Star Wars Roleplay: Chaos

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Public Secrets Beneath the Surface

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Breaking News: The Heart of New Cov? Ancient Secrets Beneath Ilic Spark Growing Interest

Ilic City Dome, New Cov

In a revelation that has sent ripples of intrigue and excitement throughout the galaxy, an unprecedented discovery beneath the city of Ilic—New Cov's thriving capital—has uncovered not only an ancient city but something far more troubling. Bio-organic constructs, pulsing with strange, sentient energy, were only the beginning.

Deep below the city's surface, archaeologists have stumbled upon a vast network of ruins, layers of history that stretch farther back than anyone could have anticipated. At the center of these ruins lies a hidden chamber—a chamber unlike any discovered before. Early reports, still highly classified, hint at something far older, far more powerful than anyone dared imagine. This is no mere ancient city—this could be the Heart of New Cov.

The term, used only in ancient rumors and long-forgotten texts, has now taken on an eerie significance. The Heart of New Cov— a source of unknown, seemingly boundless energy—was believed by scholars to be nothing more than a myth. Ancient stories described it as the origin of the planet's life force, the wellspring from which all biomolecules flowed. These biomolecules, which have driven New Cov's rise as the galaxy's biotech capital, are said to have first appeared here, in the Heart—a place so ancient that it was thought to have been lost to time.

Until now.

The discovery, still shrouded in secrecy, has been closely guarded by New Cov's government and the New Cov Biomolecule Company (NCBC), the planet's most powerful corporation. But, as always, secrets have a way of slipping through the cracks. Late last night, encrypted transmissions detailing the findings began circulating through underground networks, leading to speculation that a powerful faction—or perhaps a mole within the government—had intentionally leaked the discovery. Soon, fragments of the encrypted footage flooded the holoweb, sending shockwaves across New Cov and beyond.


What Was Found?

The leaked footage shows a massive, pulsating structure buried beneath Ilic, emanating a strange, radiant energy. It seems to defy all known laws of physics, with organic matter and technology blending together in ways that cannot be replicated. What's most unsettling is the size of the construct—far larger than any city or building. It looks as though the entire planet's lifeblood is concentrated here, as though the Heart of New Cov is not merely a place but a living entity in itself. Yet is this construct merely the Heart's guardian sentry?

The video footage reveals even more disturbing details: massive, serpentine conduits—living vines or tendrils, perhaps—snaking through the ruins, connecting the Heart to various parts of the planet's surface. These structures seem to pulse with life, carrying biomolecules—energy—throughout the planet. If these conduits are indeed part of the Heart's vast network, they may be the key to understanding how New Cov's biomolecular industry flourished.

But who—or what—created this Heart? And why was it hidden?


A Dangerous Secret?

Sources close to the New Cov Biomolecule Company are whispering that the company's Director, Liin Terallo, has known about the Heart for years. However, her silence on the matter speaks volumes. Was the discovery intentionally concealed? Was the Heart's power kept hidden to maintain control over the planet's biotech monopoly? And what role did the Heart play in the rapid development of New Cov's cutting-edge biotechnologies?

The deeper investigators go, the more questions arise. The Chamber of the Heart is said to contain inscriptions and symbols in an ancient language, possibly the key to unlocking its power. But no one has been able to fully decipher them. What they do know is chilling: those who have ventured too close to the Heart's core have vanished without a trace, their last communications distorted or silenced altogether.


The Leaks Spark Alarm

Even as New Cov's newly elected government attempts to contain the fallout from the leak, panic is setting in. Factions across the galaxy are already mobilizing, eager to stake their claim on the ancient power. It is whispered that the Sith, who have long coveted forbidden technologies, are rumored to have dispatched agents to New Cov, drawn by the possibility of tapping into the Heart's dark energies.

The Jedi, whom house a temple deep within the dangerous jungles, are themselves concerned by the presence of an ancient and potentially dangerous power linked to the Force, and are preparing to intervene. They fear that the Heart may not just be a source of energy but a force unto itself—one capable of corrupting or destabilizing the balance of the galaxy.

Meanwhile, the power vacuum has drawn the attention of pirates and mercenaries, hungry for riches or fame. The Heart's energy could fuel fleets, or even create weapons of unimaginable destruction. Whoever controls it may control the future of New Cov—and perhaps the galaxy itself.


A Race Against Time

As the conspiracy theories grow, the true scale of the discovery becomes clear: the Heart of New Cov holds the secrets to the biomolecular advancements that have defined this planet's prosperity. But it is not just a source of power— it may be a living, breathing entity, guarded by forces beyond human understanding. The deeper one ventures underground, the more dangerous the truths become.

What will happen when the Heart's full potential is unlocked? Who will control its secrets? And who will uncover the truths hidden deep beneath Ilic—before the Heart claims its next victims?

The mystery is just beginning—and those seeking to uncover it are in for a perilous, treacherous journey. Will they survive long enough to reveal the Heart's secrets—or will they become part of its ancient, deadly power?


Stay tuned. The truth may be darker than anyone could imagine.


Possible Objectives:

The deeper mystery beneath Ilic has just been revealed, and the stakes are higher than ever. With ancient technologies tied to the origins of New Cov's biotech empire, the Heart of New Cov offers the potential for untold power—and grave danger.

  • Sith: Drawn to the dark and ancient power of the Heart, could see a chance to harness its mysterious energy, which could fuel their dark ambitions.
  • Jedi: The Heart is a danger not only to New Cov but to the entire galaxy. The Jedi could seek to uncover its mysteries before it becomes a tool of destruction.
  • Corporate Rivals: The Heart may contain the ultimate key to unlocking the future of biotechnologies. Rivals could stop at nothing to claim it—regardless of the cost.
  • Pirates and Mercenaries: The Heart's power can be weaponized. Pirates could seek to exploit the chaos and seize whatever treasures lie hidden within the ancient city.
  • Scientists: The scientific community is divided—some seek to uncover the truth about the Heart, while others fear what will be revealed if its secrets are fully understood.
  • BYOO: Have your own spin on it? Feel free to jump in with it!
The race is on to unlock the Heart's deepest secrets—and the dangers are more lethal than ever. Who will survive the search for the ultimate power?

Saki Saki Allister McAuliffe Allister McAuliffe Kahlil Noble Kahlil Noble Karl Von Strauss Karl Von Strauss Vera Noble Vera Noble Lyssara Thrynn Lyssara Thrynn Lorian Aldaris Lorian Aldaris Forse Dirum Forse Dirum Brakkus Brakkus Torn Eskol Torn Eskol Shey'da Shey'da Rakkon Yomaget Rakkon Yomaget P O D P O D Shuklaar Kyrdol Shuklaar Kyrdol Scour Scour Marlon Sularen Marlon Sularen
 
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Objective: Open

~Tera...Tera....lo....lo...~

I can hear my name being called in the dark chasm. It is not a void, but something else. Strange lights glow and pulsate with every sound. Yet their glow is almost dampened in some strange way. There is something unnatural about it. Yet I am compelled-no drawn to investigate further. What is this place?

What's that?

Something hits me at my knees!


I jolt myself awake, only to find that I am not in my own bed. No, I am standing in my room over by my window! Have I been sleepwalking?

I look out at the city below in the dawn's early light and find my eyes drawn to a certain building; the old art gallery. I know what lies below. It was a story passed down through generations, but one that I had assumed was only a fairytale.

Until recently, that is.

And somehow news of the discovery was leaked! Not just on New Cov, but onto the galaxy-wide holonet! There is little doubt in my mind that it could draw some outsiders here. Just closing off the old art gallery will not work, as I know that hidden throughout the dome are other secretive entrances. Stationing guards there would only draw attention to those hidden locations. I can only hope to use other means to secure them.

Even if it means going down there myself.

Tag: OPEN
 

Jack Sandrow

Writer, Character, Invasive Species
Objective: Communion

Outfit: Olisthiros stealth combat suit
Weaponry: Forcesabers | Pistol | Garrote


The jungles of New Cov were less and less strange to Jack, the more he spent time here. Soaking in the life of the flora was part and parcel of his work here, and it was hardly work when it was literally life and living for him. Learning how the world connected, how the animals and plants of the biosphere interacted, it was almost intoxicating with how much information he was drinking in on a daily basis.

And then something woke up.

In a haze of delirium and what felt harrowingly close to complete disassociation he had come to the realization that something had called to him, whether on purpose or by reflex, almost certainly in no small part thanks to the work he had put into his own research of New Cov. And he needed to respond, he needed to respond to it now.

Grabbing what equipment he had on from his last mission, barely bothering to refuel and restock, he had made his way to Ilic City Dome posthaste. He wasn't going to fight his way in if he could help it, but he would be getting in one way or another. Maybe... try the front door?

Landing just outside of Ilic City Dome in the twilight of dawn and heading in, he let the Force guide his path onwards (as vague as that had become, the closer he had got). Perhaps others would be moving in as well... He'd have to be on his guard for that, he mused while weaving through early morning crowds. On his guard and ready for anything.

After all, reality doesn't usually shift so drastically.



[Tags:] OPEN
 

Saki

Came in like a wrecking maul
Liin Terallo Liin Terallo

There was always something to be said about jungles... or dangerous worlds... they were fun. The jedi amster was standing there in the area.... a temple for the jedi might be on the planet but she rarely went o some of them. Her casing there on one side and her armor secured as the Matukai was swinging her massive sword around. The various instruments were there in her case as she moved tyhrough the jungles. Allowing the force to stretch out and go to each of her limbs so that she would be able to lift the powered armor and equipment. Her breathing focused and ready when she felt something for a moment. Staying her feet and allowing her shoulders to roll... the popping sounds coming even in the thick and heavy armor. ONe hand going to her case as on the top laid the yeeter... The solid chunk of beskar that was dull but smashed through anything.
 


The jungle-world was not something entirely foreign to this treasure hunter. His adventures had taken him to a bizarre multitude of atmospheres and environments, and frankly this jungle deal was welcomed in comparison to what it could be. Besides, he had been here before. It was brief and many decades ago, he had formed some contacts on New Cov to execute some trading for biomolecular-products, and to recruit guides him that could point him in the right direction for his jungle exploration. There were extensive and breathtaking ruins that had been engulfed by leafy over growth, ruins and relics that Pod had heard whispers of but never managed to come across. The natives were not to be dismissed when speaking on how threatening and unkind the biome was. Not only was the brush dense and formidable, but the lurking predators and hidden dangers of lethal flora were not anything to scoff at. He had been eager at the time to get his hands on said flora, fascinated and intrigued by the biomolecular harvesting that could be done on them, but he never even got close. He had no partners or crew to assist in this monumentous effort, and there simply was money to be made elsewhere. So Pod had left, but New Cov had simply slinked to the back of his mind. Always there, always nagging and making him feel like he had missed something, like there was so much more he had to do there. His intuition had always been remarkably spot on, and his gut had told him New Cov had a secret. It withheld something from him, great treasures and glory he felt. Those jungles...those domes....there had to be more. They were hiding something, some evidence of classified history, something seductively potent and powerful. He would ponder it for some time, but again this had been decades ago.

It ultimately was laid to rest dormantly in his mind, only coming to the surface at the sight and sound of some leaked footage. Pod was a man who wore many hats, and at the time of this occurrence he had been a drug dealer. He was dropping off a lavish supply of death sticks to one of the Hutt cartels he worked with frequently on Balosar, a cartel that ran a large portion of the planet's underworld. The men who unloaded this precious cargo were buzzing with excitement, murmurs of some beating heart of Ilic. Naturally Pod would press, eventually being shown the footage. It was captivating, entrancing. It hooked him. He'd never seen anything like it before, something flowing with energy and presence. A biomolecular powerhouse...he wondered what he might be able to do with that. What kind of things he could create and exploit, what kind of other ruins and secrets lay within, he found himself yearning to learn more about it, to delve into it's lore. His thirst for new adventure grew overpowering, igniting his preoccupation with the mysterious world.

Soon after, Pod's ship would be entering the capital of New Cov. It would glide cautiously through the dome's top vents, following the curved pipes down and inward to a bright landing area beneath a transparisteel sky. He was well versed in how this sort of thing went, and had spoken to multiple sources prior to venturing to Ilic. He at least had an idea of where to start looking, or who to ask about it, but even still the task of searching the city for a highly valued and likely highly protected secret entrance was daunting. Nothing he couldn't handle. He just had to get there first. Pod exited the hangar, shiny boots stepping out into Ilic's pristine streets.


 

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Karl was awoken by the sound of Milton Flight, his N&Z Senior Assistant, entering his room. "Director we've got a situation."

He blinked his eyes a bit before turning on the lights. "Mr. Flight, it is supremely early in the morning what possib-" He began before being cut of by Milton.

"Sir, read this." He said handing a datapad to the aging director. What was on the datapad was numerous news outlets covering the discovery of the supposed Heart of New Cov. Karl's brow furrowed as he read more and more.

"They're going after another of the Directors. Milton, get the other assistants up, one of them needs to get me a cup of Caf. Everyone needs to get ready. And ready the assault carrier group. Not, for war, but as assistance to Liin." He turns around looking in the room's corners before shouting, "CIRCE! Get in here now! We are heading to New Cov."

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Karl was on the bridge of the Frozen Arrow, a Barragan Assault Carrier, as it sped through hyperspace. Beside the Arrow was a pair of Szayel Assault Cruisers, the Intrepid and the Exclamation. He didn't choose these ships to assault New Cov, he chose them because they could be readied within a moment's notice, and they held some valuable firepower if anything untoward did happen.

Karl sat in a chair off to the side of the command podium, he had a mostly finished caf in his hand. He had fully integrated with his new leg at this point, but still made sure to give his body the much needed rest it deserved in his older age. He didn't care if he didn't get enough sleep, only that his body was able to rest.

He sipped the last of the caf down and stood up, placing the saucer on the chair. He took his position behind the command podium and pressed a button, "Linn, I'm on my way." He let out a small laugh, "Although, I'm bringing a larger entourage than last time, hopefully, that is fine given the circumstances. Please respond as soon as you can, I'm about a standard hour out."

As he finished the message he stepped back to his chair, picked up the saucer, and sat down. He noticed Milton in the corner of his eye with a new saucer and cup of caf. He nodded and Milton came over and exchanged the cups. "Thank you, Mr. Flight." He said taking the cup, its warm liquid breaching his lips.

Karl became lost in thought, looking out to the window from time to time. The 'Heart of New Cov' what could it be? An amalgamation of technology and biomass, certainly. But what made it? How old is it? Has Liin known about it as the reports say? Too many questions, not enough answers. Even if Liin did know, he didn't care, he was going to help a friend first and help the company second; although, he wouldn't tell anyone that.

TAGS: Liin Terallo Liin Terallo
 
Location: Hidden Outpost on Druckenwell
Equipment: Standard Issue Sith Trooper Armor, Vibroblade, Standard Issue Blaster Rifle, Datapad.
Tag: Open


The industrial sprawl of Druckenwell stretched out before Reicher Vax as he stood on the balcony of the Sith outpost, his helmet tucked under one arm. The city below was a chaotic symphony of smog-choked skies, towering refineries, and the relentless hum of machinery. It was a stark, mechanical world—a far cry from the verdant jungles of New Cov he would soon come to see.

The outpost was abuzz with activity. Troopers moved in tight formations, droids ferried crates of supplies, and officers barked orders over the constant chatter. Reicher leaned on the railing, watching the endless motion below, his mind wandering as he waited for his next assignment.

He didn't have to wait long. The sharp tone of his datapad snapped him back to the present. Reicher activated the device, the Sith Empire's crimson insignia glowing briefly before an encrypted message appeared. It bore the insignia of High Command—urgent and unmissable.

An order from the Grand Marshal himself? What could be worth all the trouble?


His eyes scanned the text, and as he read, his brow furrowed.

CLASSIFIED ORDERS
Origin: Sith High Command
Subject: Deployment to New Cov – Operation Safeguard
Briefing:

Reports of unauthorized activity surrounding the Heart of New Cov have escalated. Hostile factions, including mercenaries and possible Jedi operatives, are en route to the site. New Cov's government has requested Imperial assistance to secure the area. Your squad is to be deployed immediately to establish a security perimeter and enforce order.
Primary Objectives:
  • Prevent unauthorized access to the excavation site.
  • Neutralize any threats to Sith Empire interests, if the threat is a Sith themselves, contact High Command.
  • Support New Cov's defenses and local guards to maintain control over the Heart.
Secondary Objective:
  • Gather intelligence on the Heart's capabilities.
Beneath the orders, a brief recording began to play. The image was grainy, clearly leaked footage of the Heart's discovery. Reicher watched as the camera panned over the pulsing, bio-organic structure buried beneath Ilic City. The conduits snaking through the chamber seemed alive, glowing faintly as they carried energy to unknown destinations.

Reicher's grip on the datapad tightened. The sheer scale of the discovery was staggering, but it wasn't just the Heart's size that unsettled him—it was the faint sense of wrongness it exuded, even through the holovid.

Before he could dwell on it further, a sharp voice interrupted him.

"Vax!"

Reicher turned to see Sergeant Theven striding toward him, his expression set in its usual mix of irritation and urgency.

"We've got our marching orders," Theven said, holding up his own datapad. "You're coming with me to New Cov. High Command wants us to secure the site and keep out anyone who doesn't belong there. Looks like we're babysitting some corporate overlords this time."

Reicher nodded, falling into step beside the sergeant as they moved toward the briefing room. Inside, the other members of their squad were already gathering, their chatter subdued. The holotable at the center of the room displayed a holographic map of New Cov, with key locations marked in red.

Theven wasted no time.

"Alright, listen up," he began, his voice cutting through the tension. "We've been assigned to Operation Safeguard. New Cov's government and the NCBC have their hands full with this Heart business, and the Empire's stepping in to make sure things don't spiral out of control. Our job is to establish a security perimeter around the excavation site and stop anyone—pirates, mercenaries, Jedi, even rouge Sith—from interfering."

One of the younger troopers raised a hand. "Sir, is it true the Heart's some kind of… living machine? That it powers the whole planet?"

Theven scowled. "We're not here to play archaeologists. Leave the speculation to the scientists. All you need to know is that it's important, and we're not letting anyone else get their hands on it." While Theven dismissed the Heart as just another asset to guard, Reicher couldn't shake the unease lingering in the back of his mind. The holovid had shown something far beyond the Empire's usual prospective conquests.

Reicher stood silently, absorbing the briefing. High Command knew we needed to bring a small amount of forces, we were not there to occupy the planet after all. The battleplan was simple, two infantry squads, around 20 men would drop onto the planet, Theven's squad was to assimilate and reinforce existing corporate security while the other was to act as a guard for the Sith Diplomat on the planet. To compromise for the low troop count, two AT-OT's were authorized to be deployed, one on Thevan's position and one with the triad that Reicher belonged to. They would hold their positions until the news died down, be thanked by the planet and then the Sith could look into assimilating the planet in the future, or whatever High Command desired.

As the briefing wrapped up, Theven handed out individual assignments. Reicher's role was clear—he'd be stationed at the perimeter, monitoring for unauthorized activity and neutralizing threats as necessary with his triad and an AT-OT. Most of the squad would be dispersed to assist the NCBC's corporate security and they would be transported by two Muur-Class Transports, one for each walker, mostly to provide redundancy in case one was lost. The NCBC would host the pilots and transports until they were needed.

"Gear up," Theven ordered. "
Transports leaves in twenty. And remember, this isn't just about guarding a dig site. The Empire's reputation is on the line. Don't screw it up."

Reicher filed out with the rest of the squad, his thoughts racing. The Heart of New Cov wasn't just another mission—it was a mystery, an ancient power the Empire sought to control. As he suited up and prepared to board his transport, he couldn't help but feel they were stepping into something far larger—and far more dangerous—than they realized.

But orders were orders, and Reicher Vax was a soldier. For now, he would do his duty, even as the shadows of New Cov loomed ahead.
 
The submersible hummed as Forse piloted it through the waters of New Cov. Energy readings on his HUD, enhanced by the submersible's scanners, detected a rhythmic pulse of energy in the area he had chosen for his infiltration point. Before the Holonet video leak, these energy pulses were overlooked by those who had the equipment to detect them. The common explanation was that these anomalous readings were merely residual signals from nearby Covie power plants and other infrastructure. With the reality of these signals now widely recognized by anyone with a Holonet connection, it became easy to adjust scanners to detect the specific resonance frequency emitted by the veins linked to what some referred to as the beating heart of New Cov.

After the leak, Forse almost immediately began to receive job offers. Many of the jobs were general bounties, offering a hefty sum for the first Bounty Hunter to reach the Heart and transmit any actionable data to the job poster. Unlike most of the jobs Forse saw, many of these were put up by Academic institutions, which lacked the manpower and material needed to take on this sort of expedition. There was the usual smattering of Hutt Cartels and other crime syndicates wanting to secure access to the Heart, but that would probably be a fool's errand. If this thing truly had the reach across New Cov that holonet speculators were saying, you couldn't block the thing off from anybody. Your options were to either study it in good faith, harvest whatever it is for some pharmaceutical or other scientific purpose, or to destroy it to prevent others from exploiting it. Forse's employer wanted as much data as could be gained from it, as well as a mapped-out route that would allow researchers to visit the Heart at considerably less risk than the one who mapped the course.

Forse followed a large arrow on his HUD that tracked the bio-organic signal, using augmented reality to translate data gathered by the submersible's sensors into an easily recognizable path. The submersible was cramped, just large enough for Forse to control using the two hand controls. He lay on his stomach, looking down into nothing, using the cameras attached to the outside of the submersible to navigate via a direct connection to his helmet's HUD. He could have gotten a larger craft, but that would've required crew mates and would have attracted much more attention.

Forse chose a water route as roaming the oceans of New Cov was widely seen as very dangerous. He exited a freighter en route to the domed city. Dropped unceremoniously in his small submersible from the cargo hold, the craft entered the water like a bullet before slowing using its repulsors once it got to a specific depth.

A magnificent bioluminescent leviathan disturbed the waters around the submersible as it fled from an unknown intruder. In the glow of the creature's pulsing light, he noticed several tendrils of illumination leading into what seemed to be an underwater cave. It was as good a lead as any. Forse recognized that his current route to the Heart would place him far behind many other interests at play, but if he could navigate a safer path to the Heart, he might find exit through a route already blazed by someone else. Work smarter, not harder.
 
It was all happening too quickly. Just one look up at the sky through the transparasteel dome and the lights of the exhaust plumes from multiple vessels descending to the dome's vents could be seen. Some even hovered as they seemed to be waiting for the access codes to grant them entry into the safety of the dome. The jungles offered their own protection, given the deadly flora and fauna that dwelled there. But that was not really the worst of it.

I knew that Shuklaar Kyrdol Shuklaar Kyrdol 's fleet was out there in orbit, already working on trying to get a handle on this new volume of activity in orbit of New Cov, while rallying the ground troops. The leaked news of the rumored Heart of New Cov passed quicker than wildfire and certainly a lot faster than I would care to admit. This was not ideal. Whomever had leaked this information needed to be found.

After getting dressed, I bypassed having my morning meal and went straight to my office. The hallways were buzzing with people, yet I had to tune them all out so that I could think. I had to be smart about this and not just react to the situation. I needed to develop a proper plan.

~Liin, I'm on my way~

A familiar voice filled my office. I listened to the rest of what was said while I made my way quickly to my desk. The laughter at least put me a little at ease. The Director was one of the few that had a direct link to my private channel. Clicking on the communicator, I recorded my response to him. "Karl, what a pleasant surprise. And a welcomed one at that. I take it that you have caught the news. I can only imagine what is being said and how exaggerated the claims may be. Meet me in front of NCBC's old Headquarters upon your arrival, and we'll go from there. Liin out." I am not often so informal in my communications, but this was a different kind of circumstance altogether. There was time for protocols later.

After sending the message off, I throw on a jacket overtop of my dress. Perhaps it might allow me to blend in a little easier, I am unsure. Regardless it could prove to protrct me from whatever I might encounter underground. With a final look in the mirror, I exit my office and head down the lift that would take me into the lobby.

The early morning hours relayed a buzz of activity as soon as I opened the building doors. But even more so than your usual morning rush hour. Guards followed me out, each one assessing the area on the lookout for danger. Their numbers seemed a little larger than before. Was there some new recruitment? I must remember to ask about that later when I have the time.

As it was, this was going to be a very long day indeed. There is just so much to be done.

Tag: Karl Von Strauss Karl Von Strauss Reicher Vax Reicher Vax P O D P O D
 
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The jungle seemed to almost whisper as Jack Sandrow Jack Sandrow made his way through. When at first it would prove dangerous to the man; this time it was as though they were sent a different command altogether. And it was one that there was no hesitation in them obeying it. An ancient power silenced them. An ancient power gripped them in it's control, allowing him to pass unharmed.


But in the ocean it was different. The submersible carrying Forse Dirum Forse Dirum was treated differently. The leviathan he had encountered swam away from it, cascading through the current as though it was nothing. The colors his bioluminesence flickered on display suggested fear. That was only partly true. For the path it followed, the glowing vines that cut through the murky deep waters served a special purpose; to draw in the curious, to draw in the unsuspecting. And to draw in those controlled by their greed.​
 

Nora Laan

Prime Minister of New Cov
Nora paced back and forth in front of her desk. The newly elected Prime Minister of New Cov had inherited quite the conundrum. And it was something that she needed to get a handle on straight away.

Outwardly she exued a sense of calm. However inwardly there raged a violent storm. Whomever leaked this secret information needed to be found immediately. If this kind of situation was going to become a common occurance, then already she was a failure. And that was not something that she was going to take lightly.

Placing her hands on her desk, Nora nodded to her staff, alerting them to turn on the holocam while she broadcasted a live message:

"Good morning New Cov. I am sure that most of you are aware of the circumstances that we find ourselves in. An important historical discovery has recently been made. And yes, I had ordered that it remain quiet. As some of the leaked footage may tell you, that discovery is very, very dangerous. Lives have already been lost. And now there is sure to be an influx of offworlers looking to exploit this discovery for themselves. But let me tell you this; any and all offworlers are subject to Covie laws while they are within our territory. Security forces are being deployed to secure and safeguard the ancient city, as well as all of us from what may be within it. Those that breach the security will be arrested and persecuted. There may be a time when the ancient city may be deemed safe and then vistors will be allowed entry. But until then, only specified teams and individuals on the security's list will be permitted access. So please be patient." Now her expressioned hardened as her eyes glared into the camera. "And as for the one that leaked this discovery to the Galaxy, there is no safe haven for you here. There is no bush or rock that you can hide under. You will be found and the retribution will not be easy or swift."

With another nod the transmission was ended. While the camera crews lacked up their gear, Nora cleared her throat and then brought out her datapad from the drawer. She had a schedule to make and a lot of staff to question.

Tag: OPEN
 

Saki

Came in like a wrecking maul
Her senses exploded... something was there in the jungle and the jedi master brought a hand towards the hilt of the blade. Holding it with one hand as he helmet closed over her face... there was something here... she could feel it and her senses were not the best... but she could move and her blade swiped once into a tree and a creature. She was moving then as the power armor slammed into the ground. The heavier weight of it made to become a tank rolling through as she rushed with a chain bringing the metal case behind her. The armors cloak taking in the air as it covered it and she was going towards the deeper parts of the jungle.
 

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Karl had just finished his second sup of caf, as a communications officer approached him. "Sir, there was a reply from Director Liin." They said passing over a datapad.

"Karl, what a pleasant surprise. And a welcomed one at that. I take it that you have caught the news. I can only imagine what is being said and how exaggerated the claims may be. Meet me in front of NCBC's old Headquarters upon your arrival, and we'll go from there. Liin out."

Karl read the communication and furrowed his brow. Her tone was informal and rushed; he couldn't possibly understand what was going through what was going through her mind. To be fair, it was probably a lot given everything. He looked up at the officer who had brought him the communique. "When we arrive in system, immediately send our codes to Shuklaar Kyrdol Shuklaar Kyrdol 's defense fleet, I'll be heading down to the hangar. I'll be setting off as soon as you give me the green light. Thank you."

Sufficiently caffeinated he got up, set his cup and saucer down on the seat behind him, and headed for the hangar.

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As he exited the lift to the hangar, he could feel the ship coming out of hyperspace. Good timing, he thought walking over to a larger shuttle. He saw his assistant before, his assistant saw him. "Mr. Flight..." he said, startling the man. "Are the units I requested ready?"

"Yes sir." Milton said walking around the rear of the shuttle. He handed Karl a datapad, "Two L model Queen Bees, twenty-four PB model Workers, and twelve Arbalesk droids." All were in the back of the shuttle, waiting for their first sets of orders. "Sir, if i might speak candidly, I don't think this is enough protection for a man of your status."

"Thank you for the worry, Milton, but I won't be alone. Circe is here, somewhere, and Liin will most likely have her own cohort. And last time I was here I had twelve soldiers, even less than this." Karl said using Milton's first name rather than his normal 'Mr. Flight' which was a way Karl showed his empathy.

Karl began to walk to the cockpit of the shuttle as his wrist mounted datapad went off, signaling that he had been approved to enter New Cov. He sat down and nodded to the pilots as the engines roared to life, lifting him to the familiar, but now mysterious planet below.

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He made his pilot fly off course once inside the dome. He headed straight for the old NCBC's old headquarters, landing in whatever large enough spot could be found.

Stepping off the shuttle he pressed a button on his wrist mounted datapad, launching the smaller queen bee drones out of their 'cages.' "Queens," he said, "connect to your approved units and secure the area. Circe, keep close." There was a slew of affirmative beeps from the queen bees and an affirmative from behind him, which he could only assume was Circe.

He stepped out further from the shuttle as the last of the drones and droids exited it. They began to create a security bubble around the older director. Once empty the shuttle took off, to land at what was its actual approved landing zone. He slowly scanned the crowd around him until he could find Liin in it. Once he did find her, he walked over, his entourage following. "Liin, it's good to see you again, I wish it wasn't under these circumstances. How are you doing?"

Tags: Liin Terallo Liin Terallo
Entourage: 2x Queen Bee/L, 24x PB Worker Bees, 12x Arbalesk Droids, and C1RC3.
 
Right on time. I see the Director approaching with an assortment of droids along with him. I am more at ease with him now than I was previously, for I know that my trust in him will not be betrayed.

As soon as he draws near, I hold out my hand for him to shake. "I wish that it was under better circumstances myself, but it is good to see you again too, Director." Now that we are out amongst the public, I return to proper decorum. I cannot allow others to see me be informal. "I am doing all right for now, but that will be ever evolving as the situation unfolds. Do you feel like going on a bit of an adventure?"

I have to make sure that the ancient city was not a threat. Securing it seemed the best option. Yet I could not risk drawing too much attention to the entrance points that I know of. So perhaps a better way was to secure those entrance points from the inside. That is if they do not disappear like some people have already.

And I do not want to sit this one out. I am no longer running New Cov, so I am more able to put myself in a bit of risk, which is something that I had not quite done before. The scientist in me was eager to learn first hand of this new discovery. But I had hoped to take my time on it. Yet now given the leaks about it to the holonet, I have to bump it up on my schedule.

Tag: Karl Von Strauss Karl Von Strauss
 



A recent discovery on New Cov was stirring excitement across the Mid Rim systems. The unearthing of an ancient city promised untapped wealth, knowledge, and power—benefits that drew attention from every corner of the galaxy. Predictably, this surge of interest brought numerous parties, some acting on personal ambition and others on behalf of larger organizations, all racing to uncover the secrets buried beneath New Cov's surface.

It was rare for anything of significance in the Mid Rim to escape Brakkus Ka'bo's notice, and this was no exception. The President of the Ando Mining Collective had been prospecting in a nearby system when the news broke. Without hesitation, he redirected his forces to New Cov, intent on staking his claim.

Now, Brakkus stood on the bridge of his transport ship, gazing out over the bustling platforms of New Cov's primary spaceport. The area was teeming with hopefuls—treasure seekers, corporate operatives, and even tourists eager for a glimpse of the ancient city. The energy was palpable, but so too was the tension. Security forces patrolled the spaceport and were deployed around the excavation site to prevent unauthorized access.

For Brakkus, discretion was paramount. His contingent was comprised mainly of surveyors, not combat forces, and avoiding unnecessary conflict was critical to achieving his goals. To gain access to the site, he needed to align with the right authority.

The new Prime Minister of New Cov, Nora Laan Nora Laan , was the most logical contact. Undoubtedly, she was neck-deep in managing the chaos caused by the discovery. With civil unrest enveloping the system, this moment would serve as the ultimate test of her resolve as a leader. Brakkus saw opportunity in her predicament; if approached carefully, he could position himself and the Ando Mining Collective as valuable allies in this time of crisis.

"I want to contact Nora Laan now," Brakkus ordered his communications officer, his deep voice laced with impatience. "Bribe whoever needs bribing, pull whatever strings you must—just make it happen."

If the link was successfully established, Nora Laan would find herself facing the holographic projection of Brakkus Ka'bo, seated confidently at the helm of his transport ship.

"Prime Minister Laan," Brakkus began in his native Aqualish, his words swiftly translated into Galactic Basic by his protocol droid. "I understand these are challenging times for you and for New Cov, so I will be brief. The Ando Mining Collective happened to be surveying the Seltos System when word of the discovery reached us. We redirected our efforts here, recognizing the urgency of the situation."

He leaned forward slightly, his four eyes fixed on the camera as he continued. "My contingent, already planetside, is equipped with state-of-the-art seismic imaging equipment. Our technology and expertise can assist in mapping and eventually exploring the ancient city. I am formally offering the services of the Ando Mining Collective for this purpose. With your permission, my teams are ready to deploy immediately."

Brakkus leaned back, his posture calm but purposeful, and waited for the Prime Minister's reply.


 

Nora Laan

Prime Minister of New Cov
Nora closed her eyes for a moment. A headache was brewing, yet she had to temper it down. Normally that would involve some whiskey, however she had to keep her wits about her for now. The whiskey could come later this evening. Instead she chose to focus on Joran Del-Finn Joran Del-Finn . There was little doubt in her mind that he will soon catch sight of the leaked news as well. Would he recognize the situation of which she was now placed? What would he choose to do? Nora did not want him to go underground and risk himself for the sake of exploration and who knows what else that was down there. But yet could she really stop him if he had his mind set on it? No. And as much as she was curious about what lay beneath her feet, her place was up here to co-ordinate and control what was happening here.

Her eyes snapped open once she heard a voice project into her office as the holo-transmission was activated. Piercing blue eyes settled onto the holo-image of one calling himself--well, he had failed to give out his name. Nora listened to his proposal, finding it a little bold and unsettling that in very quick order his company has already dispatched a survey team to New Cov. How many others were going to follow suit?

Bringing about the same commanding tone that she had afforded to her previous broadcast, Nora gave him her response. "How very fortunate are we that the Ando Mining Collective was so close by. Your equipment could prove to be very useful and could safeguard some of the risks. However, I must ask at what price do these services that you offer cost?" She doubted very much that the offer was made out of generous charity. Moreso it was likely that he was after a piece if the pie, so to speak.

Tag: Brakkus Brakkus
 



The tone in which Nora Laan Nora Laan replied to the transmission was sharp and mistrustful, though Brakkus wasn't surprised. He understood the weight of the situation she was grappling with as New Cov's first Prime Minister. Such an event was unprecedented—not just for the planet but perhaps for the entire galaxy. Despite likely drawing on the guidance of trusted advisors behind the scenes, it was clear that this unprecedented event had thrown her administration into uncharted waters, far beyond the scope of any prepared contingency plans.

"Your assumptions are correct; these services will not be free, Madam Laan," Brakkus replied steadily, his voice unflustered, the protocol droid's metallic translation carrying his words forward. "However, it would be advantageous to leave the finer points of compensation for a later discussion—surely you agree that the current situation with the ancient city takes precedence."

He paused briefly, allowing the droid to finish before continuing. Nora Laan was no fool. Brakkus had no doubt she'd dealt with corporate entities before and knew better than to expect altruism from any of them. Yet, this was no time for posturing or petty negotiations.

"I do not wish to discourage you," he added, his tone softening slightly. "Let us instead view this as the foundation of a relationship between New Cov and the Ando Mining Collective—a partnership that I hope will prove mutually beneficial."

From the bridge of his transport ship, Brakkus watched as the starport continued to fill with vessels of all shapes and sizes. The influx of starships remained peaceful for now, but the sheer volume arriving every minute threatened to destabilize the fragile order. Even with enhanced security forces on the ground and in orbit, it was only a matter of time before tensions escalated.

"I understand that our presence on your planet may have come as a surprise," he said, addressing the unspoken frustration underlying her words. "But I hope you understand why it was impossible for us to notify you in advance. The situation at the ports grows more precarious with each passing hour."

He leaned slightly closer to the holoprojector, his four eyes narrowing with quiet intensity.

"Let me help you, Ms. Laan," Brakkus concluded, the sincerity in his offer unshaken by the prickly reception he'd received.


 

Nora Laan

Prime Minister of New Cov
A nod of her head was given as her assumptions were indeed correct. His services came at a price. And yet he did not want to discuss the terms right now. That was either very silly or it was very smart. Nora determined that it was the latter.

Mining was not a sector that prevailed on New Cov. It was a minor one, having not much use outside of establishing new domes, facilities and any tunnels that could connect them. So any of their machinery would surely be out of date when compared to that of Ando Mining Collective.

Nora listened intently while she weighed the gravity of his words. She knew that as soon as this transmission was ended, she'd be given an update on the influx of traffic in and around New Cov. Shutting down the ports would not be enough. Nor could it stop those that were determined enough to risk getting shot down. Just as long as no fleets had arrived, this was something that she should be able to handle on their own without calling for allied fleets to protect them.

Her expression softened a touch as she dipped her head in acceptance. "All right. You have my permission to assist, but only on the pretext that you keep me informed of every bit of information that you gather. Are we agreed?"

Tag: Brakkus Brakkus Shuklaar Kyrdol Shuklaar Kyrdol
 


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S E C R E T S_B E NE A T H_T H E_S U R F A C E

DARK EMPIRE
NEW COV, MID RIM

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58 HOURS AGO

"This is quite the interesting information that you have brought me Colonel." the Imperial Warlord said watching the leaked video. "Indeed sir. If my hunch is correct then this massive construct and various conduits attached to it may be the key to understanding New Cov's unique biomolecular harvesting industry and maybe even replicate it on other worlds for ourselves." Rackham stated. "And according to your report New Cov's biomolecules can be applied to medicine, industrial and military projects right?" the Warlord further inquired. "Yes, sir." Rackham answered.

In the mind of Marlon Sularen, the Warlord of the Empire this was quite an interesting development. An opportunist at heart, Sularen always kept his ears open through Rackham on developments across the galaxy that could advance the cause of the Empire and give it any advantage against it's enemies throughout the galaxy. If the information from New Cov was true, which was most likely, then the Empire had a golden opportunity to get it's hands on New Cov's closely guarded biomolecular industry and potentially replicate it within it's own borders.

"Very well then. Considering this is a matter of your interest, you will be charged with leading an expedition to New Cov to gather more data about this 'heart'." Sularen proclaimed. "You will be granted whatever resources you need for this task, Colonel. However i advise you move with great caution as we do not know who else might have learned about this and how far New Cov's Government is willing to go to protect this new discovery." Sularen added. "Thank you sir, i won't let you down. Long live the Empire." Rackham proclaimed. "Long live the Empire." Sularen responded.


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NOW
Rackham stood on the bridge of the Obsidian Phantom, as it traveled through hyperspace on it's way to New Cov. As part of this expedition he had brought with him Inferno Squad and a contingent of SpecNav Commandos while also bringing with him Civilian Mole Miners acquired from the open-market. His objectives were clear, find the so-called "Heart of New Cov" and extract as much data as possible from the structure so that the Empire could carry out further studies back home.

This operation carried a high risk as they were far from the Empire's borders and even the Imperial Navy wouldn't be able to relieve them given that it would have to travel through either Mandalorian or Alliance Space to reach them which itself as another colossal risk given the war with the Alliance. Nevertheless as some people would say, with great risk comes great reward and to Rackham if he managed to pull this off so many new opportunities for the Empire would be opened, opportunities that would enable it to gain new advantages over it's many enemies. Advantages that would pave the way towards a decisive victory in the ongoing Core Wars and cement the Empire's hegemony over the Deep Core and the Core Worlds.

 

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"I most certainly, always, up for an adventure into the unknown. But please forgive me for one moment." He smiled, took out a holocomm, put it near his lips, and quietly spoke to it. "Frozen Arrow, deploy all units to reinforce the already present defensive fleets and send some workers and queens down to the dome to reinforce the security forces down here. Cogliostro, you have full defensive authority; anything else contact me."

He wasn't expecting an invasion force or anything like it, but the illusiveness and rarity of anything related to biomolecules would surely bring out folks who wouldn't hesitate to pull triggers. He wanted the defensive and security forces of his friend's home to be ready for anything. Additionally, this was a good test of the Queen and worker bees to see their function in distressed situations.

He put the holocomm unit back onto his belt and held his hand out toward the old headquarters and Liin. "Please, lead the way."

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Karl and his entourage followed behind Liin as she led them through the old headquarters of the NCBC. The Arbalesk droids were in a defensive box around Liin and himself, they didn't need any direction as the queen bee overseeing them, "Anton," was watching Liin from above and using her movement to drive the droids forward. The second queen, "Bertha," was keeping her worker drones a little farther away forward and behind to cover more egresses.

As they moved down corridor after corridor and down stairwells, Karl looked towards Liin. "Liin, do you have any means to protect yourself? I could have Circe give you a pistol. I have my standard-issue blaster from the Empire, but nothing more than that and a kaldrweave uniform."

Karl always felt safer armed when exploring unknown spaces or in situations unusual. Maybe that is the imperial mindset that he's carried throughout most of his life. He didn't mean it as an insult to her or her security, but more of an extension of his protective nature. A shield, that he hoped they wouldn't need.

Tag: Liin Terallo Liin Terallo
Entourage: 2x Queen Bee/L (Anton and Bertha), 24x PB Worker Bees, 12x Arbalesk Droids, and C1RC3.
 

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