Operation Suzerain | First Order Dominion of Hex M-46

[Tanomas Graf]

​

OPERATION SUZERAIN​

The old man hobbled onto the bridge of the starship, an ornate cane clutched beneath both of his wrinkled hands as he stopped in his tracks to take the view in. A beleaguered ensign followed him in, having acted like the man's attaché for his tour of the vessel. "Sir, I really don't think we should be up here. Construction hasn't even fini-" The young woman started, but quickly ceased when the man shot her a sharp glare.

Indeed the bridge, like other parts of the ship, weren't fully completed; panels were cast aside, wiring exposed, and console areas lay empty. He hadn't seen it in around five or so years, but the layout was exactly like a ship he had previously commanded in the very same navy: A Retribution-class Star Destroyer named Reprisal. A nine-hundred-meter marvel that played a pivotal role in the early expansion of the order, until it had been replaced by the famed Imperial-X, a ship type that he had also commanded before his inevitable defection.

A heavy nostalgia was present on the bridge, his mouth dipping in a slight frown as he remembered his glory days as a captain. He turned to look at the ensign, who was shuffling uncomfortably at the current situation but snapped to attention as soon as she noticed his gaze affixed to her. "What's the name of this ship?" He queried, turning his body and positioning his cane to face the exit. "Raider, sir." She gave, not even needing to check the datapad that was held firmly against her side.

"Not anymore." He grunted, walking past her and off the bridge, much to her confusion.

Tanomas Graf had a ship.

​

[THEME]​

​

A crack sounded as the FIV Reprisal appeared from hyperspace in orbit of Dorvalla, the sleek hull of the three-kilometre-long vessel drifting steadily through the void towards the planet. It was a mining world, of little interest to the government as a whole beyond pure industry, except for one thing they had never counted on: The Omega Protectorate had been stupid enough to put an arsenal on this backwater and had apparently forgotten about it. After the acquisition of both Fondor and Sullust by the First Order, guerillas sponsored by the Alliance-in-Exile found and reactivated it much to the chagrin of the Security Bureau. Now they had an entire island quarantined off with a deflector field, and enough coastal fortifications to make a legion blush.

Graf was never one for ground stratagem, if he could have his way he would've gotten a fleet to glass the place and be done within a galactic day. But apparently the Office of Logistics felt that was a gross misuse of resources, therefore they settled for the next worst thing: amphibious warfare. Despite the fact that there were fortified, and not to mention automated, blasters covering any feasible beachhead, he could tell this would be a good day for a few hundred stormtroopers to die in vain.

But maybe they knew better than him, it's not like he was a former military dictator or anything.

His job would be rather lacklustre; transport a couple thousand stormtroopers and their respective officers, as well as all of their equipment and assault vehicles, and then sit back and catch any unlucky karker that tried to escape. He had other plans, naturally, rather than sit in a comfy chair like the crusty old man he was and listen to his junior officers wait for him to stop breathing so they could take his place.

"Keep us in orbit and fuel up the hangar squadrons; tell whoever's in charge of the ground assault that they may proceed at their discretion." He boomed in a heavily accented voice, receiving a handful of acknowledgements.

It was time to pretend to get to work.

 

[Seto Du Couteau]

Seto Du Couteau, Ren
Equipment: FO-07K Multi-purpose Assault Armor |Two Lightsabers (Emerald and Ruby) | Spot
Location: Trench, Seventy meters from main objective Omega
Objective: Break the Rebel's Defensive Lines, Secure a Beachhead

​

Within the sea of white armor stood the young Ren, his darkened armor quickly distinguished him from the rest of the ground forces and perhaps the moment they opened the hatches and assault the beach the young Ren would attract all the fire. At least that had been the initial attention, and Seto slightly worried himself about the small problem of attracting 'all the attention' from the entrenched enemies. These sort of assaults never really sat well with the young Du Couteau, his mind wondered on other possibilities such as simply starving out the enemies, but time apparently seemed of the essence. And there was no certain way of knowing of when their enemies's provisions would run out, if ever.

This galaxy never changes does it? Seto bemused himself as the waves lurched their transport boat up and back down, but even with the sounds of waves crashing the battle for control of beachhead Alpha could already be faintly heard. Pain surged profoundly through the Force, the first landings already were making their attack and such loss of life formed like a heavy dark cloud within Seto's mind as he tried to keep himself focused. The Task at hand. The Task at hand.

Their transport shifted suddenly and the entire floor shook as it slowed down to a halt, the forward doors opened and the ramps thumped downwards to the ground. The Stormtroopers, true to their name, stormed forward with the zeal and courage trained in them by the First Order, to die in service for their Supreme Leader fueled them to fight at any lengths. Seto mentally saluted those brave souls, tasked with their own duty, now Seto had his duty to fulfill. While no military leader, even with his past roles from within his old Empire, Seto understood this one thing clearly, winning was surviving longer than your enemies.

These terrorists won't outlast me.

Breathe. Seto gritted his teeth as he tried to suck in more air, even as his Force shield projected out from him the area had been difficult to cross. Though cross it they shall, laser turrets and heavier bolts slammed into his shield as Seto provided cover for a squadron of troopers to move from one cover to the next. His foot dug deep into the dirt below him, an inch than another inch deeper into the ground, but Seto only felt his arms waver and his mind fighting the exhaustion.

The last trooper dove for cover and Seto shrunk the Force shield to just himself and leaped ahead towards one of the rock walls that denied the enemy a direct line of sight of the young Ren. Explosions nearby rocked the ground and dirt shot straight up almost nonstop, even their own forces inched forward, the First Order essential were biting granite in their attempts to secure this beachhead. With no quick ways to disable the shield, it denied the access of both air support and heavy artillery fire to blow away the entrenched enemy positions and their defenses.

Even as scores of troopers fell and died, the notion of calling off the attack would not be entertained. Seto only barely understood the concept of not tactically retreating to attempt a different form a different plan of attack. Each step feels like miles. He peered over the edge of his cover and took notice of one of the heavily defended enemy positions. A trench with several heavy weapons and with excellent cross fire to wipe any army that dare advance in their direction.

Unfortunately for them, Seto dared to do such an advance.

Perhaps even more unfortunately was the fact Seto did not enjoy the fact either, but his mind already made and his focus set on getting these troopers in that trench. Seto breathed in deeply, his hands clenched tightly into fists and with a moment of calm he jumped from his cover charged straight for the trench.

Almost instantly the heavy weapons fired on the lone fool that charged ahead by himself, but a Force shield projected outwards from his opened hands blocked the continuous attack. Heavy laser fire slammed and hammered Seto's shield, even as he took a single step forward he already felt his mind wane slightly along with his legs. The automated laser turrets turned their attention to the lone Ren and fired at him, the newly added attacked pressured Seto immensely as he gritted his teeth and seethed with anger as he took yet another step forward and pushed closer to the defensive line.

Five. The thought formed into a plan and Seto slowly gathered more of the Force into an attack as he prepared to unleash his shield and break straight into the trench proper. A second continued and more laser fire slammed into his shield, but suddenly the automated turrets stopped firing and confusion grew all along the line and Seto grinned manically underneath his helmet. With a rush of adrenaline he unleashed his Force attack, sparks of lighting and a deadly Force blaster blew the heavy weapon emplacements and the shocked expressions of the rebel forces lasted for but a moment.

Seto already jumped forward and with both his lightsabers ignited even before the first rebel had the time to raise his weapon to fire in defense. The poor soul probably didn't have time to register his death. Seto launched his attack with swift and deadly strikes, his movements flowed into one another as if he was back home training his body to move with grace with each attack. Just as the rest of the Rebels released their line had been breached by a single Force Order operative, the rest of the First Order troopers advanced quickly and stormed the trench. Quickly the Rebels either fled or died, and Seto took a moment to pause and rest.

"That's a good Spot, you did good." Seto mumbled, his thanks to his Infiltration Droid, as he slumped down. His suit's Biorestorative underlay worked overtime to regain his spent strength, but even as his body recovered his mind felt utterly devastated. His head leaned back against the wall of the trench, Troopers moved along to set up a defensive line to hold back any possible chance of a counter attack as they waited for more reinforcements.

I just need a moment. Seto thought to himself, unaware that he hadn't actually spoken about his status. Last thing he needed was to be reminded there were perhaps another twenty more enemy defenses to break. Each just as or more entrenched than the one he broke through and captured. With heavy breathing, Seto continued his attempts to meditate in his attempts to dull the headache.

 

[Kaiah Nihl]

Equipment: Fire-retardant robes, Crimson Lightsaber.
Location: Hiding Beneath the Waves - Outside Objective Omega.
Objective: Flank the Enemy and Break their Defence.
Nearby: | [member="Seto Du Couteau"] |

​

​

It was almost peaceful under the water. If it weren’t for her connection to the force, she wouldn’t have known that people struggled and died above the waves. A large air bubble was suspended around her head, preventing her from drowning. However, it would only allow several breaths before she had to pull another down from the surface. It was a novel technique to her, and she had inadvertently swallowed some sea water when she started her trek across the sea floor. A large shadow passed over her, but it didn't notice her. Its presence was a indication that she was near her objective, and she began to emerge from the depths of the water.

She crawled out of the surf on all fours, her legs quivering as she readjusted to walking on land. She wringed some of the seawater out of her hair and pulled her lightsaber out from a waterproof pack. She had emerged a little short of were she wanted, but it would do. This area was a small cove that the enemy were using to launch amphibious craft. Capable of quickly mobilizing, the submersibles would travel underwater and emerge undetected near First Order positions, flanking the troops. Fortunately for her, they hadn’t thought on their enemy doing the same.

She heated up the air around her and felt her hair and robes start to dry out. She kept her lightsaber by her side, unignited. It had taken them a while to notice her; most were busy with loading their vehicles. She was a mere ten metres out when a guard spotted her and ordered her to stop. She didn’t, instead igniting her lightsaber to deflect the blaster shot that fired a moment later. She channeled her power, feeling a great heat surge through her limbs. Outwardly, her orange eyes flared brightly and started to glow. Thin wisps of smoke trailed out of her nostrils as she breathed in and out. She whipped her lightsaber around to parry another shot and smiled as she caught fire.

The man’s eyes widened, and he started to back away. The fire sat a few inches off her skin, hot but not burning her flesh. She pulled the flames around her, creating a maelstrom of fire. She poured more and more oxygen into the fiery tornado, enlarging it. When it was large enough, she pushed it away from her and into the camp.

The camp caught fire almost immediately. The soldiers had favoured portable cloth and canvas tents, which the flames greedily licked up. The fire working under it own steam now, Kaiah cut off the flow of her own power. Collapsing to the ground in exhaustion; she looked up, ready to take down any who had fled the flames. But the blast had swallowed them all.

 

[Marriskcal Lati]

Praetorian Initiate
Equipment | Armour, S-42R 'Hush' Sniper Rifles (x5), Lightsaber (blue), Throwing Knives
Location | Beachhead, Dorvalla
Allies | [member="Seto Du Couteau"] (~300 meters away) & [member="Kaiah Nihl"]; First Order
Status | Disable Blaster Turrets

[SIZE=11pt]The battlefield was rife with the ebb of lives, the tiny flames of their presence extinguishing under the rain of laser fire.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Marriskcal stood atop the dull-grey dorsal of an AAL, her gaze unflinching even as bolts of radiant red began to focus its fire towards them. The surface of her helm and armour were tinted in the glow of blue as the shields of the vessel flared to life, dispersing the energy across its surface. Beneath her, the ramp was beginning to lower, revealing the gleam of bone-white armour as more stormtroopers were brought down to die – do not think such thoughts, Marr – join their brethren in the siege.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]It was a conflict unlike any other that the initiate has ever experienced before. It was chaotic. It was ugly. But worst of all, it was…[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]The blonde suppressed the traitorous voice in her mind before she could finish the thought, turning to face the stormtrooper standing behind her. His steady and calm aura served as a constant reminder that despite all her doubts and misgivings, that there were people relying on her.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“So… What’s your verdict, Agent[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]? Think we’re just going in to bash and break our skulls on those fortifications, or do we actually have a fighting chance?” his sarcastic drawl streaming clearly through their comms.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Marriskcal rolled her eyes at the nihilistic words of her Sergeant. “It’ll be easier if I had my Silencer,” she admitted. “But we’ll just have to work with what we have. I’ll do my best to take down as many of those blaster turrets[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] as I can before we go in.” The blonde looked down at the five sniper rifles arrayed on the hull, all of its systems configured to both hers and the older male’s heads-up display. “How much time do we have before the primary deflector shield completely degrades[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]?”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“If those karks continue being this enthusiastic, maybe another ten to twelve minutes.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“I suppose it’s best we both get to work then,” the blonde muttered to herself, her body folding into a crouch. She took the first Hush that the stormtrooper passed to her, the magnets of her boots activating to lock her into position and provide additional stability.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Breathe in. Hold. Breath out.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Focus.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Breathe in. Hold. Breath out.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Now.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Guided by both the targeting system and the Force, Marriskcal fired the first of the enhanced ferric tungsten rounds.[/SIZE]

 

[Konstantin Makarev]

"ETA of four minutes sir." Lieutenant Cooke barked, his voice resonating through the cold of the sealed AT-M6 cockpit. Makarev, as a response slid back into his leather chair, and clung to the seats. His jaw clenched. Despite the years of sitting in a cockpit, and working on over a dozen operations, the insertion from orbit never got any easier. "T-Minus ten sir." Ten seconds. Makarev's mind rolled into a blank state. Shutting off all stimuli. His eyes closed, and he tightened the chin strap of his helm. His body tensed, and then he heard it. The blood curdling clunk of magnetic straps being unlocked, and unsealed, as the cargo transport now hurtled toward the planet below.

Makarev's mind turned to resent events, as he waited for the inevitable hurtling to the small mining system. The action at the First Order embassy, amongst other events played in his mind. Hopefully, this would be a more conventional, and by the book mission. So, now strapped in, he tried to block out the monotonous hum of the shuttles engines, or the clattering of metal plates. He could feel his heart pounding. His mind numbing, as they went over and over. Further and further, through and now into the maelstrom. What broke Makarev's meditative state was the familiar and ever dreaded buzz. He knew what happened next. Stomach turning upside down, Makarev and co were dropped from the cavernous deployment transport, down to the planet at a height of two kilometers.

The drop, took just under ten seconds, but felt like an eternity. The thump once the AT-M6 hit the ground? Near deafening. A brief moment was allowed before the continuation of the operation, at which point Konstantin plugged in his mic. "This is Makarev. We have deployed element one. Moving to coordinate, over."

[member="Seto Du Couteau"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Kaiah Nihl"]

 

[Bai Long]

Dracrowar stepped out of the vehicle and on to the edge of the ramp, his eyes following the disappearing backs of the two squad of stormtroopers that were rushing up the beach. With how the hail of lasers were still wailing down on the front, he doubted that most of them would return from the battlefield today. Usually, he would have been right behind them, if not for the fact that he could feel the distinct signatures of potent Force signatures scattered around. The Ren, he thought, blinking in surprise.

May as well drop by and say hello.

With a wide grin, the Ren began to advance, his long-legged lope and timely darts allowing him to avoid the enemies’ laser fire as he moved from vehicle shield to vehicle shield as he made for the Ren situated closest to him.

Pushing off the ground with a burst of the Force, Dracrowar landed on the vehicle Marriskcal and her sergeant was on, giving the both of them a carefree two-fingered salute. “Never thought to see another fellow Ren so soon.” And he was just thinking he would return to the headquarters soon. He’s been away for so long as he has lost touch with just about everyone. “My name’s Stephen Dracrowar. What’s yours?”

[member="Tanomas Graf"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Kaiah Nihl"], [member="Marriskcal Lati"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"]

 

[Marriskcal Lati]

Praetorian Initiate
Equipment | Armour, S-42R 'Hush' Sniper Rifles (x4), Lightsaber (blue), Throwing Knives
Location | Beachhead, Dorvalla
Allies | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"] (interacting), [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Kaiah Nihl"] (nearby); First Order
Status | Disable Blaster Turrets

[SIZE=11pt]The long and low whistle of her Sergeant pierced through the ambient noise of the battlefield as her shot hit true.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Both praetorian and stormtrooper had their gaze focused on the weapon emplacement as the durasteel chassis began to burn cherry red before the entire system went offline, its laser battery dipping downwards as inbuilt safety measures were engaged and it shut down. Despite her initial doubts, it seemed that the panels protecting the blaster turrets were thin enough that rail cannon were able to penetrate its casing.

Her eyes narrowed in silent contemplation.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Then again, considering they were using inferior gas to power their blaster turrets, it was likely that the insurgents has opted for quantity over quality. It was a viable tactic, for with enough numbers on their side of the conflict, they could even fell the most tenacious of invading forces. Even with her 20 rounds, it was not nearly enough for her to disable even 10% of the weapon emplacements that covered this span of the beach.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Hush-1’s viability is at 85%. I’ve got to say that it’s pretty impressive. Was that the result of training, or your Force magic?[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Marriskcal stole a glance at the corner of her HUD to confirm the words of her Sergeant. Three more rounds to go for Hush-1. Hopefully, the rifle will be able to withstand the heat generated until she went through all the rounds. After all, her mission priority was to take enough as many of the blaster turrets as she could to aid their forces in gaining ground and making their advance to the trenches slightly less impossible.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Immersed in the flowing stream of the Force, the young woman disregarded the easy banter of Sergeant Hayes for the moment, once again aiming the end of her miniature rail cannon at the next turret, ten degrees to the right of the first and fired, the older male keeping verbal count for the both of them.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“2nd round. Viability, 65%.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“3rd round. Viability, 35%.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Hush-1 began to emit a whine as its barrel turned hot from the successive shots she took, unable to expel the heat swiftly enough.

“Last round.” [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]With the final shot, the indicator within her HUD vanished and the lights on her sniper rifle turned dim. Knowing that the other would anticipate her wishes, Marriskcal raised the now useless firearm for him to take and replaced it with a fresh one that was extended to her. “It’s… a combination of both. I’m not familiar with the internal workings of those blaster turrets, so I allowed the Force to aim me to its weak points,” she finally said, after giving the matter some thought. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“Sounds use–[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]” Sergeant Lannik Hayes cut off his words, swivelling on his heels to face the unknown individual. The stormtrooper would have lifted and aimed his blaster at the white-haired male if not for the sharp gesture that the agent made.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Marriskcal held her breath even as she remained in her crouch, hoping that the situation did not escalate. As they were in the middle of a conflict, everyone was on the edge, so the blonde did not fault her Sergeant for his reaction as he was merely guarding her back. While she would usually felt the presence of another being, with the entirety of her concentration focused on her targets, the praetorian did not even notice the other male until he appeared at the periphery of her vision.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]With her heart racing and body trembling at the sudden rush of adrenaline, Marriskcal gave the other male an unsteady nod in greeting. They were fortunate that this Stephen Dracrowar happened to be a brother, as opposed to being a hostile. “Um, I'm pleased to make your acquaintance?” she started, feeling slightly awkward and out of her depth at his seemingly blasé manner. Especially when the shield of the AAL the three of them were settling on was still taking heavy laser fire. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Her eyes flickered towards the white armour of her Sergeant for a moment before she decided that it was safe to trust the other with her name. “I’m Marriskcal Lati, but you can call me Marr,” she paused for a moment, taking in his imposing form and the silver sword he carried on his back, wondering if the other Ren was here to aid them. Her presence, which were wavering with wariness and uncertainty when her unfamiliar brother has appeared before them, once again started to swirl around her resolutely as the blonde regained her equilibrium in her confidence that the other was a friendly.

“We can talk more later, brother. I’m working with a narrow timeframe.” The praetorian patted the sniper rifle which was resting on her shoulder. “My current objective is to clear as many blaster turrets as I can, then we will sweep in and aid the stormtroopers in their attempts to gain ground and seize the trenches... We would definitely appreciate any help you could provide us.”[/SIZE]

 

[Luther Lewis]

Equipment: Enviro-suit, G-11F Blaster Rifle.
Location: Former Rebel Dock.
Objective: Use Enemy Submersible to Breach Defences.
Nearby: [member="Seto Du Couteau"] | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"] |

Luther paced along the beach, the coarse sand grinding beneath his boots. Around him paced his team, hand-picked for this operation. More still gathered behind and in front of his squad, other teams with other objectives. As the approached the camp they split up, each staff officer left with their own squad to secure a submarine.

Luther swallowed as he walked through what remained of the camp. The Ren’s blast of fire had consumed everything, from tents to metal structures. No sound was made, beside sifting of ash. No cries rang through the air, there was no wounded to contend with. The Ren in question was sitting cross-legged in the ash of what must have been the command post. His men hanged back while Luther approached hesitantly. “My Lady?” he said. Kaiah opened her eyes, which shone bright orange. Luther could swear he saw a twisting flame reflected in the orbs. He blinked, and the vision was gone, instead all he saw was a tired grey-skinned woman.

“We’ll take it from here” Luther said. The woman nodded and arose unsteadily, making her way back down the beach. Luther heard mutters of words like ‘witch’ and ‘demon’ from the men. He let it pass, feeling as perturbed as they were. He got his men moving towards the dock.

- - - - -​

They had breached one of the submersibles but found no one inside. Those that had been piloted, at the time, no doubt fled from the flames. The others on shore didn’t have a chance to board them. Taking his place at the helm, he guided the craft out of the cove and sunk it beneath beneath the waves. Their mission was to infiltrate the enemy defences and shut down the shield generator. Aboard was a squad of stormtroopers and a few Bureau cryptologists, who were to monitor enemy comms. “Here goes nothing” Luther muttered.

 

[Bai Long]

Dracrowar merely grinned down at the other Ren, amused at both her and her sergeant’s reaction at his appearance. It was clear to anyone with eyes that he was not at all repentant for startling the both of them.

“Pleased to meet’cha, Marr,” he said, deciding not to mention how he could feel her suspicion and hear the slight stutter at the start of her reply. But once they were in the clear however, he has no intentions of letting this go without some light-hearted teasing.

The third time the young woman spoke to him, her voice sounded steadier as she regained her sense of purpose. Though they were both Ren, neither of them were familiar with one another, so Dracrowar resisted the temptation to further ruffle her feathers. There will be time enough after they conquer this planet. “I’ll definitely hold you to that,” he said with a firm nod. “And it will be my pleasure to forge us a path ahead.”

Stepping forward, til the tips of hit boots were lining the edge of the vehicle, the knight unsheathed his claymore, hefting the flat of the blade over his shoulders. Using his free hand as a visor to shade his eyes, Dracrowar decided on a target. Using the Force to strengthen his limbs and a mighty sweep of his arm, the male aimed his massive sword at one of the blaster turrets, using it like a javelin.

“See you in a bit, Marr. I look forward to dancing with you on the battlefield.”

With those words said, Dracrowar leapt off the AAL and on to the sand, twin blasters in each hand as he began to advance.


[member="Tanomas Graf"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Kaiah Nihl"], [member="Marriskcal Lati"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"], [member="Luther Ando"]

 

[Sor-Jan Xantha]

Location: Star Destroyer Dragon's Fang, orbit of Dorvalla
Wearing: Nan Quan | Cape | Lightsaber | Hololink

[ theme:venom ]​

​

The young Atrisian noble was disinterested in the situation unfolding on the planet below.

There was a bigger picture. The inclusion of Dorvalla into the First Order would put the Imperial footprint in the Videnda Sector. They would need to sort out identifying an appropriate governor for Dorvalla, as well as identify whether the planet would be represented by one of the neighboring prefects or if the current political lines would need to be re-drawn in order to adequately provide for representation of Dorvalla at the Moff Council.

The administration of a galactic superpower did not just spontaneously materialize into being. These things took planning. Months of planning, generally. In bureaucratic meetings of little productivity, outside of scheduling another meeting to discuss what they might discuss at the meeting where they would ostensibly decide some things.

So where did that leave them?

At the moment, it was with the notion that a military governor would control Dorvalla until a qualified civilian candidate could be identified and placed into the governorship. [member="Konstantin Makarev"] had Shoma's vote for that job. The Atrisian had reviewed the reports from Commenor and he had to admit, he was most impressed with General Makarev's handling of the situation at the embassy.

Shoma had traveled down from the Core at the behest of the Moff Council. They wanted someone on the ground who could prepare a more informed recommendation about how the political lines should be drawn to reflect Dorvalla's incorporation into the First Order. An expanded territory for the Sesweena prefect, based out of Eriadu? Or include it as part of the Hadar region, adding it to the list of planets overseen by the prefect based out of Tibrin? Or create a new regional governor?

He supposed he ought to be flattered that the Moff Council had seen fit to ask him to travel to Dorvalla and prepare a recommendation for their review. But, more likely, the moffs simply couldn't be arsed to do this themselves.

 

[Marriskcal Lati]

Praetorian Initiate
Equipment | Armour, S-42R 'Hush' Sniper Rifles (x4), Lightsaber (blue), Throwing Knives
Location | Beachhead, Dorvalla
Allies | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"] (interacting), [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Kaiah Nihl"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"] (nearby); First Order
Status | Disable Blaster Turrets

[SIZE=11pt]The praetorian felt the swell in the Force. Just as she thought that the other would launch himself over the side of the vessel and lunge into the fray, the claymore he carried was thrown across the battlefield, its massive blade embedding itself deep into the chassis of a blaster turret.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Well[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]… as unorthodox as the method may seem, Marriskcal supposed that it was effective enough.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]And considering that the insurgents has set up a lot of obstacles along the stretch of the beach as a warm welcome for the First Order, it would be a pity if she did not follow in the footsteps of her brother and make use of them.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“I look forward to dancing with you on the battlefield.”[/SIZE]​

[SIZE=11pt]A surprised, but pleased peal of laughter escaped her at the words her brother uttered, as it reminded the blonde of an old conversation she had with her other brother. While she could not remember clearly what it was that Seto had imparted to her back then, Marriskcal knew it had to do with music and dance and how it was similar to was to the flow of battle. The heavy air that has been haunting her steps since she has set foot on Dorvalla dissipated, affected by Stephen’s own blithe stance.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“So. Now that I know your name, do I get that song and dance where you threaten to kill me[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]?” her Sergeant quipped in an irreverent tone.

If her features were not concealed under the anonymity of a helmet, Marriskcal would have graced the older male with a venomous glare. Instead, she flicked a dismissive wave in his direction. “With your terrible attempt at a pun, I’m almost tempted to. How do you feel about being a projectile?”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“At least I don’t have to run through the obstacle course of doom.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Mumbling softly under her breath about insufferable beings who just had to have the last word in a conversation, the praetorian shifted Hush-2 into position, once again bracing the end of the miniature rail cannon against her shoulder, knowing that the stormtrooper would move to support her.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Over the next several minutes, the two worked together in silence, with Marriskcal taking out weapon emplacement after weapon emplacement with the unerring accuracy that came from both technological advancement and the invisible guidance of the Force.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“Primary deflector shield is almost completely degraded. We should move out soon, if we want the AAL to be able to retreat safely.”[/SIZE]

 

[Seto Du Couteau]

Seto Du Couteau, Ren
Equipment: FO-07K Multi-purpose Assault Armor |Two Lightsabers (Emerald and Ruby) | Spot
Location: Trench
Objective: Advance Forward and begin assault of the Main Defensive Positions

Rain continued to fall, the droplets trickled downwards over his helmet before it too fell down to the muddy ground. Slow and meaningful breathes, Seto continued on his moment of rest as the rain fell and sounds of battle climaxed all around him. Shouts, screams and explosions only amplified by the emotions that rippled across the Force, never ceasing and never allowing Seto's mind a true moment of rest. A tired smile pulled across his lips and his teeth gritted against one another as his legs pressed downwards and his arms pulled his body up.

What a terrible day. His musings only ended as a nearby explosion blew apart an advancing squad of Stormtroopers, their attempts to breach deeper into the defensive lines failed. But- Seto focused his attention of another squad that moved forward without hesitation and without distraction, their goal straight ahead. The focus cut through and their emotions cut through all the pain and agony that Seto had attempted to dampened with his own efforts.

And now- Hesitation, accompanied with some anxiety, something not entirely of fear. Seto turned his attention to a nearby Trooper that had stood at attention, seemingly unsure of how to address him. Seto offered a nod, and gestured for the Trooper to step forward, "The push on our flank had stalled, Communications suggest our Heavy Vehicles will begin their advancement." The Trooper quickly reported, and with a quick salute the Trooper stepped back.

Seto raised an eyebrow, hidden behind his helmet it was a pointless facial expression, regardless the young Du Couteau heir nodded. "Same tactics as before, wait for their fire to draw away and advance forward to take out the larger weapons from destroying our Armor elements in the battle." Seto explained, a bit pointedly, as he was sure this Trooper has an officer amidst their ranks. Seto straightened himself and moved forward, his eyes scanned the area up ahead and took note of many heavy weapons teams were laying suppressing fire.

"Sir?" The Trooper asked, Seto turned and looked around, his eyes fell on a singular body that laid on the ground. Some medical attention had been given but obvious too little too late, Oh- Had an Officer. Seto nodded once again and turned his attention back out across the battlefield.

"On my mark."


Ground Allies:

[member="Stephen Dracrowar"] | [member="Kaiah Nihl"] | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Luther Ando"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"]

 

[Luther Lewis]

Equipment: G-11F Blaster Rifle, FO-02 Armour.
Location: Stolen Rebel Submarine - Enroute to Rebel Weak Point.
Objective: Surprise and Flank the Enemy.
Nearby: [member="Seto Du Couteau"] | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"] |

​

The submersible was uncomfortably tight, especially as they had crammed more bodies in than the capacity called for. He at least had some room at the helm but, behind him, the cryptologists were wedged between the press of bodies and their own equipment. The mood in the vessel was somber, and the temperature was hot.

Two of the cryptologists were monitoring enemy communications, trying to find the least defending spot to land the vessel. The final member was communicating with the other stolen subs, 5 in total. Together, they were creeping along the sea floor towards the enemy fortifications.

“Destination is confirmed, Ando” one of the agents said behind him. Luther takes his eyes away briefly from the front window, look at their new route. “This isn’t nearly far enough” Luther replied, with a frown on his face. “We’ll have to make most of our journey on foot with this route”. The agent behind him let out an exasperated sigh. “They’ve mined the stretch of water in the dock, we’ll never make it through in one piece. The Station Chief has rerouted us around the side of the island, to a beach where the defences are thin”. Luther brought up some satellite images of the area and swore. “Thin, my ass. That’s a suicide run” the cryptologist made no reply and mood of the vessel darkened.

They were nearing their destination and they began the difficult process of preparing in the small confines of the vessel. “Ready up!” Luther shouted. “I want E-Webs topside, ready to fire shortly after we surface!” He donned his armour with the rest of the men and prayed that hell wasn’t waiting for them above the water’s surface.

 

[Marriskcal Lati]

Praetorian Initiate
Equipment | Armour, DE-39 Maser Rifle, Lightsaber (blue), Throwing Knives
Location | Beach, Dorvalla
Allies | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"], [member="Luther Ando"] (nearby); First Order
Status | Advancing

[SIZE=11pt]At the reminder from Sergeant Hayes, her eyes flickered to the corner of her HUD once again. There were still two more rounds remaining in Hush-5, and though Marriskcal could persist and fire the two remaining shots with care and precision, it may mean that the Assault Lander she was perched on may not be able to make it out of the range of the blaster turret’s range before its secondary shields were drained.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“Send word below and let them know they will be moving out within the minute.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]With the knowledge that the stormtrooper will convey the message and take care of the details on her behalf, the praetorian followed in the echoes of her brother’s footsteps. She leapt off the side of the vessel, influencing the flow of the Force to soften her landing on the sand.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]While Marriskcal could carry the sniper rifle as she advanced, it was a somewhat heavy firearm and she would be better off without it impeding her. The blonde raised Hush-5 for the final time this battle, firing the the second last of the ferric tungsten rounds, an annoyed hiss escaping her as it embedded itself above her intended target. In her haste, she has missed the generator. She took in a deep breath and allowed the ever-present stream of the Force to permeate through her body. With her senses sharpened, the young woman fired the final shot, a grim smile gracing her lips as her aim landed true.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]The blonde passed the overheated weapon to the waiting Corporal, exchanging it for her customary maser rifle. “If Sergeant Hayes reprimands you for letting me out of your sight, let him know that I didn’t give you any choice.” Though she would prefer to stay by her unit’s side, Marriskcal knew well enough that her skills would be most effective if she moved through the chaos of the battlefield on her own. With the torrents of laser fire and the densely packed conflicts that were breaking out all over the beach, it would further aid her in staying invisible.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]She began to draw and shape the Force, enveloping it around her form as though it was a cloak. With her lightsaber in hand and a throwing knife in the other, Marriskcal began her own advance.[/SIZE]

 

[Eisenweber]

Lieutenant Colonel Daan DT-130
Dorvalla Surface, Colonel Konstantin Makarev's AT-M6
Allies: [member="Marriskcal Lati"], [member="Stephen Dracrowar"], [member="Luther Ando"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"]
Nearby: [member="Konstantin Makarev"]

​

Gloved hands are wrapped around the Titanium frame of a small holopad shining a video recording sent from some distant Colony to Colonel Daan, the bearded face of the portly man whose visage appeared near obnoxiously close to the frame belonged to one of Daan's Kin. Sadly the Death Trooper's green eyes looked upon the sun-kissed visage of that middle-aged man, although concealed beneath the Quadanium steel helmet also was a small smile the sounds of juveniles laughing echoed through the room beneath the deafening sound of Walker's descent although Daan's ears could perceive that warm bellowing laughter.

"Ello' Dee! Just wanted to check-in and make sure everything is right, yeah? Will you be back home for life day by any chance? The kids really miss ya." One of the lonely Death Trooper's hands rises back from the frame and instinctively wipes their visor sharply with a thumb.

The rose coloured cheeks of young children with gap-teethed smiles push their way into the frame. "When are you coming home, Aunty Daan?"

"Papa! who is that? Can I see too?!" The gargantuan walker's weight heaved down into the Earth shifting Colonel Daan back in her seat with harness pinning hips against the hull wall behind shoulders, she took a sharp gasp the crash on Dorvalla's surface coming as a surprise. The rattling within the armour subsided bringing a quiet silence across the passenger compartment filled with Storm Commandos who were prepared to accompany the Death Trooper as support. Daan purges the datapad of its' stored video and throws it beneath her seat.

With a short walk, the nigh seven feet tall warrior clad in azure-coloured powered assault armour opens the door leading into the Mammoth Walker's 'head' revealing two pilots sat adjacent and over-lookinganarrowtransparisteel visor revealing an ocean between them and their destination. By all accounts, this 'ocean' was in truth quite shallow. "Colonel Makarev, I think it best that I dismount once we get up our beach sector." explaining with firm assertiveness the gold visor of Colonel Daan's helmet faced Makarev and the annunciator continued to produce speech from the Death Trooper. "I can sprint straight past the fortification wall to the artillery and anti-tank guns and take them offline before the Infantry moves through the breach you create. This way we can prevent unnecessary casualties." The inflexion in Daan's tone proudly displayed an overt emphasis on 'unnecessary casualties' which obviously showcased a concern for the wellbeing of Makarev's Soldiers which she hoped wordlessly would be well-received.

 

[Bai Long]

As he moved forward, his speed began to pick up and before long Dracrowar was running at full tilt, kicking up sand as he dodged and evaded the laser fire from the enemies’ turrets. Those that he could not manage to avoid, he parried them with his customized guns or projected a focused Force Shield.

He slipped through the initial barricades placed at the edges of the beach, slowing down as he progressed, firing at any stray insurgents that has wandered out of the safety of their trenches to engage in direct combat with the First Order stormtroopers. Once he got past the steel stockades, he speeded up again, his feet carrying him towards the dead turret where his sword was embedded in.

Tucking Ebony back into his holster, Dracrowar took a running leap, using the base of the steel foundation as a foothold. With a sharp tug, Rebellion was back in his hand.

[member="Tanomas Graf"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Kaiah Nihl"], [member="Marriskcal Lati"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"], [member="Luther Ando"], [member="Shoma Ike"], [member="Daan DT-130"]

 

[Luther Lewis]

Equipment: G-11F Blaster Rifle, FO-02 Armour.
Location: Small Enemy Beachhead.
Objective: Surprise and Flank the Enemy.
Nearby: [member="Seto Du Couteau"] | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Stephen Dracrowar"] | [member="Daan DT-130"]

​

He hated pushes like these. As a part of the Bureau, he wasn’t even supposed to be on the battlefield. Not like this. When he returned, he better be getting bigger office. If he returned…

The noise of the E-webs firing above him drowned out any other sound. They had been pressed down into the submersible for too long, waiting for the turrets to clear a spot to land on the beach. Luther looked up and down the craft, nerves starting to stir in the pit of his stomach. If the other soldiers in the vessel were nervous, they didn’t show it. They were well trained, and it eased Luther’s fears that he’d have a disciplined group by his side.

The Sergeant above shouted down to Luther, with an affirmation that the landing zone was clear. Luther snapped up, the long-forgotten commander within him taking over. He told the men to get into position, moving towards the rear door. When they were all in their places, guns pointed towards the exit, Luther slammed the button.

A large section of the submersible detached; a huge door thundering down into the surf. The stormtroopers exited the craft, dropping into the knee-high water. The sand sucked at Luther’s armoured boots, threatening to bring him under. He pushed through, moving with the others towards the dry sand.

He had just touched down on land when the defenders returned fire. A missile flew overhead, exploding into the top of the sub. Luther watched as the explosive destroyed the turrets and their operators, the dead bodies falling into the surf. He turned back to find the defenders emerging from nearby tunnels.

Luther swore, hunkering down behind a nearby sand dune. The enemy had regained their position and now his team was pinned down, with a large empty space between him and the enemy bunker. Blaster bolts flew over head and Luther racked his brain to find a solution.

 

[Seto Du Couteau]

Seto Du Couteau, Ren
Equipment: FO-07K Multi-purpose Assault Armor(Partly Ruined) |Two Lightsabers (Emerald and Ruby) | Spot
Location: Trench, on the ground
Objective: Advance Forward and begin assault of the Main Defensive Positions

Time felt slow when Seto leaped out of the trench and out into the battlefield, his focus on the next defensive line. His left hand outstretched, called upon the Force to generate a small Force shield to shield just enough of his body. As his right hand wielded his ruby lightsaber, already it deflected a few blaster bolts that had weaved around his Force shield. The young Du Couteau heir maintained a grim determination on his face, legs pushed him forward and closer to the enemy ahead.

Steady stream of blaster fire soon turned heavier and Seto learned the limits of his talents with a blade and his armor began to be tested. Missed deflection after missed deflection, his armor now looked well tagged with blaster fire and markings of bolts. Perhaps fortunately the dark color tone of the armor disguised much of the damage, but his HUD offered no sugar coated lies of his armor's integrity. Seto's lips twitched into slight grimace as he swiftly ducked bellow a small dune and allowed his mind and stamina to regain some as he watched even more blaster fire aimed at his general direction.

Seto thanked whatever craziness in the galaxy that most of the larger weapon emplacements were focused on the newly arrived armor, but even so the infantry needed to do its job and reinforce the battle and break through the lines. Moments passed and Seto breathed in deep and jumped forward, both lightsabers flared to life and Seto charged straight ahead, no longer interested in providing a distraction for the rest of the troopers. I'm taking this trench now.

His armor was designed for blaster and energy weapons, all of which thudded against it and Seto never paused his charge. Only slightly slowed as he deflected several well placed shots that would have hit his head, Seto attacked the trench viciously. The rebels closet to him quickly aimed their weapons but his emerald blade slashed upwards and quickly cut off the arms of his first victim as his ruby saber stabbed forward and quickly ended the life of the next rebel.

Quickly he pushed the limped bodies away and attacked the next in line, perhaps either out of ammunition or brave enough this next rebel raised their own vibroblade and stopped his ruby lightsaber. There was nothing to stop his other saber and another slumped body laid at Seto's feet, shouts and orders were screamed everywhere and Seto noticed the white armor of Stromtroopers that leaped down into the trenches. Two Rebels emerged from either side of Seto and charged straight at him with anger and fury.

Neither earned the satisfaction of catching the Ren off-guard, as one to his left felt the heat of a lightsaber in their chest, Seto grasped the other with the Force and choked the rebel. As the one to his left slumped back down, Seto impaled the other with his lightsaber and turned to face the sound of a gurgled laughter. The young Du Couteau heir peered at the dying man at his feet and Seto barely had time to brace his arms in front of him.

Time slowed once again and the Force swelled around Seto as he attempted to shield himself from the blaster of a grenade explosion. There was no time and the force of the explosion ripped apart his feeble attempt to shield himself and sent him flying across the trench. Pain registered but only for a moment before darkness clawed around the edges of his vision. His armor built well for blaster and saber combat, explosions not so much and Seto laid in a ruin mess up against the wall of the trench. His arm ripped of all its armor, and bits of his chest plate torn off as well, even as his armor's Biorestorative Underlay struggled to fix what it could, with how badly damaged the armor had become.

"Defensive line Echo breached and taken." Seto reported, his breath strained through the pain and with perhaps will power alone he propped himself up to sit on the ground in a more comfortable position. I should really put in my request for a vacation after today.


Ground Allies:

[member="Stephen Dracrowar"] | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Luther Ando"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"]

 

[Kou'ha Escala]

Captain
Equipment | Uniform & Code Cylinder
Location | Command Deck, FIV Endeavour, Dorvalla Space
Allies | First Order; [member="Shoma Ike"] (space neighbours!); [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Luther Ando"], [member="Konstantin Makarev"], [member="Daan DT-130"] (ground forces)
Status | Commencing with Phase II

[SIZE=11pt]Standing above the crew pit of the Resurgent III-class star destroyer that he was assigned to, Captain Kou’ha Escala stayed silent as his officers continued to relay the current proceedings of the ground offensive throughout the command deck.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Despite the heavy casualties their forces were taking on the surface itself, it was quiet in space. As per the intelligence received, most of his fleet’s composition consisted of vessels that were designed to support the ongoing assault down below. It was time to commence with the second phase. “Lieutenant Cerise, please convey to our starfighter squadrons that they have permission to launch.” With the reduced numbers of blaster turrets, it would make providing air coverage more feasible.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“Also, please verify if the reports are right. If the ground forces has managed to secure the beachhead near the main objective, send in the assault vehicles and reinforcements.” While he may not be familiar with how a ground battle would unfold, the young Captain was quite certain that they would appreciate the support of several units of AT-SGs and AT-SIWs.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]“What about the Dragon’s Fang[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]? Should we hail them and probe them about their intentions?”

“No, His Highness Shoma Ike is here on the behest of the Moff Council. So long as Dragon’s Fang does not intervene with our operation, we shall let them be.”[/SIZE]

 

[Venthis Zambrano]

Equipment: FO-07K Multi-purpose Armour(Covered with a black cloak), T-8b Precision Carbine
Location: The Trenches
Allies: Ground Forces | @Stephen Dracrowar | [member="Konstantin Makarev"] | [member="Luther Ando"] | [member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Seto Du Couteau"]

This was his first assignment within the Ren. He had little but the basics of the Force down, so he relied mostly on his trusty blaster for the most part. Popping up from the trench to release a few bolts out of his semi-automatic carbine. Ducking back down as enemy fire began to concentrate on himself. Glancing down the line of the trench, he saw hundreds of stormtroopers doing their duty, though a crimson blade poked through as it climbed up the trench and began to force himself across the battlefield, no doubt a Ren.

Poking up to provide assistance in his efforts, Tyrus would aim his precision rifle and fire at as many rebels he could locate, each one attempting to take down this madman crossing the field. Though he looked invincible, no one was.

"Let's push!" Tyrus screamed at the top of his lungs, as the man had finally made it across. Up they all got, and darted across the battlefield in a similar fashion to the man before, though many of the white-clad soldiers would infact meet their fate and hit the dirt as their life was robbed from each and everyone of them. They all returned fire, almost like a sea of blaster bolts. Tyrus luckily made it across, seemingly much faster than the rest of the soldiers as he had just began to get to grips with augmentating his speed.

Sliding for the final push into the next trench, he land and immediately point his rifle down the line, firing at three rebels who clearly saw Tyrus make it across. Each shot, was perfect. Their heads imploded. Several other First Order stormtroopers would make it across shortly after, along with the rest. "Good-" Catching his breath, "Good work, lads." He said, wiping the dirt from the visor of his helmet. "Onto the next."