Brother Against Brother...(FT, Closed, ATTN North Calaveras, Alversia) [Archive] - Page 4

Alversia

18-02-2008, 21:33

'Oh god'

Nigripes expression did not change

'God, please help me, I'm scared.'

The Danaversian did not lift the axe, he was looking at Connolly, he was a bit braver than most,
"You promised the Empire she would not be harmed. She will fetch a fortune for your rebellion on Danaversia"

'Don't let them do this to me, please, I'll give them the codes, just don't let them hurt me anymore.'

"Damn it! So she will! Fine, then, leave her. Get me that wrench in the brig. What's 'er face"

'I'm not strong enough for this. I only wanted to protect my people.'

"Yes, Sir"

'Oh God, oh god I'm going to die, I know I'm going to die, I want my mummy, please I want my mummy'

"And HURRY UP, I want to see this." He smiled at Foxfire, "What is our little pet saying now"

Cavourna Household

OOC: 24...only kidding, he's eight

"That is SO COOL!!" He virtually leapt into the air with excitement, then he looked at Kartosh in silent awe, "YOU WERE IN THE XISCAPIAN ARMY!! YOU ARE THE COOLEST PERSON I HAVE EVER MET!! What did you get discharged for?! Did you fight in any battles?! Have you chopped anyone's head off?!"

"Ian! That really is enough. Go on! Your friend's waiting for you"

Ian sulked and looked cross that his discussion had been so abruptly cut short. But he knew he would see them again and so waved a friendly goodbye and ran out the front door onto the street with the other children,

"I'm sorry about that" Natalie smiled shaking her head, "He is really fascinated by all things Xiscapian, you are the 'in thing' at the moment" She turned and headed for the kitchen, "Are you hungry? Can I get you a snack before dinner?"

Xiscapia

19-02-2008, 23:16

Hush, Nigripes, he thought tenderly, The Danaversian is gone, everything's going to be okay, just hold steady for a little while longer.
The Emperor was in a dilemma. If he answered Connolly with what he suspected would be a normal Nigripes response, an insult, he may still decide to hurt her. If he said what she was really saying, he would know that she would tell him the codes. If he stayed silent, Connolly would become suspicious. If he got the codes from Nigripes and told them to Connolly, the Alumina would probably be destroyed in the Danaversian assault. If he didn't tell him the codes, Nigripes would be butchered or killed, or she would remain alive but potentially go insane from the pain and horror of losing her limbs. Either way would likely end Alumina support for Xiscapia. The help he had located and summoned was still a ways off, and the Emperor knew he had no hope of combating everyone on this vessal to free them. So he did the only think he could possibly think of.
Foxfire Rose stalled for time.
"Tell me, Mr. Connolly," said the Emperor with his back to him, looking at the bunkhead above Nigripes, "what drives you? Greed? Power? Revenge? Why do you persist?"
Cavourna Household
OOC: I know people who will be like that when they're 24.
IC:
Aloud Kartosh chuckled as he thought about the boy's questions. Disorderly conduct...yes, many, and yes...although it's not like I wanted to...
"In thing," he said, shaking his head in bemusment. "Never thought that would happen. He's a good kid, Mrs. Cavourna." To the question posed he thought for a moment. To Kartosh, a snack was usually a hastily thrown together sandwitch from whatever happened to be in the 'fridge at the time without too much mold. "No, thanks, I'm fine." He looked at Skyler inquiringly. She shook her head. "We're fine!" he said.
"Seems like a nice kid," he said to her as they sat down on the bed. Skyler rolled her eyes. "You just like him 'cause he flattered you." Kartosh stared at her in mock horror. "Did not!" Skyler grinned. "I know you, Kartosh. Don't try to hide it, you enjoyed it." "Okay, fine, maybe I did." Kartosh grumbled. Skyler just shook her head, amused by the antics.

Alversia

19-02-2008, 23:31

Nigripes expression remained as it ever had, for she was unconscious, however, her internal distress was evident,
'Please, I can't move. I can't do this anymore. I wanna go home. Please'

'Why does he want to hurt me, I haven't hurt him at all. Please let me go. I just wanna see my family again'

Connolly stared at the Emperor for a moment, more in surprise and thoughtfulness than anything else,
"What drives me, Rose? Many things, but I suppose it would be a combination of greed and revenge. Revenge against the man who now lies in my brig and the Society that put him there. Ever heard of the Infidel?, Rose?" he asked solemnly.

Cavourna Household

"Oh, Xiscapians are the big thing at the moment in all the schools. That's what their doing now, playing Soldiers. All of them want to be Xiscapians, look" Natalie chuckled and pointed out the window at the boys playing in the street. Their shadows were cast long by the sun setting on the artificial horizon of buildings, they were fighting over toy katanas.

"They all dream of the day they can go out and fight for the Alversian Army," She said sadly, "I've known Alex long enough to know that it's not all it's cracked up to be."

Just then Andrew opened the vast French doors that led out to the garden. Immediately the house was filled with the scents of summer flowers and the scent of freshly cut grass.

"I thought Ma'am would like to eat dinner outside tonight. Seeing as it is going to be such a spectatcular evening"

"Good idea, Andrew, thanks" Natalie laughed from the kitchen, "Andrew always seems to know what I want when I want it. He's like a member of the family, aren't you?"

"Indeed, Ma'am"

Xiscapia

19-02-2008, 23:59

I am doing my best, Nigripes. Keep calm, please, I beg of you. Not too much longer yet before this will be over.
Aloud,
"I cannot say that I have. I beleive you and the Flag Captain served together on that ship?"
Cavourna Household
Kartosh just shook his head at Natalie's words about Alversian children wanting to be soldiers. She was right, it was not all it was cracked up to be. The uniforms sometimes didn't fit right, deployment equipment might malfunction, the food was terrible, the hours long. They say 90% of war is waiting, and that's what gets most. The waiting before combat, the nerves and terror. And finally, the horror and brutality of war itself, watching friends and comrades die around you, forced to kill even if only to save yourself. As for wanting to be an Xiscapian...Kartosh smiled again. After the Alversians had all but saved Xiscapia from certain destruction an Alversian craze swept Xiscapia. Alversia flags, Alversian banners, posters of Alversian soldiers and ships, Alversians being hailed and heros and welcomed anywhere, discounts for those who served, and so on and so forth.
To the last comment it was Skyler who understood. "Droids can be as much a human or kitsune as a flesh-and-blood. The companies and military have some incredible android technology."

Alversia

20-02-2008, 00:23

'Please, help me, I'm begging you. I'm so scared. I'll bring you to the Supreme Lioness myself. Please just don't hurt me anymore. I can't take the pain anymore. I'm not strong enough. Oh god, help me!'

"Never heard what happened in the 10th Danaversian War? Battle of Sector 123586? 0923 Hours exactly?" He was becoming angry, "Why him? That runt never deserved to survive! Not of all the fine men on that bridge! Not him, and at Tactical as well!! It was HIS FAULT!!" Connolly lost control, descending into a primeval rage. However, after a few seconds, he was as calm as ever again,
"When he is dragged up here, you should as the Lieutenant how he was promoted to Captain. See what he says"

Cavourna Household

"Oh, Andrew is so much more than that" Natalie laughed from the kitchen, the aroma of cooking drifted out into the open air and swam with the fragrance of flowers.
"He's like an uncle to Ian, he always plays with him and helps him with his homework, he's not too bad at football, are you Andrew?"

"I believe my skills would surpass of those of Mister Cavourna with relative ease. However, I have yet to attain the skill of young Master Cavourna. I am still continuously, 'Skinned Alive'"

"We don't use Androids for combat like some peoples. We like to think that an Android has as much of a soul as a person. Androids have a full Bill of Rights and they can volunteer to fight if they wish. In fact, an Android not dissimilar to Andrew is serving as a General in one of the Frontier Units. All are one on Alversia and Andrew is an equal member of this family." She smiled.

North Calaveras

20-02-2008, 01:06

"Yes Flag Captain, I am fine. However, you need medical attention." Foxfire placed his hands on Cavourna's shoulder and closed his eyes. There was no visible effect, but inside the Alversian's body his bones knitted.
Cavourna home...
"Uh, yeah, thanks."
Kartosh and Skyler stepped inside to the cooler air. Their ears twitched as they looked around at the luxerious interior. A far cry from their dingy apartment back home, filled with trash, the place always gray. Even the air was gray. Here everything was crisp and clear, like a dream.
Protector...
Unknown to Kash, he had just walked into the arms of the only Xiscapian who could match Vist's coldness. Durc was the Commander of the Protector, and he had been waiting to get his hands on the Calaveran for years. Inside the dock three things happened in this order: Durc entered the docking bay in a Biohazard suit, the holographic crew vanished and were replaced by Biohazard soldiers, and the Burden exploded behind them, destroyed by a bomb. Inhibitator and anti-beaming fields were placed around the station. Kash and his guard were surronded by enemies, unable to escape in any way, helpless. Durc came forward, a huge man with a heavy blaster rifle. "Tell your guard," he hissed out his helmet, "to remove all their weapons and get on the floor, hands behind their heads."

Using only his mind he ordered them, and they dropped there plasma-ray rifles, and the guard put there hands on their heads. Kash smiled and lifted up his vest " This is holding somebody very speacial, this device has shunk his molecules." he handed it to the Xscipian and bowed slightly " It should go to a Xscipan named Sasha"

Xiscapia

20-02-2008, 03:15

CAPTAIN NIGRIPES! thundered the Emperor's voice in her head. GET AHOLD OF YOURSELF! YOU ARE A MEMBER OF THE ALUMINA DEFENSE FORCES! YOUR PEOPLE ARE RELYING ON YOU TO BE STRONG. WHILE YOU ARE NOT DEAD THERE IS STILL HOPE.
He watched unconcerned as Adrian went though several emotions, from calm to anger to rage and back to calm again. It was evident that Adiran had been present of the bridge when disaster struck. Perhaps a beam peirced the bridge shields and killed the crew. It seemed there was a rivalry, probably even a hatred, between Connolly and Cavourna at that time. There could have been somebody Connolly cared about on the bridge at that time, or someone outside the bridge or ship, killed while Cavourna survived. It did not matter. The Emperor had no sympathy for Adrian. "I will be sure to do that when the Flag Captain comes up here."
Cavourna Household
This was intriguing. Androids in general were regarded as, while intelligent, machines. Incapable of emotion of any kind, made only to carry out their programming, they were not really considered people. Indeed, though, Androids were scarce, avaliable only to the super rich and the government. Most people relied on regular, mindless droids to get the work done. A.I. was treated like Androids were here, full citizens and everything. Kartosh found that Andrews bald speak and dry humor amused him. Obviously Androids were much wider spread here then on Xiscapia. Both mercenaries declined to comment. It would be wrong to say they came from broken homes, but their parents had not been rich and both had gone along the path of battle and bloodshed. They had not been raised in luxery like little Ian, though not in poverty either, and not exactly poor. They'd always had enough to eat, but their possessions simply didn't compare to most Xiscapians, and certainly not to the Alversians. They were out of their zone here, more used to the blackness of space and dingy apartments than the clean, open air here and the richness of local living.
Protector...
Durc took the device and handed it off to one of the soldiers behind him, who ran it past multiple scans and disinfections before giving it to another soldier for transport. "Kash Wilson," annonced Durc, "you are hereby tried to conspiring against the Allies, execution of Prisoners Of War, incitment to rebel, resisting capture, treason and assaulting Xiscapian forces," All twenty Biohazard troopers raised their blaster rifles. "Prepare to die."
They all squeezed the triggers and did not let up.
OOC: Give it up. Kash is trapped. No ships can enter the system, and he can't be beamed anyway, his only transport has been destroyed, his way into the station is blocked by twenty soldiers and thousands of personnal beyond that, and he has no cover at all. He's dead, dude.

North Calaveras

20-02-2008, 05:08

Alversia

20-02-2008, 11:42

Nigripes was panicking, plain and simple, although she was an Alumina and there seen as many as more robotic in terms of her appearance and mannerisms, she was still a sentient being with feelings. She had gone through more pain and torture than most would bear but now she panicked. The difference between words and actions now became all too clear, Nigripes could not control herself,
'Please, ask him to let me go. I won't run away. Just let me move, I can't move my arms or legs. They're going to sell me on Danaversia, I know it. Please, give me this moment of freedom before that happens'

At this point, a tearful Meryl and Cavourna were brought to the Medical Bay. Cavourna had a black eye as well as a cut lip while his escort bore more scars between them. Whatever had been said down in the Brig, it had not gone down well.

Cavourna raised his eyebrows at Foxfire,
"I'm told there's something you want to ask me?" He turned to Connolly and a look of pure poisen filled their eyes.

Cavourna Household

The silence was interrupted as Ian burst in through the door, followed by a small crowd of Children,
"See! See! I TOLD you they were here!" he exclaimed excitedly, pointing at Kartosh and Skyler, "They have real katanas and everything!"

The children all started to bunch in and elbow for space, looking to catch a glimpse of the two Mercenaries. Natalie sighed,
"Andrew, please sort that out"

"At once Ma'am"

The large Android moved in front of the crowd of children,
"Intruder alert! Intruder alert!", He stated in a loud, mechanical voice, the Children shrieked and laughed the Android's spinning head and Zombie like walk
"The Mini-Intruders will vacate premises in ten seconds or I will turn the hose on them. 10...9...8...7...6...5...4...3...2...1.5...1.4...1.3..."
The children turned and trampled out through the front door laughing like crazy. Only Ian remained with Andrew,
"Very well done, Andrew" Natalie stated from the kitchen,
"I thought so too Ma'am"

Xiscapia

20-02-2008, 14:53

The Emperor didn't want to have to do this, but he had no choice. Using the Force and his mind, he effectively put Nigripes in a coma which would lift only by his thoughts or his death. Her virtual screaming in his mind had been distracting, and made all the worse by the knowledge that he was helpless to do anything.
The Emperor now turned to Cavourna, opening his eyes and facing the Alversian. "Flag Captain," began the Emperor, "can you tell me how you were pomoted from Lieutenant to Captain?"
Cavourna Household
Kartosh grinned widely as he witnessed the events. "Have you ever," he asked Andrew, "actually had to turn the hose on them?"
Skyler sat down on the couch in the living room while Kartosh remained standing. "Yes, very well done." she murmered with a smile.
Protector...
Durc prodded Kash's fallen form with a boot. "And stay dead, ya bastard." The soldiers picked up the bodies to be incinerated, any trace of them wiped clean. The news was already being beamed down to Xiscapia, and it would make the front page in big, bold letters tommorow morning.
OOC: What is this "ascend" you speak of? And what was in the device that Kash handed off before he was killed?

Alversia

20-02-2008, 15:12

Cavourna's face darkened as the question was asked and he hesitated,
"Go on, Lieutenant," it was Connolly egging him on, "Tell her what happened."

"I'm not exactly sure," Cavourna frowned, thinking, "I remember we were in the heat of battle. Then we were confronted by a Danaversian Barracuda. Next I knew, the bridge had been hit and the Captain dead..."

"...who else was killed on that bridge? Tell me that? Or have you forgotten?" Connolly asked viciously,

"Of course not! The Captain Martel, Lieutenant Commander Jones, The Ensigns and Flight Officer and..." His eyes suddenly lit up in realization as he looked at Connolly, "...of course, Anita Rogers...the Communications Officer. You and her were..."

"...engaged. That's right, Lieutenant, we were going to be married as soon as the Infidel next made port. I never got the chance to utter a word to her and now," His eyes glowed in fury, "You are a Celebrity within Alversia while Anita rots in some military cemetary! Where is the justice in that?" he demanded.

Cavourna House

"Several times. Sir, however, they learned their lesson after a few soakings and now they do not even risk it"
"Kartosh! Skyler!" It was Natalie again from the kitchen, where the smells of freshly made roast potatoes were eminating, "Do you want to go outside and have a seat? This will be ready in a few moments!"
Ian was already sitting, humming a song to himself and playing with a small toy Dreadnought.

Xiscapia

20-02-2008, 15:18

"Justice?" The Emperor asked softly, dangeriously. "You talk of justice, Mr. Connolly? Where is the justice in what has transpired here? Where is the justice in the Rebellion, in what you've done? People have died because of your actions, and you preach justice?"
Cavourna House
Kartosh chuckled to himself. "We'll be right there, Mrs. Cavourna." He and Skyler got up and went out onto the back patio to be seated at the table. The smells of the potatos and freshly cut grass and flowers which neither could identify filled the air, making a plesant aroma. Skyler looked back. "Are you coming, Ian?" she asked cheerfully.

Alversia

20-02-2008, 16:10

"Oh I'm not talking about justice for Anita, I'm talking about justice for her memory, I'm talking about justice for me, Emperor. I loved her and she was taken away just like that!" He clicked his fingers, "I am now going to prove my justice by razing every last Alversian building to the ground, then I'll be satisfied. Until then, I'll settle for you three,"
he know turned and looked at Nigripes, laying peacefully on the table, he sighed,
"Such a wonderous creature. A marvel of nature. I wonder what's going through her head right now? The impregnable Alumina. Oh, I know she's scared, she has to be, with the fate that awaits her."
He looked up at Foxfire,
"These fetch quite a price on Danaversia y'know? The Sex Slave trade is quite strong there. I could make a fortune from selling her. Oh they'd use her and use her hard and when they were done with her? She'd feed their kids, that's what'll happen to her. Your fate, I'm still undecided about" He looked at the other two with interest.

Cavourna House

Immediately, Ian leapt from his seat in the kitchen and sprinted into the garden, he was about to reach Skyler when he suddenly leapt into the pool, he was gone for several seconds then emerged on the surface, his hair soaking wet, laughing. He looked at Andrew, who was laying the table,
"Do you want to come in for a swim, Andrew? The water's nice and cool"

"The young Master takes great pleasure once again in remainding me that I cannot swim" Andrew stated mildly from the table, "However, if he were to drain all the water from the pool as far as the ankles, I would gladly join him for a stroll at the bottom"
Ian giggled at Andrew's answer and started to do the backstroke up and down,
"You need the exercise Andrew!" He laughed,
"Watching you swim around the pool like a fish is enough exercise for me, Master" Andrew replied again, "If the young Master wishes to exercise, he can join me on a run around the town, however I doubt the young Master will be able to get past the front gate"
"We'll see! We'll See!"

"Boys!" Natalie scolded, bringing out a large plate of golden roasted potatoes, "Behave and stop insulting each other like little children. And get out of the pool, Ian dear before Kira starts to clean it"

"He started it" Ian huffed as he climbed out,
"I think you will find it was the young Master who started it"

Xiscapia

20-02-2008, 18:01

"Spreading the pain, Mr. Connolly. I do not see the logic in your actions, but I suppose there is none. Killing and tourturing and enslaving...ask yourself, is that what Anita would have wanted? Is this how she would want to be remembered, her name forever linked with murder and destruction?" The Emperor knew it was useless trying to appeal to Adrian's better nature because, as far as he could tell, he didn't have one.
Cavourna House
"Ah!" Kartosh reached out for a potato with his fork, spearing it and bringing it to his mouth. Skyler blushed, her mate having quite forgotten his manners, such as they were. They both watched in amusment as the boy and the android interacted with each other, the two had obviously know each other a long time. Andrew and Ian probably grew up together, after all. "Excellent grub, Mrs. Cavourna," said Kartosh though a mouthfull. It was a well-known fact that most Xiscapians liked anything with potatos in it. Mashed, baked, sweet, fried, wedges, however you made it, they ate it.

Alversia

20-02-2008, 18:21

"Correct, Emperor, spreading the pain, and the hate and the fear, I don't care about any of that. I don't care what you think and I don't care what the Universe thinks." He looked back at Nigripes,
"Time for some more questioning, I think," He stated before turning to Foxfire, "Use your all mighty force and wake her"

"Adrian," It was Cavourna, "Don't do this, Anita wouldn't have wanted..."

"Anita is dead so who gives a monkey's what she wants? I don't, this is pure selfishness, Lieutenant, I am doing this for me"

'Emperor'

Nigripes had somehow regained conciousness,

'Let him question me, I have regained control of myself. I will not betray my people today'
Cavourna Household

Natalie said nothing of Kartosh's manners, indeed, Ian was equally as bad as soon as he had reached the table. Although the sun was starting to dip beneath the sky, it was still pleasantly warm. The bustle of the city could not be heard from this far out and all that filled the air was the sound of crickets.

"So," Natalie asked, helping herself to some potatoes, "What do you think of our humble city so far?"

OOC: Got to go now, I'll be on in an hours time

Xiscapia

20-02-2008, 23:01

You are in time. He still wants the codes.
Aloud,
"She still will not give you the codes, Mr. Connolly. You are wasting your time." said the Emperor coldly. He saw that Adrian recognized himself for what he was, and did not shy from it, but rather embraced it like a lover. It was disgusting, how could this man live with himself?
Cavourna Household
Kartosh laughed out loud. "Humble! Hardly, Mrs. Cavourna. It is a beautiful city, all glass and steel and open air. In places it resembles Rio Casa, but in others it is widely different. You do yourselves credit in building this place." More potatos were heaped onto both the mercenarie's plates. Rio Casa's buildings were lower, without most of the skyscrapers that graced Illesia's skys. Many were made of stone or metal, and inside it was often dark and cool. Many made their homes underground, what seemed to be a simple home actually contains dozens of apartments below it.

Alversia

21-02-2008, 00:14

"Then I will torture her until she either breaks or dies," Connolly held up a long slender stick, "This is a pain stick, you may remember it being used against Admiral Krystal a few months back? Well, these are are the Danaversian Models and they are much less gentle, I can assure you. If she does not give me the codes, I will stick so many of these into that supple body of hers, she'll look like a pin cushion"
He held the first one over her,
"What's it to be, eh, Rosey? In fact" Connolly looked as though a brainwave had hit him, "Why let her suffer in silence? Wake her up"
One of the Medical Staff nearby dutifully injected Nigripes and instantly she sprung awake. Looking around, she tried a few times in vain to move her arms and legs and, when that failed, she peered up at the stick fearfully,
"I have a better idea, why don't you give us the Xiscapian defense codes? That way, I can blow your little speck of a planet out of existence and get on with some proper killing, eh? Codes, please?" He asked politely, hovering with the Pain stick.

Cavourna Household

Natalie laughed, "I'm glad it's made such an impression on you. Illesia is the finest city on our homeworld and it has taken on the quality of a utopia. Every day I wake up and I smile, knowing that this beauty will be there to great me as soon as I open the curtains."
She took another large lump of potatoes herself and suddenly clicked,
"Hey! After your appointment tomorrow, you should come and watch Ian play football. His school have an important cup match, come on it'll help you soak up the atmosphere of Illesia"

"Oh YES!!" Ian shouted enthusiastically, spraying the nearby Andrew with a jet of potatoes, "Could you? Please? You'll love it! It isn't 'till late or anything!"

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 01:05

Xiscapia

21-02-2008, 01:17

The Emperor entered the problem he had been pondering minutes ago. "Mr. Connolly, if you want the Xiscapian defense codes, I suggest you hit an Xiscapian. Hit me as often as you like, though, I won't tell you the defense codes. Captain Nigripes can offer her own opinion on the situation." In short, the Emperor was refusing on any grounds.
Cavourna Household
Kartosh smiled. "Sure, why not? It's not like we've got anything to do, and I'd love to see you in action." This last part was directed at Ian. Skyler grinned, playing with him. "I don't know," she said in mock thought, "are you as good as I think you are? Will it be worth coming to?"
OOC: Alright, sure. Accend to a higher level of existance, or whatever the heck it is.

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 01:19

Alversia

21-02-2008, 01:23

OOC: Let him ascend, as long as he doesn't come back

"Ah now come on!" Adrian looked hurt, "Why would I hit you? Where's the fun in that? I want to make an Alumina scream and, by god, I will" He plunged the first stick into Nigripes leg, ramming as deep as he could with all his considerable strength. Nigripes bit her lip and flinched against her bonds but did not cry out.

"Nothing?" Adrian looked disappointed, "Fine, I'll try again. Any words, Rosey?" He asked Foxfire again, hovering with a second stick.

Cavourna Household

"YEAH!!" Ian puffed his chest out proudly, "I'm one of the Star players! This is the Semi-Final!! If we win, we get into the FINAL!!" He said the word with relish, like he was already there, "Andrew will tell you how good I am! Won't you?" He looked desperately at the Android,
"Master Cavourna is of a standard that surpasses any of the professional leagues" Andrew replied dutifully.
"I'm not that good" Ian huffed,
"Your words, young Master, not mine" Andrew replied lightly

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 01:29

Xiscapia

21-02-2008, 01:30

"Only that you should stop this foolishness before you go too far." The Emperor did not like it, but he could not afford to have Alumina or Xiscapian defenses compromised. And that meant Nigripes would be hurt. But she would have to stand it, because Foxfire had no other options. He needed Nigripes alive at the end. As long as she wasn't killed, they should be okay.
Cavourna Household
Kartosh chuckled. "Your a cocky one, aren't ya?" he asked Ian with a grin on his face. Kartosh had no experience interacting with children, but as long as he smiled and didn't curse it seemed to go pretty well. Skyler munched on another potato. "Excellent grub, Mrs. Cavourna."
OOC@NC:
Yes, I REALLY wanted him dead.
I probably would miss him...for about two seconds. XD.
And I still don't get what's up with the device that had Blackwater's soul in it.

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 01:35

Alversia

21-02-2008, 01:38

"Before I go too far?" Adrian seemed surprised, "If there was a line to cross, Emperor, it's about a light year in that direction. I've gone too far to stop now so..."
He rammed a second stick into Nigripes other leg. Again she strained hard against her bond but could not break free, she let out a whimper in pain. Cavourna, unable to watch, turned away,

"Ah come on Lieutenant! I thought you were made of tougher stuff than that! It's only a little cat" He prepared a third one,

"Shall I aim this one a little higher up?" he asked Foxfire.

Cavourna Household

"I'm glad you like it Skyler," Natalie smiled, "And please call me Natalie. Mrs. Cavourna is such an awkward title. Andrew only uses it because he has to, don't you?"
"I would feel like a fool if I called you anything else ma'am"

"Ever watched a Football match!?!" Ian asked excited that he would have two more Spectators in the morning for his match.

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 03:21

North Calaveras

21-02-2008, 03:29

The Emperor was angry now. It wasn't the hot rage most people felt, but as cold as the ice in a long forgotten cave on a planet which has drifted too far from it's star. Foxfire Rose knew that, if he wanted to, he could kill Adrian with the wave of a hand. But doing so would probably result in the crew killing them all, and their fate now could turn out different. He could sense the help he called for close now, tantilizingly close, but they would have to last just a little longer.
Captain, help is close at hand. Whatever you do, however much it hurts, do not tell that man the codes. It will all be over soon.
The Emperor didn't say anything, he just stared mutely at Adrian.
Cavourna Household
Kartosh shook his head at Ian's question. In space you don't get very good reception, and especially not as your being shot at. "I know the basic rules, but I've never actually watched a match, except a few rec ones during my school days."
Skyler was looking thoughfully at Andrew. Seeing as the androids had full citizenship, they were considered people. What would be stopping someone from making a bunch of them, seeming individuals but actually slaves to a master? Or when an android is created, you are not just creating life in a factory, you are creating a soul, if that is what the Alversians really beleived. Did you need some kind of special license? It brought up old arguments about things like cloning and abortion, both legal on Xiscapia. The creation and destruction of life though unnatural, artifical means. Surely there was religious sects that argued against such? How did it all work? She voiced her questions.

OCC: i cant realy continue.

Xiscapia

21-02-2008, 03:30

Alversia

21-02-2008, 11:37

Connolly stared at Foxfire with interest
"You do surprise me, Emperor" he stated, "I thought I was in the shadow of Foxfire the Merciful, one of the wisest and compassionate leaders the Empire has ever seen. Yet you are ready to let her suffer? I don't care, in a few hours time, I'll be rolling in the money from her sale." He dug the third needle into her thigh,
This time, Nigripes could not stop herself crying out in pain, tears welled up in her eyes and she gritted her teeth hard.
'Hurry, oh god, please hurry' She begged to herself.

Cavourna Household

"It's the best sport in the world!" Ian exclaimed excitedly, "When we win this match, we'll be in the final! And we could be champions of Illesia!" His eyes glazed over as he thought about it, "Fast sport, you'll enjoy it."

At Skyler's questions, Natalie frowned,
"There are few people with a lisence to create Androids and those that do have to be heavily regulated by the Authourities. There are people who try to create slaves but they are not tolerated and few will buy them. Androids are not bought and sold here, they are offered employment, wages, accomodation and other items. There were a few who argued against the creation of the Android Bill of Rights but now the mass majority of people see Androids as merely another race on this planet. We have accepted them and hope they accept us"

Xiscapia

21-02-2008, 13:09

The Emperor visibly winced as Adrian drove the stick into Nigripes again. The pain must have been incredible. But he could not afford to have either nations defenses compromised. The words of the Emperor he succeeded came floating back to him, a motto:
For many to live, a few must suffer.
Looks like who the few were had been discovered.
Cavourna Household
"Well we'll definitly be there," said Kartosh. The boys enthusiasm was catching, and Kartosh could hear every word of it, crystal clear.
Skyler sat back and pondered this for a few moments. On Xiscapia, like she had said, androids were exceedingly rare. Where the Alversians had Androids, the Xiscapians just had droids, designed and programmed to carry out a certain function or list of functions. Most droids were utterly mindless, doing only what they were told to do. Battle droids, A.I. and Androids had more advanced, thinking and adapting droid brains, but that was because they had to. It was true A.I. technically had citizenship, but Skyler had never heard of one complain or ask for anything. They were content to do what pleased them, even if it was in a cheeky, superiror Alumina-like manner.

Alversia

21-02-2008, 17:04

Adrian obviously took great pleasure in the Alumina's agony and he laughed as she closed her eyes and gritted her teeth,
"All that mental discipline not helping, no? I'll aim the next one further up" In went a fourth stick and by now tears were visibly running down the Alumina's cheeks as she fought back the urge to scream. Her breathing was rapid and shallow. Cavourna just faced the opposite wall, tears running down his own cheeks.
Then there was shudder, then another. Connolly looked up, puzzled,
"Valencias," He called over the intercom, "What's going on?"
"We've been engaged Sir!" He replied, "Enemy vessels! they're Alversian!"
"Damn it!" Connolly swore and turned to head for his bridge, "If I hear so much as a squeak from this room, you are all dead! Do I make myself clear!"
He dissappeared, leaving two guards in the room with Foxfire and the others.
Then a message was broadcast throughout the entire ship
This is Admiral Reyes of the Alversian People's Starship Felicity Campbell,
lower your shieldsd and prepare to be boarded

Cavourna Household

"Well," Natalie stated, "If you excuse me, I think it's bedtime, for both of us" She said to Ian, by now the sun had vanished and replaced by a large full moon which lit the garden as thought it were daylight. Only the sound of owls hooting could be heard in the garden.
"Kira will clean up. Andrew do you mind locking up the house tonight?" Natalie asked,
"Certainly Ma'am. Would our two Guests like to remain outside or shall I close your windows?"
He pointed at the windows that made up one of the walls to their room, it was wide open to let the scene of flowers drift into the room.
"In that case," Natalie and Ian stood up, "I shall see you in the morning. Dr Alexis called, she wants you at the Institute at 9am sharp for a quick checkover. After that, I can drive you both to the match. Good night.

Xiscapia

21-02-2008, 19:17

Sasha stood on the bridge on the Felicity Campbell aside Ashe as the Alversian warship engaged the A.I. 10. They had been en route from their last mission from the Emperor when they had received a distress call: Not though tranmission, but in their minds. The voice had identified itself as Foxfire Rose and asked for rescue, citing Rebels and Danaversians were holding him and several others hostage aboard an Alversian merchant ship, giving the coordinates. Sasha was First Officer on the Felicity Campbell, recently promoted by Ashe herself just before the SASM battle. Now she watched grimly as phaser beams fired on the A.I. 10.
A.I. 10
The greatest thing about the A.I. ships was their fighting abilities. Needing a far smaller crew than a normal ship, an A.I. ship could test just to the limits of the technology with machine perfection. Most of the systems were controlled by the resident A.I., weapons and engines fired with automated percision. The small crew of Xiscapians aboard were mostly techs and Marines, for the defense and matinence of the ship. No spacers or gunnery crews needed. Fortunatly all the small craft had been taken from the A.I. ship for repair and matinence, leaving the Rebellion with no smal craft for their use. Shields and weapons were put on maximum and anti-beaming shields put up. It opened fire, focusing on the bridge shields.
Medical Bay...
The Emperor waited until Connolly had left, then looked at the guards. Both were grizzled Danaversians, menacing and leering at the captives. The Emperor spoke to them. "When Admiral Connolly requests tea, he wants tea!" he shouted angerly. The Danaversians looked at each other, eyes glazing over. "I'm sorry Admiral," said one, "we didn't-" "Of course you didn't!" The Emperor raged. "Get out of my sight!" The two were only too hasty to comply, practically running out the door, leaving the captives alone. Foxfire strode over the Nigripes and looked at her critically while undoing her binds. "We don't have much time. Can you walk?"
Merchant ship...
There was a flash of light just as the anti-beaming fields went up. Four people stood there: Three Xiscapians and a Korr. The first Xiscapian was female, with close-cut purple hair and hefting a heavy blaster rifle, wearing the rank of Warrant Officer. Next in line was a short kitsune, only about five foot two, with two pistols and the rank of Corporal. He shifted nervously from foot to foot as he looked around the ship. The third Xiscapian was also female, with extremely pale, almost albino skin, black hair and orange eyes. She seemed apprehensive, biting her lip and holding her rifle up, head twisting in all directions looking for any sign of hostiles. She had the rank of Sergeant. Finally there was the Korr. He was at least seven feet tall and bulging with muscles. He wore specially crafted gray armor which designated the rank of Private, and held a huge chaingun easily, as though it were a toy. Dogtags around each ones neck indentified them as Warrant Officer Keela, Corporal Slanders, Sergeant Nichole and Private Doyle. They had arrived in an empty cooridor, deserted with a few doors on either side. The little group was the only ones who had managed to beam aboard.
Cavourna Household
"Close the windows please, Andrew." called Skyler. "Good night Natilie and Ian." Kartosh grunted and waved a fork with one of the last potatos on it as they left. Soon enough they were done and both went inside to prepare for the next day.
OOC: Will post more later.

Alversia

21-02-2008, 20:27

Ashe grimaced as the bridge shuddered under fire. They had picked up the Emperor's distress signal but, realistically, only the Felicity Campbell and the Famine's Dread had been within rescue range of the Emperor. Now they battled one of Xiscapia's most modern vessels with it's most powerful weapons.
"Captain" She turned to one of the Officers on the bridge, "Focus your next spread of missiles on the section behind the bridge. Try to disable the defenses"
"Yes Ma'am!" He saluted and turned to his tactical officer.
Soon powerful beams of red phaser energy were pounding against the shields of the AI.10 augmented with small streams of laser fire"

Merchant Ship

The four on the Merchant ship were greeted by two Danaversian Marines who looked surprised to see them there, they raised their weapons.

Medical Bay

"Y...yes", Nigripes muttered as she moved slowly off the table. She was shivering and she seemed weak on her feet, "I...I will be fine" She stuttered again.
Cavourna walked over to one of the cabinets and, after a little creative work, managed to lift a small pistol from it's confines. He grimaced
"It's not much, but it'll have to do" He said as he ran to the door.

Cavourna House

The next morning was light but not bright, warm but not yet hot, the sound of cars starting was drowned out by the symphony of birds that sung their morning songs as sunlight lit up the interior of the Cavourna household and bathed it in warmth.
Andrew was waking Kartosh with a small shake of the shoulder
"Mister Kartosh. You have a medical appointment in an hour. I suggest you wake up"
Kira came in a gave a few whistles, Andrew looked at her,
"You can start once they are out of the house"

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 00:04

OOC: The APS are Battlecruisers, correct?
IC:
A.I. 10...

Phasers fire incoming.
Rerouting power to forward deflector shields.
Damage to forward shields moderate.
Returning fire, target section designated 003497748.
Missiles incoming.
Point defenses activated.
Missiles successfully destroyed.
As the beams struck the shields the Battleship returned fire on the Famine's Dread , targeting the hanger bays and sensor systems with it's energy beams, MAC rounds and Heavy Ion Fire. The beams and MAC were well known and self-explanitory, but the Xiscapians had equipped a few of their ships with the same grade Ion cannons used on Alversian Dreadnoughts. The point defenses easily took care of the missiles, lasers targeting and blowing up the missiles long before they could reach the ship. The Xiscapians had long ago made sure that mines, missiles and fighters could not reach their ships unless en masse.
Merchant ship...
"Corporal Slanders!" called Keela, who was closed to the Danaversians, but the little kitsune was already in action. Pause for a moment to consider this sentiant. He had sticky fingers, and would lift anything not guarded, notorious for his stealing. Despite military policy and laws, he always seemed to have a cigarette sticking out the side of his mouth. The guy did not adhere to most normal Xiscapian customs, and therefore smelt like a combination of wet fox fur, smoke and fish. He was the type who throws his socks at the wall and whichever pair dosen't strick he wears. His superiors and former comrades had called him a disgrace to the uniform. His specalty came in demolition jobs and "protect the package" missions. His two pistols were already spitting furiously, lobbing beams of heated plasma at the Marines. Say what you like about him, and the way he smelled, but he was damned fast. He rolled as he shot to the side of the hall, the guns always aimed at the Danaversians. Normally the light weapons would do little against their armor, but at such close range and with a large volume of fire they were deadly.
Medical Bay...
"My sword," muttered Foxfire Rose, "where's my sword?" Then he took notice of Nigripes condition. "With all due respect, Captain, you are in no position for combat. Neither is Mrs. Meryl. Flag Captain," he called to Cavoura, "we need to get back to the Firebird."
Cavourna House
Kartosh mumbled something that sounded suspiciously like curses and rolled over, eyes still closed. Normally he never got up before ten, and even now he would be hard pressed to wake a good two hours ahead of his normal rotuine, not to mention the terrible lag one gets when traveling interplanetitarly. Skyler was already up, showing, trying to wipe away the heavy veil of sleep with hot water and soap.

Alversia

22-02-2008, 00:23

OOC: Yep, F-Class Dreadnoughts

APS Felicity Campbell

Ash turned to Sasha,
"Do you know where an AI Battleship's weakest point is? We haven't had a chance to learn yet at the academy and..."
She was interrupted by the sight of flames spitting from one of the Famine's Dread's Hangars. Finally snapping, Ash turned back to Sasha,
"Divert all power from Torpedo bays and Engines and reroute it to the forward phasers. On your mark, target their bridge" She ordered.

Merchant Ship

The two Marines were thrown backwards without so much as firing a shot. However, their rather loud deaths had attracted some attention and now a column of Rebel Marines tore down the corridor to join battle.

Medical Bay

"Agreed, Emperor, as for your sword, I think Connolly took it with him to the AI.10" He stated sadly "We have no time to try and find it. We need to get off the ship!"
Then one of Nigripes' legs gave out from under her. However, she was able to grab the table in time to prevent herself falling but even so, she was trembling more than ever,
"Alex," She begged, "Help me"
Moved with pity, Cavourna instantly dropped the pistol and put one of Nigripes' arms on his shoulder so that he was supporting her weight.
"Time to go!" He shouted.

Cavourna House

Andrew continued to stare for several moments at Kartosh before turning to Skyler,
"Is he usually this unresponsive in the morning, Ma'am?" He asked her politely, then turned back to Kartosh,
"Would Sir mind getting up or would he like Kira to make the bed with him still in it? I doubt it will mess the sheets up badly but you may not sit down again for a very long time if you get my meaning."

At this point, Kira brought out half a dozen long, and very sharp looking knives from her chassis and she moved towards the bed like a buzzsaw.

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 00:47

APS Felicity Campbell...
Sasha spoke into her uplink communicator. "Reroute all power from the engines and torpedo bays to the forward phaser banks. Fire on my mark." She stared out at the A.I. 10. The A.I. ships had never been tested in combat, and were as of this point Xiscapia's newest ships. No one, save the original constructors and those who captained them, knew their weak points, if they even had one. As technology advanced weak points in armor and superstructure became smaller and harder to find. "Mark!" she called into the communicator, and the guns fired.
A.I. 10...

Forward phaser banks firing.
Impacting bridge shields.
Shields holding at 80%.
Continue fire upon ship designated APS Famine's Dread.
The Battlecruisers simply did not have the firepower to destroy the Battleship. The Xiscapians had been careful to stay on par with their allies, never falling behind in the technology race, as it were. This made bad news for the Battlecruisers.
Merchant Ship
"Private Doyle," said Keela calmly, pointing down to hall to the charging Rebels, "open fire." ARA soldiers and SBAU were running up the hall, guns out. Doyle nodded his large furred head. "Right ye 're, 'fficer." He raised his chaingun, flicked off the saftly, and fired. The rounds, while high penitration, were not large or powerful enough to peirce the hull of the ship, but it was strong enough to cut straight though most body armor at any range. While the Korr fired Keela pointed to Nichole. "Sergeant, go with Corporal Slanders and locate the hostages. Doyle and I will hold them off and go our seperate ways to secure the hangers and bridge." Nichole nodded, tightening her grip on her rifle. "Aye Warrent Officer." Slanders was already speeding down the opposite hall like a monkey on Speed, and Nichole followed him at a rapid pace.
Medical Bay
The Emperor picked up the dropped pistol and held it in front it him, pointed at the door. "All of you, keep behind me." he motioned. "We make for the hangers and get out of here."
Cavourna House
"Usually," Skyler shrugged, walking out of the bathroom with a towel around her. Kartosh opened his eyes at the sound of the blades. "Whaz happin'? Whaz zat?" He lifted his head and saw Kira advancing on the bed with half a dozen sharp pointy objects. "Ahhh!" He jumped out of bed, clad in a shirt and boxer shorts, hair mussed, still looking sleepy, although not as sleepy as he had a second ago.
OOC: Kartosh's new photo! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Samuel_Vimes.jpg) I think it fits.

Alversia

22-02-2008, 00:58

The Battlecruisers weren't gonna give up though, they had been designed for action in space battles as well as to be fast enough to chase down a superior enemy. Like the one in front of them,
"Sasha! Concentrate all phaser and ion cannon fire from both ships on one point of the hull. That should have enough energy to pierce the shields!" She ordered calmly from the bridge. This was a completely different Ashe to the one who had stuttered on the bridge of the Light of Hope. This Ashe was calm, collected and already the crew respected her as an Officer and as a person. Cavourna would be proud.

Merchant Ship

No fewer than a dozen Rebel Marines twisted and fell under the punishing fire. The rest were forced to duck for cover in doorways or behind rubble and take potshots at the Squad.

Medical Bay

Cavourna struggled to support the taller Alumina's weight on his shoulders and it was clear her strength was failing her. She was becoming weaker and weaker with each step,
"Foxfire!" Cavourna called desperately, "Help me!" He was starting to buckle as well.

Cavourna Household
OOC: Funnily enough, it does :p

Andrew watched as Kartosh propelled himself from the bed at a lightning quick pace. Only then did he announce,
"Actually, Sir, these are what Kira uses to cut cakes for the children"
Kira gave a series of whistles that sounded like laughter,
"There are two sonic showers if you wish to speed up your preparation", Andrew informed them, "Would Sir and Ma'am like anything for Breakfast? It is a ten minute walk to the Institute. I can escort you there" He stated from the kitchen.

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 01:22

"Right! Now hear this," she said into her comm, "all Gunnery crews, target coordinates point 3684922. Fire on my mark! Three...two...one...Mark!"
The impressive amount of weaponry aboard the Battlecruiser fired off all at once, directed at the mid part of the ship, where a number of the sensors and other equipment was stored.
A.I. 10...
APS Famine's Dread showing significant damage. Constant fire needed for destruction of enemy vessal.
Weapons fire on APS Famine's Dread. Destruction of bridge essential.
Weapons firing.
Phaser and Ion weapons from the APS Felicity Campbell incoming at point 3684922.
Weapons impact.
Alert. Shield breach at section 3684922. Anti-beaming device disabled.
All security personal to deck two, section four.
Merchant Ship
Not much was known about Doyle. He enlisted recently to fight the Rebellion. Korr were not the brightest creatures, and he spoke in broken, disjointed Common. However, his tactics showed remarkable thought and his physical strength and stamina was not to be underestimated. The Korr continued to spray deadly fire down the suddenly deserted hall, keeping the Rebels down. Keela began to toss incineration grenades down the hall, designed to spray flame and shrapnel up to twenty feet around the blast area, able to slice though armor at close range.
Halls...
Nichole and Slanders ran for the Medical Bay, where the voice directed them.
Medical Bay...
The Emperor muttered in irritation and pressed the pistol into Meryl's hands. "It's really simple, look. You point the barrel at the other guy, pull the trigger. It's semi-auto, which means you have to pull the trigger each time for a shot." He clapped her on the back and got under Nigripe's left shoulder, supporting her. She was so tall she drooped over them, dragging on the floor.
Cavourna Household
Skyler laughed behind her hand as Kartosh glared at Kira and muttered something about "damned contraptions with blades where blades don't got no purpose being..." "Just cook us up something quick please, Andrew." she called as she dropped the towel and began tossing on clothes. Kartosh grumbled and headed to the shower.

Alversia

22-02-2008, 01:39

"Anti-beam device disabled, Ma'am!" An Ensign reported from the bridge of the Felicity Campbell,
"Try and locate the hostages!" Ashe ordered from her post, the two Battlecruisers were taking a real beating but that was what they had expected. They had only been here to fix it in position until a more powerful fleet could make it to their position and, if she was correct, there were two descending on her now. One Xiscapian, one Alversian, both sporting much more powerful ships.

Merchant Ship

One by one, the Marines started to beam off the Merchant Ship and head for the Battleship. The Rebellion had really struck gold when they had captured those two ships for this one alone was causing the People's Navy a few headaches, nevertheless, within a few minutes, there were minimal troops on board and the way was clear.

Medical Bay

Between them, Cavourna and Foxfire were able to support the tall Alumina, who had been badly weakened. Both physically and mentally. They were moving quickly now although none of the Merchant Ship's crew seemed all that bothered with them any more. They were more bothered about trying to escape and get back to fight another day.

Cavourna Household

Within moments, the smell of fresh potato bread drifted through the house, it was a favorite breakfast dish on Alversia and now Andrew called out again,
"Would Sir or Madam like eggs with their breakfast? Or a cup of hot tea? Coffee?" He mentioned the old Alversian favourite.
"If not then we should proceed as soon as you have finished consuming your meal. I would not like for you to be late and miss Master Cavourna's match"

From the Guest bedroom, a chorus of happy whistles and beeps came from Kira (http://media.techeblog.com/images/r2d2_astromech.jpg) as she set about making the room look neat and tidy

"The Paper is on the table if you want to have a look Sir or Ma'am. I think there is important news in it concerning your nation."

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 02:24

The Battleship Shadow Hunter exited hyperspace alongside the rapidly failing APS Famine's Dread. It immediatly turned it's attention to the A.I. 10, while sending a message to both Battlecruisers:
Your job here is done. Advise retreat before further damage is done to your ships.
SBAU were being teleported to the A.I. 10, landing inside along with those fleeing the merchant ship and attacking.
Merchant ship...
The squad formed up, seeing as the Rebels were quickly abandoning ship. There was the clank of boots and labored breathing ahead of them. Quickly the squad took up positions inside doorways or behind cover as they waited for the enemy to appear.
Merchant ship...
"Just...a little...farther..." panted the Emperor as he half carried half dragged the wounded Alumina with Cavourna. Meryl still led the way, the blaster at her side, totally unsuspecting. No one even heard so much as a whisper of the squad ahead.
Cavourna Household
"Eggs please, scrambled, and tea!" called Skyler, now dressed and walking out to the living room. Kartosh's muffled voice came from the shower as he finished. "Got any alcohol..." "Kartosh!" Skyler said in a loud voice. "Pay no attention to him, he'll take the bread and eggs, sunny side up." She said to Andrew. Ambling into the kitchen she picked up the paper.
KASH WILSON EXECUTED ON PROTECTOR!
The article below stated that a ship had entered the Space Station seeking to forge an alliance. Kash Wilson "The Butcher" was aboard. He was taken and executed the moment he touched down. Some more about reactions from various people on Allied worlds, blah blah blah. Skyler nodded to herself. "Got what he deserved, I think."
OOC: Funny, I thought Kira would look like this (http://www.hoylen.com/photos/2002-10-12-starwars/sw047.jpg), except a bit larger.

Alversia

22-02-2008, 02:39

"I think we're being given the, rather polite elbow" Ashe stated with amusement, "Turn the Famine's Dread around and tell her to make for the Secula Colony. We'll stay here until the hostages are safe. Then we can provide escort back to Xiscapia" She took a deep breath at those words, Ashe still harboured an irrational fear of Xiscapia, although it wasn't as bad as it had been.

Merchant Ship

Cavourna and Foxfire puffed and heaved Nigripes onwards until they came to the Squad in the doorways,
"Whoa! whoa! Whoa!" Cavourna called out rapidly, "Friendlies! Don't shoot!"
Nigripes was now struggling to remain conscious and the effort was draining what little strength she had left,
"Is there a Medic in the team?" Cavourna asked.

Cavourna Household

Within minutes the breakfasts were served and Andrew took the paper and glanced at the story,
"Kash Wilson's death will not be missed in this universe" He concluded before turning and starting to clean the kitchen,
"I am to show you the way to the Institute from here so that you may find it on your own from here. The Lady and Master have already departed for Work and School respectively. From what Mrs. Anderson next door was telling me, there's going to be a big crowd at this match.

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 05:24

A.I. 10...
Though the Alversians didn't know the logistics and structure of the A.I. ship, the Captain of the Shadow Hunter did. The Battleship relentlessly pounded the Rebel Battleship until the weapons were reduced to slag, the engines disabled and the shields gone. SBAU were slicing though the Rebel Marines, Danaversians and Xiscapians and Alversians all fell to blaster shot or sword slash. The battle would not last long, and already teams were approaching the bridge, where Connolly and any other Commanders were sure to be.
Merchant ship
Keela jerked her head at Nigripes and made a clicking sound with her tounge. Nichole nodded and the Emperor and Flag Captain gratefully lowered the Alumina to the floor. Nichole examined Nigripes for some time. "I am not familiar with Alumina anatomy or phsycology," she began, "but she has suffered severe tramua, both physically and mentally. She needs immediate medical attention. I have a field medic's training, I can only ease her pain." She injected a serum into Nigripes and motioned with her left hand. Doyle lumbered forward and tenderly picked up the weak Alumina, cradeling her gently in his massive arms. Keela turned. "We need to hurry. Doubtless the Rebels have rigged the ship to self-destruct. There's no time to lose. Do you have a ship, My Lord?" she asked the Emperor, respectful but all business. The Emperor nodded. "The Firebird. Keep going, turn the shields to maximum when you're all in. That activates the destructive field that will help you smash out of the hanger if you need to. I'll catch up to you." He turned and sprinted away. No one tried to stop him. "Keep moving." Keela grunted.

North Calaveras

22-02-2008, 05:32

Alversia

22-02-2008, 10:54

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 12:41

OOC: Read TGs please. Will replace with an IC post.

Alversia

22-02-2008, 12:55

OOC: Can't read TG's, I'm in school

Xiscapia

22-02-2008, 13:05

OOC: Then I will refrain from replying until you are in a position to read your TGs.

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 01:19

From the doomed battleship, a small Alversian fighter appeared and darted away. Before anyone could reach it, it had jumped to warp and was gone.
Ashe watched it go and sighed,
"I trust that was Mr Connolly" She stated to Sasha

Merchant Ship

Cavourna nodded and headed for the hangar. They were alone of her now, for the entire crew had now abandoned ship, Nigripes' breathing was still shallow and ragged,
"We need to get her to an Alversian Medical Bay" Cavourna stated desperatly as he moved forward.
APS Felicity Campbell
Sasha curled her lip. "Coward," she spat. "Though I can't say I blame him. If he was captured by Xiscapians he would have been executed without trial."
Merchant Ship
Keela just nodded. The group reached the hanger unmolstered and they all boarded the Firebird. Keela whistled appreciably as she looked around. "Nice ship." she muttered, while Slanders' pockets bulged suspiciously and Doyle gently lowered Nigripes onto the bed in the quarters. The Firebird was designed to fit a maximum of half a dozen people for a short while comfortably, so the seven sentiants fit in easily enough. Nichole shoved Doyle out of the way and began examining Nigripes. The huge Korr shrugged his shoulders and sat down on a couch. Keela took the helm, as it was, while the rest of the squad sat in the quarters, excepting Nichole, who kept everyone away from Nigripes as she tried to keep her as comfortable as possible.
A.I. 10...
Rebel resistance was rapidly dwindling, with most of them dead or captured. Only a few scattered pockets were left, and these were being quickly exterminated. The A.I. 10 had been heavily damaged during the battle, and was in no position to go anywhere. Foxfire Rose appeared in the transporter room, moving though the contested halls with hardly a blink. Where ever Rebel soldiers tried to stop him they were swiftly killed or incapacitated by the Force. He stepped inside a ready room, honing in on some obscure sense, and found a loyal SBAU from the Shadow Hunter with his katana stabbed though the kitsune's chest. The helmet had rolled off somehow to expose female features, jaw slack and eyes glazed in death. The Emperor sadly tugged his sword from the body, kneeling beside it and making a few complicated hand gestures which symbolically assisted the spirit's journey into the afterlife. The door hissed open and a panting Rebel Marine stood behind him. "Wha-" The Emperor, without even looking at him, waved his hand back. The Xiscapian's neck snapped and he fell to the floor.
Cavourna Household
Kartosh nodded, not even looking up from his plate of food. "Kash Wilson was an xenophobic bastard who deserved to die." Skyler considered the androids last words. "What time is the game, Andrew?"

Alversia

23-02-2008, 01:34

APS Felicity Campbell

"Regardless," Ashe stated coldly, "He has escaped. For now we must secure the battleship and transport the passengers back to Xiscapia. I doubt the people will want to be without Emperor Rose for any length of time" She smiled, she knew her old mentor was on that ship.

Merchant Ship

Nigripes just groaned and tried to move. She found the motion too painful and twisted back to her back again, staring up at the roof with her eyes half open. She was mumbling something to herself in Aluminan.
Cavourna sat near to her but also close to the Pilot's seat,
"Does this ship have teleport capability?" He called over to Keela.

Cavourna Household

"The Match begins at 10.30 sharp, Sir. It is currently 8.30am. If you do not want to be late for your appointment then I suggest we begin to move now" Andrew stated firmly as he pulled on a large coat.

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 01:47

Sasha nodded, then outside something caught her eye. "There's a ship escaping from the Merchant Ship's hanger!" she pointed to the speck rapidly accelerating outward. "Running scans." an Ensign said. Moment later he spoke. "The ship is registered as the Xiscapian diplomatic transport vessal Firebird." Sasha nodded. "That's the Emperor's personal ship. He and the other hostages must be on it."
Firebird....
Keela nodded as the Firebird exited the hanger into the darkness of space. "It does, but I need to get clear of the Merchant ship before we can transport. What ship are you aiming for? The APS Felicity Campbell?" She manuvered with the joystick away from the deserted Merchant ship, angling away from the warships.
Cavourna Household
Kartosh nodded and was in the act of dumping the silverware and dishes into the sink when he saw Andrew with the jacket. Bemused, he raised his eyebrows at the android. "Cold out there?" Skyler was already at the door. Both mercenaries, aside from their katanas, carried concealed holdout pistols somewhere on their person. Neither expected any trouble while they were here, but it didn't hurt to be safe.

Alversia

23-02-2008, 02:02

Ashe twisted and stared at the ship for a moment. Then she nodded,
"Signal them. Tell them to proceed to Hangar 1. I will be there to greet them" She turned and headed from the bridge, taking the Tactical Officer and Captain with her,
"Commander Sasha, you have the bridge" She stated as she left.

Firebird

"Yeah, aim for the Felicity Campbell" Cavourna's gaze was still fixed on Nigripes. With luck, the Battlecruiser would have a doctor with knowledge of Alumina medicine. All APN and APCR vessels were required by law to have at least one aboard, just in case of emergencies. Like this one.

Cavourna House

"It is my lucky coat, Sir. I wore it to the Quarter-Finals two weeks ago and they won by a narrow margin. Now I am hoping to repeat the act of luck by wearing it again." He pulled it over his broad shoulders,
"The weather is warm, Sir and Ma'am, you will not need any coat or warm clothing. I shall bring to the Institute on my way to the Shops and Lady Cavourna will pick you up on the way to the match" He instructed, "Let's go"

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 02:12

"Aye Admiral." Sasha nodded and the Communications Officer patched a message though.
Firebird
There was a bring sound from the panel and Keela looked at a datascreen as a message appeared. "We are being instructed by the APS Felicity Campbell to land in Hanger One. The Admiral will be there to receive us." Keela increased power and the Firebird shot forward, on course for the first hanger of the Felicity Campbell.
Cavourna House
Kartosh nodded and the trio proceeded out the door into the warm Illesian sunlight. No automated or artificil intelligence Kartosh knew of would beleive in something as flimsy and intagible as luck. Such was for biologicals. Andrews beleif in his "lucky coat" only proved how very human he was, dispite his metal exterior. A "Ghost in the Shell", as many cyborg-androids are called. Kartosh mused.

Alversia

23-02-2008, 02:27

Standing, waiting for the ship to land was Ashe and a few Medical Personnel. As soon as the ship had hit the ground, the Medics were on board and brining off Nigripes on a hovering stretcher. Ashe and Cavourna embraced each pother in a warm hug,
"Nice to see you again," He said,
"You too She whispered and hugged him again. When they broke apart, Ashe turned to the rest of the group, puzzlement on her face,
"Where is Emperor Rose?" She asked Keela.

Cavourna Neighbourhood

As they walked, there was silence. The suburbs were quiet with the children at school, along with the majority of Adults. Only a few elder Alversians were out watering their gardens or women swinging on a bench with a newborn baby in their arms, smiling and singing gently. All had one thing in common, they all raised their arms and called greetings to Andrew, which he returned.

Even from a distance, the sight of the Institutes' glass walls contrasted with the deep blue sky. Andrew led them onwards, past a large open plaza filled with people chatting and bordered with bright multi-coloured flowers.

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 02:33

The squad stood alone by the ship, off to the side and out of the way. Keela glanced to Ashe. "He took the transporter to the A.I. 10. I think he was trying to capture Adrian Connolly before he escaped, but the man got away. He's probably on the A.I. 10 now."
Illesia...
Both mercenaries looked around uneasily. It was almost too perfect. Each knew that there was no such thing as a Utopia. Due to basic sentiant non-automated nature, strife and naturally evil people, conflict would always arise, tradgety and death would always strike. But Illesia was probably as close as you could come to a Utopia. "Andrew," said Skyler, falling into step beside him while Kartosh hung back, looking around. "Forgive my rudeness, but what is the crime rate here? Everything I see is perfect and clean and bright. It is like Rio Casa. But even Rio has it's slums, even Xiscapia has its bad parts. Is Alversia, really, a Utopia?"
The mercenaries only experience in the place consisted of smuggling cargo on and off the planet illegally, which did not offer them much chance to see the sights or learn anything about the planet or the capitol city.

North Calaveras

23-02-2008, 05:56

OCC: This will also be in " I walk the Path" as it will pretain to this storyline in the future.

Kash awoke, shaking violently, all that was in his head was the lasers passing through his body. His body stopped as he opend his eyes, he was dead cold and shivering uncontrolably. sweat beaded down his forehead as he looked around with crazy eyes. He was a beaming room that was darkned, except for the beamer which glowed blue. A man stood in front of him, his face darked out as his body was still lit in the glow of the beaming machine. Kash was naked as he held himself, his eyes squinted as he stared at the figure. He was asnwerd in a calm, almost happy voice " Yes, Kash Wilson, you are dead." Kash shook more and his spun around the room " Didn't think it was gonna happen did you?" the figure added. Kash fell to his knees and put his hands to his face and began to cry. The figure continued his speach " I would be inclined to say you are faking this, but that would be of course on the lower plain of existance, you see i can tell what your doing, well mostly." Kash looked up sniffly slightly " Why am I here?." The figure smiled " Lets say youve been given a second chance, luckily I was able to stop the others from erasing you from existance completly." The figure waited about three seconds then added " Only by saying you could be fixed." Kash couldnt believe what he was hearing, a new plane of existance?, a new hope of somesorts, a second chance?, so many thoughts went through his head. Kash looked at the beaming machine " That's a beaming machine aboard a Observer, why is this here." The figure replyed " Oh that, well that is a good way of the next door to open, he then pointed to a sliding door leading out of the dark room " That is the other way you can take, although many that go through it, dont come back." Kash nodded slightly " I sense a question aproaching." " Your learning well, I give you this chance Kash Wilson, to walk the path into the light, you will spend what may seem to be an eteranity in this place, but in the end you will see the truth, I can only offer you two doors, the one to continue and the one to cease, but its really your choice which one to take." Kash stood up exposing his genitals without care at this point, his body had no holes from his death. The dark man smiled as his teeth showed in the dark " Kash Wilson, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, are you willing to take it and offer redemption to yourself from the things you have done to the pre-living?" Kash nodded slightly as he straighted, the figure started to laugh as the beaming machine began to light up more as the room became lighter it overtook him as all he saw was light. Kash's mouth dropped and his eyes turned ice blue as the light embraced him, then there was darkness, then the light returned as stars passed by him and the universe slid through his brain, and then a bang.......

Alversia

23-02-2008, 09:20

Ashe nodded as Nigripes was carried past,
"It's lucky we were in the area" She grimaced as a shower pf sparks flew from one of the walls of the hangar, "Not that it was worth our while but we have the Emperor and recaptured one of your battleships. Not a bad day's work, I think"

Illesia

"Illesia does have it's less well done areas but they are not housing areas. That area is more an area for prostitution, strip clubs and other such degrading areas. However, there is little other than that one area that demotes our proud little City" Then he stopped and pointed,
"Security gate up ahead Sir and Ma'am. Walk through there and you will be in the Institute. I will see you later." He gave a cheery wave and walked on.

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 22:16

Keela nodded. "Not at all. I expect my team and I will be getting promotions for this." she sounded satisfied. She had already been promoted once after she re-entered the service, and now it looked as though she might be getting another or two.
Illesia...
Little, hah! Illesia covered twice the area Rio Casa did, although this was likely because many of Rio Casa's homes and factories were underground. Kartosh nodded and Skyler waved back as they entered the security checkpoint.

Alversia

23-02-2008, 22:32

Ashe turned to Keela and gave her a salute,
"Well done, Commander, I expect there will be more than a few favorable words spoken when we return to Xiscapia. But, for the moment, we have more pressing matters. Where is the Emperor?"

Illesia

The two Xiscapians would get through the checkpoints without any issue. They would then be led to the Reception Area and from there, one of the Staff would lead the Mercenaries up several dozen floors before they arrived in Doctor Alexis' office. She smiled and indicated that they should come in.
"Any issues I should know about?" She asked as she began to scan the top of Kartosh's head.

Xiscapia

23-02-2008, 23:10

At the doors to the hanger Foxfire Rose appeared. "Here, Admiral." After retreiving his sword and making sure the A.I. 10 was secured, he had beamed himself over to the Felicity Campbell. He approached now, cleaning his sword with a blue bloodcloth which he stowed in his robes upon reaching them and sheathed his sword. "Admiral, Warrant Officer." He bowed. Keela had dropped to one knee upon his approach. "My Lord." "Rise, Warrant Officer Keela. There is no need for any of that foolishness. You are to be commended for your work in the rescue," he turned to face Ashe, "as should you and your crew, Admiral." His yellow eyes smiled at her. Everyone had seen him on holos and in pictures, but in the flesh he seemed larger than life. The rest of the squad had also dropped upon his enterence, and rose only when Keela did.
IIM...
"Nope," said Kartosh, sitting still for the scans. Skyler leaned casually against the opposite wall, watching silently.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 00:27

Although they didn't go down on one knee, the Alversians gave a respectful bow as he entered. As ever, Ashe was struck by the mere presence of the Emperor. It was said there were people who just had an ability to inspire confidence and strength in those around. The Emperor had it, Cavourna had it and she had been told that she had it too,
"Emperor Foxfire" She bowed again, "We are glad to have been able to rescue you. It was not an easy job to trace your captors across this system."
She frowned then,
"What happened to the Alumina?" She asked the Emperor, Cavourna had already gone to the Medical Bay to be with her.

Illesia

The scans only took a few moments. Then it took another few moments before they could be processed and the data analyzed. Alexis reappeared with the information in her hand, smiling.
"I'm delighted to tell you that the scans have all been very positive. I see no reason for concern" She put down the datapad, and picked up a small calender,
"I will not be here tomorrow morning. So that means it'll be Professor Black who will meet with you. How does 10am sound?" She asked.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 00:37

The Emperor looked sorrowful. "She was tourtured by Adrian Connolly. In an attempt to aquire the Xiscapian or Alumina defense codes he repeatedly jabbed something he called Danaversian model pain stick, similiar in function to such a device used on Admiral Krystal during her kidnapping. In her to cause her enough pain to reveal the codes to her own codes, and to force me to give the Xiscapian codes in hopes of preventing more pain done to her. He gained neither. I understand he has escaped?"
IIM...
"Good, good. The time you've set is too early for me," Kartosh grunted. "I'm glad to hear my little wound is progressing well."

Alversia

24-02-2008, 00:42

Ashe's eyes widened in horror at the mention of Danaversian Pain Sticks, she had her own painful memories of those devices. They had been so painfully deployed against her when she had been captured by the SASM. She knew the pain they could inflict,
"I'm afraid we were unable to capture him, My Lord. He escaped in a fighter while we were distracted by the Battleship." Her eyes drifted down and a small smile appeared on her face, "I see he left you your katana anyway."

IIM

Alexis frowned and typed a few more things into the calendar,
"I have to be at a lecture at midday and Professor Black will also be busy. However, if you could come in at 11.45 , I may be able to get a quick look before my lecture" She suggested.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 00:48

The Emperor frowned but nodded. "At a price. It was imbedded in one of our own SBAU. I wish my own sword had not been used in such an evil manner. In the meantime we will hunt for Adrian Connolly, but I fear we may not find him again. The galaxy is large, with a trillion places to hide and seek refuge, among the Hutts and criminal empires and the more open worlds."
IIM...
Kartosh shrugged. "That's fine too. What are you lecturing about?"

North Calaveras

24-02-2008, 00:51

Alversia

24-02-2008, 00:56

North Calaveras

24-02-2008, 01:21

Alversia

24-02-2008, 01:49

OCC: could i RP the 2,000 pop of Calaverians on Alversia?

OOC: If you do, don't forget that they have left the Xenophobic way of life behind and are now active members in the Alversian People's Republic. They have married Alversians, have kids with Alversians and serve in the Alversian Armed Forces as well as other non-military jobs.

They are Calaverans in name only mate,
besides, what happened to your latest race?

North Calaveras

24-02-2008, 01:52

OOC: If you do, don't forget that they have left the Xenophobic way of life behind and are now active members in the Alversian People's Republic. They have married Alversians, have kids with Alversians and serve in the Alversian Armed Forces as well as other non-military jobs.

They are Calaverans in name only mate,
besides, what happened to your latest race?

OCC: wow, what? i think they would still live together in there collective way of life though, but i will agree with them reacting with Alversian in that way, there xenophobic way of life is gone, but they should still hold there own culture, and my latest race isnt doing much right now.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 01:57

OCC: wow, what? i think they would still live together in there collective way of life though, but i will agree with them reacting with Alversian in that way, there xenophobic way of life is gone, but they should still hold there own culture, and my latest race isnt doing much right now.

OOC: It was a while back they were accepted. When the barrier of Xenophobia came down, there was nothing to stop them intergrading into Alversian society. They wanted to live normal lives so now they do.

North Calaveras

24-02-2008, 02:08

OOC: It was a while back they were accepted. When the barrier of Xenophobia came down, there was nothing to stop them intergrading into Alversian society. They wanted to live normal lives so now they do.

OCC:Alright.

Alversia

Jack Kansiov woke up, he was a Alversian soldier, a major to be exact. He had woken up with chills, from the nightmares he had been having lately. Jack was on board the destroyer " Abyss", a good vessel no doubt he had been living aboard it for the past three weeks and had gotten quite comfortable with its conditions.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 02:14

OCC:Alright.

Alversia

Jack Kansiov woke up, he was a Alversian soldier, a major to be exact. He had woken up with chills, from the nightmares he had been having lately. Jack was on board the destroyer " Whiskey", a good vessel no doubt he had been living aboard it for the past three weeks and had gotten quite comfortable with its conditions.

OOC: Actually, there is no Naval vessel called Whiskey, all ships have to have a name starting with the following letters:

L-Class Strato-Dreadnought: - e.g APS Light of Hope
E-Class Super-Dreadnought: - e.g APS Electra
C-Class Dreadnought: - e.g APS Crossfire
F-Class Battlecruiser: - e.g APS Famine's Dread
D-Class Cruiser: - e.g APS Defiant
A-Class Destroyer: - e.g APS Amazonian

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 03:39

"I'm sorry to hear that" Ashe stated truthfully, "But I doubt we have the manpower to track him down again. Although I have to say, he will probably come to us before we go to him" She gave a small smile at the fact, "What can you tell me of his troops? How well trained where they? Where they disciplined? How high was their morale could you see?" Ashe blushed slightly as she realized she was interrogating the Emperor,
"I may be leading dozens of my ships against this menace soon. I need to know what I'm up against"

IIM

Alexis blushed,
"Actually, I am the one being lectured. It's part of my Medical Course at the Marshall University of Medicine in the East Bank. I'm only here part time for my placement year" She wrote down the date and time of the appointment onto a small sheet of paper and handed it to Kartosh,
"Don't lose that. I'll phone the Cavourna House as well and ask that you be reminded" She looked up curiously, "How are you enjoying Illesia's hospitality?" She asked.
The Emperor nodded. "I understand. I actually saw little of the Rebel forces, you might do better asking Warrant Officer Keela and her squad. However, from what I saw the soldiers under his command were realtively well trained. Not up to modern military standereds, but still adapt fighters on their own. Morale, though, from what I saw, was quite low. A little stubborness and the soldiers would turn and run, or surrender. They seemed to lose the will to fight quite quickly, especially after they found out Mister Connolly had left."
IIM...
"Aye," Kartosh pocketed the paper. "'S alright. We haven't been out all that much, but what I see I like. There ain't a finer city anywhere, except maybe Tenfour."

Alversia

24-02-2008, 14:00

Ashe nodded at the information, tactics were already running through her mind as she factored in the Emperor's statements and what Intelligence already knew. It wasn't a lot,
"Thank you, Emperor, I will go and speak to the Warrant Officer now then..." She was interrupted by a message through her earpiece, "It seems that Commander Nigripes is asking to speak with you in the Medical Bay" She stated.

IIM

"Glad to hear it, if you'll excuse me, I have to be on my way. Thomas will escort you from the building," She stated as a round, friendly Alversian appeared at the door.

Once outside, Natalie was waiting with her car for the two Xiscapians. The heat had risen considerably now and all she wore was a thin shirt and short dress. Most people were enjoying the sun, either by playing basketball in the small courtyard, or sitting on the many benches and chatting away to each other.

"Well? Good news, I hope" She asked as they approached.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 19:33

"Indeed? Then I shall go to the her." The Emperor bowed himself out and walked at a rapid clip to the Medical Bay where Nigripes was being treated. Warrant Officer Keela leaned up against the Firebird, talking with her squad, reviewing what they saw of the Rebels.
IIM...
Kartosh shrugged again as the two entered the vehicle. "No problems, everything checks out alright. The results look good."

Alversia

24-02-2008, 20:33

Hangar Bay

Ashe walked over to Keela and her squad and gave a salute,
"You are to be congratulated on a job well done," She stated, "It was a textbook ship storming I have to say"

Medical Bay

Cavourna and The Chief Medical Officer stood over Nigripes, one with a scanner the other just anxious. Both looked up as Foxfire entered and both gave a respectful bow as well.
"She requested to speak with you" She stated as she looked at the Alumina, "But she is still weak so try and keep it brief"

Both Cavourna and the Medical Officer vacated the room, leaving Foxfire and Nigripes alone,
'Emperor? is that you?'
She didn't seem up to physical speaking yet.

Illesia

"Glad to hear that" Natalie stated as she weaved through the traffic towards the school pitches, "The match starts in about five minutes. With luck, we should be just in time for the teams running out"

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 21:03

"Thank ye, Admiral," Keela hoisted her rifle, "Well, we didn't exactly expect to be the only friendly forces on the ship. But we got lucky. The Rebels were more interested in escaping than fighting, and we got though mostly without running into anyone." The rest of the squad perked up, listening with interest.
Medical Bay...
The Emperor nodded his thanks to the doctor and Cavourna before turning his attention to Nigripes and opening his mind to her words.
It is, Captain Nigripes. How do you feel?
Illesia...
"That's good." Kartosh was silent for a moment. Then Skyler spoke up. "Say, what is Ian's team name and who are they playing?"
OOC: My browser won't let me on NS. Any problems at your end?

Alversia

24-02-2008, 21:13

Hangar

"Well, we were a bit too busy to send over Marines" Ashe admitted, but then sighed, "As such, you were in contact with the enemy. What was your initial impression of them? As a fighting force, I mean?"

Medical Bay
OOC: There's a difference in rank between this universe's Nigripes and the alternate Universe. In the alternate universe, she's a Captain. In this universe, She's a commander.

Nigripes turned to look at the Emperor, she did look stronger but still couldn't put any weight on her legs. She looked upset,
'I will live Emperor. I wanted to thank for your help on the Merchant Ship'

Illesia

"It's the Doctor McKenna Cup semi-final and it is Ian's school, Baxtor Memorial High School, against their 'arch' rivals, the South Passage High. It should be a good game, they're evenly matched" She sounded as though she was looking forward to it.

OOC: Nope, won't let me on either.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 21:29

"The first soldiers we came upon were Danaversians, but they bought it too fast for any kind of reaction to be seen," said Keela (http://amarynceus.deviantart.com/art/Mercenary-27132153), nodding her head in Slanders' direction. "Members of the SR and the ARA charged up the corridor at us, but Private Doyle here," she nodded to the huge Korr, who raised his left hand in a friendly greeting, "took them out with his chain gun. They seemed inspired, but once we showed 'em a bit of force they took cover and started retreating."
Medical Bay...
OOC: Oh. I thought she was Patheria Captain here, or something like that.
IC:
The Emperor stood at the foot of Nigripe's bed with his hands clasped in his robes, looking down at her, face impassive.
And I wish to thank you for your strong will. Not many could have stood that pain and not told him the codes. You are a credit to your people, Commander.
Illesia...
OOC: :confused: Ian's 8 and he goes to High School?
IC:
"Who is Doctor McKenna, do you know?" asked Skyler curiously as they approached the pitch in the car. Kartosh just looked out the window, taking in the fresh sights, smells and sounds in.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 21:40

"So you would be of the opinion that they have discipline but no guts?" Ashe asked, smiling. If that were the truth, then the battle would be short and bloody, "I hope their entire fleet is like that"

Medical Bay

Nigripes visibly shook her head and frowned slightly
'I fell apart in that Medical Bay. I panicked. The Alumina hate above all else to be restrained. I hated it and I lost control. I am sorry for the irritation I must have been'

Illesia
OOC: Education system in Alversia's different. Different planet, remember?

"I can't remember who Dr McKenna is," Natalie admitted as she parked the car and got out, locking it as she did so, "All I know is that Baxtor Memorial are odds on to win it this year and Ian's over the moon. So am I"

The crowd were walking into the grounds past their car. Some where carrying flags while others sported jersey's of the team they were supporting. A few even had horns and were blowing them every few seconds. Everyone was chatting and laughing and generally looking forward to the match.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 21:51

Keela nodded. "That was the impression I received."
Medical Bay...
I must too apologize for silencing you in the way that I did. I had to speak with Adrian, and it was a tense situation. Anything could have set him off into dismembering you or killing another prisoner.
The Emperor did not move from his previous position, he just stood and looked at her as he spoke silently.
Illesia...
OOC: Still...and eight year old in high school...
IC:
Kartosh and Skyler joined the shouting, laughing throng with Natalie. "Is Andrew already here?" yelled Skyler over the din. Kartosh was repeatedly jostled by fans and had to remind himself not to growl or curse at anyone who came close.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 21:59

Ashe nodded and sighed, she had already been chosen to lead the Alversian contingent against the Rebels and she hated going against an enemy of which she knew nothing. True her biggest worry had been the two AI Battleships but that fear had been eased somewhat by the battle, even though the ship recaptured was unlikely to be battle ready in a short period of time. She would have to grin and bear it. As always,

Medical Bay

'About that,' Nigripes now seemed tense, nervous, agitated. Unusual traits for an Alumina, 'My people frown upon one losing control of their emotions. It is not a good thing when an Alumina starts to panic. If one were to know of how much I...' She stopped herself looking at Foxfire in a slightly fearful way.

Illesia

Natalie just laughed and pointed. It wasn't difficult to spot the large Android moving towards them through the crowd. Although there were several other Androids in the pitch area, Andrew stood out with his massive jersey,
"I am glad the Kitsune could make it," He stated, "The Programme".
He handed out three booklets, almost like magazines, discussing the teams as well as news from the local Football scene.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 22:12

OOC: Actually it was a Battleship and a Battlecruiser.
IC:
Keela, assuming the conversation was over, shrugged and punched Ashe lightly on the shoulder in a comradly fashion. "Chin up, Admiral. We'll beat those Rebels yet."
Medical Bay...
I understand, Commander, said the Emperor calmly. Do not fear. Your secret is safe with me.
Illesia...
"Ah, thank you." Kartosh reached out and took one, as did Skyler. On the cover there was a colorful illustation of a boy catching a football. Inside was extensive team match-ups, statistics on the players, seasonal rankings, and the like. Someone sure had outdone themselves.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 22:23

OOC: My mistake

"Yeah," Ashe was still deep in thought, "Yeah, we will" She turned and walked off absent-mindedly. She was still thinking of what would do to defeat the Rebels when they attacked.

Merchant Ship

'Thank you, Emperor. If you could please excuse me, I need to rest and recover my strength. Torture tends to drain you a lot'
Nigripes, reassured, turned over on her bed and closed her eyes. Within the seconds she was asleep. Cavourna and the Medical Officer returned to the bay and watched her sleeping fondly,
"I don't know why," The Woman stated, "But they always look so peaceful when they're asleep"
"Only peace they ever get" Cavourna replied sadly.

Illesia

The two teams were already running out onto the pitch, accompanied by a massive roar from the cheering crowd. This was accompanied by a symphony of horns and drums which, while being blown randomly, sounded almost musical. Masses of flags bearing the symbols of Baxtor High and South Passage High.

Natalie read out the team for Baxtor High, quoting each position.

"Goalkeeper: Billie Martins
Full Backs: James Simpson, Dara Phillips and Ethan McGeown
Half Backs: Cillian Reid, Cormac Mallon and Nail Creaney
Midfielders: Rupert Smith and Ciaran Reid
Half Forwards: Kevin Corrigan, Ian Cavourna and Connor Burns
Forwards: Eoin Patterson, Colin McClelland and Sean Parks"

"Good line-up. Their strongest, I believe" Andrew commented,
"Indeed," Natalie agreed, "if they're ever going to win, it's with this team"

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 22:38

The Emperor stayed silent in thought about the Alumina. Perhaps they were not as invincible as they seemed? Of course they weren't. He knew that. But he had a theory. The Alumina, deep inside, were actually quite nervous when meeting new species. Therefore they put on a deeply extending front of arrogance in an attempt to build themselves higher in the eyes of others. He suspected they actually cared quite a lot about what others thought about them. If they were actually as arrogant as they seemed to the core, their approach would either be very far removed or quite friendly, assured of their superiority. But the Alumina were not sure of their superiority. They had hidden emotional depths which they carefully concealed, seeming almost robotic in their actions except for their obvious arrogance. They were unsure, uncertain, and attempted to mask it with confidence.
Illesia...
OOC: Wait, question. Is this football or rugby? I thought it was rugby, but the positions indicate football.
IC:
Kartosh nodded in agreement, lost in thought. Half-forward, huh? A chance of scoring, but more often the middle man between the and Midfielders and the Forwards. On Xiscapia the game was played with fewer people in different positions:
Alversian:
Goalkeeper (1x)
Full Backs (3x)
Half Backs (3x)
Midfielders (2x)
Half Forwards (3x)
Forwards (3x)

Xiscapian
Keeper or Goalie (1x)
Defense (2 or 3X)
Midfielders (2 or 3x)
Wings (2x)
Forwards 2 or 3X)

However, the game was still essentially the same, and Kartosh was looking forward to it.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 22:58

"Deep in thought, My Lord?" it was Cavourna who had now approached the Emperor, "Was that the first Alumina you have met?" He asked curiously.

Illesia
OOC: It's actually based on Gaelic Football, my own native sport.

The players from both teams were on the pitch now, stretching or running laps of the pitch to get warmed up. The crowd were already shouting and the sound was loud enough, both sides of supporters were shouting encouragement to certain players on both teams. Little Ian wasn't hard to spot, he was already standing midway between the opponent's goal and the half-way line. He was shouting and directing his teammates while his marker, the Half Back who looked considerable taller than him, just stood at his shoulder and waited. Baxtor High were wearing their normal green jerseys (http://www.irelandjersies.com/ireland-gaa/photos/fermanagh-jersey.jpg), while South Passage High were sporting their traditional Purple and Yellow jersey (http://www.irelandjersies.com/ireland-gaa/photos/wexford-jersey.jpg) and two sets of players looked obvious as they paired up with an opposing player.

"I can't wait for this. I wish Alex was here to see it" Natalie stated sadly.

Xiscapia

24-02-2008, 23:09

"No, I have met with a diplomat of the same species named Silvestris not so long ago. Characteristics of both are present, and I think each are a good representation of their race." said the Emperor, still looking at Nigripes.
Illesia...
OOC: Oh, cool. I'm not really a fan, but I do play, and I enjoy it greatly.
IC:
"I know," Kartosh chuckled, "just when something good starts to happen a war errupts. That's how it seems to work." He watched the players warm up, noting how physically fit they all seemed. He knew that Xiscapia had many of it's own teams, and wondered idly if there was one of the same league as these who could match them.

Alversia

24-02-2008, 23:35

Cavourna was puzzled,
"How do you mean?" He asked curiously, now looking at Nigripes with the Emperor.

Illesia
OOC: You do? Didn't know you played the game at all

The two sets of supporters were still chanting and cheering when the referee brought all four midfielders up to the centre line of the pitch. He spoke a few words then waited until they got into position. Two where in front of referee, one from each team, and the other two were slightly behind them. All four were jostling for position as the Referee threw the ball high into the air, giving a shriek of his whistle as he did so. Even so, the sound of the whistle was drowned out by the cheering of the crowd as the Midfielders leapt almost as one.

The noise grew even more deafening as South Passage High (SPH) won the ball and tore into Baxtor High's (BMH) half of the pitch. The Midfielder knocked the ball up the pitch and there were more screams of encouragement as a Forward out-leapt his marker to catch the ball.

"Come on, James! Jump with him! Jump with him!" Natalie screamed at the pitch, although her voice seemed to be drowned out by others bellowing more advice to both teams.

The SPH Full-Forward managed to put his shoulder up, blocking James from making a tackle, then he fisted the ball to a Half-Forward who had torn past him from behind. James instantly moved across to try and block him, but the Boy was too fast and now there was only the Keeper between the Goal and the Attacker.

The Boy dropped the ball onto his foot as he ran then caught it as it sprung back up, the noise was deafening now as both sides saw, one with panic and one with excitment that there was the possibility of a South Passage goal within second of the game starting.

The attacker fired the ball towards the net and the keeper flung himself at the ball. There was a gasp as the ball ricocheted off his outstretched hand and over the bar. The man beside the net raised his white flag to signal one point to SPH and there was a smattering of applause from around the ground

"That was incredible," Natalie spoke across the other three, "They tore them to shreds."

"Indeed, if they are to stand a chance in this match, they will need to mark the Number 11 and Number 14 men more closely" Andrew replied, pointing to the Forward and Half-Forward who had created the chance and the point. The big Scoreboard mounted on one corner of the pitch now read:

SOUTH PASSAGE 0-01 BAXTOR MEMORIAL 0-00

The crowd noise built up again as the Keeper placed the ball on the edge of his box and, with a roar from the crowd, launched it high into the midfield area. The game had begun.

North Calaveras

25-02-2008, 00:03

OOC: Actually, there is no Naval vessel called Whiskey, all ships have to have a name starting with the following letters:

L-Class Strato-Dreadnought: - e.g APS Light of Hope
E-Class Super-Dreadnought: - e.g APS Electra
C-Class Dreadnought: - e.g APS Crossfire
F-Class Battlecruiser: - e.g APS Famine's Dread
D-Class Cruiser: - e.g APS Defiant
A-Class Destroyer: - e.g APS Amazonian

OCC: I couldnt have known that Alversia, "cries" stop kicking me in the balls.

North Calaveras

25-02-2008, 00:13

OCC: edited post.

Alversia

25-02-2008, 00:17

OCC: I couldnt have known that Alversia, "cries" stop kicking me in the balls.
OOC: Alright, relax
*Takes deep breath*
Now you know
Pick a name starting with 'A' for your destroyer and everyone's happy.

North Calaveras

25-02-2008, 00:24

OOC1: Soldier? You mean Marine? And there are no Marine Majors
OOC2: Love the name APS Abyss

Alversian Frontier
Convoy 12B4

An buzzing sounded with Jack's room. It was the Communications Earpiece that all Alversian servicemen used to communicate. At the moment is was beside Jack's bed and buzzing to indicate someone was contacting him,

"Jack? Come one Buddy, you're supposed to be on duty. Hop to it. Wouldn't wanna piss off the Captain now. She's a Hard arse as it is"

OOC: sorry again didnt know.
OCC2: Thanks ^^

Jack got up quick, he quickly spiked his black hair as he geared up, he answerd the com as he exited his room " Jack Kansiov reporting for duty" he said as he walked the corridors.

Alversia

25-02-2008, 00:25

Alversia

Jack Kansiov woke up, he was a Alversian soldier, a major to be exact. He had woken up with chills, from the nightmares he had been having lately. Jack was on board the destroyer Abyss, a good vessel no doubt he had been living aboard it for the past three weeks and had gotten quite comfortable with its conditions.

OOC1: Soldier? You mean Marine? And there are no Marine Majors
OOC2: Love the name APS Abyss

Alversian Frontier
Convoy 12B4

An buzzing sounded with Jack's room. It was the Communications Earpiece that all Alversian servicemen used to communicate. At the moment is was beside Jack's bed and buzzing to indicate someone was contacting him,

"Jack? Come one Buddy, you're supposed to be on duty. Hop to it. Wouldn't wanna piss off the Captain now. She's a Hard arse as it is"

Alversia

25-02-2008, 00:35

OOC: sorry again didnt know.
OCC2: Thanks ^^

Jack got up quick, he quickly spiked his black hair as he geared up, he answerd the com as he exited his room " Jack Kansiov reporting for duty" he said as he walked the corridors.

OOC: TG

"Good man!" His Section Commander turned to face him, "Glad to see you made it. Fall in and prepare for a briefing, training exercises today"
The man who'd contacted him, standing beside a gap in the line, gave him a small smile,
"Risen from the dead have we?" He whispered sideways, "You were gonna miss a treat here"

"Right lads!...and lasses" The Commander corrected as there were three women in the section as well, "Do you know what are we are gonna be doing today?"

Xiscapia

25-02-2008, 04:02

"How do you mean?"
"What I mean is they are both very similar, and if their own definitions of their race is correct, they are the embodyment of their people."
Illesia...
OOC: Been playing virtually since I could walk. I love it. Play the role of Defense for my team, and the season just started, my first game is on March 1st. :)
IC:
Kartosh and Skyler winced visibly. These kids were fast! Only a few seconds in and they had already scored a point. The Backs had better wake up and get on their toes if they wanted to slam the ball upfield to the Forwards to score. At least the action would need to be kept away from their end of the pitch.

Alversia

25-02-2008, 12:22

"I see, Sir" Cavourna nodded in agreement, "I always feel that the arrogance is a front. I suspect they are more vulnerable than they would like us to see."

Illesia

OOC: I was right half-back for my team, Ballyhegan Davitts.

15 minutes in and South Passage had pulled even further ahead. It seemed like Baxtor High hadn't come to the races and they were lacklustre all over the pitch and South Passage were taking full advantage,

The scoreline read:
SOUTH PASSAGE 0-06 BAXTOR MEMORIAL 0-02

"They're not marking close enough!" Natalie called over, "if they want to cut out the attacks they need to mark their men more closely. See?" She pointed to the pitch, where Dara Phillips had drifted off his man to try and close down the ball. That was nullified as the attacker simply fisted it over his head to the boy he was supposed to be marking. The result was another point and now Billie in goals was shouting in anger at his fullback line.

Xiscapia

25-02-2008, 19:36

"Funny," said the Emperor, smiling, "that's exactly what I was thinking."
Rebel Base...
James...you cannot defeat me. You are weak.
No, get out of my head, outofmyhead, out-
Hah. Hah. Hah. It has been set in motion. It is too late for you, now.
No...please.
You know, with your heart and soul and mind, you enjoy it.
I do not, I-
Lies! You are under my control!
James slumped in his chair, his mind in a battle no one else could see in his shadowy, lonely office. He knew what he had to do.
Illesia...
Kartosh nodded, watching them. "Leave your men to their duties and have the Forwards try and take and keep possession." The game was lightening fast, blazing up and down both fields, the ball either flying high or speeding across the ground.
OOC: Cool. Obviously there's some differences, as noted ICly, but the same basic principle is present.

Alversia

25-02-2008, 19:46

Cavourna smiled,
"Can I ask what Nigripes was thinking on that ship? I doubt her calm exterior stretched as far as her feelings"

Rebel Base

Connolly entered the room, looking irritated,
"We've lost the Xiscapians Battleship and the Emperor" he reported darkly.

Illesia
OOC: Have You ever seen Croke Park? what a stadium!

Ian caught the ball cleanly and easily twisted to get a shot at goal. The ball drifted in the wind to gently fall between the posts. The crowd roared in approval or anger at the score as Ian clapped his hands fiercely and called to his team mates to lift their game.

As the Referee blew the whistle for half-time, the crowd started to get up from their seats and head to either the toilet or to one of the vendors to buy a drink and something to eat.

The score:
SOUTH PASSAGE 0-10 BAXTOR HIGH 0-06

"They are too far behind," Andrew declared sadly, "If they want to win, they will need to come out in the second half like greyhounds"

"Agreed," Natalie stood up, the day was starting to get hotter now but the crowd were kept pleasantly cool in the shade of the stand's roof,
"Do you two want anything?" She asked Skyler and Kartosh, "On me"

Xiscapia

25-02-2008, 22:30

"I'm afraid what Commander Nigripes was thinking on that ship is her own, to tell you if she wishes. I cannot say." said the Emperor plesantly.
Rebel Base...
Moving his right arm into the air, James clenched his fist, not looking at Adrian, staring down. The criminal's throat suddenly constricted, cutting off most of his breathing, lifting him off the floor several inches, being choked by a hand he could not see. He heard James speak, though not though words, but the medium of the mind.
Fool. You let him escape, seeking to save only yourself. You abandoned your soldiers in time of need. Tell me this, Adrian Connolly. Why did we free you from that prison?
His voice was cold and without emotion in his head, and the grip, though still holding him in the air and quite painful, lessened slightly to allow him to speak, if only in disjointed words.
Illesia...
"Naw, thanks. I'm good." Kartosh looked to Skyler, who shook her head in agreement. Both were impressed by the skill and speed of the players, and the mercenaries agreed with Natalie. If Baxtor High wanted to win, they'd need to fight like devils, like savages, like...
Alversians.

Alversia

25-02-2008, 23:21

Cavourna smiled and shrugged,
"It was the answer I expected. I trust that your theories of vulnerability were proven on that ship though"

Rebel Base

"Go ahead" Connolly taunted, choking but forcing the words through his constricted throat "Kill me, strike me down with all that mighty force of yours. See who'll lead your fleet then, huh? You wanna win the war, you need me to be on the bridge" he was choking but he seemed to be enjoying the pain, instead of begging for his life, he was daring to Rebel Leader to kill him and see who else he could recruit with the knowledge of an ex-Alversian Ensign with 10 years under his belt.

Illesia

Natalie nodded, got up and left. The crowd, which had roared itself hoarse during the first half, now settled back and chatted amongst themselves. People from opposing teams strolled over and greeted each other like the old friends they were.
"It is an impressive match. I often find that School teams are equally as impressive as the professional leagues. Although not quite" Andrew stated, "The match is high flowing and it has been end to end although South Passage have been dominating in midfield and that has allowed them to pull ahead"

Andrew noticed the expressions of the two Xiscapians,

"I am recording a match report for Kira. She enjoys football but will not leave the house to watch it. Instead, I give her reports and she watches the match from my memory banks" He explained.

Xiscapia

26-02-2008, 01:20

"As I said, Flag Captain, I cannot say, but your assessment is not far from the mark." The Emperor smiled now.
Rebel Base...
I may. His voice seemed amused. You are a spiteful one, Adrian Connolly. There are more promising, far more stable Admirals I could recruit. But none more experienced, I will give you that point. However, the voice turned dark, do not fool yourself with the illusion that you are not expendable. As one of our pilots said, you can go from being an asset to a liability in an instant. Do not try my patience.
James continued to focus his attention on something at the floor only he could apparently see, not looking at the slowly suffocating criminal hovering at the enterence. His mind, far beyond the part which was communicating with the worm before him, was tearing itself apart.
You have lost.
I have not. Not while I remain.
You do not. Don't you see? I control you. You no longer exist.
Then how am I here?
You aren't. You are a figment of your own imagination.
Rio Casa...
Wraped in cloaks, the two bekko stole away from the Palace. It had been laughably easy to sneak past the Guards, with their powers. Now they walked along the sidewalk several blocks away. Both knew there was no way they'd be let out without guard, and neither was interested in staying in the Palace indefinitly, or going outside to be a freak show. They had no intentions of running away, they merely wanted to see the city.
Illesia...
Perversly, Kartosh and Skyler were reminded of the final SASM battle. Same as the Alversians in the beginning, Baxtor High were being slaughtered with few victories. The question was, would they come back like the Alversians had in the battle? Or would they be dominated by the South Passage?
To Andrew Skyler spoke. "Would you say the teams are equally matched? Or does it come down to luck?"

North Calaveras

26-02-2008, 01:30

OCC: can you please get that device to Sasha ^^

Alversia

26-02-2008, 01:45

Cavourna nodded and smiled,
"Not a word" Then he turned and headed for the bridge. Now Ashe approached him,
"My Lord," She stated respectfully, "We are in need of repairs and I am sure you desire to return to Xiscapia as soon as possible. You and your ship are to be transferred as soon as possible to an XN vessel"

Rebel Base

OOC: ?

Connolly smiled and laughed,
"We're all expendable, mate. Me, you, that guard on the door. None of us are indispensable. If I were to die now you could recruit a new Admiral. But he would not be as good as me. By the same rights, if I were to kill you, someone would step into your place but not be as good"
He brushed himself off,
"Men fight better when they think their lives mean nothing. That way they don't think twice about being killed"

Rio Casa

The two Bekko were tailed in the street by an equally shadowy figure. In the crowds she seemed to melt into the blur of faces and colours. But she had a particular reason for being here.

Illesia

"Luck, as always, will play a part in a game" Andrew explained from his seat, "But, ultimately, it comes down to skill. In terms of the teams, they are as evenly matched as one could hope to be. It comes down to taking chances. South Passage are taking their chances and Baxtor Memorial are not. If they do not start getting some scores on the board, they are out of the cup"

Xiscapia

26-02-2008, 02:08

The Emperor nodded. "I can leave now aboard the Shadow Hunter. I must get back to Xiscapia." He turned to the Firebird, and the squad casually leaning against it. Slipping back into his soldier routine, he shouted. "Squad! Atttennttion!" All four immediatly stood up and saluted, rigid. "In that ship, on the double. We're going home!" The Emperor roared. The squad headed back up the ramp. Foxfire Rose bowed to Ashe once more. "It has been a pleasure, Admiral, and I thank you for your bravery."
Bridge...
A crewman strode in. "Package for First Officer Sasha?" Sasha frowned. What the hell? How did someone deliver something all the way out here? "What is it, Rating?" "Dunno, First Officer. It was sitting in the airlock, and it has your name on it. We've run the thing though the scanners and it appears clean." Sasha looked at the device in his hands. "Send it down to my quarters. I'll deal with it later."
Rebel Base...
OOC: TG
IC:
"Ah," he spoke now, "but the difference is, I could kill you. You could not, aha, kill me if your life depended on it." He smiled darkly. "No one means anything. When it comes down, peace is an illusion. War is natural. We're all exploding chemicals and randomly firing cells, slapped together to form a body and a mind. You are dismissed, Admiral."
Rio Casa...
Careful to keep themselves veiled, the two bekko walked into a cafe. At this time, late in the afternoon, it was almost empty, save for the man behind the counter and a business man sipping a coffee in the corner. Keeping their voices low, the two ordered and sat down at a table in the back, far from the windows.
Illesia...
Kartosh gave a mock bow from his seat. "You are a master of analysis, Andrew. Baxtor High needs to start picking up its' feet and taking risks, like you said. Otherwise they will continue to be scored on."

Alversia

26-02-2008, 12:24

Ashe, blushing, bowed to the Emperor,
"I'm just glad we were here when we were my Lord" She stated. She watched the Emperor ascend to his ship and depart from the hangar. When that was done, she went to find Cavourna. The old friends had a lot to catch up on.

Rebel Base

Connolly nodded in agreement, impressed that the Leader of the Rebellion had so many similiar thoughts to Connolly himself. He had panicked under the strangling hold for he did not fear death. He welcomed it and welcomed the day that it would take him from this world and reunite him with his Anita.
Thinking about her, Connolly wiped a tear from his eye, sighed sadly and went on with his business.

Rio Casa

The shadowy figure sat in a cafe opposite their own and ordered a drink for herself. She threw down a selection of coins and drank patiently, waiting for an oppurtunity.

Illesia

"Good atmosphere," Natalie stated happily as she returned to her seat. She had a long glass of what seemed like melted ice cream but was filled with fruit and a variety of colours, "I love going to watch Football. Not just School football but the Pro Leagues as well. Amos!"

This last exclaimation was as a man climbed the steps to reach their position. He was smiling and laughing at them. He was also wearing a South Passage jersey,

"Natalie, dear! I haven't seen you in weeks! How are you keeping?" He beamed, shaking her hand,

"Well, Amos, well." She pointed at the pitch, "Son's playing. Baxtor High"

"Ah well, we all make mistakes eh?" He boomed with laughter, "I think this is South Passage's year, this year. What do you think, Andrew?"

"No Comment, Sir"

Xiscapia

26-02-2008, 23:51

The Firebird shot out of the hanger and banked for the XIW Shadow Hunter. The trip would be somewhat slowed by towing the XIW A.I. 10, but they would make good time nonetheless. A blue field enveloped the A.I. 10, a tractor beam to pull the battle damaged ship back home.
Rebel Base...
I tire of your plauge on perfection. Begone with you.
You cannot destroy your own mind.
I do not have to. You are being exiled, as they call it.
Hah! You cannot detatch part of your own self and keep the whole!
Observe.
...
James stood, pressing the comm button. A few seconds later Vila appeared. "Master?" She looked at the floor.
"Vila. It is time. Rally the troops and prepare the ships." James held up a holo pad. On it slowly spun a crystal clear, perfect image of a planet. Vila's eyes widened is surprise at the I.D. tag below it. "This is where our first and final battle with the government forces will take place. The space defenses are weak, and can be swept aside with ease. Go, and tell of the news."
"It will be done."
"See to it."
Outside Vila called up Adrian, Hanlon, Volta and Chorodata to her comm unit. "Admirals. The time has come for the Rebellion to engage is full combat. We are heading for planet (coordinates encrypted). The space defenses are minimal, and once we get past these we will deploy our ground troops. We will have a day at most before the Allies realize something is wrong and send forces. We mobilize in three hours. Get going."
Rio Casa...
The two leaned over their drinks to talk in hushed voices.
Silvertooth,
"Well what do you think of this place so far?"
Nightshade,
"The whole "Revered One" thing was kind of weird."
"Yeah. To think of this place, like this. All the stories I ever heard was of weak rulers and a crumbling society."
"Obviously not."
"I dunno. Did you see the Emperor? When that man told Uncle he had Nigripes, he had him by the balls."
"I wonder how that went down?"
A soft chuckle.
"He's alright. I know."
"You checked?"
"In a manner of speaking."
"When do you think they'll make their move?"
"Soon. They can't remain hidden for much longer."
The two scowered the cafe and street outside with bright, curious eyes. Neither took a second glance at the women in the cafe across from them.
Illesia...
Kartosh rose from where he had been sitting. "Personally, I think Baxtor has still got a chance," he struck out his hand in the human version of greeting. "Kartosh, and your name is Amos?"

Alversia

27-02-2008, 00:03

OOC:TG

Ashe watched it go from one of the windows. She turned to one of the Officers with her,
"Prepare to jump to Xiscapia" She ordered then sighed. Even towing a damaged battleship, the Shadow Hunter would be faster than the damaged Felicity Campbell and the sooner the Emperor got home to Rio Casa, the better.

Rebel Base

Hanlon and Chordata looked at the report is disbelief,
"We can't rally our forces in three hours!" They both protested, "It will take at least three weeks to prepare both our forces for battle"
"The Danaversian Empire will need even longer to prepare it's forces to cross the border" Chordata added.
Only Connolly remained silent,
"The forces will be ready in three hours, my lord" he stated, "I'll make of it"

The other two stared at him in shock, speechless.

Rio Casa

The figure watched and waited. There was no movement from her and she casually ordered another cup of coffee.

Illesia

Amos nodded and laughed, grabbing the Xiscapian's hand and shaking it violently,
"You must be the Mercenaries Alex was talking about eh? Sure I'm Amos!" His voice boomed even over the crowd,
"Ex-South Passage High Pupil and current chairman of the South Passage Cobras Selection committee. Not bad eh?" He laughed again, "This is a fine example of football and how opposing supporters can come together. Even if one does chose the wrong side. Am I right Natalie?"

"If you say so Amos" She replied with a tone that suggested this wasn't the first time she had been teased for supporting Baxtor High.

Xiscapia

27-02-2008, 01:05

"Thank you, Admiral," Vila said to Adrian, looking coldly from Hanlon to Chordata. "Admirals, what is preventing you from doing so? Did I not say," she hissed, her eyes narrowing, "for you to have your forces ready for action at a moments notice? I ask for three hours and you say three weeks? Tell me, if I gave you a choice of agonizing torture for three hours or three weeks, which would you choose? Meditate on that." Volta's ape-like visage popped into the screen as well. "As you wish, Commander." He rumbled in his deep, gravely voice, and then was gone.
Rio Casa...
"That the last of it?"
"Yeah. We'd better get going."
Discarding their drained cups, the two padded out into the street, making for the shops which lined the walks of Xiscapia's colorful downtown. Street vendors cried out, hawking their wares, mixing with the general comotion of hundreds of voices talking at once and the ebb and flow of sentiants. Most were Xiscapian or Alversian, but offworlders could be seen here and there: Green-skinned Rodians, pale Avalans, three-eyed Grans, Sangheili and even the huge forms of Korr here and there.
Illesia...
"Glad ta meet ya," Kartosh pumped the hand vigriously back. "So you are so confident in South Passage? How about a little friendly wager?" He winked. Skyler, still in her seat, now rose, grimacing. "Kartosh!"

Alversia

27-02-2008, 01:10

Connolly nodded and departed quickly while the other two Admirals shook their heads viciously,
"Very well" They snarled, "Three hours" With that they were gone.

Rio Casa

The figure got up and followed them into the centre of Rio Casa, still hidden amongst the crowds and the general chaos of a shopping street.

Illesia

"Come now!" Amos smiled and shook his head as a fierce looking woman passed him and headed for her seat glowering back at Amos and the two Xiscapians, "My wife knows I don't gamble anymore, isn't that right honey?"

"Damn right" She screeched and turned back to watch the band playing on the pitch,

"So you see, I couldn't possibly..." His voice trailed away as his eyes were fixed on his wife's back, "...how much?" He whispered.

Xiscapia

27-02-2008, 02:04

Among the sights and sounds of the various cultures and people, the two were lost, but plesantly so. Merchants sold almost everything one could think of to buy: Precious minerals, gems, spices, weapons, old and modern, charms, food and drink, herbs, portable games, home-adapted A.I. units, clothing, books, music players, art and everything in between. Exotic females danced behind curtains and beneath veils, grizzled men's eyes darted as they procured weapons and computers, children ran though the throngs, laughing and shouting, and thoughout the speech and language of a hundred different races spun and weaved though the air. The sky was blue and the air cool and crisp as the Death Season decended into the Ice Season.
Illesia...
Skyler just rolled her eyes while Kartosh grinned widely. "Twenty-five neutral currency units on Baxtor High." He kept his voice low.

Alversia

27-02-2008, 11:31

Rio Casa

Still the shadow followed them, waiting for a mistake or a chance. That was all it would take. One chance...

Illesia

"You're on" He shook hands again and walked down to join his wife at the front of the stand,
"Old Amos, he never changes" Natalie smiled, then cheered as the teams ran back onto the pitch amidst horns and flags waving.

Xiscapia

27-02-2008, 18:57

The bekko wandered into a nearby tavern. A holographic sign above it proclaimed the building to be "The Emperor's Head: A fine drinking and boarding Establishment since YooL 3"
Neither of the siblings knew where they were going, just that they wanted to soak up the atmosphere. Inside the tavern was surprisingly rustic but elegant in it's own right, the booths and stools made of fine wood and the counter and tables of smooth stone. Like the cafe, the place was almost empty at this time of day, but soon the early drinkers would begin to trickle in. Neither of the two were hungry or thirsty after the cafe, and merely sat in a booth, ordering a token beer, people watching. Unlike the cafe the tavern only had windows well above head level, the building being lit more by power crystals than natural light.
Illesia...
Kartosh's ears began to ache slightly from the roar of the crowd, but he ignored them. The mercenary had given up gambling a long time ago...but it didn't mean be couldn't still make little bets on the side. Skyler gave him a affectionate if disapproving nudge as the teams ran back out onto the pitch.

Alversia

28-02-2008, 18:32

As the siblings entered the bar, their stalker, now devoid of her cloak. Sat down at a table nearby and ordered a tall wine. She just sat and stared dead ahead at the wall, taking sips of her drink. She was watching out of the corner of her eye.

Illesia

The ball was thrown high into the midfield and this time it was Baxtor that caught the ball. The crowd screamed their encouragement to both teams as the ball was carried forward. The ball fell to Ian and, using his strength he was able to throw off two attempts to tackle him and kicked the ball high over his shoulder. The ball seemed to hang in the air for hours before it drifted cleanly between the posts.

Ian was now clapping his hands and roaring encouragement to his teammates. The scoreboard now read,

SOUTH PASSAGE 0-10 BAXTOR MEMORIAL 0-07

Xiscapia

29-02-2008, 00:43

Now, as the afternoon drew to a close and the early evening drinkers began to enter, the bar filled. The patrons of the bars were as varied as on the streets, though the majority remained Xiscapians and Alversians. The bartender behind began passing down drinks as more beings sat at the tables and on the bar stools. The bekko moved noticibly closer and clung their cloaks tighter about them. The women sitting at the table was largly ignored, and no one joined her. The brother and sister stood suddenly and exited as a flow of people walked in, out from the warmth and cheer of the bar into the cool, rapidly darkening streets. It was time to head back to the Palace.
Illesia...
"Nice one by Ian there. So it they can just do that four more times," Kartosh murmured, "then they've got the game and I've got twenty-five credits." Skyler just sighed to herself and stood, moving down the rows. "I'm going to go buy a water." Kartosh just nodded and continued to watch the game.

Alversia

29-02-2008, 00:52

This was it.

The chance she had been waiting all day for. She paid for her last drink and left the bar as well. Even though the streets were virtually empty, she still kept her distance. She pulled a pistol casually from her belt.

Illesia

The crowd were roaring their approval as the game went backwards and forwards. Baxtor High had gained a bit of confidence and cohesion and were carrying the fight to South Passage. But they still had no answer to the formidable full forward line and points were being racked up at both ends. The crowd were permentantly on their feet as the points flew in from every angle.

With ten minutes to go, the score read:

SOUTH PASSAGE 0-14 BAXTOR HIGH 0-12

Xiscapia

29-02-2008, 01:09

Neither noticed as they hurried up the streets, which were quite dark. Being nocturnal, Xiscapians had no need for street lights, but with the growing population of humans and offworlders the city was looking into erecting some lights. Their feet were all but silent as they went at a pace somewhere between walking and jogging. Neither brother nor sister were comfortable out on the streets at night, and the shadows still held fear for them, despite their ability to seek out what lay hidden in them, both though their eyes and their powers. The halls and cells of the Calaverans had been well lit and spotless, but the dungeons of Jorga's stronghold and the corridors of the SASM were dank and full of horrors.
Illesia...
Skyler had long since returned with her drink, and seemed to be the only one not caught up in the event. Kartosh was on his feet, fist clenched, muttering. "C'mon...c'mon..." The score was evening up, but Baxtor was still behind by two points.

Alversia

29-02-2008, 01:23

The girl took aim with her pistol. True there would be witnesses but she was confident that she could evade capture in the confusion that would follow. She squeezed gently on the trigger.

Illesia

South Passage scored a point, and their fans went wild. Then Baxtor got a point back and those at Baxtor's end screamed with joy. The crows were now permanently on their feet, screaming advice to the players. There were less than five minutes left.

Baxtor scored again and even Natalie was on her feet, leaping into the air and screaming as loudly as she could, horns were blowing randomly to add to the noise while the play increased in urgency on the pitch.

Then Ian outjumped his marker and caught the ball cleanly. He had also caught the full back out of position and now there was no one between him and the Keeper. He tore forwards, soloing the ball as he did so.

The crowd were screaming their encouragement to either the Keeper or to Ian. The keeper thundered out to try and tackle Ian. Ian simply slide the ball cleanly under his diving frame and watched it roll into the back of the net. Goal!

Instantly the Referee blew his whistle and Ian was mobbed by his team mates and the Substitutes from the bench. Even their Keeper tore all the way up the pitch to leap into the pile of players. Natalie was leaping for joy amongst the other Baxtor supporters, grabbing a man beside her and giving him a massive hug.

The final scoreline read

SOUTH PASSAGE 0-15 BAXTOR MEMORIAL 1-14

Xiscapia

29-02-2008, 03:13

The bolt traveled forward, burning brightly...then dimmed...then dimmed so more...then faded away into so much warm air. The bolt had decreased in power and hue until it was nothing harmful, turning the lethal bolt into scattered particles. Silvertooth turned around as he felt the air blow past like a wind, raising his hand in a slicing motion. The pistol wenched itself away from the assassin's fingers and clattered across the street to fall into a storm drain. In seconds Nightshade had covered the distance seperating her and the girl, a dagger at her throat, her left hand firmly grasping her on the arm as Silvertooth slowly approached. "You work for the Rebellion, don't you?" he asked softly as he neared her. Both looked ominious, still in their black cloaks and hoods, skin and fur concealed. The only natural bit that was visible was the right hand of Nightshade holding the dagger.
Illesia...
Kartosh punched the air. "YES! Oh yeah, baby! That's right, you OWNED out there kid!" he screamed from the stands to the field where Ian was surronded by his team. Skyler stood and clapped politely. She didn't exactly dislike sports, but she could never get into the mood to care enough. However, she was happy that Ian and Baxtor High had won the semi-finals, and she cheered like everyone else.

Alversia

29-02-2008, 12:47

The girl said nothing and only lifted something to her mouth. She could only move one arm, not enough to fight but enough for her purpose. She made a few choking and rasping sounds before her body went limp. A cyanide pill fell from her palm and smashed on the ground.

Illesia

Andrew was standing and clapping politely although more people seemed interested in shaking his hand and clapping him on the back than merely giving polite applause. The South Passage supporters were congratulating the Baxtor Supporters on such an excellent match. Their players were slumped on the ground or walking off back to the changing rooms. The Baxtor players were amongst their fans, talking and laughing with their parents or friends. The whole ground had taken on a party atmosphere.

Then Amos threaded his way through the crowd to Natalie and the Xiscapians. He turned and called to his wife before spinning back to Kartosh,

"Well, this is 25 credits I've lost down the back of the couch" He sighed as he handed the money to the Mercenary, "Although not the worst 25 I have wasted. Spectacular game, I have to say, well done." He shook each of their hands again, kissed Natalie on both cheeks and departed.

"Well, well, what a day" She smiled and laughed.

Xiscapia

29-02-2008, 23:26

Nightshade let the body fall with a muffled thud to the street. "I'll take that as a yes." Silvertooth murmured. Nightshade nodded. Even here, we are not beyond the reach of the Rebellion. The streets have ceased to be safe for us. Silvertooth glanced at her. Do you think...? Nightshade shook her head. The body must be taken by the local police. This will be taken care of. For now it seems we are confined to stay behind Palace walls.
Silvertooth looked down at the features of the would-be assassin. I suppose Uncle was right in telling us not to go out, as if it stopped us. Good thing my powers aren't... He twisted the tiny black chain looping from the top of his ear down to a stud at the bottom, with a tiny, stubby black cross at the bottom, staring into the distance, absent.
Both turned on heel and hurried up the street once more, leaving the corpse lying in the middle of the street and vanished, back to the security of the Palace. No one would ever know they were gone.
Illesia...
Kartosh just grinned as he pocketed the money. "That really was a dramatic game. If this was the semi-finals, just think of what the Finals will be like!"
Skyler just shook her head. "You mean the two best teams facing off will give you a great gambling oppertunity?" She raised one eyebrow. Kartosh looked genuinely hurt. "No, I actually enjoyed the game. Ian and Baxtor High played really well." Skyler just shrugged. "I agree, but no gambling next game, you hear?" Kartosh's eyes widened in mock horror. "Oh no! Please, don't take my only vice away from me! I'll be good, I swear it." Skyler laughed out loud. "Your only vice? You've got too many to list...now is not the time. C'mon, let's go greet Ian." She glanced at Natalie. "Are we allowed to meet him outside the locker room?"

Alversia

01-03-2008, 00:49

"Work away!" She called happily, "I have to deal with a few things first, then I'll meet you'se back at the car" She turned and walked into the middle of the celebrating crowd.
"What a match!" One of the Supporters walked up to the two, "The Grand Slam won't even be that good. Actually, I tell a lie, it's be fantastic!" He gave an excited laugh.

Alversia

01-03-2008, 02:03

"The WHAT final!?!" The man shook his head in disbelief, "it's only the biggest football match of the year. Haven't you noticed the flags?"

Sure enough, between all the Baxtor and South Passage flags were bigger, more expensive flags with unknown colours. There was also bunting up all through and along the streets as well as a massive billboard with the slogan:
THREE IN A ROW, BISON HERE WE GO!
painted across it.

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 02:05

Kartosh cocked his head. "The Grand Slam? Is that baseball finals?" You could almost see the glittering little dollar signs in his eyes. Skyler choose this moment to intervene, allowing herself the luxery of another eye roll. "Come on, we don't want to miss Ian." She began to pull him away.

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 02:21

"Uh..." Kartosh could only utter as Skyler dragged him away. He waved to the fan and stared around at the colorful flags, resuming walking with her towards the locker rooms. "Grand Slam, huh? This is getting good..." Soon enough they were standing outside the locker rooms inside the building, waiting patiently. Skyler sat peacefully on a bench while Kartosh slumped against a wall. It was actually nice to be inside, out of the way. They kept getting looks, after all, they were semi-famous now.

Alversia

01-03-2008, 02:23

Ian was one of the last children out from the locker as all the others piled out and were greeted by their friends and family, Ian was talking with Billie the keeper and his face lit up when he saw the two Xiscapians,
"Look Bill! See! I was telling the truth!" He turned to the taller boy triumphantly,
Billie just nodded shyly,
"Hi" he muttered, going red.

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 02:36

"Hey kid,"
Kartosh only gave a nod before turning to Ian. "You were great out there, kid! Awesome playing, you know how much money I won because of you? What the hell, here, I guess your entitled to some of it." He handed over fifteen credits to Ian from his pocket, retaining ten. Skyler looked at Billie. "That was a nice save there just after second half." she murmured softly. Now one must take in account Skylers physical form. With dark blue hair down to her waist, ample breasts and a lean body conditioned by years of fighting and running in smuggling and being a soldier of fortune, she was quite beautiful. Her dark eyes probed his features, looking the child up and down, assessing the boy next to his keeping skills.

Alversia

01-03-2008, 02:48

OOC: Jesus Xis, the Kid's nine years old

"Wow!"
Ian took the money and stuffed it into his pocket,
"I bet you got this off Uncle Amos, yeah? He bets on the competition every year and he has never ever ever ever won! Cool!" he looked back at Kartosh, "Did you like the match?"

Billie turned to Ian and muttered something in his ear. He went bright red and mumbled something before taking off and vaulting a fence nearby to duck out of sight,
Ian looked as though he was about to burst out laughing,
"Billie wants you to know you are the most beautiful thing in the universe"
Then he could bear it no more and bent over in stitches.

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 03:13

OOC: So? It got the desired effect. You really don't think I'd actually...I mean, come on...
IC:
Kartosh laughed out loud. "Never ever ever ever won? No wonder his wife dosen't like him betting! Yeah, the match was great! You guys had the crowd on its feet the whole time at the end there."
"Billie wants you to know you are the most beautiful thing in the universe"
Skyler just smiled. Hmmm, that didn't go like I thought it would.
Aloud,
"Well, next time you see him, tell him thank you, and that his goalkeeping skills are truly great."
Kartosh joined Ian in his laughter, smirking at Skyler. She just, for what felt like the hundreth time that day, rolled her eyes. Some boys never grow out of being boys...

Alversia

01-03-2008, 03:19

OOC: Desired effect is right, flaming hell.

They joined with Natalie pretty soon and she was smiling even more radiantly then usual,
"I just got a call from Ashley near Xiscapia. Alex has been granted three weeks leave and he's on his way home now"

Ian looked as though he was about to explode with joy,
"He'll be back for the Final!! And the Grand Slam! I can't wait, this is gonna be so awesome!" He screamed the last word, startling several people nearby, "Did Dad get the tickets! Did he!?!"

"Wait and see young man, you've had enough excitement for one day" Natalie reproofed in a mocking tone, "Now get into that car and let's go home."

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 04:11

OOC: Yes, as a matter of fact, hell does burn. :D
IC:
"Ah, that's good," said Kartosh, walking in step with them. "The Flag Captain needs a little R&R." Skyler walked alongside them, thinking about the man Alexander Cavoura. He certainly had a good life, excepting for all the battles: A great, promising son, a loving wife, a healthy salary, a safe world for Ian to grow up on and him to grow old on, friends and allies all around.

Alversia

01-03-2008, 12:24

Soon they were home and preparing another dinner. Again it was with potatoes although these ones were mashed and served with pork. Ian ate heartily, laughing and joking, then he was put to bed. That left Natalie, Andrew, Kartosh and Skyler on the patio, watching the sky turn a vicious orange as it bid farewell to the sun for another day. Even though it was quite late, it was still pleasantly warm,
"Can I get you two anything more?" Natalie asked from the table, "Anything at all?"

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 17:58

"Naw," Kartosh said, waving his hand and patting his stomach with the other, "I'm full thanks. Geez, Natalie, if you don't mind me saying so, you make some wonderful food." Skyler leaned back in her chair, arms folded with a relaxed sigh. "Yes, that was quite good," she straightened up. "We wanted to thank you for your hospitality."

Alversia

01-03-2008, 18:34

"Not a problem," She smiled pleasantly, "I'm going to retire for the night. If you want to stay out any longer, let Andrew know. Excuse me" She got up and entered the house, taking the dirty dishes with her.

Xiscapia

01-03-2008, 18:47

"Sure thing."
The two mercenaries sat outside, alone with each other as the light faded from brilliant orange to a soft blue with red on the horizon to a warm black. Both silently contemplated their situation. Not rich, but wealthy enough, few injuries, recognized heros, their ship in good working order, no price on their heads...life was good.
"I could retire here."
Skyler looked at Kartosh, who was staring meditativly out over the pool into the sky.
"I always thought you wanted to retire in Rio. Or Tenfour."
"I dunno, now. We're not exactly old, now. Plenty of time to decide."
"True. But this is just a vacation..."
She could see him grin in the dark.
"Yes. A long vacation. But we know each other."
"You can't keep a good merc down for long."
"It will tarnish our good reputations, you know. Gambling dens, drinking establishments."
"What reputations?"
"Good point."

Alversia

01-03-2008, 18:56

3 Days Later

The Mercenaries were shown the sights of Illesia, it's spectacular beaches, the wonderful architecture of the old city. Some of the rolling hills and vast fields just outside the city boundaries. They continued to go for checkups at the IIM and Alexis and Black continued to give glowing Medical Reports.

Then they were waiting at the Space Port for a certain returning Soldier. Ian, Andrew and Natalie waited tensely for the right ship to dock and the right people to emerge. Then, after an hour of waiting, a familiar man in a Captain's Uniform emerged from one of the Arrival Gates.

"DAD!!" Ian could be heard throughout the building as he tore up the long corridor into his Father's arms,

"How ya doing son?" Cavourna laughed happily, "Did you win?"

"We're in the final, Dad! We're in the final!" The boy was overwrought with excitement

"That's incredible son, that's incredible" he gave him another long hug and set him down as Natalie approached. They shared a kiss for what seemed like ages, then Alex turned to Kartosh and Skyler,

"I hear you've been living off my back for the past few days" He grinned.

Xiscapia

03-03-2008, 13:21

"Flag Captain," Kartosh grinned back at the formal address, "you have a seriously sweet life, if you don't mind me saying so. I mean, damn, this city is beautiful! There's been no problems since the operation, so it's all good. Natalie and Ian were kind enough to show us around, some of the tourist attractions and whatnot."

Alversia

03-03-2008, 15:38

"I'm glad you like it" Cavourna laughed visibly delighted to be back with his family again, "I quite like it too, the times that I'm here"

"Did you get into any battles Dad?" Ian asked excitedly, enthusiastically.

"A few, son, a few" he gave another laugh and turned back to Natalie, they looked at each other affectionately before he turned to the two Mercenaries again,
"I think it's time we go home do you not?" He asked, "You are more than welcome to spend more time with us if you want to" he added, "I think it would interesting to spend a little time at home for a change."

Xiscapia

04-03-2008, 03:49

"Nah," Kartosh waved his hand. "You guys have been great and all, but as a man much wiser than I once said "House guest, like fish, tend to stink after three days. Therefore, I feel we have outstayed our welcome. The doctor says that my condition is stable and the operation is a success, so there's no real reason for us to stick around here any longer." Skyler gave a light bow. "We will never forget your hospitality."
Old Xiscapia...
There was only a single space station, the size of a frigate, orbiting the planet. It was there mostly for ground scanning and directing, with only a light armament to protect from potential pirate attacks. The resident garrison consisted of only a group of fighters, a Flotilla of light craft, a platoon of infantry and a squad of mecha. None of which would pose a challenge to the massive incoming forces. A small town with a population of a mere five hundred, scientists and their families, as well as the facilities for digging and examining artifacts, was the only population center on the planet. No one expected an attack. The Rebellion was big news out here, a backwater world, but the only people that ever attacked was the occasional trigger-happy pirate ship or two, quickly destroyed by the garrison. They had grown lax with confidence that their isolation and unimportance would keep them safe.
They were wrong.

Alversia

04-03-2008, 12:21

Cavourna nodded,
"Then I am pleased that my Family was as accomodating as I hoped they would be." He gave his own little bow, "I trust I will see you again in the future, but hopefully not for a while yet."

Natalie gave both Xiscapians a bow,
"It was a pleasure to have you in the house" She said as Ian came forward,
"I hope you'll visit us sometime, won't you?" He asked as a Porter and two Security Guards came forward, beckoned by Cavourna.

"Sir?" he addressed Kartosh politely, "Shall I escort you to the locker room?"

Xiscapia

04-03-2008, 14:57

"We'll be back...sometime. Never know where the galaxy might take us." Kartosh and Skyler gave their bows to the Cavourna family and turned to walk away. Kartosh looked the Porter up and down. "I'm good, thanks." he finally drawled, and he and Skyler made their way to the locker room to pick up their luggage.
OOC: Ah-hem. Other part of the last post?

Alversia

04-03-2008, 16:54

OOC: yes, yes, I'm getting to that

The Cavourna's waited as two Security guards followed the Mercenaries to their locker. That amount of weapons could not be moved without an escort. Then they watched them board the Star Snake and waved goodbye for now,

Xiscapian Vessel Star Snake, this is Illesia City
Space Traffic Control, you have clearance for take-off, head
on a course of 45/65L until you clear the Sparrowhawk.
Your code is Azul214B
Over

Colony

Connolly watched as the colony loomed into view. It was as he had expected. Minimal defences and little in terms of space forces to combat his own fleet. He turned to one of the Xiscapian Officers with him on his flagship, the Baracuss,
"Fire at will. Spare no one" he said it with relish, enjoying every word.

Xiscapia

05-03-2008, 02:01

Copy that Illesia City Space Traffic Control, heading plotted, fixed and locked.
The Star Snake shot though the upper atomsphere into space, still in orbit, riding next to the monsterious bulk of the Sparrowhawk. The Xiscapians had their Protector. The Alversians their mobile starbase that they called a ship. It was the largest ship between the two nations, larger then even the massive XIW Jade, one of Xiscapia's only Super capitals.
Old Xiscapia...
"Aye Admiral." he said as the rest of the Rebellion fleet appeared. All the stops had been pulled for this one.
Rebellion Fleet...
4 Hummer Class Cruisers (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/lancer.jpg)
30 Runner Class Gunboats (http://www.flatrock.org.nz/wolf/images/X2_Pix/D_Gunboat2.jpg)
100 Blade Class Fighters (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/Skipray-Blastboat.jpg)
2 Spark Class Destroyers (http://www.ffcompendium.com/misc/12-catoblepas.jpg)
1 Revolver Class Battleship (http://www.newimperium.org/gallery/MAJESTIC.JPG)
1 Wasp class A.I. ship (A.I. 9)
Mercenary Ships:
Eon Eagle (http://premium1.uploadit.org/MaxOutrider/ShipImages/Guardian-Class-Cruiser.jpg)
Quick 1 (http://ships.firenebula.com/starwars_demi/images/bankingclancommfrigate.jpg)
Ace (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/image023.jpg)
Pirate Fleet:
3 Imperial Dreadnoughts (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/dread.jpg)
80 TIE Fighters (http://www.stmuc.com/moray/images/tie.jpg)
50 Interceptors (http://http://swg.allakhazam.com/images/ships/Interceptor.jpg)
30 Heavy Bombers (http://www.shipschematics.net/yamato/images/edf/lrhvybomber_cosmomarauder.jpg)
10 Frigates (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/darth_melvar/Star%20Wars/Starships/strike_cruiser.jpg)
10 Transports (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/esc.gif)
Twenty Light Cruisers (http://photobucket.com/mediadetail/?media=http%3A%2F%2Fi170.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fu265%2FGattts%2Fstage04_070622a.jpg&searchTerm=starship&pageOffset=2), 15 Heavy Cruisers (http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/9548/amarrbattleshipzg8.jpg), 12 Destroyers (http://www.shipschematics.net/yamato/images/edf/battleship_arcadia2.jpg), 10 Battleships (http://www.astrowars.com/wiki/images/6/68/Battleship.jpg), 20 Frigates (http://photobucket.com/mediadetail/?media=http%3A%2F%2Fi214.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fcc199%2FTimHessPortfolio%2Fpst02-2.jpg&searchTerm=starship&pageOffset=9), 2 Super Destroyers (http://members.lycos.nl/sovereign001frontier/hpbimg/jembattle.jpg), 1 Super Battleship (http://www.gamereplays.org/community/uploads/post-10063-1160835031.jpg), 10,000 fighters (http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~john22/A9opt.jpg), and hundreds of troop ships (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/atr.gif).

_______________________________________________
It was pathetically easy. A single combined blast and the station was only so much flaming debries. Fourty XGA infantry on the surface, twenty five fighters, eight Light Assault Mechs, six patrols and two corvettes were all that was left. Those on the ground relied on the station as a heads-up to let them know it anything was coming. The attack had been so swift that the station hadn't had time to transmit. The garrison and civilians on the surface were totally unsuspecting and unprepared. Hundreds of drop ships decended on the town below holding the garrison. An attack en masse would quickly overwhelm the tiny force. The ships held thousands of Korr, SR and mercenary soldiers. The rest of the capitals formed into a loose defensive ring around the planet while the small craft ran patrols. The Korr an Social Reformests had modified their outdated ships. While the exterior showed little difference, the shielding, armament, engines, armor, systems and scanning/sensing devices had been improved up to or near modern technology. With seventy capital ships and thousands of small craft, the fleet was a force to be reckoned with. And the ARN and Danaversians hadn't even shown up yet.
OOC: Whenever you want to send in the ARA, ARN and Danaversian Shoal.

Alversia

05-03-2008, 11:31

Alversian Orbit

A message was beamed through from the Sparrowhawk

This is the Sparrowhawk Please relay clearance code
or you will be aphrehended

Colony
With a blast, the ARN arrived in system. They were too late to participate in the destruction of the orbital defences but they were determined to take some part in the battle that would follow. The ARN had only 12 outdated Cruisers to it's name but it was the Danaversian Shoal that followed behind that was the strike edge of the Rebel Fleet.
It consisted of 17 modern vessels crewed by battle-hardened veterans and included two Super-Battleships, known as Marlins.
Now the ARA began to dispatch it's troops, arranged into a rough Regiment of 20,000 combat troops and an attached ANLA Battalion.
Surface
They were unlucky really, a small group of Alversian Scientists had been dispatched to the surface to help the Xiscapians with their work. In accordance with Alversian law, a Platoon of Soldiers went with them. They numbered only 50 men and had no heavy armour or artillery of any kind.

Xiscapia

05-03-2008, 15:26

Sparrowhawk, Star Snake clearance code is Azul214B.
Space...
As the troop ships decended on the surface the Korr, SR and mercenary ships finally fixed their positions. The battle for Old Xiscapia would be long and hard. They would make sure of it.
Surface, airfield...
Twenty-five Xiscapian Shuriken class fighters were lined up, and in a hanger eight LAM were arranged in a line formation, along with the two corvettes. There was only a few MPs and techs around the base when the first strike came. Korr fighters, hundreds of them, screamed down, spitting fire and shooting their explosive payloads. Fighters blew apart and were tossed into the air, the neat orderly rows decimated. Techs working on them were badly burned and thrown, dead quickly. The few surviving personnal ran for it as the Korr bared down on them, picking them off with laser cannons. The hanger exploded brilliantly, as did the complex for the pilots and barracks. The control tower was cut in half by a bomb, smashing to the ground.
Surface, town...
Ninty infantry were stationed in the town, and when they heard the explosions and saw the smoke rising from the airfield, they knew the unthinkable had happened.
Someone had lauched an assault on Old Xiscapia.
Panicked civilians were escorted to bombing shelters, scientists trying to take their work with them. The few streets of homes and stores were being cleared out as fast as possible. But they were only half cleared when the first fighters decended in a wave of destruction.

Alversia

05-03-2008, 17:01

Code confirmed. Proceed on a heading of 34/12 until you are
out of Alversian Orbit. Hope to see you again
With that, weapons that had been targeting the Star Snake were disengaged. An APCRS Frigate now also broke off from stalking the ship. Kartosh and Skyler were free to leave Alversian Orbit and proceed to wherever they wanted to go.

Old Xiscapia

For their part, the Soldiers helped with the evacuation of their Scientists, forcing them underground to avoid the bombardment. With the few Scientists safe, the Platoon went to the surface to aid in the defence of the colony. Such as it would be.

Space, Old Xiscapia

With the planetary defences disabled and distracted by the Korr, dozens of dropships now left the ARN vessels and headed for the surface. Abaord where 6,000 ARA troops, as Hanlon had insisted that his men get the honour of storming the colony. Connolly hadn't bothered to argue. He just let him do what he wanted.

Connolly watched the devastation being inflicted on the people with joy. He was loving this. A chance for revenge, all the suffering he had endured for the past decade would now be paid back tenfold. He was going to enjoy this.

Xiscapia

05-03-2008, 18:01

"So," Kartosh leaned back in his pilot's chair like he always did, "where to now?"
Skyler sat for a moment, looking out the cockpit window at the dark space before her. "I think there's really only one place to go to, now."
Kartosh nodded. "Let's go home."
Turning on a dime, the little ship's engines glowed white, and then it vanished.
Old Xiscapia...
The fighter attack was a stirring up tactic, to make people fear and panic. Several buildings, homes and stores, were little more then collapsed, flaming rubble. The bomb shelters were entirely improvised, basements and small underground labs. The streets were soon cleared and the soldiers, hiding in various areas, wondered what happened. The fighters were gone, the only sign that they had been there a few destroyed homes and stores. No one had died in the attack, but realistically the town should look the same as the airfield to the east. Something was up. The Xiscapian infantry took up positions in buildings, behind cover and inside hurridly dug foxholes, thirty XGA soldiers in town with their fifty APA counterparts, ten soldiers spread into the fields and sparse tree cover surronding the town.
The Korr were careful to stand back and let the ARA land it's own forces to take the town. Volta had argued fiercly to let his troops be the ones to attack, but he had finally backed down. When the Empire attacked there would be plenty of time to kill kitsune. Now, as directed, the Korr began landing and setting up base camps and fortified positions, tens of thousands of them. There were abandoned strongholds here from the days of the influx of researchers, as well as a few lonely ghost towns, long emptied of life. These began bases of operations for Korr, as well as the ruins that covered the landscape, constructs on long dead Xiscapians. The SR moved itself back, towards a series of mountains to construct a fortress there, only a few thousand Rebels strong. The mercenary soldiers were the ones sent on patrol, scouting for anything they could find.
Space...
James had already been beamed down with the majority of SR forces, leaving Vila to command the SR space fleet. Hanlon would command the ARN, Chorodata his Danaversians, Volta his Korr, and Connolly the groups of thugs and mercenarys. His flagship was one of the Imperial Dreadnoughts. Vila knew that Volta's was the Korr Superbattleship, and that Chrodata's was probably one of the Marlins.

Alversia

05-03-2008, 20:06

Old Xiscapia

A band of ARA Troops, a recon troop of about 150 troops entered the town whooping and screaming. They assumed that the fighter attack had devastated all life in the small settlement. They were sadly mistaken.
The APA troops stayed hidden waited until they were close, then
"Infantry! Setting three Volley!" The People's Troops rose, surprising their Republican counterparts who didn't have time to react before,
"FIRE!!"
The Infantry's position was shrouded in smoke. When it had cleared, the Republican Soldiers had fled and left a small pile of dead to their memory.

-----

While this was occurring, Hanlon led the forces of the Republican Navy into space. Connolly had been give provisional control over both his own fleet, the Republican Fleet and the Danaversian Fleet in an attempt to form some sort of unified control. Only Vila's Pirates were not under his banner.

Xiscapia

06-03-2008, 02:47

The XGA infantry stayed silent and watchful in case the ARA came back, undoubtly they or someone would attack again. The entire force consisted of ten HATs, ten SRS troopers, ten Grunts, five snipers, three medics and a battle engineer, assisted by two Hunter-Killer (http://atarts.deviantart.com/art/Character-Concept-4-48567538) droids that had been recently shuttled down.
Space...
With James on the ground, Vila had control over the pirate fleet and the SR fleet, some ten capitals, three modified mercenary ships, one hundred Blade fighters, eighty TIE fighters and fifty TIE interceptors supplied by Jorga, thirty heavy bombers, and ten frigates. Vila knew the Korr fleet would make the most impression, by far the largest present. The Danaversians and SR fleets commited a small amount, and the rest was left to the mercenary fleet. The ARN barely came into the picture, and Vila knew that ARN and ARA forces were all cannon fodder for Allied guns.

North Calaveras

06-03-2008, 03:54

OCC: im here if ya need me ^^

Alversia

06-03-2008, 12:29

This time, the attack was from a full battalion of the ARA, no less than 5,000 fantical, if poorly armed troops. Outnumbered a hundred to one, the lone Alversian Platoon set itself up in small fortresses of rubble, preparing to fight for the lives of all the citizens of the planet.

Xiscapia

06-03-2008, 20:38

As the battalion pulled closer, the cloaked SRS soldiers began to flank them, coming out from their scouting areas to come in behind. Snipers trained scopes on ARA helmeted heads, zeroing in, waiting for the order to fire. The HATs were almost dissapointed by the lack of vehicles, but dutifily set up mines across the main enterence before slipping back in hiding, lifting missile lauchers onto shoulders. Ineffective against regular infantry, but in the tightly packed ARA formation, the splash damage would be terrible. The medics stayed far out of the fight, helpless to do anything at all. They were armed with only a combat knife, which, contrary to the name, was not used for fighting, but rather for more civilian needs, like slicing packaging off rations, prying things loose, slicing wood and the like. In a pinch they could easily be used as weapons, but medics received only basic combat training, as it was ususally assumed their non-combatent status would save them from being shot in battle. A exceedingly slim chance here, and they readied themselves for a doomed defensive, knowing that they would undoubtably die. The Grunts were dispersed thoughout the town, in buildings and basements and cellers, waiting to leap out and surprise the enemy. Last of all were the fearsome Hunter-Killers, nine foot high machines of destruction. Heavily armed, the poorly trained, ill-armed ARA would have trouble destroying them. The two were just around the first corner into town, after the mines. They would be the welcoming party for the ARA battalion. But the Xiscapians waited for the signal from their APA allies. The battalion approached, close now to the first line of mines, to be triggered with the weight of a human, the SRS tagging along behind to strike silently at any stragglers.

Alversia

06-03-2008, 20:57

The ARA troops continued to pile forward, roaring and whooping for the slaughter, they were going to enjoy this.

The Captain of the Platoon waited with the first section of his men. 5 against 5,000. These were not the best odds he had ever faced but he would be damned if he was going to show his fear to the men in front of him. The terror of all 5 was betrayed by their rapid breathing and trembling limbs. He had to time this right. The cloud that was the enemy dissipated as they met tarmac and continued to run, quicker than ever,
"Setting Three, Lads" he muttered to the men in front of him. He could hear five consecutive clicks as each man set his rifle to it's maximum power shot. Still he waited. He had one chance.
"Fix bayonets" he whispered and let the men pull the long bayonets from their belts and slot them onto the front of their rifles.

The ARA got closer and closer, tearing down the street towards the town. Then they hit the mines and the first rank seemed to collapse in the explosion. Dust and bits of bone, muscle and flesh were thrown high into the air,
"Prepare to fire!" He yelled as his men pushed through their cover to reveal themselves. They had been buried in rubble just a hundred yards from the mines and now they were going to show those Republicans what real Soldiers could do,
"Fire!" He roared with all the strength his lungs could muster. His men were shrouded in the grey smoke as they fired their volley.

In the ranks of the Battalion, they watched as the first rank was gutted by a series of unexplained explosions, then the next rank was shredded by laser fire, the shots piercing up to three people at once. Enraged, they tore forward through the smoke, screaming their revenge and hatred.

Xiscapia

06-03-2008, 21:40

Now the Xiscapians stuck. Soldiers charging at the APA were cut down by fire from the left as the two huge Hunter-Killers emerged and blindsided the ARA, firing their duel heavy rifles steadly into the ranks. Two rockets from hidden shoulder lauchers streaked into the ranks, and grenades bounced inward as well. Explosions made small craters where there had once been whole squads of men. Heads exploded in showers of gore and bits of bone as the snipers found their targets, firing again and again and again from cover. The SRS troopers struck the flank with blaster fire and grenades, cloaked and invisible. To the ARA soldiers at the back it was like being attacked out of thin air, bolts and grenades appearing abruptly to smash into soldiers. They utilized their cover, behind trees, mounds of dirt or broken walls, conserving cloaking strength before popping out again. HATs fired their missile lauchers directly into the middle of the mass of soldiers, creating huge holes in the ranks with their rockets. The Grunts chucked grenades and fired blasters at the ranks in concert with the APA soldiers, while not as powerful as the Alversian Third setting, their rifles were more accurate and had a faster turnover on shots, firing dozens of bolts a second.

Alversia

06-03-2008, 21:54

Still, despite the losses, the fanatical ARA pushed on and, within seconds, they were in the ranks of the APA soldiers. Despite their skill with a bayonet, they were just swamped and all six were swiftly killed. The ARA men picked up their weapons and continued to pour into the town. The masses ensured that the tiny garrison was barely denting the mass. What was a squad of ten men amongst 5,000? The Hunter Killers were a problem though and one of the Republicans dispatched a message to the fleet above,
"We need fighter support, repeat, we need fighter support"

In the town, the rest of the platoon had gathered into a lone trench in front of the bunker. Their job was to hold the civilians and make sure they were safe until the last man was dead. They sighed and squatted behind their weapons, listening to the devastation erupting around them.

Xiscapia

06-03-2008, 22:29

Ten Korr fighters streaked towards the town, bottom cannons swiviling to find their targets. Upon direction two well-placed laser blasts turned the Hunter-Killers into piles of melted slag. On the ground the Xiscapians continued to fire on the ARA, most of them inside buildings or on roofs. They were all careful never to stay in one place for too long, flitting from one peice of cover or window to the next, almost constently moving. The medics held their collective breath as ARA soldiers smashed the wodden door into the home they were hiding in. Crockery smashed and there were shouts as, for some reason, felt it was nessicery to light fire to the fruniture. Smoke rose up in the house and the medics knew they couldn't stay on the second floor any longer. Climbing out the windows, they dropped to the ground to make a break for the civilian bunker. Grunts, HATs, snipers and SRS continued their hopeless fire on the ARA soldiers, seeking to slaughter as many enemy as they could.

Axes flash, broadswords swing
Shining armors’ piercing ring
Horses run with polished shield
Fight those bastards ‘til they yield

Midnight mare, blood red roan
Fight to keep this land your own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How many of them can we make die?

Follow orders as you’re told
Make their yellow blood run cold
Fight until you die or drop
A force like ours is hard to stop

Close your mind to stress and pain
Fight ‘til you’re no longer sane
Let not one damn cur pass by
How many of them can we make die?

Guard your women and children well
Send these bastards back to Hell
We’ll teach them the ways of war
And they won’t come here anymore

Use your shield and use your head
Fight ‘til everyone is dead
Raise the flag up to the sky
How many of them can we make die?

Dawn has broke, the time has come
Move your feet to the marching drum
We’ll win the war and pay the toll
Fight as one in heart and soul

Midnight mare and blood red roan
Fight to keep this land your own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How many of them can we make die?

Axes flash, broadswords swing
Shining armors’ piercing ring
Horses run with polished shield
Fight those bastards ‘til they yield

Midnight mare and blood red roan
Fight to keep this land your own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How many of them can we make die?
How many of them can we make die?
How many of them can we make die?

Alversia

06-03-2008, 22:44

The ARA just swarmed over the town like a flood. There was nowhere to hid and nowhere to run. Within moments, almost every street and every building was alive with Republican Soldiers. The screams and sounds of battle could be heard from the trenches of the APA. They just stood and watched in silence. So their routine mission was going to mean death? So be it.

The Second in command, a Lieutenant, took a deep breath and removing his helmet, started to sing in a surprisingly soprano voice,

"Men of Harlech stop your dreaming
Can't you see their spear points gleaming
See their warrior pennants streaming
To this battlefield
Men of Harlech stand ye steady
It cannot be ever said ye
For the battle were not ready
Stand and never yield
From the hills rebounding
Let this song be sounding
Summon all at Cambria's call
The mighty force surrounding
Men of Harlech on to glory
This will ever be your story
Keep these burning words before ye
Freemen will not yield"

One by one, his men joined in the song, removed their helmets until the song could be heard throughout one half of the town, a few of the Republican troops stopped and listened with revered respect. Then they got back to killing.

At the same time, Connolly beamed to the surface to watch the final crushing of the People's Army garrison. He was also looking to find any valuable intel.
But he heard the song, even from his position overlooking the town and quietly started to sing along with them.

Xiscapia

06-03-2008, 23:11

Despite their superior technology, the Xiscapians were eventually overwhelmed by ARA soldiers, but not before every soldier took some with him or her. Finally only three had made it to the bunker alive for the last stand: A medic, a SRS trooper, and a sniper. Joining the Alversians, the sniper silently passed a ARA rifle to the medic, who cocked it and looked down the sights. Not knowing the words to the Alversian's song, they murmurmed their own to themselves, followed by the oath:
"I am a servant of the People, I am a servant of the Emperor, I am the servant of honor, my life is not my own, when the people have need of it. My life is given for the People, for my Emperor, and for my honor."
Grimly they waited, flames from burning houses rising to the sky, bodies splayed out everywhere, the streets covered in spent rounds and fragments and awash with blood.

Alversia

06-03-2008, 23:27

If you want to hear the song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpA4bomEcOI&feature=related)

The men continued to belt out the song, roaring it at the top of their voices as the chaos of battle came closer and closer. Eventually all activity stopped and what appeared to be a never ending stream of enemy troops formed up in front of the trenches. They watched their enemies in silence, as if sizing them up, listening to the stirring song from the days of the Civil War. It seemed as though the appearance of the enemy had encouraged the men to roar even louder.

Then they stopped as the enemy started to shuffle, indicating the preparation to charge,
The Alversian Infantry stopped and raised their weapons to their shoulders,
"It had been an honour Gentlemen," The Lieutenant whispered calmly, "Good luck to you all"

Then the Rebels charged.

Adrian Connolly was left singing the song alone as the SR troops started to bring up the rear along with his own ANLA troops.

Xiscapia

07-03-2008, 00:14

Right back at ya (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUMFUvrBIwA)
As the Rebels charged the Xiscapians, three of them, blasted away until the Rebels were mere feet away. Then they threw down their weapons and drew their swords, dodging and ducking though bayonets as they slashed and stabbed at the uniformed chests and knees of the ARA. The first, the SRS soldier, was stabbed by a bayonet though the stomach. He dropped to the ground, bleeding out, and was massacured by the soldiers above him. The sniper vanished among the soldiers, piled on and trampled. The medic was the only one left, methodically slashing and cutting until she, too, fell. The civilians all huddled back as they watched the last of the garrison die, going bravely to their deaths.

Alversia

07-03-2008, 00:27

OOC: Mine sounds more dramatic :p

The People's Garrison fought hard, stabbing with their bayonets, then twisting the blade out and striking again. But there were too many and most only managed a single kill before they were piled on and killed one by one. None screamed and none begged for mercy. All died with the honour and courage of true heroes.

On the hill above the town, Connolly watched the battle conclude. He was still singing the song when he saw James approaching towards him with the rest of his men,

"Freemen will not yield" He sang the last line silently as the Xiscapian approached. Adrian did not say anything. The smoldering town spoke louder than words.

Xiscapia

07-03-2008, 03:22

OOC: Well my video is better so :gundge:
"Very good, Commander," James nodded his head down at the smoking ruins of the town. His personal bodyguard, Force-wielding Chaos-inflicted kitsune came to a halt. "Tell your men to do what they please with the prisoners. Prepare, both here and in space, for when the Allies attack. Time is of the essence. My soldiers will help fortify your positions, and we are transporting armour down now. The APN, XIN, APA and XGA will be tough opponents. Do not underestimate them."
James moved on, his bodyguard following. The SR dispersed thoughout as the Korr and mercenaries set up their own positions. While there was only five thousand SR soldiers, there was twenty thousand ARA, eight thousand mercenary soldiers and twenty five thousand Korr, plus whatever the Danaversians brought. Sixty three thousand armed soldiers, humans and Korr and Xiscapians and Alversians and a host of races on the mercenary class. One hundred capital ships, dozens of small craft and thousands of fighters, they could match the XIN as they were, though not in quality, rather in quantity.

Alversia

07-03-2008, 12:32

Connolly nodded. There were no survivors amongst the garrison and his men had already executed the Scientists and their families. There was little left to do except wait for the Alversians and Xiscapians to arrive for a counter-attack. Unlike the ARA, the 5,000 men of the ANLA 'Adrian Connolly' Division were battlehardened troops, having fought across the galaxy for a decade as mercenaries and advisors. They brought the latest weaponry from at least a dozen civilisations and they were fanatically loyal to Adrian personally and to the Republican Cause.
His men began to dig deep underground bunkers and set up strategic firing points so that when the People's and Imperial Armies landed, they would soak the land with their blood.

Xiscapia

08-03-2008, 03:03

So all across Old Xiscapia, troops began to entrench themselves, building structures to hide in and fire out of, digging foxholes and trenchs and bunkers, making pit traps for the unweary, formulating nesting perchs for snipers. The Korr arranged themselves so their backs were to the massive, icy moutains to the south. To their left was forest, to the right was what remained of a long abandoned Calaveran township, and straight ahead was flat, empty plains. The SR sent soldiers to set up bases in the town and forest, the last falling back to a ice base in the moutains, where James was holed up. The mercenaries formed the very first line of defense, fodder and harrassers for the landing enemy. Dispersing themselves among the fields of grain and in the rice paddies, in ditchs and caves, under trees and ledges, mercenary soldiers waited. Armour was relatively scarce, a few dozen mecha and a hundred or so tanks, backed by several hundred hovercraft and FAR jumpers. AA and AT positions were made, and fighters patrolled the skies, swooping down and rising up perodically. The Allies would have to fight long and hard if they wanted to break Rebel resistance. The Korr were battle-hardened, trained against Xiscapians and Alversians during the Korr Wars, updated with modern weapons and tactics. This was their chance at revenge on their hated century old enemies, the kitsune, and the goddamned humans who helped them.

Alversia

08-03-2008, 03:04

Connolly was in the last series of trenches before one reached the Ice base and he was overseeing the work of his own Division as it prepared its own positions. The ANLA were some of the finest troops in the Rebellion. The ARA were cannon-fodder. The ANLA were soldiers. Thus, they had been set as one of the last units to meet the enemy and they would defend the leaders of the attack,

"All positions are complete, My Lord" Connolly reported over an intercom, "The troops only await orders to entrench and we are ready for the Enemy"

Xiscapia

08-03-2008, 04:38

"You have done well, Commander Connolly. The new Empire will be gratified to have such a diligent worked on it's side. Await orders from orbit. As soon as you receive word of Allied breaching, order your soldiers into the trenchs and cover. The Republic and Imperials will not take this world without a great deal of bloodshed."
James cut the connection, looking out of a shatter-proof window overlooking a great ice chasm. All around the base was automated defenses, and a few elite SR. James trusted no one to guard him. In space, the mercenaries and ARA would engage first, followed by the Korr and Danaversians, and finally the SR and the ANLA. On the ground the order was much the same: Mercenaries, ARA, Korr, ANLA, with SR dispersed thoughout. The mercenary teams, ARA, Korr, SR and ANLA all reported ready, having made sufficant defenses. All they had to do now was wait. Dusk was falling outside, casting shadows over the soldiers and structures. Soon it would be dark. James knew within himself that the Allies would locate and attack in less then twenty-four hours. And he already knew the outcome.
Space Station Protector...
"Strange. We haven't received our daily transmission from the Old Xiscapia outpost."
"We have the others?"
"Yeah. Wuin, Cholk, the moons, all the colonies. But nothing from Old Xiscapia except the last transmission."
"What does it say?"
"Standered. All's well, no problems."
"I don't like this. Send a message their way."

Alversia

08-03-2008, 04:44

Connolly cut the link and headed out to where the shuttle bay was located. He would have preferred to watch the slaughter from space, but in truth he wouldn't mind where he was, so long as he could see it.

People's Army Headquarters, Illesia

"Nothing?" The Captain frowned, staring at the console on front of him. It was now deep into the Alversian night but people were still wide awake in APAHQ for there was a problem,
"We assured the Institute that we would supply regular updates every 12 hours and nothing. Not even a peep" The Lieutenant of the Watch reported.
"Could they have forgotten?" The Captain suggested.
"With Captain Darvis as commander? Not a chance" The Lieutenant replied.
The Captain remained silent for a few more moments,
"Alert the Field Marshall and contact the Xiscapians, see if they've received anything from the garrison" The Captain ordered,
"Yes, Sir" The Lieutenant reported and turnedf to his Ensigns

Xiscapia

08-03-2008, 17:50

"No, nothing. Yes I'm sure. No, they may have forgotten to report in. A probe? Let's send a scout out there, to see what we're dealing with. Hold on a moment."
Durc switched lines and contacted the hanger.
"Flight Officer."
"Yes, Commander?"
"Ready a scout ship, unmanned, with Old Xiscapia as the destination. We haven't received contact from them in the past twenty-four hours, so I would advise caution. There could have been another pirate attack that knocked out their communicator."
"Yes Commander. We're readying a scout now."
Minutes later a scout ship, controlled by a non-sentiant A.I., took off from the hanger and shot from hyperspace towards Old Xiscapia.

Alversia

08-03-2008, 22:05

People's Army Headquarters, Illesia

"The Xiscapians report that they haven't heard from the colony in the same amount of time as us" The Ensign reported to the Captain, "They are sending a probe to inspect the area"
"Good," The Captain brooded, "Alert the nearest vessels, we may have an issue here"

APS Containment
Task Force 9, Deep Space Patrol

Captain Marian watched as a message was broadcast as broadcast from APNHQ in Illesia. He frowned, the message was something irrelevant, telling them to modulate their sensors to pick up the reports of a probe being sent from Xiscapia. They were to watch for anything suspicious. What could a fleet of twelve ships do? Only three of them were Battleships.

Xiscapia

08-03-2008, 22:33

The scout blasted out of hyperspace, and over a hundred alarms blared. The scout ship was about half an A.U. away from the planet, and began scanning. Where there should have only been a space station and maybe a few fighters, there were dozens of warships. It began trasmitting back, data flowing. The probe was currently closest to the Danaversians the arrangement, and scanned the Barracudas and Marlins as well.
Space Station Protector...
The Communications Officer stared. "Dear gods..."
Xiscapia...
There was a flash of light as the XIW Shadow Hunter appeared, with the XIW A.I. 10 in tow. The Emperor stood on the Bridge, looking over the planet as it spun below them. The Communications Officer turned to the Captain. "Sir, we're receiving a transmission from the planet. It's for the Emperor." The Captain nodded. "Patch it though." The Emperor turned to the screen. There was a Palace aide, looking stressed. "My Lord," he bowed without taking a moment from his speech, "we did not receive the daily report from Old Xiscapia as planned. Upon sending a scout, we found the Rebels have amassed their forces there. SR, APA, ANLA, Danaversians, mercenaries, and," the aide looked terrified, he almost whispered the word, "Korr, my Lord. Well over fifty ships." The Emperor nodded grimly. "Then it is time. Alert the respective Commands."
"Yes My Lord."
The connection cut and the Bridge Crew on the Shadow Hunter were staring open-mouthed at the screen. The Emperor threw up his hands. "What are you doing!? We must move quickly! Get the necessary repairs for this ship, and bring down the A.I. 10." The Captain shook himself out of his shock. "At once, My Lord."
XNHQ...
"I understand. You are dismissed."
Head Admiral Krystal turned and began to contact each of the Admirals, giving them orders. Like the SASM battle, the Xiscapian Navy would have to send everything they had for this one. Even now starships were converging on Xiscapia, coming from close and distant systems, from patrol and planet surface. The Reserves fleet was powering up, and thousands of spacers and crew climbed aboard their ships.
XGAHQ...
General Dom stood at his balcony overlooking the Xiscapian Grand Army Headquarters Parade grounds. Hundreds of soldiers marched rank and file in perfect lockstep past, headed for the transports. The sound of thousands of boots stepping as once was a chilling, awesome sound, the rattling as armor and weapons were strapped on.
XMDHQ...
In the huge hangers, motor pools and docks of the Xiscapian Mechanized Division Headquarters pilots and matinence teams were running about, preparing mecha for the journey. Like the XGA, the smaller mecha would be transported via troop transports, as well as Carriers. The larger two, Supermechs and Command Mechs, would fly in space with the fleet, considered support warships themselves for their size and firepower. Commander Holly boarded her own mecha, a LAM, the smallest, single-piloted mech.
Space...
The Xiscapian Fleet and Army would meet up with whatever the Alversians chose to send just outside their system. Then they would jump straight into battle, but not before a conference among the general Commanders of the Allied forces as to enemy positions and general plan of attack.

Alversia

08-03-2008, 22:44

APS Containment
Task Force 9, Deep Space Patrol

"Sweet mother of God," Captain Marian swore gently as the data came back to him. The Bridge Crew were staring at him, waiting for an order of some sort. He gulped loudly and snapped awake,
"Red Alert! All Hands to battlestations! Broadcast an EFB to any ship in the area! We need back up and fast!"

Then, as the crew went to work, a message was broadcast through from the deep confines of space,

TO: Task Force 9

We have seen the enemy forces preparing for battle, do not withdraw,
Task Forces 12 and 16 are enroute to reinforce you. The Army is also
following. Good luck

APNHQ

So Marian would have to wait, he didn't know what forces were in those two Task Fleets but he would bet that it wasn't a lot.

Xiscapia

09-03-2008, 00:52

There was a growling of engines firing as the Reserves Fleet lauched itself into the sky, angling to come out of the upper atmosphere into cold space. One hundred and three ships, although only ninty were combat ships. Some fourty thousand kitsune soldiers, XGA, were ready for combat. Dozens of troop ships, drop ships and cargo ships carrying infantry and mecha formed among the warships of the Navy. Dom and Holly had their own shuttle craft, command posts for directing forces. Head Admiral Krystal stood on the bridge of her flagship, Pride of the Empire. The Emperor himself was also on the bridge, standing calmly in his Imperial robes with his hands in his robes. As the fleet formed into arrow formation Krystal ordered her crew as the Pride moved to the head of the fleet.

Alversia

09-03-2008, 01:13

This was what the Alversians had been waiting for. Task Force 12 was non-other than Admiral Reyes' force and it contained some hard-hitters indeed. No less than eighteen battleships of the line and another forty smaller ships. They were joined by four Alumina warships, all of which could hold a battle line regardless of size.

They were followed by Task Force 16, a series of cruisers and destroyers escorting the troopships of the 102nd Infantry Regiment, the 16th Armoured Regiment and the 9th Droptroop Regiment. A grand total of 30,000 men and 2,500 tanks. They were also escorting the Carrier APS Berebus, she was not to take part in the fighting, but instead carried a complement of 1,000 APAAF Aircraft for use once secure bases were established. The APNAF would have to take the brunt of the initial engagements.

Standing on the bridge of the Super-Dreadnought, APS Emancipation, Ash watched the fleet spread out in front of her, 21 battleships, 50 smaller ships. She knew the risks that were at hand but could not afford to show her concerns to the nervous crews,
"Ready to meet your old friends?" She asked Sasha, standing beside her as always.

Xiscapia

09-03-2008, 04:02

"Ready to meet your old friends?"
"No," said Sasha stiffly, truthfully. "I may never be. I was a fighter pilot. I had friends, among them. No longer, but it is hard to forget. Still, I am prepared to do what I must for the Republic and it's people."
Pride of the Empire...
"Hyperdrive engaging."
"Three, two, one, jump."
The fleet appeared to shoot forward into nothingness, vanishing into the neither realm of hyperspace. Almost as quickly as they had gone they were at the rendezvous point. Krystal patched direct communication to Commander Holly and General Dom, displayed as tiny foot high holo figures. The meeting would be broadcasted to the other Captains, Admirals, Commanders and Generals thoughout. Now all they needed was for the Alversians to arrive.
Old Xiscapia...
A single beam of green light streaked out from a battery somewhere and struck the scout, blowing it apart and cutting off the stream of data going to command. Now they had only what they knew from the most recent data. But it was enough.

Alversia

09-03-2008, 13:33

A flash of light and the Alvo/Alumina fleet arrived at the same co-ordinates as the Xiscapian Fleet. This was only Task Force 12, Task Force 16 was coming up behind. The battle fleet would have to punch a path through for their troopships to get through to the planet.

They sent a message through to the Xiscapian Fleet

TO: XIW Pride of Empire

We have arrived in system and our troops are a little behind us.
What is the status of the Rebel Fleet?

Task Force 12
1 x Super-Dreadnought
12 x Dreadnoughts
5 x Battlecruisers
2 x Alumina Battleships
1 x Alumina Battlecruiser
15 x Cruisers
6 x AA Cruisers
31 Destroyers

Task Force 16
8 x Cruisers
4 x AA Cruisers
14 x Destroyers
1 x Carrier

Xiscapia

09-03-2008, 18:56

TO: XIW Pride of Empire

We have arrived in system and our troops are a little behind us.
What is the status of the Rebel Fleet?
Krystal dictated a message to her Communications Officer:
TO: Task Force 12:
The Rebel Fleet consists of about a hundred ships, a mix of Korr, mercenary, APA, SR and Danaversian ships. The vast majority of the fleet is Korr ships, over three-fourths of the fleet. The APA, Danaversians and the SR make up about three dozen ships of varying classes and quality. The pirate fleet only has three capitals, but hundreds of small and meduim craft, assisted by an estimated ten thousand Korr fighters. For us to succeed on the ground we must create a hole in the Rebel forces in space, to allow our drop ships to land troops. There are six major leaders in the Rebellion who must be killed, and their military will crumble(as each was mentioned their face appeared on the datascreen): Admiral Volta, leader of the Korr, Admiral Vila, leader of the SR and pirate fleets, Captain Chorodata, leader of the Danaversian fleet, John Hanlon, leader of the ARA, Adrian Connolly, an escaped criminal who is suspected to be commanding the majority of the operation as well as the ANLA faction. Finally there is the mastermind of the Rebellion, James Rose, who must be captured or killed at all costs. The whereabouts of these leaders is unknown, but we beleive that Captaon Chrordata, Admiral Volta and Admiral Vila are in space, commanding their fleets. We outnumber the Rebels almost two to one in space, but we have only a rough estimate of fourty to seventy thousand ground troops on the planet, vs. our combined seventy thousand Allied soldiers. We at least equal them in terms of numbers, and certainly outclass them in quality. But this will not be a battle easily won, and therefor requires caution and careful planning.

Alversia

09-03-2008, 19:03

Ashe nodded as the report came in,
"We'll have to concentrate on the weakest part of the line and punch a gap through. We don't have time to play with here" She said, almost to herself, "How far behind us is Harrington?"
"About 15 minutes ma'am" An Ensign reported, Rear-Admiral Harrington was commanding Task Force 16 and the landing fleet.

"Very well then," Ashe sighed, "What are you thinking?" She asked Sasha.

Cruiser Trinity
Rebel Fleet

"How many did you say?" Adrian asked the man curiously,
"We estimate they will outnumber us 2:1, Sir" The crewman manning the scanning console replied cautiously, in case he had done something wrong.
"Well, well, well. Do we know who is in charge?"
"The same commander who led the APN against the SASM"
"Right then, let's see how she deals with some real enemies. What is that there?" he indicated an area on the map where there were no readings coming from at all.
"Ion disturbance" The man reported, "No scanners can penetrate it"

"Right then, move SR and Danaversian fleets into that storm, they do not move until the fighting starts. That includes their fighters. Do I make myself clear?" He demanded.

"Yes, Sir" The man saluted and turned to the Communications Officer.

It was then that Chordata's Barracudas and Marlins moved into position in the cloud. They couldn't use their communications and they couldn't scan outside the cloud. They were waiting for signs of battle before they sprung their trap.

At the same time, the ground forces relayed false telemetry into the space to fool the Alliance scanners that the fleet was actually on the other side of the planet.

Xiscapia

11-03-2008, 01:13

"Admiral, I do not see a successful landing stratagy without an extreme loss of life on our part. If the numbers are correct, there's over ten thousand fighters. Chances are these are to protect the surface. Any drop ships trying to land would be shredded, and even if they did the soldiers on the ground would come under constant fighter attacks. I suggest that while we still have the advantage in space we use it. We outnumber, outclass, and probably outgun the Rebels at the moment. Chances are we will be able to destroy the vast majority of their fleet. Having down that it would be a simple matter to bombard them from orbit until there was nothing left." Sasha nodded. She had been a fighter pilot, and she knew that it was a common trait of fighter pilots everywhere to go after large, slow moving transports, easy prey.
Old Xiscapia Space...
The SR fleet, eight capitals, a hundred fighters and thirty gunboats moved with the Danaversians into the ion cloud. From here they would be invisible to the enemy, able to strike unexpectedly at their flank when the time was right.

Alversia

11-03-2008, 01:21

"I was thinking much the same myself, Lieutenant Commander, thank you" Ashe stated politely. She was watching the Alversian deploy in front of her. They had divided the battlefield into two flanks. The smaller Alversian fleet would take a shorter section of the line from the centre to the right where it hit an asteroid field. The larger Xiscapian fleet would take the left and their wing would rest on some sort of ion disturbance.
"Very well then, we wait for the order to attack" Although they were going to be taking separate flanks of the Rebels, Krystal, as commander of the entire XN would be lead the joint fleets.

Old Xiscapia, Space

"Ships in position, Sir" The crewman reported, "We've lost them from sensors."
"Excellent," Connolly sat in the bridge chair and sighed,
"Come on little fly," he whispered in an eerie voice, "Come into the web"

Xiscapia

11-03-2008, 01:33

Krystal frowned at her Bridge Officer. "What do you mean?"
"Head Admiral, our maps of the system show an astroid field near Old Xiscapia, and it is ripe with ion disturbances. A perfect place to hide a fleet or installation."
"Then surely the Alversians know about it?"
"Of course, Head Admiral."
"Good. Any near us?"
"One small field at what will be our port flank."
"Position three Battleships, four cruisers and six destroyers so that when we jump they are pointing directly at the field, covering the main fleet's flank."
"At once Head Admiral."
Krystal was no fool. She knew scanners and sensors could not penetrate ion disturbances, and the tactic of hiding ships inside them was hardly original. As a seasoned Admiral, she could almost expect their opponets to use such an advantage. Therefore if there was in fact ships in the field they in turn out be outflanked by the XIWs behind them. Nevertheless, there would be noticible gaps in the Rebel fleet, betraying missing, hiding ships. Obviously the missing ships could be either in the asteroid field or the ion cloud. The Rebel's major blunder had been to even let the probe in. Upon reaching the system it had dutifully recorded ship positions and numbers, and now the Allies knew exactly where and how many Rebel ships there were.

Alversia

11-03-2008, 01:41

OOC: They've put up 'sensor ghosts' so that it looks like the SR and Danaversian Fleets are on the other side of the planet and out of view, remember? It was done after the probe was destroyed but before the fleet came within scanner range.

Xiscapia

12-03-2008, 01:02

OOC: It dosen't matter what the sensors say, they're not going to jump with a huge ion storm on their ass that could hide anything. And why would they care if the SR/Danaversian fleets are on the other side of the planet? What they're concerned with is on the side of the planet they'll be jumping to. Also, the Allied Fleet is not is scanning range. Otherwise they wouldn't have needed to deploy the probe. They're many lightyears away from Old Xiscapia, just outside Xiscapian Space.

Alversia

12-03-2008, 01:06

OOC: I thought we were staring at the enemy fleet at this stage?

WE AWAIT YOUR COMMAND

Xiscapia

12-03-2008, 01:17

OOC: Staring at data the probe sent before it was destroyed, not entirely current data.
IC:
TO: APS Emancipation
The plan agreed on is this: That the larger Xiscapian fleet will move forward in range, while the smaller Alvo/Alumina fleet takes a route though the system's asteroid field to strike closer to the Rebel fleet. Our main objective is to wipe out the Rebel Fleet so the planet can be bombarded from orbit. We have registered that the Social Reformest and Danaversian fleets have inexplicibly moved to the far side of the planet, so we will need to keep an eye out. Are there any objections to this plan?

Alversia

12-03-2008, 01:23

Ashe stared at the instructions from the Grand Admiral, already running through a strategy in her mind. She sighed as she turned to Sasha,
"We're gonna have to take it slow through the Asteroid Field" She thought out loud, "That means the Xiscapians are on their own for a bit until we can clear it." She turned to an Ensign on the bridge, "How long should it take to clear the asteroid field entirely?"

The Ensign waited a second before answering,
"Approximately 25 minutes Ma'am"

"So that's 25 minutes the Xiscapians will be on their own" She sighed again.

A message was sent back to the Xiscapian fleet

There are no objections to this plan. Be warned you will fighting alone
until we can clear the asteroid field. Ready when you are

Xiscapia

12-03-2008, 04:06

Glad to know your ready. Fleet will be jumping on the Head Admiral's mark.
X.O.s received reports from crew, who sent them to Captains, who sent them to Admirals, who sent them to Krystal. All ships were nominal and ready to jump to the pre-set coordinates. The Medical Ships would only be jumping in after the battle's conclusion, and the Carrier's would only jump to deploy small craft before jumping out again.
Broadcasting to all the ships, Krystal's voice rang out.
"Five...four...three...two...one...mark!"
The Allied Fleet jumped.
On the Pride of the Empire, Foxfire Rose closed his eyes and waited silently.

Alversia

12-03-2008, 20:26

The Alversian fleet jumped at the same time, although their trajectory was different due to their location being in a different area. With that in mind, they would be 5 minutes longer in Hyperspace and 25 minutes from battle as they negotiated the asteroid field.

Xiscapia

16-03-2008, 19:31

Alarms and klaxons screamed aboard the assembled Rebel ships as their sensors detected a fleet exiting hyperspace. In the ion cloud Vila's heart jumped with excitement, as did her crews. The Korr in orbit swiveled their guns to point at the disturbance, and all across the ships crew shuffled and a million eyes stared towards the dark reachs of space at the edge of the system.
On the ground James stood, staring out the window into the snowstorm as he had. Only now he gazed to the whited-out sky, rather then the yawning depths below.
And so it begins.
Xiscapian Fleet...
The Armada appeared exactly as Krystal had said, the main body of ships forward, a few slightly behind to cover the flank. The Xiscapians were well outside the range of the fleet orbiting the planet, whithin sensing and scanning range but outside of weapons range. Close-range scans and probes into the ion cloud revealed nothing, no ships lying in wait for the Xiscapians. With this their eyes, organic and mechanical, turned away from the cloud. The ships were still in place, but they were looking to Old Xiscapia, ignoring the ion buzzing before them. On the Bridge of the Empire Krystal considered. At the moment the Rebel fleet outnumbered them by a few dozen ships. It was essential that the Xiscapian fleet engage the Rebels long enough for the Alversian fleet to appear and blindside them. It seemed the only answer was a head-on assault. Slowly, the Xiscapian fleet moved forward into the blackness.

Alversia

16-03-2008, 19:37

Adrian's mercenary fleet was staring at the Xiscapians as they closed in, they knew what to do. There wasn't really much to do. Connolly had it all planned out, using his knowledge of the Xiscapian battle tactics, he hoped he had had the right the right idea.
"Wait until they're close" He ordered, "Then let lose with the missiles"
His men saluted and the order was relayed to the rest of the Korr and Mercenary fleets. The SR and Danaversians knew they had to wait until the opportune moment.

Xiscapia

16-03-2008, 19:57

As the fleet drew closer the Xiscapians also prepared their weapons. The heaviest, most powerful guns were pointed at the largest, most dangerious looking ships, namely the Korr Super Capitals. Weapons were primed and charged as the Xiscapian Imperial Navy closed the gap with the orbiting Rebels. Missiles, MAC rounds, lasers and ion weapons, thousands of them, were about to be directed at the Rebels. Unfortunatly for them, the modern Imperials had more range then the assembled mercenary, scrapped and modified ships. So they were able to fire first.
Thousands of lasers, MAC cannons, ion cannons and missiles lit forwards, spewing from the XIW ships like arrows from an ancient army.

Alversia

16-03-2008, 20:07

Several of the Mercenary ships were hit by enemy fire, their explosions sounded deep within each hull and they exploded with fury,
"Engage them!" Adrian called to the Korr and Mercenary ships, "Close the range and engage!" His own ships began their advance as did the Mercenary fighters.

Xiscapia

16-03-2008, 21:24

The bulk of the Rebel fleet, the Korr, were coming out along with the Mercenary ships. Two Imperial Dreadnoughts, mercenary ships, had exploded brilliantly when their shields overloaded and fizzled out, exposing the weak hull to fire. The Imperial Carriers released their small craft, some 1,200 Shuriken class fighters, 600 Predator class Patrols, 1,200 drone fighters, 600 Light Assault Mecha and 180 Heavy Assault Mecha and retreated, turning tail and jumping into hyperspace. 3,780 small craft screamed towards the enemy fighters. 80 TIE fighters, 50 TIE Interceptors, 30 Heavy bombers and ten frigates came from the mercenaries, their entire fleet except for the Imperial Dreadnought Adrian was commanding from, which was guarded in a ring formation by three mecenary ships, the Eon Eagle, the Quick 1 and the Ace. The 170 mercenary ships were assisted by 4,000 Korr fighters diverted from the surface, making the total 4,170 Rebel small craft (mostly fighters, with a few bombers and frigates) against 3,780 Imperial small craft (again, mostly fighters, assisted by Mecha and patrols). The twp sides slammed into each other in a fury of lasers and missiles.
The Korr fleet began to move forward, stratigically keeping the weaker, smaller ships (frigates, Light and Heavy Cruisers) to the front, with the stronger, larger ships (Destroyers, Battleships, Super Destroyers, the Superbattleship) to the rear. Fourty-five Korr ships engaged the Imperial fleet. Attempting to get close three frigates and a Light Cruiser went down in flames, but the remaining 41 clashed with the eighty or so Imperial warships in a blaze of light as the century old enemies fought each other once again.

Alversia

16-03-2008, 21:32

Adrian watched as the his fleet engaged with the enemy. Those fighters that were piloted by the ANLA were like their brethren on the ground, battle-hardened from dozens of years as Mercenaries fighting in some of the most devastating battles across the galaxy. They tore into the Xiscapian fighters and Mecha, looking forward to the battle. The bulk of the Xiscapian fleet had moved beyond the ion storm and now he signaled for the SR fleet to come from the Ion storm to attack the flank of the Xiscapian fleet and sandwich it.

Xiscapia

17-03-2008, 03:07

The small craft began to fast, frenzied dance of the dogfight, fighters zipping around larger ships, such as frigates and patrols. Small laser bolts and missiles flew every which way, sometimes connected, sometimes not. The LAM were the true horrors for fighter pilots. They were every bit as fast and nimble as your average fighter, but armed four times as well with better shielding. A favorite tactic was to cut a fighter apart with their energy swords, and on the larger ships they would bypass the armor and slice though the armor to the insides, wrecking havoc. This is exactly what two of them were doing to a Korr frigate, gutting it from bow to stern with their swords, exposing the crew to the harsh, deadly vaccuum.
Ion Cloud...
Vila grinned as she received the order on the bridge of the A.I. 2, the captured Xiscapian Cruiser. Broadcasting to the other SR ships, they lept out of the ion storm and attacked the Imperial flank.

Alversia

17-03-2008, 03:15

The ANLA were also using Mechs, not of Xiscapian design but of a race so far away no one could be certain of it's origins. They were even faster than the Xiscapian LAM's but therefore not as heavily armed or armoured. Nevertheless, they could be deadly in the hands of trained pilots and that was what the ANLA troops were.

OOC: You'll have to RP the Xiscapians and SR

Connolly himself was onboard one of the more modern cruisers and was fighting amidst the dozen ARN Cruisers, a motley collection of warships lone phased out by the APN. But they were now in the midst of battle, hoping that they could somehow engage nothing bigger than a Frigate, which they still outgunned.

Xiscapia

18-03-2008, 00:33

Noting the new mecha after taking moderate losses against them, the capitals and larger ships, such as the covettes and patrols, began to concentrate on the mechs. Point defense systems, meant for targeting insanely fast moving missiles, now blazed after the mechs. The enemy mecha were too quick for the LAM, and evenly matched with the fighters, but their lighter shielding and armor made them vunerable to the point defenses.
In the middle of the battle Korr and Xiscapian patrols danced around each other, Xiscapian corvettes and Korr frigates trading shots. The larger capitals moved elegantly though space, some of the blasts larger then the smaller ships themselves. Space was already filled with debries, mainly from small craft, but the larger ships were taking hits too. They were still in the first stage of the battle, where the two sides were whittling away at each other's shields. Soon the capitals shield's would start to fail and the real destruction would begin.
A Annihilator class Destroyer was furiously duking it out with two ARN Cruisers, lights flashing between the ships, when a Wasp class Cruiser spotted Adrian's ship and went after it. Weapons spitting, it was on a direct course for the ship when there was a great flash of light behind it as it's engines exploded. The SR fleet had appeared suddenly behind the Imperials, and were attacking their exposed port flank. On the Pride of the Empire Krystal curled her lip.
"I knew it." Then she thought. The readings said the SR and Danaversian fleets were on the other side of the planet...but they were false. If Connolly is as smart as I think he is, he'll have kept the Danaversians inside the ion storm, but only have the SR strike. Once we've finished off the SR, we'll go back to destroying the Korr fleet. Then the Danaversians will strike, same as the SR, again, with more damaging results. I guess nobody ever told him that the same joke isn't funny twice.
The ships on the starboard flank of the formation turned swiftly to combat the SR. Social Reformest fighters and gunboats slammed into the small craft battle, a hundred two-man Blade fighters and thirty Runner gunboats. The Runner gunboats were throwbacks from the Korr war, and the Blade fighters predated even that. But some tinkering and modifications had changed them into equal craft of the Imperials, and the pilots trained under Vila herself. The eight SR capitals under Vila's command spread out to blow out Imperial engines with their guns. Blasts hit the Pride and the flagships shuddered under the enchanced guns. The ships diverted from the starboard flank began to fire at the exposed staboards of the SR ships, all old Xiscapian design except for Vila's flagship, the A.I. 2, which was state-of-the-art and hanging back slightly. So no one noticed the shuttle attatched to the side of the hull, neatly bypassing the shields, and begin to cut a boarding hole.

Alversia

18-03-2008, 00:41

Adrian watched as the first stage of his plan worked well. The SR had split the Xiscapian forces and the Alversians were still quite a distance away, if he had his way they would never reach the battle at all.
He nodded to one of his Crewmen who tapped a button, at the same time, a swarm of Danaversian Conger Fighters swarmed out of the storm to attack the Xiscapian battleships on their exposed engines. He had put Danaversian ships in the cloud but he wasn't naive or confident enough to think he could pull the same trick twice. No. He had something much more fun for the Danaversians to do.

At that point in the battle, the Alversians were having trouble. Ashe's prediction of 25 minutes was proving to be woefully inadequate. Amongst the asteroids were deep penetration mines and they were making the navigation of the field painfully slow. They couldn't even get a clear comm signal through the field's interference so they had no way of telling the Xiscapians they could by anything up to an hour, later at their current speed.

Xiscapia

18-03-2008, 23:00

The Imperial small craft, already swamped by the amount of Rebel fighters, was further antagonized by the SR ship and Danaversian Congers. They had already lost a third of their force, and now were in chaos. The battle slipped from organized flight groups to a every-kitsune-for-himself. As the Danaversian fighters assaulted the engines one Battleship's flank blew out entirely, flames running up the entire craft, moving the warship downward sharply. Four Cruisers diverted to the back of the battle from the flank, going after the fighters with their specially made gun, designed to track and take down enemy small craft. AS lasers spat furiously, walls of fire rising, falling, or speeding straight forward to meet the Congers.
The SR continued to pound the Imperial flank, but now they were sideswiped by the starboard flank ships, which in turn attacked the SR. A Hummer class cruiser detonated under the fire, splitting in two, the bridge exploding outward. Two Destroyers, four Cruisers, a Battleship and six corvettes had been diverted to them, and the SR ships turned halfway, some guns continuing to fire on the Imperial flank, others turning to target the Imperial ships. At the front of the battle a Xiscapian Destroyer collided with a Korr Light Cruiser, crippling the Destroyer and ripping apart the Light Cruiser. The Destroyer's flaming bulk drifted into the Korr armada, then detonated, spraying fire and shrapnel the size of small buildings in all directions. Shields were failing on both sides, fizzling out and allowing black marks and gaping holes to appear in the hulls of ships.
A.I. 2...
A white hot section of hull toppled inward, caught and gently set to the floor. Two figures stepped inside, black cloaked and hidden. Stealing up the brightly lit corridor, they made their way from the stern of the ship, seeking the bridge. Along there way three SR kitsune were standing in a open room, directly in their path. The first cloaked figure entered and waved a hand covered in white fur. The closest kitsune's neck snapped like a twig, the male tumbling to the floor. A knife lodged itself in the throat of the second one, followed by a swift kick to the chest, causing the Xiscapian to fall heavly to the deck. The third scrabbled at her holstered weapon, backing away, before the second figure stepped up and jabbed with its hand, fingers jutting outward. Blue electricity, dazzlingly bright, slammed into the SR soldier and flung her, smoking, to the hit the bunkhead before tumbling to the deck with a thud, tiny tendrils of blue still playing about her body. As the first figure walked by, the second SR soldier with the knife in his neck reached out weakly, blood bubbling over his tounge and along the wound. "Please..." The second figure coldly stepped on the kitsune's hand, snapping several bones. His eyes widened and the Xiscapian's head lolled as he bled out. The two moved past the bodies and went on.

Alversia

18-03-2008, 23:12

Congers erupted into flames all around the Xiscapian fleet, but they were doing their job. They were forcing the Xiscapians to divert some of their ships from the front to the rear in order to seal the breaches made by the fighters and the SR ships.

Adrian was still watching from the bridge of his cruiser. He was letting the Captain get on with commanding the ship in battle while he focused on the fleet in general. The Xiscapians were taking a pounding but then so where his own forces. He was instantly relieved that he had put the mines where he had so the Alversians would never arrive in time. The plan was obvious. Defeat the Xiscapians, then defeat the Alversians as soon as they punctured their way through the mines and asteroids. The plan was working well for now. He stood on his bridge, a grimly satisfied man.

Xiscapia

18-03-2008, 23:33

The roars of victorious Korr sounded as the Xiscapian small craft retreated, apparently running from the battle. Korr fighters and SR ships chased them, or so they thought. The Xiscapians fighters, patrols and mecha past the line of Imperial ships, then pulling up suddenly. The field cleared of allied craft, the Xiscapians tested their new weapon: Beam-connected point defenses. A single laser beam shot out from one of the Cruisers and connected with a Korr fighter head-on, blowing it apart. The beam suddenly, unexpectedly changed direction, hitting another fighter, and on and on and on, hitting a fighter before moving on to another in a web of explosions. Those foolish enough to try to cross the line were met with a red beam of deadly light, and the small craft quickly retreated backwards. The downside to the beam was that it took some time to charge, and was only effective against ships up to gunboat size. Anything larger would simply absorb the beam, as a Korr frigate suddenly proved, halting the destruction. Nevertheless, it had proved it's effectiveness.
Space...
Towards the back of the fleet there was a flash of light and two ships appeared. Both huge, the first was an asteroid, the Pebble, and immediatly moved to the front line, massive array of weapons firing away. The second was a Calaveran Observer, named the Freedom. Opening it's hanger doors, the space that was normally reserved for Probe fighters now spat Shuriken class fighters, onward to engage the Danaversian Congers. Ajusting the aim, the Observer pointed it's dish forward and fired, a green beam of light lancing out. The former flagship of Vila, the Revolver class Battleship, was speared from engines to bridge, all but vaporizing the SR ship.
A.I. 2...
The two figures entered a barrack room. Five SBAU, sent to find out what had happened to Gun Crew Six, met them there. The first two gray armored Xiscapians were swept off their feet as their legs broke, tumbling into a heap on the floor. The third jumped over them and leveled his blaster, but the blaster suddenly grew red-hot and exploded, the fragments peircing his poorly mantained armor. He dropped and the fourth and fifth opened fire, but the blaster bolts seemed to deflect before they could reach them, flying into the walls. The fourth kitsune's head exploded, the helmet popping off in a shower of gore. The fifth stumbled back slightly, horrified, and a bunk detatched itself from the wall and slammed into him, knocking the kitsune to the floor and smashing onto him repeatedly until he had been beat to death. The two Social Reformest soldiers with their legs broken fired helplessly at the two, but the bolts reversed and pelted them until they died, killed by their own fire.

Alversia

18-03-2008, 23:44

OOC: TG, Xis

Adrian watched the battle mildly, watched as his own ANLA Pilots, wisely at the back of the pursuing mass, swerved wildly away to avoid the point lasers, saw the Xiscapian reinforcements arrive and turned to his Comm Officer,
"You may signal Chordata now, tell him he can have his fun."

Chordata, in a Danaversian Marlin, the Empire's equivalent of Alversia's Strato-Dreadnought and every bit as big led a fleet of Danaversian warships into the flank of the Xiscapian Fleet. Not the same fleet as the SR but the opposite flank. They had been resting just inside the asteroid, far enough in to be detected but not far enough to be endangered by their own mines.

The Danaversian ships would be different that the SR and the Korr. These were modern ships, hard hitting and spitting even more Conger fighters than ever before. There seemed to be no end to the ones that flowed from the Marlin alone. This was Danaversia's answer to the elite of the APNAF, overwhelm them. Thats what they were going to do now, the battle was heating up and Adrian was proving himself to be a master tactician.

Xiscapia

19-03-2008, 00:17

The Xiscapian fleet was being crushed between the fanatical Korr and the determined, battle-hardened Danaversians. Capitals erupted into flames, shields vanishing as waves of fire decended upon them. Fighters darted away, dogfighting other fighters, mainly the Congers. More Korr ships vanished in balls of fire, and Superlasers from the Super Capitals on the Korr and Xiscapian side flew into each other, sweeping aside smaller ships as though they weren't there and impacting the larger ones, destroying them utterly. The entire flank was turning to engage the Danaversians, even as the Marlin and it's supporting ships fired into the rears of the ships, several of them shuddering as explosions stitched their hulls. The Pride of the Empire was at the front of the fleet, blasting away at the Korr ships, smaller ones like frigate and light cruiser blowing apart under the fire. Krystal was constently receiving reports from the flank, indicating the SR and Danaversians were effectivly ripping apart the back of the fleet. Krystal growled deep in her throat, clenching her fists as the teriffied scream of a Captain somewhere sounded over the comms and a Destroyer exploded under the vicious fire. Where are the Alversians?!
A.I. 2...
The final stretch: The hall before the bridge. Two Xiscapians in gray armor splashed with red stood on either side of the bridge door. Huge swords were balanced with their tips on the deck, the hilt held by two black clothed hands. Another two kitsune ran up the hall to meet them, clothed all in red, segmented armor, florishing katanas. The black cloaked figure on the right lifted its hand, smacking to the right. The charging Social Reformest to the right was lifted into the air by an unseen force and smashed violently against the bunkhead, crumpling to the deck. The second charger reached them, his blade shattering on air as he cut towards them. The surprised look lasted for two seconds before a fist punched though his gut, blood and flesh and bone bursting out the other side. He dropped, eyes rolled back in his head. The two walked sinisterly forward, towards the two door guards, who stood silent and unmoving at their approach.

Alversia

19-03-2008, 00:29

The Danaversians drove deeply into the Xiscapian fleet, they were trying to meet up with the SR and effectively split the Xiscapian fleet in two. Chordata was laughing and smiling, these were the mighty Xiscapians that the Alversian spoke so highly of? They were being torn apart by a man just realised from prison. His own ships were swarming through now. Chordata thought of the glory of the Empire and laughed again, this was a good day for the amphibious race.

Then he turned in time to see a swarm of Alversian fighters swarming from the asteroid field to attack the rear of his fleet, it didn't matter. they were too few in number and now even the vaunted APNAF would have to bow to his superiority on this field.

Adrian was staring at the battle in front of him and instantly, he felt a small pang of regret. The Xiscapians were honorable and brave, they would be destroyed in his pincer movement the attack that gone so like a charm. The Xiscapians and Alversians being split up, the two flanking maneuvers and now he could sense victory was close. James' decision to free him was paying itself back tenfold.

--

Ashe drummed her fingers on the board in front of her impatiently,
"Damn it!" She suddenly shouted, "This is taking too long!" Then she turned to Sasha
"No more Missus nice-Admiral. Arm all torpedo tubes! I don't care if we blow every mine in this bloody field, I'm getting out of here! Make the call Lieutenant Commander!"

--

Reynolds was back on his station on the Danaversian DMZ, he was staring out from the bridge of his Strato-Dreadnought flagship at the masses of ships that manned the border day to day. But then the scopes suddenly lit up and his eyes couldn't believe it, dozens of Danaversian Barracudas were heading for his part of the line. He didn't have the ships to repel an attack of that size. He took a deep breath and prepared for the strike that would end his life and the Republic as he knew it.
Then a message came through and he started at it
"I don't believe it" He said aloud to his stunned and frightened bridge crew

Xiscapia

19-03-2008, 12:05

In a desperate act the Super Destroyer Gloom Walker fired it's Superlaser at a Danaversian support ship, even as the massive Super Capital was being pounded by fire from the Korr and SR. From the flank and port sides the Danaversians were pushing in, the Korr were holding their line to the front, and the SR were slowly sliding in to meet the Danaversians. The Imperial Fleet was being gutted, two blades across it's midsection slowly tearing it apart. Burned out husks from capitals dotted the battlefield, Korr and mercenary and SR and Xiscapian, some rolling in flames, others dark and cold. The Fleet was being split apart, squadrons cut off from each other, forced to fight the enemy alone, Battleship and Destroyer and Cruiser and corvette. Small craft still flew in and out of the huge capital ships, but there was more and more Danaversian and Alversian ones and less Xiscapian. The crews were fighting hard, taking down enemy fighters and Rebel capitals, but it wasn't enough. They were outflanked, their expected reinforcements had come, too little, too late, mere fighters. Krystal smiled in grim satisfaction as a Korr Battleship exploded under the fire from the Pride, even as the enemy tore towards them from the other side. She turned to the Emperor. "My Lord, this battle is lost. Shall I give the order to withdraw?" The Emperor shook his head. "No. This fight is not as hopeless as you think, Head Admiral. Stay the course, and you will be rewarded." Wordlessly Krystal turned back to commanding the ship and what was left of her fleet.
APS Emancipation...
Sasha gave an audible gulp as she gave the order. She never questioned Ashe, but now she wondered as to the wiseness of this desicion. Considering what a mine could easily do to a capital ship, considering their sensitivity to movement, considering that there could be a hundred around this ship right now, the order was potentially suicidal. Nevertheless, Sasha gave it, and the Alversian Super-Dreadnought shook as it's guns opened fire.
A.I. 2...
The left cloaked figure waved a hand again, but there was no effect. The soldier on the right took sword in hand and began to walk calmly forward. Moments later the one of the left did the same, approaching the cloaked pair with swords drawn. The intruders stood for a moment, then both drew wickedly curved katana swords, far thiner and sharper then the normal Xiscapian one. Walking in a defensive posture, the four fighters held their swords two-handed and watched each other, moving slowly from side to side, gaging their opponets alertness.

Alversia

19-03-2008, 14:16

Chordata was still laughing, he was enjoying himself, he knew what this victory would bring. He could be promoted to command the entire Danaversian Fleet. He was the driving edge that was tearing the Xiscapian Navy to bloody pieces. It had been an easy victory.
He saw thousands of flashes from the minefield and concluded the Alversians must have blown the entire minefield. No matter, their APNAF was shattered by the weight of numbers, their fleet decimated by mines. He hadn't liked the monkey Connolly from the moment he had seen him, but he had to admit, he had the skills.

Connolly himself was watching the battle from his own cruiser and was grimly satisfied. Even he had thought this battle was unwinnable, outnumbered 2:1 by a much more advanced pair of fleets commanded by tactical geniuses. But he had outwitted them, destroying one here in the field and about to destroy the other amongst the asteroids. The victory would go down in history as would he, Adrian Connolly, master of the battlefield.

A series of flashes from behind the Xiscapian fleet caught his eye and he smiled again, he had ordered for more reinforcements from amongst the smuggling world and now a small fleet of their most powerful warships were approaching to put the Xiscapians to rest. He had won

But then, the ARN Cruiser in front of him was hit by a purple beam of light, tearing it to shreds. Connolly watched the wreckage for a second, stunned, then glanced up. What he saw made his blood run cold.

Coming from above the battlefield were dozens of ships, being proceeded by hundreds of fights. Amongst the capital ships, he saw Alversian Dreadnoughts, Alumina Battleships and...Danaversian Barracudas!

As the new fleet tore into the SR flank, a message was sent to the Xiscapian fleet.

TO: All Allied Vessels

Do not fire on Danaversian Warships with the blue marking,
repeat DO NOT fire on Barracudas with the blue marking.
It seems we have more in common after all

Reynolds, smiling and laughing from his bridge, the APS Light of Independence slipped in beside the Pride of Empire. What a stroke of luck this had been.

At the same time, another message was sent, it was meant for Chordata but all Rebel Ships could hear it,

Traitor Chordata, return your warships to the Empire and
prepare to be gutted. You are a disgrace to your ancestors

Adrian heard the message and laughed at the ridiculousness of it. Chordata had been a traitor as well. Even though the explosions surrounding him were now his own fleet rather than the Xiscapians, he just could not stop laughing.

Chordata was a different matter,
"No!" He growled loudly as his Marlin cut a Barracuda in two with a single shot, "I am no traitor! You are traitors to the Empire! I could have won us glory, land but you had to be too short sighted! You and that bloody Makeira!" He spat on the ground as his next shot took away an engine from Alversian Dreadnought.
"No!" He roared again, as an Alumina ship hovered in front of his bridge, it's phaser banks glowing purple,

"Damn Cats...!" He roared as his bridge was hit by the twin beams, ripping it to shreds and tearing the rest of his ships apart, the Marlin exploded in a vicious blast.

At the same time, a battered fleet emerged from the Asteroid Field. All had evidence of explosive damage and others were burning fiercely, but Ashe's gamble had paid off, they were through the asteroid field and now they were going to put the bloody rebels to the sword as they should have done.

Xiscapia

22-03-2008, 22:17

Where the battle had been a losing fight, it had abruptly changed. The Alversians came streaking out from the asteroids, and from "above" came this new fleet, where it had come from no one could say. But it did not matter. Heartened by the new arrivals, the Imperials once again trained their guns on the enemy. The SR fleet had been all but wiped out in the sudden attack, every ship destroyed except for the A.I. 2, which had cloaked itself and was now at the back of the fight, unseen by anyone. Without the SR and Danaversians to pound the Imperal flank, the Xiscapians turned their full attention to the Korr ahead. Ship after ship after ship went down in flames to kitsune guns, and the Korr scattered, breaking off and running for it. Aboard his flagship, the Superbattleship Mutilation, Admiral Volta was furious. His fleet had been gutted and the survivors were fleeing, and now only his ship stood in the way of the Imperials. Lasers and missiles and rounds stitched the side of the massive Korr warship as the Xiscapian fleet engaged it's full force on the Superbattleship. Volta watched the Pride of the Empire slowly tear apart the underside of his ship with her guns, and he knew the Admiral on that ship. Head Admiral, to be exact. Commanding the last of his crew, the dying warship turned all it's power at the Xiscapian Battleship, and a trading of shots of immense power occured, tearing apart anything between the two capitals. Finally the Superbattleship succumbed, breaking apart, engines ruptering. His crew dead, Volta stood alone on the bridge surronded by dead Korr and fried, flaming consoles. He saw a MAC gun swivel to target the bridge directly. Damn the kitsune! he thought. Krystal, the Emperor. Damn the Alversians! Cavourna, Reynolds. Damn the Alumina, the Danaversians! Damn them all to Hell! he smashed a huge fist up against the bulkhead beside him. He saw the gun recoil, and then there was nothing but fire...
A.I. 2...
There was no sign of attack to alert the watcher as the left figure moved forward, slashing furiously. The kitsune countered the cuts and stabbed forward, circling even as he did so. The figure dodged and twirled and slashed again, to be caught on the blade. Even as the sword clanged together a knife appeared and was thrust into the kitsune warrior's chest, causing him to stumble back. Even as he did a smooth stroke decapitated him, the armored Xiscapian falling to the deck with a clatter. The other warrior and figure were in vicious sword combat, blades barely visible, until the warrior cut low and a downward stab split him in two, from head to pelvis. Their swords out, both figures moved their hands at the same time, and the door to the bridge exploded inward. The bridge crew fired at them, but seconds later they were all dead, the figures on the other side before their bloody bodies hit the deck. Vila was standing at the window, watching the entire battle from the safty of the back. She did not turn, only spoke and continued to watch. "So my failures come back to haunt me."
The figure's robes fell away and Nightshade and Silvertooth stood in tunics and pants, black as their robes. Their swords glittered even though the blood and ichor that coated the blades. Both had entirely blank expressions, and neither approached their mother, merely stood among the dead bridge crew.

Alversia

22-03-2008, 22:26

The Alvo/Alumina/Danaversian Fleet continued to press forward. As the Korr Superbattleship was being torn to shreds, Adrian Connolly's own vessel was targeted by none other than Ashe's own Super-Dreadnought. He watched as the ship launched two brilliant red beams into his own vessel rocking it violently and throwing flames onto the bridge.

Adrian looked around his devastated bridge in mute shock. The bodies of his crew littered the area, although he had been saved by the emergency force-fields. He slowly walked through the rubble, in silence. His feet struck the metallic wreckage as he walked, yet he did not stop looking straight ahead. It was almost like he was in a trance.

“Sir!”

It was one of the Rebel Crewmen,

“The ship is being torn apart! We need to abandon ship! Please!” This last plead was because Adrian Connolly had never ordered abandon ship in his entire career, they begged that this time would be different. Already, the ship was trembling under the explosions,

Adrian did not turn to look at the man, a little over a teenager and sighed. He also gave a small nod,

“Abandon ship and, son,” he turned to face the boy and gave a small smile, “Good luck.”

The boy stared in disbelief. Then turned and ran as if he feared that the Admiral would change his mind at any moment.

Connolly continued to walk on his lap around the destroyed bridge, stopping briefly when he came to the Communications Console, where the body of a young woman draped over it’s controls. He stretched out a hand, as if fearing that she would jump up. He touched her hair and recoiled back quickly. He shook his head and headed back for the Captain’s Seat. Two panels behind him exploded in a fury of flame and debris. Connolly did not start. The bridge was now an inferno and smoke and fire. Still He sat in the chair and sighed,

“Anita…” He whispered quietly, a lone tear running down his cheek “…forgive me…”

The bridge disintegrated into a fireball as the final explosions tore alone the whole length of the ship, pulling it in all different directions. All that was left of Adrian Connolly’s flagship was a small debris field.

--

Ashe watched as the Cruiser exploded along with the Korr ship and she gave a grim nod,
"It is done" She said

Xiscapia

22-03-2008, 22:43

"And so it is..." murmured Sasha. The Rebel fleet had been torn apart, Korr and mercenary and SR and Danaversian ships blown to pieces. Debries littered the battlefield, far closer together and more dangerious then any asteroid field. But among them were destroyed Xiscapian ships, from Battleships down to tiny drone fighters. The Imperial Fleet could not afford to have fought a battle this costly. As it was, they had lost a half of their attacking fleet, a full half of their total fleet, some fifty ships, destroyed, and the remaining fifty battle damaged. After the SASM battle, and now this, the Imperial Fleet was like the APN: Gutted. The Xiscapians would not operate at full capacity with their ships for some time. Granted, their losses were far less severe then that incurred at the SASM battle, but they had no less impact on the XIN. Head Admiral Krystal looked out solemnly as the Pride of the Empire withdrew from the debries field, hull pockmarked with laser burns and torn by shot. She shook her head sadly. So many lives lost, so much damage done, and for what? Ideals, failed societes, lost loves.
A.I. 2...
Vila turned now, drawing her blade. "You think you've won. The Rebel Fleet has been destroyed. Undoubtly the ground forces will be wiped out. In the big scheme," she laughed coldly, "it does not matter. There will be nothing. Billions of years into the future, when you and I and everything you know is nothing but dust, the gods will still be here. Even at the end, they will be here. In that, there is no victory for you." She slashed out, and the brother and sister started as they thought she attacked, but the blade plunged itself into her, though her chest and out her back, blood spraying as she dropped to the deck, dead.

Alversia

22-03-2008, 22:58

There were several flashes of light as another fleet entered the space around the battle. The Alversians had not suffered heavily in the battle but Ashe felt extreme guilt that she had been there in time to help with the battle. The new fleet was carrying the 30,000 Alversian Troops that would take part in this battle.
Ashe hailed Krystal from her Bridge and gave a sad salute,

"Congratulations on your victory, Head Admiral" She stated sadly.
She was joined on screen by Reynolds, a tall Alumina Female with Black fur and a Danaversian, who looked as brutal as all Danaversians.

Xiscapia

25-03-2008, 02:19

Krystal smiled wanly. "I'm just glad you were able to get here in time," she stated, bowing slightly to the Danaversian and Alumina. "If you did not come when you did, our fleet would have been torn apart, and the Rebels very likely would have been victorious. For this we owe you our eternal thanks, as I'm sure the Emperor will agree-" She looked around, because suddenly the bridge was Emperor-less. Blast, she thought, I hate it when he does that. Smoothly turning back around, she continued as though she had not stopped. "Now comes the ground battle. We cannot strike the Rebel positions from orbit because they have situated themselves in and around ruins that are priceless in their value of our culture. If we were to destroy them, we would lose thousands of years of history and artifacts. The land forces are commanded entirely by James, the leader of the Rebellion. They are much better trained then many of their space counterparts, the Rebellion Army is mostly made of Korr. These are modern equipped, battle-hardened veterans of the Korr wars and children of those who fought in it, fueled by fanatical hatred for the kitsune and bloodlust. Also on the ground are mercenary forces, ARA troops, Social Reformest soldiers, and an estimated five thousand ANLA. That totals to roughly seventy thousand Rebel soldiers on the ground. I hope you're all ready for a fight, because we're about to get one."
Even as Krystal spoke the Imperials were withdrawing from Old Xiscapia, and troop transports and the like were coming in. Fourty thousand XGA soldiers were gearing up for combat. Between them and the APA they equaled the Rebel force, actually outnumbering them by two thousand.
Old Xiscapia, mountain base...
"My Lord."
James did not turn his head, nor did he cease staring at the sky. "What is it?"
"My Lord, our space fleet has been wiped out. The Allies are preparing to launch a ground assault."
There was a cracking noise, a strangled cry, and the kitsune fell dead to the floor, his neck snapped like a twig, bone protuding from his throat. James had not even moved. When James was displeased, he became very democratic. He had ways of spreading that displeasure very far, very painfully. A moment later he did turn, smiling perfectly easily as though looking at an old friend. Foxfire Rose stood several yards away, smiling back, eyes filled with fury. But nothing, not in his movement or voice, betrayed his true feelings.
"Hello James."

Alversia

25-03-2008, 02:28

Ashe nodded grimly,
"Our work here is done, the battle rests with the Army now"
Now Reynolds sighed,
"Seems a bad time and place to announce this Admiral, but I have some news that may interest you."
The others onscreen were a Danaversian and an Alumina, now they growled and hissed at each other,
"You may have fought against our traitors today but rest assured, Cats, we will be back at the DMZ tomorrow"
It was the Alumina's turn to growl,
"We look forward to it"
With that, their fleets were gone.

Elsewhere, the Alversian Army prepared to land on the surface and begin the first and only battle of the Rebel's campaign.
-----

On the surface, the ANLA troops and ARA troops were nervous. Anxious even. Their leaders were dead, the mighty Adrian Connolly had finally been slain and his troops resolve to fight was rapidly evaporating. The ANLA were a battle-hardened part of the army, as powerful as anything the APA could muster but now they questioned their whole role in these events.

Xiscapia

26-03-2008, 00:10

Krystal nodded, on the verge of rolling her eyes but diplomatically declining. "Good bye, then," she muttered into empty space as the Danaversians and Alumina left. Krystal suspected that Chorodata had covertly gathered forces loyal to him to help the Rebellion, crossing the DMZ illegally. Stupid to get involved in the Rebellion, but even stupider to back them alone. It was Dom's show, now. The Xiscapian General had been beamed aboard and would use the Pride of the Empire as his command center to dictate the movements of soldiers on the ground. The gray haired, gray furred kitsune was in the Conference room, communicating with his Lieutenants. The battered remanient of the Imperial Fleet pulled entirely back, the Carriers and Hospital ships popping out of hyperspace, the Carriers to take on small craft, the Medical ships to take on the wounded which were sure to be overflowing from the standered medical bays by now. In orbit, the troop transports prepared for their decent, soldiers checking their weapons one last time. As they did so, in hundreds of assault ships, pilots or co-pilots readied music they would play over the speakers to the troops as they flew into battle. Studies showed that certain types of music would get the listeners adreniline pumping and get them angry, get them ready for battle. Thus, battle music.
Ground...
If the ANLA were worried, that was nothing compared to the other soldiers of the Rebellion. The Korr had also been deprived of their leader, Volta, and they knew they were stranded on this world. Even if they were somehow able to beat back the Allied assault, there was no way off the planet. The mercenaries, most of them, were considering outright deserting, the only thing stopping them was that they knew the more organized factions of the Rebellion, like the SR and ANLA, would make sure they hunted down and killed and deserters. In the SR, the soldiers were terrified. They had expected a weakened, disorganized force, weary from fighting, not the gleaming armor and highly trained professionals of the XGA and APA. In their trenchs and barracks and bunkers and gun emplacements, the Rebels sweated and gulped.
Ice Base...
Jame's voice was a soft hiss, tinged with amusement. "Emperor, how nice of you to join me." Neither the Emperor's nor his enemie's hand were anywhere near the hilts of their identical blades. James, Foxfire noticed, had changed. Gone was the orange-red hair, the uniform and the easygoing smile he knew from his early years. In their place was black hair, deep purple robes and a predatory grin. Chaos leaked from James like water though weak paper, threatening to spill though at any moment.
"Why, James?"
James laughed, a short bark half amusement, half anger. "Do not refer to me by that name, Emperor. James is gone. He was far too weak, to hold me, to contain my power. The one you know welcomed me into his home, and I pushed him out and filled it."
"My question remains."
"Did you truely, at any point, think we were a threat? Oh, we played the part well enough, with the Imitators and your Head Admiral's near assassination, that stupid, arrogant Alumina's kidnapping and the late Admiral Connolly's tactics. But I knew, from the very beginning, that the Rebellion would never hold. Ironically, Emperor, too many people hate the Republic and the Empire. Too many factions, unused to each other, unfamilar and xenophobic. Weak and foolish, Korr and Alversians and Calaverans, Danaversians and mercenaries and Xiscapians. All come together in a massive, squabbling, uncoordinated group. They were never meant to be anything more then a distraction. While you focused on them, your gaze turned from me, Emperor. I am the real threat, not to the Empire or the Republic, but to you."
"So, what you are saying is, this entire operation, it's all a...?"
"Trap, Emperor. A trap for you, and you have just sprung it."

Alversia

26-03-2008, 00:21

Ashe watched as the People's Army prepared to land on the surface. A full Infantry Regiment and an Armoured Regiment prepared to hit the ground and launch themselves against the Rebel Forces. They knew they would be in for a tough fight, a terribly tough fight. But they were ready. But leading the way was none other than an elite of the Marine Corps. The Droptroop Regiment prepared to hit the ground at several times the speed of sound.

They were ready and the Dropships were fired from the hangars, prepared to clear the way. All 5,000 of them.

---

The ANLA was nervous, to the point of desertion and mutiny. But they were nothing in comparison to the ARA. Officers on patrol to check the outposts found only empty trenches and bunkers as the Republican Troops had abandoned their positions and fled into the wilderness. Facing the People's Army and the Grand Army was too much for them to bear.

Xiscapia

28-03-2008, 02:19

Drop ships shot though the atmosphere, flaming balls containing warriors. Over the speakers of troop ships and mecha, music played:
Woah yeow

They try kicking and screaming
Contation break us apart
In life..... will hold you down
I'm sorry, that's my knife in you!
Another day you fall and I get away
Pushing and screaming cause
They found

Hey

Take my hand and fly
Will you ever be that tall
Don't you be afraid
We're not gonna fall

Did you think
I'd let you mix it up
Give me a reason bitch
You're gonna fuck it up

Hey

Take my hand and fly
Will you ever be that tall
Don't you be afraid
We're not gonna fall

Hey

Do you believe in what we've got
Try it, one shot
We stand once and for all
We're not gonna fall

[Solo]

Well you thought you had the authority
To slay and kill the minority
Together we stand tall
Not gonna crash, not gonna fall

Did you think I'd let you mix it up
Give me a reason bitch
We're gonna fuck you up
It's real, into the charge

At the end we're standing up
OOC: Link. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6JVoJRPsKw)
Just outside of Rebel striking range they landed by the hundred, unloading soldiers and armour at lightening fast speed. The XGA quickly formed their lines, ten thousand kitsune long, thirty thousand kitsune deep. Aiming their weapons forward, they began their march, the sound of thousands of boots stepped in perfect time, the sun gleaming off armor, weapons pointed with deadly smiles.
The Xiscapians were coming.
Rebel Positions...
Korr fighters zoomed away, to the other side of the planet and the saftly of space, abaondoning their comrades. Several dozen mercenaries, and a hundred Korr and SR soldiers fled their ranks, but those who were caught were executed on the spot, those who weren't sought to hide among the forest of mountains. Those left gulped to themselves and prepared for the onslaught, seeing the XGA approach. There was no turning back, now.
Ice Base...
The two circle, light and dark in equal measure, but each with a little of each other at their core. Katanas out and held up, staring, smiling forever politely, eyes cold and probing. Any second now, they would explode into furious action.

Alversia

28-03-2008, 02:30

The Alversian Regiment formed up in Battalions. 20,000 men arranged in perfect formation, unemotional faces with clean weapons staring forward. The Alversian flag flew bravely in the wind.
"REGIMENT!! ADVANCE" Someone roared.

Drumbeats began as the Alversian regiment advanced in perfect step, armour forming up behind them. They began the long march. The People's Army was facing the Republican Army.

The Republican Army broke. Thousands of them broke ranks and fled. Too many were now running for the Officer's to turn the tide back and so they fled as well. The Alversian Army was now facing empty space on the , ANLA, Korr's and SR Flank. Still they advanced in Companies, Battalions, as a Regiment.

Xiscapia

28-03-2008, 03:15

Twenty thousand men ran from Rebel lines, leaving fifty thousand soldiers to face the incoming Allies. They were now outnumbered and outgunned against a force that had superior weaponry, training and tactics. The mercenaries turned and ran, but they were not at the lines. No, by the time they ran, they were among the Xiscapian and Alversian lines, and even as they tried to get away they were cut by Xiscapian blades or Alversian bayonets or struck by blaster fire. Left demoralized, disorganized and scared out of their wits, the remaining Rebels charged head-on at the Allies, a full fifty yards between the trenchs and the People's and Imperial armies. At the charge the Xiscapians drew their sabers, and the first three lines prepared for vollies. The first lay prone, guns pointing up. The second kneeled, weapons at their sides. The third and final line were standing, rifles raised so they could stare though the sights. Missile soldiers and snipers found a target among the mass. Huge Korr, smaller, feirce Xiscapians, dogged mercenaries, battle-hardened ANLA. The gap closed...fourty feet...thirty...twenty five-
"OPEN FIRE!"
The charge was met with a horrific blast of lasers and missiles, slaughtering the first, second, third lines of charging Rebels. But still they kept coming, fifty thousand minus a few hundred, and clashed with Allied lines.
Ice Base...
The two launched at each other, blades spinning, singing and clashing. No one was watching them, but if anyone had been they would barely have been able to see the blades moved as the two danced around, sparks flying and the walls crumbling from the sheer power around them. The base began to collpase, crushing battle robots and SR soldiers, making the rest flee in terror. Ice cracked and fell, throwing several SR from the slopes down into the chasms below. Foxfire Rose was already sweating, staring at his opponet even as the roar of energy swirled around them. James was smiling the whole time.
I got into a fight you see
It wasn't really new to me
I always felt as if I could fly
When I realized I could die
It really was a sight to see
You should've seen me fly with glee
I swung, I fought, I sang, I swayed
My opponet grew quite dismayed

Alversia

28-03-2008, 03:25

The Korr charged forward to face the Alversian ranks, screaming blood and revenge for their defeat in the Korr War. Their tactics may have been effective in the early days, they had no mission against the new Alversian Army.

"Infantry! Three Ranks! Setting Three Volley! Prepare to fire!"

The front rank of the Alversian Formation knelt and peered through their sights while the other two behind formed themselves up to each have a shot. The Korr checked their advance but they were too late,

"FIRE!!" The Alversian formation vanished into smoke. By the time it had vanished, the ground was littered with Korr dead. The rest of the Korr were standing, stunned at the sudden viciousness of the battle.

"Fire by rank! Front rank! FIRE!" And so the Alversian's began their rolling fire By the time the order came to advance, the Korr had mostly fled in the face of the vicious fire. The Alversians continued their advance but the Battalion closest to the Xiscapians wheeled around to cut off the Rebel's escape route.

Xiscapia

28-03-2008, 14:28

The Rebels were herded into the ring, surronded, and the Allies poured fire into them until a small mountain of dead had collected at the middle. The rest surrendered, throwing down their weapons and up their hands. With no backbone after their leaders were killed, the Rebels gave up quickly. Many of the SR committed suicide rather then be taken, but that was fine by the Imperials. It would save them from having to execute them later. The ANLA would be turned over to the Alversians, as would any APA they found. The Korr and mercenaries would be either imprisoned for life or executed, depending on their rank. But for the SR, there was only death. Traitors garnered no sympathy, especially terrorists like them. As the captive Rebels were herded away patrols and fighters began to fly over the general area, looking for the APA soldiers who had fled. They would get exactly one chance to stop running and surrender. If they did not take it, they would be hunted down and killed.
Ice Base...
The whirling, howling destructive energy tore though the mountain, and the entire mountain began to collapse, cracking and falling in on itself, imploding. At the summet the Base was only so much ruins, the only ones remaining Foxfire Rose and James, fighting and battling. Finally James twisted and unleashed a shot of pure Chaos, dragging up the Emperor's old memories, of all those he had killed, directly and indirectly. Moments of anger and fear, when he received the scar on his face from the Korr, when Jade was captured by the Novans, dealing with Adrian Connolly, authorizing the Infected possession of Shellspa, and many others. He reeled, and the sword fell from his grasp, sliding away over the ice. He went for it, but James kicked him, throwing him to the ground and knocking the wind out of him. James stood over him and lifted his blade.

Alversia

28-03-2008, 14:44

The ANLA, leaderless and demoralized, lasted no longer than the SR. All of Adrian Connolly's carefully prepared fortifications and entrenchments, enough to hold back more than three Regiments, surrendered without a shot being fired. All 4,500 who had survived would be tried. Many would be convicted of mass murder and high treason, two crimes that carried the death penalty on Alversia. Many would find themselves on a fine morning in front of a Guards Firing Squad.

With that completed and the total destruction of the Rebel Army secured, a Battalion of Alversian Infantry turned to march on the Ice Base, where it seemed a small concentration of Rebels troops were still holding their ground and refusing to surrender.

Xiscapia

28-03-2008, 22:52

With the Korr, mercenaries and SR, there were three ways to die, chosen by the one to be executed: Beheading, firing squad, or hanging. Most would chose beheading, being the supposed fastest and least painful way to die, although this was, of course, debatable. Those who were decided not to have committed serious enough crimes to be executed would be sent to prison for life, rotting away in a cell somewhere until their dying day.
Countryside...
Patrols and fighters scanned the wilderness, loudspeakers blasting out the same message as they looked for the Rebel deserters:
"Soldiers of the Rebellion, reveal yourselves and lay down your weapons. You will not be harmed if you come peacefully. Any attempt at resistance will be met with deadly force. You have been warned."
If any soldiers were located, the ships would bear down on them, locking on. If the deserters did not immediatly throw up their hands or throw down their weapons, they would be shot on sight.
At the base of the mountain...
Twenty SR had gathered, those who had not surrendered, deserted, or been killed. Traitorious kitsune hid and waited, in hole, in trees, under screens and in piles of dead foilage, for the Alversian approach. They were powered by one of the most terrifying forces known to the galaxy: Religious commitment. The blood god Khorne had commanded them to commite atrocities in his name, and now, outnumbered and outgunned, they would vow to try and do exactly that.
Ice Base...
Foxfire Rose stared into his brother's eyes, filled with hate and anger for that thing. James had a trumphent grin as he prepared to plunge the blade into the Emperor, eyes wild.

And in the moment I so cherished...

Then, a flicker.
James reeled suddenly, clutching his head, sword falling from his grasp to stab several inches into the ice. "You...do NOT, control ME!" he shrieked, stumbling almost to his knees.

He hit me hard, I thought I perished.

Foxfire Rose stood, grabbed Jame's sword, and approached, held out defensively, gazing.

I sang I swayed I lost all sound
And then my head began to pound,

James screamed, an animal noise, yelling at himself, a confused monolgue streaming from his mouth. His eyes suddenly blazed and he struck at the Emperor, but Foxfire Rose swung the sword, shattering it, cutting him across the stomach, making James fall and slide backwards, over the edge. A hand caught on the lip, fingers digging in, grasping for life. He lifted his head, but even as he did so it dropped, his entire body shuddering, breath exhaling more then just carbon dioxide. He seemed to deflate, hanging into space there, then finally looked into Foxfire Rose's face. Foxfire threw away the broken sword and laid down on the ice, extending a hand to James.
"Grab my hand. James, grab my hand," he moaned, fingers reaching out, stretching.
James looked into Foxfire's eyes, and they seemed sad, but accepting at the same time. He spoke, the first time he really had in years, and for the last time:
"Forgive me, Brother."
James let go and his body fell into space, his figure vanishing into the cold, dark void.
Foxfire Rose screamed, as loudly as James had before, but this was not a scream of anger and fear, but rather one of dispair.
I thought I must have looked profound
And then I knew I hit the ground.

Alversia

28-03-2008, 23:12

The ANLA and ARA had had enough. One after the other, these two so-called mighty forces threw down their weapons and threw up their hands to the Army of the state they so badly despised. The Alversian Troops seemed caring, sympathetic to the situation they had found themselves in. Once the Naval battle had been lost the land battle had been lost. The ANLA and the ARA were led in columns away to the transport ships.

Meanwhile, the 1st Battalion of the 205th Infantry Regiment marched in a long column, bayonets fixed, towards the base. The steady drums behind the column spurred on the Troops.

Xiscapia

28-03-2008, 23:57

There were two ditches, running on either side of the road, and from the left ditch the twenty SR sprang, concealed, storming into the column from the side, blades drawn. They were so close that whichever soldier they sprang for would have no time to react, but that wasn't saying for the next soldier behind him.
Elsewhere the Korr, mercenaries and SR were also being captured, only a few killed either by tigger-happy Imperial soldiers or when they tried to run. They were loaded onto transports and taken away. A few were still left, somewhere, but they were probably dead that would never be found.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 00:04

Around twenty of the Alversian troops were struck down by the surprise attack and a few more were too slow to react either. However, this was a full Battalion of 5,000 men and now they pressed forward into the attackers, using their bayonets to ram home against the SR troops.

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 00:20

A dozen fell to Alversian bayonets, stomachs or chest peirced, lying bleeding out on the ground. The others were blessed with the Dark Side of the Force, to just enough degree that they were able to avoid the bayonets. Twisting, one leaped into the air, landing with his legs straddling the shoulders of an Alversian soldier in the middle of the ranks, bringing him down with a knife in his back. The rest ducked and dodged, leaping or rolling to penetrate further into the lines. However, they had to be careful, because if the Alversians stepped into the ditch on the other side, they had lower ground to use to stab upward, skewering even high leapers on their blades. So the SR were meticulious to only strike down their foes and never actually push.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 00:25

The bad news for the Xiscapians was that they had struck the Grenadier Company at the head of the Battalion. This unit had the Regiment's veteran troops and elite Infantry and now they skillfully parried their opponent's swords with their rifles and struck upwards with their bayonets, they instinctively headed down to the ditch of their own accord and launched upwards, stabbing fiercely with their weapons.

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 00:45

Another five SR fell, but the Alversians had been outfoxed. Lining the ditch was dozens of land mines, and as soon as the Alversians stepped in they went off, destroying the trench and killing all inside, as well as many outside of it. A very old Xiscapian tactic, imported from Xiscapian Imperial field manuels. By this time there was only three SR soldiers left and they suicidally lauched themselves at the dazed APA troops.
Camp...
Dom himself had been beamed down and approached the Alversian General in the area, looking worried. "We cannot seem to locate the Emperor, have you heard anything?"

Alversia

29-03-2008, 00:56

A few more Alversian troops were killed but ultimately, they were outnumbered and there was no way they could do anything except be cut down by the Alversian Bayonets. The rest of the Battalion continued to march along the road up towards the ice base.

Camp

The General, commanding the Regiment, turned and saluted Rob,
"None, but we have a Battalion heading up an Ice Base at the moment. Perhaps he will be there." The General's mood did not seem to be optimistic.

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 01:32

The SR had been the last holdouts against Allied forces, and now the Battalion's path was clear. When they scaled the mountain and got to the Ice Base, all they would find was dead SR soldiers, smashed machinery and a destroyed base. At the edge of dangeriously cracking ice threatening to topple away into the chasm, the Emperor lay prone, unconcious, his blade stuck in the ice among the ruins of the base.
Camp...
The XGA was withdrawing, pulling out aside from a regiment of Imperial soldiers to oversee and protect the civilians coming to Old Xiscapia. The fleet was repairing itself and would soon go back to Xiscapia. The battle had been won: The Rebellion was finished.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 01:39

"God! Come one lads! Get him out of here!" A Sergent shouted to his Men as they filed out into the Ice Base. The Battalion had secured the Base and where already heading back down the path to the main plains and the camp. They were carrying the Emperor down the path with the Grenadiers as escort.

"General?" The Colonel, "You are not gonna believe this?"

---
Camp

The General turned to Dom and smiled,
"That was Colonel Darvis of my 1st Battalion. He has found the Emperor, he is bringing him down now".

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 03:00

OOC: It's "Dom" dude, not Rob.
IC:
For a moment Dom looked striken, thinking the Emperor was dead, then relaxed at the General's calm, unworried face. Obviously he would not look like so if the Emperor had been killed. "Is he wounded?" he wanted to know.
Ice Base...
The Emperor opened his eyes. He seemed to be on a stretcher, being carried down a trench of ice. He looked around. Alversian uniforms, Alversian faces, Alversian weapons. Ah. "You know," he said to the nearest stretcher bearer quite cheerfully, "I am quite capable of walking. This really is entirely unnecessary."
Foxfire Rose was screaming on the inside, crying over the possession and loss of his brother, but he was determined not to show it until he was alone. The people needed a strong leader. That was essential.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 03:19

The General's smile slipped slightly,
"He's unconscious, but he isn't wounded beyond belief" The General stated, "He's in no danger"

--

"Jesus!"
The Stretcher bearers almost dropped it but instead allowed the Emperor to get off before snapping to attention. The Battalion's Commander fought through to the Emperor and gave a firm salute,
"Emperor, may I ask why you are here?" He asked politely.

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 18:10

Dom sighed in releif. "That's good. I assume the Battalion will be escorting him back to us?"

Mountain...
The Emperor gave a half bow. "Commander, I was fighting the leader of the Rebellion. He is dead now." said Foxfire Rose simply. He gave no reason for why he felt that he himself had to be the one to confront the leader of the Rebellion, rather than letting a Shadow Operations squad assassinate him. The Emperor was already know to both his and the Alversian people as somewhat of a daredevil, due to his actions in the Korr war and risking his life to save the Empress, Jade, when his presence was not required at either. Critics used this as ammunition against him often, and this "episode" would only add more fuel to their arguments against him.
But Foxfire Rose knew they would never understand his moral obligation, for saving his wife, for confronting and killing his brother. It was his duty, when he married her, to protect Jade from all harm, and to follow her to the ends of the Universe. Likewise, he had to see if there was anything left of his brother that had not been warped and twisted by Chaos.
There had been, but Foxfire Rose had been far too late to save it.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 19:07

"They will, yes" The General stated as he turned back to where the masses of Prisoners were being escorted to transport ships. He gave a sad sigh, all that build-up, all those words and threats, yet the Rebel Army had collapsed like a deck of cards. The navy had born the brunt of the battle and the Army had mopped up.

--

The Colonel saluted again,
"Yes, Sir," he turned to one Men around him, "Send a squad back up to the base, see what you can find. Anything" The Man saluted and threaded his way through the crowds back towards the base. Meanwhile, somewhere else in the mass of troops a voice bellowed out,
"'Talion!! Prepare to march!" The Troops scrambled back into Companies and Platoons in preparation for the march down the hill again.
"Would you like to join me at the head of the Battalion, Sir?" The Colonel asked politely.

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 19:14

Dom also turned back to supervise the marching of the prisoners, long lines of Korr and humans and Xiscapians in plasma shackles being herded into huge transport ships to arrive at their final destination.
Battalion...
The Alversian soldiers would find nothing but bodies and smashed machinery among the rubble. Foxfire Rose joined the Commander at the front of the ranks, walking at an even pace with him, silent and seeming to be absent-minded, his focus on another plane entirely.

Alversia

29-03-2008, 19:25

Within half an hour, the Battalion had rejoined her three Sister Units with the Regiment and Foxfire was at the Regiment's Headquarters with it's General,

"General Anti Niemi Sir," he gave a firm salute, "May I say you have been fairly reckless today, My Lord"

Xiscapia

29-03-2008, 22:33

"May I say you have been fairly reckless today, My Lord"
"You may," said the Emperor with a slight smile that didn't reach his eyes. There was a whine above the camp and an Xiscapian Diplomatic shuttle landed at the center of the camp, folding up it's wings and extending the ramp. Down it walked two Black Guards, imposing sights in their armor that did not seem to be the absence of light as much as sucking light into a void. These two were the Emperor's personal guard, who were depressingly used to the Emperor's presence in overly dangerious places. They jogged over to the tent flap, kneeled once they got to it. "My Lord," said the first, "the Fleet is withdrawing. The Rebels have all been captured, and the resistance crushed. The Head Admiral is most anxious to speak with you."
The Emperor nodded, staring out past them to the cold sky above the mountains, his vision slightly obscured by the tree tops. Hands folded inside his robes, he did not face Anti Niemi.
"General, if you will excuse me."
The Emperor faced him, emotionless, and bowed, before striding across the courtyard into the shuttle, followed by his guards. The pilot unfolded the wings and the shuttle lifted off from the ground, ramp closing, and shot into the sky.
Pride of the Empire, several minutes later...
The door to Krystal's Office on the Pride hissed open and the Emperor stepped in, facing the Head Admiral. She looked more exhasted than ever, world-weary and guant, dark circles shadowing her eyes, shoulders hunched as though carrying the weight of a world. "My Lord," she nodded to the chair in front of her desk, and the Emperor took a seat. Krystal rifled though a few more papers, then, finding the one she wanted, handed it to the Emperor and leaned back. The Emperor curiously examined the paper. It was an ORBAT for the fleet. No, he realized, it was for the entire Navy.

XIN Battle Losses: (Ships in bold destroyed. Ships in italics moderatly to heavily damaged. Ships in red no longer in service. Ships in green on deployment.)
Super Battleship: Gloom Walker
Super Destroyer: Jade
Destroyers: Fallen Hero, Spike, Resolve, Unshakable, Shatterpoint, Revenge, Servant, Warrior, Triple Zero, Destiny, Dark Saber, Night, Starfire, Inescapable, Krystal, Grass, Stone, A.I. 5(18)
Battleships: Wrath, Fear, Pride of the Empire, Deception, Shadow Hunter, Splinter in the Minds Eye, Vision, Foxfire, Qonn, Alversia, Order, Smoke, Ice, Pocky, Master, Sky, A.I. 1, A.1. 10(18)
Cruisers: Peace, Sly, Red Light, Oath, Valor, Dark Star, Blue Flame, Rendezvous, Contact, Speed, Legacy, Luck, Stand Alone, Specter, Smite, Xiscapia, Sudden Death, Final, Water, Earth, Air, Fire, Wood, Lord, A.I. 2, A.I. 3, A.I. 4 (28)
Carriers: Saber, Honor, Omnipresent, Ghost, Eclipse, Unifier, Exile, Tempest, Ritual, Strong, Harmony, Xeno, A.I. 7, Dagger(14)
Medical: Chrystal Moon, Chrystal Star, Enlightenment, Forewarned, Spirit, Silver Song, Shield, Passion, Healer, Protector, Thought, Dream, Eye, Gem, Silk, Cloak(14)
"Salvage Fleet" (Fleet 6)
1 Korr Destroyer (Pain)
2 Korr Battleships (Fury, Rage)
5 Korr Frigates (Fist, Glory, Doom, Death, Destruction)
1 Imperial Isan ship (Star Slayer)
1 North Calaveran ship (Freedom)
1 Alien ship (Rock)
1 Infected ship (Pure)
1 Xiscapian mining ship (Starrider)
1 Combat Asteriod ship (Pebble)
1 SASM Pathfinder ship (Logic)
Total combat ships deployed for battle: 54
Total ships lost: 20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Admittedly, the losses were not as bad as he'd expected. But they were still crippling. Xiscapia had only sent nearly half her fleet into battle, and had lost almost half of it, a quarter of the entire Navy. The battle against the SASM had been more damaging, but this left Xiscapia with 34 operating warships, most of those heavily damaged. Just because the report did not classify them as destroyed did not mean the ship was not crippled, with most of her crew dead. Such a battle put a strain on Xiscapia's resources, and would probably cost trillions of credits to repair and replace the ships. And for what? The Rebellion had been wiped out, but Xiscapia had lost tens of thousands of good kitsune just from the capital ships, and no one had even tried to compute the destruction and loss of life from the fighters yet. The Emperor looked up at his Head Admiral.
"I failed, My Lord."
Foxfire Rose cocked his head, gazing steadly at Krystal. "Indeed?"
Krystal nodded. "We should have been able to steamroll the Rebels in space, just like we did on the ground. But we were caught in a trap, a trap I should have seen coming. If it wasn't for the Danaversians and Alumina showing up at the last moment, we would have been destroyed."
"Head Admiral," said the Emperor gently, "the battle was influenced by events outside of your control. It wasn't your fault the Alversians weren't able to get though the asteroid field, or that our scanners didn't show anything inside the ion cloud."
"But," Krystal countered, "thousands died because I was too arrogant, too sure of myself, to see the real danger."
"Nobody expected the Rebels to fight this hard, or for any of this to take place," said Foxfire Rose, "the blame does not rest on your shoulders. We won the battle, the Rebels are gone from the galaxy."

Alversia

29-03-2008, 22:47

Ashe sighed and watched as the Prison ships hauled themselves back into space. She felt no joy at defeating the Rebellion, no delight at the relatively light losses she had suffered. She felt nothing but guilt. She had left the Xiscapians to battle alone while she struggled through a mere minefield, afraid to take to the decision to blow the mines and force her way through the asteroids.
Now it was even worse for her after the news that Admiral Reynolds had brought to her.
"I...can't be!" She said, stunned.
"You are," He had reaffirmed, "You are now the Head Admiral of the Alversian People's Navy as decided by the Prime Minister and the Admirals of the Navy."
She had been stunned, especially with her first mission, to meet with the Woman she betrayed to discuss future tactics.
So now she was on her way to the Pride of Empire to met with her counterpart. She could not have been less looking forward to the meeting. Sasha was with her, to become her Personal Attache. The shuttle hovered in position near the Xiscapian Flagship, waiting for permission to dock.

Alversian Losses
2 x Cruisers (2,000 Dead)
3 x Destroyers (1,500 Dead)
50 x Fighters (50 Dead)
Another 3,000 killed on damaged warships

Xiscapia

30-03-2008, 03:08

Alversian Shuttle, you have been authorized to land in Docking Bay Two.
Sasha sat beside her Admiral, now Head Admiral, silently comtemplating their future. A mere month ago she had been a lowly Halfbreed fighter pilot in the Rebellion, marked for death by the leaders, filled with nothing but hatred and dispair. Then she had met Blackwater, but news had just arrived to her of his death at the hands of one of the Xiscapian governors. It was true, what Vist had said: Sasha did not, and had never, loved Blackwater. But she had not, as Vist also assumed, used him. She had genuienly apprechiated and valued him, but he was a bygone part of her life she didn't care to remember. The device Kash Wilson had directed to be sent to her before he was executed was inside her briefcase, to be opened and examined when she got the chance. Something having to do with Blackwater.

Sasha felt the jolt as the shuttle set down and stood, placing a hand on Ashe's shoulder. "Adm-Head Admiral," she corrected herself, "be strong. Remember:," she smiled down at her, gray human eyes looking into yellow Xiscapian ones, "Through Loyalty we Persevere."
That was part of a four-part Xiscapian saying, dedicating freedom, libriety and loyalty as the greatest of institutions.

NationStates Jolt Archive

Brother Against Brother...(FT, Closed, ATTN North Calaveras, Alversia) - Page 4