Star Wars: The Era of Strife [IC/Open]

[Letwinist States]

Admiral Tiiworn.
Shuttle Bay,
the Korriban Avenged,
Orbiting Balmorra.

They left the Admiral’s guards at the bridge’s entrance as Tiiworn led Ryoko up the steps and onto the forward command deck. “Well, Miss Marscellus, let us see what the ground forces can report. Comms, hail the-”

“Admiral, we have a line to the 3rd Balmorran Shock Company, The trooper we were talking to asked for reinforcements.” Captain Creshylt interrupted the Admiral, a communications officer by his side.

“Ah, one of Major Kieran’s people, if the dossier is still up to date. Please Miss Marscellus, join me”, Tiiworn said as he moved towards the central holo-projector: “and Captain, please forward the transmission to us, I would speak to the man personally.”

The holo-projector spluttered for a second before the three-quarter sized image of a young communications trooper appeared, who quickly saluted. “Admiral.”

“Good day, trooper. I hear you are asking for reinforcements. What is your status on the ground? Your honest status please.”

“We cannot seem to break the rebels’ resolves or take the Arms Factory. We are fighting with heavy losses and still have not ensured air superiority, Sir. The Major asked me to convey his bid for more troops and fighter cover.” Indeed, even through the holo, Tiiworn could see how weary the man was.

“Done. We will send you three squadrons of fighters and I will speak with my staff as to what ground forces we can relinquish. We want this war over, soon. You may relay to your commanding officer that we intend to achieve this, even if we need to level every last village harbouring rebels and Republic personnel to the ground with our ships’ turbolasers.
Miss Marscellus, do you maybe have a few more in-depth questions for our young officer?”

Just then, Tiiworn’s Captain once more inserted himself between Ryoko and the Admiral, leaning over to his superior and whispering: “There is another Sith, Darth Salen, approaching in a shuttle. They wish to be cleared to pass and head for the surface. The broadcast ID has been checked and the vessel scanned. All is in order.”

“Very good, Captain. Inform the vessel that they are cleared to pass and transmit the correct codes. Also let them know to meet with the 3rd Shock Company at the Sundari Flatlands camp.” Smiling, Tiiworn turned back to Ryoko . He did not know why the Sith were converging on Balmorra but, as long as they fought against the Republic and rebel forces, he would not protest.

[Newrey]

Sergeant Carran Dundock
The Victory
In Orbit Over Aldeeran

"-the safety and transportation of these weapons are of the highest priority and, if needed, I expect you to act in the highest calibre of Republic soldiers and ensure the completion of the mission. If questioned by locals or other members of the ships company, you are to report your mission as being the security detail of the visiting Commodore. I do not want any information of weapons cache to leave this room, is that understood?" Carran asked his assembled men, holding his helmet to his side and his face slightly illuminated by the glowing holoprojection. His question was greeted with a chorus of 'yes sergeant'. Looking over the men, he couldn't shake his mind at how clean their armour was in comparison to his own.

Green and clean, just what I want he thought to himself sarcastically. Even had the men not been detailed to deliver the weapons and really were there as the Commodore's security escort, it seemed strangely risky to give them that responsibility. Nothing like throwing them in at the deep end.

"Sergeant, the Commodore has requested that you begin the loading of the gifts to the transport" one of the ships crewman said, almost immediately after entering the room. Carran nodded, before looking back at his men;

"You heard the man, I want these gifts loaded in five minutes and you assembled in the hanger in preparation for the Commodore in less!" he barked at his men, who hastily put on their helmets and began milling quickly out of the room, sharing the weight of the 'gifts' destined for House Antilles. As the last man exited the room, Carran turned the projector off, calmly placed his helmet on his head, and left the room.

[Halonica]

Ryoko Marscellus
Bridge
The Korriban's Revenge
Orbiting Balmorra

Ryoko followed the Admiral onto the bridge, and then over to the holo-projector. Upon it was a communications officer that relayed the requests of the 3rd Shock Company. The Admiral immediately granted them three squadrons of fighters and there was the promise of ground forces as well. At his prodding, Ryoko stared into the holo-projector and spoke up, "What is the status of your supplies, and how much assistance do you need at your current position? I have my orders from Darth Kiren, and a thousand troops to do with as I see fit. Tell me where you need them, and they shall be there." Then she noticed the Captain of this vessel inch his way between herself and Tiiworn and whisper something in his ear. Ryoko did not try to eavesdrop; if the information were truly important, the Admiral would tell her himself. She waited for the comms trooper's reply, hands behind her back in a position of parade-rest

[Zapatha]

Darth Andarak
Aboard the Arbiter, in currently traveling with his fleet to Balmorra

Andarak overlooked his crew working aboard his dreadnought, and felt a sense of pride-when did he ever not feel pride- in his military genius and why Darth Marr himself ordered him to assist in eradicating Republic and native rebels. Andarak hadn't seen direct combat against Republic forces since Coruscant, and missed the adrenaline rush it gave him and passion he felt for it. It'd been even longer since he had led a ground assault himself, and he truly did miss the passion and rage he would unleash upon Jedi or trooper with his lightsaber and his fingertips. Plus if all went well, he would be one step closer in proving himself Darth Angral's better which is all he thought about since the Treaty of Coruscant was ratified.

He was interrupted by his commanding officer Jyn Toolin, a human captain he had befriended many years ago during the battle for Alderaan. She was younger than he was, however commanded a respect and was wise beyond her years which was why Andarak respected her.

"Excuse me my lord, we are closing in on Balmorra and are in range for safe communication with the fleet's admiral. Shall I patch you in?"

Not moving an inch, Andarak countinued to stare out into space, and merely nodded in agreement.

"I really hope this commander isn't another stuck up idiot..." Andarak said to himself, as he moved towards the comms transmission...

[Letwinist States]

Admiral Tiiworn.
the Bridge,
the Korriban Avenged,
Orbiting Balmorra.

“Well, Ma’am”, the young soldier was starting to get visibly uncomfortable: “I am not in command but Major Kieran said that we can hold our position with ease, it is pushing forward that is the problem.”

“That was my analysis as well”, Tiiworn nodded towards Ryoko.

“I believe that, if we can destroy the enemy entrenched between us and the Balmorran Arms Factory, we can assault or simply contain the threat there. However, while they have the possibility to roam as they do now, us even destroying the Factory will not end this war. I believe, Ma’am, Admiral.”

Tiiworn was still nodding slowly: “A sound analysis, soldier.” He would have to remember the man. “Give my regards to Major Kieran. Reinforcements will arrive shortly.” With a swift touch, he keyed off the holo.

“Well, Miss Marscellus, it seems we have found a task for you. We need to contain the rebel threat to the Arms Factory. This means that rebel cells operating outside the Republic’s military lines need to be silenced and their defensive trenches across our forward outpost must be taken. Nonetheless, it has to be our priority to destroy all Republic presence on Balmorra with utmost haste. Without the Republic, the rebels will fall on their own.
Darth Salen has just arrived in the system. I have asked him to rendezvous with the Major whose subordinate we just spoke to. I believe another Sith is already on the scene. If we want our Empire to be victorious, we need to work together, coordinate. Captain Creshylt will give you a copy of my orders, should anyone question your authority; Miss Marscellus, bring their defences down.”

“Admiral, we are being hailed by a new fleet under Darth Andarak, which just arrived. It seems the Darth wishes to speak to you personally.” A comms-officer reported during a pause in Tiiworn’s monologue.

“Thank you, lieutenant. Miss Marscellus, please excuse me. If you wish, you may now land on the planet and carry out the Emperor’s will. I might suggest a stealthy attack on the Factory itself. If we can be sure that no anti-ship batteries are present, it would be easy for my fleet to take a lot of work off the shoulders of our army. I hope to see you again soon.” The Admiral bowed once more.
“Lieutenant, patch the Admiral through.”

[Halonica]

Ryoko Marscellus
Bridge
The Korriban's Revenge
Orbiting Balmorra

Ryoko listened silently as the comms officer responded to her questions. She figured the resistance would put up a better fight than the one they were putting up; even with republic support, they were barely resisting the Empire's forces. Really, all the Empire needed was an opening.... Ryoko was good at creating openings. It would be easiest to take the enemy defensive trenches first; that was the most direct approach. The individual rebel cells would take time to hunt down and uproot. She'd leave most of the commandos to work on that while the rest of the troops went to make the rebel defensive lines a miserable place to be stationed. The addition of Darth Salen to the forces on this planet was a boon; nothing short of a Jedi Knight would be able to stand in his way. And with another Sith down on the surface already.... Things were looking good for the Empire.

At the order to bring down the enemy defences, Ryoko saluted the Admiral and said, "I will not fail." Her eyebrows raised marginally at the mention of Darth Andarak entering the system with his fleet as well. The odds were certainly stacked against the Republic. The young woman took Tiiworns suggestion of a stealth attack on the Arms Factory to heart, and was already scheming up a plan to take it. Turning on her heel, Ryoko and her troops filed out of the Bridge and back down to the Shuttle Bay. It was time to get moving.

Imperial Forward Camp
Sundari Flatlands
Balmorra

Ryoko's shuttle touched down near the forward camp, several more just like it touching down with her. She had decided to land half of her troops here, and send a quarter each to the left and right flanks of the camp. As such, five hundred troops filed out of their shuttles and began setting up temporary tents as an addition to the camp. Leaving her commandos to set up their own tents, the young apprentice strode confidently over to where this Major Kieran had set up his command tent. She slipped into the tent without so much as announcing herself and said, "Major, your reinforcements have arrived."

[Dernland]

Imperial Forward Camp
Sundari Flatlands
Balmorra
Major Kieran looked up from the holotable with a look of surprise as the Sith entered. He quickly recovered and smiled, saying. "Your timing couldn't be more perfect. Our sabotage team is in position and we're awaiting their signal. Should be within the hour. Our Sith went with them."

Theran Na'daer
Sundari Flatlands
Balmorra

"Stay close to me, if you're caught outside the range of my power you will endanger the mission." Theran said, reaffirming what he'd told the saboteur team before leaving the camp. They were less than a kilometer away from the trench and were about to activate their stealth fields. The saboteurs had just finished setting up explosives at various tank traps along the crest of the hill and were ready to push forward. Theran closed his eyes, reaching deep into his well of force energy. He relished the warmth as is flowed into his entire body. Of course, the ecstasy of the force lasted only a moment before he directed that energy outwards into a bubble of Sith Sorcery. The Stealth field generators would keep them hidden from sight, and the sorcery would keep them hidden from the prying eyes of the Jedi, or so Theran hoped.

They closed in on the trench, sticking to the piles of rubble and fallen barricades where they could. Sweat was already beginning to drip down his face from the exertion of keeping all six of them wrapped in the force. Theran couldn't remove his concentration or the bubble would collapse. He couldn't even see where he was going and was effectively being lead by the troopers. They entered the trench, careful to avoid alerting any of the few sentries posted at the edge of the metal barricade that separated no-man's land from the Republic defenses. The trenches were almost deserted as they made their way to the generators. These used to be Imperial trenches, and things hadn't changed much since the Resistance occupied them.

A robed figure sat meditating by the door to the generator building, causing one of the troopers to raise a fist and get the squad to stop. The Jedi didn't react to their presence, but her brow was furrowed in deep concentration. Theran stifled a groan as the force pressed harder and harder upon him. He latched on to the trooper's fear of being discovered, siphoning their emotions and powering his own will. The squad moved into the generator housing and quickly began setting up thermal charges to turn the entire room into slag. One trooper dropped a thermal charge and dove after it, sliding out of Theran's protective barrier.

The Jedi stood, igniting her sapphire lightsaber and spinning around to face the supposedly empty room. Theran heard the hiss of the lightsaber's blade and immediately dropped his stealth barrier, throwing up a shield to protect against force attacks and drew his own crimson blade. The troopers weren't about to get mixed up in this fight and made a run for the door as Theran stepped forward and lashed out with the force, sending a blast of energy at the Jedi. She barely got her own shield up in time to deflect the blow, staggering backwards and giving space for the saboteurs to get out of there. Each member of the team carried a detonator, so as long as a single person survived the mission could be finished.

Theran grinned. "You may want to run." He told the Jedi before following his own advice, augmenting his speed with the power of the force. The Jedi, stunned at either Theran's warning or the fact that he was equipped like a regular trooper, didn't move at first. However, free of the crushing weight of holding the stealth field up, he could finally feel what was around him and knew the moment her eyes widened in shock and she sprinted after him. Theran leaped out of the trench and pressed the detonator. A semi-distant rumbling told Theran that their mission was a success, and a few moments later one of the saboteurs let off a blue flare signaling the main force to begin their assault.

Theran felt the Jedi approaching right behind him as she leaped up out of the trench. He turned on his heel, igniting his saber and catching his foe's strike with ease. She glared at him across their sparking blades, a cold rage burning in her eyes that was quite unbecoming of a Jedi Knight.

"You won't win, Sith. The Light will always drive out the dark!" The Jedi yelled,

Theran just smiled and started speaking as if he was talking to a guest. "You must be the Apprentice. Your Master speaks highly of you." The lie was obvious, but that didn't matter, it would still tip her off balance if she let it.

"My Master doesn't consort with Sith scum like you." She said through gritted teeth. The fact that she responded at all meant that she was not going to put up much resistance against his words.

"What a hurtful thing to say." Theran pouted. "And here I thought we were going to be friends. Your master wouldn't like you speaking that way." The padawan spun away settling into the opening stances of Form II while Theran drew back into the defensive shell that was form III. He'd obviously hit a nerve. The Jedi lashed out several more times, each blow being caught by Theran's blade. The air sizzled as the beams of energy collided, sending showers of sparks to fall in the Balmorran mud.

"I thought Jedi were supposed to be powerful, surely you can do better." Theran could feel the Jedi's concentration slipping as she gave way to her rising anger. Dun Möch had always been a specialty of Theran's at the Sith Academy, and was one of the reasons he'd found so much success. The Jedi once again threw herself at Theran with a howl of rage, barely managing to keep her Form steady. Theran waited until he heard the distant rumbling of the Imperial APCs and walkers approaching, then suddenly switched to Form V, batting aside his opponent's blade and kicking her hard in the chest. She staggered back, defenses falling away for just a moment. Normally, the battle would be over, but Theran was not done.

"First mistake." He said, voice harsh like that of a lecturing teacher. "You let me influence your mind. You do not need the force to get an opponent to make a mistake, and you cannot rely solely upon it for protection."

"SHUT UP!" The Jedi said, striking again, her previously precise swings devolving into furious slashes at random angles. Theran sidestepped, using the force to throw his opponent to the ground.

"Second mistake. You did not change your form when you could not breach my defenses. Be in control of the battle." He pulled her lightsaber to him, crushing it in a force empowered grip. "Run. I will not say it again." The padawan dove for the trench, sliding down behind cover. A dozen Republic soldiers opened fire the moment the Jedi got clear forcing Theran back until he hit the advancing Imperial forces.

[Whalestron]

Valery

Valery sat on the bridge of the Republic cruiser, speaking with her troops' commander. They were conversing quickly, deciding with some of his more trusted soldiers just what they should do with a Sith outpost their scouts had picked up. "We need to strike it now, before they get the chance to attack us," urged a taller trooper, his helmet off to reveal dark skin and a short cut of brown hair. The commander motioned for him to settle down, speaking up. "We'd be wiped out, Vex. An assault won't do well for us if we just charge in."

The man named Vex nodded slowly in understanding. They all looked to Valery, who immediately spoke. "We have a group of commandos on this ship, don't we? I say we send them to infiltrate the base, lower their shields and disable comm systems. Maybe even sabotage turrets and fighters."

They all considered this. It was true they had a group of commandos, all of which had been proven in combat and various missions. They'd be an excellent tool to utilize. "Afterwards," the Jedi continued, "we can launch our attack. They'll be practically defenseless."

They were all about to speak again when an officer approached Valery. "Ma'am, encrypted message for you." He said. Valery nodded to the small group, "I hope you reach a decision soon. It's only a matter of time before they pick us up on their scanners."

Valery listened to the message, chuckling to herself. "Typical of him to call at the most inconvenient times. I'll be taking my own ship. You may alert the others that I'll be on Alderaan." She said to the captain.

---

Valery descended into Alderaan's atompsphere a couple of hours later. When prompted for the landing codes, she relayed the ones Claudius had given her. She made her landing and left the ship, looking around. It was quite the regal area, which wasn't saying too much coming from her. Living in the slums of a planet could often make other places look a lot more beautiful.

[Halonica]

Ryoko Marscellus
Sundari Flatlands
Balmorra

The young apprentice raised an eyebrow at the Major's statement, "Oh, there's already a sabotage team in place? Good, I'll get my troops into formation. It's time we finally broke the resistance on this front. I bid you farewell, Major; I've got an appointment with Death, and I don't intend to be late." With a rare grin on her face, Ryoko left the command tent and went to rally her troops. On her way there, she quietly snuck a singular blaster pistol from a crate of them and clipped it to her belt. Ryoko wholly did not expect to even need the weapon, but she figured it'd be good to have regardless. She screwed her lightsaber into its staff attachment and called out, "208th Regiment! Rally to me! We march within the hour!!!"

Her troops left their tents, forgotten, and gathered up their arms. There was no time to waste; the fighting would be upon them before they knew it. Ryoko's commandos joined her almost immediately, needing no further call to spur them to action. Ryoko also sent out a call for the other Commandos in the regiment; fifty in total. To them, she said, "Fan out into groups of five and scour the terrain further out from base camp and the enemy trenches. We're looking for pockets of rebel activity. Find them, and end them." Without further ado, the commandos went to do exactly as they were told. With that grin still plastered upon her face, the young woman joined her remaining forces with those already lying in wait, and she eagerly awaited the signal to advance...

Some time later, it could've been thirty minutes, or even an hour, a distant rumble could be heard, followed by a bright blue flare. The grin had faded into a smirk, but it was still ever present beneath Ryoko's helmet as she said, "Our appointment with Death has begun. All forces, advance! Crush the enemy in the name of the Empire!" And thusly, the young woman charged forward alongside her troops, five red-armored commandos fanning out behind her. She activated her lightsaber and relished in it's heat and light, then began deflecting incoming enemy fire. Out of the corner of her eye, Ryoko saw another red lightsaber flashing as it's wielder retreated into the oncoming Imperial forces. So that's where the Sith the Major mentioned earlier is.... Best stay out of their way; Sith don't exactly get along with one another, now do they? The apprentice thought this to herself as she rushed ahead of the approaching army, who were moving cover-to-cover as an army should, but entirely too slowly for her tastes. Deflecting all the blaster bolts directed her way was a chore, but Ryoko had little trouble in getting to the enemy trenches. She practically dived in, lightsaber first, spearing a rebel soldier on her way down. She wasted no time in getting to work on thinning the enemy defenses, her commandos jumping in behind her to assist in her efforts...

The battle had finally begun.

[The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune]

Darth Nelor, Alderaan

Nelor landed his craft at the landing dock of House Thul. The grand palace of the contenders for the throne stood mightily above him. This would certainly be different from the other times Angral called on him to do a job. Normally he was meeting with Intelligence Officers or lesser Sith in dank alleyways in some mining colony in the Outer Rim. This was actually a rather lavish palace. Nelor licked his lips. Perhaps this House Thul really did have a chance at this Civil War. Which would make killing the Jedi he sensed on entering the atmosphere all the more sweeter. The thrill of the hunt was returning to him, for the first time since Coruscant. Teaching was really a bore. He just needed to get through this first class and then the academy could run it- another strong dark signature approached. One that was not entirely unfamiliar.

Nelor got out of his ship, his robes billowing as the other ship landed close to where he had. He now recognized who had joined him, another sith from the academy who had taken the name Crudelia if he remembered correctly. He had not had much interaction with her, save watching her kill a few Jedi he had been stalking from the shadows. Her reported penchant for violence and sadism would make her a fine ally, if the rumors were to be believed. Waving his hand at the craft, he waited for the Sith Lady to disembark her ship.

[Britanania]

Crudelia

The presence of the Dark Side which lingered over Alderaan and the estates of House Thul especially grew as Crudelia exited her craft. Someone was hailing her. As the Dark Lady made her way closer, she recognised the signature--one not too dissimilar to herself.

The Pantoran Darth Nelor. Fascinating, she contemplated as she shot her fellow near-human a smile. He was last on Mustafar, I heard. Has the Dark Council some business on Alderaan aside from supporting House Thul?

"Darth Nelor," Crudelia started as she sauntered over, "I bid you dark tidings. Has Darth Angral some purpose on this verdant jewel?"

[The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune]

Nelor, Alderaan

Gesturing for Crudelia to walk with him as he returned her greeting, he said to her "Indeed, he has called upon my favor once more. This planet is of key strategic value from what I can infer, and since Angral couldn't be bothered to spare an apprentice or two, he has once again called upon me to do his own dirty work. Not that I am complaining, my previous occupation was dreadfully dull. As I'm sure you sensed while you entered the atmosphere, there are at least a few Jedi with their eyes on the ball as well. I am here to employ my specific talents as well as eliminate any who stand in Duke Thul's path to conquest. I assume you are here on much higher orders, considering Angral did not mention your presence."

[Britanania]

Crudelia

The beautiful Miraluka remained silent as she walked tandem with the younger Sith. She listened to his explanation for why he was there.

What dark purpose does Angral have that would lead him to sending Nelor here? If Alderaan is as important as I feel it is, I would expect a member of the Council to be here.

Crudelia tried reaching out with the Force to gain greater clairvoyance, but she saw nothing.

Too muddled, it seems. The future is as yet undetermined.

As the Palace Guards allowed the pair into the castle, Crudelia replied.

"I was not sent here by anyone," she stated. "In fact, I came because I thought it would be fun. Drinking and whoring and gambling can only keep the boredom off for so long," the deranged Sith lady replied with a grin.

[The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune]

Nelor

Nelor nodded as the entered the castle. Crudelia explained her purpose for being there, which given her reputation, wasn't unbelievable. However something wasn't quite right.

Who would come to a Civil War to have fun when so much more could be had destabalizing Republic Space? Also how did she learn about this blasted Civil War when I recieved no news on it until Angral told me. Is Mustafar really that backwards?

Nelor spoke again as they walked down a grand hallway towards the Throne Room, telling Crudelia "Well then perhaps you could join me on my hunt. I'll admit it's a slower process than what one such as yourself would be used to, but it's one of the most fulfilling experiences in the galaxy in my opinion. Even more than a Twi'lek Whore on Keyorin. The Jedi I sensed are of considerable power and it would be good to have some back up to slay them. The first thing I learned when I started specializing in this is that you should never, under any circumstances, underestimate what the light side is capable of under stress."

Nelor pushed open two large doors in front of them, revealing the throne room of House Thul. An older human with sideburns and a mustache sat on the throne as Nelor announced "Duke Thul, I am Darth Nelor and this is Darth Crudelia. We are here to help you in this little conflict you seem to have yourself quagmired in."

[Britanania]

Crudelia

The Miraluka remained silent for the duration of the walk through the Palace, but her mind ran with distrust.

There's more going on here, I feel. Angral wouldn't just send one assassin if the Jedi Nelor describes are this powerful. For now I'll keep watch and continue to asses, but Nelor's arrogance already weighs on my pateince...

As they reached the throne room, Crudelia's attentions shifted to the seated Duke.

Kendoh Thul...a shrewd man to say the least. He's no puppet, that's for certain.

Indeed, just as much as Crudelia regarded the Alderaanian noble so too did he regard the pair of Sith--a pair he didn't ask for nor was told were coming. For a little while after Nelor announced themselves he remained seated in thought.

"A quagmire which nonetheless benefits the Empire," he replied. "So long as the treaty is in place neither the Republic nor the Empire can make direct overtures in Alderaanian affairs, but every planet not allied with Coruscant is a victory for His Glorious Majesty." Thul paused and sighed.

"A garrison was recently attacked and guerrilla raids are increasing daily. Republic agents and Jedi are reported to have been seen among House Antilles and House Organa. I don't care how you do it, but see to it that they don't make bigger nuisances of themselves."

[The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune]

Nelor

Nelor carefully watched the Duke. Kendoh had a reputation of political genius and betrayal from what Nelor had read on the way to Alderaan. Though he didn't show it, Nelor was certain that the Duke was calculating the best way to kill him as they spoke.

What the Empire sees in this snake is beyond me. He is just as liable to betray us to the Republic the moment he has no more use for us. It would be better to prop up some minor noble as a puppet from the start and sweep this war in a few years when both sides have fought each other to the death.

When Kendoh was finished speaking, Nelor ignited one of his wrist mounted lightsabers both to check it and as a show of force. Making sure the gauntlet that attached the long clawlike blade to his wrist was snug against his forearm, Nelor responded simply "Consider it done. I doubt we will have any meetings beyond this, and I expect that when asked if this meeting happened, you will deny it. If we ever meet again, it will either be because my job is finished and you have won this war, or if I intend to withdraw. Until that day comes, if it ever does, farewell."

Nelor deignited his lightsaber, gestured for Crudelia to follow, and exited the room.

[Turmenista]

Kujo Rangar
Alderaan
__________________________________

In order to pass the time, Kujo Rangar made up a little impromptu game for himself, simply called "Count the Sith Lords." The game was simple: Count how many Sith Lords were next to you at a given moment, determine the best plan of action for a worst-case scenario, and go from there. Of course, a Sith Lord was more likely to fling a man like him effortlessly through the wall if he so planned to attack them, not to mention that some could even predict it happening before it actually even happened - as far as he was knew - but, as his mentors always said to him, "one must always go forth prepared to fight." This was his method to prepare.

With two Sith Lords in the area, entourage included, he was confident in five - make that six kills, against the entourage of miscellaneous mercenaries, before the Sith Lords would obliterate him. Luckily, they were on his side for now, and, besides, he felt comfortable with them either way. Not that he was absolutely comfortable in the presence of two Sith Lords, but rather because he was being paid to be in the presence of them. It was all thanks to that lady that he made the unfortunate choice of tagging along with - one altercation with her led to another, and, eventually, he found himself employed under her service for a mission to Alderaan that he did not want to be a part of. Guerrillas were running rampant here - nothing out of the ordinary, but Jedi? One Jedi was enough work, and a lot of money, but he wasn't in any position to go in, blasters blazing, and kill every single Jedi in sight. No - it was a process, a long, methodical process, that he wasn't willing to go through to risk his life for.

Not without any extra pay, that is.

The Mandalorian bounty hunter scoffed, muttering something unintelligible to himself as he strode around the outside of the throne room, eavesdropping on the conversation when he could. According to what little he could pick up from outside the closed doors (without causing the guards any suspicion,) the Duke stated that the Republic had several agents embedded with the Houses of Antilles and Organa, names that rung a small bell to him, along with a handful of Jedi. That wasn't as big of a surprise, it was basically obvious at this point. Kujo pieced together the objective after that - the Sith with him would (hopefully) deal with the Jedi while he dealt with the so-called Republic Agents. They'd do this for House Antilles, House Organa, and anywhere else that was full of those pesky agents or Jedi. The pay for killing a handful of Republican agents would still be very high compared to a single Jedi, he figured, so he'd likely deal with the smaller annoyances while the Sith Lords with him would take on the Jedi. That should level the playing fields, he figured to himself, piecing together the plan in his head.

The doors to the throne room swung open, and, just as the guards moved to the side, the Sith Lords moved out. Silently, the Mandalorian linked back up with the group, quickly moving into formation behind the woman that had employed him to this job in the first place, Darth Crudelia. He still remained a bit uneasy talking to her considering who and what she was, but, nonetheless, a healthy pay was a healthy pay. Making sure that they were outside of earshot of the guards, Kujo moved closer to the woman, a move that he never thought he'd do in a place like this.

"You know what? The Duke's a big, fat, easy target. I say we kill the man when we're done with all this," He said. "Never trust the politicians, if you ask me. Bureaucracy just messes everything up. It's on us if the man betrays us mid way. I'll be doing you a favor if I do it myself."

[Zapatha]

Admiral Tiiworn.
the Bridge,
the Korriban Avenged,
Orbiting Balmorra.

“Well, Ma’am”, the young soldier was starting to get visibly uncomfortable: “I am not in command but Major Kieran said that we can hold our position with ease, it is pushing forward that is the problem.”

“That was my analysis as well”, Tiiworn nodded towards Ryoko.

“I believe that, if we can destroy the enemy entrenched between us and the Balmorran Arms Factory, we can assault or simply contain the threat there. However, while they have the possibility to roam as they do now, us even destroying the Factory will not end this war. I believe, Ma’am, Admiral.”

Tiiworn was still nodding slowly: “A sound analysis, soldier.” He would have to remember the man. “Give my regards to Major Kieran. Reinforcements will arrive shortly.” With a swift touch, he keyed off the holo.

“Well, Miss Marscellus, it seems we have found a task for you. We need to contain the rebel threat to the Arms Factory. This means that rebel cells operating outside the Republic’s military lines need to be silenced and their defensive trenches across our forward outpost must be taken. Nonetheless, it has to be our priority to destroy all Republic presence on Balmorra with utmost haste. Without the Republic, the rebels will fall on their own.
Darth Salen has just arrived in the system. I have asked him to rendezvous with the Major whose subordinate we just spoke to. I believe another Sith is already on the scene. If we want our Empire to be victorious, we need to work together, coordinate. Captain Creshylt will give you a copy of my orders, should anyone question your authority; Miss Marscellus, bring their defences down.”

“Admiral, we are being hailed by a new fleet under Darth Andarak, which just arrived. It seems the Darth wishes to speak to you personally.” A comms-officer reported during a pause in Tiiworn’s monologue.

“Thank you, lieutenant. Miss Marscellus, please excuse me. If you wish, you may now land on the planet and carry out the Emperor’s will. I might suggest a stealthy attack on the Factory itself. If we can be sure that no anti-ship batteries are present, it would be easy for my fleet to take a lot of work off the shoulders of our army. I hope to see you again soon.” The Admiral bowed once more.
“Lieutenant, patch the Admiral through.”

Seeing the admiral, Andarak took the hood down from his head, showing a scarred yet still handsome face which not many expected from a sith lord of his rank. Andarak dismissed his commanding officers, and turned his attention to the Chiss:

"Ah Admiral Tiiworn, your reputation does certainly precede you as a great commander....for a Chiss." Andarak chuckled. He quickly composed himself once more however, and turned to the admiral once more

"Darth Marr has sent me to assist in any operations within the invasion of Balmorra, as this planet is a key to us gaining the upper hand in this stalemate and getting us ever closer to the Core Worlds. First off though commander, I want a report on how ground operations are proceeding and who commands them. It is imperative that we pinpoint where exactly to strike to cripple Republic defenses, and whether or not a long ground campaign will be fought."

Starting to pace, Darth Andarak began to think about how it'd be a joy to once again lead a ground campaign, as he hadn't led one since the battle of Bothawui' Andarak's favorite pastime aside from strategy was killing Jedi, as it gave him an adrenaline rush that couldn't be mathed by anything else.

"I'm sure that you also already know how important Balmorra is to the war effort admiral, as the world's factories can turn the tide of this war in our favor. Once my fleet arrives, I will personally meet you aboard your ship and I expect a full report on everything I need to know. Do not disappoint me admiral."

With that, the transmission was cut and Andarak went to his personal quarters to prepare to meet the admiral.

[The New Byzantine II]

Agent Cian
Introduction

His first ever major task was on Nal Hutta located deep in the Hutt Space which the planet is controlled by the Hutt Cartel. The reason why Nal Hutta became the Empire's latest targets because of its wealth and resources however the wealthy and corrupt crime lords refuse to take sides in the Cold War between the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire. To tip the scales, the Imperial Intelligence's latest shadowy operative has been dispatched under the command of the Empire's spymaster...

* * *

Agent Cian
Jiguuna, Nal Hutta

Cian has finally arrive on Nal Hutta after a hyperspace, his thoughts inside a small transport ship was a mess as most of the passengers were criminals, mercenaries, bounty hunters, freelancers, and smugglers. Most of the passengers were looking at him since it is their first time to encounter a Chiss but Cian doesn't mind although he hasn't given a task yet by the spymaster, he has a confidence to make this major task a success. A task that will change the current events forever. Cian is currently been watched by the Imperial Intelligence, whether he is a worthy of becoming a Cipher agent or not. As the transport ship lands on Nal Hutta, he noticed that the atmosphere was dirty and isn't clean at all, he also noticed that the surface is mixed of swampland and a industrial wasteland, the transport ship landed on a port afterwards that is under Nem'ro the Hutt's turf. The shuttle was then opened by itself, the criminals exit the shuttle first and then Cian walks to the exit of the shuttle. His natural red eyes observed his surroundings, there were many crates, many criminals, many cantinas and other stuff that is considered the safe haven for the criminals. He didn't like the scorching sun of Nal Hutta even though it is already dawn. He turns on his holocommunicator in order to get contact with the spymaster or the "Keeper". After that, he makes his way to the entrance of the large industrial town.

As he entered on the entrance of Jiguuna, he observed his surroundings once again, he already knew that this place will be crawling with criminals and alike. He also observed the writings of a Hutt language on a large yellow holograph which he was fascinated, he assumed that it is some sort of a rule. He also noticed that a gang of male Trandoshans beating up a male Arconese, the scene was funny and sad at the same time as a Trandoshan kicked the person's groin. After that, he makes his way to a large cantina that is own by Nem'ro the Hutt. The logo of the cantina was a purple hairy unicorn that is surrounded by Hutt letters with neon lights, he takes a look at it for a moment and it reads "Poison Pit" which he assumed that this is the name of a cantina established in the heartland of Nem'ro's turf and then he entered on the entrance of the cantina. As he entered on the cantina's entrance, he observed his surroundings once again and he even looked at behind to make sure he wasn't followed. He also takes a look at a dancing pink Twi'lek female on a holographic mode, he assumed that this was a slave and a stripper. The Twi'lek is beautiful and has a good body, he thought, but then again he kneeled down to change the holographic channel using his holocommunicator to the Imperial Intelligence. The Keeper was already waiting for him. He stands and salutes to the Keeper.

"Secure transmission established. This is Keeper. We may speak freely, agent. Prepare to receive your orders." The Keeper said as he stands firmly before Cian.

"I take it you're my handler?" Cian asked fluently with a mixed of light Cheunh accent and Imperial accent.

"Correct. I'm speaking to you from the service headquarters on Dromund Kaas. I'll be directing you personally on this mission." The Keeper paused and moments later he continued to speak.

"You were chosen for this operation because of your exemplary performance during training. The Imperial Intelligence needs agents capable of working independently on the field. Now you apply your training to the real world. Nem'ro the Hutt and his organization run Jiguuna, and you're in town to convince Nem'ro to supply the Empire." The Keeper replied.

"Give me background. What are we working from?" The Chiss agent asks the Keeper as he crossed his arms.

"Jiguuna is an industrial town, and Nem'ro runs most of the industry. The Hutt plies the weapons, drugs and raw materials but—not to us. We believe Nem'ro has been reluctant to lose Republic customers by publicly siding with the Empire. It's time he overcame this reluctance." The Keeper said as he points his finger downward aggressively.

"By force? Or did you have another method in mind?"

"It's too early to say for certain. We need to know what Nem'ro and his advisors are thinking before we can act. I want you to obtain access to the Nem'ro's clan's inner circle. You'll require a cover identity. One of our contacts—an alien named Jheeg—has prepared a background for you and will provide the details."

"Trust me, Keeper—I don't need any help to get close to a Hutt." Cian smirked a bit.

"Don't underestimate the Nem'ro clan. The galaxy has seen more effective gangsters, but rarely more sadistic ones." The Keeper continued, "Jheeg will be waiting for you at the safe house. Locate him, take what he offers and report back to me."

"Are we sure this contact is trustworthy?" Cian asked.

"Jheeg won't betray us. Whether he succeeds at his assigned tasks is another matter. I'd be concerned with the rest of the populace." Cian nods after the Keeper said this statement.

"Most of Jiguuna is caught of in a turf war. Some gangs involved belong to the Hutts, others are independent. Your combat training should see you through but expect brutality and expect to be targeted. Jiguuna isn't friendly to the strangers." The Keeper said in a stern tone. "Now find Jheeg and report back to me. Keeper out." the holocommunication fade afterwards.

After that, the Keeper gives Jheeg's coordinates to the Chiss operative which Cian makes his way towards to the safe house.

* * *

Agent Cian
Jheeg's Safe House
Jiguuna, Nal Hutta

Cian arrived at the safe house, the safe house isn't far from Nem'ro's cantina at all. To be honest, Coan doesn't trust this Arconese man like he doesn't trust outsiders when he was on the Chiss Expeditionary Defence Force or CEDF but he entered at the safe house anyways under Keeper's command. As he entered at the safe house, he will be greeted by Jheeg, an Arconese man working as an infiltrator agent for the Empire, he sure looks like resembled to a beaten Arconese back at the entrance of Jiguuna. Cian turns on his translator device the moment Jheeg speak on his native Arconese tongue.

"You. You are here softly, from the Empire. I am Jheeg. I am expecting you. I have your new identity." Jheeg said in a calm manner.

"I'm listening. Continue." Cian crossed his arms as he began to listen Jheeg's instructions.

"You know the Red Blade? Small-time pirate. Rich. Mysterious. No one knows true species, gender, color. I planted rumors, made Nem'ro think the Red Blade is coming to visit—enjoy Hutt palace, do business. You will be the Blade. No one will doubt you." Jheeg said.

"If there's another Red Blade out there, won't that be a problem?" Cian asked.

"No. Red Blade is far away now, looking for new trade in the Outer Rim. Out of contact, won't cause trouble." Jheeg continued, "Only one concern; I arranged tribute for Nem'ro, gifts from the Empire, but there was—interference?—at spaceport."

"What kind of interference?"

"Gang steals from docks. Dangerous men, unaware of us. Nem'ro's tribute taken. But I saw everything—I observed well, yes?" Jheeg continued, "I have proposed solution. You quickly eliminate gang members. Only method to recover gifts, eliminate witnesses."

"In other words, you messed up and want me to fix things." Cian replied with a stern tone as he raised his arms with disappointment towards to his fellow infiltrator agent. He crossed his arms afterwards.

"Situation is regrettable. My job is to watch and speak, not protect cargo." Jhegg replied straight to the point. "Gangsters are nearby—why we meet here, yes? But advise discretion, caution. Targets are excellent shots." Jhegg continued, "I will communicate plan with our handlers. Speak again once. Nem'ro's tribute has been recovered."

After that, Cian left the safe house to face the Fa'athra gangsters in order to retrieve Nem'ro's tribute.

* * *

Agent Cian
Fa'athra thieve house
Fa'athra turf
Jiguuna, Nal Hutta

Cian have arrived on the entrance of a thieve house that is controlled by the Fa'athra gang who are currently at war with the Nem'ro clan. Two bodyguards noticed the Chiss who were approaching at the gang house. One of the bodyguards asked.

"Ey', what's your business here, blue guy?" The bodyguard asked.

"Your death." Cian replied as he grabs his Charric Carbine from his back, he quickly turn his weapon into safety off and pulled the trigger on the bodyguards. The bodyguards who were guarding the entrance were dead in the hands of the Chiss.

One gangster witnessed the shootout and he proceed to turn on the alarm to alert the gangsters. Cian entered the gang house and opened fire at the incoming gangsters as icy blue blaster shots hit the incoming gangsters. They were dead after they've got shot by Cian. The gangster who wasn't yet killed by Cian yet, opened fire at Cian who just deflected the blaster shots using his armored wrist, he grab his knife and slit the gangster's throat, killing him instantly.

"Fools." Cian replied in Cheunh tongue after realizing that these gangsters were easy to kill.

Cian proceed to go upstairs to kill the last gangster who he assumed as the leader of this set. As he entered the room, the gangster who was tall and muscular, was waiting for Cian as the gangster crossed his arms. "You're dead little blue guy!" the brute replied as he raise his blaster rifle, aiming at Cian but before he could open fire. Cian have already pulled the trigger, hitting the brute's head, killing the brute instantly. Cian shake his head again, in fact, his training on a real world isn't that bad after all. He decides to check the bag container and it was Nem'ro's tribute. He was relief at least. He looked at the dead brute, whose blood was all over on the floor, he shake his head and left the thieve house to go to the safe house afterwards. All gangsters were eliminated.

* * *

Agent Cian
Jheeg's Safehouse
Jiguuna, Nal Hutta

He arrived at the safe house once again and then he entered at the safe house, holding Nem'ro's tribute. Jheeg was a bit surprised as it was fifteen minutes ago when Cian left the safe house but Jheeg was impressed at the Chiss.

"All witnesses eliminated? Gifts recovered. I will examine." Jheeg proceed to examine whether the tribute that was stolen by the Fa'athra gang was correct or not, seconds later, he gives a thumbs up to the Chiss.

"Good. Many things Nem'ro wants, things Nem'ro likes. Once Nem'ro has his gifts, all suspicions go away. You become pirate. You become Red Blade." Jheeg said.

"What exactly are these gifts?" Cian asked Jheeg as the Chiss was curious about the gifts.

"Fribulous, expensive. Aurodium idols from the Republic royalty. Tarul wine from Naboo. Tomoun wool Hutt robes." Jheeg continued, "I contacted the Imperial handlers. As assured, yes? The call is arriving now."

The radio began to play itself and began to speak at Jheeg, it was the Keeper's voice. Cian and Jheeg proceeds to listen at the Keeper as he crossed his arms.

"Jheeg. From this point forward, operational security will be at a premium. You will not contact us from this terminal again." The Keeper said in a stern tone.

"Yes. Leaving for your privacy. I will await contact." Jheeg replied as he bow his head before the radio and Jheeg have left his safe house to do another task for the Keeper. Meanwhile, Cian approached the holocommunicator where the Keeper appeared and began to speak at the Chiss agent.

"I understand you corrected Jheeg's mishandling of the situation, agent, we'll now proceed."

"That creature didn't just mishandle things. He messed up pretty badly." Cian replied at the Keeper with a disappointment tone for Jheeg as he crossed his arms at the back, looking at the holographic Keeper.

"Possibly. But we will use him until he's outlived his function." the Keeper continued, "Your next task is to access Nem'ro's inner circle. Present yourself to the Hutt as a fellow gangster—the Red Blade—and offer him Jheeg's gifts. One of the gifts is implanted with a listening device which we will use to monitor conversations within Nem'ro's palace." the Keeper said.

"Are you listening for something specific?" the Chiss asked.

"At this juncture, our primary goal is to find weaknesses in Nem'ro's organization. Even if the Hutt won't join us, we might influence his lieutenants. Talk to Nem'ro and his men. Determine who we can turn and how we can sway them. We will be listening." the Keeper replied.

"I'll be back once I learn anything." Cian replied.

"Be careful what you say—and lose the accent. When you're in the Hutt palace, you're no longer an Imperial." the Keeper replied in a serious tone. "Contact me from the cantina once Nem'ro has his 'presents'. Keeper out." the holocommunication faded.

After that, Cian grabs the outfit of the Red Blade coming from the closet. He undressed his black armor in order to use the outfit of the Red Blade, once it's done, he takes a look at himself from the mirror. He wasn't impressed at all.

"I look like shit.." Cian said in Cheunh tongue as he shake his head in a negative manner, nevertheless, he has no choice. He grab his gears and left the safe house. He is making his way towards the cantina that is own by Nem'ro the Hutt, as the Red Blade...

[New Roman Empire]

Capitol Ruins,
Balmorra
With a sickening hiss, Sanaa withdrew her emerald blade from the sith soldiers silver plated abdomen, leaving a smoking hole here it once had been. The man crumpled to the ground, alongside his dozen or so compatriots.

Sighing with exhaustion, Sanaa deactivated her lightsaber, and leaned against the wreckage of the downed Gunship. This was the third with Patrol to come looking for Lord Rath, and had met the similarly unfortunate fate as the previous two. Despite these small victories, Sanaa knew that she could not keep fighting indefinitely. Even a renowned warrior like herself had limits, and she had not slept for the better part of three days.

Crawling inside the remains of the Gunship, the Togrutan reached for her comm link. It's charred remains were useless now, having been pierced by a stray blaster bolt from the first patrol. If the Republic was coming, Sanaa didn't know it.

A mechanical whirring drew her mind from her thoughts and she crouched low, reaching out to sense the approaching enemies. The Bombers bad returned. Without hesitation, the Jedi Master ensconced herself within a cocoon of force energy, preparing to brace for the coming assault.

Yet as the explosions shattered through he quiet ruins, her eyes opened.

Those are not bombs

The sounds were getting closer, with evident gunfire now piercing the crescendo of madness that had erupted around her.

Curiously, Sanaa ignited her blade, and peered from under the ruined wing of her Gunship. A smile crept into her dusty lips, and she almost laughed. Bomber after bomber was being shredded by accurate fire from a flotilla of Republic Gunships, their wreckage crashing about the City. They had heard her signal.

Leaping onto the upturned wreckage, Sanaa wave her blade in celebration, batting aside blaster fire form several bombers as they attempted to make their escape.

It was for nothing however, as the last of the bombers careened into the plaza's cobbled ground. Around her, Gunships landed, and Republic soldiers jumped out of their transport bays, weapons primed.

Sanaa raced towards them, disengaging her blade.

"General," a Trooper called, "We received your distress call."

Sanaaa nodded.
"Evidently Captain."
She looked around the flotilla, searching for the Jedi in Command.
"We cannot stay here, prepare to move out."

Rokri Te

Rokri saw Master Sanaaa talking to the captain, "Master it is good to see that we arrived in time. But, we have a much larger problem the sith have blockaded and the planet and the Arms Factory has come under attack. So you are right Master, we do need to move," he concluded as he ran back over to his transport and several others took off shortly after him. They were going to be needed back at the factory, no one knew what was going on but, if they lost the arms factory they would surely lose Balmorra and that would be a huge loss for the Republic. As he looked over the city he saw the death and destruction that the Empire had brought to the planet. He could sense the darkness on the planet and he could tell without even sensing the force that it was only growing.

Explosions could be heard in the distance, he walked to the cockpit door, "Set us above the rear of our front lines. We will take it from there," he ordered as the pilot nodded and he came back to see his squad putting their jet packs on. They were still ways out, but a transport standing still was a target and something he would rather like to avoid. So the plan was to use jetpacks for the troopers and pull off an aerial assault while getting to the ground. "Sergeant, get your troops ready I believe this will be a hard-fought battle should worst come to worst," he advised.

"Dont worry sir Terra Squad is ready for anything," she replied with a smile as she saluted and took a seat towards the back of the transport. The Squad was talking to each other about the blockade and asking if aid would arrive. Rokri didnt have the time for such talk as they were going to the energy in the coming battle.

Darth Salen
Imperial Forward Camp

Salen and his squad exited the transport once it had touched the ground, he saw the smoke in the distance which he assumed must be the battle that was being fought over this sector of Balmorra. He strode to the command tent and left his squad outside, "Ah Major Kieran, I was wondering if I would run into you again. What is the present situation of the attack?" He asked as he walked up the holotable. He had no plans on helping with this attack or at least not yet, he didn't want to waste energy when he didn't have to.

[Brusia]

Martius Pikart
Orbit of Alderaan
The Victory

When Martius was informed that the cargo had been loaded into the transport, he left the Bridge and started making his way down to the hanger. Delta Company had managed to load the "gifts" ahead of schedule, which was at least something of a good sign, though the Commodore was still somewhat reticent to have an inexperienced group assigned to a mission this important. Still, that was all the brass could spare with Coruscant still in a state of chaos, and everyone did have to start somewhere. He was glad at least that a veteran NCO had been given command of the unit rather than one of the rookie officers being rushed through the academies these days. Whether or not one veteran would be able to whip a Company into shape before they were called to fight however, only time would tell...

Upon entering into the hanger, one of the soldiers there loudly called the room to attention, to which Martius replied: "As you were." The hanger was surprisingly empty however, and on speaking with the flight deck officer he learned that Delta Company had already boarded the transport even further ahead of schedule than first reported; impressive indeed. Perhaps this Sergeant Dundock stood a better a chance of whipping the group into shape than he'd initially estimated. Boarding the transport, the Commodore gave a brief speech and reviewed the Company's mission parameters as the vessel headed down towards the surface; perhaps a little informal for someone of his rank, but flag officer was something he was still getting used to. When the transport touched down on the landing pad, he disembarked and proceeded to approach his old friend who standing nearby to greet him, leaving Delta Company to begin unloading their cargo in a nearby warehouse adjacent to Castle Antilles.

Duke Claudius Antilles
Alderaan
House Antilles Estate

Claudius made his way to his estate's landing pads when he'd been informed the Victory had arrived, and watched as Martius' transport set down. When the newly minted Commodore approached him, Claudius shook his hand and tapped him on the shoulder with a smile, stating: "It's good to see you again my friend."

"Likewise" Martius replied, before motioning towards the crates being unloaded from his transport and continuing: "The Chancellor sends his regards as well."

"Ah, excellent, this should go a long way towards helping us stave off any potential attacks. I'll have my men begin unpacking the contents at once; apart from the crate meant for our other compatriots anyway..." Before he could continue, he was interrupted by a notification on his comm device alerting him that Valery had just arrived in the system. "Impeccable timing as always" he stated before acknowledging the communique. Turning back to Martius he asked: "Would you care to join me in greeting my former Padawan?"

"Valery?" Martius asked "I haven't seen her since before her Trials, back when I still flying you, her, and Master Fenni on suicide missions all over the Galaxy." Claudius' smile quickly faded at the mention of his former Master and he looked down towards the ground as Martius' face turned pale. For a moment he'd forgotten about her recent death; perhaps in part because a piece of him still didn't want to believe it had truly happened. He had started to apologize to Claudius when the Jedi stated: "It's alright, I still sometimes forget that she's gone too."

"You'd think we'd be used to this by now, wouldn't you?" Martius asked "After all the good men and women we lost in that war..."

"I, for one, hope that's something we never get used to" Claudius replied, then in a less serious tone continued: "And Brianna wouldn't want us to be sad on account of her becoming one with the Force anyway; knowing her, she'd probably smack us upside the head for it if she could. Now, what you do say we go greet Valery? We wouldn't want her getting impatient and charging off to deliver peace and justice for the Republic without us."

Martius grinned and replied: "It would be nice to see her again, though I think you're forgetting that she's no Padawan anymore. I'm sure she's not as impetuous as she used to be, and even then she was never half as bad as we used to be at that age."

"Ugh, don't remind me" Claudius replied as the two began to walk towards the other landing platform "I still have no idea how we managed to survive half the stunts we pulled back in those days. Oh, and before I forget..." Claudius turned back for a moment towards Sergeant Dundock and stated: "Sergeant, we set up a barracks for you and your men in the Republic Consulate in the East Wing of the Castle. You're welcome to set yourselves up there once you've finished loading the crates, or you could make use of the training grounds by the West Wall if you'd like to drill you men. Might not be a bad idea to speak with some of the other Republic forces currently here to get the lay of the land either; I've found they can often be more informative than the official briefings. If you have any concerns which need to be addressed after you're settled in, feel free to contact me on my comm-link at any time."

With that he gave a goodbye nod to the Sergeant and continued walking towards Valery's ship while reminiscing with Martius. When he reached her, he gave a polite Jedi bow in recognition of her ascension to Knighthood then stated: "Valery, it's good to see you again. Thank you for responding to my call; I hope I didn't pull you away from anything too important, but with the arrival of Sith here, I'm worried House Thul may be planning something major." Looking towards Martius for a moment, he continued: "Oh, and Martius just arrived to lend us aid as well..."

With a nod in her direction, Martius stated: "Good to see you again kid." Of course he knew she certainly wasn't a kid anymore, but a part of him still remembered her as the young Padawan fighting at Claudius' side all those years ago; he started to wonder if perhaps that just meant he was getting old. "How's life as a full fledged Jedi been treating you?"

[The Batavia]

Darth Oblivion
Imperial Commando Shuttle
Alderaan

What the group of Republican soldiers (led by Gerald) didn't know, was that a cloaked Imperial shuttle was approaching their position. The dark presence came from the Sith Warrior known as Darth Oblivion. The young Sith sat in his quarters, not meditating but thinking. Apperantly a Jedi and a group of Republican Troopers had been blowing up Sith outposts. Outposts were rebuildable, but Oblivion just couldn't let a Jedi breathe while they made themselves such a easy target. He then heard a voice from behind. "Lord Oblivion, we are underneath radar height and approaching our destination."

"Good." the Sith said. His helmet made his voice sound deeper and slightly static. "Disable the cloak and land the shuttle as soon as possible. We will walk the last few meters."

The shuttle became visible and landed near a pinetree forest. The shuttle ramp opened and 8 Sith Commando's (1 Squad Leader, 4 Operatives, 2 Heavy's and 1 Flamethrower) came out of the shuttle to secure the perimeter. After the 'clear' sign was given, Darth Oblivion himself came out of the shuttle. He could sense the Jedi's presence. "This way." He motioned the commando's to follow him. He could feel that they were nervous around him. After all he was known to be aggressive, and when he'd lose his temper he would kill everything that could breathe around him. However these were Special Forces, not regular grunts that were nothing but cannon fodder to him. Hopefully they won't mess this up.

[Andsed]

Gerald Balak
Alderaan

Gerald and a few republic troops were heading to take out another outpost. While waiting for the supplies and reinforcements to arrive and he learnt of another Sith outpost and thinking it would be best for the republic he decided to take it out gathering some men they went out to go take it out. He had figured it would be easy enough but he felt uneasy he had felt another dark presence not the one he had felt at the other outpost but it made him uneasy. While they were approaching the outpost they were fired upon he looked up in horror as he saw 8 Sith commandos firing taking out all of his troops but as he ignited his blade and began deflecting blast he saw something that dark presence it was a in fact a Sith following the commandos his curved orange blade ignited. As he took cover behind a tree he knew he could not take on a Sith that had commandos backing him up. So to buy himself time he used the force to pull a grenade out of the pocket of dead republic soldier and threw it the group having it act as a make shift flash bang blinding them temporary and letting him hide he quickly pulled out his holo communicator and sent a message to Duke Claudius Antilles whispering "Antilles this Jedi knight Gerald Balak I have encountered a Sith lord I think and he has around 8 commandos backing him up send reinforcements to my coordinates." Putting his holo communicator he looked up and spotted the squad counting trying to see what kind of soldiers there he saw 1 squad leader, 3 operatives, 2 heavy's and 1 flamethrower when he realized that is 7 then he felt a gun to his back as the final Operative was behind him. Turning around quickly he punched the gun away then stabbing the man in the neck. He then proceeded to jump at the group stabbing one of the operatives and leaping at one of the heavy's when his blade was blocked by the Sith lord. Flipping over the man he dove behind a tree hoping reinforcements would arrive soon.

[Whalestron]

Valery
Antilles Estate

Valery smiled at the familiar sight of Claudius. She was beginning to feel a slight trepidation, standing idle in a place like this for so long. "It's no real bother at all, Claudius, I'm sure my soldiers can do well on their own. And for the record, I was already halfway out of that wrecked ship when you pulled me out. I could've gotten out on my own." She basked in the moment. It had been a while since she'd seen her former master, and it was certainly a breath of fresh air.

She approached him and gave him a hug despite his formality. "I've missed you," she said. After pulling away from him, she shook Martius's hand. "You've gotten old." She teased. Valery remembered a time he'd sent a squadron of bombers to clear out a series of mortars that had her squad pinned down. She immediately felt as if they were in a fortress when these two were around.

A trooper stepped out of her ship, followed by four others. Valery's smile widened. "This is sergeant Vears, he insisted he come with me."

It wouldn't take a Jedi to reach a conclusion about the real reason he came along. Though there wasn't a romantic aura coming off of Valery, Vears couldn't mask the one he had.

"I've heard a lot about you, sir." Vears said. "It's an honor to be in your presence

[Britanania]

Crudelia

After Nelor made his demonstration to the Duke and made his way out of the Throne Room, Crudelia lingered for a moment with give an exaggerated and exasperated shrug to the Alderaanian noble.

"Looks like it's ta-ta for now, darling," she said seductively to him before giving him a blow kiss for good measure. Crudelia's good spirits were back in force, and she sauntered out of the throne room behind Nelor before one of her Mandolorian retainers approached.

"I understand your point, dear," she told the mercenary. "But all things considered as fun as that would be the Dark Council's motives are unknown to me. For now we need to play Pazaak by their rules and afterwards we can--"

Crudelia suddenly stopped and a frown overtook her.

I feel suddenly very cold... she thought with a shudder and cocked her head over to one side. Something is happening...there's another Sith Lord who landed, and the Jedi aren't far from him. Things are going to get fun indeed

"Kujo," she whispered to the Mandalorian. "Get your battalion ready. We're going Jedi hunting after all."