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Slasher
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Slasher
 
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  VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 4, 2016 11:24:25 PM    View the profile of Slasher 
Captain Rorran 'Slasher' Gorma sat at his desk, he had been going over the reports from the training squadrons based aboard the Koom Valley, a Longhorn class Escort Cruiser currently carrying what is left of training command. The ship was crewed by a mix of the experienced officers and crewman who originally were part of the ship's compliment, numbering about 300, and 600 or so staff and students from the Naval Training Platform which had been abandoned after a devastating attack by their enemies left the station badly damaged and the majority of her systems failing.

The Koom Valley had responded to the attack on the station, providing much needed cover and protection, with over half of its crew perishing valiantly while the majority of the Naval Platform's personnel carried out their evacuation of the station in the assortment of smaller craft that were immediately available to them. Once they had escaped safely into hyperspace they were able to transfer everyone into the ship, where they had now temporarily set up shop. eventually into the ship itself where Training command had temporarily set up shop.

The fighters of training command had been stuffed into the hangar bay, and also spilled over into the cargo areas of the ship since their 36 fighters far exceeded the normal complement of a Longhorn class Escort. Slasher had just applied his authorization stamp to a series of reports on the performance of the newest batch of pilots, who had begun solo flights in their fighters the day before. He looked up in surprise as the proximity alarms began to blare and the ship sounded quarters followed by a request over the comms,

“Captain Gorma, please report to the Command Deck, Captain Gorma please report to the command Deck.”

Slasher walked onto the command deck and turned to the duty officer, “Lieutenant,” he addressed him, “Report.”

“Sir, unidentified ship came out of hyperspace just outside of our defensive perimeter, Cresh flight of the 987th Squadron was on patrol and have been ordered to intercept the ship and we are scrambling the rest of the Squadron, looks to be a Bothan Assault Frigate from the looks of it, but they are not currently responding to our hails.”

“Full power to shields, bring us closer, and have the gun crews stand to their stations. I want to find out what that ship is doing here. Continue hailing.”

“Aye Captain.”

“Sir, the fighters are reporting in, the targets long range comms are out but they have short wave and the TIEs are re-transmitting.”

“Put it through”

“This is Ensign Firekeeper, commanding the Frigate Valiant in service to the Vast Empire Navy, who am I speaking with?”

“This is Captain Gorma, commanding the Escort Cruiser Koom Valley, Chief of Naval Training for the Vast Empire Navy. What is your current assignment Ensign?”

“Sir, we are currently unassigned sir, limping home licking our wounds after a nasty fight.”

“Ensign, bring your ship along side and let me know what you need in the way of repairs, I'll have some engineers come over to help. I'm currently seconding your ship to the academy, and promoting you based on your prior service to the position of Executive Officer of the Academy, and Squadron Commander of the 203rd Training Squadron, which will transfer to your ship as soon as you are ready to receive them.”

“Yes Sir”

“Also, come aboard as soon as you can be spared, I wish to speak with you in person here.”

“Aye Aye Sir.”
CNT/CPT Rorran "Slasher" Gorma/VEN/VE
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Mustang21
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 5, 2016 1:54:30 PM    View the profile of Mustang21 
“Hey watch it punk!”
Jax stopped. He hadn't been paying attention. Walking down this uninteresting, crowded corridor in the equally uninteresting ship, he had been lost in his thoughts. Thoughts of the place he had called home since he left the Vast Empire.

It had been several weeks since he'd seen home, or spoken to his family. Several chaotic weeks of being shuttled around the VE. Typical bureaucratic BS. Walking down this corridor was really the first time he's had the opportunity to think about his home. A lack of something productive to do and sparse communication from anyone in charge coupled with the constant moving left him short on sleep and short on manners. He'd already belted one 'officer', if you could call the skinny snot nosed kid that, and it seemed like he was about to do the same again.

Jax, yes, his name was Jax. At least, it was now. He thought changing his name would be a great step towards preventing the VE from finding him. He need not have bothered. The two MP's who had shown up at his homestead door to re-activate him had let slip that the VE had always known where and who he was. Apparently, Moorja, had always had a VE presence. Secretly of course. A hidden military outpost even. He'd assumed the new identity and used it for so long he had decided not to go back to his original name upon re-activation. He was used to it.

The 'Lieutenant' he reported to at the outpost hadn't liked that one bit and told him that he was back in the VE and to forget about his pitiful waste of a farm life. Jax saw red at that and lunged for the officer, clocking him in jaw in the process. Nothing mattered more to him than his family and their home. It took four troopers to pull him off the unconscious brat and he was on a shuttle and off the planet within the hour.

Jax slowly turned around and glared at the fleet jockey wearing a pilots flight suit, “What did you say to me?”
The kids eyes widened a little at the look Jax gave him, “Uh, I said excuse me. I don't think you were paying attention and you ran into me”.
He replayed his trip down the corridor back in his mind. Yeah, he had done that. Oops
“My mistake.” He didn't apologize. “Where's cargo bay B?”, he continued glaring at the fleet jockey.
“It's that way” the kid quickly pointed.
Jax turned and walked towards where the kid pointed.

He hadn't even had time to report to anyone before the station was attacked. He was told pre-arrival that he was going to report to some Captain and be assigned to a squad for reintegration training into the VE Army. Well, so much for that. Shortly after he arrived, everything went straight to hell. As usual, it looked like he'd have to hit the ground running, sans rifle. Typical.

From the random talk he overheard walking aimlessly about the ship (the fleet pukes he talked to didn't know poodoo), he came to the conclusion that the Army personnel were being bunked in an overflow cargo bay. Tossed in there like sardines in a can. Typical fleet BS. Always treating the ground pounders like second class citizens.

Jax looked around at the personnel crowding the corridors. Mostly young, inexperienced looking greenies. He probably had more ops under his belt from his brief time in the VE Army and the Imperial Remnant before that then 90 percent of these baby fat cheeked little snot nosed brats put together.

Jax kept walking. Frak this ship. Where the hell is cargo bay B.
He saw a sign that said 'Aft Bay B this way <----'. He followed it. There it is. He spotted another being dressed in civies a few meters ahead of him, a being, he noted, with a distinctly Army trooper like gait.
“Hey buddy!” he called.
ETRP/PFC Mustang/4SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1RGT/Tadath/VEA

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[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 5, 2016 1:56:07 PM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 5, 2016 2:03:35 PM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 5, 2016 2:05:54 PM)]
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Rocketman
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 5, 2016 2:40:48 PM    View the profile of Rocketman 
Rocket looked and noticed that they were out of hyperspace the Frigate Valiant was not a bad ship of the line, but it had it's share of issue which was the first thing that Rocket had fixed when he got assigned to be the captain of it.

That was the VE as of late assigning Rocket to ships that needed a extra touch to get them ready to function in the fleet.

There had been a lot of his that needed his expertise, so much so that he hadn't been on a ship longer then six months before being moved again. This all started after he left the Academy apparently he pissed off some bureaucrat, and they deemed it necessary that the VEN Academy didn't need him as CNT anymore.

Could be worse could be on some god forsaken backwoods planet in charge of defense.

Rocket had got lucky in his career so far in the Navy this was just a hiccup on the long road that his career was.

“Sir we are picking up signals can't tell if they are friend or foe yet.”

“Well lets just hope its the former and not the later.”

“Well lets say hello.”

“This is Ensign Firekeeper, commanding the Frigate Valiant in service to the Vast Empire Navy, who am I speaking with?”

“The fighters are redirecting to their ship cause our long range is out.”
“Receiving reply.”

“This is Captain Gorma, commanding the Escort Cruiser Koom Valley, Chief of Naval Training for the Vast Empire Navy. What is your current assignment Ensign?”

“Sir, we are currently unassigned sir, limping home licking our wounds after a nasty fight.”

“Ensign, bring your ship along side and let me know what you need in the way of repairs, I'll have some engineers come over to help. I'm currently seconding your ship to the academy, and promoting you based on your prior service to the position of Executive Officer of the Academy, and Squadron Commander of the 203rd Training Squadron, which will transfer to your ship as soon as you are ready to receive them.”

“Yes Sir”

“Also, come aboard as soon as you can be spared, I wish to speak with you in person here.”

“Aye Aye Sir.”

Well wasn't expecting to run into the new CNT let alone way out here of all places.


==Sometime Later==

Running into a VE ship let alone the CNT was a surprise in itself of course after getting all of the engineers working on repairs, and coordinating with the  Koom Valley had been easier then was expected. Therefore with all the duties of the captain being done Rocket took a shuttle to head to see the CNT.
There are many aspects of the Force we have no knowledge of. The subject still requires further research and study.

XNT|LTJG Rocketman|VENA|VEN|VE [=*IM*=][=*NE*=][=BO=] (MC1)(NSR:H)(NT:H)(BWC)(NSR:1)(SOL)(SWC)(MC2)(LoM)(=A=)
Balac
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Balac
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 5, 2016 10:40:39 PM    View the profile of Balac 
Balac walked down the hallway towards the cargo bay, his thoughts gathering back to the last time he'd been on a ship in service to the Empire. The names and face of former friends and comrades in arms played through his mind, setting off a touch of nostalgia. A smile drew itself upon his face as all the memories came flooding back. It had indeed been quite some time ago. He hoped time had been good to them, and that perhaps he could one day, maybe even soon, see them again. His thoughts returned to the current situation starting a few weeks ago. He was visited in the early morning, while taking a stroll along a field on his farm checking the progress of his crops, by two men in non-descript dress although their stance, clearly military, gave them away.

"Imperials huh?" Balac greeted them. "It's been quite some time since I've stood on the frontlines with your people."

One of the men spoke, shorter yet similarly built to Balac himself, "Good morning Sergeant, we're here with-"

"I haven't held that rank in a long time now, I do believe you may have mistaken me for someone else." Balac interrupted calmly, his eyes steadily boring into the shorter man's.

"Now, now Sergeant no reason to get riled up. Someone in charge must think highly of you to send us all this way. Your dossier clearly shows you as a person of interest to us and the interest is this: elements of the Vast Empire are moving together and former high value members such as yourself are requested to meet with them."

A thin smile split the Mandalorian's face, "You assume that our interests coincide."

The good humor fell from their faces, "We assume that you know how to follow orders. Your orders are as follows. You've been reactivated into service with the Vast Empire. We have a transport waiting that will take you to a station to await further orders and from there meet up with these elements."


He chuckled quietly to himself at the memory, he always had been stubborn.

"Hey buddy!" A voice rang out, causing Balac to jump slightly as he was torn from his thoughts. He turned around, letting a practiced eye scan over the man approaching him, as a hand thoughtlessly touched over his cheeks, once covered with a beard but now bare.

"Good day," Balac replied extending his hand, "my name is Ven, although most call me Balac."

"Jax." The man replied, extending his own hand and giving a firm handshake. They continued walking towards the cargo bay, "I was told to report to Cargo Bay B and await a commanding officer for further orders. That wouldn't happen to be you, would it?"

Ven smiled,"Oh no, I'm in the same boat as you. A mushroom some might say." He laughed loudly at his own words, the sound echoing above the general din of the cargo bay they had just entered. The pair of reactivated troopers looked around, eyes searching for anyone of interest or familiarity.

OOC:
Just a short introductory post bringing Balac in
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ETRP/SSG Balac/()/Wildcard/Phoenix/VEA/VE
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Pirunir sur'haaise!
Slasher
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Slasher
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 6, 2016 9:39:19 AM    View the profile of Slasher 
Slasher stepped off the command deck of the Koom Valley and into the lift, he absently thought about recent events and what his next course of action would need to be since there had been no communication with Naval Command for several weeks at this point. His mind made up he decided that the time had come to get things moving.

Once Slasher had reached his office he had sent out several quick messages as follows.

To: Master Chief Petty Officer Razkin

Have the 627th prepare for action, report to office of Task Force Commander, TF: Thresh, Fourth Fleet for briefing on upcoming mission.

To: Senior Sergeant Ven,

Report to office of Commander, TF: Thresh, Fourth Fleet, for briefing on upcoming mission, have your troopers begin equipping for a mission on a planet with a Type I atmosphere, an agricultural world with mining operations, medium resistance expected, possible ion interference may be encountered. Bring Private First Classes Tetrarch and Mustang21 with you as well

To: Lieutenant Junior Grade Firekeeper

Report to office of Commander, TF: Thresh, Fourth Fleet, for briefing on upcoming mission. Bring you chief weapons officer.



---40 minutes later---

“Thank you for joining me gentlebeings, reminder, this briefing is classified as need to know. You may share information as needed with the members of your unit. But do not advise the general crew.”

“As I'm sure you are aware, we have been having some supply shortages of late, both due to the sudden nature of our departure, and the simple fact that we have been unable to resupply for several weeks now, and will need extra supplies if we are to retake any of our glorious empire.”

The image of the planet Moorja comes into place on the holographic display.

“We will be making a raid on the planet Moorja, with the primary goal of recovering both foodstuffs from the surface and equipment resupply from their small orbital transfer facility. We expect moderate resistance...”

OOC:
Please read the discussion post for instructions for your next posts those mentioned
CNT|TFC|SCAP/CPT Rorran "Slasher" Gorma/LEC Koom Valley/TF: Thesh/4th Fleet/VEN/VE
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[This message has been edited by Slasher (edited November 6, 2016 6:57:36 PM)]
Tetrarch
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 6, 2016 7:18:50 PM    View the profile of Tetrarch 
The problem, Cathal reasoned, was that the holovids and propaganda never really told you the truth. He'd been recruited straight from Coillte with the promise of glamorous Imperial service, returning home to a hero's welcome, restoring order and helping to make the galaxy a better place.

The truth was quite a bit different. Since his first deployments off-world, he'd been involved in numerous firefights, boarding parties, police actions, and executions. Of which a disturbing amount had been directed against rival Imperial forces. He wasn't a political expert but he knew there had to be something wrong when his shuttle escorts had been jumped by rival TIEs, denouncing their flight group as traitors. He'd been one of dozens cowering in their shuttle seats while their fighter cover duelled with the attackers.

They'd been filed off the transport to assemble in formation and to swear an oath of allegiance to the Vast Empire. Not the Empire, nor the Second Empire, the First Order, Eternal Empire, or any of the other splinter factions. He'd taken the oath to the Vast Empire without much protest, most of them had. The presence of armed personnel in the hangar had made sure the new recruits stayed docile.

His baptism of fire had been against Imperial counter-mutineers. His platoon had been part of the “pacification”. They'd stormed a barracks and executed the commanding officer before extraction. After that he'd been involved in anti-piracy operations and also survived a surprise NR attack. One in which he'd experienced first hand that the so-called Rebellion was in fact better equipped than many peripherary Imperials.

The last action was a perfect case in point. Brutal, close-in fighting which sometimes came to hand to hand when they got in close. Reb had been smart and tough. Landing boarding teams on the station while their ships moved in to engage the pickets. Teams had gone straight for the bridge and engineering. It had been utter chaos.

He'd made it to a transport thanks to some unnamed hero with an incinerator. The wave of superheated chemicals and flame had bought a few seconds for him and a few others to scramble to escape pods. They'd been picked up by the Koom Valley which had stayed on station to extricate as many survivors as they could. He'd made it out. Plenty of others hadn't.

The ship was overcrowded, all available space given over to cramming in more personnel or equipment. There were people bunking in corridors and cargo holds. The mood was sombre, anyone aboard knew they'd been lucky to make it out. But now they were looking onto a future with little light on the horizon.

He wasn't sure if any of his section had made it out. He'd been fighting with an ad hoc group of counter-boarders, trading shots with Rebel marines while conflicting orders were shouted across the comms. Right now the reorganisation was a mess, trying to sort out who was able to walk, shoulder a blaster, who wasn't a nervous wreck after the disaster their last action had been.

Still fit and miraclously unscathed, Cathal wasn't surprised when the order came for him to report in. “Copy that, Swamprat en route” he responded into the com. It was only a matter of time before the next thing happened.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Muireach Buide winced and massaged his shoulder with a grimace. His arm still ached and he was forced to have it in a sling for another couple of weeks. He was off the flight list and on support duty till further notice. He was lucky to be alive, he knew that but it still stung to know he'd be shipbound while other pilots did their duty. A sly cowardly voice was happy for it, he might enjoy just a few more days of life.

Bomber pilots tended to have shorter lifespans than their fighter compatriots. They flew larger, slower, and less agile craft to much more obvious targets. The fighters got celebrated for their kill count while the bombers got grudging praise at best. Nonetheless, he'd still chalked up a few kills on the scoreboard and there was a certain feeling of pride when a squadron got to mark on the roster a capital ship kill. And Buide had always consoled himself with the fact that it was the bombers helping win the war, not some fighter jocks.

But for now his contribution would be administrative. His good arm clutching a dataslate, he watched as those summoned filed into the briefing room. It was an eclectic mix, not just officers. The current situation meant there were a lot of vacancies. He'd heard rumours of a former corporal having been thrust into platoon command. And not all of them were unscathed, quite a few sported injuries. Desperate times called for desperate measures, if you could walk you were on duty.

Slasher took charge of the briefing and Muireach let his gaze run along the along the crowd, trying to note faces and even nodding once or twice when he caught one he recognised. Far too many ones he didn't know. 

"Welcome ladies and gentlemen" he was surprised by how calm his voice sounded. "I've got good news and bad news" it wasn't a joke, just simple fact. He indicated the briefing screen as Moorja loomed menacingly. "As you've heard, we're going to be mounting a raid to secure supplies. Our primary objective is to seize any material we can that is vital to our war effort. Do not, I repeat not lose sight of this goal. This isn't a chance for you to score on the killboard".

His hand moved on the dataslate to bring the orbital transfer facility into view. "The assault will be two-pronged. Our situation is desperate enough that we don't have the strength nor the luxury of time to go after targets one at a time. Therefore we will be moving on both this facility and planetside simultaneously. This will be a joint Army and Navy operation so close cooperation and communication will be necessary at all levels. Liaison officers will be attached to various commands to ease this".

Another swipe, the picture changed to show the estimated opposition. "We have surprise on our side but that doesn't mean the opposition will be a pushover. The Rebs are well armed and their response will be swift. The longer you're engaged, the harder it's going to get. ETA response times for heavier units like armour will be posted as soon as it's available." He grimaced as he indicated their own, comparatively slender force. "The operation might seem ad hoc but we have to accept the realities of the situation. You'll be working alongside new faces. Remember that you're men and women of the Empire, any pissing issues of seniority can be sorted back on board. Callsigns and unit designations will be posted soon, along with the relevant com channels and codes."

His smile twitched once for a second before disappearing. "Thankfully for once we have reliable intel on the ground. I'm going to turn it over to our mission specialist Callsign "Mustang". He'll go over some of the more unique factors you'll have to deal with on this world.". Muireach took a step back and gestured for him to step forward with his free hand. "Jax?"
[STC] Private 1st Class Cathal "Swamprat" Mckarthaigh.
[This message has been edited by Tetrarch (edited November 6, 2016 7:22:25 PM)]
Mox
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 6, 2016 7:40:59 PM    View the profile of Mox 
“Mox”

The word tasted strange. It left the mouth wanting, but not for more. Not conventionally. As if something wasn’t finished. As if the soul behind that word was left incomplete.

He wasn’t sure if he was the person under that callsign anymore. It felt to him more like a character that he discarded the moment it wasn’t useful to carry on with. Throughout the last three years he went by many names in different parts of the galaxy, sometimes simultaneously. But it left him empty. No man can endure having not an identity for too long. Something to call his own, even if it was to be ultimately intangible.

Is this who you are?

A pop up.

--[Head to the armoury and equip for a standard assignment in a Type-I atmosphere. ~Kando]--

Ven ‘Balac’ Kando was one of the higher ranked individuals amongst them. A senior sergeant with a proven record, rising through the ranks upon joining the old Vast Empire with speed, before departing with an honourable discharge. I wouldn’t be surprised if he became our Squad Leader.

The veteran RAIDER loaded up the map of the ship on the datapad. Taking a few seconds to survey it, he located the Armoury. SCOPE or Storm? he thought as he got up and put the device in his belt pocket . He was still dressed in the clothing he had on when he docked into the Koom Valley[i]. He monitored his fighter’s status, and it didn’t move since then either. [i]It’s not like we docked anywhere ourselves for them to unload it.

Why are you here?

The young slicer left the bunk hall and started making his way over to the aforementioned storage room, his mind mostly blank. The corridors he went through were crowded, with crewmen and fighter pilots running back and forth. The air had the taste of oil and coolant, a smell commonly found on military ships built for efficiency and not comfort.

The equipment store wasn’t far from the bunk hall they were located in. Those usually store equipment for the stationed marines to protect against boarding. Wonder if they’ll have any ‘nades he thought as he pressed the button for the door. The men inside didn’t turn to him. He didn’t recognise them. Marines, changing shifts.

The ship's armoury was an average one. Racks of weapon lined a wall, cratefuls of weapon mags and miscellaneous equipment along the other. On the far end there was another set of doors. Inside there were more racks, this time with armour. The bearded man walked over to that second room, stopping at the doorway. Standard issue Stormtrooper equipment. he thought as looked over the rows of armour, his lips pursing. He glanced at the crates No frag grenades, as expected. Wouldn’t want to accidentally cause a leak or something.

As he started stripping a few more troopers entered the room. He didn’t turn to greet them, and they didn’t acknowledge him. Glancing over he saw that these men were earlier with him in the makeshift quarters they were stationed in. We’re probably going to be in the same unit.

Who even are you?

The Stormtrooper Armour was quite different to what he used to wear. The parts weren’t too comfortable, and didn’t interlock as well as the SCOPE armour he used to wear. How am I going to scale in this? the man lamented as he strapped the arm plates and put on the bracers. I wonder if any of those sets survived the collapse…

20 minutes later the Corporal callsigned Mox exited the equipment store in full gear.
This is who you’ll become.

OOC:
WC: 608
Derp. I presume that the main body of our squad is not in the briefing, given that specific people were summoned.
Since I don't know anybody else who is going to post besides the 4 of us who did already, I've not included anyone by name. I have however made it clear that the rest of the unit is gearing up.
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Faithful 'til the End
Faithful? More like crazy...
CPL Mox/VEA/VE
[DT] [RAWR] [ECA] [QW 12] (WtR) [ESC-12] [SoC] [AS-3] A10 (5.1) A17
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If you're thinking of putting me in a leadership position, for the sake of the entity I would be leading, reconsider.
[This message has been edited by Mox (edited November 10, 2016 11:29:42 AM)]
Mustang21
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 6, 2016 11:38:53 PM    View the profile of Mustang21 
"Good day," Balac replied extending his hand, "my name is Ven, although most call me Balac."

"Jax." The man replied, extending his own hand and giving a firm handshake. They continued walking towards the cargo bay, "I was told to report to Cargo Bay B and await a commanding officer for further orders. That wouldn't happen to be you, would it?"

Ven smiled,"Oh no, I'm in the same boat as you. A mushroom some might say." He laughed loudly at his own words, the sound echoing above the general din of the cargo bay they had just entered. The pair of reactivated troopers looked around, eyes searching for anyone of interest or familiarity.

Jax quickly glanced at Balac. Definitely Mandalorian.
Shortly after entering the cargo hold, a fleet trooper standing near an access terminal started walking towards the pair with a datapad in his hand. He had that determined look on his face that said he about to ruin Jax's day. Inwardly, Jax cringed. Oh somebody kill me now. He rolled his eyes. Just get it over with already.

The trooper stopped in front of Balac. “This is for you Sergeant”, he said as he handed the pad over to him.

“Hmm, right.” Balac said with a grimace.

“You get some orders?” Jax asked him.

“Indeed” Balac replied.
“I don't suppose you have some of those for me as well?” Jax asked, looking at the fleet trooper.

“Actually,” said Balac, causing Jax to turn his gaze back to the man. “You do. In fact, you're the mission specialist.”

“The mission wha?” Jax gestured to the datapad, “Can I see that?”
Balac handed the pad over. Jax read the pad, then he went back and read it again.

“Are they serious with this crap?” he said to no one in particular.

“Looks pretty serious to me.” replied Balac. “It's got a Captains signature on it and everything”.

He handed the datapad back to the trooper, “I can't go on a raid to Moorja. I live there!”

“Well ain't that a kick in the pants” the nameless fleet trooper chuckled.

Jax glared vibroblades at him. “I can't attack my home planet. I'd never be able to show my face there again”.

“Orders are orders Jax.” Balac told him. “You're re-activated now. You have to do what you're told. The way I see it, you have two choices here. You either do the mission, or refuse orders and get put in the brig.”

Jax thought about it. He had a flash of insight. Or I could give them a third option. “I see your point Balac, er Sergeant, that is”. Balac grinned.

“Well , those orders said report immediately to the Captains briefing room” Balac said, gesturing to the door.

“Lead the way Sergeant.” Jax replied, a smile on his face. If he did this right, he could kill two or three mynocks with one laser blast.

“You go ahead Jax. I have to contact another trooper and get him to the meeting” Balac told him.

“Roger that Sergeant” Jax replied. He started toward the exit and quickly walked back over to the fleet trooper. He snatched the datapad out of his hand “Hey!” the trooper yelled at Jax as he sprinted out of the bay. “I need to borrow this!” Jax yelled over his shoulder. “You'll get it back!”

He reached a turbolift and keyed for the Captains briefing room. He quickly dropped his gaze down to the datapad and grinned furiously as his fingers flew across the screen.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~A short time later in the Captains briefing room~

"Thankfully for once we have reliable intel on the ground. I'm going to turn it over to our mission specialist Callsign "Mustang". He'll go over some of the more unique factors you'll have to deal with on this world.". Muireach took a step back and gestured for him to step forward with his free hand. "Jax?"

“Here's goes nothing”, Jax said under his breath as he stood up and walked to the front of the room.
He found the holoprojecter and plugged his datapad in.
The screen flickered and a large farming production and distribution facility appeared. “As Captain Slasher said, I am the mission specialist. The reason for this, is because Moorja is my home plant”.

There were several quick whispers and mumbles from the assembled people.

“There's really nothing spectacular about Moorja. It's an out of the way planet with a population of less than 50,000 beings. Everything on the planet revolves around farming, food production, and shipping that food off planet. That's what makes it such a great target for raiding. There are basically warehouses full of food everywhere.” Jax cleared his throat and pressed a button on the holoprojector. What appeared on the screen was a picture of the planet from space.

Imperial Network Star Wars Image

“There are however, severe ion storms on the planet which appear at random and last for varying amounts of time. That makes it pointless to own and operate most advanced galactic technologies. The storms fry them. You won't find any repulsor vehicles nor will you find very many droids. The people here are mostly simple farmers, in the fertile plains regions, and forest dwellers who gather specialty fruits. Neither group has enough of an income to invest in the shielding tech it would take to make advanced galactic tech functional.”

“Private” Captain Slasher said.

“Yes Sir?” Jax replied.

“You said severe ion storms. Is that going to effect communications with anyone we send planet side?”

“That's Affirmative Sir. Wireless communications on the planet is almost impossible and should not under any circumstances be relied upon. People on Moorja have learned to live in isolation due to this. Which makes raiding any isolated facility that mush easier. You're pretty much guaranteed not to have to worry about reinforcements.”

The Captain nodded, “Continue private”.

“Yes Sir. ” Jax said. “Please watch this short holovid.” He pressed another button on the projector and the image changed to a video of a farming production and distribution center. Large pieces of tracked and wheeled farming equipment could be seen cultivating the fields of fenti beans and ruva grains. Other vehicles were loading grains into and out of shipping trucks. Trucks were unloading their produce into large warehouses and still other vehicles could be seen moving out of other building and over to a small space port to waiting transports who took off for atmo after they were full of product. The video ended.

Someone whistled.

“That's a serious production facility.” Sergeant Balac said.

“Indeed it is” said Jax. “ AF Holdings is one of the largest and most productive, independently owned food stuff production and distribution facilites on the planet. It also has one of the best trained security contingents on the planet. Around a hundred security personnel with a dozen ground support vehicles. It also has a small fleet for transport and security as well. Eight YZ-775 freighters for transport, and two Corellian Corvettes and four Bothan Assault Frigates for security, plus their fighter compliments. Gentlemen, this is our target.”

The room was silent.

A few moments later, Captain Slasher spoke up. “Private, I don't know if you've taken a look around lately but our meager forces are not properly equipped, nor do we have the personnel necessary to attack and hold such a facility long enough to get the supplies we need. Especially when you consider we don't have a chance in hell against a fleet even that small. And coordination through communications with a ground assault team is essentially impossible.”

Jax grimaced in response to the Captains tone. “I know that Sir. That's why we don't attack the facility at all.”

“What”, “Huh”, “I don't understand”, came from several of those in attendance.

“OK, I give up private. Get to the point. Just how are we supposed to accomplish this mission?” Captain Slasher asked in an annoyed tone.

Jax winced. “Simple Sir. We just show up and take what we need. Because it's mine.”

Slasher and Muireach looked at each other and the Captain stood up. “What do you mean it's yours?” said Captain Slasher.

“AF Holdings stands for Aramis Family Holdings. It's my company. I own it.” Jax pressed another button on the holoprojector and a file displaying the ownership information and inventory for AF Holdings appeared on the screen.

“On behalf of the Aramis Family and by my oath as a stormtrooper in the Vast Empire Army, I hereby pledge the production, distribution, and supply of this facility to the support of the resurrection of the Vast Empire”.
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 6, 2016 11:46:19 PM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 6, 2016 11:56:52 PM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 7, 2016 8:29:37 PM)]
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Rocketman
ComNet Member
Imperial Benefactor

 
Rocketman
 
[VE-NAVY] Lieutenant Junior Grade
 
Post Number:  525
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 7, 2016 7:25:49 PM    View the profile of Rocketman 
==After the Meeting on board the Koom Valley==

Rocket looked at his weapons control officer and prepared himself for the response that she was about to give.

“So they expect us to manage with only two ships. What if another fleet jumps in?”

“Well the planet we are going to isn't really a strategic one. As far as that goes, I think the only thing we will have to worry about is if pirates decide to crash the party.” replied Rocket.

There were two people Rocket could always count on. They had followed him to the same duty stations as he after his time at the Academy. His XO Penny Hellray, as well as his weapons control officer  Rinka Hayami. Both of these officers had a tendency to voice their opinions when they disagreed with their orders. Previous commanders did not like this, but Rocket tolerated it. More often than not their ideas always helped the situation turn out for the better. Rocket figured command kept rotating them under his command due to their perceived insubordination. An opinion he did not share with the higher ups. The three of them worked well together. Any perceived issues of insubordination in the past had been left behind. Their opinions mattered to him. He appreciated the multiple view points and ideas it gave him in handling almost any situation.

“So is that all you've got to say?” asked Rinka.

“There's plenty I could say, but is it worth even saying? Not really, we have a mission and we'll do it to the best of our abilities.”

“Is that how you always see things Sir?”

“Well yes. There's only so much a person can do, mind you. When you work as a team, you can accomplish much more.”

“Well I guess I will start running drills for the gunners then.”

As Ms. Hayami walks away Rocket notices his XO.

“So how'd it go?” she asked.

“Well, we've got ourselves a mission. That's how things stand currently.”

“Okay, I will get the crew working on drills then.” His XO walked away and started giving order to the rest of the crew.

Rocket clasped his hands behind his back and turned back to the viewport. He looked at the Koom Valley. He could see some battle damage left over from the attack on the Academy. The engineers on both ships still had their hands full with repairs.
There are many aspects of the Force we have no knowledge of. The subject still requires further research and study.

XNT|LTJG Rocketman|VENA|VEN|VE [=*IM*=][=*NE*=][=BO=] (MC1)(NSR:H)(NT:H)(BWC)(NSR:1)(SOL)(SWC)(MC2)(LoM)(=A=)
[This message has been edited by Rocketman (edited November 7, 2016 7:28:29 PM)]
Zippy
ComNet Member
 
Zippy
 
[VE-ARMY] Lance Corporal
[VE-VEMC] Private First Class
 
Post Number:  542
Total Posts:  564
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Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 8, 2016 8:08:35 PM    View the profile of Zippy 
Zippy headed to the armory to go over gear, he sat there in deep thought for a minute pondering his career. What a landslide it had been. The adventures he participated in, the people he had met. Some a little more, hygienic than others. He would never forget what got him to this point, for the memories that he carried were one of the many reasons he had to keep pushing on. Everything from being teamed up on heavily populated planets with his droids he had purchased, or on missions with his comrades, they all had a special place in his heart.

"I honestly can't get over how I got here in the first place. All I know is, I need a drink, some decent gear, and something to shoot at."

Zippy made his way over to the armory to browse on the little gear that was here. Along the way, he walked past a few others who had made there way onto this ship. Less than savory looking characters some of them, while others appeared to be your run of the mill people. Clearly, some had been veterans who have been around for quite some time and have seen their fair share of bloodshed and battles. It was the veterans like him that he had the most respect for, but that didn't mean he neglected newer recruits. They had a spark of ferocity in them that Zippy admired.

He soon arrived at the armory. Nothing to high end. Basic Storm Trooper armor and the like. He took a moment to think of the gear he really wanted to obtain once more and wondered if he would ever get what he craved so badly.

"Is this truly all there is for gear? Low on grenades, or any form of heavy weapon from what I can see. Such a shame. So much for that Heavy Weapons Specialist perk I earned. Ah well. Even basic gear can be good for something in the right hands. I really hope there isn't anyone here with a loose trigger finger. Lord knows I don't need to deal with that again."

As he made his way around the room, he noticed a few other troopers in their standard armor, a few talking to each other while others were simply double checking their equipment. In truth, even Zippy knew this gear was for repelling boarding actions, not exactly made for raids. Again though, he had to keep reminding himself that all gear had purpose and when given to someone who can think outside the box, it could be used to terrible effect.

"Well, this is one adventure that I'm looking forward to. It's about time to get this party started."

As he finished saying that aloud, he noticed that sounded a little on the lame side.

"I need to shoot something. Bad...."


OOC:
About 500 words or so. Small post, but enough to get me in the mix a bit
Lance Corporal Zippy
Private First Class of the VE Marine Corps
TRP/LCPL Zippy/1SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1RGT/VEA/VE [ECA] [LM]
Eclipse Squad
"Strike first. Fast, exact, secure.
Imperial Network Star Wars Image
[This message has been edited by Zippy (edited November 8, 2016 8:09:43 PM)]
[This message has been edited by Zippy (edited November 8, 2016 8:10:26 PM)]
[This message has been edited by Zippy (edited November 8, 2016 8:16:27 PM)]
Slasher
ComNet Member
 
Slasher
 
[VE-NAVY] Captain
 
Post Number:  980
Total Posts:  1054
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 9, 2016 5:53:37 PM    View the profile of Slasher 
Slasher watched the briefing impassively, his thoughts temporarily moved elsewhere as the other members of the briefing team went over the additional information that they would need to be prepared for their mission. Once those elements of the briefing were completed Slasher again had taken the floor.

“Now, although we have received a promise of support from AF Holdings, the truth of the matter is that unfortunately the area is currently controlled by Pirates, and we do not know for sure what forces they will have in system at the time, and how hard we will have to fight to take their facilities back.”

Manipulating the holoprojector, Slasher started to outline the plan of attack.

“Our plan is to come out of hyperspace almost in orbit of the planet. This way if there are any pirates or other forces in system they will be surprised by our arrival.”

With a slight manipulation of the holoprojector's controls several markers appeared designating ship and unit locations in system for when they come out of hyperspace.

“The TIE Avengers of the 987th Squadron will be jump in system with the capital ships, providing immediate fighter cover while the remaining squadrons on both ships will launch once we enter the system.”

The second squadron highlights.

“The 627th Squadron will launch immediately and provide escort and cover for the ground forces while they move in to secure the AF Holdings properties.”

Finally, the third squadron highlights.

“The 203rd Squadron will provide cover and support for the Valiant while the 987th will be assigned both to support the Koom Valley and in the event we engage fighters will have the primary assignment of Fighter cover denial to our opponents.”

The two capital ships highlighted next

“The Valiant and Koom Valley will have two-fold assignments, first, if there are any enemy ships in system, then they must engage them and either destroy them or drive them off. Boarding actions, while possible, will be a secondary priority at this time as the majority of our equipment will be engaged in ground actions and unavailable.”

Slasher deactivated the holoprojector, and turned to face those assembled.

“Now I'm sure we are all used to operating with much more information than we have now, but unfortunately with our forces as fragmented as they are at this time, we did not have any assets we could spare to scout the system more thoroughly.”

“And one final word, I want everyone to remember that until circumstances show otherwise we are representatives of the Vast Empire coming to secure our interests in AF Holdings, if there are no enemies showing, we are to remain at Alert Condition 2 in all commands, and our Ground Forces ROE is to fire only if fired upon. Now in the event that you do become heavily engaged, it is up to the commanders on scene to make any changes to those rules of engagement as some interference between the ground forces and the capital ships is expected due to the Ion Storms.”

“With that this briefing is concluded, we jump in four hours, make excellent use of your remaining time. Dismissed.”

=== H Minus 3.5 Hours===

Crewman Traln looked around the crowded crew compartment of the Lambda-class Shuttle Tycho, the Koom Valley was currently carrying three, their cargo holds full to the bulkheads of everything that had been successfully evacuated from above Abrae, although there was apparently no rhyme nor reason to the equipment that had made its way onto the Koom Valley. Traln had just thrown a case out onto the deck at the foot of the boarding ramp, full apparently of Imperial Boxer Shorts, Standard Issue, Size M, L, XL where it joined other cases labeled variously including Datapads, 14ct, C-22F 32ct, Lung Blaster, 20pk, 1000 units, and more.

===H Minus 2.5 Hours===

Leading Crewman Sinald stood and scratched his head, he had a bunch of these cases labeled as SCOPE that he had been pulling off of the Lambda-class shuttle Vagrant but had no idea what they were. Maybe the deck officer would know and let him know where to put them. He pulled the last one out of the shuttle, set it aside, and went looking for Ensign Girna.

===H Minus 1 Hour===

With less than an hour left they had run out of time to unload the shuttles, and the last few cases remained on board the Lambda-class Shuttle Loose Latch, four cases sat against the forward bulkhead to the pilots compartment. The two in the front state Rations- Standard but the third states E-, but the rest is obscured by a case sitting on top stating Portable Fusion Generator.

===H Hour: Bridge of Koom Valley===

The Helmsman counted down,

“Reversion in 3.. 2... 1...”

The Koom Valley reverted to realspace in formation with the Valiant and aboard both ships Fighters and shuttles began to launch, filling the space around them as sensor reports began to pour in.

“Captain, we have ships in sector 3-2, I read 4 capital ships, Frigates I believe, Two Corvettes, and eight smaller vessels, appear to be freighters.”

“Any indications on their affiliation?”

“Two of the Frigate, they are Bothan Assault Frigates sir, come back as the Looter's Lift and the Bountiful Brigands Sir, Pirate vessels both. With the Corvettes indicating as the Backstabber and the Bloodlust. The Lift has launched fighters, as has the Brigands, the other vessels read as AF Holdings vessels, but they have raised shields and assumed aggressive postures towards us as well, safe to assume they are currently under the Pirate's control as well.”

Slasher turned and began to issue orders,

“Move to Alert 1. Have available Fighter squadrons engage the incoming fighters, have the Valiant move into broadside position, you as well Helmsman, I want as much energy downrange as possible until they are in range and begin maneuvering. Continue with landing operations as well, I want the AF Holdings vessels captured intact.”

“Captain, there's another ship coming into sensor range... Mother of... it's a Mon Cal Star Cruiser!!!”

“Comm, Transmit packet D-1, Priority Extreme, restrictions override code Dorn, Cresh, Besh Niner Two Seven.”

OOC:
Battle is joined the order of battle is as follows.
VE:
1 Longhorn-class Escort Cruiser (Koom Valley) PCs and NPCs
1 Bothan Assault Frigate (Valiant) PCs and NPCs
2 Squadrons TIE Interceptors NPCs
1 Squadron TIE Avengers NPCS
5 Lambda-class Shuttles in transit to surface carrying ~100 Troopers

Pirates:
4 Bothan Assault Frigates (Bountiful Brigands, Looter's Lift, 2 Unnamed, belonging to AF Holdings that have been hijacked.) Engage to destroy the BB and LL, leave the Unnamed Frigates intact.
2 CR-90 Corvettes (Backstabber and Bloodlust) Engage to destroy
8 Freighters (Various) Engage and board if possible.
12 Chir'daki (Deathseed) Starfighters Engage and Destroy
12 Delta-20 Warsprite Starfighters Engage and Destroy
12 C-73 Tracker fighters Engage and Destroy

New Republic:
Mon Calamari Star Cruiser Alderaan's Justice
48 Starfighters
24 X-Wings
12 Y-Wings
12 A-Wings

The New republic is not currently engaged.

Reinforcements out of System:

???? Time will tell
CNT|TFC|SCAP/CPT Rorran "Slasher" Gorma/LEC Koom Valley/TF: Thesh/4th Fleet/VEN/VE
[IC1][SoV][CBV.][MC:1][SoL][BRC][GWC][8NS][LSM][=*IM*=][=*SWC*=](=*A*=)(=*SA*=)(=^ME^=)
[This message has been edited by Slasher (edited November 9, 2016 5:54:42 PM)]
THX1138
ComNet Member
 
THX1138
 
[VE-ARMY] Corporal
 
Post Number:  539
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 10, 2016 12:03:13 AM    View the profile of THX1138 
Sitting on the bench, Therex hefted the Standard Issue Stormtrooper Helmet between his palms, opening facing up. Sighing, he donned the cramped bucket and waited for the internal HUDs to kick in. The tiny slits made seeing more than a few degrees in any direction tough, but the sensors in the helmet more or less made up for this by giving him updated info every second. Shaking away some of the minor discomfort he had adjusting to the helmet, he stood up, and instantly yelped. Two of the armor plates had not been aligned properly and had shifted in such a way that his movements caused them to pinch him. Hard. He promptly adjusted the pieces, grumbling about the Empire’s lack of foresight in armor design for larger frames. The locker still had a few pieces of equipment, so Therex quickly slid on the pouched belt which held his spare ammunition. Sadly, the only weapon he had was the piece of garbage E-11 that they gave every new bucket head who joined up. The weapon felt overly heavy, bulky, and just plain awkward in his hands, but he knew how to use it, so he would.

Once he was fully armed, Therex shut the locker and gave his shoulders and legs a roll and shake out just to make sure everything was fit properly. Everything seemed okay. Smiling under the helmet, he headed for the door and made a quick stop before meeting up with the ground team. The infirmary was not too far out of his way, and it was at least slightly less busy than the bustling hallways.

Inside, a 2-1B was looking over a man with several casts and bandages. Without even looking up the droid called out to him.

“Good day Corporal. What can I help you with today?”

“Actually,” Therex said, already rummaging through the cabinets, “I was just getting myself stocked up on what I can before they ship me off.”

“There isn’t much,” the droid said, finishing the cast he was working on, “But you are welcome to the standard kit and anything I can spare.”

“Thanks,” Therex mumbled, his hands filled with all manner of bacta patches and auto-syringes. Looking around, he finally spotted his satchel that he always made sure was stocked with his supplies. Dumping his replenish into it, he slung it over his shoulder, patted the droid on the head, and left before it could say anything else. Picking up his pace, he squeezed his way through the cramped hallways and made his way to the hangar. As soon as the hallway opened up into the massive hangar, Therex could finally breathe again. There was still a huge number of people here, but there was a lot more space to spread out.

Jogging now, Therex found the shuttle that was marked on his orders and spotted some fellow troopers already milling around waiting for the CO. Stopping just short of the group, he stood erect, threw a quick salute, and introduced himself.

“Corporal Therex Whitestone, Field Medic, reporting for duty.”

OOC:
WC: 511
I'm back baby!
"He has his orders, and when a Chiss accepts orders he carries them out, period."

Smile for death

TRP/CPL THX-1138/4SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1RGT/Tadath/VEA/VE
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[This message has been edited by THX1138 (edited November 10, 2016 7:21:46 PM)]
Tetrarch
ComNet Novice
 
[VE-ARMY] Private First Class
[VE-NAVY] Leading Crewman
 
Post Number:  49
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 10, 2016 6:13:02 PM    View the profile of Tetrarch 
Cathal was deploying planetside. Which meant as much kit as he could possibly carry if he had his way with it. He’d attempted to crack a joke leaving the briefing but as they neared the armoury, he felt his pulse quicken. This was for real.


Five assault shuttles were descending to the planet’s surface. And how many will be coming back? The briefing had started off well, pirates were cowardly swine. Cathal had been half looking forward to the prospect of routing some bandits squatting atop ill-gotten spoils. There was nothing better for morale. Leeches upon Imperial society.Then the details had been given, or lack of. We know they’re there, we just don’t know how many or how tough.


The crowd of stormtroopers moved to the armoury. Near the front, Swamprat arrived just as the doors were being unlocked by a grim-faced sergeant. His assistants, two naval ratings, and a stormtrooper corporal, filed past him. Only the navy personnel were unwounded.


The walls were lined with racks mounted with E-11 and E-45 blaster rifles. Smaller racks held DL-44 blaster pistols while large hopper baskets held power packs. A second door further back was unlocked by one of the ratings to reveal rows of armour. They didn’t even hesitate but began handing out equipment.


He began the laborious process of gearing up. Pauldrons, spaulders, greaves, bracers, breastplate, helmet, the armour was a complicated animal but he welcomed the weight. Troopers paired off, one helping another to armour up before the favour was returned.He grunted as his elbow and knee pads were clicked into place. Keeping only his helmet off, Swamprat turned to help the trooper next to him. “You’re good to go” he announced, thumping him on the spaulder.


Cathal grabbed an E-45 and checked the weapon, sidestepping left so the trooper behind him could move forward. Finishing his inspection, he moved towards one of the ammunition bins where a dour looking navy rating with the tag Tarik was supervising the handing out of blaster packs.


He felt restricted in the armour but its weight was comforting. He knew it was going to be the only thing standing between him and a blaster bolt once they landed planetside. The worst part was the colour, it might look intimidating but it felt like he was hanging a ‘Shoot Me’ sign on himself. And white was murder to get stains out of.


Doing a last check, he moved to grab a DL-44, it never hurt to have that little extra firepower. With that, his rifle, a couple of ‘nades, his combat knife, and plenty of harsh language, he was ready. He shouldered through the crowd to make his way towards the shuttle marked as his transport. Some troopers had already assembled, enjoying a last moment of ‘fresh’ air before donning helmets. One or two had light up secretive cigarras or toyed with chance cubes.


A tall, helmeted trooper pushed his way through to join the group waiting by the shuttle ramp. He snapped off a sharp salute and introduced himself. Cathal was going to make a smart comment till it registered the trooper was over half a foot taller than him. He didn’t salute but his voice was a little more respectful as he answered. “Swamprat, scout trooper” he responded, not even bothering to introduce himself properly. This bunch of core-dwellers probably wouldn’t be able to pronounce it right. “You’re on this little jaunt with us then?”. He couldn’t resist a small barb even if the trooper outranked him, “Know which end of your rifle is which?”. A medic was all well and good, he just better be able to shoot.

OOC:
Word count: 614. Let's get this show on the road!
[STC]  Private 1st Class Cathal "Swamprat" Mckarthaigh.

[Navy] Leading Crewman Muireach "Tetrarch" Buide.
[This message has been edited by Tetrarch (edited November 10, 2016 7:50:35 PM)]
Mustang21
ComNet Initiate
 
Mustang21
 
[VE-ARMY] Private First Class
 
Post Number:  124
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 5:02:56 AM    View the profile of Mustang21 
Scared. That’s what Jax was. After the revelations of the takeover of his facility on Moorja by pirates, he couldn’t help but be scared. Scared for his family. They were on Moorja, and hoped beyond belief that they were ok. He’d find out soon enough.


He was also aggravated. He’d spent an hour and a half running around the ship like a chicken with it’s head cut off. Not a single person on this blasted ship knew where any stormtrooper armor was. Oh sure, there was some gear on board. Breastplates for fleet trooper types and the like. Certainly not anything an Imperial Stormtrooper would wear when conducting an assault on a pirate held facility. Jax was not a fleet trooper. He wouldn’t be caught dead wearing that. But as the clock counted down to the launch of the op on Moorja, he was starting to come to terms with the fact that that was exactly what he was going to have to do. I’ve got a bad feeling about this.


Now, he had just entered the hangar bay. There were shuttles being unloaded. Stacks of crates and gear were piled everywhere. What a mess. I wonder if they brought the kitchen sink too. A fleet trooper he had spoken with at a small arms locker had told him that this was where they were keeping all the overflow gear from the evacuation of the academy. He suggested that it might be worth a look around the hangar bay, to see what Jax could turn up.


As Jax stood there and surveyed the overcrowded bay, he grumbled to himself. There was no way he’d be able to check all this junk for stormtrooper gear. As he watched a couple of fleet types in coveralls unload a shuttle, a thought came to him. If there was anyone who would know where and what everything was, it would be a supply officer. He had to find a supply officer.


Jax started towards the group unloading the shuttle. Halfway there he was stopped by a fleet officer wearing Ensign’s insignia. He was accompanied by a younger looking fleet type with one chevron on his coveralls. The fleet officer thrust his hand out in front of Jax and spoke, ”This area is off limits to civilians. What are you doing here?”


“I’m looking for a supply officer.” Jax answered back. “Private First Class Jax. I’m a stormtrooper assigned to Harbinger squad. We’ve been given orders for a raid on Moorja and I’m here looking for some gear.”


“You have any proof of that?” asked the Ensign.


Jax reached into the pocket of his civilian trousers and pulled out his newly issued military I.D. He handed it to the Ensign. “Right here.”


The Ensign examined the card. His posture relaxed, Jax noted. The man must have been looking forward to getting rough with a civilian and tossing him out of the hangar bay. “This checks out Private.” he handed Jax back his I.D. “That would be Sir by the way. I’m the Deck Officer, Ensign Girna.” He gestured to the young man standing next him who handed him a datapad. “I’m also the person who’s handling supply disposition in this hangar. What kind of gear are you looking for?”


“Well Sir, to be honest, anything you’ve got. All I’ve been able to scrounge up so far are some fleet trooper breastplates and small caliber blaster pistols. That sort of gear is not suitable for the type of action we’re about to head into.”


Ensign Girnas fingers flew across his datapad. “Looks like there’s a makeshift armory on deck four aft of bulkhead 17 where you guys are supposed to gear up. Did nobody tell you guys where to go?” he asked Jax.


“Nobody told me squat Sir.” Jax replied.


“Well there you go then Private. Looks like they have the basics there. E-11’s, E-45’s, and standard stormtrooper armor.”


“Roger that Sir. I appreciate your assistance.” Jax said to Ensign Girna.


“You seem disappointed Private.”


“Truthfully Sir, I am a little. The armor I used before I was inactivated was specialized equipment. It’s not going to be fun using standard armor again, due to it’s limitations.”


“Oh, you’re one of those elite Stormtroopers.” Ensign Girda exchanged looks with the crewer next to him. “Then this is your lucky day Private First Class Jax. Leading Crewman Sinald here informed me a few minutes ago that we have a whole shuttle load of SCOPE armor sitting on the deck outside his shuttle. I’m sure that’s something you and your buddies would love to get your hands on.” He glanced back down at his datapad, “I’ve also got several crates of assorted munitions, including grenades.”


“Oh, grenades would be nice. Definitely going to need some of those. But what is SCOPE armor?” Jax asked.


Ensign Girna gave Jax a questioning look. “What do you mean Private?”


“SCOPE armor. I have no idea what that is. I’ve been out of the army for almost seven years. I was only reactivated a few weeks ago.” Jax explained.


“Damn, you’ve been out of it a long time. No wonder you don’t know what SCOPE armor is.” Girda handed the datapad back to Sinald and started walking. “Follow us Private. I’m going to show you some fun toys the Vast Empire has came up with while you’ve been away.”


Jax, his curiosity piqued, followed the Ensign and Leading Crewman. He was most interested in learning about these new ‘toys’, especially if some of them were of the armor type.


The three men walked through the chaos of the hangar bay toward a shuttle with a few score of body sized crates stacked around it. Halfway there, Jax’s attention was caught by a lone man in stormtrooper armor who was resolutely striding toward them with his helmet tucked up under his arm. He had medium length, dark brown hair with a grizzled face. He had a fabulously unkempt beard. Very distinguished, if such a thing could be said of unkempt beards. A face that had seen better days, Jax noted, with visible eye-bags under hazel eyes. It gave him the appearance of being constantly tired. He was tall, with a well built physique, not unlike Jax himself. Jax couldn’t see it and didn’t know, but the man had a cybernetic arm.
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 11, 2016 5:04:21 AM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 11, 2016 5:05:43 AM)]
[This message has been edited by JaxTheReaper (edited November 11, 2016 5:01:00 PM)]
Havock
ComNet Sultan
 
Havock
 
[VE-ARMY] Brigadier General
[VE-DJO] Krath Priest(ess)
[VE-ICS] Intelligence Agent
[VE-VEHC] Brigadier General*
 
Post Number:  2405
Total Posts:  2413
Joined:  Feb 2009
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 1:26:20 PM    View the profile of Havock 
“Are you insane?”

Ayme rolled her eyes at the persistent voice that had followed her the entire journey from her office to the tarmac. With a grunt she tossed her gear on to the cargo hold of the E9 Explorer she called her own. The Ryujin had been through her fare share of scrapes and this crazy trip could be her last.

“Ayme you can’t be serious. You know this is so like you to run off.” Aeos reached out and grabbed the Prefect’s shoulder forcing her to stop before she could step fully onto the boarding ramp. “We are in the middle of a crisis and you are going to play the hero? You are the Prefect, not some brash trooper anymore. When are you going…”

“Zee…” The smaller woman’s rant sputtered to a halt. “Like I told you in the office, this isn’t a negotiation and you are neither my commanding officer or my mother.” Her eyes hardened as she turned out of her sisters grasp and walked up the ramp.

She tapped a few inconspicuous controls along the way towards the cockpit which would bring the ships computer online. Ayme found herself spending much of her free time on the Ryujin as the conflicts of the military escalated her need for a place that held memories of normalcy increased. It also helped that she had the hologram of her ships computer, Noma, to keep her company.

The image of a slender older woman appeared with dark brown hair tied back away from her face. She was about to address the captain of the ship when she raised a holographic eyebrow instead. “So Havock, what did you do to produce that look on Zasati’s face?”

Ayme’s forward momentum came screeching to a halt as she turned sharply to come face to face with her sister again. “I’m coming with you.”

Aeos pushed past her sister and sat in the co-pilot’s chair. “Like hell you are.”

The smaller woman continued to prep the ship for launch as Ayme stared incredulously at her from behind. She spared a glance at Noma who just shrugged and pointed at Aeos. “Don’t look at me, it’s not like I can throw her off the ship personally.”

Ayme rolled her eyes and groaned, her hands came to rest on the back of the pilot and occupied co-pilot chair. “You understand we are going to negotiate with pirates, who will likely want to shoot us, but they are the closest group with supplies and our only shot at getting any in the time we need.”

“I recall you’re insane plan, yes.”

Ayme glared as she sat sideways in the pilots chair. “And you understand if we cannot negotiate, then we have to be somewhat aggressive in our taking of those supplies.”

“Yes Ayme, I have not lost my hearing or my mind recently. Although I cannot say the same for you.”

Havock rolled her eyes and grasped the controls of the E9. “Can I just say how lovely it is to spend time with you sis.”

---~~---

The ship rolled to the right sending Ayme sliding into the durasteel wall. Her eyes felt like duel bricks being lifted by an ant as she tried to open them. A mask covered her nose and mouth making the air in her lungs stale and dry. With a shake of her head, blonde hair came to cover her face which when she attempted to brush the matted strands from her eyes it became clear the mask was only the beginning. Her arms and torso were covered in tube and she realized she was lying on the bio bed in her med clinic on board the Ryujin.

Another loud slam and a string of curses coming from the cockpit made it clear that something had gone horribly wrong.

Ayme attempted to stand only to be forced immediately back to the bed, her head swam from the minimal effort she had to give to the endeavor. Okay shit, what the hell happened?

She wracked her brain, causing a wave of nausea, looking for the answers. The last thing she remembered was leaving the tarmac with Aeos on board. She didn’t remember arriving at the designated meet up with the pirates or the aggressive negotiations that ended up in this situation she found herself in.

Another slam sent her flying into the wall head first and everything went dark.

---~~---

The light was bright, too bright. Ayme frowned as she tried to turn away from it. Her eyes were still closed and she had no desire to increase the pounding in her head which she could tell was inevitable.

She could hear the sound of a sharp intake of air  to her right and an object being dropped unceremoniously to a counter or table.

Curiosity would not let her procrastinate any longer and she slowly cracked one eye lid open and attempted to focus on the figure to her right. It took several minutes but eventually she had both eyes open and focused on the angry yet relieved image of her sister standing next to the bio bed.

They stared at each other for several minutes. Ayme wanted to know what had happened but she could tell from the hardened expression of her sister this was not the time for that conversation.

“You need to eat, we will be with the fleet…or what’s left of it soon. And it sounds like they may need you’re kind of insane. I’ll see you in the cockpit.” With that Aeos left and Ayme got to work on the slow and arduous task of sitting up in a bed.


OOC:
Oh look Havock's injured, it must be Tuesday
Prefect of the Army
PRF | BGN Ayme 'Havock' Katash | VEA | VE

[EW1] [RoT] [RoM] [CRoM] [CoH] [RCoD] [PoC]
{HoTC} {KAD} {GC} {GS} {RES} {MRT}
(ESC09) (AoT) (DoH-P) (AS-4) (A13) (A5) (1.1) (1.2)
(KC2) (SoY)
[This message has been edited by Havock (edited November 11, 2016 1:35:08 PM)]
Zippy
ComNet Member
 
Zippy
 
[VE-ARMY] Lance Corporal
[VE-VEMC] Private First Class
 
Post Number:  549
Total Posts:  564
Joined:  Oct 2008
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 1:39:13 PM    View the profile of Zippy 
As the troops were gathering at the transport, Zippy couldn't help being excited. His first mission in so very long and with some new faces at that. It was starting to shape up to be yet another historic mission for him. Walking into the hangar, he noticed so many troopers around doing a last check on gear. He truly did admire someone who took care of what they had. Could save their life even in the darkest of moments and it always paid to be prepared for anything. For their weapons and armor, though they may be basic, they still had some decent purpose. Not the best accuracy in the world, but it was better than going in with nothing.

"Jeez. I truly hope we find some nice toys down there. There isn't nearly enough here to take the edge off. I appreciate the basic gear as I said before, but damn, this armor is enough to drive someone insane after a while."

Zippy thought back on his heavy weapon days and the joy he had being a specialist in such things. Assaulting heavily armed positions, shielded bunkers, nothing that he couldn't handle. Figuring out how to take them down was almost just as much fun as destroying them. Looking around the hangar at the troopers around, even he knew not many here could handle situations that required the more, "explosive touch." Even so, there were many here who wished to show that they had the guts to do what needed to be done, no matter the cost.

"I'm so glad to see a few familiar faces here, but for some reason, I'm looking forward to being with the newer lads to. Makes this feel more like a mission to get to know everyone and less like a trip to head to our doom. In a sense anyway."

Anticipating a hard time with at least one person, he locked out the thought of getting on anyone's nerves early on. Didn't want to be known as a comedian or the guy who is to focused on missions to early. Nevertheless, he made his way over to the transport to report in.

"Lance corporal Zippy. It's been a long time since I've said that. Doesn't quite roll off the tongue like it used to. Definitely been a while, but it feels good to say it. Back to serving the VE like years ago. The thrill I'm feeling now is only the beginning."

Before he moved through the crowd, he could see a few faces already falling in. Before moving, he took a quick glimpse to see if he could read some facial expressions before reporting. The look on the faces he saw seemed mostly serious. A couple of them seemed like they would be beyond trustworthy with anything while others looked to be much more relaxed and just ready to get into the fray. After giving them a quick look, he made his way through the crowd to the transport.

"Lance Corporal Zippy reporting in, as he put up a salute. Ready to do my part."

OOC:
At work currently so the shorter post for me 
Lance Corporal Zippy
Private First Class of the VE Marine Corps
TRP/LCPL Zippy/1SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1RGT/VEA/VE [ECA] [LM]
Eclipse Squad
"Strike first. Fast, exact, secure.
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[This message has been edited by Zippy (edited November 11, 2016 1:47:19 PM)]
Aeos
ComNet Sage
 
Aeos
 
[VE-ARMY] Captain
[VE-DJO] Dark Jedi Warrior
[VE-ICS] Pirate Overseer
[VE-VEEC] Engineer
 
Post Number:  3125
Total Posts:  3141
Joined:  May 2005
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 3:24:16 PM    View the profile of Aeos 
2 Days earlier:

"Noma, get us out now!"

The AI's algorythymn stopped short of enabling an expression of surprise and simply slipped into executing Aeos' command who was dragging a bleeding Havock slumped over her left shoulder.
Her fist hit the ramp's doors closed with a resounding hiss muting the screeches of bolts flying at their direction.

"Hang tight Haf." Aeos muttered trying to gentle drop her sister against the wall at a speedily rate before sprinting through the narrow corridors of the ship's interior to the cockpit.

"Frak, frak frak, frap sithspit!" She cursed.
"Noma dispatch a medi-droid for Havock."

The command was easily multi-tasked in addition with Noma activating the shields, and powering the ship to take-off. The lights flickered hazily as a heavy thud vibrates through the hull. The pirates were packing some serious firepower into this chase. Was that burning plastasteel she smelled?

Of  all the the times for Snipes to decide to disappear. Aeos thought panicked whilst her hands clumsily scrambled across the myriad of buttons and switches. Behind her she heard the familiar hum of  the droid as it detached itself for the storage unit and made its way over to the unconcious Havock.

The meeting was an abysmal failure even though it started out good. The offer was well received as were they. That is until a behemoth of a twileki thundered into the meeting hall, blaster and scabard in hand. Snipes has not been managing his crew very well it would seem and in his abscence his following has  splintered into two factions. The catalyst of the break would be their arrival and the Imperial stench that followed them.

Half the participants of the room was felled down as  chaos was released in a barrage of blaster fire.

The familiar snapp-hiss of two lightsabers extending out from beneath Aeos' and Havock's robes hummed to life and the two women managed to keep the bolts at bay for the moment. Leaping across the table, they made quick work of the supposed unsurpers with their twileki leader before their eyes came to rest on the people they've been negotiating with before.

"It's a pity. We really needed this." Havock muttered.
"I don't like it Haf, you know I don't." Aeos replied darkly.
The humans, twileki and zabrak alike eyed them with a sense of trepidation. They've only heard of lightsabers and the wielders that came with it from stories. The Republicans with their naive sense moral justice were at least predictable.  An Imperial Jedi....this was a different ball game.

"My deepest and humblest apologies. Our Order would simply not tolerate any witnesses to our existence"
Havock said softly, gripping the saber tightly in her right hand.


With an entire hall filled with dead pirates, they tried to high-tail it out.
Of course, the carnage of that meeting did not go unseen and they only managed of few minutes of grace before all hell broke loose and started to chase them. Unable to fend of the swarms oozing out of rooms and corridors, it was a miracle they made it to the ship despite Havock taking a blaster bolt wound through the shoulder before dropping several feet from a roof onto solid congrete.

Their E-9 model was at least faster than most of the junk the pirates flew, and Havock's ingenious modifications to the AI and general  capabilities of the ship gave them an unprecedented edge in their escape. Still, it was by the skin of their necks.

http://www.vastempire.com/wiki/index.php?title=Aeos
[LoR][ESC1][ES2C][CoR][CoS][SC][EW:1][RCoD][GRoM][GRP][CCA][GC][KAD][MRT]

Qualified Combat Engineer
SM|DJR Aeos|Krath|Shades|Raven 5|VEDJ

CPO_Aeos/(=*A*=)][MC1](=*SA*=)
Slasher
ComNet Member
 
Slasher
 
[VE-NAVY] Captain
 
Post Number:  984
Total Posts:  1054
Joined:  Oct 2008
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 6:12:46 PM    View the profile of Slasher 
Slasher stood at the center of the command deck, his eyes swept the view of space through the viewport as various reports filtered in from around the ship, and various officers gave orders to their sections.

“Deck 14 reports a hull breach, currently contained, no casualties.”

“Sensors indicate enemy aft shields failing”

“Have batteries 3 and 4 concentrate fire on Section 31, get the Backstabber off the Valiant's flank.”

“Damage control team to Deck 4, Medical team to deck 7, burn casualties.”

Beams of coherent light flashed between the Koom Valley and the Bountiful Brigands, as she moved some of the shots dissipated across the shields, but in some places they broke through and slammed into the hulls of the ships, where they added to the damage that already crackled on the hulls.

“Helmsman, take us forward, one quarter speed. After our next salvo at the Corvette, cease fire on our port side after the next shot that penetrates our shields and hold for further orders.”

After the batteries had ceased firing Slasher issued his next set of orders.

“Helmsman, flank speed, Weapons officer, coordinate with sensors to locate a section where the corvette's shields are down, once located, concentrate fire, I want that ship destroyed.”

The Koom Valley leapt forward and closed the range on the corvette, once they had reached the proper position they opened fire, her turbolasers flashed again and again, ripping through the hole in the shields of the Backstabber until suddenly one of the shots penetrates the main reactor and with a sudden flash the ship disintegrates. The Koom Valley flew through the cloud of debris as it expanded out from the destroyed ship.

“Helmsman, bring us back about, concentrate fire on the Bountiful Brigands.

As the ship turned to engage the Assault Frigate space shimmered around her and two additional Bothan Assault Frigates came out of Hyperspace, one on either side of her. They opened fire as they came out, pounding the shields of the Koom Valley.

“Weapons Officer, Fire at will!” Slasher shouted as the deck shuddered beneath him.

OOC:
The Koom Valley has destroyed the Backstabber but there are now two additional enemy Bothan Assault Frigates on the scene.
CNT|TFC|SCAP/CPT Rorran "Slasher" Gorma/LEC Koom Valley/TF: Thesh/4th Fleet/VEN/VE
[IC1][SoV][CBV.][MC:1][SoL][BRC][GWC][8NS][LSM][=*IM*=][=*SWC*=](=*A*=)(=*SA*=)(=^ME^=)
Mox
ComNet Member
 
Mox
 
[VE-ARMY] Corporal
 
Post Number:  630
Total Posts:  659
Joined:  Apr 2010
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 11, 2016 9:57:34 PM    View the profile of Mox 
===== ETA 120 Minutes =====

What?

Mox, almost subconsciously, found the nearest staircase and sat down on it, datapad in one hand, taking off his helmet with the other. His eyes were furiously bouncing back and forth, as if they were a holo-transmission of a ping-pong game. The message couldn’t be more clear and yet more unexpected.

“What the frak… do you mean… Squad Leader?” he muttered under his breath as he looked up. “Have they lost their mind?”

Letting his datapad hand fall onto his lap, the newly promoted Senior Sergeant stared into the distance in disbelief, his mouth opening slightly.

A moment passed. Crewmen and ensigns kept going up and down the staircase, always in a hurry elsewhere. A couple of stormtrooper-clad men walked along the corridor in front the stairs, but they didn’t notice the young NCO.

Looking back down at the datapad, Mox opened up the mission details. A supply raid on a farm world. How exciting. he thought as his finger slid across the touchscreen surface Well, the pirates shouldn’t be too well trained, if they picked that as their base. Casualties are the last thing I need.

The grim-faced trooper stood up. Hangar Bay B. Let’s do this.

Helmet under arm, Mox started making his way over to hangar that housed their shuttle.

===== ETA 80 Minutes =====

Mox entered the hangar bay and and started striding towards the shuttles. Quarter of the way through he noticed two Navy-clad men and a man in civilian clothing. One of the reactives? He turned his direction towards them, and the third of the trio stopped and watched him draw closer.

“Are you Army?” Mox asked straight as he stopped in front of him

“Yes, sir.” the man said straightening his stance. The two Navy men stopped a few meters further along and watched.

“Rank, name and squad.”

“PFC Jax Aramis, Harbingers Squad”

Mox raised his eyebrow. “Well, it seems like you report to me, Private. Senior Sergeant Xinn, callsign Mox. I’m your Squad Leader for the time being.” Jax’ eyes widened, before he himself snapping to attention “Why aren’t you in gear?”

“Couldn’t find the armoury, sir. This ship is a maze.” the burly man nodded towards crewmen who were with him “These Fleet types though, they were going to show me some armour they found.”

“What do you mean?” Mox asked, his brows furrowing

“Those cases over there… they contain… was it SCOPE armour?”

Mox slowly turned his head towards the Navy men, and approached them.

“Is what this man is saying true?”

“Yep. A bunch of ‘em cases with SCOPE written on top. According to logs I’ve dug out it’s some advanced armour. There's also some nades with 'em. But what’s it to you?”

“These are meant for the Army...” Mox said his voice trailing off for a moment. “Bring these to our landing shuttle, Loose Latch.”

“Will do.”

Turning around, as the younger crewman started hauling the cases back to the shuttles, Mox faced the other trooper.

“Let’s go, Jax.”

The two Harbingers made their way towards their landing shuttle, one of the three that were housed in this hangar bay. They were the typical Lambda-class ships, a popular choice amongst the Imperial factions for transporting infantry. No surprise we’re getting flown in one of these. Let’s just hope the ion storms don’t rip us apart.

The hangar bay already had a number of stormtroopers in, and more poured in every minute. They were all in Stormtrooper armour, which intrigued Mox. Are we the only ones who are going to be in SCOPE?

“Load them up onto the shuttle.” Mox ordered the crewman as he entered the shuttle. “Put them next to those other ones. And Jax, gear up.” he said pointing at the PFC.

“In here, sir?”

“Yes. We don’t have time for you to off on goose chase looking for the armoury.” Mox finished as he started stripping off his own armour plates. A small smile crept onto his face.

===== ETA 40 minutes =====

Mox walked down the shuttle ramp, fully outfitted in SCOPE, Jax following behind. The crowd of stormtroopers forming around the transporters has grown considerably. They’re mobilising all of us. We must truly be getting desperate. the squad leader thought as he glanced at the troopers nearest to him. We’ll probably be sharing our shuttles with other squads. He eyed a soldier walking up to their small crowd before snapping a salute to them.

“Corporal Therex Whitestone, Field Medic, reporting for duty.”

Therex? Before Mox could respond another soldier replied in kind.

“Swamprat, Scout Trooper.”

A moment later another trooper, the final Harbinger according to Mox’s count, walked up to squad.

“Lance Corporal Zippy, reporting in. Ready to do my part.” he said also saluting

“Since we’re here then, welcome to Harbingers, soldiers.” Mox called out, getting the attention of his squad. “I’m Mox, your Squad Leader for this mission. Some of you may have been briefed already, some may have not. Our mission is to secure a foodstuffs processing plant, preferably without shooting the place up. As such the Rules of Engagement for this op are that we do not fire unless we are fired upon. Simple enough, right?” the sergeant took the moment to look over his squad. The briefing message didn’t include any information on their activities before the reactivation. I have to work with essentially blank slates.


“Anyway, before we deploy I have some good news. To help with this op we have been assigned SCOPE gear, including the armour.” Mox paused as some of his soldiers nodded “This armour is superior to standard Storm, in both comfort and coverage. We don’t have long before we arrive though, so go get geared up. The stuff’s in the shuttle.” Mox pointed behind him.

The squad moved around him into the shuttle. Mox watched the rest of the troopers in the hangar, the squad leaders addressing their soldiers, others simply standing there, waiting for as long as they could before they had to sit down in the uncomfortable armour. We’re damn lucky that we found those cases. the senior sergeant thought as he turned around and walked up the ramp.

“Zippy, Jax, once we land I want you two to set up the E-Web so we can transport it.” Mox said as he sat down near the ramp. “In case we do meet heavier resistance it’ll be useful to have.”

“Hell yeah.” the Lance Corporal exclaimed, clearly excited about the mission Let’s hope he doesn’t get anyone killed… Mox thought, his inner voice resigned. He wasn’t looking forward to this, at all.

===== ETA 10 Minutes =====

Harbingers have all been seated, some chatting about the mission, others sharing stories of what they’ve been doing prior to the reactivation. Mox wasn’t participating in any of that. I should probably build rapport... he thought to himself, but ultimately decided against it. It’s not like I’d be able to tell them anything anyway…

The squad that the Harbingers were to share the shuttle with have also all finally entered the ship, the final stragglers finding a seat quickly and beginning to strap themselves in. Mox nodded to the Squad Leader of that squad.

It’s on. he thought as he strapped himself in.

OOC:
WC: 1243 - Ooof. A long post. Sorry about that.
We’re on the shuttle now, most of the squad chatting away. Now would be the ideal time to get to know your squadmates and flesh out what your characters have been up to before joining/being reactivated by the VE, by telling those stories! There are also some NPCs in the other squad we are sharing our shuttle with, feel free to flesh some of those out.

Also, Jax, for the love of the Emperor, please don’t blow open the airlock with a grenade or something.
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Faithful 'til the End
Faithful? More like crazy...
SL/SSG Mox/2SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1RGT/VEA/VE
[DT] [RAWR] [ECA] [QW 12] (WtR) [ESC-12] [SoC] [AS-6] A10 (5.1) A17
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If you're thinking of putting me in a leadership position, for the sake of the entity I would be leading, reconsider.
[This message has been edited by Mox (edited November 12, 2016 2:38:54 PM)]
[This message has been edited by Mox (edited November 12, 2016 7:02:11 PM)]
Tetrarch
ComNet Novice
 
[VE-ARMY] Private First Class
[VE-NAVY] Leading Crewman
 
Post Number:  51
Total Posts:  65
Joined:  Dec 2015
Status:  Offline
  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 12, 2016 2:26:25 PM    View the profile of Tetrarch 
The new armour was eyed dubiously by Cathal but an order was an order. The vets were nodding understandingly as their new squad leader explained, he hadn’t a clue what was happening. The squad began to doff their standard kit to replace it with SCOPE.


It did give him a chance to appraise his new squad. He tried not to gawk when he saw their new medic was an alien. He’d never seen a Chiss before. Most of them were older than him. And bigger. Some of them seemed like all they did was lift in their spare time. Maybe it wouldn’t be the best group to mouth off in, he had no intention of trying to take any of them on in a fight. At least not a fair one. Not when some of them looked capable of using a table as a weapon.


“Feth, this stuff is pretty feckin’ cool” he said in wonder as he examined it. The armour was lighter and less bulkier, he didn’t feel half as restricted. “Shame about the colour”. He might have been designated a scout but he’d take the extra protection over their armour any day. “The rifle though, I could fall in love with this”. The scope was gorgeous.


Imperial shuttles weren’t built with comfort in mind. At least the ones designated as troop carriers weren’t. The Harbingers crammed in as best they could, sharing with another squad. Swamprat grabbed a seat and grimaced as another trooper tripped and nearly fell across him. “Not even going to buy me a drink first?” he asked, securing his rifle. 


“Not unless I see under the helmet first” was the retort, “And I already think you’re not my type”. Cathal stuck two fingers up in response, the other trooper giving him a mocking laugh. Dropping into the seat opposite, he gestured at the armour. “Now that’s something nice, why youse boys gettin’ that kit and not us?” he enquired. “They only give it those they want returning” Cathal shot back, this time he got a genuine laugh.


“Skidz” he said, leaning forward to offer his hand. Cathal took it and shook “Swamprat.” “How does one get a name like that?” “How does one get a name like Skidz?”. He could imagine the wince inside the helmet. A trooper two seats up snorted. “Just be hopeful he doesn’t have to take a dump while we’re on this boat”. “One feckin’ time Laoch!” Skidz pleaded in defense.


None of the troopers had Basic as their first language. Still, despite the accents, different slang and loanwords, imperfect usage, they all could communicate. It was how the Empire worked. The average trooper didn’t need a complex vocabulary allowing them to debate the sciences or fine arts. “Volunteer?” “Aren’t we all?” Skidz said sarcastically, “Volunteer for the Corps alright, joining the Army was more of shall we say...conscription?”


“We all do our service for the Empire, sacrifices must be made” chimed in a corporal. They spoke with the accented Imperial style, far different from that heard on NR holovids or Rebel soldiers. One or two of the squad groaned but most looked eager to see this new addition to the entertainment.  “I’m surprised they don’t use you for the propaganda” Laoch shot back. “Well when we have to endure seditious nonsense-” “I’m ready to go anytime you are!”


“Knock it off!” barked their senior NCO, his gaze turned from both of them, down to where Swamprat and Skidz sat. Skidz shrugged weakly while Cathal decided it might be a safer decision to chat to his own squad. His own squad leader was silent but he might get more out of the others.


He drew his bushknife, enjoying the feel of Coilltean forged steel, a little taste of home. Holding a small piece of wood, he began to whittle, looking around the shuttle. Well he was going to be stuck with them planetside…


“So ah...I’m Swamprat” he declared lamely, the silent gaze that all helmets had making him feel edgy. “I’m ah….new”

OOC:
WC: 678

Sorry for the length, still trying to flesh out Cathal and practise writing.
[STC]  Private 1st Class Cathal "Swamprat" Mckarthaigh.

[Navy] Leading Crewman Muireach "Tetrarch" Buide.
Maroy
ComNet Member
 
Maroy
 
[VE-NAVY] Chief Warrant Officer
 
Post Number:  704
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 12, 2016 6:04:41 PM    View the profile of Maroy 
Juvi Krant groaned aloud, for the third time that minute. This wasn't at all what she wanted to be doing. She took the shuttle certification track as a way to get out of the more difficult courses in the Academy, not because she actually liked flying the sluggish, inelegant hunks of durasteel. Never mind that she was fully certified to fly an Interceptor, a standard TIE, or even, gods forbid, a Bomber, she got to fly a bunch of skeletals into a combat zone. All of the dangers of starfighter combat, with none of the maneuverability that made it bearable.

A Lambda-class shuttle like the Loose Latch was normally designed to be operated by a crew of six. This one had only two. Juvi's co-pilot, Darron Flenkarr, green as he was, had to cover the roles of navigator, gunner, and, if something broke, engineer. That left her with the pilot and comms roles, as well as supposedly being in charge of coordinating between the fleet and the two squads in the back in case of comms interference. That she looked forward to least of all.

"Looks like everyone's on board," Darron said as he stepped into the pilot's compartment. "We should probably get the pre-flight checks started."

"Where have you been? I started up the diagnostics five minutes ago." Juvi flipped a few more readout switches. "We're already good to go for the ignition phase. For the record, looks like there's a few things turning up yellow. No surprise there. A few wiring issues, and, guess what... the rear hatch has a worn servo. I'd say we should put in a request for new parts, but I'm never setting foot in this bucket again. Nothing that'll prevent us launching, though."

Darron looked worried, and understandably so. The poor guy hadn't flown an actual combat mission yet. He didn't know what to expect. To be fair, she'd only been in one dogfight herself... but that still made her the veteran here. Obviously. "There might be some spare parts in the hangar. You sure we're good for launch?"

Juvi slapped the control board. "Of course I am. It's not like the other shuttles aren't looking just as bad." Probably.

"Well, if you say so." Darron moved to sit down, but sighed when he noticed the huge box crudely labeled 'Power Conduits (faulty)' propped up in the chair. He lifted it and, with a heaving gait, carried it back into the crew compartment. "Could one of you lot push this out the back, or something? We'll be launching as soon as we get greenlighted by Control."
XO/CWO/Maroy/Silver 5/S:46 Jexxel/W:101 Blade/ISD Paragon/TF:A|2FL|SC|VEN|VE (=*A*=) [GCM] [CBV] [IG]x2 [MC2] [MC1] [VC:B] [LoM] [CC: P] [CC: W] [CC: D] [LC] [SoV]

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NormalGuyNamed
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 13, 2016 4:10:10 PM    View the profile of NormalGuyNamed 
He had woken in a start, a load of commotion happening around him.

“What’s going on?” he asked one of the nearby officers.

“We’re jumping to a point of interest in a little more than an hour, get your gear and get to a fighter. No time to lose, GO!” The officer said, causing a bit of a jump for Jett, as he stood up and saluted the officer, getting his gear.

As he ran to his TIE about ten minutes later, he truly regretted not getting some rations beforehand, his stomach growling after lack of food. He put that thought aside and sat in his TIE, waiting for further orders while checking on all of its systems. Everything looked fine, but he was still very nervous. He had flown his TIE often, but he had the strangest feeling he’d be in combat today.

An officer came up to his TIE and few minutes later and said, “You’re assigned to the 627th, got it?”
“Aye, sir,” Jett replied, saluting the officer. As he went back to his work, he couldn’t help but feel nervous. He just didn’t really know what he was doing. He waited for a while until the alarms went off and his squadron leader came down and gave the official orders: they were air support for the ground troops on an AF Holdings planet, in pirate controlled space. No word on what kind of resistance they’d be facing, but it wasn’t supposed to be a hard op. He gave them all orders to strap in and keep their heads on straight and to not die. Jett said it himself, Wasn’t intending on it.

After another ten minutes, the fighters were told to scramble and Jett set out on his first real mission for the Vast Empire.

---

Even though Jett had flown over a thousand hours in the TIE simulator and a few hundred in an actual Interceptor, nothing could have prepared him for this. He was doing alright, all things considered, but his green was showing. He had never had to deal with an actual combat. In the back of his mind, he knew that the anti-personnel guns these simpletons were using would be useless against his TIE, but it is still extremely jarring experience. He had no idea how his father had done this for so many years, but he was proud to be in the pilot seat following after his father.

He fired a strafing run with the rest of his wing to help grab some land for the transports to land in. He thought he got a few, but it was a bit hard to tell while going at speed. As he swung back around for another run, he noticed about a half-dozen pirates laying on the ground, whether they were dead or injured, he didn’t know. He definitely realized that the LZ was not clear, and they would need a few more runs to clear it enough for the ground troops.
[This message has been edited by NormalGuyNamed (edited November 13, 2016 4:31:06 PM)]
Dusk
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Dusk
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 13, 2016 5:41:32 PM    View the profile of Dusk 
“Sergeant… Sergeant Arture, wake up, you’re being deployed.”


The medical droid stood over the trooper as it prodded her awake. “Yeah yeah, I’m up 2-1B.” Dusk sat up in her bed in the medical bay, as she looked around she could see out in the hall people were rushing to and fro. “They really are mobilizing, huh. It’s been what; one, two years since we actually did anything?” She chuckles slightly. “Does my armor still fit?”


2-1B wheeled over and began connecting her right arm while handing her a cup with two small pills in it. “Thanks.” Jay’sha nods at the droid as she downs the pills dry, a few moments and a couple of winces later, the sergeant flexes the cyber arm a bit as the device warms up. As soon as all systems show as green in operation she stands and pulls the foot locker out from under the bed. She starts suiting up in the old Stormtrooper armor from the height of the empire. While the armor always had a reputation for being ill-fitting, with the recent changes to her frame and not being refitted for armor, it was especially uncomfortable around the sergeant’s chest and hips. It took her a few extra minutes to suit up as it would have been if she had SCOPE but she eventually got it all situated. Jay’sha gave herself a once over, checking all her straps and clasps, but came to pause when she checked her right shoulder. The idiots in requisitions didn’t give her her command pauldron. SHe looked back over at the medi-droid going about the room. “Hey, you know where they put my stuff when they brought me aboard? I need something from it.”


2-1B moved off to a number of lockers on the wall and pulled out a bin and brought it over to the waiting trooper. “Here are the personal effects of Sergeant Jacen Arture, call sign ‘Dusk’.”


Jay’sha winced at the droids accidental deadnaming and quickly took the bin, setting it on the bed beside her. Not much was held within, civilian clothes, a datapad and com device, a few bits and bobs from her armor she was brought here in. Underneath it all, at the bottom was the splash of orange. She gently pulled it out from amongst the clutter and wiped at the blackening of the carbon scoring on it. After giving it a once over, she snapped it into place and nodded. As she moved to close the bin up, it occurred to her that her bracer didn’t have the modifications to allow usage of her spring blade, she took a moment to rummage until she should her old bracer and quickly replaced the standard issue armor piece. With a sharp ‘twang’ the blade sprung forth and retracted as it had hundreds of times in the past, still as sharp as ever. With that, she pulled her choppy purple hair into a bun before donning her helmet.


Now fully geared, Jay’sha moved around, testing her joints, making sure the armor wasn’t pinching anything or restricting movement too much. She holstered the provided E-11 and DL-44 and slipped her com and datapad into their respective pouches on her belt. “1B, where am I supposed to be heading?”


The droid rotated and pointed out the door. “Hangar Bay B, you and the rest of Harbringer’s squad are to report to the Lambda shuttle Loose Latch for deployment.”




The Sergeant nodded and stepped out of the med-bay and into the busy hall, navymen were bustling about in an organized chaos that didn’t fit the trooper. She followed the signs through the maze of corridors, past countless chambers and doors before she eventually came out onto the floor of Hangar B. The places was busy, techs running about, making sure the shuttles and fighters were working, ground troops milling about without order in the chaos. After taking a look around she grabbed the attention of one of the technicians. “Loose Latch, where is it, I need to find my squad. I’m the SL of Harbinger.”


The man looked her up and down and toward the scarred command pauldron before snapping off a salute. “Uh, yes sir-er ma’am.” He pulled out his datapad and scrolled through for a few moment before finding the information that was requested. His face came across with some confusion as he looked between the pad and the woman before him. “I’m sorry ma’am but, you’re not Senior Sergeant Tohar Xinn? Are you?”


In confusion the trooper cocked her head. “No, I’m not Mox, he was my second in command. I’m Sergeant Jay’sha ‘Dusk’ Arture. Former Squad Leader of Raiders, Direcat, and Wraith.”


The tech looked to his pad once again and scrolled a bit looking for answers. “Sorry, the only person on my records with that call sign is a Jacen Arture. He’s assigned to Harbinger squad under the the command of Tohar Xinn.”


Her eye twitched in frustration, not only at the man’s faulty info, but that she was still in the records as Jacen. “Just give me the pad.” The Sergeant quickly snatched away the man’s device and went through it seeing the roster for herself. She quickly punched in her old command codes to edit the records and fix her name herself. With a sigh, she gave the man his datapad back. “Just tell me where the Loose Latch is?”


“Sorry ma’am,” He points over in the direction to a solitary Lambda shuttle. “There she is. You clearly are confused, I suggest talking with the Senior Sergeant.”


Dusk shook her head, clearly riled by the whole situation but nodded in agreement. “I’ll do that.” She pushed past the man toward the shuttle, removing her command pauldron as she walked.

Jay’sha walked up the ramp to the Loose Latch and spotted Mox toward the back of the passenger compartment. In her hand she held the beaten up, blasted, and scarred pauldron of Raiders squad, their symbol printed in the corner, it’d been passed down to her when she’d taken command, on the underside each SL had scratched their call-signs onto it as an informal record of those that’d taken up the mantle in the past. She took a deep breath before walking up to the man who’d previously served under her. “Mox this is yours.” Without waiting for him to reply she, grabbed his hand and placed the pauldron in it before walking over to the crates of SCOPE armor everyone was huddled around and getting geared in.

OOC:
Word Count: 1088
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Smile!!! Tomorrow will be worse.

SL/SGT Jacen "Dusk" Arture/RAIDERS/Wildcard/Phoenix/VEA
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Lightray
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Lightray
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 3:00:20 AM    View the profile of Lightray 
SCOPE Armor?He thought to himself as the squad crowded around several crates of armor, weapons and what appeared to be a single crate of hand grenades. You didn't have to ask Jo'ron twice whether or not he wanted to get the armor on as soon as possible. He grabbed a set and hurried off to his own corner, changing out of the NCO uniform he'd recently acquired before getting the black body glove over the rest of his body.


The individual pieces of armor were attached on with the ease of an individual who'd done it many times before. It was muscle-memory at that point, especially after serving with Elite squads with little tolerance to incompetency. Slinging the E-45 rifle over his shoulder, Jo'ron would attach the holstered DC-15 pistol to his left hip, then reached down to the floor to hold the helmet in his hand. Hmm. Peering down at the helmet, it seemed a bit heavier than he remembered. Nonetheless, he'd do a few leg stretches to make sure everything fit right.


A careful alternating roll of his shoulders made sure that everything was fitting decently up top. The last thing he wanted was to get stiff during the operation and end up taking a bolt to the chest. It seemed as if forever had passed since he'd been able to don the advanced armor that was once quite standard amongst the ranks of stormtroopers he served with. It had gotten him through the bloody hell of a campaign that was Thyveck without as much as a bruise.


Those were some of his bloodier days, for sure, but being able to don the colors of the elite Blackjack squad had forever left an impression on who he was. He was one of the finest tuned soldiers within the galaxy, as far as he was concerned. The Empire made him who he was, and he'd give back to them with everything he could.


A tap on the shoulder from an adjacent trooper snapped him out of the brief moment of daydreaming. The trooper pointed him towards the crowd of soldiers gathering near what looked to be their SL, which was confirmed once their impromptu meeting began. Having being reactivated only a year prior to serve underneath a different vessel, this would be his first operation in nearly three years that would involve hopefully shedding some blood. Sure, the SL wanted the operation to be as smooth as possible, but Jor knew better than to think that was possible. Regardless, he'd follow SOP until the moment an enemy was in sight. After all, following orders was what members of the corps did best, if you asked him.


A roll call amongst the squad would eventually land on the Lance Corporal, who without his helmet looked quite young in comparison to the other troopers of his rank. "Lance Corporal Jo'ron Tallus. Callsign Lightray." He'd fluidly sound off as he'd done it a million times before. The words slipping off his lips were enough to bring about a confident smirk, but that soon disappeared after the SCOPE helmet slipped over his head in the moments leading up to Harbinger squad entering the shuttle. It was cramped, but such was the norm with Imperial vessels from his experience. Efficiency over comfortability was their motto, and who he was he to complain? Chances are one of the more green troopers would end up with a bolt between their eyes assuming things turned hot-- which they most likely would in his opinion. 


Regardless, he made sure the DC-15 blaster pistol attached to his hip was secure enough that it wouldn't fall out of the non-standard issue holster attached onto the leg of his armor. It was a testament back to his days with Blackjack, and shortly afterwards with Jester prior to the whole Empire going to shit. Eventually one of the other troopers would attempt to make small talk with the other members of Harbinger after the other squad's NCO shut down their conversation. He was green, but he had a nice knife to work with, if anything.


Leaning a bit out of his seat, Jor would give the trooper a two-finger salute, a smirk accompanying it beneath his helmet. "Swamprat, eh?" He asked, the man's callsign pretty funny in his opinion. He could only assume the man was either from some backwater world, or spent alot of time in dirty places to earn that name. "Call me Lightray. Pleasure huntin' with ya, mate." Jor'on ended it with a nod, leaning back in his seat but stretching his legs just a tad to allow him to get a better view of the rest of Harbinger.


Lance Corporal Jo'ron "Lightray" Tallus, Trooper of Jester Squadron.
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[This message has been edited by Lightray (edited November 14, 2016 3:02:48 AM)]
[This message has been edited by Lightray (edited November 14, 2016 1:38:45 PM)]
Amacuse
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Amacuse
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 9:26:21 AM    View the profile of Amacuse 
The fleet pulled out of hyperspace, a squadron of TIE Avengers spaced about in a holding pattern around the Koom Valley, prepared to repel any immediate aggressors.  In the cockpit of one fighter, a young Warrant Officer was preparing her ship for combat.  She flipped on her comms and switched over to the Squadron channel.  "Alright 987th!  Power shields and weapons.  We don't know what we are stepping into out here, and I do not want anyone getting caught off-guard!" she spoke firmly into the mouthpiece, her gauntleted hands moving about the console in practiced motions, shields and weapons humming to life.  "Everyone report in and give status!"

"This is Aurek 2, reporting in.  I've got green lights across the board, over!"

"Aurek 3 here!  All set over here, Commander!"


The Warrant Officer smiled to herself as the next few pilots reported in, her mind focusing more on the ships appearing on radar.  She looked out the viewport and tried to discern who the new arrivals could be.

"Besh 4 present, ma'am.  All clear on my end."

"Cresh Lead combat ready, Commander."


She adjusted her position slightly, raising herself up over the horizon line created by the ships ahead of her before she focused in on the newcomers.

"Cresh 4, primed and ready for combat!"

As the last fighter reported in, she blinked as she realized she spaced out a bit trying to identify the new arrivals.  Before she could switch over to the Fleet Comm Channel, several of the ships ahead opened fire on the new arrivals, the Koon Valley also opening up on an advancing Bothan Assault Frigate.

"Well... guess that answers the question that was nagging me.." she thought to herself, returning her fighter into position around the Longhorn Cruiser.  "Alright boys and girls!  Looks like the fleet can use a hand.  I've got bogeys on rapid approach at 039 mark 346.  Form up in Attack Pattern Charlie.  Let's keep those Chir'dakis off the fleet while the rest of the fighters are mobile!" She replied quickly, putting full power to engines as she accelerated off toward the squadron of enemy fighters.

"Besh Lead here.  Flight form up on me.  Take vector 074 mark 289.  We'll take them on their port flank," Besh Leader, Arinn Corynth, said over the comm, four Avengers breaking off from the Koon Valley on their designated attack vector.

"Cresh flight, take 336 mark 021 to intercept," Cresh leader, Hal'yziveri, ordered over the channel.  Another flight of fighters broke off as they moved off to the Squadron Commander's port side to intercept a flight of the Chir'dakis.

"Aurek Flight, we will go up the middle and take them from within.  Let's make this quick and clean, 987!  I want to be able to show those children in the other squadrons how real pilots get it done!" she called out as the remaining fighters raced off after her.

OOC:
Weak sauce post, but it's a post.  Didn't feel like doing pre-hyperspace jitters and stuff.  Anywho, here we go, racing off to play with some Chir'dakis.  If anyone wants to be a pilot, feel free to have fun.  Future posts will be more detailed, promise.
Amacuse | Warrant Officer 1st Class | Squadron Commander | Vast Empire Navy

WO1 | Arianna "Bolt" Blaire | SC | 175th Aurora Squadron | 48th Sabre Wing | ISD-II Adjudicator | 1st Fleet | SFC | VEN | VE

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[This message has been edited by Amacuse (edited November 14, 2016 9:26:53 AM)]
THX1138
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THX1138
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 3:39:40 PM    View the profile of THX1138 
Therex wedged himself into the seat on the shuttle. Unfortunately, Imperial engineers gave very little thought to comfort for the soldiers they used to send out in huge waves as cannon fodder.


Why make a comfy seat for some greenie who was bound to die inside of the hour?


Not one to usually dwell on the idea of death, Therex shuddered a little. While he was a medic, he still felt mortal at times, which scared him. He could take a life. He could save lives. But his own life was out of his control for the most part. Shaking his helmeted head, he refocused. Rather than latching in, he scanned the group that was shuffling up the boarding ramp and taking their spots. Trying to spot the few not wearing their buckets, he recognized Mox almost instantly. The one who was making wise remarks to everyone, who’s name he found on the roster as Cathal, was settling in direct opposite from him. The rest though looked like a mixture of men he may have served with but forgotten and fresh faces he had never seen before.


Turning back around and facing Cathal directly, he opened his mouth and suddenly realized he had literally nothing to say. Silently thanking a higher power for the helmet that covered his awkward attempt, he closed his mouth and frowned. What did he have to say to these people? He knew eventually he would need to get to know them. A close squad tended to make fewer mistakes. Communication was vital. But Therex was never an icebreaker.


Deciding instead to use his time wisely, he slid the satchel off of his shoulder and set it on his lap. He had throw everything in here rather haphazardly in his rush to get to the shuttle. Preferring a slight semblance of order, he began re-arranging his tools. Inside, he had stashed bacta patches and several rolls of medical adhesive to one side, and kept his more sensitive tools, like the laser scalpel, diagnosis probes, and hypos, on the other. The rest of the space was filled in with random medications, chemicals, painkillers, and a variety of trauma kits for severe cases. Anything else he needed, Therex could usually improvise.


Happy with the reorganization, Therex dropped the bag to the floor and tucked it under his seat. When he looked back up, one of the troopers was giving him a critical stare.


“Careful,” Therex said, sitting back in his chair, “You better be nice or I may not help you out there.”


When the face he got in response radiated more worry and fear than he expected, Therex lost any remaining control he had over his demeanor.


“No, no,” Therex stuttered, waving his hands in front of him, “I was just messing with you. I’d fix you up no matter what…”


Realizing how ridiculous he looked, he sighed in defeat and laid his head back into the chair.


Smooth. Real smooth. This is gonna be a very tough transition.

OOC:
WC: 506

Not long, but I wanted a little more CD and squad interact before the next big story push.
"He has his orders, and when a Chiss accepts orders he carries them out, period."

Smile for death

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Maroy
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Maroy
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 6:51:21 PM    View the profile of Maroy 
"Copy that, Control. Flight telemetry data received." Juvi, flight controls already in her restless hands, glanced over to Darron to confirm the flight path was good. He nodded wordlessly, despite his worried expression, and she returned the nod. "Loose Latch launching."

With a few tugs of the controls, the shuttle lifted off from the hangar deck and smoothly, if not quickly, glided out into space. Juvi mentally steeled herself for the hell that laid ahead of them.

Darron turned to her as soon as they were clear of the ship. "This flight path takes us straight through that cloud of Warsprites."

You're kidding." Juvi threw her hands up in exasperation and keyed the comm. "Control, confirm Loose Latch flight path, over."

"Confirmed, Loose Latch. The 627th will provide support as soon as they are available."

"Of course they will," Juvi muttered under her breath. The other shuttles had launched first, so they got priority treatment. She leaned her head back toward the crew compartment. "Hope you're all strapped in back there. We're going to be encountering some slight turbulence."

Darron manned the gunner's station as the fighters approached. A trio of TIE Avengers broke off half the squadron, but there were still half a dozen Warsprites incoming.

"I'm going to try a barrel roll, so you'll need to aim upward. Hold on." Juvi put the shuttle into a wide, erratic spin, making it a bit harder to hit. The Warsprites fired off an initial volley of laser blasts, a few hitting their mark and shaking the shuttle, but the shields held.

"I'm returning fire!" Darron shouted, firing off a few blasts from the shuttle's steerable forward cannons. He scored a hit on one, damaging an engine, but didn't destroy it outright.

"Great job," Juvi mocked. "They're coming back around. See if you can get one or two with the rear turret."

The Warsprites looped around and came back at the shuttle. Juvi steadied their flight path temporarily to give Darron a clean shot, which thankfully he took advantage of. With a trio of bursts from the rear cannon, he obliterated the nearest Warsprite into a cloud of flame and debris.

Darron began to raise one hand in celebration when the downed fighter's wingmate flew through the wreckage and fired off a shot of its own. The lucky shot hit the rear turret head-on, penetrating the shields and destroying it. The panel in front of Darron exploded in a shower of sparks, knocking him down to the deck of the shuttle. Juvi dared to take her eyes off the controls for one moment to look back, and saw the burnt flesh and pool of blood. Somehow, the man was still breathing.

"Sithspit!" Juvi swore. She shouted towards the rear of the shuttle. "I need a medic and gunner in here! Now!" Switching on the fleet comm, she radioed the Koom Valley. "Control, Loose Latch has lost its co-pilot. Requesting fighter support immediately."
XO/CWO/Maroy/Silver 5/S:46 Jexxel/W:101 Blade/ISD Paragon/TF:A|2FL|SC|VEN|VE (=*A*=) [GCM] [CBV] [IG]x2 [MC2] [MC1] [VC:B] [LoM] [CC: P] [CC: W] [CC: D] [LC] [SoV]

SCPO | Anatosh "Bee" Tarn | Aurora 2 | 175th Aurora Squadron | 48th Sabre Wing | ISD-II Adjudicator | 1st Fleet | SFC | VEN | VE
JaxTheReaper
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JaxTheReaper
 
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 7:28:55 PM    View the profile of JaxTheReaper 
=== ETA 15 Minutes ===


Jax wasn’t one for small talk, he reflected while he was sitting in the crash seat next to his new Squad Leader. He listened to the other troopers in the squad strike up conversations with others around them. He learned his lesson in Blackjack. Some of his former squadmates were, for lack of a better term, a**holes. Any time Jax had opened his mouth to interact with his squad and get a little banter going, he had his head chewed off by either Jager or Abalar. While he missed serving in Blackjack, he didn’t miss those two. He definitely had a friend in his former squad mate Corvin. But that was almost seven years ago and there was no way of knowing what had happened to them all.


He heard one trooper give his callsign as Swamprat. Weird. Wonder how a guy gets that name? Another responded in kind with the callsign Lightray. How do these guys come up with these names? He watched one trooper practically turn green when the squad’s medic, at least he thought it was the medic, the guy had a medic’s bag anyway, jokingly say he wouldn’t treat the guy if he were hit. Jax actually grinned at that. Nothing like breaking in the greenies.


Jax thought of something. He stood up, helmet under one arm , and moved to the center of the ship. “Listen up troopers”, he said to get their attention. The little conversations died down and they all looked at him. He affected the meanest face he could conjure up, “I’m Jax, callsign Reaper. The facility we’re currently ordered to take control of is owned personally by me. I won’t take kindly to anyone frakking up my place so take that as you will. Try to keep any damage to a minimum.”


Jax placed his helmet on his head and there was a small hiss of pressurization that echoed through the silent hold. He walked back over to the crash seat next to the SL and sat back down. He pulled his two prized vibro-blades from arm sheaths and proceeded to play around with them with such speed and intricacy that it was hard if not impossible to follow. After about 30 seconds of this, he tossed the blades into the air and positioned his arms so they would seat themselves back in the sheaths.


Jax reached under his seat and brought out a datapad. After about five minutes of his fingers flashing across the screen, he got his SL’s attention and handed the datapad over to him. “This is a layout of the facility and what I think the likely entry points should be. I’ve also marked choke points inside and outside the facility as well as where I think some good sniper positions in the surrounding area would be. Jax pulled a map of the planet’s atmosphere up on the datapad. “This entry corridor here is usually safe for dropping planetside through atmo. Although I’m sure whoever is in control of my facility right now know’s about it so it’s probably monitored.” He tapped the screen again. “I already CC’d this part to command, but I don’t know if they’ll use it. I thought I’d let you know anyway.”


Jax pointed at the screen, “I recommend this spot here for the landing as the surrounding hills will give us cover and shield our movements once we’re on the ground. It’s a bit of a hoof but there’s ample cover for bounding. Should cut down on the opportunities for enemy snipers if they’ve got em’.” Jax sighed. “‘Course that also means plenty of places for ambushes. That’s what I got SL” Jax finished.


=== 20 minutes later===


“Sithspit” Jax heard the curse. "I need a medic and gunner in here! Now!" he heard a woman’s voice shout back into the hold. Their SL, Mox, gestured forward and ordered Therex and Jax to answer the woman’s call. Frak it. Fight or die. Jax popped his harness off and headed towards the front of the ship with their Medic. Just as he reached it the shuttle was rocked hard with another laser blast and Jax was sent flying into the bulkhead above. There was suddenly a sharp pain in his right shoulder and he gasped. It never fails. “Can’t I just get one frakin OP where I don’t get hurt?” he said out loud to no one in particular.


“You hit there Reaper?” Jax looked towards the voice and noted with disgust that Therex had managed to grab the bulkhead and avoid personal bodily harm.


“It’s just my shoulder. I’ll be fine. Let’s go see what that pilot needs us for.” Jax stood up. He  couldn’t tell what expression their medic had on underneath his helmet but he was sure the guy was looking at him disapprovingly. Experience had taught him that a trooper who didn’t acknowledge their combat injuries was a liability to the squad. He reflected on that fact.


“Actually, my shoulder hurts pretty bad. But it can wait. The call for a gunner probably means we have fighters on our asses.”


“Yeah” he heard back from Therex and they entered the cockpit.
PFC Reaper/1SQD/1PLT/1COM/1BAT/1REG/VEA/VE

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Tetrarch
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 8:56:03 PM    View the profile of Tetrarch 
Cathal nearly groaned aloud as yet another trooper introduced themselves as an NCO. As seniority went, he was going to be somewhere near the bottom rung. No prizes for guessing who was going to be getting all the latrine duty. The law of gravity meant the fecal matter generally went down. And anything that did go up would always come down.


Worse were the smirks he could sense at his callsign. Feth, it’s not like I got to pick it. The silent eyeless stares from the helmets made him want to cringe. Feckers probably think I’m gone simple in the head. “Nice one Lightray” he responded, hearing the amusement in the other’s voice. He was going red under his helmet, Well your callsign is hardly much better!. He returned the salute and sat back.


Two seats down, Therex, the squad medic, managed while wisecracking to make one of the newer squad members go green about the gills. Swamprat nearly died of embarrassment for him, the atmosphere in the shuttle was ridiculous, like they were on a group blind date. One tall trooper rose with his helmet under his arm. Conversation died off fast as he spoke, nor did his face look particularly friendly. “I’m Jax, callsign Reaper. The facility we’re currently ordered to take control of is owned personally by me. I won’t take kindly to anyone frakking up my place so take that as you will. Try to keep any damage to a minimum.”


Swamprat’s teeth gritted. Typical Coilltean obstinacy meant he now half wanted on principle to run riot through the facility, gleefully lobbing grenades with wild abandon. Such pleasurable thoughts evaporated quite fast as he watched him play with a brace of vibroblades. Maybe I’ll let this one go he decided sagely.


Waiting was the worst, he wished they were launching already.


It seemed like his wish was a command. The shuttle ramp raised and the hull rumbled as the engines engaged. Cathal sheathed his bushknife and clutched onto the restraints, murmuring a silent prayer to his ancestors.
___________________________________20mins Later___________________________


The voice of the pilot came through, startling clear. "Hope you're all strapped in back there. We're going to be encountering some slight turbulence.". He marvelled at the steadiness of her voice, it even managed to sound like this was a boring incident.


Things got anything but. The shuttle went into evasive action. Fighter pilots loved barrel rolls. Passengers tended to loath them. Cathal felt his stomach flip end over end. Someone got sick in their helmet. Another trooper whooped in delight. He gripped his restraints tightly and screwed his eyes shut. Troopers cursed as the shuttle was hit with blaster fire, the hull shaking violently. The sound of their return fire was scant comfort.


The ship shook again and this time it was bad. The pilot swore and a roar came from the cockpit. His eyes opened, half expecting to be a goner. The Force was with them it seemed, at least for a few moments. The call came for a medic and a gunner. Therex and Jax disengaged from their restraints and moved forward. The shuttle was rocked by another blast and the two of them went flying, though both troopers managed to land on their feet. Still there was a collective wince at Jax being bashed into a bulkhead


Swamprat and the others watched wide eyed, grateful they were still strapped in. There were gulps at the mention of fighters on their tail. There was nothing more horrifying for an infantryman than to be stuck helpless in a flying metal box, an eternity away from solid ground while fighters swarmed them.


I am going to kiss that ground the moment I get there he swore fervently to himself. His grip tightened on the restraints and he screwed his eyes shut, mouth moving in constant prayer.
[STC]  Private 1st Class Cathal "Swamprat" Mckarthaigh.

[Navy] Leading Crewman Muireach "Tetrarch" Buide.
[This message has been edited by Tetrarch (edited November 14, 2016 8:56:46 PM)]
Slasher
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  RE: VENA: Through the Shattered Glass
November 14, 2016 10:23:06 PM    View the profile of Slasher 
“Commander Agranth, you have command of the deck, I am withdrawing to the flag deck.”

“Aye Captain.”

Having officially Slasher turned away from the viewport and walked aft toward the holoprojector table in the flag officer's command center aft of the bridge. As he entered the area he turned to his designated adjutant Master Chief Petty Officer Misal Avant.

“Master Chief, Status Report.”

“Captain, the Valiant is currently engaged with the Looter's Lift. The squadron of Avengers are moving to engage some of the pirate fighters and the shuttles are on their way, should be on the surface in approximately 5 minutes. We have one squadron of Interceptors escorting the shuttles in, and the other is being routed to engage a squadron of Warsprites”

The deck beneath Slasher shifted as the Koom Valley took hits from the Bountiful Brigands and one of the other unidentified Bothan Assault Frigates. He saw the indicators flash between the two ships and the Koom Valley, she was holding her own, but only just.

==Command Deck, New Republic Star Cruiser Alderaan's Justice==

Line Captain Iciss Nakbuls looks over the the projection showing the situation in the system. While the ships that were engaged out there were obviously Imperials and pirates, it was also very clear that the Imperial forces were in the system responding to the presence of the pirates, and were landing troops in an attempt to drive them away from the base. Nakbuls made a snap decision and turned to his helmsman.

“Lieutentant, set course for the combat, flank speed, sound general quarters and have the pilots get to their ships.”

Lieutenant Ghuss Dittahb immediately keyed in the course, getting the massive MC80 Liberty-type Mon Calamari Star Cruiser moving toward the combat.

Although they were in the area to protect Republic interests in the system, it was a well know fact among the crew, Captain Nakbuls hated pirates.

OOC:
Yes a short post, but moving various plot points along. The Mon Calamari Star Cruiser is moving toward the combat, they intend, for the time being, to enter the combat on our side. However, that is almost certain to last only as long as the pirates do...
CNT|TFC|SCAP/CPT Rorran "Slasher" Gorma/LEC Koom Valley/TF: Thesh/4th Fleet/VEN/VE
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