Chapter 5 Warriors alike
Hey all. Everything you need to hear will be at the end of the chapter. All I can say up here is finals + writers block + long wait = poor chapter and possibly angry readers. Either way enjoy guys Disclaimer: This story is a FanFiction using information, characters and ect. From Star Wars and halo. I in no way claim ownership of these franchises. All credit of ownership goes to their respective owners. I only own the plot and original characters and information. Enjoy.
Vhonte Tervo stared out the viewport in the bridge as her and the rest of the mandalorians stared in awe at the structures before them. Large ships floated by gracefully as the Naboo planet stood unfazed its beauty unmatched as the waters of the planet and the greenery of it could be seen from orbit. It reminded her of what mandalore could have looked like if war was not a common thing in their culture. Focusing back on the large spire she huffed as many ships floated to and fro from it like a hive of some sorts. It intrigued her that the space around the planet was so occupied yet it's natural beauty was untouched. She was very eager to meet whoever created these structures. Disrupting her from her thoughts, the door slid open to reveal the leader of this expedition Kalila Ordo leader of the Ordo clan.
"What's it looking like out there Vod?"
Vhonte turned to her a quizzical look on her face as she continued to stare out into the space around the planet.
"Well besides the endless amounts of ships and and structures so far it's looking pretty tame. Rex didn't give me details on the situation but that he had met with the species that made these things."
Kalia stood in thought as everyone on the bridge worked to get the systems online. They had made a so called 'calculated jump' but even then they ended up on someone else's doorstep and stranded at that. On top of that this so called empire is beginning a tyrannical regime and who knows what will happen to mand'alor. Fenn' Shysa made a appearance saying there was some type of agreement between the two involving Beskar iron that obviously didn't sit well with the mandalorian people. But what was she to do if she denied the now emperor What he wanted. He would bring the full might of the empire down on mandalore and even if all the clans United it wouldn't make a difference.
The mandalorian people have always been a proud and strong race. They even set out to prove it in the bloody war that was named after them. So many worlds burn and so many lives taken all too get what the mandalorian people believed they rightly deserved. So the Galaxy clipped their wings. Stripped them of what they once were and left them shells of their former selves. Any mandalorian can represent as much as he or she can but they will always be looked down upon because of our past actions. Our vod would do anything remove those dark ages from our history books.
Kalia leaned on a railing gripping it tightly as she mused on her thoughts. Taking her mind off things, when a member of clan Ordo approached Kalia.
"Sister, just got word in from this coalition that their planet defense leader is meeting with us soon. You hear from our clone vod?"
Kalia sighed as she was asked the question on everyone's mind. She had once again heard from Rex saying that they were en route and that it was best if she did not make the mandalorians out to be a bad people here as well.
"Yes I heard from them. They're supposedly en route and have 'instructed' us too use caution when speaking with this leader. And as much as I want to make the mandalorians look like the proud people we once were I'm worried it'll only hurt us more in the long run."
The mandalorian soldier tilted his head as he crossed his arms his face ever hidden by his helmet.
"Well al'verde Rex and his vod made contact with this species it's only right we let him run things for now. Besides think about it. A completely new species in a completely new galaxy unaware of the atrocities we committed in our past? Do you know what that means for us as a people. A cin vhetin for us and all our vod back home. If we can get back to them that is. But believe me this is a dinui we cannot look down upon."
Kalia was about to reply but was cut short as Vhonte rushed passed her leaving out the bridge as quick as possible not saying a word.
"Where's she off to in a such a hurry?"
Turning back to the crew members around her they all stood awe struck as they stared out the view ports. Opening up over the planet where what could only be described as black holes as they appeared all around the planet. They stayed open momentarily before to the shock of everyone ships emerged from them as if nothing was odd. Some descended to the planet while others linked up with what could be assumed to be space stations until one more massive portal appeared. Kalia sucked in what little breath she had left as a enormous sleek carrier emerged followed by only more battleships coming through its portal as well. The ship hovered pass the minuscule mandalorian ship as the sun of the planet shined on its silver exterior. Writings in basic and a foreign language glistened as they tried to make them out. Kalia was shocked for the first time in a long time as she watched the ship pass.
"I.S.A? Why do I have a bad feeling in my gut about this?"
Kalia was interrupted as the bridge door slid open to reveal 2 more mandalorians whose armor bore slight battle scarring and bore the emblem of clan skirata. Their helmets were held at their sides as they saluted Kalia.
"Jaing, Mereel. What can I do for you?"
Jaing skirataand Mereel skirata were former clones of the grand army. They both had served as null-class advanced recon commando's during the Great War before the 2 and the other 4 of their brothers deserted the republic for a free life. These troopers were tasked with missions no normal clone could handle. Jaing's, for example, mission was to track and and locate general grevious during the war even going as far to actually locate grevious on utupau during the end of the war. As well as Mereel worked on his own agenda to find how to stop the clone's aging process
Jaing stepped forward all the while glancing at his brother Mereel.
"Well me and the others thought it would be best to voice our concern on the current situation."
Kalia raised her eyebrows in question as she clasped her hands behind her back.
"Oh? And what might the skirata brothers need to voice?"
Mereel began to step forward though Jaing shook his head as he clenched his fists.
"With all due respect ma'am, clan skirata believes should wait for our clone vod before we meet these beings. We don't know what they are capable of and having backup as well those who have already met them personally would be beneficial to our survival."
Kalia stared at Jaing for a moment before sighing and walking over to him. She could feel the tension coming off the two former clones as she stood in front of the slightly taller Jaing.
"Damn it Jaing. I can never be mad you or your brothers. As much as I want to wait for them we are running out of time here. That monstrosity of a ship's leader is coming to meet with us and who knows when the others will arrive."
Jaing and Mereel grimaced to show their disappointment though both of them felt better she had listened to their concerns.
"You're the boss ma'am. Just tell us what to do and we'll follow. Me and Mereel will be in the command room to represent clan skirata. I don't think this a situation that requires prudii."
Kalia shivered as she thought of the cold and calculated killer that was prudii. As smart as he was deadly prudii specialized in sabotage dealing crucial blows to the droid armies during the war. His deeds were as advantageous as changing the droids recipe and making them weaker on the battlefield. Saving clone lives and increasing their kill ratio. Prudii was smart that much was given but he can be as cold as space when the need arises.
"Yes. I think that would be for the best. Now go on to the command room. I will meet you there soon."
The two former clone's parted as the doors slid closed behind them leaving Kalia to her thoughts. She sighed as she continued to stare off at the passing ships that fall under the name I.S.A apparently. She looked as they were much larger compared to any other ship she had seen. Besides wondering what the other could think off what was going on she focused as the communicator on her wrist began to blink. Answering it she was met with the rough voice of Fenn Rau.
"Kalia. Respond."
"I'm here Fenn. What's the status of our guests?"
There was silence as Fenn could be heard talking to someone else. He came back sighing as frustration was evident in his voice
"They'll be boarding in a sec so you may wanna get down here. Vhonte and Jaing are down here already. Still waiting on Urjka and Midafa though. So you might wanna hurry it up."
Kalia began to grin as she thought of a snarky comment for the skull squadron leader.
"Sure thing old man. I'll be down there soon.
Her grin grew as she could hear Fenn grumble and mumble mandalorian curses.
"Don't call me that!"
Cutting the line with him Kalia began her walk to the boarding area. She past many mandalorian brother and sisters who all had one thing on their minds. Who was the I.S.A? She even thought for herself if they could just simply be another false republic. Though she silently prayed they could be her people's saviors. She remembered how they all got here. stranded but not alone due to their worry of their clone brothers.
4 days earlier...
Vhonte Tervho passed fellow Mandalorians as she entered the Oyu'baat, a bar within Keldable that had been around for couple thousand of years. Vhonte's black and red Mandalorian armor quickly drew the attention of the people she had come to meet.
"Tervho! We're over here!" Shouted a accent that held those from Concord Dawn.
She turned face to where it came from, walking towards a table that had 5 people in total.
"It's been a long time all of you." Said Tervho as she takes a seat
The first figure at the table was a male human Mandalorian wearing green and yellow armor with a grey flight suit on, the Mandalorian symbol was on his chest. He was tan skin, short black hair and brown eyes. This was Llats Wars, one of the Cuy'val Dar hired by Jango Fett to train the Clone army.
The second figure was a female Twi'lek Mandalorian in white and red armor under a black flight suit, there was a red diamond symbol on her shoulder guards. She was green skin, her leaky hang behind her, she also had blue eyes. This was Midafa Ghjja, also a member of the Cuy'val Dar.
The third figure was another male human, however he was wearing what looked a Mandalorian pilot armor, coloured dark blue and white. He wore a pilot head wear, but still showing his fair skin and light blue eyes. This was Fenn Rau, one of the Cuy'val Dar who taught Clone pilots during Clone Wars.
The fourth figure was another male human Mandalorian, he wore black and grey Mandalorian armor under a black flight suit. He was pale skin, having short brown hair and a small build, dark hazel eyes. This was B'arin Apama, also a Cuy'val Dar trainer.
The last figure was the only non Mandalorian within the group, she was a female Ubese wearing their traditional armor, brown and light maroon. She wore her helmet, not revealing what she looked like. This was Urjk Massha, one of the Cuy'val Dar.
Each former Clone trooper trainer were here for one thing. The whereabouts of the rogue Clone Troopers.
"So the rumours are true, that there's a rogue Clone army that got away?" Said Midafa,
she took a sip of her drink. She had heard about it from rumors but nothing solid. Whispers in the dark and nothing more.
"Yes, along with a couple Jedi generals. But the fact remains is that our boys were among those clones." Said B'arin,
there was concern on his face. He always treated the clones like his sons, passing on Mandalorian traditions to them, giving a sense of meaning. He was also Rex's trainer.
"Yes, but no one knows where they are, the blasted Imperials aren't leaving anything out." Said Llats, there was anger in his tone when he said 'Imperial'.
The way he saw it, the Sith or anything Imperial doesn't mean good for Mandalorians, they already tried use them before in Sith Wars and previous encounters in history
Urjk surprised everyone when she spoke, as she rarely said anything.
"That's not true, I heard something from a source." That got everyone's attention right away.
"Alright then, what did your source say?" Asked Tervho,
she's known Urjk long enough to trust her sources. After all they are all considered family to one another.
Urjk cross her arms, "My source says they escaped into the Unknown Regions."
That stopped the members of the Cuy'val Dar cold.
Fenn stood up.
"All I need to know is are you sure Urjk? Why the kif would they go to Wild Space!"
There were too many unknowns in that part of space. But almost every galactic threat to the galaxy has come from there. To the Sith Empire and the Zakuul Empire, both nearly conquered the Galaxy.
Midafa frowned at Urjk, she didn't like knowing her former clone trainees could be in that sector.
"Is this source of yours trustworthy?"
Urjk nodded,
"yes, he's with the Chiss army, owed me a favor. He was on patrol when he spotted a fleet near Chiss space, it matched the rogue Republic fleet from Courscant."
It was quiet on the table, everyone was absorbing what was going on.
"Eh Haar'chak! So what now?" Asked Llats, this whole situation bothered him a great deal.
Vhonte Tervho thought about it for a moment before she looked at Urjk again.
"Urjk, how long was this?" B'arin raise his brow, he knew that tone in her voice.
"About 2 days ago, they went further away from Chiss space but on a known route. You plan on going?" Urjk had a good feeling she was.
"Yes, I'm not leaving any of my boys out there alone. Any of you lot wanna come?" Asked Tervho,
she took off her helmet, placing it down on the table. She was a beautiful female human with long blazing red hair, very sharp green eyes and fair skin, there was a small scar on her lip but it didn't do any damage to her beauty.
It was little quiet on the table again before Llats sighed.
"Well I was getting little bored anyway. Might as well get a bit more action, I'm in."
Llats while gruff, he cared for his clones a great deal, unlike trainers like Dred Priest.
B'arin nodded.
"Count me in as well, Rex's out there and the rest of Torrent Company, I'm not leaving him out there. I got a couple favors from some other vod that can help."
Tervho smiled, she knew right away he would accept.
Urjk simply nodded, she may not show it but she cared for her clones like her own sons. Midafa rubbed back of her neck,
"Someone's gotta make sure Bly's doing alright. Besides, I want see if these rumors about him and Aylaa Secura are true."
She had indeed heard something about Bly and the Jedi general, but she wanted see if it was true.
Tervho looked to Fenn, he wasn't quite same after the war. He did end up having fight against the Death Watch before they took over the New Mandalorians, he and the Skull Squadron saw them do terrible atrocities to the natives of a local planet.
It still scared him to this day.
"This is beyond reckless and crazy... Too bad for us I like crazy. I'll call up the Skull Squadron to help out as well."
Tervho nodded, she was happy their get Fenn on this. He was one of best Mandalorian pilots on their home fleet.
"Good, I got some favors turn in with some of the clans, they can lend some support. Kal was also concern about Omega Squad anyway, even Walon Vau with Delta Squad."
Walon will never saw it in anyone else's eye, but he cared for Delta Squad a great deal, even if he was brutal and ruthless in his training. It was funny to see that with him.
"We'll contact Kalia and see if we can get her support as well"
Lats grabbing his drink raised it high. The others getting the idea raised theirs as well as they toasted to their goal.
"We'll meet up at border of Unknown Regions. Let's hope we can get out of this alive."
Kalia shook her head as she recalled the day they contacted her. Though she thought they were beyond insane for what they were going to attempt they were her vod. Vod always look out for one another.
Kalia turned the last corridor before finally arriving at the point. There waiting for her was of course Fenn Rau as well as the others. Tervho stood ready at the airlock as the sounds of something connecting to the ship could be heard. Jaing and Urjk stood at attention while midafa ordered the rest of the mandalorian greeting troops to hold their weapons in case of "misunderstandings".
Kalia turned to Fenn as he nodded towards her.
"You ready for this old man?"
He once again frowned before mumbling curses at Kalia
"I told you not to call me that. But if you insist on calling me that then I'll have you know it takes a lot to throw me off little lady"
Kalia chuckled before the silence in the area returned. Though they didn't voice it everyone was nervous about the situation they were currently in. Even some of the more hardened troops were quiet as the sounds of the airlock being docked to a ship and long stopped. Everyone jumped as the sounds of footsteps could be heard and voices that spoke in language that surprised them very much
Midafa raised her brow as she turned to the others
"Basic?"
Jaing shrugged his shoulders as he was stumped as well before he focused back on the door. The airlock began to open as it slowly turned,Kalia now donning her helmet looked to see the others equip theirs as well. The slowness of the door actually put the mandalorians on edge more as they waited so anxiously for the newcomers. The door finally opening slowly slid open only for 3 beings in completely black armor to step through. Their visors were a deep blue and their armor looked resilient as it was advanced. Their shoulders pads bore a insignia like no other as It depicted a flaming skull on top of what could be assumed a shield of sorts with letters O-D-S-T below it.
The silence between the two groups continued for a moment before one of them spoke out. He stepped forward as he looked at every mandalorian there before bolstering his weapon and nodding at Midafa.
"Nice armor. Sir it's clear. These guys ain't shot us yet so that's a plus. You may proceed."
Kalia Was dumbstruck at the events happening before that she almost didn't hear Midafa respond to them
"Thanks. I keep it clean."
The soldier turned back towards her as he tilted his head slightly. Crossing his arms he huffed before shaking his head
"Maybe I can help ya clean it sometime."
Jaing shook his head as witnessed their newcomers hit on Midafa. Kalia chuckled under helmet as it was nothing new though Fenn Rau shook his head as well.
The funny moment was cut short though as more footsteps were heard behind them before entering the ship and these beings actually shocked the mandalorians Fenn Rau included.
Stepping through the airlock were four creature that clearly weren human. They were tall as they were dressed in some type of Royal armor as. It shone red and yellow. They carried some sort of pike as well as guns that could clearly be seen on their hips. The creatures long arms and hoof like feet weren't the only discerning feature as their lower jaw was actually a set of mandible that could open. They were truly a creature the mandalorians had never seen before.
Urjk called out to Fenn Rau as you could tell she had a ever present smirk on under helmet.
"Still think you've seen everything Fenn?"
Fenn was silent as she sized up the creatures yet as continued to eye them he kept coming to one conclusion
"Never in my days did I think I would meet a new species but I also didn't think I'd meet warriors such as us."
Jaing frowned under his helmet as he turned to Fenn
"What do you mean?"
Fenn caught up in his observation almost ignored Jaing as he eyed the newest figure to enter.
"Isn't it obvious? See how they carry themselves. The weapons they prefer. Surely you can see the pure pride they feel right now?"
Kalia cut in as she realized that the mandalorians had been staring like a bunch of children
"Cut the chatter you two. We have guests."
Entering the airlock last was one more of the new creatures though we has armored differently. His armor was a deep silver as his headpiece was slightly more elongated. He also unlike his comrades was missing a set of mandibles as he stood behind the Warriors his hands behind his hands clasped behind his back.
"Ah so you are the mandalorians your clone comrades speak so highly of. It is a honor to finally meet you. I am Rtas Vadum Grand fleet master of the I.S.A and Representative of the I.S.A. Council. I believe we both have matters to discuss?
Kalia and Tervho took the lead nodding before stepping forward to Rtas. The guards parted as they got close to him before they held their hands out. Picking up on the gesture he gladly shook both their hands before speaking in a different language to his guards. They nodded and bowed before calling over the others. Entering behind him were avian like creature that seemed frail donned the same armor as Rtas's guards.
"Come. There is much time for talk. My honor guards will assist in repairs the ODST's and my personal guards will accompany me."
Kalia nodded as she motioned for him to follow her though Tervho spoke quietly to her through their comms.
"Another greedy rat who relies on his guards?"
Kalia looked as she saw some the honor guards assist her mandalorians in repairs pretending to be focused on something else
"Don't think so. How do you think he lost his mandibles? Had to have lost them in combat. Let's just see where this goes and assess it from there."
Continuing their trek throughout the ship the mandalorian personnel stared at them with awe and wonder. A group of clan Ordo troops even took a great liking to the ODST's armor. Rtas chuckled as the scene that played out before him seemed all to familiar
"Seems we've drawn quite a crowd."
Kalia glanced over her shoulder at Rtas as he carried a calm but serious air about him
"Indeed you have Rtas vadum."
He focused his eyes on her as narrowed them
"Please. Just Rtas."
Turning the last corridor they had made it to the briefing room that had been repurposed for the occasion. Inside awaiting them was was Jaing, Mereel,Lats,Midafa,Fenn, and B'arin. Though a few were a still shocked at Rtas's and his guards appearance for the most they had gotten used to it now. Taking a seat everyone was silent as the guards of Rtas stood silent and ever watchful.
Breaking the ice Kalia took the reign as she took off her helmet and to her surprise seeing the eyes of Rtas's and his guards widen.
"You're…human?"
Midafa cleared her throat as she took off her helmet as well her lekku flowing freely as her blue skin was shown to the Representative.
"Sorry love. I like it blue."
Rtas was silent as he took in the mandalorians before locking his eyes on urjk.
Taking notice in his interest of her she waved her finger and shook her head as she voiced her defiance
"Nuh-uh. Not coming off."
Kalia cleared her throat as she reigned in her people before locking eyes with Rtas. Though it was obvious the reveal of their species was a shock to him she wondered greatly what he was thinking.
Rtas sat in thought as he stared at these new beings before him. Human. Blue skin. And and one that refused to show her herself. He chuckled as he went over the motley of species that could be hidden under these helmets. But besides that more pressing matters were of his concern
"Mandalorian Kalia. I wish to ask, why have you come here?"
Kalia sat straight and her face went cold as seriousness called for this matter.
"We've come to search for the republic remnant and assist them in any way we can."
Rtas eyed her as she spoke. Her words carrying confidence and strength. Yet he could feel there was something more behind her words. Something he wasn't telling her.
"Yet you've come with only one ship and a handful of warriors. My guards also report certain supplies that indicate a permanent stay. So Mandalorian Kalia why are you truly here?"
Kalia clenched her fists and gritted her teeth as she realized they had been figured out. She glanced around her eyes as she saw that the others confused by his words. She glanced at Tervho to see confusion on her face as well as she looked towards her for answers. Rtas had driven Kalia into corner in only seconds of their conversation and she had let him get the upper hand of her. Tervho clasped Kalia's hand as she looked at her waiting for a answer. Sighing Kalia submitted as she glared at Rtas.
"We came… To assist the republic remnant in any way we can…and settle where they settled. We weren't meant to return to mandalore."
Kalia shut her eyes as she had to listen to the frustration of her comrades. Mandalorian curses were thrown about as well equipment being knocked over as she dealt with betrayal she did to her Vod.
Vhonte was the first to direct her anger towards Kalia.
"Why Kalia!? You would keep us from our home from our people? All without even telling us? We are family but why would you do this?"
Rtas was silent as he let the infighting between the mandalorians ensue. He silently waited as his guards moved closer to protect him should the need arise.
"The empire. Mandalore was to be… Invaded and subjugated the day after we left."
Fenn Rau's eyes widened as he argued as well. He slammed his hands down on the table as he glared into kalia's eyes.
"Then we need to get back! Round up the clans and fight for our home!"
Kalia stood up as she glared back into Fenn's eyes her own anger being directed at him.
"Don't you get it! There was no fight! Mandalore surrendered! We can't stand against the might of the empire even with all the clans on the planet. We can't. We were kicked to the ground during the mandalorian wars and are barely standing now. What makes you think we could halt a Empire coming down on our heads? At what cost? The loss our entire population? Our entire planet?"
The others blood ran cold as they listened to Kalia speak a of their home. Mandalorians were always seen as warriors, bounty hunter or not, they had earned their respect. But for Kalia to speak of their home surrendering during this time it hurt them deeply.
Lats was the first to respond to Kalia as he began to ask the question on every one's mind.
"And the Mand'alor Fenn Shysa? What was his opinion on this matter"
Kalia shook her head as she turned to look Lats in his eyes. They were cold and void of all the life and emotion they were sou usually full of.
"He ordered me not to return. He gave me a mission instead to find the clones and form a resistance of sorts. The brothers and sisters on this ship was all I could get together in time. Once we are settled wherever that might be a small fleet of corvettes of our Vod and non-combatants will escape mandalor and attempt to arrive here."
The mandalorians stood in silence as the weight of the situation hit them. Their home was taken hostage and their people could be being slaughtered for all they know. Yet Rtas sat in thought as he listened to the mandalorians plea. Their situation was not far off from what the elites had suffered from during their time in the covenant.
Standing up he approached Kalia his guard not too far behind him. Placing his hand on her shoulder he nodded as he saw so much of a certain someone in her. A warrior like no other.
"We will assist you Mandalorian. Your plight is not too far off from one we have suffered as well."
Kalia stared up Rtas in confusion and was about speak until she was cut off by Vhonte.
"What would you know of struggle? You're nothing more than a politician."
Rtas was silent as his honor guards growled at the her words. Lighting their energy pikes they began to move forward though he stopped them with a raise of his hand.
"Oh I have seen much war young one. I have seen planets glassed and city's burned to ashes. I have killed and seen many killed on the battlefield. And I have crushed the very lives out of pitiful souls such as your wretched self. But I have been betrayed as well. Left to die by our once leaders. Forced to fight with our adversaries as allies or face extinction. All for a false journey. A lie. So hold your tongue when you speak of me child. For I have seen more than you can possibly imagine. Your Mandalorian war may compare but it does not surpass the deeds of the late covenant."
Tervho backed away as Rtas spoke with fury behind his words towards her. She noticed his fists had been clenched the entire time and his guards had moved to stop him should the need arise. Looking to Kalia she began to once again hold talks with Rtas
"Rtas Vadum, grand fleetmaster of the I.S.A, on my title as a mandalorian and honor as a warrior how can you help us?"
Rtas,calming down from his outburst looked at Kalia with thought in his eyes before smirking. Folding his hands behind his back he stood tall as he looked down on kalia
"Do not worry mandalorian. You're people will be helped in due time. Just as your clone brethren will be assisted. But this requires the discussion of the council, Though I am certain after the recent skirmish with this Empire you speak of. They will no doubt call for war over the spilled blood of our children."
Kalia eyes widened as she listened to Rtas propose that his coalition would go to war with the empire. His forces surely couldn't match to the might of the empire's could they?
"But why? Why wage war against them on our sake?"
Rtas growled as he turned his head away from Kalia. The smirk leaving his face was quickly replaced by rage and anger once again.
"This not the first time we've met people from your worlds mandalorian. Though those aware of our presence were silenced we have been monitoring events in your world for some time now. From the beginning of this so called clone wars to the end and the rise of the empire. We know of order 66 and those that follow it. You see once the order 66 was given a small scouting fleet of imperial allegiance jumped into what you call dark space after a Jedi and entered our territory. Once locating one our worlds they deemed it weak enough to assault and burned it to the ground. All in the name of their glorious emperor. Yet the people do not know of this event for it was kept hidden from them. But once they learn. They will call for blood."
Kalia stood dumbstruck at Rtas' words. His people had watched their every move and had gone unnoticed. A coalition spying on the galaxy and did it all while remaining undercover. Gathering information on every important individual in their Galaxy only to use it to further their incentive of waging war on the empire. Kalia realized they were being used so to speak to further this incentive but at the same time they offered safety and freedom for her people and all of the Galaxy that is currently being oppressed. How could she say no?
Turning to her brothers and sisters she looked at each and every one of them as she silently asked for their approval. She could tell they were all still reeling from her lies and abandonment of the mandalorian people in their time of need but what more could she have done?
The silent nods from each and every one of them was all she needed before turning back to Rtas. She was shocked slightly as she turned to see him kneeling and his raised. His head lowered he spoke to Kalia in a apologetic tone as he kept his raised in apology
"I know this is not the way out you wish for your people mandalorian and I am certain the actions of mine are nothing less but cowardly. But if you chose to accept I will make it my duty to free your people and return them to their former glory. I have wished and done the same for mine, your people shall be no different."
Kalia touched by his words took his hand in acceptance as he raised himself standing to his full height. The ever present smirk still on his face as he glanced around at the rest of the mandalorians. Though they weren't voicing their happiness the anger that had left their faces and had been replaced by smirks as well was more than enough for him.
"Come. We shall resume this meeting on the Fist of Sanghelios. Your clone brethren should be arriving shortly."
Exiting the room and his guards right behind him the mandalorians followed Rtas their heads held high and more prideful than ever as they walked through the corridors of their ship once again. Different Scenes of brotherhood played out throughput the ship as Sangheili and Mandalorian conversed and assisted one another. Humans mingled with mandalorians just as well as they talked to one another of battle. It brought a smile to Kalia's face as she saw them coming together
"So. When does the fight start"
Rtas glanced behind himself as he eyed Kalia a smirk beginning to form.
"In due time Mandalorian. Blood will be spilled in due time. Our species live for war, for it is all we know. Even during peace we've done nothing but increase our potential to wage war. We have all fought since the beginning of time and we will continue to do so. And if it be the gods will that we were to protect humanity and her colonies. Then we will be the first to spill blood and die for that cause."
Kalia did not know what to say as she listened to Rtas not only speak of waging war on a galactic scale but that his species would be glad to do it as warriors and protectors of this humanity. Questions ran through her head as she wondered why they were the ones to protect a entire species and who these so called gods were. Though she would not have much time to muse on these things as they began to crossover from the airlock to the massive ship that was Fist of Sanghelios.
The group entered the hangar of the massive ship where fighter crafts of the dozens were held and repaired as large vehicles with wheels traversed back and forth through out the ship. Lats was the first to call out the use of wheels being primitive but their ships being advanced at the same time.
"How can you all still rely on tech such is that when it possible for you all to make this?"
Instead of Rtas speaking it was one of the black armored ODST's as one of them removed his helmet showing face. He looked just like any other human the mandalorians had seen though his face was scarred and carried stubble of facial hair. His dark skin tone stood out as did his green eyes.
"Oi! Those things may look outdated but they've been threw a lot with us marines. No point in being a devil dog if I don't have a hog going into hell with me."
Jaing was the only confused by the marine's statement as the group continued their trek to the massive ship's bridge
"Hog? The kriff is that supposed to mean?"
He was answere day yet another ODST as he pushed past Jaing.
"He means warthog. That's what their called."
Rtas annoyed with the banter silenced the ODST'S as they reached the tram system that would take them straight to the bridge. The ride was silent as the Mandalorians stared in awe at the sections of the ship from the armory to the vehicle bay and even the training rooms the areas of the ship amazed them as they passed all the inner workings on their way to the bridge.
Tervho was the first to spot it as they passed a large loading area. It was eerily quiet in the area except for a few men and and women gearing up in strange looking armor. Getting Rtas's attention she pointed to the mysterious figures.
"Who are they? Some type of special forces?"
Following her gaze he too spotted the mysterious figures before chuckling to himself.
"Pay them no mind mandalorian. They are the Spartans. Nothing more."
Kalia could tell Tervho wanted to ask more but they both held their tongues as they had arrived at then end of their ride and entered the bridge.
Men and women of all species manned their posts efficiently as they awaited orders from Rtas. Huragok floated here and there idily communicating with one another until they were needed. The sleek interior of the bridge also stood out as it shined a radiant green from certain slits for lights.
Taking his chair and the mandalorian group silently following him Rtas was greeted by his faithful AI Catherine. She resembled her 'mother' down to the last detail as she almost completely mimicked the great AI. Her radiant purple color shone as she turned to Rtas and the mandalorians.
"Brought some friends I see."
Rtas eyed her as he smiled gently at her a glint of mischief in his eye.
"Indeed and I see your attitude sas become more cheeky since I left. You act more and more like your mother by the second. Never will I learn how that man puts up with her."
Kalia decided to intervene as she eyed the AI warily. Her and Tervho stepped forward as the others conversed between themselves or observed how the bridge was handle.
"Rtas as great as this is we would really like to meet our Vod now?
Ignoring her he waved her off as he turned to see a incoming message for him. Answering it demeanor changed to anger as his face slowly turned to one of rage unseen by other due to their attention being on turned to Kalia as she eyed her and Tervho up and down. A smile came to her face as she looked at both of them.
"You look nice."
The reply from both of them was immediate before they realized they had been tricked so to speak.
"Thanks."
The two were flustered as they looked away from the cheeky AI only to be spoken to by Rtas. He sat in his command chair a look of annoyance and slight anger upon his face as stared off into blue and green that was planet Earth.
"The undying light fleet shall arrive shortly. You will soon be reunited with your clone brethren."
Kalia was suspicious still though as she could tell Rtas' was greatly upset about something. His fists were clenched as a low growl could also be heard from him. Kalia could feel the anger fuming off of Rtas as he continued to glare at Earth.
"Is there something you're not telling me Rtas?"
Turning his gaze towards her Kalia stood stock still as a gaze of hatred and anger was directed towards her and her alone. Though the moment quickly passed as his eyes softened and his breath calmed. Palming his face a low rumble came from him before he spoke not even looking Kalia in the eye.
"It seems we will not be meeting with the I.S.A council after all. War has been officially declared. Your galaxy, your people, your clone and Jedi allies, all have been made known to the public."
Kalia was shocked and confused as she believed there was a plan to all this they had just briefly spoken of on her corvette.
"What happened? Why is everything all of sudden being rushed?"
The mandalorians all listening on the conversation stood beside Kalia as they waited for Rtas to respond. But he never did, instead he silently showed them the hologram of planet that seemed to be in ruin and debris scattered all over it orbit. Large triangular ships could be seen descending to the planet and if focused hard enough thousands of fighters and dropships were released from them. The view they had skipped only this time to show the planet's cities in ruin and fires pluming from them. Gunfire and blaster fire could be seen as the futile battle to defend the cities raged on.
Kalia sucked in her breathe as Jaing, Mereel, and Tervho voiced their anger towards the empire. Fenn and Lats stared on at the carnage that ensued on the planet and imagined Mandalore in its place had they stayed and fought. Shockingly Urjk voiced her anger Towards the imperials as well in full force as she cursed colorfully in mandoa. Kalia could not stand for it as she watched firefights in different areas of the planet take place. Some were sparingly alright as marines fought back the empire while others weren't so lucky.
"Rtas. What will your people do?"
Rtas was ever silent as he watched the pocket of firefights on the planet take place. His eyes focusing only on the dead or dying troops as soldiers of all species fell in the line of duty. He watched as even his own Sangheili brethren fell in combat whether it be protecting their comrades or fighting till their last breath. He silently stood as continued to gaze at the feed and his bridge crew stared at him awaiting orders
"They will pay for this cowardice. They have struck a world on the farthest reaches of our territory and they weren't prepared. But they shall learn. A new campaign has begun for our people once again and we will not shy away from the call of duty. We will march into heart of the whelps, burn them and their worlds if need be till they are naught but glass, and I will make sure this emperor tastes my blade as his voice is silenced and snuffed out from this war. We have honed our craft for centuries. We will show no mercy. We will show no pity. We will show no remorse. We will show them only war. For this is a message to all soldiers of the I.S.A or members of the republic. This is the day we will fight a battle that will be costly and lives on both sides will surely be lost. But know this, We shall fight in the streets, we shall fight in the hills, we shall fight in the fields and in the landing grounds. For we will never surrender. We have conquered the flood and slain the covenant. We will not be denied."
Troops across the galaxy rallied to Rtas' call for war as mobilization of a force to threaten the empire began. Fleets were gathered and planets defenses were raised. Stations were resupplied and orbital mac's repositioned. Production for weapons was increased Galaxy wide as the I.S.A and her colonies prepared for the inevitability and totality of this war. For war was all they knew.
Rtas' turned to the mandalorians who suprisingly stood at attention towards him. Their helmets donned and armor glistening the mandalorians were prepared to wage a war if need be for freedom of their world and people. Though their hopes were shot down as Rtas shook his head denying them and killing their hope.
"Was to live and find a new world for your people should the need arise. That task cannot be completed if you are dead. Let us handle it."
Jaing was quick to voice his disapproval as he broke all types of I.S.A regulation and stood up to Rtas.
"What! You would rather have us sit back and cower then fight for a we deem just?'
Yet Rtas was quick to silence Jaing as he calmly placed a hand on his shoulder. Gripping the former clone firmly he he stared into the T-shaped visor hoping he was looking him in the eyes.
"Hold your tongue warrior for I have never questioned your ability to fight. Your clone brethren will greatly assist us in this matter as we retake the planet. But if we were to bring you along and information of your involvement got away. Your people would be in a more grave situation than now. Let us handle it. There's the clone fleet now. Once the few supporting fleets arrive they will leave and attend to the matter of the empire. You all are staying to appease the high council and hopefully get your people a new planet should we free the mandalorians."
Jaing was silent in thought as he watched the gargantuan portals appear. Pouring through them were hundred of large ships I.S.A. Or Republic before the three larger super carriers appeared. The combination of ships looked menacing to no end and brought Jaing slight pride as he realized his brothers were on those ships. The fleet assembled a large formation as the few supporting fleets arrived adding to the already large number of ships.
They all watched as the ships were not even given a moment to rest before immediately opening up the large portals and disappearing. Time was of the Essence of this matter and there would be no delays to the mission. As the left ship left Rtas said a silent prayer for all the troops as Tervho began to lead the mandalorians back to their ship.
"Come on you lot. Let's go break the news to others then figure out how the kriff we're gonna convince them to give us a planet.
Exiting the bridge left Rtas with just Kalia As she stood quietly behind him. Silent as ever she moved beside him looking up to him as he continued to stare off into the depths of space.
"Come on big guy. You said yourself your people have faced tougher challenges. They'll make it back fine against the empire."
Though Kalia was shocked to hear him speak a simple phrase before exiting the bridge as well to contact a old friend.
"We're it so easy."
Welcome back all. Now I know you might feel betrayed for the wait only to get this piss poor filler I hate myself too. But with finals coming up and a bad case of the writer's block during the making of this chapter I hope you all will understand and have your hunger for this story sated for the time being. Now the next chapter will be a all out battle and it won't be stomp best believe that. Also for the future chapters involving mandalorians I'm kinda gonna have them speak in their native language less as it is a pain to type and type definitions for at the end of chapters. But hey we met the mandalorians, Rtas, and a cheeky Catherine AI who is 'related' to a certain someone so we can't call this chapter a complete waste of space. But I do indeed feel I could have given you all a much better chapter which brings me to my next topic. Unless my feel of writing is on point like the earlier chapters I have pushed back my schedule to one uber good chapter per month or unless I'm feeling myself 2 maybe even 3 ok chapters per month but shorter in length. It all just depends but nothing is set in stone and I'll post a little notice chapter from here on out to inform you guys of any changes.
Also! I will be doing a kinda break time Q&A chapter so pm me any questions you want answered and I'll answer them when i put up said Q&A chapter. Oh and Mandalore the freedom this chapter was for you dude! I tried my hardest to make the mandalorians some of the greatest and they will be in the near future thanks for being a constant supporter. Ok. I think…that's…it. Well anyways on to the mandoa word key If I left the meaning of any words out let me know please. But that's all I've got guys see you all in the next chapter and don't forget to pm me questions I'll probably have QandA mock chapter up by Monday unless the questions come to a halt. Later guys! RC-Sektor-5555 signing off!
Haar'chak – damn it
Mand'alor- sole ruler of Mandalore
Dinui- gift
Cin vhetin- fresh start
Al'verde- commander
Vod- brother or sister
Cuy' Val Dar- group of individuals summoned to train the clone troopers on kamino.
