Under 12 Parsecs [SSC Dominion of Kessel Hex]

[Tempest]

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] [member="Natoline Kerrigan"]

(1)

“We are in hostile territory, ladies. Any enemy combatant is to be shot on sight, understood?”
“Yes, ma’am!” the gunship’s passengers said obediently.

As they dipped in to land near the estate Tempest pulled on her helmet and sealed it.
“Siobhan, this is Tempest, we’re landing to secure the perimeter and search for Althenea.”

The gunship would circle overhead, looking for signs of the child and also providing recon for both Tempest and Siobhan.

 

[Rasu Gan]

Location: Aboard the Oathkeeper
Objective 1
Allies: [member="Coci Heavenshield"] [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] [member="Barinthus E`ron"] [member="Connor Harrison"]

The Jedi Master smiled as she felt the familiar presence of her Padawan approach. Barinthus had been a dedicated student, always remaining true to the Shi'ido during her more troubled times. Turning to the young man, she placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, pleased at the fact that he would be accompanying the group in their task. While the man's trials had been under way for some time now, Rasu would always be observing the way in which the Padawan performed, providing more opportunities for Barinthus to succeed and achieve Knighthood.

As another young man entered the bridge, her attention was caught by the Heavenshield child. While appearing to be an near replica of his father, Theodred possessed attributes that could only be acquired from his mother. As the Jedi addressed the two Masters, t dawned on Rasu just how influential and large the family was growing, and how much the Shi'ido still had to learn about this legacy of Jedi. Not only did they possess a strong inheritable connection to the Force, but they each had and continued to play influential roles in the running of the Coalition. Truly the Heavenshield's were the family to beat on a galactic scale. As Theodred approached the Master and Padawan, Rasu offered a polite smile in return, acknowledging his greeting with a small bow of her own.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Jedi Heavenshield. If you're anything like your parents, I'm very pleased to have you accompany us on our mission." she replied, speaking on behalf of Barinthus as well. However before Rasu could say anymore, the voice of another Jedi Master filled the spacecraft. Recognising the voice as only Master Connor Harrison, the Jedi's body tensed slightly in apprehension, preparing herself for whatever confrontation awaited them below. Again Rasu found her hands rest on the metal hilts of her weapons, desiring the calming sensation that washed over her body at its touch. However as the Grandmaster approached her, the Shi'ido forced herself to meet the kind eyes of the Jedi Master as he spoke. His words caused the aging master's cheeks to flush in embarrassment, something that she had not felt in a very long time. However she took comfort in the gesture displayed by the man, projecting her appreciation in the Force. The length at which the Coalition had grown since its creation was astounding; a true testament to Iella E'ron's memory.

"Thank you for your kind words Thurion." she said, turning her head so to look at Barinthus. "I'm certain Iella would have been thrilled if she could have seen what you've accomplished, what everyone has accomplished." Meeting the man's eyes once more she thanked him again with a smile. It was a great honour to have been able to witness the growth of the organisation since its birth, and Rasu had no intention of stopping now.

"However I believe it's about time we prepare for the trouble that is sure to welcome us upon arrival." Removing her heavy cloak, Rasu revealed the lightly armored robe that lay beneath, shimmering in the faint artificial light. She was certain it would not return as pristine and spotless, and not owing entirely to the barren plains that was Kessel. As Coci stood beside her husband, Rasu acknowledged her greeting as well. Ignoring protocol, she pulled the woman into a brief embrace, hoping to portray the respect, admiration and appreciation she felt for the two Jedi Masters into such short and simple act.

"It's wonderful meeting you both again, although I suggest our next meeting be off a different circumstance." Smiling as she attempted to humour the group, Rasu turned as the boarding ramp descended and she was met with a wave of immense heat. Rasu grimaced, staring down at the armor that covered her robes. "Perhaps not" she mumbled, following by Coci's example and removing the plates of metal to reveal the simple tunic and trousers beneath. Much better.

 

[Barinthus E'ron]

[member="Rasu Gan"] [member="Coci Heavenshield"] [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] [member="Connor Harrison"] [member="Théodred Heavenshield"]

Ahh shucks, he was looking at them and these were a lot of his mothers friends with... a teenager. Their son which well at least he wasn't going to have to live up to impress all of the people here. That was a load off of his shoulders while he bowed where he was standing for them with a few thought. "Thank you master I can only hope to live up to her and my father. Have a family to impress." He said it with a nervous chuckle to himself going over some of the things with his master while the others were setting up some of the things. He was ready for anything and this was a full party when he turned to Theo and gave a nod of his head extending a hand. "Barinthus and it is nice to meet you." There we go, be cool and make it nice and cool while we work on some of the things.

 

[Ria Misrani]

Location: Kessel; Somewhere in the Abyss
Allies: [member="Nima Tann"], Ice the Big Puppy, and [member="Taiden Keth"]
Enemies: Soon ™
Objective: #2 // Do it the Firemane Way

Theme: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Never let it be said that Charlyra's aggression was wasted. The Dark Jedi Acolyte fresh from a lovely vacation on her new homeworld of Tygara, had accompanied Jedi Master Nima to Kessel. [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] was in no mood to deal with the Silvers, and quite frankly, Charlyra couldn't blame her. She herself wasn't necessarily here to help the Silvers, as much as she was here for the training. Nima had a good reputation and Siobhan and [member="Tempest"] both liked and trusted her, so that was enough for the Acolyte. Ruusan had been a karkin' mess in her honest opinion, but on the bright side, she'd finally been able to put her ol' master to rest.

Charlyra had her own little data tablet that gave her the information on Kessel. By the Goddess, things were just gonna get worse before they got better. She minded her tongue, she recalled the stoic ways of the Jedi all too clearly. The ride to Kessel wasn't so bad, although Charlyra had wondered if it'd had been better to stay at the Villa and train a little longer. Welp, she'd made her decision and now she'd have to lay in it. Closing her eyes the Acolyte fell asleep until such time the transport touched down, and rather roughly she might add, on Kessel.

Decked in dark crimson robes, a lighter crimson red set of pants, orange and yellow vestments and a pair of dark red bracers, and boots. The Acolyte stepped out of the transport with hand resting along her shoto's hilt as it sat tucked neatly away. The air was thick on Kessel, with the dark side? Yeah, but more importantly with death, the place looked like it had been abandoned she pulled part of her vestments up to her nose so she could breathe. She heard Nima call for her and as she looked up there was Ice bounding toward her. "You big rascal." She met his hug with a few good scratches behind his ear. "Vacation looks well on you."

"Pleasure is all mine." Charlyra replied respectfully, "thank you for allowing me to accompany you..." She gestured around toward the deserted town. "No, Master Kerrigan will not be joining us I'm afraid." Things at the Villa were hectic at best, with little Riona adjusting to life there, with three infants there and of course the day to day duties of a Countess. "They've entrusted my care to you, Master Tann." There was a wink added with a smile, from there Charlyra followed Master Tann throughout the town.

The young Acolyte had certainly seen and felt her fair share of creepy, but this was definitely going up there. "Fethin' abyss." She might have muttered as she kept her robes closed tight around her body. As if the stench hadn't been enough there was a feeling here, one that sent chills up the dark Jedi's spine. She noted Ice's apprehension of even walking about the place, "maker's breath what in the..." She coughed the moment the doors to the medbay opened, gagging on the stench. A hand along Nima's shoulder as she regained her composure. "Right then, that one looks to be in charge, and since you are my master for the moment. Perhaps it's best if you lead the conversations." Charlyra suggests cheekily while trying to keep her morning meal down.

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

Kessel Sector
"Oathkeeper"

Objective 1 ~ 'Into the Hornet's Nest'

(4)

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Rasu Gan"] | [member="Barinthus E`ron"] | [member="Connor Harrison"] | Mother

"You do that on purpose", his father does that on purpose, the ruffling of the hair in which Théo spent hours perfecting the unkempt look on his long curly locks. However, he gave his father a smile while trying to regain air to his lungs from the hug. Mother sported that, 'behave yourself' look only mother's have the art of perfecting to which he gave her a reassuring look in return. But his attention was placed on the Jedi Master with the green skin, she is very dishy, older of course, but still dishy none-the-less, Théo is nearing seventeen with a body full of raging hormones, he is going to look! Barinthus E`ron stepped forward however, son and former Grand Master and Master Syn, brother to Abaigeal, and he looked slightly awkward around the old friends of his mother. And well he might! He has a large name to live up to, no more so then Théo himself .. no pressure right? ( )

As Barinthus shot out his hand to shake, Théo gripped it in return. It is all about the hand shake you know, one can tell a lot from a man's shake .. too firm and one goes on the defensive while the other tries to assert his dominance however, too limp wristed and all respect is forfeit .. instantly. Then of course there is the shake itself, too energetic that it all but rips the arm of the other, or to place the hand in the other and no movement at all is wrong on so many levels to numerous to count, and lets not mention the clammy sweaty palms shall we? So Barinthus would be on the receiving end of a firm grip, two shakes of the arm in a clipped motion and quick release. However, the fact he had offered Théo his hand in the first place made him like Barinthus immediately. And .. he looked like a gamer..

"You ever played World of Warmongers?", he asked as they all began to make their way to the board ramp. What his father did not know was that although he might not have beaten his top score, Théo had leveled up and passed him and now, Dread Master class. Théo felt the heat from outside already prickling his skin, something he did not like at all, although not full blooded Valkyri he does have one of their weaknesses outside of Midvinter, the lack in ability to tolerate heat and so he employed his skill in Tapas to counter balance this infernal heat.

 

[Akio Diachi]

Objective 5: Find Who I am. What I am.
Post 1/35

The sands were soaked with blood. The young Chiss, young even for his race, stood amid it. The onlookers, Umbarians, glared at him. Most were his age, dressed in the white robes of the student, soiled with splattered blood. The instructors, adults dressed in the navy blue robes of their class also held the same cold glare. The message was clear: you are an outsider. You are different. You are a shame. He wanted to run. He wanted to hide. He wanted to find somewhere where he wasn't with them.

But he couldn't. He had no choice. There was only one. Adapt. Become something new. Become the monster they were.

He looked at the man tied before them. His dark chestnut brown eyes looked into the boy's crimson glowing eyes. Begging. Pleading. For his life. For mercy.

The young boy's eyes locked with his, getting softer than ever before. This was murder. Pure and simple. He may have been young but--but--he stopped himself. The Chiss knew what he had to do. He had to adapt. His eyes hardened and he stepped onto the blood-stained sands.

Akio jolted back away from his sleep, rubbing the sweat off his blue forehead. The ship he had stowed away on had landed, waking him up. And just in time. These Flashbacks were becoming even stronger all the time.

 

[Connor Harrison]

Objective: ‘Into The Hornet’s Nest’
Location: Outskirts of the Kessel Facility
Allies Involved: [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Rasu Gan"] | [member="Barinthus E`ron"] | All Silver Sanctum
Allies Involved: Kessel Pirates & Crime Lords
Post: #2 / 35

The binoculars were held in both hands now, elbows propping them up on the dusty warm ground as he continued to lie on his belly. There was a horrible humidity in the air; yes he was used to it from time spent on Jakku and Nar Shaddaa, but still…fresh air would be welcome now and then to counter the heat.

Scanning the horizon, the pocket of Rangers were still stationed and low to the ground, concealed in their camouflage and ready with sniper rifles to provide cover and when the assault came.

Moving down as an engine caught his hearing, Connor found another long nosed ship taxiing down the runway as the one that had arrived started to be unloaded. He hit the com on his arm as he watched with one hand.

”If you’re bring the Oathkeeper in Thurion, watch your arse. You’ve got a cargo ship taking off heading East you may intercept. Low amount of defence but you don’t want to run into it on your approach. You’ve got about 1 minute before it hits high altitude.”

Scanning the facility again, a couple of small walkers were in action, manned by a single driver, that would cover the unloading of whatever had come in; spice, drugs, credits, weapons. Armed guards were dotted around. The security was strong, but nothing the Silvers hadn’t faced before. And since they were leading the attack to take down the production line, it should be a walk in the park.

Should.

”We got another transport coming in from the North right ahead of me. Looks like it’s a passenger ship.” He followed the Nubian class ship down. It was dirty and bulky in shape. ”I think we’ve got prospective buyers on site. Something is going down.”

 

[Glade]

Objective 3, To Mend and Defend.
Location: Fwillsving, the Pirates meeting.
Mission: Okay. If we must.
#Post 4
#NPCs free to use as always.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QMl_cxNaIg​

[member="Tempest"]

Sensing second familiar force presence, her mother had brought friends, her comm-boy confirming. Grandmaster force user against her daughter, she doubted she’d last, if Sio was intent on confrontation, she didn't need friends. Good thing Nato had brought people to even their odds. She hadn’t wanted to, she’d wanted this to be personal vengeance, not family feuds, things went from bad to worse. Their daughter now fearful for her own daughter's life, which put her into mother mode. ~GET AWAY FROM MY DAUGHTER~ She shrieked through their force to [member="Tempest"] wanting to turn back, caught between both worlds. If anything her howl might feel as screaming despair in her ear along their wind toward Tempest, perhaps she could likely feel readily enough with her specialty. World literally ripping up around Natoline, a mother's protective instinct gave her strength, and only made things more dangerous.

They wanted everything she had left. What else did she have. She'd left them two of her young, and that had broken her. Only what was left of her old self, forced to throw all aside, did they want her life, her blood, her last child? NO

From behind their villa from forest and cover, [member="Goros the Hutt"]’s men were given their signal earlier than expected. Noghri and Trandoshans sporting most of FFE’s catalogue began firing into the Uos villa, taking their chance to finish off Uos who had been growing thorn in their side. Uos’s men went to meet them, pyke’s, kiffars and some larger Houks mostly, sporting their own lethal, mostly illegal weapons, fireworks would be bloody outside. Any shuttle in the air was targeted, but missiles likely no issue for a Master of the winds [member="Tempest"]. Tempest found herself in middle of old scores to settle, she was not focus, battlezone truly, as guards began to run outward, at least those inside would have more privacy from hordes of minions.

For Nato’s daughter [member="Althenea"] she was well and truly gone from sight, whoever she’d picked to babysit her baby daughter no fool as their area heated up, clear instructions if she didn’t survive what to do if things became dangerous, and they just had, raised stakes.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

Sio had given Nato everything for any uninitiated observers, home, life, rescued her, run through long held issues with her girl to give her loving family. Her heart and mind were shattered at losing that, if she could feel anything, Sio would feel depression, despair even. ~I love you. Don’t force me to do this.~ Nato pleaded, anger was there, she had been wrong, but Sio had cast her out so readily in her anger, cut her off with click of her fingers, gone for but a week and that was enough. However bad her choices were, and they had been terrible at her choice of method to find independence, she felt like she was right back with her father again. Now they wanted her last little girl.

Back with her father, which was ironic because she was about to be.

Wouldn’t be long before they all met if both continued, because Nato flew like torrent of wind coming right through previously shattered glass. Her spin whipped up shards, flying outward to strike guards, servants, anyone in her way, screams inside, and she was just getting started as blood slashed against their walls.

Two Mistresses of her father, rotated like leaves, always mocking her, patting her on her head like she didn’t know, corkscrewed up into their ceiling so their necks could break, only slowly to see their faces.

But where was her father? Planning something in hidden room of monitors, he wasn’t the type to make heroic last stands, he was type to need control of events, image everything, had to have control. He was atypical rival to Goros, formerly Raien Keth and now another. Hidden passage ways and underground getaways planned she pictured. [member="Tempest"] might read what was coming first, pirate corvette in low orbit with cannons training on their villa, something she could prevent, or have Sio pull back to let them all suffer under their guns. Kessels own pirates didn't like being double crossed! Three (Four) ways battles, chaos below, and building confusion.

Hologram of him appeared above on his balcony, apparently since his bars had been confiscated, he'd been taking personal interest in their household.

"You spit upon my home, and again to another. You have no worth. Only to destroy, only to harm as with all your kind." Nato barely heard his words, but felt them, holoprojection ripped to shreds ahead of her, flying through it with her saber and taking half their balcony with her. So much anger, so much emotion, so much power.​

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

(3)
[member="Natoline Kerrigan"], [member="Tempest"]


Siobhan had indeed cast Nato out. After being forgiving and giving her many second chances. Her daughter had been consorting with criminal scum. Had she been perfect? No, but it said a lot about Natoline if she went off the deep end like this after breaking her own promises. Siobhan was still caring about Nato's two babies, treating them like her own daughters. Adril and Livia would be safe and loved. Perhaps she had failed her own daughter, but she would not fail her granddaughters!


The despair, anger and depression emanating from Natoline hit Siobhan like a massive tidal wave. To the point where it was physically painful for her. Her face was contorted in pain. A profound sense of sorrow gripped her heart. She could not help thinking that she might have done wrong. Perhaps she should have tried to reason with Nato and worked things out....


No, by the Goddess, she had tried and done all she could. At some point you had to draw a line in the sand, no matter how much you hated that choice. Or hated yourself for making it. Her daughter was ungrateful and had turned her back on her family. She was not a misunderstood victim. Now she was endangering her last baby. There were clan members who'd been through worse than Nato, but they didn't fall like this. But these thoughts brought no solace to Siobhan.


Rage rose up inside her at her daughter's folly. Natoline's father had abused and treated her daughter like a possession, on those rare occasions when he noticed her. Had Siobhan done that, too? No. The irony was that she had been giving Nato responsibility and a chance to show she what she was made of just before the girl ran off without a word.


If you ever loved me, you wouldn't do this to yourself! To your family. If you're angry with me, fine. I've made mistakes. Maybe I haven't been the mother I should have been, but think of your children. They're what matters. You brought your child to a bloody warzone! How can you look yourself in a mirror and call yourself a mother? The words swimming through her mind were almost pleading. In her heart of hearts, Siobhan hoped it would not come to the worst...but it seemed she was hoping against hope. It would not fething hurt this much if Siobhan did not care.


Guards used her momentary distraction to swarm her. She was taken off-guard when one of them lobbed a grenade her way. Too late to deflect it, but the Force wrapped itself around her in a protective cocoon, shielding her from harm. She was still knocked back against a wall when the shockwave slammed into her. Ouch. Pain surged through her body...but that was fine. Physical pain she could handle. It was nothing compared to the one she was feeling emotionally.


Then she enveloped the grenadier with a giant's hand and broke every bone in his body. Crack! His corpse crumpled to the ground like a sack of potatoes. Some of the guards looked fearful at the sight of the crimson-clad berserker and seemed to waver, others kept on firing. This did not go well for them. Stretching out with her power, she focused her telekinetic willpower and crushed their weapons. Blue-white lightning shrieked from her fingertips and cooked them, lighting up the room and casting an eerie light. A Noghri managed to sneak up on her and rammed his Force pike into a joint in her leg. The Countess suppressed a cry of pain as she stumbled, but rammed her boot into the alien's leg when he tried to deliver a powerful blow to her head, then grabbed him to slam him into the ground with enough force to break his jaw.


"You spit upon my home, and again to another. You have no worth. Only to destroy, only to harm as with all your kind." The smug, arrogant voice of the Uos patriarch could be heard throughout the villa. Or at least in those rooms where Nato had not destroyed the holoprojections.


"Go feth yourself, arsehole. You're a worthless pile of chit. You're nothing, and you will die today," Siobhan hissed, hate rising in her like bile inside her stomach. His death was one thing mother and daughter could agree on! Then she simply tore the holoprojector apart. She suspected that Uos was hiding somewhere deep inside the villa. Probably in a hidden room with fancy tech that allowed him to monitor everything that happened on his estate. Something that would give him the illusion of being in control...when in actuality his rankid little empire was crumbling.


The flamethrower inside her gauntlet spat a purifying blast of blazing heat, burning the wicked who served a man as despicable as Uos. Siobhan was deaf to their screams when she made her way through the rather wrecked villa. She could sense that she was getting closer to her objective.

 

[Taiden Keth]

Objective 2, Big Trouble in Little Kessel.
Location: Kessel Surface
PC Allies: [member="Nima Tann"] | [member="Charlyra Araano"]
NPC Background Allies: Ice, 48 of House Keth's Honorguard | NPC'd: [member="Taresa Kae"]
Space: Squadrons of Thyrsus Hearts in Orbit
Post #5
Mission Information:

Spoiler

Objective 2: "Big Trouble in Little Kessel" (Healer-themed Adventure PvE) (Kessel)
In the wake of the Coalition's failed invasion, cultists, criminals, and corrupt officials on Kessel have to bear. Encouraged with the idea that the Coalition would be licking its wounds, a Primeval cult has abducted a Jedi Padawan with green eyes, for use in a ritual which they believe will unleash a Dark Side Nexus and welcome the god Balagoth into our realm. In pursuit, agents of the Coalition have discovered the cultists experiments with Sith Alchemy have Inflicted a rabies-like disease that has begun to spread throughout the planet's wildlife and has started to infect the humanoid population, creating chaos as it begins to spread. The outbursts of such an aggressive disease draw the attention of the Coalition's healers, both Jedi and non-Jedi alike in an attempt to find a cure for the disease.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfL8PYu99gg​

​

Standing slowly. Usual gentile approach to those passing by, our Echani scholar continued deliberate but careful steps as he stood up to walk, sensing his Master though he knew not where yet. Taiden was as always calm like water laying in lakebed, separate and detached from any great ocean. Silver eyes radiated that calmness, and center of balance.

Bowing humbly, to anyone who crossed his path, no matter their surroundings he was respectful of whom he came across, as was his way. Here of all places that respect and gentle hand was needed most. Even if some didn't know how to respond to his gesture. Tracing his hand along currents, motions and movements of their force. Following dark tendrils further inward, as they met and crossed.

He lived and breathed motion, Echani speaking through it, that is how he understood their force, always in motion, turning like a planet’s beating heart. Twists and turns trickery to find source of their suffering, he could sense the nexus had interwoven itself beneath their soil. Remaining vigilant he continued on, reaching out to his Master in their force. ~Master I have trail of their suffering.~ he offered gently to her mind. Politeness and courtesy within voice as always. [member="Nima Tann"]

 

[Rayliav'enci]

Objective: 5 - Choose Your Own Adventure
Location: Southern Hemisphere, a spice dealer's sancutary
Allies: [member="Kurayami Bloodborn"]
Post: 2

She straightened up, and blew out a slow steady stream of air as she locked down that woozy feeling as much as she could. Turning off her empathy was sometimes a struggle, especially when she needed it to hunt down the baddies who had been plaguing this region and putting targets on the backs of those she cared for.

Instinctively, she reached for his free hand, pulling him closer to her for a moment to lay a gentle kiss on his lips, a touchstone to clear the hatred and arrogance she could feel coming from the sanctuary.

"Be careful."

She didn't draw her blade yet, they had landed fairly close to the compound in question though, so the idea that their arrival had been monitored was possible. She reached out to the chirps of birds she heard in the trees, listening to their whistles and songs, to the urgency in their voices and the fear behind it.

"There's a lot of wildlife around here. Things not native to Kessel, things not native to this area of Kessel."

She motioned him to follow her into the bushes, following the call of a larger animal, its voice filled with distress.

 

[Kurayami Bloodborn]

Objective 5
Location:Spice dealer's sanctuary, Southern Hemisphere
Allies:[member="Rayliav'enci"]
Post 2

The feeling was something that Kurayami was trying to alleviate using every trick he knew, but the Darkness permeated the very air around them it seemed. Even though the wildlife of the sanctuary where they stood showed no outward signs of corruption he knew it had some effect on whatever lived here. In the back of his mind he wondered what the effects were and if it remained long enough, what sort of mutations it would case to the flora and fauna of the surrounding area. Also he was curious as to whether or not it would spread to other sanctuaries on Kessel and cause further issue. Perhaps that was why they had ended up here, to put an end to the source of this Darkness and prevent it from spreading further across the planet.

The thoughts drifted away as she grabbed his free hand and pulled him close to her. The kiss was a surprise, though certainly not an unwelcome one, and he allowed himself to get lost in the moment while it lasted. It was not a long lived moment by any means, but even that short respite from the feelings of hatred and arrogance was very refreshing mentally. The smirk that was his signature played over his features when she told him to be careful.

"I swear I try to be careful, I am just not very good at it from what I can gather."

He may have had his blade drawn but to him the chirps of the birds and their songs didn't sound like anything outside of the normal background noise. Raylia knew far more about such things than he did and she seemed more attuned to the wildlife than he so he doubted if she didn't hear more within each note from the birds than he did.

"I thought that was part of why they built sanctuaries, to help relocate animals whether native to the planet or not. But when you say not native to Kessel how far off are we talking? The amount of wildlife for a sanctuary doesn't surprise me too much as this is the more prosperous half of the planet."

When she motioned to him to follow her into the brush, he simply nodded and followed. Her plan on the Wheel had gotten them out alive, so he knew better than to question her in this case. Even though he was no empath, the call of the larger animal in distress was hard to mistake. Needless to say it was not a comforting sound given the atmosphere of where they found themselves. He had a feeling that things could go from bad to worse far faster than originally anticipated.

 

[Joza Perl]

Objective 4: Play Diplomat
Allies: [member="Orihime Ike"]|[member="Sorel Crieff"]
Post: #2

When she spotted Orihime, a natural smile curved Joza’s lips. The girl was just as bright and bouncy as she had been on the shores of the unknown island, but she knew that there was a bright mind and fierce determination within her as well. The young Ike had pretty much led their tropical expedition, displaying her natural leadership abilities. In that vein, Joza didn’t mind following along if it was for the good of the mission.

“I am. It’s been a while, Orihime. It’s nice to see you again.” A smooth chuckle left her lips as the Falleen sprang up and down with excitement. Being a Zeltron, her own mood was influenced easily by those around her. If she concentrated, she could smooth over bad feelings and keep herself focused, but things were easier when her companions felt at ease. Orihime’s cheer certainly had a positive effect on her. Or maybe that was the pheromones, a trait the two young women shared. “That’s a very pretty dress you’ve got.” She admired the Artisian looking fabric with a discerning eye, giving way to a nod of approval.

“Sorel should be here as well, correct?” There was a note of unease in her voice at mentioning their third and final party member.

 

[Tempest]

Post 2
[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] [member="Natoline Kerrigan"]

Tempest’s eyes narrowed.
‘You mean the baby you brought into a war zone in a mad desire for revenge? Well, I’m sorry if you think that is a good maternal instinct, but to everyone else in the galaxy it’s nuttier than a Kashyyyk fruit cake…just like you.’

Tempest could feel Siobhan’s angst, the Dahomian felt none. Natoline had started out a fun, if quite odd, girl. Now she was the very stereotype of one who had ‘fallen’ to the Dark Side; complete with insanity, psychosis and excessive capital letters.

Now, Tempest had been here, in a way. Many years before when she had been a slave she had broken free, literally, by using the Force to crush them. Now, she was a ‘Dark’ Jedi, but to her this was merely a source of power rather than a full on philosophy. She had never been a Jedi, never had this paranoid fear of the Dark Side pushed into her head. No, she was her own woman, and what she did she did for the reasons she thought best with as much clear and rational thought as possible. To see Natoline act like a complete lunatic was sad, but it also made her determined to put her down if needed.

Her attention was drawn back to the present by the warning of missiles. This was her time. They were still in the air, so she drew on the Force, summoning the anger and passion inside herself, and formed a barrier, a wave of telekinetic energy which blasted outwards from her hands and detonated missiles and rockets in midair.

Then, the wind started to blow. As the ship touched down she did not, rising into the air, a wrathful figure calling on the storms to aid her. A great wind blew, lightning struck and crackled, and those mercenaries still facing her would have the dust whipped in their face, and the wind starting to push them back as lightning struck around them.

XXX

In space meanwhile, the Coalition had dispatched a small but powerful battlegroup to engage and destroy the pirate ships in orbit, and to trap any trying to flee the planet as well.

These escort ships moved in, firing as they went on the pirates. This would force most of them to turn away and fight or flee.

 

[Setzi Lunelle]

Objective: ‘Into The Hornet’s Nest’
Location: Outskirts of the Kessel Facility
Allies Involved: [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Rasu Gan"] | [member="Barinthus E`ron"] | [member="Connor Harrison"]
Post: 1/20

Setzi may have surprised Connor with her presence or maybe not. He could have known that she'd follow him, an oath given to him a few days before to protect him as only a Jedi could. Touching his back gently with knowing hands, she said, "Let us not forget those that want your bounty." Ever since the Padawan knew he'd been bountied, a body for sale, she was very keen on protecting Master Harrison.

"What of those who would like to skin you and see you bleed in the streets of Kessel Hex. Remember our oath," she said, but not threateningly.

It was the oath that they'd exchanged in Master Harrison's quarters.

Lovers or friends, they would protect each other from the forces of darkness.

 

[Qual'Zyanya]

[member="Valiens Nantaris"]
(4)
Location: Honoghr
Objectives: Gain allies for Team Tanaka.


Months had passed since the Final Battle. Tlalixque lay in ruins, the Xioquo had been defeated, their megalomaniacal goddess was dead. So was Qual'Zyanya's sister. Her attempt to save her people from destruction had cost her life. But Zyanya had survived. The Sky Woman had taken her on and guided her away from Tygara.


Not nearly enough time had passed to process all that happened. Until a few years ago, Zyanya had not thought it possible that machines of metal could ascend from the planet and lift off into into the heavens, let alone traverse the fathomless void. Now here she was, on another world. One inhabited by strange aliens with bizarre customs and languages.



Travel through what the human called 'hyperspace' still scared her, as if she feared abominations would devour the metal beast she called a ship, but she dared not voice such fears, for it was unbecoming of a lady of her station. She would not cower in the shadows like so many of her people, but embrace the new world and harness its power.


So she stood here, poised and controlled. Her face was stoic, but her eyes radiated curiosity as she studied their surroundings. The building they were in was called a dukha, which seemed a sort of community building.


The alien who was the leader of this tribe of xenos, called Noghri, sat upon a throne-like chair, holding court over them. The alien's features were nothing short of disgusting to the young Xioquo. He was grey of skin, strongly muscled and completely hairless and with a toothy snout. With his large dark eyes, protruding jaw, and glistening needle teeth, he looked like something out of myths. His eyes were those of a predator.


"Here we hold true to the old ways. Our clan is not bought with coin. Nor do we have need of protection, though many come here with words as sweet as honey, claiming that only they can protect us, be they Sith or Jedi. Many centuries ago the Lord Vader deceived us. We don't make the same mistake again," the alien spoke.


Zyanya was keenly aware of all the Noghri watching them. Some with curiosity, others with varying degrees of hostility. Like wolves ready to pounce, but they deferred to their pack leader. She reckoned that these warriors would have been a challenge for the janissaries. If the Sky Woman felt any unease, nothing in her stance betrayed it. She could respect their desire for independence, for her own race had been subjugated.


"You do well guarding your independence. Jedi and Sith - they all want the same. No matter with whom you aligned yourself with, war would be brought to your doorstep. But I do not come here to deceive you with false promises or to buy your services. I know the Noghri are honourable warriors. Any transaction between us will be on equal basis. I shall not concern myself with your affairs," the Lady spoke smoothly.


There was no mistaking the pride the chieftain felt for his people. "Bold words, but actions speak more than them. You mean to acquire the services of one of our warriors. I care not for why, what happens beyond our world is no concern of ours. The goods you offer are welcome, but do not suffice."


"I take it you wish a trial by combat."


"You know our ways well. It reveals one's true spirit. Our warriors have fought Sith and Jedi."


"Then I am more than eager to accept."


However, at this moment Zyanya stepped forward. "I shall face this challenge," she declared, a bit impulsively. All eyes were upon her now, but she did not avert her gaze. The Sky Woman's expression was an inscrutable mask. "With my Lady's permission, I wish to fight one of your warriors. I am young, but a capable warrior and wish to test myself against yours in honourable combat. The spirits shall decide who leaves the arena."


For just a moment, there was a predatory gleam in Sumiko's eye. "Then so it shall be. Lady Qual'Zyanya shall be my champion. I consider her worthy, for she defied a goddess when her people cowered." Her last words were a deliberate barb, but Zyanya had grown used to them. Her heart was encased in ice.

 

[Audren Sykes]

Objective: 'Big Trouble in Little Kessel'
Location: Kessel
Allies Involved: [member="Taiden Keth"] | [member="Charlyra Araano"] | [member="Nima Tann"] | 6-man squad of Rangers, 2 investigators
Post: 1/35

On the way in, Audren understood this foray a bit better than he had Ruusan. Much to his chagrin, he'd gotten good answers after the battle, the finale of which he'd barely survived. A bombing run over their own city...he'd caught the sense of danger too late to stop the bombing, and barely had enough time to pull slabs of duracrete around himself with the Force, then layer cables of Force power over, under, and through the cracks. A concrete cocoon. He'd not been crisped, not killed, but the impacts caused by bomb concussions had broken an arm, two ribs, and his nose, along with severe exhaustion after the fact. And he'd had an oddly-patterned light burn caused by the light of the explosions through the cracks of the duracrete. He'd blocked off the explosions but not the light from them.

But this one was different. Kessel had long been a criminally-charged sector, the various planets harboring different vices. In this case, he'd opted to go after members of a Primeval cult that had kidnapped a Sanctum Padawan. The same general area was rife with some sort of plague, maybe even plagues, and healers were on the case as well. Two sides of the same coin. The Sephi knew that others might be present tracking the same thing he was, but he hadn't coordinated with them beforehand. If they came across each other, they could work together. But he and the healers would not be working the same beat.

"Much of the surveillance is unavailable sir, but we did catch a few glimpses here and there. Enough to get a rough direction, we put together a map."

"Standard setup? Send it to our datapads."

That was one of the investigators and the squad leader. The instant the Sanctum knew that the Padawan had been kidnapped, the investigators had been brought in. They were the ones who'd found the video traces on the original planet, who had tracked the transport here. They'd combed through hours of video just here on Kessel, interviewed those few who weren't busy elsewhere, and come up with this. Then the rescue squad was dispatched. Contrary to how many might expect the group to be set up, the Knight was not in charge. That was Antarian Ranger Captain Miko Sartori; Audren was along as support.

All of the Rangers were armored for hostile territory, especially against biohazards. They didn't know the particulars of the plague other than it was certainly spread by wildlife and had been set in motion by Sith Alchemy, so they prepared for the worst. The investigators wore no armor, their job was to find the facts and put together the pieces. Audren was also fully armored and kept his standard combat arms and armor with the addition of the GE-AVM optics and breath mask. And he'd switched the armor's grav glove for a light shield.

"Move out."

Hopefully they'd arrive in time to stop whatever the cultists were planning.

 

[Kiran Arlos]

Objective: 4-Show them the way 5-Find forgiveness
Location: En Route to Honogr
Allies: SSC
Post: {1}

"They have started you on the path, have they?"

"No, I'm still swimming in that doubt as I've always done. Doubt, uncertainty. Fear...." Kiran let out a frustrated sigh as he laced up his last boot while wearing a casual outfit as he readied himself for whatever sithspit he was getting himself into. The young man reached to his side as to make sure his blaster pistol was there, and just a few feet in front of him on the bed was a lightsaber.

"You haven't told them yet, have you."

Kiran showed a slight annoyed look as he glanced back to the kid roughly the same age as himself. "No, with the destruction of Corellia, I don't think anyone needs to know. I can just simply put it behind me." The young man said in a determined voice but then held much uncertainty too. The truth was that Kiran was indeed scared, afraid. And from rumors of what he heard about that Jedi, fear was something to be worried about. Kiran knew he wasn't a Jedi yet though, training had just begun, but he wasn't one yet. Kiran took a seat on the bunk as he casually reached for the lightsaber and looked it over a few times. The design,frame,outer structure it seemed so natural to have it. However part of him didn't even want it. It wasn't one that he had constructed, but more so granted the use of during his training.

"Well we should be there soon, I'll see ya."

Kiran glanced up towards him and showed a very small smile upon his exit as he let out a small sigh. Perhaps in time he would let the know, perhaps they would see it in a different light and see him differently. Yet, he wasn't even sure how they saw him yet, he had kept to himself a great deal during his short time with these people. Kiran knew that it was his own fear that was preventing that bond from ever getting somewhere. The ship taking them to their destination gave a small shake for a brief moment then continued flying normally.

The past always caught up with someone at some point in their life. How they reacted when that time came is what would truly matter.

 

[Connor Harrison]

Objective: ‘Into The Hornet’s Nest’
Location: Outskirts of the Kessel Facility
Allies Involved: [member="Setzi Lunelle"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Rasu Gan"] | [member="Barinthus E`ron"] | All Silver Sanctum
Allies Involved: Kessel Pirates & Crime Lords
Post: #3 / 35

The touch surprised him; not to the effect he sprang around with a lightsaber blade in hand, but it made him jump a little as he was fixated on watching the landing pads and runways, monitoring the traffic in and out and waiting for the Silvers from above.

”Setzi, I told you to hang back. I don’t want you in danger. I learnt that the hard way on Ziost.”

He didn’t say it with venom, not at all. The revelations and admissions between the pair had been profound and unexpected, and even now felt surreal. But, it wasn’t a dream. It was reality, and Connor had to adjust to that reality he wanted but was unsure how to handle.

Returning to the binoculars so not to take his eyes off target, he continued.

”I’d like to think my bounty was dwindling, but I know I can’t be sure. However nobody knows we are here so today I have the upper hand.”

He adjusted the focus to watch the patrolling walkers and rose his arm to communicate with the Oathkeeper.

”I see two walkers by the air-field. No sign of surface to air defence, but watch your approach from both ground and air.”

Clicking off, he hesitantly moved his hand out backwards for her. He was once again thankful she was beside him and made him feel he wasn’t truly alone.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Objective: 1 - 'Into the Hornet's Nest'
Location: Outskirts of the Kessel Facility
Allies: [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Connor Harrison"] | [member="Rasu Gan"] | [member="Barinthus E`ron"] | [member="Setzi Lunelle"]
Post: 2

"You hear that, Teetoo? Steer clear of any oncoming traffic," Thurion turned to the astromech droid who beeped a sarcastic reply. As their ship descended upon the outskirts of the facility where criminal activities of all sorts were going down on a daily basis, he put on his black leather jacket that had been with him for so many years and zipped it up about halfway. No armour felt needed, as wearing it in this heat would likely be more of a hinderance than anything else.

Without actually touching ground, the Oathkeeper hovered above it high enough that it would not create a cloud of dust easily detectable, yet low enough that they could jump down to the ground without trouble. The ramp lowered and Thurion gave them the all-clear to make the jump. "Take her back to orbit," he told Teetoo. "We'll call on you once in need of transportation." Waiting for all the others to clear out before he would join them, Thurion simply stepped outside into nothing and let the Force guide him to land on his feet, slowing his fall in the process.

Once everyone had disembarked the ship took off, leaving the group of Jedi to their mission. "On your six, Connor," he hailed him and as his old friend would turn to look their way Thurion would wave at him. "Alright, everyone - let's join up." The short walk over to Connor's position took them but a mere minute through desolate, inhospitable terrain which hosted little in terms of lifeforms. While also Valkyri, Thurion had a greater tolerance to the heat given his growing up on Pelagon, whereas much of Théo's upbringing had occurred on Midvinter.

As the party joined up with Connor and, to his pleasant surprise, one of the Lunelle sisters. They always seemed to flock around Connor in one way or another, and Force knows the man could do with a bit of feminine company to wipe that grim look off his face. As they approached the two, Thurion offered the two a smile and a nod before placing a friendly hand upon Connor's shoulder. "Alright, what've you got for us?"