Author Topic: VE: Corellia Shines  (Read 85212 times)

Offline Medivh

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #15 on: June 24, 2011, 11:28:34 AM »
Center Point Station

while Melanie Masterton was discovering a hidden data disk in the Corellian apartment of the late Valerie Gellar, Artemis was preparing to make a discovery of his own, not too far away.  The planets of the Corellian system could all be seen with a telescope, and some even with the naked eye as Artemis stared out of a viewing room on Center Point Station.  It was an addition at the far end of the northern cylinder, designed for the scientists.  From here, he could see space rotating around - or rather, it appeared that way, as the station rotated to maintain the artificial gravity.  Corellia was a far off blue spec among an array of stars.

It was about ten minutes before lights out, and he was one of the few in the room.  He waited patiently for the last few to take their leave of the observation room.  Then he was alone.  Casually, he made his way toward the doorway - but instead of stepping through to the main cooridor, he stepped over to a maintenance entrance, jimmying the lock and stepping inside.

When people think of a space craft, they may think of the elegant structure, the aerondynamics.  Or, in the case of some uglier vessels, they think of wires barely holding together in a cramped space.  Most people don't consider that a station, especially as large as Center Point,would have a large network of ventillation shafts.  But in fact, because of the station's size, huge shafts were needed to circulate and recycle the air that was being breathed.  The shafts created a vast network that circled the entire cylindrical structure, and crossed between the inner most and outermost levels.

Artemis had figured out that the only way to get past a clearance required door was to avoid the door entirely.

Here, inside the maintenance room, hot air could be felt blowing out and being sucked back in through grated vents.  Closing the maintenance door behind him,he made his way over to the vents, Thinking through a diagram he had seen.  Exhaust valves would be pushing 'used' air from the most inhabited areas,and sending it to the recycling chambers, replenishing oxygen levels before sending it back out again.  if he followed the airbeing sucked inside, it would lead him down to that recycling center, likely in the uninhabited lower regions ofthe station.

Several minutes later, he was inside the shaft, vent closed behind him, and air washing over him and directing him forward.  The shaft was large - a maintenance air shaft that needed to be accessible, and so was capable of leaving him standing, albeit at a crouch.  That was here.  It would be tighter where he was going.  Moving slowly, he made his way forward, passing side passages as he went, again thinking over the diagram he had seen.  Turn left here.  Straight ahead there.  Down aladder here.

he could feel the increased gravity as he descended a few levels,until he was in the shaft units for the very bottom.  Here, the air shafts grew tighter and he was forced to crawl inside.  Already, things became more complicated as he tried navigating his way to his destination.  he might a wrong turn, ending up at a path that was blocked by a huge fan, threatening to cut off an appendage that got too close. Unable to turn, he had to back up several meters before he was set right again.

Onward, he began counting a series of vents he passed - intake vents, collecting the air that went into this passage.  They were spaced out evenly and he had about 400 meters to travel at this crawl before he would reach the area of the vessel he was trying to reach.  one by one he counted them until he reached about 23rd.  Then, more trouble.  The vents disappeared.  How could he calculate how far he had left to go? He couldn't exactly leave the shaft.  Deciding he had no choice but to move on (he couldn't travel backwards that far anyway, so he needed to exit somewhere so he could turn around),he started trying to calculate the distance manually.  It was a slow crawl and when he was about to give up, there was an abrupt change - the shaft he was in had a split, forming a Y shape.  The air flow continued traveling through the right, but the left one had air being pulled from it.

Taking a gamble, Artemis turned left, now heading up a new shaft.  Not five minutes later, he began hearing sounds - machinery moving in the background.  And then, finally, he saw a vent exit.

Remarkably, this opening was covered with a dust screen rather than a standard vent opening.  peering through, Artemis could only see a long line of blinking lights outside.  Gritting his face, he pulled out a screwdriver and began undoing the dust screen. Several minutes later, a line of screws were placed neatly on the side and the dust screen came loose.  Pulling his arms out, and stretching them for the first time in what felt like hours, he began pulling himself out of the shaft, finding himself about fifteen feet off the floor of the room.  There was a small scaffolding, holding the ventillation shaft in place and he shifted his position to sit there while keeping his balance, then turned to replace the dust screen - too much dust in the system might alert someone that this was tampered with.

That done, he looked around for the first time at his surroundings.  It was a mostly dark room, though LEDs seemed toflicker about.  He could see the prize - the backside of the door that had barred him just a few nights earlier.  LED lights tracked a path in the dark toward another room, not too far off, from which the most machine noises and a bit more light were coming from.  Lowering himself from the scaffolding, Artemis jumped the last ten feet, landing on his feet and bending his knees to absorb the fall. He wasn't quite sure how he'd get back up, but for now, he had a question to answer -what was behind the door?

Following the path, he made his way to that second door, finding it was not protected like the outer entrance. Pressing the button, the door hissed open. Artemis stepped in and gasped.

The loud sound of machinery filled a massive room.  The extra glow of the room came from molten metal, being poured from huge vats into molds.  Molds traveled along a conveyor belt, where cooled metal was removed from the molds, and placed into sorted piles.  Machine arms took from the piles and began assembling the different pieces together - arms, legs, torso, head.  Down the conveyor belt, wiring was woven into the creature being created.

Artemis followed the path paralleling the conveyor belt to its conclusion. At the end, he saw what might be the most horrific sight a corellian could imagine.

An army of droids.  Not small spider droids, grunts.  No.  Artemis recognized immediately the shape and style - columns of IG-100 MagnaGuards-Advanced Prototype series.  Their skeletal shapes were made of black metal, and though none were active, Artemis could imagine their frightening red glowing eyes.

In front of him stood an army of Phages.

TBC
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Medivh
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Offline Syren

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #16 on: June 24, 2011, 11:24:47 PM »
"And you walk over, softly moving passed the guards.
The stakes are getting higher.
You can feel it in your heart.
You never know if winning this could really be enough."


Corellia

Surface

The Coronet Club

The club lies in the heart of the city and remains one of Corellia's oldest and most exclusive lounges. Despite its prestige, the club is understated and elegant. She approaches the guarded doorway with confidence and states her name. It is on a list one of the bouncer's is holding. They step aside and allow her to enter through a set of deep purple curtains that leads to an expansive empty foyer.

Melanie strides across the polished floor and walks up a grand staircase into the large, packed bar area filled with Corellia's elite. A hush falls over the crowds as they stare. She can feel the heat against her cheeks. She has forgotten that not so long ago, her face was also splashed across the Holo and on billboards in Corellia. They were once the glamorous and sought after poster girls for the Imperial chic. She can only imagine what they must be thinking but that can't affect her now. She won't let it touch her. Squaring her shoulders, she crosses a room full of admiring gazes and questioning glares to the man sitting at the end of the bar.

"Is this seat taken?"

He turns, eyes meeting hers.

"Saved it just for you."

Melanie smiles, sliding onto the finely carved barstool next to him and crossing her legs.

"Thank you for meeting me, mister Farmer."

"Please, call me Frank."

"Of course," she says, extending a hand. "I'm Melanie."

He shakes it.

"I know. Your photage doesn't do you justice. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Thank you. The pleasure is mine. Valerie spoke so highly of you and we both know what a rare and honorable thing that is."

He laughs.

The bartender is hovering.

Frank motions to him, "Care for a drink?"

She shrugs.

"Something tropical."

"So, what brings you to our neck of the woods? And after such a long absence."

"I never got to pay my respects."

"I suppose not. Where have you been hiding?"

"Around."

He grins, "I take it your social hiatus isn't why you came."

"You're a smart man, Frank."

"I'm surprised Judec let you come down here without an escort."

She turns briefly, eyes scanning the crowd.

"Oh, I'm sure I have one lurking in the shadows but I assured the High Commander I could help."

"Can you?"

"That depends on you. Do you know a reporter named Kent Carlson?"

"Carlson? Who doesn't know him?"

"Any clue as to where I might find him?"

"Far, far away from here."

"Why do you say that?"

"His days of snooping came to an abrupt end when he went looking into 'ol Judy. Things have been less tolerant around here. New regime and all."

"So I gather. Did he leave of his own volition?"

"He made the decision himself but there were certain factors involved leading up to it."

"Such as?"

"A cease and desist of his investigation into the High Commander and Corellia's new military-state. Valerie had unified the sector to help defend it from the Federation, from Phage, but before William Tacofer could overturn martial law and restore the government back into the hands of the people where it belongs, Saga Judec stepped up to turn martial law into a military machine."

He says this like it pains him.

"I'm sensing you disagree?"

"On or off the record?"

"Consider it a personal curiosity."

He swallows the last of his drink. She sips on hers.

"There are those, like myself, who saw the need for Valerie's swift actions. We rallied around a grievous threat against Corellia and won. To honor her sacrifice, Tacofer intended to restore order and reestablish the Corellian democracy. We were free of the Federation and the people were to decide the course of their fates. That's not how it turned out and naturally Carlson was suspicious. They shut him down before he even began to dig."

As he speaks, he jots something down on his napkin. His slides it over.

Tatooine.

Melanie glances down and sets her drink over it.

"He's not the only one who got pushed out. I was fired as Director of CorSec and relieved of my teaching responsibilities at the Academy. Senior management, so to speak, got a brand new face."
 
"All on Judec's payroll, I assume?"

"Correct. Now I get to sit around and spend my pension resenting every microsecond I'm not doing what I loved most."
 
"I am sorry, Frank."
 
"Not your fault."

"Not directly."

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know how much Valerie told you but she, Karen Winton, Kimber Patten and I are part of an ancient prophecy."
 
He laughs. She does not.

"Oh, you're serious? My apologies. How is Kimber these days? I heard rumors she was consorting with the Empire as some kind of diplomat."

Melanie's frowns, "They blackmailed her into the position under the pretense they would lend support to Corellia against Phage to save Valerie. Clearly, that was not a promise they kept."
 
"Damn Empire."
 
"I'll drink to that."

They toast and sip quietly.

"So, a prophecy huh? What does that have to do with me?"
 
"Those that surround us play supportive roles in our destiny. You are all just as important as we are in affecting the outcome."
 
"Which is?"

"Once we're all dead, Karen and Dementat will be free to rule the galaxy at will."
 
Frank sits back quickly, "No shit? How many of these supporting roles are left?"

"Not many, I'm afraid. There is an elusive Imperial agent named Marius Guile working to tie up the loose ends, those who know us or could possibly assist in thwarting Imperial dominance. We believe you, Kent Carlson and Lilandra Patten may be on that list."

"Who's we?"

"The Jedi and myself."

"Someone's been busy out of the limelight."
 
"I've had a lot of spare time on my hands."
 
"You and me both, sister. What can I do to help?"
 
"I'll find Carlson. You must keep Lilandra safe."

His face falls, signaling for another drink. He is silent until it is placed in front of him.

"After Kyri and Valerie were killed, Lilandra came off the rails. She was institutionalized at Coronet General."
 
Melanie nods, "Kimber mentioned she had been unstable in the past."

"Unstable is putting it lightly. She was violent, full of a rage no one could fathom. Years ago, she had delusions that Corellia was conspiring with the Trade Federation. She was convinced her husband, Major Patten, had been working with them to create a monster."

"Didn't they?"

"Yes and when Phage took her husband and his illegitimate child, she went over the edge. I tried to console her but she was beyond my help. I thought about calling Kimber but I couldn't bring myself to do it. She shouldn't have to see her mother like that, not after losing so much. The only thing the doctors could do was keep her sedated and calm. She barely spoke. I came to visit, at first. Access to her was restricted following Judec's rise to power."
 
She narrows her eyes, "Why?"

"That was around the same time most of CorSec's senior staff was let go so I didn't ask. Associates of mine were able to gain Carlson access prior to arranging his escape."

"What did she say to him?"

Frank tilts his head and laughs. After what she's told him, it makes a strange sort of sense.
 
"She said Winton was responsible for it all."
 
"Karen?"

"Lilandra used the masculine pronoun."
 
Melanie is rigid, mind swirling. There is only one male Winton.
 
Alexander.

All of their parents were supposedly friends.
 
Perhaps the Queen was right.

What did Lilandra know?
 
She exhales, shivering.

"Have you checked on her since?"

"That's not possible."

"Why not?"

Frank turns, placing a hand on her arm.

"Melanie, Lilandra Patten died the day after Carlson left Corellia."
 
She gulps, completely crushed by the news. They are being systematically reduced. And Kimber. Poor, sweet, Kimber. She has suffered enough. They all had. In the shadow of the moment, she needs a friend.

"Take me to Valerie."



- TBC
Syren

Offline Medivh

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #17 on: June 27, 2011, 09:48:52 AM »
Corellia
High Command Platform

The image was a poor quality and taken from across the room,but the video clearly showed former CorSec Director Frank Farmer chatting it up with Jedi Melanie Masterton.

Judec watched the video, listening to their discussion.

It was no secret to him that Farmer was opposed to his martial law - that was part of the reason for his forced retirement.  But he was a hero, extremely popular, and no propoganda would change that in the hearts and minds of the people.  THat left Farmer barely touchable.  Judec had hoped the man would just retire, and disappear into the background.  Apparently not.

The audio was a better quality, thanks to the bug planted at the table.

the Jedi was looking for Kent Carlston because of the prophesy.

Judec had been told about the prophesy - from his own inside source.  But what did Carlston have to do with any of that?

Talk of Lilandra Patten, late mother of Corellian-turned-imperial-turned ... he wasn't sure.

"She said Winton was responsible for it all."
 
"Karen?"

"Lilandra used the masculine pronoun."


Judec sat up in his chair.  Winton was responsible for it all?  For Phage, and the Trade Federation? for the whole prophesy?  Suddenly, Judec was uncertain about his plans.  And it was time he got answers.

His source would have some explaining to do.

Ebaq, Imperial Border World

For the past year, Corellian scout ships had been flipping in and out of hyperspace near the gas giant world of Ebaq, and it's smaller moon, Ebaq 9.  Ebaq 9 was an imperial mining colony that was right along the Corellian Confederation border and just a quick jump to Columus or even more importantly, Corellia itself.
The Corellian Confederation was surrounded on 2 sides by the expanding empire - the Imperial Deep core, including Byss, lay to the west of the confederation, whil Leria Kersil, Kuat, Alderaan lay to the north.  The Hapan Star Cluster, expanded west as far as the world of Telti, prevented the imperials from pushing too much further north of Corellia.  The Confederation itself had expanded it's hold on a number of worlds south of Duro, including denon, Devaron, Aleen, Rhommamool and Osarian.  Now though, an increased war machine, a more arrogant leadership, and sources showing the Empire's fleet was spread out in various other engagements meant it was time for a new strike.

Ebaq was situated in a location that left Corellia vulnerable.  A trade route connected the worlds, and imperial hostilities could mean a single hyperspace jump would be all it took to go from Ebaq onto the Confederation's capital.  Even with added defenses, a buffer would be helpful, and Ebaq 9 had vast mining resources that would help Corellia.  Plus, it would be a symbolic win, the first Corellian conquest into the Empire's deep Core.

The Imperial mining colony was not too large, but they did have an orbital platforms and about a half dozen patrol craft for defense. They knew the Corellian's spied on them, but it happened so often, they figured it was part of the routine. War was coming.  But none expected it to come this soon.

Alarms suddenly went blaring as imperial soldiers tried to figure out what triggered the proximity alarm.

Out of the viewport, they could see the ships, bearing down on them.

"I count a dozen Corellian dreadnaught!  So many!  Prepare to send a distress signal"

The Corellian ships, bore down quickly, the massive correllian dreadnaughts and twice as many support craft.  Transmitters were struck first,disabling the communications of the defenses, and the barrages from the large craft were a rain of fire.

The battle lasted less than five minutes from the appearance of the Corellian fleet.  imperial ships were smoldering in orbit, as craft prepared to land and secure the surface mining facilities.

No escapees.  No survivors.

The war had begun.
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Medivh
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Offline Medivh

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #18 on: June 29, 2011, 12:50:25 PM »
Ebaq 9, Corellian-Controlled Mining Base,
Corellian/Imperial Border, Deep Core


Mining operations on Ebaq 9 had been shut down for mere days before it was restarted under new management, the Corellian Confederation Fleet.  Already, shipments of bronzium was being sent back into the Corellian sector, to be used for metal work construction (bronzium happened to be a metal often used for droid construction and weapon making).  Hovering in orbit over the world, the Confederation 3rd fleet had been reinforced with more ships.  Further away, the Confederation 1st, 2nd and 4th fleets had stopped over briefly before disappearing again ...

The further into the Deep Core one was trying to go, the harder the journey.  Dense clusters of stars and black holes made hyperspace travel treacherous and unpredictable.  It was this cobweb of danger that made travel to the Imperial sanctuary world, Byss so difficult for those who did not know which ways to travel.  Over time, information on those routes had leaked out, just as the secret of Byss had.  Still, even though people could travel to Byss, such a trip required precise nav computer calculations and a long journey.  Byss's defenses included hyperwave tranceivers, a technology that detected disturbances caused by ships traveling in hyperspace.  this technology, located along the few safe routes to Byss, meant that the Empire would be prepared for any visitors - wanted or unwanted.

But at the outside of the Deep Core region, there was not that level of insulated protection.  Worlds there were just as accessible as planets in most other reaches of space.  That left these worlds vulnerable.

Ojom, Imperial Border World

After Ebaq and its mining colony on Ebaq 9 had been taken days ago, The Corellian Confederation began prepping for the rest of the first phase of their assault on the Empire.  Their next target, Ojom, was one of the few habital worlds on the eastern imperial border.  It's proximity to Corellian space meant that it was well enough defended, despite its average population.  A number of orbital platforms, including two Golan I defense platforms.

A shipment that had been expected from Ebaq 9 had not come in days earlier, and the world was in high alert now.  Scouts had been sent to Ebaq and had not returned.  there was a sense of foreboding as the guards shifted rotation at their scanner posts, the new one just getting ready to sit down when he heard a bleep, followed by several more.

Scanners picked up a large mass of craft.

"Commander!  Corellian craft, approaching at high speed!"

The Captain turned from his seat,a look of apprehension on his face.

"Prepare to open fire, and sound the alarms - send out a distress signal"

Sirens blared as Corellian fighters began spraying the defenses with fire, shields shimmering as they began to weaken under the assault.  return fire hit some fighters, and the battle felt almost even, until the corellian capital ships came within range.

Massive barrages of turbolaser and ion cannon fire slammed down on the defenses, shields finally giving way.  Fighters moved in on another sweep, now targeting and destroying the transmitters. Small fireballs erupted as targets were eliminated.

Turbolasers continued to be used to destroy planetary defense ships, but against the Golan platform, ion fire was used, blue bursts of energy striking and overloading the platform's systems.  Lights flickered and went out, and weapons failed as the station went dark.

"what are they doing?"

Out of the viewport, the defenders could see assault shuttles deploying to their direction,and toward the planet's surface.

"Arm yourselves men - prepare to be boarded"

Imperial soldiers made their way to the vulnerable entrance points of the station, barracading themselves behind crates and storage units.  Small explosions at the door, then what looked like a gas grenade tossed in.  The halls began to fill with a greenish mist, soldiers began gasping for air, coughing and collapsing to the ground.  Just before passing out, a few saw metal feet marching past them toward the command center.

The commander of defenses stood in the small room, staring at the blast doors that sealed closed automatically when the station lost power.  he heard marching outside, but could barely see the door in the dim emergency lighting.  Only a half dozen men were in the room with him.  He knew he had no choice. Surrender was the only option.

Metal whined as it began to be pried open using metal pliers.  It groaned as the opening went wider and wider.

The commander cleared his throat
"I am prepared to surrender. Please state your terms"

From the darkness of the hallway, a figure emerged, the commander and his men stepping back as it entered.  A dark metallic frame with red eyes stepped into the room, surveying the commander for only a moment before dropping a canister on the floor.  The room began to fill with the gas, and the commander and his men fell to the ground, clutching their throats.  The being moved past the men to the console, beginning to reset the systems for when power came back on.

On the planet's surface, assault craft were bombing the imperial garrisons, while soldiers landed and began securing locations in the populated areas.  Many of the soldiers looked like young, newer recruits, but their fighting and training was honed as they moved with precision, baring the uniform of the Confederation.

Onboard the ships, the Confederation commander was keeping track of the progress, and was in communication with the High Commander, Saga Judec.

"The assault is going well, sir.  Defenses have been subdued, and we have teams already securing the surface."

"What of the special team that I had attached to your fleet?"

The commander shuffled a bit uncomfortably at reference to the special team.  They had been put onboard, and no one had seen orheard from them. Whoever they were,they were keeping themselves apart fromthe rest of the crew - only recieving orders or sending reports through audio transmissions, and being deployed independently of any of the commander's own forces.  Judec had put this mystery team onboard, and though they were performing well, the unknown gave the commander a chill.

"I received a verbal report from them sir, saying they've taken the defense platform.  I was preparing to send my own men over soon"

"That will not be necessary commander.  the team can remain on the platform and run it independently.  None of your men are to approach the station"

"Very well, Commander.  As you order"

"Carry on with the ground assault, and inform me when the planet is secure.  I will be sending reinforcement ships to help secure your location from an imperial counter-attack"

"Yes sir"

Center Point Station, Corellian Sector

Artemis stared in horror at the sight- an army of Phages.  He was literally shaking.  What was Judec doing?  What was he thinking, producing these droids? Hadn't he learned anything?  Judec may have fought and won for Corellia, but the battle had been close.  Why was he tempting fate? And what was he trying to do with all these droids?  What goal did he have that meant that Corellian soldiers were not enough?

Artemis thought back to the massive recruitment efforts going on throughout the Corellian Sector.  Hundreds of thousands had enlisted.  So what were these for?  Judec must be preparing for a war - not just expansion of the Confederation, but an all out war. Maybe even a strike at the Empire?  He had heard rumors of such a conflict, skirmishes that would soon escalate to a full blown war.  More ships, needed more hands to run them.  But didn't this droid create enough nightmares?  What was Judec thinking?

Meanwhile, these droids didn't seem activated - and now Artemis noticed that this was not the end of the assembly line.  The lines and lines of droids were being lifted up and sent into another room nearby and careful not to press or trigger anything, he made his way to the next chamber.

Each droid here was outfitted with a small antenna and then plugged into what could only be a massive super computer.  Time for programming.  A monitor on the screen began playing videos, and Artemis gasped. Those werevideos of himself and his cohorts in all of the maneuvers they had been doing.  The monitors showed their actions, their brain activity, muscle movement - He realized that his work here had been to help program the droids for military actions in any number of scenarios.  he was not being trained to be a soldier - he was being used to train droid soldiers.

Now not only was he frightened - he was angry.  All this time,he had planned to get closer to Judec, and here, Judec and his machine had been using him all along.

No - he would not stand for it.  Artemis resolved that he had to stop Judec before he took his new army of droids out.  And if Artemis had to die doing it, than his death would be well served.

No more time of waiting.Judec had to die soon.


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Medivh
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Offline Syren

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #19 on: June 29, 2011, 09:33:17 PM »
Corellia

Surface: Coronet City

They finish their drinks and leave the club, walking along the crowded city streets. Melanie buys a single white rose from a street vendor and follows Frank to the rebuilt CorSec Academy. The complex is massive and state-of-the-art, integrating all the new technology into a modern yet organic design. They stop in front of Valerie's memorial plaque. She reads the inscription, touched by the verbiage used to the honor her and lays the rose down. She presses her fingers to her lips then to the plaque.

"Here's to you, old friend. May your sacrifice never be forgotten."

Frank watches sadly, his heart aching. He had loved her deeply despite their difference in age. Valerie was feisty and honest which made him question things about himself and others he would never have thought to consider. She challenged him in ways his former job never did and for that, he will always be grateful to her. The pain of losing her strikes him all over again.

Melanie turns, "Are you alright?"

"Any day now."

They move through the halls and out into an expansive plaza which reveals three very different installations. On one side, a spiraled tower of destroyed battle droids. On the other, a giant statue of Valerie Gellar. Between them, a slab of stone. Melanie cannot take her eyes off of Valerie's carved face, mouth set in perpetual smugness as beams of light illuminate her.

Even in death, she's still in the spotlight.

Frank pauses near the stone, glancing back at her.

"This is where those who challenge the High Commander meet their end. This was Carlson's choice."

As she approaches, Melanie notices the slab is deeply stained. She runs her fingers along the edge, overcome with powerful flashes of pain, screaming. Gasping, she steps back, blond curls caught in the breeze. Her eyes travel up to Valerie's face once again, the battle droid tower framed behind her.

"This couldn't have been what she wanted."

"Not even close," Frank says. "She was only tyrannical in the moment, despite what everyone said. She knew if she didn't make sweeping decisions, the public would flounder and talk. Their indecision would make them vulnerable which is why she acted so aggressively."

"She saved them."

"And who will save them now, I wonder? Even the most outspoken have grown quiet as their numbers dwindle. It is either silence or the stone."

"Saga Judec is not invincible. There are things he fears."
 
"Like what?"
 
"Mara Gellar."

His face hardens, body straightening as he gazes at her intensely.
 
"What do you know about her?"

"Only that she is accused of murder and labeled a traitor to Corellia. Oh, yes, and she is currently with Karen Winton."
 
"How do you know?"

"The High Commander showed me recent photage of them at The Wheel."
 
"The Wheel? What were they doing there?"

"I was hoping you could tell me."

"The Wheel is still a Federation outpost, what's left of it anyway. Business, as of late, is conducted on the small scale from what I hear. The Administrator is someone named Amir but I'm afraid I do not know much about him."
 
"What about Mara? What do you know about her?"
 
Frank narrows his eyes at her.   

"I know she's not a murderer and she sure as hell isn't related to Valerie Gellar."
 
"Why do you say that?"

"Mara was with me when William Tacofer was murdered. I had a feeling she was hiding something and wanted to figure out what. We were in the midst of a discussion when we were interrupted by the news and taken into custody."
 
Melanie leans against the stone and crosses her arms.
 
"What did you discover about her?"

"She claims to have been a distant cousin of Valerie's, one Valerie may not have even known about."
 
"Do you believe her?"
 
"No."
 
"Why?"

"When you were all still in high school, Valerie asked me to look into her family. Even though she looked up to Major Patten, she knew he was withholding something. So she came to me. A cursory search revealed nothing we didn't already know. No relatives, no information on her mother. After it came out that Kyri Patten was Valerie's biological father, I began to question who Jerico Gellar really was."

"Understandably so. I know Valerie struggled with it as well."

"Jerico's close friendship with the Major never seemed suspicious in the past until Jerico began acting irrationally. Valerie was slated to be sent to the capital to attend North Coruscant but Jerico protested. The reasons were never clear but Jerico disappeared shortly after. Kyri and I investigated endlessly, beyond the CorSec standard and long after the case was closed. I found remains outside of Coronet City that matched Jerico's DNA."

Melanie's heart is racing, "And Valerie knew this?"

"I confirmed her father was dead and not missing but never filled in the blanks with my own commentary. I had no proof. It wasn't until Kyri's paternity was brought to light that I decided to investigate further."

So Valerie had information the rest of them didn't. She knew her father was dead and that her boyfriend was a spy.
 
"What did you find?"

"Beyond what records CorSec had, there was never any reference to a Jerico Gellar. I checked up on the background, the home world, even possible relatives. No one had ever heard of him."
 
"Valerie came to question whether or not he was actually a CorSec agent at all."

"I highly doubt he was nor do I believe there was a Jerico Gellar. His account records, spread in different banks across the galaxy, each held seven times what he would have made annually. The funds were coming from an alternative source."

A man posing as a father to cover the sins of another. But why?
 
"Did you ever find out where?"

Frank hesitates, walking again. She follows.

"No but I did find something else. After Lilandra Patten died, I went to Coronet General. A buddy of mine got me in to take a look at the cell. It was comfortable and secluded but covered in writing. The official cause of death stated an adverse reaction to new medication but there was blood everywhere. No reaction, no matter how severe, causes that much bleeding."

Melanie's eyes widen with alarm.
   
"You think she was murdered?"
 
Frank shrugs.

"I think someone knew she had talked to Carlson. More importantly, the hospital staff was required to paint over the walls to cover the writing."

"Did you see what it said?"

"I got a good glance before I left. Mostly gibberish, nonsense, a few drawings, one that looked vaguely like a sarcophagus, and two names I had heard before."

Melanie arches a brow, "Which were?"
 
"Winton was the first."
 
"And the second?"
 
"Blair."

"I'm not following..."

Frank exhales loudly, slowing his pace.

"Someone had written that name in Valerie's bedroom here on Corellia. She concealed it from Kimber, who was with her at the time, but asked me to look into it. No references to the name came up in my search but now I have a feeling it does have some significance. Lilandra, Kyri, Jerico, Blair, Winton - I think Carlson was onto something."
 
"Which is why I must find him before Marius Guile does."
 
"The Imperial agent, right?"

"Right. He remains loyal to Alexander Winton and apparently operates outside of Dementat's Empire."
 
"Alexander Winton?"

"Karen's father. The masculine pronoun Lilandra spoke of."
 
"I thought Winton died years ago."

"Twice, actually. We believe he murdered his wife and my parents before staging the speeder crash. He resurfaced a year ago but was apprehended and killed by the Hapan Consortium."
 
Frank stops walking, "That's terrible, Melanie. I'm sorry."
 
"Thank you but it is what it is. We think Guile may be hunting down those closest to the individuals the prophecy references. I do not know how he could have slipped in and out of Corellia to kill Lilandra without the High Commander's knowledge."
 
"Unless he allowed it."

"If that were true, we wouldn't be having this conversation. You are on the list too. I have to find Kent Carlson and see what he knows. If he has discovered information that connects everyone involved, he is in more danger than he realizes."
 
"What can I do?"

Something dawns on Melanie.

"Do you know what's happening on the Centerpoint Station?"
 
"I lost my right to classified information when I was stripped of my duty."

"All the more suspicious. If Lilandra can no longer be protected and Carlson is elsewhere, I need you to find out what's going on up on that station. The High Commander seemed rather convinced Karen Winton and Mara Gellar would return to attack Centerpoint."

He seems surprised, "How can he be sure of that?"
 
"That's exactly what we have to find out. If he believes they will target Centerpoint, there is something on that station they must want."

"Or something he doesn't want them to find."
 
She nods, "Will you help me?"
 
"Of course. I will do all I can."
 
"Thank you, Frank. You have my com channel. Call me if you find anything."
 
Melanie begins to walks away.

Frank calls after her, "Leaving so soon?"
 
She pauses, turning with a smile.

"I'll be back. I promise."


-TBC
Syren

Offline Syren

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #20 on: June 30, 2011, 07:59:45 PM »
Corellia

Surface: Coronet City

Melanie Masterton returns to the Gellar residence on a wave of emotion.

After changing back into more conservative robes, she considers what she knows as she gathers her things.

Jerico Gellar, whoever he was, has no relation to Valerie. He was only a father figure, a place holder until the Major's secret was exposed. He was getting paid handsomely through unknown sources to maintain a facade of normalcy until Valerie was sent to Coruscant where she and Kimber met Karen and Melanie. Then he disappears only to be found dead, presumably killed by whomever placed him there. Why did he object to Valerie leaving? Did he know what would happen to her on the capital once she got there? The Major was insistent they go. How badly did they want Jerico out of the way? Those are awfully extreme measures to take just to cover up an affair. The Major was keeping secrets, they all were but how far would they go? This makes her wonder how well she knew her own parents if they all seemed to be living in a haze of lies.

If Jerico was never her father and Reef a spy, could Mara really be her cousin? This strange woman claiming a relation was framed for murder and virtually exiled. What makes Mara so dangerous to the High Commander? Why would she go to Karen? There were many surrounding Valerie who were not who they claimed to be. Does that hold true for the rest of them? Who else was cast in a role?

Her mind drifts, chest tightening.

Lilandra Patten's death shakes her to the core. She would have to give Kimber the news. They were all parentless now. It makes things a sad kind of special, a tragic bond they share. If Lilandra was murdered, who killed her and why? She must have revealed something for her death to be disguised as a medical reaction. The names Frank mentioned resound in her head. She has never heard of Blair before but now she's curious. Did Lilandra know who she was and what significance she had? This brings her to the other name.

All fingers point to Alexander Winton. The Queen had whispered it frantically long ago, Kimber confirmed it in frightening detail, and now Lilandra was writing it on walls while mumbling to a reporter. Could he really be responsible for everything that's happened to them? Kimber seems to think so. Their conversation on Hapes implied Alexander played their parents from the beginning. What was meant as a blessing, the prophecy in all its fragmented glory, must have become a weapon. But to what end? What would Alexander have to gain from slashing the competition aside from having a daughter on the Imperial throne? Is that the endgame? How many people had this prophecy hanging over their heads?

Reef Stratford's arrangement with Alexander, whatever it may have been, was clearly not delivered on. Reef never got it all, in fact, he was missing several vital body parts if she remembers the medical examiner's report correctly. What would make Reef agree to spying on them from within? What's a soul go for these days? Up until she heard the audio recordings, she believed Reef had been nothing more than morally questionable jock who happened to be a trusted friend. What happened to him was terrible. That's not in question. He was, however, seemingly keen on loyalty and had never betrayed them before. Well, not in any way that externally compromised them. The media never managed to get inside. Alexander Winton, however, did. She tries to remember anything that would imply Reef played a role larger than a watchdog...

And what about Rydan? The other Stratford brother.

No time.

Melanie had to get to Carlson as quickly as possible. Perhaps he could shed some light on the deadly implications of a shared connection. She turns down the lights as she stands by the door, tossing the datacard and the napkin into her purse.

Reef's confessions. Frank's instructions.

She would have plenty of time to ponder them.

As the shuttle idles on the platform, she leaves a message for Saga Judec.

"I appreciate the hospitality, High Commander yet there are leads I must follow elsewhere. I do not believe Corellia is in imminent danger but would advise that you remain vigilant. The Empire does not play by anyone's rules but their own. I'll contact you if anything changes. Til then."

She clicks off and pulls on the controls.

The shuttle rejoins traffic heading out of the city and into the darkened sky. Soon Corellia is behind her, systems calculating the fastest route to her destination. She inhales deeply, calming herself as the shuttle flares into hyperspace en route to Tatooine.



-TBC
Syren

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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #21 on: July 05, 2011, 09:52:10 AM »
Corellia

Orbital Command Platform

Quote
"I appreciate the hospitality, High Commander yet there are leads I must follow elsewhere. I do not believe Corellia is in imminent danger but would advise that you remain vigilant. The Empire does not play by anyone's rules but their own. I'll contact you if anything changes. Til then."

Judec listens to the message, a smile on his face.

"have her followed - I want to know what she knows.  she may think that we are on the same side, but I'd prefer to be ahead of her - and anyone else as much as possible. Also, keep a few eyes on Frank Farmer. I'd like to know what he's planning as wel."

"Yes, Commander"

Saga Judec turned his chair around to face the monitor

"Well?"

"As I've told you before, her investigations, her plannings - all are just a footnote.  The endgame is already set up.  She will return to Center Point.  Darth Kyja will go to Center Point.  They will fight. They will die.  Your skirmishes against the Empire will force Dementat to attack Corellia with as much of his strength as he can muster.  When he learns that his precious empress is dead, he will be in a weakened position, in Corellian space.  He and his admiral will be uncoordinated, and your new superior force will trap and destroy them.  The Empire doesn't use clones anymore - they cannot match your numbers."

"You haven't explained why Darth Kyja is coming to Center Point"

"You're going to lure her there - Kyja is out to destroy a former friend.  When you next speak with Melanie Masterson, you will offer to protect this friend, bringing her to Center Point Station."


"The pregnant one?"

"Yes - while the mother is expendable, the child is a key part in the prophesy.  Darth Kyja knows that for her and Dementat to reign, the child must die.  Jedi Masterson knows she must keep the child safe, before and after its birth.  Center Point is the best place for that."

"And you have no qualms about killing your daughter?"

The image in the screen paused for only a minute.  Saga Judec had hoped to catch his source off guard with the comment.  But the man simply smiled.

"As I've told you before - we all have our parts to play.  Karen Winton must die"

"And what about you - where do you end up in the end of the prophesy?"

"You need not worry about me, High Commander.  When the two jedi are dead and the empire crumbles, my own life or death will prove to be irrelevant.  You'll never hear or see from me again."

"And I should trust you why?"

"Because trusting me is how you've succeeded so far - and it is how you will ultimately win"

================================

Coronet City, CorSec Academy

Frank Farmer knew he was being tailed, a fact which made his travels that much more difficult,since he was about to go to a highly,classified base where if he was caught, he would likely disappear forever.  Not something he wanted to think about.  He had agreed to help Melanie, both for Corellia, which he loved, and for the memory of Valerie Gellar - whom he also loved.  Or something like love, at least.

As a CorSec veteran, practically the writer of most CorSec techniques, he was fairly skilled at eluding surveillance.  He had arranged to meet an old friend of his who still managed to hold a post in the academy.  that had gotten him into the facility.  Now he needed a way to get out undetected.

"Frank!  Good to see you!  I thought we'd never catch your face around here again"

"Well, things have changed.  My style of management wasn't wanted"

The man nodded

"A lot has changed around here. The whole program is different.  many of the older teachers are thinking of quitting rather than go along with the new system anymore"

"i think we need everyone where we can keep them for now.  Keep as many inside as possible.  Listen, I have a favor I need to ask you"

"Anything, director"

================================

A half hour later, Frank Farmer's tail watched him step down from CorSec Academy and turn away toward the former director's home.  Something seemed off about the way he was walking, and the tail began to follow more closely.

The man made his way into Farmer's apartment building, door security door closing behind him.  A minute later, an indicator light showed the tail that Farmer had entered his apartment.  Apparently, he was in for the night.

================================
CorSec Academy, Lanuching Bay 7
"Transport to Orbital Base Epsilon, leaving in 5 minutes"

The vessel had a low passenger list, but lots of cargo.  Even as they were finalizing the loading process, a shadowy figure managed to slip into the rear cargo hold and find itself a nook among the large freight

================================
Centerpoint Station

A supply vessel from Corellia was expected within a few hours.  'Training' exercises were proceeding as normal.  But Artemis had other things on his mind.  He knew what Judec was up to - at least, he though he did.  And he knew that Judec must be stopped. For this though, he needed an ally, and he decided it was time to find his missing friend.

Della had been sent on 'special assignment' and Artemis knew that she must be somewhere on CenterPoint.  He was exhausted now, trying to make it to all of his training so he wouldn't be caught missing, and using his few hours of breaks working on his real mission.  Luckily, the workload had been reduced. Apparently, the droids had enough feed now to give them the program information they needed.  A blessing and a curse in one.

Artemis had begun to be quite familair with the ventillation systems of the station, and now he used it to get inside a large restricted cooridor on the opposite side of the facility.  Dropping out of the vent, he found himself inside a bunker.  On either side of him, a long line of beds.  All looked eerily well pressed and empty, despite the late hour.  Cautiously, he made his way to the door of the bunker, opening it and stepping out.

There, a whole team of individuals, male and female, were conducting what could only be considered sparring matches.  A ring of individuals around two people fighting, bare hands and feet on a mat. No armour was being used.  Artemis slowly made his way to the outside of the ring. People were cheering for the two fighters, who were beating each other up pretty badly.  Artemis glanced around and noticed another disconcerting image.  Each member of the crowd had a smallcylindrical object attached to the back of their neck, a small LED light blinking from each.  What were they?  He turned his attention back to the fighters, watching the battle grow more intense. It was a woman and a man fighting, the woman's back was to him.  A hard kick by her sent him sprawling to the ground, and she lunged on top of him, knocking him onto his back.

The crowd began chanting "kill! kill! kill!  kill!"  Artemis watched in horror as the woman brought up an arm then slammed it down, as hard as she could, into the man's neck.  He was gasping for breathe as his windpipe was crushed, but the woman didn't seem to care.  She stood, raising arms in the air, triumphant.  She had killed the man.  She turned, triumphantly circling the crowd.  And it was when she turned that Artemis got the biggest shock if this display.'

the woman was Della.

TBC
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #22 on: July 08, 2011, 03:30:49 PM »
Centerpoint Station

Lower Levels

Artemis watched as Della triumphed after successfully murdering a man in a savage ring fight, while others cheered.  His shock was broken when he heard a silent bell ring, and an announcement

"All X-fighters, return to baracks"

Immediately, the cheering stopped and everyone turned, heading back to the barracks.  Artemis panicked, realizing they would see him. But infact, all of them seemed to ignore him, walking past him toward the baracks.  Della, having been in the ring, was toward the back of the line and Artemis was hoping to get her alone.  As her bloody figure moved forward toward the baracks, he grabbed her by the arm and swung her to face him.

"Della, it's me"

She offered only a blank stare, before pulling her arm, turning and walking away.  He watched as she disapeared into the baracks.  She hadn't even recognized him.  perhaps worse,she didn't seem cognizant, that jubilation of the fight had vanished with.

It was the signal - something about the command. But these were humans - real people!  What had Judec done to them.  Realizing his own time was limited before he might be found missing, he nevertheless decided to stick around, making his way to the baracks and standing inside, in a corner.  It was remarkable, watching them all lay down in bed, close their eyes and instantly fall asleep.

Della was off in a corner, her body cleaned off (apparently she had been hosed down) and she lay down and did the same.  Lights over each bed switched from red to green - and as soon as each of them was green, a light over the door shifted to red, and the lights over each bed shut off completely.

Each of the soldiers/subjects was asleep, and the doors were locked.

Artemis made his way toward Della, not sure if he could or should wake her.  She looked peaceful - too peaceful.  Glancing next to her, he saw a small IV running next to the bed, and saw, attached to the small device at Della's neck, a tube that connected to the IV.  Drugged to sleep, apparently.  he knew that the strange behavior had to be from that device.

Risking everything, he bent down and shut off the IV. Then he waited

It was a good half hour before he saw signs of activity - Della moved,then blinked her eyes open.

"What - where am I?"

She sounded groggy, but she was shaking her head, looking around, finally focusing on Artemis.

"Artemis... what are you ..."

Della's eyes went wide

"Oh my goodness!  Artemis!  They - they took me!  They're making me do things. Making me kill!"

Her hand moved to the back of her neck, where the IV connected to the device attached there.

"It's this thing - it takes away our voluntary action. Makes us act. .. differently. obediently."

She looked scared, looking at Artemis

"I don't want to go back to that - Artemis, i need your help"

He nodded

"I'm going to do everything I can - but I'm not sure what I can do on my own.  If I deactivate that device, they'll know someone was here and that will put us and the others in this room in danger"

Della looked betrayed, then nodded her head.  She knew what the implication was.  she had to go back under.

"We need a solution"

"Do you know who is controlling you?  Or where the control station is?"

Della shook her head

"Last I remember, I was told to report for special assignment - and then I just remember feeling groggy and sleepy as they installed this ... thing on me. I feel like I haven't been under my own will for weeks"

"You haven't.  Listen Della, I'm going to do whatever I can to help you. I promise. But I cannot stay here any longer"

Della nodded

"Please come back to visit me - I miss the company.  Wake me as often as you can"

With tears in her eyes, Della lay back down, closing her eyes.

"I'll see you when you wake up"

Artemis flipped back on the switch for the IV, and moments later, Della drifted off to sleep.

Artemis was shaking with fury, but didn't have time now to solve anything - he heard people coming from outside the bunker, and made his way, quick as he could, back to the vent he had come from. Closing it behind him just in time as the door light switched to green and it opened, a series of individuals in lab coats and CorSec uniforms entered the room, going from person to person, inspecting vitals.  At Della, they paused a bit longer, and Artemis watched, holding his breathe - had he left a sign of his presence?  But no, they moved on and soon left.

Artemis waited several minutes before he began his journey back to his own chamber. He now had a new task at hand. Free the slaves.
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #23 on: July 12, 2011, 09:09:17 AM »
Centerpoint Station

Lower Levels

Artemis slipped inside the dark room, constantly checking behind him.  Until now, he had been touring the lower, unmanned levels of Center Point Station, but now he needed to be in a place more populated. The computer control room was just a few levels down from the main deck, and generally required authorization to be used.  Artemis did not have such permission,but he needed answers.  So here he was in the middle of the night, breaking in to see what he could find.

The past weeks had taken a toll on him.  He was losing sleep, between the daily military routine and his nightly excursions.  But he felt it was necessary.  Necessary to help free Della and the others who were being remote-controlled. Necessary to stop the droids. Necessary to stop Judec.

Slowly making his way across the room to the terminal, lights in the room remaining off as he switched on the machine.  A soft hum as it came to life, and requested authorization.

Now to see if he was as skilled as he hoped.  Pulling from his pocket a small datapad with a slicer program, he extended a small cord into the computer unit, and set the program to run.

The datapad had numbers and symbols running across it at a fast pace, while Artemis typed in a few keys.  Minutes were taking what seemed foreverbefore a green light appeared, the code entered, and the machine opened its doors to him.

Now, what to look for.

He started by running a search for 'X-fighters' the title the loudspeaker had referred to Della and the others. Instantly, a number of hits came up, including a general description memo, which he opened.

Quote
MEMO
TO: Corellian High Command
From: Mishloach Manot, Director of Troop Enhancement Experimental Programs.
Re: X-Fighter Program

It is apparent that using humanoids as a mainstay of the Corellian Defense Force is necessary, given the population's current droid-phobia, and also a liability.  Humanoids are generally weaker than droids, and even the best trained of them are more disobedient than the general droid soldier.  the X-Fighter Program will resolve this problem.

Using neck implants, we have established a way of interfering with human synaptic connections between the brain and the rest of the body, allowing us to control the actions and emotions of test subjects.  Initial test subjects were those classified as 'troublemakers' and they have proven extremely receptive to the technology.  Subjects behave without moral imperative or any form of hesitation in performing ordered tasks, including murder, torture, promiscuity, or self-mutilation.  subjects have even had emotions modified, guaranteeing that their behavior would seem 'normal' to outsiders.

The implant itself is a small cylindrical object that can be attached at the back of the neck, though visible, it is not in the way.  It is activated and deactivated remotely and runs on a non-carcinogenic battery system that lasts up to twenty years, and can easily be replaced.  A small incission in the subject's neck allows the implant to connect to the appropriate spinal and brain cells, and the same incision allows easy intravenous drug insertion.

Subjects have been made to run for 16-22 hours at a time with the implant active, followed by a rest period where they are induced to sleep with intravenous drugs and the implant is temporarily deactivated.  Brainwaves indicate no damage to neural systems, but we have found that the implants being active make it difficult for the subjects to receive REM sleep, necessary to their other biological functions.

Removal of the implant is possible, but difficult, and requires a standard surgical procedure.  Attempts to remove the implant otherwise could leave a subject paralyzed, though this has not been tested.  In the event that the signal transmitting commands to the implants is terminated while the implants are active, tests indicate no adverse affects, and the subjects will remain in a temporary 'stunned' state until either the signal returns or normal brain activity reactivates (which could take anywhere from 1 to 20 minutes).

In addition to the implant, subjects of the X-Fighter Program have been injected with various performance enhancers, making them stronger than standard, nonenhanced soldiers.  They are more resilient and heal faster when wounded, can run faster and longer, are resistent to lower level stun weaponry, and are the most formidable humanoids in the confederation fleet.

I request a continuation of the program, increasing the subjects military practice training in addition to our normal testing.  We are also prepared to expand the program to additional subjects who fit the necessary qualifications, including other advanced soldiers on the Center Point Station.

As for recommendations, I recommend that the X-Fighters ultimately be integrated into the fleet and used when interacting with humans, in or out of Corellain space, while droid forces should remain mannning vessels, and acting only in no-prisoner warfare scenarios.

As always, I am available if further detail is required.

Mishloach Manot,
Director of Troop Enhancement Experimental Programs.

Artemis read this over with a grim look on his face.  Well, that at least explained what Della was going through. Apparently, they didn't know or didn't care that the individuals were fully aware of what they were being made to do.

But now Artemis needed to find out how to stop it all. find that signal that they were using to command the 'X-Fighters.' so that he could shut it off. He also needed more information about the droids being built in the levels below. He began searching the files some more, unaware as an individual approached from behind him.

"Well, well - what have we got here"

Artemis, startled, turned abruptly, to face whoever was there.  he was unarmed, but he did know hand to hand combat, and the room was small - maybe he could knock the guy out before making a run for it?  But that would be the end - he'd need to escape, once they saw his face, or he'd be killed - or made into the next 'X-Fighter'

But Artemis dropped his guard, shocked as he was to see who was there.

"Director?"

"You can call me Frank.  I think you and I have a mission in common"

TBC



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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #24 on: July 18, 2011, 02:21:18 PM »
Eclipse, Imperial-Controlled Outpost/Mining Colony
Corellian/Imperial Border, Deep Core


Along with Tarkin's Fang, Eclipse had nothing growing on it, and its value as a system was based entirely on its location.  Over the years, the Empire had carved into the rock of a planet huge holes and caves, laying down flooring and placing airtight portholes.A substance known as plastiform was used to mold and fill in gaps,creating a space safe from the vacuum of space.

Eclipse was situated in the center of a large asteroid field, and the planetoid's surface also housed the key reason for establishing the base - mining equipment.  Asteroids were mined for metals and ores which were brought back to the planet's surface, sorted out in a refinement process and then shipped - carefully - out of the asteroid field and into the empire at large.

Until recently, Eclipse had been home to only a small defensive force, enough for those on the planet to have time to escape.  The PDFs were small,nubile craft that could navigate the asteroid field, and one or two larger capital ships that would circle the outskirts of the field, and mindfulof straying asteroids as much as the threat of oncoming ships.

With the Corellian threat though, changes had been made recently - not because of what Eclipse had (though it had a fair storage of valuable resources) but because of its key location.  eclipse lay on the path to Byss. And so on Imperial orders, the defenses there had been increased, with over two dozen auxiliary craft and several squads of fighters based on the planet's surface, and nearly a full size system squadron - including an imperial star destroyer - that now patrolled in circles around the field.

Mining operations continued with fighter escorts, and a particular mining run was in progress.  The small vessel with a pointed drilling nose  eased its way over an asteroid, clawlike fingers grasping so it could position itself, finding its target, the drill began spinning as it bit into the rock.

Boom - in a ball of fire, the mining ship had vanished and rock was flying everywhere, hitting one of the two fighter escorts and sending it spiraling into another asteroid.  Another explosion as the fighter hit, sending more rocks everywhere, the second fighter on escort regaining his trajectory and looking around frantically as space went silent.

"This is fighter 00-91B.  We have had an explosion. Correction, two explosions. Weve lost the mining ship and escort 00-91A.  No enemies sighted"

The signal was garbled with asteroid interference, but a message came back promptly.

"00-91B, this is command.  Run a visual scan of the area.  We are sending out a patrol to assist you. Stay on your guard"

"Understood, command."

the pilot skirted around the area, careful to avoid the new dust that had formed from the explosions. what had caused them?  Then he saw it a small filament of metal remains, a metal that was not in the asteroid rocks.

"Command, 00-91B.  I think the asteroids were rigged with something.  I've got on my readout small metal components, not native to the region."

The fighter slowed down as he circled the small debris of filaments closer up.

"Definitely some circuitry in there, cannot quite make it out."

Inching closer to get a better look,the fighter was about to come to a full stop.

Another explosion, and the fighter was gone.


A new shower of rocks sprayed out in all directions, and the reinforcement fighters on their way pulled back.

"What happened?"

"Another explosion - he got too close?"

"Or something hit him"

By now, alarms were starting to sound in the fleet - losing one or two small things in an asteroid field was not totally uncommon, but this was starting to seem too deliberate.

"Command, this is Patrol Leader, we have seen the other explosion and - wait, Command - command, I think we have bogies"

The fighters watched as a series of asteroids, having been moving in what appeared to be a totally random pattern, now began moving steadily toward them.

"Command, I think some of the asteroids are being used to mask bogies. They are coming straight at us"

The particular asteroids, all small, were picking up speed.

"Patrol Squadron, this is leader - free to open fire"

The fighters began spraying laser fire at the oncoming asteroids.  One hit, and there was another explosion, the others kept coming.  More firing, more explosions as one by one they aimed and targeted and destroyed the oncoming bogies.

Of course, they were still in the middle of an asteroid field, and rocks of all kinds were floating around them.  they were paying so much attention to the floaters, none seemed to realize a fairly large asteroid that was pummeling toward them.

With a, half the squadron had been flattened against the new intruder, the others scrambling with just enough time. No explosion, but now this asteroid was turning toward the base.

"Command, large bogie, heading toward Eclipse Station"
"Take it out"
"Trying, Command"

It now seemed that the once empty space was filled with enemies, and the remainders of the squadron were watching all sides as asteroids began chasing them, and they were chasing the large one, firing at it in hopes of slowing it down.  From behind it, they could now see a small, barely visible ploom of exhaust, coming from what appeared to be a crater of the asteroid.

"Target its engine"

Zooming downward now, the asteroid was pummeling toward the entrance to Eclipse Station.

"Activate Station shielding"

"Somethingis jamming our signal sir - it's not going up!"

"Prepare for impact!"

the asteroid plunged into the base, sirens blaring as air began to billow outward.

"We have depressurization!  Seal off internal areas!"

Systems though were malfunctioning, a result of the crash or something more sinister.

Those still onboard were sealing their pressurized suits and heading to more secure locations, deep within the facility.  Fighters were now circling overhead, trying to assess damage.


And that is when the real assault began.

Far away from the planet itself, the imperial fleet was now watching and waiting.  they had a feeling they knew what was coming. Shields were up, weapons were online.

Four dozen corellian vessels appeared out of hyperspace.  Without a moment's hesitation, they began letting loose their firepower, as Corellian Fighters zoomed out into defensive posturing.

Soon, the space was filled with cross-fire, fighters, and battle debris.

"This is command - send out a distress signal, all frequencies. Let Byss know we have been attacked"

"Trying too, Commander.  They appear to be blocking our signal"
"Impossible - our transmitter is"
"Destroyed - sir, the first thing they did was take out our best transmitters. We are using backup signals."
"Smart enemies.  order two hyperspace capable craft, small, to enter hyperspace and make for the nearest imperial base"

"Yes sir"

Two assault transports were soon moving as quietly as they could away from the battle.   It was to no avail.  The Corellian fleet spotted them, and soon, their engines and hyperdrives were disabled, leaving fighters to finish them off.

"Sir, no distress signal sent."
"what is our status"

"We aren't destroyed yet sir - but they have more firepower than us.  Our ship is already losing its backup shielding, and we have lost some smaller frigates, not to mention fighters"

"Have they made any demands?"
"No, Commander"
"Order all ships to retreat immediately.  Hyperspace coordinates for Tarkin's Fang.  We'll regroup and then return."

"What about the base?"

The commander glanced out the viewport at the darkspot, deep amidst the asteroid fields.  he turned to his executive officer.

"We'll come back to avenge them.  We were not prepared for this attack like we should have been.  The Corellians were too ready for us.  No, we have to retreat. Give the order. Recall what fighters we can and then get us out of here"

"Yes, Commander"

It was another two minutes before the ships were ready for hyperspace.  Originally more even in numbers, the larger and more durable Corellian ships had started reducing imperial numbers, such that only about half of the imperial fleet remained, mostly its larger craft.

Disappearing into hyperspace, the commander sat gravely in his chair.

"Prepare a report of the battle and have i-"

He suddenly felt himself flung forward as the ship lurched.  then booms and thuds. sparks flew in the command center as he commander tried rising to a stand.

'Report"

"Sir, it appears we've been pulled out of hyperspace"
"By what"
"artificial gravity well sir. might be a pulse mass mine, but its signature isn't clear.  sir, our exit seems to have triggered several proximity mines"

More explosions, louder this time.

"How many"
"Dozens -maybe hundreds.  We are sustaining heavy damage sir.  Already, we are suffering breaches on many levels"

More explosions, still louder.

Fireballs outside indicated the loss of several ships.

"Get us out of this gravity well mess, NOW!  Send any distress signal we can."
"Trying, Commander.  Transmitters are all offline"

The space outside lit up again with laser fire - the corellian fleet had waited only a few minutes, letting the mines do their work before coming back. to finish off the fleet.

Huge chunks of metal broke free of the imperial star destroyer, and a final series of blastes disconnected the bridge and command center from the ship's triangle.

Not long after, the last of the imperial ships exploded into fire.

TBC
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #25 on: July 22, 2011, 10:15:26 AM »
((OOC NOTE: My ship numbers in the memo are based loosely on the size of a Sector Fleet http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Imperial_Fleet.  It is meant to be nearly twice that size, as this is for a full campaign against the Empire.))

Centerpoint Station

Artemis watched as Frank Farmer sat at the keyboard, typing like a pro and seemingly whizzing past security walls.

"Back in the day, CorSec Directors were given a great deal of leeway.  And the directors were given access codes to just about everything.  Override codes.  Those things don't just disappear.  They are passed from CorSec Director to CorSec Director. When Saga Judec came into power, I may have neglected to mention those passcodes to him.  He doesn't know about them and that is to our advantage"

Artemis appraised the man as he sat there.  Farmer looked dirty, and his face was aged more than someone his age should have been, but he was physically in excellent shape.

Apparently Farmer had snuck onboard the station to learn what Judec was up to.  And how it tied in to what he kept calling the 'prophesy.'  Artemis understood little of it, but he was young and didn't know much about these things.

"There we go.  I think this will be helpful"

Artemis stepped toward the monitor, looking over Farmer's shoulder at the screen.

"What is it?"

"Take a look"

Quote
MEMO
TO: Corellian High Command
From: Anderwin Tonalex, Director of Droid Programming
Re: Droid Construction

As you have indicated, the facilities onboard Centerpoint Station are insufficient for establishing a fully functional droid fighting force that is capable of maintaining our expanding fleet.

A Standard sized Corellian Dreadnaught, the largest fleet vessel in the Confederation fleet, requires over 38,000 crew and can hold almost 10,000 troops.  Due to the intelligence level of both crew droid and our soldier droids, We have previously recommended a 10% human, 90% droid ratio for maximum effect.

Our current estimates are that over 40 such dreadnaughts, with over 4000 large, medium and small capital ships, will be needed for an assault on the Imperial Remnants.

  Current construction rates indicate we are near reaching this goal.  As a result, we will need approximately 9,000,000 crew and 2,400,000 troops - translating to 8,100,000 crew droids and 2,160,000 droid soldiers.

We understand that there are a number of facilities, spaced throughout the galaxy, that were formally functional as droid construction facilities.  Though many of these are outside of Corellian Space, we believe that we can utilize these facilities.

I seek authority to reactivate the droid plants in the following locations:

-Naboo, near the city of Harte Secur
-Kamino, Bio-clone development center
-Geonosis, Droid Construction Plant
-Holowan, PhlutDroid Station
-Mechis III, Droid Construction Plant
-Lok, Nym’s Factory Compound

Each facility can be brought online without the knowledge of the local populace or government. I believe that with these facilities operational, we will be able to produce the required numbers to staff our fleets.

With your authorization, I shall proceed immediately.

Anderwin Tonalex,
Director of Droid Programming.


=============================================

MEMO
TO: Anderwin Tonalex, Director of Droid Programming
From: Corellian High Command
Re: Droid Construction

Director Tonalex,

You are authorized to obtain control of the following assets, and begin immediate construction to supplement our droid forces:

-Naboo, near the city of Harte Secur
-Kamino, Bio-clone development center
-Geonosis, Droid Construction Plant
-Holowan, PhlutDroid Station
-Mechis III, Droid Construction Plant
-Lok, Nym’s Factory Compound

Be advised that the Confederation will not be able to support you should your efforts be discovered.

Transports will be provided to move droids to necessary locations and fleet assignments.

What is the status of our droid control transmitters?

Corellian High Command


==============================================

MEMO
TO: Corellian High Command
From: Anderwin Tonalex, Director of Droid Programming
Re: Droid Construction

Our facilities at these locations will be up and running shortly.  They require minimal supervision, as most of the functions are automatic.  To preserve secrecy, we have set up only droid soldiers as overseers and guards of these facilities, so no humanoid personnel are within.

The droid control transmitters, all located in the Centerpoint Station Command Console, have been upgraded to meet the capacity necessary.  using Centerpoint's advanced systems will allow the signals to be broadcast throughout the galaxy.  This will allow humanoid crew to be kept in the dark on the droids, and allow maintaining these forces indefinitely from a central location.

The Command Console is also the location where we have the control transmitters for the X-Fighter program.  A scant few individuals can command the forces from this one location, which will allow continued secrecy and a full screen from the Corellian public.

As always, i am your humble servant

Anderwin Tonalex
Director of Droid Programming



"Who is this Tonalex person?"

Farmer shook his head

"I'm not sure - but he seems to be the key to what's going on here.  We also know what we are looking for.  We need to find the Command Console here on Center Point Station, and use it to destroy these droid forces.  I cannot believe he's using droids.  I didn't even believe it until i saw it.  I saw what you saw, Artemis. An army of our worst nightmares.  How could Judec do this?  He's not stupid!  He was a great military leader, and now, he seems to have let power go to his head."

Frank Farmer turned to Artemis.

"We are going to destroy the command console, wherever it is, and make sure that none of those droids are able to do what Judec wants them to do"

"Isn't it too late? I've heard the war has already started"

"No - those were just opening moves.  Judec's numbers - the size of the fleet - His plans are much bigger. He is positioning himself now, and I think he plans on destroying the Imperial fleet in one fell swoop.  And then taking what's left of the Empire for himself."

"Well, I cannot say I'm a fan of the Empire - but isn't the Emperor smart enough to see that coming?"

Farmer frowned.

"Normally? I imagine so.  But Judec is playing with fire.  It's all starting to make sense"

"I don't understand"

"Judec told ... well, it's a long story, but Saga Judec told a jedi named Melanie Masterton that Karen Winton and Mara Gellar-"

"you mean the imperial princess, and the one labeled as a Corellian traitor?"

"Yes, those two.  Judec told Masteron that they would come to Center Point Station.  I think Judec plans on using them as bait.  When they are here, he'll try using them to bait the Empire here - into a trap."

"But how does Judec know they'll come to Centerpoint? What is here that they want?"

Farmer shook his head.

"I don't know - it has something to do with that prophesy.  Let's see if we can find something here."

And he began typing in.

P-E-R-S-E-P-H-O-N-E-A

TBC
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #26 on: August 24, 2011, 10:49:56 AM »
Corellia

Orbital Command Platform

"Sir, we are getting reports of the size of the Imperial Fleet stationed at Byss.  Our current estimates indicate that it is well larger than our currently commissioned force.  Sources indicate that the Empire had collected much of its assault fleets and positioned them in a defensive position around the imperial capital."

"Is there any indication of movement?"
"None that we can tell sir."
"Thank you, lieutenant"


The comm was switched off, and High Commander Judec turned his chair toward the individual sitting across from him.

"You told me the Empire is planning an attack.  Our sources say otherwise"
"Your sources are out of date.  The Empire is planning an attack coming from the south"
"They wouldn't dare - not with the success we have had.  They are too afraid of leaving Byss under defended, or sending a fleet into a trap"
"Do you really believe Dementat is that frightened?  He has suffered a number of defeats, and their border is exposed - hence the imperial recall - but the victories thus far have been of small outposts, small tactical forces.  Dementat is looking for a time and place to strike back.  He assumes, correctly, that your fleet is concentrated on the imperial border, and that your southern most worlds are under defended.  While you grab small outposts, the Empire could hit a heavily populated rich world, and you'll be scrambling.  If you catch Dementat unprepared, in the south, when he attacks Duro, it could halt any imperial counter attack, and leave him in a fetal position until you are ready to take Byss itself."

"How do you know that Dementat will hit Duro?"

"My sources are better than yours.  You know that already"

Judec shifted in his seat, frowning and scratching his chin as he thought about this

"So we plan an ambush at Duro, and wipe out the imperial assault fleet"

"No"

"No?"

"You are thinking too much like a military leader - crush the fleet, end the assault, gain the advantage.  Much more must come in to play.  We need Dementat to lose the battle at Duro, yes.  But only just barely.  We don't want him to hide at Byss. We want him to commit more resources to an attack. and then eek out a victory."

"You want him to take Duro?  The world is -"

"Yes - the Empire will take Duro.  Giving them the chance to hit more primary targets.  Corellia, and Center Point Station"

"The last thing I want is the Imperial starfleet hovering over Corellia.  The people"

"Dementat won't hit Corellia.  His goal will be Center Point. Because of the weapon. The Centerpoint weapon will be ready for use very, very soon.  soon after we let Dementat take Duro, we will use it to anihilate his force there.  That, if nothing else will force him to hit Center Point.  That is when we will reveal just how large and ready our fleet is"

Judec shook his head.

"I think Dementat is smarter than that.  He'll sense the set up.  The same move was used by Emperor Palpatine to lure the rebellion to Endor.  Put a high profile target that must be hit in place, and wait.  He won't fall for that trap"

"Normally, Commander, you are right.  But we do not anticipate Dementat thinking rationally.  The weapon will not be the only thing at Center Point.  That is where his betrothed will meet her doom.  Soon, Melanie Masterson will seek refuge, and you will bring her and her charge to Center Point.  that will set things in motion."

"How do I know you are right, Alexander?"

"I always am"

TBC
« Last Edit: August 24, 2011, 10:54:08 AM by Medivh »
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #27 on: September 01, 2011, 11:43:57 PM »
Centerpoint Station

Where once was hope, there now seemed despair.  Progress was like molasses, and for each step forward that Artemis and Frank Farmer made, it seem they took another step back.

For one thing, Artemis was still conducting operations, and Farmer was still in hiding.  Artemis' schedule had been intensified as he practiced combat missions until he was exhausted.  And still, at the end of the day, he couldn't go to sleep.  He had to sneak through old service passages to bring food to Frank Farmer who had now spent weeks in cramped quarters.  Even at night, security was tight, and though they had managed to get a fairly wide range of motion, they had not found the command center onboard.

Plus, security was getting tighter. Artemis took longer to reach Farmer as security patrols increased and he had to choose alternate routes each night to avoid running into sensory trip wires.  Both Artemis and Frank Farmer looked the worse for the wear, and Artemis's compatriots had begun to notice.

Farmer spent his days keeping an eye on what was going on, traveling through air shafts on the Center Point Station to reach upper and lower levels.  Of course, there was only so far he could go - security measures ensured you had to pass checkpoints to circle around the reverse side of the giant cylinder.

Both had to be more careful.

Artemis had dared to visit Della only twice more, but between the drugs injected into her and the trauma of not having control of her own body or mind, she was little comforted by his presence.

It was now evening again, and Artemis had just slipped through the airshaft that would lead him past a CD Guard.  The shaft carried him to a central air circulation system, where Frank Farmer was sitting nestled next to a fan.

"Evening, Artemis"

Artemis just nodded his head, before tossing Farmer a bag. Farmer pulled it open and grimaced, but took out the stale wafers and water bottle without complaint.

"I think I figured out what's happening, Artemis."  He paused only long enough to take a bite.

"Center Point isnt just being used to experiment with weapons - I think it is being set up as a weapon itself"

Artemis took a seat next to Farmer.

"I don't understand - I thought the weapon was destroyed.  Can't be rebuilt"

"That was the word at least - but if Judec even gets a small portion of the primary weapon online, he will have a huge power at his disposal.  You know what Center Point did, right?  It uses powerful tractor beam and gravity well technology.  It actually can move mass objects in space - objects as large as planets.  Or, it could use gravity to crush things in space.  Stronger than the Death Star, because it could have a huge range"

"What makes you think it's being activated"

"Glad you asked, Artemis - take a look at this"

Farmer handed Artemis a datapad with a small holo display.  A blue shimmering image of Center Point lit up, hovering above the pad.

"An area of the station that had been dormant and labeled as under construction was just completed, and recently went back online.  The central core of the station has been using huge amounts of energy, and the gravity there does not match the gravity anywhere else on the station."

Artemis watched the holo image change as different sensory readings displayed themselves.

"Judec is going to use it to destroy Byss?"

"Byss is too far.  Judec doesn't have the manpower or the intelligence to make the weapon reach farther than what is currently Corellian controlled space.  But I do think Judec is going to use it to destroy the Imperial fleet.

"If it's all Corellian space, it would sound like a defensive weapon."

"Maybe, unless it was used in trap.  Or if it was moved. Center Point hasn't moved in millenia, but that doesn't mean it is impossible.  I have seen far less likely things come to pass.  Plus, if he manages to get the power systems at higher capacity, the reach could be extended - maybe as far as Byss, maybe the capital of the republic.  Either way, the gravity well could crush any ship that opposed Judec."

Artemis shook his head.

"We need to-"

"We need to change our plans, Artemis.  I know Della is important to you.  But this is something bigger. We need to stop Judec from activating the weapon."

Artemis shook his head

"It's all connected Frank.  The weapon, the X-Fighter Program, the droids.  We need to hit them all to stop Judec.  I think we need a bigger force.  I say we free Della and her X-Fighters, and have them help us take down the droid factory.  And the weapon"

"They'll be weaker if we try, and they might die if Judec's forces find out"

"They are practically dead already.  This needs to be done."

Frank sighed.  Too much to do. Too little time. Too little access.

"All right. As soon as we find the command center, you and I are going down to the basement level, and we are going to set those soldiers free.  And then we're going to take Judec's control of this station away from him.  You had best get going - they'll be missing you"

Artemis nodded and made his way out of the shafts, back toward his chamber.

He opened the door and gasped.

There, standing in front of his bed, in full combat gear, was Della and her fellow soldiers.  There was a semi-vacant stare in their eyes, but each brandished a weapon. In front of them was Artemis's platoon commander.

"Artemis - we've been waiting for you.  It seems you've been breaking curfew quite a bit.  We've decided its time for you to be reassigned"

TBC
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #28 on: September 08, 2011, 09:42:41 AM »
Duro, Southern World of the Corellian Confederation

The planet Duro did not stand out for being overly rich or poor.  It's biggest strategic value was in it's industrial plants that dotted the planet, the orbital cities - for the population to avoid the polluted world created by those plants.  And the fact that it lay in the Core, just south of the historical Corellian Sector.

Duro had been a part of the Old Republic, the Galactic Empire, the New Republic, and had been independent for several years.  After Phage was destroyed the first time, the Corellian government signed an alliance with the other worlds in the Corellian Sector, and included Duro.  They agreed to aid each other in their mutual defense.
Before Saga Judec rose to power, he led a fleet stationed at Duro, keeping a watchful eye on pirates from the southern galaxy that had fallen into anarchy.  His fleet had heard the distress call from Corellia, and he decisively moved his fleet to defend that world.

With the formation of the Corellian Confederation, Duro had been a world that had joined willingly, and their industry had been a major source of resources - processed foods, various metal ores, as well as a shipyard construction facility interspersed among the orbital cities.

The native population of Duros had been reduced in size significantly, and now made up about 40% of the total population, the rest, mainly humans from the Corellian Sector.

Planetary Defenses for the world had been built up since the New Republic era, and even more so under Saga Judec's rule of the Confederation.  A number of Golan platforms were interspersed in orbit, and the ships on patrol included several Corellian Dreadnaughts.

This was the target of the imperial's first counter-attack on the Confederation.

It started with a number of probe droids, carefully analyzing the current location of the ships.  Five minutes later, the imperial fleet flashed into orbit, and began firing immediately.

"Focus all firepower on the Corellian Dreadnaughts"

Admiral Saevia was sitting in the command seat of the Palida Mors, eyes flickering over status reports and holographic images as they were rendered.

Streams of TIE fighters of every shape and size flew out of docking bays, putting up a screen as turbolaser fire began lancing out.

Space heated up, and the Corellian ships all began sending out fighters of their own, quickly taking on defensive postures to protect their mother ships from the more numerous TIEs.

Golan platforms began to respond now as well, firing off from their stationary positions into the heart of the imperial fleet.

"Status report"

"Admiral, two Corellian Dreadnaughts have been destroyed, two more are coming to bear.  Several Star Destroyers have shields below 80%, One Imperial Star Destroyer, the Warrior, has announced shields are down and that hull integrity is about 60%"

"Order the Warrior to withdraw out of the fray, run a damage assessment, and make any repairs they are able to to, focusing on getting shields back online."

"Yes Admiral"

With the order given, one star destroyer began to turn about, it's thrusters facing oncoming Corellian ships as several more star destroyers covered its retreat, filling in the vacated space.  The ship was moving deeper out of orbit, when suddenly, alarms began to ring.

"Admiral, we are picking up multiple Corellian ships exiting hyperspace, many large-class Corellian Dreadnaughts.  Admiral, the Warrior has been destroyed, and they are opening fire as they move to surround us."

Saevia nodded downward.  It was as she feared. the Corellians had prepared an ambush.

"Maintain the attack - order fighters on attack runs to return to combat space patrol.  Contact the reserve assault fleet and have them enter hyperspace at once"

"Yes, Admiral"

Saevia glanced back up now, watching as the holographic displays filled with dozens more images, many of them in red, indicating enemy.

"Order all ships to keep fighting and to protect their shielding."

"Shall we send a message to the Emperor?"

Saevia paused for a minute.

"No.  We will let the Emperor know when we've won the world.  That is what he expects of us, and that is what we will achieve."

=========================================================================================
Corellian Admiral Booma had received notice of the imperial attack and smiled.  They wouldn't know what they were getting themselves into.

"All ships, enter hyperspace for Duro, set exit for Coordinates 66-49-329, and weapons free upon arrival."

Once they had exited hyperspace, they found one ship, a damaged imperial star destroyer, moving toward them

"How convenient - destroy it"

The weakened vessel had put up little fight as it imploded under the assault of several Corellian Dreadnaughts.  Then Admiral Booma assessed the situation.

"The imperials were concentrating on taking out the defenses.  Let's use that against them.  Begin the assault, and move ships to surround them.  We'll let none of them escape."

Admiral Booma smiled as he watched his fleet turn the tide against the imperials, and he promptly submitted a message to the High Commander, indicating their progress.
=========================================================================================
Corellia, High Command Platform

"The Corellian fleet is surrounding the imperial attack force, Commander.  We will make short work of them"
"Excellent, Admiral Booma.  Keep me informed"
"Yes sir"

As the comm was disconnected, High Commander Judec turned back to the other in the room.

"It will be a shame to lose Admiral Booma. He was a loyal admiral and a capable tactician"

The man shrugged.

"Easily replaceable.  And necessary.  When the imperial relief fleet comes, they will think they outsmarted us by just a bit.  We'll need to take casualties for it to be believable"

"Some of those soldiers are fresh out of training."

"Don't get sentimental on me now, Commander.  Soldiers are machines.  The only difference is how they were made"

TBC
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Medivh
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Re: Corellia Shines
« Reply #29 on: September 13, 2011, 10:04:41 AM »
Duro, Southern World of the Corellian Confederation

Corellian Admiral Booma was proud of his progress, slowly breaking the imperial fleet, one by one destroying their precious star destroyers.  It felt good.  Even his own losses seemed almost trivial next to his successes.

"Send a report to high command letting them know of our progress, and that the imperial fleet will not escape"

"Yes sir - sir!  we are picking up new enemy signals!"

Booma's smile disappeared as he walked over to the display.  Then it became a total frown.

"Another imperial fleet - how could they have prepared one so soon?  They must have been on standby ..."

"Sir, the second imperial fleet is moving into position and has begun engaging our outer ships.  Orders sir?"

The admiral shook his head "request orders from high command"

"Yes sir"

The image of High Commander Judec appeared on screen.

"Admiral?"

"Sir, the Empire has sent in a second fleet to reinforce their first attack.  We are outgunned sir.  Shall we pull back?"

"I understand admiral.  You must stay the course.  I am moving to send in additional forces as quickly as possible"

"Sir, I do not know if we will be able to hold out that long"

"Focus your fire power and destroy the Imperial command ship. that will give you more time"

"That will take a large amount of firepower, sir.  it will reduce our defensive abilities"

"Nonetheless, that is the action that should be taken.  Destroying the command structure will send the empire into disarray and provide us with more time to send reinforcements.  You have your order admiral. Do not disappoint me"

The comm was shut off and Admirall Booma's stern face turned his XO

"Order the entire fleet to concentrate power on the Palida Mors"

=============================================================
Admiral Saevia sighed in relief as the familiar wedged star destroyers of the reinforcement fleet appeared behind the corellians and began opening fire.

"That should be sufficient to give us a clear victory.  All weapons free. Let's wipe the floor with these Corellians"

"Yes admiral."

The battle became a fierce weaving of laser and missile fire, the Corellians getting the brunt of it, or so it seemed.  Suddenly though, their tactics changed - the corellians stopped acting defensively and instead, began rushing their fleet deeper into the imperial line.

"What are they doing?"

A shudder went through the ship came as an answer. Followed by another, and another

"They are targeting us.  What is the status of our shields?"

"The Palida Mors has shields at 60%, admiral, but its starting to drop pretty quickly"

"Order increased Starfighter protection, bring more power to shields, and increase battery fire against anything that comes close."

Another shudder, and then from the viewport, they saw a wave of literally hundreds of missiles aiming for the ship.

"Admiral!"

"Sithspawn!"

lasers managed to stop about half of the missiles, but the rest broke through, exploding against the ship.

"Shields are down admiral.  All imperial ships are now working to destroy the corellian fleet, and we are making fair work of it, but ... well admiral, they seem to have their sights set on us"

"Keep fighting"

Another wave of missile fire shook the ship even harder.

"Hull breaches on outer levels"

"Seal off any breached levels, move all power from engines and hyperdrive to weapons"

That order itself brought silence

"Admiral, we won't be able to pull out"

Saevia nodded her head

"No we won't. Put all power to weapons and fire everything we've got. Make sure all auxiliary and fighter craft are deployed"

The imperial ships continued battering in on the corellians as they continued hitting the command ship.  chunks of metal went flying.

Admiral Saevia stared out the viewport, and a lieutenant came up to her.

"Admiral, we have a shuttle ready for you"

She shook her head

"No, lieutenant.  I am staying with the ship.  Have my XO board the vessel and fill it with as many troops as possible, then send it out.  Then send out the evacuation order"

"Admiral ..."

"all gunners are to maintain their posts and keep firing.  The bridge crew is relieved"

The lieutenant backed up, stood at attention, and saluted, before moving back to his post, and sending out the last orders.  The bridge crew made their way out, leaving Saevia alone to monitor the ship and the battle.  She watched the status board as escape pods launched out and were picked up by other imperial vessels.  and watched as more and more ship levels breached, sirens beginning to whine before she cut them off.

She moved to the comm unit, and flipped on a private message.

"Emperor Dementat,

I am sorry I have failed you.  I will always love you.

Goodbye"


Message sent, she moved back to her command chair and sat down, staring out the viewport in front of her.

==========================================
The last escape pods managed to get out, the XO landing on another star destroyer, as the Palida Mors began to break up, whole chunks falling away before an explosion engulfed what remained.

The XO, now commander of the fleet, reached the bridge of the destroyer and opened a comm.

"The Corellians have killed our admiral.  Now they will pay.  Destroy them all"

Both sides suffered more casualties, but it was not long before the Corellian fleet was wiped out, as were all of its orbital defenses.  Landing vessels were sent to the orbital cities to secure those as well and a message was sent back to Byss.

Duro was ours.

TBC
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Medivh
SWSF: Legacy of the Force
May the Force be with you