Phantasy Star Horizon
ESKK: Here we are the second chapter to the Battle of Halpha saga. I hope you will all enjoy it and leave a review for me. Now let's get this started.
(Start Jedi Temple Strategy Room Coruscant)
The Jedi were currently gathered around a strategy table with Yaga and Klara there as well. On the table was a message that had been sent to them by Arthur as it was playing out the urgency of said message. With the solemn stern look the gathered had it was clear that it was not good news for anyone here.
"Halpha is under attack our defenses have been breached. We need aid immediately." Arthur urged in his recorded message as everyone listened. "I repeat the Separatist and Dark Falz Collective have attacked Halpha and broken through our defenses and made landfall." Arthur spoke getting the gathered Jedi's attention. "We desperately need help." He urged before the message was cut off.
When the message came to an end Xect stepped up to detail things to the gathered. "This was the last message we received before communications went dark on Halpha." Xect said as he was here because he was fortunate enough not to be on Halpha when the invasion had occurred. Despite this even he found this incident to be very troubling as part of ARKS.
"Do we have confirmation of any current information?" Windu asked with concern for the people down on Halpha trapped there. Windu would be participating in the coming battle as there was no telling what sort of opposition was waiting for them down on Planet Halpha.
Amongst the Jedi other than Mace Windu was Obi-Wan Kenobi, Luminara Unduli, Yoda, Plo Koon, and finally Anakin Skywalker with his Padawan Ahsoka Tano. They were the Jedi who would accompany the fleet to retake Halpha from the Separatists and the Dark Falz Collective's occupation. With them were the assigned ARKS Officers the named ones were Zed, Oma, and of course Yuvel for Windu, Obi-Wan, and Anakin. The other two ARKS Officers assigned to Luminara, Yoda, and Plo-Koon were also there. In their exact order the three were seen as a young lithe female Newman, a large male CAST, and a middle edge yet toned female Deuman.
"Yes, first off the Colony Ships." Xect said showing where the ships are currently located. "In accordance with our own emergency protocols for this situation, we've had them moved to Amduskia where they are currently orbiting the planet until we can retake Halpha from the enemy." Xect said showing the information to the gathered Jedi. This was good though that meant that ARKS had protocols in place to get the Civilian ships out of harm's way for emergencies like this. "This will act as our staging area for the counterattack." Xect said surprising many there.
"May I ask why?" Luminara asked before Xect showed images of a new ARKS weapon.
"Despite moving to a safer location, we still run the risk of the Separatists branching outward from Halpha." Xect said making it clear why they needed this spot. "Making our Staging area here will allow us to better protect the civilians should the enemy come from them." Xect said explaining his reasoning. "More so there is a weapon we have stored in the fleet that will aid us in the coming battle." Xect before he changed the image.
"After Arthur had sent his message, we sent scouting probes in to get a better handle of the situation." Xect said and in turn paused for a moment which left a concerned look for the group. "This is what they brought back." Xect said and thus showed the images of what had happened. What they saw was scenes of battle and war Droid Forces marching through Aelio, Falspawn making their way through Stia, Retem being sieged by both Falspawn and Droids with Apprentice leading them, and Kvaris being assaulted by Elder and what looked to be a new enemy type that the ARKS Operatives noted because they knew what those were.
"Wait those things." Ahsoka began recognizing the DOLLS Units.
"After researching Commander Tano and the ARKS Ops report from a previous mission we have identified enemies as a new Falspawn type. Their designation are DOLLS Units." Xect said bending the truth once more." Xect said explain what they were dealing with at the moment.
"A new Falspawn type?" Anakin asked with some concerns and valid ones one might add.
"Yes, the reports showed that these creatures were lead by this figure." Xect said showing an image of Dark Falz Vader to the gathered Jedi. "As it stands, we don't have an ID, but we do know for a fact that he is the Dark Falz who commands these DOLLS Units." Xect said before showing images of him in action. "He's brutal, vicious, and thus far has shown no mercy." Xect said as Obi-Wan noted how this new Dark Falz fought.
"It seems he may have been trained in the Jedi Arts." Obi-Wan said and thus Xect noted this.
"I see." Xect said taking out a small tablet adding that to his notes. "We'll have to look through any Jedi that may or may not have disappeared under unusual circumstances we might get a possible ID." Xect said noting this topic for a later date. "He also possess a lot of fire power after what he had done to Aelio Town." Xect said and thus gasps were heard when images of the crater where Aelio Town once resided was shown.
"Oh no." Yuvel gasped when he saw the crater fearing the worse had taken place.
"Yes, unfortunately the Dark Falz target vanished into Time Space not long after and we had been unable to pinpoint its location ever since then." Xect said showing the group what they were up against.
"I suppose you have a plan in mind." Windu asked and in turn Xect smirked.
"I always have a plan." Xect said before displaying said plan. The Holo table showed the image of Halpha focusing on the Western Aelio Region where a ship was displayed. "This ship is acting as the Dark Falz primary deployment point sending forces to assist both in space and on the planet surface." Xect said showing with what they were dealing. "The new weapon was designed to stun it for lack of better words and with it the ship will be incapacitated for our troops to move in and remove it from play." Xect said before moving to the next phase of his plan.
"The strike unit will need to be small so it can slip past the Separatist Blockade around Halpha so for lack of better words our team will be going in without aid until Master Plo-Koon and Knight Skywalker can break the blockade." Xect said gesturing to Plo.
"I will do my best." Plo said as Anakin nodded in agreement with the Jedi Master on this.
"Once the ship is neutralized and the blockade is broken, we'll land on this island here." Xect said highlighting the island in question as they noted it was right outside where Aelio Town used to be. "Kanai Island will act as our staging ground and landing sight for our main forces and from there Anakin and Obi-Wan's units will make their way to Central City." Xect said showing a path that they were to take to get to the City in question. "Mace Windu you and your forces will head to the Retem Region and provide the ARKS Operatives stationed there with any aid you can." Xect said as he knew that Mace had the best shot seeing as the enemies there were the tougher ones.
"Master Plo-Koon will lead the counterattack in the Kvaris Region we need to clear out the enemy forces there." Xect said before getting to the Stia Region. "Stia will be the most difficult of them so Master Luminara will lead the defense there." Xect said but he was far from done.
"What of the Council of Six?" Oma asked with his hand raised.
"We have confirmation that Noto and Maria are already on the planet Maria is currently in Aelio and Noto is in Kvaris." Xect said pulling the images up on those two. "Arthur is currently with the fleet awaiting our arrival." Xect said before getting to the last three. "I will accompany you all with Yaga and Klara." Xect said before dividing it up. "Yaga and Klara will head to Stia to provide support while I'll be heading to Retem with Master Windu." Xect said revealing what the plan was for their attack.
"Once we have secured the locations, we need to get the Central Cannons activated before the Dark Falz really cut loose." Xect said as this got questions from them.
"Central Cannons?" Luminara asked and thus Xect explained it.
"Basically, its our means to counter the Dark Falz attacks." Xect began as the images of the Central Cannons came on screen. "Their extremely powerful Photon Ion Cannons that are located in each of the main Cities of Halpha." Xect said revealing the information on the Four Cannons. "Getting them active will tip the scales in our favor against the Dark Falz." Xect said knowing they needed those cannons to be online.
"Seems simple enough take out their supply ship, break the blockade, fight our way through hundreds of Falspawn and Droids, and take back the planet." Anakin said with a smirk on his face. "No pressure huh." He quipped as Obi-Wan chuckled at the Chosen One.
"If this new weapon you have does as you claim it does then we will need it." Windu said though he honestly had his doubts.
"We're in agreement then." Xect said and thus they all nodded. "Then we best prepare the more time wasted is less time we have to aid Halpha and push back the enemy from our home." Xect said and thus the meeting came to an end.
(Later outside the meeting room)
The Jedi were departing from the room with the ARKS Operative Officers accompanying them. Leaving the meeting Anakin, Ahsoka, and Yuvel travelled with Obi-Wan and Oma so they can prepare to retake Halpha from the Separatists and the Dark Falz.
"This siege will be most difficult." Obi-Wan said as he knew full well that the Separatists and Dark Falz will fight them tooth and nail.
"We have to fight though after everything ARKS has done for us its time, we return the favor." Anakin said knowing they owed ARKS for all their aid especially Anakin when Xect's strategy saw the freedom of several slaves and the Hutts Cartel falling apart.
"Yes, but I sense there is more." Obi-Wan said as he knew Anakin was hiding something.
The truth was he was because Padme or at least someone with her face was likely to be there as part of the Dark Falz aiding the Separatist Alliance. IT was no secret that Persona had an obsessive desire to kill Anakin, but no one had figured out why. It was a worrying thing but not as troubling as what will happen if their enemies are allowed to stay on Halpha and take all of its unique resources. They had to take back the planet if only to ensure ARKS got their home back.
"Let's worry about how we're going to break through the enemy lines first." Anakin said making it clear they had to prioritize their objectives first.
"Of course." Obi-Wan said as he agreed with his old Padawan and brother.
Tailing them from behind the two ARKS Operatives and Ahsoka were having their own discussion over the matter of Halpha. "Are you guys, ok?" Ahsoka asked with concern knowing that Halpha was their shared home. "I mean with everything going on with Halpha right now?" Ahsoka clarified as she was worried for the ARKS Operatives.
"Yeah, it's just… shocking I suppose over what's happening on Halpha." Oma said as he had his concerns and worries for Halpha and her people.
"That's why we need to take back our home." Yuvel said with a tone of comfort to the older Operative. "The Separatists made a big mistake attacking Halpha so we're going to make sure they regret coming for our home." Yuvel said and thus Oma nodded to the younger Operative.
"Jeez." Oma sighed before walking off to stay close to Obi-Wan.
But as he left Ahsoka could not help but give off a sad smile that held a hint of jealousy and concern in it. When the others were outside of hearing range Ahsoka finally spoke. "How do you do it?" Ahsoka asked wanting to know Yuvel's secret. "How do you keep smiling even when things are at their bleakest?" Ahsoka asked as she wondered how Yuvel manages to stay so positive despite all the darkness he has already seen.
"Honestly." Yuvel began as he stopped to help Ahsoka out with her issues right now. "It's because of the darkness that I try to keep smiling." Yuvel said revealing why he kept trying to smile. "I try to smile for those who can't smile." Yuvel began with a small smile on his face. "I try to shine so hope doesn't go out." Yuvel said as despite everything he has seen he always tries to smile.
"I… but how do you?" Ahsoka asked again but Yuvel then walked away but then turned to Ahsoka.
"I guess its knowing that others are losing hope is what pushes me to keep smiling." Yuvel said and thus Ahsoka had a better understanding of Yuvel and his role in this.
"I… I see." Ahsoka said and thus the thought filled her with a bit of hope as well despite everything.
(Scene Break ARKS Fleet Amduskia)
Several days later the Republic Fleet arrived over the planet Amduskia where the ARKS fleet had moved to wait out the storm. As they moved in several of the ships were already forming a defensive formation around the Colony Ships. Republic Troops were already flying supplies into the Civilian Ships for distribution while picking up any ARKS Operatives able and willing to provide aid in taking back Planet Halpha.
In the command room of ARKS Arthur stood by himself rewatching his blunder that put Halpha in this situation to begin with. He grew arrogant on their victories that he never thought that the DOLLS would appear as they did. IT was all his fault and the fact Halpha was still in danger had prevented the CAST from committing seppuku. So as Arthur stood in the command room darkened like his emotion the door behind him slid open allowing for light to enter the room.
At the door was Xect and Klara as they had come to Halpha as soon as they could. "Arthur." Xect said as he looked to Arthur. "We're here and we brought aid." Xect said as he looked to his old friend and fellow Council Member.
"Yeah, Republic forces are here to help us take back Halpha!" Klara said being optimistic over the victory she envisioned.
However, Arthur was not in the right state of mind at the moment. "Leave me." Arthur said as the Aura around him showed just how upset he was with himself.
"Arthur, we need you so we can begin battle plans." Xect said but Arthur would not budge from his spot.
"I said leave." Arthur repeated himself making it clear that he wanted to be left alone right now.
"Arthur…" Klara said with concern for her fellow Council Member.
But then all of a sudden Xect entered and grabbed Arthur before slamming his head into the console causing Klara to yelp in shock. "So, you made one bad decision and your now letting it cloud your mind!" Xect snapped as he very rarely if ever losses his cool like right now. "ARKS chose you as the leader of the Council of Six if you are so easily brought down then we made a mistake." Xect said before letting go. "We now have the opportunity to strike back and instead of leading the charge you're here wallowing in your own asinine self-pity." Xect said before he began to storm off.
"As Yaga would elegantly put it, when your done being a little bitch you can meet us up on the Resolute with the others so we can start planning." Xect said before taking his leave of Arthur. "Come along, Klara." Xect said and after a moment of hesitation Klara followed after Xect.
(Meanwhile elsewhere on the ship)
Ahsoka was overseeing the transfer of supplies with some of the Clones. ARKS was very clear they wanted to get this done first before anything major was to take place. As Ahsoka watched she noted Yuvel was smiling as he passed a few supplies to a group of kids who looked upset from these events. Ahsoka could not help but smile when Yuvel made funny faces to the kid and got the kid to laugh at this despite the chaos.
When the child's mother called for him Yuvel waved the kid off and sent him on his way. Yuvel waved at the child who waved back as they bid each other goodbye before Yuvel went back to distributing supplies to the people who needed them.
"Makes you wonder doesn't it." Laura was heard as suddenly Ahsoka saw Laura was standing with her holding a crate of supplies that she put down. "How he can keep people smiling even in such dark times." Laura said as she knew that question had been asked several times before.
"Yeah, it's like he doesn't have an ounce of darkness in him." Ahsoka said as she joined Laura on the topic.
"For a Jedi, your pretty blind." Laura said with a chuckle to the Togruta.
"What?" Ahsoka asked as she was surprised by this.
"People who try so hard to smile and reassure others are normally the ones who have the most turmoil of them all." Laura said as she had known Yuvel for a long time and even she had not gotten him to drop all of his walls.
"How do you?" Ahsoka began but Laura just gave Ahsoka a look.
"I've known him longer you can literally ask Zurna and Reggie about it if you want." Laura said and thus she went back to work on her task. Ahsoka stood there with confusion and concern for the ARKS Operatives wondering if they all had some darkness they keep hidden away from the galaxy.
But when Ahsoka was left alone a familiar CAST was heard. "Ahsoka Tano!" The Voice called as Ahsoka looked and saw the ARKS Forger master Volgun as he carried something wrapped in a cloth.
"Volgun!?" Ahsoka asked shocked to see the CAST was here and that he was not harmed.
"Yeah, I finished my project and got off Halpha just before the invasion began." Volgun said as he knew that was what she was going to ask. "Was going to deliver it personally when all this shit went down." Volgun added as he took a seat with his legs crossed.
"Well glad to see your ok." Ahsoka said as Volgun took out the object he was holding in his servos.
"Honestly, I'm glad you came here saves me the trouble of flying to Coruscant." Volgun said as he then presented the object to Ahsoka. "One of my finest works yet and now your its proud owner as thanks for freeing me of my block." Volgun said and thus he began to unwrap the unknown item.
Once it was free Ahsoka was met with the sight of one of the most elegant and carefully crafted weapons she had ever laid eyes on. She was no weapon enthusiast but even she can recognize good craftsmanship when she sees it. More so with the Force she could sense that this weapon radiated raw power and it made her wonder what Volgun had forged.
"This is a Cosmogenic Arm my finest work yet." Volgun said as he held the weapon to Ahsoka in a manner of a blacksmith presenting a sword to a Samurai. "You deserve this weapon above all others." He said making it clear this sword was made with Ahsoka in mind and she saw it. The scabbard detailed images of her Togruta Heritage as they lead up to a crystal just before the hilt of the blade.
Ahsoka carefully took the weapon and when her hands touched it was as if Force itself was singing to her. She was truly amazed by the weapon in question and in turn Ahsoka took the hilt in hand and drew the sword. The hilt showed a crest of the Jedi on one side and ARKS on the other.
When the blade was released Ahsoka swore that the Force around her and even within her was drawn into the blade granting it incredible power. The more she drew out the more the Force was drawn in. When the blade was unsheathed the edge of it gave off a glow that reminded Ahsoka of a Lightsaber oddly enough.
"It's called the Hoshinoken its power draws from the Force itself, but it comes as a drawback when in use." Volgun explained as it was the problem with Cosmogenic Arms, they always have a drawback to them. "In the hands of a Jedi it takes away your own Force Ability to fuel its incredible power." Volgun said and thus Ahsoka was surprised by this and when she tried to feel the Force, she couldn't feel its power. "Only use it when its need is great." Volgun said as Ahsoka sheathed the powerful sword.
"Thank you but… I can't." Ahsoka tried but Volgun refused.
"It's yours now it was made for you… literally." Volgun said and thus Ahsoka saw Volgun would not be refused.
"Alright then." Ahsoka began but Volgun stopped her.
"One more thing this weapon needs a blessing." Volgun said as Ahsoka still held the sword in her hands by its sheath. Volgun then placed his hands at the center point of the sheath as his optics dulled showing his eyes were closed. "May this weapon strike true. May it be wielded with wisdom. May it be put down when its job is done." Volgun said with his hands at the center of the blade before he released it to Ahsoka's hands.
Ahsoka looked to the weapon in shock as she realized the sort of responsibility this Blacksmith had just given her. This weapon certainly was the truest sword in the galaxy.
(Later over on the Resolute)
In the Command Deck of the Resolute Anakin, Yuvel, Rex, and Ahsoka were gathered as they got ready for the strategy briefing. With them was Reggie, Zurna, and Laura as they were part of Yuvel's team and wanted to hear what ARKS plan of attack was. They knew that with the Dark Falz Collective on Halpha there was no telling how long they had before they tried to infect the Planet and all of its inhabitants with the F-Factor. Still procedures and what not and if Xect's notes were accurate then they still had time so long as they kept the heat on against the Separatists and the Dark Falz.
But now that supplies have been distributed and mouths have been fed, they can get down to planning their attack. With that in mind Klara and Xect entered the room as Holograms of the Generals and Yaga appeared with them.
"Seeing as everyone is here, we can begin." Xect said as Anakin noted that Arthur was currently not with them.
"You sure?" Anakin began making it clear that Arthur was not in attendance. "Should we wait for Arthur first?" Anakin asked as he knew Arthur should be a part of this meeting as Halpha was the CAST's home as well.
"Well, um…" Klara began trying to come up with an excuse for Arthur's current state. "You see he's." Klara went on before the doors slid open and the CAST Walked in.
"Sorry I was running a little behind." Arthur began as Xect saw Arthur had gotten his act back together. "What's the situation?" Arthur asked as he wanted to know what their attack strategy was.
Xect smiled happy to see his friend was back to his old self again. Still Arthur was right to focus on the task at hand. Directing his attention to the Holo Table it activated and displayed the current situation on Halpha and the Separatist Blockade. "Here is our latest scouting intel." Xect began as he presented the data to those who were currently gathered here. "From what we know the situation is escalating in the regions." He said displaying scenes of towns taken by the enemy with people being held at gunpoint Civilian and Defenders. "Retem on the brink, Aelio is being overrun, and both the Kvaris and Stia Regions are being bombarded." Xect said as he knew the reason Stia and Kvaris were holding on was because of the Regions harsh environments protecting them.
"This is most troubling." Plo-Koon said as he saw that Halpha was getting beaten down.
"Then we must act quickly." Arthur said stepping up which Obi-Wan agreed on.
"Took the words out of my mouth, Councilman." Obi-Wans aid and in turn Xect continued to speak to the group.
"Master Plo-Koon you will lead the Blockade attack we need you to open a hole big enough for our strike team to slip on in." Xect said already having an idea on who to send. "Once our strike team is through Knight Skywalker will join you and help break through." Xect said but Arthur cut in on the current topic.
"I shall join in the attack as well." Arthur announced showing he had every intention of taking the fight to the Separatists for this attack.
"Are you sure?" Klara asked in concern for Arthur.
"I am sure." Arthur began answering Klara's question. "I will fight because I must." Arthur said in a plain and simple tone to show his resolve.
"Very well then." Xect said already factoring Arthur's involvement in their attack against the blockade. "Now then with the enemies focus split it should give us room to make a decisive strike against them but only if everyone fills their roll to their best ability." Xect said making it clear that they all needed to play their part out there.
"If any of us fails in our tasks then its game over." Klara said with a stern tone showing she was ready to fight with everything she had on her.
"Then we best not fail." Obi-Wan said and thus it was time to begin the battle to retake planet Halpha.
"Now then, Yuvel and his squad will be our strike team, but they will need an escort unit." Xect said and thus they figured as much. Xect directed his attention over to Anakin before he began to speak. "General Skywalker any pilots you can offer up?" Xect asked and thus Anakin smirked to this.
"I got a few guys who can help." Anakin said trusting his men to get the job done and help ARKS out.
"Alright then, this our new Freezing Round." Xect said displaying a hologram of the new weapon. "The plan is to fire it into the water and trap the vessel in the ice." Xect said as he showed a simulation of the strategy to them. "Yuvel will lead a squadron of AIS Units for this and Reggie you will be the one to make the shot." Xect said as Reggie cheered.
"Well Winter is coming." Reggie quipped as he punched his fist into his open palm.
"We are expecting heavy resistance from the enemy so the escort will have to remain to provide air support if possible." Xect added which meant they had to be ready for anything thrown their way. "Once the enemy ship is eliminated and the blockade is broken, we can move to stage 2 of the operation to retake Halpha." Xect said and thus they were all in agreement on the plan.
"Well then now that we're sorted, we can begin." Obi-Wan said which Windu nodded as a hologram.
"Of course, may the force be with you." Windu said before Arthur had his own response to him.
"And may the Great Light shine your stars." Arthur said and in turn they all parted to make their final preparations for the coming battle.
(Later down in the hanger)
ARKS Operatives and Clone Troopers were moving to their starfighters as crews were seen making sure all was ready. The battle was going to be a long one so many were ensuring they had enough ammo and rations to get them through all of it. "Come on ladies we got, asses to kick and a home to retake!" Yaga was heard as he stood atop a pile of crates while getting everyone ready to retake their home of Halpha.
Ahsoka was also heading to her own starfighter as her Astromech Droid, R7-A7, was being loaded into her starfighter. Ahsoka sighed as she knew she would be acting as escort for the strike team that would get passed the blockade. Anakin would be staying with the fleet and join her on the ground so they can set up the perimeter. Steeling her resolve Ahsoka got ready to board the vessel when she heard a tune.
-Insert Song of Mourning-
-Rest your weary souls no more tales to tell. Bid the world a farewell as it sinks into twilight.-
Ahsoka followed the sound and soon came to the sight up Laura by herself singing the tune.
-Ride upon the wind eternity waits for you gently to close your eyes as you dream of a morning light.-
As Laura sang her Mag was hovering around displaying images of herself with her friends all of them smiling. Some images showed them on a new planet while others showed them laughing at a small blunder here and there. There was even one where Reggie was buried into the sand as Laura and Yuvel laughed wearing swim wear while Zurna facepalmed over their CAST friend.
-O Tortures souls your grief unending. Let its flame light the path ahead. Though you've nothing left, nothing to protect. Though you walk on to your end.-
Ahsoka found it odd that Laura would be singing to these images, but she had to admit Laura had a good voice. It made her wonder if she had done this professionally.
-O Noble souls, your sacrifices will be told. Songs of love and pain. Till My dying day I'll sing your refrain let it echo in my veins. Till the day when naught but peace will remain.-
-End OST-
Laura song came to an end as the images began to vanish around her. It was then that Ahsoka noted that Clarissa was in Laura's hand glowing while Hoshinoken reacted to it as well.
"It's called the Song of Mourning." Laura suddenly said as she got Ahsoka's attention. "It's a song ARKS Operatives and ARKS Defenders hold close in honor of those who have fallen and those yet to come." Laura explained as Ahsoka was surprised that Laura knew she was there.
"How did you know I was there?" Ahsoka asked as she came out to meet with Laura.
"Not really sure." Laura admitted as she then took seat on a crate as her cloak wrapped around her body. "I suppose Clarissa told me." Laura said as soon enough Clarissa the White Appeared floating next to Laura. "She must have sensed your Cosmogenic Arm." Laura said and as if on response Hoshinoken began to resonate with Clarissa. "Volgun must see a lot of potential in you to forge that for you, Ahsoka." Laura said as she wondered what the Togruta did to get that weapon.
"Honestly… I think he chose wrong." Ahsoka said as she held the sheathed weapon in her hand. "I don't even think I should have something this valuable to ARKS." Ahsoka said but Laura then shook her head to counter Ahsoka.
"No… don't you Jedi have a thing with the Force that everything happens for a reason?" Laura said as Ahsoka heard this.
"The Force is a mysterious thing." Ahsoka admitted as she was certain not even Yoda knew its full context and he's the oldest member of the Jedi Order.
"Then if not Volgun then trust in the Force when the time is right… you'll know if he made the right choice or not." Laura said as Ahsoka paused to this for a moment.
But them, the Togruta chuckled as she saw what Laura said. "You sound like a Jedi." Ahsoka joked as Laura smiled to her.
"Well, you act like an ARKS Operative." Laura said as she and Ahsoka began to walk off. "Maybe we should switch jobs." Laura joked and thus Ahsoka laughed followed by Laura joining in. They headed to the hanger in preparations for the deployment against the blockade around Halpha.
(Scene Break Separatist Blockade)
In the Command Ship of the Blockade The Separatist Military Leader from Murkhana Oro Dassyne sat on his command chair as he as he had Droids roaming the deck. The Holo Projector displayed Persona as she glared at the Separatist from behind her mask. While Persona was technically in charge it was Vader who called the shots amongst the Collective now.
"General are you prepared for ARKS and the Republics inevitable counterattack?" Persona asked while her synthesized voice hid her own fury against the Separatist Alliance.
"If they want to breach our Blockade their going to need their entire Navy just to break through." Oro boasted to the Dark Falz leader.
"Prey that you are correct because if you fail, you'll be replaced." Persona said making it clear that it was Oro's neck on the line if he fails this task.
"Don't worry they won't know what hit them." Oro said not realizing Xect was the leading strategist for the counterattack to retake planet Halpha.
(Scene Break Hyperspace with the fleet)
The final call was being made as everyone was loading up into their ships. Ahsoka jumped into her cockpit as she got ready to deploy with her Squadron to escort the strike team. Plo-Koon was also loading up in his starfighter with his wolfpack ready to start the space battle. Yuvel knew the plan was simple, fly in, trap the ship, get inside the ship, set up the explosives, and get the hell out.
It was a simple task but as all things that Yuvel learned, nothing is ever that easy for them. So, with this in mind Yuvel was prepared for the worst as he stocked up on all the recovery items, he could carry in case things go south. "Ok guys once we get out of Hyperspace, we're going to be flying in past the Blockade with our escort." Yuvel said after stepping into the AIS transport vehicle. "Our escort will do their part but once we get past the blockade and into the atmosphere you better be ready to go in hot." Yuvel said making sure that the Operatives with him knew what they were getting themselves into right now.
"Oi no worries, mate." Lon said as he grinned with his party members, Yuna, Zeon, and Kaz ready for battle. "If this anything like the Yamato simulations then we have this in the bag." Lon said showing he was confident that they will win.
"Yes, just imagine the Yamato ten times the size from the simulation so it matches up to the actual vessel." Zeon said while crossing his arms clearly seeing the fact in the mission they would undertake. The Transport closed up as they were all inside before they each began to strap in for what came next.
(Later out in open space)
Soon enough from Hyperspace the Republic Cruisers and ARKS Battle ships came out ready for battle. With them now out of hyperspace it was time to begin the second round of the Battle of Halpha. Only this time ARKS intended to retake their home from the Separatists and the Dark Falz Collective. They even had the Republic backing them up this time.
(Later on, the ARKS Command Ship)
Xect stood in his command post as he glared upon the scene before him. Being a strategist, the Newman always felt at home in a strategy room over the field. "Sir we're out of hyperspace." The Crewman informed which Xect nodded in response to this.
"Good, activate the Photon Field." Xect said getting right to the point which the crewman understood.
"Understood, Photon Field Eradiate now!" The female Newman crewman said slamming down on the activation button for the field.
(Back to the Space Battle)
Once the ships were out of hyperspace the entire area was covered in Photons that eradiated outward to the edges of the combat venue. With the Photon Field now active the Republic and ARKS troops can begin the battle proper. From there the hanger bays opened and from them several squadrons of Starfighters and AIS Units flew into battle. Ahsoka and her Squadron were gathered around the ARKS transport that had the AIS Units ready for combat deployment down on Halpha.
"Await my command." Ahsoka said as she lead the squadron to the coming dog fight against the Separatists.
(Back on the Separatist Cruiser)
"Sir, enemy fighter deployment spotted." A battle Droid warned and thus Orro growled to this.
"Deploy all fighters." He responded and thus the Droid nodded.
(Back to the space Battle)
Vulture Droids were deployed as they launched from their hangers and went to face the incoming forces. "Wait for my signal." Plo-Koon said to his troops urging them to wait for the moment to strike.
(Meanwhile in the ARKS Battleship)
Xect stood in the command deck of his ARKS ship as he glared upon the scene before smirking. "They took the bait." Xect said before looking to the gathered crewman. "Fire off our little surprise." Xect said and thus the crew nodded to their leader.
"Yes sir!" Once Crew member responded and relayed the order to the crew. The crew, in response to the order, typed in the commands and watched the fireworks take place.
(Back to the Space Battle)
The larger ARKS ship charged up a beam weapon taking aim at the Separatist Blockade. It then fired a powerful pulse beam which their allies managed to stay out of the way off unlike the enemy forces who got hit. The shot was powerful enough to force the enemy vessels to break formation when it took down one of their own vessels stunning its systems.
Ahsoka saw this and knew that was their way in. "There's an opening go!" Ahsoka ordered and thus the escort and transport vehicles ignited their boosters and flew towards the hole in the enemy blockade.
"Wolf pack give those fighters time to get through!" Plo ordered and they did so. But then from the ARKS Ship a beam of light flew in and sliced through the Vulture Droids leaving behind a trail of Photons.
"I did say I would take part in this battle." Arthur said with Yozora in its sealed form in hand. He began to cleave and hack his way through the Vulture Droids and Falspawn in order to clear a path towards the enemies Planetary blockade. But as he fought, he was nearly blindsided by another Falspawn had he not spun out of the way of the attack. When it appeared, he was to be outnumbered AIS Units flew in and provided Arthur with needed aid.
"Don't worry councilman we got your back!" The AIS Pilot said before his wingman fired off a volley of Photon Rockets to eliminate the enemy. With several more AIS Units joining in Arthur saw that even the Republic fighters were backing up the CAST. Thus, with a smirk he held Yozora in a Katana draw stance as it could only mean one thing for everyone.
"I accept your resolves so allow me to share with you my own!" Arthur called out and thus got ready to unseal his Cosmogenic Arms. "Strike forth, Yozora!" Arthur invoked and drew the katana out cleaving his way through several enemies with one swing of his mighty blade. Taking a battle stance Arthur roared out in challenge before charging into the battle against his enemies.
During this the escort for the ARKS transport ship managed to make it past the hole that ARKS made in the Blockade while the battle in space progressed. Once they were through the blockade began to try and regain its formation to keep ARKS and the Republic from retaking Halpha.
(Scene Break Halpha West Aelio)
The starfighters lead by Ahsoka flew through the atmosphere down to the planet surface. But as soon as they broke through the clouds the turbo lasers fired upon them forcing them to begin evasive maneuvers. "Boys lets keep the fire off our guys." Ahsoka said ready to fight against the Falspawn.
"Yes sir!" The Clones Pilots responded and thus the squadron moved to draw enemy fire away from the transport. They fired of fa few shots upon the vessel and were able to draw some of the fire away from the ARKS AIS Transport.
(Inside the Falspawn infected ship)
Vader and Persona were the only Dark Falz inside the ship. Elder had gone to Kvaris, Apprentice had gone to Retem, Luther was somewhere in Aelio, and Gemini was off in Stia. "It seems their attempting to fight us again." Persona said glaring at the scene before her.
"Then they will die braver then most." Vader responded and thus Persona began to leave the command deck. "Where are you going?" Vader asked glaring over to Persona.
"I'm going out to break them." Persona said as she left the room to go to the hanger to fight the Fighter Squadron Ship-to-ship. Vader allowed it as he observed the situation as it progressed before him.
(Meanwhile inside of the transport)
-Insert Phantasy Star Online 2: 5th Opening Borderless-
"Time to move." Yuvel said as he and the two parties were all ready to deploy.
"Show time mates!" Lon called out clapping his hands together in anticipation.
So, in turn they began to board into their AIS Units before they activated the machines. Meanwhile Reggie's AIS Unit was equipped with the new Freezing Round Weapon for their combat strategy. The AIS Units were then moved towards the catapult to deploy the units into battle. One-by-bone the AIS Units were flung off the Catapults and into the outside where it seemed they began to freefall.
(Back in the Combat Venue)
The AIS Units were freefalling to battle before they activated their boosters and flew in. "AIS Units on me get Reggie to the objective!" Yuvel called out leading the teams to battle.
"You blokes heard the man move!" Lon called out and they flew in. Meanwhile Ahsoka and her squadron saw Yuvel and his team and knew that they were now in the next phase of the battle for Halpha.
Meanwhile the Dark Falz infected ship aimed its turbo lasers at them before it began to open fire. The AIS Units dodged the shots as the Clone fighters lead by Ahsoka joined in with them. One Clone ship was hit but despite this they kept moving to the shared objective. It almost seemed to easy at first until the ship launched Dark Falz infected Vulture Droids with Persona in her Naboo Starfighter leading the charge.
"Keep these Vulture Droids off of ARKS!" Ahsoka called out as she knew Reggie needed a clear shot at the objective to get the win.
"Everyone cover Reggie now!" Yuvel called out knowing they had to do their part also.
The Dogfight began as ARKS Operative in their AIS Units and the Republic Troopers in their Starfighters were fighting back. Avoiding laser fire both sides continued to move in towards the enemy ship with ARKS slicing through a few with their swords before shooting while the Republic fighters simply fired their lasers at the enemy.
Reggie meanwhile from his AIS saw an opening and knew it was time to take it. "Guys I'm moving in cover me!" Reggie called out and thus they knew.
"Zurna go back him up!" Yuvel called which Zurna was more then willing to do here.
"Kaz you too!" Lon added which the Newman was more the willing to do.
"Right!" Zurna and Kaz responded before moving in to back up Reggie as he got ready to take the winning shot.
But of course, the trio were tailed by Falspawn infected Vulture Droids which fired on them to stop their plan. While Reggie and Kaz moved out of the way Zurna spun around with her AIS and fired off a beam attack at the Droids easily taking two of them out.
Reggie meanwhile got into position as Kaz covered the CAST. "Taking the shot!" Reggie called out while his AIS took aim. The rocket began to prepare to launch but just before he could fire laser fire hit the arm forcing him to drop the weapon. "SHIT!" Reggie cursed as he watched their means to win fall from the sky. Following the line of fire Reggie saw Persona flying at him after she had fired at the CAST.
"What happened?!" Yuvel asked as he heard Reggie curse.
"I got hit and dropped the weapon!" Reggie reported and thus Yuvel acted fast.
He then saw the weapon falling and knew he had to act fast. "I see it!" Yuvel called and thus flew after it after discarding his own rifle. As Yuvel flew after it he soon saw Persona coming at him as well firing upon him. The lasers were doing damage to his AIS, but Yuvel had to push through in spite of the damages.
"DIE!" Persona growled as she kept the heat going.
"Not today!" Yuvel responded and grabbed the weapon before firing the rocket. Persona easily circled around it but failed to realize Yuvel's AIS was too damaged to keep going. Persona went wide eyed as her starfighter, and Yuvel's AIS crashed into each other resulting in a shared explosion between the two fighters.
From the smoke Yuvel was seen as he began to free fall to the water just as the rocket entered the ocean water. Once the rocket hit water it exploded creating a large field of ice that went outward creating an entire landmass of ice. The Falspawn infected Ship was caught in the ice and thus held in place by it giving the ARKS Operatives the opening to move in.
Yuvel was the first to land on the ground as soon several beams of Photonic light hit the ground behind him. The others had joined him on the ground as they took a few steps towards the trapped ship ready to take back their home.
-End OST-
(Meanwhile with Ahsoka)
Ahsoka saw what had happened and had to admit that was impressive and thanks to this they now had some breathing room. But those fighters were still coming at them and thus she had to focus on the current battle. "Ahsoka." Yuvel was heard on the communications of Ahsoka's fighter.
-Insert Phantasy Star Online 2 OST: Steel Gale Operation-
"I hear you, Yuvel." Ahsoka responded waiting to hear what Yuvel had to say.
"My team and I are about to head to the enemy ship, keep those fighters off our tail." Yuvel said and in turn Ahsoka nodded.
"Right." Ahsoka said and thus switched to her Squadron. "Alright boys we need to make sure our friends from ARKS have a path let's plow the road." Ahsoka said and with that the Clones understood.
"You heard mother goose let's take care of these Clankers." A Clone Pilot said before they proceeded with the battle at hand.
(Back with the ARKS Operatives)
"Alright guys let's move it!" Yuvel called out and in turn they began making their way to their mission objective. On their persons were several high yield explosives that they would plant onto the vessels core before setting them off. This was not going to be easy, but ARKS was not one to shy away from such a challenge.
(Meanwhile back with the Republic/ARKS Fleet)
Arthur was zooming through the battle as he sliced through the Vulture droids that attacked him once he got close. He truly was one of the Trio of Heroes here. But as he continued the battle, he glared at the Separatist Blockade knowing they had to break through to the rest of their forces can make landfall on the planet.
Just then Arthur saw a group of Falspawn coming his way as he growled at them. Yozora was starting to put a strain on him, but he had to hold fast in order to win. Just then laser fire hit the Falspawn and from it Anakin flew by in his starfighter aiding the ARKS Councilman.
"Need a hand old timer?" Anakin joked as he flew by the Seat of one.
"Skywalker." Arthur chuckled glad to have the aid from Anakin.
"Arthur, do you read me?" Xect asked via the communications link between him and their forces.
"I read you old friend what is going on?" Arthur asked hoping Xect had some good news for him.
(With Xect on the ship)
"I have just received confirmation that our ground unit has managed to complete Phase 1." Xect said as he now knew their guys were marching towards the downed ship to eliminate it as a threat. "You need to breach the blockade before they finish phase 2 or else the entire operation is a failure." Xect said making it clear that it was now or never.
(Back to the Space Battle)
"Understood." Arthur said with a nod before switching communication channels. "Any available units call in I am going to make an attempt on the main command vessel." Arthur said and thus waited for a response while fighting off several enemies. "I require a squad to assist me." Arthur said and thus he got his response.
"We read you Councilman and my unit, and I are enroute to provide assistance." Came the voice of Plo-Koon which Arthur was most grateful for.
"You have my thanks." Arthur said before he flew straight for the Separatist Command ship in order to eliminate it.
(Back on Halpha West Aelio)
Yuvel lead his unit straight for the ship as it was still unable to free itself from its icy prison. "There it is!" Reggie called out as he saw the vessel was now in view.
But then Yuvel saw something and quickly came to a stop. "Wait hold!" Yuvel called out and thus they saw what made the team leader stop their advance.
"Oh, come on you have got to be shitting me right now!" Zurna said as standing before them was none other than Dark Falz [Persona] The Masked.
"Well, that's war for you not only a needless loss of life but nothing is ever straight forward and easy." Laura said accepting what was about to happen right now.
"Wait, mates." Lon said as he then tossed his explosives over to Yuvel as did his teammates.
"Lon what are you?" Yuvel began but Lon smirked at his fellow Operative.
"We got a mission and not that long to complete it." Lon said taking out his guns while doing a double gun twirl with them. "We'll hold her here while you lot get those bombs set up." Lon said with a grin on his face while pointing his guns at Persona ready to fight her.
"But." Reggie began only for Persona to roar out and charge swinging her sword at them. Zeon moved in and blocked the attack with his Glaive
"Just go already!" Zeon called out and thus Yuvel looked to his teammates before they nodded to each other.
"You better survive!" Yuvel called out and thus he and his teammates Photon Dashed towards the enemy vessel.
Persona growled and went after them after pushing Zeon back. But she was then stopped by Luna who used her jet boots to kick Persona in the face knocking the enemy back. All four of them stood in Persona's way as Yuna then glanced towards Lon.
"You do know that our chances of beating a Dark Falz is pretty close to none right?" Yuna asked as she wanted to be sure Lon was aware of this fact.
"Yeah, I know." Lon said and thus Yuna acknowledged this.
"Just making sure." Yuna said before Persona charged at them once more to kill them. Lon and his party let off a battle cry before charging in as well. In turn the four ARKS Operatives all began to fight off Dark Falz Persona.
-End OST-
(Later inside the Dark Falz infected ship)
Yuvel and his team made their way through the ship as they shot out any Falspawn that they happened upon. Yuvel had his twin guns drawn, Laura had her Phantom Rifle, Zurna had her gunblade in its gun form, and Reggie had his own rifle drawn likely from the Sigma Series of rifles. Despite the class differences keeping ARKS Operatives from utilizing most weapons there are the weapon exception that allow you to use it and more so those that have a skill already programmed into it. Reggie had to do a lot of work to get this particular rifle, and it was thanks to no small part to the fact that he possess the Cosmogenic Arms Quantum the Imperium.
The group moved through the ship until they began to enter a larger room, possibly an intersection of the ship. They took cover behind a wall area as Laura then had her mag display the ships schematics as a hologram. "Ok according to these Schematics the primary generator should be this way." Laura said pointing to the highlighted path for her party. The group of Operatives committed it to memory, so they don't get lost. "If we hurry, we can finish the mission and make it back to assist Lon and his party." Laura said after turning off the hologram.
"Alright lets get moving." Yuvel said and thus they began to head to the core. Or at least that was what they had planned to do when they stopped. A thick cold entered the room as the group noted a distinct lack of Falspawn here.
-Insert Star Wars Episode III Revenge of the Sith Score: Anakin's Dark Deeds-
Then it came… the breathing the one that belonged to the Dark Falz they faced before in the research facility. Turning towards the source they were met with the new Dark Falz as he towered over them and was accompanied by Pettas Guns behind him. "Uh anyone else feel oddly intimidated?" Reggie asked as Zurna could be heard gulping a bit in fear.
"Yeah." Zurna said and for good reason too. After they had gotten the Scion classes the party had for a time felt like they were at the top of the Galaxy. Yet somehow this new Dark Falz type who commanded the DOLLS managed to suck away that confidence just by merely entering the room.
He then began to make his way down to the group who stepped back gripped by a fear they knew not existed until this moment. Reggie was the first to act as he drew his glaive and flew at the Dark Falz only for him to easily flick Reggie away with a wave of his hand.
"Reggie!" Zurna cried out in fear and concern for the CAST. The Deuman girl then moved around firing her Gunblade at the Dark Falz who easily deflected the shots. But then he raised his hand and brought down several walls before slamming them into Zurna. Zurna was thankful she had her Photonic powers to take most of the blow but when the walls receded, she was pushed away by a Force Push curtesy of this new Dark Falz.
"I am Dark Falz [Vader] The Machine." Vader said as he approached the remaining two ARKS Operatives while the Pettas Guns just stood there awaiting orders. "It would be wise of you to surrender, ARKS." Vader said as he glared down upon both Yuvel and Laura who were scared.
"Yeah probably." Yuvel said and in turn he charged in to fight against Vader. Swinging his sword Vader drew his lightsaber and blocked the attack. Yuvel sent a few more strikes at Vader before being pushed back by pushed back by the Force. During this Laura was moving behind Vader to get to Reggie and Zurna and heal the pair.
As Yuvel kept charging in Vader easily deflected the ARKS Operative before forcing him back hard. But when Yuvel got back up he suddenly felt a tightening around his neck before he was dragged towards Vader. Yuvel looked and saw that Vader had his hand up showing he was using the Force to choke Yuvel.
"Feeble." Vader said as he glared down upon the ARKS Operative in his grasp.
Yuvel had his Talis drawn and knew he had a short amount of time to act before he passed out. He then threw a card from the Talis and used it to teleport to where it was. Vader casually looked and saw Yuvel was now on a large machine of sorts which he then sliced loose and let it fly at Vader. Vader scoffed and stopped the machine with the Force much to Yuvel's shock.
"Yuvel!" Laura called out as she had Zurna and Reggie with her now healed at the door.
"Come on!" Zurna cried out as well just as Vader threw the machine back at Yuvel.
Yuvel acted fast and used his Talis to get to the door once via teleportation. Once he was there Reggie slammed down on the close button for the door. But Vader stopped it with the Force much to their shared horror.
"Run! Run!" Yuvel called and in turn they ran for the exit. As they ran the Pettas opened fire on them while Vader used the Force to fling every object, he could at the four ARKS Operatives. They soon got to the turbo lift despite Vader using the Force to destroy their path as he approached them.
Yuvel, Zurna, and Laura all opened fire while Reggie slammed down on the close button to the floor they were trying to arrive at. "Come on, come on; come on!" Reggie begged the system and soon the turbo-lift doors closed with their enemy right outside. When the door closed Reggie chuckled a bit to this.
"Well, that went well." Reggie said only to cry out in terror when the lightsaber blade came out nearly skewering the CAST on the spot. The Blade vanished as the lift went down to their intended floor where the power core for the ship was. "What the fuck was that?!" Reggie cried out as he gestured to what they faced. "We kicked his ass last time how is he fucking us up?" Reggie asked as his fear spoke for him.
-End OST-
"We got lucky last time." Laura said as she realized why they beat him before. "We caught him off guard and exploited it, but this time his guard is up." Laura said which Zurna had to agree.
"This makes the mission far more complicated." Zurna said just as the doors opened once more revealing another hall. They could hear the hum of the ships core loudest on this particular level so they in turn exited the lift to the hall with Yuvel leading the party.
"She's right he's probably coming for us right now." Yuvel said knowing he had to make a bad call. "If he finds us before we can set up the explosives the mission is a loss." Yuvel added concern for the people of Halpha should they fail to destroy this ship.
"Well, what do you suggest we do then?" Reggie asked as he followed Yuvel's lead. "Die?" Reggie added as the CAST clearly not willing to face Vader again.
"We might not have a choice." Zurna said knowing that Vader was hunting them now.
Just then, as they arrived at an intersection, Yuvel heard a familiar sound and acted fast. "Look out!" Yuvel called out with his sword raised as he then blocked a lightsaber strike from Vader.
"Holy shit!?" Reggie cried out nearly falling over as he saw how fast Vader caught up.
"Go I'll hold them off!" Yuvel called out as he tried his damn hardest to hold Vader back. But Yuvel's team hesitated and thus as the leader he had to make sure they made it out. "GO!" He repeated and in turn pushed back Vader.
"Come on!" Reggie called out taking Laura and Zurna's hand before the trio ran away. Yuvel glared at Vader who saw his foes running while Yuvel stayed to distract Vader.
Vader meanwhile for a moment was impressed with how quickly Yuvel had acted upon his arrival. Still, Yuvel was only delaying the inevitable against him. "You stand against me alone… most unwise." Vader said as he glared upon the Operative.
"Yeah, well I never was very wise to begin with." Yuvel said taking his stance ready for whatever the Dark Falz may throw at him.
-End OST-
(With the others)
Laura, Reggie, and Zurna arrived at the vessels power core and needless to say the F-Factors here were at dangerous levels. "Come one we need to work fast!" Laura said as she had every intention to go back for Yuvel.
"Yeah, we know!" Reggie said as he and Zurna were already planting the explosives and arming them one by one. Laura chipped in as well knowing they had to hurry or else their friend was as good as dead.
(Back to Yuvel vs Vader)
-Insert Star Wars Episode V The Empire Strikes Back OST: The Duel-
Yuvel was flung through several walls via the Force before landing with a roll. He coughed and hacked while he got right back up despite the pain he currently felt. Vader appeared not long after and Yuvel roared out in challenge while swinging at Vader.
Vader easily deflected Yuvel's attack before he used the Force to attack Yuvel with debris. Yuvel sliced through it with ease but then more came in. The battle had progressed, but it was not in Yuvel's favor as his body was being broken down by Vader's onslaught against the Operative. Yuvel was being tossed around like a sack of potatoes by the powerful Dark Falz.
Soon enough Yuvel was knocked down again as Vader glared down at his foe. Then to Vader's surprise Yuvel clenched his fist, gritted his teeth, and got back up despite the fact he was clearly outmatched. Yuvel roared and went on the attack again and Vader avoided the slashes before Yuvel jumped away and fired photon shots from his left hand. Vader deflected them but was nearly caught off guard when Yuvel used his Talis to appear behind Vader and attack him.
But Dark Falz Vader managed to avoid it and force push Yuvel into the wall hard before letting him go and watching him fall again. Yuvel was clearly a stubborn once as he only got back up even when he began coughing up some of his own blood.
"You would do well to stay down." Vader said not understanding how Yuvel can find the strength to keep rising.
"Yeah, well too bad for you, I'm all types of stubborn." Yuvel said before attacking Vader again only for Vader to easily block the attacks from Yuvel before proceeding to grab him by his neck. Vader then lifted Yuvel up as he gasped for air while he was flailing his legs and arms in a vain attempt to get free.
"Then you will die braver then most." Vader said before he then proceeded to slam Yuvel into the ground and the wall before throwing him to a grouping of machines. Yuvel crashed into it and through it until he arrived at open area with a bridge to walk around on via a window overseeing it.
Once Yuvel hit the ground he slid a bit and if he had not grabbed the rails the Operative would have fallen to his death. Yuvel looked down and realized how close he came to dying in that very moment. Steeling his resolve Yuvel climbed back up and got ready for Vader's next savage assault.
(Back with Yuvel's party members)
Just then they heard movement outside the door and looking at it Reggie saw DOLLS Units were coming their way. "Oh, come on!" Reggie cried out his complaint before Zurna saw it as well.
"Laura, we got company!" Zurna said seeing the enemy DOLLS Units. "We still need more time to set these things up." Zurna said knowing they had to hurry this.
Laura seeing this knew they needed someone to deal with the DOLLS coming their way. "Keep arming I'll hold them off!" Laura called out before passing her remaining explosives over to fight off the DOLLS Units attack. Laura zoomed through them and began attacking them with her Katana as he weaved through. Every strike hit its mark as Laura moved like a samurai or even a ninja. Once she got through them, she sheathed her weapon and caused the Petta's to all fall over and explode in a cross form unlike their Falspawn counterparts.
More were on the way and Laura knew she had to stop them. Glaring at them Laura drew her scythe ready to become the Grim Reaper for the DOLLS Units as they attacked. She had every intention of bringing Yuvel to safety and completing the mission so they can retake Halpha from the Separatists and the Dark Falz. Thus, with a mighty roar she charged against her foes ready to tear her way through them. Spinning her Scythe about Laura moved through her foes becoming a ball of light before reforming and releasing an Ice Technique upon them.
A few of the DOLLS Units were frozen solid because of this likely due to a weakness to ice attacks. Despite this Laura exploited this and fired off her rifle at the DOLLS using one of her Phantom Photon Skills to fire multiple laser shots to take out multiple foes. With the immediate foes dealt with Laura looked and saw more were coming her way. Refusing to give up she roared and attacked them while Reggie and Zurna continued to set up the explosive charges.
-End OST-
Laura could only hope that Yuvel can hang on for a while longer.
(Back with Yuvel vs Vader)
-Insert Star Wars Empire Strikes Back OST: Losing a Hand-
Yuvel was stuck as he had his sword drawn looking for Vader wherever he was hiding. Taking a moment Yuvel used Resta to heal some of the damages he suffered but did it fast in case Vader popped up once more. Moving into a hall Yuvel began to worry if Vader got bored with him and decided to go after his friends instead. Yuvel was the bait after all so his team can complete the mission. Walking down the hall Yuvel had that feeling again and acting fast he avoided a Lightsaber strike from Vader.
Their one sides duel continued as the two warriors did battle. Yuvel clashed his blade against Vader's Lightsaber as their battle lead them back on the bridge. Vader kept the clash going until he pushed Yuvel to the ground. Yuvel in response rolled to either side to avoid being struck by Vader's lightsaber before rolling back and regaining his stance. He went in and the two clashed once more until by some miracle or pure dumb luck Yuvel managed to get a strike in by jumping over Vader and nicking him in the shoulder as he did so.
Vader cried in pain before snarling and going after Yuvel leaving the bridge area back to the halls. Vader's attacks were becoming more aggressive as they were savage as Yuvel was being pushed to his limit now. He then spun his saber against Yuvel's sword and then managed to stab him in his side causing Yuvel to cry out in pain.
"Now I shall show you a taste of the power of the Profound Darkness." Vader said as he now had Yuvel at the edge of his Lightsaber. "I do commend you for lasting as long as you did." Vader added as Yuvel gritted his teeth while holding his burning injury.
"Gee thanks." Yuvel snipped as he looked at Vader.
"To think Apprentice thought you were the Guardian." Vader revealed as Yuvel heard this and was surprised.
"W-what?" Yuvel asked as he didn't think he was the Guardian.
"Regardless." Vader began as Yuvel thought about it and in turn thought of his friends. Reggie… Laura… Zurna… Ahsoka… everyone. "Now." Vader began as he raised his saber to end Yuvel. However, the ARKS Operative didn't want to die he didn't want them to suffer with his death. "You die!" Vader called and thus something inside Yuvel snapped.
Then something began to happen as Vader saw the Photons in the air forming once more despite being inside a ship infused with the F-Factor. When this happened, Vader was caught by surprise when Yuvel's Photons gathered around his arms up to his elbows before he caught the burning blade with his bare hand.
Yuvel felt the pain as his hand sizzled against the saber blade but was protected by the Photons. Then with a savage and near Feral roar Yuvel flung his right hand, which gave off a golden glow, at Vader's face and unleashed the power on him. Vader roared in pain as his Lightsaber was deactivated by the sudden surprise attack from Yuvel using his Photons. Then to the shock of Vader he felt his own power being drained right out of him as Yuvel continued to roar in near feral rage. Vader was now struggling to get Yuvel off him as the ARKS Operative had a death grip on his face. He spasmed about trying to free himself from Yuvel's grip.
(With Yoda on Coruscant)
Yoda's eyes snapped open as he looked outside his window. "A great disturbance in the Force." Yoda said as he did not know what to make of this new feeling.
(Back with Yuvel vs Vader)
Yuvel continued to roar as he drained more out from Vader as the Dark Falz then grabbed Yuvel's hand with his free hand.
(Meanwhile over with Darth Sidious)
His sickly topaz eyes snapped open as the Dark Lord of the Sith felt this disturbance taking place. "Darth Nihilus?" Sidious asked as this feeling matched that of the Sith Lord that devoured everything in her path. But it felt different somehow almost like a new tool of the light… he must find the source of this great disturbance he had felt.
(Back with Yuvel vs Vader)
Yuvel's feral roar continued as Vader kept his attempts going before dropping his Lightsaber and grabbing Yuvel's arm with both of his hands. Vader would not allow himself to be bested in such a manner by this welp of an ARKS.
(Meanwhile over with Anakin)
Flying his starfighter through space Anakin let the disturbance and judging by the fact Plo-Koon's starfighter seemingly stumbled, he felt it too. "What is that?" Anakin asked as he tried to figure out what this feeling in the Force was.
(In the shadows Darth Shiva)
Shiva's eyes snapped open as she felt the Force and the disturbance that radiated in it. Smirking to this Shiva began to chuckle finding this new feeling to be amusing. "Milady?" Came the voice of a masked figure her Wrath Darth Varuna God of Justice noticed Shivas chuckle and grin even while he wore a mask of white.
"A great disturbance." Came another one a female figure wearing a hood standing next to Shiva's throne. She was Shivas Voice and Goddess of Deceit Darth Mitra.
Then Shiva began to slowly clap as her chuckle began to turn into laughter. "Vader has found him." Shiva said while clapping applauding Vader for such a discovery. "He's found the Guardian of this era." Shiva said while she continued with her slow clap while laughing.
(Back with Yuvel vs Vader)
Then with a savage roar Vader drew upon the Force and tore Yuvel off of him before throwing him to the ground. Yuvel slid back a bit before he got back up but then suddenly, Vader grabbed him by his throat. The good news was he was not applying enough pressure to choke Yuvel, the bad news was that Yuvel was injured and unable to keep fighting. Vader then lifted Yuvel up and held him over the ledge.
"Any last words ARKS Operative?" Vader growled as his masked was now damaged from what Yuvel did. Just then Yuvel heard his communicator beeping and upon glancing he saw that the bombs were armed and ready to blow.
(Meanwhile with Yuvel's party)
"We're good!" Reggie called out and thus Zurna smirked.
"Let's go!" Zurna said and thus she and Reggie rejoined Laura before zooming out of the reactor.
(Back with Yuvel and Vader)
"Yeah… do you have a good mechanic?" Yuvel said with a smirk and called it in. "Set them off now!" Yuvel ordered and thus his team understood.
(Back over with Yuvel's party)
The Party heard this as they were closing in on the exit. "Done and done!" Reggie said as he then triggered the explosives in the Falspawn infected ships reactor core.
(Back with Yuvel and Vader)
The entire ship shook as the initial explosives went off and in turn Vader dropped Yuvel while stumbling. Yuvel fell down before he used his Talis to teleport himself to the door. Seeing this Yuvel began to run for it despite all of his injuries. "Later." Yuvel taunted before closing the door and running away.
(Back outside with Lon's Party)
-End OST-
Lon, Zeon, Kaz, and Yuna were beaten as Persona held Lon at gunpoint. Then they saw an explosion go off from the Falspawn hive ship originating from the ships primary reactor. "No." Persona gasped when she saw this and knew what had just happened inside.
-Insert Star Wars Episode V The Empire Strikes Back OST: Hyperspace
Acting fast Lon rolled to his rifle and fired upon Persona forcing her to deflect the weapon shots. This was back forcing her. As the ship continued to explode the Vulture Droids were starting to lose power and fall after being cut off from the F-Factor powering them.
(Back inside the Falspawn Ship)
Laura lead the group as she ran through the halls. "Yuvel we're heading to the exit where are you?" Laura cried out into her communicator.
Just then a door fell from a blast and from there Yuvel stumbled out of it. "Right here." Yuvel painfully moaned as he waved to them.
"Jesus Vader fucked you up." Reggie said and thus he helped Yuvel to his feet.
"Come on let's get out of this death trap." Zurna said as she grabbed Yuvel by his other arm.
They soon heard a roar of fury from the halls and knew that was Vader and clearly, he was pissed. "Let's hurry." Laura said and thus she lead the group as they made their escape.
(Back with Dark Falz Vader)
Vader growled as the vessel continued to explode around him. Knowing he had little time he began slicing his way through the destruction with his Lightsaber Vader continued on his way out. Soon enough Vader vanished via his portals to their rendezvous point so he may regroup with the other Dark Falz in Aelio which was Persona.
-End OST-
(Back outside with Lon's party)
Lon and his party got their second wind but as the ship exploded behind Persona, she knew to cut her losses. Growling she summoned her Rod and released a flash of light blinding Lon and his party. Using the distraction Persona vanished into a Falz Portal and made her own escape.
(Meanwhile in the Space Battle)
-Insert Phantasy Star Online 2 Episode Oracle OST: ARKS
Orro was shocked as ARKS and the Republic began tearing through his forces and no more aid came from the planet. "Sir we're losing our ground we must break formation if we." A Tactical Droid began but then Orro saw something outside and in a panic ran out of the command deck.
"Why is he running?" A battle Droid asked and then turning to the window the Droids saw a beam of light coming at them. This beam was Arthur as he flew at the command deck and with a swing of Yozora cleaved it in two causing the entire ship to go up in an explosion while escape pods were seen launching as well.
The remaining Separatists Ships in the Blockade were now backing off as the Blockade was broken. This in turn allowed for ARKS Ships and Republic Ships to move in and land make landfall on Halpha. Arthur smiled to this as he regained his tarnished honor with this victory. But there was still much work left to be done and thus resealing Yozora he rejoined the fleet so they can make landfall and began the Halpha Campaign.
-End OST-
(Back on the planet)
Soon enough Yuvel and his team got out and found Lon and his teammates waiting for them. "Come on!" Lon cried out and thus they got moving to a safe distance using Photon Dash to run. They got to Kanai Island just as the ship exploded taking out the entire ice field in which it was trapped. The back blast followed but by the end of it everyone managed to get out in one piece.
"Hurry help me lay him down!" Laura said and thus they got Yuvel to lay down.
"Dammit what the hell was I thinking?" Yuvel said playfully scolding himself for taking on Vader alone.
"That you were a total badass and you were right." Reggie said trying to joke as well only to be smacked upside the head by Laura.
"Hey, focus your best friend is in critical." Laura said scolding the CAST as she then got to work healing what injuries she could.
"Ahsoka, we need a medic down here we have an ARKS Operative down." Zurna said calling it in for medical aid.
"Don't worry their on the way." Ahsoka responded and looking up the teams saw the Republic Star Destroyers and ARKS Ships coming down with the cavalry to retake planet Halpha from the enemy.
(Scene Break Later on Halpha Kanai Island West Aelio Region)
ARKS Ships and Republic Cruisers were coming in for a landing in West Aelio while other vessels went to the other Regions to provide support. "I want sensory nodes set up yesterday we need to get this command post started ASAP." Xect called out giving orders to where they were needed for the coming battle.
"Your Padawan and the ARKS Operatives did well Anakin." Obi-Wan said as he and Arthur walked with Anakin.
"I concur you've trained her well." Arthur said as he looked to Anakin as they saw Ahsoka moving by.
"Out of the way, out of the way we got an injured Operative!" Reggie was heard as they saw Ahsoka with Yuvel as she and Laura moved with the medics who had Yuvel on a stretcher.
"What happened?" Arthur asked noticing the panic.
"Well, we found the missing Dark Falz and Yuvel had to hold him off while we set the bombs up." Reggie said as he reported to his commanding Officer here.
"You faced the new Dark Falz?" Anakin asked surprised to hear this.
"Yeah." Yuvel struggled to get out but then grew solemn. "He was so strong." Yuvel said and thus looking to the hand he grabbed Vader's face with.
"Don't worry about that now Operative." Arthur began as he knew Yuvel went above the call of duty again. "Get some rest and heal." Arthur said and with a sigh Yuvel agreed.
"Yes sir." Yuvel said and thus he was carried away into the ship to focus on recovering.
"Did you get a name at least." Obi-Wan asked as they needed as much information as they could get here.
It was Laura who chose to respond to Obi-Wan's question. "He was called… Dark Falz [Vader] The Machine." Laura said and thus ARKS now had a name to put onto this new Dark Falz. All the while Arthur looked with concern seeing that the battles to come would get harder. Still one thing was bothering Arthur and that was a Dark Falz was unaccounted for, where was Luther the Fallen?
(Scene Break Mothership Core Shmni)
Shmni stood in the core of the ARKS Mothership as she saw all the images playing around her. Observing all the possibilities and plausible timelines. She was focused on the one where she no longer existed because if her calculations and hunch were right this was the one that would bring peace and victory for the entire Galaxy.
She then began to send a message out knowing she was now running out of time. "Amelia… the time has come." Shmni began as she called to her daughter over on Coruscant. "Return to ARKS you must take the role you were born to fill." She said knowing her Daughter would be what ARKS needed not an omniscient being who makes mistakes. When her message was sent, she then sighed just before footsteps were heard from behind.
"So Xion's successor." Luther said as he approached the ARKS Overseer and the Motherships soul. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, my Shmni." Luther added as he smiled to the one being who was connected to the Akashic Records. "Now then while the toys outside play their game you and I have a great deal to discuss." Luther said coming closer to Shmni who glared at him but made no attempt to stop him. "Such as your retirement and relinquishing the Records to my rightful hands." Luther said making it clear that his goal was still and always will be the Omniscience provided by the Akashic Records.
Shmni simply stood there knowing full well that all she can do is stall and hold Luther off until Amelia arrived. But knowing she would lose did not mean Shmni would go out without a fight. "Very well then… just try and take them." Shmni said and soon enough she summoned a barrier around herself and with it several formations of energy that release a lethal power.
"Shmni, you belong to me and so too does the Akashic Records." Luther said before summoning his own weapon. "But if even you seek to stand in my way, then I must remind you your place in my world." Luther said and with it the two got ready to fight for the Akashic Records and its infinite knowledge.
(TBC)
ESKK: We're in second chapter of the Battle of Halpha and already thinks heat up. Now that ARKS and the Republic have landed on Halpha they can begin work on retaking the planet from the Dark Falz and the Separatists. But now new mysteries are afoot and new dangers approach. If you want to see how things play out be sure to leave a review with your thoughts on this chapter and fanfic. So until next time I will once more say to everyone, ja-ne.