Phantasy Star Horizon
ESKK: Well, everyone here we are a new chapter and the long-awaited rescue ops for the stolen ARKs citizens. I hope you all will enjoy it because this will be full on original work for this chapter.
(Start ARKs Ship)
Upon an ARKs ship in a meeting room Xect, Noto, and Anakin were seen with Ahsoka Tano, Commander Rex, and Yuvel's team. Among them were a few other ARKs Operatives and the occasional Clone Trooper as Noto began to speak. "Now then as you all may or may not be aware Halpha has been suffering from disappearances as of late." Noto began as he looked to the group. "We now have reliable intel that they had been caused by the Hutt Cartel Slavers for lack of better terms." Noto explained as everyone paid attention.
"Yes." Xect added as he stepped up. "This is a Rescue Ops a covert one that needs to have ZERO connection to the Republic on account that the Hutt's are letting the Republic use their routes." Xect said as he looked to the Troopers and Operatives.
"Wait if this has to be in no way connected to the Republic then how come?" Rex began but Xect cut him off.
"Because of this." Xect said as he then pulled up a Holo Diary. Opening it the meeting saw its contents and were shocked and impressed by its acquisition. "This is a holo diary of all the Hutt's Illicit activities they would not want made public knowledge." Xect said as he looked to the group. "A particular Hutt currently in Republic Custody has been forthcoming with it in exchange for a lighter sentence as well as protection once this is over." Xect said knowing that Ziro would be made a target once this information is made known.
"In turn we will be sending a small team in to do some prep work for the main event." Xect said and thus began to show data on the Hutt's facility. "Due to certain unforeseen circumstances the Hutt's have been unable to sell the abducted citizens as well as the need to 'train,' them." Xect said as Noto then spoke up.
"We need to both retrieve the missing citizens but also to send a message to the Hutt's and every slaver in the Galaxy ARK's is NOT their product." Noto said as he then took over as head of ARK's security and military. "Now then the Hutt's have on sight products here an insertion team will go in and prepare explosives as well as disable their ships." Xect said as he produced the images of the facility. "But for our part we need someone to go in and open the door for us." Noto said as Laura then raised her hand.
"Sir with all due respect how are we going to do that?" Laura asked and in turn Xect snapped his fingers in response.
"With this." Xect said and to the groups shock a man frozen in Carbonite was brought in as even Anakin was caught off guard. "A bounty was placed on this man's head, the Hutt's will no doubt let in any Bounty Hunter who brings him in." Xect said as Bounty Hunter equipment was brought in as well. "The Bounty Hunter is part of a pair so we need two to impersonate them so we can enter the location." Xect said as he looked to the group.
"So, once we bring down the draw bridge the insertion team can move in and start preparing the explosives." Noto said as he looked to the gathered ARK's troops. "With this data the Hutt's will no doubt be willing to pay a king's ransom for it, but we need to ensure they get the message not to take from us." Noto said as he looked around to the group.
"You plan to expose them regardless of what they decide to do, don't you?" Anakin asked as he raised a brow at Xect.
"Considering some of their actions had been done in both Republic and Separatist locations I would suspect both sides would be ensuring the Hutt's are punished for their crimes accordingly." Xect said calmly as with the amount of incriminating evidence he now possesses against the Hutt's once it's exposed the Hutt's will facing justice. "We already have teams moving in on their auxiliary and fallback products so once the Hutt's get through this, they won't be able to have much of a criminal empire or at least not like they were used to." Xect said as he was no doubt ensuring every eventuality was accounted for.
"Once the Citizens are secured the Hutt's criminal activity will be exposed and in turn Republic Forces will move in to raid the Hutt's." Noto said as that was why they had the Republic here. They were on standby to raid those slimy Hutt's for all that they were worth.
"So, in other words we're the clean-up crew?" Ahsoka asked with a raised brow not liking the idea of cleaning up after ARKs.
"Precisely." Xect responded not even bothering to try and sugarcoat it. "Now then you each have your assignments the initial infiltration team will move in and attempt to locate our missing citizens, following it up will be a pair of ARKs Operatives to make our demand of the Hutt's to release the ARKs citizens and the infiltration team should they be discovered, and finally ARKs itself will move in on them while I blackmail them with this Holo Diary and copies I've made of the information inside it." Xect explained dumbing down the information of the operation some. "Now then does anyone here have any questions?" Xect asked as he looked around for those who needed further explanations on the operation.
When he saw none Xect nodded to what he saw. "Good your assignments are being given out ARKs Ops Emergency Code: Rescue is now in effect." Xect announced and thus their MAG's responded by flashing the Emergency Code in their visions. With that all said and done everyone took their leave to begin the rescue operation. After all they had people to find and lives to save from the Hutt Cartel. For many this was a reminder of how similar the Galaxy was to their old lives with the trafficking of living beings as well as crime and signs of corruption. But they would not fail in their mission because as ARKs they're responsibility was to defend all living beings across the stars from such cruelties.
(Scene Break Hanger Yuvel's team)
Laura and Zurna were currently dressed in the Bounty Hunter gear as the frozen man was being loaded onto the Bounty Hunter's ship for transport. Laura and Zurna were part of the initial insertion team as they were ready to depart to the Hutt home world where the Hutt Cartel had its headquarters located.
"Hey." Yuvel was heard as the two girls looked and saw Yuvel and Ahsoka approaching them with Reggie in tow.
"Yuvel." Laura greeted as she looked to her fellow Operative.
"So ready to infiltrate a criminal cartel?" Yuvel asked trying to lighten the mood a bit.
"No." Zurna responded with a smirk and thus the group shared a small laugh with each other. "Look we need to keep the charade going for as long as we can so Xect, and his team can set up." Zurna said before smirking a bit. "Besides what can go wrong?" Zurna asked and thus Reggie groaned as Ahsoka sighed to this.
"Why did you have to say that?" Ahsoka said as she looked to Zurna. The Togruta had melded with the group well as they all but accepted her into their mix match grouping.
"Yeah, it's just begging the universe to make things go wrong." Reggie said as he looked to Zurna.
"Gotta side with them this time, Zurna." Laura admitted and thus the Deuman Braver Class sighed over her teammate's antics.
"Let's just hurry up and go." Zurna said as she wanted to be done with this mission as soon as they can.
Laura nodded before she headed to her spot. She then stopped to look at her hand and saw how it was giving off the same aura of the F-Factor. Thankfully, it wasn't too serious but if Laura didn't deal with it soon it was bound to spread and get worse. The problem with Laura was that being one of the few Cosmogenic Arm Bearers in ARKs she was too valuable to be on medical leave. She would solve this but quietly she rather not risk being forced to sit out of the fight because of her affliction.
Perhaps Laura was becoming prideful or maybe she was letting the power of Clarissa go to her head. But Laura was an ARKs Operative and it was her duty to fight the Falspawn and the Dark Falz Collective. Laura was certain Zurna would agree with her as well knowing she too carried a Cosmogenic Arm like Laura did. In turn Laura continued her preparations for the mission knowing full well what was needed.
(Scene Break Resolute Command Deck)
"I don't like it." Anakin suddenly said as Xect, and Noto were in the room with him. "I mean I don't like sitting back and letting you guys do the work for us." Anakin said as he looked to Xect.
"It could not be helped in this stage of the operation you would be a liability." Xect said bluntly which surprised Noto and Anakin.
"Xect Tact!" Noto scolded but Xect ignored him.
"It's true wasn't hard to figure out your past Anakin." Xect said as Anakin heard this. "When we had originally told you about the Slavers you were the first to jump in offering aid, but you were also displaying tendencies suggesting it was personal." Xect said as Anakin looked ready to lash out on Xect. "After conversing with Shmni she confirmed by suspicions hence why I asked you to aid Noto." Xect said as he had the data on ARKs defenses for anything that the Slavers could have slipped through onto the planet.
Noto jumped into calm Anakin down knowing Xect was being brutally honest. "Basically, we need your help in keeping these guys and any future slavers from doing this shit again, and what better way than from a former Slave." Noto said as he looked to Anakin.
"So, you want me to help you in a more advisory or consulting role?" Anakin said as he looked over the data Xect sent to him.
"Yes, Noto is chief of the Security Bureau as well as organizing or more military aspects of ARK's." Xect began as he was doing the final check for the mission. "Halpha's defenses also fall under his jurisdiction." Xect added as he continued to work. "You can start working on it until it's time for Republic Forces to move in on the Hutt's." Xect said as Anakin was angry that Xect felt he was liability still. But to stop future Slavers from taking any more of ARKs people was too good to ignore.
"Well for starters." Anakin began as he then pointed at one piece of the defenses. "Your security grid needs more guards to patrolling because Security grids can be hacked or bypassed." Anakin said as he and Noto began to talk shop.
Xect sighed and in turn went back to his work. On one of Xects private files he opened a file labeled 'Agamemnon Contingency,' with one of the files labeled as 'Chosen One,' and on it had images of Anakin on it. By the looks of it Xect mistrust of others didn't have a limit to what everyone had suspected. Xect knew the Jedi posed a severe threat to ARKs especially after the trouble he went through to delete the names of the Children born to ARKs from the Jedi's list of Force Sensitive Children. Xect's primary concern was the safety and stability of ARKs, and he was ruthless if it meant completing his goals. In fact, in spite of their misgivings Xect had Code Abyss ready in case any ARKs Operative of great repute becomes a threat to ARKs itself.
Arthur would no doubt say that Xect was being paranoid and Yaga would be on Xect's case about it. But Xect didn't take chances or gambles with lives and his actions show that. He never takes a risk unless he is absolutely sure that the rewards justify all those risks. Still Xect needed to keep a close eye on Anakin Skywalker because for all Xect knew Anakin was just one bad decision away from making himself an enemy to ARKs and to the Galactic Republic.
As he saw them working Xect closed the file after adding new information and saving. Closing it he made sure all the needed access locks were in place so to prevent anyone from finding them. Once they were locked, he encrypted the data and int urn focus on their task. They had a mission and lives to save and Xect would not rest until those citizens are brought home safely.
(Scene Break Laura and Zurna)
Laura and Zurna managed to land the ship on one of the landing strips of the Hutt Palace. When they disembarked, they saw the things looked as Zurna and Laura were dressed in full gear. "Wow this place is a swamp." Laura said as her voice came out synthesized by the helmet she was wearing.
"Quiet we're supposed to be ruthless Bounty Hunters." Zurna scolded her voice also modulated by the helmet she was wearing. As they disembarked the man in the Carbonite was hovered down the ramp with several others to present to the Hutt Council. But looking at the state of their home world Zurna could tell that the entire planet was one the Hutt's thrived in due to the process of evolution.
The two nodded to each other before heading towards the Hutt's palace for their mission. As they went to the Hutt's home, they were of course being monitored by ARKs via built in camera among other means Xect had provided.
(Later inside the Hutt's Castle)
It seems a party was happening as the Hutt Cartel was celebrating. Twi'lek servants were seen dancing around for the pleasure of their Hutt Masters. The entire Hutt Council was here as it seems they had reason to celebrate. For the past, several months they had been attacked by an unknown assailant hitting their criminal trades left and right. They started small hitting dealers before moving up to suppliers and even further up the chain.
Whoever had been doing this had clearly every intention of hurting the Hutt's forcing them to push back on their big auction to cover their losses. Those newly acquired slaves had been more trouble than they were worth and breaking them had at times been difficult on the Hutt's part. The Newman were a real profit unlike their Deuman counterparts. Human slaves can be acquired just about anywhere, and no one wanted the CAST as slaves when they had Droids.
The Newman and Deuman were new and unique never before seen by anyone in the Galaxy Republic, Separatist, or otherwise. It was why the Hutt's were seeking to cash in on this new slave product before someone else did so. Just then the doors opened and from it two Bounty Hunters walked in guiding slabs of beings in Carbonite into the meeting room. Celebrations came to a halt as the Hutt's looked to the new arrivals before them.
The Hutt's had heard of this pair of Bounty Hunters not big time like Bane but not common everyday hunters like Greedo. As the two entered the party stopped as the Hutt's looked to the new arrivals. "We have come for the bounties on these targets." The pair announced glaring at the Hutt Council before them.
Jabba the Hutt saw this and laughed a bit as his Droid walked forth. He then began to speak in Hutt before the Droid opted to translate for him. "The illustrious Jabba bids you welcome on behalf of the Hutt Council and will gladly pay you a reward of 25,000 Credits for each of the targets." The droid Translated as one of the Bounty Hunters grew angry over what was said.
"We were promised 50,000 for each target." The Second Hunter announced glaring at the Hutt.
Jabba began to speak again clearly not liking the backtalk but understood that the Bounty Hunters services as hired guns were being paid by the Hutt's. "The Glorious Jabba explains that certain situations with the Cartel have forced him to lower the Bounty by 50%." The Droid translated as The Bounty Hunters were not happy with this new revelation.
"You will pay the 50,000 or else no one gets the bounty." The First Bounty Hunter said and in turn the two moved an arm to reveal they had both been carrying Thermal Detonators that were armed.
The beings in the room all began to panic as the Hutt Council was even shocked by this. But not Jabba he admired the Bounty Hunters for their response at being skimped on the Bounty Targets promised amount. Jabba then began to speak as he was directing it to himself instead of the two Bounty Hunters before him. Jabba then spoke to the Droid who nodded before translating for the Hutt. "Jabba offers the sum of 35,000 Credits and first pick of a new product to compensate the rest of the bounties amount." The Droid offered and in turn the two Bounty Hunters looked to each other for a moment. With a small nod the two then deactivated the Detonators and thus it was clear the Bounty Hunters agreed to the generous offer.
(Scene Break later that Evening)
When Night fell the Bounty Hunters, who were in fact Laura and Zurna, were seen carefully moving through the dark halls of the Hutt Castle. Making sure to not alert any guards of their presence they kept close to the walls eyeing any corners for possible security cameras or motion sensors they were looking akin to spies. They continued their way until they got to the Slave Pens and saw the entrance way was blocked by a pair of guards.
The two looked to each other before Zurna summoned her bow before firing it upon the Guards. The two arrows hit their marks and in turn the guards were out. The pair then moved in and began to drag the guards away to hide the bodies from anyone who arrived. "Jesus these guys are heavy." Laura swore as she dragged hers away.
"Shut up." Zurna ordered as she struggled with her as well but less that Laura's own struggling.
Once the guards were dealt with the pair entered the pens and began to carefully move about. They began to silently set up small devices that began to dimly flash as it sent out a beacon for ARKs Ops to detect. Looking at the cages the pair of ARKs Operatives were horrified seeing several Newman and Deuman trapped inside like animals.
"This is horrible." Laura silently gasped as she saw the scene before her.
"I know." Zurna said as they began working on getting the beacons set as well as moving the ARKs Citizens to safety.
As Laura began to move to open some of the cages or prepare them to be opened a hand shot out of it and from it a scared Newman was seen. "Don't worry." Laura said while removing the helmet. "ARKs, is here to rescue you." She began but the Newman looked to Laura for a different reason.
"It's a trap!" The Newman warned and in turn lights flashed on and to their shock curtains opened to reveal Jabba and another Hutt were waiting for them.
"Shit." Zurna cursed realizing that the Hutt had played them.
"How did you know we'd be here?" Laura asked as she glared at the Hutt.
"That would be because of me." Apprentice was heard as she left from her hiding spot behind Jabba. "I warned him ARKs would come knocking and you did." Apprentice taunted as the Dark Falz was laughing at the ARKs Operatives.
In turn Jabba gave hiss guards orders and in response they went over and grabbed the two ARKs Operatives. They were then pulled the pair of ARKs Operatives towards Jabba as Apprentice stepped aside to give them some room. "I suggest you let us go worm boy before you bring all of ARKs down on you." Laura threatened as she glared at the Hutt.
"I'm sure they will!" Janna taunted as he then stuck his tongue out and licked the two captured ARKs Operatives. Nearby Apprentice laughed at the pair's misfortune no doubt she was going to enjoy what came next for the pair.
(Back at the Staging Area)
"They've been discovered." Xect said calmly as he had his eyes closed.
"What?!" Yuvel and Reggie cried out as they looked to Xect in shock.
"So, the mission was a failure." Anakin realized but Xect chuckled to this.
"No, I anticipated this." Xect said as he then looked to the screen. "They set the beacons as intended and the Hutt's had not discovered them." Xect said as he looked to the group. "Now for the next bit we have several squads on standby who will go in and eliminate all the Hutt's methods of escape." Xect said as he highlighted the designated areas. "Here, here, and here." Xect said pointing to the areas he highlighted.
"What about you captured Operatives?" Anakin asked as he gave a skeptical eye to Xect.
"I have two Operatives ready to move in on them." Xect answered as he continued to monitor the current mission.
Anakin was silent for a moment until he figured out who was being sent. "It's Yuvel and Reggie, isn't it?" Anakin asked as he looked to the Councilman.
"Yes." Xect said as he focused on organizing the troops that would be going down to get the slaves and give the Hutt's a difficult day.
Many had recommended that Yuvel receive another promotion with Anakin in agreement to it. But Xect was fickle and even more, so ARKs handled such promotions themselves. More so seeing as the ARKs Operatives were here as ARKs and not Republic Soldiers Anakin couldn't just promote Yuvel. Even then he already had Rex as Captain and Ahsoka as Commander of the 501st. He may need to speak with Rex and Ahsoka about sharing command with Yuvel.
"Maybe we should send a few troopers in and." Anakin began but was cut off by Xect.
"I shall repeat myself the Hutt's must NOT be made aware of ANY Republic involvement be it Clones or Jedi." Xect said showing just how sensitive this was.
"Anakin, I know you want to help but there is a time and place for everything this is just not one of those times." Noto urged knowing Anakin would no doubt sneak off if allowed.
Anakin sighed and with a growl sat back down knowing he had to wait. With this done Xect went back to the task and contacted their teams to be ready. After all they have pushed this sale back long enough. It was time for action and with it the hope to bring their people home. If they failed, then the Criminal Underworld of this Galaxy will have a new avenue for slaves and in turn Xect would have failed them and future generations of ARKs. Still better to have back up plans in the event things were to ever go south in the Galactic Stage.
"Hey, Skywalker you a fan of Kuna?" Noto asked as he had a holo-recording of her soundtrack to listen to.
"I mean I've heard a few of her songs sadly I never been to any of her performances." Anakin said as he tried to brush off any suspicion of where he stood on Kuna's fanbase.
"Mind if I put a few of her tunes on while we work?" Noto asked as he looked to Anakin.
"Knock yourself out." Anakin said and in turn Xect began to play Kuna's tracks. With the songs playing the duo got back to work on their current project of increasing Halpha's security against anymore slavers and their criminal allies.
(That Evening on Hutta)
Unknown to the Hutt's ARKs Operatives were setting up explosives and bombs in the Hutt's vaults where all their valuable were stored. They were not only ensuring the Hutt's would not be able to function but that they would also be left penniless by the end of it all. They needed to cover every base to ensure that the Hutt's could not and would not be able to function as a criminal organization after today.
(Scene Break Hutta the next day)
Yuvel and Reggie both wearing cloaks were seen approaching the Hutt Castle as no doubt the Sale was upon them. This was the make-or-break moment of this entire rescue operation because if they don't succeed tragedy was sure to follow. As they approached the gateway, they blended in with the other arrivals who came here for the big Slave Auction of the new ARKs slaves.
When they were seen going to the front door Yuvel and Reggie were stopped by the guards. Acting fast Reggie had a stun round loaded and shot the two filling them with electric photons that should keep them out of the way. As an added precaution the duo made sure the guards were out of sight and would be picked up later either by their allies or Republic Troopers during the arrests that were coming. Once this was done the duo continued on their way to meet with the Hutt.
(Meanwhile Spice Storage)
Unknown to anyone the guards stationed in this place were silenced and in turn ARKs Operatives wearing cloak tech were setting up explosives. Seeking to destroy their stash the ARKs Operatives were intent in ensuring that the Hutt's would be sinking after this day.
(Chamber of the Hutt Council)
Final preparations were made and soon buyers would be arriving to start bidding fort their new Newman and Deuman slaves. Jabba seemed to have tuned out everything and dozed off as on his throne with him was Laura and Zurna. Both ARKs Operatives were stripped of their gear that were replaced with armored bikini's that had sashes over their crotch area. The outfits left little to the imagination and judging by the collars and chain around their necks it was clear they were added to the stock of ARKs Slaves.
Just then the doors being slammed open woke Jabba and thus got Laura and Zurna's attention. From the door Yuvel and Reggie walked in as Yuvel made his way to the center of the room. "Greetings Hutt Council." Yuvel greeted as he entered the room.
Thankfully, their Mags had Huttesse as part of their translations and thus were able to translate for the ARKs Operatives. "It seems to be raining ARKs today." Gardula said but before the Droid could translate Yuvel cut it off.
"Yes, well kind of hard not to when suspicion is directed at you over missing people from Halpha." Yuvel said as he looked to the group. The Hutt's all glared at Yuvel and his accusation as Laura and Zurna both had a look that screamed 'GET US OUT OF THIS,' to their teammates. "I mean considering you have two ARKs Operatives I would suspect the rumor has some facts to it." Yuvel said as he pointed an accusing finger towards Jabba who had Zurna and Laura.
"I would be wary of what you say ARKs after all we are both allies to the Republic are we not?" Jabba asked as he looked to Yuvel wanting to see if he was fluent in their language.
"To the Republic, yes but to each other no." Yuvel said making it clear that just because they shared a mutual ally did not make them allies. "And those two ARKs Operatives you have chains on does not put any doubt to the accusation leveled against this Council." Yuvel said as he was being diplomatic about it.
"They had come seeking some sort of evidence to similar accusations, they broke Hutt law and now this is their punishment." Jabba said yanking the chains causing the two girls to glare at the Hutt for that hard yank.
"ARKs will handle justice with our system not yours. So, I suggest that you either return all the ARK's Citizens to us peacefully and profit off of it or see your entire organization crumble around you." Yuvel said making it clear it was either their way or the hyperspace lanes.
"You're, choice slug, but word of warning best not to mess with ARKs because then you bring in the entirety of ARKs on you." Reggie said pointing an accusing finger at Jabba just daring him to try and pull one over on the pair of Operatives.
"There will be NO bargain!" Jabba snapped as he glared at the pair of Operatives. "Leave now while I still feel merciful." Jabba said as the pair then saw the Hutt's goons were moving in to surround the ARKs pair.
"Is that your final choice?" Yuvel asked as he looked around glaring at Jabba.
"Oh, have you gone deft?" Jabba asked as he looked to Yuvel. "Or do you have some plan of escape?" Jabba asked as just then Apprentice was seen shocking the two.
"Huh they don't seem to be carrying transmitters and they seem to have come alone." Apprentice said as she looked to the pair before her.
"So that's how you caught them." Yuvel said as he glared at the Dark Falz. "I'm guessing your also using the abducted people as hostages to get Laura and Zurna to cooperate with you slugs." Yuvel said as he glared at the criminals around him. Yuvel saw his Mag show a timer to him as they simply needed to wait until the timer hit zero. "But she nor your hired goons will protect you, Hutt's." Yuvel said as he glared at the gathered Hutt leaders.
"Oh, yet you were the ones who came alone." A Hutt that Reggie swore looked like Marlon Brando with another that looked like Edward G. Robinson nearby. "How do you plan to harm us?" the Hutt's asked as the timer was almost up for them.
"Because everything that has happened these past two days had been part of a much larger scheme." Yuvel began as the timer was so close to Zero. "In fact, even your people capturing Laura and Zurna was a possibility in this entire scheme." Yuvel said as the Hutt's saw how Yuvel spoke with such confidence keeping his face from showing any signs of a bluff. "In fact, the plan is about to hit the fan in 3… 2… 1." Yuvel counted down and when he reached one the entire Palace shook causing everyone to stumble.
Just then doors were blasted open as from then ARKs Ops began to swarm into the room. Blaster fire began as tables were tipped over and used as cover. As this went on the Hutt's acted and began to make their escape all save for Jabba who was blindsided by his new slaves. Laura grabbed the chain and pulled herself towards Jabba before wrapping it around his neck. Following it up was Zurna who wrapped up his arms and thus restrained the Hutt by using a nailed down pillar to keep him from trying to choke her.
"Say it… Say uncle!" Laura yelled as she pulled on the chain glaring at Jabba.
With the other Hutt's they were about to exit the room only to find on the other side more ARKs Operatives standing in their way. "Ello mate." The leader said as he pointed a pair of twin guns at the Hutt Council.
The battle of course was not a long one but in response Apprentice acted and sent out Falspawn to counter. Seeing this the ARKs Operatives sprang into action once more as Laura and Zurna had Jabba at their mercy right now. Falspawn moved in as ARKs Operatives fought them off as well as the Hutt's men. The battle went on with ARKs clearly holding the upper hand mowing down their foes. Seeing a chance Apprentice slipped to the back and began to make her escape catching Yuvel and Reggie's attention.
"Stop!" Yuvel called out and in turn he and Reggie chased after Apprentice.
"Wait guys stop!" Laura called out but it was too late the two boys were gone.
(Meanwhile with Apprentice)
"Get control of the Hutt's she said, we need their resources she said." Apprentice snarled as she ran away trying to put distance before she teleported from this chaos. Just then laser fire went off and nearly grazed her causing Apprentice to look and see that Yuvel and Reggie were chasing the Dark Falz. "One thing after the other." Apprentice growled as she then stopped to face her pursuers.
"Stop where you are Dark Falz." Yuvel growled as he pointed his gunblade at Apprentice ready to open fire on the dark being.
"Oh, two on one doesn't that seem a bit unfair, boys?" Apprentice asked with a pouting sound. "Wouldn't you two rather help a lady like me?" she asked and in turn her eyes began to glow red. Acting fast Reggie and Yuvel fired at her forcing Apprentice to dodge the laser fire. Seeing this Yuvel charged in with his sword drawn and swung it at Apprentice.
Acting fast the Dark Falz drew a pair of twin daggers and blocked her foes attack. Acting fast they began a sword fight with each other as Reggie hovered by firing at Apprentice going for a two on one against her. The two sides parted ways as they glared at each other, but Apprentice had more to add against her foes.
"Is that anyway to treat the incarnation of beauty itself!?" Apprentice demanded as she was as vane as ever.
"Beauty that you stole!" Yuvel countered as Apprentice glared at Yuvel for that.
"It's hardly stolen if I'm using it better than its original owner." Apprentice countered as she did not seem bothered over Yuvel's accusations. "I mean look upon me, does my beauty not, draw your attention would you not rather aid a beautiful being such as myself?!" She asked as Reggie sweat dropped a bit.
"Jeez does she love hearing herself talk?" Reggie asked as he looked to Yuvel unaware Apprentice heard her.
"Well of course little CAST." Apprentice said which surprised Reggie there. "After all, only my voice is one worth hearing." Apprentice said as Yuvel was surprised by this.
"Wow she even admits it." Yuvel said and in turn Reggie nodded before firing on Apprentice forcing her to deflect her enemies' gunshots.
Apprentice ran to the side only for Reggie to throw a grenade out. Apprentice scoffed to this and with a well-placed kick sent it towards Yuvel. Yuvel saw this and in turn grabbed the explosive and returned it to send. Apprentice just landed on her feet when she was wide eyed over the oncoming explosive device.
Before the Dark Falz could react, the grenade went off and threw Apprentice across the space where she hit the wall nearest to her. Apprentice cried out in pain when she hit the wall before falling on the ground with her body covered in smoke obscuring her body some. Apprentice growled a bit as she got back up and in turn was wide eyed when she saw the state of her form. Apprentice outfit was ruined in certain placed but what was more concerning was that her flawless skin was marred with scratches and bruises from the Rangers Grenade.
Looking to a nearby reflective surface Apprentice was wide eyed in shock over her reflection. "NO!" Apprentice roared in fury as she saw her beauty was tarnished by this CAST.
"Oh, I'm sorry did that hurt? Looked like it did." Reggie taunted and would have smirked too if he had a mouth to smirk with.
"You worthless… piece of ARKs TRASH!" Apprentice roared and in turn her body began to give off power showing she was about to unleash herself. "NO ONE TARNISHES MY BEAUTY NO ONE!" Apprentice roared clearly enraged over what Reggie did.
"Dude, I think I may have pissed her off." Reggie said surprised with how Apprentice responded to what he did.
"No, you think!?" Yuvel snapped as he saw that Apprentice was changing into her battle form to face the pair. Soon the power died down and Dark Falz Apprentice was in her battle form hovering over the ground with two large insect like creatures standing at her beck and call. Her hands had two large blades on it similar to her twin daggers as her wings spread out for battle. "Well, no use crying about it now." Yuvel said as he took his sword out and was in a battle stance ready to face Apprentice.
"No kidding… think we can take her on?" Reggie asked as he had his cannon ready feeling it was needed.
"Only one way to find out." Yuvel said and with a nod Reggie opened fire on Dark Falz Apprentice the Vernal. In turn Yuvel charged in and went straight for Apprentice only for her to send out her two minions. Yuvel knew how tedious this fight was in both random field encounters and in story back when he played Phantasy Star Online 2. But this was real life and if he had such trouble soloing it on the highest difficulty there was no telling his tough this battle would be.
As her minions got close Yuvel slashed them away before jumping up and swinging his sword down on Apprentice. Seeing this the Dark Falz used her blades to block the attack before Yuvel jumped back and began swinging wildly at the Dark Falz in midair. Apprentice met the attacks head on as their blade clashed against each other creating sparks. The two backed off each other before Yuvel busted out his wire swords and began swinging them at Apprentice. But Apprentice managed to keep up with Yuvel and blocked the wire blades with ease.
During this Apprentice minions charged in and went after Yuvel. When Yuvel saw this, he swings the wire blades around himself to keep the minion away. "I hate bugs!" Yuvel called out and thus Reggie was heard from near the fight.
"Then let me play exterminator!" Reggie called out and in turn opened fire with his cannon hitting the minion with enough force to cause it to vanish from the fight. "Don't worry Yuvel I got the bugs you get the queen!" Reggie called out and with a nod Yuvel went after Apprentice again switching out weapons once more. Drawing his sword Yuvel roared out and went for the attack against Apprentice who block the attack. Once more the two began to trade blades trying to get the upper hand on each other in some form.
Clearly Yuvel had greatly improved during the Clone Wars with ARKs aiding the Republic in their battles against the Separatists. Still Yuvel was not one to underestimate his opponent as he always carried some Health Restoratives in his inventory as well as self-reviving items just in case of any emergencies the occurs like his allies running out of comparable items.
The battle carried out as Yuvel blocked the attacks Apprentice sent when he could as she was proving to be a difficult foe to beat. After all every time Reggie took down the grunts Apprentice took a moment to summon more leaving herself open to attack. Yuvel tried to take advantage of it, but Apprentice had means to defend herself when she summoned her replacement minions. That countermeasure was of course the Dark Falz who moved in to defend their queen.
Yuvel was in turn forced to fight off the creatures in order to attack Apprentice while she was currently vulnerable. Once her minions returned again Reggie once more opened fire on them but Apprentice in response sent forth slash waves against her opponents. Seeing this Yuvel was forced to dodge the attack as Reggie rolled out of the way in order to avoid the attack.
Apprentice went for the attack again as the ARKs Ops were trying to hold their ground against her. But Apprentice was a Dark Falz and unlike the game up will the Omega Arc she was at full power right now. It was clear that Laura had not siphoned enough power from Apprentice to really do the needed damage to cripple the Dark Falz like Matoi. Regardless the two ARKs Operatives held their ground but if anything, they were starting to annoy Apprentice.
Glaring at Reggie Apprentice opted to change targets to remove the CAST from the battle and leaving Yuvel to fight three opponents alone. "SUFFER CAST!" Apprentice called out and thus went after Reggie.
"Reggie, look out!" Yuvel yelled but Reggie was unable to act in time to move. Firing his cannon Reggie quickly rolled and drew his Gunblade and began to keep Apprentice away. But the weapon hardly did much to stop her as Apprentice began to swing wildly at the ARKs Operative. It was not long before Apprentice was able to disarm Reggie of his gunblade causing it to spin in the air and stab into the ground.
Yuvel saw this and moved in to help his friend only for the minions of Apprentice to get in his way. Yuvel was forced to fight them off and was in turn unable to aid Reggie. Once this was done and Yuvel was kept away Reggie quickly took out his rifle and unloaded the clip straight into Apprentice's face. Apprentice was forced to step back giving Reggie some room. Once this was done, Reggie began to hover backwards as he switched out and fired off his cannon at Apprentice.
Apprentice was hit by the cannon blasts for a bit before she began to block them and move in on Reggie intent on killing him. Reggie was of course forced into the defensive once more as he tried his hardest to keep Apprentice at bay. But alas it proved fruitless as Apprentice moved in on him blocking and deflecting his shots as she got closer. It was not long before Apprentice was right on top of Reggie and swung down on the CAST Ranger.
Reggie used his cannon to block Apprentice who with her attack managed to force Reggie onto his knees. Reggie in retaliation held his ground a much as he could as Apprentice began to swing down on Reggie wildly to end him. Reggie could feel his legs being pushed down as he struggle to hold his ground against Apprentice in this fight. For the CAST it felt like his legs would give any moment if he didn't do something to counter Apprentice.
Just then Reggie forced his legs upward with a roar but alas it was for not. Apprentice smirked and in turn managed to disarm Reggie of his cannon as it flew away and rolled across the ground. "Now DIE!" Apprentice yelled as she brought her weapon down for the last time against Reggie.
"REGGIE!" Yuvel cried out trying to reach out for his best friend.
Reggie in turn roared in defiance as he would not let himself die in tears. As Reggie roared the Photons reacted to this and thus the area was shielded in a blinding light obscuring vision. For a moment all was quiet as Reggie felt his mind was being pulled away.
(Scene Break Location Unknown Reggie)
Reggie came to and found himself in a strange location. Looking around he tried to figure out where he was until he found what seemed to be a familiar office building for the CAST. Walking over to the desk he recognized it as his old workstation in the empty office. Sitting down at the station Reggie turned on the computer and by instinct alone began typing on the keyboard. Entering the password, he didn't realize he still remembered Reggie access his old workstation and began to go through the files on the computer.
Much to his shock the files were clear of anything save for one File labeled as 'Quantum the Imperial,' which Reggie found a bit concerning. Opening the file, he activated some sort of program and in it saw it was some sort of chatroom used for help support around here.
Wolf: So even now you won't give up?
Reggie was surprised as the chat started and in turn began to type his response.
Reggie: Of course, I won't who, do you take me for?
Wolf: Depends… everyone takes you for a fool for your antics. Sometimes the label is very well deserved.
Reggie: I know what people think of me.
Wolf: Do you? Before now you've worked in this very office going about your day just excited to go home and play a game you are now living.
Reggie: Yeah so?
Wolf: So why even bother at this point, you only chose this path because you hated your life. You were stuck in a job under appreciated and treated with no respect. It was no wonder you took the chance to escape all of this.
Reggie: Yeah so, I won't deny it.
Wolf: If you won't deny such a thing that what brings you to this inner world.
Reggie: I don't know I just needed a place to think, and a battle wasn't a promising idea to think.
Wolf: Odd that your happy place seems to be the office you hated working in.
Reggie: Meh I'm a strange guy.
Wolf: So, something holding you back?
Reggie took a moment to think of his response but then smirked as he had it.
Reggie: No if something holds me back then I'll destroy it, if something wants to harm me or my friends or both I'll destroy it. But most of all if a Dark Falz stands in my way… I'll destroy it.
Wolf: Heh… you're going to need a bigger piece then what you're packing. Here… you can use mine.
When that was said a file was sent through labeled as Cosmogenic Arms. Seeing this Reggie opened it and in turn the entire screen flashed to life causing Reggie to shield himself from it with a yelp of shock. Just then a new voice was heard as Reggie heard it as clear as day.
"Take care of it, it's powerful but can really be a struggle to handle." The voice said as Reggie suspected it belonged to the guy who was in the chatroom.
(Back in the real world)
The flash of light began to die down as a beam of pure Photonic energy shot out at Apprentice sending the Dark Falz flying straight into a wall. When Apprentice hit the wall Reggie walked out with a new launcher. "Hello ladies and gentlemen making her long awaited debut!" Reggie began before pointing the new weapon at his opponent. "Meet Quantum the Imperial here for round 2!" Reggie called out as he now had in his possession a Cosmogenic Arm.
"Another one!?" Apprentice gasped as she saw the Cosmogenic Arm that was in Reggie's possession.
"The Cosmogenic Arm Quantum the Imperial." Yuvel gasped in shock as he saw the weapon.
"You… worthless PIECE OF ARKS TRASH!" Apprentice roared and in turn charged at Reggie.
Reggie in response smirked as he was ready to fire. "In the words of Scar Face, Say hello to my little friend!" Reggie called out and in turn fired off Quantum again with a larger beam which not only hit Apprentice but also sent her back and through several walls.
As the beam died down Apprentice got back up and glared at the CAST. She then saw him aim his Launcher at her again as Yuvel stood next to him shouldering his sword. Knowing she had to cut and run Apprentice reverted to her humanoid form while vanishing into a portal.
The pair saw Apprentice was gone and in turn Yuvel looked to Reggie. "Kickass canon bro." Yuvel praised as Reggie smirked to the given praise.
"Thanks, man." Reggie responded happy that they now had Quantum the Imperial on their side.
(Meanwhile back with the Hutt's)
The battle began to die down as the Hutt's were held at gun point while Zurna and Laura were freed of the chains. The doors soon opened and from it Xect walked in calmly with his hands behind his back.
"Hello, Hutt Council Xect of the Council of Six." Xect greeted out of a curtesy. "I believe you have something of ours." Xect spoke and in turn Jabba glared at the Newman before him.
"You have made a very big mistake today." Jabba began as he glared at Xect.
"No, you made a big mistake when you hired slavers to abduct citizens of Halpha." Xect said as he glared at the Hutt's.
"You cannot prove such an accusation." Gardula said as she glared at Xect.
"Perhaps… but I can prove the other crimes leveled against this council." Xect said and pulled out the Holo Diary and opened it to reveal to the Hutt's its contents.
"Where did you get that?" Jabba asked as this Diary was why they sent Bane to break Ziro out of Prison.
"I have my ways." Xect said calmly showing he had the cards. "And don't bother trying I've already made several copies all of which are to be sent to every major governmental power in the Galaxy." Xect said as he was calm about it. "One wrong move will see the end of the Hutt Cartel." Xect said and thus it was clear that Xect had the power here. "Now if you do not wish for this to get out… you will meet our demands… all of them." Xect said and in turn Jabba glared at Xect with pure contempt.
Neither of them backed down from this but when it was clear for the Hutt's to survive, they had to cooperate with ARKs for now. "Very well." Jabba responded and in turn Xect nodded.
"You five with me, the rest of you stay here." Xect said as he then looked to Jabba. "Now lead us to where the pens are." Xect said and in turn Jabba was pushed forward by a rifle from behind him.
(Scene Break ARKs Ships later that day)
Xect oversaw many ARKs slaves being taken into the ships grateful and happy to be free again. As they were being loaded up ARKs security personnel were ensuring that every missing person was accounted for. Xect made sure that if any of them were missing that the Hutt Cartel would suffer for every citizen of Halpha still missing.
Nearby the Hutt's were glaring at ARKs as they were surrounded by ARKs operatives ready to gun them down if the need should arrive. As the last slave was loaded up an ARKs Operative walked up to Xect with a report. "Sir here is the list of those accounted for and those not with them." The man said as Xect looked the list over. "It seems some of them chose to fight till the bitter end." The Operative said as Xect glared at the screen to show some of the abducted citizens did not survive.
"Then we're done here." Xect said and in turn everyone began to load up into the ships. Xect made sure everyone was heading in as he held a detonator in his hand. "By the way Honorable Hutt Council." Xect began as he glared at the Hutt's before activating the detonator. Just then the Hutt's were surprised when an explosion was heard and judging by the size and its location from the outside… that was where their treasures were stored. "Just a warning incase you EVER try to do this again." Xect said making sure the Hutt's were aware of what was happening. As Xect left the Hutt's saw him mindlessly drop something while walking away.
Soon the ARKs Operatives were loaded into their ships and had int urn departed from Hutta with no intentions of ever returning. Once the last ship broke the atmosphere Jabba growled and took out his own detonator.
Cursing something in Huttesse Jabba pulled the trigger only for several other explosions to go off in the Palace. Looking to it in shock the Hutt's realized Xect had played them once more.
Just then the item Xect left activated and in turn a hologram appeared on it. "Hello Hutt Council in case you are seeing this then make no mistake we already knew you'd try to do something." Xect began as he looked to the council. "We had searched our ships for the bombs you had placed and had taken them and rearmed them over around your palace." Xect spoke as Jabba realized what Xect had done to them. "More so… as I no doubt told you I would not send out the holo diaries copies as long as you cooperated… I lied." Xect said as he looked to the Hutt's who were wide eyed in horror.
"In fact, Republic forces should be arriving soon to arrest you all and put you all on trial for your crimes." Xect said and as if on cue Republic Dreadnaughts arrived much to the Hutt Cartel's horror. "This is the end of the Hutt's and if not you all suffered a severe crippling blow." Xect said before leaning forward in the message. "Let this be a warning to you and every criminal in the Galaxy… don't you EVER mess with ARKs again." Xect said and thus the message ended leaving the Hutt's at the mercy of Justice and the Republic.
(Scene Break Dark Falz Collective)
In the hidden council chamber Apprentice stumbled out as Persona was there waiting for her with Gemini and Elder. "Well, any news from the Hutt's that you have, Apprentice?" Persona asked as she glared at Apprentice.
"Yes, Persona you see about that… sorry." Apprentice apologized and thus Persona knew exactly what happened. Persona knew that Shiva was NOT going to like this when she learned of it.
For Persona she knew she was running out of time and chances. If she failed to killed Anakin before the promised time, then the Republic would fall. More so with each failure Shiva grows closer to sending out Dark Falz Vader to continue the work of the Collective. Right now, the Second Battle of Geonosis was upon them and if Persona failed to kill Anakin by then… Vader would arrive to this Galaxy. She would not allow this to happen Persona would NOT allow her husband to suffer anymore then he has. But for now, all they can do was wait and prepare for the coming battle. But the question remained, who will win in the end only time could tell them.
(TBC)
ESKK: Well, here you are Chapter 23. I hope you all enjoy it since I worked hard on it. Now then I need to go to work so until next time folks be sure to leave a review before leaving and as always folks ja-ne.