Star Wars Rise of an Empire RP

[Saint Kitten]

Escape Pod 65-4A, Asterope Norisa, Battle of Coruscant

As the tiny escape pod was pulled to the city-planet Norisa looked out the small window at the rear of the cabin, he saw the battle continue without him and he couldn’t help but feel that his contribution to the war was not only minimal but it was not even noticed by anyone. Two CIS ships down at the cost of is own. Now his men were scattered all over the planet and he was left in control of the pod and the 29 other clones aboard.

The small flaming vessel picked up speed quickly, the ‘brakes’ hardly leaving an impression on the speed. As they neared closer and closer to the skyline the saw buildings rush past the windows and suddenly there was what sounded like an explosion, glass could be heard shattering even though the metal frame, he brightness of the game was engulfed with darkness but the vessel continued it’s course through what Norisa assumed to be one of the countless skyscrapers. Another loud Crash! and the pod slid out of the building, leaving a large hole though the once sleek apartment building, losing all momentum and left to free-fall until it hit a metal platform with a loud Clang!.

After the final crash Norisa blinked away a few stars in his eyes and did his best to make the ringing leave his ears. He unbuckled from his seat and, after a small struggle, opened the latch and half stumbled, half climbed out of the metal death-trap only to find a convey of droids to ‘welcome’ the survivors

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
The battle was now clearly turning against us, as I suspected it would. I am not surprised, as I had predicted the failure of this invasion before we had ever left, but still, seeing it and predicting it or not the same things. Which I am seeing our lines unravel far more quickly than I had anticipated. I paced the command deck, a nervous habit I still cling to from childhood. I finally found a destination at the large holo map, with TND-07 standing next to me. Neither of us said anything, as there was little to say. All there was for us to do was await Grievous' capture of Palpatine and then exit this battle as soon as possible after that. So, until then, we will just have to do what we can to hold the line. My eyes watched over all the little tiny clusters of dots representing ships and individual battles seeing many, both red and blue disappear. The red dots for our own units, and the blue for the Republic. I sighed heavily, before asking of 07 to update me on the battle between the Republic reinforcements that had recently arrived and the Lucrehulk group.

"Reports indicate that as of this moment those ships are holding, but the Republic Flight is still advancing. Estimated time until they break through is about 12 minutes." I took in the information as I tried to think of a way to prolong that time.

"Reroute any spare Vulture Swarms to that battle to aid in the defense of the Lucrehulk, if we can keep that ship intact, then the formation should hold a while longer, hopefully long enough for us to organize and get out of this mess." I ordered, sending what spare Vultures we had into the fight against the newly arriving Republic vessels. However, it was not long before another aspect of the battle demanded my own attention.

"Vice Admiral, a large Republic formation is approaching and shifting focus on our own fleet as well as the Crimson Flame. Recommend we route power to shields and evacuate Sabosen immediately or she will not survive." This is getting too far out of control. After only a couple hours above Coruscant, our entire combined fleet is threatened. And if we lose this fleet the whole damn war is lost, we must escape this battle with enough integrity to continue battles elsewhere.

"Alter course and have our battle group immediately reinforce Sabosen and the Crimson Flame! Shift power to Ion Cannons and target the new targets on scanners! Prep the Torpedo Launch bays to fire as soon as our Ion Cannons make contact with the enemy fleet!" I ordered, raising my tone of voice to levels I normally restrain from, I had estimated we would have at least another hour before we faced resistance this strong, but I must have been wrong. The droid then tried to advise me, which I was in no mood for.

"That wont be enough to destroy the enemy fleet Vice Admiral-" I cut the droid off, still in a raised voice, which led to a coughing fit.
"It's not supposed to! We are only going to delay them with the Ion Cannons and when their shields are reduced the torpedoes will give them something to worry about rather than us!" Then, I hunched over as my breathing began to grow slightly painful, a side affect of my reduced health. I sat myself down as I tried to regain composure.

However, seeing as I was unable to give the order, TND-07 stepped up, stood center bridge and thrusted a metal arm forward declaring in it's metallic voice. "Fire, Ion Cannons!" Then, the blue beams of the Ion Cannons arched forward at the rapidly approaching enemy, at the speeds they were closing, it should be difficult for them to avoid them. The droid then turned and looked at me, as if asking permission to continue, with a simple hand motion I allowed him to continue in my place, as he then made the next order.

"Full power to thrusters, support the Crimson Flame and prep the Torpedo Launch Tubes, fire on my order." The mix of B1 Pilot Droids and alien officers went to work, as we closed the distance between our own ships and the Crimson Flame. As our fleets grew ever closer, The 'Defiance' was positioned between the 'Crimson Flame' and the enemy, providing a sort of human shield tactic for Sabosen, meaning that the enemy would have to destroy our ship in order to get to her group. The maneuver was my own way of displaying my loyalty to my subordinate, and this allowed her to continue her own actions uninterrupted by the enemy reinforcements. I then used my comm link to contact Sabosen as our Torpedoes locked onto the enemy ships.

"Sabosen, this is Vice Admiral Vale. The Defiance and my own forces are intervening on your behalf, my own ships are now positioned as a buffer for your group. So, you wont have to worry about being attacked by the enemy reinforcements, not for a while at least. Listen to me very closely, I know you are attempting to take control of the Imperator Class Ship. I want you to continue doing so, and once you have control of that ship, I need you to fire on the 'Defiance'. I will say again, fire on the 'Defiance'. I want you to fully convince the approaching Republic ships you are one of their own by damaging my own ship, make it convincing. Then, when they get within point blank range of you, unleash all weapons upon them. An old pirate tactic. Dont worry yourself about my safety, the Defiance is a tough ship, she can handle it. Vice Admiral Vale out." I ordered as I closed the link.

It was barely seconds after I closed the link with Sabosen that I received a hail from General Grievous on the ground. The contents of which almost sent me flying into a rage. However, I maintained my composure as I very carefully considered my response. Such orders were quite bluntly, extremely foolish, and almost not even possible to execute with the pressure of the Republic Fleet bearing down on us. Bombarding the planet any more than we are will only further strengthen the Republic Propaganda machine, as well as drive worlds and potential allies away from us. It would be a huge defeat in the political and propaganda war. And as for the second request, I am having trouble even understanding why he would desire it, we are here for the Chancellor only. I can no longer risk sending Deiau to the planet as the battle space is too dangerous. And the capture of additional senators for hostages holds no military value. It makes us sound desperate.

Which we are.

I then opened a comm link to Grievous, knowing that his orders to me were clear indicators that he still has not acquired the Chancellor by now. I could not adhere to his orders, but I am no fool either. I need to present myself in such a way as to not offend the cyborg too much.

"General Grievous, I respectfully inform you that such orders cannot be fulfilled. The situation in orbit has changed, we no longer hold surprise, planetary defenses are bombarding the fleets, the entire Coruscant Defense force has mobilized and is now on the attack, and additional reinforcements have pushed our fleets into face 2:4 odds. The entire fleet has sustained 37% casualties and is quickly rising." Now, having delivered the bad news, I needed to feed Grievous something to save my life from his wrath should he survive.

"I can send a cluster of assault ships and frigates to help secure the immediate combat area above you, ensuring you and the Chancellor safe passage off the planet and back to the fleet so we may begin our retreat from the system. Furthermore, I have already planned ahead and have secured one influential senator from the planet, one who has overthrown the government of a Separatist world and has since been gathering support for the Republic in the Senate, and who I believe has information that will be of great interest to you. I will continue combat operations to secure you passage off of the planet my General. Vice Admiral Vale out." I closed as I had updated him on the situation, I am no fool, I know my track record alone will not save me from reprisal. But my time around Grievous has taught me one thing, he values his own life. If he believes that he will be killed or captured then he will eventually see reason and pull back.

And if he stays on Corsuscant much longer, he will be killed, because there will not be a CIS fleet to get him off. Dealing with him is as much diplomacy as anything else. I have to show him something and then present it well enough to make it appear I am actually helping him. Which I am. As much as I disdain him, I cannot survive as an officer by simply declaring 'Go kiss a wookiee'. And everything I told him was true, we cannot spare the ships or firepower, and I do have in my possession a senator he will find useful.

I closed my eyes as I tried to find some brief internal piece, as enemy turbo lasers began to impact our shields. Then, TND-07 informed me that our forces have captured a Republic Captain and a squad of clones on the surface. And wanted to know if I wanted him brought to my ship. I thought about it briefly then gave my final order for now.

"Yes, send down armed escort in Vulture Starfighters and ensure that officer makes it to my ship. His clone troopers are a secondary priority but if they can be safely transported then bring them too. He may be able to provide some interesting information to me." I commented, taking note of just how poorly things are going for us in orbit.

[Sulania]

Sabosen - LAAT

As they neared the Imperator Class Star Destroyer, the clanking of the droids became more and more irritating as their BX pilots used maneuvering capabilities to evade fire from around them. The explosions began to fill the hull as she could hear massive amounts of them coming from the deep space around them. Ships going up in flames, massive amounts of life being lost could be felt in mass vibrations around her. All screaming, all sending out ripples through the Force. Of course, she wasn't strongly in tune with this, they were little more than ebbing to her. Though she was strong in the force, as she was trained, she was still rather young for her to develop enough to feel the full range of what's happening around her.

It was then that Sabosen heard Admiral Vale through her comm link, and she listened intently to his instructions and his assurance that he would aid her flight. She now felt more confident knowing that someone as much of a strategic genius as Admiral Vale had her back int this fight. She responded with a simple "As you say, Admiral." and a nod of assurance. She liked the plan, as she liked most plans of the Admiral's. He was a fine man of the mind, and she deeply admired that. Nonetheless, now was not the time for admiration but a time to follow orders.

The BX piloting her LAAT was chimed a message from the Republic forces aboard the Reckoning. The officer asked the BX, whom impersonated the voice of a Clone pilot, if its sabotage mission about the CIS ship, the Crimson Fire, was successful. The BX responded accordingly, informing the officer that the mission was carried out successfully. Driving home the deception that would be the ship's downfall.

First things first would be landing in the hangar, which would be no real problem as they don't know that the CIS is boarding. The problem would be escaping the hangar and getting to the bridge, the central hub of the ship's command. If they hold the bridge, they can spark the chaos aboard the ship that will eliminate all the problematic personnel aboard. Well, not all, but most. She could hear as they approached the ship, and prepared herself for the battle within.

The Reckoning

Sabosen could feel as the magnetic shield that separated the hangar from the vacuum of space passed over the ship, meaning that they have now entered the hangar of the Imperator Star Destroyer. The first step in her plan was complete, she arrived in the hangar without losing a single ship. She could hear as fighters were being sent out to combat CIS fighters, as Clones went about their duties aboard, along with various other noises typically associated with a hangar in the midst of battle. Of course, the noise drowned out as the LAAT carrying her landed with a thud. Landing quickly but steadily, as most ships in the midst of battle do.

She gripped her lightsaber in her hand, waiting to ignite and release absolute fury on the Clones that awaited her. Of course, her goal was not to end all life in the hangar, but merely to get to the bridge. The remaining in the hangar will be dealt with later.

And so, with tension coming to a head, the side LAATs opened up to reveal droids pouring out from them. BXs launched from the cockpits and began firing on unsuspecting clone pilots, engineers, and troopers. Many of whom fell at the sudden attack, and Sabosen launched to higher ground. Balancing on beams, jumping on top of ships and crates, lunging at Clones on the ground in quick swipes and slashes. All the while, through it, they slowly moved their position from the LAATs they came in to the corridor that would take them straight to the bridge. Blasters hit metal droids in loud bangs, while blasters hit plastoid-alloy Clone armor on their way.

Upon reaching the blast door that led to the corridor, Sabosen held the back as the droids and crew she brought with her moved into the corridor, deflecting as much fire as she could before slashing the console to open the blast doors and moving in. She then closed blast doors on the other side with the opposite terminal, which she left untouched in order to prevent the door from being not accessible in case they need to make a retreat. She then ordered her forces up along the corridors that would lead to the bridge. Of course Clone personnel blocked the way, but they were cut down by Sabosen and her contingent of droids. She made sure to protect the BXs among the other droids more, as they were key to her plan with their voice replicators.

Through the carnage, they reached the bridge. All in a bustle with officers doing their duties, and clones protecting the Admiral in charge of the ship. All was interrupted by their arrival, officers stopped in their tracks. Troopers attempted to open fire only to be shot unexpectedly by droids, and what shots they fired repelled or missed. Between here and that hangar, Sabosen lost around 1/4 of her total forces. The good thing was that she lost only two BXs, so 16 still remained. Enough to hold the bridge and surrounding area, and carry out her plans. Right now, however, she had to deal with the Admiral. Sabosen pointed her lightsaber at the Admiral directly, to intimidate him. "Surrender now, and you and your crew may be spared."

The Admiral, an old man obviously at the end of his career, simply stared for a moment. His old weathered blue eyes, only complimented by his balding grey hair and wrinkles, barred down on her. A face of an uncompromising man, who would do anything but surrender his ship. "I do say that you are brave for such a move, miss." He said in a deep raspy voice, again signifying his old age. "But your bravado will not work here."

"And why not?" Sabosen answered back.

"You are on one of the most powerful and most maned ship in the Republic Navy. Thousands of men are ready and able to take you down, and I assure you, Madame, that I nor they will surrender." He said with a smirk.

"Well then..." Sabosen said, before casually switching off her lightsaber. "Tell me, sir, what is your name?"

"I am Admiral Siron of the Republic Navy, commander of this very vessel. And you're an intruder, and you wi-"

His words were caught off when Sabosen swooped down upon him, placing her palm directly on his forehead. "That's all I needed, old fool." She said as she made the poor old man relive his terrible memories. Years of conflict, years of suffering, of death. All being relived at once. His screams echoed from the walls, weathered and crackling were his screams of terror and torture. Many of the crew, including Sabosen's own organic crew, covered their ears to block out the terrible screams that came from the man. Until finally, she released him and he fell to the ground. His face wide eyed with terror, holding on to what grip of sanity he had left. The Republic crew, seeing what had happened to their experienced Admiral, looked in fear at the new occupiers of the bridge. "Now then.." Sabosen began. "You will all follow whatever orders I give, or you will be given the same fate as this man."

One by one, each officer was ordered from their stations with all weapons being confiscated, and were replaced by droids and crew members of Sabosen. A BX appeared beside Sabosen, and Sabosen gave it the order that would doom several hundred Clones to death. The BX droid, using the Admiral's voice and name, informed the security of the ship that the intruders were making their way to the hangar to escape. The Admiral, only slightly recovering from the terror that was wrought him, looked on in anguish at what was happening. His own voice, his own name, being used to kill hundreds of his crew members in whatever way this Chiss saw fit. Sickened him.

The droid also gave the order to fire on the Defiance instead of the Crimson Flame, as part of Admiral Vale's plan. The various weapons that were not controlled on the bridge, but instead by Clone personnel, began diverting fire to the Admiral's ship. If this was his plan, then she would use the remaining Clones to her advantage.

Along with that, she contacted the Crimson Flame, and ordered them to send a full boarding force to the Imperator Star Destroyer immediately.

Finally, large amounts of Clone troopers began calling in their arrival to the hangar. At least a couple hundred checked in, how many for sure was a bit of a stretch to calculate, but a lot. So, she would give a dangerous order. From the bridge, she gave the order that the magnetic shield separating the inside of the bridge from the vacuum of space be shut off. And so it did, and the hundreds of Clones were sucked out all at once. Their corpses filling the void of space, some trying to gasp for breath in the airless vacuum. The Admiral, and the Republic crew on the bridge, saw this. And even the Admiral began to weep for the traumatic loss of life, being broken from all that had transpired. All that remained was for the full boarding force to arrive, and the ship will be theirs.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
The ship began to screech slightly as blasts from the Republic Turbo lasers collided with the shields of the ship. Sitting upon my throne, I had yet to hear back from General Grievous. But, I had heard confirmation from Sabosen, that they had secured the Republic ship on a private comm link. The ship began to shake violently as the Imperator class ship began to assail me with it's brazen weapons. "Redirect energy to shields, we need to survive long enough to sell the act." I ordered, as the droids went about the work of ensuring our own survival in this fight. The entire plan was a huge gamble, but one which I was certain would pay off. As we continued to soak up punishment from two directions, I ordered a volley of blasts to be directed at Sabosen's new Republic ship, to further sell the act. However, the attack would be ineffective at best. My droid continued to assess the developing situation as the Defiance began to take on actual damage.

"What are the condition of our shields now?" I asked, in a commanding tone.
"Shields are operating at 39% efficiency Vice Admiral." Piped up a pilot B1 Droid charged with maintaining the ships shields.

And I realized it was time to spring the trap.

Connecting myself to Sabosen, I began to speak into the Commlink.

"Sabosen, now is the time. Focus all forward guns on the nearest Republic capital ship. I will concentrate fire from the Defiance to the same targets, with the combined fire from both of our ships, we should be able to overwhelm the enemy ships by destroying them quickly, one ship at a time, rather than spread our attacks out among their line." I informed her.

I then nodded on to TND-07, who immediately took note and sent the order out. All available ships were to focus fire on the nearest target and all ships then move fire in unison to the next target so we can quickly overwhelm their defenses. I then leaned myself back, and began to wonder how my Republic counterpart would respond to our trap.

[Eridanus 3]

Admiral Corinthi
Avenger

"Incoming from points 290 and 296! We have incoming fire from proton torpedoes and..." The deck officer cursed under his breath, then took a look of shock and awe. "Sir, a friendly cruiser, known as the "Reckoning", has just vented atmosphere from it's hangars. Pings indicate friendlies were still inside. Other ships from the Crimson Flame have departed to the Reckoning. This doesn't look good sir. I paused. This changed things. "Call for three more Venator cruisers. I don't like the look of this." Another officer called out that "the Reckoning has started to tear through the Separatist reinforcements, including Admiral Vale's command ship. Our squadrons have taken light damage but we are still fully operational." I still didn't like the look of this situation. "Has the enemy ship fired at the Imperator?" The officer returned with a sharp "Affirmative sir" and continued watching the scanners. A few explosions rocked our hull. "Damage report!" came the call. "Nothing major sir, we lost two forward batteries, shields at 87% power. The ion volleys that had been launched at us did some damage, but the Praetor-class ship held its own. Suddenly, the Seps launched their attack. "Sir, the Imperator has shown its true colors, they have attacked alongside Admiral Vale!"

"Understood commander. Prepar-"

"Sir, one of our Venators has been lost." A bright explosion confirmed that report.

"Call in our Nexu-class ships. Have them prepare for a boarding action."

"Sir we lost another Venator, and our shields are a 76% and dropping at rate that is slow but significant... Orders?"

"Hail Admiral Vale on an open comm channel. I'd like to see the face of my enemy." I donned my modified Katarn-class helmet, at stared at the holocomm."Order all ships in this group to attack ships in front of us. Focus fire on the Imperator. Bring that arse down. Prepare the marines for a boarding action!"

I turned to the open comm channel.

"Admiral Vale, the man you speak to is Admiral Corinthi. I have survived many a battle, from before this great civil war. You understand I will survive and win this one as well. However, you are indeed a formidable opponent. That was quite a stunt with our ship there. Indeed, you are as good of a commander as the rumors say you are."

I eagerly awaited a response.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Jedi Temple
Arran shook her head, long lekku swinging gracefully side to side. Erin had been one of her close friends as a padawan, an Even before that. They had been in the same clan together as younglings, getting up to all sorts of mischief. Whether it was hiding another students training saber, or scaring the other initiates with stories about the Sith, they had always gotten up to something.

Now, they hardly spoke. Arrana didn't know why, or when the change happened, but after one mission, Erin was different. He was now cold, and serious, devoted entirely to the Order. He had changed.

"We should get out there, they will need our help."

The Togrutan started forward, removing the long hilt of her Sabre off her belt. Battle has come to the doors of her home, a very bad mistake.

The Jedi all began forward, save for Erin, looking about the halls, as the sounds of Battle were interrupted by the rhythmic tapping of Rhaekar's saber staff along the temples floor...

Coruscant Tunnels
Shaak Ti and Plo Koon had their blades drawn, the pale blue light illuminating the path forward. Taking so many twists, turns and doubling back more than 5 times, anyone following would surely have gotten lost by now. And even as the descended further into the Heart of Coruscant, now at least 5 Kilometers beneath the surface, they had no worry about scanners, or other forms of detection. For now, they had escaped the separatist trap, and they could relax. But only slightly.

Safe as they were down in the ancient tunnels, The Jedi Masters were always on guard, continuing their grim progress towards the Chancellor's bunker. They would have to resurface at some point, but they were still far from the safety of their allies.

Behind the trio, the two clones kept watch, visors peering through the Dark, weapons held at the ready.

And in the middle of it all, the Chancellor, looking rather small compared to the imposing Togrutan and Kel Dor, clasped his hands, and smiled a hidden smile.

Temple Gardens
The smell of burned flesh permeated the air, as the droids continued their relentless assault. Like a single minded machine their ground ahead, killing all in their path. The group tasked with assaulting the South section of the Jedi Temple had landed in the Temple Gardens, several hundred meters from the Entrance itself.

Master Neerah Vardis, and her Padawan, 16 year old Jace Laur, had been in the gardens meditating, viewing the rhythmic energies of the Force in all its beauty. The first sound was that like a hurricane as the DROID drop ships ripped across the Coruscant skyline.

And one thing lead to another

Vardis thought, deftly batting aside a blaster fire from a particular persistent B2 Battle droid. Her violet lightsaber was a fan of energy as she leapt about the garden, cutting down her foes and dodging their predictable fire. Her Padawan was close behind, the pair fighting their way towards the Temples entrance.

The injured Jace had allowed his guard to drop, giving the opening to a blaster bolt that had landed square with his shoulder. The elder Jedi made a note to remind her apprentice to perfect his defensive capabilities when the Battle was over.

The pair leaped behind a large column, and eyed the Entrance, a trail of charred droids in their wake. Legions of enemy infantry were marching in great blocks towards the Entrance, but if they were fast enough, and sneaky enough, they might be able to make it in.

"Jace," Vardis huffed, drawing her Padawan near. "Remember what I thought you. Use the Force, reorganize the light, and will yourself to disappear."

"Master, I've only been able to cloak for a few..."
Vardis silenced Jace with a look.

"Either we die out here fighting, or we trust interest force, take our chances, and take our best option. You go first."

Her apprentice nodded, pleased by his masters encouragement. With a grunt, he did it, using the Force to mask his presence, with only a blur to give away his position. It would do.

The much more practiced Neerah easily slipped into her invisible state, and began creeping get along the path, a straight line to the doors of her home.To safety. The Jedi Master counted down the meters.

200....150....100...

They were going, slowly but steadily outpacing the lumbering droids. The Master through a glance behind her, and saw fires raging across the city world. War had come to the very heart of the Republic. Her thoughts were broken by a shrill gasp, and she whipped around. Standing in the middle of the path, entirety visible, Jace looked back at where he sensed his masters should be, eyes wide.

He opened his mouth, as if to say something, but was silenced. A single blaster bolt flew from one of the droids, and landed square in his chest. The boy crumpled into a heap, tunic smoking.

Vardis almost lost her force Cloak out of sheer shock. Yet, her disciplined mind kicked into gear almost instantly. She knew that there would be a time to journey her apprentice but now was no place for it. Just 50 meters now from the main entrance, Vardis stopped her cloak, and suddenly visible, willed all her strength into her force speed. Like an arrow, she shot forward, making it into the Temple, as the droids continued to close in...

[The Starlight]

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

[The Starlight]

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

[Valloria]

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

[The Starlight]

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

Craig looked on as Baintlyffe's cousin emerged. "Indeed I was. We were best friends,"
Craig managed to whisper, wincing as the memories flashed through his head. Craig and Baintlyffe, fighting with the clones and their masters against the droids on a frozen planet. They were clearing the bridge of mines and paving a way for the clones, making a game out of who got the most 'kills'. Craig, slicing his way through dozens of droids, and then, a invisible and soundless sniper shot, which he had been extremely lucky to block, mid-slash. Baintlyffe wasn't so lucky, and his and Craig's eyes were shocked as a bolt, completely undetectable, had punched into his lung. Craig shook himself out of the memory, only to wince again, harder, at the sight of Baintlyffe's lightsabers drawn by his cousin, now clean. But he remembered the small splatters of his friend's blood on the lightsabers, staining them the color of death's wine.

He drew his own lightsabers, both green, and looked at the older Jedis, looking to see what they would say.

[Neros]

Abaddon

The powerful bounty hunter stood poised, ready to engage whatever these runts had decided was their best bet at holding him back. Of course he knew full well that no one they could call upon would defeat him, thus, Durge knew they would send someone to keep him at bay. However, the strange sensation he had hardly felt before suddenly tugged at his inner self, unlike anything akin to the Force, it was like he sensing another being - but did not recognize it as a human heartbeat. It was something all too familiar, and in his eons of rampage and century of rest, had never gotten the chance to meet another Gen'Dai.

"Do not be surprised, Durge." A scratchy, bellowing voice called out, descending down a flight of steps into the main entrance room of the Jedi Temple. "You may place your fear of death by human hands at bay - for I am no man. I am like you in one aspect, our race, but otherwise, we are night and day, dark and light, defeat and victory," The Jedi Master said, standing even taller than the bounty hunter's frame. "God damned and God blessed." Abaddon clicked his lightsaber to life, it's handle elongated to fit his hand more naturally, appearing overall to be much larger than a normal lightsaber of it's caliber, showering to the two Gen'Dai in a bath of grayish-white light - the color of his blade being silver.

"Silver, huh?" Durge asked, cracking his neck despite having no bones in which to do so. Force of habit, perhaps, "I wonder much that toy will go for on the black market. Surely Grievous could add another to his collection."

"This blade was made from a Durindfire crystal, gifted to me by Master Halcyon. It is not rare, but such representing color is unappealing to most Jedi or Sith. It defines neutrality, a sense of balance, whereas the blues, greens, and reds denote allegiance, servitude even, to their dogmas and orders without question." Abaddon said, explaining the origin of his blade to the bounty hunter - perhaps stalling for more time, perhaps wishing to brag a bit on himself. Durge met the speech with a smile and a belly full of laughter.

"You honestly think I care about such pedantics?" He said, launching into an attack at the end of his last word, hoping to catch Abaddon off guard or something, "I don't." He said, closing the distance between the two and preparing to fire a laser point-blank, only to find his midsection impaled by Abaddon's blade. The Gen'Dai said nothing and fired anyways, hitting Abaddon in his upper chest, blasting him away and his saber out of Durge's body. "You know of our kinds' abilities already, don't you? Then why even both against me." Durge began, wielding two laser pistols, both trained upon Abaddon as he came to his feet. "Simply admit defeat, and I will make your torment all the more enjoyable."

"Because, Durge, I cannot let people like you to continue in their flawed ways. Those whose loyalties remain to the highest bidder, or those who let their emotions guide them forward. You serve these Separatists - for what? Money? Revenge?" Abaddon asked, "When you can dedicate your long life to helping these people instead. Their lives are only drops in our buckets of time, and we are selfish if we were to deprive them of our age-guided wisdom."

"Then call me self-centered." Durge said, shooting at Abaddon, who blocked two of the shots in quick succession yet tanked a few more, twirling his lightsaber defensively, but producing a series of small, marble-sized metal balls from a compartment on his armor. Continuing the blaster defense, Abaddon levitated the metal shots in the air beside himself, catching the attention of Durge. The small size of the shots allowed Abaddon to exert unimaginable amounts of force behind them by forcing his Midichlorians to act as he chose.

The projectiles slammed into Durge's body, lodging themselves deep into his armor, knocking him back due to the velocity at which they hit. This surprised even Durge, as this armor was far more dense than normal metals and polymers. It was hard to imagine what this would do to a normal human, hell, even a regular Jedi. Durge jumped up to his feet once more, aiming his Gatling gauntlet at Abaddon, firing a quick series of metal spikes at the Jedi, impacting and lodging themselves in his armor without much complaint. Abaddon attempted to wave them away, but many came through anyways. In a sudden instant, they stopped though, and Abaddon was preparing to make a rapid counter, only to find Durge holding up a single finger.

The visors covering the bounty hunter's eyes seemed to blink and flash - apparently he was telling the Jedi Master to hold on a second while he read a new message of some sort. The Jedi Master shrugged, wondering what kind of trickery this was. Readying a combat stance either ways, Abaddon grasped his saber in two hands, charging at the Gen'Dai regardless of a new order. Durge suddenly returned to the fight as well, firing another series of metal spikes, many more impacting Abaddon as Durge jumped backwards to avoid the Jedi's fearsome swings and slices.

"Allow me to explain for a moment." Durge said, producing three small spheres, holding them between each of his fingers. "Or rather, I'll explain on the way." He said, tossing all of them at Abaddon with astonding speed, forcing him to dodge or tank them, whatever they were, and he easily chose the latter. "There is a large bid for your life, Jedi." Abaddon was surprised for a moment, but the impact of the three spheres sent him instantly to his knees. Electricity flowed and surged through his body - the metal spikes embedded into his armor acting as direct conduits for the waves upon waves of electric impulses. "Someone wants you alive, and I will provide them with you. A much more fitter punishment for one of my own kind, no?"

Abaddon struggled to move, the electricity preventing his neurons from firing and causing him to simply lay on the floor, absolutely rigid. Durge spoke over him, preparing to grab the massive Jedi. "You honestly didn't think I never knew how to fight one of my own kind, did you?" Durge inquired, a sickening question, but the last Abaddon heard before finally succumbing to the electricity, blacking out completely.

[Bearon]

Jedi Temple
Arran shook her head, long lekku swinging gracefully side to side. Erin had been one of her close friends as a padawan, an Even before that. They had been in the same clan together as younglings, getting up to all sorts of mischief. Whether it was hiding another students training saber, or scaring the other initiates with stories about the Sith, they had always gotten up to something.

Now, they hardly spoke. Arrana didn't know why, or when the change happened, but after one mission, Erin was different. He was now cold, and serious, devoted entirely to the Order. He had changed.

"We should get out there, they will need our help."

The Togrutan started forward, removing the long hilt of her Sabre off her belt. Battle has come to the doors of her home, a very bad mistake.

The Jedi all began forward, save for Erin, looking about the halls, as the sounds of Battle were interrupted by the rhythmic tapping of Rhaekar's saber staff along the temples floor...

Coruscant Tunnels
Shaak Ti and Plo Koon had their blades drawn, the pale blue light illuminating the path forward. Taking so many twists, turns and doubling back more than 5 times, anyone following would surely have gotten lost by now. And even as the descended further into the Heart of Coruscant, now at least 5 Kilometers beneath the surface, they had no worry about scanners, or other forms of detection. For now, they had escaped the separatist trap, and they could relax. But only slightly.

Safe as they were down in the ancient tunnels, The Jedi Masters were always on guard, continuing their grim progress towards the Chancellor's bunker. They would have to resurface at some point, but they were still far from the safety of their allies.

Behind the trio, the two clones kept watch, visors peering through the Dark, weapons held at the ready.

And in the middle of it all, the Chancellor, looking rather small compared to the imposing Togrutan and Kel Dor, clasped his hands, and smiled a hidden smile.

Temple Gardens
The smell of burned flesh permeated the air, as the droids continued their relentless assault. Like a single minded machine their ground ahead, killing all in their path. The group tasked with assaulting the South section of the Jedi Temple had landed in the Temple Gardens, several hundred meters from the Entrance itself.

Master Neerah Vardis, and her Padawan, 16 year old Jace Laur, had been in the gardens meditating, viewing the rhythmic energies of the Force in all its beauty. The first sound was that like a hurricane as the DROID drop ships ripped across the Coruscant skyline.

And one thing lead to another

Vardis thought, deftly batting aside a blaster fire from a particular persistent B2 Battle droid. Her violet lightsaber was a fan of energy as she leapt about the garden, cutting down her foes and dodging their predictable fire. Her Padawan was close behind, the pair fighting their way towards the Temples entrance.

The injured Jace had allowed his guard to drop, giving the opening to a blaster bolt that had landed square with his shoulder. The elder Jedi made a note to remind her apprentice to perfect his defensive capabilities when the Battle was over.

The pair leaped behind a large column, and eyed the Entrance, a trail of charred droids in their wake. Legions of enemy infantry were marching in great blocks towards the Entrance, but if they were fast enough, and sneaky enough, they might be able to make it in.

"Jace," Vardis huffed, drawing her Padawan near. "Remember what I thought you. Use the Force, reorganize the light, and will yourself to disappear."

"Master, I've only been able to cloak for a few..."
Vardis silenced Jace with a look.

"Either we die out here fighting, or we trust interest force, take our chances, and take our best option. You go first."

Her apprentice nodded, pleased by his masters encouragement. With a grunt, he did it, using the Force to mask his presence, with only a blur to give away his position. It would do.

The much more practiced Neerah easily slipped into her invisible state, and began creeping get along the path, a straight line to the doors of her home.To safety. The Jedi Master counted down the meters.

200....150....100...

They were going, slowly but steadily outpacing the lumbering droids. The Master through a glance behind her, and saw fires raging across the city world. War had come to the very heart of the Republic. Her thoughts were broken by a shrill gasp, and she whipped around. Standing in the middle of the path, entirety visible, Jace looked back at where he sensed his masters should be, eyes wide.

He opened his mouth, as if to say something, but was silenced. A single blaster bolt flew from one of the droids, and landed square in his chest. The boy crumpled into a heap, tunic smoking.

Vardis almost lost her force Cloak out of sheer shock. Yet, her disciplined mind kicked into gear almost instantly. She knew that there would be a time to journey her apprentice but now was no place for it. Just 50 meters now from the main entrance, Vardis stopped her cloak, and suddenly visible, willed all her strength into her force speed. Like an arrow, she shot forward, making it into the Temple, as the droids continued to close in...

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

Craig looked on as Baintlyffe's cousin emerged. "Indeed I was. We were best friends,"
Craig managed to whisper, wincing as the memories flashed through his head. Craig and Baintlyffe, fighting with the clones and their masters against the droids on a frozen planet. They were clearing the bridge of mines and paving a way for the clones, making a game out of who got the most 'kills'. Craig, slicing his way through dozens of droids, and then, a invisible and soundless sniper shot, which he had been extremely lucky to block, mid-slash. Baintlyffe wasn't so lucky, and his and Craig's eyes were shocked as a bolt, completely undetectable, had punched into his lung. Craig shook himself out of the memory, only to wince again, harder, at the sight of Baintlyffe's lightsabers drawn by his cousin, now clean. But he remembered the small splatters of his friend's blood on the lightsabers, staining them the color of death's wine.

He drew his own lightsabers, both green, and looked at the older Jedis, looking to see what they would say.

Erin just stood in the same spot staring intently at a spot between his feet as his fellow knights strode confidently towards the temple entrance. The two Jedi seemed to hesitate and half turned around as if about to question why he wasn't following them. Opening his mouth to explain the situation Erin's jaw slowly closed as a Padawan entered the hallways and proceeded to drift near their little group seeming not to notice them until he was in their midst. The young Padawan looked up in confusion "Hello there. What's going on outside?" The response Erin had prepared for his fellow knights had been completely erased from his mind as he tried to process what series of events might had led to the Padawan not hearing the instructions that had been announced over the temple intercom. Erin had finally come to the conclusion that the Padawan had been in deep meditation beforehand and because of this had not heard the announcement when he heard the shocking reply leave Arrana's mouth. "We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence." Erin's eye twitched at that and the thoughts in his mind raced furiously "What was she thinking?! The boy could hardly be older then 14 or 15 and was likely not even trained for combat." Just as Erin was about to choke out a furious retort as to why allowing a mere teenager to fight on a battlefield was an idiotic decision another Padawan showed up this one walking with a swaggering and confident gait. He proceeded to announce his intentions to fight on the battlefield citing how dishonorable it would be not to and a moment later the other Padawan after hesitating briefly seemed ready to follow him. Regaining his breath Erin held out a hand freezing the two Padawan's in place. It wasn't meant to actually keep them from moving and they could likely free themselves if they wanted to but he had decided that a firm hand was needed to get his point across "Excuse me Padawans but if you were unaware this isn't some training scenario with Master Yoda or one of the games you play with your fellow apprentices. This is a battlefield where there are lives at stake." Looking to Arrana he continues on "I'm surprised at you suggesting that a mere teen be allowed to participate on a battlefield when our orders were made clear by the Council. We are to stay here and protect the younglings while we await reinforcements. Master Abaddon and the clones are handling the defenses as of now and onc-" Erin's face contorted visibly as he paused mid sentence before continuing on "And if Master Abaddon falls we along with the other knights and masters are the temple's last line of defense.

[Mifan]

Orbit over Courscant

"Sir! Multiple Vulture Droids are inbound!" Johnson looked at the scanner and saw a large number of fighters heading his way. "Order the fighters to deploy and engage them! I want them eliminated!" The crew jumped to it and the hangers began to open, showing the interior of the Venators. "Activate shields over the main hanger. Keep them from hitting our interior until all the fighters are deployed!" He looked on his scanners at the rest of his small force. His ships were doing ok against the CIS ships, due to them being more modern, but with all focus on their Lucrehulk, they were at risk of being flanked. "Order six of our Venators to focus all of their resources to defend our flanks, I don't want to be flanks in the middle of the battle!" Orders were sent through the comms as six of the venators were changing their positions in order to defend the main force. Johnson looked from the bridge at the fighters leaving the hangers, and once all of the fighters had left the hangers, he closed them. "All fighter squadrons, enter attack formation and eliminate those vultures." "Yes sir." He watched as the fighters entered formation and began combat with the vultures.

Looking on the scanners, he saw one of his Venators explode on his right flank, from the number of CIS ships combating them. I should've deployed more ships on the flank. We are too weak there. If they notice it, then I risk losing my whole fleet. If we can take out this Lucrehulk, then they have nothing to stop us from hitting their rear with everything we have. Either way, this battle won't end with them on the wining side... even of I lose my ships.

Jedi Temple

Jedi Temple
Arran shook her head, long lekku swinging gracefully side to side. Erin had been one of her close friends as a padawan, an Even before that. They had been in the same clan together as younglings, getting up to all sorts of mischief. Whether it was hiding another students training saber, or scaring the other initiates with stories about the Sith, they had always gotten up to something.

Now, they hardly spoke. Arrana didn't know why, or when the change happened, but after one mission, Erin was different. He was now cold, and serious, devoted entirely to the Order. He had changed.

"We should get out there, they will need our help."

The Togrutan started forward, removing the long hilt of her Sabre off her belt. Battle has come to the doors of her home, a very bad mistake.

The Jedi all began forward, save for Erin, looking about the halls, as the sounds of Battle were interrupted by the rhythmic tapping of Rhaekar's saber staff along the temples floor...

Coruscant Tunnels
Shaak Ti and Plo Koon had their blades drawn, the pale blue light illuminating the path forward. Taking so many twists, turns and doubling back more than 5 times, anyone following would surely have gotten lost by now. And even as the descended further into the Heart of Coruscant, now at least 5 Kilometers beneath the surface, they had no worry about scanners, or other forms of detection. For now, they had escaped the separatist trap, and they could relax. But only slightly.

Safe as they were down in the ancient tunnels, The Jedi Masters were always on guard, continuing their grim progress towards the Chancellor's bunker. They would have to resurface at some point, but they were still far from the safety of their allies.

Behind the trio, the two clones kept watch, visors peering through the Dark, weapons held at the ready.

And in the middle of it all, the Chancellor, looking rather small compared to the imposing Togrutan and Kel Dor, clasped his hands, and smiled a hidden smile.

Temple Gardens
The smell of burned flesh permeated the air, as the droids continued their relentless assault. Like a single minded machine their ground ahead, killing all in their path. The group tasked with assaulting the South section of the Jedi Temple had landed in the Temple Gardens, several hundred meters from the Entrance itself.

Master Neerah Vardis, and her Padawan, 16 year old Jace Laur, had been in the gardens meditating, viewing the rhythmic energies of the Force in all its beauty. The first sound was that like a hurricane as the DROID drop ships ripped across the Coruscant skyline.

And one thing lead to another

Vardis thought, deftly batting aside a blaster fire from a particular persistent B2 Battle droid. Her violet lightsaber was a fan of energy as she leapt about the garden, cutting down her foes and dodging their predictable fire. Her Padawan was close behind, the pair fighting their way towards the Temples entrance.

The injured Jace had allowed his guard to drop, giving the opening to a blaster bolt that had landed square with his shoulder. The elder Jedi made a note to remind her apprentice to perfect his defensive capabilities when the Battle was over.

The pair leaped behind a large column, and eyed the Entrance, a trail of charred droids in their wake. Legions of enemy infantry were marching in great blocks towards the Entrance, but if they were fast enough, and sneaky enough, they might be able to make it in.

"Jace," Vardis huffed, drawing her Padawan near. "Remember what I thought you. Use the Force, reorganize the light, and will yourself to disappear."

"Master, I've only been able to cloak for a few..."
Vardis silenced Jace with a look.

"Either we die out here fighting, or we trust interest force, take our chances, and take our best option. You go first."

Her apprentice nodded, pleased by his masters encouragement. With a grunt, he did it, using the Force to mask his presence, with only a blur to give away his position. It would do.

The much more practiced Neerah easily slipped into her invisible state, and began creeping get along the path, a straight line to the doors of her home.To safety. The Jedi Master counted down the meters.

200....150....100...

They were going, slowly but steadily outpacing the lumbering droids. The Master through a glance behind her, and saw fires raging across the city world. War had come to the very heart of the Republic. Her thoughts were broken by a shrill gasp, and she whipped around. Standing in the middle of the path, entirety visible, Jace looked back at where he sensed his masters should be, eyes wide.

He opened his mouth, as if to say something, but was silenced. A single blaster bolt flew from one of the droids, and landed square in his chest. The boy crumpled into a heap, tunic smoking.

Vardis almost lost her force Cloak out of sheer shock. Yet, her disciplined mind kicked into gear almost instantly. She knew that there would be a time to journey her apprentice but now was no place for it. Just 50 meters now from the main entrance, Vardis stopped her cloak, and suddenly visible, willed all her strength into her force speed. Like an arrow, she shot forward, making it into the Temple, as the droids continued to close in...

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

Craig looked on as Baintlyffe's cousin emerged. "Indeed I was. We were best friends,"
Craig managed to whisper, wincing as the memories flashed through his head. Craig and Baintlyffe, fighting with the clones and their masters against the droids on a frozen planet. They were clearing the bridge of mines and paving a way for the clones, making a game out of who got the most 'kills'. Craig, slicing his way through dozens of droids, and then, a invisible and soundless sniper shot, which he had been extremely lucky to block, mid-slash. Baintlyffe wasn't so lucky, and his and Craig's eyes were shocked as a bolt, completely undetectable, had punched into his lung. Craig shook himself out of the memory, only to wince again, harder, at the sight of Baintlyffe's lightsabers drawn by his cousin, now clean. But he remembered the small splatters of his friend's blood on the lightsabers, staining them the color of death's wine.

He drew his own lightsabers, both green, and looked at the older Jedis, looking to see what they would say.

Erin didn't move even as his fellow knights strode confidently towards the battlefield. They seemed to hesitate as if about to question why he hadn't moved. Opening his mouth to explain the situation Erin was interrupted as a Padawan entered the hallways and proceeded to drift into the group of Jedi knights that had assembled there. The young Padawan looked up seemingly confused before asking "Hello there. What's going on outside?" The response Erin had prepared for his fellow knights had been completely erased from his mind as he tried to process what series of events might had led to the Padawan not hearing the instructions that had been announced over the temple intercom. Erin had finally come to the conclusion that the Padawan had been in deep meditation beforehand and because of this had not heard the announcement when he heard the shocking reply leave Arrana's mouth. "That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence." Erin's eye twitched at that. "What was she thinking?! The boy could hardly be older then 6 or 7 years olds and was likely not even trained for combat." Just as Erin was about to choke out a furious retort as to why allowing a Padawan who couldn't be older then 6 or 7 to fight on a battlefield was an idiotic decision another Padawan showed up this one walking with a swaggering and confident gait. He proceeded to announce his intentions to fight on the battlefield citing how dishonorable it would be not to and a moment later the other Padawan after hesitating briefly seemed ready to follow him. Regaining his breath Erin held out a hand freezing the two Padawan's in place. It wasn't meant to actually hold them in place and they could likely free themselves if they wanted to but he had decided that a firm hand was needed to get his point across "Excuse me Padawans but if you were unaware this isn't some training scenario with Master Yoda or one of the games you play during break. This is a battlefield and there are lives at stake." Looking to Arrana he continues on "I'm surprised at you suggesting that a child of not even 10 be allowed to participate on a battlefield when our orders were made clear by the Council. We are to stay here and protect the younglings while we await reinforcements. Master Abaddon and the clones are handling the defenses as of now and onc-" Erin's face contorted visibly as he paused mid sentence before continuing on "if Master Abaddon falls we along with the other knights and masters are the temple's last line of defense.

Michael looked upon the group of Jedi as they spoke to the Padawans. He wasn't surprised that they wanted to fight, but he was surprised that the youngling actually wanted to. He should've been taken somewhere safe by now, not near where the combat was. When the two actually began to walk towards the fight, he felt the need to go along with them and defend the temple, but he restrained himself. While he was great at fighting with his lightsabers, he knew that fighting the droid army alone wouldn't bring victory for them. As he looked at Jedi speak, he wondered how they would actually approach the situation. Personally he wanted to fight, not here, but using the Temple to their advantage, as the Temple halls and interior would limit the Droid Army's capabilities. Regardless, he would let the knights and masters figure out a plan of action.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"

Admiral Corinthi
Avenger

"Incoming from points 290 and 296! We have incoming fire from proton torpedoes and..." The deck officer cursed under his breath, then took a look of shock and awe. "Sir, a friendly cruiser, known as the "Reckoning", has just vented atmosphere from it's hangars. Pings indicate friendlies were still inside. Other ships from the Crimson Flame have departed to the Reckoning. This doesn't look good sir. I paused. This changed things. "Call for three more Venator cruisers. I don't like the look of this." Another officer called out that "the Reckoning has started to tear through the Separatist reinforcements, including Admiral Vale's command ship. Our squadrons have taken light damage but we are still fully operational." I still didn't like the look of this situation. "Has the enemy ship fired at the Imperator?" The officer returned with a sharp "Affirmative sir" and continued watching the scanners. A few explosions rocked our hull. "Damage report!" came the call. "Nothing major sir, we lost two forward batteries, shields at 87% power. The ion volleys that had been launched at us did some damage, but the Praetor-class ship held its own. Suddenly, the Seps launched their attack. "Sir, the Imperator has shown its true colors, they have attacked alongside Admiral Vale!"

"Understood commander. Prepar-"

"Sir, one of our Venators has been lost." A bright explosion confirmed that report.

"Call in our Nexu-class ships. Have them prepare for a boarding action."

"Sir we lost another Venator, and our shields are a 76% and dropping at rate that is slow but significant... Orders?"

"Hail Admiral Vale on an open comm channel. I'd like to see the face of my enemy." I donned my modified Katarn-class helmet, at stared at the holocomm."Order all ships in this group to attack ships in front of us. Focus fire on the Imperator. Bring that arse down. Prepare the marines for a boarding action!"

I turned to the open comm channel.

"Admiral Vale, the man you speak to is Admiral Corinthi. I have survived many a battle, from before this great civil war. You understand I will survive and win this one as well. However, you are indeed a formidable opponent. That was quite a stunt with our ship there. Indeed, you are as good of a commander as the rumors say you are."

I eagerly awaited a response.

I sat in the command chair as the battle blazed around us. Seeing that the enemy flagship, was indeed a Praetor class vessel, a brand new design and twice as large as my own flagship or the Imperator ship which Sabosen had just captured. But, between the two ships we should have enough firepower, combined with the support vessels to hold the mighty 4,000 meter long Praetor at bay so we can hold the line and escape from here. My ship rocked as alarms began to go off, warning of damage being sustained to the ships hull, as the enemy began to punch through some parts of the shield. I calmly maintained an icy stare across the battle space between us. With the sizes of our ships, and the flashes of turbo lasers we dont seem very far at all, but in reality, we are miles away from each other, which is normally considered point blank range in many naval battles. AS it is very rare for naval ships to get close enough for broadsides these days. But due to the sheer amount of ships fighting in orbit, this day was one of those exceptions.

I was then notified by TND-07 that we were receiving a hail from a Republic ship. I looked over at the droid curious.
"The ship Sabosen captured?" It immediately clarified.
"No Vice Admiral, the Praetor Class ship ahead of us. It seems the enemy Admiral would like to get in touch with you. Should I patch the meatbag through Vice Admiral?" TND-07 inquired in his calculating tone.

I considered the possibilities of what he would like to discuss. Then after a quick moment of deciding, managed to throw a joke out in the middle of a life and death battle.

"Of course, patch him through. Perhaps he wants to negotiate the terms of his surrender." I jested, to the subtle amusement of the command deck, well, those who were not droids anyways.

Standing up, to follow traditional protocol. I presented myself in full form to the opposing Admiral. Who for some reason I could not fathom, was wearing what seemed to be a Clone's Helmet. In sharp contrast to myself, who was dressed in a fine grey uniform, with golden trim and buttons as well as three golden cords stretched across my chest. My brown belt fastened snugly across my waist, ranks insignia shown boldly in gold upon my shoulders atop a shoulder cape that was wrapped neatly upon my upper body, with one gold and silver Confederate medal, displayed proudly on the left breast. The picture of what seemed to be a very Aristocratic Officer was completed by a ceremonial blaster pistol attached to my right hip and a Vice Admiral's cover upon my head, also displayed with my rank on it's center.

All of these fine tailored uniform around a myself, who wore them with a somewhat pale and clean shaven facial expression. Suggesting that my health was not ideal and the slightly noticeable sunken bags beneath my eyes and my neatly trimmed and cut hair. The ideal appearance of a superior officer of a civilized force.

I listened attentively to my counter parts compliments but took a sharp offense to his calling this conflict a 'Civil War' as we are clearly not fighting for the overthrow of the Republic, but for our rights to Independence. However, forgiving such an oversight I listened to what he had to say, which basically amounted to a compliment of my abilities and boasting of his own. A conversation I had little inclination or desire to continue, seeing as it held no tactical or strategic merit. Awaiting my turn to speak, I addressed the Republic Admiral.

"Admiral Corinthi, as a fellow naval officer I appreciate your praise. However, I believe you find yourself mistaken. This is no Civil War, as you claim. But a war for the Independence of our worlds. But of course, such a topic has no place in the cold space of battle. We both know that this battle will end in the Republic's favor, but I would like for you to remember my name. The one whom you could not stop here today, and who will get away from your grasp to fight your aggression across the Galaxy." I stated, preparing to shut the line down, when TND-07 informed me of critical information. "Vice Admiral the Republic Venators attacking the rear Lucrehulk Flight had exposed their flank, as they had just lost one of their Venators. Should we exploit this Vice Admiral?" I then allowed a smile to creep across my pale face. Then turned that smile at the enemy Admiral.

"Allow me to demonstrate. One of your junior officers have made what could be a fatal mistake. As we both know that such mistakes in naval warfare can have severe repercussions. Observe as I deploy my own forces to collapse his flank, ensuring our escape route out of the system." I finished the conversation but kept the link open. So the enemy Admiral can see the assault in person.

I then nodded to TND-07 who promptly took command of the situation. "Alpha and Delta Vulture Groups, move in on the Republic Venator flank! Recusant Section Beta support the attack!" The droid screeched aboard the bridge.

I thought to myself that the flanking force alone would be able to exploit the weakness, but not wipe the entire line out. The assault force consists of only around 63 Vultures and 2 Recusants. But, it should be enough to pose a significant threat when combined with the CIS ships that are already engaged against them. And whatever forces do survive, my own fleet will be able to sweep aside once we leave.

This flanking attack is simply meant to weaken the escape hatch before I batter it down. On the other end however, it also serves as a possible diversion for Admiral Corinthi. I want to test this man, see where his priorities lie. If he weakens his own forces by sending elements of his fleet to save those Republic Venators, then he exposes himself to me and Sabosen. However, should he abandon his subordinate, then he ensures our easy escape and perhaps loses the trust of his men. Either way, he loses and I stand to gain.

I then turned my attention back to Admiral Corinthi. With a passive aggressive tone.

"So, what will it be Admiral? Risk yourself and ensure the survival of those ships? Or leave them to die and perhaps be able to finish me off here? What will you do?" I taunted. Knowing that even though his side will win this battle, he will feel like he lost to me. But, whatever he done it mattered little concerning our escape. We arrived here via a secret hyper space lane, and worst case scenario is that we can leave though there as well.

[Valloria]

Jedi Temple
Arran shook her head, long lekku swinging gracefully side to side. Erin had been one of her close friends as a padawan, an Even before that. They had been in the same clan together as younglings, getting up to all sorts of mischief. Whether it was hiding another students training saber, or scaring the other initiates with stories about the Sith, they had always gotten up to something.

Now, they hardly spoke. Arrana didn't know why, or when the change happened, but after one mission, Erin was different. He was now cold, and serious, devoted entirely to the Order. He had changed.

"We should get out there, they will need our help."

The Togrutan started forward, removing the long hilt of her Sabre off her belt. Battle has come to the doors of her home, a very bad mistake.

The Jedi all began forward, save for Erin, looking about the halls, as the sounds of Battle were interrupted by the rhythmic tapping of Rhaekar's saber staff along the temples floor...

Coruscant Tunnels
Shaak Ti and Plo Koon had their blades drawn, the pale blue light illuminating the path forward. Taking so many twists, turns and doubling back more than 5 times, anyone following would surely have gotten lost by now. And even as the descended further into the Heart of Coruscant, now at least 5 Kilometers beneath the surface, they had no worry about scanners, or other forms of detection. For now, they had escaped the separatist trap, and they could relax. But only slightly.

Safe as they were down in the ancient tunnels, The Jedi Masters were always on guard, continuing their grim progress towards the Chancellor's bunker. They would have to resurface at some point, but they were still far from the safety of their allies.

Behind the trio, the two clones kept watch, visors peering through the Dark, weapons held at the ready.

And in the middle of it all, the Chancellor, looking rather small compared to the imposing Togrutan and Kel Dor, clasped his hands, and smiled a hidden smile.

Temple Gardens
The smell of burned flesh permeated the air, as the droids continued their relentless assault. Like a single minded machine their ground ahead, killing all in their path. The group tasked with assaulting the South section of the Jedi Temple had landed in the Temple Gardens, several hundred meters from the Entrance itself.

Master Neerah Vardis, and her Padawan, 16 year old Jace Laur, had been in the gardens meditating, viewing the rhythmic energies of the Force in all its beauty. The first sound was that like a hurricane as the DROID drop ships ripped across the Coruscant skyline.

And one thing lead to another

Vardis thought, deftly batting aside a blaster fire from a particular persistent B2 Battle droid. Her violet lightsaber was a fan of energy as she leapt about the garden, cutting down her foes and dodging their predictable fire. Her Padawan was close behind, the pair fighting their way towards the Temples entrance.

The injured Jace had allowed his guard to drop, giving the opening to a blaster bolt that had landed square with his shoulder. The elder Jedi made a note to remind her apprentice to perfect his defensive capabilities when the Battle was over.

The pair leaped behind a large column, and eyed the Entrance, a trail of charred droids in their wake. Legions of enemy infantry were marching in great blocks towards the Entrance, but if they were fast enough, and sneaky enough, they might be able to make it in.

"Jace," Vardis huffed, drawing her Padawan near. "Remember what I thought you. Use the Force, reorganize the light, and will yourself to disappear."

"Master, I've only been able to cloak for a few..."
Vardis silenced Jace with a look.

"Either we die out here fighting, or we trust interest force, take our chances, and take our best option. You go first."

Her apprentice nodded, pleased by his masters encouragement. With a grunt, he did it, using the Force to mask his presence, with only a blur to give away his position. It would do.

The much more practiced Neerah easily slipped into her invisible state, and began creeping get along the path, a straight line to the doors of her home.To safety. The Jedi Master counted down the meters.

200....150....100...

They were going, slowly but steadily outpacing the lumbering droids. The Master through a glance behind her, and saw fires raging across the city world. War had come to the very heart of the Republic. Her thoughts were broken by a shrill gasp, and she whipped around. Standing in the middle of the path, entirety visible, Jace looked back at where he sensed his masters should be, eyes wide.

He opened his mouth, as if to say something, but was silenced. A single blaster bolt flew from one of the droids, and landed square in his chest. The boy crumpled into a heap, tunic smoking.

Vardis almost lost her force Cloak out of sheer shock. Yet, her disciplined mind kicked into gear almost instantly. She knew that there would be a time to journey her apprentice but now was no place for it. Just 50 meters now from the main entrance, Vardis stopped her cloak, and suddenly visible, willed all her strength into her force speed. Like an arrow, she shot forward, making it into the Temple, as the droids continued to close in...

Jedi Temple

Craig walked the halls, his two lightsabers on his sides, looking for something to do, or someone. He had finished meditating, and he still wasn't sure what to do about his future. So he wandered the halls, trying to find something to do, to keep his mind of his poor friend, Baintyffle. So he attempted to clear his mind and open himself to the Force, letting it guide him, as Master Yoda had always said. The halls seemed empty, and no one had told him where he was supposed to be and what was going on. Where was his Master? Craig wondered, turning the hall and almost bumping into Arrana, before he sensed her and quickly moved to the side. "Hello there. What's going on outside?" Craig asked, looking up.

Arrana looked at the younger Jedi, slightly confused. Rhaekar snorted slightly. Another explosion echoed through the venerated halls of the Temple.

The Togrutan smiled sarcastically , pointing a long red finger in the direction of the sound.

"That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence."

Letting words hang interest air for a few seconds, the Jedi Knight began to move forward once more, hand readying her saber.

Craig shrugged. "I guess I'll stick with you guys and help defend our home. Where to?" he asked, hands itching closer to his lightsabers as the explosions continued. He may not agree with everything the Jedi has done in this war, but he wouldn't let the place where he had been raised, his home for most of his life be destroyed. He would fight.

Suddenly, a door none of them knew existed hissed open and out stepped a boy, small in stature, obviously very young, but with a sheen in his eyes that would remind someone of a person that had experienced far too much in his life. The young boy, now being stared at by compatriots before him, felt his mouth stretch into a wide grin. You're Craig. My cousin told me about you. You were a friend of his, no? I of course refer to Baintlyffe in this context." Not waiting for a response, he turned as he heard sabers clashing and blasters firing in the background. Noticing the battle playing out at the other end of the hall, voice full of snark, "I presume that it would be dishonorable to walk the other way? Then perhaps we should 'get a move on', as they say." He proceeded to draw Baintlyffe's lightsabers (which had been given to him upon his cousin's death) and rush towards the firefight. Turning around to the others, his voice beckoning, "Gentlemen? The battle's this way."

Craig looked on as Baintlyffe's cousin emerged. "Indeed I was. We were best friends,"
Craig managed to whisper, wincing as the memories flashed through his head. Craig and Baintlyffe, fighting with the clones and their masters against the droids on a frozen planet. They were clearing the bridge of mines and paving a way for the clones, making a game out of who got the most 'kills'. Craig, slicing his way through dozens of droids, and then, a invisible and soundless sniper shot, which he had been extremely lucky to block, mid-slash. Baintlyffe wasn't so lucky, and his and Craig's eyes were shocked as a bolt, completely undetectable, had punched into his lung. Craig shook himself out of the memory, only to wince again, harder, at the sight of Baintlyffe's lightsabers drawn by his cousin, now clean. But he remembered the small splatters of his friend's blood on the lightsabers, staining them the color of death's wine.

He drew his own lightsabers, both green, and looked at the older Jedis, looking to see what they would say.

Erin didn't move even as his fellow knights strode confidently towards the battlefield. They seemed to hesitate as if about to question why he hadn't moved. Opening his mouth to explain the situation Erin was interrupted as a Padawan entered the hallways and proceeded to drift into the group of Jedi knights that had assembled there. The young Padawan looked up seemingly confused before asking "Hello there. What's going on outside?" The response Erin had prepared for his fellow knights had been completely erased from his mind as he tried to process what series of events might had led to the Padawan not hearing the instructions that had been announced over the temple intercom. Erin had finally come to the conclusion that the Padawan had been in deep meditation beforehand and because of this had not heard the announcement when he heard the shocking reply leave Arrana's mouth. "That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence." Erin's eye twitched at that. "What was she thinking?! The boy could hardly be older then 6 or 7 years olds and was likely not even trained for combat." Just as Erin was about to choke out a furious retort as to why allowing a Padawan who couldn't be older then 6 or 7 to fight on a battlefield was an idiotic decision another Padawan showed up this one walking with a swaggering and confident gait. He proceeded to announce his intentions to fight on the battlefield citing how dishonorable it would be not to and a moment later the other Padawan after hesitating briefly seemed ready to follow him. Regaining his breath Erin held out a hand freezing the two Padawan's in place. It wasn't meant to actually hold them in place and they could likely free themselves if they wanted to but he had decided that a firm hand was needed to get his point across "Excuse me Padawans but if you were unaware this isn't some training scenario with Master Yoda or one of the games you play during break. This is a battlefield and there are lives at stake." Looking to Arrana he continues on "I'm surprised at you suggesting that a child of not even 10 be allowed to participate on a battlefield when our orders were made clear by the Council. We are to stay here and protect the younglings while we await reinforcements. Master Abaddon and the clones are handling the defenses as of now and onc-" Erin's face contorted visibly as he paused mid sentence before continuing on "if Master Abaddon falls we along with the other knights and masters are the temple's last line of defense.

Roderick snapped his fingers and released himself from Erin's bonds. "My cousin, not much younger than I, perished while defending Chrysaor. A blaster bolt struck him in the lung and he died of complications during surgery. I'll be damned before I just let another of Dooku's goons slaughter my compatriots. And whether you condone it or not, I will be on the front lines. I am not so foolish as my cousin not to learn defensive positions. I've improved myself. It is not so much to do that I am incapable." Roderick proceeded to Force jump up on to the wall, then carrying out several complex acrobatics to demonstrate his skill, finally scurrying away to join the battle.

[Western Imperial Union]

Selvin watched the fighting from a high rise. The former owners of the room had been very hospitable to allow Selvin to stay here. The young couple hadn't even made a sound when he had skewered them after they had opened the door. That was an invitation if ever he had heard one.

From where he was he could watch the conflict unfold. The Jedi temple itself was under siege. What a perfect opportunity for him to slip in unnoticed. He was at the bas of temple within an hour and fighting could be heard above him. Waiting for no one to be paying him attention he quickly sliced open a grate over a service tunnel leading under the temple itself.

Making his way quickly toward what he assumed was a room of some kind he cut open another grate and slipped in the shadows of the room. A few young lingo were on the far side of the room. He slid into the hall on the other side and attempted to regain his bearings. The hall was empty. And the battle could be heard outside. After a short time he found the repulsorlift that would take him up the central tower. He breathed deeply and hoped that these halls would also be empty.

He stepped out and ducked behind the nearest table. This room too was empty and he grinned at his immense success. The attack on the temple been perfect for him after all. He found his way to the stairs and quietly made his way to the next floor, ancient texts.

Again the room was empty. Two guards stood on the other side of the room from him but they were far more interested in the battle outside. Selvin made his way to the Sith documents and opened the two sacks he had with him and began grabbing as many of the data chips as he could. When the sacks were full he pulled out a small object and connected it to the mainframe itself. He found more sith teachings and copied them as quickly as possible. He then deleted any mention of the files he took. Without a hitch he made his way back down to the repulsor lifts and began the descent. Hopefully he could leave the same way he had come in and with no one noticing him.

[Treko]

Dieau Fehel-Bounty Hunter-Aboard the "Defiance"

A sigh of disbelief came from Dieau as he raised his head from his knees and looked at the Mandalorian armor that sat opposite of him. All he could in that "T" visor was the creature that had killed him in his night terrors. This terror that was just a dream had held onto him all the way into the material plane of existence. Eyes still were black and the hand mark was larger with a red and black tint. Night terrors were frequent with him, but this was the first time something like this was happened and it was very worrisome. Dieau, a hardened warrior, could not stand to be by himself at this point in time. With his eyes reddened from crying he arose and picked up his armor before leaving the restroom. He quickly cleaned out the armor before strapping it back onto himself. Since the armor had been with him most of his life he was able to get all of it on in under 5 minutes. Usually, if he was lucky, he could strap it all on in a matter or a minute or so. Though, Dieau wasn't very much in the mood to beat his own record.

After the final strap was snapped into place on his boot he arose from the bed. He looked back and the helmet was still in the same spot where he put to equip himself. The helmet still stared at him, but something was off about it and it frightened Dieau. It was something he couldn't put into words, but he cleared his mind and picked up the helmet. He put the helmet under his arm before waving his hand past the door sensor and leaving his quarters. Halfway down the hall a rumble shook the ship, but Dieau held himself in place before giving one final look at the helmet and sliding it on. The HUD quickly shot on and began to give update as Dieau began make his way to the bridge. It seemed that the CIS was getting themselves whooped heavily, but any person with knowledge of strategy could see it was a ruse.

When the large doors to the bridge were in sight Dieau made sure that his neck guard was able to hide the hand mark. After the quick adjustment was done he let the sensor scan him before entering. It seemed the Vice-Admiral was preoccupied with something else. By the looks of the chat it was between Vale and the Republic Admiral. The scene was quite entertaining due to Vale attacking the Republic flank and the ultimatum he gave almost made Dieau laugh at the Republic admiral. After taking in what he could from the chat and the holo-maps Dieau took his place behind Vale and only gave a nod before keeping quiet.

[Valloria]

Erin didn't move even as his fellow knights strode confidently towards the battlefield. They seemed to hesitate as if about to question why he hadn't moved. Opening his mouth to explain the situation Erin was interrupted as a Padawan entered the hallways and proceeded to drift into the group of Jedi knights that had assembled there. The young Padawan looked up seemingly confused before asking "Hello there. What's going on outside?" The response Erin had prepared for his fellow knights had been completely erased from his mind as he tried to process what series of events might had led to the Padawan not hearing the instructions that had been announced over the temple intercom. Erin had finally come to the conclusion that the Padawan had been in deep meditation beforehand and because of this had not heard the announcement when he heard the shocking reply leave Arrana's mouth. "That's what's up, Padawan. We are under attack, join us if you will, but make yourself useful, it's all hands on deck for the defence." Erin's eye twitched at that. "What was she thinking?! The boy could hardly be older then 6 or 7 years olds and was likely not even trained for combat." Just as Erin was about to choke out a furious retort as to why allowing a Padawan who couldn't be older then 6 or 7 to fight on a battlefield was an idiotic decision another Padawan showed up this one walking with a swaggering and confident gait. He proceeded to announce his intentions to fight on the battlefield citing how dishonorable it would be not to and a moment later the other Padawan after hesitating briefly seemed ready to follow him. Regaining his breath Erin held out a hand freezing the two Padawan's in place. It wasn't meant to actually hold them in place and they could likely free themselves if they wanted to but he had decided that a firm hand was needed to get his point across "Excuse me Padawans but if you were unaware this isn't some training scenario with Master Yoda or one of the games you play during break. This is a battlefield and there are lives at stake." Looking to Arrana he continues on "I'm surprised at you suggesting that a child of not even 10 be allowed to participate on a battlefield when our orders were made clear by the Council. We are to stay here and protect the younglings while we await reinforcements. Master Abaddon and the clones are handling the defenses as of now and onc-" Erin's face contorted visibly as he paused mid sentence before continuing on "if Master Abaddon falls we along with the other knights and masters are the temple's last line of defense.

Roderick snapped his fingers and released himself from Erin's bonds. "My cousin, not much younger than I, perished while defending Chrysaor. A blaster bolt struck him in the lung and he died of complications during surgery. I'll be damned before I just let another of Dooku's goons slaughter my compatriots. And whether you condone it or not, I will be on the front lines. I am not so foolish as my cousin not to learn defensive positions. I've improved myself. It is not so much to do that I am incapable." Roderick proceeded to Force jump up on to the wall, then carrying out several complex acrobatics to demonstrate his skill, finally scurrying away to join the battle.

As he neared the end of the hallway, the sound of blaster bolts got louder and louder. He saw a tall male figure with some sort of bladed weapon, the likes of which he'd never seen, although it did remind him of something he'd read before. Blocking a blast that strayed his way, he closed his eyes, becoming in tune with the Force. He pulled out his secondary lightsaber, held them out in a ceremonial form, and triple-flipped out of the confines of the hall and into the foray. He danced in and out of the rows of B-1's assaulting the landing platform's congregation hall, cutting down scores of his lesser, mechanical opponents. He blocked blaster bolt after blaster bolt, twirling and slashing with an unmatched economy of movement.

Suddenly, a shockwave in the force - a call for help from across the temple - hit him square in the brain, distracting him momentarily. He narrowly avoided being struck with a shot. Realizing that this battle was not the one he was most needed at, he made several acrobatic flips through the air and quickly exited the room. He called out to his friend Gredar using telepathy, telling him that the temple gardens were under attack and that's where they were really needed. He took a few secret passages that he'd discovered in his hours exploring with Gredar months before, and then exploded onto the scene as Lumena and another Jedi that he'd never met battled it out with several seemingly formidable opponents. He called out with his mind, using his training to fortify his compatriots and turn the tide of the battle. He drew his lightsabers and joined the fray.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Jedi Temple Foyer
Master Vardis jogged down the halls, Lightsaber hilt in hand. Passing down the hall, she took a swift glance our the window. The sky appeared to be on fire, as swarms of vulture droids and mass explosions littered the air. Building were aflame below and rubble was strewn about the streets.

The attack was scattered, but effective, and seemed to be intent on causing more panic and fear than an actual strategic objective. She knew that across this world, Jedi were fighting to save the Republic. A thought went out to Master Shaak Ti, a friend of Neerah's, who lead the Jedi Guard assigned to protect the Chancellor. It was incredible, that the attack had been so swift, and so unexpected.

She turned slightly, and pressed a button on the nearby turbolift, wishing to go down to the main floor of the Temple. A small beep told her the lift had arrived,.and she turned from the window, only to come face to face with a tall stranger, clad in black, with a large sack slung over his shoulder. He had a lightsaber at his belt, and an odd pattern tattooed on his face.

Vardis squinted in confusion. She had never even sensed the man, and even now, feet from him, she could barely do so.

She ignited her blade, and stood in a ready stance, eying him skeptically.

[Western Imperial Union]

Selvin's eyes widened at the sight before him. He quickly regained himself and shot an awkward smile at the quite obviously well trained Jedi.

He showed the palms of his hands as in surrender and slowly drew his saber. Appearing to be handing it to the Jedi.

However he instead sparked it on, and sliced a large hole into the turbo lift ceiling. He was unsure how far from the bottom of the shaft he was and it would be pointless to cut his floor out from under him.

For a short time the two stood like that poised ready to strike. But after a respectful nod he launched himself through the hole and yanked open the door. He pivoted and backed down the hall while waiting for the Jedi to follow.

As he stepped back drew out the mask carried in his bag with the data chips and locked it into place. He loss ended his robe and discarded it. He now stood in his antique sith acolyte armor backing away from what he knew could easily end his destiny before it began.

OOC: this armor http://www.sith-brotherhood.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Sith_Acolyte_Logo.png
This mask http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2012/086/6/0/sith_acolyte_mask_by_stew750-d4u32r4.jpg

[Eridanus 3]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"

I was then notified by TND-07 that we were receiving a hail from a Republic ship. I looked over at the droid curious.
"The ship Sabosen captured?" It immediately clarified.
"No Vice Admiral, the Praetor Class ship ahead of us. It seems the enemy Admiral would like to get in touch with you. Should I patch the meatbag through Vice Admiral?" TND-07 inquired in his calculating tone.

I considered the possibilities of what he would like to discuss. Then after a quick moment of deciding, managed to throw a joke out in the middle of a life and death battle.

"Of course, patch him through. Perhaps he wants to negotiate the terms of his surrender." I jested, to the subtle amusement of the command deck, well, those who were not droids anyways.

Standing up, to follow traditional protocol. I presented myself in full form to the opposing Admiral. Who for some reason I could not fathom, was wearing what seemed to be a Clone's Helmet. In sharp contrast to myself, who was dressed in a fine grey uniform, with golden trim and buttons as well as three golden cords stretched across my chest. My brown belt fastened snugly across my waist, ranks insignia shown boldly in gold upon my shoulders atop a shoulder cape that was wrapped neatly upon my upper body, with one gold and silver Confederate medal, displayed proudly on the left breast. The picture of what seemed to be a very Aristocratic Officer was completed by a ceremonial blaster pistol attached to my right hip and a Vice Admiral's cover upon my head, also displayed with my rank on it's center.

All of these fine tailored uniform around a myself, who wore them with a somewhat pale and clean shaven facial expression. Suggesting that my health was not ideal and the slightly noticeable sunken bags beneath my eyes and my neatly trimmed and cut hair. The ideal appearance of a superior officer of a civilized force.

I listened attentively to my counter parts compliments but took a sharp offense to his calling this conflict a 'Civil War' as we are clearly not fighting for the overthrow of the Republic, but for our rights to Independence. However, forgiving such an oversight I listened to what he had to say, which basically amounted to a compliment of my abilities and boasting of his own. A conversation I had little inclination or desire to continue, seeing as it held no tactical or strategic merit. Awaiting my turn to speak, I addressed the Republic Admiral.

"Admiral Corinthi, as a fellow naval officer I appreciate your praise. However, I believe you find yourself mistaken. This is no Civil War, as you claim. But a war for the Independence of our worlds. But of course, such a topic has no place in the cold space of battle. We both know that this battle will end in the Republic's favor, but I would like for you to remember my name. The one whom you could not stop here today, and who will get away from your grasp to fight your aggression across the Galaxy." I stated, preparing to shut the line down, when TND-07 informed me of critical information. "Vice Admiral the Republic Venators attacking the rear Lucrehulk Flight had exposed their flank, as they had just lost one of their Venators. Should we exploit this Vice Admiral?" I then allowed a smile to creep across my pale face. Then turned that smile at the enemy Admiral.

"Allow me to demonstrate. One of your junior officers have made what could be a fatal mistake. As we both know that such mistakes in naval warfare can have severe repercussions. Observe as I deploy my own forces to collapse his flank, ensuring our escape route out of the system." I finished the conversation but kept the link open. So the enemy Admiral can see the assault in person.

I then nodded to TND-07 who promptly took command of the situation. "Alpha and Delta Vulture Groups, move in on the Republic Venator flank! Recusant Section Beta support the attack!" The droid screeched aboard the bridge.

I thought to myself that the flanking force alone would be able to exploit the weakness, but not wipe the entire line out. The assault force consists of only around 63 Vultures and 2 Recusants. But, it should be enough to pose a significant threat when combined with the CIS ships that are already engaged against them. And whatever forces do survive, my own fleet will be able to sweep aside once we leave.

This flanking attack is simply meant to weaken the escape hatch before I batter it down. On the other end however, it also serves as a possible diversion for Admiral Corinthi. I want to test this man, see where his priorities lie. If he weakens his own forces by sending elements of his fleet to save those Republic Venators, then he exposes himself to me and Sabosen. However, should he abandon his subordinate, then he ensures our easy escape and perhaps loses the trust of his men. Either way, he loses and I stand to gain.

I then turned my attention back to Admiral Corinthi. With a passive aggressive tone.

"So, what will it be Admiral? Risk yourself and ensure the survival of those ships? Or leave them to die and perhaps be able to finish me off here? What will you do?" I taunted. Knowing that even though his side will win this battle, he will feel like he lost to me. But, whatever he done it mattered little concerning our escape. We arrived here via a secret hyper space lane, and worst case scenario is that we can leave though there as well.

Admiral Corinthi
Avenger

The opposing admiral was well spoken, well dressed, and well mannered. It came to little surprise that the enemy would attack where my forces were already hit hard. What was suprizing was what ships they attacked with. It was a small attack, a probe most likely, meant to cause as much damage as possible while sparing manpower for back and forth firing of cannon and torpedo across an endless sea of space. I remained silent as the enemy commander probed my psyche for a mental break, a trigger if you will, to manipulate my movements. However, I had done the same. The enemy group pressed on my forces as one by one the fell. The time had come to act. "A clever move Admiral. However, I intend to do both of you suggestions. My forces could certainly handle a small pack of Vultures and enemy assault ships. You may have noticed that my main frigates are not you run-of-the-line Acclamators, but new super-carriers, known to the men as the Nexu-class. So here is what I will do." I then relayed my orders. Three of my Nexu-class ships were to move in and engage the enemy at that critical juncture. They would send their own fight squadrons to launch and attack the enemy's vultures. I the called my favorite order. One that had a habit of being quite costly, but also quite advantageous. "All ships. General orders coming through. Group Desh-Point-Six, reinforce our flank. All other ships, prepare to engage in secondary offensive measures." The fleet knew what that meant. All ships were to close with the enemy and engage him at point blank range on command. The marines would prepare for various boarding actions and other missions. "This is what I have done. Your little scheme will be foiled. Our fleet, massive in size and scope, will drive you from this system, and as you watch your ships burn, your fleet become torn apart, you will soon turn and run. If you fail to do so, the combined fleet will destroy you." I took off my helmet, and showed him my face. It was always easier to have strength when you wore a uniform. Removing even a part of it felt both relieving and painful at the same time. "I do hope you understand. I was a boot on the ground far before I was an admiral. This has taught me one clear thing. Battles are better fought, more closely won, when both sides fates are resting not on machines, but in the will of your fellow man to succeed. A pleasure talking too you." I sighed. "I do admire you though. I suppose we would have been quite good friends and allies were we to have been on the same side of this terrible war. It is a damn shame politicians can't get along." I turned to the communications officer, and signaled for him to cut the feed. Better to have the last word in. I walked back to my command position. "Fleet, come to attention. Begin secondary offensive actions. Cut a path to into the heart of the enemy fleet. Close with him and destroy him, and do not allow his ships to recover." The Praetor slowly began to climb to full speed, moving along with the Venators that were with them. Our gunners held fire in order to synchronize our guns, and as volley after volley of round flew off at the worn enemy fleet I began to feel quite optimistic. I relayed orders to our squadrons, "return to defensive formations, protect our ships as they advance." I took a look at a stream of video captured from Group Desh Six. The battle was raging as the Nexu class began pounding on the enemy Recusants. Vultures came screaming in toward the group's positions, but one by one the began to be fired at and cut down with volleys of close-range laser fire. One of those Vulture fighters made a solid impact with one of the torpedo bays in one of the Nexus. A great fire began, and a series of explosions went off as oxygen and men went flying through deep space, chocking on the simple lack of vital gases that were needed for their sustenance. It was a very poor waste of life. It made me envy the Seperatists. That was the one thing they did that I agreed with, using droids instead of using men... So many poor young men...

[The Orson Empire]

Roderick snapped his fingers and released himself from Erin's bonds. "My cousin, not much younger than I, perished while defending Chrysaor. A blaster bolt struck him in the lung and he died of complications during surgery. I'll be damned before I just let another of Dooku's goons slaughter my compatriots. And whether you condone it or not, I will be on the front lines. I am not so foolish as my cousin not to learn defensive positions. I've improved myself. It is not so much to do that I am incapable." Roderick proceeded to Force jump up on to the wall, then carrying out several complex acrobatics to demonstrate his skill, finally scurrying away to join the battle.

As he neared the end of the hallway, the sound of blaster bolts got louder and louder. He saw a tall male figure with some sort of bladed weapon, the likes of which he'd never seen, although it did remind him of something he'd read before. Blocking a blast that strayed his way, he closed his eyes, becoming in tune with the Force. He pulled out his secondary lightsaber, held them out in a ceremonial form, and triple-flipped out of the confines of the hall and into the foray. He danced in and out of the rows of B-1's assaulting the landing platform's congregation hall, cutting down scores of his lesser, mechanical opponents. He blocked blaster bolt after blaster bolt, twirling and slashing with an unmatched economy of movement.

Suddenly, a shockwave in the force - a call for help from across the temple - hit him square in the brain, distracting him momentarily. He narrowly avoided being struck with a shot. Realizing that this battle was not the one he was most needed at, he made several acrobatic flips through the air and quickly exited the room. He called out to his friend Gredar using telepathy, telling him that the temple gardens were under attack and that's where they were really needed. He took a few secret passages that he'd discovered in his hours exploring with Gredar months before, and then exploded onto the scene as Lumena and another Jedi that he'd never met battled it out with several seemingly formidable opponents. He called out with his mind, using his training to fortify his compatriots and turn the tide of the battle. He drew his lightsabers and joined the fray.

Jedi Temple

Gredar Brenko had been running up and down the halls of the Jedi Temple for some time, trying to avoid getting killed. Gredar was only 11 years old, and thus was still in training and had not fully developed his skills. Knowing that he was still ineffective when it came to combat, he tried to stay out of the fighting as much as possible. However, at one point, he had to slice down two B-1 droids with his lightsaber.

Gredar had figured out that the CIS was attacking Coruscant, but he was still confused about the entire situation. All he could do was watch as the CIS destroyed Galactic City, as well as the Jedi Temple. In orbit, there was a massive space battle, with hundreds of ships on both sides duking it out with one another. It was a giant mess. Firefights had broken out all over the Temple, and the Jedi had gone to fight. Gredar was also uncertain about where his master was- perhaps he was still fighting, or perhaps Grievous had killed him. Gredar had tried to search for his master, but it was a futile effort.

Then, suddenly, Gredar's friend Roderick Wharlaey called out to him via the Force, telling him that the temple gardens were under attack. Gredar was relieved to find out that Roderick was still alive. They had been friends for a while now, and Gredar looked up to Roderick, seeing him as sort of a role model. Gredar took a secret passage and arrived at the temple gardens. Immediately, a smell of burning flesh filled his nostrils, which made him nauseated. As the firefight continued, Gredar took cover while trying to find Roderick.

[Mifan]

Admiral Johnson

Johnson looked upon the scene in front of him. His fighters were doing their best to wipe out the Vulture droids in order for the Venators to get a clear shot at the Lucrehulk. Even if he was able to destroy the ship, his small force probably wouldn't be able to keep the CIS from retreating. This rear attack is actually going against him. He saw fighters from both sides explode as the battle continued, and with the CIS pushing his flank, he may have only a small chance to make any type of breakthrough that would put the CIS fleet in any sort of danger. Looking at the scanners again, he saw the Vultures and Recusants approaching. Even if he died, he was going to make sure that there was a weak point fir the rest of the Republic fleet to take advantage of. "Sir. The enemy flanking force seems to be under attack by reinforcements! Nexu class ships are engaging the enemy sir!" Johnson was relieved that some member of the Republic was kind enough to divert their own forces to support him, but when he looked at the scanners again, he saw on of the Nexus take a major hit. "Order Gold, Red, and Blue Squadrons, and two Venators to support the Nexus! For all remaining ships, I want all guns aiming straight at that Lucrehulk! We are going to take it out right here, right now, while we have a chance. We are going to breakthrough here and now!" All three squadrons and two of his Venators moved towards the Nexus to provide support in their battle, as each of the remaining 16 Venators fired their weapons at the Lucrehulk, in order to eliminate it from the fight and to make a hole in the CIS rear.

[Eridanus 3]

Ysalimari, Nexu Class Supercarrier

Captain Alexis Matz

"I want a supreme and overwhelming amount of enveloping fire on those Recusants!" The Captain was screaming now. His ship had taken a major hit to a fairly critical ammunition storage area just to the rear of the fuel lines. The fires, allowed to continue by extremely low amounts of escaping oxygen that was "trapped" within the shield envelope, had reached shield generators on that side, and were threatening the reactors. Secondary explosions occurred with even greater frequency as one by one the decks became shredded with molten slag; the remnants of a discharged proton torpedo that had caught fire and blown it's surrounding area to oblivion. Z-95 Headhunters streaked through space, making a good and solid effort to defend the "Ysalimari" from any further attack. The damage to the ship was primarily focused on its starboard side, so the ship began sliding to port in order to bring more guns to bear on the advancing enemy. The two pairs of ships were practically at knife fight range, and a local pack of about 16 Venators began to shift their fire to the closest Luckerhulk target, over 1.5 kilometers out. The battle up close wasn't doing so well. With shield strength gone, the armor plating of the poor Nexu Class ship began to buckle and break off under the tremendous volume of fire the Recusants were pouring on it.


The point of fighting back for the crew of the Ysalimari was rendered moot when a torpedo struck the main reactor, and the ship was subsequently lost with all hands on deck. No survivors were reported.