Star Wars: The Eternal War IC

[Brusia]

Star Wars: The Eternal War

OOC

Jedi Master Martius Shan
Aboard the shuttle Redeemer

Martius couldn't help but chuckle a bit as his shuttle approached the battlecruiser Lictor, which was to serve as the newly established joint task force's flagship. After years spent hiding and running from the Empire following the Jedi Purge, it felt more than a little strange to be welcomed aboard a former Imperial vessel; if nothing else it was certainly evidence that the Force works in mysterious ways. Though he wasn't particularly thrilled at the thought of working with former Imperial officials who had once hunted him and his fellow Jedi down throughout the Galaxy, he knew that the mad Zakuulan Emperor Tyrronis had to be stopped before countless innocents faced the same fate as Hosnian Prime and Carida, and if that was going to happen he'd need all the help he could get.

When Martius received clearance to board the vessel, he piloted his shuttle into one of the Lictor's hanger bays and touched down. He got up from the shuttle's pilot seat and made his way towards the boarding ramp. As he did, he passed by R5-B4 and informed the astromech droid "Well here we are. I'm going to head to the Lictor's Bridge, you're welcome to tag along if you'd like; just be careful about which terminals you interface with, we wouldn't want the Imps to think you were trying to steal their precious data." He then proceeded to disembark from his shuttle, and as he exited the ship he was greeted by a Pentastar officer.

"Master Shan, I presume?" the officer asked "Welcome aboard the Lictor. My name is Lieutenant Kelar, I'm here to escort you to the Bridge."

Martius nodded and followed the young officer to a nearby turbolift. As the lift approached its destination, Martius thought back to his time aboard the Victory, his flagship during the Clone Wars, from which he commanded the 53rd Battalion in battles throughout the Galaxy. The newer Imperial vessels like the Lictor may have been larger and more advanced, but they just didn't have the character of the old Venator-class cruisers in Martius' opinion. When the turbolift came to a halt, Martius followed the Lieutenant the rest of the way to the Bridge. Once there the Lieutenant departed, and Martius walked towards Ardus Kaine.

As the Pentastar Alignment was the first of the Imperial remnants to offer a temporary alliance with the New Republic, Grand Moff Kaine was given command of the task force's naval units, while after some negotiation the former Jedi General Martius was placed in command of the task force's ground units. While the Pentastar Alignment currently contributed the bulk of the task force's manpower, the New Republic was starting to make some considerable contributions as well, and elite warriors from all over the Galaxy who opposed the Zakuulan Empire were signing on with the task force for a chance to take on the mad Emperor. Even the former Zakuulan Knight-Captain had surrendered himself and a wealth of Zakuulan data to the task force, though many were still uncertain of his motives.

When he finally reached the Grand Moff, Martius stated: "Grand Moff Kaine? I'm Martius Shan, it's a pleasure to meet you."

[Gorbatov]

Pentastar Alignment

Ardus Kaine, Grand Moff of the Pentastar Alignment
In the bridge of the Praetor II-Class Battlecruiser, Lictor

"Yes order the Assertor to stay in Jaemus. It's in order to protect the shipyards from any attack. Also the Assertor would need further repairs anyway, so she will stay in Jaemus for now.", said Kaine as he spoke to Zsinj, Grand Admiral of the Pentastar Alignment.

"Grand Moff, are you sure we wouldn't need more ships from the main fleet?", questioned Zsinj.

"Not at all, for the Scourge squadron is fairly capable of dealing with ships from that so called 'Eternal Empire. As this squadron had managed to stopped several attempts of the Eternal Empire, from advancing into Pentastar territory.", said Kaine clamly.

"Very well, I guess I should get back on the Interrex. Let's hope we can take back the with this force. Also Admirals Pellaeon and Daala stressed that their fleet is available to assist if needed, they just need your order. I must dismiss myself now, as my ship still need to prepare for this operation.", concluded Zsinj, as he began to walk towards the turbolift.

As Zsinj left, one of the sensors officers of the Lictor rushed towards the Grand Moff. "Sir! A Mu-class shuttle is approaching our fleet. Do we fire or not?", exclaimed the sensors officer.

"No, it is probably one of the representatives of the 'New Republic. Don't fire on that ship, let it land in our hanger, and left the representative come to the bridge. Get Lieutenant Kelar to welcome the representative, and escort him to the bridge.", stressed Kaine.

"Yes sir, will relay your orders immediately.", replied the sensors officer.

Kaine waited on the bridge, staring at the dark void of space. "Ensure that if the representative has an astromech droid, increase the clearance levels from E-4(Petty Officer 3rd Class) and above. To ensure none of our information can be leaked to the 'New Republic'.", said Kaine to one of his information officers.

"Yes sir, will do immediately." replied the information officer.

-Few Minutes Later-

As the representative approached the Grand Moff, two IG-100 MagnaGuards approached the figure, cutting the figure off from continuing towards the Grand Moff. "Stand down.", said Kaine as he turned around to meet the representative.

The two MagnaGuards stood down and allowed the representative to continue towards the Grand Moff. "Jedi? Hmm...Pleasure to meet you, Martuis Shan. Sorry about the MagnaGuards, they were a gift given to me from the Banking Clan, in Muunilist, and you can never be too safe.", replied Kaine.

[Harbertia]

R5-B4 had accompanied the master and had turned to notice the Magnaguard about the time the Moff called them to stand down. The Moff was certainly putting on a casual amiable air- all the more reason for R5-B4 to be even more watchful. The droid retracted the third wheel and stood as professionally at at attention as an astromech could- not that it expected the Empire to care as the Empire notoriously wipes the memory of it's utilities for the sake of internal security. Can't have someone buying an R3 and learning the layout of an Imperial Star Destroyer.

[Dernland]

Galen Mayler
Brother, Guardian, Traitor

Galen knelt in the center of a dark, spartan prison cell. He could feel the force swirling around him, a violent tempest of power and will. It flowed around him, through him, even while in this metal coffin floating through the void. Galen reached out, grasping tightly to the flow like a lifeline. Warmth and strength roared through his body, filling his muscles with energy. He felt as if he could tear through the binders on his wrists, blow open the blast doors and escape. However, as soon as the force flowed into him, it flowed out again, stopped cold in its tracks. The warmth and comfort of that flow ebbed away, replaced by a cold feeling of lonliness. A soft, guttural growl echoed from the back of the room, resonating from a small golden creature lounging in a cage. It stood, arching its back and hissing at Galen. They'd done this dance every day since he'd turned himself over to the Alliance. He would try to divert the flow of the force, and the creature would stop him.

Galen's mind flashed back to the destruction of Hosnian Prime, what seemed to be a distant memory. He stood on the bridge of the Battle-Cruiser Therax, overseeing the deployment of Knights and Skyroopers to quell the riots below. The Immortal Emperor's orders were to stop these dissidents using extreme force, but Galen wasn't stupid. Such infantile displays of power would only breed more resentment among the conquered worlds. Zakuul needed to show these primitives that a better way of life awaited them in the service of their Emperor, a way of life that Galen was more than willing to provide should they stop destroying riot droids. He watched the displays showing various cities down on the planet, observing the Knights using the force to suppress, though non-violently, the tempestuous rioters. They seemed to be getting the upper hand when Galen felt a disturbance ripple through the pathways of the force. The massive turbo-lasers of the cruiser began to shift beneath his feet, targeting the cities far below. Galen shouted to the bridge crew, frantically ordering them to shut down the command, but their controls were overridden. Billions of voices cried out in terror, and they just kept screaming.

[Brusia]

Martius Shan
Bridge of the Lictor

Martius stopped in his tracks as the two MagnaGuards blocked his path, and instinctively began to reach for his lightsaber until the Grand Moff called them off. He then continued towards Kaine and, after B4 stood at attention, made his greeting, which the Grand Moff returned in kind while also apologizing for the action of his droids.

"Indeed" Martius replied to Kaine's statement that one can never be too safe "Though MagnaGuards are certainly an interesting choice; I don't think I've seen one of those old units active since the Clone Wars." Knowing that the Grand Moff probably had more important matters to attend to than discussing his choice of bodyguard, Martius decided he should probably get down to business and continued: "At any rate, what's the status of our task force? Have there been any problems getting your men and those of the New Republic to work together?"

[Gorbatov]

Pentastar Alignment

Ardus Kaine, Grand Moff of the Pentastar Alignment
In the bridge of the Praetor II-Class Battlecruiser, Lictor

"Ah yes, the Clone Wars...I guess you'll be familiar with some on my forces' equipment, as we have Hailfire Droid Tanks, TX-130 Tanks, AT-AP Walkers, and also LAAT/i Gunships.", said Kaine.

"Hmm...Well my contingent is just waiting for your Republic's fleet. Furthermore, in the topic my men, I've ordered them to cooperate with your troops, and if they don't comply with my order. They will be executed, making an example for others to know.", stressed Kaine.

"In addition, I have a fleet standing by, and if needed they can be called in. Knowing that the 'Eternal' Empire is likely to still field numbers on the battlefield, we will likely have to call them in sooner or later. But I believe that my squadron will be sufficient enough to deal with most the the 'Eternal' Empire's attacks.", furthered Kaine.

[Nuxipal]

Nyxera T'vesh
Revenant Outpost, Concordia

Nyxera had brought the surviving Revenants to the moon of Concordia above the planet Mandalore. She had a plan to secure the moon and the planet below it as well has the half dozen other systems which made up the Neutrality Party of the Galaxy. She simply needed to find the correct pieces to put her plan into action. As such, she dispatched her two transports to begin smuggling spice as they were meant to as a means of generating income for the Revenants. The population of the moon was almost half a million, but none of that fell under her control just yet. She had to find a way to generate more income and quickly. She intercepted a transmission between Republic and Imperial factions about a joint task group to fight the Eternal Empire. It seemed she was in a position to make some kind of play on this.

She got into the Havok bringing along her personal Astromech, R2-N7 and leaving the Mere captain in charge of the Revenants while she was gone. "Don't worry, I'll be back with the ship. I'm going to see if I can't get us some credits or ships. Something. I'm going to get us something." She took off and sent a transmission to one of her captains. "See if you can't get some old Battle Droids purchased for us. We need to start building up a security force for the Outpost, otherwise we will find Mandalorians kicking us out before we can convince them we will be able to lead them into battle better than their present leadership."

She engaged the hyperdrive after N7 imput the coordinates that they intercepted. En route they sent information regarding who was arriving.

New Republic and Imperial Remnant Task Group,

I am Nyxera T'vesh, current leader of the Lok Revenants. We heard you were preparing a strike force to attack the Eternal Empire and thought to offer our services as a mercenary company. I am on my way to the Battlecruiser Lictor as a means of personally offering our services as well as discussing our fees. I am sure we will make for good partners.

The message should arrive a few moments before she and the Havok arrive out of Hyperspace.

Approaching the Imperial Battleship Lictor

The Havok exited Hyperspace and approached the Lictor. "You know N7, this is the closest to a Star Destroyer I have been without it firing at me. Hopefully we don't need to make a fast escape."

She opened a transmission to the bridge, "This is Nyxera T'vesh requesting permission to land aboard the Lictor to negotiate terms with the Imperial and Republic emissaries." The ship continued its approach to the Imperial ship.

[Gorbatov]

Pentastar Alignment

Ardus Kaine, Grand Moff of the Pentastar Alignment
In the bridge of the Praetor II-Class Battlecruiser, Lictor

A communications officer approaches the Grand Moff,"Sir, a mercenary named Nxyera T'vesh is enroute to our position. Furthermore, the mercenary has declared that she wishes to join the task force."

"Hmm? A friend of yours Martius? Very well, once this mercenary gets out of hyperspace let her through.", orders Kaine.

"It seems that news of the task force has spread throughout the galaxy. Hopefully the news didn't reach the 'Eternal' Empire.", said Kaine to Martius.

[Brusia]

Martius Shan
On the Bridge of the Lictor

"Well that's good to hear" Martius replied to Kaine's list of Clone Wars equipment used by his forces "At least I won't feel entirely out of date." It wasn't too surprising to hear that the Pentastar Alignment was using old Clone Wars technology, after the devastating losses suffered by the old Galactic Empire the remnants probably needed to make use of every functional piece of military equipment they could find.

"I certainly hope executions won't be necessary" Martius somewhat uncomfortably continued. "For my part, I'll do what I can to ensure the cooperation of the New Republic, but I'm afraid we Jedi don't have quite as much influence in the New Republic as we had in the Old Republic."

A communications officer then approached the Grand Moff and informed him that a mercenary by the name of Nyxera T'vesh was en route intending to join the task force.

"I can't say I'm familiar with her" Martius replied to Kaine's asking if Nyxera was a friend of his "Though I'll gladly hear out any offers of assistance. Should we meet with this woman in the hanger bay or are you comfortable allowing her on the Bridge?"

[Mavorpen]

A shuttle exited hyperspace just outside of the range of the looming Lictor Battlecruiser's weapons. The shuttle in question was an upgraded offshoot of the assault class shuttle type that was used by the Republic during the Clone Wars. It housed a single individual. The individual sitting in the pilot seat suddenly stopped the ship in its tracks. "Ah, I almost forgot..." the individual stated. Their voice was soft and feminine. However, it also had an air of detachment. It was distinct enough for anyone who knew her to recognize her as Jedi Master Jinx Reeva.

Jinx pressed a button in front of her and held it down. "Greetings, Lictor. This is Jedi Master Reeva requesting permission to board. I am sending my clearance code now." After about 20 seconds, a voice responded back.

"This is Lieutenant Gana of the Lictor. You have permission to board."

Jinx's ship continued forward, entering into one of the battlecruiser's hanger bays. As the ship landed, an Imperial officer rushed forward and stood behind it. The boarding ramp in the rear of the shuttle descended, and Jinx exited the ship, noticing the officer performing a rather awkward salute. This was unsurprising given that he probably had mixed feelings about fighting alongside a Jedi Master, someone with whom he would have been fighting against not too long ago. However, unbeknownst to her, the awkward stance was also due to awe as well. The officer had never seen a Jedi before, especially in person. Furthermore, her blue skin and pure white eyes and clothing combined with everything about how she carried herself made her resemble an angel. "Welcome aboard, Master Reeva." The officer stated as he became at ease, finally managing to pull himself together. "I am to be your escort to the bridge in order to convene with the Grand Moff as well as the other Master Jedi who arrived shortly sooner than you."

"Ah. I hope I am not too late." Jinx stated, her voice not actually containing a tone of urgency one would expect from her words. "Well then, let us be off."

The officer nodded and began leading her to the bridge of the battlecruiser. In opportune moments, the officer would sneak a glance at the Jedi Master, wondering if he could catch any hint of expression from her. His endeavor proved to be fruitless, as not once did she show any signs of being disconcerted being aboard a ship filled to the brim with individuals who had been her enemy not long ago. The walk was painfully silent, as the two--well, Jinx, specifically--drew the eyes of nearly everyone they walked past. Finally, they reached the bridge, and Jinx approached her fellow Jedi Master and the Grand Moff. "Greetings, Master Shan. Grand Moff Kaine." She stated, nodding slightly from one person to the other in the order in which she greeted them.

[Gorbatov]

Pentastar Alignment

Ardus Kaine, Grand Moff of the Pentastar Alignment
In the bridge of the Praetor II-Class Battlecruiser, Lictor

Another communications officer comes to the Grand Moff, "Sir, theirs another jedi requesting to board."

"Yes sir, will do." replied the officer.

"Let the Jedi through, in addition the mercenary as well to the bridge.", ordered Kaine.

"It seems another of your Jedi friends are here.", said Kaine to Martius.

-After Few Minutes-

As the two new figures approached Master Shan, and Grand Moff Kaine. Incidently they were cut off once by Kaine's MagnaGuards, "Let them through.", ordered Kaine.

"Sorry for the guards.', said Kaine to the two figures.

"Welcome, I presume you want to join this taskforce?", questioned Kaine.

[Nuxipal]

Nyxera T'vesh
Imperial Battleship Lictor

After the transmission was sent and a reply sent by the hangar crew, Nyxera piloted her ship into the Hangar bay and exited down the ramp. She kept her hood up as the deck officer approached. He looked her over real quick, power armor under the cloak seemed to throw him off a bit. "Nyxera I presume. We haven't gotten instructions yet on where to take you. Perhaps we can escort you from the Bridge. The Republic and Imperial leadership is meeting there. You can meet with the commanding officers."

It was a short walk before they arrived at the bridge. As she walked forward she noticed not one, but two Jedi in addition to the Imperial Commander. They looked as if they were discussing troops and the like. Nyxera smiled and introduced herself as she entered the bridge. "Hello gentlemen, and ladies, I am Nyxera T'vesh of the Lok Revenants. I heard you were looking to put together a task force to defeat the Eternal Empire. Thought I would offer my services. The Revenants could assist as well, but I would be the primary asset that they could provide."

She tried to gage the people in the room, "I'll say that I am more than capable of being of use both on the ground during ground assault, as well as in space or as air support. I can bring my squadron with me for the right price as well."

[Parcia]

Murianna Cyrus

The Remnants of her squad would be hold up on a small transport, having payed the smuggler to take them off Corellia with the last of their credits. 5. 5 out of 200. The remnants of CorSec.

She had been among the many beings of the Galaxy for some 5 millennia, and yet she had never felt greater loss. She had grown fond of them, so much so she even fell in love with one. She didn't even know Sith could love. None the less, that was gone, all of it, most of her friends, coworkers, even her love, all destroyed at the hands of these...these...


She slammed her fist in to the armrest of her chair. The man next to her, Dex, putting his hand on her shoulder. "Hey, come on Muri…at least we gave them hell.” A fury burned in the eyes of the women, one she hadn’t felt since Dromund Kass, all those centuries ago. She would turn to him, the fire of hatred in her eyes being stemmed by the tears that flowed. She slumped back in to her chair, resting her head on his shoulder as she sobbed quietly.
Jadisa stepped in to the passenger cabin, the bandage on her had doing little to block out the fiery red hair she kept short. “How’s every one doing….is Muri Crying?” Her voice was one d disbelief. Murianna had taken over the group since…since Jaak’s demise at the hands of a group of Zakuulan Knights, holding them off long enough for the team to escape. The women was of sound mind and body, easily just as lethal as the rest of the team combined.
Seeing her cry like this set off more than a few alarm bells.
Murianna wouldn’t cry for long though, she needed to execute some orders. “Alright.” She sniffled a bit, wiping her tears away as her mind switched in to command mode. “You all need to get to the safe house of Tatoonie.” The rest of the team gave her puzzled looks, and she reviled the Data pack. “I need to get this to its destination, something we haft to do and I need to move without being seen.” Dex opened his mouth to speak, but she put her hand up. “I’m the only one not on the wanted posters, and I can move a lot faster alone and unseen, It’ll take a week at the most.” All other objections were halted. They all knew Murianna was right, having all born witness to the women’s unnatural skills of the trade.

That, was 2 days prior, and now she came out of hyperspace, the small shuttle creaking rather loudly as it materialized in to real space next to the ship that would house the task force. The deal had been that if the CorSec remnants got the Data on the occupational forces on Corellia, then the Task force would put it on the list of planets that needed to be liberated. She transmitted the authorization codes she had been given and waited for clearance to doc.

[Brusia]

Martius Shan
On the Bridge of the Lictor

"Greetings Master Reeva" Martius replied to the Pantoran Jedi while returning her nod "It's good to see you." Martius was certainly glad that the rest of the Council had agreed to send Jinx along on the mission, she was one of the most talented duelists in the Order and her combat prowess would undoubtedly be sorely needed in the battles to come. Her use of Form VII and some dark side abilities was a little disconcerting, but much like the former Master Windu she always seemed to prevail against the temptations of the Dark.

A short time later the mercenary who had earlier contacted the Lictor was also brought to the Bridge, where she proceeded to offer her services and the services of her squadron...for the right price. He'd gotten a good deal of experience dealing with mercenaries and bounty hunters while on the run from the Empire, and while not always the most reliable of sorts they still had their uses. This Nyxera in particular was quite interesting, as he could sense that she was strong in the Force. He looked towards Jinx, wondering if she could sense it too, then turned to addressed the young mercenary:

"I think we can come to an arrangement Ms. T'vesh. I'll contact the New Republic about drawing up a contract and seeing that you and your men are appropriately compensated; provided, of course, that you have no objections Grand Moff Kaine..."

[Mavorpen]

Jinx had noticed the two MagnaGuards when she entered the Bridge, however, she had assumed that they had been programmed to not identify the Jedi as enemies anymore. When they stepped forward and stood between her and the Grand Moff, the temptation to cut them down was present for a brief instant, however it was pushed away as quickly as it had come. "It is alright, Grand Moff Kaine. I understand the necessity for such protection during these turbulent times." Jinx flashed a subtle smile at Martius. It was almost inhuman, but at the same time, as it was the only sort of emotion she had displayed--a feat that was rare in general--it carried a hint of warmth in it.

"It is good to see you as well." She responded to Martius. Jinx was not surprised when she learned that Martius would be one of the other two Jedi who would be a part of the coalition. In many respects, she and him were opposites, particularly in their fighting style. His skill in Forms II and III made him a fantastic defensive fighter, and she acknowledged his abilities. Their opposing styles complemented each other in a sense, which, she imagined, played a part in why they were specifically chosen.

Jinx listened intently to Nyxera offering her services to the coalition. She caught the quick glance Martius flashed at her and quickly concluded that he had also sensed her quite strong connection to the Force. Allies were necessary--particularly powerful ones. "I, personally, take no issue with allowing Nyxera into the coalition. We need all the help that we can get."

[Nuxipal]

Nyxera T'vesh
Bridge of the Lictor

The Jedi seemed interested in Nyxera's assistance. She knew that they would be able to feel her force power and hoped they wouldn't eventually find out that she had been a jedi padawan in the past. She smiled, "That sounds great. There are a few stipulations, but I am sure we could work those out as we go." She looked at the Pantoran Jedi, she had a haunting look to her and the force around her flowed as if it were in balance. Martius had a similar flow, however the dark side seemed to pass away from him. Of the three force users on the bridge, she could tell she was the most attuned with the dark.

"Perhaps if we had an easy target for the Task Group first. Something that is not on the priority list for the Eternal Empire to defend, but can easily lead us to a more important target."

[Parcia]

Murianna Cyrus
Imperial II Class ship Lictor

She had landed, waving the hanger crew off as they went about servicing the old Shuttle. By this point her crew would find the Holo recording explaining in...small detail, who she was, a supposed agent for the rebellion, one with ties to the Jedi of old.

She had long since stop using the force for things, though it took some effort to adjust. While she had stopped using it, she hadn't cared to hide her presence in the force. Which is why she felt a sudden rush of adrenaline as her eyes fell upon the Jedi.

A split second of mental concentration and she had covered her presence for the most part, but should this Jedi be anything close to a master, she would have explaining to do.

None the less, the sight of a battle worn women clad in singed and patched up combat gear, heavy blaster rifle slung and blaster pistol on her hip, she would definitely look like a rebel.
"I uh...might not be able to give you an easy target, but I do have a complete read out of the occupational forces on Corellia." She brought out the Data pack.

[Spindle]

Cockpit
ICT Mistful
Hyperspace

The pulsating, swirling tunnel of hyperspace filled the cockpit window, half-reflected in the muted visor of the cockpit's sole inhabitant. Sitting in the pilot's chair, she watched the ethereal distortions outside with an impassiveness a statue would have marvelled at. Sat stock-still, ramrod straight, she could have been dead if it weren't for the occasional flick of a black-gloved finger against the armrests. Outside, oblivious and uncaring, the blue tunnel of hyperspace continued to swirl and pulsate, an endless, infinite agglomeration of mass and matter which was beyond her comprehension.

Irenta didn't care.

A light flipped on, flashing madly. The figure stirred and flipped a single on the dashboard. From outside the forward compartment of the transport came a soft ka-thunk as the interior airlocks connected. Flipping another switch, she felt the gravity in the room shifting slightly and her lips twitched upwards beneath the helmet. She doubted that she would need to engage with anything on short notice. It was reassuring to know that she could. Flipping the switch to its "off" position, she settled back into her chair. It wouldn't be long now.

Tapping the screen in front of her, the blue tunnel of hyperspace was eclipsed in her visor as she began to scroll through the Mistful's access codes. It had accrued quite a few of them since it had been stashed on Felucia: the Imperial Remnants - and the not-quite-a-smile disappeared from her lips at the concept - had failed to do their housecleaning properly. Which was, on one hand, understandable, but somewhere deep down it irked her. It was complacency, and she was going to aid it.

Of course, if they learned their lessons from her arrival here, they weren't going to make that mistake again.

Idly she wondered whether or not she'd be processed at a level which would be useful to anyone. It wouldn't be unlike the Empire's remnants to file her as a Stormtrooper and attach her to one of their regular Battalions as "stiffening". It wouldn't be the first time that had happened - her Battalion had been assigned to those duties before. It lasted six months before the sector Moff realised his mistake and reassigned them to active counter-insurgency. In the back of her mind, she wondered if he'd be working with the Task Force. She didn't think so: the best she'd been able to come up with was Kaine, and if his reputation was anything to go by, he wouldn't suffer fools gladly.

Not that the who mattered. They'd be on the bridge of the Lictor, unless there was a Super in the area: that was all she needed to know. The central design for Imperial military ships was standardised - with the exception of the Supers, of course, given the requirement of transit cars - and that went for their internal layouts as much as their loadout. Once she got inside, the bridge wouldn't be difficult to find, and that would be where whoever was in charge of this would be found. Presumably with a committee, if the New Republic was actually there. And they probably were. If the records she'd been able to find were any indication, the food stocks they'd been sent included several Mon Cal dishes, and the Mon Cals were one of the staunchest supporters of the New Republic.

New Republic.

Her face contorted ever so slightly at the phrase. It felt so wrong in her head - worse, even, than the Eternal Empire. At least the Eternal Empire had earned its victory through combat - the New Republic had simply scavenged its title from the corpse of the Empire - the real Empire. Not this new, fragmented mess which claimed the Imperial title for itself - it was barely better than the New Republic. It had the chance to fight the Zakuul and it had squandered it. There had been no-one capable of claiming the Empire's true, so it had squandered the death of so many. So many.

The blue tunnel ahead of her collapsed into starlines which, in turn, collapsed into a flicker of pseudomotion as an Imperial Battlecruiser flashed into existence ahead and above of of her. Glancing at the screen, Irenta nodded to herself in satisfaction as it flashed green. The loci she'd obtained converged at two points: she'd headed to the closest one first. Unprofessional, but it had worked out. And, looking at the number of ships in the Battlecruiser's ventral hangar, there was definitely a meting going on here. All she had to do now was get into it.

"Unidentified freighter, this is the Imperial warship Lictor." A voice crackled over the comms, "Please state your business or prepare to be fired upon."

"Imperial warship Lictor, this is the Mistful." Irenta replied crisply, "BOSS registration code fifteen, oh nine, one-two-thirty, bravo. Requesting permission to dock and be taken to the joint Imperial and New Republic Task Force leaders."

There was a moment of confused silence as whoever was on the other end of the line figured out what they were doing. Then came a sharp intake of breath, followed by another moment of silence, followed by a muted conversation which suggested that the person on the other end had forgotten to switch off their microphone. After several seconds of more silence, the voice returned:

"Mistful pilot, can you give us your identification number?"

"Eleven-seven, bravo, nineteen, delta zero." Irenta responded again, waiting as the operator once more fed her response through the database.

"And can you confirm your name, please?"

"Irenta Kollaris."

It was a meaningless exchange, and they both knew it. If she'd been able to retrieve the identification number of a Storm Commando, she'd be able to get their name, too. But protocol was protocol, and they were going to have to grit their respective sets of teeth and bear it. For the third time in their conversation, there was a pause on the other side as the man on the other side of the commlink processed the information. More muted conversations away from the microphone took place before he returned once more:

"Please hold position for now. We're relaying your request upwards."

Grabbing a portable commlink, Irenta placed it by the cockpit microphone, ensuring that it was connecting into her helmet commlink, before activating it and walking out of the cockpit, into the hangar module. Dominating the room was her Hunter, its S-foils closed for now as it floated above the energy window set into the floor. Climbing onto the starfighter, she reached up and deactivated the miniature tractor beam, the ship's internal gravity pulling the TIE out of the hangar and into the void outside. Pushing off of the spherical cockpit, Irenta grabbed onto the tractor beam projector, turning it back on as the fighter hovered half-in, half-out of the hangar. Dropping to the floor, she admired her handiwork.

The TIE had gone half-through the energy window, leaving the open cockpit hatch within the pressurised zone. Here, underneath the Mistful, it was hidden from the eyes of the Lictor. And that meant that, if they chose to destroy the ship, she would have an escape pod they weren't prepared for. Underneath the helmet, Irenta's lips twitched ever-so-slightly upwards, in a grim parody of a smile as she stepped into the TIE's cockpit. She didn't think that the Lictor would do anything like that. But it was reassuring to know that she had a backup plan if it did.

[Zanera]

Captain Jax Aldack
Aboard the Steadfast
Taanab System

---

Captain Jax Aldack was having a decent day. He was on the front lines against the Eternal Empire, ready to defend the planet from attackers. Tanaab was the first planet into New Republic territory, and it was on the Perlemian Trade Route, a route that either began or ended at Coruscant, a planet definitively conquered by the Eternal Empire. It was a metropolis-covered world that was the seat of the Old Republic government, and not long ago, the Imperial one. Now it was captured and wholeheartedly subjugated by the Eternal Empire now, a formidable enemy that was a threat to everything on this side of the galaxy. Few knew what may lay in the Unknown Regions, or what threats there might be lying there. Projects sent to map out or colonize or begin relations with the Unknown Regions were either a footnote one everyone's important recent events mental notes, or generally a secret. There was no denying the Unknown Regions had significant threats now, what with about a fifth of the right side of the galaxy now held by a sudden and originally unknown enemy.

Jax had heard of the atrocities recently committed under the reign of a new Zakuulan emperor. Everyone with any link to recent news broadcasts would know about them. Jax had seen certain atrocities committed by other parties firsthand many times before. But when an entire planet was bombarded because of simple dissent. . . These Zakuulans were ruled by madmen. They were an evil that the galaxy must be rid of, much like the Empire, which was on its own life support these days. At least the parts like the Pentastar Alignment, who weren't tearing each other apart over a single system every other day. Anyhow, uprisings should be expected by any competent ruler, especially when those planets were forcefully subjugated. The Imperials had to deal with Jax and the Rebel Alliance when they're atrocities against democracy and entire species were being committed. The Eternal Empire would now have to deal with what any occupying force would have to deal with. And the actions of the new Zakuulan emperor would only spur more action against them. Every planet was a hearts and minds campaign for the New Republic. Compassion was a known entity in New Republic territory, and compassion would fuel this campaign against the Eternal Empire, especially after the Hosnian Prime and Caridan orbital bombardments. The Rebel Alliance fought against an atrocity-committing regime once before, and as the founders of the New Republic, they'd deal with it again.

Jax wasn't liking how they were dealing with it right now, though.

A couple days ago Jax received a message for his eyes only. He read it and took the entire two days either getting angry at the message or genuinely mulling it over. He had yelled at subordinates or had ignored them altogether in deep thought. Now his crew would know what it was all about. Jax had put in a request for the coordinates a couple hours ago, and sitting in his combat chair, he had just now received them. He relayed them to his navigations officer on the bridge, and putting in a word to Tanaab that the Steadfast was temporarily taking its leave due to New Republic High Counsel-related matters, the ship began its preparations to make a jump to hyperspace.

---

Jax ordered all hands to battle-stations and to bring the shields online when he saw the Imperial fleet arrayed before him after coming out of hyperspace. Jax had years and years of experience under his belt fighting the Separatists and the Empire to fall into a trap now, when the Empire was now but a cripple with a handblaster compared to what they were before the Zakuulans showed up. Jax was running his own simulations through his head on top of the ones a bridge officer was running on the combat computer. The simulations slowed down as Jax noticed the Imperial fleet was making no real movements to engage him. Jax was about to order all starfighters to deploy and to begin screening maneuvers against the TIE fighters when he noticed the TIEs were not posing much of a threat. No turbolaser or ion cannon batteries were firing from the Imperial ships. There were even some ships that looked completely out of place among an Imperial fleet such as this. It even looked of the kind of rendezvous the message he was sent gave him a sense of. A task force of ships from various factions banding together to remove the Zakuulans from this side of the galaxy.

But Jax wasn't taking any chances. He'd use the lack of action on their part for an escaping maneuver. These Imperials probably went through the pains of securing these ships to trick the top crews and soldiers of the New Republic, luring them here before destroying them as some plot to land blows against the New Republic. The Imperial warlords were so naive as to think about only themselves, perhaps the Pentastar Alignment could be so naive as to only imagine wiping out the New Republic. If Jax was going to have any meeting with any of these Imperials, he'd do it over holoprojector with his ship ready to go straight to Mon Calamari, where if these Imperials wanted to follow, they'd face the ships and orbital battle platforms among the shipyards that designed and built the New Republic's formidable fleet of capital ships. Jax refused to take very many chances right this moment.

[Brusia]

Martius Shan
On the Bridge of the Lictor

Jinx agreed with Martius that Nyxera should be allowed into the task force, and the Grand Moff soon nodded in approval as well. Nyxera agreed to work out her stipulations on the go, and suggested that the task force find an easy target to start with. Before he had a chance to respond however, Martius suddenly felt a chill and looked out over the Bridge; though brief, it was unmistakably the presence of the Dark Side. Jinx could undoubtedly sense it as well, but Martius had no idea if Nyxera would be able to detect anything. To the best of his knowledge, the task force wasn't expecting any Inquisitors to arrive, and while it was possible that an Inquisitor had made his or her way to the task force on their own accord, it was unlikely they'd bother attempting to conceal their dark side presence.

A woman then approached the group and handed a data pack to Grand Moff Kaine, which she stated contained a complete read out of the Zakuulan occupational forces on Corellia; valuable information indeed if true. As this woman appeared to be the only person who arrived on the Bridge when Martius sensed the dark side presence, it seemed she was the most likely candidate, though looking at her blasters and battered armor she certainly didn't look much like an Inquisitor. Then again, there were times Martius had appeared quite similar back when he was working as bounty hunter in Hutt Space to conceal himself from the old Galactic Empire. Perhaps this woman had fled from the Inquisitors and was attempting to hide in much the same way? As Master Reeva was far more knowledgeable about the Sith than he was, he'd be sure to discuss this with her the next time they were alone. For now, as Jinx had stated earlier, they needed all the help they could get, and data on Corellia's defenses was certainly helpful.

A few moments later a young Imperial Ensign approached Kaine and informed him that a Mobquet transport piloted by someone identifying themselves as "Irenta Kollaris" was requesting permission to dock. Martius recognized the name immediately. "If this is the same Irenta Kollaris I'm thinking of, I highly recommend letting her aboard; I can guarantee that you aren't likely to find a better soldier." Kaine nodded and ordered the Ensign to clear Irenta for docking. Martius then added: "And please ask her to report to the Bridge as soon as she's aboard." The Ensign nodded then began walking back to his station. "After all these years, could this really be the same Irenta Kollaris?" Martius thought to himself. He certainly hoped so. The Irenta Kollaris he'd served with during the Clone Wars was the finest soldier he'd ever known; she single-handedly saved most of his Battalion during the Battle of Velmor when she left her fighter to attack and destroy a CIS AA-emplacement that had been firing on the 53rd's transports; a feat even most Jedi would not have been likely to accomplish. When Martius and his squad of Clones finally found her, she was delirious, so severely injured that she required three weeks in a bacta tank to heal, and in spite of all that still willing to serve the Republic when she recovered. And that was just for starters. She was exactly the sort of person the task force needed, and with a few more people like her on their side their odds of success would improve greatly.

When the Ensign finally returned to his station, he once again spoke into the microphone he'd never bothered to turn off and stated:

"Mistful you are cleared to dock in the ventral hanger bay, and are to report to the Bridge as soon as you've landed. Lictor out."

Another ship soon dropped out of hyperspace, though this vessel was considerably larger and appeared to be prepared for combat. The ship was an MC80B Star Cruiser identified as the Steadfast, one of the capital ships the New Republic had attached to the task force; though judging by the Captain's actions it didn't appear that he had been informed of that fact. Figuring the Captain would probably be more likely to take his word over that of an Imperial Grand Moff, Martius informed Kaine "Perhaps I should handle this one" then made his way to a nearby holoprojector and contacted the Star Cruiser:

"This is Jedi Master Martius Shan of the joint task force to the Steadfast, we do not mean you any harm. Have you been informed of the nature of your assignment here?"

[Zanera]

Martius Shan
On the Bridge of the Lictor

Another ship soon dropped out of hyperspace, though this vessel was considerably larger and appeared to be prepared for combat. The ship was an MC80B Star Cruiser identified as the Steadfast, one of the capital ships the New Republic had attached to the task force; though judging by the Captain's actions it didn't appear that he had been informed of that fact. Figuring the Captain would probably be more likely to take his word over that of an Imperial Grand Moff, Martius informed Kaine "Perhaps I should handle this one" then made his way to a nearby holoprojector and contacted the Star Cruiser:

"This is Jedi Master Martius Shan of the joint task force to the Steadfast, we do not mean you any harm. Have you been informed of the nature of your assignment here?"

This 'Jedi Master' had the knowledge of New Republic encryption to contact the Steadfast's bridge directly, but Jax was naturally skeptical as to whether this was actually a Jedi Master of the New Republic. And even if he was, he could now be in the employ of the Pentastar Alignment. Jax whispered to a bridge officer to comb New Republic records for a Martius Shan. Returning shortly, the officer confirmed that there was a Jedi Master Martius Shan, and that the holoprojector image matched the description and known images of the Jedi. However, perhaps holoprojector images could be modified to produce a different image than who was actually speaking. The message seemed to be coming from the bridge of an Imperial Praetor-II, after all. Jax ordered an X-Wing squadron to deploy. A Jedi Master would have to be pretty competent in the Force, especially in this day and age. The communications officer could detect no signs of image tampering, so far. But why try to put so many puzzle pieces together when you could eliminate a couple entirely?

The X-Wing squadron was ordered to go towards the Lictor, the ship the holoprojector message seemed to arrive from, and proceeded reluctantly, which was expected. "Since you are a Jedi Master, Martius Shan, I assume you are competent with your Force abilities. As readouts aboard the battleruiser you are on may currently be displaying, I have sent a squadron of X-WIngs to head towards you. They currently are not aware of my intent, but it is noble, so they may forgive me sometime. I want you to use your Force abilities to capture the lead fighter, and to direct the fighter towards the bridge of your ship, and then to hold it in stasis for long enough so that I can then definitively ID you, and it may go without saying, it will also confirm you are the Jedi Master you say you are. The other fighters are for protection, just in case you aren't who you say you are. Someone working for the New Republic must be able to sympathize with my suspicions."

Jax turned his attention back to the large Imperial fleet just outside the bridge's viewports. He saw the specks of X-wings going towards the battlecruiser, calmly waiting for the Jedi Master's Force action, while listening on the comms where dialogue with the X-wing squadron would take place. An officer came forward and silently asked of the potential for a mind trick by the Force user, but Jax had never known a Jedi to use a mind trick at the distance there would be between the bridge and the X-wing, not even a Master. So far Jax was just confirming the identity of this Jedi Master. He had many more questions to raise. This was but the first step to gain any trust with this Calamarian.

[Gorbatov]

Pentastar Alignment

Ardus Kaine, Grand Moff of the Pentastar Alignment
In the bridge of the Praetor II-Class Battlecruiser, Lictor

"Hmm...I have no objection at all.The Pentastar Alignment is willing to paw for the mercenary's services.", replied Kaine to Martius.

As two unknown ships exits hyperspace, a sensors officer approaches Kaine, "Sir their are two unknown ships coming towards our taskforce. One is a cruiser-class ship, and another is a TIE Hunter."

"Ah it must be one of our fighter aces...Let the cruiser-class ship come, it may be part of the Republic's contingent."

"Sir, according to several scans of that ship, they seemed to have armed their weapon batteries.", added the officer.

"Send a warning, I wouldn't want to see this taskforce already destroying themselves from the within, even though this is the first meeting.", ordered Kaine.

"very well sir.", said the sensors officer, as he left to send a warning to the Republic ship.

Code: Select all

Republic Cruiser, this is the taskforce flagship Lictor. We are warning you to power down your weapons and shields, as your risking the integrity of trust between the Alignment and the Republic. Your ship's insubordination will be reported, and be sent to your high command, if you fail to comply with the Pentastar Alignment, to whom would like to further cooperate in a common goal against the Zakuul.

As the Republic cruiser powered down it's weapon systems, Kaine was relieved that further force wasn't needed for them to comply. But seeing only the Republic ship in the task force currently as that cruiser, Kaine was perplexed," It seems that the Republic will only provide us this one ship....Hmmm....Very well then, I can work with this.", said Kaine as he was facing the crowd gathered in the bridge.

[Spindle]

Hangar Bay
ICT Mistful
Hyperspace

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the commlink, no noise in the cockpit other other than Irenta's muffled breathing as it echoed noisily in the cramped environ. For a brief, adrenaline-pumping instant, she was half-convinced that they were about the open fire on her, before the commlink warbled into life and the tension in her shoulders went out a little bit. So they weren't going to kill her. Popping open the cockpit's access hatch, she climbed out of the TIE and back into the hangar bay as the ship began to veer towards the Lictor: one of the Battlecruiser's hangar-mounted tractor beams had them.

Too late to turn back now.

As the Mobquet passed into the pressurised portion of the Battlecruiser's hangar, Irenta stepped through the energy window and out into the Lictor proper. There was that usual, disconcerting shift in gravity as the larger ship's internal field asserted control on her flight path, before she hit the deck with a soft clang and straightened up. For a moment, her eyes flitted from place to place underneath the helmet before settling on an Ensign with a datapad in hand and who looked like he didn't have a clue what was going on. As the Mistful was manoeuvred into position over a docking bay, Irenta stepped up to the Ensign and spoke:

"Irenta Kollaris."

Taking it in his stride, the Ensign held up the datapad in one hand and replied:

"Would you mind removing your helmet? We need to perform a retinal scan."

For a moment Irenta was still, before reaching up and twisting the helmet, pulling it off of her head to reveal a pair of ice-blue eyes underneath. Putting the left one to the datapad for a moment, she became stock still for another moment before stepping back, brushing a golden strand away from her face and putting the helmet back on. The Ensign glanced at the datapad for a moment, glanced back at Irenta and simply turned and gestured for her to follow him. Crossing the hangar bay, Irenta's gaze raked across the other ships here - a pair of Mus, and a H-6 stood out from the other, Imperial craft. That meant somewhere between three New Republic representatives or half a company.

Reaching the central turbolift, Irenta stepped in behind the Ensign. As soon as the doors had closed, his access card had been inserted into its slot, the light had flashed green and the lurch of motion made the lift judder slightly. In stony silence, the pair rode higher and higher before the lift pinged open and disgorged her onto the Bridge of the Lictor. As her eyes flew from person, to person, the Ensign stepped back into the turbolift and, with an air of relief around him, sealed the doors again. Taking another step onto the Bridge, she considered the company.

First and foremost was Kaine - it appeared that he was, in fact, heading up this task force. Standing guard over him was a pair of IG-100s, staffs activated and crackling with purple lightning. Next was a woman who appeared to be a professional survivor, or perhaps one of the less reputable mercenaries out there. Her equipment seemed functional, if a little battered, and she was certainly toting enough firepower for the role. Her eyes straying onwards, they landed on what Irenta assumed was an Echani, her pale skin almost disguising the slender metal cylinder at her waist. The New Republic's delegate, then: a Jedi. But as her eyes moved onwards, she twitched slightly in surprise at the last figure. He'd survived. She hadn't pegged him the type to cut down his own men.

But then, war changed everyone. Even Jedi. Especially Jedi.

"Irenta Kollaris." She said simply, joining the rough circle, "Fifty-Second Storm Battalion. What's this about Corellia?"

[Brusia]

Martius Shan
Bridge of the Lictor

Martius sighed when the Steadfast's Captain demanded a rather peculiar demonstration of his Force abilities. In truth, Martius wasn't certain he was strong enough in the Force to accomplish such a feat. Master Yoda could almost certainly, but Martius knew that was no Master Yoda. Still, given what was at stake, he knew he had to try and agreed to the Captain's demand. Shutting off the holoprojector, he walked up to Jinx and stated "Master Reeva, I'm not usually a fan of cheating, but given the importance of this particular challenge I would appreciate your assistance if you'd be willing to give it." He wasn't certain if she'd agree, after all cheating wasn't exactly the Jedi way, but he had to try either way.

He approached the Bridge's main view screen, and when the X-wing squadron come into sight he closed his eyes. He could feel the Force flowing through the X-wing pilots, and as he sensed the flight leader he lifted his arms and reached out towards the craft with the Force. He couldn't tell if he was receiving help or not, but whatever the case he could feel the craft and its pilot being moved out of their position and towards the Lictor's Bridge. As the fighter came closer he could sense the pilot's fear; the poor person probably thought they'd been caught in some sort of tractor beam. Martius hated having to inflict such panic in an innocent living being, and after holding the vessel in stasis for a few seconds he spun it around back towards its mothership and released it.

He opened his eyes and took a deep breath, the action left him feeling tired, and as he reactivated the holoprojector and contacted the Steadfast's Captain he had to control his anger towards the man for unnecessarily putting someone under his command in such danger. "I hope that will be satisfactory" he stated as the Mon Calamari's image appeared on the device "If not, than I suggest you find some other means to test my ability to use the Force in the future; I will not unnecessarily subject good people to such fear again. You may contact me again once you've confirmed my identity; if at that time you continue to be uncooperative I will contact the New Republic High Command and inform them that Grand Moff Kaine is correct about your violating their orders to cooperate with the task force and advise that they either send us a new ship or a new Captain." Martius shut off the holoprojector again, and thinking to himself, realized he probably hadn't controlled his anger as well as he should've. He'd be sure to work on that in the future; for now he walked back to where the rest of the members of the task force were standing.

Shortly after returning to the rough circle the new task force members were forming, another figure approached and identified herself as Irenta Kollaris of the 52nd Storm Battalion. Even in spite of the extra years and new scars Martius knew right away it was her. If her slight twitch was anything to go by, it seemed she recognized him too; though she didn't say anything. Instead she immediately focused on the mission, asking about what had recently been said about Corellia. Martius smiled in response; same old Irenta, ever the consummate professional. "It's good to see you again Corporal Kollaris." Martius instinctively referred to her by her old Republic rank, then proceeded to answer her question. Pointing towards Murianna, Martius continued "Ms...I apologize, I don't believe I caught your name; this soldier managed to recover a complete readout of the Zakuulan occupational forces on Corellia. Grand Moff Kaine's men are analyzing the data now."

[Dernland]

Galen Mayler
Brig of the Lictor

Galen's daily meditations were interrupted by the durasteel doors of his cell being drawn open. The golden ysalamir hissed and retreated back into its cage as two stormtroopers entered. They pulled the former knight to his feet, forcing him through the door. Out in the main corridor there awaited a Jedi and a Sith, as well as a whole cadre of armed guards. They said nothing, simply marching their prisoner onward towards the bridge. Now that Galen was away from the ysalamir's repressive influence, he could finally feel the force flow freely through him again. He became acutely aware of the contrasting auras of both Jedi and Sith, each equally extreme in their leaning. He felt the far weaker but nonetheless varied auras of each soldier that lead him along, their own ideologies and purposes burning like tiny candles in the howling tempest of the force.

The guard detail entered the bridge with Galen at the front, just behind his force-sensitive overseers. The bridge was bustling with officers and crewmen, all going about their duties with an air of fearful vigor. In the center of it all stood a handful of Imperial officers, soldiers, and Jedi, or at least those who seemed to be Jedi. He came to stand before them, drawing angry looks from passing crewmembers. Galen represented everything they hated about Zakuul, and many undoubtedly faulted him for the slaughter of dozens of worlds. In some ways, he agreed.

Galen stopped, bowing his head respectfully to Grand Moff Kaine. He had surrendered himself to the Moff some time ago, and it was undoubtedly by his order that Galen was brought forth, though he could not think of why. "Grand Moff. Is there something that you require of me?"