The Imperial Shipyards
Imperial Creative Engineering => Fan Fiction => Topic started by: TheIRISH Rogue on October 29, 2012, 09:50:43 PM
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 1
“A leader is a dealer in hope.”
Beams of light shone brightly through the thick Kaminoan skies. A very rare sight to be seen thought the republic officer who arrived been ordered to the planet by the Chancellor himself. Standing alone on the wet platform looking towards the sky, a low rumbling could be heard in the distance. From the clouds burst the hulls of Acclamator Class Cruisers. Their low rumbling rowing into thunderous roars as they near the platforms, lowering both tremendous landing gear and ramps.
A small white trooper blur slowly paced down the ramp of the nearest cruiser. His helmet different from any other the officer had seen prior, “Captain Rex I presume? It is an honor to finally meet you. Major Haide Valhallen sir.” Rex removes his helmet, “I’ve heard of your exploits major. You’ve come to the right legion, but sadly at a turbulent time.” Responding with a slight optimism, “Well, lets hope this review turns that around. The battle record of the 501 is an illustrious one..Umbara.. was an isolated incident.”
Valhallen raises his comlink, illuminating a glowing blue hologram of Kamino assembly ground. “I’ll forward to you the meeting assignments for your legion. For field review, I’ve selected various elements of the legion and have consolidated them into Salvo Battalion. Though I am overseeing the drill personally, I’d prefer the battalion commander to be selected by you Captain.” Rex nodding as a trooper walks up. Saluting and removing his helmet, Valhallen is shocked to see a heavily scarred face of trooper with charcoal colored hair. The trooper reaching forward to shake hands with his new Major while in a coarse deep voice introducing himself, “They call me Commander Halifax.” Their hands firmly clutching one another in mutual respect, “As for me commander, my call sign is Vallen. A little clearer over the comlink chatter than having to worry about the “H”.” The officers reassured by Vallen’s light nature and confidence.
A horn call sounds out, echoing across the assembly grounds, calling the troopers to order. Hundreds of troopers forming a sea of white and blue raise their helmets to their heads. “Aten- Hut!” the voice of Halifax filling the air. In an instant the sea of troopers snaps into attention transforming from sea to precise lines making visible the divisions between various squads and companies.
Halifax stands up on a platform able to be seen by all in attendance-
“Five hundred and First, You have made the Republic proud. Your record is not tarnished by the events of Umbara. Though we sustained heavy casualties, we WILL come back from this. We have before, and we shall yet again! In the coming days the 501 will be sent on several routine exercises where your performance can be evaluated. Salvo Battalion, I introduce to you, Major Haide Valhallen of Corulag Academy.”
Silence plagued the air. The singular clicks of Vallen’s boots echoed through as he walked, erect in posture, to the forefront. “At ease gentleman.” Raising both of his hands, gripping his helmet, he lifts it off, bowing his head to remove it with ease. Vallon’s neck straightens. The sense of shock laced with suspicion overcomes the silence. A slight murmur can be heard through the ranks. Until now, clones had not been under command of anyone other than clones and Jedi. Was this just another aristocrat’s son?
The side of Vallen’s mouth raised to a slight side grin, his eye brow held a scar through the right side, but his eyes were sharply focused; his eyes were blue with gold surrounding the center.
“Though I was sent here by Republic Command, it was with distinction I accepted.” Taking a slow deep breath, Vallon took a moment to gather his thoughts, “Yes, Umbara was a tragedy, do not let it become a moment that defines the legacy of this legion. The 501st has been divided temporarily for assessment and separate eval missions to be carried out in conjunction with a variety of other units. Let me reassure you, this is only temporary, however, Salvo battalion has been optimally set up to uniquely create spearhead offenses and rapid deployment.”
What had started as grin, disappeared. The aura of the assembly was heavy with emotion as each soldier struggled to take in everything Vallen had just mentioned. Pausing again it was clear something needed to be done to prevent morale from crumbling within the battalion. As if he was on the battlefield this was the moment Vallon seized.
“Lads…remove your bonnets..” The assembly pulled there helmets. The same face was on every soldier, but their scars and tattoos were a testament that each trooper had fought through their own hell. “I studied the art of combat and the use of war since before the academy. To be a successful general one must known himself, the enemy, and his troops. To clear the air I am no aristocrat! My last post was with Commander Baccara and his marines. The lives of my soldiers have value and if we must trade them to the enemy…we will ensure it costs them dearly!! Now then..until we receive our orders, treasure the time you have to relax. Lads.. “Til the last nail.” …Salvo Battalion..You are dismissed!”
Again, the synthetic tone rang out across the hall. The troops began to fall out of order to the barracks. Rex followed by Halifax approached Vallen. “To be honest, I was half expecting you to be a product of nepotism, but its good to know my men are in the hands of a capable soldier. They need this.” Rex pats Vallen’s shoulder plate.
“I’d like to learn more about the men in the battalion. Captain and commander, allow me to buy you both a round of drinks.”
The three turn from the presentation balcony and begin to walk down the brightly lit Kaminoan hall…
This is an on going work. Digital Comic will be in the works as well. Feel free to let me know what you think. Hope you enjoyed!
http://theirishrogue.deviantart.com/art/The-Clone-Wars-Changing-Tide-Volume-1-335058428
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Great start. Time to go get this on the front page.
I went and nabbed a pic I found on Deviant Art for the fp story too.
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Ha ha ha! That's awesome! Thanks mate ()rr
I'll crank out the next volume within the week.
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 2
“War is an uneasy business. Escape it when you can.”
The three officers continued down the luminescent corridors of Timira City. Every element of the hall was white to human eyes with slight hints of blue, pink, and pink hues. As the door before them swirled open, it divided into three segments; the first curling to the ceiling while the other swiftly slid down into their positions within the floor. Looking to his left, Rex’s attention was stolen by a gap in the wall which revealed a view of hallways undergoing further construction. “They’re expanding the cloning facilities here as well as Tipoca City. Its apparently a result of an executive order from Chancellor Palpatine to explore more “efficient” cloning methods.” Vallen intuitively answered before Rex thought to pose the question.
Rex’s eyes pursed together as he strained to see what details his vision could reveal. He knew the army needed to be expanded in conjunction with the fact that the original strains of DNA, provided by Jango Fett, were getting harder to replicate without defects. The captain wondered why an executive order straight from the top had been made when all that was necessary for an expansion of forces, was a simple speech followed by a senate committee vote. His brow rose, releasing the internal debate from deeper thought. Turning to Halifax and Vallen, “The more troopers we have, the harder we can take it to the Seppies!” “Ha ha ha, Hazzah to that Captain.” Vallen said, his signature one sided grin revealing itself as they continued.
They stepped into their officers’ quarters, the walls starkly contrasting the brightly lit white walls that dominated Kamino. Halifax looked at the walls curiously, “Is this a new officer upgrade? Yes or no, I’ll enjoy not having to sleep in my helmet when I’m home.” The trio laughed in agreement. Rex smiled as he laid down on his cold rack, crossing his arms behind his head, “Complaining has never been my strong suit, but having the use of my eye lids…this is good..” Vallon, nodding his head, “I wasn’t sure what you’d prefer being born here, but we can’t afford for your eyes to adjust and readjust due to our quickly approaching deployment. Never hurts to grab up a few scraps of metal from the construction area though.”
BoWEEP WEEP!! BoWEEP WEEP!!
A red flashing light blinks on the hologram table at the center of the room. Vallen approaches the table pressing down the button with both middle and pointer fingers. Clicking into place, the humming and crackling of the hologram begins to become visible. Rex and Halifax snap quickly from their bunks and draw near the table. A hologram of Jedi General Anakin Skywalker appears. “Rex. Commander. Its good to see you two after receiving the battle reports from Umbara. I should have never left the battle.” “It’s a war General..” Halifax struggled to finish the sentence, but found himself unable to find logic in the actions of Krell. Rex quickly interceded, “..and war determines which of the strongest will rise..which was us sir.” “As always Rex, your perseverance sets a high standard for the 501st as well as myself” calmly said the hologram. “Me too Rex!” a playful voice blurted from beyond the hologram as Ahsoka popped her head in the blue message, delivering a lighthearted smile.
Skywalker continued with the briefing. “Alright. Your next mission will be executed by the Major, who has my consent to utilize full operational command second only to Rex and myself. Your mission is as follows: The cruiser, Formidable, will be arriving to pick up Salvo battalion in a day or so. The battalion’s arrival in the Ubese system directly corresponds with the ongoing negotiations taking place on Ator. Master A’ Sharad Hett and Knight Sakiko Ryuuzaki are meeting with the planet’s current regime to discuss terms of Republic guardianship. Since they are an inner core system, it is necessary that a presence be there to serve as an early warning system for Coruscant. Simply rendezvous, demonstrate minimal presence, bring the Jedi back, and a post will be set up if all goes well.”
“Consider it done General.” Rex said confidently with a nod towards the glowing blue figure pictured above the table. “I’m glad. The task couldn’t be in more capable hands. May the force be with you.” “And you sir!” The three said as they snapped to attention. The blue lined figure of Anakin fading down into the table leaving a void in the barren room. “Concise and to the point. Best Jedi for briefings.” Halifax states as he turns to his rack removing the armor from his forearms. “A bit like you in that way” Vallen said lightly causing a smirk from Rex, who was unsnapping the connectors on his chest plate.
“Lets get that drink, shall we?” Vallen inquired, throwing on his cleanest shirt adorned with the 8 pronged emblem of the republic.
---------------------------------------------Some time later -------------------------------------------------------------
The bass of the music could be heard from some distance as the officers approached the club. When they finally reached the door it promptly opened belching music towards the officers.
A pair of clones carrying a third appeared through the flashing, strobbing lights. “Commanders on deck!” shouted one, snapping to attention which was a little awkward while holding up the weight of the clone in the center. The other followed suit, helping the third into position solely for the fact he was in-between. “Major, Might as well get through introductions now.. I present to you, your flight crew.” Halifax said with his arm extended, his palm open towards the three. “The pilot, Valkier”, a spitfire and sharp looking trooper who had a knack for running close air support missions – “Main gunner, Flak” who raised his head long enough to look up and make the point, “My missiles are the thunder! …The explosions..right? They go boom.” Valkier sharply turned his head towards his comrade, whose arm was slung behind his neck, “No no no no, it’s the engines of the “larty” as we swoop in. That’s why our squadron has the reputation as the thunder of this battalion.” The third clone weighing, “and I’m Sergeant Kano.. somehow I always get stuck babysitting. Last time was shinnies on Ryloth..now Flak.” To which Flak stood up, “I am no shiny!” “ONLY a shiny would make a bet with Valkier about his flight skills.” added Rex who motioned with his hand to carry on. “Rex, though you’re not a shiny, major..I would not recommend getting into a betting match with those two. Their competitions is what makes them one of the best crews. They stay sharp in the field, I will guarantee that.” – Giving a slightly disapproving look towards Halifax for choosing such a moment for an introduction.
Rex looked through the crowd for a table. “Major!” a voice exclaimed from the side of the hectic room. “This is Boomer, my closest friend and leading ARF trooper.” Rex states as the clone strolled up to the forefront. “Sir, though these are uneasy times, your speech did make a difference to many of the lads. If you need anything from the ARF’s, we’re ready. Speaking of which!” Boomer quickly turned to the table which instantly became vacant as the men sitting there stood from the seats. “Hotsh, Pike, and Shine” Boomer stated motioning to each trooper as he identified them. “You’ll figure out the names in no time!” said shine with glistening smile.
The troopers moved to an adjoining table and continued talking about the broad base of the mission at hand.
Music pulsed and provided a sweet aura with which to escape the war. Halifax had little to say. It was clear he was enjoying letting his guard down. During the course of the evening, Troopers often came up to the table to meet the Major, if not to see how he measured up in their mind. This may daunt various commanders, but he was confident his worth would quickly be seen in the field. Waitresses dressed as fem troopers perused through the room ferrying drinks and carrying on with the clones. One blue twi lek in particular had been hovering around the table where the commanders and their growing entourage were sitting. Her skin was unique in that it also bore several brightly colored green markings down her tails. The small amount of show armor she wore prevented any conclusions about the extent of her markings. The green, illuminated in the dark light, made her movements enchanting. Just her walking pulled intrinsically at cords deep within every individuals being.
After emptying her tray she sits down on the leg of Pike. The two are enthralled with each other’s company, often leaning into each other’s ears to speak over the music. More often than not, laughter soon accompanied. To Vallen the room became silent as he watched for a moment as the two completely detached from the war. He yearned for peace in the galaxy…mostly so these men who had only ever known war, could live and experience what they were fighting to preserve.
“WHAT’S so DANGEROUS about a routine mission to pick up a few Jedi?!? It’s just in the core?!” ---
The words snapped Vallen from his thoughts. All conversations in the room ceased as all eyes scrambled to find the source of the foolish words, soon becoming fixed on the Twi Lek fem trooper. Vallen looked at the company of mixed emotions surrounding him. Questions like these served as both bad omens and reminders of failed events of the past.
The major rose up from his leather seat in the lounge accompanied by the bewildered eyes and ears. Holding his glass high, “Commander Trauma, Master Halsey, to Devron,… and the fallen!” The tables of troopers all stood with glasses in hand, “To fallen brothers.”
Though it was a solemn toast, it was a hail to the sacrifices of those who were sent on seemingly routine missions only to be swept up in events larger than themselves. Occasions like this occurred with platoons or companies who were dropped off in a system to prepare listening posts such as the infamous Rishi Moon incident.
Following the toast the aura of the lounge became stale. The thought of war speared its way through the galaxy wearing heavily on their minds. Vallen stood up, Captain Rex placing his hands on the table to follow, but the major placed a hand on his shoulder. “I’m going to get an early start prepping some plans. Please captain, enjoy what semblance of a reprieve you have earned.”
Rex settled back into his chair…
http://theirishrogue.deviantart.com/ Read or see more of the future characters!! Thanks for taking a look. Any feedback or insight would be awesome!
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excellent i really enjoyed reading this !
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Thanks mate! I update with a new volume each week in episode format.
Glad you enjoyed it! ()rr
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Nice, back on the front page.
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 3
“To succeed in war, you must know your army as well as yourself.”
The shadows of Vallen’s dreams quickly receded as he rolled over within his bunk to deactivate the alarm. Beeping instantly being silenced by the swift application of force to the button. “If you’re that swift on the battlefield…I think we’ll be in luck if anything goes wrong.” Rex said climbing from an elevated bunk. Vallen rose up, the data-pad being used to plan out the mission slid down his chest landing back in his hand as the other rubbed his eye. He had spent many hours the previous night, organizing the orders to be disperse upon arriving at Ator.
Halifax’s bed was already vacant. “Good morning to you as well captain” Vallen suggested as he pulled his shirt down over his head. The two began walking the corridors, trekking down to the main mess hall. Walking through an observation deck en route, they looked down at the various sparring and simulations which were being run by both rookies as well as veterans.
The distinctive armor of Halifax could be seen from the deck, his kama flapping as he paced down the line of shinnies, newly reserved for the 501st. “I’m sure if this glass wasn’t built to buffer the continous thunder, we’d here his orders all the way up here” Rex spoke in jest, a small smile making itself known. As soon as it had come, it slowly disappeared, “..He was there on Geonosis; a baptism of fire that trained us all more than any simulation. Hal will make sure they are as ready as they can be. Best guardian any batch of shinies could ask for right there.”
A short while later the two were facing one another at the head of a lengthy metallic table within the expansive dining hall. Adjusting to food on kamino hadn’t taken much effort for Vallen. Though not everything was identifiable, it was lean while being packed with nutrients and protein to boost the troops’ fighting bodies, the primary weapon of any army. Within a matter of meals he felt improvements in conditioning, muscle memory, target practice, and lessening fatigue.
“So why 1 pistol Haide?” Rex inquired, remembering back to the Major’s first appearance on the platform a few days earlier. Through his own experiences, the other clone commanders all carried dual pistols modeled after Jango Fett’s own personal fighting style. “Duals are good for suppressive or close quarters, but not for much else. If my rifle fails, I prefer a single sidearm to remain agile and accurate…besides it’s a 2- stage trigger. If squeezed and held it can match the firing rate of any pair of your DC’s..” grinning with satisfaction before ending, “..a habit adapted from my academy days.” Rex was curious, but stubbornly replied, “Now that is useful, but I’ll be sticking with my dualies! Haven’t failed me! HaHaHa!”
Beep! Beep! Beep!! Beep!! Beep!! Beep!!!
Vallen’s wrist comlink blinked as the alarm crescendoed in volume with each alert. Putting down the fork from within his hand, he pressed down upon the green square.. “Major Haide Valhallen” his voice sharply spoke. Pausing briefly, the methodical soft, dictating tone of a kaminoan voice came through the small speaker.
“Good morning Major. The Formidable and accompanying frigates have emerged from hyperspace. Have your clone troopers prepared for disembarkation at 1900.”
“Yes ma’am! Consider it done.” Vallen again pressed his comlink as he grabbed his tray and stood from the bench. “Captain, prepare Salvo Battalion for boarding. I want the men moving on as soon as the pads touchdown.” “Right away sir!” with a nod Rex moved with haste to retrieve his armor and weapons from the locker. His afternoon just became a busy one.
Vallen finished snapping the last of his armor plates on his shoulder, walking into the armory. A clone and Kaminoan quartermaster saluted. “I see you already have your sidearm Major. Anything else?”
With his helmet held beneath one arm, “A rifle with ascension cable attachment if you please.” Quickly pulling one off the rack the quarter master snapped on the shoulder strap and handed the weapon over the counter. “Thank you sirs as always.” In response the clone quartermaster excitedly yelled “Make em eat laser sir!”
The final door between Vallen and the rain maelstroms of Kamino slid gracefully open. The white corridor clashing with the dark, gray blue hues outside. Watching the torrent unfold before him, Vallen pulled his bonnet over his head while securing his blasters sling over his shoulder. Looking up the behemoth structure of the cruiser Formidable towered over the platform. As he approached closer, drops of rain halted their attack upon his armor, being blocked by the expansive cover the Acclamator was providing. The loading of the battalion’s of 600 troops was heavily underway. Sergeant Boomer and Kano jogged up!
“Pleasant day sir! Squads are ready for action and are 80 percent loaded! Heavy gear is loaded and the Walkers are being secured presently sir. Last of the LAAT’s are landing as we speak! The captain would like the main CO on the bridge immediately sir!” Boomer harkened through the rumbling of the tremendous engines of the ship. “Affirm Rex and Halifax that they have this down brilliantly! See that your men are settled and ready for their mission briefing at 0.800. Get some rest sergeants, that is all for now!” Vallon’s voice projecting through the commotion as he climbed the boarding ramp. “Yes SIR!” the two echoed before bolting of in different directions.
The lift doors opened behind Vallen as he turned to walk out of them. Navy officers rushed about as they prepared the necessary checklists for departure. Entering the central bridge, Vallen saluted both Rex and Halifax as he strode towards the main viewing deck. Standing before the glass windows, peering into the rain, stood an erect naval officer with jet black hair. Turning to face the approaching clone, unknowing it was Vallen, the officer raised one eye brown, “I didn’t realize a war had broken out on this frigate..”
“Attention on deck!” Halifax shouted, unwilling to deal with any disrespect intended or not. Every soldier on the deck snapped into attention halting every task at hand.
The silence was deafening as Vallen removed his helmet. “Major Haide Valhallen. Primary CO of Salvo Battalion and this mission.” Bewildered only for a moment, the captain’s eyes spread apart. “My apologies Major, I have not readily seen many..of your state..donning their armor. My name is Nero Casadrian Meritus, Captain of the Formidable.” “At ease lads! As you were.” Vallen shouted across the bridge, the hustle starting again on cue.
“I’ve already forwarded my 4 plans for Ator to your pad Captain Meritus. Do read them carefully.” Arrogantly Meritus spoke, “Is such a quartet truly needed for a pick up mission. To be quite honest, I don’t see the need to send more than a Consular ship to this “meet and greet”.”
Vallen slightly shocked at the snide remark, again reminded of the ease with which the aristocracy had begun to infiltrate ranks of commissioned navy commanders, firmly emphasized to the captain, “Do you need reminding that there is a war on? Regardless of the current status, this is a military mission with possible ulterior motives…operations never go according to plan, so you WILL review the prescribed mission briefings.”
“As you wish, Major…Bridge officers, lift us off this water world already!” Meritus barked as he turned from Vallen.
Vallen made minutely uneasy by the captain’s apparent overconfidence beckoned Rex to his side, “I want you to send the Consular Frigate, Conciliation, to Altar to begin a planet scan and alert us of any situations for when we emerge from the hyperlanes. I do not want us arriving totally blind. I appreciate this Rex”
“Yes sir! I’ll patch through the orders now.”
“Major.. Is it acceptable that we begin our deployment?” the Captain asked standing several windows from Vallen. “Begin lift off, then rendezvous with our convoy. The Conciliation will meet us there.”
Meritus turned to the crew located in the sunken pits of the bridge, “Initiate launch sequences, seal all hatches, and fire the engines.”
The hulking ship lifted from the platform, its mechanical legs retracting into its grey body. Blue light exploding from the propulsion systems lurches the Formidable forward through the clouds with ease. Roaring engines match the thunder as the ship angles up, ascending into shadowy thick clouds…
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Here is a link to a commission piece I had made to introduce Vallen and a glimpse of events to come. Its a fantastic work, co-created with artist Joe Hogan.
The future graphic adaptation will have this quality. THINGS TO GET EXCITED ABOUT!! :)
http://browse.deviantart.com/?qh=§ion=&global=1&q=joe+hogan#/d5fdd2v
()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr
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Looks great and am lovin the story if you can give me an impression of Vallen in his armour with helmet I will try to turn him into figure form
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 4
“For a plan to succeed, you must dedicate yourself fully, or it will falter.”
The blue, white of hyperspace brought a silent calm as time and distance became fused. Vallen enjoyed the darkness of space, but this brightly lit chaos blasting past the Acclamator made him leery. Uncertainty lied in wait on the other end of that hyperspace lane. Throughout the Clone Wars, a poor or unlucky exit from a hyperspace lane allowed the Separatists to get the jump on Republic forces, smashing them to oblivion. Space or ground, Vallen and Rex were ready to take the fight upon the enemy.
Standing at the viewing platform only several windows from one another, Captain Meritus turn to Vallen, “I have taken a gander at the notes you sent me. Wide ranging in tact, but demonstrate far higher detail than a standard clone is capable of following.” Raising an eyebrow in response, Vallen was not eager to hear his orders nitpicked apart. He determined they were sound and set the standard high for his troops to follow. “I hold republic troopers to high levels Captain. An esteemed unit such as the 501 won’t have any problem, besides, the orders are not to be given in they’re entirety.”
“Sirs! We are approaching Ator. Exiting hyperspace in 2 minutes. The countdown has begun.”
“Captain Meritus, open comm channels. I want the planetary scan begun immediately and initial reports from the Conciliation upon their arrival.”
Vallen walked along the thin metallic floor separating the gunnery and bridge technicians to the situation table.
“Halifax, put the 501 on standby” he stated, motioning in a two fingered gesture. As the standby alert was issued cruiser wide, the bridge underwent a metamorphosis from previously being a calm room to the hustle as the necessary guns were manned and systems were raised. Vallen’s gloved hands gripped the edges of the table; his eyes looked before him as his head raised, peering through the windows as the blue, white blur quickly dissipated to the familiar black void with speckles of far away star systems.
Directly ahead, Ator, an ecunopolis of tremendous proportions. A planetary city much like a younger version Coruscant was single large city, however, the main difference was it had a few patches of sprawling fields and lacked the numerous level upon level construction which Coruscant had undergone for centuries. Looking closely the planet almost seemed to be a metallic sphere with portions emitting glows of light from various districts shown blues, violets, greens, and gold.
The thuds of the following escort ships could be heard as they too emerged from hyperspace. “As thought Major, the space surrounding Ator is clear of Separatist signals” reported Meritus hinting his reservations were correct prior to launching, snidely adding, “Will your armor still be necessary?”
Bweep Bweep--- Click*
A small hologram of rose from the center of the command table. The clone captain of the consular ship, Conciliation, snapped to attention, then saluting. “Sir, though we have yet to find obvious signs of the Seppies, upon closer examination..there are a few..peculiarities.”
“What have you found?” The hologram continued. “As we arrived I powered up our planetary scans immediately before coming out of light speed to get a jump on any possible Seps. Forwarding what we found.”
On the table a blue version of the planet rose. “We began with the capital where the Jedi are supposed to be and saw this.” For a few seconds a large red blur could be seen before immediately disappearing. Rex approached the table, “Now, that is odd.” Adding in his thoughts, “Could be a trap..” Halifax murmured roughly.
“This is nothing more than a technical flaw. This happens from time to time as the scanners cycle from planet to planet leaving residual “ghosts.” Nothing to be frightened of and certainly nothing to mobilize for.”
“Upon contacting the planet we also noticed a bad sign. For a planetary city civilian communication is normal, but military and government channels are filled with chatter. The chatter is just repeating though, it isn’t filled with anything.”
Rex, standing tall next to Meritus, turned his attention from the report. “Well Major, the call is yours.”
Taking a moment to contemplate the evidence and consequences to his next move before speaking…. “Call Salvo Batallion to arms. Raise combat status to full alert! I am deploying with A company, Halifax with C, Rex with Company B- Platoons 1 ta 3. You’ll have your orders on the ride down..Steadfast til the last nail!” The two saluting, harkening back at Vallen, “To the last nail!” as they hurried from the bridge using their comlink gauntlets to organize the departure.
Meritus’ eyes rolled. “A flair for the dramatic, but I’ve seen army groups deploy after such ghosts. A full planetary scan will sort this out. Then we’ll aid them in cleaning up the chatter.” “No Captain. You will continue to hold orbit here, monitoring the planet. Complete that scan, but I want this convoy holding its position!” He finished as the blast door closed behind him, Vallen running to deploy on his gunship.
Boots echo as their heels pound the floor. Every trooper throwing their helmet on. Indication lights in each hall throbbed red. Vallen hit the flight deck and jogged to his companies section of the hangar.
“Flying amongst the Thunder today major?!” Flak shouted as he climbed into his cockpit. Valkier saluted, “Sir, I can guarantee the right down will be smooth, but once on the tarmac…well anytime you need help, just make a call for us!” His voice was barely audible over the loud rumbling of all the LAAT Gunships as they powered up. The rumbling vibrated Vallen’s very chest. Lifting his helmet, shouldering his rifle, the Major was the last to step aboard the gunship. His left hand raising to grasp the hand rail, saluting the ground crews while the ship raised from the ground, the heavy door closing, the blast doors sliding shut over the thin vertical view ports.
A flurry of gunships burst from the haul of the cruiser, Formidable. Gunships carrying both troops and ATTE’s approached the planet’s capital, the known position of the negotiations between Jedi Master, A Sharad Hett, Saikiko, and Ator’s representatives. The gunships grew smaller and smaller from the Formidable’s Bridge. Meritus smiled. “Disperse the fleet for optimum scan yield.”
A clone officer paused, “But sir, the Maj..” The Captain sharply cut into the sentence before he could finish. “I am the commanding Navy officer here! I will place these ships as I deem fit. I don’t care if you have to send each ship to a polar end of the planet..make it happen!”
The fleet began to split apart as orders were received. One light assault cruiser and two Arquinten light cruisers were in each of the two groups dispatched.
“We’ve cleared the atmosphere sir!” Valkier’s voice came through the gunship speakers as he opened the flak doors. “No contacts?” Vallen asked curiously. “None.”
Raising Halifax and Rex on the comlink, “Execute tactical insertion order No. 2.” The planning Vallen had spent so much time plotting before leaving was coming into use. With space secure, any more reinforcements would come with ease if needed. The flurry of gunships separated as they followed their orders. Company A continuing toward the capital districts, Company B setting up a nearby headquarters/ staging area while most of Company C stayed airborne on reserve, scouting for signs of the mysterious red blur from the briefing.
Thunder squadron’s gunships hauled into the main citadel. Valkier’s voice again came through the speaker, “Good hunting!! Green light in 3..2..1..GO GO GO!” The heaping doors wrenched open. ATTE’s touched down in a defensive arc in front of the Citadel in the main plaza. The clone troopers ran or jumped from their gunships; leaping behind trees, blocks, or structures. Taking up unknown defensive postures. Vallen was uneasy about this…as his platoon marched toward the entrance…there were visible signs of damage to the plaza. Melted statues, blast marks, explosions had clearly ripped through the hulking walls.. The closer they walked the clones found a handful of dead. “Major..some of them are ours..” Whispers murmured across the soldiers…their eyes sharp. “Companies A and B..Secure this building!” Major Vallen ordered.
He turned looking into the countless towers, brightly lit with advertisements and neon signs. Searching from window to edifice for any clues for where the attack came from.
ssssssuuuWHAT!
A sharp hiss that ended in a thud was heard across the courtyard.
sssuuuWHAAT!!
A clone trooper fell lifelessly to the ground, his helmet nearly broken in two. “Sniper, Cover!!”
The order was followed by those not nearest the citadel. To move forward companies A and B sought cover within the government building. “Breach!!” explosions around the building were felt through the floor as they burst into the government building. Vallen shouted, “Locate that sniper!”
sssssuuuWHAAT!!
A trooper was thrown from his perch on the top deck of an ATTE. Vallen rushing to his side.. “Gus has been hit!! Medic!!” yelled Shine. Kix ran over escorted by Tup and Jesse who knelt next to the wounded trooper. The phizzling of the round could be heard while it seared its way deeper through the armor.
sssuuWHAAT!! SSSUWHAAT! ssssWHATT!!
The shot quickened with the same accuracy, dropping soldiers randomly across the courtyard.
BoWEEP WEEP!! BoWEEP WEEP!!
“This is Hotsh! I think I’ve got a fix on the shoots’ positions. I’m marking up the towers now sir!”
“Engage all hostiles!” Vallen ordered, standing from his position in stark defiance of the death being delivered. His rifle raised, the stock snug against his shoulder, the trigger smooth as he pulled until ..click – BLAST! A sharp blue laser fired, slamming into the chest of a sniper barely visible causing him to reel off the side. Vallen’s rifle seemed guided to their targets, but this wasn’t the time to reflect…Fight on! As the courtyard emitted blue blasts fired from the republic troopers, red lasers began showering across from the streets. “Finally an enemy we can see! Clankers sir! Straight ahead!” Shouted Sgt Kano as he pointed from his ditch.
“I need Thunder to clear out tower 1 and 2 of those snipers!” The call from Vallen brought the LAAT’s which had just dropped the troops back into the heat of events. Flak’s voice came through the line, “Alright lads, let’s make this quick! Ha ha ha!” Followed by Valkier’s --- “Building 1 crew 1,2,3 while the rest strafe run on building two…LETS MAKE IT THUNDER!!”
The LAAT’s flew in close, their sound growing and growing! They flew just over the courtyard, arcing up towards the towers, their chin guns tearing apart windows while the bubble turrets laid waste to balconies and side walls which were hard to reach. “That’ll teach em! You’re all clear Major.” Valkier flew his gunship down between the two towers…his squadron hovered in a line around him, all opened their doors to expose a gunnery clone holding a rotary cannon. Tails of light blue shredded apart the battle droids, tearing limb from body. “Damn Clankers!! Get some!!” a trooper hollered from his position.
The doors closed and the gunships were off and returning to their circling pattern. The clones cheered with their quick victory in the courtyard. Vallen quick to move to the next task lifted his wrist, “Be keen men! Can I get a report on the securing of the building Sgt. Boomer?”
“Sorry we missed the fight sir…I’ve found…I’ve found the Jedi..”
(To be continued..)
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another stupendous chapter! am loving this story very well written
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 5
“For a plan to succeed, you
must dedicate yourself fully, or it will falter.”
“I’ve found the Jedi! …sir?..I’ve ..the ..Jed..” Boomer’s com channel faded in and out.
Running towards the towering edifice of the parliament building, centered in the courtyard, Vallen twisted around, waving his arm to follow suit, “Hotsh and Volley squad, on me!” They grouped near the entrance. He crawled over one of the walls that were waist height, the squad quickly closed in. Looking upwards the atrium of the lobby within the government building was tremendous.
Glancing across the space, he found bodies of clones who had died where they fought. Volley squad spread throughout the room investigating what they could. Vallen knelt to the ground, his hand grazing the soft debris...heat continued to radiate from the smooth marble fragments. “Still warm to the touch sir?” Trooper Shine inquired as he approached. “Some pieces seem hot, but where’s all the glass?” asked Tank, a new trooper to the squad; his rotary cannon resting over his shoulder while his helmet torqued in curiosity. Shine continued, “This couldn’t have happened too long ago. I’ve only seen this type of damage done by cruisers to one another in space. Looks as though a few blasts came from the exterior…but most of this damage is blown from the inside out. No glass.. cuz it all melted.”
Hotsh neared a lift shaft. “Pike help me crank this sucker open.” Pike silently walked to the door Hotsh was arduously tugging. Slowly pulling his knife from his shoulder plate, the clone raised it above his head and with both hands Pike threw his weight into the crack of the door. “What the?!” Hotsh barked as he jumped back.
A slight grumble was heard from Pike’s helmet, his body forcing the blade deep through the double doors. “Haaareh!” The grittiness of the rocks within the track made a slow grind as the clones heaved the door apart. “Well done.” Vallen spoke as he looked up the shaft. “We better not take the stairs in case those explosions caused any structural damage.” Pike nodded, wiping the blade across his armor before pushing the knife within its sheath again.
Tank walked towards the assembled squad. His helmet was off, eyes wide apart while his brow wrinkled. “We wouldn’t have had too much luck with that idea Major” wiping his wet brow as his back slid slowly down the wall, “…the stairs…they are littered with bodies of civi’s who tried escaping the lobby.” Vallen stood before the trooper, “On your feet lad. We will mourn for them, but unless we act now, this may be for not if we can’t find those Jedi. Hold firm troopers!” Hotsh offered an open hand to the rookie, their hands clasped as Tank was pulled to his feet.
Vallen stepped off the floor into the shaft’s black void, the jet pack’s blue flames ignited preventing him from drifting down. Flickering, the boosters engaged sending him up the pipe steadily. One by one, the members of Volley squad followed.
Continuing the ascent within the bowels of the structure’s elevator shaft, Vallen utilized his comlink. Slowing to a hover he latched on to a cable on the shafts side. “Valkier, come in. Valkier, do you read me?” Though there was slight static the transmission came in uninterrupted, “Thunder 01 reporting in sir! How can I be of service?”
“I’d like you to scan for a group of our troopers or search for any contact from Sergeant Boomer.” Valkier quickly replied to the order, “On it sir! Flak, get to it.”
------------------------------------------------------Mean while in the atmosphere---------------------
Captain Meritus stood at the bridges main strategy table using his hand to toy with the holograms of the planetary scan. A navel clone officer stood at the table to report, “Captain, the cruisers Reproach, Stability, and Thrasher have reached your set waypoints and are continuing their scan. Upon completion should I bring them back?”
The captain cooly drifted in speech, only perking a single eyebrow, “Leave them where they are..”
“But sir the Major ordered we stay united in our pos..”
Meritus abruptly interrupted, turning to the officer within inches of his face, “Do not question my leadership again officer.”
---------------------------------------------------------------Back on Atar ------------------------------------------------
“Major Vallen, Thunder 01 reporting.”
Still clinging to the side of the shaft, the Major raised his arm, “Lets have the news pilot.”
“Boomer has set up defensive positions on the 39th floor. Two Jedi indicators are present as are a handful of other organic signatures.”
“Thanks for the diligence! With me lads.” His voice carrying down the tube, the troopers ignited the jet packs as silently the venture up continued. Again the squad reached a bulking door, but unlike the last, this was partially already open. A large 3 was visible on the left door while the faded semblance of a 9 could be seen on the opposing metallic flap.
Blue ignition flames turned white as they thrust forward, Vallen’s rubberized heel touching down on the floor. His reflection visible on the polished ground. Hotsh soon followed with Shine and Pike; while Tank, who finally arrived, stumbled through the door, his shoulder slamming into the wall. Regaining his footing, he looked up to find himself subject to the gaze of his entire squad. Shrugging, he lifted the rotary cannon, walking past the bemused clones, “What?! The tall heads didn’t exactly teach us how to zip around with these things.” As he chuckled and turned the corner he was immediately faced by an improvised barricade behind which six 501st troopers trained their sights quickly. “Hold!” Boomer shouted.
The clones of Volley squad climbed over the desks which had been piled over one another erecting a two tiered wall. Vallen leapt down off the barrier last. Standing up and removing his helmet, Boomer greeted him with a synopsis briefing while they walked down the twisting hall, the footsteps in quickened tandem. “General A’ Sharad Hett and Commander Sakiko are relatively unscathed, their senate guard detachment did not have the same fortune. They fell among our brothers which belonged to Hett’s company. Suffice it to say, they have a lot to fill you in on.” Halting at the entrance to a conference room, Sergeant Boomer snapped to attention, saluting as Major Vallen stepped through the passageway.
The dim light flickered for a moment as power within the building weakened. At the table stood the venerable Jedi Master Hett. Sharad Hett’s eye’s met Vallen’s as he was observing his heavily tattooed face. “You have brought with you a welcome reprieve Commander. As you’ve surely noticed, the situation here is not as it should be.” “To say the least General.” As Sharad Hett continued, Vallen could not help but look past Hett’s shoulder to the figure clouded in shadow. Meditating the figure was shrouded in the haze of the room with only a beam of light illuminating the lower portion of her face. He could see she was slightly smiling. Something rarely seen in combat, especially from a Jedi. As quickly as the smile had been noticed it vanished; from the darkness to white piercing eyes appeared peering straight into his.
Shocked he quickly reengaged in the conversation with Master Hett. … “They attacked with no warning, laying waste to all in sight. It mattered not who they struck. As we defended the building, precise locations were hit with concentrations of droid fire…they seemed to horde and use numbers to overwhelm a single position after which a ground quaking explosion or two would quickly follow. We retreated to corridors we could better hold, that’s when they hit the lobby. Almost 10 blasts were heard..what a tremendous loss of life in a single moment.”
Looking again to the shadows, the figure previously seen there had vanished. From the fade she emerged on his flank. Hett, feeling Vallen’s distraction through the force decided to formally introduced the duo, “Major Valhallen, I present Jedi Knight Sakiko Ryuuzaki. This was her mission until the situation began to deteriorate. Hence I came.” Her eyes so focused. Vallen had never seen her race before, human like, but not. Her ears extending far beyond, drawing to a point as they punctured her raven brown hair. Throughout the waves, her hair had locks of blue which vibrantly shown in the light where she stood. One lone, vertical, blue line cut through each of her brow. Vallen was curious in the meaning behind these marks.
An explosion rocked the building. Hotsh rushed into the room, “Major, the perimeter is under attack! We must leave now.” Vallen turned to the two Jedi, “We must get you two out of this building and aboard the Formidable to salvage this situation. I’m not sure how firm this structure is.” Calmly Hett acknowledged, “We will follow your lead.” Boomer began to run down the hall. What few wounded troopers remained were being picked up by Volley squad and ushered down the countless stairs. They stifled their groans of agony, pushing through the pain.
Pike sprinted down the last landing of the stairwell and firmly kicked through the exit! Light shone brightly through the doorway with a flash, momentarily leading to blindness as each pair of eyes fought to adjust quickly. Rumbling could be heard as ATTE’s walked into defensible positions within the courtyard. 6 ATTE’s began forming a large defensive arc, a seventh walking backwards from the main gate.
“Return fire!!” Halifax’s course voice sounded through all comlinks, immediately followed by ripping gunfire and loud replies of the walker’s heavy cannons. The wounded sought refuge in the closest walkers. The main gate of the complex erupted in a whirlwind of fire and smoke. Battle droids and droideka’s began pouring through accompanied by a showering of random rockets. Red and blue lasers lashed to and fro from the faceless enemy. As one droid fell apart, another took its place. From the fog of clanking metal came sprinting and dodging five battle droids closely resembling a commando droids in the way they moved, but all lacked a blaster of any type.
Vallen’s eyes struggled to focus as they ducked and evaded bolts fired, serpentineing almost unpredictably. They ran straight for the backward walking 7th ATTE! “Take them down!!! TAKE THEM DOWN!!” he cried out. Reaching the walker simultaneously, the first droid clamored up the middle leg of the ATTE, punching the gunner from his seat with one strong hit, the second and third running straight beneath the tank, while the fourth sprinted and leapt into the air. His metallic digits sprawled out as they cracked through
the pilots glass window with ease.
“Roger! roger!” Beep Beep!
Instantly the walker was torn into oblivion, ripped from every direction by the massive explosions caused by these few droids. The republic forces who bore witness, even gunship crews, were stunned by the carnage as the metal skeleton of the behemoth faltered to the ground, collapsing to a mere pile of smoldering scrap. The refuge of the walkers now seemed like a horrible idea to Vallen, He charged forward with his squad, the Jedi following their lead, “Form a forward line and solid suppressing fire!! Do not let the droids get near the walkers!” Clone troopers steadily advanced, those with jet packs rapidly taking the wall back into their control.
The Jedi lunged into the thick of the droid force! Hett pulling from his waist two green light sabers as he used the force to leap up, then plunge into the ground sending a rippling shockwave impact tossing droids on impact. With every spin, countless droids fell into pieces. Hett threw his saber using the other to reflect lasers. While his hand was empty, He manipulated the force to pull and push droids into one another before recalling his thrown saber back to its proper place.
Closer to Vallen stood Sakiko whose blue blade nearly looked white as she sliced through a dozen B2 battle droids with a controlled flurry of strokes. Sakiko was able to block and attack at the same time not wasting more than a single stroke per enemy. There was a sizable gap forming between her saber and the droids as she cut swaths through them. He ignited his jet pack rapidly becoming airborne to cover her. Pulling the trigger of his rifle..Click…the charge was empty when his feet hit the hard ground. Throwing his gun aside Vallen swiftly lifted from his single holster a side arm, quickly dispatching three droids in what he deemed Sakiko’s blind spot. The droids rushed her…she suddenly collapsed to the ground, catching herself as they fired over her she pushed up with a single arm. The other became out stretched; her fingers rapidly flicking out straight…from each, a propulsion of the force caused the droids to reel, falling atop of one another. Vallen too was thrown, but quickly regained his footing. His eyes met hers only for a moment as she winked…then continued to lash through a row of clankers with ardent focus.
The combination of laser fire from the clones and prowess of the Jedi enabled Republic forces to retake the courtyard perimeter. The thick firefight ceased for the time being. The droid attack halted..ruined in smoke and metal. A deathly silence permeated the uncertain victory. “Boomer, get me Captain Rex on the line. We need to get the Jedi back into space.” “Right away sir!” the ARF trooper shouted as he finished hooking up the last connections to the long distance relay. The Jedi knights, Halifax, and Vallen began climbing their way into the belly of an ATTE which was made the command post in the center of the defended courtyard.
Circling the tactical hologram table, the blue forms of Rex and Captain Meritus began to take form. “Rex, how are your forces?!”
Rex, seemingly unaware of any commotion, “Well Major! We’ve established a beachhead for evac if need be. How are negotiations?”
“You don’t know? We’ve been engaged all afternoon..”
Rex’s hologram, with elevated concern, leans closer “What?! NO! We’ve been solidifying our position and building positive repour with the locals. How many casualties and have you found the Jedi?”
“We’ll get to that. First off, Captain Meritus, How have you not witnessed any of this?”
Arrogantly Meritus explains his blatant disregard for the Major’s initial strategy, “Well sir, after you left, we began a planetary scan. The blips we saw..we simply thought were errors due to the planet magnetic and droid population. Some spots are just patchy at best...”
Vallen sternly grinding his fist into the table, “Captain, I order you, turn the light cruisers towards the hyperlane immediately!”
“Uhg, Major, this is ridiculous. They are currently at the poles for scanning farther scanning, but if I must I will recall them. I warn you it will lengthen the scan time.”
Vallen past aggravated closes his eyes, stands erect, speaking calmly through his frustration, “Meritus, the threat is NOT on the planet. We’re fighting an expeditionary force that was here prior to the Jedi! IT’S A TRAP!”
The navel captain both shocked and in disbelief steps back from the table.
A naval officer hurried to the side of Meritus, “Sir! We have incoming signals from hyperspace. Two Seperatist Destroyers and several frigates!!”
Stunned Meritus slowly turns to his crew, “…ra..ra…Raise the shields and get us turned about!”
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another superb read! very well done Blake
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I really appreciate it! Thanks for checking back in!
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Major Haide Vallen
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0869_zpsb9145345.jpg) (http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0870_zpsf51e4726.jpg)
Battalion Commander Hallifax
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0895_zps864dcae8.jpg) (http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0896_zps32dcedb5.jpg)
Clone Trooper Pike
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0893_zps8ea531df.jpg) (http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0892_zpsf5452c9e.jpg)
ARF Sergeant Boomer
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0894_zps1ca7e3aa.jpg)
Clone Trooper Shine
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0902_zpsaa374067.jpg) (http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0901_zps31afcd51.jpg)
the Characters together:
(http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0898_zps1f18b53d.jpg) (http://i1256.photobucket.com/albums/ii493/wraithnine/IMAG0900_zps827d3197.jpg)
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Nice, got this update on the front page.
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sweet customs jay
im form halifax haha how ironic
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Shifting Tides: Volume 6
"Where there is no vision, the people perish."
Proximity alarms rang out; red glaring flashes, throbbed across indicators, monitors, and lights cruiser wide. Bridge Officer Falk, a clone, turned toward Captain Meritus, "Sir, shields are raised! Your next orders?!"
Meritus' eyes remained fixed on the red triangles indicating the speedily approaching enemy. "..We're turning about as ordered..Sir, what are your orders?!"
The tremendous Acclamator cruiser shuttered as its lumbering body was torqued by various thrusters, pushing and pulling from all angles to move into an intercept formation.
A voice called out from several feet away back at the bridges tactical table, Major Vallen continuing to watch as the chaos ensued. "Captain! Regain yourself!" he snapped pulling Meritus from his daze.
"Major, my apologies. I.." "Now is NOT the time. Any moment, you will be face to face with the enemy. Your father is known for his Naval tactics, today would be a shitty day to find..his legacy was so short."
Meritus rose up. His back straightening as he adjusted the collar of his grey tunic. The hologram's eyes, razor-sharp in their connection, towards the captain, "Captain, you are the beachhead to this system! Fear not the enemy and commit everything you have! Hold nothing back!" The hologram's hand went from a staunch point directed at the recomposed officer, swiftly motioning to emphasize the importance.
A Sharad Hett's blue figure walked calmly onto the blue table, "Do or do not Captain. We and the force are with you."
Meritus shirked at the sentiment of some religion helping him in pitched battle. His arrogance returning, "Now, I have a battle to prepare for gentlemen." "Captain" Hett continued, "I will also require one of your ships. Saikiko and I must immediately depart for the Jedi Council with necessary war intel."
Taking a quick moment to survey the weapon systems he was about to lose before answering, "..Of course General, ..suppose I can spare an Arquitens light cruiser. Send the Reproach planet-side!"
The captain's gaze altered towards the front windows as the separatist battleship and frigates suddenly appeared before him, decelerating. "Officer Falk, post my attack orders and coordinate the fighter wings to cover one another using my sweeping "X" tactic."
Blue figures above the tactical table began to blur..the transmission beginning to falter, "Major, we are losing your transmission, but will find you if we are able to route the Seps."
Red lasers streamed from the newly arrived battleship towards the unprepared Consular vessel, merely limbering where it had been placed on reserve patrol. The Acclamator crew was helpless as they starred on out of range; their small allied vessel being torn apart in only moments. It was clear the Conciliation was beginning to power up their engines. Lurching forward, the 3 round magnetic turbines erupted in a whirlwind of blue and orange hues; spiraling off the vessels metal frame. Thick dull smoke hid the electronic flashes as the flames were quickly stifled by the vacuum of space..all occurring in empty silence…. the isolated ship greeted its ruin. The coup de grace delivered when the small red and white rectangular cockpit SLAMMED into the impending Separatist ship's hull, crushing it into mere floating rubble.
Meritus struggled to regain his already shaken resolve. As Republic forces attempted to regroup, the Seperatist navy strove to drive all of their might into the strongest ship available, the Formidable, which was currently launching all of her star fighters, bombers, even gunships for added gun support. As the two fleets came within firing distance, the Formidable deployed its rearward thrusters propelling the Acclamator backwards, buying precious time to unload as many craft as possible while also linking up with the other cruisers.
The two light assault cruisers, Serenity and Fortitude, arrived in tandem taking up positions on the left of the hulking Formidable. The three remaining Arquiten cruisers, Stability, Thrasher, and Loyalty, arrived behind the Acclamator to prevent their movements from being easily telegraphed. The Reproach was already speeding towards the urban planet; engines leaving a trail of white.
Meritus was standing at the tactical board, his hand holding a pen which allowed him to designate orders on the map and move markers enabling orders to be given without many words. "Falk, manage the fighters if you please! I will continue managing the capital ships. Gunnery captains, I need your crew efficient while maximizing target coverage. Focus fire in "couples."!"
His eyes squinting at the blue, soft-lit grid as he leaned close, the blue illuminating his countenance. "What are you going to throw at me this time?" As if in reply, a flurry of yellow markers began to emerge from the side docking bays of the elongated separatist flagship. "Make them come to us. We'll bait and wear them down!"
The large republic ships continued to lumber away from the enemy fleet. As the distance grew, Hyena Bombers and Tri fighters filled the gap. In pristine enunciation, Falk spoke through his headset, "Fighter escort Alpha, Engage." Z-95's zoomed away from the Formidable as all of the ships guns began putting up a wall of fire. They reformed and hit the tri fighters head on! Blue and red lasers cutting through metal and shield alike. Droid fighters often flew recklessly, lacking any sign of self preservation. Often times these ships would slam into the side of a cruiser or Republic fighter.
The gunships navigational computers were synchronized to the Formidable's nav system. LAAT's hovered close to the deck, but were prevented from slamming into one another as well as entering the firing lanes of allied weapon systems. The Acclamator was transformed into an impenetrable fortress capable of suppressing the onslaught of enemy fighters that came relentlessly.
Squadron's of Z-95's and ARC 170's chased sepy ships to and fro …at times they themselves were also on the receiving end, but the "X" tactic employed by Captain Meritus allowed squadrons to weave into one another forcing the droid to pick an "optimal target." This X set up a series of formations which allowed clone pilots to cover each other with ease, efficiency, and speed. Clone pilots shot down copious numbers…but it was easing the attack. If anything, it was always known the droids had numerical superiority in their favor, but the clones fought on. Their tenacity matching the dreadful odds they faced.
The Banking Clan's frigates crossed the gap between the two battle ships quicker than Meritus had hoped. Their large number of quick firing cannons began to tear through fighters forcing them to retreat out of the devastating range of the frigates. "Light cruisers, concentrate your fire on the nearest frigate. Run a fast raid, separate, regroup and hit them again!"
Upon command, the Stability, Thrasher, and Loyalty accelerated into attack speed! Creating a trident as they sped from the safety behind the Acclamator, over and beside the bridge they blasted towards their first target of the day.
The enemies anti fighter guns fired dozens of rapid volleys. The red shot would disperse with a light blue flash with every impact on the cruisers' shield defenses. Though the ships were swift with every pass, the vast number of guns they faced were taking a toll on the triads shields. "Sir, the enemy frigate on the right. Finally their shields have succumb!" Falk shouted from his position at a monitor near the gunnery crew positions (the 2 lower areas seen on the bridge.) As the enemy ship turned to seek refuge among its allied ship nearest to it, Meritus ordered the trident of light cruisers to attack until the ship was knocked from the battle line.
Falk's tone shifted to an uncomfortable level as he cleared his throat, "Captain, that flanking frigate still has the bulk of its shield and is in an optimal place for.."
Meritus jutting his hand out in a charging motion, "Bring it down!" Using his been he drew a line to the retreating ship…circling it..pressing down to confirm the order.
The three ships raced towards the vessel, concentrating their guns on the light green geometric bridge glass. As they got closer the flanking frigate Falk had warned Meritus about began to put down a wall of red fire which dashed about the 3 as they weaved in and out.
Stability and Thrasher disengaged their attack, but the Loyalty pushed on, firing 2 concussion missiles, that spiraled until they sliced through the glass windows of the Sepy frigate. Hitting any number of object in the bridge, the missiles erupted. Explosions rocked the ship as its command structure was gutted from the reaction caused by the explosion. The metal carcass became directionless, drifting, no longer firing its cannons.
As the Stability and Thrasher made a quick escape, the Loyalty quickly zipped and spiraled in attempts to evade the lasers emitting from the enemy Frigate deemed 0021. Loyalties shields dwindled, but were holding. They approached the safety zone near the large Formidable, nearing all the fighters still engaged in fierce combat. Loyalty fired several salvos to support the fighters within the flurry. Meritus sighed in relief as one enemy ship of many had been dealt with. He reached down with his pen to draw an arrow, ordering the cruiser to fall in line behind the Formidable in order to recharge its shields in a brief reprieve.
Click…Meritus began drawing a line, when it disappeared…
CLICK
…He pressed firmly down on the board.
"What the…." Meritus briskly walked to the view-port in time to witness the fireball which laid waste to Loyalty's bridge. The ships rectangular command deck was now a "V", blown in half.
Awestruck, two more Hyena bombers accelerated simultaneously releasing heavy payloads of explosives before crashing into the Loyalty. Vast swathes were ripped through the ship which moments before had committed itself to such harrowing valor.
Lifeless frozen clone bodies of the crew glided into space; having been pulled out as the hull became increasingly breached.
For now, Republic forces were holding their ground, their edge slowly diminishing…
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Absolutely awesome!!
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Thanks Wraithe!!
Still in awe over those customs you did! Ridiculously kick ass ()rr ()rr
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Awesome, back on the front page. Oh, I also tried to get into the Deviant Art link to find the graphic you talked about and couldn't see anything directly related to this. If you could post that graphic in here or pm me a link to it I could use that for all your future chapter updates.
Thanks once again for sharing this with us.
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(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f115/CTtamer/Tamer%20Cont%202/holdfast_501st__by_theirishrogue-d5moq7q.jpg)
Very nice work here.
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Just read the first issue of this and will be catching up on the rest as soon as I've finished this post.
Loving the story I've read so far, I'm curious to see how it pans out with a company of clones being led by a non-clone and non-Jedi officer. The only other example I can think of where that happened was with Major Ozzel and...erm...let's just say that it didn't work out too nicely for the poor clones! I'm sure Major "Vallen" Valhallen will do a better job ;)
I've visited your DeviantArt page and seen the awesome customs by Wraith. I love that you have detailed drawings of each individual characters' armour designs, and they give such clear indications of what each of the clones like Shine, Pike and Sergeant Kano are going to look like that I'm tempted to render them as 3D Models for Volume Three of my Tales From The Clone Wars fancomic if you would be happy with that. For Volume Three the 501st is going to feature heavily so I will be creating a lot of individual clones and would love to include a fellow fan writer's creations too.
Anyway, keep up the great work! I'll get back to reading the rest of the issues now, but it's already off to a great start xD
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Hey mate,
Thanks for the great post! I'm going to reply in a PM momentarily after posting the next entry! :)
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 7
“A little more persistence, a little more effort, and what seemed hopeless failure may turn to glorious success.”
The space battle continued to rage on in the void far above the city covered ecunopolis of Atar. The light cruiser, Reproach, sped towards the atmosphere relentlessly chased by a squadron of droid fighters. The four fighters were unable to close the ever growing gap that was taking shape. Their smaller engines were no match to the velocity output created by the Reproach’s three large horizontal engines! As the enemy faded out of the sensor’s view, the planet began to grow, final approach coordinates and vectors needed to be establish.
BoWEEP WEEP BoWEEP WEEP *Click
Vallen reached down clicking the smooth button. Raising his wrist up the voice of a clone pilot came through, “This is Captain Taggart of the Senate Guard. My squad is aboard the Reproach and are rapidly descending. Question is, in this urban setting, there are few areas a ship our size can actually fit down to your level; so where will you be able to get to in order for a pick up?”
Climbing up the side panel of his gray At-Te, Vallen’s boots clicked when his heels impacted the metallic textured floor. “Halifax, bring up the map of the city: highlighting the acceptable areas for retrieval. Boomer, bring Rex online for an update.”
Sergeant Kano climbed up the ladder, popping his head past the thick metal plating overlapping the armor. “Sir, we’re getting the troops ready to mobilize once you choose a location.”
Kano leapt from the ladder, his feet pounding the ground with a light thud.
Rex’s blue translucent form appeared, walking up to the table whilst removing his helmet. The sound of blaster and cannon fire could be heard through the transmission.
“Sirs, what is the sitrep? We’re currently under fire on this end.”
Hett’s hand rested on the table. “Rex, we need a secure location for a pick up.” From a dimly lit corner of the tactical room, Jedi Saikiko’s head slowly raised up. Her eyes sharply opened as her face slowly turned towards the men standing before the table.
“Rex's men are distressed.” Her breathing calm and controlled as she meditated, focusing on the battle a fair distance off, “The zone is sustaining heavy damage..and…is contested. We’ll need to find a new position.”
Hallifax highlighted two areas on the holographic map in glowing yellow. Roughly in short sentences, “Two options if you plan to take the tanks. The first leads down a long avenue, but will allow a arrow head formation 3 tanks wide. Secondly, we head towards Rex’s position, but the heat is too unknown for a drop. Reports of heavy rocket use.”
Rex’s hologram was jostled violently. “Though we have all the heavy equipment, we are under tremendous fire because of it! These detonating droids are devastating. You need to find a source of this new Battle Management System if we are to have any hope of securing this planet!” Vallen nodded in agreement confidently added, “Top priorities for the legion will be to rendezvous our companies with the Reproach, then find that system. Rex, you are going to be picked up by Thunder in two hours, Halifax will arrive in your stead.”
Rex’s countenance torqued with mixed emotions of bewilderment and denial, “But sir, we are engaged here..” “Yes, but you have seen and watched these droids, your observations are necessary to add to the Jedi, it is crucial to the war effort. Find me patterns, frequencies, priority targets, anything that we can use to take down these bloody clankers!”
Rex nodded without speaking, understanding the necessity though he did not like the prospect of leaving the battle. As his hologram diminished, Tank’s voice could be heard from his perch above the window of the command At- Te, “Here they COOME!!”
A small squad of 5 droids ran out of a pile of debris they had crawled through and were speedily approaching. Tank in his shiny armor quickly climbed down as fast as he could, then jumped, running straight for the droids with his rotary canon!
Halifax slid down the ladder, “What the hell?! Damn shiny is gonna get himself killed!” The commander’s kama flapped as he sprinted after Tank without his helmet. Other clone troopers were unable to take out the sprinting droids due to the inevitable crossfire on friendly troops that would ensue.
As the silver gray commando shaped droids closed, there was a sudden explosion knocking the furthest droid in the rear of the pack off balance. Shine bolted through the smoke of his grenade firing 3 blue shots into the mechanical head as it struggled against him. The fourth bolt burst from its head, motor gears twisting, continuing to twitch, not realizing it was already dead.
Tank planted his feet wide apart bracing for the gatling gun’s kickback. The barrels began to slowly spin as he warmed up the gun, “COME GET IT!!!” he shouted in brute defiance of the small group baring down on him. Several shots struck out the legs of one bringing it down. Trooper Pike charged in, thrusting his knife upwards through the chin of the face plate, spraying black mech fluid across his helmet.
The third was hit square in the chest, dropping lifelessly back to the ground as the second dodged to and fro. Tank fired purposefully to the right of the droid corralling it to dodge to one side. Suddenly halting his fire, he quickly adjusted, then reopened with a burst to the left— this pummeled the droid into a smoking, sparking heap.
The last droid and leader of the back somersaulted, CLICK CLICK CLICK, the rapid rate of the clicks signal a weapon error.
The shinie armored clone trooper ran straight towards the evasive enemy, as they were about to collide, Tank swung the cannon knocking his opponent to the ground! Its arms were already helping to push the robotic body up as Tank quickly straddled the raising machine's torso, lifting his cannon far above his head with both hands, before bringing it down with all his might upon the battle droid’s head. Lifting his weapon again, the robotic body continued to attempt to stand, writhing beneath him. The cannon slammed into the droid’s head; the impact concentrated on its neck causing the head to pop from the joint, sending it reeling through the air.
A group of clones approached the solo trooper. Tank stood from his knees pulling off his helmet to breath. Around him a few brothers stood, removing their helmets with impressed smiles or laughs. Pike walked through the circle, grinning as he held up his blade which was tangled in some red and blue wires. The faceplate however, wasn’t precisely cut. Rather it had been inverted from the heavy impact, so heavy that it even bore a small imprint of the Republic logo. Pike handed over the obliterated helmet.
“Aten- Hut!” a trooper shouted. Instantly the group snapped into their trained erect posture. Their faces sharp, any smiles they had were now gone. Halifax’s heavy footsteps could be heard approaching. Barging through the circle the veteran commander sharply asked, “What was that?! Are you some Jedi…some one man army?!” “I..I ..” “NO! You’re NOT! …but you are one hell of a trooper.” Halifax allowed a small sign of his satisfaction to be seen to Tank, who began fighting back his smile.
“Back to you posts!” Halifax coarsely barked. Troops began falling out of the circle formation. As they did, many tapped or lightly punched Tank’s shoulder plate.
“Very well done. Halifax pushes his men, but they all understand it’s to teach them to survive.” Hett commented to his fellow Jedi from beside the At- Te turret.
Halifax returned to the command At- Te as Vallen emerged. Sliding down the thin rails he began adjusting his jetpack and rifle sling before looking up towards Halifax. Their hands met in a solid handshake, the roar of battle, stifled by city sounds in the distance. “Til the last nail Commander.”
Halifax nodded, “Always steadfast!!” as he climbed up into the tank. “I’ll orchestrate the gunship pick up for Rex and I. You just worry about getting to the drop zone!” Halifax shouted down. “Fair enough! Good luck Commander!”
Vallen bowed his head, pulling over his helmet. Activating his comlink to reach all the clones of his company, the Major’s voice was broadcast simultaneously, “Company, you have been issued your orders. We march for the spire merely 5 clicks away. Unknown resistance so stay sharp lads.”
Halifax commed up to Vallen, “Major, we are green. All squads have readied up.”
Vallen turned towards the company, his arm pointing down the avenue with two fingers, “FORWAAARD!!”
On cue the front skirmishers began setting out to secure the immediate front. Thunderous, ground shaking, noise erupted from each pad as the large At- Te’s stepped off. One by one the tanks proceeded through the gates of the zone they had fought hours earlier to secure. The hulking tanks began marching into formation. The initial pair was parallel to one another with the Command tank out in front creating a point; while the rear lines of tanks were the opposite, creating a mobile diamond.
They began marching down the wide street, illuminated by bright beams of sunlight combined with the various colors bouncing off of street signs and advertisements. They continued to march into the lights…
Hope all my readers are having great holidays!! ()rr ()rr
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Replied to your PM :)
Very nice update, and couldn't come at a better time as I had a Boxing Day morning viewing of the Umbara arc earlier. Gotta love the 501st.
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and another stonking episode mate!
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I am gonna wait and read this later and really enjoy it after I get all my internet work done. The update is now on the fp though.
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Wraith, Tamer, Kualan: Thank you all so much for reading and the support!!
As you read, if you develop feedback any is appreciated. Ya'll keep spurring me forward!
Continue to Enjoy!
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Wow, just catching up on the last 3 updates. Really great writing. Sorry it took me so long to check in here.
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Awe thanks!!! I really appreciate the great feedback!
It refuels my writing to know that my work is read or enjoyed in some regard. ha ha at least I hope :p
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 8
“Every time you win, it diminishes the fear of loss.
You never cancel the fear of losing; you keep challenging it.”
The haze of twilight dwindled above the skyline as the sun of Ator set. The metallic skyscrapers reached high like thorns far into the sky. Citadels, spires, dynamic shaped facades as far as was visibly possible through the crisp air. Atop of several large rectangular buildings, the smooth profile was made rigid with the outlines of numerous gunships which had landed to remain on “standby” for further action orders. Many of the airborne or jet pack troopers had found their way to peruse in to the top levels of these towering structures, however, the gunship pilots and crews remained with their crafts..
Valkier, captain of the infamous larty squadron known to the grunts of the 501st as “Thunder”, had earned his reputation through frequent deeds of note. The troopers of his wing all decorated their armor, a practice typically reserved for foot soldiers. Though most pilots maintained only decorating their helmets, being as versatile as the 501st meant being ready to hit the ground at a moment’s notice to fight shoulder to shoulder with the mud or sand covered troops they had previously dropped. The captain hated the prospect that some soldiers may confuse his men with “shinies” due to their time in the cockpit. This did not mean his troopers had free reign to customize their armor; they had to earn the right to wear the blue, just as anyone else. For this, Thunder had become a revered, but truly capable fighting group.
Standing at the cornerstone of the tallest edifice, Valkier stood solemnly looking through his macrobinoculars into the darkness opposite of the falling sun. Stray laser bolts could be seen whizzing from the crowded city buildings. The gray, black smoke was becoming less stark as light dwindled. The Republic’s heavy guns only made soft booms, which loomed over the trained ear, refracted by the buildings surfaces and carried by the wind.
“When will we hear the word?” said a soft voice from behind the captain. Valkier’s hand rose from its resting place on the wall to behind his head, where he un-easily rubbed the back of his soft brown hair. He turned his head, looking from the corner of his eye just far enough to see his turret gunner, Tag.
“We’ll hear when they need us.” Valkier replied matter-of-factly.
“Which should be soon!” a different voice contributed urgently. Krate, the opposing ball turret gunner strode up, anxiously rubbing his hands together. “Our wing hasn’t been called in for nearly three hours…that’s..well that’s odd for this early in a campaign.”
Krate though very intelligent, always seemed to read a little too far into suspicious events. He was excellent under pressure, but when the pressure was alleviated, his anxious-ness began to grow. Had he been overlooked for promotions on numerous accounts due to this attribute, but Valkier new just the solution. Turning to face his crew, “We haven’t been called in, because they aren’t in trouble..and that is a good thing for our brothers. Now, double check those cooling filters and belts on the guns. Those have to be in prime condition for sustained fighting. Hop to gentlemen!”
“Yes sir!” the two snapped with a quick salute before moving to ascend the large gunship wings to the missile rack. As the two worked in the dim, their fluorescent green markings seemed to glow. In the 501, green of this sort was reserved for ball turret vets who had flown 50 combat missions.
Flak approached the captain, “Wound tight again?” his armor speckled with dents and scrapes that would rival any trooper in the legion. Originally his name was Tike, but through his tours prior to a promotion into “Thunder” he became known for the wake of debris he left behind. Having been shot down twice in different Torrent fighters, 8 times in gunships, and twice again as a Y wing gunner. Suffice it to say, “Flak magnet” seemed far more appropriate for the damage his ships sustained.
“They’re just a little antsy. Happens time and again with idleness” Valkier replied.
“I’ll head back to the gunship to monitor the comm. chatter.” Flak continued, “Maybe someone will come up with a task like “save my ass” or “shoot here”…well at least those are my favorite of the orders we get.”
Valkier acknowledged with a partial smile and nod. Reaching down he picked up his helmet, pulling a light blue fiberous towel from his belt, wiping his T visor until the glassy plate became reflective. “Night has arrived.” he said quietly to himself, standing alone on the corner edifice.
Many of the gun crews sat or lay resting against their ships, their heads resting on helmets as makeshift pillows, or leaning back against the cool metallic armor plating of the hull. Either way, Valkier suddenly awoke, almost leaping to his feet. His dreams causing him to rouse; he double checked his surroundings with a rapid glance.
BeDoo BeDoo ----- BeDoo BeDoo
A small yellow light flashed from within the gunship’s troop hold. Wiping his brow, he approached the lit up panel. Stretching his neck, he rolled his head to and fro whilst his finger reached out, tapping a small green, triangular button.
“Good evening captain, this is Major Vallen speaking” said the voice across the line.
“It’s a good evening if you say sir. What’s the sit-rep?” Valkier inquired.
“We’re going to need your wing to run a pick up on Captain Rex located in plaza 342. You will then bring him to the tank group, dropping off Rex while lifting Commander Halifax. Basically it’s an officer swap, but this legion needs both of these men, a task I trust ONLY to the best of the best. You have 1 hour prep. Good hunting Captain! Vallon out.”
Quietly the captain awoke his crew members, ordering them to do the same for the rest of Thunder wing. As clones ran to each docile crew, the word spread to circle up on the captain. Captain Valkier stood in an open area lit dimly by the lights of the nearby gunships. Red, green, and white hues illuminating their armor as they stood waiting. Valkier dispelled the Major’s orders which he had learned just moments before. A message had been sent as well, supplying all airborne units with integral knowledge of the ongoing situations.
Fighting had ceased for the moment which is why now had become the prime opportunity for such a switch. During the briefing, Valkier paused to think about the notes he had just read. Making an addition to the briefing’s orders.
“Wing commanders, Thunder will maintain its flight with me, however, All gunships carrying Jet troopers will shadow the HQ tanks from above as they progress to their zone of departure. Any wings carrying Airborne troopers will continue to be on standby until ordered otherwise. Good hunting gentlemen, Mount UP!”
The men bolted every-which-way in the direction of their ships. Some prepping order pads while others already wore their helmets and had climbed up the scrawny latter steps to their cockpits. A low droning hum followed by the guttural throttling up of turbines.
Dust from the roof tops was hurled into puffs within the air. One by one each ship lifted from the floor, only inches away from the surface. Patiently they loomed as their heavy blast doors closed. Spitfire hopped into the loading deck, punching the large red button to close his doors. In tandem, Tag and Krate pounced into their clear bubble turrets, straddling either side of the craft. Securing the upper window in which they entered, a checklist had already begun over the ship wide comm channel. Thick safety harnesses clicked as each member of the crew secured their thick black belts.
The gunship became illuminated only by the lights of their on-board computers, lifted off. Low rumbling dissipating above the buildings as the larties lifted up into the air. Though the sky was black, a glowing aura kept the city illuminated with light penetrating down the streets and causeways. With way-points set for Thunder Wing, the mission was now underway. Thrusters engaged lurching the gunship forward. Building momentum, Valkier gripped his throttle, pushing forward enabling his craft to swoop with ease down between the buildings to avoid easy detection above the skyline. Using the buildings as cover the numerous LAATs weaved lumberingly through the plethora of skyscrapers.
Valkier’s voice came across the income, “Three minutes until touchdown. We’ll be picking up Captain Rex since we’re nearest his position. The principle target is ours; the rest of the wing will run interference.” The way point came nearer and nearer on the computer. The monitor showed the defended square was quickly approaching and was located just past the tremendous statue that stood before them. The LAAT strafed to the right side of a statue, beginning its downward spiral descent. The remainder of the squad formed a large ring that formed a loose perimeter, but remained high in order to not expose their purpose. Valkier’s gunship tightly hugged the statue leaving a spiral of white jet stream as he descended into the smoke laden air which congested the battlefield.
Nearing the contested zone, the ship leveled off and rapidly slowed down, coming to a hover in the center of the defended area.
Through the smoke a handful of clone troopers became visible, rifles and carbines held to their shoulders. Spitfire punched the green button which enabled the hulking blast doors to slide open. Holding the door he reached down to help pull up each clone trooper. The first had relatively plain armor except for a lone tear drop beneath his T view plate, the next had a backpack with a starkly visible medic insignia. As he climbed up, the clone behind helped lift the backpack, his helm decorated with a large Republic Army insignia.
“Where’s Captain Rex?!” Spitfire shouted above the loud droning of the engines.
Tup turned to shout back, “He just oversaw the final positioning of the cannons! He’s on his way as we speak! This is the first down time we’ve had all day!”
Through the smoke Rex’s signature helmet and kama could be seen as he sprinted towards the hovering platform.
A slight whistling turning into a howl immediately prior to a horrendous explosion!
“REX!!” Kix shouted as Jesse leapt from the deck. Jesse grabbed a hold of Rex’s arm lifting him to his feet, “Sir, are you ok?! Are you hit?”
“Thanks Jesse, all good here. Those rockets are all show, but kick a concussive force. Valkier, good to see you again.”
“Always a pleasure Captain, but if you don’t mind, we do have a mission to wrap up. Its imperative we get you to the tanks stat!” Valkier stated with purpose. “Understood, Lets get to it!”
Without a gap of time between sentences, a hail of rockets fell upon the zone leaving swaths of fire were they slammed. Volatile equipment erupted in flame throwing troopers as ammunition crates burst!
“Close the blast doors! Close the blast doors!” Valkier shouted lifting the gunship from the ground accelerating forward. The doors heaved shut blacking out the room until the dim red combat light engaged. The LAAT was pushed and shoved by the concussive blasts.
In moments Thunder wing took note of the growing battle, taking note of the rocket launch points the LAAT’s strafed the building decks and windows. Their chin guns and bubble turrets unleashing a hail of green laser beams tearing through the buildings. Glass fell, marble burst, and metal melted as the targeted floors became gutted by LAAT fire.
The Wing regrouped on their wing leader whose gunship was speeding towards their next objective. Valkier slowed the gunship to reserve fuel. Within the main bay, Rex and his command crew removed their helmets. Spitfire pulled his off after providing the customary salute to his commanding officer. Tup took in several deep breaths, enjoying the reprieve from being smothered in the smoke. Murmuring concealed the silence of the cabin. Rex leaned against the back door. Looking to the ceiling as his mind reflected the previous hours of combat, already beginning to prepare his report for the Combined Strategic Committee.
Jesse rubbed his raw bloodshot eyes. Softly clicking, he pulled a clear small bottle from his utility belt, leaning his head back while his fingers spread his eye open. Fighting to resist blinking, the small drop finally fell from the lip of the bottle. The gunship jolted in minor turbulence as the driplette splashed upon his cheek.
“Damnit! I’m almost out again..” “Ha ha ha, THAT is why you need a gunner..ain’t that right Flak?!”
“That’s right brothers! Right on Target’s my motto! I’m sure I could manage a few drops.” Flak’s light hearted voice coming through the speakers.
“We’re about to descend to Major Vallen’s position in 2 minutes. Now is the time to try those eye drops cuz the ride down will be swift. Starting the count now..” Valkier’s voice clicked off the intercom.
“Ahh come on!” Jesse grumbled as he returned to the task at hand.
Rolling his eyes, Spitfire chuckled as he stood up. “Give me that already!” His hand held the back of Jesse’s head, taking the bottle into his own hand.
Kix laughed, “Thank you! ..that struggle was getting a tad painful to watch.”
Tup contributed to the gallery of comments, “Almost as hard as watching a shiny buff his armor after a direct glance…and THAT is not coming out!” The squad chuckled and smiled knowing they had all been through that exact same moment. Standing to his feet, “Awe thanks! Some think these eyes drops are overrated! These packs work wonders!” In unison, they reached out to hold on to various grab points within the hold as the ship lurched downward.
“Here we go lads! Bonnets on!” Rex shouted as he sat up. Tup tightened his top knot prior to pulling his helmet over his head. Kix checked his carbine before grabbing his med kit, pulling it over his shoulder.
“Lets do this!” encouraged Jesse.
Approaching the tanks, Spitfire opened the blast doors as the gunship approached the At- Te column from behind. No enemy readings appeared on screen. Slowing to a halt, the gunship landed as the first row of walkers approached.
Vallen and trooper Hotsh ran up to the LAAT, saluting the cockpit as they passed.
“Rex, good to see you! How was your end of the field?”
“Good sir, but these self detonating droids are ..well they’re quite a havoc mess.”
“We’ll find a way sir, its what we do, or we wouldn’t be the 501st!” Hotsh shouted with a nod of reassurance, knowing that Rex hated to leave his post even for a higher call of duty.
“Very true trooper.” Replied the captain accompanied by a single nod.
Commander Halifax walked up from behind; his voice, course as always, “Major, captain. Picket lines have picked up traces of several mines and IED’s, but noting too heavy. Keep an eye out for ambushes though; cities are ripe for them!” Halifax patted Rex’s shoulder pad then stepped into the bay with Tank and a handful of troopers following suit.
Rex looking to the pad then back towards the commander, “Noted!” Saluting one another the clone gazed into one-anothers expressionless helmets.
Vallen walked towards the cockpit, spiraling his hand at the wrist before motioning forward. Valkier powered up the engines, hovering before moving forward and up into the air.
Rex accompanied Major Vallen towards the command tank. “Would you mind if I continued to analyze our data?” “By all means captain. I’ll be in shortly after checking the lines. Have your squad join up with the command At-Te’s patrols. It’s time to get the troops in the tanks for some Z’s. Sergeant Kano, post orders to maintain the perimeter and skirmish lines.”
“Yes sir!”
As troopers climbed into the tank, the white parade dwindled. With the patrol thinned, the soldiers on watch became ever more vigilant, continuing to the landing zone.
Valkier’s gunship again joined by the others of Thunder Wing flew over the column as they looped across on their journey back to the disputed zone Rex had previously overseen. Halifax and his command crew standing in disciplined silence, not giving Spitfire and opportunity to make a wise crack.
The commander walked to the speaker linked to the cockpit, “Captain, gun it.” “Yes sir!” The growl of the engines heightening with the acceleration of the LAAT. Valkier aimed to take the most direct route after that order, deciding to following a long and narrow line of buildings which drop ends directly in front of the combat zone. As he entered the long lane, the smoke became stunningly visible...
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absolutley love the focus on the LAAT crew ,Blake this is truly excellent !
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I've always LOVED gunships so writing this one was pretty fun!
Its sorta fun to exhibit their personalities amongst the mayhem as well. Provides some insight and break in the tension. I'm glad it continues to live up to expectations!
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I agree another very enjoyable read. Back on the front page.
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Very nice! Great stuff, can't wait for the next chapter mate.
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 9.0
“To act coolly, intelligently and prudently
in perilous circumstances is the test of a man.”
The avenue became increasingly slender with each passing building. Thunder 01, carrying Commander Halifax, sped relentlessly towards the disputed conflict zone, which from the air was enveloped in smoke. Halifax stood facing the blast door of the gunship. Without looking down, his gloved hand traced his weapon’s sights. Gripping the barrel his opposite hand began unfolding the stock of his DC- 15s carbine blaster. It silently clicked, locking into place.
Tank stood at the ready behind the commander. His legs moving side to side, keeping his muscles ready to bolt. The rotary canon’s barrels rested on the floor while the grip remained balanced in his palm. Checking their battery cells, the troopers took the remaining moments to wipe their visors and prepare for the enemies attacking the nearby artillery units.
“Commander, we are closing! Arrival pending and red light in 2 minutes!” Pilot Valkier calmly spoke through the gunship’s speaker system.
“Ready up lads.” The commander spoke firmly, his rough voice distinctive to most clones trained on Kamino.
“Yes sir!” the clones shouted. Even Spitfire shouted the trained response, finding the commander silently awe inspiring. Valkier leaned forward studying the rate which the avenue continued to narrow.
“Thunder Wing, split off! 02 and 04 stay on escort.” He commanded to his squadron. They began peeling off, however, the two listed continued to hold their position. “Hold tight wing. This is going to be a squeeze!”
“Need I say more captain?” Flak inquired.
“Stowe it FLAK! Not the time!” Valkier snapped.
The gunship trio closed distance with the gap. Valkier’s eyes became trained on the visible battle which raged just within sight; flashes illuminating the thick black smoke. A rocket smoke trail streamed by the nose of the gunship.
“What the?!” Flak barely was able to finish as Valkier piloted the ship to dodge the following rockets. “It’s a missile ambush! Holdfast!”
Countless missiles criss crossed the small gab between the buildings forming a wall of explosive danger. Valkier pulled back on the throttle, pushing his stick down as he grinded his teeth. The momentum behind the larties made their wings tremble, buckling under the tremendous pressure output.
A spiny thin missile twisted and turned its path as unpredictable as the missiles that followed. The screaming produced by the missile fins was audible even over the thick engine roar. Thunder 02 strayed to the left slightly, its wing sheering through the glass edifice of the building on the right street. A rocket launched from the right side of the avenue sped across the gap, bursting into flames in front of Thunder 02 as it exploded on impact with the building. The concussion blast shoved the gunship off course further into the building until a second impact tore a gaping hole through the engines. With a barely audible ping, the rocket set off a chain reaction. Engines combined with the crew’s armaments erupted into flames. Leaving no time to crash land, the crew was doom as the shell of the ship glided further into the buildings core. A final boom echoed, propelling glass from every window on the floor.
Thunder 03 continued straight with no choice for a better course. Their ship overwhelmed by missiles which unleashed a series of pings before releasing their explosive payloads. The bay doors, blown from their hinges pushed clones out of the hold. Falling to their deaths, the clone's screams trailed with every falling moment. The cockpit vacated by a single direct impact. The blue frame remained where the glass bubble previously protected the pilots of the drop ship. Rubble of Thunder 03 slowly drifted, smoldering as it lost altitude.
“They’re gone sir!” Flak shouted to Valkier. A bead of sweat trailed down the pilot’s brow as he utilized the full measure of his talent to keep his crew and commander alive.
“This is not happening now!” Valkier grumbled through his teeth in spite of the present danger.
Losing altitude he pulled up, leveling off Thunder 01 before getting too close to the ground. Pushing the throttle back to full force, Valkier pushed for the relative safety beyond the avenue. Tag and Krate pressed their hands against the glass enclosure of their ball turret to regain some semblance of stability. Returning fire, their green blasts sliced through the building with ease, but were no match for the output of randomly fired missiles.
Thunder 01 reached the corners of the avenue, zooming past the cornerstones as they split open from the missiles fired from the opposite buildings. Valkier leaned his head back taking in a sigh of relief.
“Well that was a little disconcerting captain…” Flak remarked rolling his head to stretch his neck. “Can’t say I’m a fan of the whole screeching, ping-ing, pine needles of death while running out of maneuverable room scenario…but good job! We live to die another day.”
“Oh Flak..how you beseech me with optimistic appraisal..” Valkier’s eyes retrained on the approaching combat zone.
p pi ping PING!
A screeching whistle followed by a heaving sharp lurch forward! The impact set off a burst so loud, only ringing was left in its wake. Thunder 01 trailed smoke which began behind a blaze of fire in the aft section. The craft’s wings tormented by its weight, flexed as raw heat tested their endurance.
“Commander, brace for impact!” Valkier headed, struggling to control the ship’s maneuvers.
The ground quickly approached. With no engines there was little the captain could do to control their descent. Thunder 01 listed to the right. In response, Valkier held the pitch as far as the system would allow. The chin of the gunship scratched the hard surface, sending sparks reeling in every direction. As if a force directed it, the ship was pulled into the ground, the chin submerging deeper into the concrete as the ship slowed. Momentum continued to pull the larty until it rolled to its side, the left bubble turret popping off as if it had been connected by a thin stem. The other rolled between the bay door and planet surface.
The smoldering mass slowed. Though the thunder of war raged a few hundred meters off, silence and the light crackling of fire filled the air surrounding the wreck. Valkier’s hand turned to a fist as he punched out the cockpit window. Rolling out, he swiftly pullout his sidearm aiming it towards the buildings he had moments before just flown through. With one knee folded, he knocked on the window, “Flak…FLAK! Come on..Don’t let a single bloody missile take you out now!”
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Part 2 coming very soon....like in moments! ha ha ha ()rr ()rr ()rr ()rr
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Flak’s helmet dropped. A blue bolt shot through his window. It shattered as he used both hands to punch through the cracked canopy. As Flak fell from his seat to the broken ground he let out a cry of immense pain which he muted beneath his arm. His leg slowly bled from beneath the plating.
“Shit! That is probably my new least favorite crash..” grumbled Flak.
Valkier kneeling by his co-pilot, continued to check their surroundings. “Can you walk?”
Flak straightened his arms and began to push up. Shaking his head, “I can feel it bending beneath my weight captain. The damn thing is broken!”
A few meters away, shifting rubble sounded as though a wheel was rolling over pebbles. From behind a heap of debris the rolling ball turret became vaguely visible.
Glass panels fell out as a clone boot forcefully kicked. Crawling from the frame, the trooper ran to the mass that was Thunder 01. The light illuminated the bright green gunner paint on his armor exposing an arrow outlined on the front of his helmet.
“Krate!” Flak shouted.
“Alive and shaken!” Krate called back as he ran to duck behind cover, wavering with each step, still recovering from the crash roll his pod had undergone.
“Any word on the commander?” Krate asked with a hushed inquiry.
“Not yet. Just pulled out Flak.” Vallon spoke, tying a rod to Flak's leg.
“I’m on it Captain!” Krate stated, boldly crawling up over the broken cockpit towards the bay door.
His hand armor clinked against the metal door as he tapped a friend identifying pattern learned from the Kamino days of basic training. “It’d be a shame to get shot by one of ours after coming out of that” he lightly spoke to himself.
The door cracked as the seal became broken. A rough deep voice from inside spoke, “Help us with this door.”
“Yes sir!”
A red blinking light protruded the crack as the door widened. Tank and Spitfire pushed the door as Krate pulled from above. It slid half way over until their strength had been exerted. This now allowed the city lights to illuminate the bay.
---Hell---
The carnage contained in the bay had no descriptor. Three troopers clearly gave their lives to absorb the crashing shock to Commander Halifax by wrapping themselves around their officer as the crash occurred.
“Their embrace...we should all hope such a measure is within us.” Halifax solemnly acknowledged as he gripped the wall, lifting himself out of the hold.
Tank, Spitfire, and Sloga gathered their weapons as they crawled out. One by one, Krate grabbed a hold of their armor or forearm to heave each from the tomb. Upon the last trooper being lifted out, Krate looked down into the bay to take a final glimpse for his fellow gunner, Tag. The opposing blast door and been mostly peeled back during the hurtling collision with the ground. As a brightly lit advertisement over head changed from deep red to light green, the smashed glass of his turret became visible. Bright hues of the art above reflect clearly off the shattered glass pieces. A solemn armored arm rested beneath the tremendous shell of the gunships hull. The sheer weight of the gunship crushed the bubble during its listing impact with the ground. Looking closer, Krate noticed the mirror like glass, speckled with the blood of his comrades. Though he knew Tag's fate before opening the door, the trooper could at least have hoped for a better death than this. His armor shin plates clicked as he collapsed to his knees, letting out a blood curdling shriek, “RaaAHH, NOOOO!!”
Halifax and the remaining crew turned as Krate’s voice reached their ears.
“HOLDfast trooper!” the commander ordered with a raised whisper.
The emotionally bewildered clone stood to his feet, turning to his comrades as he walked down the side of the gunship towards the cockpit. His gloved hand clutched his helmet, pulling it from his sweaty hair, his other hand raised up and pressed into his wrinkling forehead. Krate looked towards the bay before continuing forward. “They killed him! We are going to show these blasted insurgents or DROIDS OR WHATEVER THE HELL WE ….”
One single smoking hole appeared through Krate’s chest plate, breaking his sentence. His hand moved from forehead to trace the new hole which had made its way through his armor and body. He turned slowly towards the building where the shot had originated, “Now they’ve…” cut silent by a second sniper’s bolt through his neck, Krate’s body toppled lifelessly backwards down towards the shattered cockpit. Landing on its back plate, the body slid for a moment before coming to a halt. The two holes smoked while the survivors sought immediate refuge in a shallow crater at the behind the nose and collapsed wing of Thunder 01.
“We’ll mourn for them later troopers! At the time, we have to stay alive. Make their sacrifice worth something, THAT’s an order!” Halifax encouraged the beleaguered squad.
“Yes sir!”
“Valkier, use any transponders we have available to make contact with that defensive position just across the causeway! They’re close enough to support us.”
“I’m on it sir!”
The captain pulled off his helmet, frivolously setting to work removing plates and wiring from covered areas of the gunship. The remainder stayed vigilant, leaning against the wing, raising glass fragments only far enough to make sure no enemies were sneaking upon them. Moments turned to minutes while Valkier worked, rewiring and cutting as he needed. Halifax crouched near the captain,
“Sitrep.”
“I’m close..just need to route 2 more connections.”
Sloga’s soft voice spoke up, “It is advisable that those connections get completed asap. Silhouettes on the horizon.” He crawled to the edge of the wing, resting his carbine against it. His armor matched the amount of shine found on Tank’s. This was the first campaign for both of these troopers. Flak pulled a rifle to his side while Tank searched for another vantage point.
Halifax took on the mystery sniper as his current assignment.
“Stay focused lads. Pick your targets.” Halifax coolly states to his men.
“Alllmost..therre.” Valkier stated tying one pair of wires, twisting them with a spark as their exposed fringes met.
“They’re rapidly approaching Commander. Permission to fire?” Sloga asked.
“Hold.”
“Closing in fast. Looking to be another batch of those suicidal commandos.” Tank added.
“Hold.”
“Sir, they’re 50 meters.” Discomfort became audible in Sloga’s voice.
Halifax encouraged their resolve, “Hold. Being steadfast is the difference between US and THEM.”
The droids picked up their pace, sprinting towards the isolated squad.
“Sir?!”
“Chose your shots….” Halifax issued the order,
“FIRE!”
Sloga’s trigger finger firmly squeezed, seemingly popping the first droids head from its socket. Two droids broke to the left, one continued straight forward, while the last bolted to the hard right. Flak saw the two far left droids sprinting towards their position. He opened fire, but they continued to duck and dodge his shots.
“Ehh, Tank, help here would be hot!”
Tank’s rotary canon powered up, “EAT LASER!!” he shouted tearing the duo apart from limb to limb. His blue lasers hit one of the commando’s destruct mechanisms causing them to detonate suddenly, leaving behind a cloud of black smoke.
Halifax’s eyes continued searching each window.
The far right droid rolled suddenly and began a serpentine action. Squinting, Sloga pressed his barrel against the wing, slowing his breath. Firing three shots around the droid’s head, the droid lept into another roll on the ground. During this brief moment, Sloga took the opportunity to exploit the droids inability to change direction while in a roll. The blue salvo he fired tore through the weak points near the bottom of the torso.
The droid rose to continue its stride, but snapped helplessly in half. Sloga was unable to contain his excitement, celebrating with a clenched fist, “Ha ha, yes!!”
Flak turned his head toward the squad uneasily asking, “Didn’t you say there were five?”
“Commander above!” Tank hollered.
The lead commando droid leapt and stood at the tail end of the gunship, immediately bolting towards them. “SKRAG!” Flak shouted in response to imminent death, tightly closing his eyes. A single shot rang out shortly after followed by the sound of the droid’s body hitting the pavement. Flak’s eyes opened. Turning he saw Sloga and Tank crouched behind the wing starring at Valkier; standing with his sidearm drawn, still smoking.
“Radio is ready commander.” The clone pilot knelt back down, holstering his pistol.
“Well done pilot. Capable indeed. Well done lads.”
Halifax slid back from his position putting his search for a sniper on hold. Tapping into the Battle Communications Line, Halifax began attempting to reach the nearby base of operations. “Salvo Battalion, Company B; This is Battalion Commander Halifax, CT 6378. Our coordinates are being sent your way now. We need a heavy smoke screen and a fast pick up.”
Static ensued before the long awaited reply.
“Copy that Commander! We saw your ship go down. Glad to hear you’re among the living sir! Smoke is imminent and a Saber tank squad is being dispatched now.”
“Appreciated trooper.” Halifax replied.
Soft thuds emanated from the ground while gray and white smoke rose from the ground, shrouding the battered team. Looking through a pair of macrobinoculars, Sloga was able to see the quickly approaching Saber Tanks. “Sir, they’re almost here.”
Valkier tightened Flak's leg brace, “Lets get Flak’s leg bound. We only have a few more minutes before go time.”
Flak growled as he pulled on his leg, “Oh gahh! Lets just get lifted already.”
Halifax calmly walked among the squad, “In time troops. Though we live war, do not forget what you learned today. Do not forget the motto we live by, Holdfast.”
The commander strode to greet the tanks as they hovered up. Valkier and Sloga lifted Flak, keeping most of his weight off his broken leg as Tank covered their movements with his canon. Securing their positions on the sides of the lead tank, Halifax paced confidently to the hovering wing. After stepping up to wrap his arm around the large barrel he knocked twice on the plating.
The tanks looped to turn back towards the Company’s defense zone, the newly rescued troopers starred back as the rubble of Thunder 01 faded into the gray.
Halifax lifted his arm, his fingers straight extending from the black eye plate of his helmet; saluting the fallen…
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Blake that was by far the best chapter yet ! Awesome job !
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I agree Jay. Awesome chapter. Back on the front page.
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"One single smoking hole appeared through Krate’s chest plate, breaking his sentence. His hand moved from forehead to trace the new hole which had made its way through his armor and body. He turned slowly towards the building where the shot had originated, “Now they’ve…” cut silent by a second sniper’s bolt through his neck, Krate’s body toppled lifelessly backwards down towards the shattered cockpit. Landing on its back plate, the body slid for a moment before coming to a halt. The two holes smoked while the survivors sought immediate refuge in a shallow crater at the behind the nose and collapsed wing of Thunder 01."
Ouch. Poor Krate. Still, that little passage was my favourite part of this latest update, because it lets us see the gritty, dark undercurrent to warfare. Life is cheap, and death is cruel. It's not all yelling "For the Republic!" and charging at the droids. What are we, Jedi? ;)
Very good update, easily one of your best. Glad to see that you're sticking with this story, it's clear that you enjoy writing about it - and why wouldn't you? It's freakin' Star Wars!!
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 10
“Regard your soldiers as your children,
and they will follow you into the deepest valleys;
look on them as your own beloved sons,
and they will stand by you even unto death.”
The squad of Saber Tanks raced towards the improvised Republic base of operations. Engines hummed as the tanks began to deliberately slow their momentum. Approaching the gate, the troopers who manned their posts on the front lines saluted as the battalion commander rode passed.
Atar was an urbanized planet much like Coruscant, the capital of the Republic. Unlike the capital, its surface was graced with vast courtyards and plazas which usually extended for several hectares. Major Vallen had plotted to utilize this particular plot of land for its natural rolling hills and plateaus, which formed an ideal staging ground, easily defendable. The core of the base was centered on a hill where heavy artillery units were positioned in conjunction with a landing zone for LAAT’s. The next ring bristled with medium range gun emplacements, improvised trenches/ barricades, ATTE’s, and platoons of troopers. The field once green, decorated with statues, dazzling with fountains, and memorial buildings had been reduced to a war torn no-man’s-land.
Troopers had been engaged within moments after their initial arrival. Fighting in pitched battle with a faceless, nearly bodiless enemy, enduring heavy bombardments of concussion missiles combined with laser fire. A few times battle droids composed enough force to break the line, only to be pushed back by the heroism of the 501st’s troopers. Sniper shots in conjunction with heavy volumes of laser fire often rained down from the skyscrapers of the numerous buildings surrounding the base; that is until a squad of gunships were called in to suppress the designated floor using their rapidly firing chin guns. The enemy commonly followed by escalating their attack; the next move often utilized rockets and missiles to directly shell the base. Some models caused tremendous explosions tearing through tanks while others only caused concussive blasts which knocked hapless troopers from their feet, disorienting others nearby.
Upon arrival, Halifax immediately scanned the lines as he passed, searching for weak points that needed to be rebuffed.
The officer of the Saber tank Halifax was rode opened his hatch, raised himself until he was in a standing position, his torso exposed. “Almost to HQ Commander” he spoke with an assertive gesture towards the hilltop.
A brief “Hmm” is all Halifax deemed worthy for a response. As the tank came to a halt, clone medics ran from their positions at the side of a large faceless building on the crest of the hill. Bearing stretchers, they hoisted Flak from where he laid on the tank’s left wing.
“Ah, come on! Friggin..GRR!” Flak whined.
“Careful lads, he has become a tad fragile these days! Ha ha” Spitfire spoke in jest.
“Just keep him in one piece and get him back in condition stat guys.” Spoke Valkier, his voice low and slower than usual; the loss of his gunnery crew continuing to weigh heavily on his mind.
“Lads, with me!” Halifax ordered as he stepped down from the tank. Every step he took sank into the ground with purpose. The medics began hurrying the wounded co-pilot towards the medbay shelter in the opposite direction. Valkier and Spitfire followed until they heard the commander’s coarse voice catch up to them from behind. “Where are you two going?”
“We were just goi..” Spitfire was mid sentence before he was cut off.
“You’re lead pilots of the 501st” Halifax stated sharply.
“Well actually I’m..” Spitfire began before realizing who he was interrupting. Halifax’s helmet barely shifted towards his direction, which was more than enough to put a stop to any remark Spitfire had to offer.
Halifax continued, “There is a reason we outfit you lads in armor. Because you have pilot status, this does NOT make you any less capable a soldier. If anything, the crash has reinforced that point. Now, ready up and come with me.” His kama caught a gust of wind as he turned and hiked towards the command tank. He climbed into the cabin, Sergeant Appo stopped his briefing, turned and saluted the arriving officer.
Removing his helmet, his scarred countenance became eerily visible due to the glow from various monitor screens surrounding the room. Appo carried great respect for his commander as did every clone within the 501. He was renowned for completing the task at hand, weighing the balance of life with his objective. Halifax’s scars were a testament to his array of field experience, having fought prior to Geonosis. He rejected a promotion to ARC training in order to maintain a position where he could have an impact on what he thought most important, the training of rookies.
Approaching the table, the figures of Vallon, Rex, Hett, and Sakiko were visible in hologram form. Rex spoke, relieved at the sight of his comrade, “Hal, it’s good to see you.” Halifax nodded in return providing the captain a two fingered salute.
Appo turned to his commanding officer, “We’re being debriefed. Rex has compiled most of the data gathered from our engagements.”
Rex continued, “The most effective weapon however, is the use of a modified commando droid model. These droids have upgraded agility making it incredibly difficult to hit them as a target..in case anyone hasn’t noticed. In addition, they are 100% focused on taking out their assigned target often leaving a wake of mortalities. From action reports provided by myself and Battalion Comm. Halifax, we’ve developed the assertion the commando droids of a Atar are running on a different Battle Management System. Their deadly payload is an armored case filled with heavy explosives capable of tearing apart tanks or the interior of a building if provided the opportunity.”
“Damn dangerous.” Halifax added.
Knight Sakiko picked up, “Their explosives nullify wielding a light saber. The only way to take them down is rapid fire..which in a city is a nightmare in terms of collateral damage.”
Major Vallen’s arms were crossed in front of him, his hand rubbing his chin as he thought. “This seems to be their field test. If we can knock out their BMS, we will show Dooku his efforts have been futile.”
Rex turned, nodding in agreement. “We MUST do it quickly though! That is the key! I should spearhead the effort.” Vallen pivoted his head toward Rex, his head lowering with disappointment, “High command has ordered you and the Jedi recalled off this rock.” Surprised, Rex’s face showed a hint of dismay, but his loyalty remained unwavering. Orders… were orders.
“Halifax, we are close to our rendezvous with the Reproach; after that, you and I will focus on eliminating the BMS threat.”
“Yes sir. I’ll look forward to it Major” the commander spoke; he clicked a red button on the side of the table terminating the transmission. The holograms dissipated.
Appo with a handful of officers present looked toward Halifax for their next move. “Your orders?” the sergeant inquired.
“We hold the line until after the rendezvous. Start working on scans to isolate signals for these commando seps. See what your R2 units can track” the commander stated as he reached for a data pad displaying various positions of the troops with their designations. Unbolting the hatch, he tossed the data pad down to Tank. His command squad waited near the bottom of the ladder, standing at the ready.
Bowing his head, Halifax pulled his helmet over his charcoal grey hair. The blue jaig eye tattoo over his eye disappeared behind the faceless helmet. Carrying his DC-15s in one hand, Tank passed the data pad to his other. Commander Halifax began to pace down toward the battle lines. Sloga and Valkier followed close on his flanks while Tank and Spitfire followed carrying rotary cannons upon their shoulders. Halifax walked down the primary slope and up the nearest foothill that overlooked 184 degrees of the battle line.
“Take a knee gentlemen.”
The squad stopped and watched the commander curiously. Halifax sat down on the grass, putting his carbine down by his side before reaching up to remove the helmet. Tank and Valkier walked up before following suit while the other two knelt behind them.
“Alright lads, any improvements to the line?” commander Halifax solicited from his unorthodox command squad. The troops looked across the trench-work. Spitfire and Sloga remarked to one another; remarks which carried no weight worthy of response by the veteran officer. Silently Valkier and Tank starred, silently thinking deeply.
“Sir, wouldn’t it be a good idea to bring the AT-TE’s back toward the HQ? They can’t provide a broad field of fire from the position where they’re standing. Moving them back will afford them better defense from those berserker clankers for sure.” Tank suggested, squinting his eyes, uncertain of the reaction he might receive.
“What do you think Valkier?” Halifax posed.
Valkier replied, “I’d agree with Tank commander. Shouldn’t we keep the sabers on the front so we can maintain a number of heavy weapons on the field? Prevent the enemy from closing too quickly.”
Tank respectfully began to answer the questions. The commander sat between the two clones, listening to the evolving tactical discussion. Valkier using his tactics as a trained pilot while Tank utilized the military logic he had learned from Kamino as well as the experience gained from shadowing Halifax. Strategic and tactical theory bounced to and fro as the two used their hands to point out where troops, weapons, and tanks would be effectively placed.
Over the course of 20 minutes, tanks and armaments shifted as the conversation evolved. Tank noticed several AT-TE’s marching backwards to a position on a slope providing them maximum range whilst also a prime position out of the quick reaches of any fast moving droids. Shocked, he glanced toward the commander whose acute smile was barely noticeable. Halifax’s hand was subtly tapping the data pad, reallocating forces to the defenses’ perimeter.
“Rank.. Never assume it indicates intelligence. It’s a calling for you two. Keep it trained; keep it honed.” Halifax’s jagged voice commending the two. Sloga and Spitfire’s witty background banter became hushed as they realized the commander’s shifting of the platoons was solely based off a conversation between their brothers.
“Wow, well done Field Marshall Tank! Ha ha ha!” Sloga jealously joked.
“It’s reassuring those Kaminoans are still managing to create tacticians. Good job Tank and Captain Valkier.” Spitfire wore a genuine smile as he nodded to those in front of him.
Halifax leaned back on his arms; the sun setting in the distance warmed his face. “I wonder if I’ll miss this when it’s all over.” His squad looked at him wondering what, if any, new lesson was about to be delivered. “Seeing these different planets.. Eh, no worries lads.”
A panel on the side of the HQ AT- TE opened up, Sgt Appo leaned from the side. His mouth moved, but no sound was reaching the hill where they sat.
“Come on troops.” Halifax spoke, using his carbine to help push himself up to stand; several blades of grass falling from his kama. Jogging towards the tank, the squad carried their helmets beneath their arms. Tank sprinted to the reach the side of the AT-TE.
“Yes sergeant?” he asked looking up to Appo.
“We’ve got a high surge of signals. Larger than we’ve seen in the past few waves. This may be their push!”
Tank’s eyes looked towards the twilight sky. A low rumbling filled the distant air. Soon after, clouds of black specs dotted the sky as small dart shapes crested the towering buildings. Tank hurriedly threw on his helmet and ran toward the commander. Halifax still approaching up the inclined slope watched as Tank pointed past the commander shouting as loud as his lungs were capable, “INCOMMING!! BONNETS ON!”
Instantly they scrambled to throw on their helmets and bolted the remaining distance to the tank. Appo leaned out again, “Heavy barrage and frontal assault from what I see on short-range scanners sir!”
“With me lads!” Halifax barked as he began to charge down the hill, the sound of whistling rockets heightening. Without a doubt, Tank and the others followed suit!
Appo called out, “Where are you going?”
“You can’t lead from behind!” Tank shouted, running backwards to reply.
“Well…technically you can, you just have to scream really loud. Ha ha ha!” Spitfire remarked, chuckling at his own response.
The squad passed the AT- TE’s, continuing down towards the trench line and defense wall. Sliding down into the trench, Halifax tapped his green comlink button, “Buckle down 501! Fire at anything hostile. Hold fast! HERE THEY COOOME!”
Whistling of falling missiles was deafening to uncovered ears. Their impacts make brief thuds before creating whirlwinds from the combined force of concussive blasts. Troops caught outside the trench were thrown from their feet. Mud slung into the air. One trooper ran to reach the trench when his momentum was suddenly interrupted by a blast, audibly shattering his back, propelling him over the trench. His whaling silenced when his helmet impacted the soft soil.
The barrage worsened as explosions tore through soil and armor without prejudice. Grass smoldered, smoking near the crater which had recently erupted. The streets in front of the gates became cluttered with B1, B2, and droideka battle droids.
“Fire at will!” was heard across the line as troops and tanks alike unleashed their payloads. The AT TE’s were capable of using their large cannons to cut vast swathes through the separatist advance. Streams of blue lasers cut loose by the clones, tearing into the battle droids. The exchange became just as deadly as the droids approached. Short range anti personnel rockets fired from super battle droids blew apart chunks of wall tossing clones backwards. Cries of enthusiasm became as prevalent as those from wounded brothers felled to the frayed ground. Medics hurried to stabilize their injured brothers, carrying or dragging them to the places of relative safety.
Halifax held his weapon firmly to his shoulder quickly dispatching anything on the opposing sides of his sites. Valkier constantly relayed line updates to the commander between explosions. The rotary cannons constantly spun, spitting relentless rounds of blue destruction. Halifax paced down the line correcting fields of fire, improving efficiency with morale. Troopers often ducked their heads beneath the precipice of the trench avoiding red blasts that flew at them. The clone’s armor deflected most glancing laser shots with unlucky other troopers suddenly dropping when struck directly. Lasers that directly impacted the white plating instantly turned the surrounding area black from the plasmic flash; in the middle of which an orange circle was the indication of a piercing shot.
“Keep up the masking fire boys!” Halifax’s voice capable of being heard over all the commotion bolstering his men to focus, to fight harder.
Tank’s cannon stopped firing, but continued to spin only making clicks as a Destroyer Droid rolled through a smoking gap in the wall. Raising its shield the droid created a beachhead for more battle droids to approach safely behind it, opening fire on the exposed trench. The shinie clone trooper remembered a trick General Skywalker had demonstrated on a visit to Kamino.
He pulled himself over the ledge of the cliff, rolling to the side, pulling his thermal detonator from his back before lightly tossing it. The small white cylinder bounced once, then twice before it delicately rolled through the shield and exploded! The bubble shield of death burst as countless pieces were propelled outward. Valkier lifted his carbine shouting, “Tank, here!” before throwing it to the unarmed clone. Rearmed, Tank rapidly dispatched the large B2 lumbering towards the trench. Quickly regaining his footing, he hopped back into the trench.
For what seemed like hours the clone bastion fought on.
With no end in sight, troopers carried crates of cartridges and grenades from the rear lines to supply the battle weary front line soldiers. The haze of battle lingered as the signature black smoke thickened, caused by the smoldering of the ground itself. A handful of ARF troopers dodged into nearby buildings. Climbing the heights, they were able to evaluate enemy strength and redirected fire orders to squads below. In addition to being unable to have a clear visual of the enemy, the smoke worsened the long standing fatigue. Many troops paused their continuous fire to gain control of their coughing, lowering themselves in the trenches seeking fresher air.
Halifax’s upright stride demonstrated his undaunted nature, defying his emotionless enemy with every fiber. Unflinching, shrapnel darted in every direction, scratching the additional plating lying across his chest. The silent, determined presence inspired the officers and troopers holding their ground.
“Now is the time! Forward to the wall!!” The rugged voice carried through all communications on the grassy knoll. AT- TE’s began thunderously walking forward, rocking from their main gun unleashing its heavy blast. The four chin guns of each AT- TE loosed their green lasers, matched by the low hovering Saber tanks whose contribution allowed enough cover fire for the platoons to ascend the dirt wall of their trench charging onward. Some on the line were pierced by red bolts through their helmets and chests causing their bodies to crumble.
Clone troopers surged forward in a thin line of white and blue, laser blasts hurling over their heads. Charging, they’re shots became far more deadly. Often troopers would run firing from the hip until through the smoke a droid became visible. The metal of the machine was quickly torn from piece to limb, collapsing. If close enough, troopers used their weapons in close quarter fighting, dislodging the head of B1’s with a swift smash to the neck. Unfortunately for clone speckled across the advance, some ran headlong into super battle droids whose armor was much thicker. At times B2’s grabbed unknowing clones by the arm, lifting them from the ground, fired a laser into the chest then cast the body aside.
Plowing down the separatist machines was the quickest way to reach the marble wall, a task nearly completed. Cheers from the republic lines filled the air! Troopers unable to completely see one another continued their celebration in the smoke, pounding their fists into the air and wall definitely. A breeze minimally pushed the murky haze off of the clone army. The white armor of the soldiers becoming more visible as the fog drifted away with the retreating droid army…
(To be continued in Volume 10.5)
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Check out MelHell84's awesome vision of Halifax : [link]
As well as ThomasBlack1's variation of the commander: [link]
Hope ya'll enjoyed the first part! Your comments and support mean the world to me and help push me forward. Thank you tremendously for your feedback!
Wraith, Kualan, Tamer, and Sprywalker --- Ya'll just kick ass! nough said!
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Awesome! Love the descriptions of battle ,Blake just when we thought you could do no better ......you do!
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Quality stuff, as always IrishRogue! The highlight for me was the tactical exchange between Valkier and Tank and how Halifax utilised the experience of the men under his command. A very Rex thing to do, I thought. And speaking of Rex, I can imagine his disappointment at being pulled back, haha. Looking forward to part two of Volume 10!
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Thanks Jay, for the vote of confidence! I hope I keep getting better! btw..I might have to ask you to commission Hotsh, but I have a special surprise for you in Volume 11 ;)
As for you Kualan, picking out your favorite parts are always a fun compliment. I can imagine how bummed Rex must have been, but at least he's got his favorites with him :p
I'm thinking of making my next story incorporate a commander selected by my readers across ISY and DeviantArt..defly will keep ya'll in the know!
Hope you enjoyed the Pics afterward too
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Wow, definitely lots of action. Keep it coming and I will keep front paging it just like I did this update.
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Though this is part 2 of Volume 10, I was holding off because an artist seemed very interested in recreating this in a picture. I don't want to hold off too long for ya'll so I'll post that when it is completed.
Without further ado, enjoy Volume 10. 5 of Clone Wars: Changing Tides
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 10.5
“Regard your soldiers as your children,
and they will follow you into the deepest valleys;
look on them as your own beloved sons,
and they will stand by you even unto death.”
“Reform! Reform on your positions!” various clone officers shouted to their men. The troops hurried back to the trench. Meanwhile, cumbersome AT- TE’s began their march backwards once again.
Clone bomb technicians swiftly patrolled the fields and positions for un-exploded enemy ordinance from the bombardment. Standing before the trench, Halifax stood before his troops as most descended into the dirt. Several approached their hands firmly met by his. Silently his eyes looked through his view plate at the wounded and dead strewn across the hills. Noticing most of the squads admiring him, Commander Halifax snapped to attention.
“Ten-tion!” Valkier shouted! All armor snapped, eyes keen on their CO. Halifax gave a nod, then saluted. As he leapt across the trench, beginning the hike up the hill, Tank was left awe inspired by his silent commander. The smoke on the middle of the ridge had all but dissipated. The commander walked nearly twenty paces ahead of his squad, contemplating the army’s performance in the last engagement.
Both Valkier and Tank took off their helmets as beads of sweat slowly rolled down their foreheads. Walking together, they accounted noteworthy points from one another’s perspective in the last battle. Near the ammunition dump, Halifax walked toward two large tanks nearest the headquarters, filled with cool, crisp water for the troopers.
Tank admired his hero.
*click* PHOOOOOMM!!
A shockwave rippled out following an explosion that ripped through the headquarters sending equipment, grid maps, tables, and machinery asunder! Both troopers jumped at the jolting explosion; Valkier holding his forearm up to shield his eyes from debris. Tank’s eyes widened, his breath stolen in horror as he watched helplessly, seeing Commander Halifax’s body mercilessly thrown by the force against the rear leg a nearby AT-TE. The lumbering giant’s stance shook violently from the external energy.
In that moment, Tank’s face transformed from a victorious grin to that of wrinkled horror, his brow angled sharply. He dashed through the flurry of debris coming to settle on the ground after the detonation. Trooper Tank neared the scene; Halifax was on the ground next to the bulky rear foot pad, his signature carbine lying next to him, bent and tattered.
He slowly rolled over away from the pad, using all of his might, he struggled to lift himself. Halifax’s arms trembled before they finally surrendered, leaving him on a forearm. Halifax spit a mouthful of blood from his helmet. Tank saw red slowly drip from the teeth of his helmet. The clone trooper dropped his helmet carelessly as he ran to the commander’s side. Thudding to his knees, the corporal placed his left arm under Halifax’s head with remarkable care; the commander rolled into his trooper’s arms.
Valkier slowly approached, silently shocked, gazing down across the wounded commander’s armor, pierced by metal fragments. Slowly, crimson drips steadily fell from his chest plate, pooling by his side.
Slow, light breaths were capable of being heard through the mask. Tank tenderly reached over with his right hand. The black glove gripped the side, lifting it from Halifax’s head, setting it down gently. The corporal’s face swelled as veins revealed themselves. His complexion a ghost of himself, unable to hold back as his eyes became glass.
“Sir, a medic is on his way..” Tank reassured him. The commander softly shook his head and looked up into his trainees eyes; accompanied by his signature subtle side grin.
“Tell your brothers…hehh….keh..” pausing to gather his breath, “..tell your brothers you’ve arrived.” Tank’s face wrinkled as the commander’s hand pressed against his chest plate. “Its not the dirt that made you a shinie…Live, that’s an order..” The gloved hand that once pressed; slowly slid down Tank’s chest plate leaving behind a pair of red streaks. The commander’s body became heavier with his final exhale, his face loosen from its tightened focus as his head softly rolled into the crux of Tank’s shoulder.
Valkier looked on reverently, holding a hologram feed to both Major Vallen and Captain Rex who had watched the scene unfold in silence. Corporal Tank clutched his commander’s motionless body. Looking up, towards Valkier the tears became visible as they trickled down his cheek. “The commander..he’s ..dead.”
Surrounding troopers knelt. Sloga approached Tank, reached down, touching his shoulder. Spitfire approached with a stretcher, lowering it to the ground. Three troopers lifted the body to the white cloth. Tank picked up Halifax’s helmet, placing it near his feet on the stretcher. As four clone troopers lifted the body upon their shoulders the corporal cried out, “Wait!” A carbine’s stock clicked as it was unfolded. Corporal Tank placed the weapon across Halifax’s chest, crossing an arm to hold it in place. The four marched up the hill towards where they would hold his body until lift off.
Tank leaned back against the leg, his head hung between his hands. Valkier put down the hologram and sat next to his weary comrade.
“You know, he liked you kid. It’s not the dirt or scuffs that separate the rookies from the vets, rather the blood and tears of the fallen that wear on us all.” Valkier pushed himself up, beginning to walk toward what was left of the water containers.
Tank’s hand riffled through the unsettled dirt finding a small metal fragment from Halifax’s shattered weapon. He pressed harshly against the blue paint on his forearm. Pressing harder until a crisp white streak formed. Standing to his feet, his hand reached, picking up his helmet. With a click, a container of his utility belt popped open. The fragment slid in neatly before he clicked the lid shut.
“For the fallen..” Tank whispered softly under his breath before walking toward Valkier at the water.
“So whats next?”
Valkier handed the soldier a fresh canteen. “A promotion for someone, but we hold until the rendezvous. Like the Commander said, “fight now, we’ll mourn for them later.” Remain steadfast Tank.”
Looking up, the two barely saw a flash. An indication the space battle still raged.
“This has turned out to be one hell of an evaluation…”
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That was a shock :o brilliant episode tho
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Thanks! I was hoping to get the picture pretty close to the last Volume so I could post this one, but life intervenes!
Thanks for the feedback!
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Yikes! Talk about a twist for our poor clones. R.I.P Halifax.
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Back on the front page. I will give this a good read during lunch today.
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 11
“To withdraw isn't a sign of weakness... It is a sign that a man
knows the limits of his capabilities and the most probable outcome
of the future. To retreat isn’t weakness if it provides the
opportunity to fight another day.”
The white, smooth ridge of the chest plate sank with a deep exhale. The Major stood quietly; his head hung down towards the blue, frozen image of a trooper cradling the fallen battalion commander, his baptism by fire.
Rex noticed on his approach Vallen’s jaw tightly clenched. With only a glimpse of the image, the captain felt a void form in his chest. Vallen’s thumb pressed down through the flickering image deactivating the projector before stowing it away within his utility belt. Rex un-clicked a single compartment on his left side. Then using his middle and pointer fingers, pulled out a folded tactical knife which he flicked open. Gripping the blade firmly, it bore down upon the blue paint. Pieces flecked slightly as the edge dragged across four separated tally marks. Neither man sought to make commentary. To them silence was a reverent salute to the commander who preferred fewer words.
“Yes Captain?” Spoke Vallen softly.
“We are 1 click from the rendezvous point. The Reproach is planet side, but has not landed. Keep those clankers guessing until the last possible moment.”
“Ha! Soon it won’t take a B-1 or a tactical droid to figure out where we are headed.”
“Where exactly are we headed sir?”
“An officer recruiting station for the GAR. It has a suitable landing pad and hopefully armament if it hasn’t been raided.”
“Sounds more than feasible Major. I’ll take a look from the Tank sir!” Rex dashed to the center command AT-TE, and darted up the handle bars on the sides of the armored plating. His hand rested on the main gun which held him steady as the lumbering giant jostled to and fro with each step. Rex’s range finder clicked into position in front of his helmet. His view zoomed into a pair of illuminated white republic logos.
“We’re barely in sight sir!” shout Rex through his comlink. Sakiko and Master Hett walked through the ranks of clones between the tanks towards Vallen’s command squad. Hett’s eyes sharply focused met Vallen’s, “Things are about to get interesting..” Hett spoke calmly raising his chin as if sensing the force through the air.
“That they are General..That they are.” The Major adjusted his rifle’s sling comfortably on his shoulder.
Sakiko reached forward to A’ Sharad Hett’s shoulder. In hushed tones the female jedi spoke to her companion, “Master Hett, have you noticed the cease in traffic above..It is as if everyone else knows what is going on, except for us.”
Hett’s arms uncrossed, lowering to the pommels of his lightsabers, which remained fastened to his belt. “Your vigilance; keen as always Sakiko. This has had me troubled as of late too. Major, is the recruiting installation still intact?”
Vallen raised Rex on his comlink, “Captain Rex, have you been able to reach the facility’s detachment?”
“Negative sir. Only Comm static. Shall I send a picketing patrol sir?”
Vallen lifted his helmet over his head, pulling it into place. “Hotsh, bring your squad up to the tank with 2 BARC speeders AND Rex, have your lads rack up a few jet packs. We’ll be taking a field trip shortly.”
“Yes sir!” The two clones replied over the line.
Sergeant Kano speedily crawled down the side of the command tank, quickly pacing toward Vallen and the Jedi. Halting to provide the customary salute the trooper spoke, “Major, General, Commander, the Reproach has broke radio silence and is requesting permission to land. Captain Taggart mentioned several packs of droid fighters are hunting for them. Your reply?”
“Shit..Tell them to mask in the high occupancy port utilizing the number of ships to mask their signature for the time being. We NEED to clear out that landing zone. Tell him to commit to a landing in 30 minutes.”
Rex and Hotsh both stood with their squads assembled behind them. Vallen paced through the troop to be in front of them. “Gentlemen, our next way point is that structure with Republic emblems. Make it then clear the landing pad for the Reproach. It’s going to be a decisive dust off. Rex, his squad, accompanying the two Jedi will board upon arrival. Kano and Boomer, you two will lead the tanks to set up a defensive perimeter once the column has reached the structure!”
One of Sakiko’s elongated, pointy tipped ears perked to a raise. Her head quickly diverted, her raven hair fluttering behind. The Jedi female's attention pulled to pin point what her ears were barely picking up. Whispering…“An attack is imminent master..” Her soft, fair hand wrapped around the grip of her saber.
---A soft boom was hear through the air---
“AHHHH!! ” “What the..?!”
“FIRE..FIREE!!” “Hold! Hold FA..”
“We need support! Bring up the guns!” “Your left, on your LEFT!”
“CCrrrrSSHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhh....”
Vallen turned abruptly, raised his rifle and looked through his range finder. Rex already using his range finder provided an assessment, “Sir our picket line is under attack! Those scouts are being ripped to shreds out there.”
The com-line was filled with static before being clipped silent. Hotsh stepped forward, “Lets complete the mission sir. It’s our time now.”
Vallen nodded to the clone troopers who had been waiting to make their move. “Follow my advance! All troopers, FORWARD!”
Rex and the two squads broke into a sprint as their jet pack boosters flickered on, pulsing them into the air. The pair of Jedi leaped onto the two BARC speeders that hovered nearby, zipping by the hulking AT-TEs whose steps had also sped up. The rest of the company began to advance as quickly as possible without losing their mobile defensive posture.
Hett and Sakiko watched as the jet pack troops raced high above them. Sakiko accelerated, drawing the lightsaber from her hip. When ignited, blue blade extended steadily, illuminating the side of the speeder as she held it behind her. The distance between her and the attacked scouts closed. A sizable force of B1’s and B2 battle droids hand turned their backs on the recently dispatched clones, lying scattered across the street.
“What’s that humming?!” a battle droid turned around, “Jedi?!”
Sakiko and Hett simultaneously squeezed the triggers on their bike’s handle bars hurling a devastating spray of laser fire into the machines. Sakiko was the first to break through holding her arm straight out beside her extending the reach of her bright blue blade. Droids were instantly cleaved into pieces! Their torso’s baring a bright orange slash as they fell in two. A B2 fired a rocket from its arm mounted launcher. Hett was still catching up as he watched the missiles trail draw near! “SAKIKOOO!!”
Her right hand shot out with her fingers out spread sending a force burst from the tips of her hand. A shockwave of droids toppled over as the rocket averted her speeder, striking a group of battle droids on the other side of her, obliterating them.
Hett sped through the line, let go of his handle bars, igniting his two green bladed sabers. With arms outstretched behind him, he leaned forward speedily, thrusting his arms to hurl the lightsabers spinning into the droid ranks. As they twirled, the green blades shone brightly cutting dozens of droids down. When their spin slowed his fingers curled, recalling the weapons to their creator's hands.
“Should we finish them Master?”
“The troops will mop them up.” Hett spoke confidently, turning to look behind him. The tanks anti-personnel weapons honed in and devastated the remaining attackers. As his attentioned returned to the building they sped to, Hett could see streets lined with battle droids and insurgents, standing at the ready.
He shouted into his comlink, “Kano, Boomer, tighten your firing arcs! An ambush lies ahead of you.”
Kano confidently replied, “If they choose to attack, we’ll be waiting for them. Their move!”
Hett and Sakiko leaned forward, pushing hard against their handle bars as they sped towards the tall rising building ahead of them…
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Also...Can you guess what this character's name is? He'll be making an appearance in the next portion! ----- Character on the right
I'll give you a hint.. some elements of the design are derived from a few customs -- Cypher --
The tattoo says -- "Beep Bwoop"
Need more hints?
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Nice. Your update is on the front page. I like the art for this too.
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FantastiC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! loved it Blake ,i see i'll have some more customising to do.........
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Nice update IRISH! The war goes on and all that, not much time to mourn before the boys of the 501st have to lock and load once more.
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Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Changing Tides: Volume 11
“To withdraw isn't a sign of weakness... It is a sign that a
man knows the limits of his capabilities and the most probable outcome
of the future. To retreat isn’t weakness if it provides the
opportunity to fight another day.”
The white, smooth ridge of the chest plate sank with a deep exhale. The Major stood quietly; his head hung down towards the blue, frozen image of a trooper cradling the fallen battalion commander, his baptism by fire.
Rex noticed on his approach Vallen’s jaw tightly clenched. With only a glimpse of the image, the captain felt a void form in his chest.
Vallen’s thumb pressed down through the flickering image deactivating the projector before stowing it away within his utility belt. Rex un-clicked a single compartment on his left side. Then using his middle and pointer fingers, pulled out a folded tactical knife which he flicked open. Gripping the blade firmly, it bore down upon the blue paint. Pieces flecked slightly as the edge dragged across four separated tally marks. Neither man sought to make commentary. To them silence was a reverent salute to the commander who preferred fewer words.
“Yes Captain?”
“We are 1 click from the rendezvous point. The Reproach is planet side, but has not landed. Keep those clankers guessing until the last possible moment.”
“Ha! Soon it won’t take a B-1 or a tactical droid to figure out where we are headed.”
“Where exactly are we headed sir?”
“An officer recruiting station for the GAR. It has a suitable landing pad and hopefully armament if it hasn’t been raided.”
“Sounds more than feasible Major. I’ll take a look!” Rex dashed to the center command AT-TE, and darted up the handle bars on the sides of the armored plating. His hand rested on the main gun which held him steady as the lumbering giant jostled to and fro with each step. Rex’s range finder clicked into position in front of his helmet. His view zoomed into a pair of illuminated white republic logos.
“We’re in sight sir!” shout Rex through his comlink. Sakiko and Master Hett walked through the ranks of clones between the tanks towards Vallen’s command squad. Hett’s eyes sharply focused met Vallen’s, “Things are about to get interesting..” Hett spoke calmly raising his chin as if sensing the force through the air.
“That they are General..That they are.” The Major adjusted his rifle’s sling comfortably on his shoulder.
Sakiko reached forward to A’ Sharad Hett’s shoulder. In hushed tones the female jedi spoke to her companion, “Master Hett, have you noticed the cease in traffic above..It is as if everyone else knows what is going on, except for us.”
Hett’s arms uncrossed, lowering to the pommels of his lightsabers, still fastened to his belt. “Your vigilance; keen as always Sakiko. This has had me troubled as of late too. Major, is the recruiting installation still intact?”
Raising Rex on his comlink, “Captain Rex, have you been able to reach the facility’s detachment?”
“Negative sir. Only Comm static. Shall I send a picketing patrol sir?”
Vallen lifted his helmet over his head, pulling it into place. “Hotsh, bring your squad up to the tank with 2 BARC speeders AND Rex, have your lads rack up a few jet packs. We’ll be taking a field trip shortly.”
“Yes sir!” The two clones replied over the line.
Sergeant Kano speedily crawled down the side of the command tank, quickly pacing toward Vallen and the Jedi. Halting to provide the customary salute the trooper spoke, “Major, General, Commander, the Reproach has broke radio silence and is requesting permission to land. Captain Taggart mentioned several packs of droid fighters are hunting for them. Your reply?”
“Shit..Tell them to mask in the high occupancy port utilizing the number of ships to mask their signature for the time being. We NEED to clear out that landing zone. Tell him to commit to a landing in 30 minutes.”
Rex and Hotsh both stood with their squads assembled behind them. Vallen paced through the troop to be in front of them. “Gentlemen, our next way point is that structure with Republic emblems. Make it then clear the landing pad for the Reproach. It’s going to be a decisive dust off. Rex, his squad, accompanying the two Jedi will board upon arrival. Kano and Boomer, you two will lead the tanks to set up a defensive perimeter once your reach the structure!”
One of Sakiko’s elongated ears raised. Her head quickly diverted, her raven hair fluttering behind. Her attention pulled to pin point what her ears were barely picking up. Whispering…“An attack is imminent master..” Her soft, fair hand wrapped around the grip of her saber.
“AHHHH!! ” “What the..?!” “FIRE..FIREE!!” “Hold! Hold FA..”
“We need support! Bring up the guns! BRING UP TH..Gaah” “Your left, on your LEFT!”
“CCrrrrSSHHHHH”
Vallen turned abruptly, raised his rifle and looked through his range finder. Rex already using his range finder provided an assessment, “Sir our picket line is under attack! Those scouts are being ripped to shreds out there.”
The com-line was filled with static before being clipped silent. Hotsh stepped forward, “Lets complete the mission sir. It’s our time now!”
Vallen nodded to the clone troopers who had been waiting to make their move. “Follow my advance! All troopers, FORWARD!”
Rex and the two squads broke into a sprint as their jet pack boosters flickered on, pulsing them into the air. The pair of Jedi leapt onto the two BARC speeders, zipping by the hulking AT-TEs whose steps had also sped up. The rest of the company began to advance as quickly as possible without losing the mobile defensive posture.
Hett and Sakiko watched as the jet packs raced high above them. Sakiko accelerated, drawing the lightsaber from her hip. The blue blade extended steadily, illuminating the side of the speeder as she held it behind her. The distance between her and the attacked scouts closed.
A sizable force of B1’s and B2 battle droids hand turned their backs on the recently dispatched clones, lying scattered across the street. “What’s that humming?!” a battle droid turned around, “Jedi?!”
Sakiko and Hett simultaneously squeezed the triggers on their bike’s handle bars hurling a devastating spray of blue laser fire into the machines. Sakiko was the first to break through holding her arm straight out beside her extending the reach of her bright blue blade. Droids were instantly cleaved into pieces! Their torso’s baring a bright orange slash as they fell in two.
A B2 fired a rocket from its arm mounted launcher. Hett was still catching up as he watched the missile's trail draw near! “SAKIKOOO!!”
Her right hand shot out with her fingers spread wide sending a force burst from the tips of her hand. A shock-wave of droids toppled over as the rocket averted her speeder, striking a group of battle droids on the other side of her, obliterating them.
Hett sped through the line, letting go of the handle bars and igniting his two green bladed sabers. His arms stretched behind him before he leaned forward, thrusting his arms to hurl the lightsabers spinning into the droid ranks. As the twirled, the green blades shone brightly cutting dozens of droids down all before being recalled to their master’s hands.
“Should we finish them Master?”
“The troops will mop them up.” Hett spoke confidently, turning to look behind him. The tanks anti-personnel weapons honed in and began to devastate the remaining attackers. His attention returned to the building. Hett saw streets lined with battle droids and insurgents, standing at the ready as he passed.
He shouted into his comlink, “Kano, Boomer, tighten your firing arcs! An ambush lies ahead of you.”
Kano replied, “If they choose to attack, we’ll be waiting for them. Their move sir!”
Hett and Sakiko leaned forward, pushing hard against their handle bars to speed on towards the tall rising building.
Nearing the entrance stairway, few lights adorned its edifices; like all other military installations provided by the republic, this was no different in terms of its cold, featureless architecture. Hett’s tattooed face squinted through the bright light which pierced around the edge of the station adding to its ominent presence. A shadow followed by a dozen others darted above.
Major Haide Valhallen, aka Vallen, shouted through his comlink over the gusts of wind whirling about him and the jet pack troopers that followed, “Rex, you’ll land up on the top while I repel in through the windows. The Jedi have the ground.”
Vallen used his pack to hover near a row of windows. With a rifle tucked tightly beneath his arm, the Major’s gloved finger squeezed the trigger unleashing a rapid barrage of blue bolts into the mirrored windows. Each bolt burned through the glass plate forming a hole with an orange shell of melting glass which splintered beneath its own weight, weakened by the newly forged holes.
“Sound plan sir! Let’s get to it lads!” Rex yelled in a vigorous reply. The flames of his jet back grew as he sped to the roof. His hands reached down for the familiar feel of his dual pistols. Swiftly they were pulled from their holsters and raised into an aiming position; his heels hit the floor. Following from behind, Hotsh and his squad landed on the roof with all rifles drawn.
In an instant the clone troopers scrambled across the rooftop aiming down their sights.
“Top is clear sir. Pile up!” Hotsh spoke. He stood with his back against the wall next to door. With a nod from Rex; Wraith, Pike, Shine, and Hotsh lined up on the wall.
“2..1…NOW!” Rex’s boot kicked through the door..within a moment the squad poured through the door into the dim space, their tactical lights activated. Tup and Jesse pushed through a door on the opposite end of the towering roof. The jetpack troopers poured onto the roof and began their descent into the towers stairwells and barracks..into the darkness…
COOL ART: http://theirishrogue.deviantart.com/art/Commission-for-TheIrishRogue-02-354903835?q=favby%3Atheirishrogue%2F47859756&qo=135
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Very nice, back on the front page with this update.
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Thanks for the post and support Tamer!! ()rr
Always a pleasure!
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absolutely brilliant!!! i am hooked on this series!! more more!
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STAR WARS
The Clone Wars: Changing Tides Vol 12.3
A Sharad Hett’s hand extended as he used the force to unlock the primary door. The circular lock clicked, falling into place prior to the hulking blast door sliding apart. Hett squinted unable to peer far into the haze. The master Jedi pulled two sabers from his belt, igniting their green blades to illuminate the room. Following suit, the female Jedi, Sakiko, flicked the switch for her saber.
“Go..meet the Major on the upper levels.”
“Yes Master Hett.”
“And Sakiko.. be leery. May the force be with you.”
Nodding in response to A’ Sharad Hett’s words, “Is there any other way?”
Looking to the hallway she lightly chuckled, “And may it guide you as well” replied the pointy eared knight; her voice strong though she seldom issued more words than were warranted.
She walked down a long corridor..her breath calm and silent as her combat boots clicked against the floor. The green glow behind her dissipated, fading as the two’s path grew.
The building’s walls were not nearly as war torn apart as the other government buildings had been. Sakiko’s ears twitched, spasming as they picked up subtle reverberations created by echoes emulating from her footsteps. The hallway was filled with the soft blue hue from her saber. Placing it close to the wall, the glow was amplified by the white wall causing an increase in ambient light. Suddenly halting, Sakiko closed her eyes completely.
A sensation through the force was coming over her senses. Her mind tried to hone the source of such a feeling. Twas not love nor fear that traveled across her skin..
The Jedi turned into a corridor following the paces which strengthened the her awareness of this sensation. Up one flight after another she continued into a dimly lit sanctuary. Through the plants her steps led her towards a large black door.
Sakiko sank her blue blade into the door until the hilt almost made contact with the molten material. The saber melted the metal like a hot blade through warm butter; the cold steel festering into an orange glow as she made a thin tall rectangular incision. Standing back she deactivated her weapon, rose her hand and pulled the cleaved section from the secured door.
She cautiously yet curiously approached the still glowing cut. The source could not be far now. Her eyes darted open, but the darkness hid all.
“The feeling…a feeling I haven’t felt since..” Sakiko paused almost relishing the aura that overcame her instinct, “childhood. The impression of innocence” she spoke at the level of a whisper. Igniting her saber once more, the glow illuminated a boy crouched in the shadows.
“Come to me little one” She spoke softly, not to scare the young boy. Her knees lightly touched the floor as she knelt to his level. “Fear not, I am here to rescue you. Now that I have found you, no harm will come to you.”
The boy stood and faced the newly nurturing Jedi, a skill Sakiko had not been keen to hone. His eyes looked into the saber’s light as he turned towards her, reflecting the brightness as a wild animal’s eyes would.
“But Jedi, I am not afraid..”
The warm sensation that had guided her through the darkness dissipated as a stunning chill passed up her spine. Sakiko’s muscles clenched as she leapt to her feet in temporary confusion of the misguidance. This moment of hesitation lasted only a brief moment. Her arm began lifting the saber into a defensive posture when a cold, blunt pipe impacted the back of her skull. The Jedi dropped to the floor stunned..disoriented. Her eyes only saw blurs move before her ..the feeling of warm blood dripping down her neck was short lived..her head and pulse pounded.. the blurs grew while light faded until she was unconscious.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Major Haide Valhallen continued through the recently blown out windows. The butt of his rifle raised to his shoulder. His eyes aimed down the sights, darting side to side, checking for hostile targets. White light gleamed across all of the surfaces with ease.
The soldier vigilantly explored each room he came to for insight regarding the vacancy.
“It’s not like a Republic out post to simply leave..especially during negotiations.” He continued pushing into the dim. Reaching a stairwell he began a descent. Even though his body was wrapped in the standard issue body glove, Vallen felt coolness overcoming him. Shrugging it off for the moment, he stood before a tremendous gap in the stairs which his toe had nearly missed. Grinning, Vallen stepped back before thrusting himself into the air.
Falling rapidly towards the opposite edge of the gap his hands clutched to the crumbling granite. “Hmph!” he grunted upon impact! The major’s countenance contorted as his muscles strained to gained a controlled grip of the stair. His hand reached toward the railing visible to him. The rail began to shutter back and forth before falling from the wall, impacting with his hand before plummeting downward. His body flailed helplessly after being knocked by the strike..now relying solely on his opposite hand to prevent his fall.
Vallen reached to his forearm gauntlet, igniting his jet pack thrusting him up until his feet landed on the sturdy surface. Turning back, Vallen looked up across the chasm to the side he had just jumped from.
“Eh..I tried” the Major lowly grumbled as he continued down a few steps. His light flashed down the continuing stairs, but the door exiting the stair well felt right.
Pulling the trigger he fired a bolt through the side of the opening mechanism allowing him to breach. Kicking the door open, Vallen observed a communication desk. Everything was shorted out or running static. His armor slid against the leather material of a commander chair within the room. Leaning back, Vallen’s neck relaxed against the cushion. His gaze stared through an observation plate. Calm and collected in the cool darkness.
While leaning back he removed his helmet..enjoying a momentary reprieve from battle. Resting his eyes from the stair incident, a color became vaguely visible beneath his eyelids. The blue murmur moved through the room on the opposite side of the observation window.
“Sakiko..” Vallen spoke in hushed tones, immediately pulling his helmet down over his face. Picking up his rifle, the trooper quietly rushed from the room. Finding himself in a sanctuary, Vallen reached down his long weapon, adjusting his tactical light from blaring white to a subtle low-light red. He paced his steps as he moved among the plants. Pushing forward, plants brushed lightly against his armor …thorned plants grabbing at his resistant kama to no avail. The copious shelves of plant-life seemed to suddenly stop. Vallen’s next step went from being surrounded by plants back to the stark reality of his situation.
A tremendous door stood before him blocking his path…except for a tall, thin rectangular incision which seemed to still be cooling down. Only light sabers would breach a door in such a manner; leave it to Sakiko to cleave such a shape he thought. Lowering his weapon, Vallen walked comfortably towards the hole. Ducking down only a small distance he lifted his foot to step into the vault. A thin, nearly non-existent string snapped beneath his foot upon entry.
“What the?”
PHoom!
A small booby-trap exploded off to Vallen’s side, hurling him across the room. He lay on the ground…his breath heavy. A high pitch ringing replaced the silence in his ears. Reaching for his rifle, he lifted what remained as his weapon fell to pieces. Vallen rolled from his side to his stomach in order to use his knees and forearms to pick himself up. A metallic shard had bore its way deep into his helmet, barely inflicting damage to his face, but close enough he could feel its heat against his cheek. Thinking to himself, Vallen knew he had to remove his helmet to gain proper combat awareness.
In a reflex move he pulled the helmet up.
“AHH…grrah” Vallen snarled in pain, wincing as the shrapnel lodged in his helmet cut deeper into his face. The further he moved his helmet, the longer the slice grew. Swiftly the helmet was pulled off, Vallen enduring the pain as his chest pumped. The darkness did not lend itself to orientate the Republic officer. Black glove met familiar pistol grip. He drew his pistol igniting a light which had been recently attached for the mission. The room was devoid, but his view was highly obscured by debris.
Squinting in disbelief Vallen noticed a seemingly childlike figure, “Lad..are you OK?”
“I am.”
“Can you come help me up? We’ve got to make contact with the support teams.” The boy seemed to be a young teen stood, but did not offer assistance.
*Clank
The heavy familiar footstep of a battle droid perked Vallen’s eye’s and senses. He turned to aim his pistol at the origin of the noise! Before his pistol could land on target, a fist landed a firm punch to his face..rendering him unconscious. Vallen’s feet were pulled together as his body was dragged slowly deeper into the vault…
()rr ()rr Thanks for the great feedback! Sorry about the last Volume..though I added to it, I didn't realize I posted a portion already! OPPS! :P Hope you enjoyed!! ()rr ()rr
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dude your writing just keeps getting better and better Frikken awesome just so...AWSOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!now i need to go and lie down ...
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read the first post and im eager to read more, just joined up here at the yard, and im sampling everyone's work and dropping some of my own.
hope you find mine equally entertaining. great job on this.