Phantasy Star Horizon
ESKK: Well, here we are Chapter 34 and the third part have the Battle of Halpha. So, let's get this chapter started.
(Start Coruscant Senator Apartments Padme)
Padme was entered the apartment after another day at the Senate. It seemed to drag on in her opinion as she hoped for a peaceful resolution to this war. With Halpha currently under siege she knew that Yaga and Klara would be at the front lines. Still, it was nice to return home and seeing as she had to keep an eye on Amelia Padme was happy for it.
"Amelia I'm home." Padme said sounding almost like a mother. "Amelia?" Padme asked when Amelia didn't charge out of her room or call out. Amelia tends to spend most of her time on the holo net learning everything she can. Being a living computer gave her the edge to learn things at an alarming rate.
"Threepio." Padme began as Threepio then came out.
"Mistress Padme I'm terribly sorry but I've lost sight of Amelia." Threepio said as he sounded panic.
"What?!" Padme asked shocked to hear this.
"Yes, she vanished last I had seen of her she was inside her room before pausing. Then she turned into energy and entered the Holo Net." Threepio said and thus Padme was worried.
"If she's not here…, where is she?!" Padme asked worried for the girl.
(Meanwhile with Amelia)
"Where is it, where did she put it?!" Amelia asked as she zoomed through the Holo Net passing by endless amounts of data bits. "Cryptic messages why go for that?!" Amelia complained as she was taking pot shots to find what she was looking for.
(Tattooin)
Amelia beamed out of a terminal on Tattooin surprising the people there revealing several unsavory folks. They then pointed blasters at her causing her to go wide eyed in panic. "Nope!" Amelia called and thus beamed back into the terminal before she could get filled with laser holes.
(Naboo)
Amelia beamed through and found herself in a grade school with the kids in naptime and the teacher also catching a few winks. "Sorry." Amelia whispered as she then beamed back into the terminal to avoid waking up the little ones.
(Holo Net)
"Kriff where the heck is that ship!?" Ameila cried out surging through the Holo Net before taking another random turn.
(Nar Shaddaa)
Amelia beamed out of a terminal and found herself in a room filled with scarcely clad females who all saw her. "Are you a new girl?" One of them asked as Amelia's face turned as red as a tomato.
"Uh." Amelia began only for a new voice to cut in.
"Ladies we're ready." Came a males voice and Amelia was met with the sight of extremely attractive men all oiled up and hitting Amelia where it hurts. "Hope you're ready for an evening of pleasure the likes very few had seen." The male said and thus Amelia did the only thing she could think of, she beamed back into the Terminal.
(Holo Net)
"I need to save that one for later." Amelia said as she zoomed through the Holo Net mapping it out while making a mental note to return to that port later.
(Scene Break Retem City Planet Halpha)
Retem City was under attack as judging from the sight of the City boarders they had been at it for some time now. Clone Troopers and ARKS Defenders were fighting off against the onslaught of DOLLS, Battle Droids, and Falspawn. Trenches were dug out in preparations for the coming battle and so far, they served the soldiers well in warding off the invaders.
As laser fires went on explosions could be heard as rockets were fired. Every so often the Falspawn and DOLLS would enter the trenches but thankfully ARKS were on the scene to fight them off. The battle was clearly a battle of attrition for the Republic and ARKS forces, but they had to hold the line.
Moving through the enemy forces was a familiar human as he fired off his gunblade at any enemy troops he could. As Mace Windu's second when it came to ARKS the Operative was leading his troops as best, he could. Zed continued to fight his way through the enemy intent on taking them out so they can secure the Retem Region.
Nearby Zinnia fired off a technique burning a Falspawn with it before switching to a wind attack to take out a DOLLS Unit. "Dammit they just keep coming." Zed said before a familiar lightsaber was seen and from it Mace Windu arrived. Cleaving his way through the enemies in the trenches Windu arrived before the ARKS Operatives as they have a brief opening to regroup.
"General we're getting slaughtered out here." Zed called out as they avoided another explosive blast.
"I agree, we need to fall back and regroup." Windu said agreeing with the ARKS Operative with him.
"Right." Zed said before activating his communicator. "All forces fallback and regroup now!" Zed called out and thus they all began to follow the order.
Just then a roar was heard and from it Garen was seen slamming his fist into a larger Falspawn with another fist to the equally large DOLLS. Mace had regularly noted that this ARKS operative was basically a ball of rage that was unleashed upon enemy forces like some wild animal. Still, he can be aimed so he supposed that was a benefit to this ARKS Operative. Still, it did not help that the way he acted could put their forces in danger if not handled correctly. Right now, they were being cornered and according to reports a Sandstorm was upon them.
The ground forces fired at the enemy or slashed at them while moving back to fall back and get to cover. All the while the enemy forces kept their assault on intent on taking Retem City and the region with it. A few tanks were destroyed on the defenders side while the ally forces tried to regroup for a new plan. Still, they needed time to breath and maybe that Sandstorm would provide that moment.
Just then the ground broke up before them and from it a massive DOLLS Unit surged out roaring at them. Firing off energy attacks from its mouth the creature attacked Retem City and any tanks and walkers it got to.
"Renus Retem!?" Zinnia cried out when she saw the DOLLS.
Renus Retem roared and burrowed its way through the ground taking walkers out from bellow showing that in the Retem Region it was the king. So, it came as no surprise how Renus Retem was in the battle in a region comprised mostly of desert.
"Fallback! Fallback!" Commander Bly called out as Renus Retem was forcing them all back behind the walls of Retem City. Renus Retem roared as he continued his assault on them unaware of the Sandstorm approaching.
(Meanwhile over with Dark Falz Apprentice)
Apprentice sat upon her throne at their chosen command outpost as she monitored the battle from it. Sitting there the eldritch being was doing up her nails as she seemed bored with how things progressed. "Lady Apprentice." A Tactical Droid said as it approached her. "A sandstorm has been detected I recommend we withdraw our forces." The Droid said knowing how the storm would affect their units on the field.
"And why would the Sandstorm bother me?" Apprentice asked with a skeptical look on her face.
"Our forces will be unable to properly coordinate due to communications being compromised." The Droid explained to the Dark Falz. "Furthermore, we will be unable to effectively track the battles progress until the Sandstorm clears." The Droid said and thus Apprentice was about to give the order to press the attack but stopped herself. After losing Geonosis and the Queen Apprentice had to make nice with the Separatist alliance. That meant not wasting their expensive Battle Droids on wasteful tactics against the enemy forces.
"Very well call off the attack… and prepare our secret weapons." Apprentice said and thus the Tactical nodded and went to carry out Apprentice's orders.
(Meanwhile back at the Battle)
As the ARKS Operatives and Republic Forces were forced behind the city walls the laser fire began to halt as Droids were falling back. At the same time DOLLS and Falspawn were also vanishing from the area while their forces were forced into the city.
"Did we win?" Reika asked wondering what was going on.
"Attention all forces a Sandstorm is approaching, I repeat sandstorm is approaching." An Operator of Command informed which meant that they had to find shelter.
"That's why, all units back into the city now!" Mace Windu said and thus everyone got moving to avoid being caught up in the sandstorm.
(Later Retem City's Command Center)
In the commander center of Retem City Mace Windu was speaking with the City Commander on their next attack plan. The sandstorm had given them a great deal of breathing room but when the storm ends, they will need to be ready for the attack. Noto was also there with them as a member of the Council of Six to help with the defense of Halpha against both the Separatists and the Dark Falz Collective.
In the center of the room was a table that showed a holographic image of the Retem Region with active battles going on. But with the Sandstorm the images had been changed for battle strategy. Around the table discussing a plan of attack were Mace Windu, ARKS Operative Zed, Clone Commander Ponds, City Commander Nadia, and Noto of the Council of Six. They all stood around the table discussing what they knew comparing data from varying scout and field reports.
"So, what do we currently know?" Nadia asked as she wanted some answers of what had happened before the storm.
"Here is what our forces have." Windu said adding the information to what they currently have. "The enemy have us between two bases." Windu said showing the two enemy bases on the Maqued and the Dalshmar Desert. "They have a pincer on our location." Windu added showing that the enemy had the upper hand on them.
"And with Renus Retem all but conquering the Maqued." Noto said showing an image of Renus Retem in the Maqued. "We're severely outgunned." Noto said which meant they needed a new plan of attack. "If we try to attack one that leaves Retem City vulnerable to attack from the other." Noto said but Nadia knew what was needed here.
"Then we will need to attack both locations at the same time." Nadia said as she saw the plan. But she knew this would leave them vulnerable to attack by their enemies. But at the same time, it will prevent their enemies from supporting the other or launching a direct attack on them.
"A risky plan." Windu said as he saw how this could go wrong.
"Do you have an alternative?" Noto asked as he was more than willing to hear suggestions for another attack plan.
"Unfortunately, not." Windu said showing that it was the best plan that they had.
"Alright." Noto said seeing that Windu did not like this plan which the Councilman sympathized with. "We know that the Maqued has become Renus Retem's fortress and the entire thing is swarming with DOLLS and Falspawn." Noto said displaying the images their scout teams had captured. "We suspect they plan to turn it into a Falspawn nest." Noto said showing his concerns for this.
"If that is the case, we'll need to send a majority of the ARKS Operatives and Defenders to the Maqued." Nadia said showing that this was looking to be the case here.
"Which means the forces attacking the other base will need to be comprised of majority Clone Troopers." Windu added knowing that it was the best way to evenly divide their forces to handle the F-Factors.
"We'll try and dispatch a healthy number of ARKS to those forces in order to deal with any F-Factor Build up." Nadia said as she did not want any good men to die from easily preventable situations on their part.
"Do what you can." Windu said grateful for the aid ARKS would provide for him.
"Our Scout reports also show the enemies at the desert base working on something." Nadia said as she found that to be concerning. "Whatever it is, we'll need to exercise caution with it." She said knowing full well that whatever they may be facing in this battle will be dangerous.
"I sense that this will be a difficult battle to undertake." Windu said with concerns over what they may face.
"Then we better be careful, and win." Noto said as he refused to allow Halpha to fall under Separatist control.
"Certainly." Nadia said and thus a CAST approached the scene.
"Commander Nadia here are the reports of supplies and casualties." The CAST said handing to the City Commander a data pad.
"Thank you." Nadia said as all they can do is wait out the sandstorms end. "We shall adjourn for the time being and take time to prepare ourselves for battle." Nadia said and thus it was time to part ways to prepare for battle.
(Later main square Retem City)
Retem City, the city of arts and the cultural center point on Halpha was quiet as opposed to its normally festive and happy mood. With the ongoing battle for Halpha civilians had been moved down to the bunkers to wait out the storm and if worse comes to worse evacuate.
Guard patrols were still moving around only with increased groups due to the situation. Retem City was more or less defended from the sandstorm due to how it was built. For it to have any hope of burying the city the sandstorm would have to be even more violent and would need to go on for several days on end. So as the guards were moving about Zed was issuing orders to ARKS Operatives who went out with those orders.
"Zed." Came the familiar voice of Zinnia who made her way over to the Operative.
The human male looked over and saw Zinnia before nodding to the female Newman. "Zinnia what's up?" Zed asked curious as to what she needed.
"Just giving you an update, the boys are all itching to get in on the fight soon." Zinnia said as she knew that the ARKS Operatives wanted to get started.
"Yeah, just need to wait out the storm." Zed said with a smirk as he pointed his thumb over to the raging storm outside the city.
"No kidding." Zinnia said as she leaned against the wall near Zed. "So, you'll be leading the attack on the Maqued." Zinnia said noting that Zed was oddly calm about such a big responsibility.
"Yeap sure seems that way." Zed said showing to Zinnia that he was not at all bothered by this fact.
"Aren't you at all nervous about it?" Zinnia asked with concern for her fellow Operative.
"Nope." Zed said popping the p at the end there.
"I can't believe you." Zinnia said with a smile on her face for her friend. "I mean how can you be so relaxed and collected all the time?" Zinnia asked as she tried to figure Zed and his actions out.
"Meh always been more of a go with the flow sort of guy I guess." Zed said treating the concern like it's not a big deal. "I always say that in war you gotta try to stay positive." Zed added showing he was acting on the words he spoke before.
"No offense but… that sounds dumb." Zinnia said being brutally honest with her superior officer.
"To each their own." Zed said with a smirk showing Zinnia's honesty did not bother him.
"I suppose you have a point there." Zinnia conceded figuring that they all needed a little hope right now. "But you have to admit that this entire siege is a mess for ARKS." Zinnia said as her tone showed she hated it that the home she came to love was under attack like this.
"It is what it is." Zed said but then had a look of resolve. "And the fact these assholes went out and came at us like this is more than enough of a reason to beat them off our world." Zed said his tone mirroring the resolve he held to save Halpha from the Separatists and the Dark Falz Collective.
"I couldn't agree more." Garron was heard as the pair looked and saw the angry Operative had entered the area. "Been itching to sink my claws into those pieces of shit clankers." Garron added with Reika close on his tail. "This sandstorm is really pissing me off though." Garron finished but then Zed gave him a wry smile.
"Dude your emotional spectrum is rage, pissed, and angry." Garron said as he had hardly seen Garron as anything other than angry.
"Shut up." Garron snarled as he glared at Zed there.
"He has a point." Reika added causing Garron to glare at the girl.
"I said shut up!" He yelled this one causing the group to chuckle over how easy it was to rile up Garron. "How much longer is this damned sandstorm supposed to last anyway?!" Garron snarled getting stir crazy from having to wait around Retem city for the storm to finally clear up.
"Hard to tell, Retem's command is monitoring it and will let us know when it ends." Zed said assuring Garron that he needed to be patient for the given word. Garron just snarled and looked away while crossing his arms frustration was clearly etched onto his face from the waiting.
"So does anyone have any idea if we're going to be part of the assault on Renus Retem?" Zinnia asked curious and a bit worried about the battle to come.
"We better, I've got a punch with that, things name on it." Garron said punching his fist into his open palm clearly itching for battle
"Cool your jets buddy that call belongs to the General and the Retem City Commander." Zed said keeping Garron calm.
Just then their Mags all began to hum and in turn a message came in. "All ARKS Operatives and ARKS Defenders in Retem City please report to the command Center I repeat all ARKS Report to the Command Center." The message said and thus this meant it was now time.
"Guess it's, go time." Zed said as he figured the Sandstorm would be letting up.
"Finally." Garron said with a savage grin on his face. It was clear that he was excited for the battle to come, and all his nerves were telling him to go out and kick ass. And the asses he was going to kick were the Falspawn, Droids, and the DOLLS invading Halpha.
(Later back at the Retem City Command Center)
ARKS Operatives, ARKS Defenders, and Clone Troopers were gathered in the Command Center to hear what their attack strategy was. Standing before the gathered troopers and ARKS was General Mace Windu of the Republic and the Retem City Commander Nadia.
"Now that everyone is gathered, we can begin." Nadia began and in turn they showed a holographic image of the coming battle. "We will be splitting our forces between two combat fronts out in Central Retem and Rwh Maqead in Southern Retem." Nadia said as she displayed the images here.
"These locations are confirmed sights of two enemy bases we can't destroy one without the other providing support." Mace Windu explained to those gathered here. "So, we will be attacking them both at the same time." Windu said making it clear as to what was going to happen.
"I will lead the attack on the Rwh Maqead." Nadia said before presenting the scout data that had been gathered. "The location is heavily fortified making air to ground transport near impossible." Nadia explained to her forces. "So, we will attack from the ground, make our way upward, and enter Renus Retems lair in the Lower Maqead." Nadia said showing the data of where Retes Retem was located.
"Meanwhile." Windu cut in as he continued the mission brief. "I will lead an assault against the Separatist forces here." Windu pointing out the big desert area in Central Retem. "We have reason to believe the enemy has been developing a new weapon and may very well opt to deploy it here." Windu said showing they had to destroy this weapon, whatever it was.
Nadia then spoke up as she picked off from where Windu had stopped. "Success in the Retem front will be decided by this operation so failure is not an option." Nadia said as she reminded the group how important this battle is. "I will lead ARKS forces on the Rwh Maqead front, with this being Renus Retems lair F-Factors are likely to be concentrated there." Nadia explained before gesturing to Windu. "Master Windu will lead the Clone Forces on the Central Retem front, but he will be accompanied by a detachment of ARKS Operatives to handle any F-Factors present there." Nadia said explaining how things will work for their forces.
"Isn't there anyway we can increase our chances of success?" Zinnia asked with concern over the missions current parameters.
But just then a new and familiar voice spoke up as the door opened. "That's where I come in." Noto said as the Council of Six Member entered the brief.
"Councilman, I see you've returned." Windu said as he knew the Council of Six did not shy away from leading from the front lines.
"Of course, with a mission like this we need all the muscle we can get." Noto said showing he was going to lead their forces and retake Retem from these invaders.
"Glad to have your aid, councilman." Nadia said happy to have one of ARKS strongest backing them up in battle.
Windu nodded to the scene before he spoke up directing his attention to their forces. "You all know your assignments we leave when the storm ceases, prepare to mobilize and may the Force be with you." Windu said and thus they all parted to prepare themselves. This was going to be an important battle and it was one they needed to win. If they lost the battle here, then they risk losing Halpha to the Dark Falz and the Separatists.
(Meanwhile back over with Apprentice)
Apprentice growled as she turned off the communications no doubt having just gotten off a call with someone on it. Walking off she went to the main strategy room that currently displayed several bits of tactical data for the officers.
"Apprentice, our new weapon is ready for deployment upon your orders." The Tactical Droid reported to its Dark Falz leader.
"Good." Apprentice said with a smirk on her face. "I just got word that the Kvaris front has taken a severe blow can't give details but apparently Elder let himself run wild." Apprentice said which meant they needed to get a win from both Retem and Stia to make up for Elder and his bloodlust.
"Shall I send reinforcements to fortify?" The Droid asked but Apprentice turned her head.
"No, we need to get things sorted in Retem before we even think about providing reinforcements." Apprentice said making it clear that they had to focus on defending their foothold here.
"Understood." The Tactical Droid said seeing the logic from that. "Our scans show that the sandstorm will subside within the day." The Tactical Droid said moving on to the reports. "Logical to assume that the enemy will attempt an attack on our positions." The Droid said which Apprentice could not help but smirk in response.
"Good, fortify both positions, prepare the weapon for deployment in Central Retem and…" Apprentice paused as the Tactical Droid awaited the orders the possessed Mirilian. "Make sure Renus Retem is ready for a large buffet." Apprentice said with a sinister smile adoring her corrupted face.
(Scene Break the next day)
ARKS Dropships were flying from Retem City as they made their way to the Maqead. With Renus Retem making his base there and the Separatists fortifying it to prevent aerial entry they would have to land and form a perimeter outside of the enemy base. Inside it Zed and his team were gathered as Nadia walked between them ready to deploy through the ships tele-tube.
"The enemy has fortified their position here." Nadia said as she gave the unit an update as to what was going. "We need to disable those anti-air cannons before we move up to face Renus Retem." Nadia said as her plan showed that she was trying to increase their chances of victory against their shared enemies.
"So, while we make our way up, we take out the enemy cannons, right?" Zed asked with a confident smile on his face. "Seems simple enough." Zed said as he was more then ready to fight off the enemy forces.
"If you don't mind anything and everything shooting or attack you to stop you from doing that." Zinnia quipped showing it was not clear cut.
"Let them try, I'll fuck them up." Garron snarled showing he was more then willing to fight his way through it all, if it meant that they will, win this and save Halpha.
"Garron." Reika sighed knowing how volatile Garron tended to be in battle.
But before they could discuss things further the ship suddenly shook violently as it was clear what was going out. Looking out the reinforced windows everyone saw explosions going off in the sky meaning the anti-air cannons were firing at them. "Looks like we're going in hot!" Zed called out as he saw what was going on here.
"Pilot! Take us in for a landing!" Noto ordered and in turn the landing plan had begun.
(Later down on the ground)
The Drop Ships landed on the ground and formed a defensive box that would act as their forward assault point. From there the ARKS Operatives and Defenders moved out as they were met with Falspawn, DOLLS, and a few droids.
The assault began as ARKS began fighting their way through the enemy forces. They moved through with the intent to attain victory no matter the cost as they shot and sliced through the incoming DOLLS and the Falspawn.
"Let's move!" Noto called as he sliced through a few Falspawn with his gunblade before he opened fire at a few of the airborne DOLLS Units about. Noto had yet to bust out his cosmogenic arm in this fight but even without it he was proving himself a powerful combatant. He was showing why he was on the Council of Six, why he was one of ARKS Leaders. He soon took out a group of Falspawn and DOLLS before he ran through to continue with the battle.
Next up came Nadia as the Bouncer moved around and used her boots to kick the enemies before boosting away to handle another one. Nadia was giving this fight her own so no others would have to risk their lives in such a way. Nadia was proving herself a powerful Bouncer allowing her enemy no room to counter her. A strike here, a bash there, and Nadia was sending these foes back to Hell where they belong. Nadia slid on the ground and saw another enemy standing in her way. Snarling Nadia charged in and with a spin managed to slice through the Falspawn with her jet boots and smiled as it fell apart.
Reika meanwhile was firing off wind elemental attacks from her wand as she used them against the DOLLS units around her. The DOLLS were weak against wind attacks giving Reika an edge over them in combat. Reika then released a burst of Photons that healed the allies her who were within range of this particular technique. Seeing as she was a Techer Class of ARKS her primary directive was support but that did not mean she was helpless in a fight.
Garron meanwhile was using brute force as he tore his way through his enemies. Powerful punches were sent as enemies were knocked down and knocked away by the Operatives strikes. He let out another roar as he jumped onto a Petta's and tore its head off with brute force alone. He then stabbed the head into another DOLLS before slamming it into a mass of droids and Falspawn. He then jumped high before slamming down his fist on the ground sending out a shockwave that took out the enemies that were around him. Garron snarled before he charged back into the fight to open the path up the Rwh Maqead.
Next came Zed who easily sliced through his foes with his own gunblade. But the way he moved showed that he was not the average ARKS Operative using a gunblade. He fired a few shots at a foe before slicing into the same foe and jumped back. As he jumped, he fired off several more shots as Zed continued with his onslaught against the enemy. Zed then blocked an attack and pushed the same attacker back which seemingly left him upon for an attack from behind by another opposing group. Zed smirked and with his gunblade sliced through all of them in one swing sending them back and destroying them.
Finally, Zinnia was left as she held her staff at the ready. She was currently surrounded by Falspawn and DOLLS who all crowded around her. Glaring at them Zinnia was ready for whatever move they might try to pull here. But seeing as she needed to get out of this spot first Zinnia was the first to act. First, she began by releasing a fire attack around her just as they tried to attack. The fire circled Zinnia hitting the attackers and burning them some. Zinnia then followed it up with a thunder technique that sent out bolts of lightning through the enemies surrounding her. The Newman Force class ARKS seeing her chance began to gather Photons for a big attack. The Falspawn and DOLLS acted to try and take her down but instead Zinnia fired a massive beam of Photonic energy using it to clear a path for herself. When her attack came to an end Zinnia photon dashed her way out and in turn regrouped with her team lead by Noto and Nadia.
This climb was going to take a while, but they had every intention of making it. After all, removing Renus Retem from the field will give them the chance to take back and secure the Retem region from the invaders. So, they fought on though a part of them was curious as to what was occurring over with Windu's forces.
(Meanwhile over in Central Retem)
It would seem that the shared assumption of ARKS and the Republic forces were spot on. On the ground both sides were locked in battle as a mix of Droids and Clones were seen in the open area of the vast desert of the region. Laser fire was going all over as the sight of Mace Windu's Lightsaber could be seen slicing through the Separatist Droids. The base they were attempting to breach was not that far from where they were fighting by clearly Apprentice was not going to make victory any easy for them.
Thankfully, the number of Falspawn was miniscule as the republic forces moved through the battle taking out the battle droids with limited number of Falspawn and DOLLS amongst the clankers. The battle was a long one as Windu did his best to make sure that his forces would attain victory. Using his mastery of Battle Meditation Master Windu easily deflected the oncoming laser shots and cleaved through battle droids while keeping any stray Falspawn or DOLLS unit from getting to close to any clone troopers.
The ARKS Operatives with him handled the enemy monsters as they provided support and medical aid to the wounded warriors. Clones were supporting their Jedi General against this onslaught of foes as it was clear that things were looking favorable towards the ARKS Ops and Grand army of the Republic. But just as lady luck was fickle so too were the tides of battle as the united armies pushed back against the Separatists Battle Droids and the Dark Falz's Falspawn.
Windu soon regrouped with his forces as they got ready for the next wave when something began to happen. The Battle Droids all lowered their weapons while the Falspawn and Dolls halted their own attack. "What?" A clone Trooper asked as he found this to be concerning.
"They just… stopped." An ARKS Operative said as he wondered what just happened.
"General Windu what's going on?" Ponds asked as he stood with his commanding officer.
"I don't know Ponds, but I don't like it." Windu said as he felt through the Force that something was wrong.
Just then movement was heard as hover modules were sounded. Looking to the source the joint forces saw a massive form approaching their location. It hovered enough to stay above the battle as the armies saw what was coming their way.
Soon enough the massive tank stopped and from there… all hell would break loose. The tank released a massive push slam from an underside slot and in doing so released a powerful seismic attack. This in turn created an impact crater as Clone Troopers and ARKS members were sent flying from the attack. The resulting sink hole caused many to slide down into the crater as Windu saw this and began to act fast. He got to climbing back out of the hole before the weapon could go off again.
"Fall back! We need to fall back to higher ground!" Windu ordered into his communicator, so all his troops knew to quickly get out.
The Clones who had not been hit were making a dash for high ground knowing that if they stay on the sand, they were dead. The Seismic tank began to move once more as it made its way through the battlefield. The weapon then once more released its blast and while many of the Clones had gotten to safety even more did not. Windu meanwhile was unable to get to safety in time and was hit by the winds of the seismic attack.
Mace Windu ended up losing his Lightsaber due to this as he went flying through the chaos. When Mace Windu eventually came to a stop however he found himself alone and surrounded by Battle Droids on all sides.
(Meanwhile with Commander Ponds)
Their army was cut in half and the half that escaped was either too injured to fight or currently unconscious. There were of course those who could still fight but not many as amongst them was Commander Ponds for who was making sure his men were all accounted. But when he did this, it was clear that someone was missing as he then saw an ARKS Medic run by carrying some wounded over to safety.
"Where is General Windu?" Ponds asked as the ARKS Medic then directed his attention to the Clone Commander on duty.
"I haven't seen him." The Medic responded before he went back to caring for wounded. Ponds realized this was bad and knew until they find Windu he was in command.
"Try to see if you can call air support, we need to take that thing down now!" Ponds said knowing a weapon like that would make this battle a lost.
"Right away sir." The Clone who got the order responded and went to call command for some needed air support. "You try to see if you can contact the General." Ponds said to another Clone who nodded in confirmation.
"Right away sir." The Clone said and in turn went to try and contact Mace Windu.
Ponds could only hope that Windu made it out of that blast in one piece. If he dies, chances are that the unit moral will take a severe and crippling blow even with Ponds here. If they can't take out that Separatist weapon, then they were as good as dead.
"We're going to need bigger guns." Ponds said his voice showing clear signs of concern.
(Back at the Rwh Maqead)
ARKS forces were hard at work as they climbed up the RWH Maqead taking out DOLLS and Falspawn as they climbed. At the same time, they eliminated the anti-air turrets to get their guys in the sky room to fly in and provide them support.
Zed and Noto sliced through one of the remaining anti-air cannons with their gunblades. This caused the cannon to break apart showing off a clean cut from the two Operatives. Garron roared out as he charged at another cannon and punched it with his knuckles sending it falling over after one of its supports was destroyed.
"We're almost to the entrance!" Nadia called out as she looked to the last ledge before the top entrance to the Lower Maqead was seen.
"Forward!" Noto called but they were instead stopped by a Sand Nogleth who crashed on the ground and roared at them.
"Damn looks like we need to get past this guy first." Zed said as he saw the enemy combatant.
But just as the Sand Nogleth attacked Garron's roar of savagery and fury was heard before he charged at the creature and slammed his fist into its face. The Punch carried with it enough force to send it off to the side a bit. The Sand Nogleth began to get back up only to be attacked with Wind Techniques curtesy of Reika.
"Go we'll hold this thing off!" Reika called as she and Garron gave their allies the needed opening to enter the Lower Maqead.
Noto stood there for a moment before nodding to them. "Alright, let's go." Noto said before leading the unit to the entrance.
"Holdfast we shall return soon." Nadia said before she was followed after Noto into the lair of Renus Retem.
"Good luck and don't die you angry asshole." Zed said as Zennia nodded before going with Zed to follow Noto and Nadia. Of course, what Zed had said had got a smirk from Garron before he directed his attention back to the Sand Nogleth. Garron and Reika then looked to each other before nodding and with that they charged at the Sand Nogleth letting out a might war cry.
(Meanwhile over with Noto's unit.
Noto, Nadea, Zed, and Zinnia arrived at the entrance way into the Lower Maqead knowing full well that Renus Retem was waiting for them. This giant sand worm has made this place his house and this DOLLS unit know this.
"Command we've reached the objective preparing to engage." Noto reported as he used his communicator.
"Confirmed we've recently lost contact with General Windu, be advised." Command reported back which Noto knew was probably not a good thing.
"Heads up the anti-air cannons have been neutralized your free to provide air support." Noto added which was good.
"Understood." Command responded and thus Noto ended the call for the primary objective here.
"We're about to enter the lair of Renus Retem." Noto said knowing full well that they were about to enter the fire. "Be ready for whatever surprises this worm has waiting." Noto said knowing they needed to act strategically and exercise caution when facing this DOLLS.
"Be ready." Nadia said which Noto agreed with the sentiment.
"Not like we have much of a choice I'm afraid." Zed said and in turn they knew they had to move out.
"Give me a second to buff us." Zinnia said and in turn she casted a few buffs on the party to better prepare them for the coming battle. Once she finished applying the buffs, they were ready for battle and so they all entered Renus Retems lair.
(Later in the Lower Maqead)
Noto, Nadea, Zed, and Xinnia all landed inside the caverns of the Lower Maqead. From the looks of things, it seemed that ARKS had been doing some major constructing before Renus Retem had moved in. Despite that Renus Retem was nowhere to be seen but the Four ARKS Operatives knew better. Just because they could not see the DOLLS unit did not mean it was not in the Lower Maqead.
The as if to answer the sand around them rose up as something burrowed through it like a shark swimming in water. Renus Retem then lowered back into the sand vanishing from sight for a moment, but the group had seen Jaws and knew what was about to happen here. Thus, they quickly moved out of the way and after they did Renus Retem rose from the ground attempting to swallow all four ARKS Operatives.
Renus Retem lowered back to the ground so only its head was above the ground. It was noted that his serpentine body could be seen above the ground in varying sports behind him. Despite this the DOLLS Units roared out at the ARKS Operatives who were all ready for a hard battle against Renus Retem. The battle began and Renus Retem was quick on the uptake against his smaller foes. The DOLLS unit began swinging his head about to attack but while Nadia bounced away, Zed, Noto, and Zinnia fired off their weapons and techniques at the massive DOLLS Unit. Then when Renus Retem slammed his head down its tail moved sending out more laser shots from said tail.
This DOLLS Unit was a massive weapon of destruction. In a desert he was supreme, and it would be a horrid day for any desert world that Renus Retem arrives upon. Still ARKS would not surrender to the DOLLS or their vile master, Dark Falz Vader.
The three ARKS Operatives targeted his head as they moved away from his melee attacks. While they moved Nadia covered them utilizing her skills as a Bouncer to deflect incoming attacks. Of course, that did not mean Renus Retem did not have ranged attacks either. Renus Retem then fired his attacks, a spread shot of destructive energy sphere, upon the ARKS Operatives forcing them to scatter in order to avoid being hit by this attack. Renus Retem fired several more of these shots and in response Nadia bounced in and got everyone out of the way and over to safety.
Seeing that its initial attacks would not work Renus Retem dove back into the sand and began to burrow around. The group gathered and went back-to-back to wait out and find where Renus Retem will emerge once more to attack. Soon enough Renus Retem rose from the ground with only his head. Seeing this the group acted and moved to avoid a surging attack from the DOLLS Unit upon them. Renus Retem did this move a couple of times before rising up and charging up a powerful shot from his maw. HE fired it off as this forced the ARKS members to once more move in order to avoid harm.
Zed was unfortunately hit by one of the attacks causing it to blast and send him flying. Zed hit the ground hard and tried to get back up. But he was left vulnerable and in turn Renus Retem charged in, to attack. Zed was not fast enough to defend but thankfully he had backup from his friend Xinnia. The Force Class Newman moved and projected a photon shield to cover Zed. Renus Retem hit the shield and had pushed Xinnia back due to the large size difference between them. Zed managed to get back up before grabbing Xinnia and yanking her out of the way.
"Thanks for the save." Zed said as Xinnia nodded to this.
"We're even." Xinnia quipped before they once more began to regroup. "We need to finish this quickly!" Xinnia called out knowing that time was not on their side with their forces holding the line for them.
"She's right our guys outside can only cover for so long." Zed said knowing that they needed to take out Renus Retem to secure the Maqead.
"Agreed, we must anticipate its movements and act accordingly." Noto said knowing that they had to hold out here.
"Its diving again!" Nadia called out and thus they saw Renus Retem once more go underground after most of his initial attacks failed. It went underground for a while as the group moved to a different spot to avoid getting surprised from underneath. They then saw the sand bellow their feet rumbling and during this Zed got an idea.
"Let's try this." Zed said as he dropped a few explosive charges on the spot just as he and his allies moved out of the way. Renus Retem then emerged and in doing so ate the explosives Zed left. This caused an explosion inside the DOLLS as it opened its mouth to roar, and smoke was seen being expelled from its maw showing damages. The damage was clear as Renus Retem had roared from the damages that Zed had caused it with his move.
"That got it!" Noto said noting the damages Renus Retem had suffered from Zed's plan.
Renus Retem recognizing the threat was more serious than anticipated acted accordingly. Its body began to turn from blue to red starting from the head and going down to the tip of its tail. Renus Retem's tail then gave off a gold glow and from it one of its cores were revealed to its foes.
"Oh, great I pissed it off." Zed said as he knew that Renus Retem was starting to cut loose here.
"Stand your ground!" Nadia said as she refused to let Renus Retem claim victory here. As they got ready for the next onslaught, they could only hope that Windu was having a better time with his side of the assault.
(Meanwhile back with Mace Windu)
Windu was currently surrounded by Super Battle Droids who all pointed their blasters at the Jedi Master. He glared at them as he knew that he was outnumbered and without his lightsaber. But a Jedi without his lightsaber is not helpless as many would think. In turn before the droids could open fire Windu began the battle on his terms. He released a powerful Force Push to the enemies around that gave him room to move around and fight properly. A few more Super Battle Droids moved in and opened fire on Windu, but the Jedi Master move out of the way before they could hit him.
The Jedi zoomed on through and took out another Super Battle Droid with a Force Push before following this move up with hand to hand on another B2 Battle Droid. Windu had used the Force to increase his own physical prowess and thus he managed to break through metal without hurting himself. Mace then used a Force Push to take out a grouping of Battle Droids before following it up by grabbing an arm of another Droid. He pulled the Droid in and then sent a flurry of punches against its body tearing the droid apart with ease.
More of the Droids came at him but the Force proved to be a powerful ally to the Jedi Master. Windu resorted to hand-to-hand combat as he used the Force to enhance his physical strength against the Battle Droids. This allowed him to stand tall against them as he cleared a way to regroup with his men. But as Mace Windu continued this, he still had the issue of the Seismic Tank in the area.
The Seismic Tank released another shot to the ground and in doing so created another shockwave in the combat zone. When Windu saw the shockwave coming his way, he tried to block but was sent flying instead. When Windu hit the ground, he was already back on his feet and from there use the Force to clear himself of the dust. He was of course met with more droids but with the Force Windu made short work of those machines.
Windu saw the Seismic tank in the distance and knew he had to take it out. In response he used the Force to start running towards it before pulling out his communicator to call for reinforcements. "Commander Pongs, do you copy?" Windu asked as he kept running to his foe.
"General Windu?" Pongs asked surprised to hear him. "Where are you?" He asked knowing his men needed leadership.
"Still in the fight, I need air support to handle that tank!" Windu called in and in turn Pongs had a response.
"Already on it, sir but we need time." Pongs said and thus Windu nodded.
"Good." Windu said and in turn focused on taking out the Seismic Tank or lasting long enough for air support to arrive and back him up.
(Meanwhile inside the Seismic Tank)
In the command deck of the Separatist weapon Apprentice smiled as she stood amongst the Battle Droids using the body of Barriss Offee even now. As she observed the battle from the window, she could not help but admire the destruction that the Republic was suffering from thanks to this.
"You know… I had my doubts about this thing but looking at it from here… I like it." Apprentice said as she seemed to be speaking to herself right now. She then directed her attention to the command crew with her next orders for them. "Recharge the Accelerators and fire on my command." Apprentice ordered and the Droids obeyed her.
"Roger-roger." The Droid responded and thus the crew began to charge up for the next shot.
(Back with Mace Windu)
Windu had jumped over the field using a larger point to act as his jumping spot. He then used the Force to clear out the mob of Battle Droids from his landing site and managed to land safely. The Jedi Master then continued his charge as he made his way towards the enemies Seismic Tank. Windu managed to avoid several more laser shots from the enemy battle droids before sliding to the ground and using the Force to take out the B2 Battle Droids heads.
Mace was feeling a sense of Deja Vu from when he fought against Separatist Occupation on Dantooine during the early days of the Clone Wars. Still focusing on the current battle at hand Windu continued his assault against the B2 Battle Droids who opposed him. The Jedi Master continued to use his abilities with the Force to tear apart the Droids save for one which he disassembled using the force. HE then used those same disassembled parts to tear through the other droids near him.
(Back in the Seismic Tank)
"Weapon charged." The Tactical Droid reported to Apprentice who smiled sinisterly to what came next.
"Fire." Apprentice ordered and the Battle Droids complied.
"Roger-roger." The Droid said and proceeded to fire the Seismic weapon again.
(Back in the Combat Zone)
The Seismic attack hit once more and from there Mace Windu was sent flying by the blast wave of the winds. It seemed that even with a Jedi there was no way to best this machine. But instead, something changed perhaps it was the Force giving him an extra hand, but Windu knew his situation was about to turn around. In the dust he saw a flash of a familiar item in it, and that item was the Jedi's Lightsaber.
Windu proceeded to use the force and summon his lightsaber to his hand from where it was flying. When Mace Windu landed, he caught his lightsaber and ignited the blade. He was then fired upon but luckily Mace Windu was able to deflect the oncoming blaster fire with trained ease. HE then used the force to clear him a path from the dust and proceeded to charge towards the Seismic Tank to eliminate the vehicle.
As Windu charged in engines were heard and from the sky gunships and fighters flew in and fired upon the Separatist weapon. "General Windu Air Support has arrived." Pongs reported as the Clone Fighters went to take out the tank.
"Keep it busy." Windu said before he used a Force Enhanced jump to start climbing onto the Separatist Seismic Tank.
(Back inside the Seismic Tank)
Apprentice snarled when she saw the air support had arrived on scene and were firing down upon them. "How this is this tanks armor?" Apprentice asked the Tactical Droid with a glare directed at it.
"I recommend that we consider a tactical retreat." The Droid said before all of a sudden, alarms started blaring about. "I suggest we retreat." The Droid corrected and thus Apprentice snarled in frustration.
"I swear if you want something done right." Apprentice said as she went to deal with the issue herself. Besides, it would give her a perfect excuse to use her new lightsaber.
(Later over with Mace Windu)
When the alarms had been set off a droid had been cut in two by a Lightsaber through the wall. The droids coworker set the alarms off and in turn the security detail gathered around the initial breach. They all had their blasters trained on where the original breach had come from knowing that a Jedi Master was cutting his way into the Seismic Tank. Cutting a hole through the Jedi Master proceeded to use the force to push the metal out of his way.
Several droids were destroyed by the act but before any more damage could occur the panel was sliced in two. Approaching the scene was Dark Falz Apprentice as she glared at the newly arrived Jedi. "I was expecting Skywalker in all honesty." Apprentice said as she approached the Jedi Master.
"Dark Falz [Apprentice] The Vernal I presume?" Windu asked knowing of the reports of what had happened to Barriss when Apprentice decided to body, hop.
"Yeah, your correct on that." Apprentice said as she smirked sinisterly at the Jedi Master. "And your Mace Windu of the Jedi Order a practitioner of the Battle Meditation and yet a stagnant conservative of how the Jedi Operate things." Apprentice said showing she had done her homework on this. "But must we really be enemies?" Apprentice asked as she dipped into the memories of Barriss Offee her current host body. "After all, wouldn't you prefer we be allies?" She asked and in turn she began to use her allure and mixed it with the Force Mind Trick against Windu.
Apprentice had been practicing with her newfound Force Abilities with Vader giving her some pointers. The fact she had access to Barriss' training certainly helped. But it seems that it would not help because unlike Barriss Mace Windu was a Jedi Master and vastly more experienced then herself and Barriss. So, in response Apprentice found herself being pushed back by the Force before Windu came in for the attack.
"You attempt at manipulations while commendable was ineffective." Windu said as Apprentice growled to this.
The Dark Falz then flipped and landed on her feet before she drew Barriss Offee's lightsaber. The Khyber Crystal had long since been corrupted by the F-Factor and made to bleed thanks to Vader's own tutelage. So, in turn the violet color of Windu's lightsaber clashed against the crimson color/black of Dark Falz [Apprentice] the Vernal.
"Had to try." Apprentice said and in turn the Lightsaber duel began between the two of them. Windu knew he had to be careful here Apprentice was crafty and manipulative. But if you factor in the F-Factor Windu was basically fighting a battle on two fronts, the physical against Apprentice and the mental against the F-Factor. Still Master Windu had a responsibility to the Republic and her people and that included aiding ARKS against the Dark Falz and their Falspawn. Still there were other ways to win a battle that did not rely on diplomacy or ones prowess in combat.
(Back at the Lower Maqead)
The ARKS Operatives, Zed, Nadia, Zinnia, and Noto were still locked in combat against Renus Retem. Alas their initial attacks did nothing to break through its active shields. Thankfully seeing as most of them were gamers who had played the New Genesis Updates for Phantasy Star Online 2, they knew just how to break through.
"Zed, Nadia go for the tail, Zinnia and I will keep this thing busy!" Noto ordered and thus the two named ops nodded in response.
"Right!" Nadia and Zed both said in response and in turn proceeded to head to Renus Retem's tail where the source of his shield resided. So, moving to their target the ARKS Operatives carried out the strategy Noto had made. Noto and Zinnia fired off their weapons and techniques at Renus Retem drawing his attention away from Zed and Nadia. Renus Retem was forced to retaliate as it had its sights on the ARKS Pair.
Meanwhile Nadia and Zed got to the tail and already identified the gold core glowing bright and powering the shield. So, with their target sighted Zed opened fire while they ran towards the shield core. They knew that the larger a DOLLS Unit was the larger its core had to be in order to sustain the creature while in combat. Either that or install a second core for the likes of Renus Retem DOLLS type. Once the pair got close enough, they then dashed in and with a jump Zed and Nadia brough their weapons down upon the shield core.
The shared attack of both Nadia and Zed struck true and with a set of powerful slashed and kicks the pair saw the core crack. Then Zed proceeded to follow it up with a slash of his Gunblade and then a stab. Once his weapon was jammed into Renus Retem's core he opened fire sending photonic shots into the core.
This caused Renus Retem to roar in pain as the barrier came down and Renus Retem shot out of the ground. It crashed into the ground and from clear signs the DOLLS was stunned and attempting to force reboot itself. This in turn revealed its primary core under its head and with this core reveals ARKS sprang back into action.
"Get the core! Hurry!" Noto ordered and thus all four of them booked it towards Renus Retem's primary power core.
They four let out a mighty battle cry as they attacked the core. With each blow landed the damages against Renus Retem was only increasing. They had only a short window of time before the DOLLS manages to get back up and continue its assault. Soon enough that time came and Renus Retem dove back into the ground and burrowed around for its next assault. Moving through the sands like a shark in water Renus Retem stalked its foe ready to cause the Operatives harm. Renus Retem moved and stalked before it soon surged straight at the gathered ARKS Operatives.
Soon enough Renus Retem vanished once more into he ground and did not show signs of rising back up again. At least it appeared to be the case as soon Noto went wide eyed here. "Scatter!" Noto ordered and in turn they carried out the order from the ARKS Councilman. When they scattered from their spots Renus Retem rose and attempted to swallow them a surprise attack but thankfully Noto anticipated it and responded accordingly. Moving across the field they attempted to get the upper hand against Renus Retem, but it continued with its hit and run tactic against them.
Soon enough Renus Retem rose from the ground and when it did, he proceeded to start firing off every weapon as he flew over them. Rockets, lasers, and beam cannons went off as arched its body before burrowing back into the ground. It was a miracle that none of them had been hit. But it was clear here that Renus Retem had stopped holding back. When Renus Retem rose once more it was clear that they were on the run.
Just then the group went wide eyed as Renus Retem began to charge up a powerful attack ready to unleash it upon the ARKS Operatives. "Take cover now!" Noto called and in turn they all ran to find themselves cover. But alas Renus Retem was charged and then proceeded to unleash his attack upon them. The blast came and Zinnia acted out of instinct by putting up the most powerful Photon shield she could muster to cover her party members. The blast was strong enough to push Zinnia back as she tried to hold on. Her Photon Shield was even starting to crack as she tried to stand her ground.
Eventually the attack came to an end and not a moment sooner because Zinnia's Photon Shield gave out and she was sent flying back. She flew for a bit but luckily Zed moved in and caught his friend before she could get hurt. But this instead had left Zed open to be hurt but saving a friend was worth it.
"Well, this complicates things." Noto said as he looked to where Zed and Zinnia had landed.
"Orders sir?" Nadia asked as despite being in command of Retem City she knew that Noto's authority was higher.
"If Renus Retem isn't holding back… neither shall I." Noto said as he got ready to bust out his ace. "Nadia get Zed and Zinnia to safety I'll handle things here." Noto said as Nadia was left with concern here.
"What do you plan to do?" Nadia asked hoping Noto would not do something suicidal.
"Finish this." Noto said as he then held his Gunblade pointing it against Renus Retem. Soon enough the segments within the weapon began to give off a glow as Noto was channeling his Photons to awaken his personal Cosmogenic Arm. "Roar and rejoice oh mighty Crusader." Noto began as soon the segments began to open and release mass Photonic energy. "LIONHEART!" Noto invoked and from there his Cosmogenic arm awoken with a blast of Photons.
Even Renus Retem was caught off guard by the use of a Cosmogenic Arms judging by how it ease back. Noto saw this and smirked before the blade of his weapon split open to reveal a gun barrel inside. The revolver attached to the hilt spun on its own before it was set to the barrel. Noto smirked and pulled the trigger causing the beam to shoot out and shifted itself to a spread shot. The shot flew and barraged Renus Retem with blasts of photonic energy. Renus Retem roared out as the attack was doing damage to the DOLLS.
Renus Retem attempted to attack again with one of its exposed armaments but before it could do so Noto was already on the move. Lionheart's barrel spun to a different slot and pointing away from himself Noto pulled the trigger. When he did Noto was blasted towards Renus Retem and was flying towards one of its varying arsenals of armaments. The weapon was a powerful beam weapon and before Renus Retem could attack Noto sliced into it and once more opened the gun barrel. The revolver spun to a different setting and fired a powerful beam through the two sides destroying the weapon.
Renus Retem roared out and dove back into the ground to get some room to attack. Surging through Renus Retem circled the sands before once more attempting the full barrage attack. Noto saw this and with his gunblade he fired the spread shot once more but at a higher setting. In doing so Noto had unleashed an onslaught of beam fire against Renus Retem to the point he ruined its trajectory and caused it to crash. Renus Retem began to get back up but already Noto was ready as were his teammates.
"Lets go!" Nadia said and thus they all got moving. Zed roared as he slashed his gunblade through his foes side while Zinnia used a Fusion attack of wind and thunder to caused damage to Renus Retem. Following this up Nadia bounced in and kicked Renus Retem exposing his primary core to the ARKS Operatives. Nadia then followed up with a drop kick to the core all the while Noto was charging up for a big attack against Renus Retem. Nadia's kick landed and held enough force to send Renus Retem into the wall with a crash that shook the cavern for a little bit.
"Take cover!" Noto called out as he was now all charged up with his finisher. Noto then pulled the trigger and with it released a powerful beam directly at Renus Retem taking out his core and his head in one shot. Renus Retem's body began to curl up before it exploded into a red cross in the air leaving nothing behind of the DOLLS Unit.
Noto however seemed to be struggling as he gritted his teeth and had a glare at his Cosmogenic Arm. Everyone looked to him with concern as they soon saw the weapon began to seal back up again. With an angry snarl Lionheart was back into its sealed for until next came that it was needed.
"Hey boss you, ok?" Zed asked as he walked over to Noto.
"Yeah, I'll be fine." Noto said as he had to remind himself that the Cosmogenic Arms had drawbacks to each of the users. Yozorah demanded a high energy cost to wield and leaves the user drain after use, Asura literally burns the user if they don't finish the fight fast, Eve makes you younger with every use of its power, Sleipnir causes limited or full body paralysis after using it, Merlin robs the user of their emotions leaving only cold logic, and Lionheart well let's just say it doesn't like going to sleep and leave it at that.
"We better call for pick up, the Maqead is now ours." Nadia said and thus they all got ready to call in for a ride.
(Back with Windu vs Apprentice)
Master Windu and Apprentice were in the middle of a Lightsaber duel as the blades clashed against each other. The two glared at each other when they clashed, and it became a struggle of might. The two glared at each other intent to take the other down. They then parted and began to clash blades once more while moving through the Tank. Apprentice did not seem to realize the amount of damage a Lightsaber can do as their movements through the vessel was damaging a few bits of important systems.
Another thing to note was that as they fought Apprentice was on the defensive against the Jedi Master. Windu saw this and while he knew that Apprentice was using Barriss Offee's own training as a Jedi her training was different from the fighting style that would have been more appropriate for Apprentice to use. Windu took full advantage of this as he watched how Apprentice attempted to recreate Barriss fighting style as her own.
This battle went on for a bit as Apprentice was on the defensive and Windu could sense how frustrated she was becoming from this fight. The battle continued until Windu blocked an attack and used the momentum to knock Apprentice to the side. The Dark Falz stumbled but was able to fix herself in order to fight on. But before the Dark Falz could move Mace force pushed Apprentice to the wall causing her to drop her Lightsaber.
She snarled but then fond Windu had his saber against her throat. "How are you winning?" Apprentice asked trying to make sense of this. "I have the experience and knowledge of my host so why?!" Apprentice demanded and in turn Windu already had the answer for that one.
"You may have the body and power of a Jedi, but you do not have the skills or the training of one." Mace Windu said as he glared at Apprentice. "And while Barriss may have been an excellent Padawan Learner she was still only a Padawan." Mace added as this got Apprentice to snarl at the Jedi. "Now surrender or else." Mace said but then Apprentice chuckled.
"Or else what? You'll kill a perfectly innocent Padawan to get to me?" Apprentice taunted as she glared at Windu. "You forget I can just abandon this body and move on to a new one and take all the knowledge in it with me." Apprentice said showing she was ahead of the game. "So go ahead I got nothing to lose." Apprentice added as she then smirked to this.
Before Windu could react, his senses went off and in turn, he dodged several Falspawn that were hiding in the darkness. What surprised him was the fact that they seemed to be attached to explosives which made him worried.
"Bye!" Apprentice called as she used the Force to get the Lightsaber and then portal her way out of there.
The Falspawn were about to go off and in turn Windu knew he had to run for it. Windu ran to the cockpit nearby and after dealing with the Droids inside he used the Force to break open the glass panel in his way. He then jumped out just as the entire Seismic Tank began to explode and fall to the ground with fire burning)
(Back with Clone Command Ponds)
Ponds saw the entire thing through binoculars as Air Support began to ease off their attack. Just then he was surprised to have Mace Windu land in front of him as it almost made the Clone fall over. "Welcome back General." Ponds said as he was glad to see Windu had survived this fight.
"Good to be back, Commander." Windu said before he directed his attention to those around him. "IS this everyone who made it out?" Windu asked with concern for the clone troopers.
"Just about." Ponds reported and in turn more ships flew in to finish off the Seismic Tank before ARKS can move in to clean it. "I also got word from the Maqead front; they've dealt with Renus Retem." Ponds added and thus Windu nodded to this.
"Good we now have the advantage." Windu said and soon enough Gunships flew in. "Get everyone on those gunships we're heading back to the city." Windu ordered and thus in response the Clones began to load up so they can report in on their victory this day.
(Scene Break that evening in Retem City)
Everyone was back in Retem City as celebrations were being held by all. Scout Teams and patrols were already reporting in on their areas of the Region. With only a few stragglers left the Retem Region was soon to be secured. Additional Troops would arrive from the ARKS fleet with Luminara to help them fortify and secure the Retem Region.
Nearby Windu saw this as he had just finished his report. It was good to see the men relax after such a hard-fought battle. Just then Noto appeared as he stood with Windu and observed the scene. "We won this day." Noto said as he watched the men relaxing. "But it won't be over until we kick these Separatists and the Collective off of our planet." Noto said which Windu agreed with.
"And with that I can agree." Windu said while he watched the scene.
"Anyway, the City Commander needs to know if she should expect reinforcements to help secure Retem." Noto said as he knew Nadia was concerned for those under her command.
"Republic forces will arrive soon, for the time being we're to hold position and make sure the enemy doesn't regain their foothold here." Windu said as he looked to Noto.
"Good." Noto said with a nod to the Jedi Master. "Hopefully when all is said and done, I can take some days off, I hear Maceb is nice this time of year." Noto joked as Windu simply let the Councilman be. Meanwhile Noto was hiding his hand as he had just gotten back from having the bandages changed out for new ones. Noto will be the first to admit that he hated busting out his Cosmogenic Arm. That damn thing fights him every time he needs to seal it back up. Whoever made these things into double edged swords should get their brains checked out.
"Anyway, I'm going to go down and join them, you should do the same." Noto said as he then made his way pass Windu to join in the celebrations here.
"Enjoy yourself Councilman." Windu said as Noto then left him. Once Windu was alone his glare returned as he began to dart his eyes around. The Jedi could sense it for some time now, something or someone was watching him. The question remained as to who had eyes on him.
(Meanwhile over in Northern Retem)
IT would do Windu well to know that he was being observed from afar. Standing atop one of the peaks over in Northern Retem a young woman dressed in the Silence Lied set observed Windu through a pair of cyber glasses. Her identity was more or less hidden as she watched the celebrations in Retem.
"Xect." The woman spoke into her earpiece as she kept hidden. "Retem is secured, and I've eliminated any possible plants the Republic may put in place." The woman said reporting the process of her tasks.
"Good work, Zero." Xect was heard as the woman the mysterious, Zero nodded in response. "Now I need you to move on to Aelio they are undoubtedly preparing for another offensive be there to keep an eye on things." Xect said which meant she had more tasks to attend to.
"Very well." Zero said before she stood back up and walked over to the ledge. She then jumped off and with her Photon Glide slowed her descent. But then as if of thin air she vanished from sight almost like she had never been there to begin with like a ghost.
(Meanwhile over with Vader)
Dark Falz Vader stood by himself as around him were varying screens that were attached to him. Each of them displayed one of the Four Regions of Halpha. Only Retem seemed to be off as Vader let out a growl when he figured what had just happened. "Apprentice has failed, and we have lost Renus Retem." Vader said as he then detached himself from the screens. "We must not lose the other three." He said and in turn began to take his leave knowing that if they failed Shiva would be displeased.
(TBC)
ESKK: Took me a while but here it is chapter 35 finished and published. I hope you all enjoyed it and will join me next time as we return to Aelio. Now then remember to leave a review and as I always say here, ja-ne.