Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Vaiken Spacedock - Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 05:30/5:30 AM
'Striking at Kuat again?' Zasha mused at the Council's latest directive for her fleet. The Imperial Admiral has become aware of the notoriety of the Republic's new allies in the conflict: some were just mere brutes and others were refined, civilized beings yet oddly they all hailed from one world known as 'Earth'. Ranken had heard rumors of even 'impostors' amongst their ranks, calling themselves 'Britons' or 'Englishmen' but by Imperial standards this was just a new low.
'It's rather interesting that the Republic would simply leave a token garrison this time, the fools must be arrogant enough regarding their allies to accept such a risk.' The woman thought as she read the intelligence report.
Nevertheless, the commanding officer of a taskforce consisting of numerous Harrower- dreadnoughts, Terminus-destroyers and Gage-class transports waited for the arrival of two more squadrons of Supremacy-class Starfighters before proceeding to jump into hyperspace.
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:00/6:00 AM
"So the Imperials finally decided to take the bait." The Hoosier-native smiled as the enemy fleet exited out of the 'Star Trek' style Warp Drive. "We can probably wipe out this entire naval task force and hopefully bring the Dark Council to the negotiating table when they lose their current best Admiral. The bastards surely are still feeling the aftermath of losing that precious Rakton of theirs back on that 'sacred' world of all holiness Korriban."
"As much as I hate to admit it, the plan is either bold or it might just work." Admiral Aygo confessed as taskforce Aurek proceeded to maneuver around the opposition, positing themselves behind the Imps.
"Incoming high priority transmission from the Imperial Fleet!" A Republic Navy 'crewer' with the rank of 'Private' called out, the terminology difference causing Raymond to snort.
"Put it through!"
"Ah, Aygo my old friend, what a lovely surprise." A tan skin brunette woman with sparkling dark blue eyes greeted the trio. "I see you brought along your two Earthling pets to accompany you at this time."
"Whatever lady," Raymond snorted, "and sorry for ruining your vacation, but do us a favor and turn your Carribean cruise liners around before we blow them out of the water, so to speak. Surely you're not stupid to stand up to a trap."
"So you must be the famed Admiral Spruance of Midway." Zasha grinned as she witnessed the American taken aback from shock before composing himself. "Quite a feat you pulled back in this Pacific Ocean of yours yet the files failed to note how handsome you are."
"Sorry, lass, but he's already married." Montgomery defended the Yank. "How about surrendering?"
"Curious, I've been wondering why some of you Earthlings are speaking with Imperial dialects?"
"More like British, madam," Montgomery smirked, "I, however, do believe you need to learn how to speak it properly, you incarnation of humbug."
"So Bey'wan?" The victor of Midway and the Philippine Sea asked the dog-like creature in a whisper while the Briton kept their opponent distracted. "What do we know about the arrogant… wench?" He had to refrain himself from calling her worse.
"Admiral Ranken served under the now deceased Grand Moff Rycus Kilran during the Sacking of Coruscant and unsurprisingly, the witch enjoyed bombarding civilian targets," The Bothan's ears drooped at the memory, "she caused significant collateral damage that day."
"How ghastly." The Spartan General noted as he adjusted his beret. "So this bloody bint is a narcissist? Irregardless of the dear Impostor's sensibilities, old chap, what do you think that they're about to commit?"
"We don't know what the Imps are planning other than that they either desire to capture Kuat or…" The Republic Admiral's eyes widen in realization. "Kriff!? They might want to just sabotage the Drive Yards!" If they couldn't take it, they would most certainly want to stop their ability to repair and produce more ships for their fleet.
"A raid does make sense." Raymond agreed. "Bernard, how are the defenses coming?"
"We're preparing a mainline just outside the in case of boarders breaching." Montgomery replied. "Mainly consisting of the garrison already present, not to mention both my First Commonwealth Division, some of your Sailors and Marines in addition to a Battalion from the 25th Infantry Division, plus some 'Company Guards' I must add."
"I also sent out word for reinforcements but I'm confident that we'll repel them again." The Bothan grinned.
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:30/6:30 AM
"Corporal Nilsson!" Sergeant McHugh barked. "Have your machine gun team set up blocking positions outside Hangar Bay Bravo Two-Four!"
"Yes, Sergeant." Hanzo acknowledged as he waved Alex and the two men towards the location. "Alright, so I think we'll set up at the top right corner, the balcony." The Head Corporal noted, applying his experience from 'Nam'. "It seems to be a good angle to rain down fire on 'em."
"Excellent suggestion." McAllen approved as he clutched the tripod. "Apparently we'll be having droids and security augmenting us."
"Wonderful." Edwards mutters sarcastically. "Glorified rent a cops."
Hanzo sighs as overheard the gripe. "Edwards? Are the crates ready?"
"Yes, Corporal. We have plenty of lead for the Browning to shoot the fuckers."
"Alright, we don't have all day, so let's move people!"
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:30/6:30 AM
Admiral Ranken met the strike team on the bridge, the company of Commandos and a platoon's worth of Sith warriors were carefully selected for this vital task in this latest attempt at Kuat, only this time the desire was to put the driveyards out of commission. And as such, wardroids will be augmenting the assembled force as well, since this mission was critical for the success of the raid.
"Your objective is to distract the Earthling force defending the western flank." The Admiral revealed to the subordinates. "You are authorized by the Dark Council themselves to utilize whatever force you see fit except summary executions. Their desecration of Korriban shall not be forgotten and these Earther scum shall feel the wrath of the Empire."
"So why should we use overkill against these barbaric primitives?"A Captain in charge of the detachment scoffed as he glanced at one of the droids being prepared for the assault.
"Because the Earthlings don't play by the accepted rules when it comes to warfare." Admiral Zasha announced. "You are all experienced in numerous campaigns against both the Pubs and their Jedi pets, yet the nations of Earth are unpredictable, with different strategies and tactical expertise amongst their diverse military organizations. Accept the unforeseeable, realize that some of you may not come back alive but most important of all, may the Force serve you well."
Lord Krovos stepped forward as she recognized her cue. "Today the Republic shall long remember that they cannot continuously rely on their newfound allies. Those Earthlings of the Second Field Army, specifically the First Commonwealth Division, made a mockery of our forces on Tython, a planet that is an anathema to their entire primitive and barbaric race." It was even reported of one soldier in particular was responsible for a number of Sith deaths during the assault, even with his own bare-hands.
The Sith Warriors standing before the Pureblood snarled like baying wolves. In their eyes, the mere forceless freaks were lower than womp rats and not fit for even enslavement.
"And let's not forget that the majority are imposters from the lands they call Britain, New Zealand and Australia as well." Admiral Ranken added. "They believe that ever since they had an Empire, they have the birthright to make a mockery of us. No more. Today, the True Empire shall rule the entire galaxy by bringing the Republic to its knees and Earth will learn the cost of earning the fury of the Empire."
"Taking prisoners is a secondary objective but our main focus is to demolish critical machinery and set back production for years." Lord Krovos added. "No executions. Just go in, destroy as much machinery as you possibly can, create havoc, and then get out. The engineers will finish the task after the main force deals with the defenders then we'll retreat back into Imperial space, is that understood?"
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 08:49/8:49 AM
"Fall back! Fall back!" McHugh ordered as he witnessed one of his men getting frozen by a cryo grenade thrown from a commando. The Canadians and Republic soldiers with their remaining droid support units were being forced to abandon the first line of defense as the wardroids headed right toward the defenders, pushing those standing behind the barricade out of the way or slaughtering them with their turrets.
"I'm tired of running, let's make a stand for once!" A Rodian Private shouted in clear Basic, frustrated at the lack of a resistance by his fellow soldiers.
However a green skinned Twi'lek Republic Sergeant voiced his disagreement. "The Earthling is right, would you like to go up against that thing without a launcher?"
"No, Sergeant." The Private conceded.
The allies began retreating in a somewhat chaotic order away from the approaching droids, the monstrosities pushing all before them out of the way in order to allow the Imperials to mop up those who remained behind.
Nilsson noticed the scrambling down below and opened up with the converted M1919A4 down below, blowing away two Imperial soldiers with the powerful standard 7.62 x 51 mm NATO round, utilizing the armor penetrative abilities of the M61 to its fullest potential, watching as it just ripped through their armor and an agony death awaited for them.
"Ah hell, that robot fucking spotted us!" Jack cursed as the Imperial Annihilator T4-1Ds and DX-6 Ravagers assisting the Sith and Commandos in their slaughter turned in their direction and began to open fire. Hanzo and his men immediately ducked behind their sandbag barricade, the blaster bolts slamming into them like jackhammers as the smell of melting sand choked the air. While their defenses were holding, the gun crew knew it wouldn't for much longer.
"Go find us a LAW, Edwards!" Hanzo ordered as he continued to lay down withering fire on the Imps supporting the wardroids, forcing a few of them to seek cover before he himself had to duck again as a blaster bolt nearly took his head off.
"LAW, right." The subordinate noticed a launcher leaning up against a box and proceeded to extend the tube before aiming the piece at one of the robot's head and fired. The rocket struck the wardroid in the face, detonating the circuitry and power fluxers inside in a thundering fireball.
A brief silence followed as even the wardroids were caught by surprise at this grizzly sight. That didn't last long and they doubled their efforts to kill the gun crew. As Hanzo ducked again, an idea suddenly occurred to him.
"You two." Nilsson pointed at the security guards assigned to him. "We need some grenades. Doesn't matter if they're thermal detonators or Lemons, just get 'em." He'll need to remember their names if they survive this battle.
The Weequay and Aqualish nodded in acknowledgment, sprinting to the strategically placed supply cache.
"Ha! How about stick bombs as well!" The Weequey cried in excitement after opening the crate. "Perfect!"
"Gammon bombs and stickies?" McAllen questioned. "Must be surplus."
"And Republic issue ones as well." The other mercenary grinned. "What's the plan, Corporal?"
"Dump the Frags on top of them." Nilsson ordered. "The ro-droids can have the glue." Damnit, it was starting to get to him about the 'proper' correction for droids in this galaxy.
"And have them run the gauntlet of improvised mines. Good thinking."
The detachment poured the grenades and they rolled across the floorboard, spreading shrapnel and destruction in the radius. The wardroids received scratches to their legs yet a few well-placed anti-armor rockets to the heads or sides disabled the machines, causing the Imperial supporting fire to gradually cease.
The remaining Imperials knew that they'd lost the initiative and that without their droids to back them up, charging the dug in Earthers was be a pointless slaughter. So instead, they dug in and waited for reinforcements to arrive.
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 08:49/8:49 AM
"Sir? We need to move, now!" A Staff Sergeant of Spruance's security detail recommended.
"Too late, Sarge! They're starting to breach!"
The Royal Marine Bootnecks, Leathernecks of the USMC, sailors from the Allied navies, and soldiers across the Anglosphere aimed their rifles from their barricades alongside their Republic counterparts.
"Want to borrow my pistol, Yank?" Bernard inquired with a grim chuckle, unholstering his old yet reliable Webley.
"No, I'm good but thanks for offering the Six Shooter." Raymond grinned as he aimed his M1911A1. "Stand firm, men. Remember that today we are proving our worth in a proper defensive engagement. If we lose this shipyard, Earth will fall victim to these bastards."
"And set back our entire effort as well." Admiral Bey'wan added, his blaster pointed at the inbound unwelcome guests.
Suddenly, the blast door blew in and three Sith rushed inside first, anxious to cutdown the Forceless blights before them.
"Ah shit, we have some of those bloody banshees incoming!" A sailor with a Somerset dialect warned as he cooked a grenade. "Eat this, you fuckin' tossers!"
The grenade landed directly in front of the charging heathens, sending out hot fragmentation in a five-meter radius. The attacking Sith Warriors threw up a protective Force-Shield, but the concussive force was enough to knock them on their collective asses with a few embedded shards in their limbs for good measure.
Before the Earthlings could finish them off, a commando threw a cryo grenade at a Leatherneck, freezing the poor soul in ice. He was taken down in turn by a shot from Spruance's handgun, the .45 caliber round blowing the Space Fascist's head off like a pumpkin.
"Fine shooting, old chap." The Spartan General complimented before placing an .455 caliber slug into the skull of a 'Pureblood,' "Ghastly creatures."
"More like ugly. Reminds me of the inscriptions about demons."
"You don't say." The Field Marshal deadpanned.
"Come on lads! Let's show these bastards what 'primitives' can do!" A Chief Petty Officer of the Royal Navy bellowed. "Drive the imposters back!"
The soldiers, seamen, and Marines were emboldened by the example of the NCO, causing them to increase their fire rate slightly, intent on repulsing the opposition from taking over the command center.
"Is the surprise ready?!" Spruance shouted, hoping that his men had the trump card prepared.
Two Devil Dogs set up the tripod, placed the tube into the rest and loaded a Recoilless Rifle with flechette 'beehive' rounds, intending to unleash a hornets nest of nails at the intruders. "Gun ready! Stand clear from the blast!"
"Ah Kriff." An Imperial Corporal muttered as he saw one of the enemy 'Marines' aim the tube at the doorway. It was the last object he ever saw as the weapon fired, ripping him and quite literally everybody else in the hallway into fine chopped liver.
"Kierfek! You took down three Sith with that monstrosity." Aygo declared in awe.
"Seventy-Five millimeter M20 Recoilless Rifle."Raymond smirked."How many rounds are left, Top?"
"Two left, sir." The Master Sergeant from Nebraska informed the Hoosier. "Seems like the rest were taken."
'I'm going to have a chat with the supply officer later and see if a court martial is necessary.' The Admiral thought. "Put up a barricade! No doubt this is only the first wave and they'll try again later!"
"Aye, sir."
"Monty? Have Jack come here to reinforce us. We might need his assistance."
"Good God!" Bernard was flabbergasted at the suggestion, before moving his head out of the way of a blaster bolt. "He's an absolute madman, and I rather have him on the front dispatching the Impostors!"
"I think the Imps wanna capture us, which means there'll be plenty of action to satisfy him. Also, two can play the same game."
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:00/9:00 AM
Admiral Ranken gazed from the bridge as she witnessed her gun-crew finish off another Republic vessel that attempted to launch a boarding party. The Admiral realized that their intention was to capture her, perhaps even as a bargaining chip but the woman wasn't going to play into their plot.
"Helmsman!? Bring us two degrees northeast!"
"Aye, ma'am." The crewer acknowledges as he turned the ship's starboard side.
"Focus your fire on the Victory on Bothawui. It appalls me."
The enemy Valor-class Cruiser attempted to bring it turrets broadside against the sudden maneuvering. However, a squadron of Extinction-Class bombers disabled the of the vessels engines before Ranken's flagship finished it off under an unrelenting barrage of turbo-laser fire.
"One down, twenty-six more to go in this sector." Zasha muttered as she watched the flame engulfing inside the wreckage.
"We surrender, mates!" A so-called 'Australian' shouted, lowering his L1A1 and raising his arm into the air. "Say you blokes are really ferocious today, reminds me of the Dingoes back home."
"Quiet!" Captain Dezz ordered as one of the men struck the scum's face with the butt of his carbine. "Acting under the authority of the Empire, I order you to kneel."
"Alright then." The Corporal and his fireteam knelt down, hands behind their heads, expecting to be cuffed. Three Imperials followed their commanding officer's lead and proceeded to aim their weapons at the quartet's heads.
Staff Sergeant Roberto Sanchez - Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:00/9:00 AM
'You goosestepping bastards!' The Californian thought as he witnessed the summary execution of the four Australians by the Imperial boarders. The thought sickened him, reminding him of what the Japanese did to their prisoners. As a buck Private during the conflict, his Lieutenant had advised his men to kill the fuckers to the last as payback for Manchuria, Bataan, and Wake Island.
Before now the American hadn't encountered any war crimes committed by these Space Nazis themselves, only the aftermath on a few instances and those had been again nonhumans. But now? Witnessing this sheer brutality against his fellow Earthlings brought vengeance in the Platoon leader's mind.
"Sarge?" Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn whispered. "Should we take these bastards down?"
"Wilburn?" Roberto uttered to the former gangster from Philly and one of his best men. "Take your fireteam down the hall to your left and see if you can outflank these psychopaths, second squad will assist. Rest of you, fix your bayonets and wait for the red smoke." The Staff Sergeant watched as his men drew their M6 blades and affixed them to their M14s. Waiting patiently for the estimated time for Wilburn and his detachment to get into position, the NCO withdrew a smoke grenade and pulled the pin, cooking it for a moment before throwing the cylinder out into the open.
"What the Kriff!?" An Imperial Corporal shouted in surprise as the cylinder started to splurt out smoke, the red fumes filling the room with the vapors that unknowingly signaled their demise.
The Americans poured out from the hallways, charging directly into the mist and utilizing the element of surprise to its fullest potential.
"Oooha!" The Infantrymen shouted their warcry, the wail of inevitable carnage flowing through the air like a tidal wave they crashed right into their attackers. After what the thugs had just done, the Americans showed them no mercy. Sanchez himself buttstroked the Imperial Captain who ordered the execution of the Aussies, the impact flooring the Space Brit. Before the Hispanic could finish off the fiend, the enemy had his pistol aimed at his chest.
"Earth scum!" Dezz snarled as he fired, the bolt producing a sudden billow of smoke from firing at such close range as Sanchez fell. "Damn you and your damn barbaric ways of conducting war!"
"Sarge!" Wilburn cried as he saw the platoon leader gunned down. The Specialist fired his shotgun at the enemy officer, ejected the spent shell and pumped it again before shooting the next load of 00 Buckshot. "Die you son of a bitch!"
Dezz felt the impact of the minuscule primitive slugs plastering themselves into him. The officer never thought he would go out like this to some mere unsophisticated Earthling. The thought of bringing glory to the Emperor, the Sith and the Empire as a whole was what he was trained for, to bring the Republic to their knees. Instead, he was to die to some pathetic, backwater race that barely had reached their moon. They were simply too barbaric for intergalactic society, just barely below the infamous Mandalorian warriors and Wookiees of Kashyyyk.
Wilburn proceeded to casually walk up and pointed the barrel of the M1912 at the officer's forehead, smiling at the cowardly fear in his opponent's gray eyes and fired.
"That's for both America and Earth, Captain Nobody." The former street thug from Philadelphia mocked before spitting on the corpse.
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:54/9:54 AM
"Status report on the boarding party!" Admiral Ranken demanded as Imperial reinforcements began to arrive alongside additional enemy warships from the Republic. This raid was quickly and inadvertently becoming one of the largest naval engagements of the entire war as both factions spewed volleys of turbolasers at one another or launched waves of starfighters to cripple the other fleets. In short, things had gone sideways fast.
"Sir, our strike team reports that Phase One is complete, but Phase Two is being delayed."
"Delayed?" Zasha questioned. "Petty Officer, Phase Two was supposed to be commenced an hour ago. Even the most flexible of estimates show that they would've sabotaged the main generator twenty minutes ago."
"The Pubs sent in a highly decorated SpecForce unit, second only to Havoc Squad I'm afraid. Chaos is verified to be partaking in the defense on the Drive Yards."
"Very well." The Admiral noted. "What about the main assault?"
"Heavy counter-attacks throughout the Driveyards by angered Australians, apparently a few of our troops proceeded to conduct unauthorized executions, some by the authority of rogue officers and some by Sith."
"Fools." Lord Krovos fumed. "Those Warriors were inexplicably ordered not to anger the Earthlings by conducting summary executions amongst their ranks. They just gave those Earthers Carte Blanche a reason to continue fighting in this war."
The Lord of the Sith decided to reveal the latest in the Empire's internal politics. "The Council was considering opening negotiations with President Kennedy, Primer Khrushchev, and other world leaders yet those blasted morons decided that avenging Korriban and Soviet attacks took precedence."
"Well, it's best to inform the Council with an update. We made it this far and we'll see if we can hold the initiative."
"Perhaps reinforcements as well." Ranken advised. "The Republic would've learned about our raid by now."
Nat paced around outside the chambers as she and her friend awaited their slot for discussing the current state of the conflict.
The war against the Republic was now not just some engagement for survival but now a course of delaying the inevitable if the Council didn't change course as the planet of Earth and its forces continued assisting the Republic in the war.
Earth.
One world, a lone inhabited planet of its system had proven itself to be a case of appearances not being what they seemed. On one hand, the planet was backwards in its politics, structure and technology. But on the other, their ways of conducting warfare were advanced even compared to the barbaric Rakatan's centuries prior. In some circumstances, the pragmatism of the Earthlings on the frontlines were regarded eerily similar to the infamous Mandalorians.
The strategic mindset of the majority of the Earthlings were similar to the Republic in which combined, coordinated assaults were conducted with a clear chain of command structure, unlike the Moffs of the Army and Navy bickering with Sith Intelligence stuck in the middle.
Their fighters, despite not being space worthy, were especially designed to conduct combat maneuvers against opposing aircraft; the engagement speed of the 'jets' being significantly faster than the intergalactic counterparts as hyperdrives were intended for intergalactic travel, not aerial dog-fighting in atmosphere.
The tanks, kriffing and annoying beasts with treads, had a low target profile compared to walkers, yet mines were effective counters against them. However their scouts, unconnected to the Force and trained to utilize camouflage in the terrain extensively, could discover weaknesses in their defenses and usually only scanners gave their positions away.
Their officers and NCOs were indistinguishable from their men on the battlefield as they wore the same pattern of uniforms respective of their organization as their subordinates. This made killing them difficult unless snipers paid attention to who was giving orders and even this wasn't always successful.
Sighing at another migraine to be sorted out, Avarice glanced at her friend. "Lana, I suppose that Marr and the others finally see reason?"
"It brought them some pause, yes, but half of the members still desire to conquer Earth."
"You have to be kriffing me." Avarice grumbled. "What's the point of invading the Sol System then if we can't even engage them outside their territory...at least without heavy losses?"The Wrath mutters Old Corellian curses before continuing. "With their recent wars, surely they organized a home guard, not to mention guerilla warfare being an expertise of some of their sub races like the Apaches and Maori. Why the stubbornness?"
"Resources." The blonde revealed with a frown. "If the Empire controlled this unique world, the Empire gains materials not connected to the Force and as such, we could better protect the fleet, Imperial troops from the Jedi and other Force-users."
"Yes, but has the thought come across the Council minds that some Moff could use it in a coup attempt?"
"It came across my mind a few times." Beniko confessed. "Yet the estimates shows that if we equip only two battle groups, the resources, if unmanaged, could last generations."
"What about the natives?"
"That's what strikes me as odd as usually the Council informs us both of their intentions yet they're deciding to hold it back."
The two women had a bad feeling regarding the Dark Council's intentions with the Earthlings as Lord Krovos exited the chamber. The Pureblood was apart of Forward Command and the fleet was always on the forefront against the forces of the Republic but seeing the executive officer of the battlegroup in person was a rare occurrence.
"You know where they're heading?"
"Unfortunately even I don't know." Her friend sighed."The Council isn't taking any chances and I was only told that Admiral Ranken and Lord Krovos have their orders to cause a blow to Republic morale."
Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn- Fireteam Bravo, First Squad, Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:00/11:00 AM
The former mobster from Philly grinned in satisfaction as he killed another expendable grunt of the Empire. The remaining Americans of C Company had linked up with Republic reinforcements fresh from Coruscant, the 398th Counterassault Regiment, a unit literally born for plugging in gaps along defense lines such as the ones at Kuat.
The Specialist noticed an Imperial sniper behind one of their fancy portable shields, making hits slim yet not impossible as the Republic soldier standing beside the Philadelphian proved.
"Not bad shooting, Tex."
"Sorry, what?" A Zabrak look at him quizzingly, confused at the colloquialism.
"Earth expression." Anthony clarified before yelling. "Take cover!"
The rocket smashed into the barricade, the impact causing some of the troops to fly in the air.
"The Imps are getting desperate if they're using launchers!" Another Pub shouted before muttering vulgarity.
"Oh, yeah?" Wilburn snarked as he picked up an M79. "Just wait and see the 'bloop tube' in action."
The Specialist waited for the right moment to lob a 40mm grenade from the oversized shotgun at the incoming Imps before seeing a better target. "Watch and see this fucker go down." Wilburn smirked as he fired the grenade launcher, yet the incoming round maneuvered to a different location as if he noticed he was being targeted. "What the hell?"
"Rrrraghhh!" The alien 'Sith' roared, continuing to sprint directly at the main defensive line.
"Fire at the kriffing Stereb!" Colonel Solies barked at the joint unit, realizing the significance of the current threat.
The Americans presumed that the tall, reddish-orange and muscular creature was their designated target and opened up, focusing their fire at the extraterrestrial being.
Major Jessie Lane- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:00/11:00 AM
"Damn." Enilly noted as she saw the carnage of the Kiwi defenders lying on the ground with various lightsaber slashes, quite a few with horrified gazes in their eyes, especially the pair of decapitated heads. It took no expert to see what transpired. "The Sith didn't take any mercy on these Earthlings."
"Kiwis or New Zealanders to be precise." Marala sighed as she glanced at the patches. "We're probably dealing with either a Darth or a highly experienced Sith Warrior, the latter most likely."
"I agree." Major Jessie acknowledged. "This isn't some mere apprentice a year or two away from Korriban, we're facing some animal who thrills in the concept of killing, disregarding the value of life."
"In other words, keep our eyes peeled?" The Alderaanian inquired.
"Exactly and I fear our allies may be too arrogant to realize the peril they're in." Her Cathar comrade noted.
"I think you're right Jorgo. Let's double time it."
Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn- Fireteam Bravo, First Squad, Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:49/12:49 AM
Wilburn was on his back crawling, attempting to aim his M1912 at the approaching fiend, and Anthony had a feeling that this brute saved him for last as the rest of the company-not to mention the detachment of the 398th- were wiped out to a man by this lone individual.
"It appears that your lack of a connection with the Force didn't save you today." The alien grinned, slobber coming out of its mouth.
"You really need Crest." The former mobster fired back as he forced himself to unleash the trigger. "Your breath really smells terrible and it wretches of a dead skunk-rotten egg cocktail." The shotgun fired its standard load of buckshot yet the pellets bounced off the heavily armored breastplate, barely scratching the surface of the chest protection.
"Foolish, yet noble." The wizard complimented."Be grateful then that your death will be quicker than what I had originally intended."
Major Jessie Lane- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:09/1:09 AM
"Ah, Firefek!" Jessie cursed as she and her detachment gazed at the carnage. The sight of so many corpses scattered reminded the SpecForce troopers the critical threat aboard the station. "Admiral? Do you have holo footage of what occurred at Besh Two-Seven?"
"Give me a sec, Chaos! Imps are breaching our perimeter again for the fourth time today! Our allies and their bodyguards are holding them off yet-"
"Kriff! They even struck the command center!"
"Focus, Kovo." Jessie reprimands, attempting to bring the focus on the current situation.
"On the contrary, I would listen to her fear." The recognizable Imperial accent declared. "It may do you some good." Chaos noticed the detachment of infantry escorting a high ranking individual, his distinct robes and armor distinguishing him as an experienced Sith Warrior, "What do you want, Sith?"
"A challenge." The Sereb stated simply as he ignited his lightsaber. "Your… Canadian allies are going to be preoccupied at the moment, little good it would do for you."
"Keep talking." Jorgo spat, bringing her G-56 Projection-X Carbine to bear. "I'm getting awfully tired of listening to your witticisms."
"Permission to engage, my Lord?" The officer inquired but the palm of the Sith concluded the inquiry.
"Surround but don't open fire. I want to have some fun." The Sereb directed. "Anyone who crashes our party or if the SpecForce attempt to escape, kill them."
"Understood, my Lord." The Lieutenant acknowledged. "Men, fan out and secure the perimeter!"
The twenty grunts obeyed the command and spread out to cordon off the impronto arena from any Republic response, intending to allow their superior space to have his 'fun.'
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:09/1:09 AM
"Secure the hall, lads!" Fleming directed. "We're going to reinforce Monty and his boys!"
"Yes, sir." The Para acknowledged eagerly, aiming his Sterling down the hall.
Jack watched approvingly as his men secured the area, utilizing the advantage of cover from the walls and forcing the unexpected Imperials to shoot back. Old fashioned CQB techniques squared off against the latest in shield barriers in a struggle of dominance.
"Blast them!" An Imp shouted. The officer, however, received a 40mm HE round in defiance, taking him and two goons down, one of whom became an inadvertent example of carnage caused by primitive slug rounds.
"My leg!" The Private howled. "My leg!"
The squad of Paras fired a burst from their submachine guns, the 9mm volley raining a hell storm of molten lead toward the congested Imperial ranks that were focused on assaulting the HQ, the targets being inadvertent fish in barrels. A machine gun section added to the carnage with their L7s, the three 7.62 caliber support weapons withering down the column.
"Keep up the fire, lads!" Fleming encouraged, his sword ready to add to the slaughter if the need arose. "For Queen and Country!"
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
Temporary Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:20/1:20 AM
"What the blazes!?" Bernard was taken aback by the sudden gunfire ringing outside and noticed the Imps finally deciding to fall back as their comrades were massacred right before their eyes. "Jack?"
"Sir, one Madman as requested!" Churchill laughed as the lunatic hacked the enemy officer in front of him in two with his Claymore. "Seems like he forgot his sword."
"He's undeniably insane, isn't he?" Bey'wan inquired the two Earthlings standing beside the Bothan.
"Unfortunately." Spruance sighed. "He tried to convince me to partake in fencing lessons the other day. Said it would do me some good as a 'proper officer'."
The remaining Anglo-American-Republic naval personnel and soldiers of the United States Army, Australian Army, and New Zealand Army plus an infantry section detached from the Scots Guards linked up with the British Paratroopers and kept their bayonets trained on the surviving Imperials, including the wounded.
"I surrender!" One of the goosesteppers whined in fear. "I surrender!"
"Well I'll be damned, we have ourselves Paras in our midst." A Bootneck snarled, glaring at the soldier with the trademark red beret standing beside him.
"That's enough, Marine. Interservice rivalries can wait." Montgomery snapped. "Aygo? Think we should move the HQ to a temporary location?"
"Well, I did always desire to have a proper office." The Bothan grinned. "Private Tork? How long does it take to erase sensitive data in the room?"
"Umm, about five minutes, sir."
Spruance scoffed as he overheard the ranker. "Sailors as Privates, who would've thought of such nonsense?"
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson - Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:20/1:20 PM
"Is it just me or is it too quiet?" Alex wondered as he handed Hanzo another belt for the MG from the crate. The gunners took advantage of the lull in the fighting to replenish their stocks and adjust their defenses as needed, well aware that their survival during this onslaught depended on it.
"I agree, something's up." The Master Corporal nodded in agreement. "The Imps wouldn't be brewing tea while we dig in." As if on cue, the door to the hanger bay began to bulge as if a battering ram was being utilized. Soon enough, three Sith charged head on at the main defensive line, intending to cut down the interlopers.
"Ah fuck!" Edwards yelled before the Canadians, Mercenaries, and Republic Troopers focused fire onto the Imperials as they came pouring in, heading directly at the defenders.
"SHOW NO MERCY TO THE EARTHLINGS!" The head Sith warrior roared. "REMEMBER KORRIBAN!"
Hanzo watched as Private Willis at the other balcony operated the bolt to his L42A1 Sniper Rifle from his perch, aiming at the bastard who gave the command. He managed to graze the Twi'lek before the Sith launched lightning from his fingertips near the marksman position, causing the munition stockpile behind him to explode and Willis to fall to his death.
"Shit, the Imperials are waving the black flag!" Alex realized. "They're definitely upset about their holy world."
"Hue." Hanzo muttered. "Khe Sahn. Even motherfucking My Lai. These Sons of Bitches desire to become the NVA." Though again, he wagered some blame can be shared on the Soviets for this hate but that's war for you.
"Yeah, they're pissed alright but they know we mean business." McAllen grinned before his friend fired the M1919A4's next burst.
The Imperials divided their forces into three columns, droids at the forefront followed by more Sith then the grunts to deal with the survivors but the allies were not allowing these pseudo-axis goosesteppers the courtesy, obliging them with defiance instead.
"Ah, Kriff, not those droids again!" One of the mercenaries, a Bothan, shouted fearfully. "That's it, I'm outta here!"
McHugh noticed the doglike creature getting ready to desert the defenders and the NCO withdrew his Browning Hi-Power before pulling the slide back. "Stay and fight or I'll kill you myself, you greedy son of a bitch."
"I don't have a choice, do I?"
"More like two actually." McHugh corrected. "Fall back in line."
"Yes, sir."
"DON'T CALL ME SIR!" The Sergeant corrected, roaring at the insult. " I FUCKING WORK FOR A LIVING!"
"TAKE COVER!" Lieutenant Swanson shouted as one of the Anillinator droids fired a rocket directly at their position, the blast scattering six of his men into the air, either killing them outright or causing broken limbs.
"Reinforcements coming in! Watch your soddin' fire!" An Aussie hollered. It was the voice of Lieutenant General Paul Cullen, Commander of the II ANZAC Corps. He was followed by a succession of infantry with the desire to settle the score.
"Say you blokes need a hand?"
"I think we have the situation here under control." Alex deadpanned.
"Duty First." The Tiger retorted as he aimed his L4 Bren and struck an enemy Major. "Ha! You're worse than the Japs! Even the damned Dingos are more aware of their surroundings, not to mention the fucking Emus!"
"Emu War?"
"Don't mock us, boyo." The Aussie grumbled. "It isn't my fault that everything in my homeland desires to kill humans. Even the damn Toads."
Lithgow manufactured L1A1s added to the firepower of Canadian Arsenals Limited produced C1s, gradually pushing the aggressors back and the servicemen of the Second ANZACs continued to retaliate against the random summary execution, seeking vengeance for their comrades.
"My best friend was killed by you Pig Shites!" A Queenslander growled before putting a bullet into the Imps brain.
"Major Burns? My lads will take care of the rest of the miscreants." Cullen pledged. "You are relieved."
"Alright, one in three will take one hour shifts to provide watch." Major Burns declared to the battalion. "We don't know when the Imps are going to strike again but prepare yourselves for a siege. Reinforcements will be arriving in the next few days but until then we're on our own."
"Sir?!" A Radio Operator interrupted."Chaos Squad is requesting reinforcements and we're the closest unit to respond."
"Sergeant McHugh? You and your squad proceed to offer assistance. I'll have the rest of Alpha act as a QRF but that's all we can spare."
"Understood, sir."
Jessie threw a thermal detonator right next to the line of grunts blocking her escape route, desperately trying to open a hole for them to escape as the Sith was proving to be a tenacious sleemo; avoiding withering blaster fire whenever the trio attempt to use their main weapons against the surprisingly agile Shereb, forcing them to use more unconventional means. A liberal dosage of explosives had proven somewhat more effective against their opponent although they were running low.
"Blast! You know when reinforcements supposed to get here?"
"They should have been here by now." Enilly guessed.
Hanzo came up behind one of the Space Nazis and covered his mouth before plunging his Ka-Bar into his Adam's apple, silencing the conscript for his eternal rest while his friend took out the other one. The Canadian Section noticed that the scene was more like an improvised gladiator arena with the goosesteppers watching the fight between their Sith overlord and the three SpecForce soldiers attempting to hold the Sith off with grenades and point-blank blaster fire.
"You know, it's rather pitiful that we catch their sentries off guard." Alex quipped after snapping his foes neck. "Almost like some sickening hockey match."
"With technology, comes arrogance." The Corporal sighed as he remembered the listening devices from the jungle. Even simple tin cans proved more effective than the Acoustic Seismic Intrusion Detectors. "Wouldn't be surprising if they thought their sensors would be an end all."
"Halt!" An enemy assault gunner ordered as he noticed the Canucks arriving on scene, preparing to use his blaster cannon before Corporal Nilsson rushed him and grabbed MG by the barrel, wrestling control of the weapon before throwing the implement to the ground and finish him off with a vicious kick to the face, literally breaking in his face.
"Dammit Hanzo." Alex cursed at his friend's rage, "You got some serious anger issues."
"I'm just venting, Alex." Besides, this wasn't him angry, this was him focused.
The commotion drew attention away from the brawl to the interlopers in the corridor, intending to break up the party. Lead and plasma fire was quickly exchanged as both sides dove to cover and attempted to flank the other.
Meanwhile, two of their compatriots, Private Campbell and Corporal Anderson were cut down by the Space Wizard before the Sith noticed that one of the soldiers was causing trouble with his men; dodging the grunt's punch before trapping his arm and breaking it with a sickening snap!
"Ah!" The Imperial cried in pain yet when his comrade attempted to shoot Nilsson, the Canadian used the poor soul as a meat shield. Hanzo threw the corpse before him and drew his pistol, striking the would be killer across the head before shooting his buddy. The Corporal threw the carcass down and aimed his Hi-Power at his next target, popping the foe in the cranium when another Imperial came at Hanzo from behind. The soldier, however, delivered a blow to the groin with a well placed kick before spinning round and peppering the assailant with 9mm projectiles to his centermass, four rounds striking near his heart.
The Sith smiled appreciatively as he noticed the fury from the hazel eyes of the fatuous human, a being not even a Womp Rat would steal foodstuffs from yet this soldier was giving it his all. Needless to say, this forceless being drew his curiosity. 'This one knows how to fight, interesting.'
Nilsson turned and suddenly found the Sith staring him down, a smirk on his face. "What makes you believe that you could take me on, Earthling?"
"Let's just say I've seen shit. You ain't nothing compared to them." Nilsson spat, using the distraction to his advantage as he pulled the pin to the flashbang and threw it, the device landing next to the Sith's right boot.
The Sith was stunned momentarily by the concussive force of the blast but recovered quickly by channeling the Darkside. Yet after regaining his sight, the blight was gone. "Coward!"
Hanzo maneuvered around the Sith Overlord, intending to strike the being out with his rifle but quickly realized that going for the breastplate with potshots wasn't going to take him down as the rounds ricochet off the armor, causing more harm than good as the bullets whizzed by. "Your armor definitely can take a few hits." Nilsson commented, studying for any weaknesses. "Unlike the flak jackets."
"Took some significant credits to get beskar off the black market." The alien informed him, although he didn't noticed McHugh getting onto his back but a quick use of his lightsaber and a Force-enhanced throw did wonders when it comes to pests, throwing him at the Earthling's feet.
Hanzo was stunned by the sudden death of his squad leader. The Vancouverite witnessed as his squad leader took his final breath, muttering his final words to him.
"Finish the fucker." McHugh wheezed, granting his last order before his eyes close forever, comatose from the fatal wound.
"Care to join your friend?" the Sith sneered putting aside his saber, and spreading his arms wide, "I'll even make it a fair fight."
"Big mistake dumbass." The Corporal snarled in anger as he tackled into the creature. Hanzo delivered a chop while his opponent matched his blows with blocks before sending him back with a push kick. The Corporal righted himself and took up a Zenkutsu Dachi stance, intending to hold his ground and kill the son of a bitch regardless of the cost.
"Interesting martial art." The fiend complimented with sarcasm before attempting to deliver a strike of his own. Surprisingly, the Earthling parried the blow with ease and met him with a swift riposte, his nose suddenly exploding with pain.
"Karate." Nilsson spat before striking again, this time at the neck with a knife hand yet the Sith did a backflip and struck the Canadian in the chest with legs, the blow knocked the soldier off his feet and slammed into the ground. 'Right, Force abilities with martial arts.' He'll need to watch himself here.
"Teräs Käsi." The Dark Sider informed him 'kindly' while Hanzo kip up back to his feet. The Sith, surprisingly, calmly resisted the blows from the enraged individual. "Something is telling me that you're going to be so much fun, welp." The alien chuckled as his hands met the Earthling's punch. "Otherwise I would have killed you by now."
Hanzo didn't bother giving a reply, conducting a roundhouse kick but his opponent twisted himself out of the way and grasped the soldier's wrist. Before he could break it, Hanzo struck him with his leg, smacking right into the back of his head that forced him to let go of his leg. He landed on the ground with a roll back up to his feet, the Sith was now pissed off.
"I'll kill you for that!"
Hanzo ignored the rant and used the distraction to his advantage, pushing his opponent back into the corner and that was when hell broke use. The Canadian leapt out of the way as lightning came out of the cornered being's fingertips, intending to reduce him to a fine crisp. Hanzo didn't make it easy for, rolling and dodging as the Sith chased him with electricity.
"I suppose you ruined the fun." The Sith mocked as he lunged forward to meet his rival. "What a pity. What an absolute pity as I would have choked you if I could."
"And I pity your intelligence." The Corporal scorned before grasping the extraterrestrial's forearm and delivered an uppercut and the beast returned the favor with a blow against his chest, and Hanzo felt some of his bones cracking. 'Gah!' He groaned in pain.
The Sith, enraged at the mockery, reached for his saber. Before he could ignite it, a stray bullet struck the hilt and blew it clear out of his hand, the weapon's internal circuitry exposed and made useless. "It seems as if fate wishes us to continue as sparring partners." He was however enraged at the damage done to his lightsaber.
"Perhaps." Nilsson concurred, wincing slightly from the pain but not willing to give in. "But I'm not quite finished with you yet."
"Neither am I, my pet." He snarled before meeting the Earthling head on once more, rage driving him to continue this personal death match.
The Sith met Hanzo full on again, directly his blows towards the human's jawline despite the counter parries. Teräs Käsi and Karate balanced each other in a death spiral, neither person backing down as they intended to finish their brawl once and for all.
Nilsson granted the alien a flying knee strike to the being's shin, causing the Sith to drop. Before Hanzo could deliver another to his head, the Sith grabbed him by his belt and took him with him. Soon, the engagement turned into a grapple, each opponent twisting, turning and ripping into the other to try and get a footing.
Hanzo finally managed to get so breathing room and drew his combat knife, stabbing him directly under the armpit. "Die, you son of a bitch!"
The Sith knew he was done, but he was going to take this vermin with him. With his left hand, he grabbed onto the Earthling's knifearm and pulled him in, allowing him to shove his ignited shoto directly into his stomach. "You first." The opponent spluttered as blood began to pool into his lungs.
Before the Sith could extract the weapon and cut him in two, Hanzo slammed his head into the alien's face; giving him just enough time to extract his blade and bury it into the Sith's eye. As the life finally left his enemy, Hanzo was suddenly aware that he was falling. He was out before he even hit the ground.
"Medic!" Jessie shouts. Marala's eyes widen in shock and fear took hold when she saw the state Hanzo was in.
"I could jerry-rig a stretcher." McAllen suggested, rummaging through his fieldpack. "Got a blanket, but I need two poles."
"Kovo? See if you can find while I stabilize him!"
The Specialist found some X-52 Wraith Infiltrator Sniper Rifles leaning against a nearby wall and retrieved them. "These might do."
"Ready Jorgo?" The Major asked the Cathar as they prepare to lift the improvised stretcher.
"Three...Two...One."
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Generator Room - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 02:00 / 2:00 PM
"You know, I never thought I would become a Partisan." Montgomery commented as he maneuvered around the hallway toward the generator room. "Very ungentlemanly."
"Neither did I. Being some Filipino guerilla haven't been the plan yet, we need to raise hell in order to prevent the Imperials from either capturing or destroying the Shipyard." Raymond clicked on his earpiece. "Aygo? We're near the central reactor."
"Acknowledged Midway." The Republic Admiral acknowledged from his temporary HQ, gazing at the Security Feed."Bringing you up on my scope now."
"My Lord!" One of the expendable goons saluted at the Sith. "We finished checking the corridors and not a single defender remains."
"I do believe it's best to sweep this room one more time, Sergeant. Earthlings and their equipment are not connected to the Force afterall and I'd rather know for sure."
"Fuck." Raymond muttered. "You still have that flashbang?"
"I do. Why Yank?"
"We're going to give them a headache."
"I like your plan already." Jack smiled, causing the Admiral and Monty to groan at the Madman. "My Commandos and I will be honoured to raise hell with you."
"Here son, you have a better arm than I do with regards to my age."
"Thanks, sir." The Welshman grinned at the honor of being handed the device from a highly decorated legend.
"GREN-!"
The blast deafened the Darth and the Imperial fireteam, causing them to cover their ears or place palm over their eyes in reaction to the deafening shockwaves.
"That's what I call an entrance!" Churchill laughs as he led the charge. "Focus fire on ugly there!"
"Aye, Sir." Petty Officer Second Class Morrison declared, aiming his M1928A1 Thompson with its one hundred round drum loaded to beat. The submachine guns from the Anglo-Americans peppered the Sith from multiple directions, not allowing it to have a chance.
"Room secured." Raymond declared.
"Copy Midway. Sending security droids to guard the reactor now."
Major Qryin- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 326 "Havoc Squad", Republic Special Forces Division, Republic Army
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 15:30/3:30 PM
"Major Qryin?"The Supreme Commander and founder of Havoc himself beckoned, debriefing the unit of their current assignment." You are to link up with Chaos and proceed to engage any high profile targets in sight. We cannot lose the Driveyards, especially now. I'm gathering reinforcements to overcome the siege but as of now you're on your own."
"Understood, sir." The Trandoshan hissed. "Fourex? You and Vik rendezvous with what's left of the 27th US. Dorne, report to 4077th MASH and see if you could lend a hand techwise. Jorgan, Yuun? You're with me."
"The Republic, with the assistance of our Earth allies, shall crush all Imperial resistance before our combined forces!" M1-4X praises. "We're going to terrify the evil overlords through sheer combined might!"
"Yeah, yeah. Four." Vik snarked. "Earthlings this and Earthlings that. Let's just take out their pathetic fleet already."
"Knock it off you two." Captain Jorgan, the Executive Officer, snapped. "There's enough Imps for us to blast away on arrival."
"Agreed." Dorne declared. "Sir, do you believe that as stated in Section 12, Paragraph 19 (a), that we should transfer all our medical supplies to the main ward for the siege's duration?"
"Might as well, Lieutenant." The Major relented. "Especially since stores will be running low."
Lieutenant Elara Dorne- SpecForce Squad 326 "Havoc Squad", Republic Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Heard you Earthlings might require some expertise on medical technology and alien biology."The medical expert of Havoc Squad announced herself to the personnel of the 4077th MASH. "Leftenant Dorne reporting, sir."
"You know Hawkeye, think she's some spy?" Trapper nudged his comrade's arm, grinning at the recognizable clipped accent.
"Sounds like the perfect partner for a certain Colonel." Pierce retorted.
"Nah." Blake retorted as he operated on a Corellian with second degree burns caused by an incendiary grenade. "She's too beautiful for espionage work. Besides, if she was some operative, would she be announcing 'shoot me'?"
"Why thank you, sir." The blonde blushed at the praise, though she'd heard that Earthlings still had traditional values when it comes to gender roles. Her experience when dealing with sexism was to ignore and carry on with her assigned task by conducting them more efficiently. "I assure you that I've been vetted by the SIS after my defection."
"Damn robot!" Burns cursed, the surgeon from Fort Wayne, Indiana was incompetence at its finest and the Colonel managed to have him supervise the hardware instead of being hands on. It appeared judgement didatated that he wouldn't have a future in the medical field.
"You know after all we went through, it's such a shame we couldn't bring Major Houlihan along for the ride."
Elara arched an eyebrow and grew curious, using it as an advantage to bond. "Friend of yours?"
"Margaret was the head nurse back in Korea." Mclntyre informed the SpecForce soldier. "She's stationed at Walter Reed now."
"Oh, I see." Elara knew that Earth regulations prohibited having their women on the front line, regarded as too dangerous yet if this Houlihan survived Korea, why should they stay within the Sol System for the duration of the conflict?
"Scalpel?"
"Here, sir." Benjamin handed the instrument to Henry.
The blonde grimaced as she witnessed the blade being used on the poor scout. "Are they-"
"Sterilized? Yes, Lieutenant." Blake informed the woman. "Now since you're here, we can finally ease the pressure off your medics and assist with operating on non-humans."
"Zabrak coming in!" A Sergeant announced as he and a Corporal brought the alien in a stretcher.
"Grab a mask and hair net out of the drawer, Dorne. Apron as well."
"I'm fine-"
"Do as you're told. This is a Field Hospital manned by the men of the United States Army Medical Corps and regulations dictates that surgeons and their assistants are to wear masks and hair nets while operating on patients!" The Colonel chastised. "If you have any complaints, please feel free to forward them to General Potter!"
Dorne sighed and placed the white cloths on her person yet kept her armor on.
"Zabraks are simple except they have two hearts." The former Imperial informed.
"Two hearts, huh? Not as freaky as those ETs with an upside down face with eyes at their chin. What are they called again?"
"Beats me, Hawkeye." Trapper shrugged.
"Careful now." Dorne advised as Blake utilized the scalpel to cut into the flesh. "You should see an artery a few centimeters to the left."
"Understood."
"You know, I do believe that we work well together." Elara smiles.
"We got another wounded!" Havoc Squad's medic overheard the unmistakable voice of Chaos CO bellow from the back.
"Major Lane?"
"Dorne, are there any spare beds?"
"Who's the patient?" Major Pierce wondered.
"Fellow Earthling." Lane informed him.
"Canadian." Marala added. "Princess Patricia's-"
"We got it from here." Blake acknowledged. "I'm familiar with the Canucks."
"He was stabilized en route but I'm surprised that the saber wound didn't pierce his rib cage." Dorne declared as she scanned the unconscious Earthling."Did he take on a Sith by himself?"
"Murderistic brute of one." Jessie acknowledges. "Surprised he came out on top."
"I guess you know him?"
"We met him and his friend at Carrick Station after the Assault on Tython."
"I see." The blonde recognized the worried gaze from the usual emotionless woman, wondering how close she was to him, though she wondered the same for the dark furred Cathar teammate as she had yet to leave the patient's side. "We'll get him taken care of although relief won't be arriving for a few days."
"Understood." Lane accepted. "Jorgo, I believe we best replenish our ammo before heading back to the front."
Well, it seems that we're having a round two regarding Kuat and some major insubordination going on amongst the Imperial ranks that's going to inadvertently scrap an attempt at negotiations.
However we're going to split this chapter up and as such I'll address everything regarding this siege (as in what occurs here and the next chapter) in part two, which will be published shortly.
But first, I would like to thank JSailer for taking his time to look over the chapters and to make sure that this siege here could progress smoothly on a reasonable timescale.
Oh and one more thing before I click the publicize button for the next chapter, I highly encourage you to look at the following stories :
'The Force Awakens Rewrite' co-written by JSailer (the story is under his profile FYI) and Squasher.
'The Time Displaced Sith' by OfficerDonNZ
And 'Strange Surroundings' by PaladinDelta.
They, along with Mandalore the Survivor and BraveSeeker3 all made this work a reality and I would like to reiterate that as at least a courtesy to check their stories out since they all took their time to assist in making E:AFD actuality. I can't thank you enough guys.
Anyway, as aforementioned, everything else will be addressed in part two and let's just share there are a few additional surprises other than just some of the characters from M*A*S*H.
As in one of them is a famous celebrity and bodybuilder who was formerly an Austrian tank gunner for two years before becoming an American citizen and another led Israel to victory in the Six Days War.
Okay, enough rambling and I hope you enjoy part two:)