Phantasy Star Horizon
ESKK: So here we are not the Battle of Geonosis yet but we're getting there. Now then let's begin.
(Start ARKs Council of Six)
The Council of Six gathered as Yaga and Klara were currently there via holograms as they discussed recent events. "The raid on the Hutts has been a success and the resulting power vacuum of the Criminal Underworld will result in a turf war giving all parties involved a shot window of opportunity to move in and dismantle their criminal activities." Xect reported as he sat on his seat.
"I've been working with Skywalker to beef up our imports and exports making sure no one tries to sneak on and off Halpha with our people." Noto reported as he looked to his fellows. "We should be able to prevent any further slavers for the foreseeable future, but I highly recommend we make semi-regular changes to our defensive codes to keep our enemies from adapting around it." Noto said making it clear Criminals will find a hole to exploit if they keep using the same method.
"Acknowledged and well on the way." Xect said as he figured as much on this.
"Good less slavers for us to worry about." Arthur said happy to hear that many happy families would be reunited. "Has therapy and counselling requirements been met?" Arthur asked and thus Klara nodded to this.
"Yeah, every victim is seeing a psychiatrist to get through their ordeal." Klara said as Arthur nodded to this. It was ARKs Ops protocol for regular visits to a shrink to make sure the Operatives remain mentally fit to serve ARKs Ops.
"Good and what of reports of our new City?" Arthur asked directing his attention to his fellow CAST, Morgan.
"Good news on that front, Arthur." Morgan said as she then brought up the data for the Council to see. "The Kvaris Region is well into its construction furthermore Kvaris City is already at 87% Completion." Morgan said as she had more to add on this front. "With the minerals provided to us from the Retem Region it has pushed us ahead of schedule." Morgan said as her original approximates had suggested a longer construction period.
"Good that is excellent news ARKs." Arthur said as this meant they had nearly all of Halpha plotted and explored as well as colonized.
"The Kvaris City Commander has also asked that we provide them with Security details as well. We do need to keep law and order after all." Noto added as he was already sending over some folks to handle that front for the region.
"Good and any progress on Central Cannon?" Arthur asked as they needed that weapon in the event a Dark Falz tries to attack Halpha directly.
"Central Cannon is fully operational with 100 successful simulations and give successful field tests." Morgan reported which was good now that Central Cannon was up and running, they'll be ready in case the Dark Falz Collective tries to attack their home.
"Now that's all well and good but we still have one bit of discussion to go over." Xect said and thus it was clear what he meant.
"I'm guessing you're a believer now?" Yaga asked as he smirked at Xect.
"I had my doubts I won't deny it." Xect began admitting that he may have been wrong about them. "But right now, the data all seems to be pointing in that direction." Xect said as he sat at the table making it clear he trusted what the data presented to him had said on the matter.
"We'll need to keep a close eye on them." Arthur said as he sat there. "At least for the time being." Arthur said as he sat there.
"I concur better to keep an eye on them to see where their career takes them." Xect said as he felt there was more to be discovered from these new variables. "Which reminds me the power vacuum in the Criminal Underworld from the looks of it the Black Suns may very well be the victors of it. I'm making moves to ensure that will not be the case." Xect said as he was oddly calm about this.
"Wait pardon me?" Morgan asked when she heard Xect say this.
"I've been placing agents inside each Criminal Organization to tear them down from the inside out." Xect said as he sat there. "It's a simple matter of sabotage and blaming the other groups for it." Xect went on as he sat there. "That way while they are tearing each other and themselves apart law and order can swoop in and deal with this criminal variable at the source." Xect said as he showed how ruthless he was in this.
"Xect as much as I hate to say it crime will just come back even with all this extra stuff you're doing." Yaga said as Xect sighed.
"I know hence why if it does rise back up it will not be in their best benefit." Xect said as Noto heard this.
"Xect that sounds almost like a tyrant." Noto said with concern as Xect glared at Noto for this.
"It's called pragmatism we need to make absolute sure the criminal factor never becomes as huge of a problem as it once was." Xect said making it clear he won't tolerate any of these, criminal sort.
"Let's try not to further argue." Arthur said trying to calm the situation between them. "Now onto other matters Kvaris City's Commander has there been any updates on that front?" Arthur asked as he looked to Morgan.
"Nothing of major value Kvaris City is still doing recon on the region and its resources but updates on that are forthcoming." Morgan said as she was worried about what was going on. After all the way Xect talked almost sounded like he was considering the use of Code Abyss at some point.
"Hopefully this version of Kvaris will not share the fate of its predecessor." Arthur said as it was clear he would rather see Kvaris go on to become a bustling city of commerce and peace. "Morgan Yaga any news on Skywalker?" Arthur asked as he looked over to the pair who were still on Coruscant.
"Last we heard he went on a mission with Ahsoka Tano and Obi-Wan Kenobi to investigate some missing medical facility." Yaga said as he leaned back and put his hands behind his head. "He should be back before any of us can say Sky boom." Yaga said as he seemed relaxed about this common mission.
"I see." Xect said as he then looked to the rest of his fellows. "And what of the Republic and our custody battle incident with the Jedi how was that news received?" Xect asked as he looked to Yaga and Klara on this matter.
"From the looks of it, not so good." Yaga said as he looked to Xect. "Apparently some people didn't like that we got our kid back but no one else could do it either." Yaga said as he sat with his arms crossed and head tilted to the side.
"So, the Republic has mixed reactions to us?" Morgan asked as she found that strange.
"It varies some of them are very welcoming and open but there are certain parties that feel that the Dark Falz are here because of us." Klara said as that was not exactly far from the truth from a certain perspective. "But this recent thing with the stolen children has pushed public opinion of us to the less favorable direction." Klara added and in turn the group had to really think on how to approach this.
"Do we honestly need their opinion of us to be favorable?" Noto asked as he found this information to be quiet annoying for the leaders.
"As much as I wish it otherwise yes, we need to portray ourselves in a favorable light." Arthur said but Xect begged to differ on that.
"Yes, but we must do it on our own terms." Xect said making it clear that he was not going to roll over for the Republic's every whim unless ARKs can benefit off it.
"Starting to sound like a politician and not a good one." Arthur said with concern for Xect but left this concerning mindset be for now.
"I believe we have discussed everything on our agenda." Arthur said and thus came time to adjourn this meeting.
"Seems that way." Morgan said and thus with a nod Arthur went back to his fellow Council Members.
"Then I hereby adjourn this meeting, until next time my friends." Arthur said and thus the images of Yaga and Klara vanished from sight. This of course left only Arthur, Morgan, Noto, and Xect in the meeting room.
"Arthur." Xect said after he gathered his belongings while Morgan and Noto took their leave.
"I know." Arthur said and thus the two began to take their leave as they had one more meeting to get to one that was to be made behind closed doors.
(Scene Break the Retem Region)
A blast was heard far into the Southern area of the Retem Region as something was going on over there. Just a bit past a construction area nearby was what looked to be some sort of testing ground for new equipment that was under development. The desert of the Retem Region had once more proven to be an ideal spot for ARK's R&D as the only place better was Lake Halpha. Alas no one wanted to mess with Lake Halpha and thus left it untouched for any other future developments. Plus, with Retem having some of the best ores in all of Halpha it made sense that they would do most of their equipment testing over here at least until Kvaris City was completed.
At the moment ARKs was testing out some new All Terrain Tactical Vehicles from tanks to Jeeps with varying mounted guns. They were also testing out some new AIS equipment to completely new AIS designs to better handle any ground battles. From the looks of things, it all seemed cutting edge but then it begged to question why one of the AIS was currently scattered in pieces around the area with smoke rising from the crater it was last seen in.
As teams were moving in to put out the fire a neon blue haired girl with goggles over her eyes a lab coat, and a body Suit with the ARKs logo on piece of armor saw the smoke. She removed her goggles to reveal vibrant green eyes as her pointed ears showed her to be a Newman, but her wild untamed hair showed she may not be entirely there.
"Huh guess I used a little too much on the power converters." She said as one of the members saw this.
"You call that a little?!" Rex asked as the captain saw what had just happened. Several Clone Troopers were in the area as well mostly from the 501st Clone Battalion with Anakin currently investigating the missing medical station. Hence many of the 501st were asked to help this Newman test out some new equipment she was developing for ARKs Ops and the Republic to use.
But Rex was not wrong since the AIS in question was as previously stated turned into a bomb thanks to said researchers tinkering with it.
"Oh, don't worry you'll always get the wrong answer before you get the right one." The girl waved him off as nearby were several other craters that were clear signs of her past failed attempts. "By the way where is my new booster project?" She asked after losing sight of it until another explosion went off a bit of ways behind her causing her to look at the source. "Oh, wait never mind there it is." She said as Rex was wide eyed at this.
"This woman is going to kill us all." Rex mumbled as he wondered how his battalion got stuck with this sort of mission.
"Oh, don't be a baby my experiments haven't killed anyone… at least not yet." She said causing Rex to grow deeply concerned.
"Yeah, emphasis on yet!" Fives called out fearing he was going to die by a horrifying accident with this woman.
"Meh minor details." The woman said waving off the Clones concern as Yuvel walked up to the scene with trepidation.
"How is she the top researcher of ARKs?" Rex asked trying to figure out how this mad woman hasn't been arrested or institutionalized yet.
"From what Zurna found out Dr. Rinko Mizuki is responsible for a lot of the major breakthroughs ARKs has had." Yuvel said as he looked to Rex. "A lot of what we have now is thanks to her efforts… but I don't disagree with the opinions involving her more questionable methods." Yuvel said as if to prove his point Rinko returned.
"By the way you did all sign that waver freeing me and ARKs of any legal issues involving possible accidents right?" Rinko asked as the pair gulped with fear over what she had just said.
"What did we do to deserve this?" Yuvel asked fear etched into his voice now.
"I don't know and that's why I wish General Skywalker was here." Rex responded and thus it was clear that they might as well be in hell with this madwoman.
"Come on guys new equipment for the war!" Rinko called to them and thus Yuvel and Rex had an idea.
"This is Yuvel. Oh, wait you need me where? Ok on my way!" Yuvel called out through a fake communication and then Photon dashed leaving Rex behind.
"Wait don't leave me here with her!" Rex called out but alas was left behind with the mad scientist woman who had a grin as light reflected off her goggles making her look sinister to anyone who saw. Rex could only whimper as he realized he had in fact signed that waver like everyone else this scientist had given it to had done.
(Later over in Retem City)
Varying people of ARKs were seen going about their daily lives without much on cares. They were seen conducting trade, going to and from work, and just generally going about their daily lives with ARKs. By the sounds of it they were not even that concern about the semi-regular explosions in the distance being somewhat aware of the equipment testing that goes on down south.
The Retem Region had quickly became known for the minerals it provides to Halpha and all of ARKs. But Retem City itself was quickly known for its art and culture. After all Kuna had made Retem her home which further helped make Retem the region of Art. In fact, from the looks of it people of Retem were getting a statue of some put up as the city itself was quite colorful.
Seen among the people was Reggie and Zurna as the earlier of the two was holding a bag of goods in his hands. They were on shore leave while Anakin and Ahsoka were off on their own mission but were not being idle about their acquired shore leave. With the Kvaris Region and City almost completed many ARKs Operatives and Defenders were moving over to Kvaris with several Citizens on the ships coming down to move into Kvaris. Zurna had wondered why anyone would want to move into an ice-cold frozen tundra but then again wondered why anyone wanted to move to the desert that made up Retem.
"So, be honest which is worse Dolls Units or Falspawn?" Reggie asked as he looked to Zurna.
"Hmm monsters that corrupt you even after killing them or monsters that just like to wreck all of your shit." Zurna said as she had to think that one over. "I'll go with the Falspawn at least with Dolls you don't have to worry about the Falspwans F-Factor." Zurna said as she looked to Reggie who nodded and passed her a piece of bread, he got from one of the shops.
"So, hear about the mining rigs they got set up in Retem and Aelio?" Reggie asked as he looked to Zurna who took a bite out of the bread.
"Yeah." Zurna nodded after swallowing her food first. "Apparently ARKs Ops are getting defenses made to better protect the rigs from Separatist and Falspawn attacks." Zurna said as they walked through the streets of Retem City. "We're talking turrets, AIS, and specialty tools." Zurna added as Reggie thought it over.
"Makes sense." Reggie agreed with a nod to Zurna. "But I also heard their getting a mining facility built in the Northern Retem region." Reggie said as he heard about that huge ass project.
"I heard about it too its why they're testing new equipment in the Southern Retem Region." Zurna said as she knew that the lady in charge of that was eccentric. "Yuvel is no doubt having an awesome time with the head researcher there." Zurna said as she heard how much a mad scientist that woman was and why everyone tried to actively avoid her.
"Must be torture for him." Reggie said as he did not envy Yuvel at all. Though knowing him he'd probably make up an excuse to get out of it somehow without appearing to be going AWOL to the higher ups. "But what about the Facility their building on Lilipa?" Reggie asked as Zurna did in fact have an answer there.
"It's almost completed believe it or not the Lilipians have been oddly helpful to us on that front in any way that they can." Zurna said which Reggie found to be good news for ARKs Ops.
"Well, that's good to hear." Reggie said as then something got him worried on that. "Wait since its on Lilipa and not Halpha what are the chances that we might expect an attack by the Dark Falz Collective on it." Reggie said as he was no fool. Lilipa had resources and minerals that were valuable to ARKs as much as the ones in the Retem Region were. It would not be outside the realm of possibility for that same facility to experience an attack by either the Dark Falz Collective or the Separatists Alliance.
"That's… actually a good point." Zurna said as she realized that was also a good reason to have this equipment made to defend such valuable targets from a possible enemy incursion. "With these valuable locations the construction and deployment of some of this equipment may play a pivotal role in defending those locations from enemy attack." Zurna said as she knew full well that they needed to have the best gear to use against their enemies.
"Well, nothing we can do now so let's go and meet up with Laura, knowing Yuvel he's probably hiding out with her since his favorite Togruta is on a mission." Reggie said as Zurna rolled her eyes to Reggie's words.
"Don't be a jerk just because he can get some Reggie." Zurna said causing Reggie to stumble a bit over that jab against the CAST. "After all envy is not a good color on you." She added and thus Reggie glared at the Deuman who won this round against him.
"Just you wait I'll get back at you for that somehow." Reggie said making it clear the quip war was not over with them yet.
"I'd like to see you try dickless." Zurna went on and thus started to run as Reggie began to chase after her. Of course, it was all in good fun between them as Zurna stayed a hairs length away from the CAST thanks to her smaller size against Reggie's size.
"If I'm green with envy see me red with rage!" Reggie called out as he chased after the Deuman while making sure to keep a firm grip on their purchases. Clearly even if he was annoyed with Zurna Reggie knew how to keep cool despite his friends' making jabs at him every now and again.
(Scene Break Retem City Command)
The Retem City Command Center that monitored all that was going on in Retem City and the entirety of the Retem Region itself. They kept a close watch on everything from basic city necessities like water and electricity to security and peace. At the moment it was as busy as ever as it also carried a certain quiet to it. Nothing much seemed to happen on Halpha baring the Dark Falz attack and the huge hole in Central Cities Wall. Overseeing it all was the Retem City Commander a human girl with tanned skin due to exposure to Retem's heat.
This Bouncer bore a striking resemblance to the Idle of the Stars Kuna as she oversaw the daily activity that occurred here day to day. She was dressed in an ARKs uniform designed with Retem's deserts in mind as it also worked with her Bouncer Class during any combat situation. Her hair was duel colored but straighter in comparison to that of Kuna with small face pain seen upon her. Her lower face was covered by the collar of her shirt as she also had a coat over her shoulders like a cape. The Coat in question was the Retem City Commander coat as it had her honors and rank on it as she mainly wore it to ensure her position in ARKs was known.
As she oversaw the daily activity, she was then signaled to one of the bridge techs when they noticed something. "Commander Nadia, I think we may have a problem." Came one of the Command Crew Members to his commanding Officer Commander Nadia.
"What is it?" Nadia asked with a calm tone as she approached the bridge tech. Nadia carried a calm demeaner when approaching as she wondered what this was about. Ever since the attack on Central City Retem had beefed up defenses to keep their enemies from catching them by surprise.
"Earlier today we had detected an F-Factor Signal within Sector B-9 of Western Retem." The Bridge Crew began as he looked to Nadia. "We sent a recon team to investigate, and this is what came back." The Bridge tech said and thus pulled up a transmission for Nadia.
"This is Recon Team 21 we are under heavy fire! Falspawn detected I repeat Falspawn detected?!" The ARKs Operative on the other side said and thus the communication was cut.
"Has the team been recovered?" Nadia asked as she looked to the techie with concern.
"Yes, they suffered casualties, but we managed to retrieve a good portion of them." The Techie said and thus Nadia knew what came next now. "Commander what do we do?" The techie asked and thus Nadia sighed knowing exactly what to do.
"Begin preparations for a Falspawn incursion activate the cities defenses and begin evacuation to the shelters." Nadia said as she looked to the Techie. "Have all able body ARKs Operatives and ARKs Defenders prepped for battle." Nadia said as she made it clear they had a fight coming to the doorstep of Retem.
"Yes Ma'am." The techie called out and was beginning to send out the emergency alert.
Nadia was not done with her order as she went to the next bit. "Contact the Central City's Commander in Aelio and the City Commander of Kvaris informing them to be on the lookout for any Falspawn incursions." Nadia said making it clear if her region was being hit then chances are the others might get hit as well.
"Understood." A female Techie said and thus began contacting the other cities and their commanders.
(Scene Break the Retem Region)
Alarms began to blare around Retem as Mags were all receiving the alert involving this recent development with the Falspawn. "Attention all ARKs Operatives we have Detected a large number of Falspawn within the vicinity of the Retem Region all ARKs prepare to mobilize!" The Announcement went out as everyone was scrambling to where they needed to be for the coming battle with the Falspawn.
As everyone was heading out even the Clone Troopers on the planet were mobilizing as they went to meet with Nadia. Many had made small wagers if Nadia was related to Kuna in some way since the two bore a striking resemblance to each other. Clone Troopers were being picked up via their gunships as they headed over to Retem City for the emergency alert. It was clear an attack was imminent, and all hands were moving to battle station.
(Later Retem City Command Center)
Nadia sat behind the desk as she faced her fellow ARKs Operatives while having two CAST on either side of her desk. Among the ARKs Operatives were the Clone Troopers of the 501st Clone Battalion. All of whom were waiting for the mission briefing to begin.
"Seems like this is everyone good." Nadia said and thus stood up to face the troops. "Now as you've already heard a Falspawn incursion is imminent." Nadia said as she looked to the group. "With this in mind we have a brief window of actions before they are at our doorstep and thus the emergency alert being sent out." Nadia said as the group all listened in for this.
Soon a map of the battlefield appeared before them as Nadia gestured for the group to pay close attention. "Now we believe they will be attacking from up North seeing as that was where they were sighted." Nadia spoke but she wasn't entirely certain. "But… despite Retem city only having the Northern Entrance I am not entirely certain this is where they plan to attack alone." Nadia said as she looked to the gathered group.
"Are you suggesting the Northern attack may be a diversionary tactic ma'am?" Rex asked as he knew Nadia was trying to consider all the variables.
"Perhaps but I am not entirely certain." Nadia said and thus she needed a bit of help for this aspect. "I may have to ask that we have flybys of the area around Retem City to ensure that it's secured from all directions." Nadia said but Yuvel had a question.
"But what if your right we can't just abandon one defensive line to help another." Yuvel said with his hand raised to be noted here.
"That is why I will employ the use of Rinko Mizuki's equipment for this mission." Nadia said causing everyone to go wide eyed in fear as the madwoman appeared from nearby. "Doctor if you would." Nadia said nodding to Rink giving her permission to start.
"I've been working on this for a while now, but I can now say I've created an instant deployable Catapult for ARKs use in launching us to designated areas." Nadia said showing the catapult platform in question. "I am about 75% certain it will not blow up and 65% certain it won't launch you into the stratosphere." Rinko said as the group all gulped a bit fearing that it would in fact do both of those things if they were not careful.
"The cities auto defenses should hold the line until you all can get to those areas, but they are not the end all be all for this defensive operation." Nadia said as she looked to the troop's she had available for this mission. "We will also be making use of the Retem Regions Photonic Tuner Field." Nadia said as she then showed highlights of certain areas in Retem City all of which showed images of tuning forks about.
"These pieces of equipment utilize Photons that are in the air itself and cause them to vibrate causing one of two reactions." Nadia said and thus showed a new image of a Falspawn and ARKs Operative. "For an ARKs Operative they provide a major boost in combat abilities making dealing with the Falspawn easier." Nadia said showing the data of a basic ARKs Operative being raised when the Photon Tuners were active.
"In the case of a Falspawn it weakens them slowing them down that combat is ill-advised for them." Nadia said showing a crawler Falspawn and saw its data lower showing it was being weakened in the combat simulation.
"But will it work?" Rex asked next as he was worried for his brothers.
"I'm not sure." Nadia admitted as she looked to the shocked faces of the Clone Troopers. "The truth is this is its first field deployment, so it is unknown on its effectiveness in battle." Nadia said being frank and honest with the troops before her. Needless to say, the Clones and even the ARKs Operatives on sight were worried over the concept of banking their hopes on a system that was only now receiving its first ever test in live combat. The Troopers were all worried scared some might argue as were the ARKs Operatives and somehow Nadia seemed to sense this from the soldiers.
"I will not ask you all to throw your lives away on a gamble such as this." Nadia said as she looked to the gathered troops. "If any of you have doubts and wish to back out, I will not fault any of you for it." Nadia went on and thus they all looked to each other knowing full well what the City Commander of Retem was asking of these souls.
In turn they all looked to each other wondering what to do at least until Yuvel stepped forward followed up by Laura, Reggie, and Zurna. Once Rex stepped forward one-by-one ARKs Operative and Clone Trooper stepped forward much to the pride of the City Commander for Retem City. Once everyone had made their choice Nadia made a small smile which was hidden behind the color of her outfit as she nodded to all of them.
"Thank you Retem City will be in all of your debts." Nadia said and thus she had one last order to give to them all. "Please this is not an order, but a request bring victory to Retem City and come back safely." Nadia said and thus they were ready.
"SIR YES SIR!" They called out and thus it was time to deploy for the mission to defend Retem City.
(Scene Break Retem Northern Entrance)
Nadia was seen walking forward as she knew what came next. Breathing in she steeled her resolve and thus let out a sigh. "Begin Retem Cities conversion to defense mode!" Nadia ordered and thus machines began to come to life as Retem City began to enter its defensive mode. Barriers came up while turrets rose from under the sand itself. The Catapults were set up to allow ARK's Operatives to instantly launch to assist other areas for the City Defenses.
It took a small bit but by the end of the conversion Retem City was now in defensive mode and thus was ready for the Falspawn. "And now we wait." Laura said as she had Clarissa ready to do battle.
"This is gonna be a smashing party." Lon said spinning his twin machine guns in his hand ready to fight the Falspawn and defend Retem City from the Falspawn attack.
"Here they come!" Fives called out from a vantage point as he saw them coming through his binoculars.
From the distance the group saw a massive dust cloud that was filled with Falspawn coming in from the ground. Flying above even more Falspawn were seen as they were all insect based in origin suggesting Apprentice was behind this attack.
"Zurna!" Yuvel called out and thus with a nod Zurna got ready to fight off the Falspawn currently coming their way.
Taking out her bow Zurna aimed the weapon skyward and had an arrow notched up charging with Photons to attack. Once she charged sufficient enough power, Zurna then let the arrow loose to the sky. It flew upward which at first confused the Clone Troopers as to why she would shoot it off to the sky like that. They were soon shown why she did it when all of a sudden, the battlefield where the Falspawn were seen was hit by a hail of Photonic Arrows cutting the enemy forces down by a large margin.
More so this also signaled for the turrets to start firing on the enemy forces and in turn signaling the start of the siege of Retem. ARKs and Clones all charged into the battle intent on stopping the Falspawn from trying to take Retem City.
Aiding from the rear the ranged fighters of ARKs and the Clone Troopers provided support for the ARKs Operatives. Yuvel lead the charge as he slashed his way through the Falspawn leading his team as Nadia lead the ground troops. Nadia was of course plowing through the enemy forces as she sent out powerful kicks with her jet boots as a Bouncer Class ARKs Operative.
The battle went on as everyone put in their fair share taking cover in whatever spot that they could find. Clearly the Falspawn were not going to give up as many saw that Apprentice was hovering over the battlefield leading all her insect like Falspawn.
The battle went on as the sound of laser fire went off as Photon based tanks were firing upon some of the larger Falspawn targets. The battle was filling the battlefield with destruction as ARKs and Clones fought off the Falspawn forces coming their way. Lon was seen firing his twin guns at the Falspawn easily weaving over and by them firing the pistols as he went. Nearby Zurna was slashing through her foes with her Katana opting to save her Cosmogenic Arms to fight Apprentice if she decided to join the battle against them.
During the battle Yuvel cleaved his way through his enemies making short work of them with his blade. Hacking and slashing his way through the enemy Yuvel was relentless against the Falspawn attacking Retem City. Rex was backing Yuvel up as the Clone Captain of the 501st Battalion was aiding ARKs alongside his many brothers. This may now have been what they trained for but like ARKs they will fight in defense of Retem City.
Nearby Reggie was flying through the battle alongside his fellow CAST Zion who had his glaive out. While Zion slashed his way through the Falspawn Reggie was shooting them as they came with his rifle. The battle went on as each ARK's Operative gave their best and were close to standing victorious over Apprentice's attack.
From nearby Laura was seen bringing down the thunder on the Falspawn as she was not planning on losing this fight. Following her up was Dominique who used a Dragon based creature to help fight against the mass of Falspawn. Zion provided support with his Talis as he proved himself to be a powerful ARKs Operative when using the Talis. Chiyo roared out as she fought her way through the Falspawn forces while aiding the Clone Troopers of the GAR.
After a brief time of shooting from afar with their weapons Lana and Yuna jumped into the fray as well as they were following Zurna into battle. Zurna switched over to her bow and jumped over several Falspawn before unleashing her arrows down upon them.
Nearby a trio of Clone Troopers were being overrun and no matter how much they fought more Falspawn kept appearing. When it seemed like they were as good as dead Yuvel jumped in and blocked their attacks protecting the troopers. Following it up was Yuna and Lana as they came in firing upon the Falspawn and giving Yuvel cover get the troopers out of there.
Apprentice saw the entire battle take place as she clicked her tongue in frustration over what was currently going on. She had hoped these ARKs and Republic fools would be easier to deal with, but she made the mistake of not covering her rear earlier. When those scouts found her, she knew she had to act fast less she ended up exposing Luther as their mole inside ARKs own yard.
Still getting her here undetected was truly a stroke of genius or luck on Luther's part. Still an attack directly on Retem City Apprentice wondered if Luther had some big strategy in store with Persona that neither were forthcoming on. Still as a Dark Falz Apprentice was not one to turn down a chance to cause some chaos and destruction. Still seeing as her forces were starting to lose a bit of ground Apprentice decided to up the ante here. Raising her arms up she summoned a Dark Ragna to help the smaller insect based Falspawn fighting on the ground.
Seeing a massive dust cloud coming their way Zurna charged in and slashed through it with her Katana clearing it up. The attack also caused damage to the Falspawn as it was at the edge of the Photon Arts range. Nadia saw this and knew that the time was upon them to finish this battle.
"Command is the Tuning Field ready?" Nadia asked to the communicator as they had to do some final adjustments to their ace in the hole.
"It's just about ready Commander." A bridge Techie reported to the commander through their communications.
"Then begin the activation now!" Nadia said and thus the Bridge Crew proceeded with the activation sequence of the field.
-Insert Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis OST: Song of War Against Fate-
In turn the Tuning Forks all began to activate as a song began to echo across the entire battlefield a very jazzy tune if one could add. This of course confused the Clone Troopers wondering why they were listening to a song in the middle of a battle especially since it could very well distract their forces. The ARKs Operatives in the battle on the other hand knew better for this song. Now while the song itself was catchy this was not the most shocking thing for the Clone Troopers in battle.
No, the most shocking thing came from Nadia as she calmly walked through the battle at large. She was calm collected as she walked on through the Falspawn with ease. The few that got to close to her the City Commander of Retem City, Nadia easily swatted them away with her powerful Photon Infused kicks. Eventually the City Commander made her way to a mass of rocks as the music was reaching a certain apex.
"Commander what are you doing?" Rex asked as he tried to make sense of why Nadia was just walking through the battlefield with music playing no less. Once the apex of the music was hit the strangest part began for the Clones.
-a battleground like a nightmare
the point where we all wish we could wake
innocent lives ten thousand strong with no hope, no light, no prayer-
When Nadia began to sing a Falzpawn was about to attack her and in turn a blast of Photons went outward covering the entire area with Nadia in the center of it. Every Falspawn that was hit by it were beginning to slow down as Photons were surrounding their bodies.
It left the Falspawn vulnerable as the Clones quickly took advantage of it as did the ARKs Operatives.
-ferocious beasts on the prowl
feast on terror and fear as they howl
"Give up, give in, your time is nigh," comes their growl-
"What the what is happening?" Echo asked as he saw the Tuning Forks in the area were blasting Photons with sound to accompany Nadia's singing whom many admitted she was pretty good.
"Look!" Fives called out as the Falspawn were slowing down as they were left wide open for attack.
"How is she doing this?" Rex asked as he was in shock over the Deus ex machina.
-stand with me, fight your destiny!
if the world that you love lies shattered in pieces
light your spirit, keep up the fight
as I hold your flame in my hand
till the bitter end
never say good night, never give in-
"It's simple!" Laura began as she shielded a group of Clones as the song was playing. "Nadia and her legacy carry within them a unique ability with Photons to create a unique Photon Field with her song." Laura went on as she fired off a wind-based attack following it up with a fire based one. "Kuna has a similar ability hence why she is on tour performing as she is." Laura said as it was clear that ARKs was filled with such unique people, technology, and powers.
-your fate lies in your hands
may blessings and light shine down on you forever, my friend
and may the fire in your eyes never die
stand up and fight on again-
Nearby a roar of pain was heard as Apprentice was holding her ears trying to block out the song. "What is this!?" Apprentice yelled as she was suffering for the Power of Song. Her shield was even dropping down in power as Apprentice was unable to properly focused her power on it. "It's rattling in my brain!" She yelled suffering the worst migraine in the history of the galaxy.
"Even the Dark Falz are affected by it." Chiyo said as she watched and smiled at the suffering Apprentice was enduring.
"This means we can send these bastards packing!" Reggie called out and in turn Yuvel nodded to this.
-oh fate, we who believe in friendship and family lead us on through hardship and strife
our love lives on through the years
precious tears will shine like stars in the night
eternally-
"ARKs move in!" Yuvel called out as a guitar solo began which blended to the sax and trumpets as well. Every ARKs Operative and Clone Trooper were doing their part now given a second wind against the now weakened Falspawn attacking Retem City.
Reggie hovered in using Quantum to do some major damages against the Falspawn. Meanwhile Zurna was seen switching her Braver Weapons out for Nanaki and began slashing and firing her way through her foes.
During the Solo Nadia even provided combat aid by using her Jet boots to kick the Falspawn about causing them even more harm. The solo was her chance to jump back in for a bit to ensure that the Falspawn don't have a moment to regain themselves from her unique ability.
-a thousand words left unspoken
we hold them till they return to the earth
wait for the time we dreamed of till it arrives, they lie unbroken-
Laura and Yuvel were double teaming against the Falspawn as they began to make their way to Apprentice. The Dark Falz was having great difficulties staying in control as with each passing moment she loses more of her control of her own powers. Seeing the two ARKs Operatives Apprentice fired shots at them causing the two to block the incoming attacks.
-though nights be dreadful and starless
keep your feet moving onward regardless
dreams are a flame to light your way in the darkness-
Rolling out of the way Yuvel glared at Apprentice with the promise of pain for the Dark Falz before him. Of course, he had help as Reggie and Zurna joined up with Yuvel followed by the other ARKs Operatives from the 501st. They charged into the battle once more as the Clones provided back up to the ARKs Operatives in defense of Retem City.
With so many valuable minerals here, it made sense to prioritize defending Retem City from the Falspawn and the Dark Falz. Still, this had to be the oddest sort of battle the Clone forces had ever been a part of here.
-stand with me, fight your destiny!
with a light in your sou burn on like a beacon
shine your spirit into the night
till it burns the darkness away
walking to the day
let it lead you away on to tomorrow-
-the pieces of your soul, so broken and bruised oh let go of your hold
to freedom they fly!
lift up your voice to the sky
burn it bright until the day that we die-
-oh joy, temper our fears
we feast in the face of oncoming tears
bring light to our lives
guide on the purest of hearts
'Neath these stars, which shine
so clear in the night
down endless roads-
When the Soprano Sax began Yuvel, Zurna, Laura, and Reggie glared down upon Apprentice as she saw her forces being slaughtered by her enemies. "My Falspawn!?" Apprentice growled as she held her head from the song currently drilling its way through.
"This is the end Apprentice!" Yuvel called out and in turn the four ARKs Operatives went for the frontal assault against [Apprentice] the Vernal. Laser fire and swords were swung as even techniques were utilized by the ARKs Operatives. Due to the Photonic Vibrations of the music Apprentice was unable to enter her battle form and was forced to rely on her own weapons to fight against the Operatives.
-the pieces of your soul
so broken and bruised, oh let go of your hope
to freedom they fly
lift up your voice to the sky
burn it bright until the day that we die-
Reggie fired off Quantum forcing Apprentice to block the attack as best she could but was shot back. Following it up was Laura who used a wind-based attack with Clarissa to keep Apprentice from fixing her trajectory. Zurna came in with Nanaki to slash through Apprentice a few times before jumping back and firing the weapon off on the enemy.
Apprentice was hit by each of those attack as she was being pushed to her limit once more against her enemies. She tried her best heaven knew she did, but her powers were weakened by the Photonic Field in play. But Apprentice was stubborn and refused to give in easily and thus went on to continue fighting back against ARKs. Thought now it seemed like it was a useless gesture as the ARKs Operatives before her were stripping her of her desired victory here.
Dark Falz [Apprentice] the Vernal was soon forced to the ground as she landed hard. But as she got back up, she gritted her teeth with a growl no doubt angry that she was losing. Looking up she was wide eyed as Yuvel came down on her with his sword raised ready to end the fight once and for all.
Yuvel came down from above as he roared out in challenge against Apprentice intent on ending this Siege on Retem. Apprentice was unable to stop Yuvel as soon his attack landed strong and true against her causing Apprentice to cry out in pain.
-oh joy, temper our fears
we feast in the face of oncoming tears
bring light to our lives
guide on the purest of hearts
'Neath these stars, which shine so clear in the night
down endless roads
Into the Day-
His strike done Yuvel turned around as Apprentice was stumbling away where he then swung his weapon to the side. When the same came to an end at last Apprentice then fell over and in turn Yuvel began to walk away from her with a calm look adorned upon his face.
Apprentice glared about as she forced her body to get back up and saw the immense losses she was suffering and knew she had to bail. "Dammit why did he make me do this?" Apprentice growled knowing exactly who planned this.
"You're coming with us, Apprentice." Laura said as she glared down upon the Dark Falz.
Apprentice growled to this until she looked up and saw a larger Falspawn moving in on them. "You think so little girl?" Apprentice taunted and in turn Laura went wide eyed and saw the Falspawn roaring and coming down on her.
Acting fast Laura fired a flame-based technique on the Falspawn only for Apprentice to flip away and open up a dark portal. "Maybe next time." Apprentice taunted her foes as she made her escape.
"Stop!" Yuvel roared only for Apprentice to escape again. "Dammit." He cursed realizing she got away from them again.
"We had her this time." Reggie cursed hoping to finally be rid of one of the Dark Falz Collective members currently plaguing the entire galaxy.
"Yuvel." Nadia spoke as she was calling them via the communications link. "The Falspawn are retreating you and your team are to return to Retem city to aid in rescue and recovery." Nadia ordered as she was a bit winded by ok judging from her voice alone.
"Understood." Yuvel responded and in turn with a nod to his team they began to make their way back to Retem for cleanup and recovery.
(Meanwhile with Nadia)
"Commander." Rex spoke as he got Nadia's attention. "That strategy you used was… unusual to say the least." Rex said as he looked to the Retem City Commander.
"It's mainly designed to face Falspawn and the Dark Falz." Nadia said as she looked to Rex. "Against Droids or other sentient, it would do nothing against them." Nadia said making it clear what her power did and how it affected others.
"You know this may very well continue the rumors of you being related to Kuna." Rex said as Nadia raised a brow to this.
"Pardon?" Nadia asked as she was confused as to why Rex would say that.
"I mean a good chunk of my brothers across the Grand Army of the Republic are making wagers whether you and Kuna are related to each other." Rex said feeling like he just stepped on a landmine there.
"Well of course we're related." Nadia said much to Rex surprise. "She's my sister after all." Nadia said and in turn Rex was shocked by this. "If you all wanted to know so badly you could have just asked." Nadia added and in turn Rex was surprised by this realizing that a few hundred Clones had just won the betting pool.
"I… see…" Rex said feeling a but foolish for that one.
"Anyway, I need to report to the Council of Six informing them what has happened here." Nadia said and with a salute the two parted ways from each other.
(Scene Break Council of Six)
Nadia was reporting to the Council as they all listened in to what was going on. "I see thank you." Xect said and in turn ended the communication link.
"How could Apprentice breach our defenses like that?" Morgan asked as she sat on her chair trying to make sense of how they had this breach in their security.
"I have one theory." Xect said and in turn gave the council a cold look. "There may be a plant within ARKs." Xect added and in turn it became clear that Xect would not suggest such a thing unless he was absolutely certain on the matter.
"You're kidding." Noto said as he felt this was bad news for all of ARKs.
"I wish I was but it's the only logical explanation as to how they got in undetected." Xect said and in turn it became clear that ARKs, has a problem.
"We can't afford to panic but we need to find this spy." Arthur said and thus Morgan had to ask.
"Ok how?!" Morgan snapped as she knew how counterintelligence tend to work out here.
"Only one way I can think of we find a pattern and flush them out." Xect said and thus Arthur looked to Xect with concern.
"I assume you have a plan of sorts?" Arthur asked worried Xect may do something questionable.
"Several for now we'll set out a few feelers see if the spy triggers them." Xect said as he had a few ideas on how to progress against this spy. Still the day was won and Retem was safe and now they can rest for tomorrow the battles will continue. But in the fires of war its hard to tell friend from foe or retain your own moral code.
(TBC)
ESKK: Well, here we are a new chapter took long enough I'd say. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy it and will join me for the next chapter as we enter the Zillo Beast ark. So, until next time folks leave a review before leaving and as I always say on this thing ja-ne.