A slow beeping noise awoke Saphira Striker, Squad Leader of Iron Horse, from her long awaited nap. Cursing loudly, she grabbed the datapad from the nightstand next to her bed and flipped it on.

An emergency action message from the Phoenix Company Commander flashed onto the screen, with a recording of Angel's voice stating: "You leave in fifteen minutes."

OOC:

Iron Horse

Phase I Objective 1: There's Never Any Pesticide When You Need It…
Location: Rendili StarDrive Space Platform Sentinel
Equipment:

• Standard Squad Loadout
• One (1) Personal Choice Weapon

Orders: Iron Horse is immediately shuttled up to the Sentinel above Tadath.  IH will set up a defensive position and repel the first wave of landing craft.
Opposition: Up to Twenty-Five (25) Squads of Imperial Marines (12-man)
Add'l Equip.: 2x E-Web Repeating Blasters
NPC Support: Ten (10) Squads of Star Corps Troops (Marines)
Max Posts: 15
Additional Information:

• Imperial Marines
• Sentinel Base

Decisions, Decisions – though really it didn’t take Madman all too long to slip on his personal helmet and pick up his freshly purchased Berserker Rifle that he’d chosen to replace his Cycler Rifle until he was able to obtain the parts to fix the weapon.

Stepping from his quarters after grabbing his gear, he’d sling the bag off one shoulder and approached the group “Hey guys, ready for a good skirmish?” He’d ask, overlooking Arok out of something a little deeper than mere rivalry but…pure intolerance for the PVT.

“So Squad Leader, what are we up against?” He’d ask, as Saph slipped from the armory with E-web in hand, as she’d cast a look to the late PFC “Can’t give an exact number, but looks like Sentinel will need all the help it can get…” she’d explain.

“This isn’t some training exercise, so I’d appreciate less stalling from you, Madman.” She’d hiss in a serious tone, as she’d impatiently wait as Arok would reach over to grab the Second E-web only to have it plucked from his reach by Sam.

“Sorry, I’ll be taking that!” He’d grin, though Arok would cuss beneath his breath in a belligerent tone,  only to get a sharp disciplinary look from the Secondary Squad leader, much to Arok’s dismay.

Saph grew more and more impatient, though arms were set, it was time to suit up. Tank and Sam – the experienced soldiers were already on there way, but Madman and Arok were dallying behind. The far from thrilled Twi’lek would harshly shout back at the two “Stop wasting time and get in your gear!” She’d instruct, before groaning “Me and Tank will go up ahead, Sam I want you to make sure they get  their foot outta their arse and meet us at the evac asap.” With that, she’d turn sharply and begin moving down the hallway.

Sam would smirk a bit ‘bet the ‘White Knight’ isn’t complaining…’ he’d muse, before turning to the two “Hurry up and get changed! Don’t want to get scolded AND miss the fight do you?” He’d instruct the two, Madman quickly slipping on the armor.

Suiting up wasn’t as fluid as it was for the other two. Perhaps they were just a bit embarrassed to strip down into their night wear, but it wasn’t all that revealing after all.

In a few quick moments, Madman with Arok shortly behind would suit up and without a second to waste the 3 would rush to meet Saphira.

“Hmph, about time we got to see some action.” Madman would mutter, only to receive an unwanted bit of words from Arok “You’ll probably die, and I’ll laugh.” The Private would chuckle softly, as Madman would come forth with a reply “Coming from the new-“ before being brashly cut off “Shut up! Damn it, we’re almost there, I don’t want to hear your sith-spit arguing the whole time there!” He’s snap at the two just moments before a heavy door would slide up and the two ‘teams’ would meet up.

“Took you long enough…” Saphira would hiss somewhat annoyed, Tank trying to stay as far away from this as possible…unless of course things went stupid.

“Sorry, these two guys took a long enough time getting dressed, never mind bickering the whole time.” He’d explain sharply back, not appreciating the scolding he was getting.

“Well the three of you, let’s go – we don’t have much time left…”She irately replied as the 5 of them quickly entered the Hangar to proceed with the transportation phase.

Immediately as Iron Horse landed on the Rendili StarDrive Space Platform Sentinel, they were directed to setup a defensive station with in the landing bay to ward off the expected enemy landing parties. The team was met by a few station marine squads.

"We are pretty much set up, you guys take this area right behind us."

"Right. You heard the man. Get those e-webs setup," Saphira commanded, "Any idea what we are up against?"

"Basically, we are up against ourselves. No time to discuss, I have to get back to my team."

Saphira was shocked and confused at the news. Nobody else in Iron Horse had heard this. Against ourselves? What the hell does that even mean?

"Come on you two! Pull the tripod legs out and setup the blasted power cell. It isn't like this is bloody hyperspace physics!" Sam shouted at Arok and Madman as they fumbled to get the second e-web up and running.

Sam slammed the last connection into the e-web Tank and himself were setting up. He rushed over and shoved the greener troopers to the side, "I'll handle this. Can you at least point and shoot? If so, go use the one that is setup and do that."

The Zabrak clad in his corps armor furiously through the turret together. Tank had manned the first e-web, preventing the two greenies from doing so. BARman and Saphira were on their toes ready for anything.

The scene outside the landing bay was hued by the blue shield of the bay. Blasts from star fighters and turbo-lasers streaked across the view. Explosions dotted the farther distances from the platform. In front of the smattering of distant blasts, a number of boarding ships could be made out heading straight for the landing bay.

"You guys ready? Because here comes a landing party!" Saphira shouted looking over as Sam was starting to hook up the power couplings.

"Just about done here," Sam replied.

"We are ready for killin' here!" shouted Arok followed by a short crazed laugh.

Of course we get stuck right in the middle and have goofs messing around. Sam pushed in the final connector and looked up just in time to see the nearest landing vessel burst into a brilliant ball of fire. The eruption jostled the landing bay sending a few people off their feet.

The debris from the craft did not stop the others in their approach. They punched through the blue glow and quickly sat down in the landing zone. Fire from the defense teams began immediately when the ships had touched down. E-web fire of green followed by brilliant beams of red from E-11's zoomed at the crafts.

It was clear that it was a useless attempt to break through the reinforced dura-steel plating. Enemy troops poured out from the far side of the landing ships. The sight of seeing white clad foes heading at them made clear what the stories Vast Empire troopers had heard about their armor. Fear was implanted directly into their minds at the sight of the cold emotion-hidden soldiers.

"Hey, don't stop shooting. They aren't friendly!" Saphira snapped at Arok when she noticed that he had stopped.

Blaster fire was coming from both sides now and more of the foes were dropping than allies.

"Geez, they just keep coming!" Tank shouted over the echoes of bolts crashing all over.

It was difficult to see through the ever growing shroud of smoke from detonated grenades and sizzles of beams that missed their marks. Behind that haze, more landing vessels were touching down. The situation was not going to cool any time soon.

Sam was manning the second e-web. He had lost count of how many he had taken down or had thought he had taken down. Through the smoke, he noticed a few soldiers hoisting something to their shoulders. It was as these mysterious weapons fired that he realized that they were PTL missile launchers.

"They have rockets! Hit the dirt!" He yelled as he dove to the side from his e-web. This could very well be the end.

“Damnit they got Jev!” Screamed an angry Marine Sergeant. “Corporal, gimme some cover fire, I’m making a run for the E-web! On my mark…” The battle hardened veteran poked his head out from cover, momentarily scanning the opposing forces before being pushed back in by a hail of blaster fire. “This is gonna be the end of me…” He muttered.

“3…”

The on coming wave of blaster fire only intensified, creating an impenetrable wall.

“2…”

Things weren’t looking well for the Sergeant.

“1… Cover fire!!”

The Sergeant bolted from his position with cat like speed, hopping over fallen Marines and debris with ease. The Corporal quickly launched a thermal detonator followed by his own deadly array of blaster fire, spraying anything clad in white. In a matter of seconds they returned fire, but the Corporal wasn’t going to let his fearless squad leader down. With all his might the Corporal kept himself exposed, flinching as blaster bolts narrowly missed him, hoping they wouldn’t find there mark. Distracted by the task on hand, the young Marine didn’t notice the red glowing sphere that had just landed next to him. He kept on firing, not knowing that his world was about to be blown apart.

Literally.

The explosion ripped through the Corporals armor and launched his disfigured body twenty feet into the air. His mangled and lifeless body hit the metal deck seconds later. The Sergeant however kept on running, only a couple of feet away from the E-web. Just as he was about to hop on and begin firing away, a blaster bolt struck him in the thigh, causing him to trip and crash into the E-web, nearly knocking him unconscious. Quickly regaining his wits, the Sergeant jumped back to his feet and tried to mount the E-web once again. He hoisted himself halfway onto the turret and just as he was about to begin firing, an explosion knocked him back onto the ground.

“This is it…” mumbled the Sergeant. “I’m a goner.”

He braced himself, knowing that in seconds his body was about to be riddled with blaster fire. He opened his eyes, only to see something he wasn’t expecting. They were running. The enemy forces were running! His hearing came back, and he turned to the source of fire that was sending the enemy forces running for their lives. One lone trooper had mounted the E-web and was firing away. Just one trooper.

The lone trooper turned his attention to the Marine Sergeant and hopped off the E-web. “You think you can handle them by yourself? I gotta go find my squad, but if you need some more help I don’t mind waiting for the rest of your Marine buddies to get here.”

“How much longer? And thank you. I don’t think we would be having this conversation right now if it weren’t for you.”

“About five minutes until they get here, but hey no problem.” Replied the trooper with a smug grin.

“Yeah I think I can take it from here. Good luck finding your squad trooper.” The lone trooper turned to run off, but the Sergeant stopped him. “Wait a minute trooper, what’s your name?”

“Senior Sergeant Leon Chase, Iron Horse.”

“Iron Horse… I know that squad… Ahhh right, their defending the other side of this platform. You’ll get there in no time!”

Leon looked over his shoulder for a second, and then turned his attention back to the Marine Sergeant. “Really? Thank you so much! Some douche bag told me they would be on this side of the platform but I guess not. I’ll see you around then?”

“If we survive that is,” replied the Sergeant grimly.

“We will.”

And with that Leon ran off to meet his new squad.

Somewhat out of disbelief, the recruit was almost a tad jealous that this new guy and tank got some good amount of body contact “What next? You gonna pin Arok down and give him a concussion?” He’d grunt out as he managed to duck down and feel the head of two bolts grazed his mask, leaving two red streaks down the right side of face – it appeared karma had took an unusual stance against irate innuendos.

Sighing, he kept his mouth shut trying to avoid the bright glowing streaks of light hitting or missing, mostly missing. It was shocking that against such odds, that the squad was doing so well.  He thought for a moment, before he spied an Invading commando readying rocket.

C’mon…think…damn it’s so hard to think with all this noise… he’d mentally muse to himself, cycling through the same conclusion over and over. Aiming his weapon at the Rocket Trooper  just as the rocket was being forced out, Madman shot the man in the shoulder, his fire rattling down hitting him in the chest, through the knee, causing the shoulder-mounted weapon to turn, striking up at the ceiling just overhead the  unfortunate enemy troopers allies, to rain down shrapnel that would ricocheting the ceiling and wounding multiple targets.

It wasn’t the shrapnel that was lethal, well at least not for the inflicted soldiers but with a stroke of luck one of the SL’s who were leading the assault was struck in the eye while the nasty bit traveled down and through the top of his jaw. He couldn’t think through the searing and agonizing pain with the trauma furthered with shrapnel that had erupted from the right ocular shield shattering, digging underneath his eye-lid to utterly destroy his eye.

In a fierce feeling of agony and dread, he was unable to really prevent the spreading among his soldiers. Some tried to back out of battle – though from their numbed senses from this grim sight, were shot down by Skjoll, Arok and Saph upon spotting this dissension in their ranks, unnerving all but the veteran troops, whom might have began to agree that this mission was growing more and more hazardous.

The problem of the Invading Forces tactics to bring about an end to the defending forces wasn’t a brilliant plan by any stretch of the mind, the soldiers wondered if this was some sort of plan thrown together at the spur of the moment of if they were simply decoys.

Saphira’s pain eased away with the deployment of that Bacta patch, as she would then command “Press onward! Don’t let any escape, focus on the fleeing troops!” she’d bark, Iron Horse seemed less horse like, for what sort of steed had such a bite?

“They should call us the ‘Iron Badgers’ instead…” Madman mused, popping out the clip and slipping in a fresh clip of Kinetic munitions “Try to concentrate Madman, please, just stop talking.” She’d correct the soldier in a voice that must have reflected her frayed nerves at the moment.

Man by man, the collective squads began to falter – their primary leader had been dragged behind lines of cover in order to administer healing. In his absence, other SL’s tried to organize a firm grasp over the army, only to be challenged by the other SL's for power – which ultimately left them open to fire.

Arok grunted “Can’t we just round them up like dogs and kill them nice and slowly…?” He’d ask, grinning behind his Stormtrooper mask as Sam would turn to him “Alright Arok, why don’t you go and ask them – sure they will be real eager to comply.” He sarcastically muttered, as Arok arrogantly retorted “You’re just a soft little soldier. Bet you wouldn’t be so tough without that armor or big gun.”

Though, very upset, Sam calmly ignored him – fixating his frustration at the task at hand.

Though things seemed grim for the enemy, the slowly managed to press onward – Madman’s cover fire had ceased momentarily. Tank would spot something going on, as Madman wrestled a flamethrower from one of the Commandos.

“Hey, what the- That’s mine!” the Trooper would explain, as Madman took it “Hey…calm down…you can buy another one.” Skjoll calmly explained, though offered little comfort, as the Commando cried “Sir! One of Iron-Horse squad just requisitioned my flame weapon with no-“ though he was cut off by his superior “What? Weren’t you the one complaining about likely dying just like Pvt. Stevens did?” He’d ask, pointing to the charred body.

The Commando’s looked on with curiosity and fear for the Madman, as Tank rushed toward him “Skjoll, what are you-?” However he was answered as Skjoll took a stride and threw the pack of volatile and flammable materials “I’m ending this…” He hissed, clearly growing tired as the pack slammed into a member of the invading group.

A squad-leader saw this and laughed softly to himself “Excellent, this should flush those foxes from their holes – why would they?” He’d ask, before he turned and spotted Madman shooting toward the pack, missing several times.

That once smug man was now grim “Men! Spre-“ However suddenly Tank noticed this plan Madman had concocted and managed to fire a well placed shot at the tank, violently exploding near the center of the enemy units, which also set off their rocket caches, creating a fairly violent chain reaction.

The explosion was almost out of place, what had happened? The walls and floor shook violently, the heat of the room increased, but the walls and floor did in fact hold firm with blackened metal as the only consequence. Though Madman’s accuracy was not from a lack of proficiency but rather a laser to the arm. It wasn’t until moments after the explosion did the searing pain hit him.

After it was all said and done, most of the enemies lay dead, those where were alive were several medics and chief protectors of the Assault leader.

Saph was a bit upset at this unconventional maneuver but more relieved “Madman…let’s try to keep from doing that more often. Don’t want you to fuck up anything in the future.” She’d scold, as she turned to Sam and Leon “Sam, Leon – take a couple Commandos and go take care of the others. Tank, assess Madman’s wounds – and after that is done, we’ll proceed onward.” She’d manage to suppress her relief, letting it out in small breaths as to appear much stronger and more disciplined than she felt at the moment.

Let’s see…got a couple commando squads left, about thirty are injured, around 40 dead…2 of our Squad alone only escaped with injury and I can only hope madman can still manage a Rifle. she calculated the casualties before turning to Arok “Private Arok! Go and make a record of casualties sustained, also see if any have any extra medical gear they can spare.” She’d instruct, and as he walked ahead to carry on his tasks “Also, If I ever see you raise your blaster to one of our own – I won’t hesitate to put you down.” She threatened, as the recruit growled to himself, hating the fact she had compared him to a dog.

Tank managed to remove Madman’s armor to examine the wound. It looked as if it was a pretty bad burn – a bacta patch or two might restore more capability to the limb, however he was going to be far from perfect. Saphira came up behind Tank, and raised a brow “How bad is it?” she’d ask, as he’d shrug “I’m no doctor…but I suppose some treatment would do his arm some good.” He’d vaguely explain, only to have her sharply reply back, “Can he still go on? Can he still fire his blaster?” She’d ask, as he’d nod, “I’d say yeah, though without treatment I don’t know if he could hit the side of damned Imperial Cruiser.

“You know, I’m right here guys…”  He’d hiss, mildly annoyed he was almost being ignored. It couldn’t be helped, Saphira would turn around “Well I’m seeing if one of the Commandos has any extra medical gear – we’ll likely need to conserve all the supplies we can.

“Couldn’t I just use my own gear?” He’d ask, as he managed to slip out some first aid supplies “Well yeah, but you’ve only got 2 bacta pads – we need three to treat this blaster wound. Your arm is shaking because of the pai-“ as  Madman interrupted “Yeah, I know – it hurts like a bi-“ He’d stop as Saphira returned with one last strip “Hello Saphira, I wasn’t going to say anything bad.” He’d remark in a blatantly sucking up voice, before being told to simply “Shut it, here Tank. Get that pad on, and have him put his gear back on.

Saphira sighed, she was feeling a bit drained from all this – but what else did she expect for being a Squad Leader? What mattered was that despite all the headaches, injuries and pain that this was her Squad. She WOULD get these guys to work as a team, otherwise they’d all die…and that was the grim truth of it.

Sam and Leon returned, Sam greeting her “Well Princess – someone’s going to need to wipe some trash off the walls.” He’d tease, before being confronted by Leon “SSGT Saphira is our leader, should you be mouthing off to her like that? Sam didn’t really like Leon calling him out on that “Relax – She doesn’t mind that much, do ya Saphira?” He’d ask, as the Squad Leader groaned softly, I really wish he’d stop with that…, as she spotted Madman in his strange helmet stand up, moving his arm a bit “Still kind a hurts…” He’d complain mildly, “But it looks like I’m good to go.” Madman would explain.

The sound of fighting had practically dropped to a mere mumble, but the echoes of battle still rang in all who are living's ears. The patter of armor clad feet was slightly audible over the few remaining blaster shots.

"Commander! We have just under forty remaining marines to our cause. What are your orders?"

The marine removed his helmet revealing a face that was battle-worn and scarred. He was clearly one who had seen a number of instances like this and only this was the first time that he had any inkling that he may be defeated.

"How close are they to this location?" the man said sliding his helmet back on.

"They are fairly close and have taken cover behind a few of the landing crafts."

"Excellent, rally them here for our final assault to break through these bastards defenses."

"Sir!" the marine said. He pivoted away from his superior and rushed off to do as ordered.

The marine commander turned to his engineering council, "What are our odds here?"

"Not good, but we can change that."

"What are you getting at?"

"My team and I can rig a few of our transports to detonate, which would give us a better chance at completing our objective."

"You are an idiot. That would cause massive structural damage to this hangar and cause more forces to come at us. No."

*    *    *

The Iron Horses were tending to their wounded. Tank had just came back to consciousness with BARman applying bacta patches. A quick pan of the area revealed a few of the Star Corps troopers detaining a number of enemy marines and others pulling the wounded and dead to the designated areas.

"This ended up much better than I had expected," Sam stated with a hint of relief.

"I would have to agree with you spike head, but we both know that this is merely the start of it," Saphira retorted.

The tension was nearly invisible. The defenders were beginning to relax some after the heated fire fight. A few engineers had entered the landing bay and began to inspect the structural damages that had come about.

"Good thing nothing ended up being too terrible damaged," Leon chortled as he came up alongside Saphira and Sam.

*    *    *

"Commander, here are all the remaining forces we have," the marine gestured behind himself.

"Excellent," the commander said raising his voice just enough to allow the group to hear him, "Alright, it is time to finish the job. They think that everything is over and are beginning to ease themselves. We strike now."

The group of thirty-seven marines readied their weapons. Their commander took the lead and marched off to the side of the bay to limit detection. He tossed up a signal halting the platoon. He peered around the transport that hid them from sight.

He made out that most of the defenders had turned to dealing with either the dead or dying. It was almost too good to be true for him and his team. A quick rush could easily spell victory for them, but there was still the probability that they would all be eliminated ending in ultimate failure.

The marine commander flung a few more signals. With the final gesture, the marine platoon erupted from around the transport weapons at the ready. The leading rank opened fire without warning.

*    *    *

"What the...?" Sam said turning his attentions to the eruption of commotion, "Where the hell did they come from?!"

"Horses get on your feet! We aren't done here!" Saphira shouted raising her rifle and firing in quick short bursts.

The Star Corps troops had been caught off guard just like the Horses. The ones on the far side of the bay were in a state of confusion. The nearer ones were falling quickly.

"Get to cover, leave the wounded," Sam shouted, "You won't be of use to us dead and if the wounded can shoot then let them!"

Red streaks darted about the area. Beams screeched uncomfortably close to Sam as he dashed around taking a few shots here and there. We don't need any heroes right now. Please don't let any of the green ones do anything rash.

"Heads up!" Saphira yelled as she tossed a thermal detonator from behind cover. The approaching horde did not veer out of the way of the device. Seconds later, enemy marine bodies flew in all directions from the blast. Saphira took a gander from behind her cover and let a hidden grin grow on her face from her work.

"Nice one ma'am," Leon retorted aiming to keep a lighter demeanor.

Suddenly, a number of green blasts flew over Sam's shoulder. He flipped around to see Arok manning a deserted e-web turret. Alright, so he can shoot. Let's just hope that he keeps his rear on that turret.

*    *    *

"Damn it! They are good. Easily able to recover from a surprise," the enemy marine commander said. He came to the realization that this was an effort in vain. They just lost this attack because of the rapid recovery their foes had made.

"Try to take cover and we'll try to take as many with us as possible!"

The marines acted instantaneously when the order was issued. No second guesses even in the face of death. A number of them fell to the e-web fire just trying to get to the nearest crate. Their numbers began to fall at rapid pace.

Each of the living marines knew going into this mission that they would stand an impossibly small chance of coming out alive. They were trained soldiers to do whatever it may take to ensure that their mission be completed, but they knew that they must work as a team to do it. Individuals were what ended up getting missions to fail. A hero to save them all most often got them all killed.

*    *    *

The skirmish thundered on for what seemed like hours. Grenades and lasers flying every which way killing friend and foe alike. Each death was never second guessed. It was a point of survival where disregard for another living being was a moot issue.

Then silence echoed throughout the landing bay. No more blaster fire, no more concussions from grenades. Pure and simple silence.

Is it over? Or have they something up their sleeves? Sam slowly stood up with his rifle at his shoulder poised to fire at a moment's notice. He slowly stepped around an opposing crate. Littering the ground were dozens of bodies.

"What have you found Sam?" Saphira said breaking the silence.

"Just bodies at this point."

He continued around after taking a short look around the general area. He took note that he was not the only one exploring forward. He turned around another crate to find more of the same with a single exception. He was now staring down the barrel of another e-11 rifle.

"Hello there," the marine said acidly, "And goodbye."

Sam was frozen solid at what he had witnessed. The marine had turned his weapon on himself. The shot rang out sending a number of others off in the distance to the ground. Sam did not move a muscle.

"Area clear over here."

"And here."

"Here as well."

Sam was still standing in the same place as the voices of others checking out the rest of the area rang out.

"Sam?"

"Oh, yeah. All clear here," he replied still in a slight stupor. He killed himself rather than me. Why? It doesn't make sense!

OOC:

All boarding party members have been eliminated. Phase I finished for Iron Horse.

Leon crouched down, letting his head drop forward as he tried to catch his breath. “Wow,” he panted. “I’m definitely not in as good shape as before. I really let myself go,” finished Leon with a chuckle.

Looking up, Leon grinned. It was good to be back. How could he have ever wanted anything else? Just a year ago he wanted nothing more then out. He wanted to live a normal, boring civilian life. A wife, a house, children, the whole shabang. So he did just that. Left the Corps, went back to Tatooine to pick up his mother, and then moved to Coruscant. He got a normal job, a normal girlfriend, and even moved in with her! But something was missing. What was it? At first he ignored it. Continued on with his very normal life, worked his normal job, and banged his normal girlfriend. But there it was again, slowly creeping up on him. A constant reminder of the life he used to live. The man he used to be… But no, Leon wasn’t one to give in so easily. He ignored the emptiness that was growing inside of him, and stumbled upon something that could take his mind off things for a little while. Drugs. A lot too. Thanks to his girlfriend (and her family members), Leon had a never ending supply of whatever he wanted. You name it, he had it. So off he went, abusing drugs and remaining on a constant high. He had finally found the solution! This heightened state of mind was exactly what he needed to fill the emptiness deep down inside… Or so he thought. Because slowly, the emptiness came back. It grew and grew, and grew some more. No amount of drugs could fill this gaping hole.

Enough was enough, he decided, and without any hesitation, he reenlisted.  So here he was, in the place he felt happiest.

War was the only kind of drug that would satisfy him now.

“Hey, you feeling alright there?” Asked a curious Star Corps trooper.

Leon shook his head and stood up. “Everything’s fine, thanks for asking. Any word on Thrawn’s forces?”

The young trooper shook his head. “Not that I know of. Last time I checked these dead guys right here were the only-“

The Star Corps trooper was cut off by a distant explosion, somewhere from within the Sentinel. Troopers started running to the source, some more hesitant then others. Leon ran over to Saphira who was now signaling for the squad to regroup. He crouched down on one knee, raised his rifle to firing position, and awaited Saphira’s orders. The Iron Horse Squad Leader paced back and fourth as she tried to get into contact with command, shouting furiously into her mic.

“You think there’s another boarding party on the ship?” Asked a curious MadMan.

“Most likely,” replied a very relaxed Sam.

“The more the better. Just means more action for me,” Arok said, still pumped from the last skirmish.

Saphira raised a hand signaling for silence, cocking her head to the side as she strained to hear what command was saying. “More boarding parties… Yes sir. Imperial Shadowtroopers!? Yes sir. Roger that sir, Iron Horse over and out.” Saphira paused for a second before addressing the squad, taking some time to catch her breath. “While we were fighting these little bad boys, it turns out Thrawn was trying to plan a little sneak attack. Shadowtroopers have already boarded the Sentinel and are making a mess out of things. We need to stop them ASAP.”

“Time for some pest control,” piped an enthusiastic Arok.

“No time for jokes Arok. Let’s go find these guys and take care of them. Move out!” Barked Saphira.

At the head of the pack was Saphira, sprinting at a break neck pace towards the source of the explosion. Following close on her heels was the rest of the squad, guns at the ready. In the distance the sound of blaster fire could be heard, and that was exactly where they were heading. Saphira threw a hand up and came to an abrupt stop, the rest of the squad following her every move. They had stopped right outside one of the smaller hanger bays, and inside the sound of blaster fire could be heard echoing off the walls. Saphira slowly crept up to the edge of the hanger door and peered inside. Without any hesitation Saphira brought her rifle up and rushed in, firing away at the opposition. Sam was right behind her, followed by the rest of Iron Horse, blasters blazing away. Leon was the last one in, his training taking over and firing until he dove into cover.

The inside of the hangar was a mess. Star Corps Troopers bodies littered the hangar floor, and the few that were still alive were either bleeding profusely or injured in some way shape or form. The few that were still fighting had taken cover behind some of the smaller ships and crates that were randomly placed across the hangar. Leon found himself shooting from behind a small crate, popping shots off at the enemies’ location or whatever they left exposed. He quickly ducked back in, blaster bolts filling the space where his head had been seconds earlier. Looking around to see where the rest of his squad mates were, Leon quickly took note of their positions and took another peak before being pushed back in by enemy fire.

“Squad listen up!” Saphira shouted through her mic. “This isn’t just any regular group of soldiers, these guys are professionals. Don’t do anything stupid that will jeopardize the lives of your squad mates!”

I’ll try not to.

Outrage filled the PFC with his heart now stained with self doubt, and anger. Being humiliated wasn't enough was it, as Tank added to the flames with a remark that lowered his strive to assist into the mud, clearly where he was placed along with Arok.

He breathed deep and could swear he almost tasted the flickering tongue of flames that would taste his lungs deeply. Realizing this...strange feeling that he did not like this one bit. He began to rationalized or rather irrationalize things as he marched with his team.

Glad I didn't wound my leg, otherwise I would have been kept thrack like some surta dog, assholes... he bitterly thought before everything blurred, as he managed to ducked down to hug a wall and something more.

He couldn't figure where, what and when happened, but when his sight returned he found himself fairly close to Saph's armored body "Oh, um Squad Leader!" He'd remark, as he managed to lean to the side and fire off some shots from his Berserker Rifle, before his last clip had ran dry.

Damn! I sorta kinda liked that gun... he thought as he woefully departed from it and pulled out his E-11 out in order to continue.

"By the way Saph, I wasn't tryin' to touch nothin', I was just drunk at the time and I wasn't thinking clearly..." He nonsensically explained as he fired a couple shots, one grazing off the helmet of one of the Shadowtroopers.

SUCCESS!!!

He'd beam with pride before he began to think, ponder. There had to be a pattern somewhere...though before he had found it, he knelt up and shot repeatedly over his Squad Leaders head down the Corridor, striking the chestplate of one of the soldiers and managing to crack it open as the man fell on his back in pain.

The fact that MadMan was trying to make light of their situation made Saphira feel a little better as she looked across to wheres the others were. We need to push back before we are over ran. Her mental thoughts ran rapid at all the possible things that could go wrong if they didn't take down the group that was in front of them.

"We need to push them back NOW!" Saphira barked above the blaster fire. Her lek'ku twitched in anticipation as she looked to MadMan. The other seemed to be just as frustrated, despite the cracked joke. Now wasn't the time to smash her own guys skulls. If they lived, she would deal with it later.

"Were stuck right now." Madman replied and shot off another couple rounds.

"We won't be for long! Look!" Tank replied and pointed over to the right and behind a group of the enemy. Saph opened her eyes in surprise and grinned. There was a couple drums of fuel that barley were visible by the other crates.

"Nice eye Tank!" Saph replied and looked to Sam. The Zabrak gave their own cover fire as she gave a hand motion to distract the blaster fire towards them. If Sam had any objection, he wasn't going to say anything at the moment. Re-loading her clip, she shoved past the troopers and ran out from their cover section. This better work. She thought and let out a few shots to fly back the nearest obstacle in her way. The man fell back and knocked over his own friendly as the other was shooting at Sam's pinned group. Saphira saw in that split second the other accidentally shoot the other in the back of his neck. It was enough of a distraction that Saphira took aim and let out a couple fast shots...and then her left side erupted in pain as she was shot and went down hard against the floor.

Two things happened then at the same time then. As her own shots hit the target, she forced herself to roll to the side as the explosion burst out and blanketed three of the shadow-troopers. Saphira was vaguely aware of someone yelling her name and looked over to see Sam, Aroke and the survivors from the first wave, rush the remaining bad guys. Part of her wanted to go to sleep right then and there, but the other part of her knew if she did, there would be no coming out of it.

Damn, what did they hit me with? She thought and took her free hand to her side, to feel the armor she had was melted off and her flesh exposed to the elements. It was a bad wound and without care... No! No she wouldn't give up! Even as she saw someone running towards her, Saph fought the darkness that was creeping on the edge of her vision.

Leon stepped out from cover and squeezed the trigger of his E-11, unleashing a burst of crimson death that successfully found its target. He turned his attention to Saphira and MadMan, and watched as MadMan made a perfect grenade toss. Leon couldn’t help but grin as the frag detonated, sending two unlucky Shadowtroopers flying through the air. Another two tried making a break for it, but were quickly cut down by IH’s blaster fire. One or two more shots rang out before the fighting came to a halt, leaving nothing but the sounds of scampering feet and Star Corps troopers giving out commands.

Leon ran over to Saphira and knelt down next to her. “You good?”  Asked Leon hesitantly.

Ignoring his question, Saphira slowly stood up. She managed to stand on her own before falling back down, Leon and MadMan quick to catch her.

“We need a Medic!” Shouted Sam.

“I don’t need a damn medic, get the hell off me!” Shouted Saphira, struggling to get back up again.

“Saph, you need to calm down RIGHT NOW! We need to get you patched up before we even think about moving!” Commanded Leon, completely disregarding Saphira’s chain of threats.

A wide eyed medic came running over, kneeling down next to Saphira and checking her wounds. The young medic pulled out his supplies and quickly went to work on the now relaxed Saphira, who even though she didn’t show it, was in tremendous pain.

“Leon, I dunno who you think you are, but if you ever tell me what to do again I will have you demoted in seconds! Got that?” Asked a very frustrated Saphira.

“I’ll make sure to keep that in mind next time you’re bleeding to death,” replied Leon, throwing in a mock salute.

“You’re all patched up now, ma’am. The protective seal will only last for another four hours, so make sure to report to the medical bay as soon as you can.” Directed the medic.

Saphira nodded and got back up, this time able to stand on her own without falling. “Thank you trooper, you can go now,” Saphira said before turning her attention back to Iron Horse. “So we’ve got four hours until this seal comes off. That’s more than enough time to find those little suckers and take ‘em down. Sam, contact command and see where the next batch of Shadowtroopers are.” Finished Saphira.

“You’ve got it.”

Leon walked over to Skjoll and gave him a pat on the back. “That was a nice move you pulled back there.”

“Thanks. I just did what I had to do. Nothing special,” replied MadMan, trying to be modest.

“Oh!” Exclaimed Leon. “I don’t think I’ve had the chance to properly introduce myself! The names Leon,” finished Leon, sticking his hand out.

“Skjoll,” replied MadMan, shaking Leon’s hand.

“Okay Iron Horse, I just got word from Command. Shadowtroopers are trying to cut out the shield generators; we have to get there ASAP! Move out!” Sam commanded urgently.

Just as the squad started to run out of the hangar bay, Leon came up with a great idea. “Wait a second! It’s going to take too long on foot. Since we’re in the hangar bay, why not just take one of these bad boys?” Leon said, pointing at one of the speeders inside the hangar.

“Good point. I’m driving!” Shouted Saphira as she ran past Leon and over to the speeder.

The squad ran over to the GX12 Hovervan and hopped in. It wasn’t exactly the best choice, but it was the only speeder still in tact, and it would definitely buy the squad a lot of time. Once everyone was in, Saphira started up the hovervan and punched the throttle… Nothing.

“What? Why isn’t it moving?” Asked a very confused Saphira. “Oops… Parking brake haha,” laughed Saphira nervously.

This time when she punched the throttle, the hovervan shot off, careening towards the opposite wall of the hangar bay. Luckily she managed to turn the vehicle just before it hit the wall, and pointed it towards the hangar bay exit.

“Oh boy… This isn’t good.”

“Great. Bombs. What an awesome first day of work,” Leon said sarcastically.

Leon followed the rest of his squad mates up the stairs to the catwalk, dreading what he knew was about to come. His eyes widened at the sight before him. Four proton bombs were lined up, stringed together by det cord. On each of the proton bombs was a timer… And they were ticking.

“As if one wasn’t enough,” Leon mused. “That’s more then enough explosives to blow the whole platform away. So Ms. Striker, what do you want us to do?”

The Iron Horse squad leader didn’t say a word, instead walking over to the set of explosives planted before her. “We have ten minutes until we’re blown away…” Saphira said, talking to no one in particular. “The only thing we CAN do is evacuate the platform, unless anyone has an objection.” She finished, turning her attention to the rest of the squad.

None of the other troopers said a word, their faces somber with defeat. What could they do? As far as Leon knew, no one in Iron Horse had any kind of experience with bomb disarmament and neither did he. Looking up at the rest of his squad mates, Leon knew that even if they did try to evacuate the Sentinel, ten minutes wasn’t enough time. Unless…

“Hold on a second Saphira, I’ve got an idea.” Leon said, changing the comm frequency over to control. “Control, do you read me? This is Senior Sergeant Leon Chase.”

“We hear you loud and clear Sergeant.”

“We have a little bit of a problem… Okay, scratch that, we have a BIG problem. There are four proton bombs in the shield generator room rigged to blow, and we currently have…” Leon looked over at the closest timer. “Seven minutes and thirty seconds.”

“Say no more. I’m going to connect you to one of our EOD team leaders. May the force be with you.”

A couple of precious seconds ticked by before a voice sounded on the other end of the mic. “No need to explain what’s going on Sergeant, control already informed me. So before we start this off, what’s the bomb setup?” Asked the EOD team leader, sounding extremely relaxed.

“Four proton bombs rigged together with det cord, and a timer for each bomb,” replied Leon, trying to keep his composure.

“Okay. I’m going to need your full cooperation, is that understood Sergeant?”

“Yes sir.”

“Very good. Now I need you to go to any one of the bombs – it doesn’t matter – and unscrew the thruster,” finished the EOD team leader.

Leon walked over to one of the Proton bombs and kneeled down. He hesitantly stretched his hands out towards the back of the bomb, grasping the wide thruster with both hands, and twisted it to the left. The thruster didn’t budge at first, so Leon put some more back into it, flinching when the thruster made a loud squeak. He gave it another twist, and another, and kept twisting until the thruster was on the verge of falling out. “Sam, can you give me a hand?” Leon asked, struggling to pull the large thruster out. The Zabrak hurried over and placed himself on the opposite side of Leon. “On three. One, two, three.” The two troopers grunted with effort as they pulled the thruster off the proton bombs shell, placing it carefully next to the bomb.

“Okay, we got the first thruster out, now what?” Asked Leon, crouching down next to the bomb.

“Good. Now inside the bomb there is going to be a long cylindrical piece of metal – That is the detonator. Pull that out carefully and contact me when you’ve done so.”

“Roger that.” Replied Leon.

Peering into the hole, Leon saw exactly what he was looking for. He carefully stuck his hand in and wrapped his fingers around the detonator, giving it a gentle tug. Leon was surprised at how easily the detonator came out, and proceeded to pull the cylindrical object until it was all the way out. At the end of the long tube were three wires keeping it intact with the bomb – a red, blue, and green wire.

“Alright there are three wires, now what?”

“Now cut all of them and you’re set. Do the same with the other three bombs and make sure to be gentle. I’ll be here if you need me.”

“That’s it?” Asked Leon, shocked at how easy it was.

“That’s it.”

Leon pulled out his wire cutters -- something that came standard with every trooper’s armor kit -- and clipped the three wires. He took off his helmet and wiped the sweat off his brow before going to work on the other bombs.

*****

With two minutes to go, Leon found himself clipping the last bombs wires, a wide smile plastered on his face. Once he was done, he got up and turned to face the rest of Iron Horse. “I really, really, REALLY like working with bombs.”

The rest of the squad chuckled, but what they didn’t know was that Leon was absolutely serious.

Leon quickly snapped out from behind the wall he was using for cover, firing a three round burst down the narrow hallway before coming back in. Within seconds the Shadowtroopers replied with their own series of blaster fire, in hopes that an unlucky Iron Horse member would pop out, only to be cut down by the oncoming wave of crimson death. The small firefight had been going on like this for a couple of minutes already, neither side wanting to take any unnecessary risks. If they kept this up, it would be all about who ran out of ammo first. Saphira however, was getting quite antsy.

“We need to do something soon. I’m on my last clip!” Shouted the Twi’lek.

Leon fired another three shots before turning to look at his squad leader. “Like what?!” He replied.

“Sam! You got any bright ideas?”

The Zabrak pondered for a moment before opening his mouth to speak. “We can flank!” Shouted Sam from across the hallway. “Unless you can think of something else,” finished Sam, firing a few shots of his own.

“I don’t think so,” Saphira queried. “Try and conserve your ammo Iron Horse! I’m going to contact control and see what they can do for us!” Saphira barked. “Control, control, this is Saphira Striker, can you read me?”

“Loud and clear Striker.”

“Is there any kind of help you can send us down here?”

“Negative Sergeant. But if there’s anything else we can do, I’ll do my best to make it happen.”

“Sith spit,” Saphira cursed. “Leon move for a second. I need to see something,” she ordered, pushing past Leon. Saphira quickly peered down the hallway, noticing something that no one else had yet. On the left wall of the corridor was a door, and if someone managed to get to that room, maybe, just maybe, they could use it to their advantage. “Control, on my signal I need you to cut off all the lights for a couple of seconds. Can you do that for me?”

“Just give me the green light and you’re good to go.”

“Okay stand bye,” replied Saphira, turning her attention back to Sam. “Sam you’ve got some explosives right?”

The Assistant Squad Leader nodded.

“Enough to blow through a wall you think?” She asked, excitement creeping into her voice.

“And more.” Sam replied smugly.

“Okay good. Iron Horse, listen up! I’m going to have Control shut the lights off for a good five seconds. During the blackout, we’re going to give Sam cover fire until he reaches the room on the left. Once Sam is inside, he is going to set breaching charges that will do a good deal of damage. Once those charges go off, we rush ‘em while they’re still hurt. Everyone got that? Good. On my mark,” she finished, sounding quite sure of herself.

Leon could almost feel the tension circulating through the air as the squad awaited her command. This was it. This was the turning point of the battle. If Sam got into that room and set the charges, victory would be theirs for the taking. It was make it or break it.

“Control, are you ready?”

“Standing by.”

“3… 2… 1… MARK!”

As soon as the lights died, Sam was running full speed down the hallway, adrenaline giving him the extra boost he needed to make it to the room. The rest of Iron Horse lit the hallway up with crimson blaster bolts, causing the Shadowtroopers to duck back in for fear of getting hit. Once the lights flicked back on, Sam was gone. Saphira’s comm crackled a moment later.

“I’m planting the charges as we speak. If there’s anybody on the other side of this wall, they’re not gonna be there for long,” Sam said, laying out the second charge and prepping it. “Okay Saphira, I’m ready whenever you are.”

“Roger that, Sam,” replied Saphira. The squad quickly checked their gear, making sure they had everything they needed before continuing. Once everyone gave Saphira the thumbs up, she gave the order.

“Blow it!”

"Well, that went well." Tank replied as Saph rolled up beside him. A smile was playing on Saphs lips as the explosion was dying down. Her wound then started to hurt. A reminder that she needed to have the bandage changed.

Sith Spit!!! She growled to herself as the rest of the Iron Horses caught up. Sam gave a nod as their troops caught up and people were accounted for.

"Relax. I'm sure we'll have-" Saph started when she received an incoming message. Holding her hand up she listened to it and frowned. The others saw the look and MadMan was the first to say something.

"What's wrong?"

"I was hoping for a short break." Saphira replied and looked back to the group. " Alright, listen up! We're being deployed to the Academy where Thrawn's forces lie just out of sensor/visual range. Our job is to re con their position and gauge the threat to the Academy."

"Opposition?" Sam questioned.

"Unknown amount of the enemy, but it looks like we're getting a bit of help with ammo replenished." The Twi'lek replied and looked to Leon. "Re con only. We go in quiet and get the job done. If we blow it to soon it could ruin everything."


There was a mummer of agreement and they started to move out. Not before Tank stopped her and reminded that she needed to get the bandage fixed.

"I don't have time.." She started to say.

"Yes you do. If we were back on base you would be in the bacta tank." Tank replied as Saphira sighed and let her wound be patched up again. The bacta patches were helping, but it wouldn't be the same as being dipped into the healing liquid.

Not that I want to jump for joy at the thought of being in the tank for a few hours. Saphi thought as she was looked at by a medic. Her face only tightened in pain, but no sound came out as the patch was replaced and the pain vanished. Making it much easier as she ran up to the others and the drop point where they would have fresh ammo and another chance to kill the bad guys.

void..sorry

"Don't worry about it. There's allot of small creatures out here." Saphira replied as she looked around. Her eyes narrowed to a small point ahead as she checked to make sure her weapon was loaded again. Things were starting to get a little out of hand and tension was high with the others.

"I know that. it's not knowing how many are out here is the problem." madMan replied.

"Are you scared?" Arok piped up and shoved past him. Nearly making MadMan loose his footing as Sam broke it up.

"Enough you too. Keep making all this noise and I'm sure we'll find out soon enough." The Zabrak growled with distaste. They were a re con group after all. If they were to go in blasters blazing, they were in the wrong group. How some of these guys came to Iron Horse...

"We'll find out soon enough." Tank piped up from Saphira's right. To her left was Leon who was being strangely quiet.


Ok, need to keep things moving and going in the right direction. Saphira thought and drew her attention to Leon. The trooper looked to her and Saphira could feel the smile that was coming from behind the mask.

"You're being quiet for an odd reason."

"Just keeping my eyes open." Leon replied dryly.

"Relax, we'll scout around for a bit and find out how many of the enemy is here." Saph reassured him.

"Then what?" Leon replied. The Twi'lek knew he was hoping for some action. Herself, well, she was glade for the break while the bacta patch kept her wound in check.

"recon their position and gauge the threat to the Academy. Hopefully we don't get spotted in the process. I want this to go as smooth as possible. If we need to we take those we can down and hope we can survive."

"Just as I thought..."

Saphira heard the slight hint of sarcasm in his voice and sighed. Shaking her head she was going to say something else when something caught her attention. Raising a hand to stop everyone they listened. Movement was ahead and she could pick up the feint whiff of a boring conversation. Has to be a small patrol party. She thought and signaled for Sam and Tank to head to the right and check it out while the rest of them stayed back and hide behind brush and trees.