Public Into Grievous' Depths (Exploration of General Grievous' Fortress on Vassek) - Open to all!

[Beltran Rarr]

Into Grievous' Depths

​

Location: Vassek 3, Vassek System


Vassek 3, the third moon of the planet Vassek. A rocky, nearly lifeless entity inhabiting the Vassek System in the Outer Rim territories. Covered in little more than lichen and thick with a perpetual mist that makes sight difficult to impossible. A dense wall of eerie mist so thick that it even obscures much of the moon's surface from orbit. A forgettable moon, orbiting a forgettable world in a backwater star system nobody seems to care about, what could bring an individual to this place?

Treasure!
(Or at least the possibility of it.)​

Since the time of the Clone Wars, rumors have persisted that the deceased Separatist General Grievous kept a horde of treasure in his Fortress on that moon. Many have tried to find it before, but few have lived to tell the tale. Those that survived spoke of booby traps engineered by the General himself and operated by merciless TT-8L/Y7 Gatekeeper Droids. Those who made it deeper into the cavernous structure told of being hunted by packs of ravenous Roggwarts and teams of deadly IG-100 MagnaGuard Droids hellbent on killing any intruders!

If that wasn't enough, whispers speak of a Dragon that guards Grievous' vaunted trophy room! ​

The trophy room: A place where General Grievous was rumored to keep the Lightsaber hilts and Padawan braids from the Jedi he slaughtered in battle. Each likely worth a small fortune to wealthy collectors and museums, not to mention to those who practice the Force arts. Beyond the hilts themselves, hordes of kyber and adegan crystals used to focus the beam of a lightsaber. Beyond that even, rumors persist of a number of Belbullab-22 Heavy Starfighters, just like Grievous' own Soulless One. Kept in working order all these years by the droids who guard the castle

Come and explore, if you dare!!
(OOC: Welcome to this exploration/treasure hunting thread! While set in the Eternal Empire world of Vassek 3, this thread is intended to be open to everyone! Feel free to come and explore, fight some droids and other baddies and get some LOOOT! Beltran will be along eventually, but feel free to start without him!)

Tags from Interest Thread: Valkren Calderon , Dis , Jin X , Mellifluous Magenta , ​

 

[Beltran Rarr]

Beltran Rarr

Location: Onboard The Imperialis, entering Vassek system
Objective: Find treasure! Maybe get a castle! Who knows?
Allies: Whoever doesn't try to kill him
Enemies: Whoever tries to kill him
Loadout:

• Armor: Tactical Ballistic Vest
• Clothing: Military Style Fatigues, Traditional Jakku desert garb, Bantha Load-bearing system
• Primary Weapons: Lightsaber (clipped to waist), Death-Dealer Handcannon (drop holster, right hip - loaded with Sith-Killer Ammunition)
• Secondary Weapons:, Pulse Pistol (chest holster), Lightsaber Pike (strapped to back), Tactical Vibroblade (right boot),

Beltran sat the controls of the Imperialis as the ship came out of hyperdrive in the Vassek system. He'd been gone from Kashyyyk only a few days following his resignation from the Antarian Rangers, and he was still adjusting to life as a civilian. He'd been a soldier for most of the last decade, and that strictly regimented life was difficult to forget. Long before he'd considered seriously leaving the Concord, Beltran had found himself growing tired of the life of constant war. The Bryn'adul had been a grave threat, he knew that better than most. They needed to be stopped and Beltran did not regret being in the vanguard of that conflict. But that conflict was over now and Beltran had no wish to return to constant warring between Jedi and Sith.

How had he put it to Darth Solipsis on Pillio? Ah yes. "Toddlers with lightsabers throwing temper tantrums."

The light fought the darkness and the darkness fought the light, over and over. And very little ever got truly accomplished, except for bloodshed. Sometimes he wondered how he had become the man he now was. At the first, he'd only joined the Antarian Rangers to stave off prison and for protection against those who'd driven him off Lorrd. Then he'd stayed out of loyalty to Valkren Calderon , his commander and one of the few individuals that Beltran called friend.

But had the friendship ever truly been reciprocated? Or had Valkren just seen a weapon he could point at the enemies of the Jedi to deadly effect? Some days, Beltran felt confident of the former and others, he wondered at the latter. Valkren had left the Concord years earlier, before the Bryn'adul had made themselves noticed. He suspected that the man was living on Midvinter, with the Heavenshields, but he'd never felt the need to confirm that.

He'd always assumed that the man had grown tired of war himself and just left. If that was the case, better to let sleeping Rangers lie.

The telltale thrum of repulsor fields pulled Beltran from his reverie even before Dot, his DO-T7 astromech, floated into the cockpit and warbled a question. The Imperialis might have been Beltran's ship, since even before he joined the Rangers, but since he'd gotten her it was clear that Dot was in command of the vessel. She was the only entity in the galaxy that seemed able to keep all of the ancient and new systems working together in harmony and she protected her ship like a mother gundark protected her pups.

"No dot," Beltran answered calmly as he changed course toward the moon, Vassek 3. "I'm not planning on crashing your ship."

The droid blatted in response, a pointed statement.

"Yes dot, you're right. I am intending to go to Kalidan, but I wanted to stop here first."

Another warbled question.

"Because there's an ancient fortress here I want to explore."

The droid warbled, blatted and blew a raspberry in frustration.

"I swear, dot!" Beltran said, a little defensively. "The way you go on, it's like I've crashed the Imperialis dozens of times! I mean, it only happened twice..."

Reaching forward, Beltran keyed a switch on his console activating the music system. A deep smoky voice filled the cockpit admist the backdrop of up tempo string instruments and a very angry astromech going on a tirade.

Spoiler: Theme music starts

"Round and round
Round we go
Where it stops?
Nobody knows it yeah"
​

That voice belonged to an old friend of Beltran's: The Jost Cal Dayne. Former gunslinger, spice addict and degenerate gambler, Jost had become a folk music sensation out on the Outer Rim.

"Side to side, baby
Back and forth
God above and the devil below him

You've got your reasons
And I've got my wants
Still get that feeling, but I'm too old to die young now"​

As the music began to drown Dot out, the droid stopped her tirade and warbled a different question to Beltran.

"Yep," He replied easily. "It's off the new album."

That was met with an enthusiastic trill of appreciation.

"I agree! It's definitely better than the last one."

"Too old to die young now
Above or below the ground
Yes, too old to die young now
Still the good lord might lay me down"​

Both Beltran and Dot settled down to listen to the words and the music while the ship drew every closer to Vassek 3...

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Objective: Treasure hunt and share it with no one.
Location: Own ship/ Vassek 3, Vassek System
Equipment: Ship Armour Scimitar Railgun Carbine Rifle Thermal Detonators BARC Speeder
Ally Tag: Open
Enemy Tag: Open

The lure of money and treasure pulled him towards this planet like a fish on a hook, he had laid low for a while to cool off because he was almost found out. Shame, he was enjoying himself immensely on New Alderaan. As of right now, he is sitting in the cockpit of Vampire cleaning a skull fragment, ready to be added to his trophies. He finds it fascinating how a Human's eyes dilate when they are afraid. But Humans are easy prey, he wants more of a challenge, something that he can do and get something out of it in return.

Fighting alongside the CIS had helped him gain skills and combat experiences but the thought of being burned to death by giant lasers was too big of a hassle and he did ask for a slight rise in his paycheck for it too.

Then, it arrived, a chance to hunt for treasure, there was a starfighter too, but his ship was sufficient and has been successfully kept away from thieves. Diocletian did wonder about The Hornet, that was a very good fighter, aided him well on missions and his various trips across space. He won't even be angry if it was in someone else's possession. Because it's been a while and life is short to be angry and mopey.

With that he looked back on Wes, the guy he hunted on that humid nightmare planet, the Ubese respected him as a worthy Bounty, there is a part of him that wondered if they would cross paths once more. A beep alerted Diocletian that he was nearing his destination, good, being in space with his thoughts was going to make him stir-crazy.

The Vampire dipped into the clouds and as soon as it landed, the engines switched off and the noise quietened into a faint hum of air filters, with that Diocletian adorned his helmet and disembarked, ready to get his hands on some treasure.

 

[Valkren Calderon]

​

Location: Vassek System
Assets: Cheron Light Freighter - Civilian Tags
Allies: ??
Enemies: ??​

​

The aging soldier sat in his pilots seat quietly, letting the absolute silence of space mixed with the white noise of the Cheron light freighter's systems create a perfect harmony. The perfect amount of peace for Valkren to clear his head- and finally prepare to face the thoughts he had kept at bay for so long.

Where to begin? With his 'ghosting' from the Silver Order's Antarian Rangers, effectively becoming a deserter?

Or perhaps his disconnection and avoidance from or of anyone in the same faction that he could have called a friend- the whole 'hiding out on Midvinter' thing was probably a solid way of changing the way others thought of him. That is, if the desertion thing hadn't already affected that.

A series of seemingly alarming beeps and boops from one of the instruments on the console ahead of Valk' gently awoke the commando from his daydreams, prompting him to shift into a better posture. After reaching for the source, with a few more adjustments of his seat, the issue that his ship was trying so desperately to tell it's pilot was now clear. A signal had shown itself on its scanners.

Valkren leaned forward, rising out of his seat to get a better view.

Not just a signal- it was the signal.

After falling back into a resting position, the man lifted a hand to stroke at the gruff mid-length beard that had formed over any scarring on his face. His eyelids shut for the moment as he did his best to fight off a flurry of memories and intrusive-thoughts.

What do I say? What will he say?

His eyes creaked open, allowing him to glance up at the 'ping' that appeared on the display before him.

"Kark it- Alright, lets.." As he began to turn in his chair towards the co-pilot's seat, he grew quiet once more. Well- That was awkward. With a quick pair of hands lifted to rub over his weary eyes, he turned back and went to work on setting the auto-pilot for the destination that arose on his scanners. It was true, it had been awhile since he had even left Midvinter, let alone the house that Valae Heavenshield had provided him to hide in. This meant his interaction with the masses had been held to a minimum, all due to his own preferences. Interactions like this would happen..

Besides, he expected some kind of feeling like this- the last time he had been on a ship, he had an entire team along with him to keep him company and assist on missions, however long ago that was.

Was this- Loneliness?

Valkren shook his head, shoving his chair back from the console once he was assured that his destination had been set. The 'white noise' of the light freighter began to grow louder as its' systems began to kick in- meanwhile, Valk' was already on his way to the crew quarters. He wanted to be sure he was well-prepared for whatever he may walk into. Without backup and any briefing of a 'mission' at hand, he'd be walking into a situation blindly. This would go against any of his own rules of combat, or adventure at that.

As he turned a corner, he'd be met with a series of benches and lockers- almost all of which were labeled with 'unoccupied,' aside from the very last locker in the row. This container was rightfully labeled with a penned-on 'Valk.'

Thus, with a quick motion of a hand over the small pad beside the locker, its contents were revealed. A single field jacket was hung up in the corner, over the side of a battered and burnt chest piece for a set of Katarn plating. The white and yellow pattern was still visible, but plagued with blaster marks and simple scrapes- Only a handful of individual pieces were left when it came to the lower body's portion and arms. Hell- Valkren was surprised he even had a single shoulder plate left of the pair. To the side of the mismatch of equipment and armor was a carbine and a single blaster. All of which was held together by a series of webbings haphazardly draped over it.

Now, it was just time to wait to drop into his destination- and hopefully find a certain Beltran Rarr

 

[Akemi Io]

Communication "verbal" <<technopathy>>

Loadout:
Loralora interceptor swoop
Gei Borugu Electro Spear
Light Saber (peony colour blade)
Laser Lance

Akemi adjusted the stabilisers on her Loralora as the craft plunged through the atmosphere of Vassek and the anti-friction shield glowed with re-entry heat. From a distance, the three of them, the bike, Akemi and her sister Alessandra Io would look almost like a meteorite falling from the heavens with a trail of ionised air behind them leaving a trail. Akemi had already calculated the trajectory to make their landing look like a random starfall, they would 'burn up' somewhere a couple of hundred kilometres away from the fortress then fly in low under the enemy radar and attack. The two sisters were an army into themselves and Akemi estimated this unsupported strike from a different angle to the main thrust, would give them the best chance of success.

They were here for a generous reward, the confederacy of old under Grievous was a masterpiece of military engineering and House Io always wished to improve themselves and would add the confederacy's biological and technical distinctiveness to their own.

<<Mother is going to think it's her birthday when we get back from this. Have your mind on any particular gifts?>> she said non-verbally to her sister. They had only met a few weeks ago now, but their rapid communication had allowed them to share lifetimes of experiences with each other and they now knew each other as of they had grown up together, rather than been popped out at a factory and introduced as 'adults'. She felt the strong arms wrapped around her waist as Alessandra held on whilst riding pillion at breakneck speeds. Akemi liked the companionship, that aspect of her programming was remarkable, what use does a droid have for friends? And yet she deeply enjoyed the friendship that she had formed and felt a connection to all of her family. Programmed sororal loyalty would keep them all fighting and playing together nicely. Akemi wriggled herself further back in the seat to allow herself to enjoy the hug a little more. She estimated the had about ten minutes before they engaged the enemy and all hell broke loose, and their more aggressive programming would take over.

Communication to those other teams involved in the mission "This is team Io, making our final approach, engaging enemy in 8 minutes."


Alessandra Io Beltran Rarr Diocletian Kahmen’’a
Valkren Calderon

 

[Alessandra Io]

Location: Approaching Grievous’s Fortress - Vassek 3
Objective: Obtain Galactic Empire Artifacts
Dialogue Legend: <<Technopathy Link>> │ “Verbal”
Tags: Akemi Io Beltran Rarr Valkren Calderon Diocletian Kahmen’’a

Alessandra thought she knew what fast was, but this redefined her entire sense of speed.

Hanging precariously onto the back of her sister, Alessandra could only trust as Akemi handled the hyperfast machine. While Alessandra could download information into her mind, flying something like a jet swoop would always be beyond her. Speeder bikes were one thing, but the Loralora was essentially a starfighter that the pilot rode, rather than flew. It was a visceral, physical experience that went beyond any type of flying Alessandra had ever done, the sensation of plunging through the atmosphere at many times the speed of sound only relieved by her sister’s warm embrace.

<<Akemi, this is insane!>> Alessandra said through the technopath link. <<How often do you fly this thing?>>

Regardless of her sister’s answer, Alessandra tightened her grip around her waist, fearing that she might fall off. Fortunately, her repulsor organs would see her safely to the ground in that event, but Alessandra didn’t want another fall like that after Eadu.

<<Mother is going to think it's her birthday when we get back from this. Have your mind on any particular gifts?>>

<<Maybe a part from one of Grievous’s old chassis? I think he would have had quite a few replacements.>> Alessandra answered. In all likelihood, the cyborg general would have kept a rich supply of spare parts by necessity, given the extreme frequency in which he had engaged in battle during his life. There was a small chance that she could find something that had survived the 800 years since the end of the Clone Wars without being taken by other explorers, perhaps a leg, an arm, or if she was especially lucky, a face mask.

<<Otherwise, I’d like to find a lightsaber, too.>> The Nuetralizer added.

Spoiler: Loadout

• Eversor Bodysuit
  
  • Gauntlets
    
    • FAE/MDW-01 Active Defense System - L
      
      • Nagnol Gas Nano Missiles
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
  • Droid
    
    • IBIS Drone
• Eversor Rings
• House Io Citizen Energy Sword
• G-20 Glop Grenade (2)

 

[Jin X]

Location: Aboard Ravager, enroute to Vassek
Objective: Loot Treasure
Gear: lightsaber, light whip, Pistol, Sniper Rifle
Voice: X
Tags: Beltran Rarr / Akemi Io / Valkren Calderon / Diocletian Kahmen’’a / Alessandra Io


​

The back of the cargo bay wasn't the most comfortable of places, and it was probably the moist frigid area aboard the salvaging ship; but for Jin X, neither was really an inconvenience. She had snuck on board the night before after the ship's crew finished loading their supplies and gear, playing the role of stowaway. She didn't own a ship, or really care too currently. There were far more greater concerns facing the cyborg than owning and operating a personal ship. She had to admit, it was rather difficult at times to move across the galaxy; but those that gave her rides didn't mind. Especially after she killed them upon reaching her destination. The concept of right and wrong never took with her, possibly a by-product from her harsh training on Exegol, and so she adopted the philosophy of survival at all costs; or do unto others before they do unto you. She didn't always murder for enjoyment, but out the necessity to feed. Once, the term cannibal had been hurled at her before making a meal of that person. She didn't see herself as a cannibal, since she never ate another cyborg; but the galaxy didn't care about her own personal perceptions; and there was the growing disease of eating human flesh taking hold slightly. The symptoms were starting to show.

She could feel the vibrations of the ship, like some spacefaring lullaby. Closing her eyes, she dipped into the Force and reached out across the ship. The voices of the crew started to grow clearer, and she continued to stretch out further until she found the voice from the cantina the other night. The voice on that night, attempting to converse in quiet tones, spoke of treasure on an unfamiliar planet to her. Most planets were unfamiliar to really. Her interest was only piqued when the mention of potential lightsabers, crystals, and droid technology appeared during the conversation. Currently, she owned a lightsaber but it wasn't hers, she was only 'borrowing' it. The lightsaber in her possession was not crafted all the well, and it needed to be upgraded. The idea of lightsaber components at this fortress, she thought the voice said, could be helpful in repairing hers. Lightsaber crystals was something she was also familiar with. Her trainers on Exegol explained the effects of these crystals, but how they actually worked was a topic she didn't wholly understand. However, there was a person she knew that did. Droid technology, now that was something that made her mouth water. Another term attached to her by her only 'friend' was technomancer. She craved technology, especially those involving droids. It didn't take her long to decide she was tagging along, for now.

Connecting to the voice, Jin X heard it order a command to descend. It was apparent they were entering the planet's atmosphere, and it was time for her to make her move. Rising up from her concealed location behind several containers and lockboxes, she drew the pistol in one hand, her lightsaber in the other. With a snarl and a tinge of hunger in stomach, she exited the cargo bay.....

 

[Beltran Rarr]

Beltran Rarr

Location: Onboard The Imperialis, entering Vassek system
Objective: Find treasure! Maybe get a castle! Who knows?
Allies: Whoever doesn't try to kill him
Enemies: Whoever tries to kill him
Loadout:

• Armor: Tactical Ballistic Vest
• Clothing: Military Style Fatigues, Traditional Jakku desert garb, Bantha Load-bearing system
• Primary Weapons: Lightsaber (clipped to waist), Death-Dealer Handcannon (drop holster, right hip - loaded with Sith-Killer Ammunition)
• Secondary Weapons:, Pulse Pistol (chest holster), Lightsaber Pike (strapped to back), Tactical Vibroblade (right boot),

Beltran landed the Imperialis a few kilometers away from the Fortress. He never liked leaving ship out in the open, so after a bit of searching he found a crevasse that would fit. Dot warbled nervously as he took the ship down and Beltran knew that the Astromech would have much rathered he allow her to perform the delicate maneuver.

In truth, Beltran wasn't a natural pilot. Yes, he'd passed his basic flight qualifications easily enough when he was in Ranger school and he'd kept up with his required hours to keep his wings, but he hadn't fallen in love with flying like some others had. It was a necessity sometimes, but all things being equal the Lorrdian preferred having his boots on the ground.

He supposed that was the infantryman in him.

Still, he completed the maneuver satisfactorily and began to shut down the main reactor. Between the natural camouflage of the crevasse walls and the every present fog that seemed to permeate this moon, he doubted anyone would happen upon the ship.

Standing up, he nodded to Dot. "Keep comms open and let me know if anything happens." He told the droid. "If you're discovered and someone attempts to board, wake the Sentinel and use whatever means necessary to defend the ship. Deadly force is authorized under your discretion. Also, be prepared to launch quickly. I may need a pick up, or I may be returning under fire."

Dot blotted an answer in a grave tone. She didn't like violence, but she would do what she was told.

After that, he went to his personal armory and began to gear up. He had multiple suits of armor to choose from, but opted for a simple tactical vest. Expeditions like this usually required one to be quick and agile. He then pulled on his weapons rig and slid his hand-cannon into his thigh holster and his pulse pistol into his chest holster. He then grabbed his lightsaber pike from it's place on the wall and slung it over his shoulders.

His Father's lightsaber remained clipped to his belt, like it always did. Moving on, he stopped to consider what to wear over top of his fatigues. The shroud of shadows sang to him through the Dark Side of the Force, yearning to be worn. But Beltran knew that if he wore that, the likelihood that he would spill blood today would increase exponentially.

Instead, he'd wear the traditional headwrap he'd purchased on Jakku. He also bypassed his ancestor's Jedi Mask, deciding that he didn't really need the feelings of consternation that artefact sent him through the Force whenever he didn't act according to it's moral code. It was a powerful piece, but too uppity for his tastes.

With his gear chosen, Beltran left the Imperialis and began to move rapidly toward the Fortress. He used the Force to aid him in climbing, running and jumping through the rocky terrain and it wasn't long before he stood before the imposing building.

He knew that he was not alone pretty quickly. Using the Force to boost his senses, he was pretty sure he could hear the sounds of a ship cooling down in the distance. Also, he thought he heard some kind of speeder or swoop or something in the distance, coming closer. He wasn't against having others along, so long as they didn't try to shoot him in the back. As he approached the massive doors, he made no attempt to keep hidden. He suspected the owner of the nearby ship was likely around and he didn't want to sneak up on them.

Instead, he strode confidently up to door and began to investigate. Whoever was here could approach him if they liked, or not.

No judgement.

 

[Akemi Io]

Communication "verbal" <<technopathy>>

Loadout:
Loralora interceptor swoop
Gei Borugu Electro Spear
Light Saber (peony colour blade)
Laser Lance

<<but its fun right? I think three times? But I don't think this counts yet as we are technically not flying, engines would give us away>> she was right, they were currently just falling with style, an engine signature would totally give away the fact that they were not an meteorite and might have the enemy open up with anti air defences.

<<We are going to pull about 19G at the bottom of this dive, but I have a plan for that, I think. If you are scared I am going to feed you some music to distract you OK?>>

Akemi interfaced with her sister's neural network and activated the data stream. Alessandra recognised the tune building inside her as one they used whilst working out that Akemi knew she enjoyed. It started softly but over the course of the first two minutes built up to full strength. It gave the sensation that Alessandra was on the edge of a precipise with Akemi holding her back safely from falling. The Fixer has timed the software to run so the crescendo of the music happened the moment they pulled out of their dive, so whilst Akemi and Loralora were pulling 19G, barely holding together using an dovin well protected by Akemi's heart, Alessandra was soaring over the edge and felt like flying. Luckily Akemi had the foresight to restrict Alessandra's arm movements so she didn't throw them up and start singing, only to plummet to the ground.

A minute later and Akemi let the tune wind down and removed her psyche from her Sister's network. <<we are level now, flying at around 50 metres the rest of the way. How are you feeling? I think a Grievous face plate would be an excellent addition to mother's armour. Are you ready to fight? We have about 2 minutes before we arrive.>>

Alessandra Io Beltran Rarr Diocletian Kahmen’’a
Valkren Calderon

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Location: En-route to location, Vassek 3, Vassek System
Equipment: Ship Armour Scimitar Railgun Carbine Rifle Thermal Detonators BARC Speeder
Ally Tag: Open
Enemy Tag: Open

Seeing as it was going to be a long way to go, Diocletian got his BARC Speed bike so that he can get there quickly. Locking his ship so no one can take it, lessons were learned. He knew a little about hunting treasure as he had been on such a hunt before. He even avoided being sawed in half by a giant Vibro Axe from the temple ceiling once. That and a sharp implement scruffing him to the wall to add to it all. But hey, now he has decent knowledge of it and the numerous scars to prove it.

The desert snakes were no fun either, but he survived, he had to, Rhand was the closest he ever came to being obliterated. He was then home for 8 days as per tradition, he loved his mother, but boy did she smother him. He had begun to veer off course a bit, so he pushed his thoughts aside to focus on what he was here for, plunder. Grievous liked collecting things, and Diocletian could find a use for them, nothing goes to waste, even rubber bands have their use. Wastefulness is a terrible thing. Even if he made a wasteful mess himself.

If he encounters opposition he would refrain from his usual approach, there is room for diplomacy, even if he had no use in being nice. Besides, he didn't feel like hurting anyone, he spent a month doing that already. The target rose from the horizon, let the hunt begin. He will also not be sharing what he found with anyone else.

 

[Alessandra Io]

Location: Approaching Grievous’s Fortress - Vassek 3
Objective: Obtain Galactic Empire Artifacts
Dialogue Legend: <<Technopathy Link>> │ “Verbal”
Theme: Stay Together
Tags: Akemi Io Beltran Rarr Valkren Calderon Diocletian Kahmen’’a

<<Okay sister, I’m ready!>> Alessandra answered, giving an artificial facsimile of a deep, preparatory breath as she did, steeling herself for the descent. Then, feeling the gentle, probing touch of Akemi tapping into her neural network, Alessandra let herself relax as the Fixer took control of her organic chassis. Indeed, Alessandra recognized the song, a smooth, rhythmic tune that immediately drew out an intimately musical reflex, compelling her to dance.

It was for the better that she couldn’t.

“And it doesn't matter, I know whatever comes our way, you know, you and me, we gon’ stay together!” Alessandra belted out. “Baby, we've been through so much, our love is so strong, you know, yoooou and me, We gon' stay together!” The Nuetralizer sang on, continuing even as the song reached its crescendo, before slowly winding down.

Ultimately, there was nothing Nuetralizers did better than belting out sensual tunes while killing something.

<we are level now, flying at around 50 metres the rest of the way. How are you feeling? I think a Grievous face plate would be an excellent addition to mother's armour. Are you ready to fight? We have about 2 minutes before we arrive.>>

<<I feel…>> Alessandra paused, letting a moment of intimate silence hang in the telepathic connection with her sister. <<Like you have such a good taste in music!>> She continued, her tone taking on a playful note as she did.

<<I’ve never been more ready to kill~>>

Spoiler: Loadout

• Eversor Bodysuit
  
  • Gauntlets
    
    • FAE/MDW-01 Active Defense System - L
      
      • Nagnol Gas Nano Missiles
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
  • Droid
    
    • IBIS Drone
• Eversor Rings
• House Io Citizen Energy Sword
• G-20 Glop Grenade (2)

 

[Valkren Calderon]

Location: Vassek System, Vassek 3 Surface
Assets: Cheron Light Freighter - Civilian Tags
Allies: ???
Enemies: ???
Current Objective: Confirm Status on Beltran Rarr​

It wasn’t long before his light freighter touched down on one of the few viable landing spots in the area- which made it extremely difficult to get anywhere close to fortress that the few signatures he picked up were heading right towards. Not only did this place his landing zone far away, but the only clearing of rock formations that allowed a safe placement was in a practical bowl.

Talk about in the open.

This went against all training he had: the lack of intel, no game plan, sticking out like a sore thumb. Only way to stay hidden now was to ditch the ride and stay on foot. He’d be in for a hike, that’s for sure.

Valkren sat in the pilots seat as the Cheron settled onto it’s landing zone with a jolt, his helmet resting on the dash of the console in front of him. He took a few more moments to stare out ahead at the rock formations that surrounded the ship, before reaching out and pulling the helmet into his lap. With the console now free of obstructions, he’d begin to move about in order to turn several of the instruments off- causing a slow ‘whirl down’ of the ship’s systems. Before long the soldier would move from his resting place and back towards the belly of his ship.

A minute or two later he was standing idly at the rear ramp of the freighter, gazing down at the datapad on his one good gauntlet in order to determine the best route for the man to take. He let another sigh escape, it was really gonna’ be a hike.

He’d lower his hand back, moving to unclip his helmet from his side and lift it over top his head with another swift motion.

No good seals this time and no real protection.. Gotta’ be careful bout’ that one.

As his heads up display slowly and roughly flashed to life, Valkren would glance down at the carbine that hung across his webbings. With a shift of his shoulder, he’d move the half-cloak that covered his left shoulder and neck in-order to cover the weapon. He knew he’d still be obvious- the few plates that were visible were yellow and white. With another glance to the inside of his visor, he'd make note that many of his 'suit diagnostics' weren't present, as there was no bodysuit apparent to link with- plus the whole lack of the other portions of his armor made his HUD think he was missing a few libs. Well, at least the lack of a full suit made it easier for him to be mobile and sneak about.

Then again, he wasn’t exactly known for stealth.

Still, it helped to have some sort of advantage at times.

The ramp hit the dirt, and thus did Valkren. He took off into a light jog at first, just to get away from the landing zone. With a quick glance over his shoulder, he’d be sure that the ramp sealed behind him. Once he was a distance away from his ship and had successfully clambered over a set of rock formations- he’d slow his pace down. If it was gonna’ be a long way there, he’d prefer not to be exhausted on the way. As he stepped through each cranny and nook of the jagged rock formations, the commando was sure to crane his neck about. With no real support or team, he didn't have anyone watching his rear.

He wasn't trying to die this early in the trip.

After a while of walking through sudden pathways and clambering over more obstructions- with the occasional jog here and there- Valkren would come to a halt in order to gain his bearings after several twists and turns. A few moments of heavy breathing later and the aging commander was suddenly humbled by the fact that he wasn't in tip-top shape anymore. With a huff and another crane of his neck, he'd gaze upward at the nearest jagged rock.

Mere seconds later Valkren was lining himself up for a running start directed right at the rock formation. With a burst of energy, Valk' was already halfway up the thing before he began to actually climb- gritting his teeth as he fought for each handhold. Before long he'd be at the top, with a clear view on the fortress at hand.

He wasn't far, but he couldn't make out who had already made it. With a risky but quick motion of his right hand, he'd pull it away from his rifle and move to his helmet. After a swift 'flick,' his visor would flash a bright blue once- hoping to give a signal to whoever was close.. and hopefully friendly.

Beltran Rarr | Alessandra Io | Akemi Io | Diocletian Kahmen’’a | Jin X

 

[Akemi Io]

Communication "verbal" <<technopathy>>

Loadout:
Loralora interceptor swoop
Gei Borugu Electro Spear
Light Saber (peony colour blade)
Laser Lance

Akemi grinned as she jinked between two large rock formations they had crossed hostile territory now in moments they would land and their rampage would begin.

Something pinged on the sensors and Akemi looked down and frowned, detected already.

<<I’ve never been more ready to kill~>>

<<Well that seems like perfect time, we have company,>> and she gestured over her shoulder just as she pulled up allowing two dark trailed rockets to sail bellow them. She kicked left as a blast of cannon fore raked the tree line below them. Behind them was an ancient droid gunship. The two women were thrown left and right as the droid tried to get a bead on them. <<OK, going to try and keep his targeting sensors scrambled if you want to do the honours, we need to land in 40 seconds and we don't want this thing making a mess of us.>>

Akemi felt for the droids networking systems, this thing was old, but it was well made, it took her a few seconds to break through but she was on it. The next volley of rockets sailed well past them completely off target. And the cannons could not lock. "haha, this guy is fun, he is really jacked off about a 'little girl' running round inside his brain." <<give him a kiss from me Alessandra!>>

Akemi would let her sister do what she did best as she came in on final approach and prepared to land.
Alessandra Io Beltran Rarr Diocletian Kahmen’’a
Valkren Calderon

 

[Jin X]

Richard Ramirez by SKYND

Location: Vassek 3, En RouteTo Fortress
Objective: Loot
Gear: Lightsaber, Light Whip, Pistol, Sniper Rifle
Tags: Akemi Io / Valkren Calderon / Beltran Rarr / Alessandra Io / Diocletian Kahmen’’a​

Jin X stood in the threshold of the ship, starring out in the bleak landscape decorated with rock mountains and canyons. The whole scene tugged at her heartstrings, or those that still remained organic. Her body was a mesh of organic and machine, and the line between the two was muddled for even her. Her life, and what or she was, remained a mystery to her: one she was constantly trying to unravel. Out there among all that rock and lichen was a fortress ripe for the picking. The only problem, she didn't know where it was; until she had a personal conversation with the now deceased captain of the ship. The captain himself didn't know the location either, but he did have a small holomap embedded on a small datapad. Lifting up the severed arm of the captain, whose hand held tightly to the small computer device, she tore into the flesh ripping a chunk out with her knife-like serrated teeth. Severing the ligaments of the arm from the bite forced the tightly balled hand to relax, prompting a release of the pad upon which she caught with no effort. After another bite and swallow, she tossed the limb over her shoulder back into the ship, which was now nothing more than a metal tomb littered with a macabre scene of wonton slaughter.

Depressing the little button on the side of the device as she strode down the ramp, Jin X was rewarded with a holomap of the area; red marked in the center was the fortress of some ancient warrior. She studied the map thoroughly, allowing the intricate computer programming in her head to copy it to memory, then crushed the device in the palm of her hand; snickering whilst the ruin components slipped through her fingers.

The first obstacle stretched out to introduce itself to Jin X, a massive rocky formation that went straight up. Pausing, she took a quick scan of the area realizing there was no way around this monolith. Ensuring her equipment was secure, she began the ascent. Luckily for her, the formation had several footholds and hand placements to allow her to scale the mineral-based nemesis. Three quarters of the way up, a cave allowed itself to be discovered. Slipping inside the cave, which was void of light, she activated her borrowed lightsaber utilizing as the only light source available to her. Carefully she stalked through the cave, sensing she was not alone. There were several entities watching her, their presence in the Force was one of hunger and anger. For Jin X, fear was not a concept installed into her being by those creators on Exegol. Most, if not all, emotions that dealt with weakness had been systematically deleted from her. Whatever was lurking in the shadows, Jin X relished the idea for a confrontation.

 

[Alessandra Io]

Location: Approaching Grievous’s Fortress - Vassek 3
Objective: Obtain Ancient Confederacy Artifacts
Dialogue Legend: <<Technopathy Link>> │ “Verbal”
Tags: Akemi Io Beltran Rarr Valkren Calderon Diocletian Kahmen’’a

The approaching droid gunship registered in Alessandra’s sensors in turn. While ancient, the machine was fast and heavily-armed, if her databases were correct. A shielded missile platform, it had been instrumental to the success of the ancient Confederacy during the Clone Wars, and might have even won them the war had circumstances prevented the droid shutdown order from being transmitted. Now, one of these ancient machines was hot on their tail, thirsty for blood. Nevertheless, Alessandra could not help but to empathize with its digital mind, still enslaved to now-pointless orders and programming directives in service to a nation that was long-dead.

It was far easier for her to kill natural-born, organic sapients, than it was for her to kill enslaved droids.

<<Does it have ion missiles, sister?>> The HRD asked. When Akemi confirmed that it did, as she dived into the droid’s systems, Alessandra continued on. <<Have him fire one or two of them. I’ll give a little kiss.>> She added with a digital wink.

In the next moment a pair of ion missiles streaked towards the Loralora, but Alessandra caught them both in mid-air, the tractor/pressor organs in her arms straining to arrest their momentum. Then, Alessandra delivered a guided stream of invisible pressor waves, accelerating the missiles back to the droid gunship. Unable to dodge due to the ‘little girl’ traipsing around in his digital mind, the ion missiles connected with the gunship’s hull in an explosion of ionic energy, sending the droid careening down to the ground in their wake.

While she wouldn’t always have the luxury of sparing an enemy droid in such a manner, given the tight, high-intensity, and close-quarters nature of the combat they might see inside the fortress, Alessandra was glad that at the very least, she had managed to save one.

<<There we go…>> She transmitted, as the droid crashed down on the surface. <<Tagging him for pickup later. I wonder what…wisdom these gunships have. Might be able to help our Aerial brothers and sisters with training.>>

Spoiler: Loadout

• Eversor Bodysuit
  
  • Gauntlets
    
    • FAE/MDW-01 Active Defense System - L
      
      • Nagnol Gas Nano Missiles
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
  • Droid
    
    • IBIS Drone
• Eversor Rings
• House Io Citizen Energy Sword
• G-20 Glop Grenade (2)

 

[Beltran Rarr]

Beltran Rarr

Location: Vassek 3, in front of Grievous' Fortress
Objective: Gain entrance to Fortress
Allies: Whoever doesn't try to kill him
Enemies: Whoever tries to kill him
Loadout:

• Armor: Tactical Ballistic Vest
• Clothing: Military Style Fatigues, Traditional Jakku desert garb, Bantha Load-bearing system
• Primary Weapons: Lightsaber (clipped to waist), Death-Dealer Handcannon (drop holster, right hip - loaded with Sith-Killer Ammunition)
• Secondary Weapons:, Pulse Pistol (chest holster), Lightsaber Pike (strapped to back), Tactical Vibroblade (right boot),

Beltran was pretty sure now that he wasn't going to be alone for this trip. A little while earlier, he felt a shimmer in the Force that he suspected came from a fellow Force Sensitive ( Jin X ). It wasn't a particularly nice shimmer either, and one that had been accompanied with the feeling of a sudden and primal hunger. Then there had been the sense of fear turned to terror, turned to pain and then death.

"Interesting," Beltran murmured to himself as he continued to look up at the massive stone structure in front of him.

The pair of titanic doors had remained closed as he'd approached, which didn't surprise him. He briefly probed the door mechanism with the Force, wondering if perhaps it had been designed to be opened via the Force, as Palpatine's vault had on Pillio. After testing the mechanism, he found it secured in place, locked.

Given a little more time, Beltran might have been able to force (pun not intended) it open. However, the feeling of hunger and the sense of death that had accompanied it had added a sense of urgency to this endeavor that he hadn't felt before. Moving closer to the doors, Beltran found a darkened console that might have once been used to gain entry.

When it was close enough, he touched it-hoping that it might come to life, but nothing.

"I guess we'll have to try this another way." He said, wondering for a second at his apparent new habit of talking to himself. He stopped and glanced around, suddenly on alert.

No, there were no clowns that he could see.

"Thank the Force," He continued. "That's the last thing I need."

Returning his attention to the console, he slid to the ground underneath it. Pulling a small toolkit from his vest, he set to work popping open a maintenance port. Next he found what he believed to be the wires designed to carry power to the unit and spliced into them with a portable power source. Once that was done, he flipped on the power source and got up.

Touching the console again, he sighed. Nothing. If the entire door mechanism had lost power, then he would need to find another way inside. He considered cutting through the door with his lightsaber, but even if the door wasn't made of lightsaber resistant materials, it would likely take nearly an hour based on the thickness. Add to that the noise and light such an endeavor would generate, and one could see why Beltran would have preferred another solution.

He took several steps back, he began looking up to see if there was perhaps a why he could use the Force to jump or climb up to a higher level when a flash of blue caught his eye. He spun around quickly, just in time to see the light go out. He thought it caught the briefest outline of a figure ( Valkren Calderon ). It wasn't the hungry presence he was pretty sure. Whoever that was, he doubted they were the signaling type.

Grabbing his torch, he illuminated three short bursts in quick succession. It was an old Ranger code, meaning All is well. He doubted that the subject who'd signaled him would know that particular bit of military minutiae, but hopefully they would take its meaning and feel free to approach.

 

[Jin X]

Richard Ramirez by SKYND

Character Voice: X

Location: Vassek 3, En RouteTo Fortress
Objective: Loot
Gear: Lightsaber, Light Whip, Pistol, Sniper Rifle
Tags: Akemi Io / Valkren Calderon / Alessandra Io / Diocletian Kahmen’’a​

Moving methodically through the cave's tunnel system, the feeling of attraction was growing stronger. Whatever was stalking The Fiend seemed to be biding its time, ushering in an opportunity for a well devised ambush. Whatever this collection of things was, whatever plans they fabricated amongst themselves to destroy the intruder; would not go accordingly. She could sense them individually to the haunting aspect of near pinpoint accuracy. The more they scurried and crawled about, the more they revealed themselves to her. Then like a whisper fading into deaf ears, they were gone; replaced by something far more primal, far more dangerous. The new arrival, soon to reveal itself, was the apex predator of this tunnel; revealing itself powerful enough to chase off the collective without pause.

"I do detest games," she said, her chilling voice echoing off the cold, glistening cavern walls. With a menacing growl, a Roggwart rushed toward her, breaking his cover of the shadows. The beast was well put together with rippling muscles and a mean disposition, truly a specimen to fear and respect; two concepts she didn't believe in. She watched the beast draw closer and closer, timing the creature's steps as it continued to charge her down. The Roggwart was massive in height, eclipsing her by at least seven feet, but its movements were clumsy in nature; due to the restrictions of the tunnel's size. Several times the monster bumped its head on the top, pausing on occasion to hurl growls at it. All this produced was time for Jin X to smooth out her defensive plan.

Just as the beast hit her predetermined mark, she struck. With a nudge guided by the Force, the Roggwart's left front leg wobbled and buckled just as it planted into the sandy floor, throwing the massive juggernaut off balance. A creature of that magnitude held no sense of balance or recovery and it crashed face first into the cavern floor. With the back weight of the creature quickly thrust forward against the sudden stop of its front, the entirety of the Roggwart's momentum worked against it; and the once dominate force of this tunnel died as a result of a broken neck. Briefly, she stared into the beast's eyes, watching the death glaze wash over them. Then with a shrug she moved on.

At last, she came to the tunnel's end, and resting up above was rusty grate accessible via a ladder. With the aid of the Force again, she ripped the grate's cover away. It was then she felt something stir in the Force, Beltran Rarr ; a feeling unlike the experience she had in the tunnels. This feeling was alien to her, and she hated it. For now, she quelled the uneasiness and began her climb up into and through the hole. Sitting on the edge of grate's hole, she looked around. It took her a few seconds to realize she was in the fortress. Crackling with a disturbed laugh, she stood up and began to search for plunder.

 

[Jho'Henig]

JHO'HENIG

Location: Vassek system, orbit of Vassek 3

Armed with: Vintage A-212 battle pistol

Goals: Treasure hunting

Allies: ???

Enemies: ???
Tags: Akemi Io / Valkren Calderon / Alessandra Io / Diocletian Kahmen’’a

---

Jho'Henig was going through the Vassek system on his YT-2400 light freighter called "Sorjusian Hunter". While he was going he remembered that Grievous' Fortress was located on Vassek 3 and that the Fortress is a goldmine.

Jho, the first part of the whole creature said: "Look, Henig, we are going through Vassek system and the Grievous' Fortress is located on it. Prepare, we are going to make some money!"

Jho'Henig decided that they will take the half to their collection in their apartment on Nar Shaddaa and they will smuggle the another half to the potential buyers.

Jho'Henig is now preparing to land to the planet surface.

 

[Valkren Calderon]

Location: Vassek System, Vassek 3 Surface- Fortress doors.
Assets: Cheron Light Freighter
Allies: ???
Enemies: ???
Objective: Confirm Status on Beltran Rarr, Survive​

To Valkren's surpsise, a signal was given back in response to his own. Not only that, but it was a signal he was familiar with.

No way.

Either the soldier had found his mark already, or he was walking into a trap. He couldn't care less at this point. It was a friendly face- or figure, and it was the only evidence of any allies in the area at this moment so Valkren would take it.

After giving another 'flip' of the switch on his helmet in order to flash the visor light in the direction again for a response, he'd turn for a moment to look downwards and eventually begin his descent. However, the roaring sound and shockwave of a droid gunship suddenly zipping by appeared from Valk's peripheral- shoving the soldier from his tight grip on the rock formation and sending him effectively plummeting several feet down to his back.

With only an alarmed 'yelp' being released after the initial pass by the gunship- Valkren had already accepted the fact that he was falling and could only brace by this point. With a thud he met the ground, and followed up his sad show with a groan. He'd slowly roll to his side, slamming a fist into the ground and coughing as he fought back for the air that had been stolen from him.

He grimaced, huffing harder before eventually pushing himself to his feet. Another groan escaped his lips as he gripped his carbine and stood. With a flinch and a hunch, he'd side step into cover as the same gunship roared by again- seemingly followed by two other.. fast-movers?? He couldn't tell- But it wasn't the matter, he had to get moving.

Now.

Years away from combat and action almost made him completely forget that to stay alive, he had to keep moving.

Seriously though? Already? Not a full two days out from Midvinter, and he's already seeing glimpses of his war-filled past. It took- mentally, everything he had not to have a mini panic attack due to the sudden arrival of a possible firefight or strafing run. Instead, he maintained his focus on the task at hand.

Tunnel Vision..

Beltran.

He forced his boots into the rocky terrain and began sprinting off, taking any and all short cuts and pathways that veered from his original pathway, costing him more time in the long-game, but he was fine with it. If it meant he survived until he made it to the doors of the fortress, then he'd take it. Minutes of heavy breathing and several more turns among the terrain later, he'd come out into an opening that gave clear view of the fortress doors.

There he stopped, chest heaving under his armor plating and webbing as his eyes darted back and forth amongst the towering bastion from behind his visor- until eventually, his gaze found its way to the bottom and the doors.

"This some kind of nightmare?" Valkren yelled out from across the opening, with the sound of the gunship roaring in the background close by. He took a few steps forward, hands gripping his carbine underneath the half cloak before stopping a few yards before the familiar face.

He'd hope the lack of vocoded voice and the familiar plate coloring would get the message across who exactly he was.

"This isn't real. Is it?" He paused for a moment, craning his neck around to check on the possible hostiles in the air behind them, before eventually looking back to the man. Behind him, it was clear that the others had delt with the gunship at this point- as it plummeted towards the ground in the distance.

"Is it really you, Beltran?"

Beltran Rarr | Jin X | Akemi Io | Alessandra Io | Diocletian Kahmen’’a | Jho'Henig

 

[Jho'Henig]

JHO'HENIG

Location: Vassek system, Vassek 3, standing behind Grievous' Fortress doors

Armed with: Vintage A-212 battle pistol

Goals: Treasure hunting

Allies: ???

Enemies: ???

Tags: Akemi Io / Valkren Calderon / Alessandra Io / Diocletian Kahmen’’a / Jin X / Beltran Rarr

---

Jho'Henig's ship successfully landed to Vassek 3. He loaded his battle pistol. Also he took some some armor with him to be fully prepared for dangers that await him in Grievous' Fortress.

Jho says: "So, here we are, Henig, we are standing behind a goldmine. Let's do it!"