Fandom Star Wars: Twilight of the Force (Open)

[Skyrte]

Janah Jorvedd - Location: Nar Shadda
​

Janah was visibly surprised at the appearance of the other Mandalorian, "Chuka?! I wasn't expecting to see you here, ner vod!" Janah said jovially, he looked down and remembered his lack of weaponry. Looking back up to his friend, he shrugged, "A small gang of ade, little devils." He chuckled, "Figured I better come back here to rearm." His tone suddenly became much more serious, "Especially since I was contacted by the First Order for a job. I'll tell you about it in a second, help me pick out a good blaster pistol and two vibro-knives."
Janah then walked over to the counter, where the shopkeeper, and his somewhat fearful assistant stood.
"Reelo." Janah greeted, putting the two glasses and bottle of Abrax Cognac on the counter.
"Janah. You didn't have to get me this." The Rodian shopkeeper said.
"Sure I did, I know how much you like cognac. I wanted to share the bottle but since ol' Chuka's here, I figure me and him gets a small glass and you get the whole bottle." Janah said, unscrewing the cap and pouring himself, and Chuka a small glass of the liquor. "Say, you find those blasters I wanted?"
Reelo the Shopkeeper shook his head, "No dice yet, thanks for the bottle too."
Janah give him an appreciative nod and turned back around, glancing over the racks of blaster rifles are carbines, picking out an old E-11D. An official modification of the old Imperial Stormtrooper E-11 blaster rifle. It was a tad heavier, but had a greater maximum rate of fire and had deadlier bolts, trading off accuracy and range. Picking out a few attachments for the old, but reliable weapon, he spoke up again to Chuka, setting the carbine on the table, next to Chuka's picks of weaponry.
"So this job the First Order offered me. Fifty thousand up front, twenty five thousand every week on the hunt, and three fifty thousand for a successful live capture. They told me they were hunting down a Jedi Padawan, calling this 'Elena Connor' a criminal. Messed up Canto Bight, they showed me footage of the aftermath, blamed it all on her but you know Imps. They could have started it. Anyways, she's a padawan of the war criminal, Luke Skywalker." He said, emphasizing the words war criminal with air quotes. "Yeah, that Jetii, the guy that helped Bo-Katan Kryze. I figure... if she's gone dar'jetii, and really is going around causing chaos on evil whims, we put her down. So Luke doesn't have to, and we get a big stack of at least 400 thousand credits. If she's not, and just needs to get away from the First Order, I want to help her. To pay Luke back." He grabbed an A350 Blaster Rifle, "What do you think?"

 

[XxJadePhoenixX]

"Um, right," Elena said sheepishly. Truth be told she didn't want anyone with her on this trip, not Jacen, not Charlotte and not because they were too clingy or loud and obnoxious. She didn't want them along for the ride with her because deep down she knew one day she would get caught and on that day everyone with her would die. She didn't want that fate for any of them.

"Touching reunions aside, though," Fanty interrupted, "I'm going to need you two to stay inside the compound. If you have any effects on the ship you need to retrieve them right now. I'll have someone set up rooms for you."

Elena gave him a curious look. "Fanty, what are you planning?"

He shrugged. "Gonna replace your transponder with a new one. Then we'll use the old one to create some decoys."

Jacen crossed his arms and gave him a pointed look. "That won't be enough," he said, "The First Order will be stopping any vessel leaving the system. Even if the decoys fool them, if she gets boarded...," He left the rest hanging in the air.

"It's fine," Fanty said, "First we need to repair the ship and remove their scent from it. I'll have something prepared for when we leave this system."

"We?" Elena asked with a raised eyebrow.

"This place is compromised now," he answered simply. "You and your friend here led the First Order right to my doorstep. I'll arrange a pilot to take you both safely away, but I'm not sticking around here for the First Order to find me. Now hurry up and retrieve your things. We have a lot of work to do and very little time to do it in."

He then turned on his heel and spoke quietly to his subordinate as he left the hangar. Elena watched him go for a moment then turned back to Jacen. "Look, we need to talk later, okay? So don't leave yet."

"Wasn't planning on it," he told her.

That's what I'm afraid of, she thought. She refrained from commenting, though, and headed back onto the ship to retrieve the rest of her things...


[Location: Fanty's Hangar, Nar Shaddaa / Mentioned: Charlotte ( BabyBundt )]

**********

Psychokinesis, the word echoed in his mind. The bridge officer had said the missiles were sabotaged with the power of the Force, but Galen had seen the logs. He wasn't sure how the officer could have known that. To someone with his mechanical expertise it looked like the missiles had just malfunctioned. Yes, it did seem a bit coincidental for two missiles to malfunction simultaneously, but the odds of this being a mechanical error rather than a magical one had to be greater, right? He didn't believe in the Force before joining the First Order and though his superiors regularly referred to Jedi as the enemy he'd never seen nor experienced anything that would lead him to believe they were real. As Matthias spoke to him he sipped idly at his tea, taking only a moment to savor the taste before swallowing. Were this under any other circumstance he would have liked to have had more time to enjoy the tea.

"... As the commander of this vessel I shall assist you to put it out as far as I can, because neither you, me, nor Grand Moff Tarkin, if he were to be alive again, could get any good result out of it had such spirit prevails. Wouldn't you agree?"

Realizing suddenly that Matthias had asked him a question Galen looked flustered. "Yes, Sir. Of course, Sir," he answered quickly. He lowered the cup he held in his hands to his lap. "I'm sorry for having doubts. It was not my place to question your orders."

Even as he said the words he was not sure if he meant them. At this point he just wanted this conversation to be over, but at the same time something about their mission just felt off. Still, he kept his thoughts to himself hoping that the Captain would overlook this minor transgression. In the future, he would have to be more careful with who he shared his thoughts to.


[Location: Hecate / Interacting: Matthias ( Jackson123 )]

 

[Jackson123]

“You still looks as if you are not convinced the Force...existed?” Weirdly, the Senior Chief Petty Officer seems completely oblivious about the Force despite his years of experience in the military. The captain thus patiently explained to his petty officer.

“The Force is not some magic or space wizardry, Galen, it’s an energy field that is manipulated by an intelligent microscopic life-forms called ‘Midichlorian’ that lived symbiotically inside the cells of all living things. When present in sufficient numbers, they could allow their host to detect said pervasive energy field.”

“Before the Jedi Order betrayed Chancellor Palpatine, in the age of the Republic there were sufficient scientific research went into the Force and their relations to nature. It’s in our archive as well, your security clearance can access them. And, I know it’s out of your expertise thus you may not have even saw reports in their field, but our ship is also equipped with sensors that keeps track of accurate midichlorian readings in the proximity, those technology had existed before the formation of the first Empire, that is why we can say for certain those missiles were manipulated by the Force, rather than simple malfunction, and that is why we must handle this matter at hand with upmost precautions”

“If you have further questions about the Force, or the mission, you can bring them up now. Otherwise you may resume your duty.” The captain said. He’s not sure if the senior chief petty officer could digest everything from this pep talk, but he is as much interested in his senior subordinate’s performance to not be impaired by doubts or misinformation as he was in the correct functioning of any other instrument in the Star Destroyer.

(Interaction: Galen XxJadePhoenixX )

*******


On the navigational bridge of the Hecate, the preparation for hyperspace jump has completed. The Executive Officer is standing on the elevated platform between two data pit, watching the bridge crew perform their tasks.

The trajectory to Nar Shaddaa is calculated and put into the navigation computer.

“All stations, prepare for lightspeed on my mark....punch it”

The Hecate continue to advance upon her quarry amongst the stars.

 

[CelticHero37]

Riar Duinn
The Raven
​

The Star Cluster Casino, a colorful hub of entertainment on Nar Shadaa. Being run by the Hutts, it was one of the more respectable establishments on the criminal planet. Although i9t certainly had its rough edges. At the moment, things were running rather smoothly, yet a state of uneasiness started to build as a new patron walked through the door. The black and red boots fell at a steady pace as the newcomer made his way to the bar. As he emerged from behind a group of patrons, the bartender would recognize the suit of armor. The armor was almost entirely pitch black. An olive stripe went down the pauldrons and an olive patch rested in the center of the chest plate adorned with a golden colored diamond that was the same color as the visor that hid the visage of a Mandalorian. His vest was maroon and his flight suit was olive as well, the same color as the cape that concealed a rifle. However, the most recognizable part of the armor was a signet that told the bartender exactly who it was.

The bartender shifted uncomfortably and did his best to hide his worry as he addressed the newcomer, "Oh... R-Raven. It's you. Please... s-sit. Is there anything I can get for you today?"

"As a matter of fact, there is. I have a few questions for that slime ball of a Hutt. For starters, that 'watch dog' that he sent with the shipment joined the contents of a lava river. Perhaps he could explain why the guy acted like he'd been ordered to kill me once the shipment was complete? Secondly, ask him if he's aware that my price has doubled since the funds were not transferred as agreed."

"I-I don't think he's gonna like that. How about I just give you some credit for the casino," the bartender responded, hoping that would suffice.

The Mandalorian shook his head, "So I waste more time trying to win my payment? Not interested. The longer it takes for me to get payment, the more the price goes up."

The bartender perked up, worried by that statement, "R-right. I'll let him know right away."

The bartender called over an assistant to watch the bar. He looked back to Raven nervously for a moment before scurrying off, mumbling to himself, "This isn't gonna end well."

Jackson123

 

[Grim Wraithe Stjerna]

Chuka Struk​

Chuka gave a small shake of his head at the seemingly ever irrepressibly cheerful Janah. "I guess it's a small galaxy then." Turning and folding his arms over his chest as his fellow Mando'ad frivolously implied how children disarmed him. "At least you still have your beskar'gam (armor) and most of your besbe (kit)." If Chuka believed in the Force, and that it controlled everything, he would have seen the connection of him being here with a selection of weapons laid out, seemingly ready to fill the empty slots in Janah's kit. But he did not, so this was just a fortunate coincidence.

"Figured I better come back here to rearm." His tone suddenly became much more serious, "Especially since I was contacted by the First Order for a job. I'll tell you about it in a second, help me pick out a good blaster pistol and two vibro-knives."

'Kaysh's nayc an di'kut' - (He's no idiot) The older Hunter thought at the mention of needing to re-arm. Hearing that there was a contract on the table peeked the warrior's interest, hearing that it was from the First Order caught his attention. Sweeping both gauntleted hands over the selection of weapons on the table, he shrugged, as if saying 'take your pick'. But when his fellow started picking up an older Imperial E-11, he furrowed his brow in annoyance under his helmet, muttering under his breath. "Ask me to pick you besbe'trayce (weapons) and you pick your own anyways." Though Chuka did not really hold any animosity towards the other Hunter, it was important to pick weapons that were right for you and that would become an extension of you.

Folding his arms over his chest, shifting his weight subconsciously so his feet were about shoulder-width and his right foot slightly back, the beginnings of a fighting stance. Hunting Force Users always drew his attention and put him on alert. The Force was not something to mess with or underestimate. Nodding slowly as he listened to the broad details of the job. "I think you're a better sniper then me," Using his chin to indicate the MK-II Paladin. "So you might want that as well." Taking his helmet off and reaching for the glass of liquor, raising to his lips and looking across it to his Vod (brother). "Acquisitions go to the contract holder, so Luke better have a better contract." His tone was no non-sense as he took as sip of the alcoholic spirit, letting the warmth run down his throat and spread over his chest. "Even if she's not a darjetii (sith), a deal is a deal. But I will help you." Giving him a smirking smile and shrug as he downed the rest of his drink. "But I didn't sign the contract with them, so I'm not breaking deals to let her go if she's not what they claim her to be."


[Location: Weapon Store - Nar Shadda / Interacting: Janah Jorvedd ( Skyrte )]

 

[Skyrte]

Janah Jorvedd - Location: Nar Shadda
​

"I'm sure the ade knew not to take my beskar. For the eight months I was there training the guards of that town, my blasters were in their hands more than mine. But they never touched my Orar-be-Balac (Thunder of Opportunity), or my armor." He moved aside his kama and pulled out the handheld grenade launcher, he looked towards the shopkeeper, and the Rodian had already pulled out several stacked boxes with differing colored stripes on each box. "Thanks Reelo."
"Well it sounds like you've got a tough job, so this is the rest of what I've made." The Rodian explained.
"You're too good to me." Janah remarked, he went over to the table where Chuka had set all of his weapons, and set down the two blaster rifles he had picked off the racks, as well as his launcher. He then grabbed his own drink of cognac off the shopkeeps counter, taking a quick sip tilting his helmet back. Walking back to the assorted set of weapons, Janah took off his helmet and set it on the table. He was a younger man, clean shaven, with short messy blonde hair, and light brown amber eyes. His skin color was on the paler end, an attribute gained from wearing his armor and helmet, very often. He glanced at the large pile of weapons and pulled a DC-17 Hand Blaster closer to him, in his part of the table, and two vibro knives. He gave Chuka a smile in thanks.

"I think you're a better sniper then me, so you might want that as well." Chuka said, gesturing with his head to the Mk.II Paladin blaster rifle. Personally, Janah had never handled one, but he did know of it. It was a old Republic Senate Guard rifle, well built, select fire, with a stun bolt setting, and the barrel even came with a built in stun-prod. If they were bringing in someone alive, the rare weapon would be an excellent pick. Janah nodded thoughtfully at Chukas suggestion and placed the silver weapon over the rugged, never jams or breaks A350 Blaster Rifle, opting to get both.
Chuka continued speaking, "Acquisitions go to the contract holder, so Luke better have a better contract. Even if she's not a darjetii (sith), a deal is a deal. But I will help you." Chuka took another sip of the cognac, "But I didn't sign the contract with them, so I'm not breaking deals to let her go if she's not what they claim her to be." He pointed out.
"Well..." Janah began sheepishly, "I didn't exactly take the contract yet, and Luke's been missing for years, and hasn't posted one on the Guild. I put the First Order on hold, so this is all me. We'll be investigating first, and deciding after. Either way, I'll front the contract for you, both investigation and if we decide to help her, the help too. If we decide to take the First Order on their offer, we'll cut an unofficial deal, I'll take it solo, but you'll help without your name on the contract. I'll pay you half under the table. If anything goes wrong you can bail us out without breaking any whatever-terms-of-service-papers." Janah looked around, "I can spare 20 thousand credits and uh..." his gaze settled on the stacked boxes on the shopkeepers counter, "a box of assorted grenades?"

He shook his head slightly, "Anyways, hunting this Jetii down. Do you have any contacts here? I don't want to use any from my clan, especially since the First Order is so closely involved. I... don't want there to be a second Purge. Especially on the home away from home. Here, this is what I got so far." Janah set his glass down and tapped a few buttons on his vambrace, sending a short video file over to Chuka, it was a recording of the news feed on Zygerria, showing the yacht and the First Order missiles detonating just before impacting the ship.

 

[Grim Wraithe Stjerna]

Chuka Struk
​

Chuka listened as Janah detailed that there was no counter offer, and that he still had not taken the deal.

Setting the glass down on the table as he shook his head, remaining silent as his fellow Hunter broke down an honor agreement that would be paid out for helping with a hunt. A common enough practice among Bounty Hunters, though not really held up among the lower quality of bounty hunter. Those that would take hunts without regards to how things are handled.

"Ni'll hukaat'kama, - (I'll watch your back) and make it ten thousand, with one box of concussion and one box of stun grandes as a down payment." Pointing to the stack of boxes with his empty glass in hand.

Janah was not the only one to use a grenade launcher, the main difference was that Chuka used the Z50 grenade launcher which had a magazine capacity of six grenades and was able to fire a wide range of grenade types. From stun to concussion to breaching, and with a bit of calibration even thermal detonators. Though he did not like doing that because it was aaray o'r te sheb'ika (pain in the butt) to calibrate and sight in for the added weight and blast radius of those grenades.

His helmet chirped once as the file was accepted and downloaded. He would watch it later to start studying and understanding at least how this Padawan fought, and maybe how she thought. "Send the contract files as well, if I'm gonna hunt I need to know all I can about the acquisition." Setting this glass down on the table, his hand moved to rest on the grip of the Mandalorian Ripper holstered on his right hip. "As to contacts, that's not really how I hunt. I find them to unreliable, not to mention expensive to keep long term. Plus it helps me to get to know my target if follow and watch them." Looking Janah in the eye, raising an eyebrow sightly and tilting his head just a touch. "Why not ask the Graysuit where she is or went?" Referring to the First Order officer who was trying commission Janah in the first place. "Tell him you'll take the job on as a recce. Or we can start with Canto Bight and track her from there. We might be able to come up with leads they couldn't."

Several ideas were starting to form, but he would need more information before letting them fully develop. Hunting Jedi was never easy and should never be rushed into. They should be hunted with respect and honor, even Sith should be hunted the same way. They were even more dangerous then Jedi, as they were really known for being taken alive.

[Location: Weapon Store - Nar Shadda / Interacting: Janah Jorvedd ( Skyrte )]

 

[Jackson123]

ISD Hecate
Resurgent class Star Destroyer
Y’Toub System
Hutt Space


The massive wedge-shaped Star Destroyer once again glide through the vacuum of space after returning to normal space-time continuum.

“Hutt space. What a slimy shit hole this whole sector is.” the executive officer remarks as he looked out the viewport and see the swamp world of Nal Hutta appear before him, the planet’s moon, Nar Shaddaa, is the destination where the Star Destroyer’s target is seeking refuge within.

Ever since the death of Hutt crime lord Jabba, the Hutt space had been engulfed in conflicts as Hutts trying to carved up this autonomous territory, known for it’s high crime rate, this region is a heaven for the galaxy’s more disreputable elements. Neither the New Republic nor the First Order had had their focus directed towards this sector, yet.

“All engines ahead two-thirds.” The XO said to the helms station on the bridge. He then pick up 1MC to set material readiness conditions on board to 2 as the Star Destroyer is now sailing into a warzone of Hutts crime lords having their civil war. Although he don’t think the locals would be crazy enough to provoke the First Order into their little space gang wars.

“Bridge, CIC, radar contact red oh-three-five, range 450,000 and closing, definite spook. IFF designated New Republic vessel.”

Good heavens. This is an autonomous region, legality wise vessels of First Order and the New Republic can be granted safe passage in this territory, and the two powers are not officially at wars as of yet, as a matter of fact they don’t even recognises each other, and skirmishes did occur in the past. Furthermore, if the New Republic somehow got involved, this will undoubtedly complicate matters of their current Jedi hunting task.

“Would their current course intersect with our control zone?”

“Affirmative.”

“Set up BARCAP (barrier combat air patrol), have them divert course or we will fire upon them.”

450,000 km is not a long distance per se in space warfare, it’s appropriately 1.5 light-seconds, or around the normal distance of a planet and it’s moon. Aside from TIE fighters, Hecate’s fire control system could also reliably guide the turbolasers and missiles to find their marks on targets up to this distance. The XO then pick up the phone to the captain’s cabin.

“Captain aye.”

“Radar Operator reports a spook off port bow, red oh-three-five, range four-hundred fifty-thousand, closing.”

“Bearings?”

“3-2-5 mark 3-0-0 true” Off port bow and below the centreline of the vessel.

“Set up a BARCAP.”

“BARCAP are on the way sir.”

“Outstanding. Who’s on Ready 15?”

Ready 15 alert are pre-flighted, armed, but unmanned aircraft near the catapults with the pilot or crew standing by in the squadron's ready room, ostensibly able to launch within 15 minutes.

“The Shamrocks, sir.”

“Bring that up to Ready 5. That’d be all for now.”

“Aye aye, captain.”

On Ready 5, planes would be ready to launch within five minutes. TIE Fighter are placed on the catapult complete with flight crew, armament, and fuel, ready to defend the vessel from any unforeseen threat.

“Should I land ground team to Nar Shaddaa as planned?”

“What would you say, number one?”

“I would say affirmative, sir, we’re too close to let the rebel presence hinder our progress.”

“That’s right number one. One more thing, have the ground team accompanied with some flametroopers. The target is most likely underground, we can use the fire, smoke and oxygen deprivation to flush them out, and even Jedis couldn’t deflect fire with their lightsabre.” The captain remembers in old footage from clone wars, even Jedi Master Windu can be force back by Jango Fett with a flamethrower.


(First Order flametrooper)

“I’ll get on to it, captain.”

“That’d be all.”

Captain Matthias hung up the phone and noticed that Galen is still looking pensively at the cup of tea.

 

[XxJadePhoenixX]

Galen had hoped his apology would be the end of it, but he supposed he allowed his doubt to continue showing on his face. Matthias' explanation of what the Force was surprised him. The idea that the Jedi were somehow able to connect with the Force through microscopic lifeforms was almost as ridiculous as the Force itself. Still, the Captain believed it thoroughly and claimed they had a way of tracking individuals with a high midi-chlorian count. This was news to Galen, he'd never heard of such technology before. Does that mean they're scanning for people like that on the ship? When Matthias brought up the missile again Galen was surprised. Did he just read my mind? He hadn't expressed his doubts about the missile sabotage out loud yet somehow Matthias was able to zero in on it.

"If you have further questions about the Force, or the mission, you can bring them up now. Otherwise you may resume your duty," the Captain finished.

Galen opened his mouth to say something but before he could voice the words a call came through for Matthias. The XO informed the Captain that there was a Republic vessel in the system as well. The Republic? What could they be doing here? Hutt space was neutral territory. The only people in power around here were criminal scum. Could the Republic be working with the Hutts?

Finally, Galen stood. "Permission to resume my duties, Sir," he asked.

Matthias nodded then Galen threw him a crisp salute before spinning smartly on his heel and leaving the room. Once outside he let go of a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding and picked up his pace a bit as he headed back to the hangar...


[Location: Hecate, Nar Shaddaa / Interacting: Matthias ( Jackson123 )]

**********

Elena sat impatiently in her room, her lightsaber resting on the table in front of her as she idly gave it a spin once or twice. It had been hours since their arrival on Nar Shaddaa and Fanty's crew was hard at work repairing the ship. Neither Elena nor Charlotte were allowed to go near it while the crew worked. Fanty assured them it was to prevent their scent from contaminating the ship again. As part of the repairs, the crew was scrubbing every inch of the vessel and using powerful disinfectants to remove any smells either Elena or Charlotte or even the ship's previous owner had left behind. It all seemed rather excessive to her, but Fanty had managed to keep his true identity secret for a very long time so when it came to hiding from the authorities they couldn't be in better hands.

Her door chimed, snapping her out of her reverie. "Enter," she said and a moment later the door opened to permit Jacen inside.

The old Mandalorian stepped into her room and crossed over to sit across from her at the table. "This isn't quite how I imagined our reunion," he said as he took his helmet off and set it down on the table, revealing the grizzled face of a veteran warrior. "How have you been?"

Elena shrugged. "Better, I suppose. I really frakked up this time. I let the First Order get too close."

"Yea," he said with a nod, "but we'll figure it out."

"For how long," she asked him pointedly. "You tried to hide me for two years and yet they still found me. You lost your arm because of me."

"Are you still feeling guilty over that," he asked her, giving her a look of admonishment. "The loss of my arm is no one's fault but my own."

Elena stood and slammed her hands down on the table. "Would you stop saying that," she snapped. "That thing that took your arm came looking for me! You only fought him to protect me! Had he killed you it would have been my fault!"

He gave her a hard look. "You think I'm incapable of making my own choices, Jet'ika? I chose to take you as my foundling just as I chose to fight your enemies to protect you. Until you come of age and make your choice you are my kin."

"Well, I'm eighteen now," she pointed out, "I'm an adult, right? So I choose not to put any more of my friends at risk."

"Elena, that's not a choice you can make--,"

"Just stop," she interrupted him. "The First Order will never stop hunting me and they'll kill anyone who stands in their way. I don't want that to be you, so please... Let me go."

Jacen stared at her a moment. The girl seemed desperate, on the verge of tears even. Finally, he nodded in response. "Alright, Jet'ika. Alright."

Elena straightened up and wiped a tear from her eye. "Thank you," she said quietly, "Now why don't you go get a proper replacement for your arm?"

The elder Mandalorian made a face. "I have no need of cybernetic enhancements. I'll do just fine without them."

"You stubborn old man," Elena said with a smile. She was about to say more when there was a knock on her door

Both Jacen and Elena looked up to see Fanty standing in the open doorway. "The First Order is here," he told them.

Both Elena and Jacen looked at each other then the Mandalorian stood, retrieved his helmet, and together the pair followed Fanty out into the main control room of his compound. The center of the room was dominated by a large holotable, over the top of which was displayed a holographic image of the space around Nar Shaddaa. In orbit around the planet Elena could see the triangular shape of the First Order star destroyer that had been chasing her. To her surprise, though, there also appeared to be a Republic vessel in orbit as well.

"The First Order launched shuttles, they're sending ground forces to the surface now," Fanty explained.

"How likely are they to find this place," Jacen asked.

"Not likely," Fanty told him. "Nar Shaddaa is a big planet. One ship does not have the manpower to cover the entire city."

"They don't have to," Elena told him, "All they have to do is hold the people of Nar Shaddaa hostage."

Fanty shrugged. "Well, preferably we get you off the planet before that becomes a problem. The repairs on your ship are nearly done."

Jacen gave him a pointed look. "What exactly is your plan for getting her out of here?"

The other man ignored the Mando's sharp tone then waved for them to follow him. He led them back out into the hangar where he showed them a rather large crate next to a pile of coffee beans. He picked up one of the packages and held it out to them. "A rather strong blend," he explained, "Favored by the rich and only available at a few local retailers here. Consumers tend to purchase it in bulk, we're going to use it to mask your scent."

"You're going to cover me in coffee," Elena asked incredulously, crossing her arms firmly over her chest.

Fanty gestured to the crate. "My own special design," he said. "The crate has a false bottom, enough space to hide one maybe two people."

He reached into the crate and lifted up the bottom to reveal the small space underneath. "It's not air tight so you'll have air," he explained, then he tapped the side of the crate. "A thin sheet of radiation shielding inside the crate will hide you from sensor scanning. Now we just need to see if it's big enough to fit you and your friend."

Elena gave him an uncertain look, glancing over her shoulder at Jacen. "Um," she began quietly, turning back to look at him, "I was thinking, actually, that Charlotte should stay here. Coming with me would be far too dangerous for her."


[Location: Fanty's Hangar, Nar Shaddaa / Mentioned: Charlotte ( BabyBundt )]

 

[BabyBundt]

Charlotte had been leaning against the wall outside Elena's room, arms crossed a single leg up against the wall, listening in on the conversation that was going on inside. Clearly she had lots on goings on with the Mando inside, one enough that even Charlotte could tell from outside the room that was causing her to become more emotional than Charlotte have ever heard her become the entire time she'd been with Elena. Nodding to each person that enter and exit her room. She was only listening in because she had a boding feeling that Elena was going to try to dump her off here and not let her continue on this dangerous adventure. And her feelings for once were right. 'Damn kid. Wanting to kill herself out there on her own... As if' She thought, but didn't rush right into the room. No she just shook her head outside the room, unsure of what to do.

Charlotte would join the New Order before being left on this planet, and that was the very last thing she'd ever do. Not that she didn't like the company around her, it was the hutts. She couldn't stand the damned slugs that they were. The more she thought about it, the more it bothered her and the more that she wanted to burst into the room. It was then that she couldn't wait any longer. "Now you listen here you little pile of bantha crap." Charlotte said as she threw up her arms as she enter the room. "I'm not some sort of Damaged Goods that you can just toss to the side, you know? Leave me here so you can go get yourself killed and die on your own? You little harpy! As if I'd let you do that! And there isn't one of them space wizard tricks you can pull on me that'd make me agree to staying here, I hope you know?!" She continued, hands on her hips as if she were talking to a child. Which technically she was.

"You'll have to gut me like a ghest before I'll let that happen. And That little light sword of yours?" Charlotte said with a dry laugh. "Don't scare me, not one bit." She could tell that Elena wasn't expecting Charlotte to come in like she did, but it was too late for that. No, Charlotte had made a friend out of Elena and she was not the one to let her friends go off on their own, to get caught on their own, or to die alone and scared on their own. It was not in her character to back down either. "S'matter? Loth-cat got your tongue? Little moof-milker thinking she can just up and leave ME behind!" Charlotte said, with a violent shake of her head. "Uh-huh. And you can bang and shout and cry all you want kiddo. Your stuck with me like flies on bantha crap." She said with a shrug and a smirk. "That moment you dragged me along with you, well, that was the moment this wise ass was stuck to you for life. Ain't a damn thing you can do about it either!" Finishing her rant with a firm nod of her head as she cross her arms over her chest.

(( XxJadePhoenixX ))​

 

[Skyrte]

Janah Jorvedd - Location: Nar Shadda
​

Janah gave Chuka a big smile, leaning over the table, he said "You're the best ori'vod. (Big Brother)" He then moved over to the stack of boxes and grabbed two, setting them on the table next to Chuka's stash of gear. Chuka spoke up again, requesting all the files, including a copy of the contract, so he was up to date. Janah complied, and quickly sent over all the relevant files. Then Chuka suggested something truly genius.
"Why not ask the Graysuit where she is or went?"
Janah looked at Chuka blankly, blinking in disbelief, he exclaimed, "Why didn't I think of that? Let me get presentable." He ran his glove through his short hair and set his drink down, then put on his helmet. He cleared his throat as he pulled out his communicator, setting it to send a holo-message to the First Order. The disk shaped communicator blinked on, and a blue scanning light shone over Janah. "I've rearmed and restocked my weapons, if you have any leads on where this Jedi is, tell me. The faster I finish my investigation, the faster I give you my answer on whether or not I take her in." With a click, he stopped recording and sent it along its way to the First Order ship.

"So, where'd you park your ship? I figure maybe 15 or 20 minutes 'til the First Order mails back." Janah asked, shouldering his two blaster rifles, blaster carbine, holstering the blaster pistol, sheathing the knives... eventually picking up the stack of boxes by the shopkeepers counter. "I parked my ship over at Ol' Jumbar's hanger. I think you'll like it!" The Mando said cheerfully.

 

[Jackson123]

A flight of TIE fighters swiftly approached the new republic vessel caught on radar.

“I have visual on the bandit.” the flight lead reported. It’s an ugly looking B/SF-17 star-fortress bomber, the new republic markings can be clearly seen on the hull.

“Attention unidentified bomber, you are approaching control zone of the Imperial Star Destroyer Hecate. Vector left to course zero-niner-zero or you will be fired upon.”

The TIE pilot pulls his craft over next to the B/SF-17 in an escort position. Perhaps a bit closer, for he can see the face of their pilots in the bomber’s cockpit from his position, definitely violating “the bubble”——maximum performance turn circle——of this bomber.

It was about this time that the JX phone circuit on the bridge of Hecate buzzed.

“Bridge, Radio, we’ve intercepted encrypted messages being sent from the bomber to an unknown location.”

“Bridge, copy.” The executive officer answered. He stroked his chin for a brief moment before he turned around and saw the boatswain in the eyes.

“Sound general quarters.” The exec said calmly.

“Aye sir, sound general quarters.”

“Bos’n mate, aye”

Seconds later the high-pitched whistle noise can be heard from all the loudspeakers of the ship’s public address system, all across the ship the crew’s adrenaline are being triggered by the whistle sounds in the conditional reflex gained from thousands of drills.

"General Quarters, General Quarters! All hands man your battle stations. The flow of traffic is up and forward to starboard, down and aft to port, set condition 1. This is not a drill, this is not a drill. General Quarters, General Quarters!"

And with that the whole population in this 2,915 meters long flying city in space suddenly swing into action. In a moment all the hallways in the Star Destroyer are filled with men and women hurrying to their GQ station, off duty crews hauled themselves from their racks, struggling into uniform and fasten their belt, occasional grumbling and cursing can also be heard while they snap into dead running from sound asleep in two seconds.

From ratings to officers, in each department and each division everyone know exactly where they need to be and what to do.

“Captain on the bridge” on the navigation bridge, the boatswain called out.

“What’s the situation?”

The XO brief the captain as to what is going on when the 1MC announced “Time: plus one minute”

The captain then ordered another two squadrons of TIE fighters and one squadron of TIE bombers be put to 15 minutes readiness.

“Have the shamrocks take off.” The captain said to the intercom via his JA battle circuit.

======
ISD Hecate, Hangar Six



In the hangar bay, Kitori had been on standby in her cockpit. The interior of the TIE’s “eyeball” is dark, with the instrument lights being the only source of illumination. She rarely use them, as she had HMD in the helmet for information she needs during flight.

The flight deck crews are rushing all over the hangar in a swiftly motion. The spacecraft director in yellow jacket is on the side of the hangar, standing next to a hologram projector that shows all the operations in the hangar and flight deck, with which he is directing everything that is going on in this authority to ensure everything works in an organised orderly fashion.

She looked around the hangar and amazed by the effectiveness of the ground crew. True, Star Destroyers are engineering marvels with their size so impressive they are essentially a city themselves, but looking at hangar bay operations it still boggles her mind how so many can be done in so tiny of an area.

Personnel in purple jacket are refuelling another squadron of TIE bomber with hyperfuel. Surrounding her TIE fighter are some green jackets and red jackets, the green jackets are conducting final check on the ion thruster vectoring control, solar array wings and assisting her to ensure the control surface are functional, meanwhile the red jackets, ordnance handler, are working with the weapons, arming the laser canon and concussion missiles, performing the final check before takeoff before passing the arm-up signal by extending both arms forward and putting one fist underneath a palm.

All around the hangar bay, all sorts of weaponry are being moved via hand pulled weapon skids and wheelbarrow without delays, the moment those transporter are in placed the red jackets would install the missiles or proton torpedoes to the weapon station on the TIE with almost a natural instinct.

Next to her is the new guy in the squadron, second lieutenant Rhaegar, his TIE is also being tended to by the professional ground crews, armed and ready for action. ( BabyBundt )

A yellow jacket came in front of Kitori’s cockpit. She gave him a thumbs up, then with a familiar sound of metal clanking sound, the hook runner had had her TIE hooked up to the catapult.

The shooter wave his hand in the air furiously for the “run-up” signal. Kitori then set the throttle for military power, and made a final check for the instrument as her TIE fighter now squats into position at the end of the electromagnetic catapult, twin ion thrusters roaring in front of the blast fence.

Satisfied with the pre-flight preparation, Kitori saluted the shooter and tighten her grips on the control stick, straighten up her body against the chair.

The shooter return the salute, squats down sideways, his right hand touch the deck, then points forward, the catapult operator promptly punch the launch button.

The rapid acceleration had Kitori pushed into the back of her chair with a force several times her own weight, before the motion settles, her squadron of TIE fighters had already been launched into the vastness of outer space, leaving the Star Destroyer far behind.

“Time: plus two minutes.” As the Shamrock squadron sped away from the Star Destroyer, the 1MC announced across the ship.

The OOD in the data pit of the bridge looks up to his commanding officer “General quarters set. All stations report manned and ready. Time, two minutes and thirty seconds.”

“Very well.” The captain nodded to the OOD, with a ready time like that for a ship crew of 82,000, perhaps those countless drills really had paid off. The old man took a deep breath, it was at this time that Proximity Alert sounded, indicates incoming hyperspace object.

“Bridge, CIC, eight cruiser size ships are exiting hyperspace, relative bearing red 5-0. All New Republic vessels.”

The captain stared at the endless sea of stars outside the bridge viewports. It’s unlikely this kind of military presence just happens to be here. Could this be a trap that he sailed right into? But then again...

“Eight cruisers? Well, this would be a fair fight.” Star Destroyers are designed to take on a fleet on her own.

“Air boss, scramble all TIE fighters, I want a screen of CAP in front of our wall of AA, don’t let a msqito get through.” He then spoke to the Gunnery Officer “Guns, bring your guns to ready, cruisers fleet expected to appear at about red 5-0.”

“Aye aye sir!”

“Scramble all fighters! Set condition 1-alpha for flight operations! All personnel remove soft hats and refrain from throwing FOD material over the side!"

Far above the planet of Nal Hutta, swarm of X-Wings and TIE fighters soars toward each other in echelons of squadrons.

=========

“The First Order is looking for this woman in the picture.” On the planet of Nar Shaddaa, in the famed Star Cluster Casino, a First Order officer had put up a wanted poster of Elena Connor with high definition photo on the message board of the bar.

“She is said to have last appeared in the territory of a criminal boss by the name of Fanty!” The officer said as he scanned the crowds of lawbreakers, felony and bounty hunters gathered in the bar with his eagle-like eyes.

“For her capture, we offer a bounty of 350,000 credits to whoever that can bring her to us!” He said loudly that it would seem everyone in the casino could hear it “Only condition is, we want her alive.”

The same thing would occur in several different locations of large gathering spots in the area that Fanty is said to have operated in, on top of her bounty being posted all across the holonet in the entire Galaxy.

( CelticHero37 )

 

[Grim Wraithe Stjerna]

Chuka Struk​

The older Hunter smirked and shook his head as the comment. "Someone has to make sure you don't die doing something di'kutla - (foolish)." The Mandalorian put his helmet back on, giving it a small twist. With a faint click and high pitched whine, it locked in and sealed and pressurized. "Jatnese be te jatnese - (The best of the best)." As his fellow Mando collected the grenades and added them to the table.

As Janah got presentable, to which Chuka rolled his eyes behind his faceplate, and sent his query to the First Order officer, and started moving the extra weapons in pile to a hover crate that he would use to transport his weapons back to his ship. These weapons were not meant to his primary arms, those were still on him. These weapons were meant to augment his armory and to be readily available if he needed to replace something lost on a Hunt. Or in the event he needed to arm someone or several someone's that were helping him.

"So, where'd you park your ship? I figure maybe 15 or 20 minutes 'til the First Order mails back." Chuka looked at him and nodded as he picked up the grenade crates and placed them on top of the stack on the hover crate. "I parked my ship over at Ol' Jumbar's hanger. I think you'll like it!"

"The Akalenedat - (hard contact) is docked in the Nar Shadda Spaceport. Just up a level and half a click." Tapping a control on his vambrace, linking the hover crate to it so it would follow him as he walked. "You want to meet up when you get a reply or follow me?"

The Akalenedat was Lancer-class Pursuit Craft manufactured by MandalMotors, and was popular choice among Bounty Hunters as well as pirates. Chuka had over the years made some modifications to the ship, ensuring it would both live up to it's name and be able to contend with and acquisitions that tried to run. Some of those modifications had to upgrade the dorsal cannons from light laser cannons to medium laser turret cannons, and adding forward mounted ion cannons, while keeping the tracker beam on chin mount. He had also modified the interior as well, but to lessor degree by fitting the secondary cargo hold with a carbonite unit for acquisitions that need to contained. And the hyperdrive was upgraded to a class 1 from a class 2.

[Location: Weapon Store - enroute to Nar Shadda -Spaceport Hanger 1313 / Interacting: Janah Jorvedd ( Skyrte )]

 

[Skyrte]

Janah Jorvedd - Location: Nar Shadda​

"A floor up and half a click?" Janah repeated as the door to the outside slid open and he walked through, "Ol' Jumbar's hanger is further aw-"
He snapped his head away from Chuka towards the source of the voice that didn't fit in with Nar Shadda. It was a collection of four screens on a pillar displaying taxi information on the sides, showing a First Order officer, holding up the image of someone.
“The First Order is looking for this woman in the picture. She is said to have last appeared in the territory of a criminal boss by the name of Fanty! For her capture, we offer a bounty of 350,000 credits to whoever that can bring her to us! Only condition is, we want her alive.” The First Order officer declared, and the message began repeating.
Janah stopped in his tracks and a dozen trains of thought ran through his head. She was here? Why was the First Order posting an open contract on her, so blatantly, in public? Were they pressured? What did this Jedi do to make them respond like this? For a contract like that, the entire planet would be a buzz of activity, especially when the First Order didn't emphasize that she was a Jedi, for all everyone knew she was just a common criminal who made an enemy of this Imperial Remnant faction. Everyone from the rookie to the battle hardened would be after her, no doubt making Janah's own job harder, if he was to take the contract. Something was wrong, the Imps wanted her captured here and now, and they were willing to throw a proverbial bucket of blood in a den of Anzati. Janah turned back to Chuka sharply,
"Somethings wrong, the Imps are rushing. Your ship, let's go!" Janah said with urgency, he took off in a sprint. He thought about it for a second, dead sprint to a lift, a short break, then a 500 meter sprint to The Akalenedat, carrying all of this equipment... a memory flashed back, his first mission with Chuka, and he smiled a little. He could do it, he did harder before.

 

[XxJadePhoenixX]

Charlotte's outburst surprised Elena, she barely knew this woman and here she was ready to follow her into oblivion. She opened her mouth to say something, but before she could mouth the words she was interrupted by a broadcast from the First Order. Everyone in the hangar turned to look as several nearby screens lit up. The First Order offered a bounty of three hundred and fifty thousand credits for Elena's capture. That detail hadn't escaped her notice, it only confirmed they wanted her alive. But why?

"Looks like our time's up. Both of you in the crate now," Fanty told them.

"But--," Elena tried to say, but she was cut off by a firm hand on her shoulder from Jacen.

"Just do it, Jet'ika, there's no time to argue," he told her.

The young Jedi looked upset, but crawled inside the large crate nonetheless. Charlotte crawled in behind her and after the two had situated themselves the false bottom of the crate was lowered down on top of them. Fanty waved over some techs who began loading the crate with the coffee beans.

"Once you're done put the crate in the hold and tie it down. I want the ship ready for takeoff in fifteen minutes. Do we have a name for the transponder yet," he asked, glancing over his shoulder at where a small group of techs were finishing up repairs on the Courier.

"Um, not yet, Sir," one of them responded, "We've finished wiping the codes from the previous transponder but we're all having trouble coming up with a name."

"How about Pathfinder," Jacen offered. He liked the symbolism of it. Elena was lost and alone and this ship could help her find her way.

The tech who had just spoken looked to Fanty for confirmation and the other man nodded. "Alright, Pathfinder it is then."

He turned to one of his men and ordered them to go input the new transponder codes into the ship. The tech nodded and scurried off. Meanwhile, Fanty turned to look at Jacen as the crate carrying Elena and Charlotte was hauled away. "You're not going with her," he asked.

The Mandalorian shook his head. "No, but I won't be far behind. You just make sure she gets out of this system alive."

Then he turned and began walking back to his ship. Fanty watched him leave for a moment before leaving the hangar and heading back inside hi secret compound. He still had to arrange a pilot for the ship. That meant a shower and a quick change of wardrobe. After fifteen minutes had passed a young woman dressed in regal clothing entered the hangar followed by a small retinue of bodyguards and retainers. She boarded the Courier then headed for the cockpit, sitting down in the pilot's seat. She deftly worked the controls and powered the vessel on, then reached for the coms.

"Control, this is the Courier-class yacht Pathfinder ready for takeoff."

"Roger that, Pathfinder, bring your ship about to heading two one... Just a moment, Pathfinder, we're receiving a message for you, patching it through."

A moment later the ship's holocommunicator powered up and the shimmering blue image of a New Republic officer appeared above it. "Admiral Graves, is something wrong," the woman asked.

"Forgive me, Senator Kysala, but it appears our rendezvous will have to be delayed. Right now our forces are engaged in battle with a First Order star destroyer."

Adina Kysala, a sitting member of the New Republic Senate, looked concerned. "The First Order," she repeated, "Why?"

"The ship launched ground forces the moment it arrived in system. We had to be sure they weren't here for you. We sent a bomber to test their intentions. They launched their fighters shortly after."

That complicated matters somewhat. Adina had intended to rendezvous with the New Republic cruiser in orbit as a means for keeping the First Order off their back, but it seems like the foolish admiral decided to poke the krayt dragon instead. "I'll find my own way out of the system, you just keep the First Order off my back."

The admiral looked perturbed. "I would advise against that," he told her, "Let us deal with the First Order threat first then we'll rendezvous after the battle."

"Forget it, Admiral, I've already made up my mind," she answered, then she cut the transmission and eased the craft into the air.

The Courier was surprisingly responsive, as Fanty's crew were making repairs they noticed that the Courier had been highly customized by its previous owner. Normally, this class of ship didn't include a belly mounted quad laser cannon but this one did. The ship had also been customized for speed, sacrificing some of its shield strength to push the ship's impulse thrusters beyond normal capacity. It was the perfect getaway vehicle for a Tapani noble fleeing a potential rival. No doubt that's what the ship's intended purpose had been. Now it was being used to ferry a Jedi out from underneath the First Order's nose. Adina had been fully prepared to have her ship boarded, that's why Fanty had gone through so much trouble to mask Elena's scent. At the very least the radiation shielding inside the crate would keep her hidden from First Order scanners and the ship being registered to a Republic Senator would explain the New Republic presence in orbit. A presence that was at the moment working towards their favor. The First Order couldn't very well halt operations to chase down a civilian vessel while engaged in battle with the Republic fleet.

"Everyone hang on back there," she said idly to herself as she pushed the throttle to max and rocketed off into space...


[Location: Courier-class yacht, Pathfinder. Nar Shaddaa / Mentioned: Charlotte ( BabyBundt )]

 

[Jackson123]

Orbits above Nar Shaddaa



“We got company.” Someone said over the comm.

There they are, the X-Wings, big and powerful, painted in grey and orange. It’s the paint job of the “Resistance”, a paramilitary group led by Princess Leia Organa, while the New Republic is not officially at war, the same can’t be said to these paramilitary forces.

There are around thirty X-Wings, covering a group of twenty B/SF-17 star fortress bombers approaching the Hecate in a direct intercept course. TIE fighters are scrambling out of the Star Destroyer from hanger bay on either side, as well as the hollow flight deck in bow section and the docking yard at the bottom. At the moment there are around sixty TIE fighters that had taken off, they split into two group, one group including the Shamrock went forward to intercept the enemy X-wings, and another headed for the bombers.

At further distance behind the enemy star fortress formation, a fleet is emerging from hyperspace. Four Nebulon-C escort frigate and three CR-90 star corvette made up a circular defence formation, the flagship situated in the middle is a wedge-shaped “Republic attack cruiser”, otherwise known as a Venator-class.

Kitori saw the X-Wings had their S-foils extended into attack position before they dive down like eagles prepare to snatch their prey. She had been a starfighter pilot long enough that she can tell by the formation movement of the enemy spacecrafts to know if those pilots are rookies or not.

As the radar lock alarm began sounding like crazy, missiles are being propelled out of the starfighters on both side.

“Missiles Inbound!”

“Break! Break!”

“Engaging Enemy, I got one in my sight!”

At the moment explosions, laser beams, missiles and all sorts of projectiles seems to filled every inch of outer space.

“Wolfpup, you cover our rookie from behind” Considering the new recruit might fumble with his control in first engagement, Kitori assigned the veteran pilot to watch his back. Experience can only be gained if the rookie actually survive the combat. (Mention: BabyBundt )

“Squadron, split into each element and fire at will.”

She look over and saw Shamrock 2 had swung into proper wingman position, before dove down for an X-Wing she had in her sight. The enemy rolled, looped and spiral in violent manoeuvre in an attempt to shake her off his tail and catch the TIE in his own sight.

Kitori noticed his surprisingly poor flying as she narrow the distance between her own fighter and the X-wing. The laser beam from the x-wing scatter all over the place, before she caught a perfect firing position and poured all her firepower into the enemy fighter. The shield of the X-wing overloaded in a matter of second and the starfighter is promptly engulfed by a fireball.

She did not give a second look to the explosions, instead had already caught another x-wings into her targeting computer, approach, line up and fire, another explosion erupted that her TIE fighter would fly right through. Before long she had already downed seven enemy fighters in the engagement.

When the shamrock squadron drawn the x-wings attention, another group of TIE had dove down on top of the slow flying star fortress formation. The star fortresses are flying in a close formation to create a tight AA defence cross fire with every five bombers. TIE fighters fearlessly dive into the bomber formation, laser beam slashes like long sword in order to cut down the heavy bombers. Often, chain reaction would set off in these tight bomber formation and the flashes would be comparable to the lights that a main sequence star omits, taking down dozens of lives with every explosion.


Normally, the “Resistance” would have already retreated at this point. Somehow they seems more determined today.

The First Order TIE bombers had finally arrived to add to carnage unfolding in this system. Just like their fighter counterparts, the skills of the TIE bomber pilots are superb compare to any starfighter corps in the galaxy, in a matter of minutes the laser canons and the proton bombs had left a trace of destruction behind their angular solar array wings.



Fireballs erupted from a Nebulon frigate, the slender hull broke into two parts as the body of the ship’s crew float lifeless into the vacuum of space. Shortly afterwards, another CR-90 corvette endured impacts from three proton torpedoes, the 150 meter long starship shivers as the explosion set the entire ship ablaze, durasteel hull disintegrated all over the area and the fire extended further as if they were the tentacles of a fiery monster.

The turbulence of energy discharge shock the hull of Kitori’s TIE fighter. She couldn’t help but imagine how devastating the sound of explosion would be if there are air outside to transmit sound waves from the destruction scene.

Behind the TIE fighter screen, the Hecate is approaching the battlefield as her powerful sublight thrusters propelled the enormous capital ship into action.

“All mounts, local control, fire as they bear.”

The captain gave the order, standing in front of the bridge viewports, his arms still relaxing behind his back as bridge officers passed his order down. Seconds later, the turbolaser and ion canon mounts on the Star Destroyer had commence fire onto target as they see fit. The captain look over to the starboard bow and saw even the tractor beam operator are engaging target in their own way: two tractor beams had caught themselves a Nebulon frigate and an CR-90, the resistance starships had increased their power output, but were no match to the tractor of the Resurgent class destroyer. They were dragged towards each other, before inevitably crashed, the CR-90 sliced right through the Nebulon’s midship, the frigate exploded while the corvette had it’s hull crushed.

“Bridge, CIC, radar report a small contact is taking off from Nar Shaddaa, courier class yacht, the blip is quite definite.”

“Can we get a plot into it?”

“We’re too far away, won’t make it before they get to the safe distance for hyperspace.”

“Hmm.” The captain mumbled something under his breath

“Get the hyperspace tracker ready, and let me know when we caught their drive wake.”

“Aye aye sir.”

The captain once again shift his attention to the battle at hand outside the bridge viewport.

 

[BabyBundt]

Scooting a little bit more to the side, Charlotte pressed her lips together and narrowed her eyes in the darkness. Frowning, she smelled the contents of the box. Was that... Coffee? Well, at the very least, they'd smell like something other that fear or sweat! "Listen, Elena. I apologize yellin' at'cha like that. I'm not all that too good with holdin' back my emotions.. Obviously.." She said with a wry chuckle. "But, well.. I dunno.. I kinda like bein' around ya'. Don't ask why. But, I dunno, you seem like you could be something like my little sis'. Mine did die at the hands of some frackin' buckethead and I wasn't there cuz she wanted to keep me safe by leaving me behind, tryin' to keep me safe." Pulling her knees towards he chest, wrapping her arms around them. "Sound familiar, Don't it?" Charlotte said as she choke out a laugh.

"I know you ain't some kinda mind reader, so how could ya' have known? So don't bother yer'self none thinking about that." The Ship jumped forward and Charlotte frowned. "D'ya know who's pilotin' the ship? Is it that friend of yers... Uh, Fanty? Maybe that Mando you know? The one that shoved us in this box o' coffee? Nah, He's got his own ship right? All Mando's do.. At least I think so... Nah, sounded like some kinda chick." Did Elena set up for another female to pilot this skiff? Charlotte shook her head. That was one TOO many females stuck together in a small area. Someone was bound to piss someone else.

Charlotte would try to hold back around this newer person, once they left the box. Elena had, sorta, gotten used to her personality. This newer person though. She wasn't sure if they could handle her explosive or abrasive personality. So, as hard as it might be, Charlotte would do her best to be... well... not her.. At least for the sake of the small space they were in. She knew that it might cause some problems , especially considering the fact that they had no idea the woman whom was piloting the ships personality. All Charlotte could hope was that whomever they were... That they weren't stuck up or like her.. That would make for one hell of a clash in personalities!

(( XxJadePhoenixX ))

 

[BabyBundt]

Rhaegar was nervous, but also excited, for his first real world combat situation and he would sure as hell not let down his new squad. No, He would fight the enemy, do what was ordered of him and execute the orders precisely as ordered, and return home and prove that he deserved to be a part of the Shamrock squad. As his tie reached the inky blackness of space, his nervousness was quickly replaced with focus and he was ready. Ready to take down the enemy before him. He pushed the sticks forward and follow his leader. He kept his tie behind to Wolfpup's right side as they approached the squad of X-wings. Then his captain ordered Wolfpup to cover his six as they neared the squad, and Rhaegar understood. They were still unsure of him, and honestly he couldn't blame them. All he Had to show was his excellent passing grades in pilot training but no real combat experience.

It was time to show them he was more than a dumb rookie, but also not overstep his bounds or do something stupid and get himself killed trying to be the hero in this battle. When the X-Wings got in target range, he sent out a volley of shots before speeding forward letting a fighter fly past him, before quickly slowing his own ship and making a hard turn so that he was behind said fighter. Releasing another volley blowing off the droid, and landing a hit on the the wing sending it spiraling into one of it's allies, causing both of them to explode. "Wooo! Got 'em!!" Flying through the explosion, he slowed down his maneuvers. Not wanting to overstep his bounds.. or get shot down himself. It was also the squad of X-Wings fault for flying as close as they did when another group of ties enter the fray.

"New Orders, Sir?" He said over the comms, mostly directed at Kitori. He'd taken down at least four maybe five X-Wings, but he'd fallen back after the frigate was taken down in a ball of fire. Rhaegar had seen how Kitori had flown, and understood immediately why she was the commander of the Shamrock squad. He had flown and taken down enemies to the best of his abilities, and he was sure that Wolfpup had assisted in some of the kills that Rhaegar thought were his, but at the very least he hoped that he had gained some sort of credibility as to why he'd been assigned to Shamrock...

(( Jackson123 ))

 

[Grim Wraithe Stjerna]

Chuka Struk
​

Chuka was about to acknowledge the distance and location when the unmistakable sound of the First Order saturation broadcast took over nearby holoscreens and speakers. The older Mandalorian looked to his younger, and could tell by his body language he was on edge.

"Somethings wrong, the Imps are rushing. Your ship, let's go!" And the he was off sprinting.

He huffed out a sigh at the situation and the fact he would have to run to his ship because the crate might follow him, it could not fly. "Follow the way point!" He called out after Janah, who was already halfway to the lift.

It was not long before he caught up to him, and he could tell he needed to do more running, but was doing his best to control his breathing. "Why didn't you take the contract? Now it's an open one and we'll end up fighting aruetyc (non-Mandalorian) as well as the target." Which was not a problem for the veteran Hunter, but he did not like having to expend recourses and energy without good reason. And generally any fight was a good reason, but when it came to a Hunt, that was Al business.

Stepping into them lift and hitting the proper level. "This is feeling a lot like your first hunt with me, though you're probably not going to fall into a Killik nest this time."

Stepping out onto the level he took a quick look around and then with a nod to Janah started running to the hangar and his ship. Dodging around sentients and several droids, knocking a few over without so much as a look back or apology. At one point a service droid pulling a long cart blocked the path, with a burst of speed the warrior leapt to clear the cart, planting one hand down to help vault over the wide cart.

Rounding a corner onto the hanger Chuka tapped a code into his vambrace and the rear ramp of his ship began to lower. "Stow the crate and weapons in the gear locker, next to the Barc and then join me in the cockpit." His voice carried with it an air of command, but lacked any panic or urgency. Settling into the pilot chair his fingers flew over the start up sequence, just like he has done hundreds of times before. As the sensors came on line, so did the alarms and rapid movement of hundreds of smaller signatures and several massive ones.

Cursing under his breath he called out to Janah. "The Republic is here as well, which means getting off planet is going to interesting, let alone flying anywhere on planet to find this Fanty."


[Location: Akalenedat Spaceport Hanger 1313 / Interacting: Janah Jorvedd ( Skyrte )]

 

[CelticHero37]

Riar Duinn
The Raven

​

The bartender returned to the bar with a timid gait, wringing his hands as he approached Riar. Before the man could speak, Riar interjected, "I couldn't help but notice that you're not carrying a form of payment. Have the funds been transferred directly?"

The bartender looked around nervously before stating, "W-well, Ordorg the Hutt sends his greetings and apologizes that he is unable to deal with you directly at the moment. H-he is very busy, you see. He is sympathetic to your troubles. However, he notes that the circumstances of the conflict resulted in a loss and he will now need to replace the worker he sent with you. As such, a transfer of funds has been approved for half of the original agreement. The other half to pay for the acquisition and training of a new recruit."

Before the last words had left the bartender's mouth, Riar's blaster was already in the man's face. That was not the answer he wanted to hear. However, before the situation could escalate, a new bounty bulletin began playing in the area. The Raven looked to the direction of the transmission as if raising an eyebrow under his expressionless Mandalorian helmet. Then he turned back to the bartender, lowering his blaster as he added, "Actually, that should be fine, under one condition. Ordorg tells me how to get to Fanty."

 

[Grim Wraithe Stjerna]

Razor 9​

Razor Squadron was on the fringe of the pitched battle that the First Order had initiated. The flight were all flying Incom-FreiTek Corporation's T-85 X-wing starfighter, the successors to the venerable T-70. And as such were being flown by some of the most veteran pilots and under normal Rules of Engagement they would have been the vanguard, however this time around they had been tasked with ensuring all civilian traffic attempting the leave the contested air space were able to do so unmolested by Tie Fighters.

Each T-85 was armed with the standard armament, they carried four KX14 laser cannons on the S-foils and included Krupx MG7-B proton torpedo launchers carrying eight torpedoes. Which were aided by the Targeting systems included Fabritech ANr 1.3 tracking computer with IN-630-B "Sightline" holographic imaging system. They were also coated in sensor-scattering ferrosphere paint to help maintain a low sensor profile and cross section, especially when the ships were operating on low or no power they would be almost undetectable. And certainly with all of the other traffic in the area they would not appear on anyone's sensor boards.

"Razors listen up, we've just got change to our orders. There's a senator that was supposed to meet the brass, but isn't keen on waiting for the fight to end. So we're to provide cover and escort them to safety. They're reportedly in a Courier-class yacht named Pathfinder." Commander Jorezra "Razor 1" Gearshe called over the Squadron channel. He had ten pilots spread out over a significant portion of the Nar Shadda orbital zone.

"Razor Three copy." Followed by "Razor Six copy." And so on until all pilots had rogered up expect the last pair.

"So we're babysitters now?" Ravish 'Razor 9' Talar, called up. She tried to hide the frustration in her voice. It was bad enough they were sidelined protecting civies, but now they would have to escort some spoiled Senator away from the Eyeballs.

"Razor Nine, acknowledge the order." There was a weary frustration in the commanders voice. One that said 'I'm tired of your attitude, and do your job.' Similar to how a parent spoke to an unruly child who thought they knew everything.

Under her helmet her ears flattened as her eyes narrowed. "Razor Nine copy." The Cathar let out a huff as she watched the distant streaks of red and green lasers, some punctuated by a brief but brilliant flash.

"Razor Two copy." Her Kel-Dor wingman called in, then called over on their own channel. "Why do you always have to do that?" Sers Za asked. His voice was deep and was said to have a soothing property to it, which might be why he was the wingman to the squadrons best but most troublesome pilot.

"Do what?" One hand flexing and relaxing, extending and retracting her claws.

"Question orders. You would have a lot less negative comments on your record if you didn't."

"We're sitting in some of the most advanced fighters available and we're not using them to crush these bantha fodder remnants!" Letting out a small hiss at the end.

Za shook his head. "Is that why or is it because you..."

"Razor Nine and Two, this is Razor One! Looks like you're closer to our VIP. Fall in, link up, and get them out of here. Everyone else screen their exit. May the Force be with us!" The Commander called out as he pushed the throttles forward and set his S-Foils to attack position, with the rest of his squadron falling into a loose formation and following. Each pair of X-Wings peeling off and firing at Tie Fighters as they returned fire, beginning a deadly dance filled with fierce aerobatics.

"Razor Nine copy, moving to escort." Ravish wasn't happy about it, but at least it was doing something. And who knows maybe she would get to shoot something. "Pathfinder this is your New Republic escort, we're here to protect you. Over." The two T-85's fell into escort positions two hundred meters off the Pathfinder's port and starboard sides.

(( XxJadePhoenixX BabyBundt Jackson123 ))

 

[Jackson123]

Orbit above Nar Shaddaa



Kitori forged ahead, firing at an escaping X-wings. The short burst of laser bolts didn’t hit the starfighter, which veered slightly to the right at the right moment. She looked over and saw Shamrock 4, the new guy Rhaegar, had managed to catch this opportunity to engage the X-wing into a dogfight.

Kitori’s TIE and several of her wingmates quietly circle high above their dogfight, prepare to plunge down in a moment’s notice had the rookie got caught in dangerous situations. Their position is in the blind spot for the TIE’s cockpit, the second lieutenant probably hasn’t realised.

But the X-wing pilot did noticed them and already know he had no chance, thus concentrated his effort solely on escape. It was his own downfall. She saw in a swift manoeuvre Rhaegar’s TIE fighter came out of a tight loop and found himself directly behind the X-wings, the volley of laser destroyed the astromech droid and send the starfighter itself spiral into another x-wing.

“The new guy got moves, I’ll give him that.” Gator said.

“Sarlacc, how’s our new gal doing?”

“Ehhh, not so good.” Shamrock 5 responded in a way Kitori can hear the tiresomeness in his voice.

“What’s going on? Shamrock 6, status report.”

Brownie, the other rookie pilot in the squadron seems to be completely disoriented at this point. At first she didn’t even realise it was the voice of the squad lead in the radio when the constant alarm sound is blaring all over the cockpit.

She frantically look around and did not see any rebel starfighter, nor did she had any idea if she is getting shot at. She chances a look to her right, not a moment too soon to finally catch sight of a pair of sleek A-wing fighters broke formation to race against her TIE.

“Shamrock 6, do you read me? Break off!” The concerned voice was drowned out by the ear-splitting radar lock-on alarm, and she faltered, hands hesitated in the air. Instead of snapping away or deploy countermeasures, she simply didn’t know what to do, tantamount to a fearful bunny frozen in the face of her predator, even though it’s only for half a second, it’s enough to get a pilot killed.
She broke out of her stupor and finally push the control stick for a sharp turn, but she can already predict the rapid firing laser beam would strike her TIE at any second, piercing the hull and killing her in the process. She is going to die, alone, far out in the galaxy in this coffin that was her starfighter…

Sarlacc, the veteran pilot assigned to cover Brownie whipped out in a tight turn and plunge at the A-wings, laser firing, causing the A-wings to roll over and break off the attack. Still fumbling in the cockpit for the controls, Brownie almost couldn’t understand the miraculous change of fate.

“I have no idea how you made through pre-selection.” the Shamrock 5 in the squadron sounds like he’s in despair from his wingmate’s performance.

“Sorry sir, it…it won’t happen again.”

“See that you won’t, it’s your ass that’s on the line. I’ve never seen anyone flying that absurd before!”

“Shamrock Squadron, report remaining fuel and ammunition status.” Kitori’s voice came over the radio. Brownie look up and see the other TIE fighters in the squadron are slowly circling over her waiting for her to rejoin formation after she regain her bearings. She felt humiliated from her own ridiculous action when she swung her TIE back to the squad.

As Kitori expected, almost half the squads had their munitions down to half. She saw the TIE bombers had released their payloads and beginning to RTB for rearm.

On the other side of the battlefield, the Resistance fleet had the remaining 2 Nebulon and the one CR90 formed up around the Venator class, the burning wreckage of the other four starships slowly disintegrating under the sunlight.

The TIE Bomber group had did a toll on the Venator, the weather deck of the triangular starship is in flames in various locations.


The dual bridge tower is still emitting light through thick smokes. The port tower was the starfighter command bridge, while the starboard tower served as a standard helm and command bridge. Kitori knew this type of capital ship from dossiers, but never really see one with her own eyes. It’s a solid design from the Clone Wars era, a capital ship with good firepower, but most significant in her role as a starfighters carrier.

She think back about the battle, and try to match it with the documented number of starfighters of a Venator class. Seems they would still have starfighters in their hangar if she is operating to her full capacity.

At this moment, the bow of the Venator open up to reveal a half kilometer long dorsal flight deck. It’s part of the design that allow this class of Republic cruiser to launch hundreds of it’s starfighter in minutes.

“Squadron, follow me.”

Kitori gave the order to the squadron before she plunge down towards the deck of the Venator. A few point defence laser mounts made some frantic bursts at the TIE fighter squadron, with it’s anti air firepower being heavily compromised by TIE bombers in previous attacks, it was too few and too late.

Armed starfighters filled the enormous flight deck, bombs and torpedoes loaded, fuel hoses snaked across the decks as refueling operations were just hastily being completed.

Kitori switched the weapon selection button to concussion missiles, and fired both missiles in the launcher. The TIE fighters came down on all directions from the starboard side of the Venator, numerous traces of missile smoke trails appears, all rushing for their target. The first x-wing almost made it out of the Venator when the first missile found it’s mark in the now exposed flight deck.

Kitori witnessed the inferno first hand as she pulled up her TIE after finishing the attack. Huge fireballs erupts all over as detonations went off, the deck rippling and curling back in all directions exposing a great section of the hangar below, bombs and torpedoes that are armed on the x-wings alongside the hyperfuel in the fuselage only fuelled the onslaught of explosions. Terrific fire, bits of human or alien bodies and shrapnels flying all over the vicinity. Livid flames and jet black smokes inundated the entire deck, rendering it impossible to control the fire and secondary explosions, which eventually punched through from top deck to the ventral hangar bay.

After these spectacular fulmination, there’s almost no hope for this old starship. It’s almost a shame in Kitori’s mind to destroy such a beautiful craft.

As the Venator succumb to internal explosions, the CR90 bring her bow around to face the Hecate.

“Bridge, CIC. We’re picking up hyperspace reaction two points off port bow, TAO suggest the CR90 is trying to ram us with their hyperspace drive.” The voice of the Gunnery Officer came through the bridge.

“Divert power to bow navigation shield.”

“Aye aye sir, increase bow section shields.”

Navigation shields like the shift shields are designed to protect any ship traveling in hyperspace from collisions, naturally while in the other way around, it could also protect ships from being collided by objects in hyperspace.

Captain Matthias had his arm crossed his chest. He actually haven’t face with this kind of attack before.

The ship’s PA system is sounded across .

“Attention all hands, this is the TAO, hyperspace collision inbound port bow, all hands brace for impact.”

There she comes.

Blue flash of hyperspace came and gone, debris of the corvette that smashed onto the shield simply disperse outside the glowing navigation shield of the immense Star Destroyer, a weird quake from the disruption of space-time can be felt in the immediate surrounding area throughout the planetary system.

The bridge crew on the Hecate all had the same look of shock and confuse on their face.

"Shields down to 60%." The OOD was the first to break silence.

“Damage report.” The XO said.

“All stations, make damage report to control.”

Captain Matthias turns sharply from the bridge viewports and look at his executive officer.

“Keep her steady at current course until we’ve checked on the damage. If there’s nothing serious, we continue to engage the enemy.”

The captain felt his mouth all dried up. Already the damage control party are hurrying around the Star Destroyers to check for material damage. Some lightbulbs had went out in the sudden power discharge, the blown fuse in the main switchboard also needs to be replaced. Before long everything had went back to normal.

“Gunnery department, no damage.”

“Navigation department, all system normal.”

“Engineering department, all compartments no damage.”

“Hull department, no damage.”

“Medical department, the doctor dropped his booze, other than that no casualties.”

Slowly, the captain felt his nerves relaxed. He had to admit that was the most devastating single blow he had encounter of his decades spend driving ships all over the galaxy.

The remaining two Nebulons turn around and made a run for hyperspace. Although already half destroyed, the Venator, dragging a trace of fire and smoke, barely able to maintain level flight, slowly moved herself in between the First Order Star Destroyer and the retreating frigates, their remaining duel turbolasers turrets struggles to aim at their target.

It was more like administrating a coup de grace when Hecate opened fire on that Republic cruiser.

 

[Skyrte]

Janah Jorvedd - Location: Nar Shadda
​

Janah followed the waypoint to the designated lift, and heard Chuka through his helmet,
"Why didn't you take the contract? Now it's an open one and we'll end up fighting aruetyc (non-Mandalorian) as well as the target. This is feeling a lot like your first hunt with me, though you're probably not going to fall into a Killik nest this time."
Janah was quiet for a moment at that question, "I don't know, this feels like something bigger than just a normal cut and dry job. For the first time in how many years, a Jetii appears causing trouble? Feels like something is going to happen and we're in a position to sway it one way or the other." He replied, "And to be fair, the Kiliks were pretty friendly after I talked them down." Both of them knew that 'talked' included fists and a lot of bruises, mostly on Janah himself. As the two exited the elevator and avoided hanger workers and patrons, the familiar disk shaped ship came into view. The Lancer-class was an inexpensive, but no means cheap, patrol craft with a excellent reputation for durability and ruggedness. The ramp lowered and Janah ran into the ship.
"Stow the crate and weapons in the gear locker, next to the Barc and then join me in the cockpit." Chuka said, and Janah complied, quickly finding the equipment locker and opening it, opening compartments and cramming the boxes of explosives into them. By the time he was finished, the hover crate appeared next to him and he quickly pushed the crate into an empty space in the locker, turning off its repulsor lift, and he took off his blaster rifles and strapped them into the small armory. They could sort out the weapons in the crate later.
"The Republic is here as well, which means getting off planet is going to interesting, let alone flying anywhere on planet to find this Fanty." Chuka told him.
Janah jogged over to the cockpit and looked over Chukas shoulder at the sensor array screen.
"Haar'chak (Damn it)... this is getting worse by the second." Janah replied, watching the space battle unfold on the sensors, "Have you ever seen a Star Destroyer that size? Mother of moons, that thing must be twice as big as the old Imperial-Classes. If they a fleet of those, those Imp Remnants could just roll over the Republic." He said in disbelief, "Wait, look." He pointed at the the other corner of the screen, "People are leaving Nar Shadda in droves. Must think that if the Republic wins, their police will show up, if the Imps win, they'll turn over beds looking for that Jetii... and either way, the Hutts will make heads roll trying to find out why a space battle happened over their planet." Janah sat down in the copilot seat and strapped in, putting a hand on his helmet, "What a mess. There's no way our Jetii is sticking around here, she must be in that wave of ships fleeing the planet."

 

[XxJadePhoenixX]

"They definitely pinged us on their scanners," the man sitting next to Adina said.

The Senator frowned. "Are they turning to pursue?"

The man shook his head. "Probably too busy with that fight of theirs. That Venator looks like it's taken a beating."

Adina looked again out the viewport where the Republic Venator was moving into position to cover the retreating remnants of the fleet. What is that fool doing? She reached over and activated the ship's holocommunicator. A moment later the shimmering blue image of Admiral Graves appeared, only this time she could hear screams and shouts of alarm in the background. A violent shockwave shook the ship, nearly throwing Graves off his feet. "Admiral, what the hell are you thinking?"

The ship took another hit and Graves had to steady himself on a nearby console. "Forgive me, Senator, but it looks like I'm going to miss our rendezvous. You get to a safe distance and jump out of the system, don't worry about me."

"You fething idiot, disengage from the destroyer and run!"

"Can't do that, Ma'am, someone's gotta defend the retreat," he told her. There was another explosion somewhere off-screen followed by more screaming.

Adina looked a bit more desperate now. "Admiral Graves, your men don't have to die here. Pull your ship back and..."

She was cut off as a final explosion took out everyone on the bridge, ending the transmission rather abruptly. Off in the distance they could see the Venator listing off to one side as explosions began to engulf its entire hull. Finally, one last explosion tore the ship in half, the force of which sending both halves floating off into different directions. Adina stared at the ship's remains in shock. She knew Admiral Graves well and she couldn't believe he was dead. A proximity alert notified her that a group of TIEs were heading in her direction. Their X-Wing escort broke off to defend them, but it was clear they had overstayed their welcome.

"Razor Squadron, we're inputting a course to Hosnian Prime. Your ship is destroyed so you may as well come with us and regroup with the main battle fleet," Adina said over the radio to her escort. Then she turned towards the man sitting next to her. "Set a course for Hosnian Prime. I'm going to get changed then retrieve our guests."

The man nodded, his hands working quickly over the console. Then he reached over and engaged the hyperdrive, the stars outside the viewport elongated until they were replaced by the swirling blue tunnel of hyperspace. Adina, meanwhile, had retreated to the Captain's quarters where she traded her elegant gown for a business suit. She had entered the room as Adina Kysala, Senator of the New Republic, but had left the room as Fanty, the underworld crime lord. He ordered a pair of his men to follow him to the cargo hold where they proceeded to remove the coffee from the crate...

**********

Elena shifted her gaze away from her, not that Charlotte could see it in the dark. A dead sister killed by the First Order, of course Elena hadn't known. Though Ironically Charlotte was wrong about her being a mind reader. She could feel CHarlotte's thoughts about her sister now, her feelings of regret and remorse. She might have picked up on it earlier if she had stopped to consider Charlotte's feelings, but things were happening way too fast. First the escape on Cantonica, then Zyggeria and now Nar Shaddaa. Fatigue was starting to get the best of her now. She needed a break from the First Order and she needed it soon. She opened her mouth to say something to Charlotte, but that was when they heard a noise stirring outside the crate. Small rays of light began to pierce through the darkness until finally someone reached down and lifted up the false bottom. Elena instinctively had her hand on her lightsaber as her eyes adjusted to the light. What she saw surprised her.

"I hope you're not planning to use that thing," Fanty told her as he reached a hand down towards her.

Elena looked surprised. "Fanty? But how," she asked as he helped her out of the crate.

"Elena, I haven't exactly been straight with you," Fanty said as he reached back into the crate and helped Charlotte out of the box.

Once the two women were free of their hiding place Fanty gestured for them to follow him to the passenger lounge. "We're on our way to Hosnian Prime," he informed them as they walked, "Even if the First Order manages to track this ship they wouldn't dare follow us there. A First Order warship showing up at the seat of the New Republic would be tantamount to war."

"Hosnian Prime," Elena repeated. "Are you sure we should be going there? I mean, you're you and this ship is stolen, remember?"

The trio ended their walk in the lounge, Fanty turned back to look at them and much to their surprise his face and body began to change. In an instant Fanty had become a woman, leaving both Charlotte and Elena completely speechless. "A pleasure to meet you," the woman said, "My name is Adina Kysala."

"Wait, the Republic Senator Adina Kysala," Elena asked.

The woman nodded. "The very same."

The Jedi's eyes widened in shock. "I can't believe it, you're a Changeling."

Adina shrugged. "Helps to explain how I managed to keep my face hidden, yea," she said. "But you both need to promise me that this doesn't leave this room. The people I have with me here are thoroughly vetted and I pay them well."

"How the hell did you manage to infiltrate the Republic Senate," Elena asked incredulously.

The Senator bit her lip nervously. "It's more like I infiltrated the criminal underworld," she admitted. "I invented Fanty as a way to help people."

"By stealing from them," Elena said, crossing her arms.

"Not like that," Adina assured her. "Look, the Republic Senate is a mess, has been for years. Too many Senators bickering amongst themselves, a weak and ineffective Chancellor. Trying to get funding for any kind of relief program is damned near impossible. Everything's tied up in so much red tape, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I made deals with some awful people, but I used the money I made to build infrastructure, repair roads, feed families."

As she spoke everything suddenly started to make more sense. "That's why you never turned me in," Elena said quietly, "You could have made a fortune selling me to the First Order but you never did."

"The stories about the Jedi Order say they used to help people," Adina answered, "You were just a child when we first met, but I could tell your heart was pure. I knew with your help I could reach even more people and help repair the damages caused by decades of war."

"But why not just tell me the truth?"

Adina looked away. "Spend as much time as I have in the criminal underworld and you learn to distrust everyone. Even those whom you shouldn't."

An alarm sounded throughout the ship, alerting them to their arrival. Adina shifted her gaze up to the source of the sound before looking back at Elena and Charlotte. "I'll have the ship transferred to you upon our arrival," she said, "You are welcome to stay as my guests, but if you desire to leave as soon as possible I completely understand."

Elena thought about it. "I don't know," she began with a slight hesitation. Then she half-turned to look at Charlotte. "What do you think?"


[Location: Pathfinder, enroute to Hosnian Prime / Interacting: Charlotte ( BabyBundt )]

 

[Jackson123]

ISD Hecate
Orbit of Nar Shaddaa

The burning wreckage of the New Republic warships continue to descend towards the atmosphere of Nar Shaddaa. Some large structures that cannot be entirely burn out by reentry are being intercepted by turbolasers from the Star Destroyer to avoid causing casualties on the moon.

"Report from the hyperspace tracker sir. The trajectory had been analysed." The second lieutenant came in to report. "They're taking route through Expansion Region for Hosnian Prime, that would be their destination."

"Hosnian Prime. I see, the New Republic capital..." the Captain said, seems unmoved by the report. The First Order cannot take action as freely as it is in Outer Rim in the elected capital seat of the New Republic Government, unless the war had officially broke out. But then again, the Jedi had pissed off a bunch of rich and powerful people in Canto Bight, the rich and powerful that had influences in the New Republic capital.

"But sir, how can we be sure that's her? Their transponder signal doesn't match the records."

"Those Courier-class yacht cost 185,000 credits each. Not something that any low life criminal gang boss can afford to spend on. Besides that's the only courier-class that took off from the planet during this whole time, at least it's worth tracking." The XO said.

"Inform Duke Mecetti, we've found his stolen Yacht, now under the name of Pathfinder enroute to Hosnian Prime."

"With the Duke's pressure, perhaps even the Hosnian Police Department would need to quit sitting around with their thumbs up their ass and actually do their job." The XO said with a ridicule sneer

The captain nodded, and ask the second lieutenant. "How's the situation with the ground team?"

"They've located the lair of which Fanty had operated, requesting reinforcements to secure the compound for further inspection."

=====

On Nar Shaddaa, Fanty's Lair



The wall of a building was punched right through by the petrifying metal claws of the UA-TT Walker. One of the criminal thug that was hiding behind the wall got violently dragged out, leaving the hole that let stormtroopers make their ways into the compound.

"Shit! shit!" the armed outlaw raised his blaster and shot a few bolt towards the armoured cockpit of the UA-TT. They simply reflected off the armour plate and didn't even scratch the paint on the walker. Seems uninterested by the mild resistance, the metal limb tightened the grip, squished and crushed the victim within it's claws, all sorts of stuff went out as the sound of bone crushing is being heard, and the body got thrown away like a piece of broken toy. The Walker then turn it's laser canon around, began laying down suppressive fire to the enemy within the compound, now that their operators are not under strict order not to kill, those deadly laser could now rain down on their enemies without mercy.

"So glad these guys are on our side." The armoured passenger cabin at the back opened up, and the stormtrooper sergeant, wearing white pauldron on his shoulder, said as he went out of the UA-TT walker.

"Hey I'm familiar with this place. The Last Hand is just down the block around that corner, best cantina in the Outer Rim." one of the stormtrooper exclaimed.

"Quit the chatter. Spread out, search this compound, section by section." The stormtrooper squad leader with orange pauldron said as he gesture the troopers to spread out for assault.

In the horizon, dozens of AAL-1971/9.1 Troop Transport and K79-S80 Imperial Troop Transport began to surround the compound in every direction, with an AT-ST platoon and a UA-TT platoon spread out ensuring the outlaws still inside the compound can only choose between surrender or dead. Before long the compound was secured by the overwhelming force with the remaining inhabitants surrendered.

The scene they found in the compound indicates their target only recently escaped, and in a hurry too.