<font color=green>There were few in the galaxy that saw the war as a good thing. Already it had claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands, starting with one stupid mistake over the planet of Geonosis. The planet of Geonosis, where the Rogue Empire had foolishly tried to invade the world. Where the Galactic Empire had saved that planet from certain destruction, and helped them restore their planet to its former glory. Where the idiot that had somehow achieved the rank of Admiral in the Rogue Imperial navy had thrown his entire fleet of twenty-two ships into the equivalent of a razor wire.

And Emperor Fearsons had the gall to blame that catastrophe on the Empire.

There were those in the galaxy that saw the war as evil, and, in actuality, it was. But it was the lesser of two evils, the greater being to allow the Rogue Empire to slaughter more innocents and wreak havoc on the galaxy. After all, it was the Rogue Empire that resurrected the Death Star.

When Emperor Fearsons ordered his lackeys from Tholatin to attack Fondor, he effectively signed his own death warrant. And since that day, the New Order has attacked the Rogue Empire on every front imaginable, destroying the Death Star and throwing the Rogue Imperial fleet into disarray. Emperor Fearsons has not been heard from in days, and is presumed dead. Likewise, the Viscount del Forza (after retreating from Karnak Alpha without cause) is missing in action.

And so the Rogue Empire will fall, and the galaxy will become a better place for it. But there is one thing that has not been taken into account: the Galactic Defence Initiative. After the success of Operation Harrier and Operation Peregrine, Phase Two of Operation Heavy Hammer was put into action.

At this moment, a massive Galactic Defence Initiative armada is arming itself to launch an attack on one of the Rogue Empire’s most important worlds.</font>

<hr>

<font color=red>Galactic Defence Initiative Forward Base – Eraidu System

The Emperor designed the Eclipse-class Super Star Destroyer to inspire fear in its enemies. With its black hull plating and incredible power, it does just that.
The Super Star Destroyer Korolev hung in space over the tranquil world of Eraidu, the only sign of life aboard the great vessel the ion engines that propelled it with a speed matching the planet’s rotation. Below, on the planet itself, it was night. A few lights shimmered from the surface, but it was, for the most part, dark.

The darkness hid the signs of the Galactic Defence Initiative activity happening the on the surface. The last of the supply shuttles were now on their way up, carrying the munitions and other items essential for a prolonged siege. Others carried bridge crew or technicians, last-minute arrivals who would turn the massive works of metal into deadly killing machines.
One ship in particular was of particular interest. Longer than the others, at least twice the size, and of a radically different shape, this was obviously a personal vehicle. It was also headed directly for the Super Star Destroyer, which had already been packed to the ceiling with supplies and equipment. That could only mean one thing:

“Commander, inform the Admiral that Supreme Commander Isstal’s shuttle is on its way.” The Commander, a young man only recently assigned to the Super Star Destroyer and failing to hide his excitement at riding her into battle, saluted hastily and moved out of the room. Major Devop smiled. He had been the Master of Arms for the Korolev for two years now, and in that time he had never seen her in battle. Oh, sure, the ship had made its rounds, impressing the systems of the Galactic Defence Initiative with its awesome power and imposing shape, but he had never, except in simulations, gone through the procedures that would arm the massive superlaser. The thought of doing so frightened him immensely, yet it also brought him comfort. With this ship, this awesome vessel of unfathomable power, the Galactic Defence Initiative would be near unstoppable in their campaign to liberate the peoples of Sluis Van.

The Admiral arrived on the bridge in a huff, his uniform wrinkled. He glared at Major Devop icily.
“How can the Supreme Commander be here already? The operation is not scheduled to begin for another twelve hours!” He had been sleeping, obviously, letting the others take care of the miniscule details that he must have considered beneath him. Devop turned away to hide his smile, and then looked to the sensor screen. Focusing on the modified transport, which was now much closer, he pointed it out to the Admiral.
“That is the Supreme Commander’s personal vehicle, is it not?” The Admiral scratched his head, the looked at the name that was painted beneath it. Forbidden.
“Yes, that would be it. He must be eager to begin, or I am sure he would have remained on the surface until the last possible moment, as to make a grand entrance.” Major Devop almost pointed out that he very much doubted that Supreme Commander Dxun Isstal was one to make a grand entrance, and that he was sure that the man was more comfortable on a starship than on the surface, but wisely kept his mouth shut and nodded silently. “Do we have a bay open for the Supreme Commander to land in?” The Major again had to hide his agitation at the Admiral’s lack of awareness about the goings-on of his own ship, and brought up the schematic of the ship’s bays. He had prudently made sure to keep a small amount of space open in the forward bay, and when the Admiral saw this he smiled.
“Good job, Devop. Very good indeed. Instruct the Supreme Commander’s pilot to set down there.” Devop did so, and the ship settled into its assigned space smoothly.
“Perhaps you should be there to meet the Supreme Commander…?” Devop suggested waveringly.
“No, I don’t think so. I will wait for him here. Let him see that I am busy overseeing this warship’s preparations for battle.” Devop glared at the Admiral, but the man did not notice. He had moved forward and was conversing idly with a young woman who ran the sensor console.
“Busy overseeing this ship my foot. If it weren’t for me this tub would be not but a free-floating piece of space debris.” He muttered, turning back to his duties.
Supreme Commander Isstal’ arrival in the main hanger bay was met only by two minor officers. All, it seemed, that could be spared from other duties. On any other ship in the fleet, this would have impressed the Supreme Commander. But knowing the Admiral who commanded the Korolev, it only irritated him. He was, Dxun thought, probably sleeping. The ship did, however, seem to be in very good shape. The supplies were well organized, and it seemed to Dxun Isstal that they had somehow managed to exceed whatever the average for this type of warship was in additional equipment. As they walked, the Supreme Commander turned to the higher-ranking of the men, a Colonel.
“What is the name of the Master of Arms aboard the Korolev?” He asked innocently, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
“It’s Major Devop, sir. Formerly of the Hammer.” Isstal nodded. He had known of then-Lieutenant Devop when he had served as Junior Master of Arms on the Imperator Star Destroyer Conquest. As he recalled, the man was very efficient, which would fit with the way the Super Star Destroyer was organized.
“I will have to speak to Mr. Devop. His work is very good.” The Colonel was silent, not sure how to respond. The Supreme Commander did not speak after that point.

Dxun Isstal’s entry onto the bridge of the Korolev was unannounced, and thus the Admiral and entire bridge crew was caught unaware. It was not until someone spotted Major Devop, standing coolly at attention facing the new arrivals, that they realized thir error. The Admiral was the last to rise, saluting and approaching the Supreme Commander.
“Sir, welcome to the Korolev. I am afraid your arrival caught us unawares-”
“As it should have, Admiral. But tell me, why was Major Devop standing to attention a full minute before you acknowledged my presence on your bridge?” The Admiral seemed at a loss for words, and it was Major Devop who answered.
“Sir, I assumed that you would arrive unannounced so as to observe the level of readiness on the bridge, sir.” Dxun nodded, a smile once more creeping onto his face.
“The Major is absolutely correct, Admiral. And what I saw was, for the most part good. Only one little problem remains.” He smiled slyly and leaned in close. “What exactly where you talking about with the Lieutenant there?” The Admiral was silent for a moment, then said, “We were discussing the best ways to detect an enemy fleet without giving away our own position.” He said slowly.
“And what would method would that be?” Isstal asked. The Admiral opened and closed his mouth several times, but never got past the word ‘I’. Dxun nodded. “As I thought. Admiral, in future I would ask that you keep personal affairs personal, and discuss them on your own time. Is that understood?”
“I understand, sir.”
“Excellent, Admiral. Now then, can you tell me the status if the Korolev?” The Admiral turned to Major Devop for help, who smiled and said, “The Koroloev is operating at 100%, Supreme Commander. We are ready to commence; however the rest of the fleet is still finishing up last minute loading and supplying. It will be approximately two hours before the rest of the fleet is up to 100%.” The Supreme Commander nodded, impressed. The man hadn’t even looked at the computer console behind him.
“Excellent work, Major. Would you like to join me for a drink in my ready room?” Devop shook his head.
“Sorry, sir, but I’m going to have to refuse the offer for now. I am needed here.” Isstal’s smile grew.
“I would have been disappointed if you’d said anything else, Major. However, I do require you to join me in my ready room in one hour. In the meantime, I will make sure that something is sent up to you here.” Devop nodded.
“Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.” Dxun Isstal gave one last smile to the Major and then made his way to the turbolift, and the ready room located directly under the bridge.

Major Devop entered the Supreme Commander’s ready room alone. It was much warmer down here than on the bridge, as it was nearer the centre of the vessel and not as much heat was lost to the vacuum of space. It was not lavishly decorated, as one would expect from a warlord of similar person, nor was it bland. A large holo from New Alderaan hung on one wall, and a real-time projection that replicated what was seen from the ship’s bridge viewports hung opposite it. Behind him, flanking the doors were two smaller holos that the Major did not recognize. On the rear wall were two doors, as well as a small kitchenette and bar. Dxun Isstal was seated at the single large table, a mug in front of him. He motioned for the major to sit.
“Major, welcome. Can I get you something to drink? Obviously alcohol is out of the question, but you look like you could use some caf. Or perhaps a mug of stim-tea?”
“Caf, thank you.” Devop said, and the Supreme Commander motioned to the TK Protocol droid that had appeared from one of the doorways. “You wanted to see me, sir?” the Major asked, accepting the steaming mug.
“Yes, yes. I wanted to discuss with you what you think of this whole thing.” Devop was confused, but did not show it.
“You mean the war, sir?” Dxun nodded.
“I suppose I support it, sir. I mean, from what I’ve seen and heard, Chadd Fearsons is absolutely evil. He’s learned in the Sith arts, he resurrected the Death Star, and he attacked the Empire without reason. It seems to me that he deserves to be killed.”
“All true, Major. But what about Fearsons’ disappearance? How does that effect what’s happening?” Devop thought for a moment before answering.
“It doesn’t, sir. The Rogue Empire is Emperor Fearsons’ creation, and if its not destroyed it will only serve to create more death. It has to be destroyed, for the good of us all.” The Supreme Commander smiled.
“Major, you are utterly and completely right. You already know what is going on, so I will not bother you by telling you why we are attacking the Rogue Empire. I must ask you, though, off the record, what do you think of our Admiral here?” Devop was silent for a long time. What he had to say would be considered insubordination, he was sure
“Off the record?” He asked.
“Off the record.” The Supreme Commander assured him, and Devop began to speak.
“I suppose he is not the worst out there. He does not have the love of duty and attachment to his ship that others seem to, nor does he have the support of his crew that many do. I have heard that he is very good in battle, and he must be to command such an awesome vessel, but were it not for those under him I do not think that he would seem nearly as efficient and clean-cut as he does.” The Supreme Commander nodded again, agreeing with everything the Major said.
“You are, again, correct, Major. The Admiral is getting old, and he does not have the charisma he once did. Once this Operation draws to a close, he will be retiring from his post. I have not yet chosen a replacement.” Devop nodded slowly.
“How does this effect me?”
“Well, I have also decided that you shall be promoted to the rank of General. The Korolev will be under your complete control, except in times of battle. You will have the last word in what goes where and how things are done. Crew, supplies, equipment, all this will be your responsibility.”
“An expansions on my current duties.” Devop said, matter-o-factly.
“In essence, yes. You will be the Executive Officer aboard the Korolev, with a hefty raise to help you along.” Devop smiled broadly.
“Thank you, sir.” Isstal shook his head.
“No, Major, you’ve earned it. If anything, I should be thanking you for doing such a good job with this ship.”

“The last of the fleet is reporting full combat readiness. We’re set to go, sir.” Supreme Commander Isstal acknowledged the Major’s report and turned to the helmsman.
“Give me full sublight until we clear the system, all ships to do likewise. Set course for Sluis Van and make the jump as soon as the fleet has cleared the planetary gravity well.”
“As ordered, sir.”
“So it begins, Major.” Isstal said, looking towards Major Devop.
“So it begins, sir.” The Major agreed.

The fleet emerged from hyperspace a short distance from the planet itself, out of range of any but a very focused sensor sweep.
“All ships are present and accounted for, sir.” The Supreme Commander nodded.
“Arm all weapons. Shields to maximum power.” Slowly, with a grim determination on his face, he stepped up to the main weapons console. Major Devop moved to stand beside him.
“Arming the Primary Weapon.” The Major said, moving several switches to ‘Active’ position. The weapons officer turned the switch that would allow the weapon to accept its control codes, and the word ‘WAR’ came up on the console.
“Arm the Primary Weapon.” Isstal ordered.
“Authorization code?” The officer prompted.
“Authorization Code: Isstal-Zero-Zero-Nine-Naboo-Six-Two-Eight-Endor.”
“Authroization Confirmation: Devop-Zero-One-Two-Coruscant-Six-Three-Five-Alderaan.”
“Authorization codes accepted. Arming the Primary Weapon.”
“Commence Primary Ignition.” The officer complied, and the massive weapon began channelling power.
“Main weapon armed and charging.”
“Unlock safeties and prepare for firing.” Devop ordered.
“Weapon is free to fire on command. Superlaser is at the Supreme Commander’s disposal.” Dxun Isstal frowned.
“This is it then. Let’s do this thing.” The fleet vanished into hyperspace once more, coming ever closer to the world of Sluis Van. And Major Devop realized that the excitement over arming the ship’s superlaser was gone, replaced with a cold feeling og impending death that that weapon would bring.
“War’s never pretty. But we’re doing this for the galaxy. Just remember that.”

The first two ships to emerge from hyperspace, well away from any Abolisher cruisers or similar weapons that the Rogue Empire may have decided to include in their defences of Skuis Van, were Immoblizer 418 Heavy Cruisers. They immediately power up their gravity wells, and act which caused the following Galactic Defence Initiative warships to be dragged from hyperspace. It was a dangerous business, using an Interdictor to pull ships from hyperspace, but it was something that the GDI had been known for since its early days.

With the fleet arrayed for battle, they set up over the planet to await the inevitable Rogue Imperial response.</font>

<font size=1 color=silver>OOC: Fleet Manifest (Sluis Van System)

Center Wedge (Commander Group)

Eclipse-class Super Star Destroyer Korolev (flagship)
Vengeance-class Super Cruiser Majestic
Vengeance-class Super Cruiser Divine Secret
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Stand
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Hope
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Power
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Strength
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Courage
Defender-class Star Destroyer Rebel Dream
Torpedo Sphere Barricade
Torpedo Sphere Impenetrable
Immobilizer 418 'Interdictor' Heavy Cruiser Constrictor
Immobilizer 418 'Interdictor' Heavy Cruiser Sin's Delight
Basilisk Cruiser Lone Shark
Basilisk Cruiser Central
Basilisk Cruiser Hinthra
Basilisk Cruiser Dominion
Basilisk Cruiser Death's Head
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Morning Star
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Sunset
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Starry Wisdom
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Hell Fire
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Catapult
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Happy Days
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Starry Ice
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Ironic Twist
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Messenger*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Stormfront*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Shield*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Endor*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Shooting Star*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Gemstone*

Left Flank

Viscount/Strident-class Star Defender Restoration
Allegiance-class Star Destroyer Black Rose
Allegiance-class Star Destroyer Black Night
Defender-class Star Destroyer Chiron's Fox
Defender-class Star Destroyer Chiron's Snake
Defender-class Star Destroyer Chiron's Wolf
Defender-class Star Destroyer Chiron's Hawk
Defender-class Star Destroyer Elusive
Defender-class Star Destroyer Dark Moon
Torpedo Sphere Legacy
Torpedo Sphere Heavy Hammer
Neutralizer 418 'Abolisher' Heavy Cruiser Silent Knife
Neutralizer 418 'Abolisher' Heavy Cruiser November Mist
Basilisk Cruiser Repulse
Basilisk Cruiser Titan
Basilisk Cruiser Intimidator
Basilisk Cruiser Render
Basilisk Cruiser Reaper
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Twilight
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Morning Mist
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Razor's Bite
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Soul's Desire
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser Steel Hand
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Senator*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Pride*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Glory*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Warrior*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Ranger*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser Strider*

Right Flank

Viscount/Strident-class Star Defender Timeless
Allegiance-class Star Destroyer Inferno
Allegiance-class Star Destroyer Blaze of Glory
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Defender-class Star Destroyer
Torpedo Sphere
Torpedo Sphere
Neutralizer 418 'Abolisher' Heavy Cruiser
Neutralizer 418 'Abolisher' Heavy Cruiser
Basilisk Cruiser
Basilisk Cruiser
Basilisk Cruiser
Basilisk Cruiser
Basilisk Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Aegis II-class Star Cruiser
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*
Carrack-class Light Cruiser*

Rear Wedge

Disruptor-class Star Destroyer Sentinel
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Razor's Kiss
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Razor's Edge
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Mauler
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Gilded Claw
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Tedevium
Nemisis-class Star Destroyer Chinook Post
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Strident
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Razorblade
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Silverwing
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Arda
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Vigilance
Imperator Mark III Star Destroyer Freedom's Hope
Victory II Star Destroyer Intimidator
Victory II Star Destroyer Reliant
Victory II Star Destroyer Vigor
Victory II Star Destroyer Vigilent
Victory II Star Destroyer Warrent
Victory II Star Destroyer Warden
Victory II Star Destroyer Mandate
Victory II Star Destroyer Sanction
Victory II Star Destroyer Predator
Victory II Star Destroyer Night Stalker
Torpedo Sphere
Torpedo Sphere
Torpedo Sphere
Torpedo Sphere
Home One Cruiser Slight of Hand
Home One Cruiser Intepid
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate
Liberator Missile Frigate

*Laser Cannons instead of ion cannons

<font color=green>Taanab - Orbit

The report reached the Galactic Defence Initiative’s task force at Taanab within minutes of its being transmitted, rushing across the holonet at considerable cost to the GDI to alert all personal that Operation Hammerblow was now under way.

That news brought with it a slight concern. Admiral Hiram Drayson had received no word yet of a victory at Charubah, though (he supposed) something must have happened there that meant that the second phase of their plan could be put into action. It was, of course, good news. The fall of the Rogue Empire at Charubah meant that those peoples would be liberated from their cruel rule, and the attack on Sluis Van would quickly give the Galactic Defence Initiative control over that world’s resources, as well as to liberate them from the rule of the Rogue Empire, something they so obviously craved.

Even if the attack were to fail, and Hiram Drayson was quite sure that it would not, the Rogue Empire would suffer terribly at the destruction of one of their major trade depots. The GDI Admiral smiled. This entire operation, the liberation of Taanab and Charubah, the attacks on Sluis Van and the other worlds that Phases Three and Four would cover, would quickly give the Galactic Defence Initiative and the New Order a hand over the evil Rogue Empire. Emperor Fearsons had not been heard from in some time, of course, and was presumed (or hoped to be) dead. But that did not mean that the Rogue Empire was any less of a threat. The evil that the group represented could not be undone by the death of their leader, and that was why the attacks on Sluis Van and Taanab and Charubah were necessary. To help some people get away from that evil, and to make the galaxy a better place. Fearsons may have been dead, but the Rogue Empire still stood tall.

“Admiral, sir. We’re getting another priority alert from the fleet.” Hiram Drayson turned and looked at the officer quizzically. They should not have received another report so quickly, unless something had gone drastically wrong at Sluis Van.

“Patch it through,” he ordered. He was a little more than surprised to find that it was a real-time hologram of Supreme Commander Dxun Isstal, who at this moment would be on the bridge of the Super Star Destroyer Korolev, overseeing the deployment of the Sluis Van attack fleet.

“Supreme Commander! This is an unexpected pleasure. I did not expect-”
“Please, Admiral. I have contacted you, at considerable expense I might add, in order to ask you what exactly is keeping you so occupied at Taanab.”
“Sir, we are restless to say the least. We have seen nothing out of the ordinary here, well, nothing more so than what I’ve already told you. It is all very confusing. My men on the surface have likewise found nothing. It appears that the Rogue Empire abandoned this place shortly before we arrived. But without more time to examine what is here, I cannot say.” Dxun Isstal nodded.
“Of course. Just remember that we need you back before we can begin Phase Three.” Drayson nodded.
“Yes, sir. I will return to Ord Mantell as soon as possible.”
“I would expect no less, Admiral.” The hologram winked out, leaving a very confused Hiram Drayson standing on the bridge.

“Admiral, may I ask a question?” Hiram Drayson was now seated in the ready room of his Star Destroyer, Colonel Ross standing nearby with a mug of stim-tea held in both hands.
“Be my guest, Colonel, but I can’t guarantee a response.” The Colonel nodded and set his mug down on the table.
“What exactly is Operation Hammerblow?” The question surprised Drayson, because Colonel Ross was one of the Supreme Commander’s most trusted aides and confidents.
“I mean, I know the details on where and when. What’s going to happen. But the Supreme Commander never told me what Operation Hammerblow is supposed to accomplish.” Hiram Drayson smiled slightly and nodded.
“Operation Hammerblow, it’s named after an Operation that he was given during his time in the Imperial military, by the way, the very same one in which he defected with his entire ship’s crew and the Invincible, is as you know the final push of the Galactic Defence Initiative’s war with the Rogue Empire. Emperor Fearsons has, in the past, slaughtered hundreds of thousands, millions even, of innocent people. The GDI has dedicated itself to stopping them, and declared war with the Rogue Empire.” He paused. The Colonel probably knew most or all of this, but there was no loss in repeating it.
“Go on.”
“Anyway, in the last three days we’ve made attempts to liberate both Charubah and Taanab, and as you know they’ve encountered some very odd circumstances. Supreme Commander Isstal evidently saw fit to leave the scene at Charubah and commence Phase Two, which is the liberation of Sluis Van from the Rogue Empire.”
“This is where it gets good, no?” Drayson nodded.
“It does. Sluis Van is located very close to our base on Eraidu, and is one of Emperor Fearsons’s major trade depots and is am extremely important tactical location. The loss of this location as a trade depot would be like a cut to the Rogue Empire. Its loss as a military base would be like loosing a hand. Without Sluis Van, the Rogue Empire will have a harder time moving forces, and will be hard pressed to resupply warships. It will eliminate one of their best-fortified supply locations and cut supply lines to the outer rim. And of course, under Galactic Defence Initiative control it will aide us in trade with the outer rim and serve as a very efficient military location.”
Colonel Ross nodded.
“So we gain a military base, we liberate the people of Sluis Van, and we hurt the Rogue Empire while doing it.” Drayson nodded again.
“That’s pretty much the gist of it. It’s for those three reasons that Sluis Van was selected for phase two of Operation Hamemrblow. Not to mention the scenery.” Both men laughed, and Colonel Ross sipped his stim-tea thoughtfully.
“So, with Sluis Van under the control of the Galactic Defence Initiative, Phase Three will put us somewhere on the other side of the galaxy. Wayland maybe, or Myrkr? Both would make good sites for forward bases, I think.” Admiral Drayson shrugged, a sly smile on his face.
“You never know, Colonel. It depends on what happens at Sluis Van, I think.”

<font color=red>Sluis Van – Orbit

“So this is it, then.” Major Devop observed, looking out to the distant Rogue Imperial fleet. The fleet that was steadily drawing nearer to the Galactic Defence Initiative warships. Supreme Commander Dxun Isstal glanced in the Major’s direction, a smile playing across his futures.
“This is it, Major. Soon we’ll find out if the Rogue Imperial navy is as good as they claim.”
“After the reports from Charubah and Taanab, I very much doubt it sir. Not to mention that blunder at Geonosis. Twenty-two warships destroyed, in the blink of an eye…”
“You forget that Charubah and Taanab are both out of the way worlds with no real importance to the Rogue Empire, Major. They were simply subjugating them for profit and fun. Sluis Van, on the other hand, is a major trade depot and is very important to the Rogue Empire’s efforts in the Outer Rim.”
“Which is why we’re attacking it.” The Supreme Commander was silent for a moment, and then nodded.
“Yes, that is one reason. We’re also here to liberate the people of Sluis Van. That is an important task, too.”
“Of course, sir. I’ve been helping the Galactic Defence Initiative do it for twelve years.” The Supreme Commander smiled at that.
“And the Galactic Defence Initiative thanks you for it, Major. But today is the most dangerous of our liberation campaigns, and it has the best potential for payoff.”
“So we are striking here because of its importance as a military base.” Isstal laughed.
“I was thinking along the lines of hurting the Rogue Empire terribly with this assault, but yes. Under our control it will improve our relations with the outer rim and serve to cut off Emperor Fearsons’ trade with his other planets. You are a smart man, Major.” Devop smiled and nodded.
“Top of my class, sir.”

“Sensors, what kind of threat are we facing?” The sensor officer, that same young woman that had distracted the Admiral earlier in the day, turned to the Supreme Commander.
“We’re detecting eleven Capital-class warships, a Disruptor-class Star Destroyer that looks like the Heart Broken, a pair of Imperator Mark IIs, one has been positively identified as Eternal Fire, the other might be the Behemoth, a Victory-class, probably the Raging Contempt, five CR90 Corellian Corvettes, and a pair of Nebulon C frigates. They haven’t launched any fighters yet.” The Supreme Commander nodded, impressed with the speed that the officer had identified the vessels with. Obviously very skilled at what she did, which was why she had been assigned to the Korolev.
“All right. Launch half our fighters in a general screening formation. Move the Carracks forward in case they decide to throw their fighters at us first and prepare for combat. Sensors, make sure that they don’t try and sneak anything in behind us. Arm the Abolishers and send a general warning to any ships in range that we’re here. Once that’s done, jam their communications and make sure they can’t get a signal out.” He paused for a moment, considering that. “Have they sent a signal yet?” A minute past before the reply came back negative.
“Excellent. Jam their communications and prepare for combat.” A smile crept onto the Supreme Commander’s lips.
“This is it, people.”

<font color=green>Taanab – Orbit

“So it’s started then, for real?” Hiram Drayson nodded. Thanks to the miracle of modern technology, technology that was actually hundreds of thousands, even millions, of years old, they could observe the goings on of the Galactic Defence Initiative over Sluis Van.
“Has it made the news yet?” The GDI Admiral took his eyes off the screen for a moment to stare at the man, who shrugged. “I was wondering if anyone had picked up on it and broadcast one of those ‘Special Bulletin’ announcements about the assault on Suis Van yet.” Drayson just laughed.
“Not yet, but I’m sure we’ll be seeing one shortly. This is the galaxy, after all, and the media does tend to have a way of finding things out fast. Even if they are classified, confidential, and hidden under a layer of red tape so thick that a Jedi lightsaber couldn’t cut through it.”
“It’s a skill they have, Admiral. They’ve always been good at finding out things. You know, I once considered proposing to the Supreme Commander a plan to use media personnel as spies.”
“What happened to that?”
“Well, he said that if he were an enemy commander, the moment someone from the media entered his building he’d have them shot. He was joking, of course, but then I realized that someone else in his position, someone like Emperor Fearsons, probably would have them shot. It didn’t seem such a good idea then.”
“Oh, I don’t know. I mean, a few reporters isn’t all that much of a loss, is it?” Both men laughed, thinking of a reporter attempting to spy on the Rogue Empire. It would, they thought, make quite a site.
“You know, I don’t think it’s a half bad idea, really. If they could be trained up, it’s the perfect cover!” Drayson nodded.
“Why not just train our own spies to act like reporters.” Colonel Ross considered the idea for a moment, then shook his head.
“No, it’s to hard to train someone to be a lying, unethical, unmoral scumbag. It’s really just something you have or you don’t.”

Sure enough, a report did hit the spacewaves. It came from a small news agency known as SVNC, Sluis Van News Central, and according to them it had been smuggled out by a freighter pilot who braved the Galactic Defence Initiative warships firing on it.
“Great, just what we need. A Rogue Imperial propaganda agency.” Drayson muttered, watching as images of the battle from the freighter’s scopes showed up. “At least it looks good for us.”

The report went on to talk about how evil the Galactic Defence Initiative was, and how their attack was ‘uncalled for’ and ‘extremely hostile’. For the most part, citizens of the galaxy would never believe the lies spewed by the Rogue Empire’s servants, but they had to be congratulated for trying. The reporter signed off with ‘We’re not sure if we’ll be able to get any more information out to you, the viewers. The GDI is jamming all communications, including civilian ones, but we’ll do our best.’ The image turned to fuzz, and Colonel Ross turned the projector off.

“Yes, Colonel, I’d say it has begun.”

<font color=darkblue>(According to the 72 hour rule, this planet should belong to me. However, since OS has told me that the rule is indeed very misleading, I must continue this.

All this will be put IC, but here's what's happened and what you can't do:
1) No surprises like in the Charubah thread where you had ships hiding on the other side of the planet
2) No planetary shields may be raised
3) No ships may be brought into the system without an estimated 99% chance of their being caught by an Empion mine.

~Enjoy!)

<hr>
<font color=red>
"Sir, sensor scan reports the system is clear of additional forces. The planetary shields are powering up now." A thin smile crossed the Supreme Commander's lips.
"Locate and target the shield generators, do your best not to level them, please. Whatever we can salvage may be useful."
Several kilometres away, the Disruptor-class Star Destroyer Sentinel shuddered as it opened fire on the surface with its massive Arakyd Mark VI Cannons. On the surface below, the shield generators fizzled and spewed sparks before dying completely.

Dxun Isstal smiled grimly as the report came in, then turned to look at the enemy fleet.

"Let's give them something to think about. Fire control, you are authorized to fire at will. Target the Disruptor-class Star Destroyer Heart Broken."

It took only a second for the lock to be achieved, then the massive weapon let loose in all its fury. Like a green behemoth, the superlaser beam smashed into the bow of the enemy warship. Nothing could stand against the power of the superlaser, however, the the beam penetrated the shields. It did not destroy the enemy vessel, however, as it could have. Instead the beam skipped along the underside of the ship, carving out a jagged line where the hanger bays had once been. Secondary explosions wracked the hull as fuel cells blew apart, and the ship fell silent.

Dxun Isstal looked at the crippled vessel with disdain, and turned away.

"Recharge the superlaser. Major Devop, what is the status on the Empion mines?"

"75%, sir. The system is almost fully cut off." Dxun Isstal nodded, once.

"Send a general alert to all vessels, then initiate Code Two communications blackout. I don't want any messages, save our own, getting in our out of this system! Deploy the fleet. Give me cover on those enemy ships and open a channel to them. Give me one group to blockade the planet and intercept any vessels attempting entry or exit from the system."

Within moments the fleet was arrayed to cut the system off, and the enemy ships were surrounded. Dxun Isstal then took the comlink offered and spoke into it:

"To the commander of the Jutraalian fleet, this is Supreme Commander Dxun Isstal of the Galactic Defence Initiative. You are cut off and surrounded. Surrendur immediatly and unconditionally or you leave us no choice but to destroy you."

As if in warning, the warships brought their deadly missile launchers and turbolasers to bare. The Supreme Commander smiled again and turned to the gound commander.

"General, our capital ships are moving into position to secure the planet. I want you to land your troops as soon as possible. For the time being, however, I want you to dispatch three of your shuttles and an early landing team to secure a position. Have them relay coordinates of ground-based weaponry to the Sentinel."

The General saluted smartly and left the bridge, eager to prepare the land invasion of Sluis Van.

"It goes, well, no?" Dxun turned at the sound of Major Devop, who had come to stand beside him after overseeing the final deployment of the Empion mines throghout the system.

"Indeed it does, Major. The enemy fleet cannot stand against us, and the Rogue Empire has no way to know we are here. And even if they could respond, the mines are sure to stop them before they can even get near the planet."

The Major smiled and nodded.

"A good day, sir."

<hr>
For reference, the Code Two communications blockade is a quasi-blackout. All information going in or out is intercepted and referenced. If it is encypted and cannot be cracked it is held back. This means that you can communicate with the planet, but have no way of knowing that they are under attack. You also don't know what a Code Two Communications Blackout is.

Jutraalian Empire Losses So Far

<li> Planetary shield generators inactive
<li> DSSD Heart Broken crippled and unable to fight
<li> Sluis Van system fully cut off

Galactic Defence Initiative Losses So Far

((Wow Istall way to be a jackass...again. When you did you suddenly gain the powers to decide WHERE my ships are and when?))

Since he started rocking the mic like a vandal.

Those were the ships that you assigned to Sluis Van as found in your fleet manifest forum. If you haven't updated it, that's not my problem.

(Until you see MY manifest there, that *I* post Dxun, don't you dare start playing guessing games with my ships)

I can now honestly say that you are the stupidist person I have ever met.

<a href="http://pub135.ezboard.com/ftherogueempirefrm12.showMessage?topicID=47.topic">CLICK HERE< FUCKFACE</a>

As you can see, idiot boy, this was posted by one ChaddFearsons and is titled Sluis Van Defence Fleet.

@#%$ idiot...