Dominion Operation Ashfall -DIA dominion of Asation Hex

[Tales of the Diarchy]

​

CLASSIFIED - EYES ONLY - DIARCHY HIGH COMMAND

OPERATION: ASHFALL

Situation: The sands of time have shifted, and the ghosts of the Gree Enclave stir. Asation, once a vital port in their fallen empire, now echoes with the hum of reactivated technology. Our intelligence paints a grim picture: the Gree, in their desperate bid to reclaim relevance, have unearthed ancient capabilities that pose a direct threat to the Diarchy’s reach and the very stability of our region.

The disappearance of the Oracle, a Sunderer-I class warship near Asation, is not a mere incident. The Network has confirmed the worst. Through their warped designs, a Gree AI has seized control of our vessel, turning its power against us. This is not simply a lost ship; it is a symbol of their growing audacity, a clear and present danger that cannot be ignored.

Furthermore, Asation holds something more than just a threat. Concealed within its forgotten ruins lies technological knowledge that could catapult the Diarchy into an era of unparalleled dominance. This operation, therefore, is not merely about defense; it is about seizing the future.

Objective: To establish unwavering Diarchy dominance over Asation, securing critical technology and establishing a permanent foothold in this volatile sector.

The Plan: Operation Ashfall is a two-pronged assault, executed in perfect concert with our allies in the Sith Order, the Kingdom of Korriban, and Kor’ethyr Academy.

Phase One: The Oracle

• Task Force: A combined force of the Brotherhood’s and Korriban Academies brightest students, will spearhead a daring assault on the Oracle. They will be supported by a small, elite military detachment.
• Primary Objective: Reclaim the Oracle and secure it from Gree/Loyalist Control. Extract and contain the AI core, and capture any Gree officers and specialists attempting to extract the data or destroy the ship.
• Secondary Objective: Eliminate all Gree loyalist forces attempting to either disable the ship for the Gree or those attempting to strip the ship for parts.

Important Note: This is not a simple training exercise. This is a baptism of fire. Success here will not only recover a vital asset but will also forge a new generation of leaders, hardened by the crucible of battle. The knowledge gained from the AI technology will revolutionize our fleet’s capabilities.

Phase Two: The Hypergate

• Task Force: A large dedicated Diarchy military force will launch a synchronized ground assault on Asation.
• Primary Objective: Secure the Hypergate Operation Center. Control of this facility will grant the Diarchy ultimate control over the planet’s hyperlane access, cutting off any Gree resurgence and solidifying our presence within the region.
• Secondary Objective: Establish a secure command base within the facility, creating a staging ground for further operations and consolidating Diarchy power throughout Asation.

Execution: This is not an operation for the faint of heart. Expect fierce resistance. The Gree were skilled; their loyal remnants are likely to be desperate and fanatical. Success will require courage, ingenuity, and absolute dedication to the Diarchy.

Warning: The Gree AI poses a significant threat. It may attempt to defend itself or shut down the Oracle's critical systems. Be vigilant and report any anomalies immediately.

Conclusion: This operation is not a choice. It is an obligation. The future of the Diarchy depends on our success. Failure is not an option. Secure Asation. Recover the Oracle. Seize the technology. Establish our dominance.

OPERATION WILL COMMENCE 1/17/2025

FOR THE DIARCHY!

END TRANSMISSION


Interested parties:
Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Gavin Vel Darth Caedes Naamino Zuukamano Leshanna Alina Tremiru Haro Aven Tertius C. Nargath Ova Ziss Kali'ka Ryu Jung Laphisto Darth Nathrax Rocho

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

Location: Eriadu- 18 Parsecs prior to the Oracle

"What do you mean, one of our assets has been lost?" The man sitting at his desk rubbed his fingers against his left temple, letting out a groaning sound as he started tapping the serial number he had just gotten through into his datapad. "Your are talking about the Sunderer-Class, callname DNS Oracle?"

Lowering his hand, the man began to rhytmically tap his fingers on the expensive blackwooden top of his desk, shrugging when he got a follow up on the information he had been given. "It is a diarchy vessel, they take care of it, they own it...it should not concern the N&Z what happens after delivery of our products apart from maintainance and repair... it has been...what do you mean its signature has been altered?"

Location: Asation system
Loadout: [X] [X] [X]
TAG: OPEN

A trio of Szayel-class cruisers adorned with the personal emblem of the marquis of Valkan managed to exit hyperspace near the Asation system, the last location where the DNS Oracle had been pinging the Diarchy Navy was close by. From within the bridge of the NZV Julian, the chairman of the N&Z awaited the reports coming from the leader of the Diarchy's admiralty and navy at large; Shan Pellian , while also allowing all three vessels to send their coordinated locations and signatures towards any of the prospective allies nearby via encrypted channels to avoid others from listening over the comms.

"A ship under the Diarchy's care has been stolen and altered without N&Z approval," The chairman of the N&Z let out a deep sigh, as his face turned towards the scanner of the holonet transeiver. Concern and muted anger well visible in his visage and expressions, the Eriaduan noble made it clear that while he would not tolerate such actions in his position as financial advisor to the Diarchy, he was more vehemently opposed to these thefts of intellectual property in his station as chairman of the N&Z Umbrella Corporation. "If the rumors are to be believed, it is the Gree that have altered the ship, this can't be allowed nor approved and as such...we will join in Operation Starfall. Ready your weapons, board your fighters and transports, we know our own ships, we know its weaknesses better than any who dare to touch what is rightfully ours!!"

Sending a private encrypted message towards Diarch Reign and Diarch Rellik , Tertius made sure both of the leaders of the Diarchy, who were known to be very hands on in matters of action and war, to know that the Marquis of Valkan would offer his support in a personal capacity, bringing with him a few dozen of Valkan Detachments for the sake of taking down the Oracle as per demand of the operation. "Exalted Diarchs... on your command...we will begin the operation."

 

[Laphisto]

The Oracle loomed ahead, a menacing silhouette against the void. Its warped hull glimmered faintly with the eerie blue light of Gree augmentation, an unsettling sight even for seasoned warriors. Laphisto gripped the overhead bar of the LAET/I MKII transport, his claws sinking slightly into the metal as the ship jolted under a sudden maneuver.

"Turrets locked on!" the pilot called back, his voice sharp. The gunship shook violently as the first wave of fire from the Oracle's automated defenses slammed into their shields. A burst of red and green energy streaked past the cockpit, illuminating the interior with chaotic flashes.

"Deploy countermeasures!" the co-pilot barked, his hands flying over the controls. The LAET/I launched a volley of chaff and flares, breaking the lock of several incoming shots, but the turret fire intensified, rattling the transport.

Laphisto turned to the soldiers strapped into their seats. "Brace yourselves!" he growled, his voice rising above the chaos. "We're not going down here!"
A deafening impact struck the shields, forcing the transport into a hard roll. Laphisto's clawed feet gripped the deck as his tail whipped out to steady himself. Sparks erupted from a nearby console, and one of the soldiers cursed, shielding his face.

"Shields down to sixty percent!" the pilot warned, his voice strained. "We'll make it, but this is not going to be pretty!"

Laphisto moved toward the side hatch, gripping a handhold for balance. "Get us to that breach," he commanded. "We don't need pretty—just alive."
Another blast struck the transport's flank, sending sparks and smoke cascading through the cabin. The soldiers braced themselves, their weapons clutched tightly as the LAET/I lurched to one side.

"Stabilizers are gone!" the co-pilot called out, frantically adjusting controls. "We're going in hot!"

The breach was rapidly approaching, its jagged edges lit by faint emergency lighting. Laphisto moved to the cockpit door, his tail swaying for balance as the transport bucked under another impact. "Aim for the breach!" he commanded. "We'll deal with the landing when we get there!"

The pilot gritted his teeth, forcing the unsteady gunship into a steep descent. "Hold on!" he yelled, gripping the controls tightly as the LAET/I spiraled toward the breach.

The impact was brutal. The transport smashed into the edge of the hull with a deafening screech, the jagged metal tearing into its side.tearing off one of its wings and sending it flying against the inside of the ships interior. The LAET/I skidded through the breach, sparks and debris flying as it carved a path into the ship's interior. Soldiers were thrown forward in their harnesses, and one was knocked unconscious as their helmet struck the bulkhead.

Laphisto was already moving as the transport ground to a halt, his claws digging into the deck for stability. Smoke filled the cabin, and warning lights flickered ominously. He slammed the emergency release on the side hatch, forcing it open with a grunt.

"Move!" he barked, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Everyone out—now!"

The soldiers scrambled to unbuckle their harnesses, coughing as smoke poured into the cabin. Laphisto was the first through the hatch, leaping onto the twisted metal floor of the Oracle. His blade ignited with a sharp hiss, its blue glow cutting through the haze.

Blaster fire erupted almost immediately, the Gree loyalists already converging on the crash site. Laphisto moved with precision, deflecting a shot aimed at his chest and surging forward. His claws gripped the deck as he closed the distance to the nearest loyalist, cleaving through the weapon and the loyalist alike, sending sparks and blood across the floor.

"Secure the area!" he called back to the soldiers as they poured out of the wrecked gunship. "Set up a perimeter!"

The soldiers moved quickly, taking cover behind the wreckage and returning fire. The corridor was a chaotic battleground, the hum of Gree technology mingling with the sharp cracks of slug and blasterfire. One soldier lobbed a thermal detonator down the hall, the resulting explosion shaking the floor and sending several loyalists sprawling.

Laphisto glanced back at the transport. The hull was twisted and smoking, but it had done its job—they were inside. He turned his focus back to the corridor, his sharp gaze scanning for threats.

A Gree droid emerged from the smoke, its segmented limbs moving with unsettling speed. Laphisto met it head-on, his blade slicing through its central processor with a burst of sparks. "Push forward!" he commanded.

The soldiers rallied, their disciplined fire forcing the loyalists to fall back deeper into the ship. Laphisto led the charge, his movements a blend of reptilian grace and raw power. Behind him, the wrecked LAET/I smoldered, its sacrifice marking the start of their mission.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Spoiler: The Kathhound Contingent

The Kathhound Contingent
Kathhound Axehead Frigates x2
AT-SX Scorpion Walker x4
ST-70 Dantooine Security Gunships x12
TAB Droid Commander x1
TAB Droids x1000
Grenz the Bodyguard [Piloting Secondary Craft]

Spoiler: Flavor Music

Objective #2: Liberate Hypergate Operations Center
Location: 18 Parsecs from Asation
Tags: Open

Following right behind High Commander Laphisto and the trio of Szayel Class Cruisers was the Kathhound Axehead Merchant Command Frigate, piloted by the now-elected Governor of Dantooine, Ova Ziss. It has an overly wide head and a thin body, appearing like an elongated sword.

Although Ova did not receive any comms from his friends (they had ordered strict radio silence), he flashed his lights on and off, in a subtle sign of solidarity to those retrieving the Oracle. The Gree knew they were coming. It didn't matter much anyways.

While Laphisto and Credius continued to travel above the atmosphere searching for The Oracle, Ova would begin to land on Asation. The Kathhound Axehead Frigate and its partner frigate began a steep but certain descent, heading straight for the Hypergate Operations Center.

[…]

The barrage of lasers and missiles came immediately.

The atmosphere of the planet of Asation sucked in the Kathhound's axehead and then struck it harshly, like the end of a spear hitting a shield. This would be a rough landing, and not the daintily smooth commercial yacht slide-in that Ova was used to at the spaceport.

The flagship ordered their descent. Spacing rules dictated that larger ships give berth to smaller ones, and so that meant Ova and his son-in-law and Minister for Security, Grenz, would be going in hot.

The Kathhound had one quark of a landing as it maneuvered into place, being rocketed and lasered from every direction. The frigate blasts to the left when one of the missiles hit the “hilt” of the craft, causing Ova to bounce around in his chair. The Gree weren't very welcoming hosts.

“Taking heavy fire! Gunships, get behind us!” He says frantically into the allied comms. Well, I couldn’t expect to do perfectly during “baby’s first fleet". Grenz provided secondary piloting, but even with his help, the entire ship was rattling with blaster fire.

The Kathhound’s tough doonium axehead repels the laser fire as it lets out a cacaphony of twangs. The ST-70 gunships coasted steadily behind the axehead, where they are partially protected from the anti-air fire. The Kathhound is forced to release two of its anti-air countermeasures, which blast through the anti-air missiles.

The gunships provide supporting fire to the Kathhound and the secondary dropship frigate as it slowly makes its way down to the planet’s surface from a safe direction.

Slow and steady, just like pops taught you.

The two Kathhounds and the Security Gunships nearly crashed into the planet's surface due to the anti air turret fire. They land. The troopers inside drop the boarding planks with a series of loud and asynchronous “bangs”. The gunships don't travel in a single squadron, but rather, as one big group. The secondary frigate in the Kathhound Contingent unloads their entire armada of ground troops: one thousand tactical autonomous battlemech droids. The perimeter of the industrial facility is filled with the sound of mechanical boots striking the cement as the droids un-board: their tan exteriors form an ocean. The droids assume an offensive stance as they join the deluge of other ground troops and vehicles marching towards the facility.

The Kathhound, however, seems to have carried far less troops into battle. It carried some kind of special cargo, and no ships at all.

You can see a small squad of a new type of war machine inside: something you’ve never seen before.

Something large is being wheeled out of the frigate with repulsorlift dollies. Several machines.

It is a "something" with many legs. Six of them, to be exact.

You see the cargo in the bay hangar: something glistening with a dark, shiny, lightweight metal. Its front laser cannon burns brightly, making the great walker beast appear to have a bloody and frightening face. Its claws glisten with machine lubricant, and its three anti-air slug launcher gatling guns were primed with what looked like thousands of rounds of slugs. At the back of this fearsome walker was its stinger: a plasma mortar, pulsing with power, ready to level the Gree Resistance.

It was Ova Ziss’s brand-new walker design, the AT-SX Scorpion Walker, and he would use it to bust down the defenses of the Hyperdrive Operation Center and then stroll right inside.

Perhaps the troops could establish a forward-position, if they could dig into the basement of the facility?

Once the Kathhound Contingent ships had deposited their ground troops, they closed their bay doors and roared back into action, providing covering fire. Grenz, Ova’s bodyguard, would take the Kathhound back into orbit, so that the frigate could act as a re-arming station for gunships, a refueling point, and a commslink extender for the orbital assault. The second Kathhound would help bring the gunships home...Ova hoped...

A dozen droid-piloted ST-70 gunships sped towards the Hyperdrive Operation Center and began engaging with the anti-air turrets, playing a dangerous game of chicken as they weaved through the facility, outpacing the missiles due to their speed. The anti-air guns have already brought down one of the uncareful gunships, which bursts into flames, careens downwards near the outskirts of the facility, and erupts into a ball of fire. The TAB droid inside releases an anguished, "Yahhhahahahahhhh!" The rest of the squad seemed to have learned from their mistake, and the anti-air platform is pegged with laser fire.

Ova mounted the scorpion walker and slid open the door of its blackened steel “belly” as the TAB droids marched onwards. Ova assumed the operator's seat, then shut the metal door and locked it in. Now, Ova truly was in the belly of the beast, in more ways than one.

Ova seized the controls and powered the machine on. The AT-SX’s mouth and eyes came to life as it lifted from the ground. Ova gave its tail a little wag, checking the hexapropulsion system.

Ova would wait for any allies that boarded the other two Scorpion Walkers. The hexapropulsion was so precise that he was able to stride right past the droids.

“Scorpion Command: drill straight into the basement – if there is one!”, Ova’s comms crackled. “FOR THE DIARCHY!”

[ AT-SX DRILL MODE ENGAGED ]


With that, the scorpion walkers began making a rapid approach towards the operations center, their legs clacking with a shocking amount of speed. When they are certain they are far enough from the main ground force, and they've put some speed on them, they burrow into the ground. As the Scorpion Walkers breach the dirt and cement, they contort themselves into the shape of bullets, spinning on their tails and burrowing quickly.

Meanwhile, inside, the innards of the scorpion walker rattle. Ova turns on his depth-finding sonic instrumentation, looking for an underground egress into the facility. The narrow visor-like viewfinder is filling with dirt, but the 18-monitor instrumentation springs to life. The room is bathed with the blue-and-white of the monitors as Ova begins finding his way.

“Depth finder is on”, he said into the comms, his eyes searching the monitors and GPS as he carefully maneuvered the rotating drill. They were heading straight towards the walls of the facility. "Now let's see where they keep those little treasures."

 

[Gavin Vel]

Objective 1 - The Oracle
Tags: Laphisto open

Gavin gripped the overhead safety bar with white-knuckled fervor, eyes ablaze with excitement as the transport lurched violently under the onslaught of hostile fire. Smoke and sparks flooded the cramped cabin. Soldiers around him clung to their restraints or each other, but Gavin’s booming voice rose above the din.

“Hold on, you bastards!” he hollered, his heart pounding with the sheer thrill of it all. “This is amazing, right? A little turbulence never killed anybody..... probably!”

A brilliant burst of red laser fire raked the exterior, sending a shower of sparks across the cabin. The pilot shouted frantic updates—shields collapsing, systems failing—but Gavin let out a bark of wild laughter, slamming a fist against the hull to rally the men and women near him.

“We’ll make a glorious entrance!” he roared, the transport shuddering wildly beneath his feet. The deck pitched as a missile struck the transport’s aft, but Gavin held firm, grinning despite the acrid smell of burnt metal. “We’ll show these Gree who really owns the skies!”

With an ear-splitting screech of metal and a monumental jolt, the craft slammed into the ground, skidding amid a storm of sparks. The hull twisted, panels shrieked, and Gavin’s ears rang from the impact. Before the transport even rocked to a stop, he’d clawed the hatch open, letting in a swirl of dust and debris.

“This is it! Move, move, move!” Gavin bellowed, stumbling out onto the churned-up earth, a savage grin plastered on his face. He wasted no time taking up his blaster and igniting his saber. Energy rounds sizzled through the air as the Gree loyalists converged. Behind him, soldiers poured out, bracing themselves against the barrage.

“Get a perimeter formed! Give ’em hell!” Gavin barked, charging headlong into the fray with a whoop of adrenaline-fueled delight. Blaster fire flared past him, scorching the soil and kicking up dust as he advanced. “Let ’em know the Diarchy doesn’t go down so easy!”

Wherever the fighting was thickest, Gavin barreled straight in, adrenaline and duty fueling each step. Behind him, the crash site hissed and sparked, but he was already lost to the rush of the next fight—every swing of his blade and trigger pull an answer to the chaos that had ushered them onto the battlefield.

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: OPEN​

The airlock hissed open, the recycled breath of the Oracle tasting stale and metallic. Zara, Archon of Light, stepped into the maw of the warship, her boots echoing on the durasteel floor. Behind her, the younger students of the Brotherhood, their faces a mix of trepidation and excitement, filed in. This was it. Their first real mission, their baptism by fire, as the strategists back on Bastion were fond of calling it.

"Remember your training." Zara's voice, though calm, resonated with a quiet authority. It wasn't a yell, not a sharp command, but a steady beacon in the storm of their collective nerves. "Patience, above all. We are here to reclaim, not to destroy. Observe before you act, and always consider the lives that might hang in the balance."

She moved further into the corridor, her blonde braid, usually so neatly coiled, now a bit disheveled from the brief transit. Her robes, a dark black trimmed with the gold of the Diarchy. The Oracle felt colder inside than she had expected, a tomb rather than a machine.

To her right, Anya, a bright-eyed Justicar student, fidgeted with the hilt of her lightsaber. To her left, Jaxon, a Praetor student, stood with a rigid posture, the dark energy thrumming visibly around his clasped hands. He was already reaching for the darkness, a path she could not dissuade him from, but she could guide him along it.

Zara smiled faintly, a thin, reassuring line that didn't quite reach her compassionate eyes. "Anya, the Force is not a weapon to be rushed into battle with. Let it flow through you, feel the currents of the ship, the remnants of the AI's hold on it. Jaxon, your skill with the dark side will be invaluable, but remember, control is the most powerful weapon you possess."

She paused, letting her words hang in the air, allowing them to permeate the space between the students. "There will be Gree loyalists, no doubt. And perhaps even the AI's corrupted constructs attempting to defend itself. We must be prepared for both."

Zara's eyes swept over the faces of her students, seeing not just novices, but the glimmer of potential. She had taught them of the light, of healing, of compassion. But the realities of the Diarchy were often painted in shades of grey, if not midnight black. She was not blind to the paths some of them, especially the Praetors, were choosing.

"This will be your first combat operation for the Diarchy. It will be a test of your teachings, both those learned in the classroom and those learned within your own heart. Today, you will become more than students. You will become soldiers, protectors, and the future of our order. Trust your instincts, trust your training, and trust each other." She paused. "But remember the fundamental tenet of the Justicar school that we all must remember, even you Praetor students; Mercy is not weakness. Compassion is strength. But neither should be granted to those who would use them against us."

She activated her own lightsabers, the pure gold blades illuminating the corridor with an incandescent glow. "Let us move, my brothers and sisters. Let us reclaim the Oracle."

With that, Zara turned down the corridor, the glow of her blades cutting a path through the shadows as her students followed, their own lightsabers igniting in a symphony of color. The Oracle, silent and broken, waited to be awakened from its nightmare. And Zara, the Archon of Light, stood ready to guide her students through the inferno.

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

Location: Asation system
Loadout: [X] [X] [X]
TAG: Laphisto | Zara Saga

The trio of Szayel-class cruisers: the NZV Julian, NZV Artorius and the NZV Paragon each started to encircle the much larger and much heavier armed Oracle from a considerable distance, while it was clear others were already trying to enter the ship, Tertius ran through commands to the Centurions leading the other two ships in his small strike fleet. He made it clear that they were not to engage the Oracle as long as the other assets of the Diarchy had not been retrieved nor recovered, this included the sudden arrival and quite frankly rather crazy dive made by that one LAET vessel.

"Any and all operatives currently in the employ of the Diarchy, do you copy?" Utilizing specific encrypted channels utilized only by the Diarchy on the holonet, Tertius hoped to reach out to anyone who was employed or sent by the Diarchy to either investigate or be part of the current military operation. "If any of you can confirm on hearing this transmission, I am Tertius Nargath, Chairman of the N&Z Umbrella Corporation and financial advisor to the Diarchy. We seek to find and reengineer whatever alterations that have been made to the ship. If this is your mission as ordered by the Diarchy, contact us over the following channels: DX-387, FT-895, ZI-439. In exactly three seconds after receiving the accompanying transmission to confirm your mission objective, my Szayel Cruisers will begin opening fire on the Oracle and the onboard AI's will begin their assault on the Oracle's current altered AI. Utilize this time, this distraction to complete your objectives..."

All he had to do now was wait, give anyone who was listening to the encrypted channels the time to respond and should no reponse be given, the Chairman would be left with no other option than to engage this estranged ship himself and retrieve the intel in a less optimal fashion and in a less optimal state.

 

[Diarch Reign]

OBJECTIVE 2

​

Location: Asation
Tags: Ova Ziss @Open

---

Through anti air fire and other defenses, the Diarch’s shuttle flew. The pilot hand picked by Shan Pellian for the task of flying one of the Diarchs never wavered, never showed a hint of uncertainty. Onward towards the designated LZ and forward staging point he flew.

Upon landing, the contingent of Black Armored stormtroopers flanked the shuttle, standing at attention as a tall muscular man in a black cape walked down the ramp.

“Sergeant, status report”
the Diarch said.

“Sir, the agree resistance is fierce, their soldiers desperate to hold us off. Governor Ziss arrived just before you, dispatching some walkers. We’ve been keeping on their progress but the battle topside is not going in our favor.”

Reign took the information in stride, this was his element, the chaos and cacophony of war. Gone were politics and posturing, here was control and struggle.

Speaking into his comm, the Diarch began issuing orders. Hoping their troopers training would live up to Darth Nathrax strict regimen.

“First company, engage the defenses head first. Second and third company, standard hammer and anvil, flanking from both sides.”

He knew there was armored support en route, but he hoped his men would last long enough to receive the aid. Taking up position at the holotable to survey the battlefield he waited until he either needed to command personally or support arrived.

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: OPEN​

The strange, coded message crackled through Zara's comm unit, a jarring intrusion amidst the tension. She recognized the Diarchy-specific encryption immediately, a system only a select few were privy to. The voice, though unfamiliar, spoke with an air of authority that demanded attention. Tertius C. Nargath , he'd called himself, "Chairman of the N&Z Umbrella Corporation." A name she didn't recognize, but the financial advisor tag piqued her interest and suspicion. This wasn't a military designation, yet he was using channels reserved for precisely that.

Her eyes narrowed, briefly scanning the faces of her students. Anya looked confused, while Jaxon seemed to bristle at the interruption, his focus already drawn to the encroaching darkness within the Oracle. This was not the time for distractions.

"This is Archon Zara of the High Council, reporting on the Oracle," she replied into the comm, her voice calm and measured despite the quickening pulse of urgency. "I authorize your engagement as per your transmission. However, know that we are actively securing the Oracle at this moment."

She didn't have time to delve into this mystery. The transmission was followed by a faint tremor throughout the Oracle, the telltale sign of external weapons deployment. Tertius was moving quickly, and while the timing was less than optimal, it could provide a needed distraction for the loyalists. "Prepare yourselves," she said to her students, her voice losing its earlier gentleness, replaced by the steel of a leader preparing them for war. "He's begun his engagement, we will find our share inside of the ship. Let us move, no more time for hesitation."

As they advanced further into the ship, the signs of Gree loyalist activity became more apparent. Wires dangled from gaping holes in the walls, control panels were ripped apart, and the rhythmic hum of cutting torches echoed from deeper within. It was clear the stripping of the Oracle was well underway. Scattered groups of Gree loyalists, a motley assortment of scavengers and hired mercenaries, were attempting to either strip the Oracle for parts or erase valuable data.

The first engagement came suddenly. A trio of heavily armored mercenaries, weapons raised, emerged from a side corridor. Zara held her hands up, stopping the students. "This is what you've trained for," she said, her eyes flicking to each of them. "Engage, but remember the tenet of mercy. If they surrender, they are afforded the right to life." She knew it was a difficult lesson to learn, but one that had to be hammered home. Some of these would likely return to the fight if they weren't contained, but she would give them the opportunity to surrender first.

Anya and Jaxon were the first to move, their lightsabers blazing to life. Anya moved with a practiced grace, her blows precise and aimed to disarm. Jaxon, in contrast, was a whirlwind of raw power. Each movement a torrent of dark energy that forced the mercenaries to retreat back down the corridor. Several of the Brotherhood students moved forward with her to keep the melee combatants in place.

Some of the Gree fighters chose to ignore the mercy that Zara had promised, choosing to instead fight to the death. Zara quickly moved forward, her twin golden blades a blur of light. One merc lunged in with an energy blade, and as it clashed against Zara's, a wave of raw force shot out from her point of contact, blasting the merc backwards into the opposite wall. Another mercenary fired a blaster pistol at Jaxon. Zara swiftly moved to intercept the shot, deflecting it back into the shooter with a precise twist of her wrist. The last of the mercs, realizing they were outmatched, attempted to flee. Jaxon, fueled by the dark side, surged forward in a fit of anger, his blade ending the life of the fleeing merc.

Zara moved to stand between Jaxon and the smoldering body of the merc. "Control Jaxon." she said softly, her eyes not betraying her own inner frustrations. She had watched the Praetors get excited and let the darkness flow around them, but she wouldn't have it while she was guiding them.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Objective 2: Breach the Hypergate Operations Facility
Location: Asation
Tags: Diarch Reign | Open

Spoiler: Theme for Flavor

"Roger that, Commander Reign! Scorpions, let's pinch those droids out!"

"Droid Command, crush the Gree resistance!!!"

The sea of TAB droids flushed forwards.

The Scorpion Walkers burrowed underneath the facility in a pincer-movement, dragging dirt along with them before disappearing underneath the rocky outcrop.

The depth finder bleeped and the blue light of the monitors bathed Ova as he prepared the hexapropulsion drill and the laser cannon to fire at the same time: this is what his United Industrial friends called a "drill entry".

Ova, who was as daring as he was, went straight for the front-facing wall, which was directly ahead of the Diarchy Troops. The other two walkers, one occupied by a droid and the other by a familiar face, took positions on the East and West.

The trio of folded-up Scorpion Walkers blasted head-first through the front palisades of the facility, drilling the cement, steel, and anything else it struck into rubble.

CRASH!!! CRASH!!! CRASH!!!

Ova's Scorpion Walker was the very first one to breach the walls, followed shortly afterwards by the other two Scorpions. It happened in an instant: their great claws extended and clutched onto the cement of the broken walls, which buckled and then imploded under the immense pressure of the motors. They looked like durasteel, unexploded mortars when they landed.

The trepidation was terrible. This move placed the facility on high-alert, as it was already watching the strange ships landing on the planet's surface. A few droids came over to examine the mess. They saw the strange mortar, and pointed their laser weapons at it. Before they could fire, the Scorpion Walkers' six arms extended out, holding them upright, their weapons at the ready.

[ AT-SX DRILL MODE DIS-ENGAGED ]

Ova righted his scorpion walker, taking aim at the droids, and a friendly droid hanging from one of the turrets blasted them with slugs. The slugs clunked everywhere as Ova and the droid unleashed a flurry against the automated Gree army.

The Scorpion Walkers on the East and West gave the droids cross-fire from the other sides of the facility. The flurry of slugs sounded like a percussionist rolling on a drum.

The slugthrower turrets drilled into two droidekas, obliterating them into tiny pieces.

"YEEEE-HAWWWWW"!, Ova called out. "COME GET SOME!"

The walkers slashed at the droids with their drill blades as their lasers and mortars restored power. When the Walkers breached the facility walls, the entire strength of the Diarchy ground force bore down on the Hypergate Operation Facility, and even more TAB droids flooded in past the outer walls. A clash began between the Gree's droids, droidekas, and technological assets and the tab droids. A flurry of lasers and explosions began as the battle took its first autonomated casualties.

Ova stood the Scorpion Walker further upright and let the gatling guns go to work. One thing irked him, however: he had not seen the Gree among the droid army. They must have hidden. He turned on the depth finder, trying to find out if the Gree had a basement, a cave or some underground egress - and how to get to it.

"We've got entry! Get it while it's hot!", Ova called into the allied comms, as a heavy laser grazed his flank. '

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto crashed forward with the rest of his men, his blade igniting with a sharp hiss as it cleaved through another Gree loyalist in a single, precise arc. Around him, soldiers of the Lilaste Order moved with disciplined ferocity, their dark armor bearing the Order's distinct markings. The air was thick with the acrid tang of burning plasma and scorched metal, punctuated by the cacophony of slug throwers and blaster fire.

He ducked as a burst of energy fire grazed overhead, his four-toed feet digging into the twisted deck plating for balance. The breach had become a warzone, an orchestra of chaos and destruction. A team of soldiers to his right unloaded LO-27R light machine guns, the belt-fed 30-06 slugs ripping through enemy formations with brutal efficiency. To much of the galaxy, slug throwers were an antiquated and barbaric weapon, but to the Lilaste Order, they were a statement of defiance—a lethal edge against the galaxy's expectations.

"Push up!" Laphisto barked, his voice cutting through the air. "Secure the corridor! We can't afford to get pinned here!"

As his men advanced, Laphisto caught sight of one figure standing out from the controlled formations of the Lilaste Order soldiers. Gavin Vel was charging headlong into the thick of the fight, his saber flashing and blaster barking in tandem. The man's movements were bold and brash, each swing of his weapon carried with a confidence that bordered on recklessness. Gree fire converged on his position, drawn by the sheer audacity of his advance.

Laphisto growled low in his throat, his sharp gaze narrowing. Gavin's antics were impossible to ignore his charge was reckless but it drew attention away from his men, but also left the man to far ahead that if need be he wouldnt be able to give support, . "Gavin, keep it tight!" Laphisto ordered, his tone clipped as he waved a clawed hand to motion others forward. "push to far ahead and your going to get cut off from reinforcements!"

Laphisto didn't pause to see if the order was followed. in fact he wasnt even sure if he could give orders to the man but he hoped he at least headed his advice. after all there was no time to micromanage on a battlefield like this. With a sharp flick of his wrist, his blade disengaged briefly as he crouched low, motioning for a nearby squad to follow him toward the next corridor junction. "Suppressive fire! Move now! push into the corridor!"

The Gree loyalists were faltering, their defensive line breaking under the relentless push of the Lilaste Order's assault. The breach was theirs, but the AI core was still further ahead, deeper in the twisting corridors of the Oracle. Laphisto moved with precision, slicing through another Gree soldier who stepped into their path before glancing back toward the rear line.

Even amid the chaos, Laphisto's sharp eyes tracked Gavin, it was hard to miss force sensitives, specially when using his force sight.. Laphisto huffed, more focused on the next task than offering approval. "He'll either get us killed or win the day outright," he muttered under his breath as the soldiers regrouped at his flank.

Laphisto activated his commlink, tuning into the encrypted channel and speakign to Tertius C. Nargath and Zara Saga . "This is Laphisto, High commander of the Lilaste Order. We're pushing toward the AI core breach. Your cruisers have our attention," he said sharply, addressing Tertius's earlier broadcast. "Hold fire against the oracle until we secure our assets. We'll signal when you're clear to engage. but if you can try and ocus on any enemy shuttles arriving to reinforce the gree loyalists on board"

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

Location: Asation system
Loadout: [X] [X] [X]
TAG: Laphisto | Zara Saga

"Lady Zara, thank you for the immediate response," His fingers sliding over the screen of his datapad, all the while keeping an eye on the archon through the bridge's viewports, Tertius found the name of Zara Saga in his files on the High Council. Her tone of voice betrayed a certain lack of knowledge on both his status and name within and without the Diarchy, which considering he was bankrolling most of their army and fleet was...somewhat surprising, even if his name itself didn't hold any weight to her, surely the name of the company must've been enough? Still, this Archon had relented and granted permission for his actions, which in itself was already more than enough.

"We will be hounding the ship's defensive capacity and try to take out its weapons systems," Letting out a sigh, the Marquis leaned back into his seat and looked at the one actually in command of the ship or rather all three ships: Centurion Livicus of the Valkan Guards. "Send word to the NZV Artorius and the NZV Paragon, have them strafe the sides of the Oracle with Clustermissiles, focus on...the forward bow and the midsection, it should have a high concentration of AFT's and LCA's around those areas."

Not a moment passed when both of the aforementioned Szayel-Class cruisers began peppering the Oracle's forward bow and midsection with the long range cluster missiles, resulting in a large bloom of explosions surrounding the vessel, no doubt rocking it to its core, yet also keeping it stable due to the perfect timing. "The shields...if not tampered with, should have taken quite a hit from this volley, follow up with a volley of GMME missiles to burn away the shielding, in the meantime we have to approach with caution, prime all lasercanons before we enter the perimeter."

"Sir Laphisto, I regret to inform we are already well within shooting range of the Oracle and can't risk remaining here like sitting ducks," It was a sad thing that he couldn't comply with Laphisto 's first request, but considering this was the Lilaste Order, surely the man was well aware of what it meant to have come within firing distance of a ship like the Oracle. "We are focusing our fire on the ship's shielding and point defense systems, as per your request we will keep an eye out for incoming Gree Shuttles. However be aware that should they attempt a massive run on the Oracle, it may become...rocky."

Tapping on his datapad again, the sudden lurch of his ship made the Marquis drop the datapad as he nearly flew out of his chair in the process, turning his attention towards Centurion Livicus, the Marquis noticed the man nod and point out of the viewports, where a full squadron of what looked like antiquated Y wing bombers had managed to make a pass over his ship, from the looks of it, another two squadrons had managed to surprise both the NZV Artorius and the NZV Paragon as well.

"Antiquated or not, these guys have more material than we thought," Retrieving his datapad, the Marquis turned towards the centurion of the Valkan guards. "You are in command, Livicus."

"Yes, Milord," The armored centurion stood up and opened up a comms not only between all ships, but also to Zara Saga and Laphisto . "Allright ladies and gents, the Gree have shown their hand, now it is time for us to respond in kind. Archon Saga and Lord Laphisto, three squadrons of Y-wing bombers with unknown specifications have entered our perimeter and may pose a threat to the Oracle, we shall engage them and hold off any newcomers as long as we are able to do so. Make haste and may the Diarchy prevail."

Turning his attention back to the two ships, the centurion roared loudly, with answering roars coming over the comms in response. "Allright, we have a job to do. Vaccis , you and Grevis tighten up our formation, expand your shield range to maximum, deploy the squadrons and keep your point defense system active, have your AI take over the ARD system and have men ready to calibrate the guiding missiles. The NZV Julius will maintain its pressure on the Oracle's shield system. That will be all."

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: OPEN

​

The battle had began to rage and although one of the Diarchs had not been seen so far, he was here.

Rellik had been watching from inside the facility. Having already maneuvered his way between the combat by feed intel between himself and Varis Oakertain ; he put himself in position between the two high priority targets of the base. The hypergate and a security room full of some of the most important Gree.

The pieces were falling into place perfectly and the time to act was now that Ova had set off the alarms by his dynamic entrance. With the building personnel and security in full motion the Diarch watched as the guards near the high profile area began to move towards the main battle. It appeared they believed they could not be touched. They were wrong.

Chopping his way out of the air ducts above and landing in an open hallway Rellik used his lightning to chain together between the multiple guards still outside the doors to the head security vault.

Stabbing into the door and creating a circle to enter through, he pushed the hollowed center open and stepped inside. Blocking several shots from the high level guards back at them swiftly, he was left with his targets.

Before any of them could press the hidden alarms under the table Rellik used Qâzoi Kyantuska to halt them in their tracks. One incredibly willed Gree began to speak with defiance. "Our species has outlasted all. The Rakata, the real Sith. We have served the celestials and higher powers than you will ever be. LEAVE THIS PLACE."

The Diarch reached out his hands, fingers twinging and sparking in anticipation and calmly responded. "Everything of the old worlds will fall away as the Diarchy rises." Before turning them all to a crisp.

Once the deed was done, he would turn out to the hallway and make his way to the hypergate, still guarded by the main operator of the base.

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: OPEN​

Zara's comm unit buzzed, Tertius's voice cutting through the sounds of battle. She acknowledged the transmission with a curt nod, her focus still sharp as she watched the last of the mercenaries fall. "Understood." she replied, her voice coolly professional. "We are proceeding with the reclamation. Your support is appreciated." She didn't have time for pleasantries or extended conversation, not when her students were in the thick of it.

She turned back to her students and the path forward, the words of the new contact falling into place in the back of her mind. They were making progress, but the Oracle didn't want to be taken. The closer they got to the command center, the more intense the resistance became. Corridors once seemingly empty were now swarming with Gree loyalists. She watched Anya block a tech's blaster shot with the flat of her blade, then quickly lash out to disarm and restrain the man while still keeping her own blade up, ready to strike. Zara nodded once in acknowledgement. Anya was showing a true mastery of the light side's tenets, not that she'd ever vocalize that in front of the others.

She moved her gaze to Jaxon, who tore through a group of mercs with a series of brutal blows, each strike fueled by pure rage. The darkness flowed around him, a palpable presence that made the very air crackle with energy. It was effective, undeniably so, but it was ultimately unsustainable. "Jaxon, reign that in," Zara commanded again, her voice firm. "This is not about the thrill of the fight, it is about achieving our objective. Channel your emotions into your form, don't let your form fall to your emotions." She watched as some of that darkness subsided, though the anger still simmered under the surface. She knew it was a difficult lesson for some of them, but they needed to understand that their powers had to serve a higher purpose than just their own personal agendas.

As they pressed forward, the Oracle itself seemed to respond. The lights flickered erratically, sparking and dying. Blast doors slammed shut, forcing them to reroute through less secure areas, and automated turrets embedded in the walls whirred to life. Zara could feel the AI's consciousness, a fractured and chaotic presence, desperate to defend itself. "Keep your guard up," she warned, her voice echoing through the corridor. "The Oracle isn't going down without a fight."

The next wave of Gree loyalists came not in groups, but in small squads, each equipped with more advanced weaponry and a desperate ferocity. Zara moved to intercept a group of them, her golden blades deflecting laser fire and cutting down two of the mercs before the others could react. She was quick, efficient, and deadly. She didn't move with any particular excitement, she moved with purpose, a stark contrast to Jaxon's chaotic fury.

She looked over to see Anya had been caught off guard and was disarmed by a shock baton, a deep ache pulsing through her at the contact. Zara quickly moved forward, her own blades a blur as she took down the remaining mercs. "Anya, are you alright?" She focused on the others as well, making sure no one was in need of care. "Remember your training. These are not soldiers, they are scavengers and mercenaries. They fight for credits, not a cause, do not let them make you doubt yourself."

 

[Ova Ziss]

Objective 2: Assault on Hypergate Operations Center
Location: Asation
Tags: Diarch Rellik | Zara Saga | Diarch Reign ]

"I'm getting a heat signature...it's gotta be them. I see something hot, like a--wait! Reign, I can see Rellik's lightsaber!"

Ova forgot to call Reign by his formal title in the heat of his excitement. He can see the outline of Rellik as the Master Diarch lifts his lightsaber, and then takes out the Gree security one by one. It was over in less than thirty seconds. Ova was surprised at the Diarch's viciousness, but his anger was entirely understandable in lieu of what they had learned.

Rellik was making his way towards something that gave off an astonishingly high reading on the Sonic Depth Viewer. That could only be the Hypergate itself. Ova knew not to bring the heavy walkers near the hypergate: that would be a "danger close".

Ova's Scorpion Walker scuttled in the opposite direction of the hypergate, and the two other walkers stopped their cross-fire. The Sonic Viewfinder started going crazy, then stopped, then started again. Someone was trying to use countermeasures against the Viewfinder technology. However, there were too many of them hiding in one place, and the foolish cowards had left three Gree security guards stationed right outside of their location: the room on the South Side of the facility. They were in the vault.

The Viewfinder got a lock-on when someone, a Gree executive, ran across the room to seize a blaster pistol. Ah! There they were! The Trade Federation Gree traitors!!! Having been warned about the security walkers, the base personnel were fortifying themselves inside of the heavily reinforced doonium security vault and along the barracks hallway, knowing that the Scorpion Walkers would have to dig in there the hard way. No doubt, they were waiting for their evacuation dropship – but, it wouldn't make it. Instead, the Gree traitors would be getting onto a mining barge and going straight to a prison colony.

Their pea shooters and blowdarts would do nothing.

"Commanders Reign and Rellik, I've found the Gree Executives hiding in the barracks. It's at Y-7 quadrant, depth 15 meters. I'm going to crash right through the ceiling! Don't go anywhere near that Vault!"

The Scorpion walkers burrowed into the security hallway. Unbeknownst to Rellik, Ova, Reign or anyone else, this activated a silent alarm. The guards, and another huge droid contingent, would be on their way.

Ova's AT-SX landed on top of numerous Gree security guards, who were knocked unconscious by the tremendous impact. The tunnel caves, having never been designed to withstand a subterranean assault, collapsed and imploded under the immense weight of the walkers. They had created an underground egress. The walkers fold into their faux-mortar form. The droids exit first, blasting the Gree security guards outside of the vault before they could even raise their weapons.

Ova slid the Walker open, producing his N&Z Modular blaster. He clacked open a collapsible plasma axe in his off hand. He held the blaster in front of him, pointing at the Gree executives. He'd caught them so quickly that they hadn't closed the vault yet.

"PUT YOUR KARKING HANDS UP!", Ova yelled. "DROP THAT BLASTER!"

The armed Gree, the one that grabbed a laser pistol, fired a round at Ova, which Ova deflected into the wall using the flat-end of the axe. Ova grabbed the scruff of the Gree male's uniform and shoved the tentacled being into the wall. He slammed the axe into the doonium vault wall, and it stuck there, the clanking sound reverberating in the heavily armored vault. The Gree wailed with fear. All of the Gree in the room wailed. Ova had the Gree right where he wanted him.

The TAB droids head down the hole first, blasting anything that shot a round towards them. The remaining Gree raised their hands in surrender, and the droids began to stun-cuff them.

Ova pointed his blaster straight at the Gree executive. Ova smirked and tilted his head.

"Lykourgas. Fancy meeting you here."

"Mr. Ziss! I-I didn't know that you--!"

"I knew I'd find you cowering somewhere, you karking traitor", Ova sneered, rolling his fist up even further towards the scruff of the Gree's neck. He could blast Lykourgas right then and there. "You sold the entire Diarchy out to the Trade Federation, all over a barge design?!?!"

"There are more who have made this decision than just I!" The Gree waved his open hands. Mia Culpa.

"YOU sent the pirates. YOU stole my kybers." Ova poked his blaster harder against the Gree's wide head. "And you're the ones who gave the Armada the explosives. You lost me over ten million karking credits."

Ova positioned himself behind the man. He un-shackled the axe from the doonium wall of the security vault, held Lykourgas in a hostage stance with his axe-hilt, put his blaster to Lykourgas's temple, and then--

"No! No! Please!" Lykourgas pled for his life. It made Ova feel disgusted inside. The Gree had seriously betrayed Dantooine, and caused the deaths of so many lives, all to get their hands on kybers. But Ova would not sink to their level. Ova would not let the dark side win – not yet.

"It's your lucky day, ya laser-brained six-tentacled traitor." Ova gave Lykourgas a shove towards the Hypergate room, pointing the modular pistol at his back. "You're going to recalibrate this Hypergate so that WE can use it again. Then, I'm arresting your buddies." He cocked his head in the direction of the stun-cuffed Gree. They also had to wrap their tentacles in rope, to make certain that they don't get away.

"Then, I want you to run along to the Trade Federation, and tell them never to touch the Diarchy's kybers ever again. Do you karking hear me?!"

"Please! Don't kill me! I'll do whatever you say!"

"Then move!!!"

Ova would exit the security vault with about a dozen Gree executive prisoners in tow. The TAB droids began leading them out of the facility. Ova, on the other hand, was heading in Rellik's direction, with his Gree executive prisoner Lykourgas in tow.

When Ova saw Rellik, he tossed the plasma axe on the ground and brought the Gree towards a six-pointed module, which could've only been operated by a six-tentacled Gree.

"What are we looking at here?", Ova said – to Rellik, more than anyone.

"I-I don't know!", the Gree said, although it wasn't clear whether he was just anxious, or whether he truly did not know.

"Rellik. Tell him how to get it working. We're running out of time. I'm quite sure that more of them are on the way."

​

 

[Ryu Jung]

Tags: Diarch Reign Ova Ziss Diarch Rellik ​

The flak was heavy. Ryu sat along with the other stormtroopers that would accompany him on this operation. Echos of shells hitting the sky and the sound of exploding craft made the troopers in the craft shake. Ryu could sense their fear, as much s he could feel his own. But a practitioner of the dark side knew exactly how to keep his emotions in check and harness them for the coming battle. The gree would regret the decision of standing in opposition to the Diarchy. But the situation on the planet's surface was less than desirable if intelligence was correct, which it tended to be.

Ryu waited for the craft to land with the rest of the vanguard force topside for Diarch Reign and he did not want to disappoint his master for this important assignment. In due time, the shuttle had landed and the door opened to let out its passengers. Ryu could feel the stormtrooper's nerves dissipate into a blood-curling fervor as they were now ready to take the fight to the gree. Diarch forces were busy organizing themselves with the armor following after the troops. Ryu was entrusted with the frontal assault, to the the brunt of the assault to allow the flanking forces to do their job

Ryu darted around as he saw the stormtrooper captain, rushing over to him. "Captain! Organize the men to advance, we have to make for the control center!" Ryu ordered. The captain affirmed Ryu's request. He pulled out his lightsaber, a bleeding crimson illuminated the battlefield and he stepped forward, blocking blaster bolts as they flew towards him. The men were slowly organizing themselves against the incoming fire. They knew if they stood where they were, they would be a hole in the ground. Some of them already were, so they had no choice but to advance.

Gree firing positions were scattered across the field. Layers of defenses that were bolstered by the home field advantage despite the numerical and technological advantage the Diarchy had, it would mean nothing if they were fish in a barrel. Ryu look to this left and saw a contingency of stormtroopers pinned down by an e-web position. Quickly, he rushed over to flank the position. With the gree remaining stationary, they made it so they could not intercept flanking squads but instead rely on other defensive positions to cover their flanks. Ryu did not take time to notice the position to his right that noticed Ryu's flanking maneuver, so fire was diverted and suddenly, Ryu stopped dead in his tracks fending off blaster fire from two directions. He slowed and saw a foxhole that he jumped into that caused the gree gunners to lose sight but they suppressed his position. The sound of lasers hitting the ground and dirt flying from the impact unsettled Ryu. He was abandoned, with no means of escape.

But just as he was about to question his odds of survival, the blaster fire had started to let up. Suddenly it stopped.

Ryu had to catch his breath before peaking his head out and seeing the stormtroopers and taken both turret positions and were continuing the advance. Ryu stood on his feet. He would not give in to fear. He would live up to the expectations place upon him by his master and claim glory. He ignited his lightsaber to meet with his men and continue the advance.

 

[Rocho]

Objective 2:
Tags: Ova Ziss Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik Zara Saga

Location: Outside one of the Scorpion Walkers, regrouping near the hypergate with Rellik and Ova.

Here was the time for retesting. The challenge was Gree. This was something he was surprisingly not as familiar with. However, whether or not they'd be a genuine threat he wasn't sure of yet. He had considered a more aggressive approach, using his ship, or joining the larger swaths of soldiers. However, an opening was available with Ova Ziss in one of those rather fascinating vehicles called Scorpion Walkers. The individual he had joined with was some kind of businessman, yet was still choosing to be directly involved in the conflict. A good decision. Combat and hunting were the best ways of proving oneself in the eyes of the scorekeeper. Rocho had sensed more than that though, a sensitivity to the force still. Not yet trained he thought, or if it was, it was well masked. But definitely there. He'd remember that. He hadn't brought it up yet though.

Rocho had not been able to accomplish much from within the machine, he'd aided in targeting and shooting them where possible. Occasionally reaching out with the force to attempt to redirect or block what he could with telekinesis. Such methods were not his standards, but he was still getting a hang of being human. The scorpion tank he was in took a similar path to that of Ova Ziss , only had taken one diverged to one side. Charging down and into another zone near the barracks.

Rocho stepped out and was immediately attacked, it was a rather large hallway between barracks, his axe was in hand almost immediately, activating the plasma blades and using the broadside to reflect the blaster bolts off into the walls and floor. He frowned, this was not going to be ideal for them. Large hallway it was. Large enough it was not. with his left hand he used the force to hurl and guide his axe down one end of the hallway, spinning it at slightly over waist height in a very long, fast, and tight boomerang, splitting down anyone in it's path while he charged in the other direction reflecting blaster bolts with his gauntlet and then activating his vibro-brace on his left arm, the blade extended, and the warrior went to work, blocking and slicing through his opponents, only spinning around to block with his gauntlet any shots remaining and then pull his axe careening down the hallway towards him again, he saw someone try and actually catch the thing, nearly succeed, and then Rocho twisted it in the force just enough that it spun too fast and took them in the chest.

The remaining already were starting to flee, Rocho considered pursuing, but realized any threat they posed would be informational. And insufficient to significantly alter their circumstances. Assuming they hadn't already passed it along. Likely, the real threats were in zones people actually expected to be attacked, because they were the ones actually worth attacking, all he'd done was a little disruption. Which made his choice to come down here somewhat disappointing. That, and Ova had already achieved his own objective in the location it seemed like. Best regroup.

He returned once able to where Ova Ziss and Diarch Rellik were at controls, his weapons back in their places aside from the axe he kept de-ignited in his left hand, "I think I'm still not quite up to my usual speed like I used to be." He admitted, "Poor targeting decisions. Is there a preferred objective for me to take?" the question was mostly aimed at rellik as he was the one present, but he was perfectly willing to accept suggestions from Ova as well.

Equipment:
PS-1 Particle Shotgun at his side with extra ammunition on belt and legs
t-7-vibro-brace (left arm.)
g-11-shield-gauntlet (right arm)
Hekler'Kok LA-2 armor
The Beast strapped to back

 

[Zara Saga]

Tags: OPEN​

Zara surged forward, her golden blades a whirlwind against the relentless tide of Gree loyalists. Each movement was precise, economical, a testament to years of training and discipline. She watched as Jaxon moved beside her, his attacks still fierce, but with a newfound control. The raw, untamed energy that had been his hallmark was now channeled, directed, making his strikes all the more devastating. He was learning, slowly but surely, and she allowed a small flicker of satisfaction to bloom within her.

But her gaze soon shifted to Anya. The young woman fought with grace and precision, deflecting blaster fire and disarming her opponents with the fluidity of water. Yet, there was a hesitation in her movements, a visible reluctance to fully commit that Zara found concerning. The light side of the Force was about serenity and unwavering purpose, not indecision. It was a lesson as vital as any she imparted to her dark-sided students.

As they pushed deeper into the destroyer, the Oracle's chaotic consciousness intensified. The lighting flickered, casting long, dancing shadows, and the very air crackled with untamed energy. The AI seemed to be throwing everything it had at them. Pipes burst, spewing steam, and automated defense systems activated with a mechanical whirr. It was in that instant that a section of the ceiling collapsed, sending a cascade of debris crashing down between them and the next corridor. The blast doors slammed shut, sealing Zara and Jaxon into the current space, trapping them on one side, while Anya found herself alone on the other.

Zara's comm unit crackled to life, distorted by the AI's interference. She could see Anya from the security cameras in the hall, caught in shock as a squad of battle droids whirred to life, their blasters already powering up.

Jaxon rolled his eyes, a low snort escaping him as he watched Anya freeze, her face a mask of alarm. Zara, however, felt a surge of protectiveness. Anya was an excellent student, but her nature made her hesitate when she should act. This was not cowardice, but a lack of hardened instinct.

"Anya, focus," Zara's voice cut through the comm distortion, calm and steady. "You can handle them. Maintain your guard and utilize your training. Engage, do not hesitate." She could feel Anya's uncertainty, a wavering flicker in the Force. Zara knew that pushing her too hard would break her.

She tried to channel her instruction into her tone, but she knew Anya needed something more. In a move she rarely utilized, Zara extended her senses, reaching out through the Force to connect with Anya. She built a bridge between their minds, subtly infusing her own battle-honed focus and resolve into Anya's consciousness. It wasn't a full-on mind meld, but a gentle nudge, a surge of confidence and clarity. It was a risk, but Zara believed in Anya, and she couldn't afford any of her students falling in these circumstances.

She had to trust her training, both hers and Anya's. She would find a way through the doors, but for now, Anya would have to hold her own. This was a critical lesson they all had to learn.

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto's blade hummed steadily in his hand as he pressed forward, the faint green glow illuminating the grim corridor ahead. Around him, the soldiers of the Lilaste Order moved in a disciplined line, their movements quick and precise. Every step deeper into the Oracle brought new resistance—Gree loyalists entrenched in defensive positions, automated turrets springing to life, and the constant hum of the AI core resonating through the air.

His commlink crackled, the clear, commanding tone of Tertius C. Nargath cutting through the chaos. The report was concise: three squadrons of antiquated Y-wing bombers had entered the perimeter, and their ships were engaging to hold the line. What caught Laphisto's attention, however, was the mans formal address.

"Lord Laphisto?" The thought flickered through his mind, unbidden, and he couldn't help but raise a brow, the faintest smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. It was a title he neither sought nor encouraged, one that felt far removed from the simple realities of the battlefield. He dismissed the thought quickly—there was no room for debating proper titles in war. Let them call him what they would; the mission came first.

Activating his commlink, Laphisto's voice came through steady and calm. " Tertius this is High Commander Laphisto. I acknowledge your situation and appreciate the update. we'll press on. Your focus on the Oracle's shields and point defenses is noted—keep that pressure steady. Well focus on the AI core"

As he cut the commlink, as a sudden explosion rocked the corridor, throwing sparks and debris into the air. The Gree loyalists ahead had triggered a trap, a cascade of ceiling-mounted explosives collapsing part of the passage. Laphisto shielded his face with his arm, his reptilian claws scraping against the bulkhead for stability.

"Status?" he barked, glancing back at his squad.

"Minor injuries, Commander," one of the soldiers reported, already helping another to their feet. "We can bypass the obstruction—there's an auxiliary path ahead."

"Do it," Laphisto ordered, gesturing for the squad to move. "Stay close and keep your guard up. They're trying to stall us."

As they maneuvered through the narrow auxiliary corridor, the air grew colder, the hum of the AI core louder. The faint blue glow of Gree symbols lined the walls, casting eerie reflections on their armor. Laphisto kept his blade ignited, the subtle shifts of his tail helping him maintain balance on the uneven deck plating.

"Tertius, this is Laphisto," he replied, his voice low but firm. "Your update aligns with our progress. We're closing on the core, and your bombardment is keeping the Gree stretched thin. Whatever you're doing up there, it's working. Just keep an eye on those bombers. If they manage to break through, let me know immediately."

He paused, glancing toward the sealed door ahead, its surface glowing faintly with alien markings. A demolition specialist from his squad was already moving forward, setting a charge to breach the entrance.

"One more thing," Laphisto added, his voice lowering slightly. "If we don't make it to the core, and you see an opening to disable the Oracle, don't hesitate. This ship can't stay in the Gree's hands, not with what they've done to it. We'll get out if we can, but the mission comes first."

The chamber erupted into chaos as the Gree opened fire, their blaster bolts streaking through the air. Laphisto surged forward, his blade deflecting incoming shots with precise movements. Behind him, his squad moved in formation, a combination of blaster fire and slug rounds forcing the loyalists to scatter. they were close but they still had Loyalists between them and thier goal.

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Tags: Ryu Jung @OPEN

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The Diarch watched the shuttle carrying one of his apprentices land, and his forces move out, they were under heavy fire, assaulting fortified positions on the way to the control center. It was at this time, he watched Ryu break off to flank the enemy positions.

The Diarch watched with pride while the enemy focused fire on the young man, and while he did have a small pang of worry when the Oathsworn came under fire from multiple turret locations, it was quickly replaced by relief when the distraction worked. It had allowed the Diarchy stormtroopers to engage the positions while their attention was diverted.

Determining that his time and the command center had come to an end and he needed to be in the battle with his men, he turned to one of the generals and gave him command of the tac center.

The Diarch marched forward with his Myrmidons in tow, laying waste to any opposition in their wake. The newly christened unit sleek in black armor and gold capes, following their master with fine tuned precision.

This would be their first deployment, and they operated with a cold efficiency that one would expect of soldiers hand picked by Reign.

Catching up to Ryu and his troops, the Diarch paused a moment to give the young man praise.

"The diversionary tactic was quite a bold move, you have done well my young friend. But be careful, yours is not a life I would give up freely. Come, let us fight together!"

With that he charged into the enemy lines, dropping into a trench and carving through the resistance located there.