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

[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

There was something about seeing a space battle raging overhead that was almost beautiful, if you didn’t know better then it looked like a lightshow. A spectacular vision of lights and fireworks, similar to those that cities and governments would set off for a celebration.

This was no celebration.

This was war brought to the planets, a planet that hadn’t asked for it hadn’t sought out the conflict that now raged across its surface. But, the Agents of Chaos probably hadn’t even thought about that, hadn’t thought about the effect of the war on those innocents they claimed to be freeing. Both the terrorists from space, and the terrorists from underground spoke of a free Ryloth, a Ryloth that was returned to the people so they could go back to living the way they used to.

Had any of them asked the people of Ryloth if that’s what they wanted?

No, they’d arrived thinking they knew what was best and planning to impose their will on the native population. The Agents of Chaos had cast the Confederacy as another empire, had arrived claiming that they knew best. That they, and they alone held the true knowledge of what the Twi’leks wanted.

The Agents who had either never stepped foot on the planet or hadn’t been back here for years, yet they knew the truth in the Twi’leks hearts. Better even than the Twi’leks. Those very Twi’leks who had chosen to move to the domes, chosen to try to change the course of their lives. They had chosen, and now those terrorists had decided they had chosen wrong and wanted to remake that choice for them. To tell them how to live.

And to do it they’d destroy the very homes that the innocents had tried so hard to build.

The dome around them shook and filled with smoke, all signs of the attacks that had been mounted, that continued to mount.

The Jedi could feel the heat building in the air around them, could see the sweat running down the faces of those who had gathered around them. Their little pool of steady calm, a rock in the storm that had swept over Ryloth. It was no surprise that the Twi’leks and other citizens of the planet had gathered around them. Looking for protection, no more than that, they were looking for Hope. For something they could hold onto, to lift their spirits up when the world around them seemed to be going to hell in a handbasket.

The pink-haired Jedi reached up, running her hands through her long locks as she glanced at the crowd before looking back to Srina. She was right, they needed to move, they needed to get out of here, to get to somewhere safer. They needed to Evacuate.

“Give me a few minutes Exarch, I’ll get everyone ready to move.”

The Jedi turned on her heel, stepping back into the crowd, hands reaching out to the anxious faces gathered around them. A comforting touch on a shoulder here, bending down to talk to a small child clutching at her mother's skirts there.

“I’m sorry, we can’t carry all of these supplies with us now, we need to move fast. If you leave them here, I’ll try to get someone to collect them later.”

The Jedi’s heart broke as she watched the meagre possessions piling up in the entrance to the bunker. The clothes, the food that were all that some people had left in the world.

“We can replace them, you we can’t replace.”

The people who had spilled from the bunker were shaken, confused and scared but there didn’t appear to be any major injuries, just a few bumps and scrapes. Hardly enough to warrant it, but then her skills with healing had never been anything to write home about. She was up for this though, just to help buoy their spirits. Just reaching out with a hand to leave that lingering sense of positivity in those she passed as she helped get them ready to run. Or at least she had been till a slight green hand clutched at her skirt, a small Rodian peering up at her with wide eyes.

“Miss Jedi…are we gonna die?”

There it was, from the mouths of babes, the question that was on the forefront of everyone’s mind, only they were too scared to notice it. The acceptance in the child’s voice almost broke Asaraa’s heart as she knelt in front of him, one hand reaching out to rest on the child’s head as her other hand reached up, gesturing in the direction of Srina and Maliphant.

“Nah, we’re not, you wanna know why? Cause they’re waaay more scary than any terrorists out there. And if we’ve got those two on our side, then they don’t stand any chance. We’re just gonna go for a little walk, just to the edge of the city, then we’re all gonna get out of here and go somewhere safe and get you some food. Now, I’m not promising anything, but I’m pretty sure that they have some chocolate up there…but only for people who’re brave and help their parents. Can you do that for me?”

The little nod of the head was all she needed to see before she moved on to the last of the civilians, a final smile before she turned and nodded at the Exarch. The people were scared, but she had faith, she knew that they’d be ok and pull it together. People rose to the occasion if you gave them the chance.

If you gave them the chance.

Which they’d never had. The assault of the Twi’leks riding their Lylek mounts was immediate and absolute, the cavalry charge shaking the ground around them, leaving the young Jedi twisting to retain her balance as the civilians around her cried out in shock at the nightmarish sight charging towards them.

It was like a sight from her worst nightmare, the creatures racing past, pouncing on the crowd that she’d sworn to protect.

She’d told them it’d be ok.

Asaraa could hear the Exarch’s command, but every time she tried to strike at a rider she found herself dancing away from claw or tentacle, foot or blaster. The sheer number of her enemies, of the weapons they brought to bear made it almost impossible for the Jedi to get any closer to her targets.

Purple and bronze lightsabers spun around, constructing a cage of energy around her, a stalemate. She couldn’t get closer to them, and they couldn’t reach her. Yet, the Jedi was just one individual, and they were many. She could tie up 2, 3 of the Lyleks with spoiling attacks, forcing them to stop and defend themselves, but the rest just streamed past her and threw themselves on the crowd.

She could only watch helplessly as the civilians tried to fight, bringing what weapons they’d managed to find to bear, but it wasn’t enough. It would never have been enough.

It was another failure on a long list of failures, she’d let them down…again. Everyone she tried to rescue, to save, everyone ended up dying.

The Jedi threw herself through a backflip, lightsabers lashing out at a passing rider as she bounced as she landed, spinning away from a slashing claw. Spinning just long enough to see a small body tossed up into the air, wide eyes staring at her, a slight hand reaching out before the Rodian child dropped down to the waiting Lyleks, vanishing beneath the crowd of their claws as their riders laughed at the sport.

They laughed.

For a moment the Jedi grew still, time seeming to slow as she stared at the crowd, at the small hand that had fallen away from the Lyleks. Asaraa could hear a loud scream filling air around her. It took her a moment to realise the sound was tearing from her throat.

There was no thought in her head as the Jedi reacted, pushing out through the force, pouring her emotion into the force. A rising wave that shot forward, a tsunami of pressure crashing forward onto the riders and their mounts, sending them tumbling end over end as she threw herself forward.

Blades of energy lashed out, scoring as carapace and tentacle, as the Jedi pushed herself off the confused terrorists, landing between them and the crowd before she started stalking forward.

No more.

No more innocent deaths.​

 

[Zaldros Sabolte]

Objective: Protect Nerium.
Location: In a drop pod.
Allies: Kyrinov , Herah , Nerium , The Bridesmaid | AoC
Enemies: CIS

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

He couldn’t help but listen, and wait, with this new team he was apart of. It was interesting, they were interesting but still, everyone seemed to get along well, or that’s what he was picking up from the bits and pieces he had heard of from their conversations. Zaldros wanted to speak up, maybe ask a question but he was given no time too, as the voice came once more. It was time, the eight minutes were up and it didn’t seem like there was going to be a party, it seemed there would be war and violence. Still, he felt as though he was fighting for the right side, while he didn’t know too much about CIS yet between the little research and the discussions he had overheard told him they were nothing good.

Standing up he walked along with his teammates, entering their respective drop pods. It was time, rather almost time to make their grand entrance. Those few moments he wondered, ready to jump in and do what he was told to do, he couldn’t help but think for the years he spent in service, everything he had done, somewhere in his mind there was the want to say it was similar, he knew it wasn’t though. There it was something planned down to every little part, this was organized, organized chaos and it felt comforting in many, many ways. Of course, his comparisons would have to stop, it was a blur for a few moments.

When they reached the bottom however he was met with a few people and a man, who looked broken, his wolf laying upon him. He knew it had been a few minutes, and all he could think about was what he should do, what the others were thinking. Part of Zaldros wanted to go hug the man, but that almost seemed too inappropriate. Did it matter though? The man had been suffering, to the point, he didn’t even want to know what had caused the situation the team was in at that moment in time. Then the creature let up, and the man stood, proceeding to spout several apologies. “Sir it’s fine, you don’t need to apologize.. just are you alright?” What kind of question was that of course, he wasn’t alright.​

 

[Nerium]

Objective - Fun
Location - Dropping in a pod
Gear - Generic Lightsaber | Daggers | Pouch of Flowers and Buttons | Melekki
Allies - Kyrinov | Herah | The Bridesmaid | Zaldros Sabolte
Enemies - CIS​

If Nerium's wandering attention span was good for anything, it'd be picking up on things her peers would much rather keep swept under the rug. You'd think the opposite, that the creature who couldn't focus on anything in particular also found nothing. But perhaps not having a point of focus also meant not having a point of particular distraction. Whatever the reason, Nerium caught on to The Bridesmaid and her ramblings, drawing the girl's curious gaze toward the other like a moth told a flame. "You can hold my hand, if you want," she said, holding a hand out to the woman as she did so. Whether or not she actually took it made no real difference, the offer was made and that was pretty much it for Nerium in terms of keeping a clear conscience of sorts.

The bumpy ride was, well, an interesting one to say the least. Like a roller coaster, only there were no seatbelts (and if there were, Nerium refused to use them) and there was, to Nerium's knowledge, know sweet treats to be purchased afterward. There was no emergency brake, no camera to take your picture right as you hit the big hill. And yet, as Nerium and her companions were surely becoming increasingly aware, Kyrinov didn't seem to be taking the ride well. Nerium waited a few moments, hoping the fellow could pull himself out of whatever he was going through. But when it became clear that that wouldn't be the case, she gave a huff of a sigh and moved to stand up, nearly falling into the fellow before she could properly acclimate to the pod's movements. "Get over, no, come here," she mumbled as she reached for his hand, both to stabilize herself and keep him in place. "Shh, it's okay," she cooed, taking the moment to focus herself and actually dip into the male's mind, if only for an instant.

Almost immediately, she was wrenched out of that mindscape, though if by her own doing or Melekki's trunk tapping her shoulder, she didn't know. More importantly, the visions she caught in that instant were more than enough to explain...something, Nerium wasn't one to put explanations into coherent words. "He's stuck inside," she offered to the others. "I think it's best if we let him," she reached up, half pulling Kyrinov down by his hand, her free hand giving a light tap to his forehead, "sleep." The mismatched eyes shifted to Herah. "Can you help get him out when we land?"

The rest of the ride down, she kept one hand on Kyrinov's and offered her free hand back to The Bridesmaid if she so wanted it, humming a lullaby while she waited out the ride. Nerium didn't quite understand the whole comforting thing, not really. She kept hold of Kyrinov more so to maintain the mental hold, to save energy for the mission ahead. Nevertheless, if people found comfort in hand-holding, who was she to scoff at them.

Upon reaching the surface, Nerium was more than willing to give Kyrinov space, to let Anat take point in waking her master. And as Zaldros Sabolte spoke, she found herself nodding in agreement. "Yes, yes, though I don't recommend doing that again, if possible. Getting stuck inside is no fun at all."

The trip down, and all the mental toll it had, had made her restless. And so, Nerium was all too content with hopping on to a bird, introducing herself to it with such vigor you'd think she thought it could understand her. With a squawk from the bird, the road off, in search of the next segment of their journey.

 

[Tess Valnora]

RYLOTH

Objective: SURVIVE
Location: Capital Bio-Dome
Nearby Allies: Holt , Ciri Jade , Rann Thress , Draconis Sederius Wolf , Open
Hostiles: Open

Spoiler: EQUIPMENT

Weapons

Spoiler: EQUIPMENT

Spoiler: Compact SMG

(20 round magazine)

AMR-211'Longbow'
B2 rifle 'Oathkeeper'
SGP-12
Shadow's Sting (gauntlets)
"Silence" shotosaber
"Viper's Bite" assassin's knife

Gear​

Spoiler: Utility belt

Suppressor for SMG
SOAR - Slicing Operation Assistance Routine
Smoke grenades (2)
2x-4x Scope (1) - When not attached to B2 rifle
Medi-kit (1)

Armor:​

Spoiler: Trench coat

Norris root dyed leatheris trench coat]

PD-00 "Second Skin" Light Armor

​

Tess sat down and crossed her legs to collect herself, the surrounding temperature was rising fairly quickly. Taking off her outer trench coat, her casual wear hid her 'second-skin' armor making it appear that she wasn't even wearing armor at all. The Crow looked down at her droid, who had just helped save her life from the Lylek, "Why are we fighting Error? It seems these Twi'leks just want to kill each other over their own 'righteous' beliefs."She asked as sweat started dripping down her brow, "It feels like no matter what we do, no matter the kindness we show, or the help we provide the people of the Galaxy just take it for granted and spit in our faces."

BD-404 hopped onto her right knee, curious as to what she ment by all the questions, he was an exploration droid, not a logic droid. He beeped and trilled a couple times trying to encourage her, but Tess looked away over the tops of the houses. Smoke rose from different parts of the city, and cries of war and pain could be heard. She layed her B-2 rifle 'Oathkeeper' on the ground next to her and layed back, looking up at the bio-dome overhead. Wiping sweat from her eyes, or were they tears, she couldn't tell at this point. Any resolve she had had during the initial attack had left her, seemingly drained by the heat and the unexplainable attack.

"Bee-Dee, I'm just going to close my eyes for a minute. Keep watch and wake me up if something happens." She said in a drowsy voice. The heat was starting to take effect and not wearing any heat protective gear was not helpful. Laying back she used her coat as a makeshift pillow and covered her eyes with the crook of her elbow, "Thanks for being there for me Error. I really appreciate it." She said before falling into a heat induced sleep.

BD-404, not entirely realizing what was wrong with his owner beeped once and ran to stand next to her head. She had asked him to keep guard, but he wasn't a sentry bot. He tapped her on the shoulder with his right leg, but she didn't respond. The droid ran from her head to the edge of the roof beeping and trolling the entire way, trying to find someone to help him. The woman who cared for him wasn't moving and he didn't know what to do.

​

​

 

[Dasmi Lindervale]

F L E E T - A D M I R A L | D I M I T R I​

ALLIED TAGS: Lash K Kaine Australis Bella Strider Garon
OBJECTIVE: Counter an Offer, Secure his Pilots
ENEMIES: Tyrias Aran Amelia von Sorenn Kathryn Foster

The signal was not lost on the Monarchs and Spectres who had already attempted to hail the Unicorn, currently fighting a small fire as someone cut power to the comm terminal and began to reroute it to another station. Dimitri tapped a series of controls on another station, returning to the rotunda of camera feeds as he spied the enemy fleet closing into his formation. Specifically their support vessels.

They had not opened fire, nor had his own. XO Rimes stood behind him, taking in the situation as he shot her a look. She moved to another station, pushing an officer out of the way as she took control of the external lights. A series of flashes becoming a consistent pattern could be seen from the fore and aft of the vessel. The commanders of the other vessel's nearly missing the signal if their gazes had not been darting between the incoming vessels and the command vessel.

All of the commanders beneath Dimitri had been holding fire, intent of not stirring the Fleet Admiral with a poor choice of command as their own communications officers smirked with the morse code signal before the Unicorn's communications came back online with a surge in the external lights.

His eyes darted over to the station as he listened to the looped message offering aid static through the communications station over the other chatter. The officer's headset slammed suddenly with the voices of other vessels around them scrambling to get in contact with the command vessel. A moment of internal comm chatter had the fleet silenced with a succinct update to their status.

The Monarch's and Spectre's sent out their own support vessels as orders were relayed inside the fleet. A select group of interceptors closing the distance to the enemy support vessels and starfighters hailing their floating comrades, cutting sideways to keep weapons pointed away but plainly watching. The Unicorn sent out it's own support vessels after a time as pockets of downed starfighters began coming back online and rocketed back to the safety of their own fleet.

The Wild Stallion and Free Bird put distance between themselves, slowly drifting apart as the Spectre's held their positions. The Unicorn however did not move, the occasional flicker of externally visible lights showing where power was being restored.

Dimitri had cut through the other channels of his own fleet, opening a channel in return to the fleet hailing them. "This is the Commanding Officer of the fleet you are currently attempting to aid. Our intentions are to not endanger the surface of this planet, and as we have not engaged in any acts of hostility, I would ask that you retract your support vessels. The offer of support is greatly appreciated, however. We do not intend to engage the support vessels, so long as they do not attempt to remove any of our pilots from their vessel's. Their continued presence will be regarded as an act of hostility and we will do what we must to protect our own." His own vessel's could hear him, and were waiting for any sort of signal.

Rime's eyed him a moment punctuated with a snap of her fingers, a call of attention between them as she tapped a report screen of the surface below that had finally been able to update. He silently cursed before clicking the open comm line once more. It ensured his own would be aware of the extended offer. "Grand Marshal, if you intend to send aid to the planet below, we will not act in any manner to endanger those vessel's on their descent, or ascent. The safety of the populace is paramount before all else. Even of those in the disabled vessels." The enemy fleet's scans could plainly see the signal was emitting from the still mostly disabled large carrier nestled between the Spectre's and two Monarch's.

The crew of the Unicorn were working at breakneck pace to repair what they could. Engines came back in short order as the weapons systems began to slowly come back as well. Small fires were being chased down while others began to resume their duties to the best of their abilities. The gunners of the fleet were itching in their seats, waiting for the signal that had yet to come. Firing solutions were constantly updated, but hands remained off the triggers for the time being.

"All starfighters willing to aid your fellows, do so. Do not endanger yourselves in the attempt." Dimitri made a call over his internal fleet comm line as starfighters moved to danger close distance between one another. Pilots signalling to one another with hand motions to attempt aid. Some hailed the support vessels to update urgency as some pilots started to become frantic. Dimitri stored away this incident in the back of his mind for the future, a learning experience to be sure.

He eyed the vessel's in their attempt to right, or at least guide the Golden Lance toward a less populated zone. Shaking his head, he removed his gaze from it, eyes back on the support vessels amidst his ranks.

The support vessels from the Agents fleet began to assist the disabled starfighters as they worked towards the enemy fleets support group. None of the vessel's on their end were actively threatening the offered aid, they were watching very carefully however.

EQUIPMENT

Spoiler

1 G47 - Pipsqueak | Hip holster
1 K914 SMG | Concealed in right side of jacket
Phase I Haywire Armor | Worn beneath his lined leather jacket

FLEETS

Spoiler

MAIN FLEET* - (8.1km)
SHC Unicorn- Dimitri Lindzinsky (12 active squadrons)
Pocket Carriers - 6 (4 active squadrons each)
Monarch Class Destroyers - 2 (5 active squadrons each)
Wraith Vessels - 1 - Disarmed of Weapons (putzzing into space before drifting into the great beyond)

SECONDARY FLEET** -
Sentinel Class Heavy Explorer - 3 (1 active squadron each)
Wraith Vessels - 20
Pocket Carriers - 4 (4 active squadrons each)
Kessel Class Armed Couriers - 57

STARFIGHTER SQUADRONS -
Numerous - Oni ClassProwler (12 per squad)
Numerous - iNf-46 Needle Interceptor (16 per squadron)
Numerous - Ghost Starfighter/Heavy Bomber (12 per squadron)
Numerous - CST Toscan 8-R Fighter (12 per squad)

 

[Madalena Antares]

Location: Altar of Spirits
Objective: Looks like we're about to fight!
Wearing: Armor (tinted deep red)
Wielding: Meymad | Vita Stones | Shiftglue | Whimsy Knife | Glitter Grenades
Allies: Agents of Chaos, The Siskeen Coalition, Twi'lek Freedom Fighters | Jai'galaar Gred Judd Hunter Hanna Katrine Van-Derveld Anesia Jy'Vun Samatharis
Enemies: The Confederacy has chosen. | Vytal Noctura + Any Confederates at the atlar, not busy hiding behind civilians in the biodome.

Without knowing exactly what they would be be facing once they reached the altar, they had all come prepared. Spells, Powers, and weapons, ready by their little motley crew, ready to take on one of the greatest symbols that the Confederacy had set in place.

"We are not here to remove the spirits," she said as they all took the last space, "We are here to take the Witches of the Mandragora. Remember, just as there are no Mandalorian civilians, there are no Mandragora civilians. Any and all you will see are religious warriors, sworn both to the spirits, and to the Confederacy. Anything else they try to push our way, cannot be anything other than using civilians as meat shields. And if they do that… The blood is on their own hands."

Looking to Jai'galaar Gred and Hanna , Madalena nodded. Jai's assessment of his animals was a true one; Madalena knew enough about husbandry and animal raising to know that. But just like him, she had not expected Judd Hunter 's next move. His droids had taken the front, and before anyone else could say something, the Mandragora who had been around the altar were completely disposed of.

Madalena pulled those who had already gathered - including Katrine Van-Derveld and Anesia Jy'Vun (permission granted) who had just joined them, and cast her protective Force Bubble over everyone to keep them from potentially ricocheting shots and dangerous glitter dust. Within moments, the altar was cleared of the initial guards that were at it. But that didn't mean this was over. Oh no, so far from it.

They were only just beginning.

"Not sleeping," she answered Judd, "but severely underestimating us. All those Empires the Confederacy loves to boast about bringing down? They were already crumbling long before the first Confederate set foot in their territory. They only sped their last chapters up a little. Unless their leadership has undergone severe changes, which it hasn't, they're expecting to be victorious by virtue of them simply being them. It's the same sort of arrogance that makes empires crumble from within, that makes lies melt in sight of truth. All it takes is one successful hit to ensure the rest would follow." Looking at the altar and the corpses around it, she smiled. "And I'd say you just successfully delivered that first hit. Now we make sure we continue coming out on top, and tomorrow we can all wake up to a Ryloth freed of Confederate reign."

It was not going to be easy. It was going to take a lot of work. But considering all that had happened since they arrived in Ryloth space… Madalena was optimistic. She had warned Darth Metus that she was still the best. If they chose to ignore that… Once more, the blood would be on Confederate hands.

Looking to Samatharis as the woman arrived, the Paladin of Chaos nodded to her.

And then the voice of the current Nightmother, Vytal Noctura , was heard.

"You had eight minutes to start clearing," Madalena answered with a shrug, "You had the time from when they were up until now to clear you and yours. You chose to remain. Your people hide behind civilians in the biodome thinking that if they behave as the Mandalorian Empire had on Taanab, we would get bored and leave. Your Mandragora are combatants. Cry havoc for their deaths all you want, it was you who were the one who made sure they would die."

Releasing her bubble, Madalena began to advance towards the altar itself. She knew what it meant, she knew what it represented. She knew exactly what its destruction would symbolize.

"Leave this place, leave this planet. Stop abusing the spirits to pretend you fulfil their will when it is that of your own and the Sith on top of the hierarchy that you are. Go back and fight for Dathomir, the very one that is held by the Sith Empire, the very one that the Confederacy supports being held by the Empire just as it supports its constant slave making while claiming to be against it all."

Removing Meymad from her belt, she ignited its red beams. The smile never left her face.

"Leave this place and we will have no quarrel until the next time I find you and yours claiming a planet to be theirs," came the very last warning, "Stay, and keep the tap of your tears closed, for whatever happens will rest on your shoulders. Either way, this altar will be taken down before today is over. The choice is yours."

She could not see Vytal. But that didn't mean the witch wasn't around.

Madalena turned around and nodded to Katrine Van-Derveld once. It was likely that the two Nightmothers would end up battling each other. But Madalena and the rest of the Hunters would support her, would ruin this place, would do their part in freeing Ryloth of the Confederate grip.

"Wild Hunt," she purred, "Destroy this place."

Elsewhere…

The capital biodome was not the only place where citizens of Ryloth wished to flee. With the news of the explosions and the heat storm arriving there, some were already beginning to consider leaving, if only temporary. A handful of medical and evac ships that had been promised were ready, split into three groups. The first would be aiming for Sal'kaasa, a small settlement on the fringes of the Brightlands.The biggest group of such sips was headed for Nabat, a small city. The third group, would be going to Resdin, a city that had been ravaged by a previous incarnation of the Confederacy.

None of the groups had yet arrived on sight though. Staying well clear from the battles that ranged on one side of the planet, all the medical and evac ships, painted white and with red crosses, the intergalactic symbol of humanitarian aid, planned to soon break atmosphere from the other side of Ryloth, avoiding the fighting all together. They would exit that way as well, making sure that any and all who were on board would remain as safe as possible considering the circumstances.

OOC:

• Our group is at the altar, the witches died in Judd's post, we're basically swashing words right now but we're moving forward to destroy the altar of spirits.
• Small numbers of evac/medical ships are preparing to break atmo' and go help people get to safety.

 

[Conall Rhorik]

Location: Edge of the Ryloth System
Allies: CIS | Tyrias Aran | Luna Terrik | Srina Talon | Darth Metus | The Monster | Kathryn Foster | Amelia von Sorenn | Kiff Brayde
Enemies: AoC | Twi'lek "Freedom Fighters" | K Kaine Australis | Madalena Antares | Scherezade deWinter | Dimitri Lindzinsky | Lash | Bella | Strider Garon | Oceiros Sunstrider
Objective: Bring in CIS Reserve Fleet | Deploy Medical and Evacuation Transports​

"Commander Conall Rhorik, have the Reserve Fleet ready to jump into the system when I give the order. The moment I send word, get here as soon as possible. Have your Medical Frigates and their Search and Rescue vessels on standby for a potential evacuation. Our current situation may require we save as many individuals as possible."

The word came in loud and clear, received initially by the communications officer of Conall’s Subjugator-II class Star Destroyer before it was patched through directly to the veteran commander in the Confederate Navy. Prep the fleet and had medical and evacuation on standy. Simple enough to say and as they were a steadfast and disciplined military of elite men and women, all having volunteered to support the Confederacy through thick and thin, was easily executed. It seemed as though the initial reports of the happenings in the Ryloth system hadn’t been mere rumor and hearsay after all. Otherwise, this call would have never come. But now that the orders had come in, the reality was set.

Conall turned to the communications officer and spoke. “Raise a comlink to the fleet.”

With a flurry of motion and a handful of generous commands input into the communication array control system, a symphonic cacophony of tones chimed momentarily before an affirmation from the computer indicated the link had indeed been established. “The secure channel has been established, Commander,” the junior officer said. “Awaiting your transmission when ready."

“Confederate 1st Reserve Fleet, this is your Commander speaking. Raise alert status to OPCON Delta. Ready all vessels for immediate jump and that your men, women and droids are all primed to go.” He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts before continuing. “You should be receiving data packets now with further instruction and guidance.”

As he spoke, one of the operations officers on the bridge had already begun transmitting the secured packets through to the command teams of the various ships that had comprised the Reserve Fleet. Not as large in size as it had been previously, the brave men, women and droids soldier onward. Maintenance was a harsh reality in the dutiful lives of the Confederate Defense Force, so it was never a real surprise to see a few ships down for repairs at any given time, but that did not matter. They had their missions to carry, whether or not they were able to operate at full capacity at any given time. It was just the nature of the beast and something they embraced. Their resilient nature knew no bounds.

“When the Confederacy adopted Confederacy First, we vowed to focus inwardly and look to our own people. To listen for their voice and their pleas. They placed the sanctity of their lives in our hands and ushered unto us a trust unlike any other when they volunteered their systems in support to the bastion of hope we represent. Their security and their, though largely orchestrated by themselves, is only bolstered by the protection we can offer. The lives we can save. The cultures we can protect.

Today that is threatened. Today Ryloth pleas for our assistance and our embrace. To deliver a security and safety as their very own is threatened.

Ryloth calls for our aid and we must ready ourselves to give it in return.” He motioned with an arm to the viewport as his gaze brushed over the fleet which was already underway with its preparations. As the OPCON had been raised, their readiness to match and adhere to it jumped ten-fold. This was not a drill anymore, but their training had prepared them for whatever was to follow. “Every minute, every hour, every day that passes is an opportunity for us to show who it is we really are. Men, women and droids that fight to protect and defend freedom in its truest form amid a galaxy that would like no more than to see such ripped apart. But we are of another echelon that would look such a travesty against value of life in the face and simply say - ‘Not today.’”

Preparations were in full swing and coming up on their completions - all the t’s crossed and i’s dotted - when the next transmission broke through. The comm officer handling it in just the same fashion as they had done previously.

"Commander Conall Rhorik Conall Rhorik , bring in the Reserve Fleet, prepare the Medical Frigates for potential burn and heat exhaustion victims. Deploy to the rear of the fleet, bringing the Medical Frigates towards our center for additional protection. When you arrive, you'll have full command of the Reserve Fleet as required. Grand Marshal Luna Terrik Luna Terrik , The E'care Shukur is sending additional Transports to the Capital Dome, we'll take as many people as possible before that storm hits; though I highly suggest we ensure that the population knows that their best option is to shelter in any facility within the Bio-Dome built for this situation. Anyone near the docks or that can feasibly get there should make their way there, we'll have medical and general transports on waiting."

“Grand Marshal von Sorenn, the CDF 1st Reserve Fleet is ready. Jumping in at your command in 3…” An immense surge of power erupted at the outer edge of the Ryloth system as the ships present in the Reserve Fleet began to spin up their respective hyperdrives.

“2…” An even higher energy signature climbed as the hyperdives continued to spin up, nearing their needed level to make the quick jump. And their navigational computers set in the precise coordinates to with which the Fleet would strive to emerge.


“1...” All in an instant the ships flashed from existence. One right after the other, their destination but a handful of seconds beyond. The Reserve Fleet was inbound and Ryloth would soon place host to their arrival.

Location: Ryloth’s Orbit

Flashes of blue-white light broke the emptiness of space’s void. In their wake stood ship upon ship and further Confederate force. Called not directly in an effort to assuage the tide of a war, but to alleviate the tide of utter calamity. To negate the mass genocide of a people by the misguided ideals of insurrection that blossomed within. The tiny ember found without power or influence breathed into a raging flame as someone, or something, beyond tendered the fire of a source of fuel. Just as with any terrorist or extremist organization, there was no doubt to be had of whether this utter tragedy would have become real with or without an outside force. Perhaps one that wished to distill chaos and anarchy in an already bleeding galaxy. One that wished to see the strongest pillars of peace and truth in the galaxy fractured and fallen for it represented something far greater that had been reached in many, many years. One that wished nothing more than to see the galaxy crumble and burn.

But for what? There had to be a reason. In the Commander’s experience, there had always been a reason beyond a conjured farce. This fake visage one might say they negligently flaunted. For how could one claim to come and breed freedom throughout the galaxy only to enclave those which they freed? They wouldn’t even deny, for in truth they celebrated it.

But was it these same people that had planted the seeds of chaos here? The same seeds that had sprouted until they finally bloomed in the culmination of today? Where they sought to forward misguided notions by bringing upon the deaths of millions and millions of people? By sewing terror and anguish in the hearts and souls of those they claimed to fight for? It wouldn’t have been much of a stretch to make such an assumption. After all the methodologies were near replicas of one another. So why not draw such conclusions.

Conall peered out and beyond the viewport and toward the happenings beyond. The impending storm was evident; there was no denying that. And the salvation for those millions of souls had been tasked to him, and those brave souls under his command.

“Bring the Ardent into a low approach over the capital. I want us in the upper atmosphere and direct power from non-critical systems to atmospheric and heat shielding.” With the orders initially cast, the very Subjugator whose bridge Conall stood upon began its descent from the northern pole. The hope was to limit the distance the medical vessels would be exposed to the intense heat of the planet, especially as the storm drew nearer. It was a risky plan, but if all unfolded as Conall hoped, he wouldn’t be sitting here for long.

“Have the Jotunn do the same. All other ships take a defensive posture in low orbit to Ryloth. You’ll serve as overwatch.” He made a motion and many of the bridge officers aboard the Ardent sprung into action working various other operations.

He turned to the lead operations officer and spoke. “Initiate Operation Messiah. Ensure that the convoy has an escort and work fast. Millions of lives are counting on us right now.” Immediately the medical attache of the Reserve Fleet moved forward and down to the planet. B-lining it for any and all available docking hatches and tubes where they could board refugees for evacuation to then return to either the Ardent or the Jotunn. Each ship would be accompanied by a starfighter escort to ensure the safety of the innocent lives each would be carrying.

Conall redirected his attention to the comm officer once more. “Open transmission to Grand Marshal Terrick (@Luna Terrick).“

With a nod, the comm officer thumbed a command and singled sharply to the commander that link had been established.

“Grand Marshal Terrick. This is Commander Rhorik of the 1st Reserve Fleet. Operation Messiah is a go. Let’s get as many of these civilians to safety as we can. You should be receiving docking port IDs from Messiah team with the ports for boarding now. It’s in all our hands to do this right. The fate of Ryloth rests on our shoulders and I could think of none better to execute such a mission.” As he spoke, encrypted coordinates and port IDs would be filtering into the Grand Marshal’s unit so that she, alongside her ground forces, could ensure that as many lives as possible could be saved this day. The port locations were all seemingly situated in the northern and western sectors of the city.

Conall turned to the comm officer once more. “Open comlink on all major channels.”

With a nod, the comm officer thumbed a few commands and signaled to Conall that the link had been established just as he had before. “Blanket message to all vessels. This is Commander Rhorik of the CDF Ardent. All outbound vessels will now hereby dock with either the Ardent or the Jotunn to receive proper medical evaluation and treatment. Unless already granted clearance to leave, inbound and outbound traffic in under Confederacy direction. This is a difficult time for us all, but let us not make things harder than they need to be.” The order wasn't directed simply to CDF forces, but to any and all vessels entering or leaving the planet. It was for the safety of all and to ensure any and all refugees would be attended to properly. This include civilian and other vessels not directly affiliated with the CDF. Even any AoC vessels that may have been attempting to land or leave the planet.

This was Confederate space, so the governing voice would be that of the Confederacy. The order was legally binding, but two-fold. Not only had it’s intent been to ensure the proper medical evaluation and treatment of those being evacuated, but it also meant to direct any unwary vessels away from the tensions that grew and grew in higher orbit. The engagement that the NAVCOM Grand Marshal, Amelia von Sorenn , currently headed up.

Spoiler: ”TLDR”

1. Ready Reserve Fleet
2. Jump Reserve Fleet to Ryloth Orbit
3. Position Ardent and Jotunn into upper atmosphere with shielding and critical systems main focus of power
4. Initiate Operation Messiah to evacuate refugees from impending disaster
5. Order all vessels (unless cleared by Ardent) dock at either Ardent or Jotunn to receive medical evaluation and treatment)

Spoiler: ”Reserve Fleet”

• (2) Subjugator II class Star Destroyers [Ardent/Jotunn]
  • (8) Squadrons
    • (4) Squadrons - Vulture III Starfighters
    • (2) Squadrons - Colla class Droid Tri-Fighters
    • (2) Squadrons - RMS-BC11 Starhammer Superheavy Bomber
• (4) Argente class Assault Cruisers
  • (8) Squadrons - Vulture III Starfighters
• (4) Saboath II class Assault Cruisers
  • (12) Squadrons - Vulture II Starfighters
• (2) Murkhana class Escort Frigates
  • (2) Squadrons - Vulture III Starfighters
• (5) Comfort class Medical Frigates
  • (5) Squadrons - H-Wing Search and Rescue Cutter

 

[Alora Fae]

Location: On Route to Evacuate the Bunkers
Equipment: Standard Knight’s Obsidian Armour | Standard Lightsaber
Allies: CIS & Friends
Tags: Rylan Kordel ​

He cut her frenzied signing by encasing her hand with his own and using it to draw their heads closer. Alora liked it when they were like this. Somehow, no matter where they were, it always felt like they were the only two there. For the brief moment they shared, forehead pressed against forehead, the chaos around them melted away. But as much as she wished it, they couldn’t stay like this forever. Rylan had a similar thought. The kiss on her forehead was a reassuring one. It did not take away the panic, but it lessened it significantly.

When he pulled away, she gave him a brief smile, followed by a firm nod as she stood straight.

His tone had only ever been this sharp once since their meeting, and she hadn’t liked it then either. Despite the fact that it clearly wasn’t directed at her, and more the situation, it still left a sour note. But she didn’t linger on his tone for too long, it was the wording she found issue with. She twisted her face as she turned on her heel to walk toward the exit of the gardens. He wasn’t that much taller than her, but Alora still had to take two steps for every one of his. “What is coward?” Her emerald green gaze settled upon his face to drink in his response, but he was already in the middle of shouting down his comm.

Alora said nothing further, but she did reach out to catch one of his waving hands and give it a gentle squeeze. “I know what you think.” She spoke quietly, enough so that her words were shadowed by the people trying to squeeze through the exit. “This is not your past. Do not let yourself get tangled there now.” Since they’d approached the crowd attempting to leave the gardens, Alora’s face had fallen straight as an arrow. Not an inkling of any expression remained on her supple features, nor a hint of emotion in her emerald gaze. “We are needed, and the past will only cloud your vision.” If they had been alone, her tone would have been softer, but the presence of strangers gave it a harsher edge than intended.

She turned to him briefly as she ushered the last person through the gate and in the direction of the nearest bunker. Just as she parted her lips to say something further, an explosion shook the very foundations of the biodome. On pure instinct, her gloved hand reached out for Rylan. “What was that?” Her head turned wildly to follow the source of the earthquaking vibrations, but could not settle on a specific location. “I-...” Another explosion rattled across the dome, followed by a sudden wave of burning heat.

Alora raised a hand, and with it a bubble of protective force that encased both her and Rylan. She didn’t know of anything that could cool the atmosphere around them, but at least she had trapped them in a somewhat bearable heat. The voice of someone Alora vaguely recognized echoed out over the blaring alarm system.

“This is Grand Marshal Terrik of the Confederate Defense Force. Because of the repeated bombings, the structural integrity of the dome is now compromised. Make your way to a bunker not numbered 3, 5, or 6, or to the main gate and prepare to evacuate. There will be ships waiting for you to get you to safety. Your personal things, outside of your Kalicori and other spiritual items, can be replaced. Get yourself and your family to safety first.”

With an air of determination in her tone, Alora glanced at Rylan. “So which of these is closer? 3, 5, or 6?”

 

[Darth Miseria]

F O U N D E R S - M A R C H​

Location: The Middle of Nowhere - Ryloth
Objective: Prepare to Kick Butt and Take Names
Equipment: Derriphan Armour | Lightsaber | Famine & Pestilence
Tags: Adron Malvern | Xobos Yakieer | Oceiros Sunstrider

Miseria could only offer her sister a soft exhale of disbelief. Serving under Malphas could indeed be described as not easy, but that was the understatement of the century. There wasn’t any time to argue the semantics of it as Xobos stepped forward to carry out her part in the plan.

Her sister-apprentice spoke then, but Miseria wasn’t concentrating on her words. The detonator hovered head height, directly in Xobos’ line of sight. If droids had the capability of holding their breath, Miseria imagined that they would be. When Xobos released the det, Miseria allowed herself a sharp inhale as she watched it zip through the air toward the slowly growing mass of spiders. It bounced neatly off the top of the pile, cracking an abdomen and nestling into a gap between the tangle of legs. All went silent in the valley, save for the incessant click clack of the arachnids as they raced toward the source of energy.

A painful second went by, then two, then three, and then… BOOM.

The spiders ignited in what miseria would have described as a beautiful display of fireworks. Heat from the blast, followed quickly by the second one Xobos set off, forced her to take a step or two back, but not once did her gaze leave the explosions. The valley was suddenly ablaze with fires that engulfed the energy spiders and cast their ashy remains into the sky. For a brief moment the orange and pink pastel of the twilight zone was overshadowed by a torrent of burned arachnids. When everything settled, they were left with nothing but a pile of smoldering, twitching beasts. Miseria nodded firmly, and turned to look back at where they had left their master.

“What’s a blade when there are energy spiders by the thousand scuttling toward you?” Darth Miseria shuddered visibly. She could take on a fully grown Terentatek without even blinking an eye, but spiders? Eugh. “Let’s see what else he has in store for us.” Just as she took the first steps to where their master had once stood, a sudden earthquake rumbled the very rock beneath them. Miseria braced and snapped her head to the surge of power burst forth from the depths of the mountain.

Shrapnel and debris tumbled from the top of the mountain, shattering with every impact it made against the jagged surface. Miseria stared at the open gap in the mountain side, glad of the helmet that shielded her expression from view. Kryat Dragons. She felt a little foolish in thinking the energy spiders were the strangest thing they would have to face today, but at least these beasts were on their side. A gilded beast with teeth the size of Miseria’s forearm stepped forward, and greeted her with a roar that rattled her ribcage and forced her to take a step back. “Nice to meet you too…” She muttered under her breath.

Miseria hesitantly raised her hand to the beasts snout, far enough away not to lose her arm but close enough to allow the breeze to catch her scent and drag it over. It was what she had done with her loth pup Murugan when they had first met, and he had quickly warmed up to her. The dragon was a thousand times bigger than her loth pup, even though he wasn’t so little anymore now, but all animals worked on the same instincts, right? The dragon Malphas had called Gildia let out another bone shaking huff, and turned to follow its sister dragon into flight.

Hardly wanting to take her eyes off the beast that could have flame roasted her in the blink of an eye, but not wanting to fall behind, Misera headed back over to the trio of speeders. As it kicked into gear she turned it to face the cloud of dust pouring into the air behind Malphas, and sped off in the same direction.​

 

[Anesia Jy'Vun]

C H A O S

S M A S H


“Tremble, mortals and despair…”



Location: Ryloth | The Altar of Spirits

Wearing: Black cloak | Phase I Haywire Armor

Weapons: Two Lightsabers | Phase I Sword of Eve | Whimsy Witch Knife

Mis Items: Empty vials of various shapes | Herbs

Allies: Agents of Chaos, The Siskeen Coalition, Twi'lek Freedom Fighters

Enemies: The Confederacy of Independent Systems | Mandragora

Tags: Katrine Van-Derveld | Madalena Antares | Judd Hunter | Hanna | Jai'galaar Gred | Samatharis

Post: 3​

"It was another time," was her only response to Katrine Van-Derveld while etching the landscape to memory and reaching further still with the gift of sight.

The Nightlands glowed-- alight with no sun, but rather exotic, crystalline flora below the inky blanket of stars. Mystical enough to hold one captive. Especially with the conundrum of power at this time of war-- it all seemed to speak to the world around them. The violets, blues and ghostly whites thrummed with fanatical fervor...echoing and mirroring the radiant twinkle of obsidian sky. Tantric, chanting along- a choir amongst the dark, wild magic. Even in the rocky ascent through the mountains, their luminescent shadows lit the path.

Eventually, it would open and expose the archaic, crumbling remains of an altar.

Great pillars of the past were strewn along and down the jagged extension of the mountainside. The plantlife having accepted pebbles and boulders alike and grew as if they were protecting them, protecting the seeming, sacred ruins. Only the three stones appeared... preserved, polished. Gray and decay slumbered beneath the leaves and petals of the artery leading up to the altar though. And on either side and the front, the panoramic view of the area was displayed.

Slaughter.

It was in the air.

Before her mouth could move and alert could be whispered, Anesia found herself among others, having been guided by Katrine and the Spirits. She still watched, but with her own eyes now. It was a symphony of metal and flesh-- colliding, screaming in fear and in delight. All the Master could do was attend the small battle visually, listen to the bodies drop and the sounds of Vytal Noctura 's demand... Madalena Antares ' response.

Too many words.

Nameless be the price.

Leave the speeches to the politicians.

This was W A R and lightening rippled across the already storm swollen sky, thunder boomed as if exclaiming it.

Energy slithered through her veins, but her hands were still. Waiting. Assessing.

The first of the fallen Mandragora had made their sacrifice. But would the Nightmother Vytal? It had yet to be seen, just as her appearance.

Reserve your power, Agents, her darkness implored the entirety of the group, the calm voice attempting to reach their minds. There was no demand, only warning.

 

[Judd Hunter]

Location: Alter of Spirits
Objective: Desecrate the Alter
Loadout: Phase 1 Haywire Armor | R91 Assault Rifle | Phase X-E “Hyper Frost” CyroSonic Heavy Pistol | JH-70 Glitter Grenades | Elemental Grenades | Whimsy Knife | Neurotechnical Inhibitor | Vita Stone
Essential Gear: BD-9 | Cigarettes | Lighter
Allies: Jai'galaar Gred | Hanna | Katrine Van-Derveld | Anesia Jy'Vun | Madalena Antares | Samatharis
Enemies: Shamira Karuto | Vytal Noctura | + Anyone else not hiding

Judd felt the air suddenly become tacky with static electricity. His instincts went on full alert just as the first lightning bolt struck. The mercenary combat rolled away from the stone he was standing next to. The explosion managed to pick him up and toss the man across the platform, rolling to a stop just before going over the stairs. Pulling himself up Judd looked to where he was. One of his soldiers had been at the stone wiring the explosive. The lightning had struck where Judd stood previously, also hitting the soldier and casing the charges to detonate. The stone was now laying in pieces. While the lose of one of his men angered Judd he couldn't deny that the witches had just punched themselves in their own faces with that move.

Wiping blood and dirt from his face Judd yelled up into the night sky at the disembodied voice, sarcasm dripping from his own voice. "You mean to tell me witch hunting isn't one of the tourist activities. We I'm gonna have some strong words with my travel agent when I get home." While he was saying this Judd pushed a button on his wrist, activating the faraday cage shield of his armor. He wasn't sure if it was rated for lightning strikes. But some protection was better then none.

The roar drew his eyes down the stairway. Below there was a flat area three quarters the way up. Where before it was empty there now stood a woman with three large creatures. He had to squint his eyes to get a good look at them. They looked to be Endor Boar Wolves, but they looked off. A shudder ran up his spine. It wasn't the first time he would tangle with boar-wolves. In his time with the select commandos he had once been tasked with the elemination of a pirate who kept a few as pets. They were nasty creatures. Though at least in this instance he had an advantage. He stood on a high ground and the witch and her creatures would have to ascend the same stairs he'd had to. Plus this time he had witches on his side to throw their same power back.

"We have company." Judd yelled over his shoulder as he detached the two elemental grenades from his belt. Making sure they both held the fire rune before pressing their triggers and tossing them down the stairs towards the boar-wolves. The two canisters exploded into a fire storm as Judd picked his rifle back up. Setting it to the highest power setting and leaving it on semi-automatic Judd squeezed the trigger over and over sending high power balster bolts down on the witches below.

 

[Luna Vega]

Location: Ryloth | Vureshakkairn Castle
Objective: Spoils of War
Allies: AoC
Enemies: CIS + Anyone in her way
Tags: Scherezade deWinter + Lirka Ka + Open
Post: 4​

The massive castle... looked like something torn from a fairy tale, appearing as if it was not a mere structure. But sewn into existence with the planet itself. To take it in, to see it all, one had to be miles away. Miles away made it seem like jagged mountains. This close, it swallowed the sky, both in shades of night and day. Magical. Enormous.

I'm dreamin'...yah. Muuust bey.

Luna would have to lean back to peek the height of it. Such as things were, the woman nearly fell from the Churi and took it all in while trying to right herself. It took the pirate a good moment to tear her gaze from it and let her hazy grays fall on Scherezade deWinter . The young woman had been speaking, but she had been otherwise distracted....indisposed.

Countering Scher's WHOA with one of her own, she managed a small smile. It faded at the mention of bleeding witches and Vega finally took the offered flask, perhaps trying to drown the goingons with...water. WATER?! "Weeeches woo'ore liiiikely ma'a stew outta me." Bleed witches...insane. Then again Luna made the decision to come to Ryloth in a time of war. It wasn't the deWinter's fault.

The duo continued on at a steady pace, towards what Luna felt, was her doom. It likely was.

Reaching a hand back --letting whatever calm surrounding her, sink in- Vega flicked a few of the blue braids, "Och, sorreh. Naames Luna." Her head tipped, then she patted the bird. "Annnnd Saava choows me." A nod. The Churi echoed the sentiment and blinked with those strange eyes.

Suddenly, "Byyyy tah wey, why'rr thay chitten ev'y'whar?" Seemed a logical thing to ask, her own voice a little uplifted.

The conversation turned pleasant and her beryl brows rose in exclaimation. "Ya dunt saay?" She supposed Scherezade fit here, natural. It was in the same way Luna fit on Nar Shaddaa. Or better yet, on a ship in space. She missed it already. That too, didn't last. A flicker of green amongst the stone castle caught her eye.

"Ar'ye seeedddiioouuuusssssss...." drawled the pirate, pulling on Saava's neck and frantically waving at the female warrior to MOVE back. "Ar'ye feckin' keddin mee?"

It took her seconds to realize the blade of the newest addition was, in fact, on fire. And that it was green.. "Thas nuuu weeetch," her head canted, noting the pointy ears, the armor. All Luna could do was stare, hands intinctively reaching for a blaster. A blade. Both?

Saava screeched and shifted under her. "Sccchhhhheeerrrrr...."

 

[Jai'galaar Gred]

Gear: Jai'galaar's Beskar'gam Armor, 2x Trayc'kal, 2x trained Strill
Ally Tags: Madalena Antares Judd Hunter Hanna Katrine Van-Derveld Anesia Jy'Vun Samatharis
Enemy Tags: Vytal Noctura Shamira Karuto

Jai glared at the Nightmother when she spoke, talking about a way out of this without bloodshed. People said Mandalorians had long memories, and that was definitely the case for Jai. The sight of the witch's power did spark something in him too. It reminded him of many of the things the Sith did. His fist tightened around his weapons. It wasn't just that. The CIS had a tendency of hunting all Mandalorians the moment one did something, and this let her words fall on practically deaf ears.

"You talk about peacefully doing this, yet you side with the people that hunted mine the moment they had an excuse. All of us!" Jai didn't care if he wasn't addressed. He had heard about how the CIS fought Mandalorians. He didn't like it. He was also fighting back flashes of memories from Concord Dawn, again reminded of it. The Force Users there would probably be able to feel it. Fear and anger mingling together as memories did their number on the Mandalorian beastmaster's mind. What the Sith did... it was similar to this magic. This.... He could never escape it could he? If the Sith wored on fear, they might have won with him, except he kept going. The memories continued, but he was somewhat brought back by the roar of a Risen. He was a beastmaster though. Creatures didn't scare him. It was what they could do.

Then he heard Madalena mentioning Taanab, but in a way he hadn't heard it. He'd heard what Mig had told him. Not everyone could leave the hospital, so some stayed there to defend it. He guessed the way it looked and what it was were definitely different, it didn't stop hearing it from hurting though. Maybe he could mention it later, but right now he had to fight. The order was given to destroy this place. He looked at everything, but looked at the Risen. Well.... He didn't have explosives. Maybe it was best to play it more... defensively. He eyed the creatures, and his Strill seemed to already have the idea.

 

[Samatharis]

Location: Ryloth - Alter of Spirits
Objective: AoC - Alter of Spirits
Allies: AoC - Alter of Spirits - Madalena Antares | Judd Hunter | Jai'galaar Gred | Hanna | Katrine Van-Derveld | Anesia Jy'Vun |
Enemies: CIS - Shamira Karuto | Vytal Noctura |
Equip: Black Stormtrooper Armor | Lightsaber | Particle Beam Carbine | 3-Day Survival Backpack | Vita Stone


Samatharis hiked over the desert mountain ridge line and arrived within sight of the Alter.

She was about 700 meters west of the alter and just slightly below it's elevation. Luckily, a sweeping flat in the mountains lay between them. So she wouldn't have to hike down a valley only to have to summit another hill to reach it. Desert boulders, shallow mountain ravines, and dense Ryloth foliage offered sparse but manageable cover.

Madalena noted Samatharis arrival in the Force.

Then what can only be described as a 'portal' opened on a nearby flat and two women arrived. Flanked by giant pigs or something. Samatharis did not know Shamira and Vytal by appearance or by name. Oh, and the weather was going from calm to 'lightning everywhere' rather quickly.

Hmm... Well, don't count your chickens just yet. I mean. At least there where none of those pooping, screaming assault birds around. ...Yet.

Kark. Then lightning struck, a bomb exploded nearer the alter, Judd began cursed his travel agent, and things seemed to go from tense to, 'kill the pigs' in an instant.

"Okay. Party time. Wow. That was fast."

Samatharis took cover near a large desert boulder and hunched down to adjust her armor's environmental settings. She was tired from her hike and needed a moment to optimize her air and temperature settings for live combat at this elevation. Vac-sealed, she looked every bit the black Stormtrooper space-man she was. Then she checked that her large backpack was secure and mounted the top of the boulder with her particle carbine.

She was probably between 600 to 700 meters west from Shamira and Vytal at a near elevation to their flat. Which, was unfortunately outside of her weapon's effective range. Poo.

Thusly. Samatharis cloaked her Force Aura and moved from the cover of her boulder. She began hustling up towards the backside of the Alter with surprising speed. Hopefully the very fit woman would arrive at the rear of the summit in time to be of manageable help to her Hunt companions.

___

tl;dr: Arrived 700 meters west of the Alter of Spirits. Sprinting to friendlies position. There is manageable cover in proximity.

 

[Millu Lee]

Location: Vureshakkairn Castle
Objective: Defend Ryloth
Allies: Beric Layne , Sabine Delacroix , Vytal Noctura , Kat Decoria , Effie , CIS
Enemies: Scherezade deWinter , AoC
Equipment: Vaela Layne's Lightsaber


Millu sat still on the sandy ground behind a rock. The squire was still trying to compute that strange vision she had a few minutes ago. Just... Why? If this was the Force's will, why would it reach out to her? Why not to someone more experienced, more able to help in whatever was needed?

But she had to go. Somehow, the girl knew she had to find a way to get to this castle. She had to trust that it was the right thing to do, even though Millu wasn't sure she was the best choice. Her ride to the castle came in a very unexpected way.

A wolf, as tall as an adult human. Millu had to admit she was afraid at first. But the wolf spoke to her. How, she did not know. But it seemed like it could use telecommunication. When it told her that it would take her to the castle, her fears were partly quenched. It seemed like her call for help had been answered after all. Getting up the wolf was a little scary, and after she was up there, Millu held on to the beast's honey-colored fur with all her might as they headed back to the capitol.

When they picked up the white haired woman, Millu was relieved. At least she wouldn't be alone in her destination. She could see that the wolf was getting tired though. It was very, very hot inside the Bio-Dome. Millu didn't know why it was like that, since before it had been a very normal temperature, not too cold nor too hot. But now it was getting hotter by the second, and the squire wished her master could be here to use his snow-making habilities on the whole city.

Soon the girl saw a portal on the distance. It seemed like it was where they were headed. As they rounded the corner, Millu saw a woman with black markings going down her face from her eyes, step out of the way so the wolf, her and the white-haired woman could go through the portal.

Going through a portal... That was weird in and of itself, but the squire was starting to understand more and more that she probably shouldn't be surprised anymore with the amount of things that the Force was able to do. On the other side of the portal, the girl found herself in the very place she had seen in her mind in that vision. It was the castle. Millu was where she was supposed to go. And it filled her with uncertainty. Just why was she brought here?

 

[Kyyrk]

​

H U N T

LOCATION: Obsidian Star, Traveling towards Altar of Spirits at high altitude
TASK: Hunt
EQUIPMENT: In Signature
CIS: Prennis Keeoli | Corius Harckon | Vytal Noctura | Shamira Karuto
AOC: Madalena Antares | Katrine Van-Derveld | Hanna | Jai'galaar Gred | Samatharis | Judd Hunter | Anesia Jy'Vun

All my blood I shed for thee. All my freedom, I surrender for you. Rest, child. Rest now, and dream of a better place. And pray that I will have the strength to make it so.
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Voph nodded once as he took a position behind Corius's chair for the take-off. As the ship lifted into the air, Voph's fingers curled tightly around the back of the chair. The fear was slowly subsiding, and replacing itself with something else. Voph turned and left the command deck as the General's music began to filter through the cabin. He had his own preparations to make. Voph entered his personal quarters aboard the ship. A small, dark chamber. A simple bed in one corner. A suit of armor standing opposite the door. Various trinkets on what precious shelf space was offered. Voph could feel it turning within him. Building to a head.​

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As the ship lurched into hyperspace, Voph drew a deep breath. The Agents dared to speak of peace while Ryloth was being ripped apart. Worse, the attack was being led by one of his own. A woman who had once held his position. His rank. Leader of the Knights Obsidian, and defender of the free worlds. Yet now she spoke of surrendering, or risking the destruction of their planet. Beheadings, suicide bombings, all at the behest of the Agents of Chaos. And though the agents claimed that they did not condone these acts, they did not denounce them either. And that alone was reason enough to hate them.​

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Voph sighed quietly, scooping up a holoemitter from a shelf over the bed. It contained a single image within, which displayed in the air above Voph's hand. A smiling woman, holding a small infant. Her tunic was simple, but extravagant in its own way. A trusted lieutenant in the Hutt Cartels. Second only to the Hutt she served. Her child, a smiling baby boy. The two of them sat nestled in the arms of an older male, his white-streaked hair hanging loose about his shoulders, and held tight against his head by a blindfold wrapped around his head. The corner of Voph's mouth pulled up into a half smile as he reflected on this memory. Lifetimes ago, they had a family. His family. The smile slowly faded as thoughts drifted back to the present. Ryloth burned. Much in the same way Denova had. Voph had lost everything. But the Confederacy gave him something. Something to love. Something to fight for. Something to live for.​

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And the Agents of Chaos sought to destroy it.​

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Voph heard the sounds in the distance of the Star docking with the Resolve, and his fist closed over the small holopicture's emitter. Corius would transfer over to the flagship, and take command. Voph would pursue his own goals. Voph's fist curled even tighter, and the emitter shattered under his grip. His family had already been destroyed once. He would not see it destroyed again.​

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A new pilot was brought onboard, and Voph turned to walk towards the boarding ramp. The Star shook for a moment as it disconnected from the Resolve, and Voph could feel the ship accelerating through space once more towards Ryloth. Hyperspace enveloped them, and Voph allowed his mind to go blank. To focus on the storm within. Nothing else mattered. A hand came up to ensure that the locket around his neck was still in place. He offered a silent prayer that Prenn would be ok. But more importantly, that she would forgive him.​

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The fear had subsided. No longer was Voph afraid for the people of Ryloth.​

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He was angry.​

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Voph's breathing grew heavy under the weight of the rage that boiled over. The Dark Side flocked to him like a boon. And soon, darkness covered even his physical being. The pain, the loss the despair, all boiled over into a righteous hatred. Voph was not ready to fight. Voph was ready to kill. Darcy was chiming in his ear about data and fleet positions. Voph did not care. He had but a single target. His presence in the Force reached out, great and terrible, to touch upon the Nightmother Vytal. It carried with it a simple message: Hunt well, sister. May the gods smile upon our slaughter. Voph had received her call. Help was needed at the Altar. But Voph went for another reason.​

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Madalena Antares was at the altar.​

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Cut off one head, and two more shall take its place. Voph knew how these terrorists worked. But that did not change the rage in his heart. He had time. He would hunt them to the ends of the galaxy if he had to. He had the scent of most of them. And he had means to find those who's scent he had not yet claimed. But for now he was focused on a single target. Metus may have been willing to allow Madalena a place by his side once again. But Voph was not. She had threatened his family. And for that, he intended to kill her.​

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With a small buck, the Obsidian Star arrived in Ryloth space, stealth systems engaged and sublight thrusters at maximum power to deliver the ship through the fleets and into the atmosphere. Voph had become a leader because of trying times. A politician because his people had needed him. Before that? He was a hunter. Voph's presence shone as a beacon through the Force, such was his rage. And it was abundantly clear to any who could feel the touch of the force and answer in kind. The Confederacy had tired of entertaining these children and their terroristic threats.​

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The Lord Commander had arrived.​

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[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Ryloth – Middle of nowhere
Equipment: Lightsaber, Faceless Armor, Miraluka Mask
Mental state: Curious
Tags: | Darth Miseria | Adron Malvern | Oceiros Sunstrider |

Miseria had…a point. Getting eaten by energy spiders was not very high on her list of objectives today, or any day. Going down by the hilt of the blade sounded much better was much, much more her style than dying to some bugs. At least it seemed as though they were finished with them at this point. The droids were handling the very few that were left, stomping on them before they had the chance to chew on them. “Yes…I suppose it is a fair tradeoff.” It still made her frown though. Would probably need to craft a new pair soon. Which meant another trip to Ilum…unfortunate.

That was, of course, if she survived whatever was next, and the roar that echoed from behind the pair of apprentices was quite the indication that that may not exactly be the case.

Reluctantly, she turned, seeing that the mountain had seemingly opened up, and a massive amount of billowing dust was overtaking the mouth of the opening. Another roar shook her core to the bones. “That’s not a beast we’ve heard the sounds of in..quite a while master..” Her brow furrowed immediately at the interesting choice of words from Lagos.

She couldn’t…remember hearing that roar before. It was distinctive. Loud. Pronounced. Unique. Not something she’d forget very easily. Yet..in the moment, there was always the chance she was forgetting who or what the roar belonged too. More than likely Lagos was just referencing her study of a book of some type. That was how she was going to justify it during these stressful moments. Perhaps later she’d circle back and actually question the voices for once.

That idea was quickly dashed when a massive shadow passed overhead, then the ground shook when whatever this..thing was landed next to her. Even surprised, Xobos took barely a step back, instead taking the time to regard the beast in front of it. It seemingly was doing the same for her. For a moment, there was silence between the beast and blind woman. A meeting of the minds, quiet, as the dragon and it’s rider met for seemingly the first time.

The thing turned it’s head to the side to watch the other two take off, with Xobos’s gaze following. They were already seemingly on their way, so once Miseria’s took off and headed in the direction of the Adron’s kyrat dragon, her’s turned back to gaze at xobos once again. It’s gaze almost spoke to the apprentice, their connection seemingly growing. Xobos acknowledged this with a nod, then a point in the direction of the other two flying away. Silva huffed out an affirmation, flapping those powerful wings once and lifting into the air.

“Time for us to go, I suppose.” Lagos barely had time to finish before Xobos was sprinting toward her speeder, intent on not being the last to arrive at wherever their next destination resided. She might’ve lost one blade today, but her other was as sharp as ever.

And Xobos was itching to kill something other than slavers for once.

 

[Bella]

Objective/Location: From the Chandelier - Regain Power
Fighter: iNf-46 Needle Interceptor - Miracle Seven
Onboard Equipment: AoC Flight Suit, Survival Kit w/ EVA Suit, G47 “Pipsqueak”
Allies: AoC (Dimitri Lindzinsky), Allied Chiss Fleet ( Lash Salem Norongachi ), The Siskeen Coalition,
Enemies: CIS ( Amelia von Sorenn Tyrias Aran Kathryn Foster )

The diminutive Togruta held the massive power cable for two seconds, before inserting it back in the outlet of what she presumed to be the main reactor.

Silence.

Bella turned around. Her fighter was already dangerously close to the Confederate fleet, moving on a trajectory to collide with one of the carriers. Since she still had no power, there was a distinct possibility that her interceptor could very well go completely undetected if no one bothered to look out the viewports due to her craft’s lack of power readings on sensors. In addition, at the velocity she was traveling, she wouldn’t come out of any impact unscathed, even a slight one, due to the lack of active acceleration compensators in her craft, which explained why her squadmates had not attempted to push her off course.

And so, she pulled the plug again.

This time, she gave it a long count of ten seconds, which she measured with her chronometer. In all likelihood, it was the only piece of technology on the ship that had retained integrity in the wake of the EMP. After the count, she shoved the cable back in the outlet and closed her eyes.

Still, silence.

With a groan of frustration and a curse muttered under her breath, Bella crawled out of the maintenance access and slammed the hatch shut. By that point, she was at her limit. She could already see a group of Confederate starfighters ( Kathryn Foster ) approaching her craft like carrion birds around a dying animal. If anything, she was lucky that they were not immediately shooting her down, but she would still hate herself for getting captured by a hostile force, even if the events leading up to it were seemingly out of her control.

Sighing in resignation. Bella buckled herself back into her seat and closed her eyes to begin awaiting the inevitable.

It was then that she heard a familiar, yet grim voice over her commlink.

“Everyone is accounted for, save Miracle Seven.”

Bella’s eyes sprung open and she suddenly felt a soft humming sensation in her montrals as the lights in her cabin flicked back to life, including everything in the HUD of her helmet and the holographic control interfaces around her center stick. All the while, The interceptor’s ion engines awoke from their slumber, which manifested as a powerful vibration in her montrals. Without skipping a beat, she began flipping through her holographic control interface in order to go through an abbreviated version of her pre-flight checklist. Fortuitously, everything was working at full power, but there were a few open transmissions being broadcasted from the Confederate fleet which she decided to filter out.

“T-this is Miracle Seven, I’m alive and all systems are reporting as green, how cop-”

“She’s back!” Miracle One cut in excitedly. “This is Miracle Actual, reporting that all pilots in Miracle Squadron are alive and accounted for!” She transmitted back to the Unicorn. “Miracle Seven, return to formation immediately and continue on previous orders. Ignore the open hails. We have a planet to liberate.”

 

[Alluria Ivalice]

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Location: Vureshakkairn Castle
Objective: Rendevous
Mental State: Calm
Nearby Sisters: Beric Layne , Sabine Delacroix , Vytal Noctura , Kat Decoria , Effie
Friendlies: CIS & Allies
Hostiles: AoC & Allies

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Panic.​

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Uncertainty.​

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HATE.​

Emotions flood from the minds of civilains like water through a cracked dam. The heat levels rising were enough of a warning sign that the dome would no longer continue to be safe and though there was work she could still do here, the Force called to her, willing her away from this place. Centering herself, she focused her thoughts on where else there would be a purpose for her. The voice of the Nightmother touched her mind, granting the guidance she had needed to see the path forward.​

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Sisters. I need you. Ryloth needs you. Julra has opened a portal to the castle.​

Reaching out within the Force, she sought the presence of her sisters and the portal which would carry her back to the castle. Once she had located it, the witch sped forth in a sprint. Though the run would cost her physically later, it would be worth it to make it there in order to aid her sisters. Whatever threat she may seek to defend against, she would see to it that her part would indeed be played to its fullest.​

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The run to the portal had taken a minute and though her thoughts once again turned to what aid she may render within the dome, she knew that her sisters needed her as well. Try as she might, she could not be in two places at the same time, no matter how much she wished it to be true.​

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Vureshakkairn Castle.​

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On the other side of the portal, Alluria stopped to rest but a moment. Her run had used more energy than most others' would have used. Though she felt prepared for what may come. Glancing to her sisters who she would stand beside, her eyes turned to their surroundings as all she could do now.. was wait.​

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Spoiler: Equipment

• 2x Lightsabers
• Water of Life Potion
• Otarchy Covenant Armor

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[Lash]

Objective: Star the festivities
Location: Inner Ryloth System
Allies: Dimitri Lindzinsky Bella Strider Garon Salem Norongachi K Kaine Australis
Enemies: Tyrias Aran Amelia von Sorenn Kathryn Foster

Lash watched as the CIS ships in the distance began to form up allowing the newly arrived ships into their formation. Lash paid no attention to the new vessels now moving into a position inside the CIS formation. He did not care that small craft had broken from the formation and began to move towards the AOC fleet to give unneeded aid. The AOC fleet had begun their own recovery operations and even though Lash had no confidence in their combat ability he assumed they at least could recover a few fighters and put their own fires out, if not then he may have to reevaluate his association with the organization.

"Commander, Ramrod has dropped their last probe and we are getting a full systems scan. They have taken up a position at their predetermined laser location." said an officer somewhere from behind Lash. He continued looking over the holo display without looking back and noticed the icon for the group had indeed come to a holding position.

"Very well, let's move on to the next phase, Admiral sound condition Red, release all gun safeties," ordered Lash. with a word, the entire Chiss fleet began to prepare for battle. the crews manned their stations and their auxiliary stationed themselves in key locations to take over for their crewmates if needed. Engineering crews and damage control parties readied themselves for the inevitable damage which would be incoming. Gun crews finalized their system checks and prepared for the fight ahead. Flight crews began to set up ordinance and repair bays for the return of the first wave of attack craft as they returned from battle. Commanders looked over their assignments, sub-commanders gave their final orders to their subordinate officers, who in turn gave their orders to their crews. across the Chiss battlegroup, starships powered down all unnecessary systems, all blast doors and bulkhead openings were closed and secured. Internal shielded corridors were engaged, locking the ship corridors down as every member of the fleet now stood ready for war. Corpsmen teams were on station at the various centralized areas of the sips to give medical aid to wounded once they began to come in. The Chiss, their human allies, and the few aliens aboard the ships under Lash were now ready for the battle ahead.

"Admiral, Target the CIS fleet, let them know were looking at them. All gun ports open, all targeting systems are free to begin solutions for engagement. lock down all Comms and begin EWAR operations. Spin up our hyperdrive and ready us to begin offensive operations." ordered Lash giving the hologram a final look. The world of Ryloth sat in the center of the image. Above it, the fleets of the CIS sat as well as what was left of the rouge battlecruiser which had managed to pull the attention of the CIS fleet off everything else long enough for Lash to map the systems with the astrometric sensors. Around the world, icons floated each with a varying mass value, some with IFF tags, some without, some disabled, some under some type of jamming or other EWAR countermeasures. While he had no idea what many of the icons were he was aware fo exactly where they were.

"All stations commanders report readiness Commander," said the Chiss Admiral now walking to stand next to Lash. "Very well, Let's get their attention. Tactical, Have the Agitator fire her proton beam across the bow of the CIS dreadnaught. tell them not to hit the ship just have the beam move through the formation and out into space beyond." ordered Lash. He turned to the general beside him and grinned "Just saying hello." The General eyed him with his own grin. "Yes sir, we can at least be hospitable to our enemies." replied the General. Lash took a look at the screen then a moment later the Imperial Star Destroyer MK III let lose a massive beam of proton energy moving off away from the Chiss fleet towards the CIS flagship. The elongated energy stream moved off then ceased to project leaving a beam of energy several hundreds of meters long moving off at the CIS.

"That will state our intent I believe, Proceed with Operation Phantasm" ordered Lash. As the order was relayed thought out the fleet Long-range weaponry across the fleet began to charge their capacitors. attack craft that had powered down to conserve power came back online. The Ewar frigate began targeting the CIS dreadnaught with long-range jamming beams and began utilizing its warhead countermeasure systems.

With a Flash eleven Wake-class pickets disappeared from space around the Chiss fleet popping up between the CIS fleet and the AOC fleet, which was attempting to bounce back into battle readiness. The eleven craft let loose a salvo from their defensive batteries firing electronic shock canisters into space between the AOC and CIS fleets. A moment later the craft fired two shock net missiles which opened and expanded into a massive one-kilometer corner shock net. While not directly firing not the enemy the wall of shock nets and electromagnetic shock canisters would deter their vessels and fighter from venturing any closer towards the AOC fleet.

A second Flash filled space as the Pelagic-class Star Cruiser Longbow, disappeared then reappeared on the opposite flank of the CIS formation than the AOC fleet. Its eight Very Heavy Ordinance Launch Bays opening then releasing eight magnepulse bombs into a direct course with the CIS fleet. The massive launch doors closed as the Longbow powered up its hyperdrive again for its second jump.

Lash watched as the pickets carried out their mission than as the Longbow released its massive manepulse bombs into the enemy formation. All of which would soon be moving on to their secondary positions. Space soon filled with a rippling hue as the ionic charges released by the pickets exploded releasing their pulse of ion energy. Lash knew that and the massive shock nets would give the partially disabled AOC fleet time to regroup. for now He would make sure the CIS fleet only saw him.

"Guns free." spoke Lash to everyone listening on the command deck. with that the long-range weapons of the combined Chiss formation let lose on the CIS fleet.

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
buttoned-down ready to fight
11 pickets micro jumped in between CIS and AOC main fleet and deployed shock nets and ionic charge canisters
Longbow mico jumped to flank of CIS fleet and released 8 Magnepulse bombs at CIS fleet.
Fleet fired long-range turbolasers, HV cannons, IOn Cannons, and mass diver cannons at CIS fleet
Pickets and Longbow preparing to jump