One week ago, Almania system.



They had arrived without noticed, entering the system well beyond its outskirts. It took almost a full week of sublight travel for the units to arrive on station but they got there, without detection and with spite in their hearts.

They assumed monitering points at regular intervals around the planet, making sure to avoid any points at which they could possibly be prematurely revealled. During that time they monitered the comings and goings of the local fleet, taking careful watch of their defensive procedures and response times. As the information was clarified a slightly modified Phantom broke from its berth, full cloak, and sped from the system to relay the information to its superiors.

A shroud had descended upon Almania.




Present time.



The realspace reversion of such a horrifying fleet would have frozen the most hardy men on the spot, but Admiral Danetta Pitta Jnr hoped such would not occur here.

I want some sport with this slaughter...

Moments later the Almanian ground crew were doubly jinxed as another fleet appeared diametrically opposed to the first. Both fleets immediately began launching fighters and no attempt was made at communicating with the planets inhabitants. Within minutes the fleets fighters had formed up and the fleets entered battle postures, line abreast formations both with fighter and skirmish screens ahead of each battle line.

A blast of heavy static over a preselected Imperial frequincy sent the attack launching forward.



CSD Corellia, Chairman of the Diktats quarters.



Lupercus smiled blissfully as he felt the engine hum increase steadily, indicating that the fleets were powering forward toward Almania and its moons.

You can run, boy did you run...

His eyes closed in mediation as he projected his mind out towards the planets, searching ceaselessly for his prey.

... but you're stupider than i give you credit for if you think you can hide.

His orders were to subjugate a jedi rich world as a precursor to the Jedi Corps Project, coincidently this tied in perfectly with his burning desire for revenge. No, revenge was the wrong word, destruction fit more aptly into what the Sith Lord wish to inflict upon his prey.

His mind continued to search, spreading visions of pure unadulterated terror and desecration amongst all those minds he touched that were not his goal.

Already the fear flowed from the planet in palpable ways, further driving the insane Hapan on.

Soon...



OOC Manifest

1st Fleet
Fleet Admiral Danetta Pitta Jnr.


1 Corellian Star Defender
-Corellia
2 Venerator Class Command Destroyers
5 Reign Class Star Destroyers
-Ravager II, flag
4 Imperial Class Star Destroyers mk II
6 Star Avenger Tactical Assault Platforms
-full complements of SASs
5 Illustrious Class Fast Attack Cruisers
20 Fire Class Frigates
Skirmish line
2 Surveyor Class Scout Cruisers
Behind main lines

378 TIE Defenders
250 XM-1 Missile Boats
100 X-Wings


Second Fleet
Commodore Carlos Alberto

2 Corellia Star Defenders
2 Venerator Class Command Destroyers
3 Archangel Class Star Destroyers
-Serephim, flag
2 Allegiance Class Star Destroyers
3 Torpedo Sphere Siege Platforms
4 Imperial Class Star Destroyers
6 Victory Class Star Destroyers
1 Attack Sphere
Full complement of Devils
5 Illustrious Class Fast Attack Cruisers
20 Fire Class Frigates
Skirmish line
2 Surveyor Class Scout Cruisers
Behind main lines
3 Bakura-Class Destroyers
Behind main lines
4 Victory – Class Star Destroyers
Behind main lines
5 Sovereignty Birds-of-Prey
Behind main lines

200 W-wings
120 Skipray Blastboats
250 Chiss Clawcraft
12 TIE/rpt


Almanian Shroud
Commander Vance Beowulf

60 Shroud Class Attack Cruisers
57 TIE Phantoms

How ironic…

<o:p> </o:p>

She thought it with a thin smile as the swirling vortex of hyperspace reduced itself to the mere pinpricks of stars in the distance.

<o:p> </o:p>

The Observers. I wonder if they ever considered that they might be being observed themselves?<o:p></o:p>

<o:p> </o:p>

Almania was dead ahead in the forward viewports, the blue/green planet ripe for the picking. Imperial warships on all sides sent their greetings, the com boards lighting up as the significantly smaller fleet of black warships appeared, entering the battlefield in perfect combat formation.

<o:p> </o:p>

“Weapons armed and ready, shields up.” She said, already checking over the boards before her and smiling. It may not have been her usual command, and it may have been under the command of an Imperial Vice-Admiral, but she took great pride in ensuring that any ship she captained was in prime condition. The Eternal, first of a new breed of Star Destroyer, was no exception. “Admiral Pitta’s forces send their greetings.”

<o:p> </o:p>

“Very good, Captain. Thank the Admiral, and ask him where he would like us.”

<o:p> </o:p>

With a nod, Ariel Trinity did so, depressing the button and reiterating the Vice-Admiral’s thanks to the Corellian Admiral.

<o:p> </o:p>

There were a few minutes of waiting, then the orders came in from the massive Corellia, flagship of the First. Maintaining formation, the smaller group of Star Destroyers and Dreadnaughts moved out at low speed. If the enemy showed themselves (a big if, in her mind) the Ubiqtorate ships would be ready.

<o:p> </o:p>

And the Ubiqtorate Corps. of Engineers would prove their worth. Trinity took a certain pride in noting that Admiral Pitta had selected one of their designs (or rather, modifications, but so different from the terrorist ship was the new Corellia Class that it could be heralded a new ship) as his flag, which was flanked by two of the larger Venerator Command Destroyers.

<o:p> </o:p>

The Ubiqtorate was certainly asserting itself, and powerfully, within the Empire.

<o:p> </o:p>

“The fleet is in position, Admiral.” Trinity reported, smiling still. It didn’t need to be said that the launchers were loaded, fighters in position, targets on the surface locked in. This was the Empire. That was beyond basic.

<o:p> </o:p>

OOC Manifest:

<o:p></o:p>Eternal Class Star Destroyer Eternal
Eternal Class Star Destroyer Night Caller
Eternal Class Star Destroyer Vanquish
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
Thorne Class Advanced Dreadnaught
72 TIE Defenders (Arranged in 6 Sqaudrons of 12)

Bonadan

Vinda-Corp HQ – Mr Vinda’s private chamber




Vinda looked at the flimsiplast he had been given with a sunken brow , then stared up at the Section agent standing before him. Chewing thoughtfully on the end of an almost finished cigarra as he took in the man's appearance…

“This has been verified, I take it?,...”

The Section agent shook his head solemnly…

“…Hardly, there’s not been time. From what we can tell the fleets were only picked up a short while ago. Nobody knows anything for sure, but some of the ship designs seem to match with those of the Empire, at least that’s what Intel suggests…”

The leather on his chair creaked in protest as the corporate mogul sunk back into it with a heavy frown upon his face.

Looking up at the agent once more Vinda cocked his head to one side…

“…why have you brought this to me?…I mean its not as if we are in a position to do anything about it, even if we wanted to…”

The Section agent smiled and handed a data-pad to Vinda and watched as the leader’s eyes widened slightly as they scanned its contents.
Carefully placing the datapad upon the table, Vinda pressed his palms together as he considered the situation.

“…I see.” (Came the cautious response)

Taking this as his cue the Section agent continued…

“…we already have some of our merchant vessels insystem as we speak, Almania, and Drewwa I believe, they could be used. They would have to dump their cargo…but…” His voice trailed off, leaving the old man before him to follow his train of thinking…

“Yes…” (The Vinda-Corp figure head nodded slowly…turning round to the prospect)

“…after all, we can’t just stand by and let innocent people be harmed needlessly can we? The Observers have been quite the profitable trade-partners for some time now, the least we can do is offer those who need it, sanctuary. Those not involved in the fighting , of course…”

The Agent watched silently as Vinda took a short toke on his cigarra…

“…Keep this quiet. If it indeed is The Empire , then they would not take kindly to interference, so no media. I shall attempt a formal request of diplomacy, to allow safe passage for our ships and to evacuate as many non-combatants as we can…”

“…and the Jedi?…”

The Corporate leader stiffened as he considered the prospect…

“…They will have to fend for themselves. I have no interest in fighting someone elses war for them…absolutely under no circumstances are Jedi combatants to be allowed onboard any of our vessels”

The Section agent nodded grimly as Vinda spoke…

“…issue the orders, but by the Black bones of Palpatine be careful. The Empire and Vinda-Corp are enjoying good relations, the last thing we need is for this to turn ugly.
I want it to be made clear to all of the Merchant fleet involved , that any aide or assistance must be in line with our policy of neutrality…”

The agent paused for a moment to consider this, before adding one last thing…

“…what if the Empire wishes to board the transports?…”

Vinda’s eyes grew fierce…

“…then, by Vader! we damn well let them!…This is to be expected, and we have nothing to hide, and you had better stress that fact to all ship Captains involved. Or else this whole thing could turn into a nightmare…is that understood?…”

Vinda’s voice was deadly serious and it boomed and reverbed around the room. The Section agent bowed his head slightly and replied cautiously…

"Understood”..

Before excusing himself and leaving the room to fufil his orders.





OOC:


*Vessels named for convenience

Docked at Almania Spaceport:

Corellian Action VI Transport – Last chance
Corellian Action VI Transport – Pride of Argau
Corellian Action VI Transport – Journeyman
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Strata
Gallofree Cargo Transport – VCB001


In orbit around Drewwa:

TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport – Bonadan1
TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport - Bonadan2
TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport - Bonadan3
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Tomasta
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Tolu
Gallofree Cargo Transport – VCB002
Gallofree Cargo Transport - VCB003
Barloz Class Freighter – Outlander

*


Elom - Star Destroyer Ressario


"Ma'am, we've received a transmission from the cargo freighter Tolu."


Scipio Arien, Ambassador at large for the Commonwealth, looked up from her notes scatterd about. So far, her meetings with the Elomin and Elom had gone just about as she'd suspected given what information they had obtained.

The Elomin believed in a certain order to the universe but that quest had been eclipsed by an organization also bent on administering another sort of order. An order where they were viewed as nothing more than slaves.

"And?" she asked irritably. It was not hard for the Commonwealth to sympathize with a downtrodden race; especially a race that lived in such a harsh environment. The problem was trying to get each race to speak to each other.

The Elomin, it was rumored, had helped the Rebel Alliance with basic technology modifications and there were also rumors of the Elom also aiding. But whatever each species could give to other planets could not, for some reason, be given to each other from each other.

They'll walk ten thousand lightyears to aid their fellow but can't bother themselves with their neighbor next door.

She looked up and saw the worried look on the officer's face. "Well?" she prompted again and the other spoke, "They are in a system that is about to be a going concern."

Scipio rubbed her eyes, fatigued. Going Concern was a code used by the Commonwealth to indicate possible attacks. With the gap between the Perlemian and Hydian sparcely populated, it could very well prove to be a dangerous bed of pirates, smugglers and generally antagonistic people.

The closest organization known (and not very well) were some sort of Jedi Clan. And even they did not police the area but kept more to themselves.


"Where are they located?"

"Almanian System from the coordinates given but their transmission is garbled. Without a solid Holonet Line and the blasted interference from this planet, we were lucky to get what we got."


"So no word from Command?"

The man shook his head and Scipio stood up.

"Then we are the closest ship there. Advise the bridge to prepare to alter course."

"The delegation?"

"We shall leave them here with the Dagger. Banderas wanted a chance so now he'll have it. Copy to him my notes and comments. He'll need them."

"And the ASCA?"

"We will leave it. We have garnered a sort of permission with the Elomin and I want Ambassador Banderas to make it more solid. But also, more than that, he needs to get both races to the table! That is paramount, in my book for a lasting peace." She grinned. "Besides, it's outside the system so there is no sovereignty violation."

Then she looked up.

"How long till we reach Almania?"

"I am not sure, but the system is not far. It depends on the obstacles along our path."


"Well we'd better inform Porion as well."




And two ships began to move off making the calculations to answer the call of the Tolu.


OOC Manifest (in transit):

Imperial Star Destroyer Ressario
Victory Star Destroyer Porion

Bridge of the RSD Ravager II.


Fleet Admiral Pitta could not help but stroke at his chin as he awaited the first set of order completions. The fleets had both already moved past 1/3 fleet speed but he was loath to accellerate further until he had full data on what he was walking into.

It came as quickly as did the thought of its requirement.

"Sir, uplink from our Surveyors is online."

Danetta nodded, his focus immediately turning to the battle holocom that sat in between him and the 'pit' in which the majority of bridge command worked. Immediately he noticed the uplinks effect, the battle map changing into a much more precise model of what was going on. Some ships, mostly on the other side of the planet, jumped out of position into new ones. They jumped again when the second fleets Surveyors came online, fully linking the fleet with 100% accurate information.

Nothing?

In his haste to draw the sword for his master Pitta had not bothered to examine the Shroud data himself, instead delegating to an underling. The aide had notified him that there was nothing worth worrying about in system that could stop the fleet.

There is a big difference between 'nothing worth worrying about' and nothing!!!

He mentally chastised himself, taking a deep breath to dispell the fury, his exhalation only slightly calming the Commander of the Fleets of the Diktat.

As the signals were now triangulated (between the 2 surveyour groups and the Reigns own sensor systems) Pitta was happy to move forward with his plans.

"Since there seems no real fight in this system let us begin our 'security cordon'."

He smiled at the thought of how smugglers might react to seeing a highly overt containment perimeter go up around the planet. At least he could get the satisfaction of doing the job well if he didn't get the chance to beat the stuffing out of someone first.

On both fleets the RSDs began to break off, taking up an all points anti-hyperspace position around the planet. Once in position their gravity wells could be activated in a moments notice and the planet would become a black hole of space travel. Things can go in, but they won't come out. But for now Admiral Pitta was happy to simply activate those on board the Ravager.

"Gravity wells coming online... Now."

Who uttered the shout wasn't noticed, but its direction came somewhere from the pit.

In groups of threes Fire Frigates also broke off, heading after their Reign counterparts in escort. It still disgusted the admiral that in this galaxy of turmoil even the might Reign-class could be struck down if it stood alone. Additionally most of the Star Destroyers of other classes began to break off also, Pitta's main battle lines disintegrating as the dozen odd Destroyers began moving into blockade positions just outside of the planets orbit.

Only a few craft still drove on towards the planet, the Victory's and IFACs being the primary units still on the move. Other than escort craft to watch over them, and fighters, the only ships of significance that were moving with the bombadier units were the Corellia and the Ravager II.

Smiling as the noose tightened Pitta grabbed his comms, it having been already patched through to the messages intended receiptents.

"Commodore Alberto, you have Blockade Command. Captain Trinity, Commodore Alberto will have your orders."

He ended the communication as curtly as he gave the orders.

Still smiling he simply watched the planets approach...





CSD Corellia, Chairman of the Diktats quarters.




Having failed to succede in his self appointed task Lupercus fumed, his rage only serving as a health risk to those around him. Knowing the futility (although also the satisfaction) of lashing out at ones allies to vent anger, the Hapan proceded to prepare for landing. He had his usual bag of tricks and some new ones, but one of the biggest requisites for this attack was that he personally could not be seen to be involved.

Especially after those slanderous rumours about Otah Gunga...

Lupercus couldn't help but smile at the result of that holocast. He had been awarded millions in damages from the Empires courts, both the reporter and the news agency being found liable for releasing libelous statements.

And in a great big 'go fuck yourself' to the author, i then spent that money building my hidden temple on Corellia. After it was properly laundered of course...

He chuckled now, the senseless anger dismissed if not dispelled, always bubbling under the surface.

And now to put on my face.

The thought had jokingly camp undertones even in the Hapans thoughts as he proceded to pull the centimetre thick polymer bodysuit up and over his face. It came into place immediately, having been made specifically for the Diktator, and suddenly the Hapan was a new man.

Staring back at him was Simon Kaine, but as Lupercus's thoughts changed from the Empires au-pair to that of its leader, the wizened form of Daemon Hyfe became apparent.

I just love this thingy...

He couldn't remember its name but the suit was psyco-kenetically linked to the mind of its owner, manipulatable by sheer force of will but also through the wearers intense connection to the force. The thought was also 'lockable', allowing the user to lock a image in place so that he need not spend his entire time trying to stay 'in character'. Although enjoying his time as the Regent of the Empire Lupercus forced himself to change into a non-descript individual, the face changing into that of someone the Sith had killed many years ago on Gallinore.

Grinning at the new face that stared back at him, Lupercus continued to gather his things...




Bridge of the ASD Serephim - flagship of Commodore Alberto.



Carlos watched on the battle projector as the blockade fleet began moving into its final positions around the planet. Although not fully in place, now was the time to annouce to the 'innocent' traders around the planet what they would have to do to get out.

His adjutant nodded to indicate the Commodore was broadcasting over all shipping frequincies.

"This is Commodore Alberto of the Imperial Navy. A blockade order has been issued by Imperial High Command, restricting access to this planet as of the date of issue.

The date of issue was one week ago.

As such we must order all craft to power down their ships systems until each craft can be searched. Each craft will be boarded and the ships cargo and crew manifests must be presented immediately.

Once the search is complete ships will be ordered to a holding area until allowed to leave."

He had finished what he had to say, but felt obliged to offer a warning to those 'brave' enough to attempt to flee.

"I would also like to add that any craft attempting to flee will not be disabled. Rather, it will be destroyed.

I have given fair warning.

Commodore Alberto, out."

He was about to relax into his chair when the same adjutant gained his attention through a quick inquisitive 'sir?'. Carlos nodded for him to continue.

"Captain Trinity is awaiting orders sir..."

Carlos grunted, still slightly irritated an 'observer' had been sent on his first mission as a flag officer.

"Have her take charge of the boarding operations for Drewwa. That should lighten my workload considerably."

With an 'ay sir' the aide was gone, immediately rushing off to issue the order to an Imperial Captain, something a lieutenant rarely had the opportunity to do.

Closing his eyes to relax Carlos exhaled heavily, knowing full well the success of the blockade was entirely on his head. And with that came the repercussions of any failure.

Such is the price in the Empire...

The Eternal

The Empire had had years to practise, and at Almania that was showing. Already the fleet was splintering into its respective groups, forming up in a typical blockade formation around the planet.

Hopefully keeping themselves aware of any ground defences the planet might have!

But power readings showed nothing of the sort - if the enemy had them, they had choosen rather wisely not to power them up. Defence or none, the Empire would triumph here today. The sheer size of the Empire's task force made that outcome inevetiable.

Pacing the command deck of the Eternal (it was, she had noted, significantly smaller then the deck of any of her former commands) Trinity wondered how long the day would be. Landing surface troops and armour would not take long. But would the enemy fight on the ground, even if they refused to fight in space?

Or would Admiral Pitta supercede that possibility, and do to Almania what the Empire was famous for? What the INS spent half its budget concinving people the Empire didn't do?

She smiled. It was for a good reason that the populace could never be put in charge of their own futures. They were to stupid - to easily manipulated. Look where democracy had gotten the so-called 'New Republic'.

"Captain," a voice said from beside her, and she started. "orders from Commodore Alberto. He wants us to begin landing troops on the Drewwa moon."

"Thank you, Ensign. Return to your posting."

Trinity frowned, bringing up the moon on her TAC. It was close enough that, given the right oppertunity, the defenders could trap a fleet between the two and subject them to two planets' worth of defences.

It was little wonder Alberto and Pitta wanted it neutralized. Unfortunately for them, neither seemed aware that the Eternal and Thorne class ships (new additions both to the Imperial fleet) carried little in the way of a ground contingent.

But they were more than capable of making up for that. It was, after all, what the Eternal had been built for. In part.

"Helm, bring us to flank speed, set course for the Drewwa moon. Instruct the fleet to do likewise, mantain escort formation. Weapons, power up the Disruptors! Sensors, give me a ground map of that moon and send likely targets to weapons."

With a speed that would almost certainly have startled an enemy, the small group from Yaga Minor moved away from the greater Imperial Fleet, slicing through space towards the moon, guns bristling in every quarter.

"Orbital bomardment is such a crude practise." Trinity said softly, smiling thinly as she watched the moon grow larger.

Star Destroyer Ressario



Scipio glanced over the notes she had made during her visist on Elom wondering if a peace could be secured between the two races. Being a diplomat was not all it was cracked up to be.

Most of the time I do not feel like a diplomat but more like a parent!


"Ma'am?" came a voice, intruding into the solitude of the conference room. Caprician interior designs placed a wall towards the back of the expansive bridge of the Imperator designed military warship. The wall hid from sight another set of computers and a large conference table.

Having command personnel leave the bridge for conferences was simply too impractical and a happy medium was found by converting the rear, upper bridge into an open conference room. Far enough from the rest of the crew at bridge stations in their 'pits' but close enough to be on hand for any emergencies that could spring into being at a moment's notice.

She looked up seeing Captain Besska and motioned the man toward her.

"Do you think the Dagger can move the ASCA to the Hydian?"

"If anyone can, it would be Captain Arae." Besska said firmly enough, "The cosmic distortions and proliferation of gravity eddies in this part of space reminds me of the Outmarches and Captain Arae was very good at navigating the Outmarches."

"A Savant of the Badlands, eh" Scipio grinned, calling to mind one Caprician author's description of the fluctuating gravity readings, cosmic debris and nebulae ridden area of space surrounding the Caprician System commonly called the Outmarches.

"It will take Arae a while but she'll get it done. Probably faster than Banderas can make the Elom and Elomin see eye to eye." the Captian pointed out.

"You speak a truth there," Scipio murmured and sighed, rubbing her eyes. "Any more word from the Tolu?"

Captain Besska shook his head grimly. "It's there but it's faint. I have a bad feeling about this. The information from the database put the Tolu into a merchant convoy. For anything to threaten..." He stopped, disturbed by his own thoughts. "We may not be enough..."

"It is too early to make any judgements one way or the other," the Ambassador gently chided, hoping to calm the man.

"Yes, Ma'am." the Captain nodded at the rebuke and was about to stand when a signal pierced the conference area.

"Go ahead Comm!" the Captain barked over the intercom.

"Sir! Tolu's signal just got drowned out!"

"Repeat last?" the Captain snapped back in confusion.

"Sir, a stronger signal is overriding." the officer explained and put it on..


"This ...Comm...re.. Alberto...Imper...Navy. A block...order has ...issued by ... High Comm...restricting ....to this planet as of....As ....must order ...to power down .....each ..searched."


The Captain looked grim. "Looks like our troubles just got a little bit more complicated."

"Captain," Scipio frowned as the printout tried to display the fractured message, "Is that what I think it is?"

"Sounds like it, Ma'am. And those are military transmitters being used. Much more powerful than the standard merchant fare."

"Still, for us to receive.."

"We are nearing the system, Ma'am."

Scipio took a deep breath and then exhaled sharply. "This changes things then doesn't it? The Empire may have a reason for doing what they are doing. Tell the Porion to drop outside."

"Ma'am?"

"We are not an aggressor here, Captain. We need to get our convoy out of harms way, whatever the Empire is doing!"

"I am bringing the ship to alert status. If we exit into a war zone we will be in trouble."

"I have confidence in your ability, Captain." Scipio said rather firmly, though she doubted her own.

The Empire! What were they doing this far out?



Drewwa


"What the frell is going on, Cobert?" came the high pitched voice of a young dock worker.

"Someone is attacking, I think.." the other named Cobert shouted as the two men raced through the small port towards the shuttle to return to the Tolu in orbit.

The man named Cobert had eyes of rage. "Dammit! We were due leave! The Gods of the Galaxy are conspiring against us! This shithole of a.."

"Can it, Cobert!" came the harsh voice of the Master Shuttle Pilot, who joined them from a corridor spilling out toward the port. "These folks are fixing for a fight."

"Fucking Jedi!" the man mouthed off. "What the fuck did they go and do now?"

"I said 'can' it!" the Chief Pilot Mannings shouted above the alarms. People were running about worried about what was going on outside. The Chief grunted for he had yet to find out exactly what the hell was going on outside.

The Jedi were always mysterious but the Chief never paid them any mind. The port in system held all the amenities ports usually did: bars, booze, broads.

But even so, those poeple that made their living simply on the trade route were about to have a rude awakening. In his run from a rented room down a corridor to the port, he noticed several people dressed strangly hauling equipment past him on repulsers. Strange water like sounds of flushing caused confusion within the man's mind as he wondered if the Jedi decided to shit their pants.

Through the habitat ring the uniforms disappeared and frighted civies tried to grab whatever available shuttles they could.

"Shuttle's not going to wait forever!" the Chief shouted and Cobert pushed a panicked alien out of the way as he held out his hand to his crewmates.

"They are going to fight." Cobert heard the Chief murmur.

"They are welcome too! Get us off this rock!" he yelled. "Get the fuck out of the way!" he shouted again, punching a civy back as some scrambled toward the open shuttle doors and fading freedom.



Merchantman Tolu


"Captain. Shuttles are signalling. We've three coming in and the rest are about to lift off."

The grey haired Captain nodded silently as the holographic projections of Imperial warships closed.

"Secure our people aboard. Once done, prepare to 'heave too' for any inspections or to get out of their way. Request Imperial Protocols to be forwarded to the convoy."

"Holy Shit!" someone said as the computer posted visualizations of the craft approaching the planet and the moon. Then a belated, "Sorry, Sir."

"It's all right, Jakobs. I heartily agree. That's a big mother!" he exclaimed as the computer augmented the Imperial warship, filling his viewscreen.




Victory Star Destroyer Porion


"We are to do what?" the Chief Engineer shouted to the intercom overhead.

"You heard me, Chief! Get it done." came the terse reply from the bridge.

"I just put this baby back.." the engineer grumbled and punched in the code that flipped open the manual override.

"Easy baby.." he mumbled as he grabbed the handle overhead and pulled slowly down.

The sound of systems powering down permeated the control room and the engineer saw the level indicators begin to drop.

The Porion shuddered slightly as the inertia dampeners compensated for the loss as the ship underwent a voluntary premature hyperspacial reversion to normal space. Well, not voluntary but manual at any rate.

"Electrical fires on Deck 15!" came the damage control overhead and the engineer grumbled something again as he secured the station and closed down the terminal resetting the computers.

"This is the Chief! I will meet the Damage Control Teams on Deck 14, Section D!"

"Astrometrics begin recalculations." droned orders from the bridge and the engineer soon had other things on his mind.

Bonadan

VC-HQ – Mr Vinda’s Private office



As Achinta Vega approached the circle of advisors surrounding Mr Vinda’s desk, Vinda looked up to acknowledge his most trusted of them all. He raised his hands to silence the others, (as the HRD had interrupted a particularly furious meeting).

“…what is it Achinta?…”

Bowing slightly, he slid forward a data-pad across the desk towards his employer.
In response, Vinda threw his bodyguard a look of trepidation, before accepting the data-pad, and allowing his eyes to settle upon the information he had been given.

The deep furrow that had been gouged into his forehead seemed to almost smooth out in reaction.

“…Miss Arien is there now?…” He questioned as he glanced up at his number one.

Achinta simply nodded.

The Corporate leader leant back into his chair causing the leather to creak a little in protest.

“…Her ship was attending a diplomatic exchange in the Elom system at the time…” Achinta answered, as he cast his gaze over the troupe of people before him in the office.

Vinda nodded slowly and carefully…

“…I see...” (He murmured thoughtfully…)

The CEO seemed to consider this very carefully before continuing…

“…good…very good, Miss Arien is an excellent diplomat, it pleases me we have someone there with experience…it doesn’t need to be said that that this situation needs to be handled with the utmost of care…”

There was a murmur of approval from the others seated in front of Vinda’s desk.

“…has she been informed about the current status?…I don’t want any misunderstandings Achinta…”

The HRD inclined his head to affirm, and then replied, “…The orders are being relayed as we speak. Nevertheless, Scipio Arien is more than capable…”

Vinda smiled a little, perhaps prompted by a distant memory, before nodding in agreement…

“..Quite, just be sure to keep me informed…” He acknowledged, before turning to the others…

“…I have just relayed a message to the Imperial high-command informing them of the situation, and I have formally requested safe passage for our ships caught up in this crisis. I have also requested that we be allowed to offer escort and safe passage to those not involved in the fighting, women and children, and general non-combatants…”

“…what have they said?…” Interrupted one of the aides , causing Vinda to stare at him longer than he found comfortable…
“…Nothing…as yet..” He answered bluntly, leaving the aide to dwell uncomfortably upon its many possible ramifications.

Turning his attention back to his bodyguard, Vinda paused as he observed him, the businessman could have sworn that for a moment he saw a flicker of something behind those usually steady and analytical eyes.

Vinda’s narrowed in reaction.

“..What is it Achinta?”

The HRD looked at the others gathered around then back at his employee…

“…This is a dangerous situation…” He started, before trailing off into silence, leaving Vinda and the others somewhat confused as their expectation for more to come didn’t materialise…

“…yeees…”. Vinda answered finally in reply as he threw his advisors a puzzled look. Then as he turned his attention back to the bodyguard, he tilted his head to one side… ”...Are you due back to the Lab for a retune or something?” He said , half joking, half genuinely concerned.

“…I am concerned.” Achinta replied flatly.

The sudden awkwardness in the HRD’s demeanour was not something Vinda was attuned to seeing, and he looked upon the android with something akin to bemusement…

Leaning forward in his chair Vinda narrowed his eyes, as he realised what was bothering the bodyguard…

“hah!..You’re worried about that Caprician woman aren’t you!” He blurted out, “I knew there was something going on with you two!” Vinda jabbed his finger towards his employee.

A small frown appeared across the Android’s face…

“…I wish to see that Ms Arien is not harmed…” He stated calmly.

“Ah..” (Vinda replied) “Well, I’m afraid its out of the question, I need you here, besides, you and I both know she can take care of herself, if anyone can handle the situation there its she, now take a seat , we have much to discuss…” And with that Vinda turned to his advisors…

Achinta stood quiet for a moment watching as the group began to talk once more, he appeared as if choosing his words carefully…

“… I do not need your permission.” He interrupted.

It took a few moments for the Android’s words to actually sink in, and as they did the room fell silent, including Vinda…

“..what?..” Vinda asked , genuinely unsure of what he had heard…

“… I do not need your permission.” Achinta stated calmly once again.

Vinda turned to face Achinta to give him his full attention, and as he looked at him straight in the eyes he narrowed his own in annoyance.

“…I don’t need you gallivanting off to the other side of the bloody galaxy just because you think your girlfriend may be in danger, I need you here…I think you are forgetting just whose body you are supposed to be guarding Achinta…”

“…I have never asked you for anything…” Came the bodyguard’s rather cryptic reply…

“..Except this.”

Rubbing his face with his left hand Vinda sighed heavily, and slumped back into his chair as he studied the stoic determination clearly evident within Achinta’s eyes , before finally relenting…

“…Okay, fine. I can’t stop you can I?...Just make sure you get there safely…don’t go off on any foolish crusade or anything, I know what she’s like!…” His threw his hands skyward as he talked…

“..And in that regard maybe it is a good idea you go after all…” He murmured under his breath.

With that, Android bowed slightly, and took his leave.

As the Vinda-Corp figurehead turned to face the others, (who up until this moment had remained grimly silent throughout this strange episode), one of the accountants raised his hand to query…

“..What is it?..” Vinda growled irritated…

“..Is this a bad time to ask for a raise?” The accountant asked gingerly…

Vinda didn’t answer , but threw the accountant a steely glare which seemed to cut straight through him…

(He sat down quickly)






Drewwa

As the Imperial fleet moved closer, shuttles and ships of all sorts made their way clear of the moon, most were just people who had found themselves caught up in the crisis. As the evacuation of the Moon reached its climax , one of many shuttles finished its docking to one of the Freighters already present in orbit.




Onboard the Tomasta




"This is Commodore Alberto of the Imperial Navy. A blockade order has been issued by Imperial High Command, restricting access to this planet as of the date of issue.

The date of issue was one week ago.

As such we must order all craft to power down their ships systems until each craft can be searched. Each craft will be boarded and the ships cargo and crew manifests must be presented immediately.

Once the search is complete ships will be ordered to a holding area until allowed to leave."

"I would also like to add that any craft attempting to flee will not be disabled. Rather, it will be destroyed.

I have given fair warning.

Commodore Alberto, out."



Captain Schaeffer, a bearded gruff looking man, grimaced a little as he heard the Commodore’s orders, turning to face his ensign he barked his own over the ship’s internal comms…

“welcome to the Tomasta , I’m Captain Schaeffer, and that you just heard was your friendly neighbourhood Imperial, as you can see we are kinda in a hurry so take your seats and stay out of the way…”

Jug, get your arse in the back and get those people settled, and tell Zhan I want each and every person who comes onboard checked and double checked, we’ve had strict orders , absolutely no Jedi are to set foot upon this ship. I’ll be damned if I’m gonna get wasted over some pansy assed force-freak, non-combatants only…

“What the hell does that mean?” Came Jug’s confused reply…

The Captain sighed…

This had all turned so complicated, barely a week ago he had arrived to do what he had always done, drop off and pick up cargo, nothing unusual, nothing too taxing. In fact this had been the end of a long cargo haul, and he had been looking forward to getting back home.
Now they had found themselves caught up in very dangerous situation. Like or not he was part of a fleet, and had to follow orders, but when the order from Command came to aide in the civilian evacuation, he hadn’t exactly been thrilled.

He was damn well not going to do anything to jeopardise his crew or his ship.

If any Jedi found his way onboard, he’d throw them out of the airlock himself! Force-powers be damned!

This single thought lingered in his mind as he responded to his crewmate…

“How in the hell should I know? you’ve got the damned list use it…anyone not on the list goes back in the shuttle…and anyone who even looks like a Jedi gets sent back through the airlock I’m not playing games here….

But I’m telling you now It better be right, ‘cos if we get boarded I don’t want no damned Imperial getting the wrong idea…”





As the incumbents were each checked and double-checked against the manifest they had been issued by command. The Tomasta broke orbit and headed for the holding area to join the other Commonwealth merchant ships that had also been in orbit around Drewwa. Slowly one by one each vessel powered down its systems as instructed , and would be soon readily (along with many others of course) awaiting (uncomfortably) Imperial scrutiny as per the orders issued by Commodore Alberto…





Almania


In orbit above Almania


When the orders came, the crews moved fast, in fact the situation was borderline chaos.

The small contingent of Merchant ships at Almania were already in orbit , waiting for the stragglers to join them as they too proceeded to their designated holding area, the evacuation had been fast and furious, and they were now packed full with as much as they could carry.

They too had received their orders from Command.

There’s was a mixed cargo, people and medical equipment , their original cargo dumped by the wayside at the behest of Command,
No Jedi had set foot on the ships, and the manifest , despite the haste had been strictly adhered to,

After all, to do otherwise, simply put, was tantamount to suicide.

No Merchant Captain worth his salt would risk his lively-hood and crew in a situation such as this, and if there were a way to guarantee safety, rest assured a Merchant fleet Captain would find it.




onboard the Corellian Action VI Transport – Journeyman




Captain Tallarn, a brown haired slightly overweight child of Bonadan, sifted through the manifest with a close scrutiny , to miss anything now could prove to be fatal if boarded later by Imperials.

…and Captain Tallarn was not a man who left things to chance.

As such he had personally checked each and every individual before they had even set one foot onboard his ship. His thoughts soured slightly by reminding himself that this type of action was not the usual work he’d signed up for.

These ships did belong to the Commonwealth however, thusly, when Command commanded, he followed.

Despite it being more than irregular.

That said, it didn’t mean he couldn’t bend the rules a little, he had dumped most of his old cargo, but not all

After all , Tallarn had dealt with the occasional Imperial officer before, and having something to grease the wheels so to speak, always seemed to speed up the process. In fact it was an unwritten rule, and half-expected.

Chakroot, and R’alla mineral water , were specialist enough , to be in demand, and could, if used wisely, supplement a persons income considerably , if one was shrewd enough to know where to sell them…

The real bonus was as they were not an illegal cargo, it meant if someone was investigated they would not show up as being elicit , therefore would be clean , as far as Imperials were concerned…

Murmuring a satisfied grunt, as he finished his inspection he made his way to the bridge.






As the last of the Almanian stragglers joined , the small party of ships made their way to the holding area.

Captain Tallarn observed the oncoming Imperial warships and felt his pulse quicken.

As the rest of his crew dealt with the passengers, the Journeyman’s Captain activated the Holo-net and hailed the closest vessels…

“…This is Captain Tallarn of the Vinda-Corp Vessel , the Journeyman. We have powered down our systems as requested and we await further instructions, we are transmitting our complete manifest also as requested…”

Acting as speaker for the small contingent present at Almania, Captain Tallarn transmitted the manifests of all the ships that accompanied him…

Tallarn watched as the Imperial Destroyers zeroed in on their targets, and he couldn’t help but feel a slight glimmer of empathy for whoever they were after on the planet under their advances…

After all he had met the Jedi , and they had been hospitable enough , and he wondered how they would fare under such firepower…





OOC:


Waiting at Almania Holding area:

Corellian Action VI Transport – Last chance
Corellian Action VI Transport – Pride of Argau
Corellian Action VI Transport – Journeyman
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Strata
Gallofree Cargo Transport – VCB001
Gallofree Cargo Transport – VCB004




Ships waiting in holding area at Drewwa:

TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport – Bonadan1
TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport - Bonadan2
TransGalMeg Xiytiar-Class Transport - Bonadan3
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Tomasta
Ghtroc Industries Cargo Empress-class super freighter – Tolu
Gallofree Cargo Transport – VCB002
Gallofree Cargo Transport - VCB003
Barloz Class Freighter – Outlander


Do we still need to do all this OOC stuff now? (seeing as we have new rules and such).

Almania two weeks earlier:

In his red and white guard uniform Greyy Trespe sits at the desk that he has used over the years on The Alderaanian Guards long stay in the Almanian moons. They had whethered the passing of their original benifactors, The New Alliance, the conquering of the planet of Almania by the Rogue Empire and even lived to see Almania into a new state of peace and prosperity.

But the empire was growing to strong to fast.

On the wall there were several pictures. One of Vonta Horn as a preadolescent. She was cute back then. In the picture her eyes burned fiercely like twin suns lite in the void of space.

She had wanted to become a jedi with all of her heart.

His glance is far away as he remembers the little girl that he came accross praticing with a silver light saber. She was so graceful for one so young. Ackward with the hint of great pontential.

His eyes narrow and eyelids close to slits. He had trained her so well in her youth to live up to her dream. In doing so he made his own dream come true. He gained the philosophy that would one day form his Alderaanian guard. The Royal guard but with alderaanian teaching.

Peace was founded on Almania now. He made his way in the universe. Doing some good, saving so many along the way.

He looks left and right. The room was barren save for the picture on the wall. All the adornments, gone taken away.

He stands in that guard uniform. The chest plate and much of the rest of the armor was white. The rest, the under suit and several portions of the waist, legs, and guantlets were red. Yes. He looked over his uniform. Stained with red of blood and yet covered in the white of peace.

This was all the will of the force or so he thought.

He moves to remove the last fixture of his life here. The picture of a little girl that made his future bright.

***

Guard files-

Toryn Sabreen:

Rank: Director and chief of Alderaan Guard

(Sabreen took the role after Greyy Trespe Stepped down to follow personal matters on behalf of the Guard.)

Guard orgainization:

1) Observer Jedi act as new policy makers.
a) Over the course of several years the Jedi well act as mediators and social policy makers.
b) Alderaanian guard: Acts as the protecters of the Observer government system.

2) Alderaanian guard
a) The guard well expand its ranks on the moons of the planet.
b) The guard well assimulate members of almanian society into its ranks.
C) The guard shall spilt into two groups 1- those that work for the Alderaanian guard as private military and 2- those that well be educated and phased into the infrastructure of Almania.
d) Almanian Guard members well be trained in all walks of life from politics to bussiness.

3) Almanian Guard takes over from the the Jedi.
a) Jedi well fall into the background with only mediating duties.
b) Almanian guard well take control.

A tall man in all white guard armor glances at his computer station. Almania was light years away now. Greyy saw things to clearly for his taste. The human male may look young but he was actually a 60 year old man. With experience far beyond his predecessor.

The evacuation went slowly over the many months. Using the Cloak able ISD he had Smuggled out all of the Guard support craft. At all times there was one Defender class star destroyer in orbit with several of the Observer Carriers and training ships.

Or so they thought. The DSD was a creation of the Vanish 3 holo cloak. Everything said that it was a ship it gave all the signs of being a ship. Even sending out fighter patrols. Though all that they left there were a couple of Nubulan B frigates to bay the fighters.

No one was the wiser in the system. The Almanian Guard government had taken over from the Observers and the Observers were only there periodically. No one was the wiser when the Jedi slowly dissapeared.

Nor was any one the wiser when the Alderaanian Guard dissappeared. All travel of induviduals was conducted by hyperportal. Ship to ship. Place to place. Portal travel was closely guarded and none of the Almanian Guard were allowed to use it as per regulations.

In the last several months the moons training schools were shifted over to civilian piloting, civilians were slowely allowed to colonize not military continents on the moons. The people took over the schools creating military style universities.

Under ground and in the many military bases, all new technology was phased out of site. None of the new fightercraft were seen and none of the new tech was left intact. All computers containing sensitive information were smuggled out through the hyper portals over many months.

The Guardbase on Drewwa looked normal as well. One the surface at least. Many miles below ground, in the Alderaanian guards true base, they had evacuated. Leaving a complex that stretched for miles under the surface of the ground.

One the surface there were only minor guard members left to see to it that the airs of normal goings remained.

There was a Nohgri Colony on one moon. As is their nature they slinked away one transports with out leaving a trace behind. No one on almania had much contact with their colony so they were not missed.

Even the Jedi Academy had been emptied. Those that remained were merely induviduals trained as mediators by the jedi. Not true Jedi at all. Just something to keep up appearances.

On planet only traditional ships and shuttles remained. Along with all the defenses of the planet.

Sabreen Saw the reports of the imperial movements from their spy networks accross the sectors. The imperials had the trappings of moving on a planet soon. THere was little opposition to them so Almania was an easy target.

The Jedi had relocated already and the Guard had left their charges. Now he only hoped for the best.

A message from one of his ships sitting at the edge of the system, well out of the range of detection and monotoring almania Via long range Tele-scope, relayed a message:

-Bantha Stampede at homestead-

Code that a hostile fleet had entered the system. Banthas Meant the empire.

He sends his reply.

-Initiate Bantha pie-

The ship on the extremety of the system relayed the message via the Holo-net to the Almanian Guard turning to make the jump to hyperspace immediatly after the messege is relayed.

Now all that Toryn could do was trust in the people he had trained for this situation.


***


Planet of Almania:

The -Bantha pie- message was relaid on all private message relays.

Below the Guard home base several engineers that knew nothing of guard affairs save that they built the underground base sat at controls initiating a new program.

The Facility was powered independently by thermal vents. These energy plants were walled off so that the lava would not enter into the base. All of the safter walls were made to be raised. Simultaniously they were all opened the Molten rock was below but harmless. At least until the explosives are dropped and detonated. Throughout the base Lava flows fill up the area. No one was left there and only the demolition remained to be done. The empirials would not gain even a hollow base devoid of its trappings.

The bases had long elevators that were sealed off. The base above would be in no danger of damage. Even if there was a bombardment it would not have effected the effects of the lava. The base was made to be safe from planetaty bombardment anyway.

***

In orbit there were no Star destroyers. Not even any Observer craft. The only ships that remained were X-wings, B-wings some Schemitar fighters, and a small fleet of transports.

The ships were manned by regular Almanian guardsment without a single regular Alderaanian private army being present.

The Governer of the planet recieved the -Bantha Pie- message. In the event of this code he was to open a private file meant only for the Elected goverment. In this case he was the only one in the government this pertained to.

He was quite shocked at the contents of his orders to do in this situation.

***

Governer Jall Hemaad of Almania ordered an immidiate innitiation of a military state of emergency. All power now flowed through his office in this event.

Planetary shields were brought online and all fighters were ordered to fall back under the protection of said shields.

From his offices on Almania he heard no calls from either the Purely military private Alderaanian guard or the Jedi. Not one mustering of forces not one. Move to enter into the defense of the system.

Though he knew from his military classes and the updates on projected empirial power that any stance would be useless. Eventually they would fall. But Almania was not only Governed by the ideology of Alderaan but also that of the empire.

***

On all channels a message goes out:

"To Emperial forces entering the soveriegn system of Almania. I am Governor Jell Hemaad, the current head of the Almanian system government. I would like to offer my welcome to the Almanian system. If you know it or not we are induviduals that are well versed in emperial doctrine and rights. As such I am empowered to petition for entrace into the Empire proper. Through the proper negotiation channels of course. Almania is more valuble as a live asset then as, shall we say an example to the empire. I look forwards to discussing the matter further."

Now he prayed to the force and what ever gods that the many races on the planet looked to. Hoping beyond hope that Almania survived these trials.

Admiral Pitta

The raising of planetary shields was unexpected, and undoubtably foolish. The Fleet Admiral smiled grimly as blue ion bolts lanced out from the fleet, and within seconds the rising blue sphere of energy around Almania had faltered and gone out once more.

Pitta had to wonder what was going through the head of the Almanian defenders if they had waited this long to raise defences. If they so desired, the Empire could lay the entire surface of the world to waste in a matter of minutes.

But then, Pitta had never understood the minds of the infidels. This was why he served the Imperial Fleet with every bone in his body. Stable and reliable were the defining characteristics of the New Order.

"Admiral, Sir! Transmission from the surface!"

"Probably the infidels, begging for mecy..." Pitta reasoned with a smirk. "Put it on screen."

"To Emperial forces entering the soveriegn system of Almania. I am Governor Jell Hemaad, the current head of the Almanian system government. I would like to offer my welcome to the Almanian system. If you know it or not we are induviduals that are well versed in emperial doctrine and rights. As such I am empowered to petition for entrace into the Empire proper. Through the proper negotiation channels of course. Almania is more valuble as a live asset then as, shall we say an example to the empire. I look forwards to discussing the matter further."

"Hold the line," the Admiral ordered, knowing that his image was now frozen, his words not being conveyed down to the surface.

"Commodore Alberto." He said, speaking into the comlink that was connected to the other man's ship.

"Aye, Admiral."

"You heard the good Governor's message?"

"I did. Damned nerve, raising shields to talk about peace. My fleet damn near glassed the planet when we detected that little stunt. One wonders if this guy can be trusted."

"I agree. He sounds scared - no doubt because we just shot down his only defence. I'm going to give him our terms. Stand by to commence phase one."

"Aye, Admiral. Alberto, standing by."

Pitta nodded to the coms officer, who reopened the link, allowing the Admiral to talk to the surface.

"Governor... I am Fleet Admiral Denetta Pitta of the Galactic Empire. Almania is now under Imperial blockade, pending occupation by the New Order. At this time, you are ordered to power down all defences and have your defence personal stand down.

"You are also hearby ordered to reveal any and all Jedi that reside on Almania and its moons. Failure to do so will result in disiplinary actions.

"Imperial Stormtroopers will be taking posession of your capitol distict and defensive installations shortly in order to ensure an orderly transfer of power.

"I look... forward to meeting with you. You may meet me at your convience once our preliminary base has been established."


Captain Trinity

"Update, Captain. Admiral Pitta is landing his troops on Almania. He wants us to secure the area and confirm that their are no Jedi aboard any of those transport craft."

Trinity smiled thinly. The Empire's orders not to leave the system had been obeyed, and there were a large number of transports now fleeing the Drewwa moon and assembling in space nearby.

Any one of which could be loaded down with fleeing Jedi. The Empire's directives here were clear: no Jedi were to escape, at any cost.

"Very well. Helm, bring us about. Target the transports and broadcast our intentions."

Consulting her TAC, she smiled thinly. "We will begin our search with the Tomosta."

Less than a half hour later, Trinity was aboard the transport, a squad of Spartan-II soldiers flanking her, addressing the ship's Captain...