Ibram and Sicario walked through the corridors of the Atrus towards the briefing room where the rest of the Squadron was waiting. I had been two weeks since their mission to Ios, yet so much had changed.

They’re in your hands now Ibram. Do me proud.

After two near death experiences, Thomas had decided to call it quits, honourably retiring from active service. Ibram never asked where he was going. And then there was Anden…

We’re sorry Warrant Officer Tyrol. He’s stable, but his coma is very acute. We don’t know when he will wake up.

Warrant Officer…

Ibram still couldn’t get used to it. As the missions got more and more dangerous, more and more good men were lost. Those that were left behind had to step up and take their place, regardless of whether or not they were ready.

Necessity… the true meaning of war

He glanced at Phineaus. Despite illegally breaking out of his cell aboard the Suspense, the erstwhile pilot’s participation in the Second Battle for Ios had not only earned him a full pardon, but promotion to Executive Officer - Another Necessity.

“How’s the hand?”

Phin flexed his robotic limb that had replaced the one he lost during the last battle. Ibram had a sneaking suspicion that that had earned him some brownie points, somehow.

“It’s…different. But I’m slowly getting used to it.”

Ibram still had to get used to Phin being his XO. A part of him still hadn’t forgiven him for abandoning them at the Hangar incident.

“That’s good to hear. Since you’re new to this, best just sit back and watch for this briefing. If you’ve got any queries, you can ask me afterwards.”

Phin snorted, “You’re not exactly an old-hand yourself.”

Ibram shot him a narrow-eyed glare.

“Sorry sir.”

Turning the corner, they were confronted with a pilot and a droid standing just outside of the briefing room. Upon seeing them, the pilot saluted, and after a brief hesitation, so did the droid.

“What do we have here then?” Ibram asked as he approached the newcomers.

“Petty Officer Bacredi reporting sir!”

“Statement: Leading Crewman HK-61 reporting.”

Ibram eyed up the pair. He had already been informed this morning that he would be getting new pilots. From his record, and from what Ibram could see, Bacredi seemed competent, but over-enthusiastic…god knows what the droid was like.

“Droid, please confirm that you are a Type-1 sentience classification.”

Security being what it is, all droids had to prove that they were sentient before they could enlist in the armed forces. Or, at least, whatever the droid equivalent of sentience was…

“Statement: Certainly Sir.”

The droid removed a panel on his chest. Behind it his make and model, and the ‘sentience seal’ that proved he wasn’t just impersonating human behaviour.

“Thank you 61. Welcome to Viper Squadron. I’m Warrant Officer Tyrol, your commanding officer, and here is Chief Petty Officer Gage, your XO. Bacredi, you’ve been placed in the XO’s flight, HK, you'll be inn Petty Officer Lukkas' Flight. Please go in and take your seats.”

“Sir!” Bacredi saluted again before entering. HK-61 saluted silently and followed.

Ibram watched them as the walked in.

“Good luck with that one.” He said to Phin.

“Bite me sir.”

The two officers walked into the room. Ibram was glad to see the older hands still kept up a positive attitude, despite everything that had happened recently.

Mira and Aleia were teasing Arkan mercilessly. The young pilot, now no longer a newbie, was struggling to cope with the endless waves of innuendos and feminine wiles. Poor fellow.

Ryno and Fulfiller were talking quietly to themselves. It was hard to imagine that Fulfiller was also a veteran, but he was. He had stepped up to fill the Flight Leader vacuum left when Ibram and Sicario took over. Ryno was, up until now, the newest addition. The two pilots seemed to be getting on well.

HK and Bacredi were sitting near the front. Phin went to go sit with them.

“Alright everybody settle down.”

Technically, this would only be Ibram’s second briefing, and first as squadron commander. He wasn’t nervous at all, however.

Mira winked at him and blew him a kiss; Ibram just shook his head and chuckled.

“Right, we have a new mission. At 1200 hours yesterday, the planet Epsilon issued a code 0 priority one alert. Apparently most of the planet is revolting against the administration. Which means us.”

Ibram brought up a factfile of the planet on the holo-screen.

“High Command are especially concerned by this, because A/ The Epsilon system has been relatively peaceful for most of its history, and B/ it’s on the eastern front.”

“So, they think its Drakan again?” Phin asked.

“I don’t know, nor is it our job to find out. Our mission is simply to help quell the uprising. The in-system garrison has already formed a lose blockade around the planet, but they don’t have enough ships. A task force under the command of Commodore Skyes is being despatched to assist, which will include us.”

Ibram scanned the room. As always, the pilots of Viper Squadron were taking in everything with a professional eye.

“That’s all there is for now. We’re transferring over to the Victory-Class Star Destroyer Imperator, and we’ll be shipping out at 0800 hours tomorrow morning. They’ll be another briefing once we’ve departed. If you have any questions, come talk to me. Dismissed.”

Ibram let out a sigh of relief, and stepped off the podium.

OOC:

Here is the initial briefing. Any questions, either incorporate them into your post, or send me a pm. See the Viper topic for further instructions.

Subject: Re: Transfer
To: Petty Officer Bacredi
From: Commander Vox
  Your transfer request has been seen by myself, our wing executive officer, Warrant Officer Tyrol, and Chief Warrant Officer C-3PX2. They have all accepted your letter of transfer, and Chief Warrant Officer C-3PX2 has given the go-ahead on your transfer, same with Warrant Officer Tyrol. Your spot on Kaph 1-2 has been vacated and given to Leading Crewman Hunter Morrell, your request to move into Viper Squadron was accepted and you are now in the vacant spot of Viper 8, good day.


Bacredi read the message over and over again. This week had been one of the most eventful in his life. At the beginning he had returned to Vectra aboard the Serenity. He had then requested transfer to another squadron, Kaph had just played too many tolls on Bacredi, he needed a change of scenery. After the debrief at Vectra he had immediately requested transfer to Viper Squadron with Commander Vox of Phoenix Wing, and it had been accepted. Bacredi was now placed as Viper 8, and he was put in the same flight as two other honorable men. He was ecstatic that they were getting a mission underway already.

With his back on his bunk Bacredi quickly shuffled the sheet of parchment under his mattress. Gently moving his extremely long legs down from his top bunk, Bacredi his the Atrus' floor in half a second. Looking scruffier than usual, Bacredi eyed himself in the mirror that was located next to his bunk. He gently patted some of the mattress fibers off of his white uniform, and gently plinned his Merit Cross to his chest. Bacredi's blue Petty Officer pauldrons were already on his shoulders, and it made his appearance look  a little more demanding. His DH-17 was already strapped to his belt, like always, this made him look even more imposing. He would always get looks because he carried a blaster, from his squadron mates and people he didn't know, nor did he want to.

Before the meeting Bacredi had been introduced to his Squadron Commander and his Squadron's Executive Officer. They both seemed like reasonable and cunning people, probably extremely ambitious as well. During and after the meeting Bacredi had met the other members of the flight, Ryno and Fulfiller. Ryno was in the same bunk as Bacredi, Bacredi praised that he was not with HK-61.

Moving his eyes around the room, Bacredi realized that absolutely no one else was in the room. Except for Bacredi's R6 Droid, R6-K3 no one else was in the room, no one with a pulse that is. Bacredi motioned for Kaythree to come over to Bacredi, and once the orange droid did he set off. They began to walk, and pedal out of the room, the sound of Kaythree's wheels sounded, and it was the only sound Bacredi's ears could hear. Once Bacredi exited the room, he could hear the faint hum of the Atrus. The sound made Bacredi feel more at home, more alive, more part of something, it made him feel good. Bacredi's DH-17 holster swayed with his hips as he walked down the gleamin white hallways. Few other pilots could be seen, all the Stormtroopers and techs, a few R-series droids could be seen, a few even gave beeps to Kaythree.

He then came on a hanger, he wasn't actually inside it, he was just looking through a view port. The hanger was labled as 'Shuttle Hanger ES9'. It's name was damn right, two Lambda-Class Shuttles, two Kappa-Class Shuttles, and four TIE Fighters in racks. He was proud to serve aboard this beautiful piece of work, the Atrus, and he was even more proud to live on it. He gently slid his elbows onto the view port, and looked out at the shuttles, a smirk on his face. A few techs strode in and out of the hanger, and a few repair astromechs stayed inside it. Bacredi then broke his stare and turned around, he then met face on face with R6, who had been 'eying' him the entire time.

"Its all good Kaythree, here, lets head to the mess... scan the ship for any empty mess halls." Bacredi ordered Kaythree, and he headed over to the Computer Terminal right next to the viewpot and stuck his Scomp Link in it. He quickly let out a few beeps, they were near a empty one. And Bacredi immediately let out a whistle as he paced towards the empty mess hall. His pack was on his hip, it was filled with his Computer Terminal X2A9, and a few other components to allow him to work. As it was twelve O'clock PM Vectra standard time, there probably wouldn't be anyone in any of the mess halls. Kaythree and Bacredi then stepped into one of the mess halls, they were met by nothing but three TC droids, two 3PO droids, and a few astro cleaners.

"Hello." A black TC droid paced up to Bacredi and Kaythree. This reminded him of his TC droid that was turned into scrap at the Battle of Yetton IV. When the Lobo was destroyed he lost everything... even his starfighter. He had held almost 7.000 credits on that ship, blast the ship. "Petty Officer First Class Bacredi, what would you like today, we have: Bracik Pie, Corellian Tonic, or basically any of the standard Imperial Food Regime. If you need any help deciding we would be glad to help you."

"Glass of Corellian Whiskey, make it a double." The TC droid walked off, and Bacredi moved over to one of the gleaming tables. It had scars of previous misuse, but Bacredi didn't really care. He opened his pack and took out his Computer Terminal. It powered up to display his start up menu, he gently pressed his hand into the screen: it accepted his hand print. A R5 unit gently peddled over to Bacredi's table, the drink in his circular bar rotunda that it was outfitted with. Bacredi grabbed the drink, and slid a credit chip in the R5's slot. Bacredi then cocked his head to face Kaythree: "Power up Briefing Viper Zeta, I want all the information on the Epsilon System. Now." Kaythree beeped for a second, and now a hologram covered part of the air above Bacredi's Computer Terminal. Looking in his sack again, Bacredi pulled out some mission files on the Epsilon System. Not that Bacredi didn't already know enough about it.

Kaythree's display showed information on the Capital of the Epsilon System, Epsilon. Bacredi owned a share of land there, and he gently read through the words, taking in every single word as if it was a planet. He now stared at his Terminal and began to type up his official brief on the Epsilon System, he would then submit this to the Imperator. He still had to write up his brief on Listening Outpost: Viverro, the Battle of Yetton V, and when the Serenity entered the Ios System. But those would have to wait, Bacredi typed a few words regarding the Epsilon System. And what he already knew about it, he knew Epsilon by heart, almost. Moving over to the mission files, Bacredi stumbled upon his drink, he picked it up and took a quick swig. He then winced at the strongness of the drink, "Unusual" he thought, as the drink usually wasn't that strong.

"Kaythree, pull me up info on Epsilon's Capital, Dreshdea." Kaythree beeped, and the hologram of the Epsilon System dissapeared. Seconds later it was replaced by info on Dreshdea. Bacredi gently moved his finger over the City Layout. Seventy or eight towers came into direct view of Bacredi as other holograpic 'pages' went behind this one. Bacredi then stared at his computer again, typing a second more. Bacredi then thought: "I guess I'll sleep here..." Bacredi then began to type vigorously. Words spewed out of his mind like gumdrops, and he looked at the Epsilon City Plan and found some city scrapers. He then forwarded the brief to the Imperator, it would probably just get chopped in the junk folder or something. He then opened up the Yetton Folder. This would be a long night.

Two days ago:

Lukas was inside his quarters, sitting upon his bunk as he was writing upon his personal journal, enjoying some peace and quiet for the first time in a while. It was a couple of weeks since Operation: Typhus, but the images of war and battle were still fresh on his mind. It was something that he couldn't shake out of his mind, especially the destruction of the Imperian. That picture of an allied ship going down in a blaze of glory was still going back and forth through his mind like a spinning top. However, that horrid image did serve one purpose for him, and that's to carry those souls that were lost on Ios within his heart at all times as he went into battle. They deserved that much.

Just then, a sound came from his door in the form of the attention sounder. Lukas looked to the door as he stood up from his bunk and straightened up his clothing a bit. He needed to be presentable to whoever was on the other side of the door. He walked towards the door and pressed the button to open it, revealling the form of Ibram Tyrol on the other side. Within an instant, Lukas saluted him. "Hello, sir."

"At ease, Lukas. Can I come in?"

"Of course, si....I mean, Ibram."

Lukas had a right to be nervous as he stepped aside to let Ibram inside his quarters. It was the first time since Basic Training that a man of higher rank has visited him like this. He hoped that this visit wasn't anything to do in the form of bad news, but it was still something to behold nonetheless. The door closed behind them as Lukas looked at Ibram with a look that was mixed with seriousness and wonder. "What brings you here, Ibram?"

"Well, I'm here to give you some good news. With Tomas's retirement and Anden's condition, we have a hole to fill in Viper Squadron in the form of a Flight Leader for 3rd Flight. I would like you to have that honor."

Lukas's jaw nearly dropped to the floor as Ibram waited for his overall response to the proposal. Sure, Lukas had heard about Tomas's retirement, and he was there for the party that was totally out of sight. He also heard about Anden and his coma, and he prayed night in and night out that he would come out of it okay. However, this was a big bolt out of the blue. Me as a Flight Leader? Me? So many emotions flowed through him at once, but the main one that was brought out to the forefront was that of happiness as he took the box. "Ibram, I'm honored to be your new Flight Leader. I really don't know what to say."

"Say that you will do a great job."

"I will. Thank you, Ibram."

Lukas and Ibram shook hands as the SC took his leave of the room, leaving Lukas there to ponder with not only his thoughts, but his plans on what to do now. With this new promotion, it meant a lot more work and responsibility on his plate. However, with a smile on his face, Lukas knew that he was up for it.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today:

With a steady walk, Lukas nodded to a few of the crewmen that were a part of the Atrus's crew as he headed to the briefing room. Apparently, there was a new mission for the crew of Viper Squadron, and he couldn't wait to return to his TIE to fly in space once more. However, this one would be more significant to him because this would be his first mission as a Flight Leader. He would have to lead his own flight now, instead of following the command of another. Well, except for Ibram and Phin since they were of a higher rank than him. Was he nervous? Hell yes, he was, but wouldn't anyone who was just given a higher position? Of course, so he took it in stride.

Upon entering the briefing room, Lukas's eyes met his friend, Jacen, who jumped from his seat and headed towards him, all smiles on his face. "I heard the great news, man. Congrats on the promotion."

"Thanks, Jacen. I needed that from you."

"Hey, we're going to miss you in Second Flight. It won't be the same without you."

"Don't worry about it. You'll do fine with Phin and Blue on your side. Just remember that just because I'm in a new group doesn't mean that I'm going to ignore you. You're still a rookie, remember?"

Lukas and Jacen shared a laugh that was definitely needed in the moment. It shook out some of the butterflies that was in Lukas's stomach, and that was definitely a good thing. He needed to get into the swing of things as far as his newfound duties were concerned. One of them was approaching him at that moment as a droid appeared next to him and Jacen. Lukas looked at the droid with some curiosity in his eyes. "Can I help you?"

“Statement: Leading Crewman HK-61 reporting, sir. I am to be in your Flight, sir.”

"Have you confirmed of Type-1 sentience classification?”

"Statement: It was confirmed early by Squadron Commander Ibram Tyrol, sir."

"Then, I welcome you to the 3rd Flight of Viper Squadron. Have a seat, for the briefing is about to start."

"Statement: Sir."

The droid made its way to an empty seat as Jacen looked on to see Lukas. "Good luck with that one," Jacen said with a giggle.

"Thanks."

Both Jacen and Lukas took their seats as Ibram made his way to the podium, showing that the briefing was about to begin. This was going to be new territory for Lukas, and he was finally glad to enjoy the ride.

Darkness, that's how Jacen would describe the events that were unfolding lately. Everything was changing rapidly, he couldn't control it, but he wished he could. Though, since he had joined the Navy everything had seemed to be getting easier, or that's how it felt. The one thing you have to remember is wherever there is darkness there is light, you just have to find it.

He slowly headed back to his room, trying to hurry so that he wouldn't be late for the move to the Imperator. The halls were completely empty, the only sound that could be heard was the sound of Jacen's boots striking metal with every step. Thought swirled around in his mind Maybe Phineus was right maybe I do think to much, but I can't help it I like to work out problems. Specailly now, he had to fly with two new people, even with the experience he had gained with Anden he still didn't feel comfortable, it was all new territory.

He had already had some time to spend with Sicario, but that was to play a joke on Mira, even then though Phineus didn't seem like a bad guy; he just wanted to have fun, but at the same time he was serious about his job, after all he was a flight leader lives where in his hands. at least I know if my life is on the line. Regardless, Jacen still didn't know about Blue. He had been transfered from Kaph, and was pretty new to Viper, but still was an experienced pilot. It almost made him feel worthless.

Without even realizing it, Jacen almost passed up his room. He stopped and threw his hand into his pocket, pulling out a key card and swiping it through the slot in the door in almost one fluid movement.  The door opened before him with a hiss, startling him a little bit. The cold feeling of space surrounded him as he entered his room, he didn't mind after all he never spent much time in there anyway. It was a nice little area, but he would choose the living quarters of his YT back home than this place, even though they had their similarities.

“Alright, just grab you gun, and your helmet and get out of here.”He was already acting before he even reminded himself why he was in there. He swiped his pistol off the table and headed for the closet. He pulled the door open with is free hand, frantically searching for his helmet. “That's right, it's in my fighter, stupid.”

He headed for the door, almost running into his bed as he did. His Bulky pilots outfit made it hard to move as he wished, but he imagined it was a lot easier to maneuver in then the Stormtrooper armor.  He broke into a sprint has he headed out the door; almost missing the button to close his door, luckily he got it. The door snapped shut behind him.

Jacen ran down the hall as fast as he could. Dodging cleaning droids and the random passerby,  barely making it past them. I just hope I'm not going to be late for lunch.

Hangar 23-Zeta, SSD Atrus
Mission Day

Ibram sat on a munitions crate in the hangar, caf in one hand and some preliminary reports in the other.

The Squadron was making their final preparations for transferring over to the Imperator. The flagship for this operation was currently waiting with the rest of the task force off the Atrus’ stern. As was Viper’s tradition, they would fly themselves over to the ship, and the fleet would jump towards Epsilon.

“Me and HK have finished our preparations sir.”

Lukas, sporting his new ‘Flight Leader’ insignia, walked over to where Ibram was sitting.

“I tell you, that droid is an odd one. And the way he talks is kind of weird.”

“Yeah," Ibram said. "It’s a design quirk that the manufacturers decided to include in every model. I think it’s their version of a joke on the Galaxy.”

“Funny guys…”

Ibram heard a scream, and saw his XO running out from behind one of the ties, a pack of Gizkas chasing after him. One was carrying what looked like one of Mira’s bras.

Ibram chuckled to himself.

A few months ago, I would have gotten some weird looks for knowing that…

“Sir…this thing between Mira and Phineus has been going on all morning. Shouldn't you intervene.”

“Yes, yes I should.”

Lukas just stared at Ibram blankly as he sipped his caf.

“…are you going to intervene?”

“Probably not.”

“Why?”

“It’ll help… ‘break the XO in’, as they say.”

“Right.”

Ibram watched as Phineus’ T3 droid came to his rescue, stunning each Gizka into submission. He also noticed Mira standing off to one side, chuckling. She looked over at him, and quickly blushed and looked away again.

Lukas saw it as well.

“What was that all about?”

Ibram didn’t look up as he spoke.

“She’s feeling guilty.”

“Guilty about what?”

“About teasing the XO in front of me.”

“Why?”

“That’s none of your business Lukas”

“Are you and her…?”

“Inter squadron relations are frowned upon.”

“If you say so, but I looks to me like she’s got a thing for the XO. Back where I’m from, a girl would pull stunts like this to get a boys attention. I tell ya, with all the commotion she’s caused; she must want his attention bad.”

“Unfortunately Lukas, she wouldn’t know what she wanted if it came up to her, slapped her in the face and said ‘Hey, I’m what you want.’”

“You sound like you know her pretty well sir.”

“Probably better then she knows herself.”

Ibram looked up again. Mira was talking with Aleia, whilst Phin was doing some maintenance on TE. The Gizkas were lying where they had been stunned. Ibram couldn’t help but remember a time when she would be pulling stunts like that against him.

Not anymore… I’ve gotten too close…

Ibram had a feeling it had had something to do with the skipper, or ‘Thomas’ as he was now known as. Mira had hinted more then a few times that they had had something once, but something had happened. Coupled with his two near-death experiences, and this sudden departure from the Starfighter Corps, Mira was hurting bad. At first he had thought it was just her physical injuries, but now he wasn’t so sure.

With the skipper gone, and no-one but me in the picture, she’s worried that I’m getting too close. Now she’s found someone else to vent against… and she’s feeling guilty because of it…

Ibram shook his head. He didn’t need to worry about her. When she was ready, she would come and talk to him, in the mean time, he could sit back and enjoy his XO getting a taste of life according to Mira O’Riley.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carrack-class Cruiser Death by Degrees
In orbit around Epsilon

Lieutenant Laguna paced up and down his quarters aboard the Death by Degrees. A combination of length of service and a technicality of all things had placed him in charge of the system until help arrived.

He’d asked for something interesting, but not this. He stopped pacing and stared at the read out’s once again.

From what he could tell, and unknown faction whose numbers matched those of a small army have seized the Capital, along with the major spaceport. Smaller uprising were occurring all over the planet, but these seemed like more half-hearted affairs.

The local garrison had been quickly overwhelmed, and where now dug in at military bases and make-shift forts dotted around the outskirts. No demands have as yet been made, and luckily there had been no incidents like this elsewhere in the system.

Still… doesn’t make my job and kriffing easier…

The Death by Degrees, along with the other handful of military grade ships, had set up a (very loose) blockade around the planet, and now all they could do was wait, which Laguna hated.

He went over to his wall communicator and signalled the bridge.

“Any news?”

“No sir, nothing new. There’s still fighting going on in the capital, but now the enemy has the spaceport completely locked down. Colonel Garibaldi is digging in until the reinforcements get here, but he’s sent small parties out to try and assist the smaller towns and settlements.”

“Any news on when the reinforcements are going to show up?”

“No sir, Fleet Admiral Japheth said that he was putting a task force together. We should expect it within a day though.”

“Got it, thank you XO.”

A day…what do they expect me to do until then?

With only a handful of ships as his disposal, Laguna was worried that the situation could escalate out of his control fast. Luckily, no-one was trying to run the “blockade” that had been step up, but that could change.

He checked his chrono. Whilst it was only around the middle of the day in ship time, he had been on his feet for the past 12 hours.

I think I’ll get some rest…

No sooner had he laid down into bed however, his comlink started beeping.

“What is it?”

“Sir, I think you better get up here.”

“What is it?”

“Reinforcements sir.”

“But they’re not due for another day you said?”

“Not ours sir, theres.”

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SSD Atrus

“Ok everyone, gather round.”

Ibram was in the centre of the hangar, and slowly but surely, the rest of the squadron gathered around him.

“Preparations are complete, and we’re now ready to transfer over to the Imperator, it’s going to be heading out soon. One final announcement before we head out – there’s going to be a little twist to this mission.”

He directed everyone’s attention to the holo device sitting next to him. Stepping back a bit, he tapped a control on his own data pad, and suddenly the device came to life.

Mira frowned as she looked at what was being displayed.

“What is it?”

Ibram grinned, “This is the Scimitar-class Assault Bomber, courtesy of Sienar Fleet Systems.”

Phin whistled, and several other pilots raised their eyebrows in surprise. Mira, however, was still frowning.

“So?”

“So, Petty Officer O’Riley, this is what we will be flying during the up-coming mission.”

Ibram looked at each of the squadron members in turn, gauging their reactions. He’s kept this part of the mission secret, partly to do with orders, and partly because this was fun. He hadn’t even told his command staff.

“The designs for the Scimitar were…appropriated from the SFS R&D department by the Naval Intelligence division. This far into the unknown regions, it can be hard to keep up with the latest developments.”

Ibram didn’t know the details, but he did know that a few months ago, SFS was hit by an ‘unknown’ faction, and part of their R & D building was wiped out.

“We have 6 of these babies to play with, and they are the only 6 that the Vast Empire own at the moment. There have been other sightings of these vessels across the galaxy, particularly in Thrawn’s fleet, but high command wants to know how they handle.”

Ibram started walking around the holo-representation as he continued to address his squadron.

“The scimitar is 8 meters long, is and off shoot of the classic TIE design, and has a single elongated body as you can see. It’s only got one ion engine, hence why it isn’t called ‘TIE scimitar’ or something like that. It has one pilot, and one bombardier. In atmosphere it can reach speeds of up to 1,150 km per hour, and an additional 100 km per hour whilst dive-bombing. Its weapons included two laser cannons, concussion missile launchers, and chutes for thermal detonators and proton grenades. This is the ultimate planetary vessel this side of a patrol boat. It is lean, it is mean, and ladies and gentlemen, it’s all ours.”

He stopped his walk and turned to address them all.
“These models aren’t equipped with Hyperdrives, but we have added shields. Any questions?”

Lukas raised his hand, “Sir, you said there were 6 available, but there’s ten of us. That means we can only fill 5.”

“Good point Lukas. R & D likes even numbers, and 4 is too small to get an accurate analysis, so the 6th craft will be pilot by two experienced pilots from the Imperator. They’ll be temporarily under my command for this mission, and you’ll be able to meet them when we arrive.”

Mira, true to form, didn’t bother to raise her hand.

“Who will be paired with?”

Ibram looked over at her, and couldn’t help but wonder who she would prefer.

“Hasn’t been decided yet, I’m going to wait and see. When we transfer over to the Imperator, there will be some initial training simulations. Once I’ve gauged what everyone can and can’t do, then I’ll assign pairs, and you can practice together from there. We have some custom-made simulators to help us train with these, so try not to break them.”

“Will we get some live practice?” Phin asked.

“Not before we reach Epsilon, no. But depending on the situation there, we may be able to go over some simple manoeuvres.”

He checked his chrono, it was time.

“Ok people, time’s up. Any more questions are going to have to wait until we’re safely aboard the Imperator. Let’s move out.”

In a blur of motion, the pilots of Viper Squadron quick-timed it to their respective fighters, and powered them up for launch. Ibram couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride.

They were his pilots now.

OOC:

Check the Viper topic for further info. All posts from now on should concern us transferring over to the Imperator. Now simulator time yet please.

Phineus never felt so thankful for his natural born skill in the art of athletics. He had ran from one end of the Atrus to the other, and his thighs had still yet to burn. Luckily, his TK droid had zapped the gizkas, and he was now free to collapse to the floor and pant.

“I…” Phineus began, breathing heavily, “owe you one… TK”

Upon saying ‘TK’, Phineus once again was zapped. Every time he called the droid, it zapped him and began playing Boy George songs, something Phineus was least fond of. TK didn’t want to do it, and constantly apologized between zappings.

“Alright,” Phineus hesitated, “T3… Head over to maintenance, get yourself fixed, and then report to the med bay, I’ll be gone by then. Remember; keep a good eye on Tommy and Anden.”

TK whistled in embarrassment in being sent to get checked up, but took his job in making sure Anden and Tomas were ok with pride. He wheeled off, and Phineus knew TK would miss him, as would Phineus miss TK.

“Little buddy,” Phineus shouted out.

TK beeped questionably.

“Good luck, make sure you’re still active when I get back. Oh, and please, for the sake of me getting demoted, don’t cause too much trouble,” Phineus said sarcastically.

TK gave a beep of happiness, said his own goodbyes, and wheeled away. Phineus opened up a comm channel to Jacen Nexrak, better known as Ryno. Earlier, Phineus had felt some sort of distressing, heartrending, and poignant feeling seeping from Ryno’s pores. He couldn’t quite describe how he felt it or why, but all Phineus knew was that he almost felt what Ryno felt. It concerned Phineus to know that one of his flight member’s was having problems, and he always made sure his member’s were taken care of.

“Sir?” Ryno asked over the comm.

“Hey, Jacen,” Phineus made sure to call him by his actual name, to make it sound more personal. “Can you meet me in my office?”

“You have an office, sir?” Ryno said, half jokingly.

“Very funny, Jacen, you’ve got ten minutes,” Phineus said with a grin.

Phineus entered into his quarters and took a seat behind his medium sized desk. Engraved on the top of the desk was a green, menacing Viper Squadron insignia biting into a Rebellion insignia. Otherwise, it was as plain as the rest of the room. Phineus didn’t bother topping it with anything, he honestly had nothing. His Koroushi data pad was all that he needed, or wanted, he had a firm disgust for clutter. He opened up his mini-fridge and pulled out a bottle of vayerbok, and struggled down the thick, vegetable based beverage. Ryno knocked on Phineus’ door, and Phineus opened it with the control panel imbedded in his right arm rest. The door rose open, and Ryno saluted.

“At ease, Jacen, take a seat,” Phineus welcomed.

Ryno took the seat opposite the side of Phineus’ chair.

“So, what do you need, sir?” Ryno asked.

“In here, it’s Phineus,” Phineus stated, “did you get some rest last night?”

“Yes sir... er, Phineus. I slept pretty well.” Ryno replied.

“Good, would you like something to drink?” Phineus motioned towards his mini-fridge.

“Got anything good?”

“Some Darthwater and vayerbok.”

Ryno shook his head, “I can’t drink that sludge, but some water will be fine.”

Phineus chuckled, “It’s an acquired taste.”

Phineus opened up the mini-fridge and unscrewed the top on a Darthwater, and handed it to Ryno.

“Thanks, sir.” Ryno took a long swig of the water.

“Phineus, please. So, Jacen, have you run system checks on your TIE? We’ll be shipping out within the hours.”

Ryno narrowed his brow, “You know we don’t run system checks until we prepare to ship out.” Ryno was on to Phineus, “Why am I really here?”

Phineus nodded, “Ok, Jacen, I’ll get to the point. I’ve sense some distress in you.”

“Sensed?” Ryno pushed.

Phineus shrugged, he didn’t even quite know how he sensed anything, “Call it a feeling.”

“People feel lots of things.”

“Well, this was a strong feeling. I felt as though something troubled you.” Phineus tried to sound as worried as possible, and it didn’t take much trying at all.

Ryno shrugged, he wasn’t truly positive if Phineus was honestly worrying or not. “Nothing I can’t handle.”

Phineus took a long blink, “There’s something you’re not telling me. Look, just be honest with me. I won’t judge you, trust me, I’ve been through my fair share of down times.”

Ryno finally began to look a bit more comfortable, “I don’t know. It’s just, with all this change in the squadron, with Anden leaving, and now I’m flying with you and Zhar. It’s just,” Ryno hesitated, thinking of how best to word his muddled thoughts, “Well; it’s as if I spent all my life in a hot, crackling fire. And now, all of a sudden, I’ve been cast into the snowy banks of Hoth. It’s all so new, so alien to me. Then there’s Zhar getting transferred here, and you being the Executive Officer, I just feel so worthless, though I’m not quite sure why. It’s so many things but…”

Phineus interjected, “…you just can’t pin point it.”

“Exactly!” Ryno’s eyes widened, finally having someone else understand, “And with all this pressure of having to protect myself up there as well as others. And now that Fulfiller is gone, it’s like I’m doing it all alone.”

This guy is just like how I was, Phineus mused. Young, pressured.

“This sounds cliché, but I understand how you feel,” Phineus spoke as though he truly did know what Ryno was going through. “Look, you’re still nineteen; you can’t be expected to carry so much weight on your shoulders. But Jacen, you’re among friends here. Keeping your problems tucked away will only allow them to spring back up again. Fulfiller may be out of our flight, but he’s still in our squadron. Not to mention myself and Ibram, we’re all here for you.”

Ryno looked a bit less poignant, and a bit more eased. “I suppose you’re right.”

“Trust me, I am. I’ve been through a lot as well, more than my fair share to be honest. Jacen, if you need anyone, I’m always around to help. If you have any problems, Navy related or otherwise, just come see me.”

“I will, thanks Phineus,” Ryno sounded unconcerned for the first time all day.

Phineus nodded, “Alright, now go get your things together, Ibram will be prepping us soon.”

Ryno stood, the two exchanged salutes, and he left Phineus to himself. Phineus slouched back in his chair, trying to think of something other than Mira.

She’s so cute when she’s angry, Phineus mused, and so kriffing sexy.

Phineus couldn’t shake the picture in his mind of her from earlier, her soft lips that were merely centimeters from his. It was the point of his day that was sure, until she nearly knocked him out with just a squeeze of her fingers. She was powerful, cute, and one hell of a pilot. Just what Phineus liked.

A beep pinged in from Phin’s comm., he pressed the blinking green light.

“Go ahead, sir,” Phineus spoke, addressing Ibram.

“Mind shooting over to my office, we have some things to discuss before we head out.”

“No problem.”

Phineus closed the comm link, picked up his vayerbok, and headed for his Squadron Commander’s office.

-Later-

Phineus gave a quick double knock at Ibram’s door, “Wanted to see me, sir?”

Ibram was thumbing through his data pad, “Mm, take a seat.”

Phineus took a sip of his vayerbok, and sat across from Ibram, “Seat taken, sir.”

Ibram continued, still without looking up from his data pad, “I’ll be addressing the crew soon, we’ll then be preparing for take off. We’ll be flying some different fighters this time; they’re already stationed aboard the Imperator.”

Phineus cut in, “We’ll be taking a shuttle over there?”

“No,” Ibram finally looked up, tossing his data pad onto his desk, “no, we’ll be flying our TIE’s there.”

Phineus narrowed his brow in confusion, “Our TIE’s? What’s the point if they have their own fighters for us?”

“A safety precaution, just in case the Imperator’s fighters get damaged, or we find them to be of no use anymore.”

“No use? Is this some sort of special star fighter I don’t know about?”

Ibram grinned, “Exactly. You’ll find out with the rest of the squadron shortly. One more matter for you; I’ve notice Ryno’s expression has been a bit glum, can you handle it?”

Phineus smirked, “Way ahead of you sir, I have it covered.”

There was still some tension between the two, but it was beginning to clear up as much as it could.

“Aye, form up with the rest of the crew, I’ll be there shortly,” Ibram commanded.

Phineus took another swig of the thick juice and departed his office. Once he got to the door however, Phineus turned back halfway and addressed the question that was undoubtedly on both their minds.

“We ok, sir?”

Ibram looked up at Phineus, and nodded, “Yeah, mate, no worries.”

Phineus wasn’t quite sure how much he believed it, but the response was good enough for now. He knew that things will simmer down for now; both were professionals and both would go into the fight with clear heads. It was all just a matter of time.

-Later-

After Ibram’s speech concerning the Scimitars, the Viper pilots rushed off double time to their respective TIE fighters. Phineus took his time however, per his usual, as he climbed upward into the cockpit. Phineus plopped down into his seat, grinned and shook his head at the vast amount of stickers spread evenly throughout the ‘pit, and then fixed his gaze on the picture of his mother taped right below the view port. He took a deep breath as he sat in the canopy, staring at the picture.

I’ll need you for this one, mom, Phineus deeply contemplated. I’ll need you.

He was in such a deep thought process, he felt as though he was extending himself throughout the entire galaxy. He felt as if he seemingly was in such a deep trance, that the entire squadron could somehow feel the confidence and belief his emotions dictated. If they could somehow, he hoped it would be a motivator.
Comm chatter plagued the noise inside his helmet, inside the canopy, inside the TIE fighter. Phineus strapped himself in the crash webbing and fed his voice into the already heavy comm link.

“Alright, flight two,” He said addressing Blue and Ryno, “get yourselves warmed up with this flight over to the Imperator.”

“Aye,” Blue chimed.

“Aye,” Ryno chimed in as well.

Phineus thumbed some switches as the TIE fired up, letting the familiar humming of the engines smooth Phineus’ mind. The fighter lightly elevated off the Atrus’ hangar’s durasteel floor, and fully sparked to life. He lifted off, following the first flight’s departure, and led the way for flight two. As he piloted his TIE into the starry night sky, he yet again realized- as he always did again and again with each time he witnessed the universe’s pride and joy, the sky- just how much he loved it. How serene it was, the tranquil, comforting feeling it gave him that many other objects only seldom achieved. Flying was what Phineus lived for; it was his true, one and only love. What else would he need in the galaxy? He had his droids, his crew back on the Fortis, and he had the stars, the moons, the planets, and the sky. And he had it all to himself. Wherever he went, it was there. Whenever he needed it, it was right there awaiting him. It was the perfect relationship, he could want nothing more.

After a relatively short flight, the crew of pilots berthed in the Imperator’s hangar bay. Phineus gently lowered his TIE fighter, landed, and unstrapped his crash webbing. He lifted off his helmet and placed it down behind his pilot’s seat. He gave a soft kiss to two fingers of the leathery glove covering his robotic hand, and pressed them softly against the picture of him and his mother. No matter how many times he’s seen it, he never got tired or bored of the same two people… ever. It was the last eyeing memory he had of her, and he cherished it closely to his heart. Phineus climbed down the canopy’s hatch way, and dropped to the Imperator’s durasteel floor. It seemed, to Phin’s eyes at least, that each Imperial ship he docked in all had identical hangar bays, without the smallest of differences.

Viper squadron was immediately greeted by the staff of the Imperator, and were given a run down of where their sleeping quarters were, where the mess hall was, and that they would have roughly twenty hours before shipping off to start the mission. The flights were dismissed, albeit Ibram, whom was held back for administrative reasons. Phineus shot him a questioned look, and Ibram shot one back which showed that he had it under control, and did not need Phin’s services at the moment.

Phineus ungloved his left, human hand, and slipped the glove into his flight suites left most pockets. He ran his fleshy hand through his hair and down across his five o’clock shadow that was beginning to grow. The stubble was short and sharp against his fingers, and itched his hand against it.

Phineus took his time walking to the mess hall, hoping to get in a quick bite of breakfast before taking a quick nap to get his bearings. It’s not that he was tired, not necessarily, he just wanted some rest. Some time for his eyes and his mind to not have to work so hard. And on top of that, he needed his body to rest. It still ached horribly since Typhus; he didn’t know whether it was the crash landing or the insane piloting, but either way, he just needed some time to cool his heated body.

In the mess hall, Phineus was greeted by the entire squadron.
“Heeeyyy,” They all seemingly shouted at once.

“There he is,” Zhar said, welcoming Phineus with a firm punch on the shoulder.

“Um, did I do something?” Phineus asked with his brow raised.
Zhar shared a laugh, “We were just wondering when you’d show up, you were walking slower than a one legged rancor.”

Phineus’ face churned into a crooked smile, “Yeah yeah, can’t a guy think?”

“Careful,” Mira said as she passed ahead of him, a tray in her hands, “Don’t hurt yourself.”

Phineus gave her a look of minor embarrassment, combined with a sarcastic grin.

“Here you are,” Ryno said handing Phineus a tray of salad topped with Coruscant red wine Vinaigrette, with another plate homing a Bantha Breakfast Biscuit. “C’mon, our flight has its own mini-table.”

Phineus grabbed a bottle of Aitha on the way, and then plopped down in between Ryno and Blue. This was his second love; the comradery of it all, the excitement that stirred within the mess hall, the feeling of being surrounded by his closet friends. Viper squadron was a family, a dysfunctional family, but a family nonetheless. Phineus bit into his biscuit, sipped his Aitha, and began to smile and the jokes told by Blue. This was all the rest Phineus needed. 

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