Chapter Three

[Quantum Rain]

First topic message reminder :

As the forum auto-splits topics every 50 pages, the next topics will be named further chapters accordingly. This is chapter three, guys, KEEP IT UP!

Post.
POST.
POST!

~Jediluigi

________________________________________________

--Yaga Minor--

“Unfortunately, they did not have one.” He stated, looking over the janitor’s shoulder to confirm his directions mentally. Now there was just the matter of blending in without magic…

--Unknown World--

Leon walked up cautiously toward the creature, pistol ready in his free hand as he kept himself aware of his surroundings. So it takes a shot to the head to kill them. He thought, as he used the opportunity provided by the creature to learn how to combat his potential enemy.

--Gothis Orbit--

The Hive Ship activates its telekinetic powers once more, managing to deflect the torpedoes utilizing similar abilities to the Rachni. The Collective fleet presses on still, taking light losses via the Thanix cannons by comparison to the Turians.

--Gothis Land--

Despite the Collective Troops hunkering in and luring the enemy to them, several were still dieing, while some managed to put up a fight.

--Charad--

The pilot looked at the kiwi incredulously, as if annoyed. She hands the drawing to the kiwi, as if emphasizing it.

--Konnsallann Station--

Cross was annoyed, at first, to the interruption, but then intrigued by the report she overheard. She remained silent, however, waiting to see if anyone would even remember her presence and what they would say in explanation.

--Bladnir--

(On hold until JL either gets Victoria II or managed to talk to me on Skype to discuss where to go from here.)

[Wynn]

--Anima Prime--

"That's great!" She said, smiling brightly. "But hey, I've got to head to the medbay to treat the soldiers. Remember that promise I made you to keep that other side of you from getting out of control? I'd like to continue that therapy."

--Unknown World--

"Heh, probably, but I always look up at the sky to hopefully see what they see." Xirce said. Memories rose up in his mind, as he recalled that, in the past, he used to look up at the sky several times. He and some others he didn't recognize now.

Lae smiled. "No problem," He replied cheerfully. "I wouldn't want him pooping on my party, now would I?" He set his soda to the side and crossed his arms and rested them on the table. He closed his eyes, bowed his head slightly, and let his mind go clear so no stray thoughts would impede her work.

When Lara would look into his mind, she would find that all the barriers she had raised from before had fallen. There was nothing containing the entity that had hid in his mind... only, now there was nothing to contain.

--Unknown World--

Xyphus shook his head. "Why would you even bring that up then?" He antagonized.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*The League ships blank-fire their cannons to acknowledge the salute, and the Rachni ship sends an impression of warm camaraderie to the Rotarran as well. Palaven Orbital Command then directs the Bird of Prey to a berth on the League's headquarters, next to the Hive vessel.*

*The "Anjian" ship's enormous size gives Command momentary pause, but they direct it to an open orbital point amidst the avian Third Flock and send navigation data for a shuttle to enter the League headquarters' hangar. Ackbar witnesses the behemoth and facewings.* Ackbar: "Not up to snuff", they said... "Unable to provide true support," they said...

*With the Anjians' arrival, all the League members' reps are taken to a conference chamber with an advanced holographic display that every one of them can access, including Arni. As usual, Ackbar begins.* Ackbar: My friends. Only a few days ago, we formed this League to help safeguard our freedom. Before we proceed with planning the battles to come, I would like a summary of what we have achieved so far. *He makes several gestures on the console in front of him, and the display changes to a map of the far South. A huge mass of red dots indicates the approaching Imperium armada, now very close to the Hiigaran, turian, and Federation borders.*

*Admiral Irix Coronati from the turians stands.* Coronati: Very well. *His contribution summons a thick line of green symbols that conforms to the border's shape, though bulging inward around the contested rebel territory.* We've ceased all offensive actions against the rebels and pulled back to key border worlds, fortifying them like the Spirits know what--with the Hiigarans' help, of course.

*This leads in to Hiigaran Admiral Ferin Soban Sha detailing his people's efforts, with blue symbols.* Soban: The Daiamid has deployed the bulk of our military power to the north as well. We have been coordinating with the Hierarchy to reinforce vulnerable planets, as the Admiral stated.

*The batarian and Morrigi's contributions are much the same. The avians and Rachni are somewhat lacking in naval power; however, they have established significant planetary garrisons on the worlds predicted to be hit. The far South rapidly becomes a morass of colors that still seems strangely inadequate compared to the vast force arrayed against it.*

*The others look to Roach.*

[Roach]

Roach stands up a line of purple symbols appears on the map.

"We have fortified every world along pour Northern border. The Irregulars and Privateers have been drawn up and are here. *Roach gestures to a point just north of new song* I have deployed ground forces to reinforce several vulnerable worlds, if the Imperium attempts a ground invasion they will not enjoy their casualty figures. Martok will lead a fast reaction fleet of Klingon and nod ships that can reenforce any point in our defense from Palaven to Ramius in a few short hours."

Martok: I look forward to shedding blood together with you all, and if We fail we will make a stand to be worthy of song.

Roach: May the force be with all of us.

Gandalf: We will not fail if we stand together.

Janeway: This will be a bloody conflict and all of my number crunchers give us a 37.5% percent chance of victory.

Yainishev: Now Kathryn you and I both know that we had even less of chance that that to beat the scrin and we still managed. Besides that number is far higher than I suspected this war may be long and bloody but the Imperium will never forget its invasion into the south it will never forget that a league of unaligned worlds stood against it.

Arglev: I as Usual we be on the ground with my fellow foot sloggers I look forward to seeing If what Roach tells me about the prowess of Turians in combat is true. I agree with my friend martok I look forward to shedding blood together with all of you.


Roach: If any one has any questions or need any of our forces redeployed ask now I predict it will only be a few more days until our minefield is breached.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*Coronati and his aides receive Arglev's praise warmly.* Coronati: Your Admiral speaks true, my friend.

*Meanwhile, Ackbar mulls over the League's general readiness level and looks at the "Anjians".* Ackbar: What about you, Trader? You claim to be unable to provide anything beyond materiel support, but I would think that mobile space station of yours says otherwise.

[Mr Countryside]

Hutt space/Y'Toub system/Imperious-class Star Destroyer savior/14 days in to the blockade

Walking up to Grand General Skywalker Senior captain Rismer Stands to attson and give off a salute "Sir the steadfast has reported the capter of several ships intending to run the blockade and deliver supplies to the Hutts" with out truning ryan replies "very good Captin, I believe that one of the captives is an agent of mine she goes by the name of Shelly she that she is released. yes sir, will that be all?" asks Rismer "No I think we have giving the scum plenty of time to get broad and start killing each other prepare the troops for ground assault. With renewed energy rismer give off a sharp salute and goes to carry out his orders.

Hutt space/Y'Toub system/Imperious-class Star Destroyer savior/15 days in to the blockade

On his way to the mess hall Grand General Skywalker is stopped by Senior captain Rismer "Sir all a assault gunboats are ready for ground assault and all battalion commanders report ready and eager to start shooting we have also had reports of the state of the smugglers moon, carry on Rismer" ryan says "yes sir bodays ltter thee streets and mass shoot outs as well as other crimes like arson, robbery, also some cases of rape sir.." Rismer says looking grim. Ryan looks angry about this and repeats a line of the jedi code to calm him self at this news "There is no emotion, there is peace after takeing a deep breath Ryan replies to his captain "we will have the Sovereign Republic Mission set up a base on the moon to help, remember captain this is why we are here to bring order to this part of the galaxy, Yes sir replies Rismer very good they launch in one hour I have just received news from the capital and it doesn't sound good".

[Quantum Rain]

--Marenta Prime--

A flock of gunships flew down to support the infantry on the ground, finally, and also provided further reinforcements. Heavier class soldiers with more solid armor and heavier weaponry. As this new force touched down, the soldiers stormed at the resisting Marentez, firing away and capable of keeping pace with their impressive agility, even in close-combat.

The lower class infantry, however, was not much of a match. Those whose armor failed them fell quickly to the force-wielder's blades.

Jaxe smirked, and twirled his scythe, deflecting each and every shot thrown at him with skillful ease, and at the end of his twirl, he throws the spinning scythe at the SRI soldiers. And then he saw the grenade, and smiled even more mischeviously. As it detonated, the fireball consumed him, at first, and then swirled around him, blasting outward against the metal walls and shields, stressing them to a breaking point hopefully. From there, Jaxe continued onward, his scythe recalling back to him.

--Anima Prime--

Lara was surprised at first, and then smiled at Lae as enthusiastic as possible. "Looks great, you're fine." She lied, though hid it expertly. In her head, she was actually afraid, terrified to be accurate. The beast broke free of its cage.

--Unknown World--

Xirce shrugs, then replied, "The goal of the Organization is to find a way to become whole again. What better way to learn the truth then by knowing what it is like to be whole?"

[Wynn]

--Marenta Prime--

A flock of gunships flew down to support the infantry on the ground, finally, and also provided further reinforcements. Heavier class soldiers with more solid armor and heavier weaponry. As this new force touched down, the soldiers stormed at the resisting Marentez, firing away and capable of keeping pace with their impressive agility, even in close-combat.

The lower class infantry, however, was not much of a match. Those whose armor failed them fell quickly to the force-wielder's blades.

Jaxe smirked, and twirled his scythe, deflecting each and every shot thrown at him with skillful ease, and at the end of his twirl, he throws the spinning scythe at the SRI soldiers. And then he saw the grenade, and smiled even more mischeviously. As it detonated, the fireball consumed him, at first, and then swirled around him, blasting outward against the metal walls and shields, stressing them to a breaking point hopefully. From there, Jaxe continued onward, his scythe recalling back to him.

--Anima Prime--

Lara was surprised at first, and then smiled at Lae as enthusiastic as possible. "Looks great, you're fine." She lied, though hid it expertly. In her head, she was actually afraid, terrified to be accurate. The beast broke free of its cage.

--Unknown World--

Xirce shrugs, then replied, "The goal of the Organization is to find a way to become whole again. What better way to learn the truth then by knowing what it is like to be whole?"

--Anima Prime--
Lae smiled back. "That's great to hear." He replied before taking a sip of his drink. "So does that mean he's trapped like a rat?"

--Unknown World--
Xypus crossed his arms. "I really don't give a damn." He stated dryly. "I'm incapable of doing so."

[Jediluigi]

League Council Chambers, Planet 043 'Palaven', System Beta 04, Beta Galaxy:

The Trader rises from his seating ponderously, the bulky suit making the effort of standing an annoying task. The Anjian bows his head, the tell-tale whistles and clicks from the suit preceding his translated, monotone voice. "The... Reconstruction and Reclamation is our largest... Vessel, trading hub, not a combat ship... Time is needed for a... Battle ready force to be assembled... Estimated two to six days until it is completed... We offer all we have here..." The Trader motions, bowing a bit.

After that, he presses a button on his arm, which overlays an image over the map. Faint, translucent purple circles appear along various planets, signifying the Anjians trade distribution network as it spreads across the Southern region. The Trader raises his head, tilted. "We do all we can now... Trust that, Fore Admiral... Once the Schild Fleet is complete, we will move to defend the border..." The Trader waits for the answer, a puff of steam hissing from his neck valve.

[darthme]

~Marenta Prime~

The Marentanz finish off the weakened footsoldiers, but see the other troops landing, and decide to make a stand.

Hotu: "Kani-a inkainka takatakani-a'a!"
Aku: "Inu, inkainka sauni-a'a!"
Kautota: "Ka Kanukanuni-a'a metanga e eti!"

The leader of the squad signals for all three Marentanz to blast Force energy at the new troops.

Kautota: "Makimakini-a'a Rau e!"


Inside the hallway, the SRI soldiers stare in utter fear as Jaxe walks through the blaze, seemingly unscathed. They once again open fire, with several yells in Alska to keep on firing. Their only hope is that Jaxe does not understand their language, giving them some semblance of an advantage over him.

Untirkontrøller Brinjar: "Deð er lakunije! Drøp han! Drøp han!"

[Quantum Rain]

--Marenta Prime--

Jaxe smirked, and sprinted at a speed that almost made it seem like an instantaneous transition, right in front of the SRI commander. "Sæll." He said simply, and then proceeded to decapitate him with a spinning, horizontal slash.

The new infantry either outright dodged the Force blast, or managed to resist it, as their armor absorbed the shock of the blast. The AI soldiers began firing away with repeating plasma and charging at the Marentaz, unrelenting.

--Anima Prime--

Lara nodded, and then stood up. "Oh, by the way, Rain is probably going to come looking for you, so I'd be prepared." She reported, giving Lae a friendly warning.

Just at that moment, Rain did walk into the cafeteria, looking around the room, scanning its many inhabitants, and then headed towards the nearest replicator. As he did so, he was tackled by Oliver, the youngest member of Dominae. "Rainy!" He shouted, jumping on his shoulder and hugging him for dear life. Rain almost fell over, but caught his balance, turning his head to glare at Oliver. The two remained deadlocked for a few minutes, and then slight smirks cracked through their emotionless stares. Soon followed by Oliver's outburst of laughter, as Rain just smiled. "I'm glad you're alright too, corporal. If you'll excuse me, though, if I don't get something to eat, I won't be alright."

--Unknown World--

Xirce nodded, not blaming Xyphus for his statements. "Everyone has their own opinions, heart or not." He stated, watching down below as traffic bustled about and people continued on with their lives, blissfully unaware of current events around the galaxy.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*The hawk nods.* Ackbar: Yes, we've been putting your goods to very extensive use. It's helped speed up the fortification process. *He thinks for another moment, and looks at Arni.* What's the situation in SRI territory, Magnusson?

[darthme]

~Marenta Prime~

As Brinjar's head falls to the floor, the soldiers decide to throw themselves at Jaxe, perhaps deciding that all is lost anyway. Three of the soldiers throw all four of their carried grenades, and the rest lunge at Jaxe with their blades drawn, hacking and slashing. Yells of "Jeg vunar thu, lakunije!" and "Detmak thu, lakunije!" can be heard. As they do this, the final set of blast doors closes in the entrance hallway. This door is by far the thickest, and is as wide as two regular shield doors. The rest of the bunker is put in lockdown and blast doors close over every regular doorway.

Outside, the Marentanz are caught in the barrage. unable to move fast enough, the shields on their armor fail, and all three are quickly killed by the sheer amount of plasma being fired at them.

Inside the bunker, communications have been established to the other military installments on Marenta Prime. A radio operator calls the nearest airfield for support. Not wanting to send out unnecessary force, the airfield only launches one bomber, a Cobalt A4 make. The bomber screams across the Marenta Prime landscape, and makes its way to the bunker, where it releases a carpet bombing on the Excaliburs, with the extreme end of it reaching the AI heavy troops. After this is done, the ship turns around with the intent of making a strafing run.

~Palaven~

Arni's hologram stands up and begins to speak. "Things are not going well at all here. I believe we are the only nation in this coalition to have been attacked so far, and they have attacked us fast and hard. First half the population of Fey goes missing, then we lose all communications with Marenta Prime. We have absolutely no idea what is going on in either case, and we need to find out fast. We've already laid out minefields around our other planets, but we can't be sure that even that will stop them. We are going to send a stealth frigate to Marenta Prime to investigate the loss of communication, but I fear for the planet itself."

[Wynn]

--Marenta Prime--

Jaxe smirked, and sprinted at a speed that almost made it seem like an instantaneous transition, right in front of the SRI commander. "Sæll." He said simply, and then proceeded to decapitate him with a spinning, horizontal slash.

The new infantry either outright dodged the Force blast, or managed to resist it, as their armor absorbed the shock of the blast. The AI soldiers began firing away with repeating plasma and charging at the Marentaz, unrelenting.

--Anima Prime--

Lara nodded, and then stood up. "Oh, by the way, Rain is probably going to come looking for you, so I'd be prepared." She reported, giving Lae a friendly warning.

Just at that moment, Rain did walk into the cafeteria, looking around the room, scanning its many inhabitants, and then headed towards the nearest replicator. As he did so, he was tackled by Oliver, the youngest member of Dominae. "Rainy!" He shouted, jumping on his shoulder and hugging him for dear life. Rain almost fell over, but caught his balance, turning his head to glare at Oliver. The two remained deadlocked for a few minutes, and then slight smirks cracked through their emotionless stares. Soon followed by Oliver's outburst of laughter, as Rain just smiled. "I'm glad you're alright too, corporal. If you'll excuse me, though, if I don't get something to eat, I won't be alright."

--Unknown World--

Xirce nodded, not blaming Xyphus for his statements. "Everyone has their own opinions, heart or not." He stated, watching down below as traffic bustled about and people continued on with their lives, blissfully unaware of current events around the galaxy.

--Anima Prime--
Lae raised his hand as if to wave the concern away and nodded. "Alright," He started. "Not like he can be pissed at me, can he? I didn't do a damn thing to start the self-destruct on that tower any way." He took another sip of his drink and saw Rain walk into the room, but just shrugged his appearance off.

--Unknown World--
Xyphus turned to him and then said, "Did we have something planned here, or are we just lying down on the job?"

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*Magnusson's report draws grimaces from some of the League's other leaders.* Ackbar: Our prayers are with your people, Ambassador. But we cannot commit additional forces to help the SRI. Not yet. We must throw back the Imperium's assault force first, and then we can discuss relief for the SRI, Ambassador. *He sighs, and then looks away.* I am sorry. It's all we can give you right now.

*He does not wait for a response, instead turning his attention back to the map.* Anything else?

*The batarian Admiral Kath'Uroq frowns and points at an empty area of space, north of the Hiigaran border and west of the Imperium armada.* Uroq: Why are they not going through this area? It seems like the perfect opportunity to spread our forces thin.

Coronati: I'd say we're already doing a fine job of that.

Soban: We're not sure. We've never really explored that region, but if the Imperium is avoiding it like the plague, who are we to deny them that little luxury?

Uroq: Agreed. If that's the case, then the forces we have deployed there already won't do a lot of good. (To the others) I say we transfer them to the areas we know are going to get hit.

Soban (bristles): Whoa, whoa, whoa! If we do that, we leave a huge part of our border undefended!

Uroq (growls): The Imperium assault fleet is clearly not coming from there, and you said yourself it's unexplored, so what's there to defend against?

Soban: "Unexplored" doesn't mean unoccupied, Admiral! There could be something else lurking out there, just waiting for its chance to strike us!

Uroq (sneer): So what would you have those warships and soldiers and armor and weapons do instead? Sit on a border so the boogiemen from your child days don't sneak across and scare you?

*Soban angrily raises his fist, but is cut off by a screech from Ackbar.* Ackbar: ENOUGH! Admiral Soban, Admiral Uroq has a point. We can divert forces as he suggests and set up an early-warning system of probes and sensors in that region, Admiral Soban. That way, if something from there does jump out at once, we'll be able to prepare...provided the Imperium doesn't kill us all first.

*Morru'Qu'aan Tokhta the Just from the Morrigi Confederation speaks up again.* Teahcoatl: The Tribes will send one of our own to create this Oracle of the Void.

Ackbar: Thank you, Morru'Qu'aan. Oracle. Catchy name for a sensor net. We'll see if it's worth it in the end... *Soban and Uroq grudgingly nod and stop arguing.* But for now, it's stopped those two arguing. It is decided, then. Send out the order for all forces in this sector to transfer to the adjacent one. *He looks around the room.* Our primary objective is to repel this invasion force, or failing that, to maximize their losses while minimizing our own. Once we achieve this, we will then focus on retaking lost ground--including turian rebel territory--and sending aid to the SRI. *Pause.* Is there anything else we need to discuss or settle?

[Jediluigi]

League Council Chambers, Planet 043 'Palaven', System Beta 04, Beta Galaxy:

The Trader rises from his seat at the Fore Admirals question, his hand in the air for a moment, the movement causing a small burst of steam to hiss from his suit. "Yes, Ackbar, do we know which... System will be under attack... First?" The Anjian asks, tilting his head to side. "If we know now, we might be able... To escalate area denial... For a time... If the planet is a strategic asset..." The words were followed by a series of clicking noises and hisses.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*Ackbar shrugs his wings.* Ackbar: I wish. We honestly have no idea, Trader. But perhaps we can implement your method anyway. What do you have in mind?

[Jediluigi]

League Council Chambers, Planet 043 'Palaven', System Beta 04, Beta Galaxy:

"We would... Escalate area denial with... A special task force.... If the location was a... Strategic asset... If you know of a border world of... Importance..." The Trader asks, waiting.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*Ackbar looks around at the other commanders, who shake their heads.* Ackbar: No world occurs to us, Trader, but deploy your task force nonetheless. We will keep it in reserve and send it to planets in need of assistance when the fighting begins.

*The hawk looks around the room again.* Anyone else?

[Quantum Rain]

--Palaven--

Fields steps forward and performs a respectful bow. "If I may be allowed to speak, I do bring news of the Imperial Sovereignty's stance on the war, as well as what services we can offer to assist you, however little it may seem."

--Anima Prime--

Rain grabbed the plate of sustenance, and began walking toward the exit, when he stopped and saw Lae. "..." He walked up to Lae and spoke, not bothering to make his presence known. "Command has seen fit to give us a two-day reprieve once we depart this planet. Use it as you see fit." He said, then departed the room.

--Unknown World--

"Which do you think?" Xirce asked, imitating sarcasm.

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*The batarian rumbles in amusement.* Uroq: Stance? You're fighting them as much as we are--what else is there to say?

Coronati: Don't bite the hand that feeds you, Admiral.

Uroq (scoffs): What have those humans ever done for us? *Before the argument can escalate, he concedes.* Very well, Ambassador, speak your piece.

[Wynn]

--Palaven--

Fields steps forward and performs a respectful bow. "If I may be allowed to speak, I do bring news of the Imperial Sovereignty's stance on the war, as well as what services we can offer to assist you, however little it may seem."

--Anima Prime--

Rain grabbed the plate of sustenance, and began walking toward the exit, when he stopped and saw Lae. "..." He walked up to Lae and spoke, not bothering to make his presence known. "Command has seen fit to give us a two-day reprieve once we depart this planet. Use it as you see fit." He said, then departed the room.

--Unknown World--

"Which do you think?" Xirce asked, imitating sarcasm.

--Anima Prime--
Lae looked up with a fairly plain expression and said.
"Alright, thanks." He said rather politely.

--Unknown World--
Xyphus shrugged. "I say Xemnas doesn't know what the hell to do with us." He replied.

[Quantum Rain]

--Marenta Prime--
(Slight GM, hope you don't mind.)

Jaxe observed as the bunker entered a sort of lock-down, having cut down the three SRI in an almost darkly poetic way. His response to the SRI's acts of assumed impunity was a scoff. A simple chuckle at how ignorant his enemy seemed. "So you insist on fighting me still? You dare to bar my path with your deplorable impediments." He drew in the air, creating a dark-purple colored archaic symbol, which also appeared on the barricade in front of him, only much larger by comparison. As he completed the symbol, it glowed brightly, and then the barricade disintegrated.

"I shall give you one chance to surrender. Else-wise, your death shall be affirmed." He said aloud, his voice echoing to the minds of everyone around the bunker. He was done playing around with these fools.

One Excalibur fell victim to the bombing run, the other managing to dodge it in time. The damaged Excalibur arose, its shields drained, but its armor intact, for the most part. He also did not look pleased, despite the fact that no emotion could be discerned from their metal death masks. Few of the heavy troops found themselves at the end of the strafing run, and those who did found themselves defeated by it.

The rest of the survivors regrouped, seeking out and eliminating any SRI survivors. There would be no mercy here. Meanwhile, the SRI bomber was intercepted by Imperium strikecraft, who tracked it down and began the process of plucking the craft out of the skies.

--Palaven--

Fields doesn't react to the Batarian's words, uncaring for his opinion generally. He knew what the Batarian felt about him and his kind, and he could care less about them in return. Still, the war being what it was, he put aside the emotions that would cloud his judgement and words.

"The Sovereignty cannot spare any further ships, but the ones present have been commanded to cooperate as necessary with the League. To that end, a Sovereignty-class Dreadnought is being assigned to act as a mobile shipyard and repair post for Avian crafts. The Armada is being directed to render assistance to defending forces, and we have been permitted to render a single technology to outmaneuver our enemy." He brings out a datapad and activates it, calling up a hologram of a gateway of some design.

"These gateways will be built on various worlds to allow us to transport almost instantaneously to any world in the network, so long as it is in range. While limited to the ground, it can potentially manage the transportation of a corvette-sized craft at the very most. This will allow us to run a lightning-counter-attack on invading enemies." He deactivates the datapad. "We have already assigned construction drones to the task of creating these gates. This is the best we can do as far as providing a means to combat the AI. As far as our intel goes, we don't know where they will strike first either."

"Beyond what I have said, providing any further technology or resources would be a moot point. We either lack the resources ourselves or it would take too long to refit your fleets. As well..." He says, tapping on the datapad again, and calling up a map of a command center on a moon. "Admiral Raiden has reported that the Turian-Imperial command center has been completed. I would like to apologize formally for our haste, Admiral Coronati, but we can use this to our advantage to co-ordinate our fleets." He deactivates the datapad again, awaiting the council's response now.

--Anima Prime--

"So, what do you think of him now?" Lara asked Rain, catching up to him in the hallway. "I think he's improving, but only minutely. Why do you ask?" Rain replied without looking back. "You know why." She answered stalwart and serious for a change, which caused Rain to stop and look back at her this time. "... So I was right?" He asked finally. Lara nodded. "... I hate myself already." He turned and began walking. "What do you plan to do?" She asked.

Rain just sighed. "Oh, sure, I'll just walk in and say to Serien that one of my teammate's other personality just split and disappeared. He'd completely believe me..." Rain murmured in an acerbic tone, speaking just loud enough for Lara to understand what he said. Lara simply appeared dejected at Rain's response. "So... just pray?" She asked, almost fearful of the answer. Rain replied, seemingly apathetic about the situation. "Just wait." He replied instead, and to Lara, he almost seemed hopeful about the situation.

After a day of rest, Dominae and Regnum were debriefed and transported off the planet, to return to Ultra Vires, Imperial Command. It was here that they were to spend their brief respite, on call for any emergencies.

--Unknown World--

Xirce didn't reply. Such a thought didn't strike him in the past, and he was pondering it, wondering if that was actually true. "... Regardless, we should depart, right Mr. Sunshine?" He said, still emulating a lighthearted sarcasm. He called forth a Dark Corridor, also echoing a smile oddly enough. To Xyphus, Xirce was nothing short of a complete and total "wierdo..."

[Wynn]

--Marenta Prime--
(Slight GM, hope you don't mind.)

Jaxe observed as the bunker entered a sort of lock-down, having cut down the three SRI in an almost darkly poetic way. His response to the SRI's acts of assumed impunity was a scoff. A simple chuckle at how ignorant his enemy seemed. "So you insist on fighting me still? You dare to bar my path with your deplorable impediments." He drew in the air, creating a dark-purple colored archaic symbol, which also appeared on the barricade in front of him, only much larger by comparison. As he completed the symbol, it glowed brightly, and then the barricade disintegrated.

"I shall give you one chance to surrender. Else-wise, your death shall be affirmed." He said aloud, his voice echoing to the minds of everyone around the bunker. He was done playing around with these fools.

One Excalibur fell victim to the bombing run, the other managing to dodge it in time. The damaged Excalibur arose, its shields drained, but its armor intact, for the most part. He also did not look pleased, despite the fact that no emotion could be discerned from their metal death masks. Few of the heavy troops found themselves at the end of the strafing run, and those who did found themselves defeated by it.

The rest of the survivors regrouped, seeking out and eliminating any SRI survivors. There would be no mercy here. Meanwhile, the SRI bomber was intercepted by Imperium strikecraft, who tracked it down and began the process of plucking the craft out of the skies.

--Palaven--

Fields doesn't react to the Batarian's words, uncaring for his opinion generally. He knew what the Batarian felt about him and his kind, and he could care less about them in return. Still, the war being what it was, he put aside the emotions that would cloud his judgement and words.

"The Sovereignty cannot spare any further ships, but the ones present have been commanded to cooperate as necessary with the League. To that end, a Sovereignty-class Dreadnought is being assigned to act as a mobile shipyard and repair post for Avian crafts. The Armada is being directed to render assistance to defending forces, and we have been permitted to render a single technology to outmaneuver our enemy." He brings out a datapad and activates it, calling up a hologram of a gateway of some design.

"These gateways will be built on various worlds to allow us to transport almost instantaneously to any world in the network, so long as it is in range. While limited to the ground, it can potentially manage the transportation of a corvette-sized craft at the very most. This will allow us to run a lightning-counter-attack on invading enemies." He deactivates the datapad. "We have already assigned construction drones to the task of creating these gates. This is the best we can do as far as providing a means to combat the AI. As far as our intel goes, we don't know where they will strike first either."

"Beyond what I have said, providing any further technology or resources would be a moot point. We either lack the resources ourselves or it would take too long to refit your fleets. As well..." He says, tapping on the datapad again, and calling up a map of a command center on a moon. "Admiral Raiden has reported that the Turian-Imperial command center has been completed. I would like to apologize formally for our haste, Primarch, but we can use this to our advantage to co-ordinate our fleets." He deactivates the datapad again, awaiting the council's response now.

--Anima Prime--

"So, what do you think of him now?" Lara asked Rain, catching up to him in the hallway. "I think he's improving, but only minutely. Why do you ask?" Rain replied without looking back. "You know why." She answered stalwart and serious for a change, which caused Rain to stop and look back at her this time. "... So I was right?" He asked finally. Lara nodded. "... I hate myself already." He turned and began walking. "What do you plan to do?" She asked.

Rain just sighed. "Oh, sure, I'll just walk in and say to Serien that one of my teammate's other personality just split and disappeared. He'd completely believe me..." Rain murmured in an acerbic tone, speaking just loud enough for Lara to understand what he said. Lara simply appeared dejected at Rain's response. "So... just pray?" She asked, almost fearful of the answer. Rain replied, seemingly apathetic about the situation. "Just wait." He replied instead, and to Lara, he almost seemed hopeful about the situation.

After a day of rest, Dominae and Regnum were debriefed and transported off the planet, to return to Ultra Vires, Imperial Command. It was here that they were to spend their brief respite, on call for any emergencies.

--Unknown World--

Xirce didn't reply. Such a thought didn't strike him in the past, and he was pondering it, wondering if that was actually true. "... Regardless, we should depart, right Mr. Sunshine?" He said, still emulating a lighthearted sarcasm. He called forth a Dark Corridor, also echoing a smile oddly enough. To Xyphus, Xirce was nothing short of a complete and total "wierdo..."

--Ultra Vires--

Lae sat on the sand of a beach in the Imperial City, just staring out at the water. Despite the relaxed setting he was in, he was still wearing his robes with the hood down. However, he had no armor on and the only weapon he had on him was his shortsword. He was very much out-of-place among the many men and women around him in swim wear.
A few moments of thinking and he laid back on the sand with his hands beneath his head and stared upward at the sky. Ever since the end of the mission at Anima Prime, he was in a perpetual state of euphoria.
"Nothing can ruin this day..." Lae muttered to himself in content.


--Unknown World--

Xyphus got up and began walking toward the corridor. "Wait a minute..." He said, stopping in place. "You keep summoning those portals, like the others. Can we all do that and I've been completely oblivious this whole time?"

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Palaven--

*The League's military leaders nod in approval at the gate plan.* Tokhta: Most ingenious, dosh'linq.

Kath'Uroq: Agreed. *After a moment, he grudgingly continues.* ...thank you, human. Though we'll see if they actually help in the coming war.

*Coronati takes Fields' apology in stride.* Coronati: So long as you were careful about building the thing, I don't mind.

*Ackbar looks around the conference room one last time, and then returns to his perch.* Ackbar: My friends, the time has come. We have gathered all the forces we can in the short time we had. Now, we must take to the field of battle itself. *He pauses.* The lives of billions are depending on us. We must not fail them. But no matter what happens in the next few days, never forget how the South has come together in ways that seemed unthinkable. The Imperium may destroy our ships, but they cannot destroy our resolve. They may raze our cities, but they cannot demolish the fiery courage in our souls. They may chain our people, but they cannot chain up hope. Go now, and may whatever gods you keep be with you.

*With that, the conference disbands and the League members report to their ships, leaving the headquarters soon afterward.*

--Moon Andraste, Planet Hibernia, Nazario System, Pheiros Constellation--

*The avian Third Flock arrives in the Nazario system one day later and proceeds to the finished command center on Hibernia's moon Andraste. A massive combined force orbits the planet, consisting of around 50,000 ships mainly from the batarians, Morrigi, and Hiigarans. The formerly-insignificant colony now bristles with fortifications and orbital battlestations, installed by a large planetary garrison. The space in Nazario is completely littered with multiple types of mines as well.*

*Ackbar busies himself with running mock simulations and scenarios, as well as familiarizing himself with the local commanders.*

[darthme]

--Marenta Prime--
(Slight GM, hope you don't mind.)

Jaxe observed as the bunker entered a sort of lock-down, having cut down the three SRI in an almost darkly poetic way. His response to the SRI's acts of assumed impunity was a scoff. A simple chuckle at how ignorant his enemy seemed. "So you insist on fighting me still? You dare to bar my path with your deplorable impediments." He drew in the air, creating a dark-purple colored archaic symbol, which also appeared on the barricade in front of him, only much larger by comparison. As he completed the symbol, it glowed brightly, and then the barricade disintegrated.

"I shall give you one chance to surrender. Else-wise, your death shall be affirmed." He said aloud, his voice echoing to the minds of everyone around the bunker. He was done playing around with these fools.

One Excalibur fell victim to the bombing run, the other managing to dodge it in time. The damaged Excalibur arose, its shields drained, but its armor intact, for the most part. He also did not look pleased, despite the fact that no emotion could be discerned from their metal death masks. Few of the heavy troops found themselves at the end of the strafing run, and those who did found themselves defeated by it.

The rest of the survivors regrouped, seeking out and eliminating any SRI survivors. There would be no mercy here. Meanwhile, the SRI bomber was intercepted by Imperium strikecraft, who tracked it down and began the process of plucking the craft out of the skies.

(Might be G-Modding a little here, too, but it's up to you whether it has any effect on Jaxe or not)

As the bomber jukes and dives to evade fire, it is apparent who will come out on top, and the craft eventually falls out of the sky in a ball of fire and smoke.

Inside the bunker, the mixed garrison of Gal'Gai, Marentanz, and Feyari hear Jaxe's message, and decide not to surrender. They resume their fighting, now almost suicidal. The general idea is that if they can stop Jaxe, they must, at any cost. This time, all garrisoned personnel throw literally everything they have at Jaxe. Missiles are fired, grenades are thrown, and several soldiers actually lunge at Jaxe with their knives. The Marentanz in the group unleash a Force blast at once, which nearly destroys the walls, and sends the troops in front of them flying. The Feyari soldiers use their natural claws and hard chitin to lash out at Jaxe. Any Marentanz still alive re-group for another Force blast.

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