Invasion Thou Shall Not Suffer an Empire to Live | AoC invasion of CIS-held Siskeen & Ryloth

[Hanna]

Objective/Location: Ryloth - En Route to the Altar of Spirits
Gear and Equipment: Hanna’s Phase I Haywire Armor, Phase X-E “Hyper Frost” CryoSonic Heavy Pistol, BH 'Durin' Charric Blaster Pistol, ZW-001 ‘Ifrit’ Pattern Heated Vibroweapon - Short Sword, 2 Impact Grenades, Vita Stones
Allies: AoC ( Madalena Antares Judd Hunter Jai'galaar Gred ), Twi’lek Freedom Fighters, The Siskeen Coalition
Enemies: CIS, Mandragora

It was a harrowing ride down to Ryloth.

The fire of the anti-aircraft cannons on the ground were directed at the pod for a seemingly unending moment in time, until their fury finally dissipated down when the pod was close enough to the ground to be out of their range. All the while, Hanna closed her eyes in silent, prayerful meditation, opening them soon after the last shell whistled past the pod. The diminutive was secure enough in her faith that she felt no need to pray frantically, even in situations where her life hung in a delicate balance. She prayed at least five times a day, and she had built up a level of conviction and faith to the point where she truly believed that no matter what, Discordia would always be watching over her.

Hanna stared back at Madalena as she spoke of the Mandragora and their religion. However, Hanna knew that she was a daughter of Discordia. There was no universe or alternate reality where she had not existed as a servant of the Dark Lady of Chaos in some form. Having been created in a cloning lab at the Scintilla, her destiny had always been intertwined with Discordia’s mission, and by extension the Agents of Chaos. However, there was almost certainly a universe where Madalena had decided to stay with the Confederacy, in spite of the corruption that existed within their ranks.

Perhaps in that universe, they were mortal enemies, instead of close friends.

“We already are happy together, my lady.” Hanna answered. “We are both serving Discordia and furthering her divine mission. That is better than anything the Mandragora and the Knights could ever stand for.”

When the pod finally landed, Hanna unstrapped herself from the seat and executed a final check on her gear as Madalena directed the slicers. After checking her weapons, she took out the vita stones which she held in a pouch on her utility belt. Madalena had told her to keep them on her person at all times and to drop them on the ground in order to activate a bubble barrier that would ward off the spirits that the Mandragora were capable of harnessing. Nevertheless, they appeared as simple stones. It was difficult for her to envision such mundane-looking objects saving her life, but in any event, she trusted Madalena’s words on the matter. The Dark Paladin had once been a follower of the enemy’s mission, after all.

With a deep breath, Hanna placed the stones in her utility belt and followed after Madalena as the towering woman led the way into the mountains and towards the Altar of Spirits...

 

[Holt]

R O O K

Objective: Oversee Security
Allies: Ciri Jade | Beric Layne | Lirka Ka | Effie | Luna Terrik | The Monster | Prennis Keeoli | Millu Lee | Draconis Sederius Wolf | Srina Talon | Darth Empyrean | Darth Metus | Rann Thress | Vytal Noctura | Ryk Gaelir
Enemies: Madalena Antares | Toph Graystone | Ripley Kühn | Judd Hunter | Hanna | Oceiros Sunstrider | Kyrinov | Jai'galaar Gred | Scherezade deWinter | Nerium | Herah
Location: Capital Bio-Dome

It was silent in the communications room as Holt coded away, apart from the occasional gurgles of the Twi'lek child and the fighting outside. It was an almost peaceful office environment; or at least, compared to many of the situations that Holt had found himself in. He worked, cross-referencing all known data on the Agents of Chaos as he pulled up all sensors on the planet he had at his disposal to monitor the battlefield slowly unfolding.

Something caught his eye on one the security screens, a bright flash followed by nothing. He turned his attention to that rewinding the tape, watching as the suicide bombing unfurled. Holt had seen worse. The carnage unfazed him, and the Director of Confederacy Intelligence resumed his work, now zooming in and ID'ing the terrorist who had ignited the bomb. Cross-referencing with all known data.

He was surprised when the terrorist in question pulled up a match in the database for the Agents of Chaos.

He'd gone down into the rabbit hole, but Holt had no intention of leaving it. He almost didn't notice the information alarm from the Rookery's transmitters signaling an unauthorized use of the Confederacy Emergency Broadcast System. Over the loudspeakers, another speech began to play: "This is your friendly Melon Lord. I've come to tell you--"

The feed sent out to the galaxy went dead as Holt quickly cut access to that, too, rerouting the transmission to a Viceroy's holoscreen picked on random. Not Holt's smoothest move, but a rerouting gave time for the message to play out as he sealed all access ports, shutting down those transmitters, and logging the holonet protocol that had accessed the emergency broadcasting system for good measure. He didn't have time to investigate whoever was helping the Agents, but soon he would. And it wouldn't be pretty.

Turning back to his work, he began going through the database match he'd found. The Twi'lek was a member of an insurgency group that was closely associated with the Agents of Chaos -- more likely a sleeper cell than not, offworlder terrorists planted to fuel a bogus narrative that painted the Agents of Chaos in a good light. "Scherezade, you fool," Holt whispered under his breath. "You always put too much planning into the decorations instead of an actual strategy."

He began recording and storing the files he'd found in the Rookery database, as well as the security footage. When this incursion was over, Holt had some personal meetings to attend to. They wouldn't be pretty, either. He was distracted for a moment by a tugging on his leg, and looked down to see the little Twi'lek girl, pulling on the pants leg that was tucked into his combat boots. Apparently, she knew how to move.

Sighing, he picked up the girl and set her on his lap, giving her the doll to distract her while he continued to code.

Spoiler: Equipment

• Roc-class Mk. I Stealth Armor
• Insight-Type Smart Glasses
• MoS Wrist Link
• BAW-57 Heavy Blaster Pistol

​

​

​

 

[Adron Malvern]

Location: Empty Barrens, Ryloth
Thoughts: "Death is the only proper punishment for men such as these."
Tags: Xobos Yakieer Darth Miseria Oceiros Sunstrider
Equipment: Armor | Lightsaber | Sith Sword | Healing Tonic | Trinket
Troop: 25 Commando Droids

The Sith Lord seemed to pay Xobos little attention as his eyes came to rest on the small mountain of rock before him. The structure had massive holes burrowed into it as if some kind of giant insect had claimed it for it's home. That was not the case, yet few aside from Adron and Srina Talon knew the significance of this mountain. Bringing his knees into the ground, the metal plates of Crimson Dread slid into the stony surface while Darth Malphas slowly closed his eyes. He began to gather a nexus of the Dark Side around him, allowing it to use his being as a reservoir to pour its immense power into. The scorching sun blazed over him as he centered himself, his hands slowly clenching the armor plates over his thighs. The Commando Droids they had brought turned outward, creating a semi-circle around their master as his intent turned to the shifting nether of the Force, they could not comprehend his meditation but they acknowledged their roles all the same.

The sound of hot winds rolling over the hills was soon broken by the low wine of a speeder bike in the distance. It interjected itself into the Sith's focus and when his second apprentice arrived he took a few seconds to divide his attention. "We don't have time for questions. Look to the East." He said evenly before returning his focus to his meditation. In that very moment one of the Commando droids raised a metallic hand to the Eastern barrens. "Hostiles incoming! Protect the Viceroy!" He yelled out to the other units.

In the distance dust rose and flew over the horizon as a horde of arachnid-like creatures charged towards the group. Energy Spiders. They were like beacons in the Force due to their odd nature and Malphas had sensed them for a few seconds before they came into sight. "Xobos, Dianah, destroy them." He commanded his apprentices before exhaling softly. The Commando droids would turn the semi-circle to reflect the incoming wave, with two of the droids moving to take up their places on either side of their master. The rest of the droids charged forward, raising their blasters and aiming for the arachnids. A pristine volley flew from their weapons, flying through the air in unison and each bolt found its mark, but the mark was all too receiving. The blaster bolts would flow into the bodies of the energy spiders, granting the creatures a rejuvenating surge of energy. Some were pushed back by the kinetic force of the bolts, but none would be harmed.

It seemed his apprentices had their work cut out for them.

Malphas said nothing more and turned his mind to the hill before him. Finally, he could sense the presence he was searching for. He never cared for linking his mind with other beings, especially those beings with such ferocious temperament. When paired with Crimson Dread it usually gave him a ravenous appetite, however it seemed it could not be helped this time. Malphas pushed his will forward into the Force, linking his mind to the three lingering presences that laid within the hill. He exhaled, opening his amethyst eyes and speaking plainly.

"Obsidia, Gildia, & Silva." He spoke plainly. "It's been a while. My how you've grown." He said, his lips curling into a small smile.

It was in that moment when the ground would seemingly tremble, shaking from some unseen, ferocious presence. It was massive, powerful, and it was getting closer to the surface.

 

[Jai'galaar Gred]

Gear: Jai'galaar's Beskar'gam Armor, 2x Trayc'kal, 2x trained Strill
Ally Tags: Madalena Antares Judd Hunter Hanna
Enemy Tags: Open

While still in the pod, Jai listened to Madalena and began to slow down his breathing. Ok. This was helping. It was like there was something else to. Either way though, he was calmer, and she made him a vow. That if Australis did launch his attack, she let him end the man. Jai nodded simply at this, seeming oddly ok with this idea. He'd seen enough that it didn't faze him.

As the Mandalorian looked around after landing though, and would chuckle a bit at Judd. He shook his head, pulling out a Trayc'kal. "Hey, when the plans got to osik, you find some to throw back." Ok. Maybe not the best pick-me-up, but it was ok. He then looked around again, saying something to his Strill before looking back and Madalena and Hanna. He nodded to them when she said they would march. He looked around, hoping to maybe see a blurrg. Maybe try to tame it. Either way, Jai would follow quickly, his Strill going a short ways ahead.

"Let's just hope it's better than weird Force cults stealing kids."

 

[Lash]

Objective: investigate Moon Fortress
Location: Outer Ryloth System
Allies: Dimitri Lindzinsky Bella Strider Garon Salem Norongachi
K Kaine Australis
Enemies: Tyrias Aran Amelia von Sorenn The Monster

Lash sat back and took a drink from his glass as the four small picket groups moved off away from the main Fleet towards four sets of co-ordinates around the Ryloth system. Each picket force contained one Imperial Reconnaissance and Exploratory Corvettes, one Intersector-class Patrol Pickets, and one Liberté-class Light Corvettes. Each group was escorted by a squadron of TIE Locust Fast Interceptors to defend them from projectiles and other fast interception craft. These craft sped away out of sight each moving around the main engagement zone to take up positions in predetermined locations at the four corners of a large square around the planet Ryloth and the engagement zone. Once Lash watched them disappear from visual range he turned his attention to the next step in his operation.

"Have the Onager turn and move into formation behind the Termagant. We will be moving into the system now." said Lash to the Admiral next to him. The Chiss Admiral stood and moved to the tactical station to carry out the orders. A bright flash erupted from the system blocking out the fleet's sensors and causing the displays to struggle to adapt to the brightness of the blast. Lash himself shielded his eyes to limit the damage done to his vision. With his eyes closed and hand over his face the brightness of the blast could be perceived. The waveform such a blast would be a problem for the next few minutes across the system.

"Navigations, hold position until we get visuals back. We will be moving sensor blind for the next few minutes to have all fighters and the pickets keep tight and use visual recognition rules until the electromagnetic wave passes out of the system." ordered LASH. He knew the EM disruption was not the only issue closer to the world. Radiation around the zero point of the explosion would be a problem for attack craft and transports. That too would dissipate but at a much slower rate than the electromagnetic energy. The picket groups would be far enough out of the blast range to carry on with their mission but Lash knew to move into the zone and launching attack craft would be an issue for a while.

"Visual sensors are back Commander" announced one of the sensor officers. Lash acknowledged the man with a nod and spoke. "All forward Admiral. Have the Termagant follow at best speed, we will slow once we are further in the system to allow her to catch up," he ordered as he stood to walk up to the holo display table in the center of the room.

"Lets go see what all the fuss is about shall we" said Lash looking over the hologram of the system.

FLEET

1 Imperious Mk II-class Star Defender Termagant
1 Aurora-class Siege Destroyer Onager
1 ISD III-class Star Destroyer Agitator
1 Pelagic-class Star Cruiser Long Bow
1 Proclaimer-class Star Frigate
2 Odysseus-class Cruisers
1 Mantis-class ELINT Frigate
1 Moray-class EWAR Frigate
4 Imperial Reconnaissance and Exploratory Corvettes
11 Wake-class Multi-role Pickets
6 Intersector-class Patrol Pickets
4 Liberté-class Light Corvettes
Attack Craft
TIE Seeker Starfighter
TIE Locust Fast Interceptor
TIE Talon Line Interceptor
Novawing Missile Boats

ACTIONS

Dispatched four picket groups to four corners of the engagement zone.
Reacted to the explosion
Ordered group to move into the inner system.

 

[Shamira Karuto]

.​

​

E X P L O R E ​

Location: Streets of Ryloth – Capital bio dome
Objective: Enjoy some time outside Caer Badru
Allies: Confederacy and especially the witches
Equipment: Purple robes and knapsack full of goodies
Tags: | Effie | Alluria Ivalice | Viana Morreth | Vytal Noctura |

Why did all the relaxing days have to get ruined like this.

Chaos seemed to rein for a few moments after the holonet video played. There was screaming everywhere, people rushing back and forth. Soldiers rushing off to do who knows what. Yelling and crying children everywhere that shamira turned. So much chaos and so much panic, all happening so quickly.

The child she had last given the flower to still stood in front of her, now gripping onto the stem of the flower so tightly the little thing shook. Tears were seen forming in those big eyes, and the witch couldn’t help letting go of Viana’s hand for just a moment to kneel down to the child, wiping away the tears as she did. “Hey..hey kid. It’s going to be alright. We’ll find your parents, and you’re going to be completely safe. C’mon,” she said, lifting the small alien onto her back.

It certainly wasn’t easy to find anyone in this mess of moving people, especially not one that neither her nor Vi knew what looked like. It was like tying to find the needle in a dung pile…except the needle was brown too, and the only person giving you directions didn’t speak your language and also wasn’t good at giving directions in his own language. That..that was the situation facing the pair of witches at the moment.

Thankfully, it was a short lived hunt. A very similar looking twilek found the pair of witches, one of which was carrying her son. She looked frantic, as frantic as everyone else was at the moment, but there was relief in her eyes from finding her son. Shamira gave her a little smile, transferring her son from shamira’s arms to the twilek. The alien gave them a little thank you in their native language, before turning and sprinting off into the crowd of people. The last the redhead saw of the child was him still gripping onto the flower, giving her a little sad wave as he disappeared.

Shamira couldn’t help the little smile that crossed her own face during this time, turning back to Viana to grip her hand. “Well..at least we’ve done one good thing today.” With that, she started pulling the white haired woman once again, this time right into the crowd of people. It wasn’t as though they were blind. The Nightmother’s signature was easily readable in this whole mess.

Finding her quickly, Shamira pulled up close to the tall woman and gave her a little nod. “Sorry, nightmother. We got..distracted helping out a child. Where do you need us go? How can we help?” The stream of words were said through gasping breaths, mostly due from having to weave her way in and out of the crowd of people that was seemingly beginning to disperse.

 

[Luna Terrik]

D A U N T L E S S

Location: Ryloth - Defend the people
Wearing: Grand Marshall’s Officers Uniform, Tactical Recon Handguns (2)
Ally tags: | Tiria Reinhart | Damsy Callat | Anakwor Farlorn | The Monster | Eva Winburn | Tegan Farron | Ryk Gaelir | Ciri Jade | Holt | Tyrias Aran | Vytal Noctura | Darth Metus | Gerwald Lechner | John Locke | Amelia von Sorenn | Srina Talon | Prennis Keeoli | Lunara Azure | Maeve Archeron | @Allya Vi’dreya | Rayne Centaris |
Opponent Tags: | Hanna | @dimitri lindzinksy | K Kaine Australis | Judd Hunter | Madalena Antares | Oceiros Sunstrider | @J’onns | Thalia Senn |

Panicking was not a battle that Luna could fight easily. Things could turn too quickly, and they would slip from her grasp of control. The way to win a battle would be through control, and panic created too many outside influences that weaseled their way into plans and disrupted them. Even superior forces that were hit with some sort of panic would manage to fall to a lesser one.

This is the major reason why Luna instead on talking to as many of the Confederacy’s forces as possible in this situation. Orders created, well, order. Order fights panic back and gives soldiers a purpose.

These tactics already seemed to be beginning to work. The twilek were being moved to shelters as per her orders, and the tunnel comprising the biodome would soon be secured. They were controlling as many of the factors as they possibly could, all the while wondering what would happen with the guns in the sky above them. Thoughts of being wiped out in a millisecond crossed her mind once or twice. The fear gripping her heart for mere moments before a new comm would come in and break fear’s stranglehold.

Orders created order. Even for the one issuing them.

That didn’t mean everything was under complete control at this point. There were still so many factors in play, and new ones being added every minute. Case in point, the loud mannered viceroy practically screaming into his comm. If the message hadn’t been so..urgent, Luna might’ve been more displeased. However, the message itself was more than enough to overlook this slight unpleasantry.

“Get alpha squad and master sergeant Ulinesque deployed out there,” she pointedly directed one of the comm officers, while she took care of responding to the viceroy herself. Opening up the comm, raising an eyebrow at the panting breaths that cut her off before she could even begin. “Viceroy @Dranconis Sederius Wolf…I have a squad of commandos that will meet you at the next secure location you can get to. Find some place to bunker down, and they will find you.” All there was left to do in this situation was hope that the man could find some place to hide. And that the squad got there in time. There had been too much needless death today. A day that had been intended for celebration was instead being used to make a horrible, bloody point.

They had not even gotten those eight minutes they were promised before the death commenced. And with the attackers seemingly obvious to these attacks, or at least, doing nothing to stop them on their “peaceful” mission, Luna had no choice but to assume they were working together somehow.

“Ma’am, can you come look at this?” The sergeant’s voice pulled her mind from the day’s events and back into the present moment. Leaving the holotable, she proceeded over to where the man stood, looking at what looked to be temperature readings. Clearing his throat, he motioned to the rising levels within the biodome, his slightly shaking finger betraying his nervousness, if his voice didn’t already do so. “Ma’am..we were..were getting reports while you were talking with the viceroy..of the rising heat in the dome affecting our sensor arrays.” There was a pause, as if he was trying to configure the reality of the situation in his own mind before attempting to put it into words. “At first, we thought it was another terrorist strategy to sabotage our atmospheric and temperature controls for the dome, but the control station..they..they report everything is fine.”

The harrowing reality was beginning to dawn on the grand marshal. She knew exactly where this conversation was progressing. The sergeant, sensing this, nodding slowly to her before continuing. “Theres..a heat storm outside ma’am. It’s progressing rapidly toward us and raising the heat quickly. And the tunnels that the terrorists are tunneling in through. They…well, they’re letting heat in. The temperatures are rising faster than we can cool them.”

There was a moment of silence that swept through the tent. They all had read the briefings. They knew how these storms could reach over three hundred degrees celsius. The dome was the only thing keeping them from being cooked like kabatha guts.

And..it had been compromised.

Her mind started working again as she turned to head back to the table, now updated to show the two tunnel locations where the heat was being pipped in. Even if they could seal both, there was no guarantee they could do it quick enough to keep the heat from baking them all. Her skin already began to feel fleshed. Her own temperature rising as a combination of the reality of the doom that faced them and the rising heat of the dome. Luna found herself having to pull off the military jacket that had adorned her shoulders since the parade.

They had to try, though. Otherwise every single person in this dome was doomed. It didn’t matter how quickly they could cool things down. The heat being let in would overwhelm it quicker.

Quickly, she found herself comming into the droids that were exploring the tunnel near the garage. If they could just seal one of the tunnels, it might buy them enough time to seal the other. “B-1s OOM-001-JELLYBEAN , OOM-002-HONEYCOMB , OOM-003-CUPCAKE , OOM-004-DONUT, and OOM-016-ASTRO . This is the grand marshal. I don’t care how you droids do it, but I need that tunnel closed now. I’m sure your sensors have already read the heat rising. You do not have much time in there. We need you to close that tunnel as quickly as you can..”

If the droids could buy them enough time, then there was a chance the inhabitants of the dome could be saved. If not..well, at least they would all die with a very nice tan. Her mind almost couldn’t comprehend the fact it was coming to this. Trusting some buckethead B-1 units to give them time to save the dome. As she began to speak her next words, she raised a gloved hand to her temple, feeling an insurmountable headache coming on. And not one caused by the rising heat.

“We’re..counting on you.”

 

[Viana Morreth]

Location: Streets of Ryloth - Moving
Objective: Find the Nightmother Vytal
Allies: Confederacy
Tags: | Shamira Karuto | Vytal Noctura | Julra Repraj | Alluria Ivalice | Effie |

--------------------------------------------------------

Chaos was putting it mildly; there was enough going on everywhere that for once? Viana was seriously overwhelmed. Her mind couldn't keep up, for the moment she could only really focus on keeping herself on her own two feet and keeping up with Shamira - which was made much easier when the redhead had paused in their path to stoop and address a child. This pulled Vi's focus, made her really center in on what was going on in front of her rather than attempting to figure out what was going on in every direction all around them.

"Shamira, do you think it wise to--" but it was too late. The redheaded witch had made a decision, and from there the pair of witches were on a man hunt for Twi'leks that they had never seen before. Amongst a sea of scattering Twi'leks, with no clue as to what they were even looking for. And yet there were no smart mouthed remarks from Vi. In fact, she did her best to look for aliens that at least looked like the little child attached Shamira's back, and when they finally found said parental unit, there was a sigh of relief from the white haired witch.

"Now then," Vi let out to Shamira once the pair of Twi'leks were well away from them. "I do believe we have other matters to attend to." This was confirmed when the redhead took hold of Vi's hand again, and once more the pair of them were off. This time they managed to reach their goal, though getting through the crowds had been a task in and of itself. Panic made people ridiculous, even if it was understandably so, especially in situations such as these.

Never the less, when they reached the Nightmother, Viana stood diligently beside Shamira. She may not be an official part of this coven, but she had been through plenty with them, and as always she would stick by their side now and aid where ever it was needed of her.

 

[Draconis Sederius Wolf]

Location: Capital Bio Dome
Objective: PROTECT THE CIVILIANS!
Allies: Luna Terrik Ryk Gaelir , CIS and Affiliates
Enemies: Oceiros Sunstrider , AoC and Affiliates
Gear:

Spoiler

Confederate Battle Armor (Overlay/Underlay), M-47C, 600 AP and AS rounds, 3 frag grenades, 3 Ion grenades, 3 Concussion grenades, 3 Flashbangs, L-7 service pistol, 60 rounds for L-7, and 3 breaching charges

Theme: It's time for action!
​

Draconis was running down the street as quickly as he could while several other people were engaging the Lyleks behind him. His breath was getting ragged under his mask as he carried the small twi'lek girl away, to safety, as fast as his legs would move. He couldn't stop thinking about what they'd done. What they would have done to the girl. His body shuddered at the thought, but he noticed that the girl had stopped wailing, now too tired to scream but just crying.

“Viceroy @Dranconis Sederius Wolf…I have a squad of commandos that will meet you at the next secure location you can get to. Find some place to bunker down, and they will find you.”

Draconis knew they were almost to the shelter and saw several soldiers raise their rifles to him, before quickly lowering them and hailing the commander. Draconis sprinted the last one hundred meters giving it his all as he made sure they weren't followed and then set down the child. She was still crying, although now it was a quiet sob as she cried for her mother.

"Little one, I am sorry about what happened,"

"I want my mommy! Why'd you leave mommy?!" She cried.

Draconis was heart broken as he spoke, hugging the little girl close to him as he spoke.

"Little child, please forgive me, but your mother was badly hurt. Please, you must be strong for your mother. You have my word that I shall find her and save her," Draconis pleaded with her.

"Will you? Will you really?" The little girl asked.

Draconis immediately took a step back from the girl and began flexing his muscles before her in an impressive display of muscular control. He went through a series of poses before settling on a pose that focused on his biceps and traps.

"Why yes child! For behold, I will unleash my family's technique of doing our very best during times like this! Do not worry child, I must see this through!" The viceroy displayed.

The look of hope welled up in the child's eyes as she looked up at the boisterous man flexing before her. And then Draconis stopped as he looked down at her.

"Now dear child, I'm going to have to ask you to do something in return,"

"What's that Mr.?"

Draconis pulled his pin from his shoulder and gave it to her. "I need you to hold onto this, if you need anything, you tell one of these men in armor like mine, that the man who this belonged to is expecting you to be taken care of. It's very special, and means a lot to me. Can you do that for my while I find your mother?"

She shook her head in affirmation and Draconis passed the eight sided star to her. She looked up at the armored titan in wonder. Draconis hugged her close one last time and looked at the men around him and spoke quickly.

"You are to take care of her as if she's my own, do you understand?" He spoke at the two SLDF soldiers in front of him.

They immediately went to attention and nodded in acknowledgement. Satisfied Draconis gestured to her new protectors and she walked forward holding out her new good luck charm. The men went along with it and gave the little girl a salute and spoke reassuringly.

"Come with us ma'am, we'll see to your safety,"

As she walked away, she looked back at Draconis and said her farewell.

"Thank you,"

Draconis waved to the girl as she walked away with her two new bodyguards, and then turned to face the bunker exit. He knew that more thank likely he'd just lied to that little girl, but he didn't want her to suffer anymore than she already had because some animals couldn't control their sadistic tendencies. He squared his shoulders as he stepped out of the bunker and saw the bright light over head, followed by two explosions of massive bright light. It wasn't nearly as blinding as it would be outside, but Draconis could already tell what had happened. Something had exploded, something big in orbit, and that hopefully meant that for now they were safe. And then he heard Luna Terrik call over the comms to the droid squads about the breaches and remembered the hole he'd just left. He opened a channel to Luna and called over comms as a small team of commandos approached him, their markings denoting their affiliation with Dauntless.

"Commander Terrik this is Viceroy Draconis Wolf. The child is safe with friendly forces. What would you have your viceroy do to assist?"

 

[Luna Vega]

Location: Ryloth
Objective: Spoils of War
Allies: AoC
Enemies: CIS + anyone in her way
Tags: Scherezade deWinter + anyone wanting to join
Post: 2​

"Ohhhh gaawwds above," the smell make her nose curl, lips drawn tight to prevent tasting the chit. "Coo'ya no be annay fartha up his arse..." the great bird was still amongst the mass of the others. They hadn't quite gotten away. A string of curses followed, the studded-like armor rubbing her thighs in the most unkind ways. Perhaps, Luna should of swiped a saddle, grabbed a blanket. But, nooo... of course not. The blades and booze were more important.

At that point all the lass could think about was a hot bath. She would have gladly thought on it more had a voice not interrupted her daydreaming. Luna side glanced, sea gray eyes narrowing only slightly before widening in horror.

"Naaaay...occchh....noo..." the pirate's face twisted in disgust as the newer arrival trampled a fresh pile of nasty. AND trekked it.

Beryl head shaking, Vega twisted...err... swayed a wee bit sideways to get a better view of the woman. She had thought to wave back, even lifted her hand. The small motion nearly had her slipping from the Churi.

She froze and instead waited for the Agent to close the distance.

"Ayyy allo," a bit too cheery, probably the alcohol. The crooked grin an exclamation to it. "Kina like a buddeh system, aye? Suuupose ets smart'r..." She paused as if just realizing who she was speaking to and where she wanted to go.

Saava halted, neck twisting to stare at her rider. She stared back and as if in silent agreement, Luna responded with a nod, "To th'casul than."

 

[Vytal Noctura]

F A M I LY . I S . M O R E . T H A N . B L O O D

Equipment: Nightmother's Ward Lightsaber; Blood of Dathomir Armor; Pouch of 8x 0.2 oz Water of Life Potions, 3x 1 oz Water of Life Potions, 3x Raxus Relief Gas Patches, 1x Raxus Relief Gas AoE Capsule

CIS Allied: Luna Terrik | Holt | Ciri Jade | Tess Valnora | Shamira Karuto | Effie | Viana Morreth | Julra Repraj | Alluria Ivalice | Darth Metus

AOC Allied: Oceiros Sunstrider | Thalia Senn | K Kaine Australis | Katrine Van-Derveld | Scherezade deWinter​

And just like that, the spirits were quiet. Spirits were an interesting bunch of formerly-living creatures. Some had never lived at all, and those were the most difficult to come to terms with -- you first had to find common ground with no common frame of reference. So for such entities to become riled up and then quite still in short order was no great surprise. That said, it was never wise to anger a spirit. They held on to grudges for an extremely long time. Even carbonite freezing for several millennia would not save you.

While the spirits had not been so inclined to lay out the future for the Nightmother before, however, they were willing to share what had changed. Nothing important, really. Just a massive explosion in orbit. So, no shattering of the dome and annihilating a civilian population? No radioactive fallout and/or ecological damage? Wonderful.

Vytal tapped the comlink open to Grand Marshal Luna Terrik . "Grand Marshal, your orbital bombardment has been cancelled." One less thing that would pester her across the localized communication device not yet disrupted by the Confederacy Intelligent Command's Agents Holt and Ciri Jade that worked to tirelessly secure public channels. The military frequencies remain quite clear.

"With that out of the way, I and a few Witches will be departing shortly. There are grave matters to tend to elsewhere on the planet no doubt related to everything that is happening here." The Nightmother paused for a moment. Much like the other woman's hesitation earlier, Vytal had much to contemplate as the world hung in the balance and not a lot of time to do it. "I will leave many Sisters and Brothers here to aid in whatever you need, Grand Marshal." There it was. Entrusting the safety of Knights to the Dauntless. Vytal had been the one to oppose suggestions the Mandragora sever ties with the Confederacy over Shadow's Point. Nevertheless, she had not been without her personal reservations and concerns having lived through the assault herself.

Shamira managed to close the distance after vanishing from sight momentarily. The Nightmother's green gaze turned toward the fiery Witch as the question was put forth. Yes; where were they needed? Her eyes slipped to the side to note Viana was present, and Julra was near as well.

Before she responded, however, there was a noticeable shift in the temperature of the surrounding air. Environmental control would be taking care of that unless something else had transpired. Another tap and Vytal opened a channel to the Mandragora. She instructed a number to remain to coordinate with Grand Marshal Terrik as necessary; but until Luna was available, they were to ensure the safety and well-being of the dome's inhabitants. Their spells could help ensure the bunkers were not compromised and the people did not come to harm. Fortunately the bunkers could weather even a storm, but why leave to chance what could be bolstered? Besides, chatter of a suicide bomber did not sit well with the Nightmother.

Then, she added, "Some of us will return to the Castle. From there we will defend our Sisters and Brothers, and the Altar of Spirits." There was a voice on the wind from afar that spoke of strangers on the path of the mountain. To what end they set foot there, Vytal did not know, but it raised questions. Questions with no answers, and with a purpose that concerned her. Not because power was derived from that place, but because it was a site which a number of Sisters and Brothers cherished. Vytal, herself, had presided over a number of ritual there to carry out her role as Nightmother of the Mandragora. Perhaps she had opened their doors to outsiders, but they had opened their doors to the many other worlds as well -- they taught them of the splendor of the Spirits, and how to commune with them in their daily lives. Witches were not special in this regard, merely able to better see this other world; to learn from it and in turn teach the Living of what was learned. Despite this, she had not forgotten Ryloth, its people, or her own people. A Nightsister knew the value of family, and the Mandragora had become her family long ago.

So, Vytal chose to believe that the Confederate forces and its citizens would weather the rising heat. Luna and the Vicelord, whose presence yet lingered, could handle something as 'simple' as a force of nature. The dome still stood, which is more than they had an expectation for only a minute ago. There were too many battlefields and not enough distribution -- she could not handle every crisis, and they had good people here in the dome to handle this one. The risk was dire, the people under threat once more, but it was not the only threat.

"Julra," Vytal gave the woman a small smile, "I need to call upon your skill to open a path back to the Castle." She was young in that particular talent. It was impressive she'd come this far. There was no finer way to bolster one's skills than to utilize them.

Wherever Julra could manage the exit on the other end, the Witches could take advantage of the Castle's mystic ways to move from there. There was someone in particular the Nightmother felt called to face in person. Could either of them say this day would have ended suitably if such a meeting did not happen? If not a word passed between them? Whether at the Castle or the Altar, the Nightmother had a duty to see things through to the end. And a responsibility to send these fine women with her now out to protect their home and Ryloth by other means.

Template By: Darth Metus (Guy)​

 

[Lirka Ka]

Location: Ryloth, Cliff-face, heading for Castle Vureshakkairn
Objective: Wait for filthy Rebels and CIS to start fighting
Enemies: AoC and Allies
"Allies": CIS and Allies
Tags: Vytal Noctura Shamira Karuto Julra Repraj Alluria Ivalice Effie Zlova Rue Sabine Delacroix

All this was giving Lirka a headache, in truth. Too many developments, too much info, too much nonsense going dark. She had come here to smash Rebels, to make some grand showing of Imperial authority, instead? She had ended up here sitting her metal behind on a rock waiting for something actually interesting to start. Not like the Legionnaires or her guards made any complaints about the postings. Dullards. But postings could only last so long in a duel that had grown so asymmetrical. It was time to deploy, and reveal their prescence.

The Confederate Witches, Lirka had never cared enough to learn their name, had a castle on world. They had grabbed enough information before things had gone dark to take a wild guess that some sort of scuffle between the Witches and the Rebels would happen there. Or so Lirka hoped. Wasting a dramatic entrance like this would be a travesty that could only be remade every century or so. And with that in mind, the Legionnaires huffed out the final surprise they had hauled along, boxes full of Jet Packs. Originally intended to make for easy jumps down to fight Rebels when they attacked the Festival, which much to the disappoint of Lirka never came to pass.

Strapping in, the particular feeling of Ryloth proving itself as hellhole took over. The various armor worn by the group compensated for the brutal heat as it slowly approached. And the Sephi couldn't help but shake her head in sorrowful amusement at how many of these puny little weaklings would end up just being roasted alive by their own planet. And with that thought in her mind, the gathered Imperials burst into the sky with a flash of speed: heading out for the distant prospect of the Castle, small black splotches in the sky moving as breakneck speed.

 

[Darth Metus]

R Y L O T H​

Tag: Madalena Antares , Srina Talon , Gerwald Lechner , Kyrinov , Redd , Shalita Verd , Astrid Skovgaard, Jason Farkas, Darth Elyria + Anyone I Missed

Redemption was reserved for the Jedi, it seemed.

When it came to returning to the metaphorical straight and narrow, it was rare for those blinded by their ambitions to turn back. It was rare for them to put aside whatever fires had erupted in their soul to return Home - where they belonged. And, though the Vicelord had extended an olive branch to the Agents' most vocal figure, the offer fell upon deaf ears. Tales of redemption, it seemed, were reserved for the Light and for the Holoflicks. And in the real world, when the hand of fellowship is slapped away, there is only one response: a Fist.

So it was that a fresh transmission fell from the lips of Madalena Antares . So it was that, before the Vicelord could so much as raise the device to his lips in rebuttal, aging hands found his wrist once more. The Elder, yet breathing heavily from his previous empassioned words, had his fill. He did not ask for the comm. Rather, he literally yanked the man's wrist into position and practically yelled his response.

"If it slitha like snake. If it hiss like snake. Then it is snake."

"You gal, you are snake. You slitha wit every word. You say he condones slavery? When he personally fought Empire after Empire after Empire for years?"

"You say you do not rememba seeing Twi'lek in your battles? Good! Then ta Droid Armies are doing they job! And you were Obsidian yeah? The Force is rare in our houses. But you slitha wit every word."

"You say if an Echani or a Twi'lek show up for an interview, who will win? Ha! You say we are not good enough here? Ha! Ta Speaker of the Viceroyalty is a Twi'lek. One of ta best spots in ta Galaxy is Ours! If an Echani goes for job, I feel sorry for them! Now you, GET FROM HERE! You do not belong! We do not want ya, or ya lies here!"

"You slitha like Empire. You hiss like Empire. Then you is ta Empire."

Once the Elder had finished his response, Madalena's attention had turned to the Vicelord directly. While Darth Metus was able to make out the opening few words, the battle over the airwaves had commenced. Her words for him, ultimately, fell upon deaf ears - and thus the comm was never raised to his lips once more. Rather, his attention focused upon the air of urgency that had claimed the room. His initial thoughts were confirmed - their location would be a target. Whether by the ongoing clash in the heavens above, or by the adversaries raining down to below, the Viceroy's residence was quickly becoming less safe by the minute.

Gerwald Lechner of his Dread Guard had posed the question to the Vicelord if he would join the Elders in the bunkers. Whilst his comrade, Redd , had given an update on the situation going on in orbit. Darth Miseria, only moments before, had excused herself in order to seek out the former Exarch Adron Malvern . And, to top it all off, Darth Metus could feel the imminent arrival of his mate. As the black sensation grew at the edges of his awareness, the man gave a brief nod to the Lupine. "Yes, I'll go. Gods know they'll need all the protection they can get."

In this, the Vicelord was concerned not for his own wellbeing, but for the longevity of the Elders.

After his response was given, the cold tone of Darth Elyria answered over the comm. For but a moment, the Sith allowed a bemused image to invade his mind. That of her struggling with the device just to make it function. If he were a betting man, the comm that he had entrusted her with would have been thrown against the wall by day's end. Or, perhaps, obliterated by some terrifying display of the Force. Such was the way of his mate. Mighty, but with an extreme aversion to anything remotely electronic.

"Well...there may or may not be a buffet on its way here for you. I know you'd be cross if I didn't inform you ahead of time." came his response, alive with snark. Typically speaking, he had to go to great lengths to ensure that their worlds were not consumed by her appetites. But, on this momentous occasion, who was he to deny her a menu full of...glitter? She remarked on the fearmongering, a reference to the rampant Fear that was staining the atmosphere outside.

And, though distant, the Vicelord had made up in his mind where some of his attention would be going today. "Usually there's a spot of speed dating... he said, before stowing the comm in his pocket. For, there was no more reason to utilize it. A moment before, the residence was devoid of her presence. In the moment next, the calamity of her presence rested upon his shoulders. He once referred to it as a nuclear winter - she did not find it amusing in the slightest. Am I a generator now? She said.

Her initial assessment was...astute. Though, for once, Darth Metus could earnestly say this matter was not caused by his actions. Not by unpaid child support, or tariffs for that matter. His shoulders raised and fell at her words. "This time, it was not me." he began. "If I had to guess, it's a case of sticking one's saber in crazy. But you'll need to ask Cardinal for more details." He had warned his brother about such things, but did the man listen? Noo. Now the windows were in the process of being busted out. Or, in literal terms, capital weaponry was being pointed at Ryloth.

Darth Metus took a step towards Gerwald, as if to follow his lead towards the bunker. However, his advance was stalled at the cherry on top. The Well was on...Fire? "How the ever-loving kark did you light the Well on fire?" he asked. Then shook his head. Now wasn't the time. Motioning with his hand, he made the briefest introduction of the year. "Elyria, this is Gerwald, the Elders of Ryloth, my sister, and members of the Dread Guard. Everyone, this is...my wife." Because wife sounded a lot better on paper than "My Dark Side Waifu."

BOOM.

The floor rocked underneath their feet. Urgency pumped into the Sith's veins as Gerwald began to usher the Elders out. Darth Metus reached, clutching the hand of his "bride" before leading her along to join them towards the bunker. "I need you to help me keep these people alive. Quite a few unfriendlies are inbound." he said, stepping lively. "Please." The final word uttered was a sign that this was no laughing matter. Very seldom did he speak to her with wit not on the tip of his tongue. Even rarer did he genuinely ask for anything.

But as his footsteps continued, she'd feel the focus. The power brimming underneath the surface of his skin. The decades of careful study at the feet of Phobis Devices and Alchemical Forges alike. The Dark Side roiled within and was mustered at his silent command. Yet, his visage did not reflect the brewing storm. The sole change in his features were veins appearing on either side of his temple. Yet the Force was mighty and it was with Him. Though, physically, his form stepped along with the Elders...

In the Force...he was following the lingering threads of Fear.

His focus was absolute. So much so...that he did not realize that sweat was beading upon his brow. The temperature was rising - from comfortable to...sweltering.
​

 

[Asaraa Vaashe]

Location: Ryloth - Festival - Colour Burst Shooting Stall
Tagging: Srina Talon | Darth Empyrean | Eira Talon | Kat Decoria | Daiya
Gear:

Spoiler

• Keravnos
• Fate's Dance
• Svalinn
• Nephil and Seraph
• 2 x Ianua Daggers
• Angel's Dance
• Claimoh Solais

It was slow, like pushing at treacle with your mind, that slow and steady feeling of the force giving against the pressure of her mind. The negative emotions that swirled around them, like a miasma that filled the air, seeping into the force. It felt like a dark cloak pressing against her senses, slowly shredding under the influence of her aura as crystal blue eyes flicked open. She knew that it was just panic, the Twi’leks around them overwhelmed by the events of the day.

It had been one barrage of horrors bursting into the calm of the day, a day that was supposed to be a celebration. That was perhaps the worst part of it, all these people, they had come expecting to enjoy themselves, to share this experience with their friends and loved ones. Only, other plans had been in motion, plans to interject terror and mayhem into the middle of the celebration. Like a stone cast into the waters of a still pond, the ripples echoing out, distorting the surface, the force.

Playing the mental game, using the force to affect the minds and emotions of people around them had never been her strong suit, but at least she’d been able to help this time. This time she hadn’t failed them, perhaps if she could protect the people of this planet the ghosts of Azure would finally leave her alone. Perhaps she’d be able to get a good nights sleep, perhaps she’d be able to get any sleep.

The pink-haired Jedi glanced over at the pale Exarch standing next to her, eyes softening as she nodded at the Exarch. Srina Talon. The echani was almost a figure out of legend, news of her exploits had never been far from hand, far from the tongues of the padawans. Asaraa had been no different, to the young Jedi the woman had seemed so self-assured and exotic, everything she’d ever wanted to be, had wanted to look up to.

The dreams of a child staring out at the galaxy.

The dreams of a child before the reality of the galaxy came crashing down on her.

Today she stood as a Jedi Master, the Lord Vigilant. A power in her own right. She’d seen more of the galaxy than she had thought possible. Now she could look at the Echani and respect her, respect everything she’d been through. All the scars and burdens she carried, it was worthy of respect…but Asaraa no longer wanted to be her. She had enough scars of her own to carry.

Still, she couldn’t stop herself from smiling as she saw the slight form of a young girl darting through crowd, approaching the Exarch to ask for an autograph. It took all of the Jedi’s not inconsiderable willpower to stop herself from losing a laugh of delight. In the middle of this war, of the horror and death this was a moment of innocence, the pure delight on the girl’s face as she fiddled with her datapad. It didn’t take her much to imagine another girl there, red skin and montrals, large blue eyes staring up hopefully.

Mouth suddenly dry, the Jedi glanced away, hand rising to her shoulder, pulling her sword loose and flipping it around. That was the innocence, the purity that they were fighting for. That was what they had to protect, Madelena and her ilk sought to plunge the galaxy into Chaos. The sort of darkness that would drown out this innocence, this purity. To tear a planet away and leave it in the hands of terrorists like those who had stuck their head out to take advantage of this opportunity would be a world without this kind of happiness.

The young woman turned to Eira, flipping the sword around and offering it to her.

“It’s not much but…you’re welcome to use my sword and shield.”

The weapons were light enough that she should be able to use them without much problem, besides Asaraa’s masters had always told her that the force was the only weapon you’d ever need. She’d thought about that, then decided they were wrong. The force was a great tool, but it always paid to have a backup, in this case, her lightsabers. Better safe than sorry right.

They were out there somewhere, the terrorists who had decided that they would bring death and destruction to this planet, the ones who had come from the ground, and the ones coming down from space. They might have wanted to bring chaos and darkness, but all they’d get was the light….from the ends of her swords.

She might have been a Jedi Master, but Asaraa would be the first to tell you she was the worst Jedi out there.

 

[Julra Repraj]

.​

​

Location: Capitol Bio-Dome
Allies: Luna Terrik | Holt | Ciri Jade | Tess Valnora | Shamira Karuto | Effie | Viana Morreth | Vytal Noctura | Alluria Ivalice | Darth Metus
Objective: Protect the People
Equipment: Julra's Refrain (Armor)

Julra smiled and turned as Viana and Shamira arrived to meet Vytal. To hear the immediate threat of the orbital bombardment had passed there was a small bit of relief. She honestly did not know how it would work as these powers were still new, still, the situation on Ryloth was ever-changing and as the Nightmother spoke to her she knew exactly what she was asking. She drew a very sharp breath before nodding in the affirmative and turned her back to the group and closed her eyes for a moment focusing her mind, what she was about to do so far only the Nightmother had seen because of the danger it posed not only to others but to Julra herself.​

She focused her thoughts on Vureshakkairn Castle while the rising temperature around the dome and the bright lands tempted her mind to wander but she wouldn't allow it. she focused even further on the approach toward the castle, should anything go wrong it would not endanger the castle itself. In her mind's eye she began to visualize what she needed to do, how to do it, and more importantly how to do it correctly the air around her grew still and each of her hands began to wreathe in green flames. Her own breath stilled and opening her eyes Julra looked directly ahead lifting her left hand in front of her she held it close creating an anchor and with her right hand, she reached forward making a motion similar to grabbing ahold of something then drew the hand back toward her, what came next made the very ground shake as space and time moved and reshaped by her actions the energy that permeated the air was intense and without warning that energy was pulled toward her hands as she pressed them together there was a loud crack and she quickly spread her arms as wide as she could a blinding light filled the space momentarily. Once the task was done she stepped back and nearly dropped to the ground from the strain, but she laughed a bit.​

"Nightmother, that distance... The scale of it," in front of her was a portal large enough for a couple of people to walk through side by side, it was different from what the Nightmother did, but no less effective but more importantly it conserves the Nightmothers power for a great deal longer, she felt fatigued all through her body and truly felt her strength leave her, she had never attempted this on such a large scale, taking another step back she turned slowly. “We have our way back, and I think I need to lie down”

Spoiler: TAGS

CIS: Alwine Lechner | Holt | Beric Layne | Lirka Ka | Effie | Luna Terrik | Ciri Jade | The Monster | Prennis Keeoli | Millu Lee | Draconis Sederius Wolf | Srina Talon | Darth Empyrean | Darth Metus | Rann Thress
AOC: Madalena Antares | Judd Hunter | Hanna | Oceiros Sunstrider | Kyrinov | Jai'galaar Gred | Scherezade deWinter | Nerium | Herah

 

[HLS]

location: Siskeen back left corner of room.
Tags: none

Holly picked up her comm unit on the third ring and immediately heard her boss yelling.

“Wait, someone is re-broadcasting our live feed? Do you know where the signal is coming from?”

She looked around the room, listening to her boss being grumpy while she did so.

“I will investigate.”

 

[OOM-001-JELLYBEAN]

Location: Ryloth [Capital Bio-Dome] Outside [To Inside] Confederate Defense Force Garage
Weapon: E-5 Blaster Rifle
Enemies: Oceiros Sunstrider | J'onns | Thalia Senn | Madalena Antares & AoC Allies
Allies: @Rann Thress| Draconis Sederius Wolf | Millu Lee | Srina Talon | Prennis Keeoli | @Ciri Jade| Vytal Noctura | Julra Repraj | Damsy Callat | Lunara Azure | Tess Valnora| Maeve Archeron | Allya Vi'Dreya
The B1's That Came To Party: OOM-002-HONEYCOMB , OOM-003-CUPCAKE , OOM-004-DONUT , OOM-016-ASTRO , Moe Uilor

​

JELLY was equipped with state-of-the-art enhancements. Even as it reported the issue at the Defense Base to the venerable Grand Marshal, Luna Terrik , it was promptly informed that several other forces had also taken note. Well, this was the patrol of JELLY. Whose job was it to report inconsistencies, calamities, and the occasional break-in, terrorist activities, and things on fire? OOM-001-JELLYBEAN.

Well, JELLY.

It was easier for the flesh bags to remember.

The droid that was covered in colored powder began to fire up its processors whilst it connected to a secure wireless data-stream. It wasn’t the rush of occasionally making contact with a Lucrehulk, but, this would do. It fiddled around for a moment before it alerted one of the interested parties. “This is OOM-001-JELLYBEAN. Speaking to, operative, Tess Valnora . We are investigating the Defense Base explosion once Marshal Terrik signs off. Reports of findings will follow.”

If they didn’t die first.

OOM-001 searched its memory banks that were dedicated to statistics and human behavior for a moment. The orders should be coming. Soon. Three. Two. One…

“Proceed into the tunnel and eliminate any enemies you might find. Lieutenant, gather your squad and any of the 701st around and secure that area. Do not proceed into the tunnel.”

JELLY nodded. Acceptable terms. The humans could stay outside of the tunnel while the B1-Brigade went in and did all the heavy lifting. JELLY and its fellow OOM units would accept the glory for serving the nation, probably posthumously, as they were likely to be reduced to scrap metal…But at the moment? That promise of action and an order to fight? JELLY, smelled victory.

“HEY! Get your cans over here. Shake it off, get the rust out.”

OOM-001-JELLYBEAN turned to look at the battalion. Each group had several dozen B1-Units attached to it. Extra frames were kept nearby, in storage, but they only accessed what they needed. The first of the ranks to be assessed by the steely-eyed 001 was OOM-016-ASTRO who already trying to sneak off into the Defense Building. “ASTRO! We talked about this. Buddy-System.”

The first rule of being a B1 was to never fight alone.

OOM-002-HONEYCOMB was next in line. HONEY was a strange B1. Dropped on his chassis right off the line. JELLY leaned close to HONEY and made a shadow gesture toward ASTRO. “He’s the cannon fodder this time.”, the words were a staged, robotic whisper, but not without merit. Of course, HONEY wanted more time in the oil bath and JELLY mostly ignored it. They were warriors! An oil bath and buffer could come later. OOM-003-CUPCAKE wasn’t far off and JELLY could only huff. “Come on. You sound like HONEY and ASTRO produced offspring. We are not a chicken-bots.”

“Are your audio receptors working OOM’s? WE ARE NOT CHICKEN-BOTS!”

A rousing speech if the B1 did say so herself. Full of non-chicken courage and simulated badassery. Ooh-rah. Just when JELLY was about to let ASTRO lead the way a noisy vehicle parked just beside the smoking Defense Building. A small Jawa hopped out and ran over. “This is no place for—”, the B1 began, but, was slowly corrected by the repair kit the Jawa was holding. JELLY looked at the others and then began to nod its head. “Yes, yes. We have work for you. We lose limbs all the time!”

JELLYBEAN nodded its head to Honest Moe and produced a common phrase from linguistics. “Taa baa [Thank you].”

Well, they just might live after all. The transmission came through from Draconis Sederius Wolf announcing that terrorist-lylek-riding-twi’leks were invading the city and JELLY snorted. The sound was like a rusty door slamming shut. So THAT was what the second, errr third, explosion was. Wait. Wasn't one of them in the sky? Eh - Who was counting? There was another Confederate meat-bag in the area. “Colonel Anakwor Farlorn we may return in pieces…But we are B1! We go. Into the unknown—Into the jaws of uh…”

“Possible, likely, horrifying death!”

JELLY paused. At least they didn’t have to deal with that hot mess. Riding, lyleks. Insanity. Instead—They were going into something much better. Far more promising. The dark.

So. They went.

It was then that JELLY realized that Ryk Gaelir and the 701st had actually followed them into the Defense Garage. Against, what the Marshal had ordered. The B1 narrowed dark photo-receptors. Glory thief. Either way the B1 units trudged ahead. Heads, literally, on a swivel.

That was when things went wrong. They could hear footsteps, trampling, scurrying aplenty as they came up through the tunnel.

“Uh…Uh oh. ACK!”

JELLY was grazed on the arm from a blaster by a Twi’lek riding a Lylek and almost dropped it’s weapon. “Retreat! This is a trap. Two explosions, two holes, close-quarters. Hostile targets. Many, many hostile targets!”

The report that the B1 gave was haphazard and, to be blunt, crappy. Ryk Gaelir and Anakwor Farlorn would either understand perfectly, or, get trampled by the dozens of lylek feet. Tess Valnora and Luna Terrik would also get the information. JELLY looked at OOM-004-DONUT who had just joined and narrowly avoided getting shot again. Its arm was sparking, really, not working well. “NOW you suggest it? They’re escaping! I’m gonna lose my promotion!”

Not to mention? This tunnel was really getting really stuffy. Too cramped—For one. Too hot for another. JELLY needed space to aim so that it didn’t accidentally shoot itself in its own face. One of the B1 units beside JELLY gotten taken out and the droid felt a sense of loss. Saaaaad. This B1 had liked that B1! What was wrong with these bags of meat and bone? Ugh. Animals.

A new mission came through:

This is the grand marshal. I don’t care how you droids do it, but I need that tunnel closed now. I’m sure your sensors have already read the heat rising. You do not have much time in there. We need you to close that tunnel as quickly as you can..”

JELLY hunkered down for a moment. Sure. Sensors said that. But, did they read those? Ducking low was really ruining the vantage point but it was either that, or wind up scrap, and failing before they could even begin. Could they do this? Close the tunnel?

“You can count on us, Grand Marsh—.”, blaster fire caused the droid to pause, “—al.”

JELLY looked to the other B1’s. They had a job to do. Roger, roger.

​

Spoiler: Actions

• Ordered the B1 Units
• Went into the 1st Tunnel that leads to an old CFD Garage ahead of Anakwor Farlorn and Ryk Gaelir.
• Found that Terror Twi'leks are also coming up this tunnel, as well as the suicide bomber tunnel, and nearly got sideswiped by some Twi'leks on Lyleks. Did get hit by a blaster in the arm which is sparking. Help me Moe!
• Got new Orders from Luna Terrik
• There is a naturally occurring heat storm outside the dome. The tunnels are letting 300 Degree Celsius heat into the dome. The B1's will stay need to try and stay alive so they can close it.

 

[Scherezade deWinter]

Location: To the castle!
Objective: Hulk Smash!
Wearing: Armatura | The Forgemaster's Ring | Ring of Stasis | The Sofitor
Wielding: 7 Nozhi Blades | 1 Whimsy Knife | 1 Whimsy Witch Knife | 2 Nastirci Combat Knives | Clarion | Copero's Wail | Fire and Smoke | Combat Gauntlets | Tessen | 2 TOTT-001 Arc Light Blaster | 2 Dissuader KD-30 Pistols with Glitter Bullets | The Parasite | Vita Stones | Shiftglue
The Churio: About 20,000 Churi of War total, slightly over half of them making their way to the capital biodome while the remaining ones are randomly running around. Their helmet lasers are not functional in this scenario.
Allies: Agents of Chaos, The Siskeen Coalition, Twi'lek Freedom Fighters | Luna Vega +open
Enemies: The Confederacy. | Lirka Ka + Anyone at the Castle

Scherezade couldn't help but grin at the boozy cheeriness of the blue haired woman. She was sensitive to the smell of the liquor, but she already knew too well, especially from her own experience, that for some people, especially if they could use the Force, the presence of alcohol could potentially not hinder any fighting abilities. She still remembered those precious seconds of clarity, when the fog of drunk had lifted not to be replaced by the immense pain that had taken her over, but by the focus of battle, the need to fight. Battle was the only place where she had been able to find any semblance of peace during those months.

It was still the main place where peace for the Blood Hound could be found. She was much calmer these days, much closer towards the wholesomeness she had always wished for. Were things perfect now? No, things rarely were. But so many of the trauma and complications that had been bestowed on her due to the experience of experiencing the worst of what people had to offer when she was barely two months into existing that had so severely damaged her was much more balanced now.

These days, she could bear all her scars, and still genuinely smile.

"Exactly like a buddy system," she nodded to the woman with a grin and raised her arm, bringing up the holomap, "There's a river nearby. If we follow it, we'll get to the castle. We can also have the birds drink that way since these little liquid poodoo'ers pretty much require them."

Switching the map off, Scherezade closed her eyes for a moment. Long ago, she had realized she could affect animals through the Force, calming them down or controlling them. Though not even she could take control over the twenty thousand birds, she only needed a few.

Dust rose on the borderlands. The first birds had been affected and they had changed their direction, and the other birds in their existential dumbery had begun to follow. Those birds were fast, and Scherezade grinned as they ran by, raising the sands and dust of the desert parts of this world around her. The bird stampede lasted a handful of minutes, and did not include all the birds. She hadn't tried to count them as they ran by, but she assumed that more than half of them had gone by - and were headed for the general direction of the capital biodome.

As the stampede began to slow down, Scherezade narrowed her eyes, feeling with the force for the right bird. Ah ha! Got you! With a grin, she grabbed one of them by the neck and elegantly jumped on top of it. The Churi beneath her went wild, trying to throw her off.

Scherezade was having none of that.

"YEE-HAW!" she screamed as every muscle in her body focused on balancing, staying firmly on top of the bird's back. The entire battle lasted only a handful of seconds, at the end of which Scherezade punched the top of the bird's head. "I hereby dub you Amadala Featherbutt, Princess of Churi!" she grinned from ear to ear.

Motioning to her new buddy in the buddy system, she waved. "I'm Scherezade," she introduced herself, now sitting a little bit more stable on the Churi.

The mountains weren't too far from where they were. The hot wind of Ryloth blew on her face, sending her hair wild as she and Amadala Featherbutt darted forth, making their way towards it.

It was a short ride after that that they had reached the river. A handful of the Churi had decided to follow them, and they paused to refill their water needs.

Scherezade looked at where following the river would take them. Already she could feel it, the attempt to focus more on where the castle would be causing her thoughts to somewhat fizzle and dizzle.

After a short break, she jumped off the Churi.

"Spirits of the Mandragora," she spoke, sending her voice up the river, "You once claimed me, the mark of Jart appearing on my back when I existed for not even two hours in this strange place. You gave me no choice that I knew of, and for several months I served proudly as one of you, not knowing that there was anything else."

As her words came, she could feel it. The Force. The rise of power, prickling in her nose and beneath her skin. For a moment, she could almost see it - the place her mind had been transferred to, where the Jart had claimed its brand on her back by embracing her. She had been so happy that day, the mark and Katrine Van-Derveld making her feel as though she would never have to fear being alone.

"I found the way to be rid of you," she continued, "I found the way to remove your mark from my body, to sever what little of the connection between us existed after the mark had been marred by Force Lightning, causing the link to be somewhat damaged."

It had not been a happy removal. Scherezade, drunk out of her mind, knowing she wanted to be free of the mark that not only gave her some abilities from the Jart but could also potentially be used to whisper everything she saw, said, and did, back to the Nightmother. She had skinned herself, working with her knives for hours, flesh and blood ending up on the floor of her little refresher on her ship. Days of bacta had followed, and in the end of it, the girl who had once been dubbed as the best pin cushion in the 'verse, the girl who's body had been so horribly scarred because of the crazy amounts of weapons that had pierced it, had a back that was completely void of any scarring, like that of a teenager who had grown up in a very safe place.

"The Nightmother spoke through you, and you all told me I could come back," she raised her voice, "And I am here now."

Scherezade grabbed one of her knives and peeled the sleeve of her armor a few inches back, the blade cutting along the skin, the blood beginning to well.

"I am here to set wrong things right," she spoke, with her voice, through the Force, "I have made my choice. Let me in."

TLDR:

• Scherezade and Luna made it to the river and have begun making their way to the castle.
• Scherezade beseeches the spirits of the Mandragora to let her through the magical defenses so they could get there.
• There's slightly over ten thousand Churi making their way to the capital biodome.

 

[Shuklaar Kyrdol]

Location: Bright Lands, outside the Capital Dome. Near the CDF base.
Accompanied By: Eight Vuhyr'yalilyr Rammikade and Jare'la.
Immediate Allies: Allya Vi'Dreya
Immediate Enemies: Strider Garon
Objective: Do what we're paid to do; thin those ranks.
​

Equipment:

• 'Vuhyr'yalilyr'gam'​
  • Kelvarek Consolidated Arms MM9 rocket system
    • K-26 Explosive Anti-Vehicle Rocket (3)
    • Type-12A Anti-Personnel Rocket (3, 1 loaded)
  • Shatter Beam
  • ZX Miniature Flame Projector
  • Velocity-7 Dart Shooter
    • Electro Darts (4)
    • Explosive Darts (4, 1 loaded)
• 'Rammikad' Enhancement Package​
• PPC-01 Phased Pulse Cannon​
• DP-02 Class-D Heavy Disruptor Pistol​
• Mono-molecular Edge Beskar Beskad
• Det-Packs (4)
• Flex-5 Detonite Tape (2 rolls)
• Class-A Thermal Detonator (3)
• NOVA40 Plasma Grenade (3)

"Understood, we're moving to assist," said Shuklaar, terminating the connection. Transponder return code identified her as a Major Allya Vi'Dreya. He tried to remember why it was that the name rang a bell, but couldn't quite put his finger on it. If he wasn't wrong, it was a 'house', a Mandalorian practise he couldn't quite understand. Maybe it was necessary with the large clans of the Mandalore system. The clans of his home system however had never really found it necessary, not the ones he was familiar with in any case. If he was right, and she was indeed a Mando'ad, then this was probably going to prove to be interesting.

It didn't take Saram long to get her commandos formed back up, and they were on their way out to join the Major and her forces by the time the storm warning had come in. Shuklaar's HUD was flashing a temperature warning almost immediately. Their temperature control systems were working on overdrive, and their helmet's enviro-filters were doing their best to keep the fine sand out. All their gear had been covered in the shabla stuff. He was already not liking the prospect of trying to get it off once they got off this dustball. Though they had a few chakaare to deal with before they could do that. Well, maybe more than a few chaakare.

By now, they could all pick up the incoming force on their scanners. Horse cavalry, but not just any horse cavalry, it looked like Mandalorian horse cavalry. Shuklaar knew from word going around that there were a few Mandalorians working for the Agents of Chaos, and so he knew it was only a matter of time before they faced other Mandalorians while working for the CIS. It felt wrong to be fighting each other after what the Sith did. Then again, they didn't know who these Mandalorians owed their allegiance to. They could be those who sold themselves to the Sith, or allowed themselves to trust the shabuire long enough for them to strike at Mandalore and then the entire sector.

As much as it ate away at him, slowly, but surely, they could ill-afford to second guess things now. Whoever they were, they stood on opposite sides, and that meant that today they had to die. It was about this time that they received warning about a heat storm coming in at the city. So that what was affecting their sensor scans. They had no way of knowing if it would land right on top of their heads, or if they would be relatively safe from its effects. One thing was sure, as hot as it was, there was no point trying to risk a flight back to the city, and they would never make it in time on foot. That really only left one option.

"This storm that's coming in is supposed to be pretty bad, temperature's already playing hell with sensors, alor. It's your call," filtered Saram's voice through his helmet speakers. He knew what she was talking about, even in his armor, the heat was stifling. It was purely psychological, he knew, his armor's temperature controls would work fine for the current temperatures. They all dropped onto the sand with muffled thuds, their packs in danger of overheating. There was a good chance that the storm could swallow them whole, and Saram no doubt knew that they had no choice in the matter, she was just checking to see if he was aware of that.

"We have no choice, either that storm overruns us or those cavalry do. Either way, in this heat, we'll never make it back to the city on time. Mando'ad, Ib'tuur jatne tuur ash'ad kyr'amur*," he said over their comms. A chorus of "Oya" answered him. They'd flown off to the right and left flank of the Major's forces. He, Saram, Janar, Rusana and Jare'la were on the right. Ran, Vikhar, Viraen, Jaing and Anila had taken the left. "Davaab-6R, be advised, we've set up on your left and right, Major. Engaging at will." All eight rammikade readied their weapons, Shuklaar following suit a moment later.

"Mind doing me a favor, alor?" asked Saram, getting his attention. He turned his head in her direction. "When my buir asks about my new tan, you mind if I blame you completely?" He let out a chuckle, as did both Janar and Rusana. "Great, because I blame you if we get boiled and/or buried alive too." This time he just nodded. With the aid of his HUD's targeting suite, he picked out one of the riders and let loose a pair of two round bursts, one aimed at the rider and the other aimed at the mount. The rest of the unit followed suit, Janar and Vikhar's Repeating Rippers spat AP-HE rounds at both horse and rider.

Saram and Viraen both sent beskar APFSDS rounds at the riders themselves from their AMR-4M Verpine Anti-Materiel Rifles rifles, while Rusana and Ran rained accurate two rounds bursts of SLAP rounds with their BR-6B Verpine Shatter Battle Rifles, aiming specifically for the horses themselves rather than the beskar'gam wearing riders. Anila, the unit's explosive expert, showed off her fondness for things that explode by slinging explosive particle bolts into the formation from her PBHR-01 Particle Beam Heavy Repeater. For better or worse, they'd joined this particular engagement. Shuklaar just dearly hoped that if it was for worse, that he at least lived to regret it.

Spoiler: Summary

Shuk and the commandos decide to brave the storm after realizing that they were going to get caught out in the open by it even if it hit them, the take up position on either 'side' of Allya's force to engage Strider Garon 's cavalry with their long range weapons. They haven't engaged their armor's cloaking devices, instead trusting on the heat and the reflec on their armor to keep them from being detected as long as possible.

Spoiler: Translation

* - Mandalorians, today is a good day for someone else to die.

 

[Rann Thress]

Location: Ryloth, Capital Bio-Dome
Objective: Engage Twi'lek Insurgents and Lylek Beastriders, protect Innocent lives
Allies: Holt Ciri Jade Draconis Sederius Wolf CIS and Open
Enemies: Oceiros Sunstrider AOC and Open
Equipment: Octarchy Covenant Armor and Lightsaber


After what felt like an agonizingly long time awaiting a reaction, one not unlike the first time Rann attempted magic tricks back on Onderon, the Beastriders turned to look at him, bringing their mounts to face him as well.

Upon staring down the proverbial barrel of this sizable horde, Rann's thoughts quietly slipped to how fast he could run and if that was fast enough to get away. Of course, Rann is no coward. But most, if not all, of the beasts of this galaxy that he's encountered in the past have been animal-esque. Four legs, maybe more or less but commonly four. A big mouth with scary teeth, danger-claws, mean-tail, spooky eyes or four or twelve. Most, if not all, were just animals.

These creatures the names of which Rann was unsure, it was probably in the briefing of the planet, were new and terrifying to the man. Now that the initial adrenaline of the explosion and the need to get their attention subsided, Rann became acutely aware of these horrific creatures and their monstrous qualities. Two-eye stalks that appeared like pincers, thicker than Ranns arm. A monstrous mouth with teeth that actually put Rann at ease a little; by far the most normal thing these creatures had. What appeared to be six sharp legs, three on each side. But what unsettled Rann the most, the thing that frightened him about these things was their damn tentacle arms.

Unnatural.

Rann was, at that moment, even more happy to be wearing the helmet provided by Kyyrk . He doubted he'd look intimidating now, sweating profusely, blinking rapidly and breathing just a bit too much. By far, the riskiest fight Rann's been in since he left his home planet, probably in his life. As he was observing these nightmare creatures, he could see a couple of the beast riders snicker at him and join a pursuit down the alleyway. Rann panicked a little, contemplating using the Force to try and jump this insane distance and put himself in between them and Viceroy Draconis Sederius Wolf to further give him a chance to escape with his charge. Before Rann could commit to this plan, or give it some more thought, he noticed another ( Tess Valnora )Confederacy member assist the Viceroy as he made his escape, trying to draw the attention of the pursuers onto herself or at least distract them.

Rann steeled himself as he saw this, putting his fear behind him. If that person who probably couldn't draw on the Force could act with such reckless abandon to join the fight then surely he with all his training could at least attempt to do the same! They had that front, he decided, Rann had to stay here and be as much of a wall between the Riders and their targets behind him. He glanced back towards the Parade Grounds, spying still too many civilians who had as of yet failed to find somewhere to hide. He turned his head back towards the pack and gripped his lightsaber tighter, the red blade glowing brighter, as if beckoning him to stop posturing and join the fray already. Rann raised his eyes towards his enemy and locked eyes with the lead Rider, and put forth every ounce of confidence into his finest hero moment.

"YyyyyyyyyyyyaaaAAAAAAA!" he heroically cried! Leaping forth into the devil tentacle spike arm monsters and their much more mundane occupants, his lightsaber readied, facing forward towards the beasts and their riders.

Rann was unsure about what his initial plan of attack was, but as luck would have it, he wouldn't need to worry about what Step 2 was. As he sailed through the air, the tentacle arm of the Lead, his intended target, wrapped around him, catching him.

Yelling out in surprise, Rann could see the Beastrider chuckle at him and mutter something in his native insult. Likely an insult at him. Then he barked an order and the Beastriders on his flanks advanced, attempting to surround Rann.

"Oh not good."

Quickly, and without much thought, Rann flipped his blade down and a wide arch, severing the tentacle that held him and falling to the ground, shaking off the disgusting appendage as he did. He looked up and let out a small laugh as the creature roared in agony and then spun around, smacking him square in the chest with it's tail and sending him flying backwards several feet. For the second time today, Rann found himself face down eating Rylothi pavement.

He groaned and rose to his feet, re-igniting his de-ignited Lightsaber as he did. He looked and could see the fuming Twi'lek from here, more angrily barking orders at the Twi'leks and pointing at him.

"Well, I got their attention. I just need to do that twenty more times and I'm all set."
Again he readied his saber, and again he charged at the enemy.

All things considered, it was going alright so far.