Annihilation Shatterpoint | BotM Annihilation of GA Held Tython

[Darth Saevius]

Objective: I - Shatterpoint
Location: Near the Crashed Mawite Star Destroyer
Tags: Open Rose Dorce

Spoiler: Saevius’ Army - “The Burned Legion”

• 1x Company of Knyghts of the Maw
  • Total: 200 Men divided as follows:
    • Squad 1: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 2: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 3: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 4: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 5: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 6: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 7: 25 Knyghts
    • Squad 8: 25 Knyghts
  ​
• 2x Regiments of Brutetrooper Auxiliaries
  • Total: 4,000 Men divided as follows
    • 1st Battalion: 400 Men
    • 2nd Battalion: 400 Men
    • 3rd Battalion: 400 Men
    • 4th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 5th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 6th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 7th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 8th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 9th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 10th Battalion: 400 Men
  ​
• 1x Regiment of Sith Troopers (Armor)
  • Total: 2,000 Men divided as follows:
    • 1st Battalion: 400 Men
    • 2nd Battalion: 400 Men
    • 3rd Battalion: 400 Men
    • 4th Battalion: 400 Men
    • 5th Battalion: 400 Men
  ​
• 2x Armored Divisions Comprised of the Following:
  • (40) HV-22W ‘Kraken’ Heavy Assault Walkers (Modified and Repurposed To Showcase Sith Iconography)
  • (80) Raider Walkers

He could still feel it as if it were yesterday.

The flames; the scent of burning flesh as every inch of his body screamed in pain. Saevius had died on the killing fields of Noris amidst a pile of ignited rubble. He was born again through iron and steel; willed back among the living by the graces of his brothers of the New Sith Order.

Even still, a part of him judged both his servants and his peers for the rare act of consideration. He had proven himself weak as he fell to the simple ploy of a mere NIO soldier, deserving only of a painful and ignoble death. Yet here he was, standing 2 meters tall and encased in solid metal alloy etched in the ancient tongues of his predecessors. Today, he was a near-perfect marriage between what could be achieved through both the technological wonders of the age, and the ancient secrets of the Dark Side. And perhaps to a greater extent than ever before, he felt pure hatred coursing through his proverbial veins.

Previously, Saevius was able to control his emotions; not because he was afraid of them, nor felt that to give vent to his emotions would weaken him to some degree - but because he could. He wielded his hatred, pride, and at times his pain like a weapon. He felt that measured use of such emotions made them all the more powerful when they were needed, rather than always balancing them on a knife’s edge.

But as of late, he found it hard to remain in control of his anger - impossible even. Despite the miracles of modern technology being applied to keep him alive, he held onto the sheer humiliation of what happened to him as if it were yesterday. In another life, he was an Imperial Inquisitor - responsible for the breaking and conversion of hundreds of political dissidents throughout the Sith Empire. In more recent history, he had approached the pinnacle of the power he had so desperately striven for in the years that followed the collapse of the Empire.

Now, he was reduced to... “life” that was a mockery of the word. In the beginning, he yearned for the death that had almost overtaken him on the plains of Noris. The doctors and scientists under his service had all encouraged him that this was a normal feeling, and that it would subside.

They were fools.

The only thing that kept him going was the prospect of visiting his vengeance upon all of whom she held dear. He would erase any memory of her from the galaxy.

Of course, he had no way of knowing for sure whether Anith’s sister would be here, but intelligence had established her unit had been deployed, and was currently positioned along the New Imperial battle line near the Elysium flank. To Saevius, the choice was simple.

Strategically, his army could do much to reinforce that of The Mongrel . Saevius turned to his military commanders - a combination of Final Dawn officers adorned in pristine uniforms, as well as the towering armored hulks of Knyght lord commanders. As the guns aboard the marooned Crucifix-II star destroyer began lobbing artillery fire upon the enemy positions, the Sith Lord gave the order. ”Send 6 battalions of auxiliaries to form a battleline against the NIO right flank to support the Mongrel’s offensive against the Temple with walker support. Mobilize the remaining auxiliary regiments to the foothills on the east side of the engagement zone so as to establish overlooks of the battle area and dig in. Our Sith Trooper regiment shall escort the remainder of our forces during the advance. I--”

Saevius paused. A tingle shivered down his... “spine”, with the faint traces of a familiar presence at the fringe of his reach in the force. It was a presence he had only felt once, but slightly... different.. For a moment, he almost discounted it; until realization washed upon him.

Although his metallic face was unmovable in its expressions, if he could smile - he would have done so. ’Rose...’
“I will take two squads of Knyghts with me, and two platoons of Sith troopers. We shall punch through the NIO Line. I have a debt to repay.”

Spoiler: Summary

• Saevius waxes poetic about his current plight.
• His army moves out, with the majority mobilizing against the NIO, and a minority of forces (around 33%) mobilizing to the foothills shown in the map (red line).
• Saevius assembles a strike force to visit an old friend.

 

[Keatoch]

Post: 1
Objective: Support Aculia
Tags: Aculia Voland

Spoiler

Keatoch's Battlegroup
Nameless, Keatoch's Battlegroup handles the brunt of operations outside of The Empire's territory. This battlegroup is technically a fleet, but remains a battlegroup as it is often times far from The Empire's territory. Keatoch's Battlegroup is designed to engage the enemy in any situation, while simultaneously landing hundreds of troops and thousands of pounds of supplies if needed.

During the battle for Tython, Keatoch's battlegroup merged with The Sakuran Fleet, forming a heavy-hitting battlegroup.
​

• 1x Unity-I Star Destroyer
  • HMS Csilla
    • 6x TIE/UD Starfighter Squadrons (X)
    • 2x "COB" Dark Savior Medium Transport VTOL Squadrons (X)
• 1x Kongo-Class Battleship
  • No Starfighters Attached
• 4x Majesty-Class Star Destroyer
  • HMS Naboo
    • 1x Maia-class Interceptor (X)
  • HMS Mon Cala
    • 1x Maia-class Interceptor (X)
  • HMS Mandalore
    • 1x Maia-class Interceptor (X)
  • HMS Concordia
    • 1x Maia-class Interceptor (X)
• 4x Makashi Light Cruiser
  • HMS Viken
    • 2x "COB" Zeebo Strike Starfighter (X)
    • 1x Imperial LAAT-2 (X)
  • HMS Sawyer
    • 2x "COB" Zeebo Strike Starfighter (X)
    • 1x Imperial LAAT-2 (X)
  • HMS Lady so Devine
    • 2x Zeros (X)
    • 1x Imperial LAAT-2 (X)
  • HMS Tundra
    • 2x Zeros (X)
    • 1x Imperial LAAT-2 (X)
• 2x Val-Khaar Corvettes
  • HMS Frozen Time
    • 1x ST-Class Multirole Fighter (X)
  • HMS Thaw
    • 1x ST-Class Multirole Fighter (X)
  • HMS Icecrown
    • 1x ST-Class Multirole Fighter (X)
• 4x Unnamed Baleen-class Missile Frigate
  • All Combined
    • 8x X-Class Elysium Fighter Squadrons (X)
    • 4x COB" Dark Savior Medium Transport VTOL Squadrons (X)
• 2x Longneck Hangarship
  • Each:
    • 12x X-class Elysium Starfighter Squadrons (X)
    • 8x Imperial LAAT-2 Squadrons (X)
• TOTAL SIZE: 17,404m

Grand Admiral Keatoch had been silent so far, watching as the massive battle erupted. To most it would seem as if he were abandoning them, leaving the battle and in doing so, leaving Tython to its' fate. But they would be wrong in their assumption. Indeed, he wasn't working with them, but he was not abandoning them. He was simply looking for a weakness in the enemy formation to exploit.

It didn't take long for multiple opportunities to reveal themselves. But it was The Empire's own, Aculia Voland, who gave Keatoch the greatest opportunity as her forces swarmed the massive ship known as The Fitalis , or at least its' escort. The woman then sent a message (rather needlessly, for The Grand Admiral had spotted this almost immediately.) calling out the shift of the massive ship into what she called "turtle mode", meaning it was now focusing on anti-starship tactics, like a turtle, ducking into its' anti-fighter shell. This was the perfect opportunity for The Grand Admiral to move in with his Sakuran-Elysian Detachment, a special battlegroup put together solely for this battle. It was Keatoch's standard detachment, but larger, and with the addition of several ships from The Sakuran Empire, The Elysium Empire's newest ally.

Keatoch waited for just one moment, letting the enemy admiral make his mistake without interruption. Then he calmly gave his orders..."Makashi cruisers Viken, Lady Divine, Sawyer, and Tundra, focus all fire on that Super Star Destroyer immediately. Val-Khaar Frigates, you are to remain behind until further orders and defend The Makashi's and the Longnecks. Baleen Missile Frigates, in groups of two, launch all ordinance. Once one group is dry, the other shall begin firing. Keep a constant stream of missiles on that ship.

Majesty Destroyers, split in two and hammer the Super Star Destroyer from two directions simultaneously. Kongo, lower altitude and hit the SSD from underneath. You are our anvil, and HMS Csilla shall be the hammer.

Finally all fighters, loose formation, do not engage that destroyer."

With that, his orders were completely dispatched. Now it was a matter of waiting as the pieces of the puzzle snap into place...and hopefully they would do so without interruption.

 

[Judah Lesan]

.

Wearing: xxx
Weapon: xxx x2
Allies: Geiseric | Eina L'lerim-Vandiir | Aoki-Barran Mira | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble | Cotan Sar'andor | Ishida Ashina | Vilaz Munin | Briika Munin | Rika Hiro | Asha Vynea
Enemies: Darth Vinaze | Darth Solipsis | A Alexa | Laoth | Anja Doreva | Darth Ptolemis | Khamul Kryze | Darth Kentarch
Interacting with: Damsy Callat | Zachariel Steelblood (feel free to warpost with us if ya want!)

Judah certainly looked like a hypocrite waving his twin sabers out in the open as he barreled for the bloodsworn that deviated from the rest of the group. He just wanted to be the one to choose his moment. A battle could not be completely fought from the shadows, not even the Maw could pull that off. Even now as they hid in the tower performing whatever dark ritual they wished to see through, their armies were in plain sight, out in the open, fighting.

There were the distraction, a diversion, fodder to buy the masters the time needed to succeed. Judah knew the only way to win was to kill them and quickly. He hated it, but it was what had to be done. They had all been left with no other choice.

A thick fog, smoke, or mist seemed to fill the surrounding area. It came in quickly, as though…

Judah turned and laid his eyes on the source of it all.

“Interesting…”

He had run too fat ahead for Damsy to hear it, but her decision had earned his respect. The day was only getting more odd as it went on. To think that at least one sith was respectable. Oh Judah had met many whose power he respected, but none which would have used that power to shield him, even if their agendas aligned for a time.

A smirk pulled at his lips. She had given him cover. Without any ceremony Judah allowed his blades to slumber. Their song went silent as Judah came to a halt. For a moment there was confusion as the bloodsworn who were caught up in it would have no doubt lost the Jedi’s location. He could hear their murmuring, their footsteps as a group of them drew closer.

Judah waited, patiently.

Just another moment more…

…and his blades would crescendo suddenly into their song once more. The cries of those he cut down with his blade fell in time with the movement. Each staccato plea punctuated his action until the shadow was on the move once more. Running toward the tower, Judah ran up something that could have been a ramp, a fallen log, something that allowed a forward and upward trajectory.

Soon he was visible once more, leaping into the air with his sabers over his head. With a yell Judah dove back into the smoke, disappearing into another stanza of screams as he cut through the bloodsworn. Judah would use the cover to his advantage until it dissipated. The time was short, but when it did finally clear there would be a pile of bodies in his wake.

<< “Nicely done,” >> Judah said to the siren ( Damsy Callat ) through his mind. << “I’m Judah by the way. We might make a nice team after all.” >>​

Spoiler: Summary of Actions

• Judah stopped running and turned off his lightsabers
• Judah waited for a group of bloodsworn to fall for his trap before making them go bye bye
• Kick ass cinematic jumping through the air attack which is not practical in anyway but was really fun to imagine...
• Killed more bad guy fodder

 

[Barrien Siegfried]

Mountains near Kaleth
Alone in the Siege

Ever was it normal for the peace and tranquility of a world to be suddenly shattered by attack. Be it the actions of the dark or the light, neither side seemed to ever know anything more than the struggle of battle. It was as if they could not shake themselves from the yoke of an unseen master that inevitably pits them against one another. Or, perhaps more accurately, they do not wish to remove the yoke as they enjoy the tides of war too much for their own good. Even the Jedi have shown time and again that they are incapable of doing anything more than being an exact mirror of the Sith, just with, according to them, better intentions. But those intentions hadn't always been good. Roche, his first interaction with the Jedi of the galaxy outside of his own training, had shown him that the light wasn't the light.

He'd spent a lot of time during his training with Grandmaster Raaf studying the truth of the Force, but also just asking her questions. Certainly a lot of what he'd asked her had been mundane questions about the nature of the galaxy, what their little planet had missed, how did the doors open and close themselves. But he'd also spent a lot of time asking her about the ways of the Jedi and how it seemed that many preached one ideal, but then didn't follow that ideal up with actions that supported it. It was hypocritical in his eyes. Master Raaf tried to explain to him as best she could, but she, too, thought the same as he did. She had been a great inspiration to him before she disappeared.

Now, on Tython, a world he thought for certain wouldn't see another battle as many had forgotten its existence and it wasn't easy to get to, war had found him. He sat on a cliff ledge, feet dangling over the edge, and looked up at the sky to see turmoil. What he couldn't see he also felt. War had indeed come, and once again he was poised to be in the middle of it without actually trying to be. He'd only come there to find some peace and meditate alone for a time, to decide what to do with the remainder of his life. His encounter with Nyaeli was fresh in his mind, and he hoped she was alright and hadn't come to this place. There was something about her to where he felt drawn to her, and he was certain that it was because he was meant to help her. The how of it was what eluded him and why he'd come there after spending time on Odessen.

"War is all some people know," he said to himself as he stood. "Their lives are nothing but constant struggle and even if they should want to escape it they can't. For others, it's a love of battle that spurs them on. So many in this galaxy on both sides would find little joy in life without the chance of killing others. I think too many say they represent the light who don't represent anything but anti-dark."

He fixed his shield to his arm and picked up his saber lance, strapping it to his back. If battle was to come, then he would need to go down to the old temple and see if he could at least keep too many people from being killed. Or, perhaps, heal those who needed it, regardless of their alignment or intentions. The way of peace meant he had to help others, whether they wanted it or not, and whether they intended to harm him or not. He would do what he determined those years ago was right when talking with Master Raaf, and he wouldn't fear for his own life.

"Fear kills the mind. Better to face it and conquer it than hide. Life is too short."

And thus did he set off down the mountain, heading for the temple nearby.

 

[Surea]

Surea's grin only widened as Kai dropped. His body seemed weak, had rot already infested him? She spun, assuming the worst for the Padawan as the other pulled out a gun. Jedi used blasters? Disappointing. She swiped her blade out, aiming to knock back one of the cracking shots sent her way. Wait. Cracking? Lightsaber met metal, ripping through her blade. The scent of burned skin filled her nostrils before she twisted. Leapt away.

Bullets. Actual bullets. She cursed under her breath. Only to see movement from the one that had fallen before.

He knew the girl was using bullets?

The Acolyte curled up. It was all she could do mid jump, using her cybernetics as a shield as much as she could from the salvo of bullets. Pain ripped through her body as she hit the grass. She couldn't even land on her feet. Blood leaked from the bullet holes that littered her body. Pain. Numb as she was to most sensations, she could still feel that much. Had her taste of freedom really made her this arrogant?

A half smile formed on her lips. Truly arrogant. A taste of the power her Master offered to teach her and she didn't foresee bullets of all things. Slowly she pushed herself up from the ground. Her body protested, but she ignored it. Forced her body to move with will alone, back to her feet. Arrogance wasn't fitting for an Acolyte. Clawing their way up, that was the only path they had.

That's fine.

The rotted blood that oozed from her wounds slowed, stopped. She wasn't done clawing her way forward.

Amani Serys | Kai Bamarri

 

[Thomas Barran]

2nd post

OPERATION: SHATTERPOINT

THE ANNIHILATION OF TYTHON

Objective 1: ATTACK EVERYTHING!!!!

Thomas Barran
"The Bloodhound"

ANOINTED ACOLYTE OF THE SCAR HOUNDS


Allies (BOTM/NSO): Darth Solipsis The Mongrel Keilara Kala'myr Shai Maji
Erion Justeene Darth Saevius

Enemies (NIO/Enclave/NJO): DECEASED Erskine Barran Rose Dorce Hall Mannarra Asanté Tsilor
Bex Tarring Aerys Myrrine Ollis Barran Jas Katis Julian Qar Annor E-059
Saul Vandron Asmus Omaand Alessandra Io Kal Caltin Vanagor Rex Valhoun

Loadout
Protection/Equipment
Beskar Brodie-Helm
Free-State Surplus Gas-Mask
2nd-Gen Galidraani SF Combat Webbing
Free-State Surplus Flak Jacket
Hipflask (Mineheel Moonshine)

Weaponry/Explosives
SA-35 Heavy Blaster Rifle
AP-25i "SIMP" Particle-Beam Blaster Pistol
Beskar Romphaia

Old Fairbairn Vibrodagger

X3 Incendiary Grenades
X2 Flashbangs
X3 Tetan Mastiffs
X5 Repurposed Valdr Skær-Pattern Dual-Role Droids

Scar Hound Array
X1 Scavenged Goliath Main Battle Tank
X50 SHT-66 "Malm-hrið" Heavy Battle Droids
X100 SHT-26 "Bedevil" Heavy War Bikes
X75 Scavenged XT-62 "Cataphract" Main Battle Tanks
X20 Branchlurkers
X300 Moon Children

NEXUS OF THE BLOOD-HOUND: SHRIVEN NO MORE - PART TWO

The Rowan Grove Plateau, Mt. Sintarin,
Northern Temple Valley, Tython (Late-Autum of 876 ABY)

As all wondrous sights should be..... Beauty in the clashing of static-lines. Glorious.​

The pincer was finally moving into place, and with the Mongrel's dedicated Scar Hound majority looking to be moving in on opposition to the south, the forward momentum was steadily swinging in the Maw's favour on the ground already, given heart by the lightning bolts and gathering clouds that emanated around the sky-scraping tower of Akar Kesh, but Thomas would be brought down from his perch in the dying autumn blossoms of the Rowan tree he'd chosen. Wondrous though the view itself had been, Barran couldn't help but address the presence approaching from the treeline beneath, a presence he both recognised and didn't at the same time.

A presence the Bloodhound couldn't fully identify, despite Barran's recognition of this individual from the night of his resurrection.

Interesting.... Are you watching, my love? Perhaps even guiding his way to me?​

Durace had been intense as far as most rebirthing processes went in the Galaxy's often-arcane past, but not only that, it had also been rather horrifying for the Woad's first moments alive as an amnesiac, rage-fuelled mess. Remembering the presence as one who watched on whilst the Mongrel tried his best to reason with him, but remembering the presence as one he saw as his consciousness was swept out from under him, Thomas understood this individual as the one who fought side-by-side with his darling Rebirth, one who saw her eyes and heard her voice as Barran did. Some named the individual before, though the information on the one who was approaching was scant at best, offering two names he could possibly answer to. One being,"Erion", and the other,"Darth Superious", both from people who'd seen him and what the stoic, secretive Sith Lord had been dealing with since.

With a little jump down from the lower segment of the Rowan's trunk, the Bloodhound would remove his gas-mask and helmet almost as soon as his boots touched the wet, grassy ground of the mountain plateau the grove had braved the winds on, calling out,'Darth Superious!', whilst in the process of tucking his brodie-helm under his armpit as he closed the distance. It appeared as though they were alone but another approaching presence was still much too far away to make out or acknowledge at that point, so in ignoring the far-off acquaintance in the making, the Woad continued,'Now, I know when we last met, the happenings were a bit - weird, eh? Perhaps,"Intense", would be the better term to use here, but I digress.... We've both heard the voice of Rebirth, we've both felt her power, an' though I cannot feel her power here, you can rest assured I'll do what I can to protect you.', closing the last of the distance with right hand outstretched in attempted endearment.

Acceptance of the handshake had been doubted slightly before, partly assuming that Justeene wouldn't be one for bonds or other declarations of association, but in the moment the Sith shook his hand, the Bloodhound smirked with head nodding in appreciation. Knowing that this meant they would be looking out for each other for the rest of their part in the cycle at least, a wave of comfort and contentedness washed over the Bloodhound in that moment, but something else began to take precedence in his mind as soon as their hands politely disengaged; a certain curiosity, with the light of ambition shining through with pin-point punctures self-exacted with the flashes of self-awareness that brought everything into focus, thus awakening the hidden Barran-esque opportunism within - hitting Thomas in the gut like a heavy blaster-trail had just collided with his flak jacket.

'Fate- no! REBIRTH brings us together again for a reason, Superious.... She wants you to join us! She wants you to join the Scar Hounds!'

The anointed one understood the situation well, and understood the power-dynamics of the other main warfighting tribe enough to know that some of the elements within the New Sith Order differed from the demographic majority, and of those who differed, philosophies and behaviours often dictated such differences between them. Yet such differences had little and less likelihood of bringing such opposites into contention or conflict with each other, giving Barran no reason to worry about welcoming carefully-selected Sith into a clique that was fast-becoming something akin to a household guard, especially if the Scar Hounds' training methods benefitted these Sith as much as it benefitted the cyborgs among them. Forging a different kind of warrior from the sabre-wielding evils of yesteryear, this was the Bloodhound's hope in this moment, knowing deep down that Superious would be the first of the select few to learn the ways of the Scar Hounds.

'Your true power lies with us, brother.'

NEXUS OF THE BLOOD-HOUND: SHRIVEN NO MORE - PART THREE

Floodbank East, South of Journey's End,
Temple Valley, Tython (Late-Autumn of 876 ABY)

<"Rook, you seeing this? Unexpected to say the least.">

<"With ease, Ghoul. Nobody expected this on our end either. Matters not, pincer moves in on what's in front of us. Better off finishing what's on our plate before we go offering assistance. Not leaving myself exposed in the open, and guess what? Neither are you, Ghoul. Rook out!">​

two outbreaks of hostilities could be made out through the long-distance lens of the tank's periscope-optics, one being a set-pieces engagement between Imperials and Mawites already, taking up most of the distant ground, though still much too far ahead to do anything about it. The other battle, however, would be the one that would surprise the Bloodhound's contingent the most, as the Mongrel's main host of Scar Hounds had found themselves facing off against the forces of House Io, a faction that was completely unknown to the Scar Hounds, though it seemed like they were holding their own with experience and firepower that belied their prowess against the Walord's tried-and-tested force of cybernetic marauders. Fortunately for the Tri-Lunar clique's commander, Thomas would be much too preoccupied with his new acquaintances to notice the insignia of enemies he'd known from his first life, for this would've been a headache that the Bloodhound didn't need hindering him at the time.

A nose-bleeding migraine that would've angered Barran beyond reason.

'Leave off him, will ya? We've got our own idiocies to worry about, at least for now anyway.'

Dreamer was right, and Rook knew it, especially in consideration for the misplaced plans for Branchlurker-trap locations beyond the new beachhead, and a forgotten callsign for their Twi-Lek friend. Problems that both had agreed weren't urgent enough to inquire to Thomas about, but still problems that brought beads of sweat to their brows all the same, as it was easy enough for them to remember each other's with ease, having joined, trained, initiated their tenures and served together; but with the new addition to the clique owning a particular callsign, and for the purpose of maintaining unpredictability and Op-Sec against a multitude of OPFOR elements working against them, neither Rook nor Dreamer could afford to lose track so early into the planetary assault. However, much to the delight of the latter, Cazne'Kairn's ping patched through, seemingly in the nick of time but the situation was far less severe than that, though the Mawite occupants of the modified Cataphract had no way of knowing this for sure.

<"Mineheel to Dreamer! I've been waiting on your call, what gives?">

<"Avatars be praised, Mineheel! Good job you got in touch when you did, honestly. We forgot your callsign, and to make matters worse, we've lost the coordinates to your dig-sites. Sorry about that by the way.">​

The recognisable click of the opening comm-link from the other end followed, but no words spewed forth, only the sound of solitary laughter in the background, derisive but still amiable enough not to be considered disdainful. Throughout this awkward moment, Dreamer would be looking to Rook for his reaction, seeing eyes rolling with a mild disgust as he heard Rook mutter,'Not like we didn't deserve it, brother.', before turning his attention to the map-holographic plinth beside him. Heavy was the mood before, but it looked to be lightening somewhat, a small blessing that Dreamer would not have traded for anything, especially not in the approach to the meat-grinder that awaited them. It wasn't just cohesion he was seeking, but the desire to stay on good terms also, wishing not to part with Rook or the other Scar Hounds in rueful, sour regret - nor in teary-eyed yearning for what could have been.

<"You're both idiots, but you're both also very lucky that I and mine have taken a shining to you.... Just remember,"Mineheel, Mineheel!", and be sure to keep Rook focused on the mapping endeavours. After all, you can surely handle coordination and tough decisions yourself. It isn't exactly rocket-science now, is it?">

<"Fair point, and thanks for that.... Good luck out there. Looking quite hectic beyond our lines at the moment, and looking set to be all the wilder as time passes.">

<"No problem, Dreamer. And don't you worry about me, I'm a man of my means - so expect no wild heroics or gambles on my end.... Going silent now, Mineheel out!">​

Deftly placed, though only for the dreaded prospect of being pushed back by their enemies, seemingly pointless for as long as the flood-plains took to recede back into the lake the flood-waters had originally spilled out from; almost entirely dependent on the engaged Mawites in the south, along with their chances of holding against the multitudes beyond, but little else could be done about it at that point of the swarming advance. As long the Maw continued to consolidate and fortify the ground they took, then holding the defenders in at the Pillars of Kalesh seemed all the more plausible, and in turn, all the more plausible for the safe implementation of the Bloodhound's,"Wee" contingency plan. Their Warlord had always shown great prowess in cunning and skill with set-pieces, and to an extent that it dwarfed the intellect of many Mawite tribal leaders in turn, big shoes for the successor to fill, but if the mind of the Bloodhound was to be considered even half as wondrous, then people like Cazne'Kairn would definitely be needed in the long-run to bring his ideas to life.

Branchlurkers are one thing, Bloodhound. But Moon Children? A madness, truly.

But still a madness we need - on this day of days.​

 

[Kel Se'Taav]

WAR NEVER CHANGES
Shatterpoint, Pt. II

Tags: Aerarii Tithe | Adhira Chandra | Eryk Thaxton | Ingrid L'lerim | Baron Reinhardt Ström | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Anneliese Kaohal

Location: Alliance High Command, Naboo
Timeline: One week prior to the Battle of Tython

They say that the only certainties in life are death and taxes, but everyone forgets about war.

War.

They’d all seen it coming for some time now, but the Brotherhood of the Maw’s impending invasion of Tython was not something the Galactic Alliance had fully anticipated. As it turned out, Empress Teta was just a distraction from the Maw’s real target. And so, here Senator Kel Se’Taav was, en-route to Naboo in response to a war summons, hoping to prevent another Alliance defeat at the hands of this evil cult.

Was he called upon to discuss strategies? Draw battle lines? Coordinate troops? His background as a spy on Bothawui made him a solid candidate for any wartime preparations the Alliance Defense Force may need, but his invitation to join his fellow representatives in Theed was unfortunately devoid of details.

”We’re clear for landing, Sir. Approaching Theed Hangar now,” Kel’s pilot said.

The Senator nodded, checking his uniform one last time before stepping down the access ramp into the bustling hangar bay. He gestured for Anneliese Kaohal to accompany him. The Jedi Padawan had been his trusted ally and confidant since the sacking of the Senate building on Coruscant; It felt only natural the girl accompany him to Naboo as well.

As Kel and Anneliese departed the ship, they found the hangar full of flight crews busy preparing their N-1 starfighters for a routine run around the capital, a necessary precaution with so many powerful emissaries gathering in the city.

"Come, old friend," the Senator said to Anneliese, gesturing to the nearby elevator.

He knew the Padawan must be nervous. Hell, even the old Bothan himself was a bit on-edge given the magnitude of the summons. But Anneliese was a fiery one, like him; He knew that she would be an excellent envoy.

It wasn’t Kel’s first time visiting Theed, and with the war council convening soon, he wasted no time making way for the conference room. After clearing several checkpoints operated by Coruscant’s own Senate Guards, Kel walked through the double doors that lead into the conference hall.

He found that several other delegates had already arrived and taken their seats, mingling with one another and making small talk about the upcoming battle on Tython. He quickly located Chancellor Aerarii Tithe , who was locked in a tense conversation with his predecessor, former Chancellor Adhira Chandra . He approached the pair, nodding respectfully and extending his hand for a shake.

"Ah, Chancellor Tithe, it’s very good to see you again,” the Bothan said warmly.

"And Madam Chandra, I’m pleased to see you as well.”

"I see many of the others have already arrived. Are there many more emissaries you’re still expecting?” Kel asked.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to assassinate Darth Solipsis
Location: Akar Kesh, Tython
Equipment: 2x Sigra vibroblade | 2x Striith vibrosword | The Soulsabers | Heilagr MK. I Assassin Armour | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Zachariel Steelblood

[ Lady of the Dark ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Spoiler: tl;dr

• Ingrid attacks back and tried to force Zach to make a mistake.

Spoiler: story so far

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to assassinate Darth Solipsis
Location: Surface, Tython
Equipment: 2x Sigra vibroblade | 2x Striith vibrosword | The Soulsabers | Heilagr MK. I Assassin Armour | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Zachariel Steelblood

[ Lady of the Dark ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Spoiler: tl;dr

• Ingrid arrives to the place where she senses Solipsis, but Zachariel is in her way.

This day was interesting for the woman. Dromund Kaas was the first time that the Eternal Empire could actually reappear among the great powers of the Galaxy. Today was the second. They used to be there with Csilla and Korriban when the Ashlan Crusade tried to destroy the planet, though it wasn't very significant. But now yes; they were present with considerable force both on ground and in space. However, this day was strange and unusual.

The Maw was definitely the enemy of the Eternal Empire, and the Eternal Empress wanted them to fall, because of their actions, because of their methods. However, the fact did not matter at all whether or not Maw would be successful in destroying the planet. If so, well, there will be three fewer Nexus in the galaxy. They even do the Wardens of the Shroud a favour. At least the Wardens don’t have to perform openly and try something like that.

However, Ingrid was interested in something else today. She, like a lot of people in the galaxy, wanted to kill Darth Solipsis . And the man was here on the planet. It was hard to not sense him as he was surrounded with the darkest focal point on the planet. And the Dark Side attracted her. Not because she was one of them; simply, it aroused much more hunger in the red-haired woman. Absorb and devour their power, as she did with the energies of Carnifex and Prazutis when they fought.

She was in constant contact with Baron Reinhardt Ström and Aximand Sicarus; the two men were responsible for ground and space battles, respectively. She asked them for constant reports. They knew the woman wanted to hunt down Solipsis on the planet's surface. Behead the snake, once and for all. That’s why she left her own troops when she sensed that Dark Voice was on the planet, too. Ingrid teleported near that place. However, here, before she could get close to Dark Voice, someone was already waiting for the Eternal Empress…

The man promised this at the Netherworld that this would happen. As she did as well, that is, she'll kill him, if he does not stand aside. Nevertheless, the woman had not yet attacked, but given her lover, the warlord of the Bloodsworn Tribe, a chance. A chance to live.

"Get out of my way Zachariel! You won’t get a second chance to stand aside!" her voice was ice cold, emotionless, now it didn't have the usual passionate and playful tone in her voice that the woman usually speaks to her lover when they are alone.

Objective: Tython Accord
Location: Surface, Naboo
Equipment: Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Tags: Baron Reinhardt Ström | Aerarii Tithe | Balt Vizsla | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Open

[ Lady of the Dark ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Spoiler: tl;dr

• Ingrid arrives to the meeting.

Naboo; ironically the former capital of the CIS. Although Ingrid agreed that it would have been difficult to choose a more iconic neutral venue for this meeting. The Eternal Empire said yes to GA's request and they travelled to the planet. Ingrid, as usual lately, was accompanied by Baron Reinhardt Ström . The grumpy uncle; most of all it was the best token the Eternal Empress found about the man.

After landing, she was walking along the ramp, accompanied by the four bodyguards, and on the "runway" to the vehicle, which would take her to the rendezvous site. Ingrid had never loved bodyguards, but it was now a situation where it was all mandatory. There was also a fifth bodyguard with her, invisible. She trusted him the best of those present. NN220, formerly known as Alain Price. Commander-in-Chief of Shadow Company. The man was there with her at NIO and GA talks, and whenever she was negotiating with the AC. Only no one knew about it.

The last meeting with GA was quite tense, and although results were achieved, it was ironically easier to negotiate with the NIO. They were more like them.

<"Overseer, please try to be restrained. If the data is correct, the Enclave will also be present. It would be unfortunate if GA were turned against us as they are allies. Let the Enclave look like barbarians, savages, not us. We are more civilised than they are."> she told him.

They soon arrived at the meeting place. Here, she allowed the members of the delegation, or rather the reception committee, to accompany her into the meeting room. If all is true, Tithe was already here, and she greeted the man with joy.

"Old friend, Chancellor! Nice to meet you again in person. It last happened a long time ago." she greeted Tithe and gave a hand, accompanied by a sincere and kind smile.

Ever since they last met on Coruscant during her captivity, Ingrid hasn't aged a minute. Besides, one thing was still the same, the red-haired woman was really happy to see the Chancellor.

Objective 1/3
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim | Darth Solipsis | Hi'los Krai
Anyone else warposting and attacking Akar Kesh, if you wish to fight, feel free to reach out
Duel: CLOSED
Warpost: DM me to work something out, NuMo#0475
Links: Weapons | Some vehicles and other stuff​

Tython, final objective of the Brotherhood, last desperate gamble to destroy the homeworld of the Jedi. The Brotherhood had traveled far for this, sacrificed much, and they would sacrifice even more to achieve their goals. With any luck, they would succeed and leave the planet a desolate wasteland, or a debris field.

However, as the Bloodsworn took up position around Akar Kesh, as Zachariel stood to the defenses, he wondered how possible it truly was. As a warlord, the gen'dai was fed constant reports from every source he could get his hands on. Their reports were grim. If they didn't succeed now in reshaping the galaxy… well, they would burn that bridge should they need to.

For now, Zachariel had defenses to organize and a lover to hold off. He knew, all in the Maw knew, that the alliance would attack this place, seeking to kill Solipsis and stop the ritual. As such, there were those to stand in their way. The Bloodsworn were simply one of those defenders, and Zachariel one of its leaders.

Standing on the rocky outcrop, he looked across the rough defensive lines, and grinned. No matter what happened, this would be bloody. He could already feel it in the Force, the death and bloodshed that was happening and that would. Closing his eyes, the warlord breathed deeply of that rich scent.

--------

Opening his eyes, Zachariel's gaze swept the area. The scenery had changed, no longer was he atop a rocky outcropping, now he stood in a sort of dip in the mountain. He had left his prior position in search of a better place to fight, a place where someone may try to sneak past. This was all but perfect for it, and as Ingrid materialized across from him, he chuckled and shook his head. She had become somewhat predictable, at least to him. It helped that he knew her plans to kill Solipsis.

Her short declaration made him shake his head once more, arms still folded behind his back. They both knew the times for games had passed, now was a time for action. And that meant neither could stand down.
"My dear, you know as well as I, that won't happen."

Moving his arms from his back to his sides, he smoothly unholstered his weapons at the same time. Axe in one hand, sword in the other, Zachariel stood ready to fight, yet he didn't move.

In the defense of Akar Kesh and Solipsis, all that could be done to defend the Voice, had been done. In the case of the Bloodsworn, they were hardly used to being on the defensive. But needs must. As such, they set about with all their usual skill and no small amount of gusto, eager to fight in the shadow of their warlord and the Dark Voice once more.

Where they could, trenches had been hastily dug in what small time they had. However, these were hardly extensive and were instead focused on single squads. Most squads simply used the environment and their vehicles for cover. Others still were atop speeders and other vehicles, prepared to rush forward once the enemy engaged. The response of the Bloodsworn was many and varied, but they stood ready to defend Akar Kesh.

Heavy weapon teams set up on overlooks, regular squads huddled in cover, and others still prepared to rush forth. Above the din and clamor of war, the Chosen directed the loyal followers of the Bloodsworn, even as they too readied for war. Their orders had been simple, hold off any who dared try and interrupt the ritual.

War returned to this part of Tython, and the Bloodsworn began their desperate fight to hold off the allied forces. Across their lines, fire began to pour forth and war cries left their lips.
"For the glory of the Bloodsworn! For the Dark Three!"

And thus, the Bloodsworn fought.

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to assassinate Darth Solipsis
Location: Surface, Tython
Equipment: 2x Sigra vibroblade | 2x Striith vibrosword | The Soulsabers | Heilagr MK. I Assassin Armour | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Zachariel Steelblood

[ Lady of the Dark ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Spoiler: tl;dr

• Ingrid not attacks Zach yet, but gives him a second chance to change his mind.

"This is your last chance to change your mind." she told him aloud.

~ I don't care if the Maw destroys this planet and the two moons. We will only win if there are three Nexus less in the galaxy… ~ she continued in a telepathic way.

"But your ruler must die today." and finished her words aloud again.

She really didn’t care about the planet and its fate. Zach needed to know exactly that. The red-haired woman watched as the man pulled out his weapons. She hasn't done the same yet. Ingrid still trusted that the man would have a better insight and decide he would let her do what she needed to do. Under her helmet, she smiled bitterly for a moment when she saw the weapons. They were dreadful weapons against anyone. But not against Ingrid. Those were only an ordinary sword and an axe against the woman; two resistant weapons, nothing more.

"I hope you know they are ineffective against me." she told him as she tilted her head a little.

There was no doubt that she would make the man's weapons in such a way that Zachariel would never be able to use them against her. The red-haired woman trusted the man as much as possible for her, but Ingrid was also paranoid. She left nothing to chance. Especially not her life. The Empress knew Zach was stubborn, so she hadn't walked in the direction of the man yet, because she expected the man to attack her at that moment.

"Be a good boy, drop your weapons and get out of my way!" she said.

She still hadn't pulled out her own weapons, Zach only got a second chance because the woman was enjoying her lover's company too much… however, there will be no third chance.

Objective 1/3
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim
Anyone else warposting and attacking Akar Kesh, if you wish to fight, feel free to reach out
Duel: CLOSED
Warpost: DM me to work something out, NuMo#0475
Links: Weapons | Some vehicles and other stuff

​

Snorting at her words, he shakes his head again. At her telepathic words, he scoffed. She still didn't understand, then again, the truth was hidden. The Maw wasn't simply here to destroy Tython, but tear the galaxy apart. Reaching out telepathically, he responded.
"Ingrid, one planet and all its moons aren't the goal of the Brotherhood. This ritual, it will destroy more than just Tython, it will split the galaxy in two."

Aloud, he laughed and responded with utter confidence.
"Solipsis will not die this day, and even if he should, it won't be by your hand."

Through this though, he understood what she meant. This world was simply one other to her, the same as it was to him. At the same time, it was the make or break it point for the Brotherhood. Succeed or fail, the success of the ritual would determine it all. And Zachariel would not allow Ingrid to interrupt it. And thus, despite her hopes that he would see reason, he wouldn't see her reason. Twirling them as she spoke of how ineffective they would be against her, he shook his head.

"In the end, they are still sharpened pieces of metal. More than enough with which to remove your head from your shoulders." Smirking, he cocked his head to the side. "Though the powers you imbued into these weapons have certainly come in handy. For that, I thank you."

"Further, one is yours, one is not." Holding the sword up before his helmet, in a salute of sorts, he lowered it and repeated it with the sword. "Which is it?"

Weapons at his side once more, the warlord made no move to lower either blade. She could try all she wanted, but he wouldn't move. She would not pass him this day, that he would make certain of. Twirling them idly by his sides, he still made no further moves. Ingrid expected him to rush her, he wouldn't give her the satisfaction. And so, he fully expected some sneak attack from his lover, so he watched, and waited for her to attack first, making it clear hers was the first move.

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to assassinate Darth Solipsis
Location: Akar Kesh, Tython
Equipment: 2x Sigra vibroblade | 2x Striith vibrosword | The Soulsabers | Heilagr MK. I Assassin Armour | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Zachariel Steelblood

[ Lady of the Dark ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Spoiler: tl;dr

• Ingrid speaks Zach, and teleports after him, and continues her walking towards the temple.

"Zach, this is not how the Force works… Politically, yes he can divide and split diplomatic and political axes into two. But he can't do more damage to the Force than a local damage." she told him.

Through Zach, she had some idea of what Solipsis wanted. Large-scale plans. Maybe it would have been feasible, but only if all the major Nexus in the galaxy were attacked at once. However, she saw in the man's posture that he finally understood what the woman was thinking. That she wasn't here to protect the planet. This place did not matter to the Eternal Empire. Not really. And the woman would have sacrificed any planet in the galaxy to get the Eternal Empire to achieve its goals and get closer to the final plans of the Wardens of the Shroud.

Unlike her daughter, the Empress of the Eternal Empire was not a Saint. Neither literally nor figuratively.

But like everyone in this galaxy, she had to pretend. Alright, Maw didn't pretend, but everyone else did. No one was as spotlessly clean and good as they had shown themselves to be. There was a common enemy, yes. But nothing more. She or anyone who thought long-term was ready to compromise with others. For bigger plans, for ultimate success, for the well-being of the Empire and its citizens. That was something Ström didn't understand either; the "grumpy uncle" was a great soldier but a terrible politician.

"The NIO has already stolen from me the chance to kill the Emperor of the Sith Empire, you won't steal my chance to kill Solipsis." she told him.

That is, the case still hurt the woman's ego, it would have been the culmination of her assassination career. Actually, maybe it wasn't the NIO, it was Grayson. But it no longer mattered, nearly ten years after the war ended, the present was important. She sighed under her helmet again. She knew Zach knew exactly that it would be smoke if he cut off her head. Because of the Sith, she was not a human being for a very long time ago.

"Are you sure my head is truly my head?" she asked with a chuckle, mockingly, alluding to being a semi-Force entity who typically consists of smoke and transforms.

Ingrid finally took out the two daggers. Not the swords, not the lightsaber with pieces of Adrian's soul, but the two simple military knives. The red-haired woman concentrated for a moment and was no longer there. She hadn't attacked Zachariel yet, just teleported past him. She appeared again behind the man's back, at least a good six to eight metres. She looked back at the man for a moment, then walked on to the temple.

"Behind you, honey!" she said back to the man.

At that moment, she also felt that Eina and Geiseric had arrived on the planet, not so far from her and Zach.

Objective 1/3
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim
Anyone else warposting and attacking Akar Kesh, if you wish to fight, feel free to reach out
Duel: CLOSED
Warpost: DM me to work something out, NuMo#0475
Links: Weapons | Some vehicles and other stuff​

"Then you understand little of the ritual planned this day."
Cackling laughter came forth from him. Perhaps she was right, perhaps she was wrong. It changed little, she would not pass. No matter that their goals aligned so often, or that she too wished to see the Force destroyed, or at least weakened. Both of them would burn anything to see things through, but she saw the need to kill Solipsis to reach those goals. Zachariel saw the need to keep him, for he was the primary reason the Brotherhood had taken such prominence.

The two of them knew that was their greatest weakness, their fractious nature. It was their true nature, and they didn't hide it. That gave them strength, the challenge to overcome and prove oneself to others. Compared to Ingrid, who even now spoke of her failure to kill another leader of her enemies. Had the true, factitious nature been allowed to be free, she may have succeeded. At the very least, there would have been a higher chance of success. But, because she had to 'play nice,' she couldn't take the EE against the NIO. Not while a greater threat remained. The Brotherhood was not so limited, letting Zachariel grin at his lover, seeing but another point where they were better.

Snorting at her, he shook his head as well.
"Physical or not, the point still remains."

As Ingrid pulls out her weapons, Zachariel stops twirling his own blades, focusing fully on her. He was expecting some surprise attack from her, so as soon as she vanished, he knew she teleported. As such, he whirled around, sword and axe flashing to cut behind him. Only, instead of cutting through flesh or clashing with steel, they cut through nothing. Growling upon seeing her so far away, he knew she didn't plan to fight him, only avoid him. Calling out to her with a scowl, his voice was filled with annoyance.
"Running my dear?"

Then, with an effort of will, he teleported as well. It had been something he'd been practicing for some time now, having seen the need to learn such a skill after being stuck in the Nether before Ingrid rescued him. Now he had learned the skill, after much trial and error, though he was hardly experienced at it. Nor could he go far, but it was enough to get him before Ingrid. And there he appeared, a mere meter before his lover. With a snarl on his lips, he swung his blades at her.
"Not so fast."

"Or you think he's more than he really is!" she replied without thinking.

Zachariel would not have been the first to attribute too much power to Dark Voice. Essentially, the entire Maw was built on that. She really hoped it wasn't like that, because she knew the man much more intelligently than that. Sure, she knew the man loved chaos, bloodshed, and the gen'dai couldn’t really think with a clear head during a fight, but he could be quite intelligent except for the fight anyway. However, his current words and reactions have destroyed this previously set up picture. To the woman's greatest regret.

Yes, Ingrid really had to play the "good"; though in her eyes there was neither evil nor cruelty in wanting to destroy the Force. It was something in the woman's eyes that would free the galaxy from the chains of the Force. It would finally free all the peoples of the galaxy. But it was quite a double view. On the one hand, she wanted this, and on the other hand, she would not be willing to pay the price to kill half the galaxy for it.

She knew the Netherworld was probably going extinct, but that was another matter. Although she was part of Netherworld, she belonged there much more than Realspace; she would have sacrificed the souls of the dead. Living creatures were a completely different matter, falling into a completely different category. She would have sacrificed herself, but not the innumerable other lives. That’s why the red-haired woman decided she would never join Maw, even if there were common interests. She did not accept the methods of either the Sith or the Maw.

"If I am one with the shadows, how do you want to solve it?" now her voice was mocking a very little.

Before teleporting, she showed him how she is able to melt into the darkness, into the shadows. After all, the Night Spirit transformed her body when she wanted her as a new host. Ingrid was the creature of the night, and now there was darkness in the middle of the Force Storm and all around them. After teleporting, she sensed that Zach was preparing to attack, but she wasn't there. The Empress laughed softly at her usual voice, like when a lover caresses her chosen one.

"I'm walking, honey! I'm walking!" she teases him.

The next moment, the man appeared in front of her and had already attacked. Ingrid lifted the dagger and stopped the blade swinging towards it. They knew each other's fighting skills very well, and of course each other. That's why she was made with something unexpected. She retaliated, however, not to the man, but at the skulls on the armour. The red-haired woman tried to smash one after the other, Zach's trophies. She wanted to anger the man to force a mistake, she was not a soldier against Zach, but an assassin. The vile game was part of the fight.

"If you think I don't understand the purpose of the ritual, tell me I think we have time for this!" she told him as she tried to crush another skull on the armour.

 

[Jax Thio]

Location: Tython
Equipment: Jedi Armor, Jax's Prosthetic Arm, Jax's Second Lightsaber, Promise Ring to Jairdain
Tag: Anneliese Kaohal , Cear'bhaill (Enemy)

Jax saw a Shyyo Bird flying over him pale, huge with its feathers stretching out as it soared through the sky. It was the largest Shyyo Bird that Jax had ever seen. The Sun painted the Bird yellow while it continued to fly far away from the battle. For a brief moment Jax wanted to be like that Bird, fleeing from the abject terror that was about to happen. Yet he had to remind himself of his duty that he is a Jedi Master sworn to protect the innocent. But fear and doubt crept into him like bacteria entering an open wound. Darth Carnifex words still lingered in his mind still messing with Jax he gripped the hilt of his Lightsaber approaching the ruined the temple. "I'm a Jedi," Jax whispered conviction in his voice. "The Force is with me."

Yet deep down he knew that the words rung hollow. He back to being the young man who was desperately trying to search for a purpose in life. The young man who would be more interested in flirting with girls or pissing off his master. It was hard to come to terms with what Carnifex told Jax, that he was the son of a monster. He can already imagine Jairdain telling him that he wasn't like Carnifex but it wasn't easy. Jax could feel the dark side pulling him away from her, from his friends. The words: I am your father unlocked something inside of Jax. As if someone turned on the furnace where his heart was at but the furnace produced black flame.

The Jedi Master felt helpless as he continued to walk through the ruins despair took root. The only comfort Jax took was his ancestor: Caltin Vanagor words at Empress Teta. It was blunt but Jax needed to hear it, there was too much at stake for Jax to be taken off his game. If they fail, then the Jedi Order will be dealt a devastating blow and the Galactic Alliance will be bought to its knees. Though Jax doubted that the NJO cared enough about him, Jax knew that they expected a Jedi Master to arise to defend their homeworld against the Sith. Closing his eye, Jax sensed a dark presence lingering in the ruins. Unsheathing his Lightsaber, the Jedi Master held the yellow blade close to him.

"Come out Sith!" Jax yelled. "I know you're here!"

 

[Kal]

Outskirts of Kaleth Temple, Tython
Running interference against the Maw.
Ishani Dinn​

Chaos reigned up close and afar, sentients reduced to primal violence fighting, bleeding, dying. Above and beyond, the weather progressively worsened as Tython reacted to the carnage taking place - and the looming spectre of the Dark Lord's ritual. Even with a degree of detachment, Kal had no way of knowing how well the battle was going.

There were too many pieces in play and far too much interference.

Drifting through the colliding ranks of erstwhile allies, he derived some grim satisfaction from his handiwork. Mawites were killing Mawites - in between assailing the defenders, admittedly - in his little corner of the battlefield.

Not all were so easily fooled, however.

Slithering up to the lone voice of reason, he exerted his abilities more directly, trusting in the roaring tempest of spiritual energy to keep him concealed. Failing that, he could only hope that the Maw's heavy hitters were otherwise occupied. Clashing with Jedi, perhaps - this escalating clusterfuck seemed to draw in a great many Jedi.

Before he could hope to bring his peers to reason, his frantic shouts shifted - what he said and what was heard began to diverge and soon he was spouting blasphemies. It was not long until he was brought down by an enraged warrior.

Attention flickering to another disturbance, Kal recognised a uniquely unpleasant sensation.

<Ishani. Odious as ever, I see.> It seemed she had cast off some of her ideological shackles.

Her strange little Force sect would not approve of flinging people about like bowling pins.

 

[Zev Garallia]

Revenant Squadron: Lead - Tren Chaar | Three - Ran Serys | Five - Kaul "Joker" Emos | Six - Mylo Thorne | Seven - Leon Gallo | Nine - Artemis Toth | Ten - Qellene Tyliame | Twelve - Tristram Vos

"Attention all flight personnel, battlestations, battlestations, report to your commanders immediately."

Zev joined in the throng of Alliance personnel flowing through the hangar, dodging around starfighters and hover-sleds as he made his way to his ship. The large space was filled with a cacophony of alarms and yells that threatened to overwhelm the young man's senses

At last he came to his A-wing, where his astromech droid was being loaded into its bay to the rear of the cockpit. A red-skinned twi'lek woman performed a few final checks on his ship as he scrambled quickly up the metal stairs to the fighter's cockpit. "Wish me luck, beautiful," he said to her, giving her a wink and a little salute. She gave him a sort of exasperated smile along with a roll of her eyes. "Good luck, Flight Officer. Be careful out there." He chuckled lightly and returned the smile, then finished his ascent to the A-wing cockpit.

Zev settled into the leather seat of his fighter and strapped himself in. He ran his fingers deftly over the panels and controls before him as the fighter came to life, sensor and diagnostic data filling the screens. All systems green. He ran his fingers through his hair, straightening it out and getting it back into place. If he had to go to war today, there was no reason he couldn't look good doing it. Not that he ever didn't look good, though. "Everything green on your end, R3-4?" His astromech droid, now securely in its place and connected to the fighter's systems, whistled in the affirmative. "All right then, what do you say we get going?" The droid beeped and whistled with excitement. Zev laughed and placed his helmet on his head. Time to go.

He gripped the stick of the A-wing as the canopy over him slid shut, sealing with a hiss. That anticipation and excitement before takeoff always got to him. He'd been flying almost as long as he could remember, but each time it still felt right to Zev. He was born to do this, and he wasn't sure if there was anyone who really did it better. He took control of the fighter, lifting the A-wing off the hangar deck and into the air. She was fast and highly maneuverable, if a bit sensitive. She required a skilled hand to fly her properly and get the most out of her.

The Duros deck crewman with the brightly-colored batons waved him forward, toward the shielded exit. He saluted as Zev approached, a salute the young pilot returned. He pushed the throttle, gunning the ship forward and out into the cold vacuum of space. As his craft exited the hangar, his scanners filled up with a huge variety of different signatures from all kinds of different ships. It seemed like every navy in the galaxy had converged in one spot. He focused his sensors on nearby friendlies and banked the fighter around gently, moving into formation with the rest of Revenant Squadron.

"Revenant Eleven, standing by." His number really was the biggest mouthful in the squadron. "Looks like we've got our hands full today, ladies and gentlemen."

 

[The Quartermaster]

T H E
Q U A R T E R M A S T E R

Objective: Summit on Naboo
Tag: Aerarii Tithe | Adhira Chandra | Eryk Thaxton | Ingrid L'lerim | Baron Reinhardt Ström | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Anneliese Kaohal | Kel Se'Taav

Naboo.

The Quartermaster had never visited the verdant world, though once upon a time she had sworn allegiance to the Confederacy that had called it a capital. It was one of her greatest shames, to have called a nation that supported the Sith Empire master. But in the end, the Confederacy had fallen, and the Enclave had risen out of its shadows to bring true law and order to the southern systems, free from the tyranny of the Sith. And though its cowardly leadership had escaped, should they ever show their face in the galaxy again it would be Mandalorian blades at their throat.

But now was not the time to reflect on errors of the past, for it was the present that required tending to. At the doorstep of the galaxy stood the Brotherhood of the Maw, a savage coalition of Sith warbands determined to not just subjugate the galaxy, but to destroy it. They had chosen Tython as their conduit to unleash their terrible power, and in response, the Galactic Alliance had sent a call out to the galaxy for aid.

If there was one thing that was sure, it was that wherever there were Sith, Mandalorian blades would not be far behind.

"Put us down on Theed," she ordered to the pilot of the landing craft that had departed from the cruiser Gar'tyatr that hung in orbit over Naboo. The cruiser and its two frigate escorts were part of the Enclave fleet that had embarked from Kestri to make the long journey at the core. The three ships had stayed behind, while the rest of the fleet had moved on towards Bespin to refuel before a long hyperspace journey to the core. Once the meeting was concluded, the Gar'tyatr would return the Quartermaster to Kestri while the two frigates rendezvoused with the rest of the Mandalorian forces at Fondor, where they could be assured friendly docking to make final preparations before they arrived at Tython.

The pilot nodded in confirmation and guided the shuttle through Naboo's atmosphere, descending past low cloud cover into the sprawling city of Theed. It was strange to see Alliance banners strung on the former Confederacy capital, but she figured that the once-peaceful world would not have been grateful to the masters that had abandoned it. The shuttle touched down softly at the large plaza in front of the colossal palace that had once held the Confederate government, now the headquarters of Alliance High Command. Accompanying her were two Si'kayha supercommandos, her personal bodyguards while the rest of the squad waited with the shuttle. Bodyguards were a mere formality in this setting, especially when the Quartermaster was quite capable of defending herself from a bunch of politicians.

Inside awaited her a gathering of some of the galaxy's foremost politicians. Overrepresented, naturally, were the Galactic Alliance, though the Quartermaster could not hold a hosting nation for ensuring its voice at a table. There was the Dark Empress L'lerim of the Eternal Empire, with whom the Enclave was currently at war. But if the Quartermaster had thought the Empress would try to assassinate her rival head of state at a peace summit, then she wouldn't have bothered coming to what was essentially a formality for the already-committed Mandalorian forces. Here too were members from the Silver Jedi Concord, though she was skeptical of any use they could provide against the Brotherhood when they couldn't even reign in the Hutts within their own borders.

Above all, the absence of the New Imperial Order was more obvious than ever. The feud between the rival powers had grown deeper, and as someone who knew war, the Quartermaster knew that regardless of Tython's outcome, there would not be true peace in the galaxy for a long time to come. Regardless, they were all here. And that meant they were here to stop the Sith threat. "My apologies if my arrival is late," she announced to the gathered dignitaries before moving to stand by the seat designated for the Mandalorian representative. She stood there for a moment, only slightly awkwardly, before taking a seat.

"My agents have been able to explicitly confirm nothing more than rough numbers and certain individuals that are present within the Maw's warband closing in on Tython, but that includes the superweapon Avatar of War. If they need a planet killer, they have one," she offered at the Chancellor's request for additional intelligence once she'd taken her seat. "Fortunately, my warriors were able to recover rudimentary schematics for the design of the weapon. We've believed we've uncovered a weakness in the design that can be exploited, and have a plan to do so. But we do not have the forces to stave off the Avatar of War's superlaser in the meantime." She continued, keeping exact details vague so as not to give away plans to unfriendly ears. No matter what sort of summit this was, she did not trust certain individuals at the table, most of all the Eternal Empire's Empress. And of course, there could be ears listening unseen by her and everyone else here.

"But, as improbable as it is, the superweapon's presence could be a diversion to distract from the Maw's true intentions. This is speculation based off nothing more than conjecture, but destroying Tython -- and a majority of the Maw's own forces in pyyhric victory -- does not align with the Solipsis's promise of galactic destruction in his broadcast. Could he merely be bluffing, making us doubt ourselves? Perhaps. The treachery of the Sith is known well by my people. But there could be something far more sinister at hand," she ventured, before looking around the table to see if anyone else shared her suspicions.
​

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[Onrai]

Addendum: I haven't the foggiest idea what to do given we're already over halfway to the minimum for this to be valid, so people can respond to this as they wish.

Objective: ???
Allies: ???
Enemies: ???

A single ship emerged from hyperspace. A scan of the vessel would reveal that it was almosy empty and mostly bereft of crew. There were not any explosives on it, and the vessel was both fully armed and fully shielded, the ship seemingly able to respond to the actions of other vessels.Most interestingly about it, however was a trait it possessed that none of the other vessels in the flotilla had.

It was possessed.

Onrai had, having gained a great deal of skill in her understanding of splitting her essence amongst multiple extant avatars within the galaxy, decided to do the unthinkable: she had found herself able to use one of her avatars to possess the Ablution and animate the vessel as though it were fully crewed. Out of a desire to keep her focus on animating a single massive construct, the pilots and a skeleton crew remained on board the aging warship - while they were guaranteed to be outnumbered in the event of a boarding party, attempting to invade a ship possessed was one of the dumbest things someone could do, when every plate, every panel, and every on-board security measure was controlled by an ever-watchful intelligence.

The ship began to move closer to the superweapon intended for use in devastating Tython.

 

[Ishani Dinn]

Struggling to rise, Ishani sensed a presence she had not felt since…

<Ishani. Odious as ever, I see.>

In her furious, pain-addled state, a few choice words were already beginning to form on her tongue. But rather than trading barbs with the… Shadow, she maintained enough self-control to remember her convictions.

"Kal—" Wait, how the hell was he going to hear her over all the battlefield background noise? She switched to telepathy. <Kal, what a coincidence! I've been looking for you.>

A Mawite charged at her. She waited until he was just close enough before she unleashed the electricity in her shock gloves. The arc of lightning was only strong enough to stun him, so she followed it up by running him through with her sword.

Kal​

 

[Kolson Vrask]

G R U N G E
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
IMPERIAL ARMY SPECIAL FORCES 'STORM COMMANDOS'
1st GROUP | OPERATIONAL DETACHMENT ALPHA 'VANDAL'
ODA ATTACHED TO | 1st BCG 'DEATH'S HEAD'
Armor | Rifle | Pistol | Grenades
NIO | Saul Vandron
MAW | Skorge the Bloodied

END OF THE WORLD
IMPERIAL ARMY SPECIAL MILITARY OPERATION 'GODFALL'
TEMPLE VALLEY OFFENSIVE
BATTLE OF MOUNT KALGAN
TYTHON '76
​

In all the things that could ever offer Kolson peace and respite, nothing did it better than war. The emotional toils and pain of conflict had long been cauterized in his mind- he lived for the thrill, the adrenaline, the feeling of having a use and a purpose. He relished every second. His last tour of duty in Alliance space was under unmarked operations- to put a bolt through the brain pan of the Queen of Kuat and now- he was here with an Imperial patch on his shoulder again, donning the black shroud of the Storm Commando. A second skin more like, a truer face.

Tython was said to be a clash of the gods. The place and venue where the Empire would finally be able to assert its dominance over its enemies and pave an open path toward their grandest ambition- the throne of a Galactic Empire remade. The true aim of the Imperial ideology as it had been for some time. Kolson doubted the claim but the scale of battle set in soon after arrival. It was a far cry from the clandestine operations he'd been conducting in support of Imperial separatists in the Core or bandit fighting in the Imperial Outlands. This was the crucible.

Maw, Galactic Alliance, Imperial, everything assembled here to cast the die in their aims for dominion over the Galaxy. Pieces played in a great game.

But all the great ambitions didn't matter if they couldn't take this fucking mountain.

He was with a battalion of 501st, some of the toughest, meanest bastards in all the Galaxy without the rest of Vandal squad. In all their infinite wisdom, Imperial Army Special Operations often thought it most wise to distribute the lethal capabilities of the Storm Commando units across the battlefield in the hopes they could boost the combat ability of conventional infantry. This was true to an extent but also took away their ceiling of potential by taking away their ability to act as one team.

Regardless, Kolson was commander of this battalion- lording over the hundred or so 501st troopers with a loose, decentralized command, mainly serving as the main means of communication between his commander Saul Vandron and the troopers' position to execute his maneuvers.

With orders to take the mountain in an infiltration cutting through the enemy lines in the hopes of catching their indirect fire assets by surprise allowing for more Imperial Army troops to funnel forward and take the ground from under the feet of the Mawites, Vrask decided to take the problem head on.

A squad of 501st troopers and an attachment of Starfighter Corps combat controllers with the capability to painting infrared signals on all of the Maw's mortar positions to get sorties in the air to wipe em out if Vrask's team couldn't dispose of them on foot.

But as soon as Kolson was on the move, his position was painted with Mawite mortal rounds, pinning down his advance up the mountain.

Uphill fighting was as bad a position as any, but to be pinned down here meant the possibility of a quick and devastating encirclement against an enemy no one in their right mind would risk being captured by.

The wild crack of blaster fire sprung from all directions before the drum-like rip and beat of an Imperial Repeater began to cut through the noise to send a stream of traced particle beams up toward the Mawite position. It was a beautiful sound as always, to hear the repeater positioned and taking fire, everyone with a lick of experience in the field knew damn well what it meant and anyone without it either wasn't around on the receiving end long enough to matter or figured out on their own.

Settling down in the smoldering crater of a shell's impact Kolson dove down before firing off a few bursts from his battle rifle before he turned on his stomach to lay against the edge of the crater on his back to pull his wrist-mounted tacpad closer to his helmet.

<"Sarnt!"> He barked out to one of the Combat Controllers who fired off a burst from his blaster before crouching down closer to Vrask.

<"Commander!"> He replied back.

<"You have visuals on their position? Paint it with IR and level that fucking ridge, got it?"> He ordered to the man.

<"Airspace is up for grabs but I'll put the call out."> The Combat Controller said, eventually aiming his weapon in the direction of the enemy before flicking on its attached IR laser, pointing it in the direction sourcing the indirect mortar fire.

Crawling his away across the crater he settled in next to a 501st platoon leader, keeping him in the loop of his own plan.

<"Lieutenant! We're sending up a nine line now for air support, if we can get it we'll wait for those Mawite fucks to get melted and then take their position- if not, we're headed up the ol' fashioned way and closing the gap and taking out those mortars eye to eye, trackin'?"> He asked the man.

<"Trackin', soon as you get word back we're good to go to move. Hopefully that's soon because it won't be long before shells are dropping on our fuckin' heads."> Vrask offered a reassuring smack on the shoulder before peering down range again. Their first attempt to gain ground had them pinned down immediately, it was up to the starfighter corps or army brute force to break the dead lock now.

He checked his time on the tacpad, they had, realistically, another ninety seconds until they'd get sighted in again and pulverized.

They needed word back quick or the hope of taking the Mount would be killed in the cradle.

<"Hammer Leader this is Bandit Actual requesting precision strike, high explosive at grid point Aurek Xesh, five two niner five, six nine three niner. Light infantry, indirect fire assets. Do you copy?">

<"Copy Bandit Actual, sit tight. ETA is sixty seconds.">

<"Copy, Hammer."> The Combat Controller said before headed the way of Vrask again, holding up his right index finger to indicate the ETA of the strike.

Vrask nodded, setting a timer on his tacpad. If no airstrike made purchase in sixty seconds, they had to get moving.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Dr. Trinity Harris w.o.
DXenbo MAnthro
Overseer for Scientific Development
​

Location: Landing on Tython
Objective: Scientific protection missions
Tags: OPEN but not for PVP

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Weapon: HH38 Geysa Hybrid Pistol
Vibrokukri
Riding: Phantom
Accompanied by: Plushee Companion Droid
Wearing:
Hersir Imperial Uniform
Guardema Bio-suit
OPBC-01e
Ship: 2 x Carrack Class Science Vessel 1 military support and 2 storage mission pods
ENS Mihaly and ENS Prosperity

Trinity spent the last few minutes of their descent reviewing the mission parameters, she had written the mission but due to chain of command there had been a couple of ammendments, nothing that would ultimately affect hopefully, like the authorisation of lethal Force.

Trinity approached the ranking officer of the mission, Captain Bransin, an Ultranaut officer who would running the show on the ground. "Captain, I would like to discuss the mission brief, my original parameters did not include the use of lethal force on the guardians, please can I request that this be only as a last resort."

The man eyed up the doctor, "We're not savages, Warrant, if they surrender they're golden, but if they put up a fight you follow my orders down there, understood?"

"Absolutely Sir," she replied, saluting the officer.

The two got on well, which was useful for the mission at hand, and he had come with excellent recommendations for his previous missions with her department. She excused herself and joined the rest of the ultranauts in the garage ready to depart. A small tracked vehicle supported them carrying scientific equipment and also a light machine gun. As soon as the rentry turbulence subsided, three Sensor droids launched from their bays and flew out to preassigned coordinates. Immediately telemetry started to update on Trinity's pad, she transfered the information to her retina projection.

"Skies are clear, no enemy activity detected in this area, it looks like observation site beta is our best bet today." The primary site looked a little unstable from recent rains so the ship gracefully landed at the second site. The large fore ramp lowered from the ship.

"OK! Move out!" commanded Bransin and the ultranauts, along with Dr. Harris and a few other military scientists filed out of the ship with their guns raised to cover themselves against any ambushes. The landing area was quickly secured and the teams advanced towards the cave entrance. MIEPOC updated Trinity with their progress and a note came through that the ENS Prosperity had also had a successful landing phase.

 

[Koda Fett]

TYTHON, SEEING STONE
Darth Carnifex - Tydeus of Tion

"Your theatrics bore me," his answer so full of bile, the T-visor flashed across to the Jedi that was soon on the otherside of the Sith; no less than a flash had seen him there, a monument of a man between them encased in thick armour to rival his own. For all the times the two had been on the same side, to act in the benefit of one another, there was no determined moveset to counter. He was no lesser Sith akin to those left as no more than lifeless bodies on the field left in his wake, and those of countless others.

His booted feet entrenched themselves into the soil underfoot, a brace as the saber struck his raised and connected forearms in their vertical direction. It was with a brief tink and hiss that the red blade had been deflected and left Fett on the backfoot. In a direct horizontal line across both vambraces, the black had been shoved aside and the old beaten and battered crimson underneath had shown.

"You and I have contributed our share of blood, what's one more." He said as if it were a matter-of-fact, both arms extended for his wrists to aim downwards, blasters in hand, and flames to soar from one wrist towards centremass and a cable at his lower limbs. His attention on the Jedi had been minimal, non-existent, and should that fire reach the other side and towards the blue-bladed man, Fett would not put a stop to the arc of liquid flames.

 

[Dimitri Voltura]

ALLIES: Darth Solipsis | Darth Ptolemis | @whoever else - there's too many of you | BOTM | NSO
ENEMIES: Everybody else (I'll tag if you're important)
ENGAGING: Siv Dragr
GEAR: In bio.

BEAST ARISEN​

Chaos swept forth from the shipwreck.

Along with it came the carnage of the Dragon. Not the artless destruction of the Mawites and other Sith, but the graceful, dignified and skilled strokes of an expert artist.

Pure and classic power swept across the floodplains with the masterful blur of crimson blade and crimson eyes. Behind the dark-armoured warrior lay a field of brave but dead soldiers of both Tython Accords and Empire.

Bloated on the life-forces that he kept syphoning from the battlefield, Dimitri marched forth toward the base of the Temple of Balance where the Dark Voice would strike the death blow upon the Jedi.

But then the snuff of one soul in particular hit the Dragon like a sledgehammer, stopping him dead in his tracks. One he was kin to, hidden beneath the bulk of the Dark Divine - visible to the Dragon only because of one fateful day on Bastion a decade ago that had set into motion a landslide of carnage. Caelitus, Halketh and Kezec all bled out of the living plane like fog dissipating from a valley floor with the coming of the sun.

A nemesis and brother gone.

In the wake of the sudden void left behind by the departure of the hatred and love for his now dead kin, the true Dragon reared its head for the first time in centuries, no completely alone in the Galaxy. The dread-Lord and warrior that had once laid waste to cities while instilling a crippling fear in stalwart hearts emerged from his imprisonment in all his dread-glory.

In the valley at the base of the Akar Kesh, between the Mawite artillery fire and the defiance of Imperials and Allied forces, the never-before-seen fury of the predatory Sith Lord burst forth, feeding not only on the Living Force but on the sheer will of those opposing him as well.

The Dark splendour of Darth Hydrus unleashed.

 

[Jace Khel]

In the famed odd concoction of the known blue haze and tube of hyperspace, their vessel thrummed with life beside the few small noises that stemmed from the controls. In the seat at the helm sat a droid coated in a silver made dull with time and his robotic chords uttered their talk in a distant, hushed voice to an astromech that made no effort to maintain the silence.

It was with effort that Jace leaned forwards from the cot to see around the corner, between the door frame in order to hear them but all he recieved was an ache in his side and the flash of the azure tunnel that resembled a series of clouds now. "Careful, Master Khel." Said the medical droid in a voice devoid of emotion, the cold touch of those metallic limbs had steered him back towards his seat as Jace offered his answer as no more than a recoil and wince. His left-hand side had been coated in bruises, the almost unnatural colours varied in their tone from his bottom rib to collar bone, and not even the area that had then seen a needle be inserted was saved from the discolouration.

His answer to that had been the same as before, but now with a sudden hiss. "Careful now." He followed with a stern sense of self.

He heard a series of electronic whirs fall from the astromech as the several bacta salves had been scattered across his torso, it was with a soft smile that had he arisen from the cot even as a muted tenseness danced across his features. He could heal in time, but Jace feared that there was a lack of it and it decreased in number with each moment. "It would seem we are about to enter the Tython system," furthered the silver droid, to which Jace elected to hold onto the wall-mounted handle to his left. The Jedi was unsure as to what to expect, his time with Tsisaar had not been kind to him nor his senses, his touch with the Force as a whole had been weakened but all the cries in it from Tython had been so loud that even the deaf could hear them.

In an instant, their craft had lurched out from their silent venture to see the battle unfold ahead of them. It was with shock that the dull silver droid called for his maker, and the astromech whirred out a scream. Jace rushed forwards to ensure their vessel banked to the side, a missile soared beside them as the colourful array of turbolaser fire reflection in his and their orbs. "Shuffle over!" He demanded and slid into the seat, the controls settled into his hands as Jace took over.

Jace had not traversed the battlefield in the stars with ease, narrow close calls in abundance as their shields suffered their share of beatdowns. "Oh, thank the maker." The droid remarked with relief as the lot of them had breached orbit, the lush surface below closed in on them to be a battlefield of its own. The Jedi failed to account for the commandeered anti-air cannons in a fulish bid of confidence, and all around them had the skies detonated in flak. His teeth clenched, his hold tensed, and their defenseless shuttle swerved side to side. It was rocked with a sudden loud thud, the interior flashed red, and the crackles of a fire were drowned out by the sound of the air let in by the breached hull.

"This was a horrible idea," said the droid in an odd moment of calmness, the astromech rolled back and bounced off of the wall as out of character noises that best resembled screams of terror had seen the medical droid sucked out of their shuttle in a heartbeat. Jace made an effort to reach around the seat, to reach out in the Force, to no avail. He failed, and with a disheartened look returned to the controls. He leaned as far back as he was able to with the stick in order to even it out, and it first bounced off of the wet surface once, twice, three times more before it entered a slide in the Flooded Plains to the north of Akar Kesh.

He exhaled in relief, a brief look cast to the two that remained.

Jace made it to Tython, now there was a whole lot more to learn and do.

Romi Jade

​

 

[Aerys Yvarro]

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The 313th was once more in the thick of it, with their brothers and sisters of the Corps near to them Rose Dorce it was one helluva time. "Right lads, let's go murdering again," commented Aerys as she readied her rifle, "there! Target sighted!" Blaster fire exchanged between them and their enemies, Mawite Skiff going down from their flank. They were prepared as any army could be, and Aerys steeled herself, "AVALONIA! HOLD!" Orders were given, and the memory of Avalonia's Last Stand against the Ssi-Ruuvi surfaced. Spirits of the warrior's past took told as the unit evoked their memories. It seemed all hell had broken loose on Tython.

Almost as if by some grand design, months - years all leading up to this. They were fools - the Sith, to believe that Tython was all that the Jedi held dear. Aerys scoffed at the idea as she continued to fire, she gestured upward, "FIGHTERS! TAKE'EM DOWN! LAURENTIA!" The Jedi was an idea, the same as the Sith - there was no one temple greater than the other - or there shouldn't be in her opinion. What they represented could not be distorted and in reality, all the Maw would do, would be to create martyrs out of the lot who died here today.

Martyrs were powerful.

So powerful that they continued this chain of war, death, and rebirth.

Over, and over, this would repeat - the Imperials were no different. They themselves were tools to further someone else's agenda, always as they had before. Whether or not they were tied to the Sith yoke, it didn't matter. "Forward across the bank! MOVE!" The 313th broke through to the waters that for some would have been sacred in another life. Today they would be filled with the blood of those meant to die here, cannon fodder for the greater plan of a group of crazies. Tython would be rebuilt, recreated in the image of the Jedi once more - just as Korriban had survived. The idea that one could eliminate the other was foolhardy.

The Light needed the Dark, and the Dark needed the Light.

A cycle that was meant to continue for eons, and no matter how hard a group was determined to outgun, or outnumber the other. It wouldn't matter, this didn't matter - none of it did - for in years' time, this would happen again. If not on Tython then somewhere else, time and time again, this would repeat as always had.

Those who failed to learn from their history are doomed to repeat it.