2008-01-21 - The Bespin Raid

==In Orbit above Cloud City==
1/22/2008
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Everyone switch to channel E"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A high-pitched male voice says, "Acknowledged. Preparing to scramble, sir."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> Navy Alpha and its wingmates exit MCS Merseval.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Spider, standing by."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> Tari and its wingmates exit MCS Merseval.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> The Vigilant comes out of hyperspace.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> The Vigilant enters hyperspace bound for Outskirts of the Merr Sonn System.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "As soon as Zilana is ready, we're ready. All right, squadrons, I want you to reconnoiter one in, and verify no ships in high orbit."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MSDF Beta One, A rough male voice says, "Roger. Orca Squadron advancing."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> MSDF Beta One and its wingmates leave the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: Tari comes pouring out of the MCS Merseval with five wingmates following closely behind. The vessels engage their stabalizers and move into formation next to the cruiser.
The Marshall glances back towards Aure here, his arms crossed lightly over his chest, as the fleet deploys around them. "Now, that is a beautiful sight. I love it when a plan comes together." His gaze wanders out towards the rest of the CCA Crew. "Today there will be no mistakes. I expect a flawless performance. We're a long way from home, far beyond the Republic. We screw up, and it is an aweful long and cold walk back."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Navy Alpha, A high-pitched male voice says, "Sparrow Squadron rogers, sir."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> Navy Alpha and its wingmates leave the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: Stormcrow continues to drift casually in space, however the vessel does pick up a bit of its momentum as engines flare, turning it around to fly in formation with the rest of the fleet.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: MCS Rachnois waits poised on the outskirts of the system
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Squadrons, report. Status in high orbit?"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MSDF Beta One, A rough male voice says, "Scans are clear."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> A harsh female voice says, "*static* Is this working?"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Navy Alpha, A high-pitched male voice says, "Sparrow Squadron confirms the same."
She meets his gaze, her hair pulled back tightly at the nape of her neck. "Yes, Marshall. And you shall pave the way. There are many here this day." Aure's gaze brightens, watching as the ship's amass.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: CCA Watcher remains nestled close underneath the Rachnois, even if the cruiser herself is a fairly powerful ship. They are bossom buddies.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: MCS Rachnois still continues in position, occasionally flaring a thruster to maintain position.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Aqua, move to high orbit and block outward. You will maintain this position till we can relieve you. Spider, over."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> Menglor says, "This is Watcher Actual? Clearance to proceede?"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "This is Aqua, confirmed."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> A harsh female voice says, "I just got communications online here. We aren't appraised of this code."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> MCS Merseval leaves the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE -</FONT> Outskirts of the Norad System: SFS Shadow of Light sprints and drifts ahead of the fleet.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Watcher, wait till we have secured high orbit and confirmed no ships to fight. All ships, to high orbit."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> MCS Rachnois leaves the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> Stormcrow leaves the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> SFS Shadow of Light leaves the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> Tari and its wingmates leave the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> CCA Watcher proceeds to Orbit of Bespin.
+------------------------------------------------------------[ <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> READOUT ]
| Location: Orbit of Bespin(#2873Rnt) |
| Not much to see around here but stars. |
| Ships: CCA Watcher(#2702TOn) [CRK] |
| Tari Squadron(#4774TOn) [Y/W] [5 wingmates] |
| SFS Shadow of Light(#3790TOn) [V19] |
| Stormcrow(#3928TOn) [TYP] |
| MCS Rachnois(#4264TOn) [MC80] |
| MCS Merseval(#5937TOn) [MC60] |
| Navy Alpha Squadron(#5251TOn) [Y/W] [5 wingmates] |
| MSDF Beta One Squadron(#3992TOn) [V19] [4 wingmates] |
| Courses (+fly): Landing Corridors (+land): |
| [Northern Regions] into Above the Ga |
| [Southern Regions] into Above Cloud |
| [Outward] into Outskirts of the Nora |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------------+
The Jedi recieves a reserved smile here from the Marshall, but his face at this hour is disciplined and hard. He turns about back to look out of the bridges windows -- watching as the fleet continues it's drive forward. No missions of mercy today. Just war.
	Her hands fold behind her and then she eases again as his gaze leaves her. A hand settles on her hip, her right side still tender. The infection had still not left her entirely and it caused her a bit of discomfort.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Sparroproceed inward and check skies above Bespin. Report if any ships in system or on ground."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Sparrow and Aqua that is. Sparrow northern, Aqua southern"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Navy Alpha, A high-pitched male voice says, "Sparrow acknowledges. Going inward."
The armored Avun Cass stands opposite the two leaders, staring out the viewport window. His weapon is gripped tight in both hands as he looks down on the landscape with a cold calculating gaze. A messenger of war, and his message in hand.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> Navy Alpha and its wingmates leave the area, proceeding to Above the Gas Storms.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Orbit of Bespin: MCS Merseval MCS Merseval continues to sit in high orbit over Bespin blocking off the planet from escape.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Orbit of Bespin: MCS Rachnois :sits in high orbit, still checking its scans
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> MSDF Beta One and its wingmates leave the area, proceeding to Above Cloud City.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Sparrow, Aqua report. Spider, over."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Navy Alpha, A high-pitched male voice says, "Sparrow reports. There is one ship on the ground. It is the one we are not supposed to kill, sir. There is also a battered ship in the air above."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "MSDF, check above cloud city. Any sign of ships?"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "This is Aqua nothing to report."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "Over."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "All right. Action time. Watcher, Spider, Scorpion, MSDF and Sparrow will bombard government landing pad then return to high orbit. Aqua h old position."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> MCS Rachnois leaves the area, proceeding to Above Cloud City.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> Stormcrow leaves the area, proceeding to Above Cloud City.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "This is Aqua, holding position. Over."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "all ships except Merseval to Above Cloud City"
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> CCA Watcher proceeds to Above Cloud City.
+------------------------------------------------------------[ <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> READOUT ]
| Location: Above Cloud City(#2876Rnt) |
| Floating above the very jaws of hell and thus blessed with some of the |
| known universe's more unnerving balcony views, Cloud City is a majestic |
| cluster of towers and pointed spires balanced seemingly precariously on |
| the surface of a giant hovering disk. Half in orbit and half suspended by |
| electromagnetic repulsor engines of unparalleled size, this trade |
| stop-over is home to some of the most notorious free-spirits, |
| mercenaries, bounty-hunters, and pirates that the Galaxy could muster. |
| |
| Bright lights flash and show the way to several landing zones, the great |
| rectangular depression of the Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port being most prominent among |
| them. |
| Ships: CCA Watcher(#2702TOn) [CRK] |
| MSDF Beta One Squadron(#3992TOn) [V19] [4 wingmates] |
| Navy Alpha Squadron(#5251TOn) [Y/W] [5 wingmates] |
| Stormcrow(#3928TOn) [TYP] |
| MCS Rachnois(#4264TOn) [MC80] |
| Kristol(#4645TOn) [GR75] [battered] |
| Courses (+fly): Landing Corridors (+land): |
| [North] into Above the Gas Storms [CEO's Landing] |
| [Down] into Alongside Cloud City [Private Penthouse] |
| [Up] into Orbit of Bespin [Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port] |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------------+
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> SFS Shadow of Light enters the area.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> Tari and its wingmates enter the area.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "By turns, each ship bombard CEO's landing. Squadrons, use torpedoes if you're y-wings, lasers if not."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> A deep, old male voice says, "This is Red Five, pick up your visual scanning! I'm going to cut along the long axis and try and draw some fire!"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "This is Aqua, request status report."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Spider. Preparing for Bombardment"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Navy Alpha, A high-pitched male voice says, "This is Sparrow, preparing for bombardment."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> A harsh female voice says, "Scorpion here, Aqua. Everything is clear -- we're preparing to create some seismic activity."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> Menglor says, "Watcher here, in position. We've got three fish loaded in the tubes. It's all we got."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MSDF Beta One, A rough male voice says, "Orca in position with barrels hot."
* Missing Bridge RP as I take the Hornet out *
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From CCA Watcher, A calm, deep male voice says, "Watcher here. Launching Hornet 1."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Merseval, A gentle male voice says, "Confirmed. Aqua here, ready to catch anything that comes our way."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> RGAF AX14 Hornet 1 exits CCA Watcher.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From Coruscant: Dispatch, A smooth female voice says, "Republic Base online."
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Above Cloud City: RGAF AX14 Hornet 1 flares to life in the belly of the Watcher before moving smoothly into <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> to pull up into position.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Above Cloud City: MCS Rachnois Bombardment away. All units hit the administrative dome
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Above Cloud City: CCA Watcher The Watcher herself takes aim at the landing Pad, and then lets loose.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Hit pCeo's private landing pad"
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> Briseis says, "Hornet one free and moving into position to bombard." 
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> Stormcrow skips its combat action. It is now Navy Alpha's turn to act.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> Navy Alpha skips its combat action. It is now MSDF Beta One's turn to act.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Above Cloud City: Stormcrow floats in high orbit while the bombardment takes place.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> - Above Cloud City: Navy Alpha lets them torpedoes fly. With insufficient effect, perhaps.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "MSDF, check if shields are down"
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> CCA Watcher enters the area.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Watcher, if shields are down, proceed with operation. All other ships will then return to high orbit."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From CCA Watcher, A calm, deep male voice says, "Hornet 1, return to the Barn."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From CCA Watcher, A calm, deep male voice says, "Hornet 1, return to the Watcher. Looks like we've got work to do on the ground."
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> Briseis says, "Acknowledge, Watcher. Hornet 1 returning home." 
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> MSDF Beta One and its wingmates enter the area.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Shields down. All units, return to high orbit except those involved in ground operations"
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> MCS Rachnois leaves the area, proceeding to Orbit of Bespin.
<FONT COLOR=#FF0000><FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>:</FONT> RGAF AX14 Hornet 1 enters CCA Watcher's docking bay.
<FONT COLOR=#FBB917>COMSYS:</FONT> From MCS Rachnois, A male voice says, "Merseval, switch blockade to sothern regions."
CCA Watcher: Bridge
+------------------------------------------------------------[ <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> READOUT ]
| Location: Above Cloud City |
| Floating above the very jaws of hell and thus blessed with some of the |
| known universe's more unnerving balcony views, Cloud City is a majestic |
| cluster of towers and pointed spires balanced seemingly precariously on |
| the surface of a giant hovering disk. Half in orbit and half suspended by |
| electromagnetic repulsor engines of unparalleled size, this trade |
| stop-over is home to some of the most notorious free-spirits, |
| mercenaries, bounty-hunters, and pirates that the Galaxy could muster. |
| |
| Bright lights flash and show the way to several landing zones, the great |
| rectangular depression of the Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port being most prominent among |
| them. |
| Ships: CCA Watcher [CRK] |
| Tari Squadron [Y/W] [5 wingmates] |
| SFS Shadow of Light [V19] |
| Navy Alpha Squadron [Y/W] [5 wingmates] |
| Stormcrow [TYP] |
| Kristol [GR75] [battered] |
| Courses (+fly): Landing Corridors (+land): |
| [North] into Above the Gas Storms [CEO's Landing] |
| [Down] into Alongside Cloud City [Private Penthouse] |
| [Up] into Orbit of Bespin [Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port] |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------------+
==Into Cloud City==
Cloud City: Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port
Broad, circular duracrete landing pads extend from the southern lip of Cloud City's summit. From here, the southern sky is completely clear, giving the startling and dizzying impression that you are on the edge of the world... for beyond the landing circles to the south, there is nothing but the swirling, glittering, sometimes red, sometimes white clouds of Tibana Gas that make up Bespin.
These landing circles are linked to one another, and to the greater bulk of Cloud City, by a series of slim bridges. There is a loading and unloading area to the north of the landing pads, and this is linked to the rest of the city via a broad bridge to the north. Indeed, Cloud City towers over the <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port, opening in a wide ring of towers and domes to the north, all red durasteel and grey duracrete.
A pair of ramps also branch out from the loading area-- one, to the west, ascends a single level to a short, dimly lit, domed tower. The other, to the east, ascends a single level to a cylindrical tower with windows left open to the air. The sharp point of a crow's nest stands several levels above the pinnacle of this tower.
Further north, beyond the public circle, a boxy tower, a tall spire, and a massive dome dominate Cloud City's skyline.
	Emerging ahead of the troops from the Watcher, Aure has her saber in hand as she switches it in her hands, it flares to life. A hiss of burnt oxygen and crackle as the blue color shines across her face. She pauses, slowing her steps as her loose ponytail bobs down her back. Her gaze narrows, looking about as the men file up and prepare. The Jedi moves forth slowly, step by step, footfalls carrying her a few feet before them. Tilting her head, she pauses, her saber lowering as she closes her eyes.
The CCA Watcher lands on Bespin, settling down onto the Public <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>ports Landing pad with little fanfare. There is no gunfire. No great <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>battle. Just it quietly coming down onto the <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port. Then Hell breaks loose. It's ramp lowers, and a thousand soldiers pour off of the ship -- following the Jedi down onto the platform. From there they don't pause, but sweep forward towards the city and their objectives.
The moment the Guard set foot upon the <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port... there is an almighty din and racket. Sirens blare out across the landing yard, and a great booming voice echoes against the plascrete.
"Intruder Alert! Intruder Alert! All hands to mustering stations. All hands to mustering stations!"
	Shortly after the Watcher lands and the dispersement of troops commence, the small Typhoon-Fighter Stormcrow arrives and settles upon the landing Port nearby. It is only several moments then the canopy of the snubfighter opens and a lone figure emerges, descending upon the ladder in a smooth motion, sliding down it to land upon the ground with a crouch. Rising up, the figure that does not even reach five feet in height begins to move.
	Jana walks amongst the troops towards the front lines with hands tucked behind her back. Her brown robes about her body with the hood of them pulled up over her features as the little creature moves to join others. While Troops run and charge, Jana continues to move at a very steady pace without seeming rushed but in fact is attempting to keep up.
Avun descends the ramp in close file with the rest of the republic guard, easily picked out of the crowd with his non standard equipment. His eyes are a constant sweep over horizons and backgrounds, while his step has a cautious edge to it. With no surprise, he clutches a Rifle.
Briseis is one of thousands, and easily lost in the crowd for all that. She's abandoned her flight suit for more usual combat armor on the way down, and she rushes now in position near Avun, blaster already unholstered and in hand.
	Aure does not wait long, falling in with the troops again and even picking up her pace to sweep forward, saber held pointed down. Her eyes sweep, a constant motion, an instinct needed. She climbs to the front once more, helping to guide them. Bespin was riddled with memories and she knew her way, even into the sublevels if it was required. As the alarm is raised, she grips her saber tighter.
	"Together again." Jana speaks as she passes near where Avun is walking, her voice small but steady against the sound of the soldiers. "I would almost begin to think you have taken an affinity for me."
There are few about to witness the landing of the guards, even less as the sirens go off, but one curious Gamorrean just cant seem to help himself. He appears to the north, at the other end of the bridge to the Public Circle, and his eyes widen in surprise.
The pig-faced sentient does not waste time as he runs away and out of view.
Many of the troops spread out towards various parts of the city, moving to secure any strong points, and prevent any sort of ambushes. The Bloody 4th herself continues on towards the main objective of this raid -- the Tibana Gas that can be found in the lower levels. So, some 300 or so men head forward after the Gamorrean. The rest off to other duties. It is beauty in motion, with each unit heading towards it's assigned area.
Cloud City: Public Circle
Here is the center of Cloud City, ringed about on all sides save for the narrow span of a bridge to the south in towers and domes and spires of weathered red durasteel. The circle itself is tidy and well-trafficked, a flat, open <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT> of grey duracrete surmounted in the center with a tall statue of a Bith businessman in some dark stone.
Numerous towers ring this open circle, but the largest of these are accessible from three broad bridges, spanning dizzying drops into the massive red durasteel repulsor-generators that keep the City aloft. To the north, the sharp, fin-shaped Residential Spire is speckled with thousands of lighted windows. To the west, the boxy Market Tower is fitted with flashing neon lights to attract shoppers from off-world. And to the east, the massive Administrative Dome looms over the City from well-lit balconies. A ring of bridges on the second level connect all of these towers, and interweave to the towers and plazas throughout the City.
To the south, a large bridge runs in a gentle downward slope to the <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port, and the Watch Tower of Cloud City security find access to the Circle via a wide bridge to the Southeast. Above, the glittering clouds of Tibana gas provide a breathtaking show, day and night.
Avun submits to a wry smile at that, glancing over to the padawan. "Miss Dawnrunner. Good to see there's atleast one other real warrior in this ragtag." He notes to her, a veiled compliment before scoping ahead with his medium range rifle. "Besides the fourth."
A veiled compliment is a not-so-veiled insult as well, and Briseis glances sharply toward Avun as she brushes past and forward. Lips thin, and then her attention returns to where it belongs - the road ahead.
Again, desertion claims the streets as the sirens blare on, though keen eyes might spot the shadows moving across the western bridge; set against the glow of the gas in the skies.
	Moving near the front of the group of the bloody, Aure shifts, casting a look back as something passes over her eyes. The little red head is searched for. The glow of her saber keeps her apart from the others. She shakes her head, then continues forward. As the movement is caught, she shifts her movement and nods. "That way.." The Knight states, motioning with her hand.
	"Perhaps." Jana says towards Avun as she walks around, not averse to the compliment offered her. "However warriors do come in all types. I am hoping, that some may stave off seeing true conflict but for some reason, I suspect that will not be the results of such things." The girl's eyes lift up towards the front and settle on the person carrying the lightsaber, smirking a moment. "I cannot watch all sides of myself... I trust you will make sure I am not shot in the back, yes?" The words are spoken towards Avun.
The Bloody 4th charges at a jog through the deserted corridors of Bespin, their weapons ever at the ready, black garbed fiends ready to do battle with those who might defend this place. After Ord Mantell they have a reputation to uphold. These men look hard, ready, and prepared. They are the point of the spear for the Empire... Republic Guard. Forward towards the West the run, following the Knight's suggestions.
Cloud City: Market Tower - Public Bazaar
Merchants hawk their wares from one of the dozens of rented stands painted uniform white and grey. Venders sell everything from fruits and vegetables to toys and trinkets. Other booths are rented by agents who facilitate other transactions, such as the sale and rental of real estate or shipping of goods off-world. Large screens' hanging from the roof show maps and lists that direct visitors to the appropriate booth and sometimes broadcast important messages. A pair of white doors leads to a large room containing multiple repulsorlifts to take shoppers and businessmen to the specialized shops and offices housed on the upper levels of the tower.
The western wall of the tower is transparent, giving stunning views of the swirling red and gold clouds outside, especially at sunset. A favorite pastime of local children is lining up near this window to watch ships as they approach the <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>port.
SALES: Vaal Hirah buys Black Silk Skirt from York the Chadra-Fan for 372 credits. Assistants prepare Vaal Hirah's purchase for transport.
Here in the Market Tower, commerce has stopped for the day; the sirens and alert messages less booming as out on the streets but there to be heard all the same. A small group of Rodians cower in one corner, watching the doorway fearfully, while the illuminated dial of the repulsorlift suggests it was used but a few moments ago.
And, on the floor in front of it, a black silk skirt lies rumpled -- should anyone wish to claim it.
Perhaps it's a true warrior's skirt.
	Aure moves forth, a gaze cast backwards to meet Jana's gaze. She smiles adn then turns back. The Knight slows, looking down at the cloth oddly. A brow raises and she reaches down to grasp it up, turning it in her hand.
Aure Kaia picks up a Black Silk Skirt.
Forward through the market the soldiers charge, past rows upon rows of vendors, none seek to pillage here or to steal from the people of Bespin -- at least more then they already plan to -- these troops are crack soldiers versus an undisciplined mob. Their dark forms stand out in sharp contrast to that of the burning red clounds beyond the transperent steel walls. The cowering Rodians are ignored, and the men advance forward. To the repulsorlift now! They push the button to call it, and wait -- blasters ready to immolate any hostiles that might appear. Short of a major fire fight, they will enter, and head down.
Avun tries to offer an apologetic look to Briseis, but is confronted with her cold shoulder. Whoops. He regains his train of thought as he looks once again to Jana, "Right." He agrees simply, knowing that the jedi will do the same for him. "This ghost port isn't very promising though. Unless there's an ambush." He adds hopefully.
A few women go, too. Briseis among them!
Cloud City: Market Tower - Repulsorlift
This is a simple repulsorlift. Square. Undecorated. The only remarkable thing is the music that is piped in. Loading Dock workers often poke fun at the song. It repeats endlessly. Long time workers have never heard any other song. The lyrics talk about walking on clouds, and is found on all the Repulsorlifts in the city.
Cloud City: Sublevels - Access Tunnel 04A
Branching off Circumference Road, Access Tunnel 04A grants access to Cloud City's droid repair facilities, Bespin Industrial, and Market tower. The tunnel itself is rather non-descipt. It is dimly lit with orange overhead lights. From time to time they flicker as some large piece of machinery in the refinery powers up or powers down. Also, there is a deep rumbling. Just overhead are Bespin's main power generators - or at least a subset of them.
The tunnels are awash with pusling red lights; the sure sign of a continued alarm raised. Footfalls echo against the metal tubing and a few voices can even now be heard.
"Get back -- fall back! Protect the stockpiles!"
The voices seem to come from the open gateway.
	Keeping to the front still, the voices are heard by the Knight, she lifts her comlink to communicate through the ranks with the Marshall. She slows a bit, meaning to watch for traps and possible ambushes. Aure's blue eyes dart about quickly, her saber lifted in an attempt to be ready.
Avun proceeds cautiously in the ranks upon entering the sublevels, a perfect place to get pinned down and massacred for a large number of troops. And since the Black Empire already had the advantage of home team...His rifle swerves cautiously every now and then in different directions at sounds that may seem unnatural.
"Becareful where you shoot boys," calls out a Sergeant among the soldiers. "Somethings down here may not react to well to blaster bolts." There are a few quiet laughs from the gathered mass of men and women -- mostly muffled by their visored blast helms. Here they press into two lines, one on either side of the tunnel, and advance quickly forward. "Remember Thyferra boys, do this quick and clean. No mistakes. Move you maggots! Forward!" The soldiers pace picks up, and they advance swiftly down the tunnel -- their blasters leveled upon any foes that might be in front of them. "Watch out for an ambush!"
Cold shoulder or no, Briseis is here to do a job. She moves through the formation, past Avun and the younger Jedi to draw up somewhere near Aure Kaia, blaster lifted to echo the raise of her saber. Her jaw is set with tight determination, and ready tension runs through her whole body.
	Jana simply walks along glancing as everyone raises their weapons. "If you'll excuse me." She says softly towards Avun before taking a few quick steps to reach the front sections of the troops, simply to be able to see due to the confined <FONT COLOR=#FF0000>SPACE:</FONT>s and the fact she is a midget.
Cloud City: SubLevels - West Circumference Road
Circumference Road circumambulates the circlular Cloud City and crosses over a network of tunnels leading to refineries, docking bays, and, here, Access Tunnel 04A. The narrow road about the city's sublevel is otherwise unremarkable. Just beyond the guiderail, the expanse of Bespin's boiling vapours extends endlessly.
Footfalls continue to echo from the southeastern corridor; long shadows dancing along the tunnel walls before vanishing from view. Could it be our brave heroes are nearing their quarry?
"Advance!" Growl Officer's nearly in unison. "Keep it moving forward. Don't slow down!" Sergeant's drive their men onwards, and Corporals help to keep their squads moving with an encouraging word. "Hey, this is already better then Ord Mantell." Cries one. "Here, at least we get to fight in the shade!" Returns a private, which is followed by him being cuffed by a Sergeant. "Move it soldiers. Move. Move. Move." The Bloody 4th pounds on through the tunnel, their footfalls nearly in unison.
	Skirting every closer, Aure turns to gaze at Briseis who is now nearly at her side. The Jedi nods, the blue glow casting long shadows upon the opposite side of her face. "Good to have you.." She intones softly and then turns back to look ahead. Her stance tenses, filing ahead with the Bloody 4th, she is forced at their speed. Sure and graceful footfalls drawing her forth.
"Safest place to be," Briseis jokes, although the laugh that accompanies it is a touch distractedly stiff and her attention remains firmly forward as she falls into step with Aure.
	Jana moves herself up amongst the front rows in order to make sure she is able to both see and to perhaps provide a small wall of defense for the troops behind her. Or at the least, to cover their legs from incoming fire.
==Combat Begins==
Cloud City: SubLevels - South Circumference Road
The sublevels of Cloud City don't have the polish that the upper levels do. While South Circumference Road and the other roads of the sublevel are wide enough for most forms of transport, they are little more than steel grates with reinforced guiderails to keep travellers from plummeting to their deaths.
Without, the clouds of bespin boil in blues and yellows and organges. The wind is brisk and fragrant from the refuse of the upper levels. Stairs upward lead to the Wayfarer's Guzzle and to the northwest and northeast the road continues. There is an open gateway that leads to the Gas Collection Balcony.
Here, among the dingy corridors of the lower levels, here is where the meager forces of Bespin Inc have decided to make their stand. Numbering less than eighty they stand in four groups of twenty; three of these spread out to guard a seperate exit, the last standing defiant in the center of the tunnel. Fingers tremble upon triggers, brows glisten with worry and sweat, gazes falter.
Poor buggers. They didn't ask for this.
But, the commands of Nash Dragen hold them in thrall yet it seems, and they do have one thing to give them a spark of hope for victory. Behind the front line of guards, looming and lurking in wait like some deadly monster, a tank watches the northwestern approach. The turret is ominously still, even if the engines thrum.
The 4th Infantry comes around the final corner, notes the forces set before them, and draws back out of firing range. "Skirmishers! Fix Vibro-Blades!" Bellows what must be a sergeant, which is then followed by the sound of metalic clicking, and then the dull hum of the vibrating blades. "Form up! Form up you maggots! Get in line." The sounds of shouted orders and thundering voices echoes about in the tunnels -- disconcerting for even the most battle hardened of foes. "Give them the cold steel boys! Drive it through their hearts!" Good old fashioned intimidation tactics are used here, with the rest of the 4th pounding on the nearby walls -- the terirble echo of dum dum dum filling the dark tunnels. Suddenly the Skirmishers (the Elites) charge around that final corner, giving little warning, save for a wild cry filled with rage and hatred. They no doubt will make a beautiful mess of things before the rest of the Infantry assaults.
Second Cloud City Security begin guarding Open Gateway.
Third Cloud City Security begin guarding Stairs Up.
Fourth Cloud City Security begin guarding Road Northeast.
The Bastion IIA powers up its turrets.
	The small brown robed Jana moving with the forces pauses only a half step when she rounds the corner with others to be confronted by the Bespin security detachments and their presence. "Hmm." The small one comments and reaches to her belt, pulling the cylinder there and igniting the purple lightsaber blade. "I suppose negotiations will be unproductive."
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana ignites her purple lightsaber.
	The Jedi is amongst those same men that fought on Ord Mantell. Her saber is held low as she comes about the corner, the color of her saber vivid in the dark mines. She sticks close to Briseis. "Stay with me, we work together." She nods to her, the only thing she can get off above the roar. She veers off, then, dipping her blade low as she comes in quickly. There is a moment she hesitates, Jana's movement stealing her strength. "Words..may not garner anything but its worth a try." She pauses, calling out to the first, "Stand aside, go home...you need not fight. Drop your weapons!"
	They do not listen to the Jedi and she grits her teeth, sticking to Briseis' side.
Avun had been joining in with the soldiers intimidation tactics, but breaks away once he notices the charge. He finds a nice position along the wall and stares down his Rifle scope. "Run away now and you won't die!" He shouts out harshly, his finger squeezing a few ruthless bolts off at the security teams.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun fires his Merr Sonn T21 Blaster Rifle at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security tries to dodge, but Avun's blaster bolt hits and wounds a member of them.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun tries to dodge, but First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and grievously wounds him.
"I've got your back," Briseis promises lowly, for all that she's really got something more like Aure's-- uh. Left side. Well! She straightens a bit and glances briefly at the Jedi as she calls out, and then lowers back into position, blaster raised for fire.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> You fire your BlasTech E10 Carbine at First Cloud City Security -- but you try not to hurt First Cloud City Security too badly!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Briseis's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Briseis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Briseis dodges First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt.
Humming to life, the hovertanks turrets fire to life, targeting the Republican Elite army.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> You stop trying to pull your punches.
From Bastion IIA, <FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIA's Turret Blasters at Republic Guard Elites!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIA's Turret Blasters at Republic Guard Elites!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites dodges Bastion IIA's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites fire their Force Pikes at Bastion IIA!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIA is not damaged by Republic Guard Elites's force beam.
As the Republic Guardsmen charge in, the Bespin Inc troops watch them with nervous eyes; though there is a hint of resolve to be found there. They hold their ground, if a little shakily...
And, suddenly, battle is joined. Avun's shot is but the first of many as the tension releases itself; fingers jerking back against their triggers almost involuntarily in reaction. As Briseis fires also the group in the center (the First) return fire at both her and Avun, and as the tank's own blasters let rip so too do the rest of Cloud City's defenses.
Energy crackles and fills the air as the other squads open up on Captain Menglor's chosen vanguard.
The Second Cloud City Security <20 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <45 Humans> in mass combat.
The Second Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security: 8 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 3 killed.
The Third Cloud City Security <17 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <41 Humans> in mass combat.
The Third Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Third Cloud City Security: 6 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 2 killed.
The Fourth Cloud City Security <20 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <39 Humans> in mass combat.
The Fourth Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Fourth Cloud City Security: 6 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 3 killed.
The Republic Guard Elites <35 Humans> engage the Bastion IIA <1 Vehicles> in mass combat.
The Republic Guard Elites open fire with Force Pikes ...
The Bastion IIA return fire with Turret Blasterss ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites: 1 wounded.
Bastion IIA: 1 killed. The remaining fighters disperse.
The most brave or insane of the Republic Guard, the 4th Infantry's Skirmishers hurl themselves into battle, with little regard for their own lives or safety -- perhaps looking to avenge fallen comrades. They fall upon the Bespin Secuty forces with reckless abandon. Most don't fire their weapons, a few do, but for the most part they fight the other soldiers hand to hand. The thrust the vibrating blades into their foes, or smash at their faces with the butts of their rifles. A few even dare to leap at the tank, and they pound upon it with their weapons or try to fire through any open and unprotected slips. They fight like warrior poets, and fall just as beautifully -- making a bloody mess of the ground.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites fire their Force Pikes at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Republic Guard Elites's force beam hits and damages it.
As the Fourth Infantry makes their charge, a small form moves amongst them, that being Jana. Having seen Avun shoot and then get shot in return, her destination and target is set as the Padawan moves towards the first, using the other presences to attempt to mask her charging presence. As she finishes her approach, the Padawan takes two skipping little bounces, looking like a child as her hood falls down from her robe to reveal red ponytail and tranquil green eyes. Into the midst of the First Defenders does Jana bound, purple Lightsaber that had been trailing behind her swiping up as the small one spins and dances around with the energy weapon lashing all around, like a dancer on sweet tarts.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana swings her purple lightsaber at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security tries to dodge, but Jana's purple lightsaber strikes and kills one of them.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana tries to parry with her purple lightsaber, but First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and moderately wounds her.
As if in sync with her sister, Aure moves quickly, her blue saber streaking through the air. She swings her saber back, grasping it in a slashing position as she goes, the blade arcing behind her, elbow held in close. She dips then as she rounds on the first unfortunate, turning to dig her heel in, she stops abrupting and uses the momentum to turn her slash at the human across his mid section. There is regret instantly in her eyes, but she doesn't relent.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia swings her blue lightsaber at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Aure Kaia's blue lightsaber.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Aure Kaia!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia tries to parry with her blue lightsaber, but First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and grievously wounds her.
A less than silent curse can be heard in Avun's direction, his reckless threat had given away his position. It had also given him a nasty blaster scorch in the middle of his armor, one that will most likely join the others that stain it. Having no real other choice, he charges forward into the battle among his fellow troops. Firing away.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun fires his Merr Sonn T21 Blaster Rifle at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Avun's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun tries to dodge, but First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and lightly wounds him.
Bri's first shot slices through the troops and-- hits nothing. She's quick on her feet, though, practiced as she is this week, and their return fire scrapes uncomfortably close, but does not hit. She draws in a fast breath as she scuttles closer to Aure, raises her blaster, and fires again. Her shot has barely rung out before she turns her head to glance after the Jedi with fast concern. "Aure!"
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> You fire your BlasTech E10 Carbine at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Briseis's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Briseis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Briseis tries to dodge, but First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and seriously wounds her.
The hovertank's weapons slowly power up again, but having seen how ineffective it was against the larger armies, it instead targets the commanders leading those armies. With a load groan, the tank fires dual blasts at Menglor.
From Bastion IIB, <FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Menglor!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Menglor!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Menglor dodges Bastion IIB's blaster bolt.
Ah, the glorious, terrible din of battle! As Jana and Aure lead the charge the First Security detail meet them with blasters in hand; one of their number cut down by the purple blade of the younger Jedi before they return fire. Avun and Briseis too earn the ire of the defending forces, and once again the air crackles almost in delight as blasters discharge.
Meanwhile, beaten back by the vanguard even as they are, scrambling to step over the bodies of their slain, the other units continue to barrage the Elites for all they are worth.
The Second Cloud City Security <11 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <35 Humans> in mass combat.
The Second Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security: 5 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 2 killed.
The Third Cloud City Security <10 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <32 Humans> in mass combat.
The Third Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Third Cloud City Security: 5 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 1 killed.
The Fourth Cloud City Security <13 Humans> engage the Republic Guard Elites <30 Humans> in mass combat.
The Fourth Cloud City Security open fire with BlasTech E10 Carbines ...
The Republic Guard Elites return fire with Force Pikes ... 
<FONT COLOR=#6D7B8D>CASUALTIES:</FONT> Fourth Cloud City Security: 6 killed.
Republic Guard Elites: 2 killed.
The thick grates of the south circumference road are unusually convenient for a number of reasons. Not least is the facility with which a patient person can creep along their underbelly, if he happens to be abnormally limber and unusually skilled in the art of clinging to metal grates.
The Republic Guard Skirmishers have done there job, and had enough of this for one day. Their Officer's cry out in frantic voices, "Fall back! Everyman for himself! Fall back on the 4th!" They disengage, and retreat backwards, stumbling over the corpses of their comrades and enemies, or slip wildly on the bloody floor. Yet, the battle is not yet over. As they begin to flee, the rest of the Bloody 4th Infantry attacks.
They charge around the corner now, with Menglor at their lead. Held in one hand is a ceremonial looking sword -- which is pointed then towards their foes -- and in the other a snub nosed blaster carbine. "Drive them back, take down that tank, and rescue the Jedi!" He cries in a deep and terrible bass -- even as his own blaster opens fire. Then they all charge, and the Marshall is lost among the swirling mass of men and blaster fire.
A quick pull of Jana's wrist frees her Lightsaber from the person she just struck down before she is turning to attempt to knock off a barrage of shots aimed at her. Jana feels her arm erupt into stinging as her robe sleeve and some skin underneath begins to singe and smoke a bit. A quiet grunt emits from the girl of displeasure at pain but with a shake of her arm, the Padawan again spins and slashes outwards with her lightsaber at the Cloud City Security about her, the purple lightsaber blade arcing through to spark air particles and seek out those to counter that are around. Her ears perk and head tilts, "Rescue?" She grumbles to herself.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana swings her purple lightsaber at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Jana's purple lightsaber.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana parries First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt with her purple lightsaber.
	Even as Aure near slides into her first target amongst the men, she feels her right side, the injury from the clone giving birth to new pain. She gasps, missing with her saber to keep upright. She grits her teeth and tries to twist out of the way. The blaster fire hits and she is thrown back a few paces, nearly falling. She catches herself, right arm smoking as her skin blisters. She cries out softly, pain filling her gaze. The Force flows swiftly now and as she looks to Briseis and then Jana, she nods. "Briseis, to the tank!" She cries.
	Aure is cutting through, moving aside to let others engage as she pushes off the ground with her feet, she springs forth up and over the first ranks. The Force guides her, aids her and she lands, saber arcing down atop it, aiming to drive the controller out.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia swings her blue lightsaber at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB is not damaged by Aure Kaia's blue lightsaber.
Avun seems confused as another bolt strikes him in the chest, near the same spot as before. The damage was light, but it aided its predecessor, effectively making it worse. Stubborn as ever, Avun looks like he's about to give the battle one more try when he catches Aure and the Tank. Mechanized roars echo out from his weapon noisily. Blaster > Tank? In Avun logic.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun fires his Merr Sonn T21 Blaster Rifle at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB is not damaged by Avun's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis wields his Retractile Claws.
Briseis hesitates, stepping toward Aure for a moment before she draws her jaw tight and nods. As reinforcements rush in behind her, she sweeps toward the tank, eyeing it as she attempts to line up a good shot. A blaster bolt catches her thigh as she moves, but it's not serious and she stumbles only for a moment before moving again to fire.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> You fire your BlasTech E10 Carbine at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Briseis's blaster bolt hits and gashes it.
It's motors whirring, the tank barely slides out of the Jedi's reach, the lightsaber slipping just past its already damaged hull. The blaster bolts are wearing it down, and it grinds to a halt, its lasers powering up to return fire on the young officer who fired on it.
From Bastion IIB, <FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Briseis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Briseis!
There is a blur of black, and a slim figure hurtles over the edge of the parapet, swinging up from below and into the midst of the melee, drawn on by the gleam of the Marshal's ceremonial sword, and by bright, keen mismatched eyes that gleam blue-in-blue and emerald green.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Briseis tries to dodge, but Bastion IIB's blaster bolt hits and seriously wounds her.
Amalfiel Renatalis slips out of hiding.
Battered and bruised, the defending troops seem more than a little disheartened at the sight of more soldiers pouring in from the tunnels, and as the Elites break off thye do not give chase. INstead they fall back, bunching together as they retreat to the tank, and desperate shots rain in upon the assailants.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana tries to parry with her purple lightsaber, but Second Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and mildly wounds her.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Third Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Aure Kaia!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Fourth Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia raises her hand and deflects Third Cloud City Security's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun tries to dodge, but Fourth Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and lightly wounds him.
In the midst of the Fourth, the slim black shape of Amalfiel Renatalis rises up in front of Menglor like a nimble ghost, black claws sliding from his fingertips to full extension.
The Fourth Infantry pours forward! They pour terrible amounts of blaster into their foes, what few of them remain, but mostly they focus on the tank -- their most troublesome foe. They swarm it. There are nearly 300 guys in the Fourth Infantry, and while some of the fire is directed towards what is left of the Security Forces, they move to tear apart the tank. Some are grasping at the hatches, others trying to fire into the cockpit, and still others even trying to stuff blades or other items into the barrels so that they'll misfire.
As for Marshall Menglor he cheers his men on, pushing, shoving, cursing, and then watching the assault carefully. It is fortunate then that he is watching when Amelfiel attacks. "Oh, Hell..." Is all that Marshall manages to groan before he is diving to the side, and firing his blaster at this strange new foe.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry fire their BlasTech GS-1 Rifles at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry's blaster bolt hits and dents it.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Menglor fires his BlasTech E10 Carbine at Amalfiel Renatalis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis dodges Menglor's blaster bolt.
	As the forces attempt to regroup and gather about the tank, Jana continues up her twirling spinning display as she continues to assault the First.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana swings her purple lightsaber at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security tries to dodge, but Jana's purple lightsaber strikes and wounds a member of them.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana parries First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt with her purple lightsaber.
Amalfiel glides nimbly to one side, almost too fast to see, and then lunges, his claws jabbing at the Marshal's face, aiming at the forehead, from which plenty of eyesight-cancelling blood can be drawn. Not a word yet, only a gentle gleam in the eyes, as if the dark figure is dreaming some lovely dream as he strikes.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis attacks Menglor with his Retractile Claws!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Menglor tries to dodge, but Amalfiel Renatalis's Retractile Claws hits and grievously wounds Menglor.
The Marshall is struck, and cries out then in pain! He falls backwards, growling loudly, and attempting to get away from his foe. No doubt more then a few troops will notice.
	Missing the tank, Aure is in the thick of all of the rest of the troops as they move to defend the tank. They part around her and as a hail of blaster fire merges towards her she lowers into a stance. Her lips form a thin line and then start to part as her lightsaber remains held downward. Her hand lifts out before her, palm out. Where the blaster fire should hit, there is something unsee that stops it, protecting the Jedi as it is absorbed.
	The faint brush of air from the force of the fire shifts her hair around her. She stands then, pulling her saber out and whirling it before her in a blue flash as the cry from the Marshall goes out. There is a cry from his guards. Turning, Aure looks and sports the odd figure between movements. Drawing a breath, she pushes off the floor again, jumping towards the Marshall, her pony tail shifting at her back. She lands next to the strange fighter, still a few feet off. "Leave him be!"
Avun winds through both colliding armies, just barely dodging slashes, blasts and random tank barrages. He needed to get to better ground and return fire, otherwise he would most likely be massacred in the teeth of this battle. He turns to fire a few shots randomly behind him before trying to assess his position.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun fires his Merr Sonn T21 Blaster Rifle at First Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security dodges Avun's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> First Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun dodges First Cloud City Security's blaster bolt.
A second blaster bolt catches Briseis in the shoulder, and she staggers backward just in time to miss the hit of her own blaster as it gouges the tank's side. She's breathing hard as she falls back in the face of the second wound, turning to retreat toward Aure with a fast jog. The Jedi is difficult to find in the face of battle and surging troops, and for the moment Briseis finds herself caught up in the flood. With a low growl, she turns, sights, and shoots again.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> You fire your BlasTech E10 Carbine at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Briseis's blaster bolt hits and gashes it.
The Bastion is beginning to show its wear, hull damaged by blaster fire - its movements slowed, but its blasters gleaming with deadly accuracy. The bulky hovertank, surrounded by allies, has little room to move. It trains its guns on the nearest enemy and fires.
From Bastion IIB, <FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Briseis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Briseis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Briseis tries to dodge, but Bastion IIB's blaster bolt hits and vaporizes her, destroying Briseis's Republic Guard Armor. Briseis collapses, critically injured.
The 4th Infantry's skirmishers have managed to regroup, and return to the fray -- their vibrating blades still humming. There is not a man among their unit that isn't bloody, or wounded. All look tired, but all look fit yet to fight as their brothers pour over the last of Bespin's forces. Then they look to their Marshall, assaulted by some strange new foe. "Come on you, bastards! Show them that cold steel once more." They charge then to the aid of their leader.
On top of the tank the rest of the Bloody 4th continues to methodically tear apart the machine. They fire into vulnerable parts, use vibrating knives to cut it open, and attempt to tear it apart.
Menglor himself covers his wounds, and continues to fall back from this wierd new foe. Even as the rest of the Elites charge to his rescue, he offers cover fire for his soldiers.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry fire their BlasTech GS-1 Rifles at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry's blaster bolt hits and dents it.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites fire their Force Pikes at Amalfiel Renatalis!
The security details, in the thick of battle still, take some heart from the sight of Brisies going down, and as the Republic Guard continue to bombard the tank they continue to try and mop up those closest to view.
A second chorus of blasters, smaller and less potent but there all the same joins the first as energy fills the air.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Third Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and moderately wounds Jana.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Fourth Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Aure Kaia!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Fourth Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and moderately wounds Aure Kaia.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun tries to dodge, but Third Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and seriously wounds him.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites break off their attack upon Amalfiel Renatalis.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites fire their Force Pikes at Amalfiel Renatalis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis tries to dodge, but Republic Guard Elites's force beam hits and moderately wounds him.
	With the retreating and gathering of the security forces, Jana dances around, ending up inadvertantly joining the fray of others in combat against what close examination would identify as the Second Battle Group. Her purple lightsaber spins and slashes at the Guards attempting to disable, wound, or if necessary kill them as more blaster bolts pummel her body, leaving smoking holes in her robes and grimaces on her face.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana swings her purple lightsaber at Second Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security tries to dodge, but Jana's purple lightsaber strikes and kills one of them.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana parries Second Cloud City Security's blaster bolt with her purple lightsaber.
A blaster bolt strikes Amalfiel in the shoulder with a hiss. But his smiling eyes never widen with pain. There is a swish as he draws a long, slender black tube from his belt, and then a crackle of energy as his force pike goes active. He raises it to plunge it into Menglor.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis wields his Black Force Pike.
As Briseis goes down, Aure turns, her eyes widening. "Briseis!" She cries out, worry even as she sees Jana hit and then attack with ease. The Jedi trembles a moment, turning to look at the strange man who's profile is to her. She grits her teeth, indecision on her brow as she gazes upon Briseis's form, small glimpses of it through the bodies. That is when Aure decides once and for all. Her saber remains in her hand, she moves then, trying to get in the way of Amalfiel, whom she has yet to know by tht name. "STOP!" She cries out, levelling her saber at him as a few of the soldiers get Bris away from the action. Her blue within blue eyes lift to look at him, "Stop right there!"
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia tries to rip Amalfiel Renatalis's Black Force Pike out of his hands!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis firmly holds his Black Force Pike.
Blaster fire rains sideways all around Avun, but his eyes are now on his allies. He notes them one by one.. Menglor.. Aided by Aure. ..Briseis! He starts to move to her position but stops to see a security soldier aiming his rifle....at Jana's back. "Watch it!" He warns, blazing off a shot in his direction.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun fires his Merr Sonn T21 Blaster Rifle at Second Cloud City Security!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security dodges Avun's blaster bolt.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Second Cloud City Security fire their BlasTech E10 Carbines at Avun!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Avun tries to dodge, but Second Cloud City Security's blaster bolt hits and seriously wounds him.
The young man with the flowing black hair and the mismatched eyes follows the convulsive tug on his weapon with a smooth lunge, spinning his force pike in a tight arc, finally aiming the tip of the crackling weapon at the breast of the Jedi, apparently meaning to impale her through her solar plexus.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis attacks Aure Kaia with his Black Force Pike!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia tries to parry with her blue lightsaber, but Amalfiel Renatalis's Black Force Pike moderately wounds her.
Briseis sees the gash rip into the side of the tank this time, and she pauses just long enough for a yelp of triumph, fist raised into the air. She's lifting her blaster to sight it again when return fire comes too fast. She goes down hard, catching herself on an elbow and then collapsing entirely, her armor in pieces around her. It's like David against Goliath, except for the part where David wins. And Goliath dies. So maybe not that much like David and Goliath. Soon, she's lost to sight in the rush of Republic troops. At least a few of them are kind enough to drag her from the forefront of the fray.
Taking another volley of blaster fire, the hovertank swerves its cannons quickly, training them on the most lethal enemy in this battle - the small, red-headed Jedi.
From Bastion IIB, <FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Faris fires Bastion IIB's Turret Blasters at Jana!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Jana dodges Bastion IIB's blaster bolt.
The Fourth Continues it's assault on the tanks, while the Elites continue to attack this strange foe which is assaulting Aure Kaia. The bloody battle wages on yet.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry fire their BlasTech GS-1 Rifles at Bastion IIB!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Bastion IIB cannot evade, and Republic Guard "Bloody 4th" Infantry's blaster bolt hits and dents it.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Republic Guard Elites fire their Force Pikes at Amalfiel Renatalis!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis dodges Republic Guard Elites's force beam.
And all the while the battle rages on; Jana and Avun still fighting on aganst the Bespin Inc guards. As one group return fire upon the young Jedi and her gunslinging comrade, the others turn their gazes toward the Bloody 4th, and the bombardment of the tank.
These men are not stupid, and while they turn anxious eyes to their prized juggernaut, the cry nevertheless goes up:
"Fall back! To the gas mines! Retreat!"
All but the group fighting Jana at once charge for the open gateway; leaving the tank and their fellows to whatever mercy Menglor's best see fit to grant.
Vaal Hirah orders Second Cloud City Security to stop guarding Open Gateway.
First Cloud City Security goes to Cloud City: SubLevels - Gas Collection Balcony.
Vaal Hirah orders Third Cloud City Security to stop guarding Stairs Up.
Third Cloud City Security goes to Cloud City: SubLevels - Gas Collection Balcony.
Vaal Hirah orders Fourth Cloud City Security to stop guarding Road Northeast.
	The Force is not with her, the force is not only with her at least. As he holds fast, the Jedi's foot starts to slip back to put some distance again. The blue blur of her saber comes up to try to protect herself and she is not quick enough. Past the defenses of her arms and blade, his pike slips. The dark weapon strikes Aure hard upon the chest, stealing her breath and sending her stumbling a few paces back, pain thrumming hard against her. She looks up at the oddly hued man, clutching at her chest befor eshe reaches forth, wincing.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia tries to rip Amalfiel Renatalis's Black Force Pike out of his hands!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis firmly holds his Black Force Pike.
	Jana feels the need to move quickly, doing such as the Tank opens fire on her location, moving and somersaulting out of the terror of fire unloaded where she was moments before. The movement causes her to look up right as Aure Kaia is poked in the stomach by the Force Pike. Jana's eyes narrow a bit and her right hand reaches up to tighten her ponytail as she walks, purple lightsaber pointed now towards Amalfiel. "You." The voice is calm but barks from the small girl. "Why don't you come pick on someone your own size." Jana calls out towards the forcepike wielding individual, twirling her lightsaber quickly in a figure eight before assuming a battle-stance.
Avun Cass is suddenly on his knees in the battlefield. That's funny, He doesn't remember doing that. A funny itchy feeling draws his attention down to his chestplate, causing him to "tch" in disappointment at the sight of the series of blistering blaster wounds. They smoke lightly, and burn right through his armor. He uses his rifle to lean, glancing around dizzily at the battle around him. "Imagine that." He mutters.
The blue-within-blue eye of the slender assassin widens with something like surprise as his weapon makes contact with Aure Kaia and withdraws. Again, the curious tug--again, the response, as smooth as a viper striking: Amalfiel rides the momentum, dipping in for another thrust at the vulnerable core of the golden-skinned Jedi. At the same moment, a bell-like laugh rings out, and a childlike voice says, "Mother!"
Alas, such is the focus of the strange, slender assassin, that one so short as Jana will likely go unnoticed.
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Amalfiel Renatalis attacks Aure Kaia with his Black Force Pike!
<FONT COLOR=#FFFF00>COMBAT:</FONT> Aure Kaia tries to dodge, but Amalfiel Renatalis's Black Force Pike hits and mauls Aure Kaia.
The Republic Guard soldiers continue their attack on the unknown assailant, while the rest of the 4th Infantry continues its attack on the tank. It's become a bloody mess.
==Briseis Logs off and Someone Else Finishes the Log==
Category:January 2008 RP Logs