"Attention!"  Warrant Officer 2nd Class Jaden shouted, jumping to his feet as Captain Mikael Skysterov, commander of the 4th taskforce of the First Vast Empire fleet entered the room.

"At ease pilots."  The Captain said as he reached the podium.  In a very precision-like manner, the captain snapped open his briefcase, pulled out a disk and laser pointer and snapped the case back shut.  His mannerisms were rather intimadating as a result; as was like observing a rather mean looking robot.  He was most definitely a stereotypical Imperial officer.  Rather than look up and give a verbal order, Skysterov reached out, pointed at Templar, and snapped his fingers as an order for him to come over.  Templar examined the holoprojector that the captain had been trying to operate and after making a few adjustments, it sputtered to life.

"Very well."  Skysterov began.  "For the last six months, pirate shipments have continued to distrub the shipping of important supplies, both raw materials and finished products.  Production has been cut back as a result and despite the success of recent campaigns on some pirate groups, the issue of piracy has not disappeared.  As a result, we are going to take the offensive in a new way."  The holoprojector switched to an image of a space station surrounded by containers, patrol ships, and mines.

"Space station Zebra.  This is one of the more important facilities for galactic piracy.  Our first goal is to capture or destroy this platform and destroy all pirates in the area."  The captain said with a rather fierce tone to underline his personal belief that destruction was the better road.  "As you can see, the station is ringed with a series of containers and gun platforms.  Our intelligence tells us that these containers are actually concealed mines which means that if we are to destroy or capture the station, we need to destroy the containers, the mines, and of course all opposition before moving in, disabling, and capturing."

"Sir, given that this facility is so important, won't there be a large presence in terms of pirates doing business and ships for defence?"  Jaden.

"Ordinarily yes.  However, we have planned a solution to this problem.  Scattered far enough away from this platform, as in a distance longer than that which would provide a rapid response to provide reinforcements, are three other facilities of importance to galactic pirates.  We are sending in a small decoy force to each area at different times in order to scatter their defences, hopefully cause some to run for cover, and cause the fleet defending Station Zebra to split up to defend the other areas."  Mikael Skysterov replied.

"Now for this mission, you men will be entering battle onboard the flagship of this taskforce, the Imperial Star Destroyer Debilitator.  We are short on fighters and only have a squadron of TIE Bombers to assist.  They will be responsible with the heavy duty strikes while your fighters have been modified to carry a larger payload so you can perform both an intercept and strike role.  In addition, we have the Dreadnaught Enforcer, the Carack Cruiser Blitzkrieg and the Lancer Frigate Diabolical Array.  This should be enough fire power for any mission you will be asked to perform in this offensive."

"Captain, judging from your language, are there other missions as well?"  Hunter asked.

"Depending on how the situation unfolds, we have a series of potential targets on our strike list and this will be determined throughout the mission.  However, at the end of the campaign we will have one final very important mission."  The Captain replied.  The holoprojector changed to show an image of an asteroid field.  "In this asteroid field lies what we believe the be the headquarters of one of the more powerful and influential pirate bands.  Our final objective is to strike and destroy this by one of two means.  Depending on the strategic situation, Aegis squadron my be transferred to a Corvette that the pirates have never seen before.  The Corvette will be listed as belonging to a dubious shipping firm all it to get close enough to release the fighters and strike.  The second option is to launch a diversionary tactic on a shipyard and manufacturing facility in a nearby system as a ruse.  In this scenario, we will bring the taskforce and the Interdictor Death Grip to the asteroid base to wait for and exterminate the pirates as they return in addition to eliminating thier base.  However, this mission will be in the future and is the final objective and not the present one.  I will caution you now though, however.  Always be cautious near asteroids.  The pirates are well known for turning them into mines and gun platforms.  Any questions?"  The Captain demanded, switching off the holoprojector as he did.  "Good.  Any further orders will be given in the field or back on this ship after one mission is accomplished.  Dismissed!"

(OOC: Alright so this is how this works.  I have e-mailed Jaden with a list of possible missions he might use during this story.  Plot twists are entirely up to him and the missions I gave him are optional; he can use them however he wants.  Good luck)
 
-----------------------
WAJ/2LT Corran "Arturus" Hargraves/M-SSD Atrus/VE/VEN/(=A=)(=SA=)(=*MA*=)(=JCPA=)(=SCPA=)[MC:1](x2)[SV][BRC][VC:B][LSM][LoC]


"The way of war is a way of deception. When able, feign inability; when deploying troops, appear not to be. When near, appear far; when far, appear near. Lure with bait; strike with chaos. If the enemy is full, be prepared. If strong, avoid him. If he is angry, disconcert him. If he is weak, stir him to pride. If he is relaxed, harry him; if his men are harmonious, split them. Attack where he is unprepared; appear where you are unexpected. This is victory in warfare; it cannot be divulged in advance. Victory belongs to the side that scores most in the temple calculations before battle. Most spells victory; least spells defeat; none, surer defeat. I see it in this way, and the outcome is apparent." -- Sun Tzu

"Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting." -- Sun Tzu

After all of the pilots had left the briefing room, Jaden approached the Captain, Mikael Skysterov.

"Captain," said Jaden, "I've decided which mission we will take first.  The attack on shipyard Zebra"

"Alright.  Have your pilots ready to go in 3 hours.  You will be shuttled straight to the Debilitator.  From there, you know the routine," said Mikael, with a goodbye salute.

Jaden saluted back, "Thank you sir, we'll do our best"

***

Jaden stepped into the Aegis barracks to find that all of the pilots were sitting near their bunks, or changing into their flight suits.  Jaden had been dressed in his for the past few hours now, hoping that they would get under way sooner that what they would.  He could see the hope in his pilots eyes for the mission.  They were all determined to get the job done, but in another view, he could see the nervousness of all of the younger and more ambitious pilots.  They had flown in one mission at most, and had yet to really find out what it was like to stick with it and survive through many missions.

"Alright pilots," said Jaden, with a stern look on his face, "It's time to get serious.  We're leaving in 3 hours for the Debilitator and the rest of the taskforce.  We will be taking the mission on the shipyard codenamed Zebra."

The pilots all shifted their eyes towards Jaden and nodded.

"I don't have much else to say then concentrate on your objectives.  We're in unknown territory out there and I know most of you are a little nervous; scared even.  It's normal to feel those little butterflys in your stomach, but I suggest you go to the bathroom and puke them out, or else you'll be doing it in the your fighters"

"I want all of you at the hanger in 2 and half hours, suited up, and ready to go.  We will be leaving from the Atrus in a shuttle to the Debilitator somewhere in that time frame.  Pilots dismissed"

Jaden walked out of the barracks, Hunter tailing his side.

"Ah man, you as a squadron commander.  Never seen it coming," he said with a childish tone in his voice.  "I mean-"

Jaden cut him off, "Alright, I'm going to be very bitter to these pilots.  I'm very disapointed to see the poor training most of them have went through and the lack of their skills.  Last time I was watching the simulator runs, one of them blew themselves up with their own cuncussion missiles, and you think these pilots are ready for battle?"

Hunter stared Jaden straight in the eyes.  "Look, I've been with this squadron through the tuff times and the good times.  Most of these pilots are new, but I know that they can stick it out.  They may look like they can't do much, but out there, they change somehow.  I don't understand it, but they get the job done and come back home in one piece, unlike I've seen you do in other missions, Commander"

Jaden stood there for a second, soaking in the insult he had just recieved from his Executive Officer.  "I will see you at the hanger in less that two and a half hours.  I hope that you attitude will have changed and your mind clear by then." said Jaden, and he left Hunter behind.

-----------------------
Jaden Khaar


CMDR/WO2 Jaden Khaar/Aegis 1-1 (Aegis 1)/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (=*A*=) (=*SA*=) [VC:S] (SV) (CBV)

Commander of Aegis Squadron

Raigen passed by Jaden in the hall with a quick salute. He didn't understand why the rest of Aegis slept in a barracks when plenty of double quarters were empty. Raigen shared a quarters with CRW Mormel Lorvold. He wondered what would happen to his last wingman now that the mission was over. Raigen continued on his was to Hanger 2. He wanted to run through his new Tie's system. this was the first time he would be flying an interceptor in actual combat. He wanted to fly them in combat ever since he saw a battle above Korriban. Three squadrons of Tie Interceptors vs. one squadron of Y-wings and two squadrons of X-Wings. The Interceptors wiped them up. Raigen had flown through the battle before finding a good watching spot in an asteroid field.

Raigen wanted to see what these suped up models would do. If he had to, later, he would overhaul the engines. But for now, he wanted to fly a stock ship. Raigen called over the comlink to Jaden. "Jaden, this is Raigen....I'm in the hanger bay. Listen, I want to calibrate my controls and interface before the mission and I cant get proper calibration in the simulator!"

"And, why do you need me?" Jaden asked. He seemed annoyed at the fact Raigen had to bother him.

"I want to take my Interceptor out for a test run for a half hour. Is that ok?"

"Just be in that hanger in two hours!" Jaden said as the com clicked off. Raigen pulled himself into the Heckler 2 and ran through preflight. He completed his flight plan and sent it up to the hanger control bridge and awaited launch clearance. That was when Raigen saw his astromech droid enter the hanger. "Kaythree, what are you doing here?"

beep whoop fruuutttt

"No you can't come with me!"

griiiinnnd whoop

"Because the empire doesn't believe in using astromech droids in combat!"

beep whoop beep

"NO I'M NOT JOINING THE ALLIANCE!" Raigen glared at Kaythree as the droid left the hanger. A beeb in his helmet confirmed he had launch clearance. Raigen powered up the interceptor's engines and slowly left the hanger. The Interceptorsped off at 100 mlgt speed. Raigen wasn't gonna push the limits of the fighter until he was at a safe distance. The fighter handled beautifully. It was like gliding. Raigen chimed in to the hanger control bridge. "Requesting activation of the ships in flightn holo simulation file 001."

"Granted. File double oh one activated. Space Target Simulation, difficulty 1!" Twenty blue holograms of space mines appeared at random locations around Raigen's interceptor. He pulled a nice barrol role and went into a high speed asault on five of the mines. The mines disolved as his holo fire made impact. 15 more. Raigen continued to practice his basic maneuvers as he finished off the last of the targets. "Activate holo simulation 0510."

"Activating file oh five ten. Sapce fighter simulation dificulty 22!" Immediatly, two a-wing holograms appeared and closed in on Raigen. The Interceptor rolled out off the way of a burst of holo fire and immelmaned in behind one of the a-wings. The pursued a-wing tried to break out, but raigen kept close behind, mimicing the holo's maneuvers and closing in. Raigen opened fire and the a-wing holo disolved. Now Raigen had to find the other one. The Interceptor shook as he was hit with holo fire. Raigen banked right and rolled out of the fire as his new helmit showed him a image of his shield readout. He needed a good maneuver to get out of this. Raigen pulled strait up and rolled left. His upward thrust continued as he completed the immelman. He knew that the holo was right behind him and a quick break turn toward the capital ship threw the holo right in behind him. As the Interceptor reached 125 mglt, Raigen prepared for his next move He roled out of the fire attacking his rear but kept his facing toward the ship. Raigen was getting close to the sip. 3...2....1! Raigen pulled straight up as the holo colided with the ship and disolved.

"Times up Raigen!" Jaden called through the com! "How bout getting back to the ship so you can refuel!

Raigen looked at the time. He had less than an hour until mission launch. He slowed his fighter and made his way back to the hanger.

-----------------------
FM/SCRW Raigen/Aegis 1/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (VC:B)
Supreme White Knight of the Reply
Cadet Second Lieutenant Clary
C/2lt Clary, Model Rocketry Officer, LA932 AFJROTC
yeah that's me!

Jaden stood in the hanger with all of the pilots in his squadron lined up, single file.  They were all staring straight ahead at attention, not a single muscle moved on their faces or body at one point in time as they stared at their commander.

"At ease pilots," said Jaden, walking down the line.  "This is the briefing you are all going to need to pay attention to," said Jaden, passing out datapads to each of the pilots.

"Welcome to the squadron Shiric, it's good to have female influence around as all of these trigger happy flyboys need some taming once and a while," said Jaden, staring straight at her.

"Alright people.  We're going to be attacking a pirate shipyard by the name of Zebra.  We're jumping in on the Imperial Star Destoryer Debilitator.  In our assault force will also be a squadron of bombers besides our fighters, which are tie interceptors.  We will be assisted by the Dreadnaught Enforcer, Carrack Cruiser Blitzkreig, and the Lancer Frigate Diabolical Array.  With this much force, we should and will accomplish and mission or goal assigned to us."

Jaden stood there for a moment, watching as all of the pilots minds churned with excitement and ambition for the mission.

"Alright, get your head on your shoulders.  This facility is one of the more important in the pirates campaign.  When we jump in, most of the forces should already be scattered to the other shipyards in the system, as other assault groups are attacking them at the same time, to draw attention away from the more important shipyard, Zebra."

"The Shipyard is surrounded by minor orbitary defences and gun platforms, so be on the lookout for those.  There will be some small cruisers and patrolling craft in the area, probably a frigate, a Corvette, or a dreadnaught, along with their complimentary fighter escort.  The shipyard itself could have any type of ship docked with it, and its own fighter payload, so be careful as we make our approach.  We can expect any type of fighters, as these are pirates we are dealing with," said Jaden

Jaden turned around as he heard the sound of an engine coming close to the hanger.  He turned around to see that the shuttle had arrived to take them to the nearby ISD Debilitator.

"Alright pilots, there's our ride.  I want all of you to be concentrating and thinking only about your mission as we board the shuttle and take our trip over to the Debilitator.  We will be in hyperspace for a short time, minutes at most, and then we will launch"

Jaden stood there, watching the pilots check through their datapads and make sure they had everything in order.  "Hunter, follow me into the shuttle first," said Jaden.  "Pilots, board the shuttle after us"

Jaden walked towards the shuttle with his helmet in his right hand.  He couldn't stop thinking about the fact that he was leading a group of pilots into battle.  He now had the lives of every single one of them in the palm of his hand, and he wouldn't let those lives be wasted in such a terrible manner as being killed by a pirate.

Jaden stepped up into the shuttle and sat closest to the cockpit.  There was a pilot and a co-pilot in the cockpit, preping for takeoff once more.  "Warrant Officer 2nd class Jaden Khaar I presume?" said the pilot.  "Yeap," said Jaden, "We'll lift off once all pilots are aboard.  How is our time?"

"We're early sir," said the pilot, "We have plenty of time" said the pilot, with a snicker on his face.  Within a few minutes all of the pilots were on board.  The shuttle immediately lifted off and they exited the hanger.  In a metter of minutes they had arrived at the Debilitator and had entered into hyperspace.  The tie interceptors sat with a so perfectly as the lights from above in the hanger shown down on them.

Jaden spotted the group of pilots that would be flying the bombers.  He walked over to the group andshook the hand of the pilot that had the emblem on his shoulder marking him as the leader.

"Warrant officer second class Jaden Khaar," said Jaden, "Commander of Aegis Squadron"

The leader of the bombers kept shaking his hand as he talked, "Master Cheif Petty Officer Drake Velso," said the man, "Commander of Wolfe Squadron"

"Alright, our estimated arrival to the shipyard is 5 minutes.  Looks like you and your men are ready to go.  I'll see you out there.  Good luck and god speed," said Drake.  He stood with stature, as if he was better that Jaden in some way, or atleast trying to express that fact.

"Alright, see you out there"

Jaden walked back over to where aegis squadron was.  They were all beside their fighters now, climbing up into the fighters and getting into the cockpits.  Only one left out of the fighter now was Hunter.

"Sorry about the conflict earlier Jade," said Hunter, "Good luck out there.  Those bombadeers are pretty stuck up huh?"

"Sure are," said Jaden, with a smile on his face.  He walked over to his fighter and climbed the small ladder to the top.  Once he was in the cockpit and the hatch closed, a mechanic ran by and removed all the ladders from around the fighters.

"We are entering realspace in less that 30 seconds.  Pilots, our long range radar has picked up 2 dreadnaughts, a squadron of fighters, and a medical frigate in the immediate area.  Thats all we could find" said a voice over the loudspeaker.

Jaden turned on the com system and switched over to the aegis channel.

"Alright pilots, start your check in and get ready to go!" said Jaden, with a tone of excitement in his voice.  He flipped the secondary power switch, followed by the primary; double checked the engine power, weapon system, and the repulsor lifts.

"Aegis 1 good to go" said Jaden

Similar callbacks came back from both of the squadrons by the time they had entered realspace.  Within a few minutes, they would be into the heat of battle and lives would be lost.

Time to boogey
 
-----------------------
Jaden Khaar


CMDR/WO2 Jaden Khaar/Aegis 1-1 (Aegis 1)/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (=*A*=) (=*SA*=) [VC:S] (SV) (CBV)

Commander of Aegis Squadron

(Just making my place to where I've counted, continue please)
 
-----------------------
WAJ/2LT Corran "Arturus" Hargraves/M-SSD Atrus/VE/VEN/(=A=)(=SA=)(=*MA*=)(=JCPA=)(=SCPA=)[MC:1](x2)[SV][BRC][VC:B][LSM][LoC]


"The way of war is a way of deception. When able, feign inability; when deploying troops, appear not to be. When near, appear far; when far, appear near. Lure with bait; strike with chaos. If the enemy is full, be prepared. If strong, avoid him. If he is angry, disconcert him. If he is weak, stir him to pride. If he is relaxed, harry him; if his men are harmonious, split them. Attack where he is unprepared; appear where you are unexpected. This is victory in warfare; it cannot be divulged in advance. Victory belongs to the side that scores most in the temple calculations before battle. Most spells victory; least spells defeat; none, surer defeat. I see it in this way, and the outcome is apparent." -- Sun Tzu

"Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting." -- Sun Tzu

"Shipyard Zebra and all affiliates, stand down and prepare to be boarded," Jaden called out over the general com frequency.

Stupid protocal, everyone knows they are going to fight back

Jaden waited for a few moments for a response, and finally got one.

"Imperial pilots, we assure you that attacking this shipyard was a grave mistake.  You don't know who you're messing with"

Jaden thought for a moment, listing out all of the retorts he could send back at the person on the other line, and decided to just give him a simple answer.

"You aren't going to know what hit you," said Jaden

The fighters had now left the ISD Debilitator.  Just a few seconds later, Dreadnaught Enforcer, Carrack cruiser Blitzkreig, and the lancer frigate Diabolical Array jumped in.

"Good deal," said Jaden.  "I want flight one to stick with me and flight two to follow Aegis 5.  Orders will be given momentarily"

"This is Captain Mikael Skysterov, leading the 4th task force of the Vast Empire.  Enforcer and Blitzkreig, attack the enemy dreadnaught Echo Nine from the starboard side and take her out.  Diabolical Array, make your way towards the station.  You will be escorted by Aegis Squadron and Wolfe Squadron.  We've picked up a squadron of mixed A-wings and X-wings converging on your position.  Aegis, take care of those swiftly and quickly.  Long range scans must have been wrong because dreadnaught Fly by Night and presumed to be Medical Frigate but really Lancer Frigate Zellora aren't in the system.  Aegis, when you're near the shipyard, take out those guns so the bombers and Diabolical Array can get close.  ISD Debilitator will be standing by.  Be ready for anything."

"Captain Mikael Skysterov out"

"Alright boys and girl, you heard them.  Form up on the port side of the Diabolical Array and make sure those bombers and that frigate make their strike on the shipyard.  Those A-wings and X-wings are coming in fast."

Jaden pulled the fighter to the left and hit the throttle up to 100%.  Jaden set full sheilds on his nose as they were coming head on with the enemy fighters.

Still wondering how all of these pirates keep getting ahold of NR fighters, and in such good condition, as if they were manufactured and sent right into flight...

"Captain, just for reference, what is the purpose of this shipyard?" asked Jaden

"The shipyard has been used for nearly 4 months as a manufacuring plant for new weapons and fighters for the pirates.  We haven't got any information on how or why they set it up, but it seems as if they are working with a close shipment company for the NR because all of their fighters are NR lately." said Mikael

"Makes sense," said Jaden, "Alright, Aegis one out"

"Fighters at 3 klicks, permission to engage sir?" said Angel

"Alright, engage, but save your missile payload.  You're going to need it" said Jaden, pulling up his own missile targeting redicule.  The box went orange, then quickly to red and the beeps indicated he had lock.  Two missiles were sent shooting out of the Interceptor and straight for one of the A-wings.

That pilot is as good as dead, but why do I not feel that guilty feeling anymore? Actually, I feel more pleasure then guilt now...


 
-----------------------
Jaden Khaar


CMDR/WO2 Jaden Khaar/Aegis 1-1 (Aegis 1)/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (=*A*=) (=*SA*=) [VC:S] (SV) (CBV)

Commander of Aegis Squadron

    Raigen pulled his Interceptor tightly behind Space. "Ok Space. target an X-wing and I'll follow straight behind. Keep straight and we'll dual up on one," Raigen said over his ships com system. Space targeted the closest X-wing and sent the target to Raigen's computer. As the two closed in on the unsuspecting X-wing, Raigen prepared for his move. They we're getting closer diverted his power to the thrusters. Blinkers in his fighter notified him that he was locked on. Raigen checked the scanner and saw an a-wing on his tail. "Ok Space. Open Fire." Raigen held onto the flight stick tightly as his interceptor rolled right and sped foreword toward the target X-wing. The fire from Space's blasters shot overhead. Raigen kept calm as he opened fire on the target. Shields on the X-wing began to fail due to the overwhelming fire from both of the tie interceptors. Raigen couldn't tell who's bast hit the fuselage of the enemy fighter, but it exploded in a instant combination of fire and decompression from the vacuum of space. That's a horrible way to die!

    Space, who was now behind Raigen, requested the next target. Raigen searched for the A-wing that was previously on his tail. He found it, but was alarmed at its position. "Space, our next target is...coming straight for us," Raigen yelled as he enabled diversionary maneuvers. He banked his fighter to the right and slid out of the line of fire. His wing mate did the same but chose to move toward the left."Ok Space, we've got both flanks. get behind him while I take the kill," he said as he dodged another blast.

    "How about you get behind him and I fire. You're closer and he seems to be going after you," Space added as they closed in.

    "Good Point. All right I'm moving in. Watch your fire and make sure I'm no where near the explosion," Raigen added as he saw space roll away for a firing spot. He thought of how he could do this. Turn around and out maneuver him, he thought, or scare him into your front line? Then it came to him. Raigen rolled to the right of the A-wing LoF and dove straight down just before the two would have made contact. The Pirate fighter lagged on his response but eventually did a semi back flip and pulled into where he thought was Raigen's trail. Raigen, however, had anticipated this and leveled out before looping around so when the A-wing did try to follow, it was in front of him. The pirate had to have been dumbfounded as he found that his target had slipped behind him.

    "Ok Raigen, I have the shot," Space informed as Raigen followed the A-wing. "You're too close slow down and let him get away from you." Space instructed as the plan began to unfold. Raigen let off the thrusters and watched as Space fired into the cockpit of the A-wing. Images of the explosion reflected off Raigen's cockpit canopy as he passed by the wreckage.

    "Ok Space, lets Regroup and find another kill," Raigen said as he examined the destroyed A-wing.
 
-----------------------
Raigen vs. Them
---5-----------2---
FM/SCRW Raigen/Aegis 1/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (VC:B)

    Raigen smiled at his recent success. Together, Space and Raigen had taken down five fighters. He was glad but the last three were too easy. Come to think of it, the first kill didn't seem to put up a fight at all. As the pilot's raced for another target, Raigen decided to keep a heads up for trouble, "I don't know, Space. This is too easy. I've seen pirates in the CS fight a lot better than this. These are just targets. You don't think we're playing into a trap, do you?" he inquired as he rolled and pulled the fighter out of a sharp turn. Why would a base specializing in the production of fighters specifically for pirates have such untrained protection? he thought.

    "You've stumped me," Space joked,"Tell me. If you complain when they're too easy, what do you do when they're too hard?" Space asked as he showed Raigen to their target. Raigen laughed at his question and tried to think of a witty answer.

    "I celebrate," Raigen informed. His tie fighter was pushing 122 Mglt as he sped past Space and opened fire on an X-wing passing below him. The blast hit the pirate's thrusters and fire began to flare from the engine. Raigen figured the fighter would explode so he moved on to the next target. The next X-wing was a little better at protecting himself. The pirate tried a high speed yo-yo but Raigen, having superior acceleration and speed, slowed his break so the X-wing came out in front. Raigen poured on all his speed and unloaded a barrage of blasts at the enemy target. He had no idea where Spacespeed was. It was all the better. At least, this way, he gets a kill and not an assist.

    Just then, the alert beacon in his cockpit came on. The X-wing he left for dead was on his tail and locking on. His interceptor could outrun an X-wing but not a missile. He thought quick and directed all power to his thrusters. As he closed in on the front X-wing, the rear one received a lock. Raigen's scanner showed the distance between the fighters, maybe ten yards between each craft. Where are you Space? he thought I never should has went ahead. Raigen watched his screen as the missile apeared on his scanner. He held tight to the joy stick as he lifted the ship and blasted over the front pirate and rolled upside down. He could see the pirates face through their cockpit canopies. Raigen mouthed the word Sorry as he roared ahead and then threw the ship into a loop. The missile of the attacking X-wing made cantact with with the rear of his ally's craft. Raigen must have been concealed in the explosion because the last X-wing never saw his missile coming. Raigen's missile shot through the canopy of the cockpit and lodged itself into the engine before exploding. The triumphent pilot's heart raced as he regrouped with spacespeed.

    "Your're back. I got a kill added to our list, how about you?" Space said as he took a posistion next to Raigen.

    "Ummm...Just one," Raigen lied. Technically, he did take out one. The other X-wing was taken out by friendly fire.
 
-----------------------
Raigen vs. Them
---5-----------2---
FM/SCRW Raigen/Aegis 1/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (VC:B)

Mikael Skysterov stood on the command bridge of the ISD Dibilitator, watching as his forces moved in on the petty little pirate shipyard.  He could smell the fear of the new pilots in the air as they clattered down the hall.  The sound of the klaxons blaring was now all but too familiar to him.  He would lead his taskforce to upmost victory in this mission.

"Lieutenant commander," said Mikael, "Order the Blitzkreig and the Enforcer to open fire on the Echo Nine.  They should have no problem dealing with that dreadnaught."

"Yes sir," said the man, "Orders are being sent out"

"Lets move in on the shipyard at a medium pace, giving the Diabolical Array and the bombers some time to strike first.  Once they've started their strike, we're going to open fire will all forward batteries on the shipyard and crush those pirates.  What is the enemy force count at, lieutenant?"

"One moment sir, the Diabolical Array is in position to attack the shipyard with the bombers already, looks like the fighters are in a small engagement with the small amount of enemy fighters that are left.  Should we give them the word to attack?"

Mikael stood strong showing his pride in his pilots, "Tell the Diabolical Array to hold until we have gotten in turbo laser range.  Whats our ETA to arrival at the shipyard?"

"ETA is 5 minutes, they can easily hold for that long sir" said the lieutenant commander.

"Make sure those pilots protect the bombers and get the job done until we can get in position to open fire on the shipyard."

"Sir yes Sir!" said the lieutenant.  He immediately stepped off the deck and went back to his post as commander on the floor of the bridge, orders flying out of his mouth faster than a protocal droid taking records of a speech.

A few minutes later, the lieutenant commander came rushing back up to deck.

"Sir, we are within firing range of the shipyard, your orders?"

"Have all forward batteries and missile decks open fire on the shipyard.  Bring her down clean and swiftly, we need to move on" said Mikael.

He stood and watched as the green turbolaser fire lit up the blackness of space.  The turbo lasers bolted out from the ISD and smashed into the shipyard, slowly ripping it to pieces.

"Keep on the bombardment until I order different" said Mikael, "You are relieved Lieutenant"

****

Jaden rolled the fighter to the left, hanging on the back of the bombers as they came in on the shipyard.  Two X-wings were trailing Jaden and Hunter ever so swiftly, but they had just recently been caught up in the overhead turbo laser fire and retreated.

"Alright, lets keep the bombers in the condition they need to be and take this old shipyard down.  We have immediate orders to attend to after its destruction, so make it quick people."
 
-----------------------
Jaden Khaar
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CMDR/WO2 Jaden Khaar/Aegis 1-1 (Aegis 1)/Phoenix Wing/mSSD Atrus/DEF/VEN/VE (=*A*=) (=*SA*=) [VC:S] (SV) (CBV)

Commander of Aegis Squadron

"Alright, lets keep the bombers in the condition they need to be and take this old shipyard down.  We have immediate orders to attend to after its destruction, so make it quick people."

DJ looked around for anymore pirate ships on his radar, seeing none he called Templar over to him and they made their way back with the rest of the squad. "Hmm now this is strange," said DJ to Templar while making his way back with the others. "What's Strange DJ"? Templar asked.

"Well my radar is not showing anymore fighters in the vicinity and its quiet too quiet even in space". Worry started to show onto DJ's face luckily none one could see through his helmet 'I really hope this isn't a trap' DJ thought to himself. Just as he finished thinking that the hairs on the back of his neck started to stand up almost as if there is someone else there besides Templar. "DJ watches out"! Templar Yelled into the mike.

Rolling his TIE Interceptor to the right DJ just missed the blast trying to check them off guard. "Damn dirty pirates always trying to backstab you in any situation. I KNEW I shouldn't have turned my back on the wreckage BUT No I just had to tell myself that there was nothing there". DJ grumbled to himself.

Firing his blasters at another A-wing DJ called to Raigen "Raigen make sure you don't get yourself into an ambush. We are already fighting off a surprise attack set by those dirty pirate's, I don't want anyone to be shot down so keep an eye out."

Raigen responded "DJ are you sure you don't need any help. Just a couple minutes ago Shiric called us her knights in shining armor". Rolling his eyes at Raigen DJ responded "No Raigen its ok the last thing I want is YOU to be my Knight in shining armor, just remember to watch your partner's back and try and stay clear of ambushes"

Shuddering at the thought 'I would rather die by the pirates than have that over my head for the rest of my life' DJ thought to himself. His musings were interrupted however by the scream that diverted his attention back to the battle. Looking towards his left DJ noticed Templar under heavy fire. Pushing his fighter forward he rushed in to save Templar from being destroyed. Thinking fast DJ thought of a quick strategy to neutralize all target in the surrounding area. "Templar I want you to do a left turn and dive straight down".

Understanding the command Templar did just as DJ asked and dove straight down wondering how it could possibly work.

The fighters just as DJ imagined they would dove down to follow Templar. Sneaking up behind the two fighters DJ shot his Ion cannon at one and fired a missile at the other successfully ending the remaining threat. "Come on Temp lets go back to the others and protect those bombers with Jaden and the rest".

Flying back DJ was able to hear part of a message Jaden was saying "The rest of you, lets move forward, watch out for stray fighters. and keep in mind, that the dog fight Raigen and Space is cleaning up is not over. The shipyard could release more."

Grumbling to himself " he's saying it like they did all the work and we just sat by and idly watched". Pushing that to the side DJ and the other half of Aegis formed up with the rest to finish this mission.

 
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Aegis Squad

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I think war might be God's way of teaching us geography~Paul Rodriguez
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If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.
- Sun Tzu
----------------------

Counted
 
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WAJ/2LT Corran "Arturus" Hargraves/M-SSD Atrus/VE/VEN/(=A=)(=SA=)(=*MA*=)(=JCPA=)(=SCPA=)[MC:1](x2)[SV][BRC][VC:B][LSM][LoC]


"The way of war is a way of deception. When able, feign inability; when deploying troops, appear not to be. When near, appear far; when far, appear near. Lure with bait; strike with chaos. If the enemy is full, be prepared. If strong, avoid him. If he is angry, disconcert him. If he is weak, stir him to pride. If he is relaxed, harry him; if his men are harmonious, split them. Attack where he is unprepared; appear where you are unexpected. This is victory in warfare; it cannot be divulged in advance. Victory belongs to the side that scores most in the temple calculations before battle. Most spells victory; least spells defeat; none, surer defeat. I see it in this way, and the outcome is apparent." -- Sun Tzu

"Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting." -- Sun Tzu

"Nice going Jade, Hunts!" Shiric called out happily as the last of the enemy crafts went down in an explosion.
"All pilots, mission complete.  Aegis and Wolfe Squadrons, report to the ISD Debilitator immediately."

Shiric's heart leaped at the announcement. Finally!She was going to go back to safety larger then a square meter cockpit. Her eyes shifted uneasily to the broken, cracked radar. Her craft was blind. The thought of returning to the Debilitator   was very inviting, an invitation she wasn't going to decline.
"Come on guys...and girl, lets get back and freshin up. Not all over yet." Jaden muttered over his Comlink to the rest of the squadron.

**On the Debilitator **

With little difficulty Shiric entered the hangar with her TIE, and hovered it over the ground as she neared the parking plots as she liked to call it. With a sigh the TIE landed and pressurized smoke started hissing from the airing vents as it began to cool down. She quickly punched the panel, which opened the airtight sealed door, and started climbing out. A whistle from the left side of her hearing attracted her attention.
It was one of the technicians. He starred at her TIE wide eyed. Confused Shiric hopped off from it, and back away from it to get a clearer view.

"Thats why you never let a woman drive. Period." Shiric turned to give Jaden, who has long since landed, a mock glare before turned back to her TIE. She glanced at her squadron's TIE, who all had damage to some degree, but in comparison with her TIE, it could have gone for brand new. Her TIE was littered with scorch marks gather from the blasts she received. It would be impossible to find a clean spot as big as her hand. The few dents that accompanied her scorch marks were fewer in number however, Shiric grinned.
"It could have been worse."
Jaden quirked an eyebrow, before he frowned.
"It could have been."
Wolfe Squadron has all landed by this time as well, and were throwing thumbs up at the Aegis squadron members, or shook hands with one another, congratulating each other on a job well done.

"Attention Imperials." The familiar electronic female voice echoed through the hangar. 
"We are entering hyperspace in proximity fifteen seconds and counting." Shiric shrugged as she started peeling off her gloves, and flight jacket as the squadron left the hangar together.
"Fourteen."
"Space see you in the quarters?"
"Thirteen."
"Yeah sure Raigen, lemme jump in the shower, anyone still up for that SIM race?"
"Twelve."
"Hehe, sure, I still have a bet to finish with Temp."
"Eleven."
"I'm going to beat your ass, but heh, this is my turn off here, see you in a few."
"Ten."
"See ya Raigen, gotto run as well. Bye till laters."
"Nine."
"See ya DJ, good flying." Shiric called out. The count down continued as each of the flight members turned off to his designated quarter, or in some cases, cantina.
"One.
Shiric felt a tremor vibrating through the floor before the floor itself seemed to jolt, throwing her off balance for a few seconds.
"Hyperspace engaged." the voice called out a few seconds later.
That was my first mission done! she thought exited to her self as she strolled down the haul. She was thinking of visiting Len, but the latter has been smoldering her space the past few days. She will pass the visit for now.
And I'm alive, wonder what's next... she wondered. Shrugging it off she pushed the thoughts away. She would find out in their next briefing which she asumed was later today.



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Aegis Squad

Shiric stepped out of the refresher-booth while she dried her hair with a damp towel.
Damn hair, need to cut it.
And that is what she always said and planner, but she never meant it. Shiric dropped the towel on a nearby chair as she started to clean the room, her clothes lied strewn across the floor. Usually she could get a droid to do the job for her, but she didn't believe in droids. They were good enough for nothing according to her. Shiric flipped through some holo channels out of boredom before she gave up on finding something interesting. Grabbing another clean flight suit she pulled it on and stuffed her gloves in her back pocket. She quickly exited the door and made her way to the Aegis's temporary quarters.

Upon entering it, she found it one again empty. Almost disappointed she stretched her out on one the couches it provided. It was a bit tattered after several squadrons' use, but she wasn't really one to be bothered about that. Two voices sounded as it started nearing the room. A pressurized hiss escaped the door as it slid open and Jaden and Dj's discussion continued.

"If we could get the flight...oh hi Shire." said Jaden, Shiric waved. DJ returned the wave. Just then another hiss followed before Hunter entered as well. Making small talk as they waited for the rest of the squadron went on, and slowly but surely the small room was filling up. Raigen was unusually silent though, as if going through an inner contemplation. For now Shiric would leave it there and question him later perhaps.


***Unbeknown to Shiric***
Lok sighed in frustration as the  ISD Debilitator jumped into hyperspace. He could only hope Shiric hasn't gotten rid yet of the locket he gave her. Unknown to her it contained a tracer device and till now however, the moment has never yet come for him to use it. Little troublemaker she was as usual, he was her Body Guard, and at the moment he was following her on her parent's orders. Moment ago, he broke them the news that she joined the Imperial Navy. Needless to say they were quite shocked. He was ordered to leave her to be, and only protect her life. He was receiving pay for this after all. At the moment he was forced to wait till she was back out of hyperspace. He was quite shocked when he saw her display with TIE against the A-Wings and X-Wings. She was a novice, anyone could pick that up, but it felt odd watching the girl he saw grow up out there. Flying.

Lok popped the bones in his neck as he craned it from side to side. He sighed. Why did he still do this? He was not growing younger to say the least.

***Back with Aegis***
"Shire, pass me a drink please."
"Where?"
"Coolbox to your left on the ground"
"Ah, right, hold on....here."
"Thanks."
"No problem, I ha-"

Jaden cleared his throat ceasing all conversation immediately.
"We all flew pretty damn good today, and you all did a good job out there. Lets keep up the work, for now, we will have to wait till the next mission launch. I believe there is a SIM race, you guys kept talking about?"
 
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Aegis Squad

"----So we have to wait until the next briefing or whatever right? Till then, we are pretty lax, yet ready to jump in action?" asked Raigen as he cocked his head slightly to the left. Jaden nodded in reply as he played with the empty water can in his gloved hands.
"Yeah, that's pretty much the case unfortunately. Gotto love it. I'm going to the sims, for practice flight mean while, you guys wanna jump in?" Roars and shouts suddenly sounded making Shiric laugh as Templar and Raigen start roughing each other around as they bolted through the door before it even opened properly. DJ, who has seemed a bit loss in his world, also let a heart laugh escape his mouth. Hunter however remained silent through the humor. Which bothered Shiric quite a bit. She was about to walk over to him as he leaned against the wall, his arms folded over one another on his chest, his eyes closed. Lost in his own world and thoughts.

But as she was about to step closed, someone however grabbed her by the arm. She spun around to the see whoever it was. Jaden shook his head as he mouthed the words to leave Hunter alone. Scratching her head dumbfounded she turned to DJ, asking with her eyes as to what it was about. The older member of the Aegis, and Flight Leader shook his slowly.

"Come on, we should prolly see how the races is going, I would love to see whoever's face that loses." Jaden said as he put up a grin. The grin seemed to have an effect, as both DJ and Shiric copied the grin to their own faces.
"Evil Jaden. Pure Evil." Shiric muttered.
"You think that's evil?" asked DJ with wide eyes before started laughing again, throwing his head back in the process. As they left towards the simulators, Shiric's ComLink beeped however. She frowned when she noticed it was from the Medical Bay.
"Sorry guys, got to take this one." she muttered and walked away. Jaden threw a hand in the air which Shiric supposed, was a wave.
"Yes, this is Shirc. How can I help?"
"Shiric. This is Docter. Haign, we have Lenrax here-"
"Which Medical Bay is this?"
"East Wing sec---"
"Be right there." she said sharply and cut the link. Her frown increased as her worry did. Why would Len possibly be in the Medical Bay? He has never even be shot or stabbed at,  never mind being sick. Shiric took the shortest route she managed to find through of the droids. As she stormed in the medical bay, she stopped however by security.
She tried to struggle free, when a calm voice sounded:
"Leave her, I called her here."
"Now why did ya not say somethin before girl?" asked the guard in a thick accent as he let go, rolling her shoulders back, Shiric glared at him before she turned to the source of the voice.
A man dressed in an Officer's uniform, but most of the uniform was hid by the white jacket he on above. He smiled warmly at her.
"Nothing to worry about, the boy just got back from his mission, got injured, and we need some information that went missing when his files got damaged."
Still Shiric felt unsettled. If something happened to Len. She shuddered and chases the thoughts away with a furious shake of her head.
 
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Aegis Squad