had come to him earlier whining about such irrelevant things as collateral damage, Kennel had shrugged her off. She didn't really care if these so-called civilians got caught in the crossfire. Their involvement with anything Crimson Veil and by extension, the death of Hapan Prince and Lady was criminal enough for every one of them to be given the death sentence. Nobody would dare to oppose the Consortium after this.

Of course, some figures on the higher echelons would have balked at this indiscriminate attack so Kennel had told them the half-truth that her forces were clearing out a village with Crimson Veil operatives still in there. Those fools had no idea had no idea what the reality on the ground was and what a burden she had chosen to take. This was war. Civilian casualties were a given.

---

Across the fields, they came rushing on. Over forty Repulsorcraft light IFVs gunned their thrusters at full speed. The four armored wedges were moving at a hundred klicks per hour as they charged towards the Village of Jadot.

He felt the oncoming wind batter his face, thankful that his goggles were on. He reached inside the turret for the comms piece and yelled into it.

Some stray blaster fire from Hapan soldiers firing too high over the village flew over the heads of the Pathfinders. That was good enough for him.

"This is Major Lycus Merita of the 283rd Battalion to all local Alliance forces. We have been fired upon by Consortium forces. Responding as ROE dictates."

 

[Echo Athoth]

Hapes
Tags: Caltin Vanagor , Briana Sal-Soren , Rik Perris , Kahne Porte , Mother Askani

​

I’m moving out to the perimeter if anyone wants to come with me. Keep doing what you’re doing.

"I will join."

Echo kept herself composed, which she typically always did. Her face was as flat and lifeless as ever, hiding the anticipation swirling in her stomach. This was her first true assignment as a Knight, and with the Jedi of Naboo for that matter. A trial to prove herself, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Though she wouldn't show it, her heart broke for the people of Hapes. They were caught up in the crossfire of a conflict out of their control. If they could act fast they could save lives.

Or at least that was the hope.

"Knight Echo Athoth," she stated, mostly for the large Jedi Master. He was the highest rank here. That made him the boss, more or less.

Glad to have loaded his "Watchmen" Jedi Transport into the cruiser, the big man loaded in, along with anyone else who was wanting to go..

As the Ogemite sat down, her large head of raven-colored plumage, wild and fluffy as it was, scraped atop the roof of the transport. Echo's expression didn't change much, though her resting frown seemed to arch a little more. She held onto her glasses as they bounded the first hill, keeping her composure.

"Askani... I do not know the name," Echo noted with a flat tone.

Mother implied some sort of cultural or religious significance, at least if her studies were to be any indication of anything. A charitable leader, perhaps? Maybe the others knew...

There was still much she needed to learn.

 

[Jack Wright]

​

(Tags: Valery Noble , Zaiya Ceti )

Right hand just brushing over the hilt, Jack nodded grimly at the Grandmaster's words, maintaining an aloof disposition upon walking into the area. Sense alert and prepared, knowing this wouldn't be an easy conflict.

For if an enemy could keep the powerful Consortium on their toes, they're worth being cautious over. But, better to let them make the first move, lest any initiative on their part prompts more harm than good, glancing to the Padawan - Zaiya - with a reassuring nod.

 

[Diogo Talon]

Tags: Eloise Dinn​

There is no chaos, there is harmony.

Yeah, whoever coined that bullshit never saw the Hapes Cluster embroiled in civil war.

Diogo couldn't believe his eyes. If anything could be called chaos, this was it. Brutal, savage chaos. Disturbingly, there was an odd sense of relief in the air. Like despite all the political maneuverings, the passing of legislation, the overtures of social change, and the promise of equality, everything was leading to this and now it was finally happening. Pressure builds, and then all that pent up energy has to go somewhere.

"This what you expected?" he asked El. She said this was going to happen. Said it was about time. But is this what she envisioned?

The pair were nestled into a speeder, en route to a commercial building owned and operated by a local lawyers guild. The lawyers guild had been forefront in the fight for equal rights on Hapes. Though they claimed independence, many saw them as just the political wing of the militant Crimson Veil. In other words, nothing more than a mouth piece for terrorism. Whether that was true or not mattered little. The feral Queen Mother sent her bloodthirsty troops there, anyway.

Now, the building was under siege. Both sides had fired potshots at each other, but nothing more. So far, the Hapes commander showed surprising restraint, refusing to use heavy ammunitions in case of civilian casualties. But how long would that last? Military officers weren't usually known for their patience. Diogo clenched his fists, wishing he could make the speeder go faster.

"Almost there. Hopefully the building's still standing."

 

[Eloise Dinn]

Diogo Talon​

"This what you expected?"

Eloise turned away from the window, where she had been staring at the bodies and wreckage in the streets as they passed. "No," she replied. "Not like this."

She had envisioned a triumph of good over evil. The rebels leading a revolution against their evil empire. When it didn't happen, thanks to the passing of the Equal Rights Act, she had sighed, deflated, and packed up her lightsaber. Now it seemed like the wool had been pulled over her eyes then, the (crimson?) veil just now beginning to lift. Her last time on Hapes before the botched royal wedding had been to attend a damned gala, for feth's sake. Bastards had pacified them all with bread and circuses.

"Almost there. Hopefully the building's still standing."

Eloise looked at Diogo in the driver's seat, taking in his white-knuckled grip and the tension in his features. "Just so you know," she began, using this chance to speak to him alone. "I'm going after the Consortium's forces, full stop. I didn't join the Jedi Order so that I could stand around while some mad queen and her misandrist army slaughter civilians for the crime of wanting a democracy."

They were pulling up to the building... and it was still standing. It just also happened to be on fire.

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Corazona von Ascania | Jenn Kryze | Haliat Kryze | Rayia Si

​

Roman turned his back to the terrorists, crossing his arms as he stared at the guests. She was right, not many were actually Hapan, and even more were confused about what was going on. "Who are these people? The Crimson Veil?" Roman asked Cora, his voice a low murmur, pitched so only she would hear amidst the rising tension. He tried to appear as another concerned guest, carefully scanning the faces around them, assessing their potential, looking for any sign of someone who might be able to help, if need be. He knew the Jedi way was to avoid unnecessary conflict, but the longer they stayed here, doing nothing, the more these terrorists seemed to be gaining the upper hand. He just hoped there wasn't much more waiting they'd have to do before the rescue team arrived.

A harsh shove against his back nearly sent him stumbling. The cold, hard metal of a blaster butt connected with his spine, a sharp jolt of pain quickly followed by a growled command. "Quiet! You speak when spoken to, and not a moment before. Understand?" the terrorist barked, his voice rasping with a cruel edge.

Roman bit back a retort, his jaw clenching as he managed to regain his balance. He knew that any show of defiance would only make things worse, so he forced his anger down, his face a mask of bland compliance. He risked a quick glance at Cora, trying to convey the precariousness of their situation. He mouthed, "Please tell me you have a plan?" hoping she would see the desperation bubbling beneath the surface and reassure him she had something, anything, to help them out of this. He needed to know they weren't just sitting ducks, waiting for whatever atrocity these terrorists had in store for them.

 

[Zaiya Ceti]

Outfit: x x x x x | Equipment: x x x x x x | Weapons: x x x | Companion: Domxite
Interacting with: Valery Noble Jack Wright

Zaiya's rosy golden glow dimmed to a pale silver as she processed Valery's words, the weight of their mission pressing down on her.

"Knight Wright," she greeted quietly, her voice steady but devoid of the energy for pleasantries. Her thoughts churned, full of questions she couldn't voice yet, not here, not now.

The heavy air bristled against her senses, and the warning was unmistakable. Her mottled spots rippled with dark orange streaks, a flash of cobalt blue iridescence betraying her rising focus. Valery confirmed her suspicion: an ambush lay ahead.

The Lovalla Padawan inhaled deeply, grounding herself as Domxite hummed softly, bolstering her focus through the Force. She didn't reach for her lightsaber yet; instead, she stretched out her awareness, seeking the edges of the danger. Could this be deescalated before it spiraled further? Was it even ethical to try manipulating emotions through the Force? That nagged at her, spiking her anxiety, but thankfully, Domxite helped soothe her with their presence. The questions gnawed at her, but her resolve was firm -- to defend, protect, and use nonlethal means where possible.

The Grandmaster's steady presence, Jack's nod of reassurance, and Domxite's voice encouraging her helped Zaiya center herself. With deft movements, Zaiya retrieved a few stun pearls from her belt, holding them in readiness as she fell in step with Valery and Knight Wright.

Her senses continued to stretch outward -- how many were there? The flares of their life forces soon bloomed into Zaiya's mental web of their surroundings.

"There's at least six!" Zaiya murmured, informing them of what she felt.

 

[Pinda Solthar]

BROADCASTING LIVE...

The broadcast opens with a somber orchestral theme as holographic images flash across the screen: plumes of smoke rising from Ta'a Chume'Dan's war-torn skyline, and Hapan warships blockading planets. The camera pans to Pinda Solthar seated at the anchor desk. Behind her, a dynamic holographic map of the Hapes Consortium highlights regions under military lockdown and sites of recent clashes. Pinda's tone is calm but urgent, her antiox mask reflecting the soft glow of the studio lights.

"Good evening, beings across the galaxy. I'm Pinda Solthar, and this is 360° Around the Galaxy. Tonight, we bring you live coverage of the escalating crisis in the Hapes Consortium, where the massacre now known as the Scarlet Accord has thrown the Cluster—and the Galactic Alliance—into turmoil.

What began as an act of terror during Prince Astor Daaray's wedding has spiraled into an all-consuming conflict, with Queen Mother Kha'la Daaray waging a relentless campaign to eradicate the extremist group known as the Crimson Veil. But as Hapan forces sweep indiscriminately across the Cluster, civilians, protestors, and unaffiliated rebel factions are being caught in the crossfire, raising profound ethical and political questions about the handling of this crisis."

The hologram transitions to live footage of burning cities, terrified civilians huddled in makeshift shelters, and small groups of protestors clashing with heavily armed Hapan soldiers. Pinda's voice remains steady but carries a clear undertone of outrage.

"While the monarchy focuses its efforts on eliminating the Crimson Veil, civilians and smaller rebel factions with no ties to the extremist group have found themselves swept into the chaos. Entire communities have been displaced, and peaceful protestors calling for reform have been labeled as insurgents.

Dr. Veylin, how has the Queen Mother's indiscriminate approach further divided the Consortium?"

Dr. Elara Veylin, cultural historian and expert on Hapan traditions. Her voice is heavy with concern, her expression deeply troubled, "Pinda, this is the tragic reality of the Queen Mother's campaign. By treating every act of dissent as an existential threat, the monarchy has created an atmosphere where no one feels safe—regardless of their actual involvement in the conflict.

Protestors advocating for reform are being arrested, exiled, or worse. Smaller rebel factions, many of which arose to address systemic inequality long before the Crimson Veil existed, are now being targeted as if they were part of the same extremist network. This approach doesn't just deepen the divide; it destroys any hope of reconciliation.

The Hapan people are resilient, but even resilience has its limits. This campaign risks breaking the very fabric of their society."

Pinda nods gravely before turning to Camron Rykkar, "Camron, the indiscriminate targeting of civilians and unaffiliated factions is drawing sharp criticism, but how does it affect the legitimacy of the Queen Mother's government?"

Camron Rykkar, political strategist specializing in galactic diplomacy, his voice is sharp, his frustration evident. "It's a disaster, Pinda. The monarchy's legitimacy relies on the perception that it can protect and represent its people. But right now, it's doing neither. By targeting civilians and protestors and whoever gets caught in the sweep, even if not on purpose, is alienating the very population the Queen needs to stabilize the Consortium.

And from a diplomatic standpoint, it's a nightmare. The Galactic Alliance is already walking a fine line with its intervention, and these actions make it nearly impossible to justify continued support for the monarchy. Every civilian casualty, every displaced family, and every silenced protestor is another mark against the Queen Mother's rule—and by extension, against the Alliance itself."

The Kel-dor host nods thoughtfully before turning to Colonel Tyrek Marn. "Colonel, you've seen firsthand how military campaigns can spiral out of control when civilians are caught in the crossfire. What's your assessment of the situation on the ground?"

Colonel Tyrek Marn, retired military officer turned security consultant, his tone is grim, his words deliberate, "Pinda, this is what happens when a campaign prioritizes optics over strategy. The Queen Mother wants to project strength, but by failing to clearly distinguish between combatants and civilians, her forces are creating more enemies than they're eliminating.

I've spoken with sources still on the ground, and the stories they're telling are harrowing. Families torn apart, homes destroyed, entire neighborhoods treated as war zones simply because they're in the wrong place at the wrong time. This isn't just a tactical failure—it's a moral one.

The Hapan military is skilled, but they're being used as blunt instruments in a conflict that requires precision and diplomacy. If this continues, we'll see an insurgency grow from the very civilians the monarchy claims to protect."

The screen transitions to Nyen Trevalis, who glances at her datapad before addressing the economic toll of the crisis.

"Nyen, the humanitarian impact is clear, but what about the economic implications of displacing so many civilians and dismantling smaller communities in the name of security?" Pinda asked.

Nyen Trevalis, is an economic analyst and senior advisor to the Alliance Trade Network. Her voice is clipped, her tone filled with urgency, "It's devastating, Pinda. Displacement on this scale disrupts entire economies. agricultural centers are abandoned, trade routes are severed, and local businesses collapse. The Hapan economy relies heavily on its smaller communities, like any other economy, to sustain itself, and this campaign is gutting those foundations.

From a galactic perspective, it's no better. Refugees are pouring into neighboring systems, straining resources and fueling anti-Hapan sentiment. Mind you, there's already an extremely large refugee and displacement crisis with citizens fleeing war in the core, and running for the southern systems. The Galactic Alliance is already stretched thin, and if this crisis continues, it could destabilize entire sectors."

Pinda's tone hardens, the weight of the discussion heavy in her voice.

"This isn't just a conflict between extremists and a monarchy; it's a tragedy playing out on a systemic level. Civilians, protestors, and unaffiliated factions are being swept up, and the consequences could resonate far beyond the Consortium's borders.

Next, Jedi join the fray, how does this look? What does it mean? Stay with us as we continue to bring you live updates, expert analysis, and voices from the front lines. This is 360° Around the Galaxy, where we go beyond the headlines to uncover the truths shaping our galaxy."

The broadcast fades to images of civilians fleeing through darkened streets, their faces illuminated by the faint glow of fires burning in the distance.

 

[Briana Sal-Soren]

There was no small part of Briana that wanted to be on Hapes again, wanted to revisit the site of her latest trauma so soon after it'd occurred, but she'd come anyway, to assist in what ways she could. Not only because her role as a Jedi and peace keeper demanded it, but in honor and reverence of Astor Daaray — despite the canyon sized fracture his death left on her mind and soul. Never in life, would he have condoned this level of violence, not even against those who'd stolen his breath, his future. Briana knew that. But knowing that didn't mean it quelled the ache or the fury that simmered beneath her skin his blood had soaked, didn't stop the relentless whisper in the back of her mind that echoed Kha'la's rage, urging her to seek out the one who had done this and end them.

But every time she began to feel the flood of those overwhelming emotions rise to the surface, Briana would let her hand fall to the pommel of the ornate dagger that would now, and forever be, a permeant fixture at her side — Astor's blade; and thought only of his last words.

“The syss-system, is…is not b-broken, Bri-Briana,” breathe, yes, breathe, “it f-functions eggs-exactly as i-it is men… meant to.”

The Crimson Veil weren't the only ones responsible for what happened that day. They were the product of a government that saw fit to quiet the injustices of their own society, a symptom of a deeper sickness.

Briana pushed a deep exhale from her lungs, and with it, her compounding grief, rage, and exhaustion, directing it instead into driven purpose —

I’m moving out to the perimeter if anyone wants to come with me. Keep doing what you’re doing.

Caltin's booming voice carried easily over the relentless downpour and the cacophony of blaster fire and screams that echoed on the wind. She gave the Master an affirming nod, grateful to have another Jedi of his caliber with them, then turned her gaze immediately to the rest of the team she'd asked to come with her from Naboo, those whom she found herself placing more and more of her trust in every day, and with good reason. Lorn Reingard , Rik Perris , Kahne Porte , and her own Padawan, Thayze Montserrat , stood ready and resolute.

With a jerk of her head and deadpan expression, Briana thumbed in the direction of the transport, "You heard him, let's go. Move quickly."

"Askani... I do not know the name,"

Settling into the transport, Briana took a moment to glance at Echo, the Ogemite Jedi whose impressive stature barely fit within the vehicle's confines. She moved over slightly, making sure to give her the space that she needed.

As of yet, the opportunity to get to know Echo had eluded her, not that it was something she currently cared to do, not when the woman's arrival followed everything that'd happened on Hapes. Typically, Briana didn't like to bring untested Jedi with her on missions like these, preferring to know all of the variables of what could go wrong — and seeing what looked like a flicker of uncertainty beneath the girls otherwise composed exterior, briefly made the brunette wonder if she'd ever seen a crisis like this before.

"Neither did I until recently," she admitted, wiping a strand of wet hair from her face. "I still don't know her very well." And Briana wasn't even sure if she fully trusted the woman, not when their first and only interaction left her with more questions than answers. "Mother Askani works for the humanitarian organization that put this whole thing together so quickly, called the Foundation. They were the only ones who came to us after this latest Netherworld incident and offered to help us with those who'd been displaced in the chaos, had ideas on how to handle the refugee crisis we've been facing... so that's something."

The transport jolted and jerked them over the uneven terrain, whisking them as fast as it could along the route, until the flickering lights of the forward encampment loomed ahead— already, she could see the frantic movement.

Briana felt something sharp twist in her gut, and glanced over towards Thayze. "Whatever happens, stay close... and remember that once we get out there, it's not just the Crimson Veil we have to worry about. There might be Chume'odoro lurking... and... others too." Briana paused, lips pursing. Word had spread of protestors who'd been caught in the crossfire — innocent lives mistaken for Crimson Veil extremists who'd sought them for shelter. If the Ta'achume's forces had come this way... "But no matter what, we need to take back the transport as quickly as we can and keep the refugees safe at all costs."

OUTFIT: X0X0 | TAG: Lorn Reingard , Caltin Vanagor , Echo Athoth , Mother Askani , Rik Perris , Thayze Montserrat , Kahne Porte | EQUIPMENT: Lightsaber, Astor's Blade



​

 

[Serena Harth]

Gakot Cal - Vera Noble​

Oh, Serena would not be missing out on this. She had been covering the Hapes story from day one, and this was the culmination of it all. Full-scale conflict on the streets, and now the Galactic Alliance caught in the middle. History in the making.

Given her extended and in-depth reporting on events thus far, Serena was given a rare opportunity to embed herself within an Alliance unit, from which she could record a first person perspective of the infighting.

Ditching her trademark bright jacket and shades for a more protective military vest, Serena suddenly felt as though she herself were being shipped off to war. The CO, a Klatooinian man named Gakot Cal gave a bit of a speech detailing the situation to his men. Hopefully he wasn't too disgruntled about having a journalist around. "Uh, sir?" Serena said when she had a chance to speak to Cal, "Where would you like me to be in all this? I don't wanna get in the way of you and your men, if I can help it."

Also worth noting, was that this unit had a Jedi with them. Not just any Jedi either. After a few minutes straining to get a good look at her, Serena was almost certain she recognized the young lady as the Grandmaster's very own daughter. This was going to be interesting. "Psst, hey," She whipped around to catch up with her after the talking was done, "You're the Noble kid, aren't ya?"

 

[Caelan Valoren]

Initially his thought had been to seek the battlefield. Caelan was nothing if not a combatant at heart. Protecting the innocent was a cause he held near and dear. The issue with that, was that he could only protect a few on the battlefield. He couldn't be everywhere at once, and he didn't command forces that could enter the fray to protect others. It was a battle he could not possibly have ever hoped to win, and his impact would have been minimal at best.

But he was also royalty. Soon he would be King. And like the Queen Mother, he understood the pain of loss. He understood the anger, the hate, that rose from such a tragedy. He'd felt it. For a long time he had lived with the mental anguish of his loss, had suffered under the weight of his failure. And while he had brought war to Lazerian IV to free the world of tyranny, he had not done so with the intention of wanton bloodshed, and the Alliance personnel involved had been extremely careful to only target the enemy, while protecting the innocent.

Those in the room that new him, particularly Nos Voros and Lady Sylvia Organa would note the drastic change in his appearance. Not only had he grown in a very short time (a matter of days), but he'd aged by a full four years in that short time as well. The others, though, undoubtedly had no idea who he was. He doubted even the Queen Mother did, though he had been at the wedding that sparked all of this. He had a scar on his back from where he'd been stabbed.

As he entered, he was in time to hear Kassogtha Cthylla speak. He noted the others standing around, including fellow royalty in the queen of Alderaan. The Alliance encompassed many worlds ruled by monarchies, so it was of little surprise that many would turn out to speak with the Queen Mother on the matter at hand.

While the others chose to speak, he recognized that as a man, he may not have as much sway in the matter at hand. Despite being royalty from another world, she had no obligation to even hear him speak, let alone listen to what he said. He could speak as the others did and be ignored just because of being male. Instead, he chose a different tact and strode forward towards her, before dropping to a knee nearby and bowing his head in deference to her. From this point he waited until the Queen Mother should call upon him to speak.

---

ATTIRE: LINK (The Second Image) | WEAPON: Lightsaber | COMPANION: BD-F8 | OTHER: Sigil Bead (Necklace)

TAGS: Kha'la Daaray | Jasper Kai'el | Lady Sylvia Organa | Nos Voros | Damian du Couteau | Kassogtha Cthylla | Amani Serys​

 

[Ben Khal]

Lycus Merita Drystan Creed Corvin Strix Tyrus Vastor Erran Lanith
​

The Masters didn't want him to go. He was still in shock over the wedding and from having nearly taken his own life under the influence of a gun of command. He was just fourteen years old, a Padawan, a Hapan, and a relative of the slain bride. For him to be granted permission to leave for Hapes during this time of crisis was asking for trouble.

Ben respected their decision. He knew the Masters were wise. At least, he had believed such before he watched his own master save the assassin who had murdered his cousin, his prince, and a war hero in cold blood.

Master Oukranos had left the Jedi Temple. He was supposed to be held there, waiting for the Council's review of his actions. But he was gone, and though it would inevitably bring him immense pain, Ben wanted to know where he was and why.

He already had the answer to his first question, as he arrived on the soil of his homeworld. Hapes was on fire, the conflict between the Consortium and the terrorists spilling out onto the streets. Ordinary people were dividing themselves along partisan lines, taking sides—even though doing so meant painting a target on their backs.

From a field outside the village, he watched with wide eyes as the Consortium's troops shot at unarmed civilians. Then he saw Alliance forces open fire on the Consortium. Forget calling it a terrorist insurrection or an overreach or merely a crisis. What he was seeing now was war.

Turning away, he wiped the tears from his cheeks. There was nothing he could do, even with all his Jedi powers. He couldn't stop the Consortium from attacking Hapans, nor could he stop the Alliance from attacking the Consortium. Not without tearing himself apart in the process.

He had to find Master Oukranos. That was the only thing he could do now...

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Tags: Briana Sal-Soren | Caltin Vanagor | Echo Athoth | Mother Askani | Rik Perris | Thayze Montserrat | Kahne Porte

​

The rain lashed against Lorn's face as the landspeeder bucked and weaved through the ravaged landscape. He gripped the side rails, the metal cold and slick beneath his fingers. He didn't mind the downpour, not really. Sooner or later they'd all be soaked to the bone anyway. At least out here in the open bed of the speeder, he wasn't crammed into the cab with everyone else.

He stared out at the scene unfolding around them – a chaotic mess of mud, wreckage, and flickering lights in the distance – a scene that looked like it had been ripped from some apocalyptic holovid. Lorn had sworn he wouldn't return to Hapes so soon, not after the crimson horror of the Scarlet Accord wedding. He still felt a tremor of unease just thinking about it. Yet here he was, back in the thick of it, and all because Briana had asked. She'd come despite suffering a loss no one should have to endure, and something in that raw determination had called to him, an echo of his own inner turmoil.

He didn't know Briana long enough to call her a close friend yet, not fully. But even he could see that she was different now, a darkness clinging to her edges that hadn't been there before. The wedding, the loss, it had changed her in ways he recognized all too well. Loss, especially one so violently torn from the galaxy, left scars that festered with anger. It was a familiar ache, one he'd carried himself. He glanced back and caught the eyes of the other Jedi that came with them, Rik, Kahne, and even young Thayze. He suspected they were here as much for Briana as for the mission, a silent pact to watch over her, to ensure her pain did not consume her.

The speeder hit another rut, tossing Lorn into the air before he landed hard on his backside. He grunted, adjusting his position and sitting up straight, clutching his lightsaber in his hand. A familiar urge prickled within him, a desire to confront the Crimson Veil head-on. He hadn't thought of it that way before, but he realized, in that moment, if he had his way, he'd happily stand against them again, and make them pay.

 

[Monaray Dod]

Following: Galactic Alliance - Hapan Crisis
Fondor Press Conference Chamber 19

After the Neimoidian Government convened on Cato Neimoidia to discuss the situation happening within the Hapes Consortium, it became evident that prompt measures were essential to avert additional disturbances to hyperspace routes and to maintain the stability of the Galactic Alliance in the face of the Sith Empire and the Dark Empire who were likely watching this crisis.

This urgency stemmed not from a concern for the Alliance itself as they had survived much worse during the Kuati Coup, but rather from the potential repercussions for the Trade Federation's financial interests. Which were likely to suffer due to the disruptions, thereby alarming prospective investors who might start to withdraw their capital in significant numbers.

After speaking carefully with the Trade Monarch Lodd Grimmin , a unanimous decision was made to release a public statement aimed at countering attempts by other insurrectionist systems to gain support and expand their influence.

This action was deemed prudent while the Chancellor's office focused on resolving the Crisis, thereby preventing adversaries from becoming sufficiently emboldened to launch a full-scale invasion.

Therefore, the Senator for Cato Neimoidia System would secure a spot on the Fondor Holonet News Network, confidently take the center stage within the press conference chamber, surrounded by Federation and Local Officials.

" Today, the Galactic Alliance has seen the price of admitting the Hapes Consortium into our political and economic union, for they are currently causing chaos throughout the cluster by unleashing the Queen's version of justice, not aligned to our official judicial system. Vigilantism of this nature is completely unacceptable within the framework of a well-functioning democracy and spits in the very face of the member-worlds who follow the Alliance Charter to the letter once admission is given by the Chancellor's Office. "

Senator Dod explained, his position while surrounded by the bright lights of holo cameras and the enthusiastic applause of corporate and governmental supporters situated behind him.

The Hapan Cluster's decision to enforce its own form of justice, despite the designation of the Crimson Veil as a terrorist organization following the assault on the Royal Wedding, contradicted the fundamental values of the Alliance.

" Though the Queen Mother Kha'la Daaray has a right to defend her people from unjust attacks and foreign invaders, they have become not a savior but a radical anarchist with thousands of her people, entirely innocent dying on the streets with little to no connection with the wider Crimson Veil organization or the brute that oversees them. It is a grave humanitarian issue with even the noble New Jedi Order caught in the middle with little recourse. " Senator Dod maintained a grave demeanor, observing the potential credits vanish as displaced refugees required essential supplies, while the Trade Federation sought laborers for their wartime production facilities.

Absent this new influx of employment, the Federation would be compelled to offer workers livable wages, a notion that was deemed inconceivable.

" As a result of the Queen's tyrannical actions, the Neimoidian Government hereby condemns the Hapes Consortium and will immediately call for other member-worlds to cease diplomacy and trade relations with this rogue state until peace is restored and urge the Chancellor Alicio Organa to install a caretaker government within the region. "

The Neimoidian said, with a bow leaving the conference room despite the press following behind him.

​

 

[Gakot Cal]

Objective Two
Tag: Vera Noble Serena Harth​

She's becoming like her parents. The ex-pirate silently noted. He remembered Minerva telling him of how she escape that outer rim mine with this Jedi and her friend. Keeping that to himself, Gakot put up his binoculars before drawing his rifle. It was then he noticed Serena Harth.

Briefly confused, he then remembered and suppressed a sigh.

Of course I remember now. Oh this is going to be even more complicated.

Keeping that line of thought buried he cleared his throat, answering.

"Miss Harth, you will stay close to me at all times today. Understand? When it comes to what you film and report I leave that entirely up to you. But in the matter of your security and the wellbeing of my troops do as I say and that will be enough."

His tone broke no objection on that last part.

Subsequently he turned around to receive a message from his helmet's private channel, leaving Harth to talk with Vera. When done he turned back declaring.

"Talons on me! We got a situation in the southern apartment district!”

Then marking sure Harth and the Jedi will follow him he ascended via jetpack. Quickly the two hundred members of the strike force flew forth toward the chaos ahead of them.

 

[Diogo Talon]

Tag: Eloise Dinn​

Eloise looked at Diogo in the driver's seat, taking in his white-knuckled grip and the tension in his features. "Just so you know," she began, using this chance to speak to him alone. "I'm going after the Consortium's forces, full stop. I didn't join the Jedi Order so that I could stand around while some mad queen and her misandrist army slaughter civilians for the crime of wanting a democracy."

"El... what are you saying?"

What she said was hardly ambiguous, but if she planned on defying or leaving the Jedi Order, he wanted to hear her say the words. He wasn't sure he could say the same. After all, the Jedi had given him a future.

Vaguely, he supported the rebellion. He certainly didn't support whatever the hell the Consortium was doing. If anything, they were the terrorists—deliberately targeting anyone with a passing association to the Crimson Veil, regardless of culpability, and executing them in cold blood. In the grand scheme of things, all the Crimson Veil did was kill a couple nobles. And they probably weren't innocent.

It aws clear she'd already made up her mind, but there was no time for him to sort out his feelings. Diogo gave El's hand a brief squeeze before they hastily exited the speeder.

The commercial building was partially on fire and it was spreading. Angry red and orange flames licked at the building's back side while choking, gray smoke was already billowing from a window in the back room. Diogo approached the line of Consortium soldiers. A tall, Hapan woman, smartly dressed in military fatigues, with short cropped hair and angular features, stepped out and addressed them.

"Jedi," the woman's voice was stern, clipped, and thinly-veiled with disdain. "I hope you're not here to interfere."

"What are you doing? Those people need help," Diogo said, gesturing to the building with alarm.

"They are terrorists," she replied. Simple, like it was self-evident. They either slowly burned to death, or risked running outside and being gunned down. She didn't care which.

 

[Drystan Creed]

THE HAPAN CRISIS: OBJECTIVE II

ARMOR

Drystan cared little for politics. The Consortium's response to the assassination, the Crimson Veil's motives—none of it mattered to him. What mattered were the people caught in the middle, those scraping by day after day just to survive. Now they were forced to endure the crossfire.

All this death and destruction—for what? Two opposing sides fighting their battles while innocent lives paid the price.

This wasn't new territory, but it carried a heavier weight. It was a warzone, a place where the criminal element flourished under the thin veneer of "war's many horrors." The stakes were higher, and Drystan knew his usual tactics wouldn't be enough here.

In the chaos, he had aligned himself with the 283rd Airborne—not as another commander, but as an attache of sorts. He traveled with them, observing and assisting as they carried out their duties.

Onboard a transport with Major Merita, Drystan smirked as he gave the call. Adjusting the calibrations on his suit and the nanomachines embedded in its chassis, he spoke casually.

"Good call," he said, a cigarette resting between his lips. "Would've been a real hassle taking them all on by myself."

As the village came into view, Drystan tossed his half consumed cigarette and pressed a button, sealing his helmet with a sharp click. The unmarked faceplate flickered to life with glowing electronic displays.

"I'm scanning the opposing force," he said, his now electronic-laden tone shifting to business. "Unless you've got specific orders, Major, I'll be picking targets à la carte and calling out anything significant."

Drystan turned to Aadihr, completing a final weapons check before addressing his fellow Knight.

"Glad you're here. There'll be plenty of wounds to tend to—especially among the villagers."

Lycus Merita | Aadihr Lidos | OPEN

 

[Aadihr Lidos]

Outfit: Field Attire | Earring | Bangle
Weapons: Walking stick / Lightsaber Pike | Slugthrower Rifle

"Glad you're here. There'll be plenty of wounds to tend to—especially among the villagers."

"And among those who wounded them." Aadihr spoke, uncharacteristically curt.

Aadihr checked the slide of his rifle, pulling back the lever and loading a subsonic round, and locking the lever action Slugthrower closed. His arm burned, his emotions already off-center. The responsibility of a military was ultimately the protection of their own citizenry - all causes for war aside.

These retaliatory strikes were a miscarriage of justice. Aadihr hated violence, but the misuse of power causing suffering and death amongst the innocent. It was the closest the blindfolded Jedi came to seething in years. This was worse than Iridonia, than Keshi.

This was a betrayal by those put in a position of power to protect the very people they harm.

It sickened him. It was a large scale macrocosm of his own apprenticeship.

Aadihr's left arm scorched with pain, the sithcursed burn feeding from the vitriol the healer felt. It took a few steadying breaths to get closer to his center, to prevent hate from determining his actions.

" I am glad to be here." Aadihr replied, no joy in his voice. "Relief efforts will be difficult, but first we stop the killing, then we can stop the dying."

Even as Aadihr spoke he was scouting the route ahead for potential hostiles from either side, relying on his Clairvoyant force-sight to read auras and intention.

A part of him feared what he might do. Another part was almost glad the Consortium fired upon the GADF per Lycua Merita's announcement, a self-realization that twisted Aadihr's stomach in knots. But Aadihr had seen the crimes the Hapes consortium had committed against their own people - And what he Saw, he could not look away from.

Drystan Creed | Lycus Merita​

 

[Dashiell NPC]

CALL FOR AID

[ BYOO ] [ TAGS : OPEN ]
​

Doctor Cyrus Waymire shoved his hands into his white doctors coat, surveying the scene around him. It was, when distilled down to its purest form, a cluster fuck.

Famine. Disease. Displacement. He had already reached out with an urgent request to Aurora Industries and Lady Taeli Raaf to assist in a massive vaccination program for the adults and elderly who refused to leave. A breakdown of basic sanitation meant disease was going to run rampant. Yet that wasn't his focus. Not today.

Having signed with the newly formed and barely minted ArcDash Foundation, Waymire was here to evacuate the youngest of refugees and victims. The sole purpose was to give children a fighting chance - to get them out of the danger. Unfortunately quite a few had been injured in the fighting. It had been years since he had seen surgery performed in a speeder lot, yet it had happened again just today.

Right now the ground crew was assisting a massive Shield Class Medical Frigate to land in a field nearby. Medical droids were prepping rows of Hapan children for extraction - either for more advanced medical care or to recover out of a warzone. Most had no idea where their parents were, creating a crisis on top of a crisis.

"Inari save us all." Waymire muttered, shaking his head at the sight.

 

[Thayze Montserrat]

|| THE HAPAN CRISIS ||
Head in the Clouds - Chapter 1

OUTFIT: Bespoke Jedi Armor
TAG: Briana Sal-Soren | Caltin Vanagor | Echo Athoth | Kahne Porte | Lorn Reingard | Mother Askani | Rik Perris ​

HAPES, INNER RIM

It had only been a few days after the tragedy of Hapes Royal Wedding. Thayze, after successfully evacuated Michael Angellus , Ceri Fraissi , and a few others back to Naboo, had spent his time with his family. His mother, Lady Giulia Palerma was enraged at the non-action of the Galactic Alliance government towards what she considered as ‘an attack on Order and the Faith of Ashla’, and has been calling for the complete emancipation of Hapes Consortium from the corruption of the Crimson Veil. All talk, Thayze thought, but with an exiled-Contessa of sheer wealth and network, you never know what they are plotting. All he wants to ensure is her and the family’s safety; Order and Family is what comes first and second, beyond everything else to Thayze after all.

How Briana Sal-Soren and Michael Angellus has been faring was something else that has been distressing him. To lose someone so dear in front of their eyes, that’s something Thayze can empathize with. He wants to check on the two, to be there if anything is needed, yet he is afraid of disturbing their grief. Everyone grieves their own way, and he knows it too damn well.

When Briana asked him to join her in a humanitarian mission in Hapes, he accepted in an instant. Truth be told, he would rather not be anywhere near the system after what happened. There’s so much animosity in the system, it’s basically a powder keg waiting to explode. Yet he has to be there for his Master, that’s the least he can do for her. He has a feeling that everyone is there, in some capacity, for Briana.

Looking out the window of the transport, all he can see is chaos. People are panicking, buildings are on fire, and bodies can be spotted in certain areas. The news that he has been seeing on the holonet, be it the traditional media or reels on galatiktok, heavily scrutinized the Hapes government for it’s response. There are videos of Chume’odoro beating up and even shooting people all over the holonet, yet it strikes him as exaggerated, even facetious at times. They are facing a notorious terrorist cell, who openly murdered dozens in a wedding, who has mastered the art of asymmetrical warfare for as long as they exist. They have the precedent of escalating their demands tremendously every time, and using violence on innocents to get their unreasonable demands met. For all he knows, all the outrageous news and videos on the holonet could very well be a Crimson Veil Propaganda.

Regardless of the complex nature of the situation, Thayze is there to save lives. After the transport struggling transport arrives in the encampment, Thayze took his stand beside Master Briana and Master Lorn. The street is dangerous and they have to stick together if they want to evacuate enough innocents, and more importantly, make it back to Naboo in one piece.​

​