Chapter Text
Those who would trade our freedom for the soup kitchen of the welfare state have told us they have a utopian solution of peace without victory. They call their policy "accommodation." And they say if we'll only avoid any direct confrontation with the enemy, he'll forget his evil ways and learn to love us. All who oppose them are indicted as warmongers. They say we offer simple answers to complex problems. Well, perhaps there is a simple answer -- not an easy answer -- but simple: If you and I have the courage to tell our elected officials that we want our national policy based on what we know in our hearts is morally right."
We cannot buy our security, our freedom from the threat of the bomb by committing an immorality so great as saying to a billion human beings now enslaved behind the Iron Curtain, "Give up your dreams of freedom because to save our own skins, we're willing to make a deal with your slave masters." Alexander Hamilton said, "A nation which can prefer disgrace to danger is prepared for a master, and deserves one." Now let's set the record straight. There's no argument over the choice between peace and war, but there's only one guaranteed way you can have peace -- and you can have it in the next second -- surrender."
Admittedly, there's a risk in any course we follow other than this, but every lesson of history tells us that the greater risk lies in appeasement, and this is the specter our well-meaning liberal friends refuse to face -- that their policy of accommodation is appeasement, and it gives no choice between peace and war, only between fight or surrender. If we continue to accommodate, continue to back and retreat, eventually we have to face the final demand -- the ultimatum. And what then -- when Nikita Khrushchev has told his people he knows what our answer will be? He has told them that we're retreating under the pressure of the Cold War, and someday when the time comes to deliver the final ultimatum, our surrender will be voluntary, because by that time we will have been weakened from within spiritually, morally, and economically. He believes this because from our side he's heard voices pleading for "peace at any price" or "better Red than dead," or as one commentator put it, he'd rather "live on his knees than die on his feet." And therein lies the road to war, because those voices don't speak for the rest of us.
You and I know and do not believe that life is so dear and peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery. If nothing in life is worth dying for, when did this begin -- just in the face of this enemy? Or should Moses have told the children of Israel to live in slavery under the pharaohs? Should Christ have refused the cross? Should the patriots at Concord Bridge have thrown down their guns and refused to fire the shot heard 'round the world? The martyrs of history were not fools, and our honored dead who gave their lives to stop the advance of the Nazis didn't die in vain. Where, then, is the road to peace? Well it's a simple answer after all.
You and I have the courage to say to our enemies, "There is a price we will not pay." "There is a point beyond which they must not advance." And this -- this is the meaning in the phrase of Barry Goldwater's "peace through strength." Winston Churchill said, "The destiny of man is not measured by material computations. When great forces are on the move in the world, we learn we're spirits -- not animals." And he said, "There's something going on in time and space, and beyond time and space, which, whether we like it or not, spells duty."
You and I have a rendezvous with destiny.
We'll preserve for our children this, the last best hope of man on earth, or we'll sentence them to take the last step into a thousand years of darkness.
We will keep in mind and remember that Barry Goldwater has faith in us. He has faith that you and I have the ability and the dignity and the right to make our own decisions and determine our own destiny.
- Excerpt from Ronald W. Reagan's "A Time of Choosing Speech" at the 1964 Republican Party Convention, October 27th, 1964
"Indeed. And Earth stands united against a technologically advanced adversary. Two years ago, no one would have dreamed such a thing possible thanks to a difference in ideology, but now the Empire shall fear us for showing them that our lone world cannot and shall not be vanquished."
- President John F. Kennedy in a meeting at the United Nations on October 30th, 1968.
Chapter 2: A Night to Remember
Chapter Text
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFTWeAv5Njw
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:04:15 ATC/July 4th, 1968 - 20:00/ 8:00 PM
'Ah. The American dream.'
It have been sixteen months since the Devil Dog returned from the rice paddies and jungles of Vietnam. The United States Marine was in the South East Asian country fighting off the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong after they foolishly decided to sink the USS Maddox after Kennedy pleaded for peace.
Now, Meyer was safe back home, not worrying about snakes, punji sticks, the frequent rain, and multiple other reasons why the Hoosier will never go back to Vietnam for even a vacation.
"It's such a beautiful night, Jake. Thank you for bringing me here." A high pitch voice said next to him on the blanket.
It was the voice of a human female and her name is Sara Kelrein and surprisingly she came from a different galaxy and a planet called Corellia.
It all started just over a year ago when Jake was called up to assist in security as the extraterrestrial ship landed to conduct a diplomatic mission with Earth.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Andrews Air Force Base - Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
06:16:14 ATC/June 16th, 1967 - 15:42/ 3:42 PM
"You think we'll even stand a chance, Jake?" David asked as he manned the M60 machine gun on the M151.
"I honestly don't know." The Hoosier simpered as knelt behind the Jeep and placed his left elbow on top of the hood before aiming his M14 service rifle, peering through the aperture. "But if possible, I'm sure that I can strike some of them down. Remember the terrorists from the Pink Liberation Army I was forced to shoot a while back?"
"The ones who decided to take three hostages, including a cousin of yours, and demand Uncle Sam to free the traitorous whore as a 'peaceful protest' only for them to not realize that your female relative is a communications specialist?" Hendricks recalled. "Say, didn't you nab Jane Fonda in the first place?"
"I'll tell you all about it, including Nikki's antics, later. Right now, we should be concerned with a possible incident with extraterrestrials and this could make the Cuban Missile Crisis five years ago a minor affair."
"You don't say." His fellow Gyrene gulped, realizing the need for focus.
"Listen up Marines!" The barking of their immediate supervisor, Staff Sergeant William Carson, even heightened the pair's attention further . "We are going to assist the Secret Service , Army, and the Chair Force in securing the area! We do not know who exactly our astronauts met, but we're going to be on alert, especially with the President greeting them!"
"AYE STAFF SERGEANT!" The subordinates in the Military Police detachment enthusiastically responded as four additional Jeeps stopped two hundred feet away from the extraterrestrial spacecraft and twelve Marines hopped off the vehicles while four others remained on the turret, keeping vigilance with the M-60s.
"Clear left!" Lance Corporal Andrew Petersen shouted as he aimed the M1897 shotgun to the left.
"Clear right!" Another with an M1928A1 Thompson called out.
"All clear!"
Carson nodded at his Marines and spoke into the radio of the closest Jeep. "Baseplate? This is Bravo Two-Four. All clear in our area, over?"
"Roger that Bravo Two-Four. The Eagle will be out shortly."
It wasn't even five minutes before the convoy carrying the President of the United States began their approach to greet the visitors of another world.
The Secret Service had learned a valuable lesson five years earlier when a communist nutjob by the name of Lee Harvey Oswald attempted to assassinate the President, but luckily an off-duty Dallas Policeman by the name of Jack Ruby spotted the barrel of a rifle sticking outside the School Book Depository and he alerted security.
The gunman was killed by the Police as he attempted to shoot his way out.
Shaking his head at the absolute foolishness of the bastard, Jake prepared himself as the hatch to the ship opened up with John Fitzgerald Kennedy extending his hands to a cat-like being.
"Welcome to Earth ambassador. As a representative of the free world, I personally wish us luck in the exchange of our cultures."
"The pleasure is mine Mister President." The talkative tiger smiled. "Come. Let us discuss our civilizations."
The President of the United States and the ambassador started to walk away from the vessel, but the Marines and the other Earthlings eyes widened at who was behind the feline.
The guard took off the helmet and IT WAS HUMAN!
And it wasn't a male human either. The dark copper-haired, pale green-eyed woman was wearing some sort of white-colored armor with yellowish-orange markings.
"Hey, Jake?" Donald questioned. "Who's the doll?"
Meyer stared at the highly attractive redhead for a few moments before facing Don.
"I don't know, but I believe we'll find out."
Present day...
"Yeah, well this night is nothing compared to you, Sara." The American declared, causing the Corellian to blush.
"Aww...You're so sweet."
Jake was going to respond when another voice interrupted the couple. "If you lovebirds are finished, I just want to inform you that I brought the beer."
It was Sam, a childhood friend of Jake's whose currently on leave. Sergeant Samuel Westbrook is a paratrooper in the famed 82nd Airborne Division and he managed to participate in the Independence Day celebrations amongst family and friends.
"Asshole." Meyer muttered before he reached into the cooler and grabbed a Budweiser for himself and one for Sara.
It still amazes the Devil Dog that the Corellian could drink him under the table, but that's not the point. The point is that the leatherneck truly enjoyed the time they had together so far.
He learned that the redhead was an orphan and she enlisted in the Republic Army at the age of sixteen and she's currently a corporal in its SpecForce Division.
Snorting at the thoughts of forming a relationship with an extragalactic human female that somehow managed to pass Special Forces training, the Military Policeman handed his sweetheart her drink.
"Here you are, babe. An all American beer."
"Thank you, larel." She smiled sweetly before placing a peck on his cheek.
She looks absolutely stunning in the dress his mother gave her. Originally, Sara was going to wear her galaxy's equivalent to a service uniform with pants but Misses Meyer somehow convinced the Corellian to wear the teal colored dress for the celebrations in order to draw attention away from herself.
And shortly after the redhead kissed his cheek, the fireworks started to ring out as the show began.
"Here's to a great Fourth of July." Sam toasted. "May America last to two thousand years and more."
The glasses were clinked and the trio watched as the display continued.
Chapter 3: A New World
Chapter Text
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVageTGZa88
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice / The Empire's Wrath
Dark Council Chamber - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
07:05:15 ATC - 09:00
Nathrrya leaned against a wall waiting for the meeting to start. She as the Empire's Wrath had been urgently recalled to the Empire's capitol world. The war with the Republic had not been kind to the Sith Empire, half of the Dark Council had been killed so far. Nathrrya had always thought the war was a waste and seeing six empty council seats just reinforced the point.
As she looked around the large chamber she silently named each surviving council member and what they were responsible for. Darth Mortis: Laws and Justice, Darth Marr: Defence of the Empire, Darth Vowrawn: Logistics and Production, Darth Ravage: Diplomacy and Expansion, Darth Nox: Ancient Knowledge, and lastly Darth Acina: Technology. Also present was her friend Lana Beniko who was now head of Sith Intelligence.
"So they dragged you here too, did they?" Nathrrya asked the blonde. "Any idea what all the fuss is about?"
"If I told you, Nat I'd have to kill you." Lana replied with a wicked smile.
The redhead just rolled her eyes "In other words more of your cloak and dagger stuff."
"Something like that." Lana said "Looks like they're about to start."
"Why did you call this meeting Ravage?" Nox asked.
"It seems the Republic may have a new ally in the war but what they hope to gain with a planet so backwards is at this point a total mystery to me." Ravage said.
"Backwards in what way?" Acina asked.
"In just about every way." Ravage replied "They barely have what passes for space flight, their military use slug throwers. They don't even have a united planetary government. About the only positive thing is that the population is entirely human."
"And just how did you come by this, Ravage?" Marr demanded.
"Through Sith Intelligence, my lord." Lana said as she stepped forward. "Unknown to the Republic diplomatic party that recently made contact with Earth, one of its members is in fact a member of the Imperial Army. It was felt for this operation that a member of the military was more suited than a Cipher agent."
"How delightfully diabolical, Lord Beniko." Vowrawn purred. "It's a shame we'll never know the Republic ambassador's reaction. I do so like humiliating them."
Lana smiled at the Sith pureblood "I do have something to show... it's interesting." as she spoke the blonde-haired Sith inserted a holo-disc into the room's projector.
An image soon appeared showing the Republic's Cathar ambassador surrounded by about a dozen men in black suits trying to keep away a large group of the most colourfully dressed humans anyone had ever seen. Many of the humans held aloft signs that read 'Welcome to Earth' and 'Peace not War' and other similar slogans. More than a few of the colourfully dressed humans seemed to be impaired in some way; whether through alcohol or drugs none of the observing Sith knew for certain.
"Living Force I can't believe the Republic has been so dumb." Nathrrya broke the silence "If Earth has been as isolated as it seems to be then sending an alien ambassador was just about the worst thing they could have done. The man could have been shot on sight for all the Republic knew." While Nathrrya herself had no problem with non-humans, to her sending a non-human ambassador to a planet full of humans who had no idea the galaxy was teaming with life wasn't going to end well. She hoped she'd be proven wrong but...
"I'm inclined to agree with Lord Avarice." Lana said "The move could backfire spectacularly. So far it hasn't but it wouldn't take much for it to turn sour. Fortunately the rest of the Republic diplomatic party is entirely human."
The six Dark Councillors were silent as they absorbed the information finally Darth Marr looked to where Nathrrya was standing "Wrath, I want you to travel to the system where Earth is located, scout it out for any Republic forces that might be stationed there and if the opportunity presents itself, sour relations between Earth and the Republic."
"As you wish, Darth Marr." Nathrrya sounded anything but happy about her latest mission. Scouting a star system? That was the easy part. Nathrrya hated politics with a passion and here she was getting drawn into yet another intergalactic political minefield.
Nathrrya was almost out of the Sith Citadel when Lana caught up to her.
"Nat. Wait a moment." The blonde said "I need to tell you about the Imperial in the Republic party, just in case things go sideways and you need to pull her out of there."
Nathrrya eyed her friend carefully "Lana? Something's bothering you. What is it?"
"It's my operative, I know her personally for we grew up together before I got shipped off for Sith training but from the most recent reports she's sent... she's in a romantic relationship with one of the Earthlings." The worry was clear in Lana's voice.
Nathrrya winced "That's why you want me to know isn't it? If your friend is discovered... Alright who is she, if things get hot I'll get her out of there I promise you Lana."
Lana smiled "Thanks. I knew you wouldn't let me down." The blonde then produced a small holo of the Imperial infiltrator "Sara Kelrein, Sergeant, Sniper and Imperial Commando, currently posing as a member of Republic SpecForce. Has quite a temper towards those who are overly cruel to others, so you should both get along well enough." Both Sith disliked being cruel for the sake of it. "Parents were killed by a terrorist group under the direction of the Eagle. No known living relatives. Apart from me I suppose as Sara considers me like a sister."
Nathrrya nodded. "Okay. I'll keep an eye on Sara for you and if things go sideways I'll pull her out of there. Best get back to the ship and tell everyone what we're up to this time."
Chapter 4: Living in the U.S.A
Chapter Text
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2s4slliAtQU
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Southeastway Park - 5624 South Carroll Road, New Palestine, Sugar Creek Township, Hancock County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:06:15 ATC/July 6th, 1968 - 12:00/ 12:00 PM
If everybody had an ocean
Across the U. S. A.
Then everybody'd be surfin'
Like Californi-a
You'd seem 'em wearing their baggies
Huarache sandals too
A bushy bushy blonde hairdo
Surfin' U. S. A.
You'd catch 'em surfin' at Del Mar
Ventura County line
Santa Cruz and Trestle
Australia's Narrabeen
All over Manhattan
And down Doheny Way
Everybody's gone surfin'
Surfin' U.S.A.
We'll all be planning that route
We're gonna take real soon
We're waxing down our surfboards
We can't wait for June
We'll all be gone for the summer
We're on surfari to stay
Tell the teacher we're surfin'
Surfin' U. S. A.
"Jake, no!"
The Leatherneck grinned at his giggling girlfriend before throwing her into the lake. It has been nearly a year already and the American believes without doubt that it was a match made in heaven.
In return, the Republic SpecForce soldier gave him the death glare and started to splash water at him.
"Okay! Okay! I get it! You don't like the water and I surrender!"
"It's not the water I don't like." Sara playfully pouted. "It's you ruining my attempts at tanning."
"Sorry babe." Jake smirked just before Mister Westbrook called out the welcoming words.
"LUNCH IS READY!"
All at once, Jake, Sara, and the others ran to the picnic tables where the meal is being served.
"My, it seems that you enjoyed yourselves." Misses Meyer smiled as she notices her son and the Corellian holding hands despite being both wet.
"I sure did, ma. Not sure about Sara though."
The redhead gave her man a little love tap in response to him embarrassing her.
"Ouch! What was that for!?" Jake questioned, the Hoosier rubbing his now sore arm.
"That was for throwing me into the water." She smiled ever so sweetly. " I didn't think that your mother raised you to be such a barbarian."
"Oh? Did he now?" His father interrogated from the grill, a twinkle in his eyes as he flipped the burgers and sausages.
"DAD!"
Everyone chuckled at the Devil Dog's expense.
The people at the cookout were Jake's and Sam's families. Jake's father was in the 82nd Airborne during the Second World War and two of his uncles were in the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion under Evans Carlson. His paternal grandfather was at Belleau Wood in the 5th Marine Regiment and his maternal grandfather was in the Indian Wars and later rode alongside Theodore Roosevelt in the Rough Riders and finally served in World War I as a Sergeant in the First Infantry Division: The famed 'Big Red One'. His paternal great-grandfather was in the 32nd Indiana 'First German' Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War.
And Jake was the latest in his family tree to fight for the United States ever since Alexander Cameron came to America after the failed Jacobite Rebellion of 1745-46 and if there was a war America fought, at least one of his grandfathers fought in the conflict ever since 1861 for his father's side and 1775 for his mother's side of the family.
Sam's family, on the other hand, had a longer history of service when his ancestor, Ronald Westbrook arrived to America aboard the Mayflower and served as a Sergeant in the colonial militia for the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
The two families continued their conversations as they reached the banquet table that had the standard brats, potato salad, coleslaw and other picnic fare. There was even cheesecake for dessert.
Walking up to the table, Sam reached for the nearest slice and attempted to grab it, but someone else had other ideas as she snatched it out of his hands.
"Excuse me Sara, but I believe that the piece you currently have is mine."
"Shut up." The Corellian smiled deviously before sticking her tongue out in an unladylike manner. Usually, the redhead wasn't this childish in her personality, but she can never get enough of this treat the Earthlings called 'cheesecake.'
"You know, back in the day..." Westbrook began. "People born on this planet with red hair could be burned for witchcraft."
"And I can shoot you from over one thousand meters with my boyfriend's rifle." Sara threatened, smiling in victory as the off-duty paratrooper started to sweat.
"You're scary. You know that?" A voice said behind her.
It was Jake and he grabbed her from behind, pulling her into a hug. The redhead beamed as the Marine glanced back to Westbrook.
"Sorry Sam, but there are three rules that I learned from her and number one on the list is to never get between her and her cheesecake." He declared to the Sergeant before pecking Sara's forehead. " Isn't that right babe?"
"Come on Man!" Samuel pouted. "She just threatened me and I thought you would back me up traitor!"
Jake shook his head as Sam stormed off with his pride hurt.
"Think you should go after him, larel?"
The Jarhead focused on his sweetheart. His one and only despite being a potential hazard to his health. "Nah." Meyer shrugged. "Besides I learned the hard way to never get between you and your slice of cheesecake."
It was worse than 'Nam itself when Jake discovered his girlfriend had developed an addiction to the creation from Heaven.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:4:14 ATC/ August 23rd, 1967 - 08:00/8:00 AM
It has been a few days since the long drive from the United Nation's building in New York and the Hoosier was ordered to show a randomly selected Republic soldier the average life of an American but who it was in particular surprised him.
It was the same woman he saw behind the diplomat and it still surprises him that he got partnered up with the redhead.
Jake, however, didn't care why the hell Washington decided he was best for the job since he has a beautiful woman as compensation, but it annoyed the hell out of him that the Marine was given the short end of the stick.
Anyways the Devil Dog got up from his bed and shaved, brushed his teeth, and got dress before heading outside his room to make breakfast since its going to be a busy day on the farm with chores.
'Maybe I will have the last two pieces of cheesecake mom made the other day.' He smiled.
Misses Meyer made the best cheesecake in the State of Indiana and the entire local church congregation cry out in joy whenever the cheesecake is brought to the annual sunday lunch.
Okay, maybe that was an exaggeration, but everyone who tried the dessert falls in love with it and begs for more.
Upon reaching the kitchen, Jake saw Sara rummaging through the pantry, throwing cans and boxes out of their organized place.
"Good morning Sara."
The Corellian was startled and she turned around and blushed. "Morning Jake." The red-haired woman greeted. "Do you know where the cheesecake is?" Sara inquired sweetly.
The farmboy raised an eyebrow and glanced over the Corellian's shoulders, seeing the obvious mess she had created. It was evident that Sara was now addicted to his mother's cooking, even though he didn't think that it would be this bad.
"Yeah..." Jake sighed, knowing that he would have to pick up her mess. "It's in the fridge. I can get it..."
But before the Hoosier could finish his sentence, the red-haired woman ran to the fridge and opened it, grabbing the container holding the last two slices and closed the door to the icebox before rushing out of the room.
Jake eyes widened at the scene he just witnessed. It was like the literal 'Merry Melodies' Taz itself came to the kitchen, wreak havoc, and swipe the dessert away before he could reach for it.
"Sara!" Jake called out, running after the cheesecake addict. "At least save me a piece!"
"You have to come get it!" She declared in a sing-song tone.
'Oh? It's on now!' He thought. Luckily, his parents weren't home to see their son and the guest conducting themselves in childish behavior.
Reaching the edge of the steps, the Jarhead saw the Corellian at the top of the stairs. She was beginning to eat a piece of the dessert from heaven itself and it was obvious that the woman was teasing him, daring the Earthling to come and take it away from her.
"Sara!" Meyer ordered."I am giving you five minutes to surrender the cheesecake before I go up these steps!"
If the Corellian wanted to play games, why Jake will use his Marine Corps training to 'adapt and overcome' the opposition.
"Why should I?" She asked calmly, licking the fork. "It's delicious."
The Military Policeman growled in response and marched up the stairs, hoping to take her by surprise.
But the SpecForce soldier had other ideas and prepared to ambush him. No one is going to take this amazing treat away from her! No one!
Jake reached the top of the stairs and attempted to snatch the remaining slice off the plate, but once his hands neared the plate, Sara quickly moved it to her other side and once the Devil Dog reached for it again, she let him have his piece.
Present day...
"And it was pretty funny that I managed to spread it across your face." Sara giggled as she finished the memory at the picnic table, eating her favorite dessert.
"Yeah and immediately afterwards you started to kiss me."
"But it made you more lovable." The woman teased.
Jake knows that when Sara wants her cheesecake, she will have it one way or another.
He just hopes that it would not be the end of him if there ever was a 'Second Cheesecake War' between the lovebirds.
Chapter 5: Intergalactic Politics-Sith style Part One
Chapter Text
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice / The Empire's Wrath
En route to the Planet known as 'Earth' : The Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC / July 18th, 1968 - 10:38 / 10:38 AM
The Fury-class heavy interceptor Violet Rose dropped out of hyperspace at the edge of the Sol System where Earth was located and preceded to head deeper into the system at near full sub-light, the ship's sensors gathering as much information as they could.
"So what do we know about Earth exactly?" Vette asked
"Not much. The population is entirely human." Nathrrya replied as she flew the ship past an impressive red planet with its distinctive red spot. "So you're going to stand out." She said looking over at her blue Twi'lek friend.
"Don't I always?" Vette replied a cheeky grin on her face. Everyone chuckled at that.
"Earth doesn't have a unified planetary government but over one hundred nation-states, though they do have a body called the United Nations where they try and work out their differences." Nathrrya explained.
"Sounds like the Republic Senate and likely as ineffective, my lord." Captain Malavai Quinn observed dryly "Just on a smaller scale."
Nathrrya nodded her head in agreement "I haven't told you all the best part yet. Women hold no real power on Earth, be it in the government, industry or the military, in most countries women can't even serve in the military as a frontline soldier. There is a popular movement trying to change that."
"The powers that be are just going to love you, Nat." Vette said her sarcasm obvious, then the Twi'lek grinned. "You, me and Jaesa are going to shake things up."
The three women laughed at that and even Quinn cracked a smile.
"Master, something's wrong. The Force, I can't feel it." Jaesa said looking concerned.
"I feel it too. It's as if we've entered a Force dead zone." Nathrrya confirmed "That could be... problematic." the Sith's eyes widened as she felt a familiar presence bloom in the Force. Nathrrya looked to her apprentice who just nodded in confirmation. "Interesting..."
On the bridge of the Republic Hammerhead-class cruiser Resolute stood two Jedi as the crew went about their tasks unaware of the silent conversion the Jedi were having.
"No matter where we go tough guy your cousin always seems to follow." Kira said to her partner and husband through their Force bond amused.
"Or we seem to follow her." Casavir replied as he glanced at the long-range sensors "The Resolute should be picking up the Rose any moment."
"My lord, I'm picking up the profiles of a pair of Republic Hammerhead-class cruisers and the diplomatic ship." Captain Quinn reported. "We're being hailed by the cruiser Resolute."
Nathrrya accepted the hail and wasn't surprised to see an image of her cousin Casavir appear along with his wife Kira Carsen, who was a former Child of the Emperor. "This is Imperial vessel Violet Rose we read you Resolute."
"Lord Avarice I should have known the Empire would send you to find out what was happening." Casavir said trying to keep his face neutral.
"Indeed Master Therin and it comes as no surprise to me that you're representing the Jedi." Nathrrya replied, they'd been through this song and dance often enough it was routine. After all, no one could know they were related.
"Earth is currently a neutral world so you are free to land but allow me two hours to travel planetside to warn the earthlings of your impending arrival. Is that agreeable Lord Avarice?" Casavir asked.
"That is most satisfactory Master Therin." Nathrrya replied with a slight smile "I shall see you planetside in about two hour's time. Violet Rose, out."
Almost as soon as the transmission from the Rose ended Casavir and Kira were on their way to the Resolute's hangar bay to take a shuttle to Earth as not only did they have to inform the earthlings about the Imperial visit but also tell the Cathar ambassador Zorin Krasul and both Jedi knew he wouldn't take the news well.
Just over an hour later both Jedi were being shown into the conference room within the United Nations building in New York City where ambassador Krasul was meeting with US President Kennedy.
"Sorry for the interruption, Ambassador, Mister President but we've had a... development." Casavir said.
The Cathar frowned. "What kind of development, Master Jedi?"
"The Imperial kind." Casavir replied grimly "An hour ago the Resolute picked up the profile of a single Fury-class vessel on approach."
"Fury-class? They're exclusively Sith vessels correct?" ambassador Krasul asked worriedly.
"Yes." Kira spoke up. "It seems the Empire has seen fit to send their own representative and they're not messing around considering just who they've sent."
"And just who has the Sith Empire sent?" President Kennedy asked.
"Darth Avarice, the Empire's Wrath." Casavir stated.
Krasul's eyes grew with fear "You can't allow that..."
"Ambassador." Casavir growled cutting the Cathar off "May I remind you that Earth is still a neutral planet and as such we cannot prevent Lord Avarice from landing. The Empire is free to have their own representative here until as such time that either Earth sides with the Republic, the Empire or even chooses to remain neutral in the conflict."
"How long do we have before this Lord Avarice arrives?" Kennedy asked.
"About an hour Mister President." Kira replied.
An hour later at the Stewart Air National Guard base, sixty miles to the north of New York City saw the base on high alert as the scream of twin ion engines filled the air.
On the tarmac was Jacob Meyer and standing next to him was Sara Kelrein.
"Just how big is that ship?" Meyer asked his girlfriend. Even on the ground, the Military Policeman could tell that the Imperial vessel dwarfed the four escorting F-4 Phantoms as the ship came into land.
"From what I can recall the Fury is one hundred and fifty-seven feet long by one hundred and thirty-seven feet wide and its primary armament is four heavy laser cannons." Sara replied.
'Holy shit!' Meyer thought as he witnessed the most ridiculous shaped and colored aircraft began to land. It was a faded pale purple with back panels and showed a good deal of wear and tear. The leatherneck wondered if the pilot was insane if he was flying that piece of junk. He didn't even know if the wider galaxy utilizes pilots. Robots maybe?
"Are you sure it's that big?" The Marine questioned as the ship prepared itself for landing on the runway. The airmen on the pavement ran for cover and Jake instantly leaped onto the Pub, shielding her from the impact.
'That fucking pilot is going to have to answer to me! He almost ran over us!'
"Yeah." Sara sighed, brushing herself off. "I'm pretty karking sure."
To everyone's surprise, the ship spun one hundred and eighty degrees so its aft end was facing the welcoming delegation before landing vertically. Its landing gear extending from the hull as it did so settling on the runway with a surprisingly soft thud.
Moments later as the engines powered down the boarding ramp lowered which soon explained why the ship was seemingly facing the wrong way.
Meyer looked up and saw a man with black hair in a uniform similar to the old dress uniform of the Waffen SS and a red-haired woman that could be a priest thanks to the robes that she was wearing. The duo were shortly followed by the first alien Jake had ever seen. It appears to be a blue-skinned female with hair-tails? The Marine wasn't sure and finally, another priest walked out of the craft.
"Kriffing hell!" Sara cried slightly panicked "This could end badly, very badly."
Jake looked at Sara then to where he saw Present Kennedy and the UN Secretary-General approaching the man in the officer's uniform.
"Why? They're just following military protocol."
Sara shook her head "For your world maybe but Earth is dealing with the Sith Empire. To a Lord of the Sith, greeting the imperial officer first is about as a big an insult as you could possibly make." She looked at her boyfriend "In case you hadn't worked it out the woman with the red hair is the one they should be greeting first. Let's hope she's in a kind and forgiving mood for Earth is about to sour its relations with the Sith Empire before they've even begun."
"Well... shit." Was all Jake could say.
There was an extraordinarily long and awkward pause after the two earthlings greeted Captain Quinn first and not Nathrrya.
Quinn's eyes flicked to his left "Err... my lord..."
Nathrrya gave a deep amused chuckle "That's five hundred credits you owe me, Captain." She inclined her head in greeting to the shocked earthlings "As you may have surmised by now I am Darth Avarice, Empire's Wrath."
"We are sorry my lord." said Present Kennedy. "We were unaware that you were..."
"...A woman?" Nathrrya finished "That was painfully obvious. A word of advice, be very careful in future with your dealings with the Empire for as unintended as it may have been showing such disrespect to a Lord of the Sith could have ended... badly."
"How badly?"
"Both of you dead badly." Nathrrya replied her voice flat.
"You're kidding, right?" Secretary-General Thant inquired nervously.
"Unfortunately no I'm not."Avarice replied seriously. "It's difficult to explain but it is a cultural belief among Sith that we are superior to everyone else and that we are treated as such. Something I have never agreed with. Just because myself and my apprentice have the ability to use the Force does that make us better than Captain Quinn or Vette? The answer is no."
Meanwhile, in the background, Meyer carefully watched the so-called 'Sith Lord', seeing if the woman would make any threatening moves to either the President or the head of the United Nations.
The priest, Sith, whatever you called her calmly spoke to the two leaders, but the Marine could see that she is making them uncomfortable.
If things escalate, Jake hopes that his M1911A1 handgun would be sufficient in dealing with the highly advanced guests if the woman made any moves.
The Hoosier saw that the informal meeting had concluded and turned to face Sara.
"Ready to go?"
"Yeah." She smirked, following the Marine to his motorcycle. The Corellian gazed into Jake's eyes as he got onto the bike, starting it.
"Please be careful Jake." The redhead warned fearfully. "Sith are masters of manipulation."
Even though the Jarhead couldn't promise it, Meyer knows the Corellian needed some reassurance to stay sane.
"I promise." He declared, making the redhead smile before she headed back to her assigned vehicle.
Jake started the Harley and moved in front of the motorcade, right in front of one of the black 1961 Lincoln Continental four-door convertibles and on the motorcycle right beside Meyer was a soldier from the United States Army 91st Military Police Battalion, Specialist Roger Willis.
"Seems like things are about to get interesting, Jarhead."
"I don't know about you, pal, but something doesn't seem right about the whole sudden visit by this Sith Empire."
Willis just shrugged and started up the motor as the motorcade prepares to get underway.
The convoy left the Stewart Air National Guard Base and started their journey to the United Nations building in New York City, thirty miles away.
'Ground vehicles, how quaint.' Nathrrya thought as they were led toward the motorcade. Such things weren't unknown just a rarity unless you lived on one of the more underdeveloped worlds within the Empire or Republic. Quinn looked as if he was going to have a heart attack while Vette and Jaesa were treating it like a grand adventure.
Nathrrya's inner engineer was squealing in delight at the thought of taking apart one of these vehicles to see how it worked. She'd had much the same reaction on observing the four fighter jets that had escorted them into land. She really wanted to pull one of those apart. Not much chance of either happening but a girl can dream, right?
About ten minutes into the journey and by some unknown agreement Secretary-General Thant asked the question that had been on his and President Kennedy's mind. "Lord Avarice, be honest with us. Is Vette a slave?"
Quinn visibly tensed, Jaesa looked indignant on her master's behalf and Vette looked resigned.
Nathrrya sighed nodding her head "Yes, technically Vette is my slave. However, she does not wear a shock collar as once she came into my service." She refused to say 'possession' "I removed it."
"I still have that awful device." Vette spoke up as she brought out a medallion that hung around her neck. "I made this out of what was left after..." she looked at the redhead seeking permission to which Nathrrya gave an encouraging smile "Nat removed and turned into scrap. I keep this as a reminder."
It was clear to the Imperials that the two earthlings were disappointed. "It saddens me to hear that the Empire makes use of such a practice but I thank you for your honesty Lord Avarice for you could have lied." President Kennedy said at last.
"Yes and most Sith certainly would have." Nathrrya agreed. "I'm here to officially represent the Sith Empire and as such, I am supposed to put the Empire in the best light possible. That is hard to do when you yourself do not agree with everything the Empire does. The Republic would have been wiser to not make contact with Earth for from what I have seen thus far your world is not yet ready." She explained "The Empire and Republic are hardly perfect galactic governments but they are what they are. Change will come but it is slow."
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
Outside the Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC / July 18th, 1968 - 14:38 / 2:38 PM
"Good afternoon America. This is Walter Cronkite reporting." A man in a business suit began as he started his broadcast that will change history.
"Barely a year ago, Earth had first contact with a civilization calling themselves the 'Galactic Republic' and now a few hours ago, a representative from the 'Sith Empire' landed at the Stewart Air National Guard Base, attempting to form relations with our world. Unlike the Republic, the Empire is an unknown and the representative may try to put their faction into a more positive light… An hour from now, Darth Avarice will speak in front of the United Nations to tell the world why the Empire is here." Cronkite took a deep breath, knowing that history is in the making. "We truly hope that whatever the Imperials want, we hope it is not conquest like our friends…" The famed news broadcaster paused, seeing a group of protesters clashing with members of the New York City Police Department and a contingent of New York National Guardsmen.
"Peace, not war!" One of the hippies cried out, holding a sign that was anti-imperial in nature.
"It appears that protesters are whacking law enforcement officials providing security for Darth Avarice arrival." Walter reported."We will update you with further developments, but until then, goodnight America."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Five blocks away from the Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC/July 18th, 1968 - 15:00/3:00 PM
"Get the fuck out of the way!" Meyer ordered the masses who formed a chain to block the motorcade. Even if he was supportive of getting the U.S. out of the U.N. and didn't agree with Kennedy politically, the Leatherneck knew that for now his personal beliefs had to be set aside for the current situation.
"Make love! Not war!" One of the protestors, a brunette holding a sign saying 'Power to Women' screeched in reply.
"This is your last warning!" Jacob hollered at the top of his lungs to the radicals, losing patience."You are blocking a diplomatic mission to the United Nations and if you do not move within thirty seconds, I will run you over lady!"
The new left idealists did not move and the Marine was about to start up his motorcycle when finally, some National Guardsmen threw teargas at the protesters, forcing the buck-skinned, flowered, and bead clad weirdos to vacate the premises.
"Finally." Meyer snarled before continuing on his way leading the convoy to the building.
Nathrrya observed the alteration with the colorfully dressed protesters somewhat amused by the whole thing.
"Master, I have to agree with that signs sentiment." Jaesa said pointing to the one that read 'Power to Women'
"Indeed so do I Jaesa." out of the corner of her eye Nathrrya noticed the two Earthlings had become visibly uncomfortable and she suspected she knew why. "Jaesas is my student, I'm her teacher. Calling me master is a form of respect, nothing more."
President Kennedy and Secretary-General Thant relaxed at the explanation.
Chapter 6: Intergalactic Politics-Sith style Part Two
Chapter Text
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice/The Empire's Wrath
United Nations General Assembly - Headquarters of the United Nations, 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC/July 18th, 1968 - 15:38/3:38 PM
Nathrrya looked out over the hall of the United Nations General Assembly and let out a sigh. Why did Darth Marr think she was a good choice for this? Because she was the least likely to start a bloodbath. Case in point, the misunderstanding when they had landed. She might be well accomplished in the field of 'aggressive negations' but she considered that a last resort.
"You alright, Nat?" Casavir asked through the force from where he stood off to the side observing along with Kira the Cather ambassador and a few Republic guards.
"No. It doesn't matter what I say or the questions I answer, Cas the outcome will be the same. Earth will not come into the Empire's fold. You know it, I know it and that damned Cather knows it." Nathrrya replied. "You realise the Republic has painted a sign on Earth that says 'Conquer Me' to the Empire right?"
"Unfortunately." Casavir agreed "They're getting restless."
"Right, enough stalling, let's get this political farce over with. Force, I wish my mother was doing this instead of me. She's the politician of the family."
"Wouldn't it be kind of awkward to be introducing her?" Kira asked
"Oh hell no, she'd have this lot eating out of her hand in under a minute."
Nathrrya took a breath stepped forward and began to speak "Citizens of Earth, my name is Darth Avarice and with me is Captain Quinn of the Imperial Military, my apprentice Jaesa and Vette who is of the Twi'lek species. Together we represent the Sith Empire. Now it's my understanding that you will ask me questions and I'll do my best to answer them."
"What are the Empire's intentions towards Earth?" George Ignatieff of Canada questioned curiously.
"Curiosity mainly. It's rare for the Republic to make contact with a new undiscovered planet and even stranger given the current state of the galaxy." Nathrrya said "I have to question the Republic's wisdom in such a move for your planet is clearly not ready to deal with the wider galaxy and given the state of war that exists between the Empire and Republic it seems totally irresponsible of the Republic to draw unwanted attention to your world."
"Why are the Republic and the Empire at war?"Armand Berard of France interrogated, internally hoping that France would not be dragged into the conflict.
"A good question as I ask myself that often enough and I still haven't come up with a suitable answer." Nathrrya replied clearly startling many of the representatives. "I know some of it has to with very old grievances committed by the Republic many centuries ago." She looked sharply towards the Cather ambassador and her stare made the man squirm. "Driving the Sith species to near extinction." Her gaze returned to the General Assembly "And reclaiming lost territory such as Korriban, the Sith species ancestral homeworld." She paused "As to why the war continues? That's anyone's guess. Perhaps we've been fighting each other for so long we've forgotten just why it was we were fighting, to begin with." Nathrrya said knowing it was closer to the truth than she wanted to admit.
"What exactly is the Force?" The Representative of the Soviet Union, Nikolai Fedorenko, questioned. The Force to him sounded like some sort of religion and while he had heard about it from the Jedi, Fedorenko decided to see what this other sect's perspective was.
Nathrrya frowned as she thought of what to say, feeling that it was a snare but she didn't permit herself to play the game. "The Force is an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy together and allows people like me to do things like this." She said placing both hands on the sides of podium she used the Force alone to lift the cylinder of water she brought to her mouth taking a drink before setting it back down.
"How long have you been a Sith?"Arthur Goldberg, Representative for the United States pressed, wondering what a Sith exactly was.
Nathrrya genuinely looked surprised by this. "I started training in the ways of the Sith Order when I was fifteen and that was twenty-five years ago. However, I was born into a Sith family so it could also be said I've been Sith since my birth. Pick whichever answer you prefer as neither is wrong."
"Is it true that the Empire is indeed responsible for the slavery of several other races?" The Representative for India, Gopalaswami Parthasarathy, slightly accused.
Nathrrya grimaced as she knew this would come up; her expression would have been answering enough. "Yes. But it was not so long ago that slavery was a common practice on your world?" she asked rhetorically. "In case you were wondering yes Vette in the eyes of Imperial Law is my slave, however, I have never treated her as such for she is a sentient being in her own right. I personally utterly detest the practice and despite my position within the Empire there is only so much I can do to effect change."
On cue, Vette stepped forward. "Lord Avarice has been good to me in the years we've traveled together." She unholstered her blasters with a flourish "Not every slave gets a matched pair of heavy blasters that were custom made for her nor a custom set of armour. Ask yourself this. If I were truly Avarice's slave would she really give me things like these?" The girl then holstered her weapons and stepped back her piece said.
Nathrrya smiled gratefully at her Twi'lek friend. "Thanks Vette."
"No problem, boss." The girl replied with her trademark cheeky grin.
"Any other questions?" Nathrrya asked looking around, there didn't seem to be any.
"I have something to add if I may my lord." Quinn spoke up.
"Certainly Captain." Nathrrya said as she stepped away from the podium to make way for Quinn.
Surprising everyone Quinn quickly knelt on one knee and as he did so withdrew the small velvet box from his trouser pocket, turning and opening it to display its contents to the woman standing over him.
"Would you do me the honour of being my wife, Nathrrya?"
All Nathrrya could do was simply stare in shocked silence at what was clearly an engagement ring sitting in the velvet lined box that Quinn held aloft. Behind her Jaesa and Vette looked equally stunned but soon they both had what earthlings would call shit-eating grins on their faces as the two girls high-fived each other.
Off to the side Kira couldn't help herself, she fist pumped "Yes! About kriffing time too." She saw the glare the Cather was giving her "Oh don't be such a stick in the mud ambassador!" she said sticking out her tongue at the man. Casavir simply chuckled in amusement at his wife's antics.
Nathrrya finally snapped out of her shock reaching out and taking the ring from its box and inspected it before putting it on. The ring itself was silver and there was a round silver mount but it was the gem that sat snugly on the mount as if had always been there that took her breath away. It was a perfectly round highly polished cabochon cut piece of violet lightsabre crystal. The same colour as her own lightsabre.
The smile she gave him must have been answering enough for Quinn stood and pocked the now empty box before he put his arms around her and said. "I love you Nathrrya."
"I love you too Malavai." Nathrrya replied before she kissed him as passionately as she could.
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
United Nations General Assembly - Headquarters of the United Nations, 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC/July 18th, 1968 - 16:00/4:00 PM
"As you just witnessed moments ago, Darth Avarice, who we now know also has the name 'Nathrrya' is now engaged to an officer of the imperial military. Now we are going to ask Miss Avarice a few questions."
Nathrrya looked amused being called 'Miss Avarice' it certainly wasn't a bad guess as Earth knew almost nothing about the Sith. Quinn looked mildly horrified which Nathrrya found endearing, sometimes the man was just too damned cute.
"Darth Avarice is my Sith title my actual name is Nathrrya Palatine." She corrected the journalist
"Sorry Lord Palatine, but is it okay I could ask you a few questions."
"Certainly."
"Is the Force a form of magic?" Cronkite asked.
Nathrrya wasn't put off as it had been called that more than once. "If it makes the concept easier to comprehend then yes the Force is a form of magic and it's been called such by many different cultures in the past."
"What is your personal belief of Earth on the intergalactic stage?"
"You're not ready but by no means are you 'backward'." She smiled a little seeing the perturbed expression on the journalist's face. "Yes, that's how Earth was described to me. I actually think you could teach the rest of the galaxy a thing or two." Nathrrya explained "Take those fighters that escorted my ship in. They are clearly designed for atmospheric flight whereas my Fury is primarily designed for space flight. Now imagine a star ship hull that performs just as well in atmosphere as it does in the deep black." The excitement was clear in the woman's voice.
"You're talking about the F-4 Phantoms?" Cronkite asked surprised.
"Is that what they're called? I have to admit on the flight in my inner engineer was drooling at the prospect of getting my hands on one, pulling it apart to see how it worked." Nathrrya said, with no shame whatsoever.
"You're an engineer?"
Nathrrya grinned. "Yes, a fully certified star ship engineer and designer. My idea of a stress free day is tinkering with my Fury. Something I don't get to do as often as I might like."
"I see." Cronkite said wondering just how truthful the Republic ambassador had been as he'd been 'corrected' by the two Jedi accompanying him on several occasions which was telling enough. "Do you think that Earth should open relations with the Empire and if yes, why?"
Nathrrya frowned as she had to pick her words carefully. "It would have been better for Earth to have remained unnoticed but as that is not an option all I can say is that the Republic and the Empire are not bad but they are not good either. They are what they are and Earth will have to choose who it will follow." She said "Naturally I would favour the Empire but would that be the right choice for Earth? That is something only your people can answer."
"What did you mean by Sith species?"
"Exactly that. Pure-blood Sith as we call them were native to the planet Korriban." Nathrrya replied as she pulled her holocom from her belt and brought up an image of herself and Darth Vowrawn. "This man here is a pure-blood Sith. They are a dying race and nothing can stop their eventual extinction." That other notable thing about the holo image was that it showed Nathrrya in her usual green outfit that showed off her midriff and quite a bit of cleavage and the fact she was carrying a blaster as well as her lightsabre.
"What happened one thousand years ago on Korriban?"
Nathrrya's expression darkened considerably. "You're talking about the Sith genocide." Her tone grim "At the end of the Great Hyperspace War, Republic Supreme Chancellor Pultimo ordered the seemingly unthinkable. The invasion of all Sith controlled worlds. Pultimo had the misguided belief that if he could destroy Sith culture then the galaxy would be a safer place." Everyone watched in fascination and horror as the woman's eyes slowly went from blue to sickly yellow. The passion and anger in her voice were also noticeable.
"To destroy a culture you have to destroy the people. One man's order almost saw the total annihilation of the Sith species for every man, woman and child the Republic forces found, regardless if they had been active in the war or not were slaughtered."
Nathrrya closed her eyes and took several deep breaths trying to calm herself when she opened them again they were their normal blue. "The survivors fled deep into uncharted space, my ancestors among them but the damage had been done the Sith race would never recover and has been a dying species ever since. Is it any wonder that the Empire is more than a little upset about that even after so long?"
Cronkite was stunned. "...Thank you for your time Lord Avarice...As you just heard it seems that the Republic may not be as 'clean' as it seems..."
Sergeant Sara Kelrein - Imperial Army Commando Unit 421 "Reaper Squad"- Undercover as a Corporal in Republic Army SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad"
United Nations General Assembly - Headquarters of the United Nations, 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC/July 18th, 1968 - 15:55/3:55 PM
Sergeant Kelrein stared at the totally unexpected scene directly in front of her. Sara could not believe that a Captain in the Imperial military would propose to a Dark Lord of the Sith in the current surroundings.
'I do think that is a little bold, sir, but I can see the reason why you did it.' The copper-haired woman thought. It made sense for the sake of showing the Empire off in a more positive fashion to Earth.
Sara's boyfriend, Jake, was right beside her, his blue-gray eyes widened in surprise and it amused Kelrein at how easily he could be dumbstruck at times.
"Are you alright, larel?" Sara asked him in her best impersonation of a Corellian accent.
"I'm fine babe." He answered. "It's just that I didn't expect a proposal during a diplomatic conference at the United Nations with the whole world watching."
As much as the Sergeant would like to kiss him, Sara knew that professionalism must be maintained and she did not desire to risk blowing her cover either.
The Commando continued watching the podium where the Dark Lord was waiting for her team while the United Nations representatives began to leave the assembly for a break, leaving just the guards, a cluster of reporters and Lord Avarice.
One of the reporters, Walter Cronkite, headed to the stage with his cameraman to conduct what Kelrein assumed an interview.
"As you just witnessed moments ago, Darth Avarice, who we now know also has the name 'Nathrrya' is now engaged to an officer of the imperial military. Now we are going to ask Miss Avarice a few questions."
"Darth Avarice is my Sith title my actual name is Nathrrya Palatine."
'Palatine?' Sara questioned to herself.
House Palatine was one of the oldest and most respected Houses in the Empire with the family seat currently located on the planet of Axxila and it was revered in the eyes of not only Imperial high society, but all of Sith Space and to learn that the current Wrath was from the family was surprising to Sara, not that it couldn't happen but more out of every Sith in the Empire, 'Nathrrya' managed to gain such stature but the commando knew her actions were merited.
'And I'm the last in my bloodline.' She mourned as ever since her parents were killed in a bombing at her father's corporation office on Ziost by a band of terrorists known as the 'Ziost Liberation Front', not to mention the death of her grandparents in an airspeeder accident on Dromund Kaas, Sara felt diffident in spite of her gracious upbringing and while the Beniko's were close family friends, the void was forever poignant.
"Sara? Are you okay?" Meyer whispered, seeing the distraught look on her face.
"I'm fine Jake...It's just memories."
The Marine nodded his head in understanding and resumed his post, keeping an eye on the now empty seats.
The redhead, however, had to meet Darth Avarice and pass along some intel Sara had acquired that would prove useful to the Imperial war effort.
"Jake?"
"Yes, babe?"
Sara hated to lie to him because every time she did so, her gut feels like it been punched by a Rancor. However, in the world of espionage, lying is how you stay alive. "Do you know where the 'fresher is."
"You mean the restroom?... It should be outside, just to your left. I saw it on the way in."
'Perfect.' Sara thought since that where the exit from the podium is at. "Thank you larel." She smiled before turning on her heels and about-faced, but not before Jake spoke to her again as Kelrein opened the door.
"Just make sure you don't run into the Sith. I don't think Uncle Sam is paying me enough to prevent a diplomatic incident."
"I'll be careful Jake." She winked. "Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at ones side."
"Understood Sergeant." Nathrrya said as she casually leaned against a wall in a quiet hallway of the UN building. She felt meeting with Kelrein in person was an unnecessary risk but against her better judgment, Nathrrya was doing just that.
Suddenly the Sith's attention was taken by a commotion down the far end of the hallway and she silently cursed when she saw her cousin and Ambassador Krasul. Casavir wasn't the problem, Krasul was.
"I believe your cover has just been blown Sergeant Kelrein." Nathrrya informed the other woman.
"Well... kriff." Sara muttered.
"This is an outrage!" Krasul hissed.
"Ambassador, I'll deal with this... situation." Casavir said firmly "Return to Kira and the others I'll be along shortly." He used the Force to nudge the man to do what he wished.
"Very well master Jedi..." Krasul grumbled as he turned to leave.
Casavir waited a few moments to make sure the ambassador was gone before he started to walk towards the two imperial women.
"I had wondered why you had been sent so quickly. An information leak of some sort seemed the most likely." Casavir said as he reached the two women. "You know I'll have to take Miss Kelrein into custody."
Sara Kelrein stood stiffly at attention for she didn't know how else to react but she noticed that Lord Avarice wasn't the least bit concerned about the presence of the Jedi Master for she was still casually lent against the wall.
"And you know I can't let you do that, cousin dearest. Lana would be most... upset if I let that happen." Nathrrya replied affectionately.
Casavir massaged his temples "Why I am not surprised to learn she'd involved in this mess?"
Sara could not have heard correctly... could she? The soldier looked between the Sith Lord and Jedi Master but realised she hadn't misheard. All Sara could do was make a perfect 'O' shape with her mouth her eyes wide with surprise.
Nathrrya chuckled, seeing Kelrein's reaction. "I trust Sergeant that this piece of information goes no further." a clear warning in her voice. Sara simply nodded. "Good girl." The Sith turned her attention back to the Jedi. "Now how do we get ourselves out of this mess?"
Casavir stroked his beard thoughtfully for a few moments before he smirked. "I have an idea and you'll like its dramatic flair..."
The first inkling that anyone had that something was wrong was when the snap-hiss of lightsabers being drawn was heard.
"I can't let you do that Lord Avarice." Casavir said with determination his blue blade at the ready.
"Try and stop me Jedi." Nathrrya sneered as she twirled her trademark violet blade. She really could do the 'I'm an evil Sith' routine when she wanted to.
"So be it." With that the two force users were striking at each other, their respective blades hitting again and again as the two blocked, parried and thrust.
Behind them, Jake spotted the imperial officer had Sara at blaster point and was forcing her out of the room. He was about to give chase when he felt a strong grip on his arm.
Kira shook her head "Don't even think about getting involved in a lightsaber duel. The Sith will cut you in half if given the chance. You're no use to Sara dead. Let the tough guy handle this." What Kira didn't say was she knew the 'duel' was just for show, a distraction as the Violet Rose was already on its way.
"Say, Kira can I borrow your laser sword? I'm pretty good at fencing." Jake asked hopefully.
Kira looked horrified at the surreal plea. "Absolutely not, Jake! Lightsabers have no weight apart from the hilt and mine is a dual bladed sabre staff, which is a much harder weapon to master than a single blade. Jake you're just as likely to chop your own limbs off. Then what use would you be?"
Jake nodded numbly as he watched his girlfriend being kidnapped. The two force users seemed to almost dance as their blades whirled around them. Slowly it seemed as if the Jedi was driving the Sith back.
Suddenly the Devil Dog had an idea, as crazy as it was it just might work. Jake turned to another exit and ran off a very concerned Kira following after him.
"Jake, what are you doing?" she asked easily keeping up with the running Marine.
"I know the layout of this building better than the imperials. If I can get behind that imperial officer I can knock him out with this." He said drawing his wooden baton.
Kira just nodded though she had a bad feeling about this.
Five minutes later saw Jake and Kira in position and as Quinn passed with Sara and the sounds of the sabre duel getting closer Jake made to strike Quinn on the back of the head when suddenly there was a violet blur and Jake's baton was cut in half before it even made it half way to its target.
Out of reflex the Marine dropped the other half of the now useless baton and he briefly got a look at the Sith's face. It was something he never encountered before. The woman was clearly pissed but it was her eyes, they were now a bright fiery yellow and emphasized if looks could kill...
While not fearful of the unexpected metamorphosis, Jake could not believe the glow of the irises as she turned her attention back to the male Jedi.
The Marine regained his composure and drew his M1911A1 handgun and aimed to shoot the blaster out of Quinn's hand, he saw Sara frantically shaking her head in the universal 'no' gesture.
Then everything seemed to happen in slow motion.
Quinn turned bringing his blaster to bear and fired directly at Jake's chest, the Marine felt himself being pushed violently to the ground as the stun blast passed overhead and slammed into the wall.
Soon Sara, Quinn and the two duelling force users were out of sight.
"What was that!?" Jake asked as Kira helped him to his feet.
"A stun shot, if that had connected you'd have been out for the next several hours and woke up with the mother of all headaches." Kira said looking slightly annoyed she had to babysit the impulsive earthling "And what did I say about staying out of this? You're lucky to still be alive." She admonished. "Come on we better follow then and be more careful!"
Five minutes later Jake and Kira were nearing the main entrance to the UN building when they came across a lot of bodies, civilian workers and building security who just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Are they dead?" Jake asked. The Marine wasn't familiar with the weaponry of the extraterrestrials and wanted to be sure.
Kira shook her head. "No, just stunned." She then spotted something that didn't belong. The Jedi bent down and picked the object up handing it to Jake. "Looks like Sara dropped her holocom. Look at it later."
The unlikely duo exited the building just in time to see Nathrrya, Sara and Quinn sprint up the ramp of the Fury which was hovering above the ground. It would have made for quite the impressive spectacle if it hadn't been so terrifying. They both saw Casavir lying seemingly out cold nearby.
Without thinking, Jake pulled out his pistol and fired a single round hitting the imperial officer in the shoulder spinning him round slightly from the impact. As Sara steadied him she looked on in absolute horror as the Sith drew her own blaster and leveled it at Jake, the woman seemed to pause a moment before she fired.
Jake had enough time to think 'Fuck' before his world turned black after being hit dead center in the chest by a stun bolt.
Two Hours after the incident...
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Goldwater Memorial Hospital - New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:18:15 ATC/July 18th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Ughh, why do I feel like I had a massive hangover..." Meyer groaned as he woke up from his dream. In his mind, the Marine had the most interesting experience inside the United Nat... "Wait a minute. Where am I?" He questioned out loud. "And why am I in a hospital?"
Shortly after he awoken from his nap, a nurse walked in. "Mister Meyer, my name is Adriana Watson and you're currently at Goldwater Memorial Hospital. Do you remember what happened last night?"
Jake stared at the woman for a moment, wondering how in the hell he got into a hospital. "No. I do not ma'am. Can you please tell me?"
"You were shot by some sort of ray gun at the United Nations building and knocked out for a few hours. We brought you here as a precaution."
'The dream was real!' Was what Jake wanted to say, but instead, he was concerned about the Jedi and the innocent people who got in the way. "Are the others..."
"They're fine Mister Meyer. In fact the two..." The nurse checked her clipboard to make sure. "Jedi ambassadors would like to see you."
"Uh sure send them in." Jake replied.
A few minutes later Casavir and Kira entered Jake's room.
"So now you know what a stun bolt feels like?" Kira asked her smile fading "Jake there's a message for you on Sara's holocom you need to see..." she said placing the small device on the bed and activating it.
A small holo image of Sara appeared but Jake realized something was off... Sara was wearing Imperial trooper armor, the helmet tucked under her arm.
"Jake... I do not know how well you are going to take this, but I'm sorry... I'm not the woman that you know and I'm so sorry." Sara sighed and when she spoke again she had an accent that to Jake's ears sounded like a British upper-class accent. "I'm Sergeant Sara Kelrein of the Imperial Army and I was chosen for an undercover assignment to infiltrate the Republic Military..."At this point, Sara broke down in tears as her helmet clattered to the ground with her hands covering her face. "I still have feelings for you Jake, but I hope you understand... I love you."
The holo image faded out.
Jake looked uncomprehendingly at the two Jedi.
"I'm sorry Jake... but it appears that Sara was an Imperial soldier." Kira told the distraught American as gently as she could "I know you two were... close."
"What would the Jedi know about love?" Jake snapped.
The two Jedi winced at that. After all, Jake didn't know about them.
"We know more than you'd believe, Jake." Casavir said. "Kira and I are married. For Jedi we broke the most important rule there is, we fell in love with each other. We don't regret a thing."
"What?" Jake asked.
"You heard the tough guy, we're married and we share the same bed if you get my meaning." Kira replied her cheeks turning slightly pink.
"It's clear to me that despite Sara's loyalties to the Empire that she's deeply in love with you Jacob Meyer. What you do with that knowledge is completely up to you." Casavir told him.
The Violet Rose had just made the jump to hyperspace and after several random jumps to ensure they weren't being followed would head back to Dromund Kaas. Now Nathrrya needed to take care of her crew.
"Vette you can look after the Rose." The Sith said
"Sure thing boss." The Twi'lek replied as she headed for the bridge.
"Quinn, go with Jaesa and get that shoulder seen to, now." Nathrrya ordered.
The captain winced trying not to move his wounded arm as he wasn't used to having an actual metal slug buried in his flesh. "Understood, my lord."
"Yes, master." Jaesa confirmed as she led the captain away to the small med bay.
That left Nathrrya with Sara who was almost in tears. The Sith allowed herself to fall into a seat near the other woman. "As escapes go that went remarkably well."
"I guess." Sara agreed numbly as she was trying to process what had happened and the strange crew dynamics she found on this ship. They acted more like family than a ship's crew under the command of a Sith Lord from what she'd seen.
"Were you going to kill Jake for shooting the captain?" Sara asked at last.
"I thought about it." Nathrrya admitted. "But I know what that would have done to you so I settled for stunning him."
Sara smiled a little "That's why you hesitated; you changed the setting on your blaster."
"Yes."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome, Sara."
"Why do I feel so terrible?" the sergeant wondered.
"Betraying someone you love is never an easy thing to do willingly or not." Nathrrya replied. "If you didn't feel bad then you can't really have loved Jake. It's of little comfort perhaps but knowing your feelings for him are real is something to treasure."
Sara stared at the older woman shocked for she had never expected a Lord of the Sith to say something so profound.
Nathrrya smiled at the expression on the younger woman's face the question in her eyes easy to read. "Captain Quinn almost never got the chance to propose to me, Sara. I know just how much the betrayal of a loved one hurts."
"The captain betrayed you and he's still alive?" Sara asked trying to reconcile those two things. Darth Avarice was not what the army sergeant had expected she was being quite the opposite.
Nathrrya nodded "Yes he did, however, it was not his choice. You see my former master Darth Baras had already tried twice to assassinate me and failed so he persuaded Quinn to do the deed." She explained "Imagine how I felt when Quinn revealed his trap to me, flanked by several war droids. The bottom of my world disappeared from under me, what I thought I knew and felt for the man destroyed in an instant." She sighed "That fight was the hardest I've ever had. Not because it was difficult, those droids were an annoyance but because the man I was fighting was the man I loved with all my heart."
Nathrrya smiled sadly "After it was over we were both battered and bruised but seeing the defeat in Quinn's eyes broke my heart. He knew he'd failed Baras, failed me and his life was forfeit." She looked at Sara who was hanging on her every word "I couldn't kill him because I still loved him. Quinn had always treated me like a woman, not a Sith. Love can hurt like nothing else can but it can ignite the stars themselves."
The Sith looked the sergeant in the eyes. "If the Force wills it and you have the chance to be with Jake take it, never look back. Love is worth fighting for when you find the one like I did with Quinn."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
FBI Field Office - New York City, New York , United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:20:15 ATC/ July 20th, 1968 - 10:40/5:40 PM
For over an hour already, Jake was being hounded by these two goons of the Bureau, questioning him about the event that occurred at the United Nations as the damn FBI decided since the incident took place in American airspace, not to mention the evidence of espionage by the Empire, the followers of Hoover took charge of the investigation of what transpired on the 18th of July.
"I will say it once more!" Meyer screamed in anger from his handcuffed position in the chair. "I. Did. Not. Know. That she was a spy!"
One of the agents, William Pulaski pressed the rabid Marine once more.
"Are you saying Private that in no way did you compromise the secrets of the United States government to the Sith Empire?"
"Yes!" He spat in annoyance. "My family had fought for this land since its founding and my grandfather's farm was a stop on the Underground Railroad! Why would I support a bunch of Space Nazis who only believe in conquest, genocide, and slavery!?"
The other interrogator, Agent Robert Shaw, paced behind the restrained Devil Dog, questioning the Leatherneck's loyalty.
"There are many reasons why you would betray this nation of ours, traitor." Shaw sneered. "Wealth. Power... No that's not it." He hummed in thought before slamming his fist onto the table. "No, I think you fell for the classic honeypot trap." He smiled wickedly. "I believe she offered you temptations you couldn't resist and you were ensnared you lovestruck farmboy."
"BULLSHIT!"
"I don't think so Mister Meyer." Pulaski declared before placing what Jake recognized as Sara's holo-communicator onto the table and the agent replayed the message.
"Jake... I do not know how well you are going to take this, but I'm sorry... I'm not the woman that you know and I'm so sorry... I'm Sergeant Sara Kelrein of the Imperial Army and I was chosen for an undercover assignment to infiltrate the Republic Military... I still have feelings for you Jake, but I hope you understand... I love you."
Jake was on the verge of a mental breakdown and he hoped that the G-Men undid the restraints because one way or another, he is going to kill them.
"How many fucking times do I have to tell you that I did not know that she was a Space Brit and how many times do I have to tell you that I did not compromise national security!"
Oh, how Jake wished that he was falsely accused by one of his childhood heroes, Senator McCarthy of Wisconsin, not to mention the John Birch Society, of being some card-carrying communist agent instead.
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
CBS Broadcast Center - 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:20:15 ATC/ July 20th, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
"Good evening America. As you are already aware, the incident that occurred two days ago still rings in the minds of all across the globe. What originally transpired as a historic moment in the history of Earth has become one of the most infamous of diplomatic incidents in recent memory."
Footage is shown of the imperials 'kidnapping' a Republic soldier and two Jedi attempting to rescue the soldier with a United States Marine assisting.
"That Republic soldier as we've recently learned is, in fact, a spy for the Sith Empire. From what Ambassador Krasul told us earlier, he never thought that one of his own bodyguards was an undercover agent. With us tonight is Major Jessie Lane, the commanding officer of Republic SpecForce squad 149, currently assigned to protect the Republic Ambassador."
The cameras point to a five foot, eleven inch tall female Human/Echani hybrid with long scarlet hair and silver eyes. The Major is wearing a set of multicolored armor designated as the 'Ruthless Commander' under the Republic SpecForce classification system.
Many people around the world watched their television screens with deep interest, shocked that a woman could lead a military unit, and to think that they were surprised to hear that the Republic military recruits women, seeing it was a different matter entirely.
"Thank you for coming Major. Now if you don't mind, is it okay I ask you a few questions?"
"Go ahead and blast away Mister Cronkite."
"Err right…" Walter stuttered, not quite expecting such a blunt statement and the newsman wasn't exactly used to the Galactic slang yet. "How well did you know your former subordinate?"
"Corporal Kelrein?" She spat in disgust. "Obviously not well because I thought that I could trust her to protect our backs and she had for two years and now she decided to return home to her imperial comrades."
"Was there any indicators that she was a spy for the Empire?"
"None." Lane responded instantly. "Kelrein was a good soldier. There was this one time on Balmorra when I was clearing a building with Specialist Kovo. We entered the building and came across a turret and an imperial demolitions squad. The turret opened up and I've thought that I was going to be a goner, but Kelrein was keeping watch three hundred meters away in a financial complex and covered us. I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for her."
"What was Kelrein's specialty if you don't mind me asking?"
"Corporal Kelrein was our marksman expert and she was, in fact, the top of her class at the academy. She scored a ninety-eight percent on long-distance marksmanship, a record."
"I see." Cronkite hummed. "She was a sniper?"
"Indeed and I'm willing to bet she still is. If she was never an imperial agent, I would recommend to command to transfer her to the Deadeyes. In fact, she was originally going to be placed into the Deadeyes, but Kelrein volunteered for my squad instead."
"And what are the Deadeyes exactly?"
"Most of the information about the unit remains classified, but what I can tell you Mister Cronkite is that the Deadeyes are the top sniper squad in the Republic."
"And what is your opinion of the incident that happened on the 18th of July?"
Jessie pondered on the question for a minute before answering. "Shock as Master Therin mildly put it. I honestly didn't think that the Imps would be so bold to risk an exfiltration... Of course, I thought one of my men was being held against her will and I commend the Marine who joined the Jedi in the pursuit. Now I also find it odd how the Sith didn't leave corpses."
"Corpses?"
"You don't want to know." The Major's tone indicated that it was a subject not fit for the cameras.
"Final question." The famed correspondent declared suddenly. "How are you dealing with the fact that one of your comrades is, in fact, a spy."
"Not well I'll admit." Jessie sighed. "Kelrein was one of the best in Chaos and I thought she had a future in the Republic Armed Forces, but now I have to deal with the fact that a teammate I counted on for years is out there somewhere. Preferably, I would take her in alive, but if she forces me to, I will execute her myself."
"Thank you for your time Major Lane and until next time…Good night America."
Chapter 7: Aftermath
Chapter Text
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngZh6ZSRoYg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvcqhwPigGk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuEhoHYnoBc
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:22:15 ATC/ July 22nd, 1968- 16 :00/4:00 PM
"They're in the wire! Charlie is in the wire!"
"MY LEG! WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH?!"
"Jake... I do not know how well you are going to take this, but I'm sorry... I'm not the woman that you know and I'm so sorry...I'm Sergeant Sara Kelrein of the Imperial Army and I was chosen for an undercover assignment to infiltrate the Republic Military...I still have feelings for you Jake, but I hope you understand... I love you."
"It's clear to me that despite Sara's loyalties to the Empire that she's deeply in love with you Jacob Meyer. What you do with that knowledge is completely up to you."
Jake was back at his hometown on furlough, suffering from memories of Vietnam and learning about Sara's true loyalties; the latter of which made him wonder if she sincere about her confession, reinforced by Casivir's claim, or it was more of an attempt to justify herself with another fib.
In addition to the conflicting reflections, even though the 'friendly conservation' with the G-Men two days earlier, classified him as 'Loyal to the Government and the United States', the Marine's gut was telling him he wasn't completely out of the woods yet.
But at the moment Jake was currently outside, plinking empty beer cans from over five hundred yards away with his M1 Garand, taking the occasional swig of Budweiser.
'Recycling is the only useful idea the Hippies ever thought of.' Meyer said to himself as he lined up the rear sight with the front post, breathing in deeply before slowly exhaling and squeezed the trigger, unleashing the last .30-06 round in his rifle.
Upon discharge, the bullet demolished the can sitting at four hundred and sixty yards away while on cue the Garand pinged, ejecting the empty clip.
Jake reached for another eight round clip from the military surplus ammunition box and pushed it into the M1 and racked the charging handle, reloading the rifle.
'Sara used to love coming here.' He depressingly thought as he carefully set the rifle down, taking another drink of America's beer.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Bravo, Third Squad, Second Platoon, Delta Company, Second Military Police Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:01:15 ATC/ July 1st, 1968 - 14:00/2:00 PM
Jake was inside the kitchen watching his girl cleaning up her rifle or what she called the X-15 Riot Sniper Rifle. It was a rather lengthy rifle with a thirty-two inch long barrel and a black plastic stock. It even had a pistol grip for some reason and to the American, the rifle by appearance was more of a toy straight out of Star Trek to him and while Sara claimed that it could hold over five hundred shots, the Marine believed that she was exaggerating.
Meyer watched intently as she hummed and started to wipe away the grime off of the rifle with a rag he gave her, the sweet smell of Hoppe's filling the room.
"It sure is a nice rifle, but the question is: is it accurate?"
The redhead glanced up and stared into Jake's eyes, the look she gave him showed that she was insulted. "Kriffing yes!" The Corellian declared. "This blaster could take the tail off a Womp Rat four hundred fifty meters away."
Jake shook his head in amusement, knowing that there were plenty of rifles on Earth capable of reaching one thousand yards and even further yet distance aside, the Hoosier was more skeptical about the accuracy. "Yeah right. That piece of plastic couldn't beat my most accurate rifle."
"You think that your slugthrower is more accurate than my baby?!" She gasped in shocked. "In your dreams!"
"I honestly don't think that your laser rifle could hit the broadside of a barn." He pressed, gaining a death glare in response and Jake without hesitation pushed the knife in deeper. "It seems that your 'precise' firearm was welded out of garbage."
"Oh, really?" Sara questioned, crossing her arms.
"That's right Sara. Why do you believe that a mass produced piece of pipe is more accurate than my rifle that is beautifully made by the finest craftsmen in this country."
"If you say so..." She said depressingly, with tears in her eyes.
'Oh great.' Meyer thought. He better make it up to her before she decides to bawl up. Jake never intended to have her become upset and he would never dream of hurting her feelings.
"Sara, I'm sorry." Jake quickly apologized. "I was just trying to tease you."
She sniffled. "It's okay. It's just that your words hurt."
Jake stood still for a moment, contemplating on how to make it up to her when a lightbulb shined above his head.
One hour later...
'And done.' Jake thought as he sat the last empty soda bottle down six hundred yards away from where he and Sara would be shooting from. The targets were a mixture of paper silhouettes, empty Campbell's soup cans, and a few dozen clay pigeons with each target sitting in intervals from one hundred to twelve hundred yards away and even though he was aware of the range disadvantage for the so-called 'blaster' when he fabricated the makeshift shooting gallery by adding cans to the family's privately owned 1,200 Yard rifle range secluded from the cropland and grazing pasture, it ultimately was hits that counted.
"Sara! I'm ready if you are!" Meyer called out before he enters his 1953 Chevy pickup.
The Corellian came out of the back door and she was surprised, to say the least.
"Jake did this all for me?" She asked herself, stunned at the effort he did. 'I definitely owe him a bottle of Corellian Brandy.'
Jake just pulled up right next to the redhead and got out of the truck. The Marine reached into the bed of the vehicle and grabbed a case, sat it down on the porch and unlatched the buckles, opening it up.
Inside the case was a Winchester Model 70 'Bull Rifle' chambered in .30-06 with a Lyman No. 48 WH receiver sight that had target knobs with micrometer, vernier adjustments and a fine aperture which naturally was meant to be paired with the globe front sight attached to the firearm. As he was busy sorting out the bolt-action, checking the bore and making sure it was clear of obstructions, Sara did the same with her blaster.
"Ready Sara?" Jake asks the Corellian.
"As I'll ever be." She mockingly sighs before sticking her tongue out at him.
Meyer just shrugged it off and lined up his rifle to his target, breathing in deeply before slowly exhaling and squeezing the trigger rearward, unleashing a .30-06 round.
The bullet streaked through the air at the speed of over two thousand feet per second, impacting dead center into the first target Meyer chosen at four hundred yards.
Jake saw where he hit and opened the bolt, ejecting the spent shell casing. Unlike Sara's blaster, which was Semi-Automatic, Jake had to take his sight off the target each time he racked the bolt in order to clear the weapon and that gave the Corellian a slight edge, but on the other hand, bolt actions were also known to be more accurate as compared to self-loading rifles. That's not mentioning he was ultilizing iron sights while she had a magnified optic and even if the rifleman felt that it was technically cheating, he wasn't raising any complaints.
The Marine lined up his sights once more and repeated the process of breath in, exhale, and slowly squeeze the trigger. One error in any of the steps and the bullet would be off target.
"Seems like you are doing well babe." Jake complimented as he continued his routine.
"Oh really?" She smiles, taking a quick break to brush her long, dark copper hair. "If I remember correctly, we're tied points wise." She reminded him before blasting away once more, hitting the four hundred and fifty-yard 'bullseye' as Jake called it.
'Its no use.' Jake thought, now somewhat regretting making it a point only competition instead of completing the entire course. 'It seems like a tie it is then.' And it appeared that Sara was ready to call it quits as well.
"Larel?" She asks from her position. "Can we agree that we're even."
"I concur. Let's just agree that both of our rifles are accurate to an extent."
"Not on my watch." She grins before starting to shoot all over again.
'Oh well. If you can't beat them, join them.' Meyer smiled as he joined her.
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice/The Empire's Wrath.
Kaas City - Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
07:22:15 ATC/ July 22nd, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
"I hate Dark Council meetings." Nathrrya declared as she downed the rest of her glass of very expensive Corellian brandy.
It was a 'girls night out' so it was just herself, Lana, Sara, Jaesa, and Vette. Vette's inclusion had caused a few problems with the upmarket establishment in Kaas City where the five women were in a private room, however, Nathrrya expressing her displeasure at Vette not being allowed entrance soon changed the management's minds. They did not want to deal with two angry senior Sith as Lana was backing her friend.
"You and me both." Lana agreed. "What part of 'diplomatic mission' don't those idiots understand?"
Nathrrya snorted "They're just sore there wasn't a high enough body count."
"There were no bodies to count." Lana reminded her friend amused.
"I know." Nathrrya smiled as she refilled her glass. "Marr and Vowrawn didn't say anything as they know me well enough by now but the others? Nox in particular just had to complain."It was no secret that the two women despised each other. Why there was such animosity between Avarice and Nox was not known to many and it was one crate of monkey-lizards that tonight Nathrrya was keeping firmly closed.
"When is the Empire going to invade Earth?" Vette asked knowing it was a foregone conclusion.
"Don't know. They were still arguing over that when we left." Nathrrya said. "But I don't think it will be for a while yet as the military is stretched too thin as it is. It'll take months to build up the forces needed. The Navy needs to make good its ship losses and the Army are in just a bad a shape. Most of its elite formations have been lost. It takes time to turn raw conscripts into decent troops."
"The Republic is in much the same situation though." Lana put in "But what concerns me is Chancellor Saresh. That woman clearly has one goal in mind, the total destruction of the Sith Empire."
"It's like the Sith genocide all over again." Nathrrya said grimly. "This time though Saresh is willingly going to sacrifice the Republic to do it. If this war continues too much longer there won't be anything left to fight over."
"Even... Earth..." Sara realised with horror.
Nathrrya gave the younger woman's shoulder an affectionate squeeze trying to offer her comfort for she knew who Sara was thinking about. They all did. Their meal arrived allowing the five women to turn away from their depressing thoughts.
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice/The Empire's Wrath.
Kaas City - Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
07:22:15 ATC/ July 22nd, 1968 - 21:33/9:33 PM
"So that's when I told Grand Moff Kilran 'No' and turned his droid NR-02 into a ball of scrap. I think at that point he finally got it through his thick skull he'd picked the wrong Sith apprentice to con into doing his dirty work." Nathrrya said relating part of her story of what had happened to her on the Black Talon.
"I can't believe you did that!" Sara cried. "Kilran would have been angry."
Nathrrya grinned evilly. "Oh I'm sure he was but I cut the connection so I didn't have to listen to his ranting and empty threats. I wanted to try and enjoy my trip to Dromund Kaas."
"Believe it Sara, I was there when Nat let loose and it was both terrifying and awe inspiring at the same time." Vette remarked.
"I'm surprised Kilran didn't make your life hell after a snub like that." Sara said.
Nathrrya's smile grew even more evil if that was possible "Oh I'm sure he did try but by the time Vette and myself arrived on Dromund Kaas he'd been visited by a pair of Darths that had apparently told him in no uncertain terms that if he wanted to continue breathing he had better keep his nose out of Sith business."
Sara's eyes grew with surprise. "He was leaned on? Do you have any idea by whom?" This was just too juicy to pass up.
Nathrrya nodded. "I have my... suspicions but no real proof. Just as well really as they're involvement would have been... problematic at the time."
Sara had the feeling she was being dragged into some Sith plot but she'd come this far "Does it matter now? Kilran is dead."
"No I suppose not but what I say stays in this room, Sara." Nathrrya told the younger woman who just nodded her understanding. "I believe Kilran was visited by Darths Karn and Rhothrel of House Palatine... my grandparents."
"You're...You're grandparents?" Sara stuttered. The idea of Darth Avarice having a Jedi cousin was hard enough but her grandparents intimidating a Grand Moff?
"Nat!" Lana cried. "That was mean." Nathrrya merely raised an eyebrow at her friend as if to say so?
"You get used to it." Vette said smirking at the beleaguered sergeant. "Any stories from Earth you can share with us?"
Sara was grateful for the change of subject. "Yes, I do. Jake and I had an importune shooting contest at his parents' farm. It was a draw. The best part was what happened that night." The smile on her face left in no doubt what she was meaning.
The other four women sat around the table all exchanged knowing looks smirking slightly.
"You're saying Sara that you've kriffed an Earthling?" Jaesa asked, her eyes wide.
Sara nodded her head her smile getting bigger. "Yes, and I had to take the lead, not that Jake was shy, far from it he was just well... a real gentleman. But when I made it clear what I wanted he more than got into the mood."
From that point on the rest of the evening was spent swapping tales of the women's various sexual exploits and conquests. The fun part was deciding what was real or made up.
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
CBS Broadcast Center - 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:22:15 ATC/ July 22nd, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
"And one last question Major Lane suggested that Lord Avarice leaving people alive was unusual. What did she mean?"
"Your average, typical Sith would have killed anyone they came across during their escape. Innocent lives are not highly valued by the Sith on the whole." Casavir replied "However you might have noticed that there is nothing average nor typical about Lord Avarice. Her actions in simply stunning those in her way fits with what the Jedi know about her. I've heard it said from other Jedi and Republic forces that have encountered her that she acts more like a Jedi Knight than a Sith."
"There was a situation on Alderaan during its civil war where Avarice helped defend the flank of House Organa who were technically her enemy." Kira explained "Why she chose that course of action is up for debate. What we know is that Avarice was after some information that only General Gesselle Organa could provide. She could have tortured the general for the information but instead helped Organa defend her flank."
Cronkite blinked. "Do you have any idea as to why?"
Casavir smiled a little "I have a theory, nothing more. Sith are passionate people by the way they are trained. Passion drives them, what those passions are depend on the individual. Perhaps the thought of a hard fought battle appealed far more than simple torture or Avarice perceived that protecting Organa's flank as the better choice. We will never know."
"I see thank you for your time Master Therin, Knight Carsen."
Chapter 8: To Hell and Back!
Chapter Text
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7qkQewyubs
Khe Sanh Combat Base - Khe Sanh , Quảng Trị Province, South Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:30:14 ATC/ January 30th, 1967 - 09:00/9:00 AM
"They're in the wire! Charlie is in the wire!"
"MY LEG! WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH?!"
"VF-143! Authorization Sierra Oscar Golf X-Ray! Priority ordnance on my command!"
"This is Red Dog 4! We're being overrun! I say again! We're being overrun!"
"Roger that, we are inbound. Arc Light, coordinates confirmed, engaging."
Its day nine at Khe Sanh and American troops were with dogged determination fighting back the joint North Vietnamese Army-Viet Cong onslaught. Many Marines and soldiers were already dead and more were wounded, but the defenders would not permit the enemy to overrun and capture the base either for strategic or even symbolic reasons.
The siege was totally unexpected because of the Vietnamese holiday known as Tet was being celebrated under a ceasefire agreement, not to mention the negotiations for peace going on in Paris. It seemed that Hanoi had ordered one final, desperate offensive to take South Vietnam by force and by God: The United States Marine Corps would prevent it from happening!
"Hold the line! Use your bayonets if you have to!" Staff Sergeant Henry Edwards ordered the platoon in the trench line. Among them was a young Military Policeman who was one of the first to engage the enemy.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Charlie, Second Squad, Third Platoon, Alpha Company, First Military Police Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Khe Sanh Combat Base - Khe Sanh , Quảng Trị Province, South Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:21:14 ATC/ January 21st, 1967 - 10:10/10:10 AM
Jake was driving the M151 jeep on patrol with Sergeant Charles Nelson and they headed outside the gate to check for suspicious activity. Nelson watched the surrounding countryside with his M1 Carbine on standby, ready to open fire on any guerillas that may ambush the two Military Policemen.
As they got closer to a nearby village where there was reported Viet Cong activity, all Hell broke lose.
The Marine's eyes widened when they spotted two Russian made T-55 tanks and about twenty-three NVA regulars eating breakfast and they were spotted by one of the communist's soldiers.
"Người Mỹ! Người Mỹ!"
"SHIT! MEYER, GET US THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!"
Instantly the PFC started to drive in reverse, watching in horror as the main gun of one of the tanks started to move, tracking the Jeeps movements as Jake tried to get back to base and warn command of the threat. But the muck was proving to be a problem.
"MEYER! PUT THE GODDAMN PEDAL TO THE METAL AND GET US THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!" The N.C.O begged his subordinate, wondering if the Hoosier is trying to get them both killed.
"I'm trying to sir!"
"Goddamn you Mey..." Those were the last words the Tennesee native would utter as 7.62X39 mm rounds punctured his chest, killing him instantly.
Meyer didn't know why the damn soldiers didn't shoot him too or the delay in having the 100mm rifled gun of the T-55 blow the M151 up, but the Marine finally managed to get the Jeep free from the muck and started to drive backwards to base.
"Fuck!" The Hoosier cried out as he saw the tanks started to follow him and yet, they encountered the same problem: Mud. It appears God may be protecting the Marine, but still Jake was not out of the woods yet as the two T-55s turrets began to move, tracking the American vehicle once more.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Charlie, Second Squad, Third Platoon, Alpha Company, First Military Police Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Khe Sanh Combat Base - Khe Sanh , Quảng Trị Province, South Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:30:14 ATC/ January 30th, 1967 - 09:00/9:00 AM
That day was when the siege began and now the Marines and their fellow defenders were outnumbered heavily by twenty to one. It was rumored that General Patton IV, the son of the legendary Old Blood and Guts himself, was going to lead reinforcements to Khe Sanh by land in a manner reminiscent of his father's relief of Bastogne and yet to Meyer, it didn't seem possible. Snow was one matter but the clearing in this patch of jungle made using armor only in the most suitable of terrain but the Hoosier reassured himself that Sergeant Nelson's death would not be in vain and he will defend Khe Sahn at all costs, relief effort or not.
"Hold the line! Use your bayonets if you have to!" The Staff Sergeant of the platoon he linked up with shouted as the NVA launched another assault against their positions.
"Giết người Mỹ! Hiển thị không thương xót!"
"HERE THEY COME MEN! GIVE IT TO THEM!"
Meyer gladly responded, firing his M14 at the damn commies. They showed no mercy so far to the personnel at the base and they will not receive any mercy in return. Jake spotted the distinctive insignia of a North Vietnamese Lieutenant and the farmboy aimed carefully at the Gook's head, killing him.
"Bravo Two-Five? This is Archangel...we will be dropping a payload at coordinates confirmed, over?"
"This is Bravo Two-Five!" Staff Sergeant Edwards replied. "We understand!"
Jake had to smile as the squadron of B-52s unleashed napalm on top of the bastards before the Marine went back to killing every last one of the enemy combatants. The leatherneck actually got sick and tired of using single shots, so the Devil Dog switch to fully automatic and began to use short, controlled bursts on the scum. He is going to make every last one pay for their crimes for spreading the dogma of Marx and murdering innocents who do not want to live under Communist authoritarian rule from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.
Meyer's grin went even wider as the spooky's arrived, the aerial gunships unleashing their artillery and rotary cannons to prevent the massed waves from reaching the base. He was surprised that command didn't drop a BLU-82 'Daisy Cutter' or even Nuke them. But what made the Devil Dog more excited was the sight of helicopters and even better...parachutes.
Reinforcements have finally arrived!
"Bravo Two-Five? This is Whiskey Three-Four! We should be arriving at your location in five mikes! Hang tight Jarheads!"
'Sam? Sam is here!? That bastard!' Meyer laughed to himself, hearing the voice of his friend on the radio. His best friend was coming to link up with him.
"Yeah, whatever you say, soldier!" Edwards scowled as he took cover from mortar fire. "We do not require your assistance!"
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Charlie, Second Squad, Third Platoon, Alpha Company, First Military Police Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Arlington National Cemetery - Arlington, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
04:22:14 ATC/ April 22nd, 1967 - 12:00/12:00 PM
Meyer remembers the day when the siege was finally lifted. After a month of heavy fighting, the last major battle in the war for South Vietnam came to a close. Peace was secured yesterday in Paris and both President Kennedy and Ho Chi Mihn signed the Viet-American treaty ending the conflict.
As the rain poured onto his cover and dress blues, Jake walked through the endless rows of graves until he found the particular one he was seeking.
Charles Nelson
U.S.M.C.
Bell Buckle, Tennessee
April 22nd, 1942- January 21st, 1967
"Happy birthday Sarge." The Private First Class choked up. "The war is over. Your sacrifice is not in vain. At least you're meeting your father."
The Hoosier set down something at the grave before he headed to his 1953 Chevy Pickup. Once he went inside his vehicle, the leatherneck couldn't help it and he cried.
The gift on the grave is a picture of Jake's father: Paul Meyer holding a captured Nazi flag and next to him was a fellow paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne Division.
The Corporal was Sergeant Nelson's father, who was killed during the Battle of the Bulge and his son never knew him.
On the photograph were four simple words.
'To Hell and Back!'
This chapter is dedicated to those who attempted to keep the people of South Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos free from Communism.
Their sacrifice, if forgotten, will at least be remembered by me, We'retheDesperateMeasures-ODST and hopefully by you too.
No one deserved to be spit on after walking off the tarmac heading home to see loved ones.
No one deserved to come home after fighting in a war that over two-thirds volunteered for and yet when they came home, were shunned.
No one deserved to be refused and accused of murdering innocent villagers and being 'Baby Killers' just because a Lieutenant went rogue at My Lai.
No one deserved to come home alongside a treasonous starlet ('Hanoi Jane' Fonda) who 'aided and abetted the enemy' by having her photo taken on an Anti-Aircraft gun and gladly volunteered to read propaganda to American GIs and assisted in torturing Prisoners of War by ratting them out to their captors.
*This list does not include the 30,000 Canadians who volunteered to fight in Vietnam by enlisting into the United States Army while draft evaders went to their country.
South Vietnam
195,000–430,000 civilian dead
254,256–313,000 military dead
1,170,000 wounded
United States
58,318 dead; 303,644 wounded
Laos
15,000
Cambodia
Unknown
South Korea
5,099 dead; 10,962 wounded; 4 missing
Australia
521 dead; 3,129 wounded
Thailand
351 dead; 1,358 wounded
New Zealand
37 dead; 187 wounded
Taiwan
25 dead
Philippines
9 dead; 64 wounded
Total military dead: 318,568–377,311
Total wounded: 1,340,000+
"Old soldiers never die. They just fade away."
~ Douglas MacArthur
Rest in Peace.
You may be gone, but the memories live on.
There will be the controversies, unfortunately, that will be remembered by the public.
But your stories should be told truthfully, not through fiction.
All of you that gave up your lives did so because you did not want to see Marxism spread.
And yet, you only did your best.
Vietnam should be a lesson to be learned from.
Not because of it was a mistake sending you there. It was mistakes in planning that occurred to stop the domino from falling.
You are not the criminals. You only fought for what was right.
The criminals are the ones who made the mistakes and those who impeded your efforts.
God bless you all.
Chapter 9: The Drums of War
Chapter Text
Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
Supreme Chancellor Leontyne Saresh stood outside her office on the balcony to watch the beautiful sunrise. The war was gradually going well for the Republic and with the discovery of a race of warlike humans that were immune to the Force, the Chancellor had set in motion events that would hopefully bring the new world into the war on the Republic's side.
'And with the help of the people of Earth, we'll strike a major blow against the Empire. Maybe even crush the Imps once and for all.' She evilly thought, licking her lips.
But then her holo-communicator beeped and Saresh answered it.
It was her Togruta secretary Mysoka Tano. "What is it Mysoka?"
"General Garza is waiting for you outside your office your Excellency."
Saresh smiled with the thoughts of Havoc Squad pulling another victory. "Go ahead and send her in. I'm on the balcony."
'Here's go nothing.' Garza thought as she walked up to the Supreme Chancellor.
"Hello, Ellin! What a surprise! Did Havoc score another victory."
The commanding officer of the Republic's SpecForce sighed. "No your excellency..." With a deep breath, Ellin told her. "There was a diplomatic incident on Earth and it appears that a member of Chaos Squad was an undercover agent for the Empire." Garza knew what the reaction is going to be and the Twi'lek politician face went from excitement to disappointment and now anger. Preparing her ears for the hearing loss, Ellin, unfortunately, was too late to cover her ears at the outrage.
"ARGHH! YOU'RE TELLING ME THAT THE IMPERIALS HAD A SPY IN THE DIPLOMATIC PARTY THE ENTIRE TIME!"
"Yes, your Excellency. Chaos Squad marksman Corporal Kelrein was, in fact, an undercover agent for the Empire. I wrote a full report and I accept all responsibility."
It was scary to the commander of SpecForce to watch the Supreme Chancellor recover from her outburst quickly. "Very well Ellin, but you do not have to resign. No one is blaming you... Hope you have a nice day."
General Garza gladly left the office as fast as she could and she looked over her shoulder, seeing Saresh lean against the balcony depressed.
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice /The Empire's Wrath.
Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 -10:00/10:00 AM
'You got to be kidding me!' Nathrrya thought as she read the holomessage she received. 'Invade Earth? What the kriffing hell are they on?'
It was now official. The Empire would like to conquer Earth despite Avarice's warnings of the advanced nature of their fighters, not to mention the experience of their soldiers during not one, but two world wars!
She slammed her hand down on the long-range holocom table in frustration as she began to call the Dark Council every colourfully vulgar expletive in ancient High Sith she knew and she knew quite a few.
With a sigh, Nathrrya turned and made her way to her quarters. After all the call she was about to make was best not overheard by the others. For what she was about to do while technically treason was something she knew she had to do.
Once in her quarters Nathrrya took the secure holocom from her belt and tapped in her cousin's com code. It took a few moments, but eventually, the Battlemaster answered.
"Nat! What a surprise..."
"Cas. It's not a social call." She said cutting him off "If only it were."
Master Therin sensed that something is deeply troubling her."What is it, Nat."
Nathrrya sighed. "Cas, I believe the Empire is making a grave error. The Dark Council wants to conquer Earth over my objections and they've lost all reasoning. I thought Marr and Vowrawn would have known better but they were forced to go along with the other idiots." She made a face "The best part is I've been given the privilege of leading the invasion fleet." It was clear she was less than thrilled about that detail.
The Jedi massaged his temples. He wasn't surprised at the news since the Empire always thought of conquest when a new world was discovered. He was more surprised that his cousin would risk her hide to warn him that there was an invasion coming.
"Why risk this?"
"I might be loyal to the Empire, Cas, it is my home after all but that loyalty only goes so far when said Empire constantly makes poor decisions. We both know that the stability of the galaxy is at stake if this war drags on too much longer." Nathrrya said.
The Jedi nodded. "What would you like in return cousin dearest?"
Darth Avarice grinned remembering how the Jedi owes her something. "How about those dynamic power couplings that you promised me?" She asked sweetly, with a hint of humour.
"I'll see what I can do Nat. No promises."
Avarice wasn't happy with that answer. "But you promised!" she cried giving her cousin the look. It was much the same as the look Kira gave him when she wanted something, though in Kira's case that something was usually Casavir.
Normally a Jedi wouldn't show any emotions, but his cousin knew his weakness. Kriff, even Kira knows it, and damn it, he wouldn't be surprised if his wife told her! "NAT!? Please don't give me that look!"
The Wrath, on the other hand, pressed the advantage and continued to give him the look. The pouty face made her seem years younger than she was and it amused her how Casavir could be ruffled by her Kath hound eyes.
"Alright! Alright! I'll send you those dynamic power couplings!"
"Thank you." Nathrrya smirked in victory. If only if it was this easy to win the war with such a method.
The hologram faded out and now Nathrrya was satisfied that the dynamic power couplings would be shipped so that the Rose might be improved.
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
The White House - 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
"Good evening my fellow Americans. Today we had learned a great tragedy involving our planet as a whole... We never wanted war. We never wanted to be dragged into a great conflict that we have no business in. But, unfortunately, Earth is now a target... The Sith Empire has plans not for diplomacy, but of conquest... Conquest. That word is one we never wanted to hear and yet here we are standing today. We all know what Hitler and Tojo did during the last great war. We all heard tales of George Washington fighting against a vast empire. And all nations understand what it means to be in a position of being conquered by an foreign enemy...However, we do have one advantage and that is we know how to conduct war. The nations of Earth will never be their possession! We shall not let them! We shall not go quietly into the night! We will fight on! If they want war, in the name of the Lord Almighty, we will show them!... As of three hours ago, Congress approved my declaration of war against the Sith Empire. Mister Khrushchev and I, along with the other leaders of the world agree that we need to take this threat to our sovereignty seriously... The Dark Council will learn that the word 'Earth' is what nightmares are made of."
The news correspondents were stunned into silence as the Secret Service agents ushered the leader of the free world off the stage. Cronkite was among those whose eyes widened in surprise at the speech. It was not one Walter and his peers were expecting at the special news conference that President Kennedy called.
"As you heard the President, we are now at war with the Empire. May God help us all..."
Within days of the United Nations being informed by the Republic of the Imperial plan's to add the planet of Earth as a colonial possession, the nations begin the process of inducting and training as many able-bodied men as they could realistically spare from their populations including recalling veterans of World War II for emergency service and commencing the manufacture of essential war equipment with guns taking precedence over butter.
The State Anthem of the Soviet Union, Das Lied der Deutschen, Auferstanden aus Ruinen, Oh Canada, the Star-Spangled Banner, La Marseillaise, and God Save the Queen alongside the other national anthems started playing in many countries across the globe.
Soviet Tanks, West German Uniforms, American Rifles, and British Aircraft were being mass-produced in quotas that have not been seen since the end of the Second World War and for the first time in years, strict rationing, censorship, and curfews were being stringently enforced. Nuclear attack drills increased in weekly frequency as the Bear of Mother Russia, the American and German Eagles, the British Lions and the Indian Tigers trained their sons for the inevitable confrontation.
The Sith Empire did not realize it but they have awakened a sleeping giant and with the minds of Generals George S. Patton, Erwin Rommel, and Georgy Zhukov leading the joint forces, Operation: Mars would succeed.
Klaus Büchel - Former Captain in the Liechtenstein National Police Force, Colonel in command of the resurrected Liechtenstein Army
Vaduz, Liechtenstein, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:29: 15 ATC / August 29th, 1968 - 14:00 / 2:00 PM
"Today, the Republic suffered catastrophic losses on Jabiim." The reporter announced. "The Sith Empire launched a full-scale invasion of the planet, outnumbering the defenders five to one and in the aftermath of the onslaught, the entire Jedi complement were beheaded by the Sith."
"Schisse." Büchel cursed. The former senior policeman who was appointed as the commander of the entire revived national army that was formerly nonexistent in the tiny European nation for literally a century, tiny as in the American state of Rhode Island, just realized the significant implications of being a part of this conflict. "Imagine just eighty men facing that onslaught. It might've well have been ants attempting to block a Category Five hurricane."
"We did declare war on the Imperials so there's no turning back now."
"Brightside is we're working alongside die Schweizer and be attached to their forces while serving under our banner. The bad news is the Swiss haven't fought in over a century and that was of course the Sonderbundskrieg, a short civil war."
"We might be small but at least we'll go down fighting." Another subordinate declared grimly as he wiped the cosmoline off of his Swiss surplus 7.5×55mm K31 Straight-Pull rifle.
"Guide Lamp Division" Manufacturing Plant, General Motors - Anderson, Madison County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:30: 15 ATC / August 30th, 1968 - 08:15 / 8:15 AM
"Come on, Mary, you used the lathe like this." The recalled 'Rosie' informed as she demonstrated the resurrected machinery used to manufacture M3A1 Submachine Guns back in World War Two. "And Brenda is handling one of the rifling machinery so if you're uncomfortable handing them to anyone else, just give them to her."
"Yes, mother." The daughter acknowledged before taking over the machine used to produce raw barrels for the 'Grease Guns'.
Karl Schmidt - Assembler for Henschel & Son
Henschel & Son manufacturing plant - Kassel, State of Hesse, Federal Republic of Germany aka "West Germany", Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:31: 15 ATC / August 31st, 1968 - 17:00 / 5:00 PM
"Nein, nein, not there." The mechanic pointed out to one of his employees after the factory converted to the manufacturing of tanks once more, this time Leopards instead of Tigers and Panthers. "You put ze rivet here, Karl."
"Ja, ja." Schmidt nodded as he placed the rivet in the correct position and used the air hammer to set it in. "This Panzer ist ready to tread on ze Imperials."
"Gut. Sehr gut, Karl. Now we have two hundred more to go."
"Damn quotas." Schmidt grumbled. "There should be time made for quality precision."
Red Army Training Center No. 1242 - Pustomyty Raion, Lviv Oblast, Western Ukraine, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Eurasia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:01: 15 ATC / September 1st, 1968 - 07:00 / 7:00 AM
"Comrades! It is time for you to learn how to properly throw a grenade!"
"But these are potatoes, Comrade Commissar!" One of the inductees who hailed from Ufa, Russia questioned after picking up one of the vegetables from the cart. "Why are we using potatoes, Comrade Commissar?"
"Actual grenades are valuable! In fact, they are much more valuable than you, Private!" The political officer snapped at the disobedient. "And those Space Fascist scum hardly take any prisoners except those destined for slavery! If you have an actual grenade, save it for yourself and take out as many of the enemy as you can."
"Da, Comrade Commissar!" The platoon-sized detachment of trainees acknowledged.
"Now do as you are told as Mother Russia is calling for her brave and zealous sons once more. Prepare to chuck potatoes, I mean grenades!"
Jonas Malheiro Savimbi - Leader of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA)
UNITA Base Camp - Angola, Africa, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:02: 15 ATC / September 2nd, 1968 - 11:00 / 11:00 AM
"This Galactic conflict will be new ground for us all." Jonas declared as he led a Portuguese 'military adviser' around the base camp of the guerrillas being trained in more conventional military tactics. "Have you met my request for all of Africa to be independent?"
"The United Nations is still having talks with the remaining colonial powers about how to best grant independence without having the newly freed nations devolved into anarchy."
"Not good enough." Savambi growled. "All of Africa will be independent within a year or you're not having anyone from most of Central Africa in the war. Oh, and South Africa needs to release Nelson Mandela. I don't expect them to end apartheid but Mandela needs to be free as he would be a useful ally propaganda-wise against the Sith like Doctor King and Malcolm X."
"Switzerland is currently acting as mediators between the nations and the declared representatives for the few remaining colonial possessions. I cannot guarantee that it will result in a Pan-Africa, Savimbi, but so far it looks like every colony will gain their independence."
"They do have the reputation of being neutral... Until now that is!" Jonas laughed. "But old grudges do die hard after all."
"That they do but we have a much greater threat to deal with on the horizon, which is similar to what the Persians caused the Greek City-States to react or as Benjamin Franklin once said: 'We either hang together or surely we'll hang separately'."
Timothy Jones - Former Carpenter and Conscript for Her Majesty's Service
Widnes, Cheshire, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:03: 15 ATC / September 3rd, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Name?"
"Timothy Jones, sir!" The carpenter produced his draft notice to the board.
"Welcome to National Service, lad. As there's a quota needing to be filled, the Royal Engineers should feel like home." The Sergeant of the British Army smiled warmly before metamorphosing into something straight out of Hell for every processed inductee present. "NOW GET YOUR BLOODY ARSES ONTO THE BUS AND OUT OF MY SIGHT!"
Sergeant Wallace Franklin Bradford - United States Army
Fort Sill - Lawton, Comanche County, Oklahoma, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:04: 15 ATC / September 4th, 1968 - 19:00 / 7:00 PM
"EVERYONE GET YOUR ASS OFF OF MY BUS, NOW!" The lead Drill Sergeant screamed at the new arrivals after boarding the Greyhound that was shipping an inbound mixture of volunteers and draftees to be transformed into soldiers for the United States Army, not to mention be well cared for by their Uncle Sam.
The terrified recruits instantly hopped up from their seats and frantically retrieved their luggage and bags as three additional United States Army Drill Sergeants climbed aboard and shouted vulgarity at the recruits.
"MOVE IT, MOVE IT, YOU PATHETIC PIECES OF SHIT!" Bradford screamed. "WE'RE NOT GOING TO STAND HERE UNTIL THE EMPIRE INVADES YOU LAZY GOLDBRICKS! I SWEAR TO THE GREAT GOD IN HEAVEN THAT I'LL SMOKE YOU UNTIL YOU DIE IF YOU DON'T PICK UP YOUR PACE YOU WORTHLESS SCUMBAGS! FROM THIS DAY FORWARD, YOUR ASSES BELONG TO UNCLE SAM AND HIS GREEN MACHINE SO ENJOY THE HOSPITALITY WHILE YOU CAN!"
U Thant - 3rd Secretary-General of the United Nations
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:12: 15 ATC / September 12th, 1968 - 14:30 / 2:30 PM
"It's such a shame that there's no recourse other than war." The Burmese pacifist who was the current Secretary-General of the United Nations and followed reports of UFOs with keen interest since his inauguration mourned.
"Well, after quite the debate, we decided who will be the figurehead of the 'Unified Earth Coalition'." The Soviet board member of the United Nations Security Council revealed. "General George S. Patton and it is because we need a fighter, not one willing to bootlick politicians."
"Old Blood and Guts certainly knows his way around conflict." The American board member agreed. "And just like Black Jack Pershing during World War One, he will make sure that our troops will be treated as equal allies, not auxiliaries."
"But he's a figurehead?"
"Well, not exactly a mere figurehead per se but basically the actual commands will be split three ways. Rommel is the head of NATO, Zhukov is the leader of Warsaw Pact forces, and we're still deciding on the 'Unaffiliated Nations' contingent. Patton plans the overall strategy and the three, let's say wings, makeup how to best proceed to the common goal based on their doctrine. In this way, we don't have to worry about suddenly forcing the men to cooperate, or have mass cases of insubordination because the senior officer is from Czechoslovakia and the men are from Belgium, which is exactly awkward as it sounds."
"Makes sense plus there's logistical interoperability issues as well and having designated combat theaters for just Warsaw Pact troops only would make resupplying the troops easier."
"Let us hope that this endeavor will not be a disaster waiting to happen." Thant sighed.
"Anyway, the international 'Quarantine Policy' in full cooperation with the Republic will be in effect tomorrow, and the joint 'Global Misinformation to the Galaxy' board will host their first session next week. It's not going to stop the Empire from invading but it will potentially make their task much harder as they literally have to sort fact from fiction."
"It's amazing how every country voted yes and not a single one abstained or voted no." Thant smiled before pouting. "If only it was one of peace."
Elmer Merrifield Keith - Famed Big Game Hunter, Gun Writer, and holder of the world record involving the longest kill shot ever fired from a Revolver at 600 Yards
Camp Perry - Port Clinton, Ottawa County, Ohio, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Seven rounds rapid! Engage!" Keith ordered the trainees to fired their .45 caliber M1911A1 service pistols from the hip as fast as they could squeeze the trigger and the students did as was instructed on the buzzer, upon hearing the beep they draw their sidearms from their holsters and begin shooting at their individually assigned silhouette targets placed at fifteen yards.
"Still got it." Keith grinned before turning to the quick draw. "What's your name, son?"
"Jerry Miculek, sir!"
"That's some fine shooting, Jerry." Elmer complimented the pupil. "And fast as hell."
"The boy certainly has gifted talent." Staff Sergeant Silas Merritt 'Si' Robertson chuckled. "Phil? Didn't you mention that he's a fellow Louisianan?"
"Yep. Saint James, a little farther south than us, Si." The former football player for Louisiana Tech informed his brother. "Us Duck Hunters and gunslingers from Cajun Country will make those Space Brits think twice."
United Nations Global Misinformation to the Galaxy Board
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"So...which map you think would be better?" The cartographer wondered as he showed the board ten different maps that portrayed Pangaea. "I know we already have sent a mishmash of mismatching global maps but these will have all of the landmasses combined into one supercontinent instead of mixing territory up."
The three board members shrugged as every one of the options seemed useful.
"Use them all. Does it really make any difference to combine India with Africa or have Mexico sandwiched between them?"
"The more confusion, the better." The committeeman sitting in the middle grinned. "The Sith Empire think we're mere primitives, so we're using ancient history, mythology, folklore, and prehistoric creatures against them."
"The one in regards to the Easter Bunny is probably the most ridiculous." The one on the right snickered. "A mass-murdering giant rabbit with laser eyes that can also toss egg-shaped grenades from his basket. Or, ya know, just the harmless Easter Bunny that gives the kiddos goodies."
"And thanks to Master Casivir's suggestion, we're having Santa Claus be labeled as a confirmed Force user more powerful than Emperor Vitiate. He and his elf army from the North Pole mounted on fearsome reindeer will be at the vanguard of any global defensive efforts and the candy cane lances will blow their ships out of the sky, never mind poor Rudolph's red nose of nuclear devastation."
"Hopefully the Dark Council will kill themselves after taking too much aspirin due to their inevitable reading of our misinformation."
"If only but I'm not going to deny that there will be an epidemic of migraines occurring within Imperial Space."
Sith Intelligence Headquarters - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Let me get this straight. There are at least fifty different maps that all supposedly represent Earth?" Kovach asked the operatives who were tasked with gathering everything and anything the Republic knows about the newly discovered extra-galactic world called Earth for the benefit of the Empire's invasion plans but the processing was proving to be more difficult than originally anticipated.
"We're also getting differing reports about the environment with one stating that the entire planet is an arctic wasteland with sugarplums guarded by these so-called 'Abominable Snowmen' and another that says it's hotter than Tatooine with giant man-eating desert spiders." Watcher Six revealed. "Then in the one declaring Earth is about seventy-eight percent water there's some Japanese beast called Godzilla that supposedly was a kriffing nightmare for the United States Navy and Army to kill per the combat footage we found."
"Evidently these primitives are trying to fool us." Rane determined after snorting at the footage of this 'Godzilla', which upon closer examination the caricature was obviously fake. "Quite ingenious in trying to throw us off but that means the invasion fleet will be going in blind without knowing what's truthful."
"So, should we inform the Council about these Werewolves and Chupacabras?" Watcher Two wondered. "Or the threat that this Easter Bunny poses to our forces?"
"For Force sake." The secret undercover Republic spy cursed at the headache even he himself was receiving courtesy of the newfound allies after reading an analysis about Werewolves being more dangerous than Rakghouls due to the ability to blend in as normal humans and the need to find some unknown yet toxic weed called 'wolfsbane' in order to counteract them but Kovach felt this to be fabricated as well. "If it sounds or appears to be too absurd, dismiss it immediately."
"Well, I think their slugthrowers are inaccurate over three hundred meters just like all other known examples so that's gone." Watcher Six determined as he deleted the relevant data about this 'M14' rifle being capable of killing a man up to nine hundred fourteen meters plus while preserving the more realistic and feasible one about some design referred to as an 'AK-47'. "There's no way their primitive starfighters are faster than our own in atmospheric conditions either."
'Easter Bunny?' Rane asked himself. 'What the Kark is an Easter Bunny?'
Marcus Trant - Head of the Galactic Republic's Strategic Information Service
SIS Headquarters - Heorem Complex, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Kovach reported that the Empire is confused about the conflicting findings about Earth. So far everyone within the Empire's power structure is not suspicious that their invasion plans have been discovered but believe that either Earth is trying to impose security measures after being exposed to the galaxy or the Republic is using the discovery of the planet to its advantage despite not being our idea in the first place." Balkar reported. "Operation: Misdirection is proceeding as planned."
"Are you sure about the lack of suspicion?"
"Kovach has literally implanted himself to be the second-in-command of Sith Intelligence and Minister Beniko reports directly to the Dark Council. If the Council isn't suspicious but receiving headaches, then what is there to worry about?"
"They're partially right about using this to our strategic advantage." Marcus grinned. "For every Watcher trying to sort through the puzzle means one less Watcher trying to gather Intel on the Republic. Then there's the fact that eventually we'll be working beside operatives of the British SIS."
"British SIS?" Jonas wondered.
"More commonly referred to as MI6 but despite the ironic coincidence and invertness, we could use the closest example of Imperials that are not Imperials to our advantage."
"Krasul made some rather odd discoveries." Balkar snorted. "Next for all I know, I'm going to be mistaken for this Elvis Presley."
"You could impersonate him if you apply more grease to your hair, agent."
"Very funny, sir."
Sergeant Sara Kelrein- Imperial Army Commando Unit 421 "Reaper Squad"
Sith Intelligence Headquarters - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Earth has a varying climate with some regions being purely desert, some being purely arctic, and some being a mixture of environments such as the United States. But most of the planet can be described as either temperate or tropical depending on how far from the equator the particular nation-state is precisely."
"There are also these maps." Her friend pointed out.
"This one is the closest geographical-" Kelrein paused as she dreaded the implications. "Lana? Do you believe that the Empire is responding to this correctly? They have not committed any grievances on us in the slightest, unlike the Republic. Earth wasn't even aware of our existence until recently."
"I honestly don't know, Kells." Beniko muttered, unsure herself. "But the Council believes that having a civilization of humans completely devoid of the Force is a potential future threat and if the Republic recruits them to their side, then we might as well capitulate now depending on how immune they are."
"A future threat or just an attempt to exploit resources naturally impervious to the Force to make the Empire unstoppable in an attempt to wipe out the Jedi once and for all?" The black operations soldier wondered, speculating that there was more to it than a preemptive measure. "The nation-states on Earth already have been through two catastrophic global conflicts just twenty-five years apart and that was recent history to them, never mind the other minor wars, all taking place while our own parents and grandparents were engaged in the Galactic War and the early skirmishes of the Cold War. The fathers and grandfathers of the current generation have a high chance of being veterans of the two major conflicts or even both and from what I've encountered they are not interested in another world war. Entering our current war would be an inconceivable bloodbath in comparison to what seems petty to us but beyond imagination to them."
"Kells, I know you're not trying to be seditious here but talk like that would make you eligible to be killed on the spot with no repercussions."
"It needed to be said." Sara countered politely before revealing additional legitimate reasons why this venture wasn't going to be a snap. "But just because they don't desire another conflict, it doesn't mean they don't have the experience of making life miserable to our troops and I'm assuming that there's going to be Sith assigned to the invasion."
"Of course just like every other invasion, though how well that's going to work on a world where we can't sense anything native is questionable."
"I'm going to be honest. They need to ditch the lightsabers and fight as one of the grunts as Earth with the unique biosphere will make the partisans on Balmorra insignificant in comparison. Truth be told, the best option for the Empire is to just send out an armada and orbitally bombard every last living thing as it would be years before the planet is even pacified." Sara declared regrettably. "Just as an example, Jake told me about a belief called the Spirit of '76: As long as one American still believes in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, there's going to be hell inflicted on the so-called conquerors. Granted, it is my opinion that due to the nationalism, it's going to be one nightmare to integrate the populace of the planet into the Empire, assuming the-" Kelrein paused as she felt a lump in her throat when the thought came to mind. "-the natives are not marked for extinction due to their unique physiology."
Lana sensed the unease from her closest friend since girlhood, weary not just about the overall plan but dreadful of her suitor's fate as a result of this endeavor.
"You don't think that the Empire would be successful?"
"No, we would be successful eventually but the body count would be as if we invaded the Mandalore Sector. I'm informing you about this as it is, just because Earth has only just begun exploring their own system doesn't mean as a whole they're primitive. The simulated war game Krasul insisted on was an eye-opener to put it lightly. And even though Krasul was overeager to put on a show despite Lane's concerns to say mildly, it still was clear that we were encountering a competent military."
The blonde noted the irritated tint on her friend's cheeks at the mention of Krasul's overeagerness, the tone hinting that the politician believed that the forces could withstand everything that was thrown against them while the troops experienced in combat felt otherwise. 'Evidently another case of political meddling in military affairs.' "I'm not going to enjoy the result, am I?"
"Imagine an army of marksmen with the rifles having slightly more than twice the effective range of our own sniper blasters and well-coordinated artillery on standby, followed by waves of strategic bombers carrying a payload greater than our Extinction-class bombers and that explains just the United States military if they don't decide to launch nuclear weapons at our landing zones per their policy about this Fulda Gap." Sara divulged bluntly. "The entire Republic force was wiped out due to our visibility at the wargame and Chaos Squad was annihilated within the first few minutes when we were the spearhead instead of acting as a knife behind their backs. We couldn't use our blaster cannons to great effect at all, unlike their M14s and M60s. I never thought I would encounter slugthrowers that are capable of shooting slugs in excess of four hundred standard meters with ease. Some of them can even do two kilometers though those are the heavy support weapons, not the personal small arms."
Beniko frowned as she processed the revelation. "Nuclear weapons?"
"They have enough warheads to devastate their own planet ten times over. Then there's also the chemical and biological weapon stockpiles."
"By the Darkside." The Minister cursed softly. "My analysts so far have been underestimating them and you have provided clarification that shows the information about the slugthrowers at least are completely accurate, pun not intended."
"Is there a way to salvage the data?"
"That's classified but honestly no. The Watchers completely purged it."
"Well, I have the next best thing courtesy of my helmetcam."
"You know, I'm still denying that this slugthrower outshoots my blaster." Sara snorted as she aimed the M14 prone, the primitive sling for some reason was strapped and laced up snugly against her left shoulder.
"You're not doing bad for a thousand. Struck the tens consistently though I of course hit the V-ring."
Sara felt tearful as she watched the footage of Jake kneeling beside her and instructed the undercover Imperial on how to make adjustments on the rifle platform.
"Overconfident about yourself, larel?" The redhead smirked before resting her cheek back onto the stock to aim the service rifle.
"Is that Jake?"
Sara nodded reluctantly at the inquiry. "Yes...Force, I miss him."
"That...is pretty far distance-wise and I don't see an optic attached. I can barely even see the flimsiplast from your position."
"Didn't need it as it's an excellent rifle with just the metallic sights." Sara enlightened as she fast forward the recording. "Apparently anyone with sufficient vision can be trained to strike a twenty-five centimeter circle at nine hundred fourteen meters."
"Five inches or half MOA. Not a bad grouping for one thousand yards. In fact, the match standard for the rifle team is at minimum three inches at three hundred yards so you're probably equal to the top competitors at Camp Perry." Jake determined after measuring the bullseye with a ruler."You want to keep the paper?"
"I don't know." Sara frowned."Would you get in trouble for this?"
"Sara, the Marine Corps can afford to dispose of shot-up targets as this is its purpose anyway. It's a memento of your first time shooting one thousand yards." Jake reassured as he detached the paper from the board. "I kept my first long-range target that I shot on the farm back home even though it's not as good as yours. Practice makes for perfection after all."
"Do you have it by chance?"
"Come to think of it, I do." Sara confessed hesitantly. "On the wall next to my father's trophies and the blaster racks."
"I'm not going to confiscate it if that's what concerns you. I just want to examine it."
Marine Corps Base Quantico- Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
August 15th, 1967 / 08:15: 14 ATC - 2:45 PM / 14:45
"Wait, hold on, you're saying that the M14 is capable of shooting out to just under a kilometer?"
"Or twelve hundred yards in trained or skilled hands." Jake smirked at his steady as he carried the case and led her to the range. "And you don't need an optic either."
"No way." Sara scoffed, not believing the outlandish claim. "Even Sniper Blaster Rifles are only effective out to four hundred fifty meters."
"I guess it's a case of you gotta see it to believe it then." The Marine deadpanned as the couple paused behind the firing line. "Hope you enjoy the show."
"If you're trying to impress me, loverboy, this is one way of doing it beyond belief."
Meyer just shrugged and placed the butt of his rifle against his left hip to unfastened one of the steel buckles of the M1907 sling, adjusting the leather strap to form a 'loop' to slip over his left arm and tighten it snugly against his left bicep. Next, the Hoosier settled himself into the prone position before flipping the hinged shoulder rest up and pressed the buttstock against his shoulder, his non-dominant hand was placed barely behind the front sling buckle and the Leatherneck's right eye peered through the rear aperture to gaze at the front post. 'Will have to bring up the dial to a thousand yards once I get my natural point of aim established.' The Marine kept his left elbow firmly implanted on the ground as he carefully adjusted the elevation knob and windage knob, listening to each individual click.
The redhead watched with curiosity as her boyfriend settled back into his shooting position and aimed the M14 once more. It seemed to be four minutes of nothing and Kelrein was about to tell Jake to stop when the first crack from the rifle was fired.
Jacob relaxed his body after firing off the first 180 grain projectile from his M14, the Expert qualified Marine who was also classified as a Distinguished Rifleman due to competing in DCM sanctioned events breathed in then slowly exhaled before squeezing the trigger rearward.
Sara watched in utter amazement as her love interest calmly shot his weapon out to extreme range - impossible by galactic standards - and yet he was doing it seemingly naturally, with no magnification aid at all!
The Jarhead fired all twenty of his rounds and grasped the magazine, pressing the release latch and flicked the steel box out at an angle before retrieving the precious container and put it back in his pocket as otherwise he would be charged under the Uniform Code of Military Justice with loss or destruction of government property by Uncle Sam even if it was in the midst of a firefight. "You want to check the target and see if there are any holes in it?"
"I'm still in denial but I hope this long walk is worth it."
"Trust me, it will." Jake smiled. "Plus it's a romantic view."
"Fair point, larel." Sara relented as she allowed him to wrap his arm affectionately around her waist and Kelrein placed her dark red tresses against his croon.
"Blast." Sara uttered, astonished by the groupings at nine hundred and fourteen meters.
"Twenty Vs." Jake stated as he counted twenty holes in the 'V-ring' of the Charlie target historically used for annual rifle qualification at eight hundred and one thousand yards by the United States Marine Corps from before World War I up until America entered World War II and even currently still in use for competition shooting, typically Director of Civilian Marksmanship events. "Today for some reason was my lucky day as I usually score 430-5V on average."
"I promise to never mock your slugthrowers again as you clearly demonstrated that they shouldn't be underestimated."
"You want to try it out for yourself?"
"Really?"
"I'll gladly give you some pointers if needed." Jake offered.
"I'm not confident shooting out to such an extreme distance."
"Hey, it didn't happen overnight for me either to be honest." Jake sympathized. "It's probably easier to start with the basics and set your sights on the twenty-five meter scaled targets followed by the current qualification course though that would take a week."
"You realize you're talking to someone who regularly practices out to four hundred fifty meters." Sara deadpanned, slightly irked at being equated to a new recruit.
"Well, zero at five hundred then see it correlates?"
"Seems fair." Sara nodded as her boyfriend handed her the rifle and explained the mechanics and intricacies of the weapon, plus how to use a 'loop sling' as the shooting aid but it wasn't long for her to feel confident about placing the sling snugly around her arm and try it out for herself.
The redhead dialed in the range carefully, listening to each individual click as she adjusted the settings of the aperture to the five hundred meter mark.
"Make sure to check your windage." The United States Marine advised.
"Right as this isn't a blaster." The SpecForce trooper muttered as she gazed at the 'range flag', estimating the potential effect of the breeze on the primitive slug.
Jake watched as his sweetheart relaxed and settled into her shooting stance, preparing herself to fire off a 'cold bore' shot
"This is fun!" Sara exclaimed, absolutely thrilled and taken-in by the newfound sporting activity. "If I knew this was possible, I would've signed up years ago!"
"Glad you enjoy it, babe." Jake chuckled.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Base Quantico - Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"KEEP IT UP, LADIES! THERE'S PLENTY OF UNOPENED CANS OF C-RATS AT THE END WAITING FOR YOU UNLESS YOU PREFER HOT COFFEE AND DONUTS WHEN YOU QUIT!"
Despite reminiscing happier times, Jake still heard the devilish shouts of the Non-Commissioned Officers from behind as they berated those who didn't pick it up the pace and entice the volunteers to quit instead of making the cut.
'Out of everything idiotic I have done, this may top the list.' Meyer reflected on the choice of volunteering for the outfit, now somewhat regretting the decision even if he held some unintentional prior experience due to being coerced by some CIA spooks into doing a short stint with MACV-SOG back in Vietnam. 'But, unfortunately, I'm not a quitter unlike the slackers. The instructors just want to test predominantly the mentality, not physical brawn.'
Two months ago, the Leatherneck saw the official tacked notice proclaiming the reestablishment of the esteemed Marine Raiders, the first covert force formed by the United States during World War II before being disbanded in 1944 after the unit's purpose ended, in the Provost Marshal Office and just like his two uncles did after getting strafed by Zeros at Pearl Harbor, the 5811 immediately volunteered for the unit, only to endure the unexpected.
Jake hopped off of the wall and noticed barbed wire with fellow Marines manning M60s, presumably loaded with live ammunition, and paused with his peers, unconscious instinct unwittingly taking precedence.
"CRAWL! COME ON YOU FUCKING POODLES, CRAWL! I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEVIL DOGS, YOU FUCKING PAMPERED AND STYLED EXAMPLES OF FRENCH FINERY!"
"They're going to kill us." One of the potentials stuttered, sounding like a fresh-faced boot instead of one who earned the acclaimed Eagle Globe and Anchor.
"Come on, this is nothing like Parris Island." Another reasoned before hopping down to the prone position and began crawling through the muck.
"You heard him, we shouldn't be labeled as poodles and unlike the French, we don't surrender as we're United States Marines for God's sake." Jake encouraged before getting flat on his stomach to crawl through the course himself.
"If this was an Imperial soldier, he would be dead." Lana determined after gazing at the patterned plasti officially designated as the 1,000 Yard 5V 'C' target. "Twenty slugs dead center at the chest."
"I know but we both realize that not many would take this seriously. Slugthrowers are obsolete to many yet in this case the Earthlings figured out a way to shoot them over four hundred meters, most likely due to the composition of the propellant."
"Hmmm...What's the velocity?"
"Most are easily capable of over seven hundred meters per second, which is astounding for not being railguns."
"Kriff. I'm not sure if the durasteel will withstand this as they're designed for slugs with the velocity of six hundred meters per second maximum."
"I'm just a mere Sergeant in the Imperial Army." Sara deadpanned. "My opinion doesn't matter to the Council and it will go unheeded."
"It matters to me as you know about it firsthand." Beniko reasoned. "And to be quite honest, Kells, I have been doubtful about this invasion from the start but unfortunately Marr and Vowrawn were swayed."
Sergeant First Class Aaron Johnson - Drill Sergeant, United States Army
Fort Jackson - Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Nineteen Hundred and Forty-One
World War Two had just begun
Nazi Germans were mighty tough
Going to war was going to be rough
But in the States a combat team
Was being formed, it was mighty mean!"
"Nineteen Hundred and Forty-Four
The 101st went to war
Filled the skies over Normandy
'Rendezvous with Destiny'!"
"Nineteen Hundred Sixty-Five
Vietnam came alive
Ho Chi Minh was mighty brave
But the 101st put the blazing son of a bitch into his grave!"
"Now in Nineteen Hundred and Sixty-Eight
Uncle Sam said it's gonna great
America has entered a new war in outer space
And we'll add more to the lore as just like with Uncle Ho we'll put the Imperials in their place!"
Sergeant Johnson turned around and watched the recruits pressed on even if they were exhausted and in need of a hot meal.
"Imperials decided to test their luck
Well, they're not going to buck
And we don't give a single fuck
Washington and the Continentals show us why
So their shit ain't gonna fly!"
"Louder!" Johnson encouraged, though while humanly impossible, he desired it to be loud enough for the damn conceited Jarheads over on Parris Island occupied with indoctrinating new members into their cult to hear the superiority of the green machine of the United States Army as while the Marines may kick open doors occasionally, it was the Army who overran the targeted building and take over the damn neighborhood while at it for good measure.
"The price for Liberty is high
Which means there will be those who will die
But the legend will be told
Of those who are bold.
Ain't this going to be great!?"
"Excellent, absolutely fucking fantastic, recruits!"
"Thank you, Drill Sergeant!" The recruits responded enthusiastically with the proper address, not pansy-assed 'Drill Instructor' or 'DI' as the Corps prefers.
"It is the Army who will lead the way, not those forever damn Marines!" Johnson proclaimed. "Patton is running this show after all!"
Gunnery Sergeant Charles Edgar - Senior Drill Instructor, United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego - San Diego, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Gimme that old Marine Corps spirit
Gimme that old Marine Corps spirit
Gimme that good old Marine Corps spirit
Cause it's good enough for me!"
Edgar observed the boots as they continued running their required three miles, keeping pace with the cadence being led by his two subordinates.
"It was good for Chesty Puller
It was good for Dan Daly
It was good for Sergeant Major
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at Belleau Wood
It was good at Saint Mihiel
It was good in Paris
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at Wake Island
It was good at Guadalcanal
It was good at Iwo Jima
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at the Chosin Reservoir
It was good at Khe Sahn
It was good at Hue City
And it's good enough for me!"
"Excellent work, boots, and I'm sure our friends intermingling with the short-sighted draftees over in the Army will be envious of your singing but since it wasn't loud enough, you are to drop to the deck and give fifty to Dan Daly!"
"Now praise Dan Daly!" Master Sergeant Rodney added weight as the trio didn't see movement.
"What's the matter with you!?" Staff Sergeant Willoughby wondered with an inhuman snarl."Are you waiting for Jesus's second coming!? We have a war on in case you missed the newspapers, radio announcements, and broadcast by one Walter fucking Cronkite!"
"Make it seventy-five you selfish, arrogant, pieces of garbage! Dan Daly will forever be more manly than you gossiping ladies will ever be!"
"Aye, sir!" Even though they were exhausted from the run, the boots unquestionably dropped to the deck and immediately began cranking out push-ups in the name of the revered Dan Daly.
Augusto José Ramón Pinochet Ugarte - President of the Government Junta of Chile
Santiago, Santiago Province, Chile, South America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
Pinochet observed as his troops marched past the review stand, clutching their Swiss-manufactered SIG SG 510 rifles chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the Chilean Generalissimo still denying that war has come but he was ready for such a crisis as was Chile.
"Mi General, Augusto Pinochet!" The troops bellowed as they marched past the review stand. "Usted es el nuevo Padre de la patria
Está su nombre en la história de Chile
Como lo ha sido Don Bernardo O'Higgins."
The Latin American dictator returned the salute as the procession continued unimpeded, the spectators cheering the men onward with confetti and flowers tossed onto the street.
"Se le recuerda con gran cariño
Le agradecemos con el corazón
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos."
"Mi general, Augusto Pinochet!
Usted es el nuevo Padre de la patria
Está su nombre en la história de Chile
Como lo ha sido Don Bernardo O'Higgins"
"Se le recuerda con gran cariño
Le agradecemos con el corazón
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
¡Viva por siempre, mi general!
¡Mi general, Augusto Pinochet!"
Augusto stepped forward to the podium and eyed the crowd, prepared to inform his countrymen of what he himself intended to do against the Sith Empire.
"Brave Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of Chile! It is my gratitude to announce that I, Augusto Pinochet, will personally lead you to glory when we venture forth to meet the enemy preemptively among the stars!"
The Chileans cheered, elated at the declaration from their leader and Pinochet waited for the cheering to die down before finishing his speech.
"It is only fitting that your general oversees this noble endeavor firsthand, making sure that you are treated well and not neglected, making sure that your strengths are not mismanaged or dismissed, and, God willing, we will end this threat once and for all or die trying! VIVA CHILE!"
"VIVA CHILE!" The conscripts chanted from their hearts. "VIVA CHILE! VIVA CHILE!"
Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Republic
Beijing, China, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
Primer Nikita Khrushchev and Chairman Liu Shaoqi were neutral as they watched column-by-column of the People's Liberation Army passed by, their AK-47 derivatives having the bayonets attached as part of the ceremony.
"It's going to be interesting fighting against Fascists in Space." Liu commented.
"Literal Space Nazis, comrades, and if everything we have heard about them is true, Adolf and Mussolini would've been ecstatic to greet this Vitiate." Nikita added with a huff.
The Chinese soldiers instantly presented their Type 56 Assault Rifles as Georgy Zhukov, the soon-to-be the official leader of not just Warsaw Pact forces but Cuban, Chinese, and North Korean troops as well, returned the salute.
"By the way, have you heard that catchy new song by The Beach Boys?" Saresh wondered.
"What song?" Khrushchev snorted, amazed that it was even brought up. "I don't listen to albums made by Capitalist Brats, not after being denied entry to Disneyland."
"Sorry, I forgot that you weren't fond of your fellow Earthlings." Saresh placated.
Ed Sullivan - Host of The Ed Sullivan Show
The Ed Sullivan Show - CBS Broadcast Center, 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 20:15 / 8:15 PM
"Now we know whom you have all been waiting for." The host himself, Ed Sullivan, remarked. "For the final act tonight, with us are The Beach Boys with their nationally number-one hit song based on Barbara Ann: Bomb Kaas!"
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Let's take a stand and make the land grow moss
Bomb Dromund Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Don't give a damn, we blew them up in 'Nam
Tell the Nox, "Gonna put you in a box!"
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Ol' Uncle Sam's gettin' pretty hot
Time to turn Dromund Kaas into a parking lot
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Call the volunteers; call the bombardiers;
Call the financiers; better get their asses in gear
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
(Let's nuke 'em! Whoo!)
"Encore! Encore!" Some of the more bloodthirsty onlookers within the audience demanded from the band who were imminent in getting inducted in the green machine under the United States Army's Special Services that would enable them to provide entertainment and remain intact as a band.
"The Air Force should drop recordings of this song in addition to the bombs!" Another one of the teenage female onlookers hollered viciously, her tone was spiteful at the enemy. "To tell them that we Americans mean business!"
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel - Commander of the Bundeswehr
Bonn, Cologne District, North Rhine-Westphalia, Federal Republic of Germany aka "West Germany", Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
'Here goes nothing.' The reinstated Field Marshal in command of the entire West German Military thought as he strode toward the podium, his treasured uniform that he wore in the deserts of North Africa leading the Afrika Korps against all odds was spit and polished, the reinstated tactician wearing it intentionally to make a statement and hopefully inspire the men, surviving veterans of Gazala and fresh-faced conscripts alike.
"Soldiers of the Heer! Airmen of the Luftwaffe! Sailors of the Deutsche Marine! Servicemen of the Bundeswehr!" Rommel began. "I know many of you do not believe militarism is the right path for us, particularly after how Deutschland was blamed for igniting the First World War followed by a painter from Österreich misleading us and bringing this land to ruin but we cannot afford to look on the past when our very future is at stake, our very foundation is being threatened, and our very existence is in jeopardy. What occurred under the regime of that Schwein is inexcusable as it rightfully should be judged and the very enemy we are about to engage is a reminder of that very blight!"
Rommel paused momentarily as he allowed the words to sink in before continuing.
"We're doing this not out of conquest but out of preservation for what little we have left. We have lost faith in ourselves and our families are divided by the Iron Curtain but right or wrong we still take pride that we are all residents of Deutschland. It doesn't matter what political views you hold or your religious convictions as we need to stand together as one against the common threat to our sovereignty, what scant remains of our sovereignty."
"General von Stauffenberg placed the briefcase not because he was a believer in Nazism but a staunch believer in Deutschland. Taking pride in one's nation shouldn't equate to loyalty to any particular political party or specific politician but to the people and your nation. We call Deutschland home and we love this land above all else. The Imperials are a reminder of the Führer wickedness and Himmler's policies. The Imperials have their Hermann Goering's, their Bernhard Rust's, and their Ernst Sauckels, and the Empire will continue their wars of conquest perpetually unless they're stopped and the Republik knows it! Für Deutschland!"
"FÜR DEUTSCHLAND!" The recruits shouted.
'Maybe there is hope for Deutschland after all.'
Thiếu tướng (Major General) Ngô Quang Trưởng - Army of the Republic of Vietnam
Hotel Majestic - Saigon, Republic of Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Just one year since Unification but now we're at war once more." Thiếu tướng (Major General) Ngô lamented. "And it couldn't wait until the remaining Viet Cong diehards were completely dealt with."
"At least the majority who denied our legitimacy are coming out and volunteering for this new conflict as they know what's at stake. It would be pointless to fight among ourselves when there are conquerors at the door after all."
Trưởng sat down his personal copy of Diem's memoirs on the table and leaned back in his seat, pondering on the writings."Well, Diem was wrong about one matter."
"What's that?"
"His prediction on if the Communists won, Vietnam would be forced to support either China or the Soviet Union once war between them occurred was off. It's an open secret that China is now just another Soviet satellite state."
"Khrushchev is more conniving than he looks. Not bad for someone with a shiny, bald head."
Ngô chuckled at his friend's assessment. "Bald or not, we have come full circle with imperialism and we must confront it now before it sets foot here once more." The Major General decided to quote a stanza from Tiếng Gọi Công Dân, the Republic of Vietnam's official national anthem. "We the People remain resolute in our hearts and minds, courageously we will fight such that everywhere, the Glory of the Vietnamese forever resounds."
"God help us all."
Kingston, Hunt County, Texas, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Howdy there, Mac." A seemingly unimportant wiry man and native of the town uttered before introducing himself to the expected guest. "Audie Murphy."
"John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming Churchill." The eccentric Briton greeted the most decorated American soldier of the Second World War. "But call me Jack or Mad Jack if you prefer, Audie."
The short man from Texas nodded. "Jack, meet Peter Ortiz and Tony Stein." Murphy introduced the two Leathernecks standing beside him.
"Never thought I would be meeting you in-person, Jack." The former French Foreign Legionnaire and one of the very few United States Marines to have officially fought the Third Reich in World War II under the management of the Office of Strategic Services before becoming an Hollywood star like Murphy grinned.
"Legends in your own right." The only Englishman to fight in World War II with a longbow and a Scottish broadsword complimented. "I'll buy the first round in recognition of the journey ahead of us."
"I'll gladly drink to it." Tony beamed. "Anyone want to hear my perspective about my actions against the Japanese on Iwo?"
"Probably wouldn't be as good as my recollection of holding off the Germans from a burning tank, hotshot, but I'm willing to listen." Audie smirked. "No wonder why Uncle Sam reinstated me, promoted me, and gave me command over the reforming Ranger Battalions."
"Yeah, yeah, well our drinks are being served."
"It's on the house." The tender smiled. "Couldn't help to overheard ya and friends of Murphy are always welcome here for free drinks."
The quad shrugged and Churchill raised his bottle up for a toast. "This conflict should prove to be sporting and as this should be my last war…" John paused as he thought of a way to cement the toast before remembering a film Murphy starred in as himself. "To hell and back, gents!"
"To hell and back!"
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - reassigned to the reformed Second Marine Raider Battalion - United States Marine Corps
United States Naval Station Norfolk - Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
10:24:15 ATC/ October 24th, 1968 - 17:32/5:32 PM
Johnny, get your gun,
Get your gun, get your gun,
Take it on the run,
On the run, on the run.
Hear them calling, you and me,
Every son of liberty.
Hurry right away,
No delay, go today,
Make your daddy glad
To have had such a lad.
Tell your sweetheart not to pine,
To be proud her boy's in line.
'Well, who would have thought that we're going to fight in an intergalactic war.' Jake thought as 'Over There' by George M. Cohan played through the speakers. Meyer and his fellow Marines marched through downtown Norfolk heading to the nearest Republic transport craft that would take him and his comrade to the front. His father and uncles were recalled to active service for the war effort. His mother and many other women, on the other hand, headed either back to the factories to become Rosies once more or worked on the farm. Sam was surprisingly assigned to his father's platoon and with Commandant Chesty Puller reforming the Raiders and he placed the formerly retired and legendary Major General Merritt Austin Edson, Senior in charge of all four Raider Battalions. In fact, Jake was surprised to learn that the Raiders were being reformed and volunteered just like his uncles before him but now he was proud to say after three months of hard training to have earn the respect of the originals who fought on Makin Island and Guadalcanal.
Over there, over there,
Send the word, send the word over there
That the Yanks are coming,
The Yanks are coming,
The drums rum-tumming
Everywhere.
So prepare, say a prayer,
Send the word, send the word to beware.
We'll be over, we're coming over,
And we won't come back till it's over
Over there.
"Eyes right!" Red Mike himself barked. Jake snapped his head instinctively to the right, holding his M14 at present arms as they passed the dignitaries reviewing the parade. Meyer even saw President Kennedy chatting to Khrushchev as if they're old friends, not sworn enemies like during the infamous Cuban Missile Crisis almost six years prior.
Johnny, get your gun,
Get your gun, get your gun,
Johnny show the Hun
Who's a son of a gun?
Hoist the flag and let her fly,
Yankee Doodle do or die.
Pack your little kit,
Show your grit, do your bit.
Yankee to the ranks,
From the towns and the tanks.
Make your mother proud of you,
And the old Red, White, and Blue.
"Eyes front!" The command was followed instinctively by the Leathernecks and the Marines continued on their way to the ship. To think that it took less than a year from learning life existed beyond Earth to going to war against an Empire of Space Nazis. It still made Jake snort in amusement at the full-circle irony. And now with the fate of the planet on the line, the nations of Earth are literally throwing everything it has in an all or nothing preemptive strike against the Empire.
Over there, over there,
Send the word, send the word over there
That the Yanks are coming,
The Yanks are coming,
The drums rum-tumming
Everywhere.
So prepare, say a prayer,
Send the word, send the word to beware.
We'll be over, we're coming over,
And we won't come back till it's over
Over there.
Chapter 10: Operation: Mars Part 1- Blitzkrieg
Chapter Text
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior - Commander of the Unified Earth Coalition
"The War Room" - Senate Building, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:24:15 ATC/ October 24th, 1968 - 08:45/8:45 AM
'Ike and Mac are missing out.'The eighty-three year old legend thought as he, Rommel, and Zhukov talked strategy with their Republic counterparts.
"Gentlemen. We cannot simply just afford to launch an all-out assault on Dromund Kaas. It's suicide." Supreme Commander Malcom declared. "As much as I like to, the planet is heavily defended-perhaps even more than Coruscant itself- and the planet also has many hazards."
"And yet you outnumber them!" The Russian pointed out. "You are a damn coward!"
"You have not experienced wars like ours." Jace defended.
Patton ignored the argument and noted that Rommel was silent, deep in thought as he looks at the tactical holoprojector before him, showing the territories of the Republic and Empire. The Desert Fox eyes narrowed at a planet deep within Imperial-controlled territory, in the center of Sith Space.
"Perhaps there is another location we could strike at." The German spoke up with the argument coming to an abrupt halt.
"And that is?" Colonel Rian Darock of Republic Special Forces questioned.
"See this red planet here?"
"Korriban!?" Jace Malcom shouted in surprise.
This time Patton got involved. "Is that what the name of the planet is?" The American grinned as he walked up to the screen. The former commander of the Third Army during the Second World War stepped up next to the tactical genius and stare down at the surrounding area.
"Rommel! You magnificent bastard!" He laughed. "If we capture this planet, the Empire would be cut in two!"
"Enthusiastic as always, General. But not capture. This planet would be difficult to defend and would be nothing less than a drain on frugal resources." 'I would rather not repeat Tobruk.' The former commander of the Afrika Korps thought silently, never once betraying the expression.
"An armed raid, then? Bloody them and pull for a block?"
"Precisely."
"You just don't get it." Malcom sighed. "The Imperials are going to defend their territory stubbornly and the Sith especially will not have their sacred planet taken. It'll be a bloodbath."
"Sacred? That's even better and it'll show these religious cosmo-fascist suka how much we value Earth!" he emphasized the last insult with utter spite. "No offense intended Rommel."
"None taken."
"Still, regardless of how experienced you and your troops are..." Malcom was going to continue when Darock interrupted him.
"If I may sir, I believe the Earthlings are on the right path."
"Explain Colonel. This better be worth it or I'll make sure you be busted down all the way to Private for interrupting."
"Of course sir. Three weeks ago, I was forming a plan with the SIS to conduct an operation to gather intel from the planet's computer. Unfortunately, the operation requires at least a battalion to pull it off since a small team will have an eighty five percent chance of being captured."
The founder and former leader of Havoc Squad stared at the Colonel before nodding in approval. "Very well Darock. I'll give you all the resources you require and you are in command of the operation with the Earth Coalition assisting." Malcom said before adding. "But if this raid fails, I'll make sure that you are spending the rest of the war in a comfortable brig...Is that understood Colonel?"
Darock gulped. "Crystal sir."
"Very well. We'll strike Korriban and show the Empire what Earth is made of." Patton smirked in a warrior's fashion.
"Agreed." Malcom reluctantly conceded. "May the Force be with you."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:24:15 ATC/ October 24th, 1968 - 17:32/5:32 PM
'So this is what Uncle Jack and Uncle Steve went through.' Jake thought as he wiped away the blood on his Ka-Bar gained from the Imperial sentries he and one of the original Marine Raiders, Corporal Calvin Miller, dispatched a few hundred yards back. Jake was proud to be serving under these brave men and now, it was going to be a cakewalk when one was among this band of legendary United States Marines. After the three hours-long trip to the planet in an S.I.S. cloaked spaceship straight out of the 'Jetson's', Jake was glad that he is back on the ground, even if it was enemy soil.
The Mission?: Recon the area for a suitable landing zone for the invasion force with the other priority of causing some chaos on the Space Brits. In fact, the Second Raider Battalion were about to launch a major assault on a nearby Imperial barracks to gather intelligence for Patton before the Jarheads attired in distinctive M1942 'frogskin' camouflage uniforms compared to the prevalent usage of OG-107 olive drab sateen utilities and Mitchell pattern camouflage helmet covers in use throughout the rest of the Corps disappear into the night and by morning, Wild Weasels would hopefully demolish Anti-Aircraft batteries followed by paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division launching a massive attack on a power generator with the goal of knocking out the majority of the planetary defenses.
"Roebuck, signal the strike team."
Jake watched as Roebuck shot a red flare up into the air, and immediately in response, rockets from LAAWs began to explode around the base, destroying the communication array to prevent them from calling for help along with a few machinegun emplacements.
"We are go!"
The Devil Dogs began to charge forward with the Imperial garrison stunned to see foreign troops on the planet and were holding their fire for a few moments. A few moments were all the Earthlings required as O'Neill set the C4 charge on the panel and the Leathernecks took cover before it detonated, watching as the red polarized wall dissipated.
"MOVE! MOVE! MOVE! Roebuck! Right flank! You two! Take the left!"
"Don't leave so much as one of those bastards standing! Watch our flank! Don't let 'em surround us!"
Meyer witness Private Ryan taking point and the Kansan moved up to the next hut with the intention of lobbing a grenade into the structure in case the flamethrowers missed any occupants but before he could pull the pin, a flaming Imperial burst out of the barrack and attack him.
"Aaaaaargh!"
"Help Ryan!"
"GET HIM OFF ME!"
"Save him!" Roebuck added.
"More of them! Hold your positions!"
Before he was able to get a bead on the human torch, Jake saw that Calvin calmly took care of the Space Brit with a burst from his M1928A1 Thompson and in the Hoosier's mind he couldn't deny that the veterans, the old salts, were experienced in the area of raiding behind enemy lines but there was still a task for him as well. Meyer and the other Raiders firmly held their ground as some of the surviving Imperials that didn't fled proceeded to launch a counter-attack, yet their fates were sealed by the M60s, M79 Grenade Launchers, M9A1-7 Flamethrowers, M14s, Thompson Submachine Guns with drum magazines, and various shotguns ripping into the night.
"Arraghhhh!" One of the few unarmored Imps tried to strike Jake with the butt of his rifle. Meyer, on the other hand, had other ideas and he grabbed the barrel with his left hand before granting the Space Brit an uppercut. The Imperial dropped his rifle and lunged forward, but the Hoosier tripped him before unholstering his handgun and quickly fired three shots of .45 ACP into the soldier's head. While bloody and messy, Jake knew from experience dealing with Sappers back in 'Nam that it was effective.
"That shows the bastards not to mess with the Corps." Sullivan complimented. "Now let's finish securing the area!"
The door to the next barrack bursts open and an Imperial officer falls out. Lozano comes out and shoots the officer several times in the head with his M1911A1 and the officer falls over the railing.
"You like that, you piece of tea drinking shit!?"
Meyer snorted his head in amusement at the crude reference of the Boston Tea Party and he continued firing into the disorganized ranks. The Imperials were confused at the strange camouflaged men with slugthrowers and were wondering what to do, but most of the leadership were killed by snipers armed with either M40s or XM21s picking them off from a ridge three hundred yards away.
"Take out that MG!" Sullivan cried out.
"I can't get a clear shot!"
"Then shoot through the damn steel!"
"Get your damn hands off me!" Meyer heard one of the rookies called out. The Hoosier proceeded to aim his M14 at the black armored individual and gave him a five-shot burst of 7.62x51mm NATO, the bullets ripping into the plastic-like material, shredding it.
'I wonder why they even bother putting it on.' The farmboy wondered as he and his fellow Americans proceeded to leave the area to link up with their brothers in arms.
"Good work Marines! Keep it up! Support squad will be just up ahead... Let's move!"
One hour later...
"This place creeps me out." A random Leatherneck Jake doesn't know declared.
"The Imps are at home in this shit. Eyes peeled." Sullivan added.
"Shhhh!"Roebuck shushed, declaring everyone to be quiet as the Marines come upon a shrine of some sort.
To Jake, the architecture was of a hideous design with some sort of alien with tentacles protruding down its chin and the rock of the statue was like a reddish limestone. Meyer noticed a flame in a lamp at the feet and for some reason, Jake felt as if he stumbled upon some sort of site for cult worshippers.
"It looked like it was moved recently. What the hell is this?"
"Check it out..." Roebuck ordered.
The Marine who asked the question approached the statue warily, unsure if there was more to it than meets the eye.
"Looks like a temple or some shit..."
As he slowly and cautiously scoured arpund the statue, the Devil Dog's foot gets caught in a trap of some sort and was killed by the resulting explosion. Imperial Troopers emerge from behind rocks and charge at Jake and his fellow Marines.
"For the Empire!"
"SHIT! Damn it! They rigged it as a booby trap!"
"Hold your ground! HOLD YOUR GROUND!"
"Here they come!"
Jake proceeds to level his M14 yet again and unleashed a dose of American lead.
"Die you worthless goosestepers!" He yelled as the Imps got closer. Meyer decided to reload his rifle and pulled out a M26 'Lemon' grenade, throwing it at the feet of six charging Space Nazis. The results satisfied the Hoosier as the Imperials had their pathetic armor pierced by the shrapnel.
It was a slaughter and the Imps did not stood a chance and the Space Brits knew it. The United States Marines began to pick off those who began to retreat and the wounded were executed. As much as Jake hated to admit it, it was necessary since the Raiders have neither the time nor resources to guard any prisoners and they couldn't allow any of them to escape to warn about the imminent attack by a joint Republic/Earth force as well.
"Good job Marines. Now let's link up with the rest of the battalion."
It was a bloody night conducted by all four Raider Battalions and by 0600 the next day, bombs and parachutes were going to be landing on this worthless rock.
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior - Commander of the Unified Earth Coalition
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser: In orbit over Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 05:00/5:00 AM
Patton was like a kid in a candy store as he reads the after-action report from Edson and how his Raiders managed to cause just enough confusion for the enemy so the landing will not be impeded. There were also only ten wounded so far and after all the chaos and destruction the Devil Dogs have caused, the Marines had regrouped and they were now acting as pathfinders for stage two of Operation: Mars.
Getting up from the chair, the eighty-three year old warrior felt his age catching up to him. However, despite being his last war, it would be his glorious one yet.
"Is the intercom ready?"
"Yes sir!" The orderly responded.
Nodding, the war hero walked to the highly advanced communications device and conducted a fleet-wide transmission.
"Good morning."
Both Earthlings and Republic troops alike stopped what they were doing and listened to 'Old Blood and Guts'.
"I am honored to lead you all in a pivotal moment in the history of Earth. For three months, we've been training amongst our Republic allies for a war we Earthlings have never wanted…Earthlings. That word should have a new meaning today."
N.A.T.O., Warsaw Pact, the allies of the two organizations, and 'Neutral' troops from the planet of Earth took a quick glance at one another before facing the virtual image of the legend.
"Beginning today, we are not Americans, Communists, nor former Nazis, but Earthlings. We have now united in a common crusade against a common enemy yet again…Twenty seven years ago I led men-some of them your fathers and some of whom are standing here today-against the Axis powers. Now, fascism had come at us once again in the form of this 'Sith Empire'.
Cries of 'Boos!' and 'Screw the Sith!' was shouted, but it quickly died down as Patton continued.
"If either by fate or coincidence, I do not know, but I am sure of one thing…We will send a clear message to the pathetic Dark Council and show them why we will not bow without a fight! We will show the Imperial citizenry pictures of their dead soldiers with the anonymous scums worthless guts falling out protecting that insignificant rock of theirs! We shall defend our planet to the last plane, to the last tank, to the last bullet and the last man! FOR EARTH!
It was as if a tidal wave hit the Earthlings when they began to chant.
"Blood and Guts! Blood and Guts! Blood and Guts! Blood and Guts!"
Patton smiled at his boy's enthusiasm. "Good luck and God bless you all. Patton out."
Brigadier General Robin Olds- 366th Fighter Wing, United States Air Force
Skies above Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 06:00/6:00 AM
"This is Viper 1-1 to all squadrons. Report in."
Brigadier General Robin Olds. Triple Ace Pilot and highly dangerous with his flying abilities and now 'Old Blood and Guts' himself personally selected Olds to carry out this important assignment:
Seek out and destroy the Anti-Aircraft emplacements along with engaging and destroying any fighters that present themselves.
"Dogwood 2-3 all present and accounted for, sir."
"Whiskey Bravo 7-9 is lock and loaded."
"Archangel standing by."
"All pilots are cleared for takeoff."
"Understood control." Olds responded. "Keep your attention on the enemy craft men. They are not to be underestimated but our primary focus is to knock out those guns...I do not want any glory hounds today. You got that?"
Everyone understood what was at stake. Failure to take down the AA sights would lead to the paratroopers being greeted with laser fire and this task was suicidal for any aircraft-But they had been training for this moment and seventy-five percent of the pilots under Olds are experienced Wild Weasels who took down Surface to Air missile sites during Vietnam and this time their experienced nature would help them succeed in this crucial task.
Failure was not an option.
The F-4 Phantoms exited the Republic cruisers at a speed faster than any starfighter ever made up to that point, astonishing the Republic work crews as they took off.
And it would even be more surprising for the Imperial defenders to witness extraterrestrial craft on their territory-Their sacred planet of Korriban no less.
"Archangel 3-2, I have a battery in my sights." The pilot declared before dropping an AGM-65 Maverick. "Target one destroyed."
"Copy that Archangel. Engaging."
Imperial gun crews rushed to their turbolasers to shoot down the unrecognizable craft. They are going too fast for the guns to lock on.
"Kriffing hell! Are they a new type of Republic starfighter?" One Imp asked just before his position was bombed.
It was pure chaos as the Wild Weasels returned to the hangar bay with only a few losses here and there. But overall, the mission is a complete success.
But now came the first wave of starfighters responding to avenge the destruction and attempt to defend the holy world against all hazards.
"Get ready boys! The Empire has sent us a welcoming committee!"
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Skies above Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 08:00/8:00 AM
"Here we go again." The World War II and Korean War veteran muttered from his seat inside the C-130 transport.
"Something wrong, sir?" Sam asked Jake's father.
"It's nothing Sergeant." The man responded as the red light lit up and the paratroopers began to stand.
"Equipment check!" Meyer called out.
"Trooper one ready!" The Private behind him answered as each jumper check the man in front of him.
"All troopers are ready, sir!"
'This is it.' Paul grimly thought. 'The Wild Weasels and Jake, Stephen, and Jack better have done their jobs.'
The light turned green and as soon as the Jumpmaster shouted "Go! Go! Go!", the response was "Airborne!" as the parachutes fell.
Imperials were stunned to watch as primitive craft and parachutes were seen blocking the sky and as the gunners rushed to the batteries that weren't knock out and to send laser bolts to welcome the unknown attackers, the defenders found that the supposed functional ones had been sabotaged. Unbeknownst to the troopers, the Anti-Aircraft guns not damaged by the Wild Weasels had thermite placed on them by the Raiders and the Marines threw red smoke as soon as they saw the parachutes.
Other Imperials attempt to take potshots at their foe and they managed to score a few hits, but there were just too many.
General Arkos Rakton - Commander of the Korriban Garrison
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy" "
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 08:00/8:00 AM
"Sir!"
"What is it, Corporal?!" Rakton demanded. "Can you see that I'm busy trying to defend Korriban from the Pubs!?"
"But sir, there is an unknown force that is attacking the planet. General Zelton just reported sir!"
Rakton didn't show it, but he was taken aback at the news.
"Zelton? But he is on the other side of the planet!"
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 08:00/8:00 AM
Jake and the other Marines were taking advantage of the terrain to ambush any unfriendly forces that reach the drop zone. After digging his foxhole, Meyer had swapped his M14 temporarily for an MC-1952 Sniper Rifle-A modified Garand that was arguably a superior sniper variant of the M1 Rifle compared to the Army's M1C and M1D platforms; and it had a match grade barrel and sights hand-fitted by 2112 Rifle Team Equipment Repairmen at Quantico along with a 4x scope produced by Kollmorgen, a leather cheekpiece, not to mention an M1907 sling, making it a useful and effective tool to be paired with the high quality 173 grain M72 Match rounds.
The Hoosier watched as Imperials off in the distance ran around in confusion trying to figure out what to do as F-4 Phantoms and F-100 Super Sabres began to strafe their positions. Imperial fighters attempted to bring down the planes, but the American jets were simply too fast and were made for atmospheric dogfighting, unlike the starfighters. It also didn't help that the planes were being led by a veteran ace.
'Go get 'em flyboys.'
Brigadier General Robin Olds- 366th Fighter Wing, United States Air Force
Skies above Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 08:00/8:00 AM
The veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam grinned as yet again another fighter got into his sights and Olds unleashed another burst from his 20mm M61 Vulcan rotary cannon.
"Ha! You like that!" Rob laughed as he did a weave maneuver on a particular starfighter. However, this is where things got interesting.
The ace instantly recognized the approaching aircraft from intelligence briefings as a 'Fury-class interceptor', causing him to instinctively fire an AIM-9 Sidewinder at the enemy craft.
"Come on. Come on." The General prayed as he hopes that the air to air missile will hit the target but unfortunately the Fury sped out of the way and constantly weaved in shockingly impossible maneuvers.
"This is Viper 1-1. We need to take that fighter down."
"Copy 1-1. We will bring him down."
Thus, an entire squadron began their pursuit of a single fighter, but the Imperial did something unexpected.
"What the Fuck!?" 1-3 shouted as the Fury managed to hit him. "Arrghhh!"
"We just lost 1-3!"
"Cut the chatter!" Olds snapped. "1-2, 1-4, flank him! 1-5, 1-6! Get on top, I'm going directly at the bastard!"
The squadron obeyed and Robin watched as 1-2 and 1-4 got out of formation and began to use their guns against the target.
But the enemy had other ideas and turned to fire on the F-4s. One of the pilots managed to eject from his burning craft, but 1-4 was shot down in flames.
"Son of a Bitch!" Robin cursed. "1-5! 1-6! Break off pursuit! He's mine!"
"But sir! That's suicide!"
"I gave you an order 1-5!"
"Yes, sir."
'Let's see what you are made of.'
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 08:30/8:30 AM
"Listen up!" Roebuck shouted. "Our army brethren are beginning their phase and we have orders that we are assisting them. Lock and load!"
Jake made sure that his MC-1952 Sniper Rifle was ready for the ambush since the briefings about tactics of the Imperial military suggested that they would use overwhelming force to drive invaders off their soil. And since this planet was sacred to them, it almost a guarantee that they will follow through with their doctrine.
Meyer watched as some repulsortanks sped through the valley alongside infantry marching in a Napoleonic manner, making this the perfect trap.
"Light them up!" Sullivan shouted as they reach the landmine and claymore cocktail of death: M14s, M60s, M79s, and some mortars were fired at the enemy who was completely unaware that the valley was boobytrapped.
Jacob looked through the 4x power telescopic sight and saw the distinctive uniform of an Imperial officer. Dialing in the range and windage before lining up the crosshairs on the target's chest, the Leatherneck took a deep breath before exhaling and slowly squeezed the trigger rearward, unleashing a .30 caliber round and taking the officer's head clean off.
'Guess my wind call was slightly off but no matter, they are going to lose morale fast especially with me knowing the correct drift. Just wait when you face Chesty you worthless scum.'
"Good work Marines! Now fix bayonets and wait for them to come! They will not be greeting us with pie and lemonade, that's for certain."
'Bayonets?'
Every soldier and Marine dreaded the words 'Fix bayonets' as it meant that the enemy was within hand-to-hand melee distance and the fighting becomes a free for all. Even so, Meyer, without hestition, reached for the slightly obsolescent yet still useful 16-inch M1905 Bayonet and attached it to the lug of his rifle, thinking that the extra length might prove useful in engaging the so-called Sith instead of relying on the much shorter M5 blade for his Garand or even switching back to his M14 and affixing the M6 onto the rifle.
"Here they come!" Corporal Polonsky shouted as the Imperials and Sith charged recklessly head on at the Gyrene's position, hollering their war cry.
"Hold the line! And be sure to grant them an inch of American steel!"
At closer inspection by the expericened Devil Dogs who fought in the Pacific, Korea, Vietnam or even all three conflicts, the Imperials were even more idiotic than the American Marines initially thought.
"Ah shit." Roebuck cursed as he shouldered his rifle. "They might as well be screaming Banzai while they're at it."
"Remindin' you of anyone, Sarge?" Junior shot a smirk at him.
"Yeah." He whispered quietly. "Okinawa."
He had lost a good man that day. A reliable corporal. He wasn't going to let that happen again! Especially for Polonsky's sake!
The claymores managed to take down a good percentage of the first wave but they just kept coming. The Imperials were determined to recapture the position the Leathernecks are holding.
"Well shit, they want this hill badly."
"Shut it, Polonsky!"
Meyer continued to pick the Space Brits off one by one with his MC-1952 but something in the scope catches his eyes, almost like two red glowing las-
'Fuck!'Jake thought back to the United Nations incident and remembered the debriefing on the rival space monk organization. "Sarge! We got two Sith fast approaching!"
"The pathetic Space Magicians?" Sullivan questioned to which Jake nodded. "Take them out."
Meyer proceeded to take careful aim at the two crazed swordsmen and open fire, but there was a problem. Some of the Imperial troopers were sacrificing themselves by shielding them from the gunfire. Its as if they recognized that the Sith are valuable assets and unlike his fellow Marines, Jake was the only one to have previously encounter a Sith in action, inside the United Nations building of all places.
"Rraaghh!" One of the Sith screeched: It was an ugly alien creature with red skin and had tentacles below its chin. In fact, the alien reminded Jake of the stature the Raiders had encountered last night.
"SHIT!" A Marine yelled as he used his rifle to block the glowing sword, but it was cut in two and he was about to be cut down by the hideous...thing.
"FIRE AT WILL!"
Meyer unleashed all eight rounds from his MC-1952 and watched as two Raiders with a flamethrower ran up to finish off the attacker.
The other Sith in the meantime tried to attack Jake of all things and its a feminine humanoid with horns on her head - a Zabrak if Meyer remembers correctly. The Hoosier tripped the charging banshee and proceed to tackle her to the ground. Her laser sword has flown out of her hands as she tripped and Jacob watches as she attempted to drag it out of thin air. Quickly, the Devil Dog pulled out his Ka-Bar and stabbed the alien in the forehead, killing her instantly.
'It was either her or me.' Jake lamented. Taking a moment to catch his breath, the Indiana farmboy grasped his rifle and lunge the bayonet directly at the vital organs of an Imperial who confronted him, piercing the gray fatigues with ease.
"Come on you sorcerers and practitioners of this supposed darkside!" Jake shouted after kicking the mortally wounded foe to both forcibly remove the blade and use gravity to inflict more damage as well. "Stop trying to be cowardly by using voodoo and fight me like a man! I'm right here!"
One of the Sith heard the challenge from the Earthling and snarled, spanning around to make the Forceless freak of nature to know his place in the galaxy. "It's time to learn your place, pest."
Jake did not respond except for crunching down into the on-guard position and leapt forward to impale the threat, taking the Space Magician on. Meyer swung his bayonet against the lower abdomen but the lasersword sliced the M1905 in two, causing the Marine to have some second thoughts about his earlier idea and the Sith to laugh maliciously.
"Seems like you just lost your weapon."
"You forgot about the ammunition." The Hoosier grinned wittily before firing from the hip, the shot of .30-06 striking the shortsighted fool's dead center in the chest.
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 09:00/9:00 AM
"Attention all units! Be advised that the Raiders are suffering from a heavy counterattack. Command is ordering all units to reinforce the Marines before proceeding on to the power generator."
'Marines...No wonder my son enlisted in the Corps instead of the Army.' Paul snorted before barking his orders. "Listen up! You just heard command. We are reinforcing the Leathernecks and I want everyone to keep their eyes peeled. We are in uncharted territory."
The platoon nodded in the affirmative and rechecked their weapons to see if they were loaded. A lot of the men were anxious with some praying. It was truly a 'hurry up and wait' situation as the Jarheads on the ridge were distracting the Imperials and it was a distraction at that...The Space Brits were literally launching waves like the Reds did in Korea and the Devil Dogs responded in kind.
In fact, Paul watched as a squadron of F-105 Thunderchiefs unleashed napalm and then begin to strafe the fools with their 20mm cannons.
"Holy shit!"
"Quiet in the ranks!" Westbrook scolded.
"It's okay Sergeant. Let the boys enjoy the show." The Lieutenant smirked just as Colonel Adams pulled up in his jeep.
"Meyer! We're about to begin the assault! Stay behind the Sheridans men!"
The M551 Sheridan was a Light Tank capable of being airdropped and it packed a 152 mm Main Gun, nine MGM-51 Shillelagh missiles, a fifty cal Ma Duece, and a M73 Machinegun, while light on armor it still was a machine of war meant to support the paratroops.
'And to think that in my day only the Jeep could be pushed out of an airplane.' Meyer thought as his platoon and other units double-quicked to behind the armored vehicles. His men had their M6 Bayonets affixed to their M14s and waited for the order.
"Wait for it...Steady men...Steady." Captain Evans glanced down at his watched and waited for the opportunity to present itself. The Imperials were still being distracted by the Marines and they will not expect a hammer on their flanks.
"Charge!"
The tanks begin their engines and slowly crept up as they begin the first offensive of the Unified Earth Coalition forces with the Airborne Infantry following the mechanical monsters.
First Lieutenant Timothy "Oddball" Sutherland - Commander of modified beyond what regulations permit M551 Sheridan Tank Hellhound
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 09:05/9:05 AM
"You're ready boys!" Possibly the strangest man within the United States Army questioned. He looked exactly like a Hippie of the Counter Culture yet he fought with the Greatest Generation against Hitler and his thugs.
"We sure are, sir!" Private Rodriguez answered for the crew.
'Let's play some music.' The Veteran of the European theater smiled as he chose a record called 'Old 1812/ Welcome Back Here Again.'
The tank was slightly modified to have speakers to terrorized the opposition just like his old M4 Sherman. The patriotic tune of the drums and fifes were a sense of Patriotic pride for the crew of the Hellhound.
"Woof! Woof!" Oddball whooped as the tank blasted a few Imperials running from his M551 with the Fifty Cal.
"Look out!" One of the Imps cried just before the treads crushed a comrade of his. "Kriffing hell! Retreat!"
Panic and chaos spread throughout the Imperial ranks as the unfamiliar mechanical contraptions continued to press forward and gun down any Imperial in sight. A few of the Space Brits attempted to resist by firing anti-armor launchers and managed to score some hits, but the Paratroopers of the 'All American' 82nd picked off any stragglers.
Only seventeen tanks out of five hundred were knocked out so far as the Americans continued their charge into the Imperial's flank to support the Jarheads.
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 09:45/9:45 AM
"Keep moving!" Paul waved on as his platoon continued to take a careful aim with their M14s every few steps. The Paratroopers were determined to crush the enemy and grant the Space Brits an All-American black eye.
"This is too easy." Sam commented.
"I have a bad feeling about this, son." Meyer muttered as he fired another shot from his M14. All of a sudden, the Lieutenant watched as off in the distance, some robots begin to appear.
"What the F-" One of his inquired just as the robots opened up and killed the man instantly. The machines were firing at a rapid rate and Paul doesn't want to become a fish in a barrel.
"Take cover!" Meyer barked as a tank turned around and destroyed one of the robots before ramming into the other. "Dammit! Those robots are a priority. You hear!"
"Yes sir!" They responded and one of the men slung up his M14 before withdrawing an M72 LAAW.
The soldier knelt down as another one of the robots with spider-like legs approached the platoon...Corporal Besenti waited as the machine crept towards the platoon.
Whoosh!
The 66mm rocket impacted the robot on its side and the mechanical nightmare was no more.
"Excellent work Besenti!" Meyer smiled. "You are the platoon's designated robot killer."
"But sir, that was a lucky shot!"
Everyone chuckled at the soldier's expense.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 09:45/9:45 AM
"Will they just stop fucking banzaiing for just once!?" Roebuck complained as another wave of Imperials rush up the hill just like the Japanese and North Koreans and NVA have done.
"This doesn't make any logical sense at all! They should have outflanked us by now!" Sullivan added as Lance Corporal Thompson 'Tommy' Colin approached him.
"Sarge!? We got a situation!"
"What sort of situation, Colin?"
"These Sith are trying to wreak havoc on our right flank!"
"SHIT!" Sullivan muttered. "The bastards are getting smart and they are sacrificing their men so that the religious nutcases can shred our line. They're animals!"
Jake, on the other hand, continued to pick off Imperials one by one with his MC-1952. Willy Gaines was the other trained and experienced Marine Corps ex-sniper in the platoon, not to mention being one of the Old Salts who participated in the Raid on Makin Island, and Meyer admired the North Carolinian for his skill in shooting.
In fact, there was currently an unofficial contest between the two farmboys, Northerner and Southerner, who only by circumstance earned the Military Occupational Specialty of 8541 over other Expert-qualified Riflemen throughout the Corps.
"Ha! Got a Captain, you whippersnapper!" Gaines shouted.
"Oh please, I nailed a Sith earlier you rebel-flag waving redneck." Meyer countered. "Is it any wonder Indiana ranked second among the States in the percentage of men of military age who served in the Union Army during the Civil War?"
The North Carolinian scowled at the reminder of who lost the War Between the States but decided to resolve the matter later. "But that was next to a grunt and the bullet pierced the plastic before killing the Sith behind the Imp."
"That's right Willy. One shot, two kills."
The Hoosier chuckled at the look on Gaine's face before regaining his natural point of aim behind the 4x power scope. But what Meyer saw surprise him. 'What the hell?! Did that Sith converted to Buddhism or something?'
Unbeknownst to Jacob, the Sith was conducting a ritual known as 'battle meditation' and this Sith was hoping that the Force would be able to help turn the tide in the Empire's favor.
Unfortunately for him, the interlopers before him were Earthlings, not Pubs or any of the Galactic Republic's allies native to this universe, and the Earthlings also have a different biology compared to humans of 'The Galaxy': As in they didn't have midichlorians at all!
The Empire - and the Sith Order in particular- would learn the hard way just like the body count on the crest that was already stacked to the utmost limit courtesy of the United States Marine Corps.
Meyer waited patiently as he lined up the crosshairs, slowly exhaled, before squeezing the trigger. The loud 'crack' of the .30-06 round left the barrel at over two thousand feet per second and it hit the Sith in the forehead, splattering brain matter across the surrounding terrain.
'Gotcha.'
The Imperials immediately begin to lose morale as they noticed the heap of corpses of their comrades before them, causing them to slowly step backward before turning around and ran.
"That's right you Space Nazis! You just met the United States Marine Corps!" Polonsky cheered while other Marines in their foxholes continued taking potshots at the retreating foe and Meyer himself watched Lieutenant Minoso pulled two flags out of a pouch, specifically the Marine Corps banner and 'Old Glory' with fifty stars and thirteen stripes herself.
The battle might be over for now, but the war itself, the arrival of the nations from Earth to the ongoing conflict as a co-belligerant of the Republic's, has only just begun.
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
"Aww, bullshit. The Jarheads beat us to the punch!" O'Brien complained as he saw the two flags being raised in defiance at the Imperials. He could have sworn there are also a few camera flashes too and it would become another recruiting tool for the rival service branch.
"That's enough Private!" Westbrook snapped. "They did their jobs. Now, let's do ours."
"Attention all units! The Marines will be joining us in the assault against the power generator...Old Blood and Guts himself is wishing you all luck."
The paratroopers continued to press forward against the Imperials and the lunatics that waved red swords, but so far for the 82nd, there were no problems.
Casualties are under seven percent so far and the soldiers wanted to keep it that way. Three of the Raider Battalions were sent ahead to support the assault on the power generator with the Fourth Battalion remaining behind temporarily to collect prisoners and burn the bodies.
There was no time for digging graves and the Earthlings want to send another message to the Empire as well: Fuck with Earth and you'll regret it.
"This is General John L. Throckmorton to all units, engage and destroy that generator...The flyboys and Jarheads will be providing support."
The Soldiers and Marines continued to cautiously approach the generator with them occasionally being ambushed by Mark IIs War Droids and Sith, but unlike the Imperials, the Earthlings studied their enemy and practiced simulations provided to them by the Republic. These fascists are going to face the reality of modern tactics against Napoleonic style warfare.
That doesn't mean the Imperials weren't learning either as a group of Sith warriors charge at Paul's platoon head on.
"Here they come! Grenadiers! Fire at will!"
Per the Lieutenant orders, the grenadiers opened up with their M79s and the M60s back them up. It was a tactic designed to repulsed the stubborn magicians. If the grenades didn't get through, a burst of 7.62 NATO will since the Sith can only choose to deflect one object or another...The problem was that they were slugs and they don't deflect. Instead, they melt and the molten lead splashes on their faces and/or clothing, which is painful.
But unfortunately, Sith use pain to their advantage and feed off the Dark Side.
That didn't mean the Sith weren't immortal as they were cut down before they could wield their magic.
"They are stubborn bastards, aren't they sir?"
"They sure are Sam. They sure are."
Brigadier General Robin Olds - 366th Fighter Wing, United States Air Force
Skies above Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 10:00 /10:00 AM
"Come on you son of a bitch! I know you are there somewhere!" The American cursed as his quarry got away from him again.
For two hours already, the Fury-class Interceptor and the F-4 Phantom had been going back and forth with their flight skills.
As matter of fact, Robin just fired his last air to air missile moments ago and is now relying on his 20mm Vulcan rotary cannon. The veteran ace knew that he was running low on fuel, but this was a threat that needed to be taken down at all hazards.
Olds glanced over to his dash and stares at the picture of his spouse, Ella Raines.
'Ella? If I don't shoot him down in ten seconds, I want to let you know I love you.'
The pilot is determined to get that damn aircraft down even if he had to ram into the enemy bird and take it with him to Hell. But thankfully Olds noticed that his opponent made a mistake.
He was staring directly at the sun.
'Got you now.' Olds smiled as he pushed the button on the stick.
Brrrrpp!
The 20mm opened up and shredded the enemy plane apart like it was swiss cheese and even though the Brigadier General will admit that his target was a skilled pilot, the starfighter was made for space combat and had some disadvantages for atmospheric flight, not to mention having the speed similiar to the old P51 Mustangs during 'The War'.
Robin took off his face mask and smiled at his latest 'kill', not to mention wiping the sweat off his forehead with his hand.
"This is Viper 1-1. I'm on bingo fuel and returning to base, over?"
"Copy 1-1. We'll be sure to throw the red carpet out for you, sir."
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
"Objective Alpha" - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 11:30/11:30 AM
"Holy mother of God." Samual declared as he and the other subordinates of Meyer saw the size of the complex.
The compound, according to Republic intelligence, held the key bringing down the majority of the energy shields in this sector.
In order for phase two to be a success, the Paratroopers and Raiders need to capture it.
"Well, Sullivan, what do you think?" Paul asked the Marine.
"It sure is a wonder, but if we captured Okinawa and Shuri Castle, and you managed to cause havoc during D-Day, then we'll take it, sir."
"That's what I'm afraid of..." The trooper sighed as memories of Operation: Market Garden, a disaster came back to haunt him, but Paul was determined to take this structure and the Earthlings were experienced in conducting such a task.
"Attention all units...You may begin the attack. I say again, you may begin the assault."
Paul watched as his son Jacob, his brother-in-law Jack, and his sibling Stephen prepared their equipment along with their fellow Leathernecks. His platoon did the same with their weapons for the first attempt at taking the fortress. The veteran pause and stare at the whistle his father gave to him, an old German trench whistle from the First World War and Meyer glanced at each individual in the eyes. He knew that at least some of them - fathers, sons, brothers, cousins, uncles, and nephews - would be heading home to America in a pine box from the resulting bayonet charge.
Yet Paul knew what needed to be done and blew it anyway: Phheewwwt!
The attack was supported by an artillery barrage from 8-inch M110 Howitzers which constantly pounded the fortress as the structure was made to withstand a heavy assault from turbolasers, not solid shells and some of the defenders were being crushed by falling rubble as a result.
But it did not mean that only the Imperials were suffering as for every inch of ground the Americans take, they lost five men.
"Push forward! Push forward!" A random Colonel ordered and the men obeyed despite the carnage and intensity of the blaster fire.
"I take it back, sir." Sullivan admitted as he took cover next to Paul. "This is worse than Okinawa."
"What did you expect. They're more advanced than us. All we can do is fight smarter and harder."
Jake, meanwhile watched as a sniper crept around the ramparts. The armor is instantly recognizable as commando armor and from what the Hoosier can tell at a quick glance, it was feminine.
The sniper attempted to take aim, but Jake was slung up in a loop sling in the kneeling position, his hand set against a boulder with the rifle leaning against his palm, and the Marine took aim, peering through the rear aperture with the front post aligned with the target before firing at her with the 7.62x51mm NATO round striking the Imperial Commando on her right shoulder and the farmboy watched as she fell backwards from the inertia of getting nailed.
"Great shooting son."
"Thanks, Dad. I learned from the best afterall: You and the Corps."
"Don't push it." Paul reminded him. Normally the soldier didn't give a damn at interservice rivalries between the Army and Marine Corps, but sometimes even he has a limit. "Sullivan! Roebuck! Westbrook! Carter! We are going to hit the right flank! Does anyone have C-4?"
"I got some, sir." Miller grinned. "What do you have in mind?"
"We're going to blow that place apart."
Sergeant Sara Kelrein - Commando Unit 421 "Reaper Squad", Imperial Army
Moments before being shot...
Sara was shocked: Earthlings have arrived on Korriban itself and that was two hours after the Republic begin an offensive against the planet.
Earthlings.
The Commando instantly recognized them as they assaulted the fortification she and her comrades were defending.
'So these were the unknowns that are assisting the Pubs. Kriff! This is bad.'
Kelrein knew that the officers would ignore her advice on the current threat, not to mention how valuable the site was for the Empire and if this complex fell, then the shield would go down with the result of the attackers gaining an easier chance in conquering Korriban.
It further didn't help the Empire that the commander of the station and this sector, General Zelton, was already punished by a Lord of the Sith and that Sith was not tolerating any more failure, dropping morale rapidly instead of encouraging a stiff defense.
"Where are the snipers!? I wanted them outside minutes ago!" Lord Harkun shouted. "And those acolytes better be ready to die for the Empire."
"Yes my lord!" The Captain trembled in fear. "The snipers...Are getting prepped, my Lord."
"Pathetic." Harkun mocked. As he was about to lift the man by using the Force, Sara stepped forward.
"My Lord, I don't know where the others are, but-"
Harkun turned his attention on the redhead and decided to choke her instead. Sara wrapped her hands around her throat, wheezing, as the overseer corrected her.
"You are a disgrace to the Empire for not being out there fighting...Go out there and die or come back and I'll deal with you."
Harkun walked off afterward.
'Kriffing lowlife nerfherder.' Sara thought as she placed her helmet on her head. The long strands of her dark copper hair got in the way, but the Sergeant didn't care and made do as usual. She grabbed her X-15 off the rack and headed out to find a good perch to snipe from.
The Commando walked out the door and walked around the ramparts, before spotting a good hide. Sara also glanced at the overwhelming numbers before her as she lied down at her chosen spot, peering through the scope.
Who she saw surprised her.
'Jake?'
But before she can process the information, the Commando saw him aiming right at her.
Present...
"Ahh, kriff!" The Commando was feeling the intense pain of the primitive slug that ended up in her shoulder.
And it was from Jake of all things. The native of Dromund Kaas knew that it wasn't his fault-But damn she would still be angry at him for kriffing shooting her!
Helplessly, Kelrein watched as Imperials left and right was being gunned down faster than they were able to shoot back as the numbers overwhelm them and then off to the side, as if it was on cue, the redhead heard an explosion.
"Roebuck! Westbrook! Clear the left!"
Sara witnessed the 'Thompsons' and 'M14s' and 'Shotguns' tearing up her comrades into bloody shreds. The Imp couldn't do anything, but watch as the Earthlings captured the fortification from the Empire.
"Unhand me you primitive scum!" Harkun shouted as he was being marched off by bayonet point.
"Americans. We're Americans and we have kicked British ass twice already so a bunch of Pseudo-Brits is nothing." A familiar voice, a twang of the Lower North Midland dialect, corrected him.
The Sergeant teared up when she recognized it and managed to have the courage to speak up. "J-J-Jake?"
The Marine spanned around and gazed into her olive green eyes. "Sara?"
"You know this scum?"
"Shut it!?" Sam added as he struck Harkun with the butt of his rifle.
"I'm a Lord of the Sith!"
"The Hague and Geneva Conventions technically don't apply in the wider galaxy, so watch it, buddy."
"You're lower than dirt! You hear you Forceless freaks!?"
Jake ignored him and knelt down next to her, looking conflicted.
"Sara?" He repeated again, even though he knew it was her, Imperial accent or not. The Leatherneck just noticed the wound on her arm and proceeded to grab his medkit, but once the Marine opened it, he saw that the morphine was no good as apparently he had a near miss from a blaster shot.
"Umm...Do you have a medkit by any chance?"
"I got some bacta in a compartment, right leg."
Sure enough, Jake saw this strange blue liquid that was in a plastic package similar to IV fluid and she nodded. Meyer slathered thealiena goo onto her shoulder and saw her wince a little from the pain.
"You shot me by the way."
Meyer had to think back for a sec and put two and two together. "Oh..."
"Oh? You could have karking killed me, Jake!"
"How was I supposed to know!?" Jake defended, raising a point. "It's war, Sara. And that helmet of yours didn't help."
The duo stared at each other in a battle of wills, but the Imp finally conceded, weeping.
"Do you still love me?"
Jake shook his head before pulling out a black box and handed it to her. "I-I just don't know anymore... That was for you by the way."
Sara opened the box and saw a ring, causing her to glance up at Jake in shock before glimpsing at the diamond and back at him again.
"I was going to propose to you the very day after escorting the President to the United Nations. Guess you missed home."
"Jake?"
"Keep it... I rather know that it was worth it."
"Jake!?"
The Leatherneck look over his shoulder.
"Jake?" She continued to sob as her one and only begin to leave.
'Dammit!' Meyer was unsure what to do. On one hand, he still had feelings for her, but on the other hand, she didn't exactly tell him the complete truth.
"What is it...babe?" Jacob asked her awkwardly.
Sara told him something that stirred a fury inside him: "That Sith earlier...He...He choked me."
"He did what!"
Jake saw the marks that he missed earlier, as if a hand grabbed her by the throat and the Jarhead noticed some of her skin was still blue.
"Son of a bitch!" The Hoosier withdrew his M1911A1 and pulled out the magazine to check if it was loaded. It was and the Devil Dog wanted to hunt the worthless animal down. But Sara noticed what he was about to do. Damn, she always could tell if he was up to something by his body language since he came to known her - at least what he knew about her before the revelation - and perhaps that should have been his first indicator. Even with the conflicting thoughts, he still felt that this should not go unpunished.
"Jake? Please don't leave me."
"I'll be right back, Sara." He muttered. "I got some business to take care of." The American declared as he cocked the slide back.
Thirty minutes later...
"Come here you worthless piece of shit!" Jake shouted as he gave this 'Sith Overseer' an uppercut.
After having a talk with Lieutenant Meyer, this animal was going to be interrogated by the Americans for any information that would be useful for the next phase of Operation: Mars and then be disposed of. The former 'Lord of the Sith' is currently attached to a pole inside a tent and it was being guarded.
Normally this would violate U.S military regulations on the treatment of prisoners of war, but this was a special case and Jake's father was going to attempt to keep the heat off his back.
"You are so uncivilized you pathetic worm." Harkun sneered.
But Jake backhanded the POW. "Did I say you can talk!? You don't have permission to speak unless I say so...I. Make. The. Rules here Harkun. I know what you do to children of all things. Children!?"
"You don't even know what you are dealing with..."
'Mistake number three.' The Leatherneck thought as he stabbed him in the thigh with his Ka-Bar and shoved it down deep.
Harkun, however, despite feeling the pain, uses the Dark Side to control it. "You are making an error. I suggest you to stop right now and in return, I'll make sure that your death will be painless."
Jake shook his head as he slowly approached him. "Nahhh...I got a better offer in the form of John Moses Browning." The Leatherneck countered before shooting Harkun in the jugular with his .45.
"Die knowing that a 'primitive race of humans' showed the Empire what its made of, especially Americans from the United States of America on Earth."
"You're from Ear-"
The question didn't need to be asked as the dying man knew that the war just became even bloodier.
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior - Commander of the Unified Earth Coalition
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser: In orbit over Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:00/2:00 PM
'We lost an eighth of the 82nd Airborne.' Patton thought as he reads the latest reports from the front...The paratroopers, with assistance from the Raiders, managed to take out the power generator controlling the majority of the energy shields protecting this sector of Korriban. But the former commander of the Third Army wondered if the price was too high for taking down the key for success.
Regardless, it was time for Phase Three of Operation: Mars.
"Jefferson!? Get me a line to Chesty and Rommel!"
"On it sir!" His orderly saluted before turning on the holocommunicator.
"Chesty. Rommel. Phase Three is a go."
If the Imperials believe that the Raiders and Paratroopers were bad enough, then they have not seen two of the greatest tacticians of Earth in action. Korriban would not become merely Hell, but the Apocalypse itself when Phase Four by Zhukov was unleashed on the survivors, semding a loud and clear message that the Dark Council itself cannot ignore.
"My Marines and the Air Assault division will be on the desolate rock within the hour." The fearless Leatherneck who faced the Chinese hordes at Chosin smirked.
"The task force are currently making preparations for the pincer maneuver, sir."
"Excellent...And Rommel? Make sure that Rakton does not break through." Blood and Guts warned as he smacked his swagger stick on his wrist. "Recent Intelligence reports suggest that the Empire is sending their best strategist. Coincidently, he pulled off victories similar to yours in North Africa. Expect him to not play by the rules and be a space version of yourself."
"Understood Eagle Three. Fox and Bulldog out."
Chapter 11: Operation: Mars part 2-The Desert Fox versus Rakton
Chapter Text
General Lewis Burwell "Chesty" Puller- 24th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:30/2:30 PM
The surviving Imperials and Sith from the first initial assault retreated to a canyon two miles away from the former fortress and surrounding terrain that forces of the Coalition captured hours prior, but unbeknownst to them, it was all part of the Earthlings plan as the next phase of Operation: Mars began.
Some folks are born to wave the flag,
Ooh, they're red, white and blue.
And when the band plays 'Hail to the Chief',
Ooh, they point the cannon at you, Lord,
"What the Kriff? Music?" A random rookie conscript questioned as the remaining Space Fascists watched in horror as the infamous starfighters and unfamiliar, but still reckoned as malignant gunships arrived at the rally point. Panic began to set in through the ranks yet again as the foreigners started their latest assault against the Empire. The tactics used by the primitives were exceptional to anything the galaxy has ever observed and their slugthrowers pierce the Imperial armor like it was a thin sheet of paper.
"This is Bulldog to all aerial assets." Puller grinned."You are authorized to send any Imps straight back to Hell."
"Copy Bulldog...We're engaging."
It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no senator's son, son.
It ain't me, it ain't me; I ain't no fortunate one, no,
Yeah!
The attack Hueys and escorting jets unleashed their gifts from Earth. Even riflemen from the transports got involved as rockets, 20mm Chainguns, M134s, Mk-19s, M60s, and M14s spread destruction and chaos towards the helpless ranks.
Some folks are born silver spoon in hand,
Lord, don't they help themselves, oh.
But when the taxman comes to the door,
Lord, the house looks like a rummage sale, yes,
"Fall back! Fall back!" An Imperial Major ordered. Morale was already at a low point and now the bulk of the Imperial soldiery began to run for their lives despite what their superiors dictated. No threat was harsh enough to stop the flight.
"No retreat! Stay and fight cowards! Stay and fight!" A Sith next to the Major decreed as he gave the officer a blast of Force lightning, but it was no use. The remaining few loyalists amongst them were more afraid of their Sith overlords than the Earthlings, but they would die regretting their recent judgment.
It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no millionaire's son, no.
It ain't me, it ain't me; I ain't no fortunate one, no.
"Move! Move! Let's go get the bastards!" A Sergeant of the 173rd Air Assault Brigade shouted as he and his men lept off their transport.
Some folks inherit star spangled eyes,
Ooh, they send you down to war, Lord,
And when you ask them, "How much should we give?"
Ooh, they only answer More! More! More! Yoh,
"This is Puller." The Marine smiled as his helicopter passed over the Imperial lines. The Leatherneck saw a group of Sith and granted them the bird as the Huey flew over their heads. "Pursue and destroy those who remain...The others can leave intact to spread the word."
It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no military son, son.
It ain't me, it ain't me; I ain't no fortunate one, one.
It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no fortunate one, no no no,
It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no fortunate son, no no no,
The Imperials were demoralized as the Americans secured territory with the remaining Raiders and Paratroopers of the 82nd linking up with the 1st Marine Division, 173rd Air Assault Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, and the 1st Air Cav to hold the recently captured territory.
If it goes to plan, Rommel would nail Rakton as the Yanks were intentionally acting as tempting bait and if prior history of his actions proved itself the Empire's best strategist would unwittingly cause his demise.
Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Norman Hathcock II -United States Marine Corps- Leader of "Sureshot 2-1"
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:30/2:30 PM
"Sureshot 2-1, this is Bulldog...You are authorized to target any high-level threats, over?"
Sureshot 2-1 was a secret weapon Earth has against the Empire. This specially selected and experiment unit was entirely comprised of the world's deadliest snipers including Carlos Hathcock, Chuck Mawhinney, Ed Eaton, Vasily Zaytsev, and even the infamous White Death himself.
"Bulldog, this is 2-1 actual. Copy." The man who became dreaded in Hanoi due to his teademark white feather he wore in his boonie as a taunt then turned to his subordinates. "Eaton. Mawhinney. Häyhä. Zaytsev. We are ago."
"The Russian better not drink all the Volka." Simo smirked at Vasily.
"Nyet! " The Commie complained.
"But remember who killed your brethren during the Winter War, comrade."
"That's enough!" Eaton scolded the Finn and Russian. "We're in this together for Earth. The past is irrelevant. What matters right now is the future."
"Edward's right." Chuck butted in as he zeroed his M40. "If we fight amongst ourselves now, the Imps will overrun us."
"Let's just get going." Hathcock sighed and the others nodded before going down and begin to crawl. The deadliest snipers in history will add some additional fuel to the panic in the Imperial ranks...
Today was just not the Empire's day.
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:50/2:50 PM
"What do you think?" Carlos asked his subordinates as the snipers made an unexpected, yet welcomed discovery.
"I believe we found an Imperial command center, Gunny." Ed grinned as he zoomed in. "Think we should call in a artillery barrage?"
"Nah..." White Feather himself shrugged. "Where's the fun in that? Everyone, select a target please."
The sharpshooters picked their respective targets and lined up their sights...
In the next few seconds, the officer's lives will be cut short as the reapers fired their 'slugs'.
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:50/2:50 PM
"So what in the kriffing hell is going wrong!?"
"I don't know how these primitives managed to defeat the Empire's finest troops and rout them in disorder, but Rakton himself will be arriving shortly."
"The Rakton?"
"Oh please, we don't need him!"
"You're sure about that?"
Those were the last words of the war committee as 7.62 caliber slugs from M40s, an M21, an M28/76 and a Draganov hit them in the head.
The bodyguards watched in horror as their protectees were killed by the marksmen and they quickly took cover under one of the desks nearby.
"I don't know about you, but I believe Korriban just became even more Hellish than it already is...Sithspawn and K'lor Slugs be damned!"
"You don't say."
General Arkos Rakton- Commander of the Korriban Garrison
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 14:50/2:50 PM
"Pathetic! Absolutely pathetic!" Rakton roared as he encounters a few of the survivors from the onslaught. The Republic was one matter, but primitives!
"But sir, the outsiders have better tactics and we can't counteract them!"
"Because you are using by the book tactics you moron!" Rakton berated the Colonel who was recently promoted to General by were all fools and now Rakton would have to sort out the mes-no, not mess but a complete fiasco!
"At least tell me you gather up the survivors so I can talk to them General Xaton."
"They're ready and waiting for you.
"You did something right for a change." Arkos muttered.
"Sir?"
"Nothing." Rakton told him as he walked up to a boulder and stepped on top of it.
"You see that. Do you see that! Are you all insulted as I am? This is what they sent against us?" The men and women before him look at the General as if he was insane. "They sent this rabble to sack our sacred planet? We are the mightiest Empire the galaxy has ever seen, crushed the Republic and brought the cowards to their knees, yet meer primitives drove us back!? We have the best weapons, we are more advanced than them and yet these savages drove the best of the Imperial Army back!?"
But the leader wasn't insane. It was their own foolishness. It was their cowardness that prevented them from defending Korriban effectively and they were ashamed that the interlopers managed to make fools out of them.
Yet if there was any way to turn this disaster around, Rakton was the man and the subordinates knew it.
"Brothers and sisters of the Sith Empire, a legion of primitives armed with slugthrowers wheezes its way across the sand forgive me when the moment comes as we whine as the unstoppable horde comes. Forgive me when I order you to waste ammunition upon their worthless bodies. I have heard many souls speak my name in whispers since I've came to Korriban. I ask you now do you know me? Do you know me?"
"Yes sir!" They cried at the top of their lungs.
"I am General Arkos Rakton of the Imperial Army. Never again in your life will such action carry much consequences. Never again will you serve as you serve now. No duty will matter as much and no glory will taste as true. We are the defenders of Korriban. As of this day, we carve our legend to the flesh of every of every alien slave. Will you serve with me?"
"Yes sir!" Morale begins to edge back up since this wasn't just any General. It was Rakton.
"Sons and daughters of the transcendent Sith Empire our plot is a blood of heroes. The outsiders dare defile our planet and trample upon on the sacred soil of our homeworld. We will throw their bodies on these walls when the final day dawns. This is our planet. This is our world. Let them try to capture it in all of their fury."
The men and women of the Imperial Army stationed on Korriban desire vengeance and vengeance against the unknown trespassers especially.
"Run you primitive scum! Come to me! Come to us all! Come and die! For the Imperial Army! For the Sith! For the Empire! FOR KORRIBAN!"
"FOR KORRIBAN!"
Colonel Harold Gregory " Hal" Moore, Junior -1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), United States Army
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 16:00/4:00 PM
Colonel Moore continued to fire his M1911A1 as the Imperials began their counterattack against. It even felt like Ia Drang all over again for Hal and his men, but if the Battalion had managed to hold off three North Vietnamese Army divisions, the Space Brits could unleash the apocalypse itself and the Americans would still not withdraw.
"Broken arrow! I repeat! Broken Arrow!"
Planes off on patrol from A1D Skyraiders to F-4 Phantoms and B-52s to AC-47 Spookies heard the call for assistance and responded.
Moore watched the awesome sight as the planes unleashed hell and destruction on the approaching enemy. The Empire has lost air dominance and so far, not even a single Extinction-class bomber has been spotted.
"This is Wolfpack, we're engaging the enemy."
"Hawk 3-4 is targeting at coordinates confirmed."
"Wolverine squadron is running and gunning."
The Imperial assault was being crushed by the continuous artillery bombardment and aerial attacks. Even the lowly claymore mines and American riflemen were holding back their progress.
Now it was Moore's turn as Imperial infantry crept up to his position and the Colonel decided to take a page out of U.S history in order to conserve ammunition.
"Don't fire until you see the white of their eyes!"
The men nodded as this was simply their Bunker Hill, but unlike the Revolutionary war, the Colonialists were well equipped to deal with the Empire.
"Glory for the Empire!" A space fascist colonel shouted as he led his battalion straight on to the defensive positions...There were even a few droids and what's left of the Sith-many of them acolytes-against the meddlers.
"OPEN FIRE!"
Moore hated to order his men to shoot at children, but the American knew by now that these kids were being specifically brainwashed on this dustbowl and groomed to be part of the selective cult only because they happen to be capable of utilizing voodoo. They were also currently a threat and the army officer will be sure to ignore the adults when they take prisoners.
M60s, M14s, M79s, and Remington 870s tore through the ranks alongside the occasional 60mm and 81mm mortars. Since the Imps wanted to charge and retake this worthless desert, the Americans will show them the price as Uncle Sam's firepower rang down on the attackers.
And it wasn't even the first wave.
The Imperials attempted to outflank the Yanks earlier, but elements of the First Marine Division and 173rd Air Assault Brigade drove them was, as Chesty mentioned, a repeat of Chosin, except for this time the Americans were not retreating.
Instead they were intentionally being bait for part two of phase three: The Empire would soon see the might of the cunning Desert Fox himself.
General Lewis Burwell "Chesty" Puller- 24th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 16:15/4:15 PM
"Tell Moore to hold the line at all costs! We are sending a company of Raiders from the First Battalion to reinforce to reinforce him."
"Yes, sir!" The orderly saluted, before the holoprojector nearby in the captured Imperial command center beeped and the Marine saw a familiar, yet infamous figure out of intelligence debriefings.
"Greetings. I am General Arkos Rakton of the Imperial Army-"
But Chesty interrupted the Imp. "I know who you are Ratface. I am Chesty Puller of the United States Marine Corps and I am telling you to back off while you still can."
"Are you done? Because I believe that surren-"
"If you are offering surrender terms, then I suggest you fuck off and go kiss your ugly whore of a piglet mother goodbye."
"Very well 'Chesty'." Arkos sneered. "You'll regret making an enemy out of the Empire."
"Just like you will of the United States of America, and Planet Earth, you pompous, fascist son of a bitch."
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel- Commander of NATO Taskforce Invictus
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:25:15 ATC/ October 25th, 1968 - 17:00/5:00 PM
"Fox! I don't know how long I can hold on here! The Imps are pushing against my forces harder than the Chinese at Chosin!"
"I completely understand Bulldog." The Desert Fox himself decided that the time to strike was now since Rakton was on the offensive. "We're moving out now."
The Marine shook his head at his fellow legend. "Of course you are. I can always count on German punctuality." Puller joked just before he ended the holotransmission.
"This is Fox? Are all units ready?"
"Yes sir!" A Yank shouted. "My boys are locked and loaded."
"Desert Rat 2-4 is ready for a repeat of North Africa, general."
"This is Tankmörder 1-0. " The German tank ace Michael Wittman declared. "My shells are prepared to destroy the enemy armor."
"Excellent! Let's show Rakton what we're made of."The German grinned anxiously for the challenge. "Kanonier! Laden Sie eine Shell! Panzerbrechend!"
"Jawohl! Rüstungs-Piercing ist geladen!"
Rommel smiled at the efficiency of his crew, not to mention that the Leopard 1 is one of the best tanks from Earth. The NATO taskforce has Pattons, M103 heavy tanks, Chieftans, Leopards, and more.
"We got incoming! Imperial walkers! Right flank!"
"Gunner! Target the closest walker at fifteen degrees elevation! Shift gun right and fire!"
"Firing!" The gunner pulled the trigger and unleashed a 105mm shell from the Leopard. The AP shell pierced the head of the walker easily since it was designed for blasters, not to mention knocking out two walkers beside it. Erwin also saw a few of tanks ram into the legs of the walkers and knocked them over before the armored vehicles ran over the 'head' and crush the tin cans.
'Good thinking. Better save the munitions for Rakton.'
The task force was surprised that this 'Space Fox' hadn't counter their movements as of yet since Rakton has his flank exposed, but the earthlings will soon discover that the tactician was a match to the Desert Fox himself.
It's becoming a bloody game of cat and mouse.
General Arkos Rakton - Commander of the Korriban Garrison
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
"Sir! We're being outflanked by more of the primitives!"
Rakton's day went from barely tolerable to something
"Dammit!"Arkos just realized why this 'Chesty' hadn't launched a counterattack yet.
"Sir?"
"I fell for a kriffing trap!?" He cried in rage before facing the recently demoted General. "You better not let this Chesty get through Colonel Xanton..." Arkos warned. "I'll deal with the flankers personally."
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel- Commander of NATO Taskforce Invictus
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
Rommel wondered why the walkers were retreating from him despite the limited skirmish, almost as if they were weary and knew who they were fighting against but it still didn't make any logical sense.
'If I was...' It instantly clicked for the Desert Fox. "All units! Be advised that we're about to be outflanked!"
Sure enough additional walkers appeared on the immediate left of the NATO forces line.
'Let see here.' Rommel thought back to his time as an instructor in Austria. 'If I wanted to counteract flankers, terrain is a possibility.' Erwin knows what needs to be done. "Bravo company! Proceed to engage the Hühner! Everyone else, push forward to the canyon forty meters in front of us...We'll regroup on the other side!"
It was risky, yet the Desert Fox knows that Rakton himself wouldn't expect such a move.
General Arkos Rakton - Commander of the Korriban Garrison
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
'Hmm...I didn't expect that this leader would take his men through that canyon.' Rakton thought. He was learning, albeit slowly that this leader was unique. It was almost as if Arkos had a twin brother...
The Imperial listened to the reports from his walkers about what this primitive was planning.
"This is Rakton. Send in a few crawlers. We'll see how bold this aggressor really is."
"Sir?"
"Do what I command. We are dealing with a threat."
"But sir, wouldn't it be wise to have an ambush waiting for them?"
"That's not a bad idea actually." Normally Rakton would remind the lower ranks of what place in the pecking order they are at, but today was something else and the General wouldn't turn down any suggestions. Even if he was only a Sergeant. "What do you have in mind?"
"Well, sir I figured that if the primitives went through the canyon, they'll have to come out eventually. We could have some walkers flush them out if you will."
"Yes, but wouldn't they be smarter and expect to see the crawlers blocking their path?"
"What if the crawlers weren't just waiting for them?"
Rakton was dumbfounded for a moment before grinning.
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel - Commander of NATO Taskforce Invictus
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
'Something's wrong.' Rommel thought as he and his subordinates exited the canyon. They were being followed by Walkers constantly the entire route and the Desert Fox thought that he was going to be blocked at the exited...But Rommel has a feeling that Rakton was going to pull off something similar to what he would have done.
In fact, the German noticed a dust storm approaching his Taskforce from the north, east, and west. There are Walkers of course, but also Crawlers.
Erwin knows that he at least has an advantage in range.
"All gunners! Target the Crawlers! 2nd Marine Battalion, proceed to engage the enemy at their sides!"
The United States Marine Corps has a special surprise for these Crawlers...Unlike the average Main Battle Tanks armed with 90mm main guns, the M103s are Heavy tanks with a 105mm rifled cannon. And add to the fact that armor vehicles are typically weaker at the sides and rear, the results will be devastating with the Armor Piercing Incendiaries.
Rommel can hear the Americans tank crews barking orders and firing the 105s. The results were just as intelligence predicted. The Crawlers can withstand the standard 90mm, but not the One oh Fives or even the 120mm of the Chieftains and the Leopards 105.
'Make that a 155mm and I'll be happy.'
General Arkos Rakton- Commander of the Korriban Garrison
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
'This leader is more creative than I thought... Interesting.'
Arkos watched as for some reason the unknown, yet primitive vehicles begin to withdraw from the field...It appeared that his tactics were working against the interlopers who chose the wrong planet to attack.
"This is Rakton to all assets...Push forward and crush the opposition. Glory to the Empire!"
"Glory to the Empire!"
The Imperial Crawlers led the spearhead this time and Rakton had use his walkers to flush the earthlings out...The tactic seems to work perfectly the last time and it'll work again.
But then a surprise struck Arkos and his men. The Earthlings had unloaded their Mechanized Infantry units on top of nearby canyons overlooking the battleground and they were using rocket launchers such as M72 LAAWs, M20A1 Superbazookas, M40, M67, and Ordnance, RCL, 3.45 in Recoilless Rifles, and PzF 44 Panzerfausts.
"Ambush!" One of the Imperial walker crewmembers cried out but it was too late to do anything about as the General saw these armored beasts ran around his walkers and crawlers.
But Rakton wasn't going down without a fight. The man led his personal walker forward against the enemy and went amok, destroying a few tanks from Earth with the laser cannons.
'Sometimes when you want to do things right. You got to do it yourself.' Arkos deemed as simply his subordinates weren't up to the task.
Agent Theron Shan - Strategic Information Service
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
"It seems like our allies are doing a surprisingly better job than we are." Darock pointed out as an updated tactical holomap shows the current positions of the earthlings and the Imperials attempting to counteract them. "This Rommel especially is making Rakton himself run for his credits."
"Rommel?" Shan questioned. His curiosity was triggered when he heard that Rakton is being outwitted by a primitive. The thought humored him.
"Erwin Rommel. He's a famous Earth general who has earned his reputation in history. I'll send you a file with the details but enough about history and let's focus on the present. These Earthlings managed to accomplish more in two days than what our forces would have accomplished in a week."
The Colonel shows Theron footage of the American's assault on the fortress. "They managed to capture this fortress in less than six hours. Absolutely amazing."
The intelligence agent was stunned but he didn't show it. "Their tactics are some wonder."
"You can say that again." Darock crossed his arms. "These Earthlings are definitely more advanced military wise and I believe the Dark Council will get the news..."
"Indeed. I think Earth will send the Imps a clear message." Shan grinned.
Oberstleutnant (Lieutenant Colonel) Michael Wittmann - Panzerbataillon 203, Panzerbrigade 21, 3. Panzerdivision, I Corps, Deutsches Heer, Bundeswehr
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
"Fox...This is Wittmann." The highly lethal 'tank ace' spoked into his radio as the lone enemy vehicle wrecked havoc against a squad of M48 Pattons.
"Go ahead, Wittmann." The Desert Fox instantly replied, aware of the Oberstleutnant accomplishments during the Zweiter Weltkrieg.
"I believe I can take down that rogue Walker, sir."
"Permission granted. Fröhliches Jagen! Für Deutschland!"
"Jawohl. Für Deutschland!" The tanker smiled and begin his engine on the Leopard I tank, loading a 105mm armor piercing incendiary shell and proceeded to chase down the Imp.
General Arkos Rakton - Commander of the Korriban Garrison
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
Rakton didn't see this coming. He has never thought in his life that he'll be outsmarted by a foe that was as great as him. Even that damn commander of Havoc Squad was nothing compared to this great leader. Arkos escaped his burning walker that was destroyed by that reckless vehicle and pulled out his blaster pistol...He was going to go down fighting even if the mechanical monsters were driving off his forces.
'No! It can't end like this! It can't! The Empire was made a mockery by savages and I'll not allow this to happen again!'
But it has...
Rakton saw a vehicle approach him and a crewer sticking his head out of the hatch and he was a excellent target. The opportunity was too good to pass up and attempted to take him, but the tactician saw the smoke out of his opponent's pistol
"So...This is how it ends." Arkos laughed. "A pathetic slugt..."
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel - Commander of NATO Taskforce Invictus
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
'Dieses wertlose, erbärmliche Schwein!' Rommel thought as that man in desperation attempted to assassinate him, but the Desert Fox was faster and utilized his old Luger against the Space Brit.
'Wait a minute... Is that Rakton?' The German ordered his tanks to halt and some men to confirm identification.
"General?" An Austrailian accented voice spoke up. "You got the bloke! It's Rakton!"
Korriban - Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
Rakton... he couldn't believe it. He couldn't. Out of a million men looking to kill him, it had been his opposite number. The feared General Rakton. He wasn't quite sure what to feel in that moment. A moment of cold and pity, perhaps?
Rakton did not deserve this. He was a general. He shouldn't have died like this...
'But wouldn't have I have done the same?' Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox, the man who had defied Hitler and lived, thought very morbidly to himself. 'Didn't I try to do the same? I should have died in Africa with the Korps, but... I live. I lived despite the Spitfire, despite Valkyrie... despite it all. And yet he is not. He died with his men. That should be enough.'
He was about to holster the Luger he had carried since the Mount Cosna when Rakton stirred.
"Shiester!" a grenadier cursed as he raised his G3, "The man is still alive! General, I-"
"Stop!" Rommel ordered with a bellow.
"General, he is-"
"I said... stop." he ordered again, his voice growing softer with every word. Raxton stirred again, his hand clutching the entry wound around his stomach. He didn't have long, and Rommel knew this. But he couldn't bring himself to do what should've been natural. Natural? Was it natural to be an executioner? To be like Adolf, like Heinrich? To kill a man like this? No, he couldn't do it.
Rakton rose very painfully to his feet. When Rommel saw he still had his sidearm, he shifted his stance. Sideways, one foot forward, his Luger ready to rise if needed. But Rakton didn't draw. Not yet. He just looked at him.
"So you are the fellow who drove away my men?"
"That's correct."
Rakton didn't say anything else after that, and Rommel just stared at him. In those wearied, cold eyes, he saw himself in Africa again. The heat boring down on him, the dehydration parching him... and yet the worst was the cold realization of what had happened. He had been so close to the Suez he could smell the ocean. He had been so flushed with victory, from Tobruk and on. And when he saw the enemy at El Alamein, he hadn't thought much of it.
He had only seen the prize ahead. And for this... for this, the British had taught him the greatest lesson of his life. Everything he had-his commission, his command, his men, his tanks, his legend, all of it-could be taken with one single unfortunate moment. That moment had come. It had ruined him. But he had the chance to walk away, and to be the better man he was today.
Rakton was never going to get that chance.
"This isn't the end, you know?" he said suddenly, his hand moving to his stomach again, "This victory you've claimed? It won't be the end of it all."
"I know," Rommel replied, "I know what comes next. I lived through it twice, both from the position that you stand now, sir. I... do not envy you."
Rakton looked at him with those mirror expressioned eyes of his, and nodded.
"It won't be the end of the Empire," he continued, taking a step forward and almost stumbling, but he caught himself, "the Empire will go on. The Republic... you Earthlings? It's just going to go on, and on. Nothing will change of this. Nothing."
"I disagree, sir," Rommel replied rather distantly, "I thought the Reich was going to last a thousand years. It only lasted twelve... and because of the actions of my countrymen, my nation was split in two, and we were left to pick up the pieces. To be... better men."
"The galaxy is different than your world, Earthling," Rakton replied soberly, "this... this will be the staple of things to come."
"Yes... but it will end one day. All of it."
"Do you truly believe this?"
"I do. I know it."
"Are you willing to die for it?"
"I am."
With this, Rakton, the feared General of the Empire, nodded with a finality. And he started to raise his sidearm with a lethargic slowness.
"Stop!" Rommel held out his hand, but Rakton wasn't listening. The sidearm was half way up, its point at his boot, "Stop!" he cried again, but Rakton was now at his leg, "Für die Liebe Gottes, stop!"
Rakton was coming for his chest, but his movement was too slow. Rommel draw out of instinct, he didn't even feel the depression or recoil! It just... happened. Rakton was on the floor, and his Luger smelled of powder. He felt frozen, his eyes wide.
"Why didn't you stop?" Rommel asked with the shock of the living. The wind blew past them, its chilling obliviousness to the personal tragedy something of a heartless hilarity. But all he could was shake his head. He holstered his Luger, and marched to the body.
He was dead. He was dead. His eyes looked up to the skies and beyond... and Rommel hoped there would be a place for him there.
"Why didn't you stop?" he repeated, his voice muted and deflated.
"Heerführer?" a trooper asked behind him.
"Get a stretcher," Rommel ordered rather quietly, "I'm not leaving him here."
"Sir... he's our enemy."
"He deserves better than that, Unteroffizier. He deserves the honor of a soldier. That much I will give him."
And with this, the order was carried out and Rommel watched as his body disappeared in the back of an APC. The feeling of cold washed over him again, and in that moment, Rommel understood.
"That could've been me."
"Heerführer?"
"Nothing. Get me back to the front."
Chapter 12: Operation: Mars part 3-Red Dawn
Chapter Text
The remaining Imperial defenders were exhausted after fighting the primitive interlopers all day previously...Unbeknownst to the soldiers and force users of the Sith Empire, the Soviet Union had something special in mind for the Space fascists. The Warsaw Pact will unleash terror the likes that have never before been seen by the galaxy.
With the approval of the United Nations, and with the assurances that no civilians would be harmed nor will there be any raping and pillaging from Khrushchev, Earth would send one final message to the Dark Council itself cannot ignore.
Marshal of the Soviet Union Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov - Commander in Chief of Warsaw Pact and Communist Forces
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser: In orbit over Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 05:00/5:00 AM
"Now the final stage of Operation: Mars will commence and the Empire will learn that Earth is not as primeval as first thought. Perhaps we'll show the Space Fascists the price of threatening Mother Russia herself. Of course, there will be no rapes and indiscriminate killings of civilians even though both the KGB and GRU says that there are no civilians on that wasteland. The soldiers, however, are a different story and as already planned, we'll not be taking any prisoners...So I urge that your forces wrap up with conveying detainees before my troops ravage the planet. They thirst for fascist blood after all."
Patton didn't exactly trust Zhukov, but neither did the Soviet, yet there was a mutual respect between the American and the Communist. They both fought against the Third Reich in the Second World War and circumstances brought them together again against another fascist faction known as the 'Sith Empire'.
"Very well Zhukov..." Bandito sighed, knowing that officially there was nothing he could do about it short of resigning his position in protest yet the hypocrisies of the United Nations might cause a Soviet General to be placed in command of the entire UEC afterwards. 'Sending a message my ass. The Politburo in Moscow just want insurance for war crimes as if this was the Eastern Front all over again.' "I pity the poor bastards that the wizards regard as expendable, but do what must be done."
"Understood Eagle Three." Bear smiled as he got up from the chair. "Red Dawn is a go."
Private Aleksandr Sokolov - Second Platoon, A Company, 4th Battalion, 257th Motorized Infantry Regiment, Soviet Army
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 07:30/ 7:30 AM
"Welcome to Korriban. You are about to begin the greatest moment of your life. The Empire has lost hundreds of tanks and planes. The Sith's brutalized hordes are now advancing towards us over mountains of their own dead bodies. Our Bolshevik Party, our nation, our great country, has given us the task not to let the enemy reach the Soviet Union. Forward against the enemy!"
Artillery was shooting at the Hind, but it was ineffective since the purpose-built AA batteries were taken down earlier by the Americans.
"Up into the unremitting battle, comrades, for our great country! Not one step back!"
"Cowards and traitors will be shot!"Commissar Durasov warned the soldiers of the punishment for failure. "Do not count days, do not count miles, count only the number of Fascists you have killed! Kill the Sith - this is your mother's prayer. Kill the Sith - this is the cry of your Russian soil. Do not waver! Do not let up! Kill! Death to the Sith!"
"Death to the Sith!" The troops all shouted in exhilaration as the thought of gaining glory for the Motherland ran through their heads.
"Let's move! Go, go! FOR THE MOTHERLAND!"
Sokolov hopped off the hind as quick as possible and noticed how his brave Comrades of the Third Shock Army pushed forward with their BMPs, T-55s, T-62s, T-64s, and Motorized Infantry unleashed hell on the Imps.
"Remember comrades! Show no mercy!" Durasov reminded as he popped an Imperial in the head.
"URA!"
Second Platoon pushed forward with their AK-47s, bayonets affixed and fired at the retreating Imperials, some of them riding on repulsortanks with a majority fleeing on foot, but either way they did not get far.
"There will be no escape!" Dusolov pointed out. "Kerensky!? Fire the RPG!"
"My pleasure comrade Commissar." The Rocketeer grinned before firing the rocket, striking the broadside of the furthest repulsortank and the vehicle begin to burn, with the survivors hopping out with those that did escaped the inferno were cut down by RPK fire from a squad of Soviet Airborne Infantry.
"Very good my friend!" The political officer laughed."That'll show the Imperials that they may run, but we'll still hunt them down like the dogs they are."
Private Dimitri Petrenko - Third Platoon, C Company, 4th Battalion, Third Shock Army, Soviet Army
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 07:30/ 7:30 AM
"Brave comrades of the mighty, all-powerful, experienced Third Shock Army. Today we lay waste to the Imperial line! Push forward to the ridge!"
"Dimitri, ready the flamethrower."
Dimitri grinned at his old friend Viktar as he unleashed a burst of flames from the T-64 tank designated as Hero of Stalingrad.
"Good. Now, take a closer look at those rats on the horizon! They will be the first to burn this day!"
The Russian tanks aim down their sights at the Imperials in the distance. The Space Nazis were panicking, but the PKM machine guns and flamethrowers alongside treads stopped them dead in their tracks. The infantry following the tanks cut down any survivors that remained behind and it was just one of many massacres that occurred courtesy of the Eastern Bloc.
Petrenko even witnessed KGB troops lining up Imperials against a wall from a destroyed emplacement and unleashed a burst from their PPSH-41s at their prisoners.
"First artillery piece...southwest! Fire the flamethrower and incinerate them!"
The Soviet Tank Platoon alongside their compatriots continued on their campaign of spreading terror and destruction throughout the Imperial lines.
Even the Sith weren't immune and despite them hurling rocks and flipping over the armored vehicles by lifting up the dirt, the Soviets had endless waves and there were just too many. Soviet reinforcements were even airdropped behind enemy lines and assaulted the defenders from the rear, causing even more panic for an already beaten foe.
"Ha! The first of many Space Fascists, my friend! These Space Brits are more even miserable than Hitler goons!"
"I couldn't agree any more Reznov."
The T-64s continue to move forward to crush the Pseudo-Nazi lines: They would tremble in fear at the might of the glorious Soviet Union!
"These idiots had met the might of Mother Russia herself!"Dmitri laughed as he ran over an Imperial scout.
"Bring down those towers!" Reznov shouted and the Russian tabk crews did as they were asked, obliterating the towers to dust with the main guns. "Ha ha! Dasvidaniya Fascist dogs! Excellent work, Dimitri!"
"Why thank you Viktar." Dimitri grinned before the Commissar's voice spoke on the radio.
"Attention, comrades! Push forward and obliterate the Fascist radio tower!"
"Onward! Follow the road to the northwest!"
The platoon of T64s did as they were ordered and headed northwest to disrupt the Imperials communications. If they wanted help, they will have to use smoke signals instead.
The driver drove the Hero of Stalingrad to where Reznov ordered.
"Good work, Dimitri, there will be no cry for reinforcements! Enough talk. We must rejoin our comrades and push forward to the ridge!"
The armored beasts continued to shoot at, burn, and crush anything in their path, causing morale to drop to an entirely new low for the remaining defenders, not to mention the fear that was spreading as the interlopers were executing those who remained behind during the retreat.
They were not taking any prisoners at all and these humans did not have Basic as their primary language, yet they still manage to speak the Galactic Standard as needed.
"You may run, but you cannot hide! The spirit of the Red Army cannot be broken." A chilling announcer declared. "There will be no mercy shown to Fascists! URA!"
"By the Force!" Yosh watched in horror at his post as a superior made a final holomessage.
"This is Colonel Sazto..." The officer was stuttering out of fear."I'm all who remains of the 31st Battalion...Continue to retreat!"
The young Corporal watched as Sazto pulled out his blaster to fire back at the outsider, but they used a flame projector and cooked him alive.
"Arrggghhhh!'
The Corporal was prepared to die for the cause of the Empire and he came to a decision to hopefully turn the tide.
'I know I'm going to be torn to shreds by the K'lor Slugs, but I think the situation is desperate.'
The conscript prayed to the Force as he lowered the shields as he knew that the animals were hungry and the first victim was going to himself.
The K'lor Slugs devoured the conscript before hearing sound of gunfire, the smell of flesh attracted the starving horrors to their next meal.
The Red Army would not expect the horror that has been unleashed.
"This is fun!" Dimitri laughed."Even during the Great Patriotic War, I haven't had as much enjoyment in killing fascists as today!"
"I share your opinion, my old friend." Reznov chuckled.
"Attention Comrades! Be advised that the facists unleashed a horror! The beasts cannot and will not stop the progress of the great Third Shock Army!"
"Beasts?... I mean this desolate rock already is worthless as it is, but what can be so bad?" A tanker from the Revolution of 1917 scoffed.
"Comrade!" The Commissar scolded. "Do as you are told! Be on the lookout or I'll have you shot!"
"Why yes Comrade Commissar!"
Dimitri ignored the conversation and continued on with his duty...All of a sudden, a tank was being lifted off the ground.
"Der'mo!" Reznov cursed.
"Comrades! Engage and squish the centipede!"
Petrenko and his comrades at once fired at the worm.
"I regret my words Comrade Commissar!"
"That is good Comrade. Very good. From now on, do as you are told!"
"At once-Arrrghhh!" The sounds of a men being ripped apart were heard throughout the unit, sending shockwaves and admittedly: something catches Viktar's eyes.
"DIMITRI! USE THE FLAMETHROWER! BURN THE PESTS!"
Petrenko saw multiple, yet smaller worms bearing down upon on the platoon and they already demolish one of the tanks.
"Comrades! Fire at will!"
The Soviets unleashed their machineguns, flamethrowers, and shredder rounds from the main guns. The Reds unleashed hell on the insects and managed to drive them off...
"Excellent work Comrades! Make sure that you keep a lookout from now on!"
"There, we will prepare for the final push to the ridge."
The tanks continued to press forward and they came across an Imperial rally point.
The Commissar spoke once more. "The ridge is within our grasp! As our planes rain death from above, crush their final positions!"
Red Army planes bomb the base. The detachment wiped out Imperial soldiers and moves to the other end of the base.
"Comrades!" The Commissar's voice shouted in appreciation of the excellent work. "A great victory is ours! On to Dromund Kaas! Ura!"
Dimitri and his comrades anxiously waited for the time to strike the Imperials once more. The tankers were dismounted and impressed to assist the infantry with the latest assault against the survivors...Few Imperials remained and as a result, Petrenko was now handed an AK and ordered to fight man to man...It was the time to hunt down the elusive rats and finish them off one by one until no one remained!
"On your feet!"
"On the Sith's sacred planet... a barrage of Katyushka rockets will tear the tombs to pieces. With your bullets... with your bayonets... with your bare hands... do the same to their wretched soldiers!"The Commissar declared.
The group of Red Army soldiers crouched behind a trench as a barrage of rockets hits a building in front of them.
"Charge!"Reznov ordered.
"URA!"
"Keep moving! Keep moving!"
"Move up with the tanks!"
"Use them for cover!"Reznov advised as Imperials attempted to destroy the T-55s. It was no use and they were only delaying the inevitable as death approached them with every step that the communists took.
"The rats are everywhere!" The Sergeant complained with disgust. "Clear every building! More! On the upper floor!"
A Russian kicked open the door to an Imperial barrack that nearby. Dimitri was the third one in and saw fifteen of the enemy cowering in fear, pleading for their lives as Petrenko comrades rushed in.
"Kriff!" One the Imperial cursed before pleading. "By the Force we surrender! Mercy! Mercy!"
"There will be no mercy to Fascists!" The Commissar roared. "Execution is what they deserve!"
Four of the Space Brits attempted to raise their blaster rifles in defense but they were gunned down by the Reds who already were aiming at them, others used the opportunity to escape, but not for long.
"They are running!" Chernov pointed out.
"Of course, Chernov! But they have nowhere to go! Wipe them out! All of them!"
Some Red Army tanks are destroyed by some Imperials that unleashed an ambush with their rocket launchers.
"Our tanks are being torn apart!" Reznov cried.
"Comrade Reznov? Take a squad and annihilate the trash."
Viktor nodded. "Dimitri!? Chernov!? With me!"
"They have set up defenses in the building!" Chernov pointed out.
"MG! Stay in cover! Rocket! Dimitri, find a better position upstairs in the building!"
Petrenko threw a fragmentation grenade upstairs, listening to the clanging and hopeful that the toss was in a good killzone.
"Kriff! GRENADE!" One of the Imps shouted, but the fragments exploded, spreading the dangerous shards around the area.
"Finish them! Destroy every last position!"
Dimitri and his comrades sprayed lead onto the Fascists who were wounded or unscathed from the detonation,
While the Imperials fought valiantly, it was no use against the Soviet horde. Brutal street to street and hand to hand fighting broke out, yet the Space Brits were just delaying the inevitable.One of the T-64s fired an AP round into the building next door and created an opening. Soviet infantry began to swarm the structure and began to clear it room by room.
The Commissar urged his men forward "Move forward, Comrades!
"This way!" Reznov shouted. "Into the building!"
"Upstairs!"
"Sergeant!" Chernov cried. "There are survivors!"
"These animals desired to rape and maraude their way through the motherland without mercy just like the Nazis! They deserve no mercy in return!"
The soldiers exit the building and come across a group of Red Army soldiers forcing unarmed Imperial soldiers outside.
"Move, you pigs!" A Russian Lieutenant ordered.
"Face us, you cowards!"
"No! Please, don't!" A raven-haired female Imp shrieked in horror and there was a blonde Imperial technician beside her. In fact, it was a detachment of Imperial engineers, not infantrymen. Nevertheless, if caught with the uniform or armor of the Sith Empire: They die.
"Please, PLEASE!"
The Red Army soldiers proceed to execute the Imperial soldiers, but one miraculously survived the summarily execution.
"By the Force! I beg you!"
A Red Army Soldier takes out a Tokarev TT-33 and shoots the lone Imperial in the head while outside a Red Army tank also begins moving towards a wall to batter it down.
"How are we to move forward?"
"Ha!" Viktar laughed. "Brute force, Chernov, brute force!"
The tank crashes through the wall, destroying it and allowing entry.
"Keep pushing..." The Commissar barked. "MOVE!"
"Rocket fire! From the northwest!"
"Deal with it!" Reznov barked. "The foolish rats will perish!"
However, a T-55 already took care of the problem with it's main gun.
"Comrades! Look at the sight, behold this glorious view!" Reznov exclaimed. "Our tanks are now advancing!"
The soldiers leave through a hole in the wall made from demolition charges, rejoining an armada of Red Army tanks and soldiers to pacify the region entirely of the few survivors without remorse, continuing to spread terror and destruction on Korriban.
"We should spread the word..." Commissar Markhov muttered, fumbling for a megaphone to have his voice amplified.
"Citizens of Korriban! A ring of steel surrounds your rotten planet! We will crush all who still dare to resist the will of the Red Army! Abandon your posts! Abandon your homes! Abandon all hope! URA!"
Darth Avarice / Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - The Empire's Wrath
En route to the Sol System
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
Nathrrya was stood on the bridge of the Accuser, next to her was Admiral Maxus Piett, the last time she'd seen the man he had been a captain. As she looked out the main viewport Nathrrya could see the rest of the fleet, two hundred and fifty ships all told. The equivalent of a sector fleet carrying a sector army. They were all at sublight as Earth was so far out it required numerous jumps and time for the hyperdrives to cool between them.
Not for the first time, the Wrath of the Empire wondered at the Dark Council's decision to invade a world that was no threat to the Empire. Nathrrya frowned, Earth had no military or strategic value and resources other than manpower. Yet, the Sith wondered if the existence of a race of humans that were not connected to the Force had contributed to their decision to invade the world.
Or, as she thought about it, perhaps there were in fact resources that could be exploited against the Jedi, materials that were completely immune to telekinesis, impregnable from any effects of the Force itself, and the implications were now frighteningly becoming apparent.
Even with the sudden realization that everything from blasters and armor to hulls built completely of metal native to the Sol System would make the Empire unstoppable to not only the Republic but especially the Jedi, Nat wondered if negotiating trade would have negated the need of an invasion entirely, yet the diplomatic fiasco with the revelation of espionage forced the Empire's hands.
It now made sense as to why the Council decided to invade: It was a decapitation strike before the Republic could convince the inhabitants to join them and thereby also prevent the enemy from purchasing and using the unique elements against the Sith Empire.
But had the Council considered ambitious Moffs attempting to topple them?
'And those Banthas better realize the threat of their fighters.' Nathrrya thought. 'Constrained by a planet's atmosphere they may be but they can run rings around our own fighters.' That had been obvious to her as the flight of F-4 Phantoms that had escorted her Fury in was near their stalling speed just keeping up with her much slower vessel.
"My Lord! We have a distress call!" The coms officer shouted. "By the Force, it's Korriban!"
"Put it through!" Admiral Piett snapped.
"Lord Avarice! It's Tremel! We're being overrun by an unknown ally of the Republic! They-Arrgh!"
"URA!" A group of the primitives all their fired slugthrowers at the overseer, yet Tremel got back up and threw his lightsaber, taking out the squad.
"Tremel behind you!" Nathrrya yelled a desperate warming as another one of the unknowns crept up behind the Overseer and used his entrenching tool to behead the Sith. Tremel head fell down then the outsider picked up his head and shouted in broken Basic to everyone in the room.
"Workers of the World Unite! For Earth!" The transmission ended.
Nathrrya's eyes went from blue to red in an instant as her hands balled into fists. She committed the earthling's appearance to memory as she was going to hunt the man down and behead him like he had Tremel. The Overseer had been a good teacher, ally, and friend and his death would not go unpunished.
"Admiral, have the fleet head for Korriban, maximum velocity!"
"My Lord?" Piett sounded confused.
Nathrrya spun to face the man her eyes still bright red "We cannot allow Korriban to fall! If the Dark Council want Earth so badly let them invade it themselves!"
The Admiral snapped off a salute, acknowledging the command without second thought. "Understood my lord!"
Minutes later the fleet turned and began to wink out of existence as it jumped to light speed. Earth would never know how close to invasion it had come for Darth Avarice's fleet had only been one jump away from entering the Sol System.
Commissar Viktor Durasov- Second Platoon, A Company, 4th Battalion, 257th Motorized Infantry Regiment, Soviet Army
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
Commissar Durasov watched as his men pressed on into a cavern since there was a Sith who escaped the Soviet soldiers during the initial engagement.
"Keep on pressing forward comrades!" Viktor encouraged. "This will be one less magician scum we'll have to worry about."
"But comrade Commissar? Wouldn't it have been wise to bring flamethrowers?"
Durasov pulled back the slide to his Makarov and aimed it at the disobedient's forehead. "Flame is valuable comrade, unlike you. Keep moving."
The conscript gulped and nodded his head in affirmative before waving his fellow men on. Each man pointed their AK-47s up and down searching for the elusive sorcerer. Sokolov and Durasov split up into a pair while the rest of the platoon broke into fireteams to cover more ground and the rest continued on their way.
But they didn't have to wait long as the distinct accent that sounded similar to the damn prosperous capitalist scum of the British Isles speaking into a device.
"Lord Avarice! It's Tremel! We're being overrun by an unknown ally of the Republic!"
"Over there!" One of the Reds shouted as he opens fire with his Kalashnikov. Soon even the rest of the fireteam joined in.
"They-Arrgh!"
"URA!" Some of the fireteams reunited and became a squad as they unleashed bursts of 7.62 X 39mm.
The wizard, in a final act of defiance, threw his laser sword at the detachment and Durasov watched in a mixture of fascination and horror as the Sith cut down his men left and right.
"What are you doing comrade!?"
"Killing Sith!" The Private replied as he put his entrenching tool into his hands.
Durasov allowed him to have his death wish and prepared to escape, but the Commissar saw Sokolov crept up to the Sith as he unleashed by Lenin's corpse bolts of lightning from his fingertips before throwing his lightsaber once more. That was when his subordinate struck.
"Tremel behind you!" A woman called out.
However, it was too late as the shovel swung against his throat, decapitating the Sith instantly and Aleksander picks up the detached head.
"Ura! Ura! Ura!" Chanted the survivors. It was a great day for the Motherland.
"Workers of the World Unite! For Earth!"
Khomo Fett - Head of Mandalorian Clan Fett
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 11:00/11:00 AM
"Charge your blasters, vode! We got a good hunt today!"
The Mandalorians of Clan Fett shouted in excitement as they land on Korriban to assist their Imperial allies against a new and unknown foe.
"Oya!"
Khomo himself was looking forward to facing the unknowns in combat since they conquered a region of Korriban in two days whereas the Republic is still fighting defenders on the other side of the planet and it'll be a week at the very least before the Pubs can overwhelm the Imps on the other side of the planet. "Been too long since I've had some good challenge." Khomo Fett was a man of combat and battle, the veteran Mandalorian Clan Chieftain hearing this new potential foe was something he couldn't pass up on.
"Incoming!" The pilot shouts as he noticed primitive slugs targeting the landing zone. The Mandalorian Q-Carriers took immediate action to dodge the incoming artillery fire.
But the unknowns also have strange starfighters unleashing sorties and rockets began to be unleashed on the Mandalorians attempting to land.
And the starfighters were the fastest Khomo has ever witnessed. As matter of fact, the Clan leader wished to get his hands on one.
The MIGs unleashed their missiles and began to harass the gunships, but the armor for the Q-ships was thick and the missiles wouldn't penetrate the Soviet pilots next targeted the cockpit and managed to pierce a vulnerable joint in the transport with the twenty-three millimeter cannons, literally thread close in shredding the canopy and killing the pilot but before the Reds were able to exploit the weak spot, two of the MIGs were shot down and the rest scattered.
"Now that's what I call a fight!" Khomo laughed. "These unknowns are a challenge alright! And smart too!"
The Q-Ships split off and headed for a nearby canyon to take cover and drop off it complements. From there, five hundred of the finest warriors from Clan Fett would link up with the remaining Imperial forces and turn the tide against the outsiders.
The Soviet artillery can't hit the canyon due to the elevation of the guns not being able to be lowered to hit the area, so now the Commies would attempt to do what they do best:
Burn them out.
"Get ready Vode! They're not messing around and you should not hold back!"
Khomo was incensed at what he witnessed as the unknowns committing atrocities on the already defeated Imperials, yet the leader of Clan Fett was also in awe of their adversary: The interlopers managed to overrun the defenders in not a month. Not a week. But two days! And Khomo was anticipating the challenge that lied ahead.
Only about five thousand seven hundred and six Imperials soldiers remained along with some droids, but most of the heavy equipment was left behind during the truly was a last stand. However, fifty of the finest warriors of Clan Fett were ready.
The mechanical beast commenced their assault as the cannons and starfighters pounded away at where Khomo and his warriors were at amongst the survivors. Some of the Imperials and even four Mandalorians were torn to shreds by an artillery shell that hit their position.
Khomo made a note to be sure to have his warriors be granted a funeral according to Mandalorian tradition after the impending battle.
Sergeant Sara Kelrein - Commando Unit 421 "Reaper Squad", Imperial Army
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 11:15/11:15 AM
"Steady men. Steady."
Sara was one of the few remaining defenders and the Dromund Kaas native escaped from Republic custody the day before after the Americans transferred her and other prisoners to their Commando didn't desire to be held captive but now she wondered if it might have been wiser to become a prisoner of war for the duration instead.
'These Soviets are no joke.' The Sergeant realized that the history books she read on Earth weren't exaggerating in the slightest about the Red Army ability to cause terror during their rampage throughout the Eastern Front of World War II. The redhead was afraid that she wasn't going to survive her encounter with the Communist horde as the numbers were just too overwhelming. They have at least six divisions facing them and Kelrein believed even Clan Fett was only delaying the inevitable and the Mandalorians would join the defenders in their annihilation; morale was lower than its ever been within the Imperial ranks and they were trapped, surrounded to be besieged and slaughtered like Banthas.
Sara was ready to give her life for the Empire, but even she didn't think that this was how her life would be cut short all courtesy of a bunch of supposed 'primitives' that in actuality knew the meaning of war.
Sergeant Viktar Reznov- Third Platoon, C Company, 4th Battalion, Third Shock Army, Soviet Army
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 11:15/11:15 AM
"Attention comrades of Mother Russia!" The voice of Great Comrade Zhukov rang throughout the radios of the Warsaw Pact forces rampaging through the canyons and valleys of the worthless planet of the enemy. "We are pressing the advantage and the Imperial rats are retreating in a disorderly manner...They may run, but they cannot hide from the Red Army...Remember Comrades. We are not taking any prisoners. Shoot them. Burn them. Stab them. It doesn't matter...Make them suffer. Make them pay. Show the Fascist scum that the might of the Soviet Union will not be vanquished! Show them that the will of Communism cannot be subdued! Show them the price of attempting to invade Earth! For Mother Russia! For Earth! URA!"
"Ha-ha-ha! You hear that my friends?! That is the sign of victory!"
"I couldn't disagree with you comrade." Private Serensky smirked just before he noticed an Imp lying down in a ditch.
"Please! I surrender! Mercy! Mercy!" The man pleaded, but mercy was not granted and Serensky fired a burst of 7.62X39mm into his leg.
"Arrgghhh!"
"Finish him off!" Reznov ordered.
"At once comrade Sergeant." The conscript smiled before tossing a grenade. The group of Russians saw the Imperial's brains being scattered.
"Now that's what I call a mess!"
Laughter spread throughout the ranks as the Red Wave continued spreading carnage and terror around Korriban.
"KANDOSII'LA!" Khomo cried out as he twists the neck of a Soviet soldier like a trig, smiling at the sound of the bones cracking from his crushgaunts, before throwing the body at another soldier, knocking him right into the ground before Khomo finishes him off with his Mandalorian Heavy Pistol.
'I haven't had this much fun since the last war!' He was covered in blood, armor with astonishing severe dents left by the slugthrowers wielded by the enemy, his face bruised due to being forced to remove his helmet because of the damage.
"URA!" A Soviet soldier cries out as he opens fires at the Clan Leader with his AK. Khomo grunted in pain as he felt the armor barely stopping the few bullets that struck and he noticed the power of the kinetic force that hit his breastplate, almost as if these were railguns specifically designed to penetrate Beskar or close to it. It wasn't common to be hit by a slugthrower nowadays in The Galaxy, but the Mandalorian knew that despite their primitiveness, a slug was still dangerous to deal with, uniquely powerful or not.
He fired his blaster pistol in response, striking right into the forehead but the Mandalorian knew that he and his Clan were facing overwhelming odds. Out of fifty of his finest warrior, Khomo had lost a quarter of them already, but the leader was determined to fight the new foe despite it all.
For every member of Clan Fett the Soviets killed, ten of them were killed, or in worst cases, two squads and some of their vehicles were slaughtered and destroyed by the elite warriors. Khomo wasn't going to make it easy for them, but the leader was starting to have some regrets since he realized that fifty fighters were not enough. "Blasted damn Imperials!" They were supposed to be their back up as was planned.
But the Soviets wrecked that part. Khomo and his Clan has only brought in personal weaponry and armor and some heavy weaponry, their jetpacks allowed them to conduct air raids but even the mobility of the jetpacks proved easy for the Soviets to shoot down with their dedicated anti-aircraft guns, forcing the Mandalorians to fight purely on the ground.
Khomo grunted as he finishes slicing the throat open of what he assumed was a commanding officer judging from the uniform, he didn't flinch or turn away as blood splattered on his armor and face. 'We're not gonna be able to hold this position long.' The Soviets had far more soldiers to spare and their heavy weaponry didn't help either, penetrating what previously was considered to be resilient with ease!
They were also no pushovers, far from it. The ruthlessness, the hatred, the sheer brutality, but most of all their determination, even with all the soldiers him and his Clan continued to kill, they didn't stop or surrendered.
No, the stubbornness was something he hadn't seen since the last war. They just kept pushing and pushing, stepping over the bodies of their dead comrades and charged into face of death.
He admired them for it but despised their weaponry to dent or even render the personal armor of the clansmen useless entirely.
"Alright you aruetiise!" Khomo stared down at his opponents. "I'll show you the meaning of combat!"
The Mandalorian charged the nearest interloper and tackled him before crushing his head like a melon. Another one of the unknowns rushed at Khomo as he got up, but Khomo withdrew his knife and threw it at his head, killing him. A Soviet fireteam aimed their rifles at the berserker, but he spun around and utilized a flamethrower on them, they screamed as they were roasted alive.
Next, a Russian with an RPG fired at Khomo, one of the few handheld weapons that frighteningly managed to pierce beskar'gam but it barely missed him by his head, and the Mandalorian aimed his blaster pistol at the conscript, killing him with a shot to the head.
A few T-55s came up to engage him, but Khomo was prepared as he loaded a rocket into the RPG-7 as Khomo's jetpack was damaged earlier by the flak cannons which annihilated four of his Vode and as a result, the Mandalorian had to use a different missile to engage the beasts.
More tanks along with a few BMPs and infantry approach where Khomo was was surrounded, but not quite outgunned. The warrior aimed his acquired rocket launcher once more at the nearest tank before picking up an RPD.
"As much as I hate to admit it, I can respect these weapons!" The Mandalorian declared with mixed feelings as he spread rounds into the Soviet ranks from cover, his warriors coming from behind to join in his assault.
The tanks and BMPs attempted to shoot his position but the main guns didn't have the elevation to lower them and the crews were forced to use their secondary weapons. A Soviet threw a grenade nearby and Khomo kicked it out of the way.
"Is anyone there else out there?" Khomo asked as he blasts away with his new weapon, a slugthrower he took off from one of the dead Soviets, already taking a begrudging respect to its capabilities.
"Khomo?" He heard a feminine voice cough in his comlink, it sounded bad. "This is Uela Fett, we slew many of them as we could. But they finally pushed us back, me and Han are the only ones who survived. We're attempting to regroup at Tor's position!"
"I'm still here!" Ka'uke Fett shouted. "I'm just being surrounded by the unknowns!" Khomo heard blaster fire before the Togorian Ruus'alor (Sergeant) spoke again. "Dammit! We just lost Kank to a sniper, his head blown clean off even though he was wearing his helmet! We need to pull out and cover the retreat!"
Khomo didn't want to give up. The Mandalorian beliefs were the same as the Neo-Crusaders who came before him and they didn't give up either, yet the leader knew Ka'uke was outsiders taught Khomo a lesson.
He had bit more than he could chew and in addition the small numbers, mournfully not even beskar'gam could help them.
"To anyone still alive." Khomo began, lamenting the defeat, but he knows that the decision has to be made. "We are... withdrawing...The Empire can clean up this mess of theirs while we rebuild...Cover the retreat then we're leaving."
"Understood vod."
Darth Avarice / Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - The Empire's Wrath
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"My Lord, we're exiting hyperspace and should be in orbit over Korriban shortly." Piett announced.
Soon enough the swirl of hyperspace was replaced by real space and Korriban in the distance. Nathrrya snarled seeing the small fleet of Republic ships, fifty strong if the sensor readouts were accurate. She had five times that number.
"Admiral, flank and destroy the Republic fleet, try and prevent their escape." Nathrrya ordered coldly, she wasn't naive enough to think she'd be able to kill every Republic ship.
"Yes my lord!" Piett replied as he began issuing orders to the rest of the Imperial fleet.
Agent Theron Shan - Republic Strategic Information Service
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser: In orbit over Korriban - Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
"We've got company and a lot of trouble!" the SIS agent yelled seeing the sudden appearance of the Imperial fleet on the tactical display "A whole sector fleets worth of trouble!"
"Where did the Imps get that much firepower to send here so quickly?" Colonel Darok asked. He'd been expecting retaliation from the Imperials but not on this scale nor so soon.
"Don't know but if we stay here we'll be pinned down and destroyed." Shan replied. "We've already lost some of the outer escorts."
Rommel looked out the viewport at the advancing Imperial fleet "I would be less worried about where this fleet has come from and more by where it had been going." Turning to Zhukov he asked. "Didn't you say that some of your men killed a Sith who had been making a distress call?"
"Yes... you think this is the result?" the Russian responded.
"I do." The German confirmed.
"The news just keeps getting better." Theron spoke up. "I've identified the Imperial flagship, it's the Accuser." He brought up a holo image of the ship which at first glance looked like any other Harrower-class dreadnought but there were differences that made her one of a kind. "Normally she's parked in orbit around Axxila and doesn't move as much as a millimeter. There's only one person who'd be capable of getting the Accuser as their flagship. Darth Avarice, the Empire's Wrath."
Darth Avarice / Nathrrya Therin- Palatine - The Empire's Wrath.
"Well done, Admiral, forty-five Republic ships mission killed or destroyed with the rest fled." She was happy with the almost total destruction of the Republic fleet, they'd lost some ships as well but most of those could be salvaged.
"Thank you, my lord." Piett replied "I've also made preparations to land troops to reinforce the remaining garrison, although the majority are now dead."
"My Lord, we're holding the - Nat?"
"Go on Sara." Nathrrya was still irritated that Earthlings were on the sacred world of Korriban and it bugged her that her warning was somehow spanned into raiding the holy world.
'I tried to do the right thing and then, of course, Saresh had to convince Earth to join the war through her manipulation.'
"Right...Well, these damn stubborn nerf herders are determined to wipe out all of us, Nat..." The Commando unholstered her blaster pistol and shot it at a few Russians. "Kriff!" The redhead turned back to face the Wrath. "There's only five hundred of us left... They are not taking prisoners at all and they just killed the last of the acolytes that were fighting with us! No Sith remains and I'm just about the only Commando left here...Everyone else is from rear echelon units and they are not used to fighting on the front."
'When I get down there, I'll show them a thing or two!'
"Don't worry Sara, we're on our way. Do you think you can hold them off til then?"
"I don't know. Even Clan Fett is being wiped out by the Red Army."
"Why doesn't anyone listen to me?" She muttered.
"My Lord?"
"Nothing Sergeant."
Taliya Fett - Clan Fett
Taliya was getting more and more annoyed by these stubborn fighters by the soldiers were dishonorable brutes who execute wounded Imperials and shoot those running in the back.
The Mandalorians do not mercy kill their adversaries unless the situation dictates it, yet these brutes rampaged through Korriban and shooting anyone wearing the emblem of the Empire, nevermind the unexpected effectiveness of their armaments against Beskar.
The Twi'lek linked up with her few remaining brethren as they covered the retreat. The Mandalorians were determined to at least take a few more of these worthless scum, yet the Mandalorian can still respect their ferociousness and ability to take on the best of Clan Fett.
"Don't they know when to give up?!"
"Shut it Gono!" She snapped at the Weequey in green and red armor."Khomo gave us an order and if you have nothing useful to say, then I'll have Oyyka tear your limbs!"
The aforementioned Wookiee roared as more Soviets approached the last of the of fifty Mandalorians, only four remained.
Or that's what they thought as the tanks, BMPs, and infantry came to a halt.
"Attention brave Mandalorians of Clan Fett!" A voice echoed from a bullhorn. "We offer you a chance to leave! We are not your enemies! We are fighting against the dreaded Space Fascists of the Sith Empire! We are not monsters!"
Taliya scoffed and fired back. "Explain the executions then you demagolkase!"
The Commissar ignored her. "We are neither monsters nor barbarians like the Sith. We want to bring peace to the galaxy and conflict is not the answer!"
"Go to Hell!" Ijaat growled, defiant to the end.
"Very well then!" The Commissar put down his megaphone and grabbed the radio. "Attention comrades! You may proceed to crush the remaining pests! They refuse the honorable course of surrender! Show no mercy!"
The main guns of the vehicles and Kalashnikovs were pointed at the last of the warriors. The Soviets didn't desire to wipe out the brave Mandalorians and in fact, the Commies had a begrudging respect for them.
"Well, this is it vode... We're going to be bantha burgers." Gono declared. "I'll see you on the other side."
"For once I agree with you." Taliya smiled at the Weequey.
But then an explosion was heard and both the Mandalorians and Soviets turned their heads to see the culprit.
It was Khomo with a rocket launcher.
"Alright you ori'jagyc! It's time to see show you how us Mando'a go down fighting!"
The Soviets begin to open fire at the leader of Clan Fett, ignoring their former prisoners and that was a mistake...The four other Mandalorians at once begin to spread out and cause destruction with Taliya using her Mandalorian Heavy Repeater, Gono his pistols, Ijaat used his rifle, and Oyyka utilized his Ryyk blades. Even some Imperials soldiers stopped running, turn and charged at the Soviet line.
Only with the Mandalorians and the Imperials who were left, remained fearless to the last. "May vi urcir tug'yc o'r kyr'am ner'vods. Ash'amur pirusti!" Khomo Fett uttered to them.
More and more Commies approached the line and begin to assault the last of the defenders .They were being sent into the slaughter, but even then, it was not just Khomo who arrived at the right time.
"By the Force!" An Imp shouted as he looked up: It was a squadron of Extinction-class bombers and there was a fleet.
The Soviets, on the other hand, received orders to disengage from any further 'demonstrations'.
"Attention comrades!" The voice of Zhukov shouted. "Our work here is done! Our NATO allies have already left and now, you may withdraw! Artillery will cover the retreat!"
The survivors didn't understand why they were left alone as the enemy turned around to withdraw, but it was a relief.
Korriban, Horuset System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
10:26:15 ATC/ October 26th, 1968 - 19:00/7:00 PM
Nat waited to disembark from the transport that was carrying her, Quinn, and Vette to the planet while Jaesa remained behind on the ship to coordinate gunfire support if necessary.
The flyover showed scenes of destruction reminiscent of Corellia and other fronts but to have it occur here, on Korriban, ired the Imperials but Nat felt that while such a brazen act of desecration was unforgivable, it was also sending a loud and clear message of: 'This is how we feel about your attempt of annexation. While we didn't unleash our full weight, clearly we will not be pacified and are willing to fight to the end'.
"Charge!" The Wrath of the Empire ordered as she hopped off the transport, yet there was quiet as in nothing greeted them, not even a K'lor Slug.
It however didn't last as the remnants of the garrison began emerging, probably in shock and frightened by the new foe.
"My Lord!" A Private came out from behind a rock. "Thank goodness you're here!"
"Who's in charge here?"
"I guess I am and we're all that remains." A familiar voice from behind the Sith said depressingly. "Out of half a million troops, less than a hundred are still here. The majority of us are wounded, some severely I will add."
Avarice turned around and saw a Commando took off her helmet and wipe away sweat from her forehead. The Wrath noted that the dark copper-haired woman was about to shed tears and it wasn't a surprise to Nat that after a day like this, morale is at an all time low, yet the Sith sense that something else was bothering her friend.
"Is it okay I talk to you in private my Lord?" Kelrein professionally asked.
"You may speak freely Sergeant." Palatine smiled.
Sara look down and told Nat about her encounter. "Jake...Jake was here...On Korriban."
"What?" Nat whispered.
"He...He assaulted the shield complex that I was stationed at and the Americans took it within three hours."
Nathyrra was in fortress was one of the most secured fortifications in the Empire and yet within three hours, it has fallen.'Earth is even more dangerous than I thought.'
"He also..." Sara was about to weep. "Shot me."
Nat was taken aback by the news. She didn't expect this but then again today was full of unpleasantness.
"It was an accident since I was wearing my helmet."
Nat quickly interrupted her. "But still..." Palatine trailed, contemplating on how to phrase it. "You didn't deserve to be shot by your love interest."
"I know."Kelrein shook her head before putting her helmet back on."Let just show the Soviets the might of the Empire."
"Jaesa? I need some ships to target a concentration of enemy units, at least a battalion size element, at sector 691.9227"
"On it." The apprentice at once shouted to Piett. "Admiral! I need a firing solution! Orbital bombardment at sector 691.9227."
"At once my lord!" Maxius declared before ordering the crew to target the designated area with a firing solution.
"Engaging!" A gunner called out as the lasers from the batteries opened up.
The Soviets left behind couldn't do anything nor could they outrun the green bolts of doom from the Harrower-class Dreadnoughts and were assigned to their fates.
Their comrades on a mount overlooking the scene were terrified, yet were still willing to do their duty for the Motherland over sixty million lightyears away from this worthless rock. Worthless to all except the Sith and the Communist would soon learn that this rock was valuable to Imperial society exactly how Mother Russia was to them.
"Attention comrades! Your sacrifice will long be remembered back home on Earth!" Commissar Durosov proclaimed to his men. "We will be known as Heroes of the Soviet Union and as such, our families will be proud to proclaim that their fathers, sons, husbands, and nephews had honored the vision of Great Comrade Lenin! URA!"
"URA!"
Even in death, the Russians who were bombarded by the unrelenting barrage of lasers would defy the Empire and become cemented as a painful reminder of the determination of Planet Earth.
Chapter 13: Mad Jack's Last War - The Battle of Tython
Chapter Text
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Trench Line Number One - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 07:00/7:00 AM
Mad Jack Churchill waited in anticipation for another assault by the impostors. So far the First Commonwealth Division held out in the trenches directly in front of the Jedi Temple.
And Mad Jack absolutely loved being in the thick of it. Brandishing his distinctive broadsword recently upgraded with a material called 'cortosis', the Englishman was ready to deal with the extraterrestrial humans that dared mocked the Queen's English.A lone piper began playing 'March of the Cameron Men' right aside the slightly eccentric veteran as he urged his men to be ready for the next wave.
"Steady lads. Steady."
"Here they come!" A Kiwi sentry shouted before he was struck by laserfire.
"Bugger." A Corporal with a Lancashire accent muttered.
The bagpipes grew louder in its tune as the latest attempt by the Imps to capture the Temple commenced.
"Get ready!"
Men left and right scrambled to their rifles, a mixture of L1A1s, C1A1s, and other FN FAL derivatives depending upon their country of origin.
"Range! Six hundred yards! Commence firing!"
The well-drilled and experienced Anglo-Commonwealth soldiers at once used their training in precision marksmanship to thin down the Imperial onslaught. The Earthlings mainly focused their fire on the Sith and officers since they were priority one targets and as a result the casualty rate was high amongst the Space Fascist ranks. The space magicians weren't close enough to wield their Force powers nor their laser swords against the Earthlings. They reached the five hundred and fifty yard mark yet the Sith were taking unacceptable losses.
Something has to give.
Darth Arkous
Imperial Forward Command Center - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 07:00/7:00 AM
The Sith sighed as he read the latest reports from the front. So many of his brethren were killed and these weren't the weak ones...They have proven themselves countless times against the Republic and the utterly despised Jedi Order.
Yet a totally unexpected and new enemy had allied themselves with the Pubs.
The primitive world of Earth has now entered the war and their way of conflict certainly wasn't something to be mocked at no more. Arkous shook his head in disbelief, but there was no denying it now as the foe before him are indeed Earthlings. How his former apprentice didn't catch this development was beyond him. Sure, he and his fellow dark councilmembers watched President Kennedy's speech live on the HoloNet, but to actually encounter them was another matter entirely and these Earthlings were most effective in defending the Jedi Temple. The faction has to be dealt with and quickly since Arkous have plans bigger than himself and it's for the sake of the galaxy.
"Lord Goh? Is your part of the operation ready?"
The Chargarian Sith was a man of few words and it didn't surprise the Dark Councilman in the slightest that he just merely nodded.
"Excellent." The Pureblood purred. "Oh, and do so be kind as to save a few of these earthlings for the Empire. We need to figure out ways to counteract their resistance."
"As you wish." The alien declared before signing off.
'Now I just need to rethink my whole kriffing strategy.'
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Trench Line Number Three - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
"Machine Gunners to the front!"
"You're ready Alex?"
"As I'll ever be Nilsson." McAllen declared as he picked up the M1919A4. Hanzo had the tripod in his arms and the duo doublequicked to an excellent firing position. Boxes of ammunition were already waiting for them as the machine gun crews arrived.
Hanzo watched as men left and right fell in front of him as the Imperials began a heavy assault against the earthlings. In fact, the Canadian saw armored vehicles punching through the Earthlings right flank and unleashed their complement of infantry and Sith Warriors.
"Nilsson! McAllen!" Hanzo hears Sergeant McHugh shouting at them. "I need you to focus your fire at the right flank! We need to cover the retreat as our men fall back to the temple!"
The Corporals nodded and repositioned the Browning to fire at the fast approaching Imps but there was a problem.
"Damn monks won't get out of the way." McAllen muttered while grasping the charging handle. "MOVE YOU DAMN FOOLS!"
"It's to be expected." Nilsson started as he placed a belt into the weapon. "This planet is sacred to the Jedi."
"Sacred my arse. We can't shoot our allies."
Hanzo, unfortunately, knew of an incident of blue-on-blue in Vietnam back in 1967.
Private Hanzo Nilsson - Fireteam Charlie, Third Squad, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, First Battalion, Ninth Marine Regiment "The Walking Dead", First Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Operation Prairie II- Quảng Trị Province, South Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
February 28th, 1967 - 12:00 AM
Hanzo and his platoon took cover as mortars from the NVA continued to rain hell upon the Marines. Their sister unit, the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment were nearby and under attack by overwhelming numbers of gooks. The two units were being pounded by the commies and unless the Leathernecks receive artillery support, they're going to be wiped out.
Nilsson waited patiently for a follower of Ho Chi Minh to get into the sights of his M14 rifle. As he waited, the Canadian overheard some welcome news by friendlies on the radio.
"Reaper 2-1, this is armageddon flight. We'll be unleashing our payload at coordinates confirmed."
"Roger armageddon." Lance Corporal Roger Cruise, the unit's radioman replied. "Give them hell, flyboys."
Hanzo looked up and watched as a pair A1D Skyraiders dropped four canisters of napalm, but they were off target. In fact, the platoon was being hit by their own
"SHIT! EVERYO-"
"Arghh!"
Nilsson watched as some of his buddies he fought with for two years were burned alive by the gasoline cocktail of death. The smell burned flesh reached his nose and the horror looks in their eyes, the screams of their pain.
Present...
"Hanzo!" The voice of Alexander dragged Hanzo out of his memories of that night and his friend was worried but the situation overrode the concern as the last of the Jedi in front of the pair was struck down by Sith Marauders. McAllen took aim and began to shoot at the Sith fast approaching, but there was another problem as an Imperial soldier threw a Thermal Detonator.
"Fuck! GRENADE!"
Hanzo and Alex quickly got up and ran from the blast zone as it went off, but the blast threw them off the ground, barely escaping the blast radius. The duo knows that the machine gun was now useless. Hanzo watched in horror as a Sith Warrior slowly approached them, his laser sword raised in execution style. It was evident that he was not seeking prisoners.
"You Forceless freaks are an insult to every living being in the galaxy and as such, you shall be put to the death."
Hanzo waited for the arrogant Sith to come to him as the Canadian slowly withdrew his combat knife from his sheath. The Sith got ever closer and put his face close to Nilsson to spit on him. It was the last mistake the sorcerer will ever make as he drove the knife into his neck, the Sith gagged on his blood.
He kicked him hard away from him. Hanzo rolled out of the way and grabbed a dropped Browning Hi Power handgun to fire into the being for effect, just in case. Satisfied that the Sith was dead, the soldier assisted helping his brother in arms up. 'Magic my ass.' Unlike most of the others, Hanzo didn't see the Force as 'overcomplicating magic' or dismissing it as a concept outright.
No, he's seen too much on Tython, read enough what he could before the attack happened, and his previous conversations with other Jedi in the Temple and parts of the planet where he has explored showed him something different.
There's something... Spiritual about this world and the more he continues to see in this galaxy… The more he uses to know to the many questions that started form in his head.
"Now that's what I call overkill, eh?" Alex looked at the dead Sith with an interested look.
Hanzo wiped the blood off his knife before putting it back in his sheath. "That's light compared to what I consider as overkill. Let's get back to the rest of the unit."
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 11:25/11:25 AM
Mad Jack was at it again. The Englishman was smiling at the fact that many of his opponents were utilizing swords, although it was a shame that their saber's batteries shorted out because of some metal.
'This cortosis really takes the fun out of it.'
"Come on you bloody bastards!" The master swordsman absolutely enjoyed the fact that the more elegant style of warfare was now back and he joined a group of warrior monks to combat the Sith menace. "You're facing Fighting Mad Jack himself you damn impostors! For Queen and Country!" The Brit continued to parry away with his recently upgraded broadsword and although he was a gentleman, these Sith were not known to play by the rules of fencing at all.
"Isn't he insane?" One of the Jedi asked one of his comrades, Serana Ashak. A beautiful blue skin Twi'lek appearing to be in her early thirties yet only added a certain warrior mature beauty about her with black markings across her face, light blue eyes that spoke her determination and experience. Wearing brown Jedi robes over her white Verpine Foestopper armor, her two green lightsabers were used with such graceful yet aggressive movement against any Sith that faced her.
"I guess so." The Twi'lek admitted as she blocked a slash by a warrior. "But you can't deny that he's rather effective despite his...idiosyncratic nature." Kneeing the Sith in the groin, hearing a crack made, the Sith gave a high pitched shriek as he felt something popped down there. Serena not giving him the chance to recover, stabbed him in the chest before kicking him off.
Churchill watched as one of the sorcerer's raised his hand to strike at the Briton. Knowing what it entails, the officer took cover behind a wall just before the lightning struck.
"Bloody hell!"
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
Anglo-Commonwealth Command Post - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:00/12:00 PM
The Spartan General had a feeling that Patton still had it in for him. The Briton had a rather unpleasant relationship with the Yank during the Second World War and he should have known that the glory hound picked him to assist the Republic with a garrison on Tython while the no good bastard stole his beloved Seventh Armored Division from him as apart of the strike force on Korriban!
And many of the men under his command were disappointed just like he was. Until yesterday of course when the Bloody Impostors themselves came knocking. The head of the NATO garrison was currently at his headquarters looking on the updated map as to the situation. It currently wasn't looking good as the French Fifth Infantry Division began to withdraw from overwhelming Imperial numbers, some of whom were even prepared to raise the white flag until cooler heads prevailed for an organized withdrawal. And overall, the defenses were about to collapse as some units began to retreat, or in the cases of a few Republic battalions, completely annihilated.
"So sir, do you know when reinforcements are going to arrive?" His aide, Captain Fremantle asked.
"In about three hours from now, Chesty Puller is going to steal the credit away from us."
"The one from Chosin in Korea? Damn Yanks have to ruin all the fun."
"That they do Albert." Bernard couldn't disagree more as he calmly stirred his tea despite the Imperial artillery barrage. "That they do."
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:00/12:00 PM
Mad Jack emerged from cover and proceeded to withdraw his old Webley revolver. The .455 caliber round should deal with the damn magician and knock him down. It sure did and the handgun still had its notorious kick, especially noticeable to the man wielding it since age was now catching up to the old warrior. The atmosphere was utterly chaotic as Sith and Imperials began to fight the joint Republic-Jedi-Earth defenders of the Temple. Fleming watches as some of his men attempted to use their bayonets against the space wizards, but they were cut down.
Fighting Jack should have been retired by now, but his country has called upon him once more to deal with a new enemy. One which dare caricatured anything British.
"You wankers really have chosen the wrong enemy to fight." Churchill declared.
"Don't mock me with your fake accent scum." His foe coughed as he spat blood. "You're not Imperial."
"No, I am from England, sir. I will gladly die for ol' Blighty, in the style of a true gentleman in her majesty's armed forces than that rabble you serve, Sith!" The warrior declared to the dying man as he went on his merry way to fight in his last war.
Lord Goh
Outside the Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:00/12:00 PM
The Changarian watched as his men finally drove the last of the Earthling scum back inside the temple. These forceless scum were a surprisingly worthy adversary, but they were still blights to be wiped out before the cancers spread throughout the galaxy.
For the sake of the Force, the Earthlings must be cut down per Arkous's orders and the Sith was determined to conduct the will of the darkside as well.
The Sith nodded in approval as he saw warriors and marauders cutting down the few that remain in the sector before him.
"My Lord? We've managed to push them back deep inside the temple and despite the initial resistance, your fellow Sith has managed to cause casualties amongst their ranks."
"Very well Captain." The Sith Lord was excited since this was a glorious day for the Empire despite the initial setback. "Wipe them out. All of them."
"You heard him men!" Captain Nore shouted. "Let's show these Earth scum the might of the Empire!"
Imperial Troopers left and right fanned out to hunt down the remaining survivors. It wasn't even a few minutes until they were fired upon by a group of Pubs and Earthlings.
"First squad, take the right flank!" Lieutenant Ruc orders. "Second and Third Squad, keep up the pressure."
"Yes sir." The Sergeant of First Squad replied before waving his men toward a excellent firing position.
Goh watched as his men began to overwhelm the defenders and look on in satisfaction as they were being slaughtered to the last man. Offers of surrender weren't given out at all since Earth will learn that the Empire will not be made a mockery of by primitives.
Serana Ashak - Knight of the Jedi Order
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:30/12:30 PM
"ARE YOU INSANE!" Serana called out after the Earth general as she saw him attempting to slash his way to a fight the leader of the latest assault.
"They don't call me 'Mad Jack' for nothing lass!" The old coot fired back as he swung his sword at an officer.
"I'm starting to wonder if Death has different plans for you or if you're just too stubborn to die, old man." Serena as she spun kicked a Sith trooper in the face, hearing a loud crack as his head twisted in an unnatural angle. Slicing through couple troopers and Sith who were caught off guard before one end up in blade lock with her.
Just as the blade lay closer, Serena acted quickly and took out her blaster pistol and shot the Sith in the chest, seeing the shocked look on his face. She headbutted him hard, before force pushing the body into a couple of other Imperials. Shaking her head, the Twi'lek glances off to the side and saw two Earth soldiers staring at her. "You two, with me!" She barked.
Private Alexander McAllen - Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:30/12:30 PM
"Ah, just great Hanzo." Alex chuckles. "We're going to assist a lady in a suicide mission to rescue an old coot with a blade."
But McAllen noticed that his friend was not paying attention and he snapped his fingers. "Hanzo? Come on buddy, you can daydream later."
Hanzo shook his head, cursing to himself on his distraction, he hated when it happens in battle. "Let's go!"
"Yeah right. Let's just go."Alexander sighs before smirking. "You can admire her later."
Nilsson grunted in annoyance.
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 12:30/12:30 PM
"Come out and face me you accursed heathen!"
The blue alien with headtails turned and faced the crazy man who was the only Briton to utilize a longbow in World War II. He was a hideous being and to Fleming, the Sith were surprisingly ugly in general. Hell, even the Scots and Irish receive more sunlight than the magicians! But something else bothered the old warrior, as to why this one wouldn't utter a word at all.
"So are you a daft mute or what?! Speak up old chap!"
But the extraterrestrial being had other ideas and he pulled out his laser sword to face the Brit. The Englishman, however, ready himself for the inevitable fencing match and John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming Churchill was prepared to bring back the honor to merry old Britain.
"Sir!"
"Well, I'll be buggered!" Jack said. "I intend to fight my last war alone!
"With all due respect sir, but your age is catching up to you." Nilsson stated.
Churchill smirked. "Well, they certainly don't call me an old coot for nothing. Alright, lads! Let give honor to merry old Blighty and show this Sith wanker how it's done!"
"Umm...We're Canadians, sir." McAllen pointed out.
"In that case. For the Queen and for Canada as well! Just as long as the Yanks don't show up, I'll be a happy old man!"
Sergeant David Allen Adkins - First Squad, First Platoon, First Force Reconnaissance Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
En route to the "Space Monks" Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 13:30/1:30 PM
"Alright, listen up!" Sergeant Adkins shouted at the top of his lungs. "We are reinforcing the Brits and the other Commonwealth forces of the Eighth Army. They are under heavy assault by the Imps and we are not leaving them behind."
"Umm Sarge, how can we tell the difference between the Brits and the Space Brits?"
"Shoot the ones wearing black or waving a red blade dumbass! Any other questions?" Sergeant Adkins sounded harsh here but even then it was an idiotic question.
"NO SERGEANT!"
"Alright then." Adkins muttered. "We're landing in a major warzone so keep your eyes peeled and we'll go home safe."
"Five seconds." The Republic pilot declared. Sure, the Americans would rather ride in their Hueys, but the Force Recon Marines and the Marine Raiders wanted to have the element of surprise. The gunships cautiously approached the temple and they constantly dodged AA fire to engage the opposition below and the Devil Dogs appreciated the brave efforts of the Pubs to soften up the landing zone for them. The surrounding area was being overwhelmed by goose-steppers, but the reinforcements are determined to change that.
"Let's go! Move it! Move it!"
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 13:50/1:50 PM
Jake quickly rushed out of the gunship and charged into the fray with his platoon. The Marines were the first to land as reinforcements for the beleaguered defenders and its a joint operation between Force Reconnaissance and the Raiders to clear a section of the temple of the menace and there was more of their fellow Leathernecks on the way with a battalion of Jarheads ready to lob in tear gas before storming the rest of the temple to clear it of the surviving intruders who weren't smoked out by the nauseous fumes.
Meyer carefully and made a hand gesture to one of the Recons to clear the room. The Hoosier watched as his comrade kicked the door open and fired his scattergun at two Imperials soldiers, but then something catches his eye as the individual in dark robes came out of nowhere and stabbed his fellow Marine from behind.
"SHIT!" He cursed before firing a burst from his M14 and the 7.62 hit the Sith's chest. The wizard wasn't expecting him and as a result, the magician forfeited his life. The bitterness of the combat reminded Jake of Hue, but the Devil Dog was ready to show the Space Fascists why the United States Marine Corps was certainly an enemy they didn't want to have unleashed on them, but they did.
"Enjoy the lead fucker!" He shouted to his dying opponent. The last thing the Sith ever saw was the Private's middle finger raised in defiance.
Jake continued on his way to evacuate any remaining survivors from the First Commonwealth Division and any Republic soldier that joined them, not to mention get the last of the artifacts secured, before the tear gas smoked the intruders out to be slaughtered.
"Stop right there!" An Imperial shouted.
"How about no losterback?" The Marine cockily fired back as he shot the fool. Meyer then sees a fireteam of Imperials coming straight for him, but the Raider pulled the pin to his M26 'Lemon' Grenade and threw it so that it would land where the shrapnel would be the most effective within its five radious kill zone.
"Kriff! GREN-!"
"Don't you mean fuck idiots." He muttered as more expendables approach him.
"Surrender! Surrender!" An annoying officer barked.
"I heard you the first time and screw you!" The fools haven't taken the hint as the Jarhead opened up with a burst from his M14, but he was outnumbered. The Leatherneck instantly took cover behind a fountain as blaster fire began to scorch the marble-like material.
"Shit!"
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 13:50/1:50 PM
Fleming continued to randomly parry away at the Sith, but the elderly veteran realizes that his age was catching up to him. His Jedi companion was out cold after being pushed into one of the pillars. And now, he clearly was at a disadvantage as clearly his opponent wasn't wheezing from shortness of breath.
"You are a foolish old man." The mute finally spoke up.
"You have no honor, sir!"
"Honor? HONOR?! Yet you dare mock us?"
"How many times do we have to tell you that we're British and as a proper Englishman, I have to say it is you who is mocking us Britons."
"ENOUGH!" The alien roared as he began to lift up a few pieces of debris, to which the old veteran miraculously dodges.
"Fuck it!"
Meanwhile, the two Canadians attempted to shoot at the Sith, but the problem was that they might as well commit friendly fire.
"Man, they're fighting so fast that I can't get a clear shot!" Alex said.
"More like the old man is about to get himself killed." Hanzo noted just as a familiar voice yelled at the pair.
"Nilsson! McAllen!" Its was their Sergeant and a few other survivors. "We're evacuating the temple! Come on!"
"Not without the general!" Hanzo was determined to not going to leave him behind.
"Don't you see that he's buying you time?" McHugh said in frustration. "The Yanks are here, but the temple is lost! We're going to take it back later."
"Well, reinforcements is nice and all, but we're not leaving him behind!"
"I had enough of these damn Wizards. Suit yourself."
Serena groaned in pain as she woke up. The Twi'lek was unconscious but now she witnesses the Old Coot fighting at his utmost and he won't last wrong.
"How about you just die old man?"
"You never heard of the name Mad Jack." He pants. "But I'm a legend and as such, I won't die just yet."
'You really are pushing it old man.' The Jedi prepared to force pushed this Sith Lord as well and she waited for the exact moment to strike back against her attacker. The Sith Lord was about to cut down the Earthling General, but the Jedi wasn't going to allow the Dark Side user to cut down his foe. Reaching into the Force, the Twi'lek Jedi Master raises her arms and concentrated to bring down a pillar on top of the Lord of the Sith. As he was currently distracted by his opponent, the Changarian didn't realize the danger he placed himself until it was too late and the shortsightedness cost him.
"What the! Are you crazy woman!? You're going to kill him!" Alex shouts, but the alien ignored him as she landed the pillar on top of their foe just as they heard a beep. Facing the direction of the sound, the earthlings and their Jedi ally saw an ugly, red-skinned critter with appendages sticking out of his chin.
"Lord Goh, we have...Oh? I do believe I'm in a bit of a tarry?"
"That's bloody right chap. How about you leave both Tython and merry old England alone?"
The hologram soon faded out. But the Canadian duo was disgusted at the Sith's elitist nature.
"Hey, lad!"
Hanzo spun around and saw that the old man was handing him something.
"You did well today." The Englishman nodded in approval. It was one of the laserswords and Nilsson didn't expect a gift from the Mad Jack himself.
"Umm...Thank you, sir." Hanzo even sees the Jedi smirking at him as the Canadian placed it into his pocket.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 14:50/2:50 PM
"Surrender already Earth scum!"
"I'm American!" Jake shouted before he fired his M14 once more. "How about you damn Space Limeys go fuck one of the Space Frenchies? I heard that you like Twi'leks!"
But the Marine knows that racism - or speciesism as the galaxy calls it- was pretty prevalent amongst Imperial ranks and as a result, in theory, the Space Fascists would not take the insult lightly.
"Force no! You can have the alien animals if you want!"
"I'm not interested in extraterrestrials." The Hoosier muttered as he rolled a grenade instead of throwing it. "The fools can keep theirs."
The Jarhead waited for the fragments to explode and as soon as he heard the explosion, Meyer rushed forward and prepared to use his M6 bayonet. It was a frightening sight to the Imperial Troopers since bayonets were discarded from the last war. The conscripts, unsure what to do, began to panic as the lunatic began to charge.
"He's mad!"
"Retreat!"
'You better run.' He thought as he shoots one of them in the back, seeing him fall. Jake watches as other Marines rallied around him and the Americans began to surround the Imperials. Now they were outnumbered.
"Surrender or be shot!" A Captain from the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment ordered.
"I think I would listen to him." Meyer advised as some machine gunners with their M60s laid down prone and the sound of rifles cocking should change the impostors minds. If not, the enemy would be slaughtered in a kill zone and either way, it made the job easier for the Marines as they slowly cleared the building door by door. It was a long way from Hue, but the Jarheads were ready for urban combat. There were even some men from the Republics 51st Assault Battalion and add the laser guns to the mix, it was going to be a nightmare to the defeated foe.
Jake has to smile as he witnesses the idiots did something smart for once:
They raised their hands.
Lance Corporal John Issac McEnroe - Fireteam Charlie, First Squad, First Platoon, F/Fox Company, Second Battalion, Seventh Marine Regiment, Fir st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Jedi Temple - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 15:00/3:00 PM
"Men! Everyone is evacuated and all relics are accounted for! One of every five strap on the flamethrowers, prepare to deploy tear gas to smoke the bastards out, lob grenades into every window, you know the drill! Time to do some pest control in this nest infested with goosesteppers!"
"You heard the Major, Marines! Gasmasks on!"
McEnroe watched Riley threw the CS canister into the windows of the building, the vapors filling up the inside hallways with the irritating non-lethal fumes.
"Here they come!"
John waited until the first Imperial entered his sight picture before snapping off one round, exactly like a duck gallery as the gray fatigue wearing Imps instinctively attempted to avoid the fumes only to rush into every individual Marine's sight picture, the USMC riflemen nailing them one shot at a time.
McEnroe watched as some Sith rushed out coughing, just as affected by the smoke and fumes as their subordinates, leaving only the enclosed armored Sith and Imperials inside to deal with.
"Good to know they can't withstand our smoke and Willie Pete."
"Frag out!"
John began firing from outside the building, not one Leatherneck dared enter even one of the structures to clear them out like the Jedi requested, instead having a steady walking pace with lead, shooting into anything made of concrete.
Ranks and files of Marines passed each part of the building, riddling bullets indiscriminately into each wall and pillar that had enemy troops inside with preset killzones as the Imperials anticipated room-to-room fighting had instead unwittingly signed their own death warrants.
The next column used flamethrowers and White Phosphorus grenades to finish off any survivors remaining inside the buildings, the ruthless yet pragmatic approach was effective and efficient at ridding the enemy with little to no friendly casualties inflicted in return.
Grandmaster Satele Shan
Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 15:15/3:15 PM
Satele watched the effort of retaking the temple from the Sith and their conscripts but she was now regretting giving sanction to their allies for the endeavor while the Jedi and Republic forces regroup for a counterattack.
"The damage is minimal thankfully, slug holes and scorch marks but to see the disregard for urban warfare, the willingness to bring down structures is admittedly concerning."
"At least they managed to secure the relics." Master Gnost-Dural sighed. "And they're also considering casualties as well."
As much as the Grandmaster hate to admit, the approach was pragmatic even if it seemed reckless.
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
Republic Forward Command Center - Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 15:15/3:15 PM
The Spartan General and Chesty met just outside the main HQ for the garrison. The duo were currently discussing how to best deal with the remaining enemy forces on the Jedi world of Tython
"Well, we got the situation in hand now. The bastards are running."
"Indeed. And the flyboys of the United States Air Force and my Marines are currently pounding them to shreds."
"Typical Yanks." He snorted "You have to ruin all the fun."
"You did enough today." The Marine declared with a grin. "We're relieving you and taking over."
"Why Bloody Hell you are!" Monty fired back. "I've already ordered General Churchill to lead the counterattack..."The Brit glanced down at his watch "About fifteen minutes ago I'll say. I believe you colonials have some catching up to do Puller."
"Smartass limeys." The Jarhead muttered. "I think we should throw down your beverages into the harbor again."
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
10:28:15 ATC/ October 28th, 1968 - 15:00/3:00 PM
Mad Jack watched as the and picked up his bagpipes. Bringing the piece to his mouth, the crazy, bloodthirsty Englishman played 'The Campbells are Coming' as he led the remaining men of the First Commonwealth Division in a counterassault against the Empire.
Miles away, the Guard's Division began playing 'The Grenadiers March' and it truly was a spectacle to see as their foe retreated right before the Briton's eyes. The weary Imps have enough and as such, the forces of the Sith Empire began to pull back.
But, overall, it was a victory for the United Kingdom as the Brits managed to show the impostors why Earth was a mouse that roared.
Whew...I think the Sith Empire just lost two major engagements and Mad Jack is fighting his last war. As a proper gentleman, he is showing the impostors what a true Englishman is made of:P
And I know that the scenes including the usage of tear gas let alone riddling the temple with bullets may be controversial but that's literally the exact tactics used during the street fighting during World War II and Hue during the Vietnam War.
The rules of engagements has changed dramatically since then, arguably causing more casualties among Coalition Forces during the War in Iraq due to not being allowed to use tear gas in warfare and forced by restrictions to go room to room, house to house, unknowing which corner have a gunman waiting to ambush an entire squad or an inconspicuous booby trap capable of mauling seventeen men within its blast radius.
The bloodbath in Fallujah could've been prevented if tear gas was employed as it would smoke out the insurgents and render them ineffective as this approach would mean lower risk of life for the ones clearing the enemy out.
Therefore it is justifiable but feel free to disagree as I understand yet Patton would want to prevent another Battle of Aachen if he could and the men who fought at Hue surely wouldn't want a repeat.
In fact, to quote Old Blood and Guts himself:
Fixed fortifications are a monument to the stupidity of man.
~ George S. Patton
While admittedly not directly about Urban Warfare, based on what I've gathered, as a policy of his, Patton attempted to bypass Fortresses and Cities if he could, leaving them to be dealt with by bombers of the USAAF.
Cruel, yes, but also effective as Patton sincerely cared about the lives of his men and urban warfare for centuries is regarded as an equalizer between combatants who are superior in strength and fighters who are insufficiently subpar, meaning it could go either way.
To simplify: Urban warfare is bloody and NO army wants a Stalingrad as it could go either way after draining not only precious resources but lives, and in the end it could be all for nothing.
Again, you can completely disagree with the portrayal here and I understand but I do have justification in why I wrote it.
Chapter 14: Consequences
Chapter Text
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
CBS Broadcast Center - 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Good evening America."
Millions of viewers in the United States tuned in to watch the special report from CBS regarding the war effort with dread. Many Americans and Earthlings, in general, knew that the Sith Empire was a technologically advanced civilization. Thoughts of disaster rang throughout the living rooms across the land, yet they were in for a surprise.
"I can hereby report that we have dealt two strategic blows against the Empire with relatively light casualties."
Walter took off his glasses and wiped away the sweat from his forehead before putting his spectacles back on. "Even our Republic allies were amazed at our might against the Imperial onslaught and quoting Supreme Chancellor Saresh 'Your people have the gratitude of the Republic'."
Footage of Imperial prisoners and scenes of battle played out in the households courtesy of Uncle Sam. The citizens watched as United States Marines and American Paratroopers captured a formidable fortress and witnessed the armored columns duking it out with their Imperial counterparts. There were even a few dogfights here and there with the alien craft dropping like flies as they attempted to avoid the pursuing F-4 Phantoms, F-105 Thunderchiefs, and F-8 Crusaders.
"Of course there are still dead and injured amongst our troops over there, but the Empire has taken heavy losses on Korriban and Tython...Please keep our boys and our fellow Earthlings in mind as they fight for the independence of our world. God Bless America and this is Cronkite signing off."
Natthrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice / Empire's Wrath
INS Accuser - BSX-5 Dreadnought
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Master, are you alright?" Jaesa asked.
The two Sith were in Nathrrya's quarters aboard the Accuser. The older woman stood, arms folded across her chest looking out the viewport. She'd been like this for the past half hour.
"Nat?" Jaesa sounded worried.
The senior Sith turned to face her apprentice and friend. "Just thinking. I've got a meeting with the Dark Council to attend; it's not going to be pleasant."
"Nothing about what happened is pleasant. I can't believe the Earthlings could be so... barbaric." The younger woman said. She'd seen the evidence but didn't want to believe it.
Nathrrya sighed "I'm going to recommend to the Council that from now on when the Empire encounters Warsaw Pact forces we wipe them out to the last man, Korriban will not be forgotten. They shall reap what they have sown. As for the NATO forces they have honour and will be taken prisoner and treated accordingly to the Earthlings' convention on POW's."
Jaesa nodded "The Council won't like that."
"No but it's clear we're dealing with two very different military organizations even if they do come from the same planet. We treat them accordingly." Nathrrya massaged her forehead "Then we've got their tactics to deal with."
"The galaxy has been fighting using the same basic tactics for thousands of years." Jaesa said frowning.
"I know, and that's the problem. The Republic and Empire have become stagnant." Nathrrya replied "The scary part is that Earth once fought their wars much like we do but less than a hundred years later and the way they wage war is so vastly different. If the Empire and even the Republic wants to survive we have to adapt to the Earthlings tactics even if it means more or less copying them."
Both Sith women looked at each other with equally sombre expressions. The Dark Council would defiantly not like that. Nor much of the Wrath's other findings.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
RNS Tranquility - Valor-class Cruiser
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Yo Jake!" Corporal Jackson Cartwright shouted. "You want to join in!?"
Meyer was in the barracks onboard the Tranquility cleaning his M14 service rifle. Many of his comrades were out celebrating the victories over Imperial forces not just once but twice at Korriban and Tython. While it was strange how two sacred worlds were attacked on the same week, the Leatherneck shrugged it off as just a mere coincidence.
"Nah, I'm good man." The Hoosier smiled. "We can't let Sarge see our weapons being dirty from damn sand now, especially if Patton himself is inspecting us later."
Jack sighed. "I suppose you're right Jake. I'll see you later."
The farmboy gave the New Yorker a mock salute as he scrubbed his rifle in an attempt to get rid of the stubborn red sand.
'This is going to take a while.' He thought. Placing the firearm and toothbrush off to the side, Meyer decided to take a break. Getting up from the locker that he was sitting on, Jake opened the chest up and retrieved a photograph. On one side was Jake himself in the standard issued dark forest green service uniform and next to the Marine was a redheaded, slightly tanned Republic trooper wearing her equivalent. Or at least he thought she was a part of the Republic Military at the time. Flipping the picture over, Jake begins to read the distinctive 'High Galactic alphabet' handwriting:
Larel,
I still have six months left in my enlistment and I have to say that Earth is truly unique in the galaxy.
This world is like no other and I would enjoy spending the rest of my days here on this planet with you by my side.
I have learned to love this land dearest and I hope that you loverboy can show me why I have made the correct choice.
You are my one and only Jake and I don't want you to change.
Be well, my beloved,
Sara
'And even now I'm still unsure what to think.'
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
RNS Tranquility - Valor-class Cruiser
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 19:00/7:00 PM
Paul still couldn't believe it. The paratrooper who survived Husky and Market Garden, the man who have dropped into Normandy and the soldier who had held the line at the Bulge was denying that the recent victories were this easy, yet they were.
Still, the 82nd Airborne has lost an eighth of its men, but proportionately, the Empire suffered worse. A combination of surprise and arrogance along with luck and the ridiculousness of some tactics from the enemy had carried out the day in the Earth Coalition's favor.
'But at what cost?' Meyer thought to himself. 'The Empire will not forget that we were on that sacred ground of theirs.'
As the Lieutenant pondered, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in."
It was his son Jacob. Smiling, the soldier stopped working on the after action reports and focused all his attention on his only child.
"Hey, dad."
"That's sir to you, Jarhead." Paul deadpanned to the Leatherneck as he poured some coffee into a mug.
"You want any, sir?"
"Actually, some joe does sound nice." He admitted before regretting his previous order. "And nevermind about the sir business."
"Yes, sir." The Marine declared with a cheeky grin, to which the army officer groaned as Jake handed him his cup of steaming hot liquid. "Your usual. Two creams, two sugars."
"Thanks."
There was a moment of silence between father and son as neither of them spoke until Jake brought up a subject.
"So I guess we had a surprise back on Korriban in the form of Sara."
"I guess so..." Paul confessed. The paratrooper and his wife Rebecca initially thought that Kelrein was an excellent match for Jake yet when the truth came out, betrayal was a total understatement. Becky was devastated after the news was revealed since the Corellian was a good friend to her. However, the Lieutenant wasn't completely sure if they were used despite the fact that Jake was interrogated by the FBI over the incident that occurred at the United Nations building.
Jake shook his head. "Well, regardless if she holds regrets or not, I hope that Harkun is rotting in Hell. No one should be choked like she was."
"That we can agree on." Paul said with bitterness. "If he's an example of what the Sith are like, then they should be put down like the disgusting pigs they are. I can't believe that a supposedly advanced civilization is utterly barbaric and openly practices slavery."
Days earlier on Korriban...
Paul gazed at the aliens behind the energy barrier. They were of various species yet they all had one thing in common.
They were all slaves.
The mixed group of paratroopers and Raiders had captured the complex hours earlier but this energy shield should have been taken down after the main generator was knocked out. However, Intel was right on this one too since it seems like that the Empire feared internal revolts more than the Republic, which explains the idiotic defense system and one which the Earthlings have exploited.
"Should we free them?" One of his men asked as the forced laborers began to beg.
"Please! I was a soldier in the Republic Army!" One of the Zabraks, if Paul remembers correctly, declared, recalling they were the race with the horns.
The Lieutenant made a choice. "Damn right we are freeing them!" If he was telling the truth, then that meant that this was the fate for the Empire's prisoners of war.
Paul watched as his son Jake, Sam, and a few others assisted the former captives in making a break for it. The same Zabrak that called out to him moments ago approached the American officer and saluted.
"Sir! I'm Corporal Anvo Wod, 81st Assault Regiment, Republic Army."
"Lieutenant Meyer, United States Army." Paul stated as he pulls out and handed his sidearm to Wod. "Here's something you can use until we find something more useful."
"A slugthrower?" The extraterrestrial questioned curiously as he pulled out the magazine.
"Extremely effective against both Imps and Sith."
"If you say so, I won't refuse a weapon all the same…"
Present...
"Well, at least we know that the Republic wasn't exaggerating." Jake determined. "I would have thought that their subjects would have overthrown their Sith overlords by now since even the Imperial military outnumbers them."
"Not to mention their naval ships." Paul agreed. "Nothing about this galaxy makes sense."
"Yeah..." His son trails. "Tell me about it. It seems like we have Space Magicians fighting over this 'Lightside/Darkside, keep this Force in balance' nonsense"
'We can all agree on that as well.' Paul thought before speaking up. "Well kiddo, I got to finish working on my paperwork."
"Talk to you later, dad."
'Space Magicians.' Paul snorted. 'The Force can kiss my ass.'
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
RNS Tranquility - Valor-class Cruiser
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
Sam watched as 'Old Blood and Guts' himself stepped right in front of him! The paratrooper and his comrades along with the other Earth contigerant aboard the Integrity watched as the commander of the Earth Coalition inspected the troops while orderlies and reporters from both Earth and the Republic's Holonet followed the legend.
"How are you doing, son?" The General asked.
"I'm doing well, sir!" Westbrook declared. "The boys and I are ready to push the Space Fascists back to the outskirts of Kaas City itself!"
Patton smirked at the Sergeant's enthusiasm. "A bit confident, I see?" He questioned rhetorically as the man stopped his inspection to face everyone of his men directly.
"Gentlemen, for the past week we have learned a valuable lesson." The old warrior smacked his swagger stick against his wrist. "The mighty Sith Empire foolishly have utilized tactics not seen since early in the Great War when the Germans in 1914 marched across Belgium. The Imperial Army has recklessly attacked our men in two engagements but the enemy have been repelled."
The man who has gone down in history as one of the most cunning and daring American General came to a halt with his pacing for a moment to stare at each and every Earth soldier, sailor, airman and Marine in the eyes, perhaps even their soul.
"Their aircraft have the same speed as those of the Second World War and the only significant threat they have are their warships and a few armored vehicles, yet these walkers of theirs-and our allies of the Republics I'll admit- are of a flawed design that can be countered. Even these magicians of the Sith Order are no match against our Earth firepower since they need to get up close and personal to engage us."
The men knew in their minds that the Sith weren't to be underestimated, yet they still can be killed and the Earthlings have thoughts of various ways to kill them after the two encounters with the wizards.
"If the Imps desire to conquer our world, I say we'll show their overlords of the Dark Council that they have chosen the wrong enemy and the bastards shall be granted even more black eyes in the days to come if their mindless drones continue to operate the way they currently do on the frontlines."
George waited for the information to sink in before finishing his impromptu speech.
"Today the totalitarian regime known to the galaxy as the 'pathetic Sith Empire' shall tremble in fear as the armies of a lone world, an all-powerful ant, will crush the bully and drive the nail into the hearts and minds of every Imperial citizen. We will crush any and all Imperial resistance before us, and as a result, the planet of Earth will forevermore remain free."
Dark Council chambers-Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Sith Space, "The Galaxy"
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 20:15/8:15 PM
Darth Marr and his peers along with the Wrath and the Minister of Intelligence watched as this 'Patton' finishes his speech live on the Holonet.
"Today the totalitarian regime known to the galaxy as the 'pathetic Sith Empire' shall tremble in fear as the armies of a lone world, an all-powerful ant, will crush the bully and drive the nail into the hearts and minds of every imperial citizen. We will crush any and all imperial resistance before us, and as a result, the planet of Earth will forevermore remain free."
"Why the audacity of that man!" Nox shouted. "That Earthling has got some nerve to declare that he and his primitives are better than the Empire's finest."
Marr ignored the woman but even he was incensed that Korriban was raided by not just the Republic but the forces of Earth as well. Obviously, there has been a leak somewhere but that matter can wait as the de facto ruler of the Empire turned his attention to his blonde advisor.
"Minister Beniko, is there anything you wish to report?"
The head of the intelligence department instantly stepped forward to outline what she has found out. "Apparently, Earth has sent three of their top strategists to Korriban." Lana declared as she typed away. Three images popped up and the woman began outlining her summary. "My lords, the individual to your left is George S. Patton. He was born and raised in America and has led combined arms against the forces of Germany during Earth's Second World War."
Each council member glanced at one another since they've researched the history of Earth months earlier. The similarities of the planet's conflicts and those of the galaxy were just too coincidental to ignore, yet they haven't learned quite enough.
"The individual in the center is Georgy Zhukov." Beniko's eyes went from amber to red as thoughts of the destruction caused by this monster consumed her.
The reports of the Soviets ransacking Korriban was unexpected to say the least, but rage was boiling throughout the room.
Lana exhaled deeply as she moved on to the final subject of her presentation. "And finally, the man to your right is Erwin Rommel, a German and quite cunning from what I've been able to gather. He earned the nickname 'the Desert Fox' during the North Africa campaign and he even outwitted Rakton."
"And I do believe that's an understatement I'm afraid." Vowrawn revealed.
"What do you mean?" Marr demanded, but the Pureblood was ready with a reply.
"A credible source and double agent says that Rommel is Earth's version of the recently departed Rakton."
News of their top general's death has spread like wildfire throughout the empire and the Dark Council felt the loss, but he will be avenged just like the desecration of Korriban by the interlopers!
"Clearly this Desert Fox is a threat." Marr determined. "Have the Ciphers on standby to assassinate him and Zhukov when the opportunity presents itself."
'All of them?' Avarice thought as she waited for her turn.
"As you wish, my lord."
As on cue, it was Nat's turn to face the council and Lana gave her a look of sympathy as her friend left the room to plan the assassination attempts on Rommel and Zhukov, but Nathrrya had a feeling that the men will not be killed easily.
"Lord Avarice." Nox began. "Apparently you have disregarded orders to invade Earth and instead you've decided to reinforce Korriban. Do you care to explain yourself?"
'Dammit Nox!' Her rival literally hated her guts, but Nat was prepared to defend herself. "I've received a distress call from Tremel."
"And?"
'What are you kriffing on?!' Nat had enough and she snapped. "Listen Nox! Korriban was under assault and the homeworld is more important than conquering a peaceful planet that has done no harm to the Empire other than to just exist because a race of humans weren't connected to the Force!?"
Realization struck the room as a thought occurred to one of the councilmen regarding what Avarice was hinting at.
"Perhaps that why the Earthlings struck? To send us a message on how much they value their world?"
"Are you mad!" Ravage shouted at Vowrawn. "You may be a Pureblood, but you are betraying your heritage."
"ENOUGH!" Marr roared, silencing the two. "Bickering amongst ourselves is not going to solve the matter. We have a new enemy and we must deal with them."
'This is going to take a while.' The Wrath figured as the Council began to argue amongst themselves.
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson - Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Carrick Station - Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 20:15/8:15 PM
"Whoa, the Pubs weren't exaggerating, eh?"
Hanzo and his friend Alex were granted leave and the Canadians were offered a chance to experience something that they'll only see once in their lives, namely visiting this 'Carrick Station'. "No, they certainly weren't." Replied Hanzo as he and Alex made their way through the pathways that lead to different spots of activity.
All around them was just something new for the Earthlings, whatever it was the various exotic and unique aliens they saw moving by them or bright shining lights displaying advertisers, taking note of a cantina making up the center of this area and what appeared to be an elevator lift leading up to what Hanzo could only assume was a VIP room.
He felt a tap on the shoulder and saw it was Alex. "Let's head down to the supply trade there, might find something interesting there." Alex said as he pointed down to their left that led to a separate stairway.
Alex while having certain differences with his friend about the galaxy, he too can't help but get caught with all the exotic new items to new worlds to learn, even in the midst of a whole Galactic War, Alex's curiosity of the unknown is intriguing him here. "Sure, might as well use the credits we got." Included having been given shore lore where the particular currency in the galaxy known as 'Credits' given dollars weren't gonna cut it here, at least not until an exchange rate could be finalized.
The duo watched as Republic troops, smugglers, mercenaries, Jedi, etc wandered about and talked to various merchants regarding their wares, mercenaries or soldiers drinking away at the available tables, and transports unloading their cargo, listening on conversations while taking notes of languages he overheard that he didn't recognize, 'New things to learn, should be interesting.' His time on Tython opened him to new knowledge in his curiosity of the galaxy, whatever it was to try to understand the Force or picking up languages just in case if needed, just whatever that was a new thing.
But just as he was eyeing around at some of the shops, something caught his eye. Walking around the various kiosks displaying their wares was a grey and black female catlike alien, a Cathar he recognized from some he had seen and even talked to back on Tython who were Jedi but this one though being a Republic soldier, seeing her brown and white Republic Trooper armor. She was quite beautiful, soft yet defined features, noting what look like black markings running down from her eyes - or stripes as he looked more at her fur - and those stunning green catlike eyes scanned her surroundings, with her black hair kept in a ponytail. She was tall as well, standing at least at six feet he wagered, certainly standing taller than his friend Alex.
He couldn't help but also take notice of how well formed her figure was, maintaining an athletic yet curvy figure, wide, and round hips with each step she took as she browsed over some items. 'Someone's certainly is keeping in shape.' He thought to himself, he had the feeling that this woman could give one hell of a kick judging from her well formed legs.
But there was something that drew Hanzo though, it was those light green cat-like eyes that got his attention, they were stunning yes but what he saw in them… It was the same thing he sees when he looks at himself in the mirror. 'She's seen war alright.' The things he can still remember from Vietnam, not something he liked to think about.
So much blood and death as he thought back to the day, the Viet Cong ambush that resulted in the death of most of his platoon. Looking into her eyes he can see they were hardened eyes from war, same as many other veterans after coming back home to only find themselves having a hard time adjusting, though he could only make guesses what she's probably seen, he tried shrugging it off seeing it wasn't any of his business but his actions weren't unnoticed.
"So Hanzo?" Alex withdraws the cigarette inside his mouth. "I take that you are being smitten by that kitten over there?" He blew out smoke, the smell making Hanzo grimace in distaste.
"You're over thinking things Alex. And quit fucking blowing that shit at my face." While no stranger to smoking himself, cigarettes though remain an entirely different story to the Canadian. Though much to his cringe, he could feel redness on his cheeks that told McAllen all he needed to know. 'Thank God the old boys from the platoon ain't here to see this.' The thought of it made him more glad now as he thought back to some in particular.
"Right." He smirks as the feline finally noticed her admirer, her eyes locking onto Hanzo's green hazel eyes, for a moment Hanzo thought of breaking off to not appear like a creep or something but to what reasons beyond him, he couldn't bring himself to and the look she was giving him did not tell of hostility but that of curiosity. Alex noted seeing there were a couple other Republic troopers beside her, like him they too seem to notice their feline friend was busy looking at Hanzo.
Finally what seemed like minutes going by she made the first move, walking up to their direction, her steps she took her hips almost swayed with each step. Alexander even saw a few of her companions were chuckling, making what appear to be exchanging of credits. 'Huh, wonder if I can get in any of that action.' Alex thought as the cat gracefully approached the two brothers in arms.
Lieutenant Marala Jorgo - SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Hutt Bazaar-Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 20:15/8:15 PM
"And so that's why Chaos Squad is second to only Havoc Squad itself. We might not get much as credit or recognition as they do but we've been deployed on missions they don't get assigned to with our skillset." Major Lane proudly declared to the two women in her squad.
Marala was with two of her comrades -her CO Jessie and Enilly - on a shopping spree as the officer put it. The recent addition and first alien to the unit replaced a member that had turned out to be an Imperial spy.
Corporal Kelrein was definitely still a sore subject for the others since from what the Cathar had heard, the redhead was the last person anyone would expect to be an Imp. 'How many are truly hidden among us?' Marala frowned with her thoughts, it seemed with the more this war continued, the more of ugly truth underneath was starting to reveal itself.
She shook her head and focused back to the item that caught her interest. "So how much for the G-56 Projection-X Carbine?" Asked Marala Jorgo as the Cathar soldier inspected a blaster carbine over, testing the weight and scope of it.
"About five hundred credits, ma'am." Replied the Bothan shopkeeper.
"You think that's a little cheap?" Enilly asked in her Alderaanian accent. Specialist Kovo was wearing her custom TH-15A Patrol armor that hugged her fit yet curvy figure from training in the military, she was also the squad's demolition expert was suspicious as to why the dealer was offering an obviously expensive blaster. It should cost at least one thousand and a half credits easily. She was human, fair skin with blonde hair she kept in a ponytail, very light blue eyes, and had a tattoo of the symbol of their squad on her neck.
"Trust me." The Cathar responded. "I know a good bargain when I see it."
Jorgo's two comrades shrugged and allowed their sister in arms to make the purchase. But as she turns around, something catches the Cathar's eyes. More like someone as she notices a pair of green hazel eyes, seeing them belong to an Earthling in a green military uniform, staring at her in what she could only describe as curiosity.
"Is it just me Kovo or does Jorgo have her eyes set on an Earthling?"
The Cathar's cheeks darken a bit as she overhears her two comrades notice her distraction.
"I don't know, but hopefully she isn't smitten with him already." Jessie said as she looked at her admirer.
Marala ignored them and decided to have her own curiosity answered, gracefully approaching the man that had taken her interest, as she got closer she'll admit while no supermodel or anything, he was still handsome in her eyes or to what she can tell with humans. Fair skin, appearing to have a small beard, strong jawline with a bit of narrowness, taking note of his short blackhair. But what drew her attention was what she saw in his green hazel eyes and his stance, how he was almost ready to move any minute in the first sign of trouble. She was surprised to note what looked like a lightsaber scar on his left eye. 'Looks fresh too.' He must've been one of the soldiers involved in what happened either on Korriban or Tython from what she had heard.
But what she saw in those eyes… They were exactly what she had seen in many soldiers in this damned war, so many lost souls who have seen things that others haven't and they were alone in those struggles most of the time.
It reminded her too much of the things she preferred to keep buried in the past, the memories of the burning of her home and slaughter of her family when the Empire had come to her world years ago.
Shaking out of her thoughts and the memories, Marala finally came face to face with her admirer, she was again surprised to see how young he appeared, 'Can't be older than his early twenties.' She thought to herself, making him at least three years younger than her though it did nothing to discourage her curiosity. "Couldn't help but notice you were giving me the looks there. Name's Marala Jorgo, yours?" Her mixed Cathar/Coruscanti accent appeared to have caught their attention judging from the slight surprise expression on their face.
"This is Hanzo but we sometimes call him Han." The man beside him said. "I'm Alexander, but you can call me Alex."
"Nice to meet you." She gazes at the uniform and notices the distinct accent. It sounded similar to a typical Republic dialect, yet it was distinctive at the same time. "You're from Earth, yes?" Her eyes drifted back to Hanzo, he had yet to speak, appearing to prefer to let his friend do the talking.
In fact, much to her amusement he almost appeared to be shy when he had noticed she was staring at him, averting his eyes a bit before giving her a nod and a polite enough smile, to which she returned with a smile. 'Hmm doesn't appear to be creep or anything though doesn't seem all social either.' Something she shared in common.
"Specifically Canada."
"Hmm…" It was Kovo who came right beside her, eyeing Alex up. "Isn't that the land of beavers, mounties, mooses, and maple?"
"It's just moose but I won't deny you're still spot on." Alex sighs in exasperation before turning to his friend. "It seems like the Pubs have already learned about the stereotypes… Sorry ladies." Hanzo suspected it was their 'friends' from America that were likely spreading the stereotypes.
The two men watched as Kovo giggled a little while Marala grinned a little, revealing her white sharp teeth. Hanzo was about to say something before he noticed something red caught his eye, glancing over their shoulder and see's whom he assumed was their CO judging her authority stance, watching them with interest. Realizing why she seemed a bit familiar, he recognized her as Major Lane from when he saw her in the news.
She looked even more stunning up close, chalk pale skin yet not on an unhealthy color, sharp silver eyes, a scar not dissimilar from his own across her nose, long redhair she kept one side shaved while the other long over her left shoulder. Her expression told him she didn't smile or laugh often.
That was alright, neither did he. 'So women in their military can become officers? Interesting.' Hanzo didn't really care about women in the military, having met his share of them in his service in Vietnam and of course his own encounters against Viet Cong women, but to see the mass diversity with the Republic military or that of the Imperials was intriguing. Far as he was concerned, he saw no reason for them to be dismissed if they've already proven capable on the battlefield.
Not after seeing many in action back on Tython as he recalled back to the battle what he saw. He would welcome anyone who wished to fight and the look he saw in her stunning yet cold silver eyes and the scar across the bridge of her nose only told him the kind of soldier he was seeing before him.
He was more than impressed. Though that was not to say he was supportive towards certain feminist groups back home.
Alex, on the other hand, recognized the Major from the incident. 'The thought of having a comrade and subordinate you trusted for years must have hit her hard.' McAllen thought. If her cold expression was anything to go, it was probably best not to piss her off.
"So boys?" Enilly questioned. "How would you like to head to the cantina? Drinks are on us."
Khomo Fett - Leader of Clan Fett, Mandalorians
Concord Dawn, Mandalorian Space, "The Galaxy"
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 20:15/8:15 PM
The head of Clan Fett was still denying that he made a crucial error and was adamant that fifty of his finest warriors were enough to take on the opposition, yet he has underestimated the determination of their foe.
Even though it wasn't exactly open, a few clansmans were giving Khomo disappointed looks as if his people lost faith in his abilities to lead, already making an example of few warriors who thought it was a good idea to challenge him but like others before them, he showed why he was the Clan Leader.
But the day was coming where the Soviets will face the wrath of Clan Fett and their allies. No one could insult the honor of the Mando'ade unscathed.
Word has spread across the Mandalorian clans across the galaxy, that there is a new and powerful foe, one that has even captured of Mandalore the Vindicated once word had reached his ears and if Khomo were to be right, the Mand'alor is about call upon the clans about this new foe with the capabilities of damaging beskar. Or even to call Akaan'gaan and seek them out for battle, but that was mostly with the other clans, Mand'alor has something different in mind.
If they were determined to stop fifty warriors of Clan Fett, then what would they do against thousands or even millions if Mand'alor places the Clans against them?
Either way, Khomo was determined to regain his honor for himself and his Clan. The best way was to engage the so called Commies by seeking them out.
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Hutt Bazaar-Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968 - 21:00/9:00 PM
Hanzo shook his head as Marala told him one of her war stories as they sat at the table they claimed for themselves while the others went off to do their own thing besides Alex who stuck with them. The two had finally the chance to talk after their group had made their into the section that was known as the Hutt Bazaar, from what Hanzo could tell it was a large section of the station down by elevator and into an even more activity location filled with more mercenaries, smugglers, droids, and aliens around, including two massive Hutts on each side of the docking room that he learned both overseer operations here.
He wasn't sure how to feel about that after the stuff he had heard and read about their race, it wasn't exactly helped with all the shining lights and loud music that bugged his senses. Though talking with Marala helped make the stay more enjoyable as he and Alex got to her and her squad better.
"And so these Imperial Troopers just happened to come across our paths in the mission, about two squads worth lead by one Sith warrior. Rueen laid out a burst from his D-313 Repeating Striker to strike the incoming attackers."
"And?" Alex pressed as he drank his brandy.
"And we slaughtered a platoon worth of Imps that won't fight for the Empire any longer." Marala finished up her story, taking a slip of her drink before reassessing to another story, through her eyes would drift to Hanzo even in the midst of telling of how Chaos Squad took on a group of Mandalorian mercenaries on Corellia in the retaking of what was known as 'Axel Park' and something about a memorial site dedicated to not only that of Republic Heroes but also one of the most intriguing parts of galactic history Hanzo had stumble upon his research in the temple back on Tython before the Imperial attack had happened.
Hanzo couldn't help but find it somewhat saddening there was still not enough known about whatever happened to Revan and the final conclusion of some of his companions who are still lost to history.
Hanzo took patient time to even ask some questions with the more he heard about these Mandalorians, he didn't know why but the more he heard of the details about these skilled warriors, his respect grew for Jessie upon hearing her decisions in her leadership and clever using the Mandalorians own sense of honor against them by challenging their leader to an honorable duel, striking not only hard at the apparently strong rivalry between the Echani and the Mandos but out at the fact that one of their greatest Mand'alors was dedicated onto that site, his name being Canderous Ordo, a name that he stumbled upon during his research on Revan.
End result being, the leader got to die a fair death at the hands of a bloodied Jessie and the Mandalorians bound by honor agreed to respect the memorial and took their fighting elsewhere, the story having taken time to explain left them just relaxing and enjoying their drink.
Taking a bit to observation to the rest of their surroundings, seeing people either enjoying their drinks or were on the dancing floor where bright lights shined as music buzzed, noting attractive dancers or waitresses, human or alien as he noted Twi'leks and one Mirialan in a revealing dancer outfit that had dropped off their drinks, though he then caught sight of a particular droid of model he didn't recognized from any of the Republic ones he had seen, wearing a orange scarf and a single red eye, it was just outside the bar, over by where the massive ugly Hutt was with several armed individuals what he can only assume were bounty hunters or mercenaries. Apparently, it was used by what was known as the Bounty Brokers Association, a group that helped assign bounties on wanted criminals in the galaxy for both the Republic and Sith Empire apparently. Major Lane early before had shown him how the concept worked earlier and he'll admit, it caught his interest.
Once she was done talking to the droid, she made her way over to their table, grabbing the attention of others attention. "So it seems like it's getting late." Jessie glances down at her chrono before looking up to meet Hanzo's eyes, her eyes showing almost a sign of interest. "It was good meeting you two, I'll see you two next time. Hanzo, I expect a sparring match." Her blunt statement caught him off guard though he nodded. "Sure, been meaning to see how you Echani fight." That brought a surprising grin from the Republic Major, "And I look forward to seeing how you fight, till next time." She turns on her heel and walks away.
Though Hanzo could swear there was a sway with her round curvy hips as she walked away from them, though both Kovo and Marala remained behind and smiled at the Canadians. Admittedly, they all had quite a few drinks. Enilly gazed at Alex and her voice was slurry from the alcohol.
"How about we go back to my place and hang out Alex?" The Alderaanian suggested teasingly. Alex blushed a little but smiled and held his arm out to her to which she more than happily accepted.
Hanzo and Marala themselves appear to be having similar thoughts when the female Cathar had moved to cling onto the Canadian's side, leaning in her head to his face. "How about it Hanzo? My team isn't due to deploy till around tomorrow," She'll admit despite being more on the quiet side, Hanzo proved to be actually a good listener and as she was shown, he was capable of humor after a few stories of couple shenanigans his squad had done in the past that left her laughing.
Whatever this nuoc-mam was, she wasn't sure if she wanted to taste it to see if it was any good as Hanzo actually claimed or just toss it at the next Imp Squad she encountered to blind them as fish and vegetables fermented in a clay pot under soil for months didn't sound exactly appetizing, nevermind the smell.
The feeling of interest was returned as the two followed along with Alex and Kovo. Hanzo had made no move to separate the embrace while keeping one arm wrapped around her side, though not too hammered he could feel the alcohol though making its effect. "Sure, where you're staying?" He replied with a small grin as they all entered the elevator.
Seems this trip was gonna be an enjoyable one afterall.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy - 36th President of the United States
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
10:30:15 ATC/ October 30th, 1968- 21:00/9:00 PM
"So we have struck not one, but two blows to the Empire!" Khrushchev laughed.
The President of the United States was currently inside the United Nations building discussing the victories on Korriban and Tython. It came as to a surprise as to how effective the troops of the cheesy sounding yet gets the point across 'Unified Earth Coalition' was against the Empire. War Game Simulations months before against their Republic allies showed that the Earthings would emerge victorious nine times out of ten unless their opponent adapts and from what Jack heard, even the galaxy as a whole were stunned at the might of Earth.
"Indeed. And Earth stands united against a technologically advanced adversary. Two years ago, no one would have dreamed such a thing possible thanks to a difference in ideology, but now the Empire shall fear us for showing them that our lone world cannot and shall not be vanquished."
"And what of your upcoming elections?" British Prime Minister Harold Wilson asked.
"Apparently and surprisingly Goldwater and Miller are in the lead." Kennedy answered. "November is looking good for the Republicans."
Senator Barry Morris Goldwater of Arizona and his running mate, William Edward Miller, were currently facing off against the current Vice President, Lyndon Baines Johnson and Robert Strange McNamara in what was a heated election between the two conservatives and the pair pledging to continue Kennedy's New Frontier initiative until McNamara slipped up and stated that he desired to bring the Empire to the negotiating table. The United States of America and Earth in general wasn't ready to make a deal with the devil just yet since the world desired to show the Dark Council the full might of Earth.
"Do you think nuclear weapons are an option?"
"Not yet. The Empire has superweapons of their own and I fear we don't need to escalate matters further. We have them on the run, there is no need to make them retaliate, gentlemen."
"Still…" The current Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Manlio Brosio, began. "We have finally agreed on what armaments to standardized throughout NATO."
Khrushchev snorted. "At least the Warsaw Pact has standardized our weapons from the date of its founding!"
"Well, there was still quite a debate on the rifle." He admitted. "But we ultimately decided on the M14 instead of the FAL for multiple reasons, namely because of reliability in desert conditions, and the standard general-purpose machine gun is the successor of the infamous MG-42: The MG-3. Our deal with Czerka to produce Chieftains, Mark 19s, and any other arms is now in effect."
"Capitalism." The Primer of the Soviet Union shook his head. "It's truly a wonder as to why it lasted so long."
"But it works." Kennedy declared as he raised his glass of champagne. "For our planet."
"For Earth!"
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Carrick Station - Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:31:15 ATC/ October 31st, 1968 - 06:00/6:00 AM
In a stir haze, Hanzo woke up on Halloween with a groan. The Canadian didn't think that the drinks would nail him this bad, yet the hangover was getting to him.
'Those Corellian drinks are quite something.' He thought.'Wait? Something fluffy is on me.' It felt like a cat was sleeping on his chest.
Nilsson opens his eyes, blinking to adjust his eyesight before seeing a very clearly naked Marala press up against him underneath the bedsheets. One arm wrapped around his waist while the other over his shoulder, feeling her well-sizable firm breasts pressed against his side with her head resting on his upper chest. Feeling her soft breathing, the memories started to flow back to his awaking brain, it brought a grin to his face when he remembered how they just immediate acted upon each other soon as they had entered her apartment, tearing at each other's clothing before what followed a long night of two soldiers relieving themselves of stress.
Though now having a chance to look upon the state of the room with the scattered torn clothes and armor pieces on the floor… And the dents on the wall from where the bed had been banging on from the rocking, he began to wonder how much they had likely kept any neighbors up. His thoughts were however interrupted when he felt the Cathar starting to stir. "Morning Marala." He wrapped his arms around her, feeling the soft fur as he traced his hand down her back, the Cathar purred in contact as she leaned in closer to him, her long black hair now loose with some strands covering her face, adding some allure to her already stunning green catlike eyes.
"Surprise we were able to get up after last night." Marala muttered as she pressed her lips against his, moaning as she felt him lightly squeezing her right ass cheek. "Light night was just incredible Marala, though I gotta say I think we may have kept your neighbors up last night." Commented Hanzo, the two lost track how many positions they contentious perform all over her apartment, the bite marks she left on his shoulder in the midst of their lovemaking were still sore but not bothersome. The two had finally crashed onto her bed and kept at it until they had finally passed out from exhaustion and just enjoying each other's company.
But what really strikes at Hanzo the very most from last night… He was able to sleep peacefully for once. There were no dreams of the war, no dead friends to haunt and curse him in his dreams, no long nights spent staring at the ceiling, none were there to cause night terrors. It was just him and Marala and though he wasn't sure if this was gonna be just a one night stand or something but for what it was worth, he certainly had no regrets.
"Hehe well, not my fault someone's got the stamina to keep up with me." She gave a peck to his lips before letting go of him to get up from the bed to which the Canadian took a moment to admire her figure. Marala flounced her wide round hips as she stretched out to loosen her muscles, Hanzo saw from last night that not only Marala was curvy but physically fit too with her abs, long gracefully legs, not to mention being very flexible as he had learned from some of their… Positions they had taken from last night. 'Are all Cathar women freaking Amazons or is she just this amazing?'
Hearing a satisfying crack from her back, she took notice of him looking and smiled, "Want to join me in the shower?" She turned around and propped up her perky yet firm C Cup breasts, dark nipples hardening. Giving a little jiggle to grab his attention, to which it quickly did.
It didn't take long for him to spring out of bed, picking Marala up in bridal style, smiling a bit when he heard her lightly chuckling. "Didn't have to ask." And with that the two stepped into the refresher room, the door closing behind while the new couple enjoyed each other's company.
Lieutenant Marala Jorgo- SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Carrick Station - Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:31:15 ATC/ October 31st, 1968 - 06:15/6:15 AM
"So do you think that you can stay for breakfast?" Marala asked, with her fur and hair still being damp despite the blow dryer, the two having enjoyed their nice long shower together were now just getting ready for the day. The room was relatively average, or what was average in this galaxy at least as the Cathar hasn't seen for herself what was typical within the Sol System. The room has a simple toilet in the corner with a large glass shower taking up most of the s[ace while at the end there's a counter with the mirror facing them.
Hanzo, who was just washing his hair with a towel, thought for a moment before nodding. "I got time yeah, I imagine Alex is probably still with Kovo." The Earthling wondered with an amused expression, presumably over their enjoyable carnal evening.
"Good." Jorgo sat the dryer aside and turned to face him, leaning over to wrap her arms around his neck and granting him a peck on the lips. "How does nerf steak and eggs sound?" Her fingers traced some of his scars, her curiosity was peaking to the stories behind those scars as she had noticed the same with Hanzo to her own scars.
"Sounds good to me, I've been curious how nerf is like." He gave a quick swat to Marala's ass, chuckling at the cute yelp she gave, but then wincing when he felt her claws digging into his shoulders. "Ass." Though she still smirked at him even with her piercing glance before starting to make out with him.
She could get used to this indeed...
Private Alexander McAllen - Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Carrick Station - Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
10:31:15 ATC/ October 31st, 1968 - 08:45/8:45 AM
Alexander waited patiently for his friend outside the apartment he was staying at. Yesterday was truly something else for the two off-duty Canadians since they didn't expect to run into what turns out to be their female companions.
"Hey Hanzo!" McAllen shouted in excitement. "I think we both had a lovely night with two wonderful ladies, don't you think?"
"Marala is one hell of a woman, good soldier too..." His friend mutters. "Enilly isn't a bad girl for you."
"No, she's quite nice actually." Alexander admitted. "She and I enjoyed watching what they call a 'Holofilm' together before falling asleep."
"Good to hear that. As for me… Marala and I made a commitment." There was no doubt as to what he was hinting at and McAllen was shocked.
"You didn't." Alex just couldn't believe his ears, like he saw how Marala got his attention but he didn't think it went that far.
Hanzo gave him a look that said how serious he was and Alex shook his head in disbelief. "Hanzo you are just full of fucking surprises. Just be careful, from what Emily told me there, Cathars mate for life… So you might as well put the ring on that finger bud." Taking out another cigarette before lighting it.
Leaving Hanzo behind in the dust to realize that fact...
The Dark Council now realizes that Earth is not to be laughed at, NATO is finally standardizing equipment, and you just met some other OCs that will play a role in the future.
Now as to how the Empire adapts to the threat from the Sol System?
We have some plans, but they'll have to wait until after Revan and his cult are defeated on Yavin.
Also, I'm not trying to offend anyone who enjoys Nuoc-Mam here but apparently based on what I've read: American, Australian, and New Zealand troops who fought in Vietnam couldn't stand the odor of it.
Quoting from the biography of the literal Chris Kyle of his day that is, unfortunately, being overlooked due to the oversaturating SEAL craziness (no harm, no foul for any actual frogmen here or their relatives. I just personally believe that every unit should be portrayed equally even Rear Echelon/POGs/REMFs personnel), the one and only legendary Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock Marine Sniper: 93 Confirmed Kills by Charles Henderson, Pages 242 - 243:
Hathcock wrinkled his nose. The watery slime had a distinct odor that Hathcock associated with a neighbor's outhouse near his grandmother's home in Arkansas.
The monsoon rains of a year ago and the frequent summer showers kept this rocky depression filled with water, warmed by the beams of sunlight that shone between the overhead boughs. Slugs, leeches, worms, algae, and slimy moss made the water look like a puddle of green oatmeal.
Carefully, he brushed the top layer of lumpy slime away until he saw the black water, clear and almost drinkable, in the small opening he had made. Extending his lips, he put his face down to it and took tiny sips.
"Pew!" Hathcock whispered softly. "It tastes exactly like it smells."
"You done?"
"That's all I can stand."
"I hear that a big helping of Nuoc-Mam will get rid of any case of liver flukes you might pick up in the water."
Mack frowned at Hathcock. "I don't care how hungry we get. I'll eat dog shit before you get me to touch a drop of that nasty crap!"
In case you are still stumped, the author of the same biography kindly provided an asterisk note to clarify how this Vietnamese dish is traditionally made:
Nuoc-Mam is a Vietnamese staple made from tiny fish (like sardines and anchovies), rice, and a variety of vegetables before being placed in a sealed jar and buried to ferment.
High in protein and carbohydrates, Nuoc-Mam provided the Viet Cong with a rich food supply that they did not have to carry. However, because of its rancid odor and putrefied contents, most Americans considered it a foul substance, not fit to eat.
So there's without doubt justification here and besides, not everyone in the world likes Sauerkraut, Spinach, and Broccoli such as myself (but I have to concur with the Anti-Brussel Sprout people: Are they really for human consumption or were they in fact created for the purpose of torture?).
Chapter 15: Conspiracy
Chapter Text
Agent Theron Shan-Republic Strategic Information Service
10:31:15 ATC/ October 31st, 1968 - 08:45/8:45 PM
'Nope. He's a Spook.' Theron thought as he read a file on Alex Mason of the Central Intelligence Agency. The SIS operative believes that the attack on Tython and Korriban were than just a coincidence and the agent was determined to find out. Shan was especially suspicious of Colonel Darock and he wasn't sure how deep this went so Theron decided to get outside help and as he looks for two suitable candidates, his droid, T3-G2, beeped.
"What do you got?" He asked as the droid brought two files on a pair of Americans, namely individuals by the name of Jacob Meyer and Samuel Westbrook.
Theron selected to read the one on Meyer first. "Private First Class Jacob Meyer." The spy who had taken down the Ascendant Spear continued reading of someone from the sound of it was suspiciously in a black operations unit, one that Shan hadn't heard of in any recent debriefing. "Born and raised in Acton, Indiana...Officially became the first Earthling to engage Imperial forces during the 'United Nations incident'."
'Oh, that?' Shan shook his head. He couldn't help but feel a tinge of sympathy for the guy as the woman he was romantically involved with turned out to be an Imp who infiltrated SpecForce. "Was in something known as the 'Studies and Observations Group' for a few months in the Mekong Delta before requesting a transfer back to his original unit - details of the mission in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam remain classified and is now a Raider...Highly skilled in shooting with accomplishments nationally in sanctioned Director of Civilian Marksmanship events and is a 'Distinguished Marksman'." The man in the red jacked nodded his head in approval to his companion. "Excellent choice Tee-Three. I believe we have found our men."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
11:01:15 ATC/ November 1st, 1968 - 07:01/7:01 AM
"Do what!?" Jake couldn't believe what he was hearing. Meyer wasn't sure if he heard his pal's announcement correctly. The Raider was in his barrack reading when Samuel brought the Leatherneck some unexpected news.
"Apparently some Republic Spook recruited us for a mission." Sam declared with disgust.
"Damn and to think we were both recruited for MACV-SOG by Agent Mason." Jake shook his head. "Thanks to him we had an encounter that reminded us why we shouldn't trust spies."
The two friends shuddered as memories of that mission came back to haunt them.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Team Delaware 3-5, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG)
Location Classified - Somewhere in the Mekong Delta
Date and Time Unknown
"Goalpost? This is Cutthroat."
Private Jacob Meyer and Corporal Samuel Westbrook waited from their position as a detachment of NVA regulars passed them just feet away. The two Hoosiers and buddies since boyhood coincidentally assigned to the same SOG unit were granted a 'temporary assignment' to assist some United States Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, and Force Recon Marines in a raid on a suspected North Vietnamese Army command center and Meyer was behind the rifle with Westbrook using the M49 Spotting Scope to observe splashes and provide any correction if needed.
"We read you Cutthroat."
"Apparently we have regulars in addition to Charlie." Meyer mentioned as he peered through the John Unertl Model 2" 36x Target Scope on his barely modified M14 rifle which also had a SIONICS suppressor attached in addition to the optic. "I repeat, we have some boys from Hanoi."
"Copy Cutthroat. We'll be ready for them."
Jake admitted that while the tiger stripes were cool, the Marine was annoyed that a Spook had the power to transfer him to some shitty part of nowhere. The Leatherneck watched as Sam reached for his weapon and cover their rear with his 'acquired' RPD but then there was a growl.
"SHIT!" Westbrook shouted as a leopard appeared. It seems like the Americans have unwittingly chosen a bad spot and now the mission was a failure.
Present...
"Damn cat came out of nowhere."
"And you wonder why I'm not a cat person?" Jake wily answered. "Cats are evil and the black ones cause bad luck."
"So says the Jarhead who dated a redhead." The man whose father was from Salem, Massachusetts smirked, to which his pal snorted.
"Yeah...A cheesecake-loving Space Brit. Don't remind me."
11:03:15 ATC/ November 3rd, 1968 - 06:22/6:22 PM
Jake and Sam walked into the rendezvous point, a bar of sorts, in order to get additional information regarding this operation. The two American servicemen knew that Republic and Earth-all of Earth- military doctrine was completely worlds apart as to best conduct a mission. The pair have witnessed it many times, seeing everything from generals from a religious order who happens to be commandos as well to fraternizing with the enemy in order to strike deals, the later of which would get a Earthling shot as a majority of Terran leaders wouldn't desire a repeat of the Christmas Truce.
"Ah, you must be our guests." Agent Shan noted.
"Okay buster, I sure as hell don't know why you drafted us for some suicide mission, but if I find out you're misappropriating us for some ill-gotten gain, Hell will be a luxury compared to what I'm willing to do."
"Whoa, take it easy. We're all friends here." Theron placated. "What's your problem?"
Sam shook his head "Jake. Clearly, your threats are not going to get us out of this mess."
"They aren't threats." Meyer declared as he glared at the spy. "They're promises. Alrighty then, Mister Red Jacket." Jake sneered "So why are we at this bar?
The agent shook his head and answered. "My contact from the Empire should be meeting us here soon."
Sam raised an eyebrow in suspicion at the comment. "Empire?"
"Yeah, something about the assaults on Korriban and Tython doesn't add up. We chose Manaan as it's a neutral world so we could compare notes in person. And that is also whe-"
The trio was interrupted by a rather attractive blonde woman in her early twenties. The Americans never understood why robes and capes were an essential fashion statement for the rest of the universe, but there were also some rather strange coincidences between Earth and the Intergalactic community in addition to the usual discernible differences.
"Theron, it's good to see you've made it." She greeted in an unmistakable Space British accent. But Jake has a slightly poleaxed expression at seeing the pretty blonde then notices her eyes, Sith yellow.
'I need a really stiff drink' Meyer thought.
Lana smiles at the stranger but notices how handsome he is and got lost in his eyes. "So...Theron?...I see you brought along friends."
Theron grins as he recognized her becoming smitten. "You're okay Lana...You're sweating a bit."
The flaxen-haired woman blushed harder. "Oh hush up."
However, the situation wasn't helped as 'Burning Love' by Elvis Presley begins to play in the cantina.
Lord Almighty,
I feel my temperature rising
Higher higher
It's burning through to my soul
Girl, girl, girl
You gonna set me on fire
My brain is flaming
I don't know which way to go
'Dammit!' Jake thought as he listened to the tune. 'Elvis is becoming strangely popular if aliens are playing it!'
Lana, unbeknownst to the Marine was sharing the same embarrassing sentiment as well as the song became more evident. 'Kriff!'
Your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
You light my morning sky
With burning love
Ooh, ooh, ooh,
I feel my temperature rising
Help me, I'm flaming
I must be a hundred and nine
Burning, burning, burning
And nothing can cool me
I just might turn into smoke
But I feel fine
Shan grins widen, enjoying the fact that he now has potential blackmail."So Lana, this is Jacob Meyer of the United States Marines. Jake, Lana Beniko-Sith Lord and head of Sith Intelligence."
"Umm...Nice to meet you Miss Beniko."
"The...Feeling is mutual...Jake." Then a thought occurred to the blonde. 'Wait a minute, did Sara mentioned that her boy...Ah, kriff.'
Theron smirked evilly. " I'll leave you two alone for a minute to get to know each other better."
"I think I need a beer." The paratrooper grinned mischievously as he agreed with the plan.
"Theron…"
"Sam..."
Cause your kisses lift me higher
Like a sweet song of a choir
And you light my morning sky
With burning love
It's coming closer
The flames are reaching my body
Please won't you help me
I feel like I'm slipping away
It's hard to breath
And my chest is a-heaving
Nevertheless, despite their best efforts Theron and Sam still leave their respective compatriots in the dust.
"I apologize for my friend's behavior...Theron enjoys causing mischief if he thinks he can get away with it."
"That's okay Miss Beniko. Sam is the same way so I know the feeling."
Lana smiles flirtatiously. "Please call me Lana, Jacob."
Lord Almighty,
I'm burning a hole where I lay
Cause your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
You light my morning sky
With burning love
With burning love
Ah, ah, burning love
I'm just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
Jake smirks in response to the glow. "Only if you call me Jake."
'What in the name of the Force am I thinking...If this is the same Jacob Meyer Sara was in a relationship with!?'
'Well, I'm not sure if I'll see Sara again and the last time I saw her, I shot her accidentally on Korriban...Odds are slim.'
"So Jake..." Theron inquired cheekily. "What do you think of Lana?"
"Hmm...Well, I didn't think I'll run into the Head of Sith Intelligence herself and why would an SIS agent be friends with said head of enemy intelligence agency...Are you setting me up? As in patsy?"
"Oh, why of course not." Sam grinned evilly. "I believe he has good intentions."
Jake placed the beer down and placed his head on the table. "Shit. I'm screwed."
"So is it just me or doesn't Jake seem a bit flustered?"
The SIS agent smirked at the paratrooper. "He'll be fine, Sergeant." Shan gazed over at Beniko as she sheepishly passes the duo. "So how was your time with lover boy?"
"Not. One. Word." The Sith growled.
Westbrook shook his head as the blonde stormed off. "You realize that she could easily kill us both, right?"
"What can I say?" The agent defended. "Lana is...unique amongst their ranks. Pushing buttons is a hobby of mine."
"One of these days she might make you 'disappear'."
"Perhaps." Theron confessed casually. "But for now, I'm cocky enough to push my luck."
11:05:15 ATC/ November 5th, 1968 - 08:49/8:49 AM
Shan had to admit that the history of the Americans was proving themselves as they began to ponder over the best way to conduct the operation against the facility. The two traitors, Colonel Darok and Darth Arkous were both pouring funds into this one research lab, something that had to be more of just a mere coincidence.
"So can we count on reinforcements?"
Theron shook his head. "No, since this mission is ultrasensitive and time is of the essence." He then shrugged. "Then again, Lana might be pulling strings but she doesn't tell me everything for obvious reasons."
"Well, this will become a FUBAR op if we don't plan accordingly."
"FUBAR?" The agent inquired, unfamiliar with Earth terminology.
"Fucked up beyond any recognition." Samuel clarified. "Worse than SNAFU, Situation normal all fucked up."
"Ah." The spy grinned. Shan had to admit that the Terran had a rather colorful vocabulary of expressions to describe every event. "Luckily for you, I've acquired some typical civvie attire for this special party of ours."
"So we can get hung for spying just like Nathan Hale?" Jake grumbled. "Wonderful."
"Actually, it's typically either lightning or throwing a lightsaber."
"Still, we're not spies, Red Jacket." The Leatherneck reminded him. "If we get caught and die, I'll come back from the grave and strangle you." The Raider selected a dull gray and buff leather jacket for himself before handing an all black one to Sam. "You really have a strange sense in clothing."
"It's not my fault that Nerf leather is the current fad." Theron upholded. "And who would think that Earthlings would wear leather?"
Meyer rolled his eyes at the bravado. "If James Dean was still alive, he'll prove you wrong."
"Who?"
"Nevermind." Westbrook interceded. "Let's just get this over with."
11:05:15 ATC/ November 5th, 1968 - 11:24/11:24 AM
Jake and Sam continued to infiltrate the facility by using their experiences with stealth operations. So far, the two Americans -with assistance from their SIS handler- had managed to not to alert the security system for the installation but the duo knew that it was only a matter of time and as a result, attempted to make this mission a quick raid for Intel.
"Bring back any memories rescuing POWs in Laos?" Westbrook asked in a whisper.
"Sure does." Meyer chuckled softly as he brought up a suppressed M1911A1 and fired, taking down a guard. "Didn't know what hit him."
"Because bullets are regarded as obsolete by the rest of the galaxy." The paratrooper reminded his friend cheekily as they proceed to drag the corpse out of sight.
"So the Republic and the representatives for BlasTech and Merr-Sonn, say." The Raider shrugs. "But I'm not going to deny results."
"Interesting," The voice of the spy interrupted the conversation over the com. "I'm seeing records of a prisoner here. Someone named Jakarro. I bet he could share some interesting stories with us…The Chief of Security's straight ahead."
The pair rounded the corner to find the chief and two riot control droids waiting. Along with a rather irate looking Bigfoot in a cage.
"I thought Sasquatch was in California?" Jake muttered as he aimed his rifle at the head of security, firing a shot.
"I'm no Sasquatch! I'm a Wookiee!"
Meyer rolled out of the way as one of the robots took a swing at the Leatherneck. Westbrook unleashed a hail of bullets at said bot and riddled it with holes. While the soldier was focusing on the first one, the other robot attempted to blast the paratrooper in the back, but the Raider shot the tincan in the head.
"It's our lucky day, droid! Convince these saps to let us out of here!"
The duo looked at the being and realized that the metallic skull wasn't decoration, but the head of a robot attached to crossed bandoliers. And the head seemed to be fully functional.
"Uh… Greetings! My master compliments your impressive skill, and would like to share his appreciation for this noble rescue!"
Jake raised an eyebrow and looked at the beast. "Jakarro, I presume? We're here to break you out… among other things."
"Fine, just release us and we can slaughter the rest of these backstabbers together!"
"Before we let you out, what are the two of you even doing here? You're logged as a prisoner, but why?"
The robot answer before the mammal. "My esteemed master is a specialist in discreet cargo delivery. I am his translator, C2 D4, former servant of her Imminence, Queen Lina of…"
"Does he ever shut up!" Sam groans from the console.
"No one cares, droid! Get to the point." His master growled.
"Uhm… yes, well, Jakarro was contracted by a Selkath geneticist, Gorima, to deliver certain medical equipment—perfectly legal! – to this facility." The droid told the duo. "But once the delivery was made, we were imprisoned and interrogated by two very unpleasant individuals!"
"Let me guess… a Republic officer and a Sith?"
"They wanted to know whether or not we had told others about the job. Insulting!" Jakarro replied.
"We were never introduced!" C2-D4 replied. "Very rude, to be perfectly honest. After the interrogation, they told Gorima to use us for fodder in some kind of experiment!"
Jake shook his head with disgust, the explanation reminding him of his father tales regarding encountering the Nazi's experimentation on some of the Holocaust victims after liberating a camp. "Sith don't usually take prisoners from what we heard, so this experiment must be a big deal."
"The possibilities are… troubling, to say the least." D4 commented.
Sam checked his com and asked their handler. "Theron, you getting all this?"
"Yeah, and their story checks out—just did a little digging on these two. Charges against them both for smuggling, disorderly conduct, assault…"
Soldier and Jarhead looked at each other, and the Leatherneck asked "Even the Robot?"
"Yeah." Theron replied, sounding confused."Why do you ask?"
"Nevermind."
"Well, whatever they may have done, Lana has a good feeling about them—thinks they might come in handy. Let's see if she's right." The field agent deadpanned.
Shan guided Westbrook as to how to open the cage and with a few simple keystrokes, the force field was down.
"All right." Sam told Jakarro as he leapt from the cage platform. "We're in this together, you understand."
"I will secure my weapons and meet you! Revenge will be ours!"
The beast turned and as he stalked off the duo overheard D4 shout at them. "Thank you!"
Sam walked up beside Jake and said. "They're friendly."
"I'm going to ascribe the lack of manners to the fact they'd been stuck in a cage." Jake replied as turned to eye the elevator which leads to the lab. "It's time to crash this party."
The descent felt like forever, and as the elevator doors opened, Theron's voice buzzed in the duo ears.
"Hold up a sec. I've been slicing the facility's files, and I keep finding references to the Order of Shasa, some type of Force-using Selkath. They aren't Jedi or Sith. I'm still not sure how they fit into this, so be careful."
"We will." Jake replied as Sam looked at him.
"Well, that's just nifty." He said wryly. "But on the other hand, Space Magicians have nothing over us."
"Ain't that right." Meyer snickered as he pulled back the charging handle of his M14. " So let's make mincemeat and shoot the fish in this barrel of theirs."
The Order of Shasa turned out to be extremely proficient fanatics but the two Americans were experienced enough with magicians to overtake them. Admittedly it was still challenging yet a couple well-placed shots from the gunpowder weapons and a few grenades here and there did wonders when it came to dealing with laser swords.
But now, Jake, Sam, and their two companions stood before a security door that, if the schematics the spy had found were accurate, led to Gorima's lab. And a new voice came over the com circuit, female with a clipped Dromund Kaas accent.
"I know we haven't talk much, but Theron asked me to contact you while he was busy with his scanning equipment." The Sith announced. "Apparently he's picking up powerful energy readings from Gorima's laboratory, readings consistent with Rakata technology. Theron and I agree this is a dangerous sign. Whatever is going on in that lab, please do your best to stop it."
"Understood, ma'am." Samuel acknowledged. "We're about to strike the place anyway."
Jake opened the door and stormed in first, pointing his weapon at the being.
"Are you Gorima?" Jake asked the alien who was leaning over the table operating on something.
"I am, and I'm never going to finish with so many interruptions! Go back to Darok and tell him to stop pestering me!" He replied absently, then looked up. "You aren't one of Darok's people. An intruder then. What do you want?"
"I don't understand what you're saying, Fishface." Jake growled at the aquatic researcher. "But I can one hundred percent guarantee you didn't expect for your magicians and robots to be taken down easily."
"Obviously you are not familiar with Selkaths."The mad scientist determined. "No matter, you will not escape this facility alive with my creation-"
"There you are!" Jakarro howled as he brought up his bowcaster. "Time to learn the cost for crossing Jakarro, eel!"
Gorima brought up both hands, either in defense or an attempt to placate Jakarro. "Please." He pleaded. "It was nothing personal! You have to understand—you're such an impressive specimen."
"What are you waiting for?" D4 asked. "Do it before he has a chance to betray us again!"
But Sam beat Jakarro to the deed and fired a burst from his M60 in order to end the mad inventor's waste of oxygen. "Rot in hell."
The extraterrestrial stumbled back as the projectiles opened a cavity in his chest, the bullets peppering his flesh and keeled over.
"Gorima wasn't the best employer really." The robot head confessed with a cheerful glee.
The conversation was cut off by the loud hiss, as an observation port opened in the far wall, and standing together were Arkous and Darok, the two traitors looking somewhat smug.
"Well." Darok said conversationally. "That explains the dead guards."
"Hmmm...I do wonder why I couldn't sense our intruders." The Sith mused. "Most peculiar."
"Obviously they're Earthlings." The Colonel quickly determined. "Judging by weaponry, the tactics, and their accent, I say Americans to be precise."
"Yes. I suppose that explains it." His companion conceded. "No matter, these forceless pests are going to learn that they're an anathema to everything we hold dear."
"I told Shan to let it go." Darok revealed to them. "You all did your parts—none of this concerns you."
"You think you can just stand there and relax without us shooting at you?" Meyer mocked, the former 5811 Military Policeman firing a warning shot "Surrender. This is your only warning."
"Your ignorance to galactic affairs is none of our concern!" The Colonel declared as a projectile struck the glass and whiz by his head, the duo knowing that it was their cue to flee. "You don't even know what you're interfering with, you ignorant Earthlings!"
"Such a shame about Gorima." Darth Arkous lamented with surprising calmness as the Sith Lord reach out to press a button on the console in front of him, and the lab shuttered as the hatch to the observation port closed.
"That right cowards! You may run, but you can't hide!"
"Jake! We need to get outta here!"
"Your friend is right, Earthling! I'm not suited for aquatic environments!"
"I must agree with my master! We best get going!"
"Ah, shut up robot!"
"Robot? I'm C2-D4, a Protocol Droid formerly in service to Queen…"
"I said shut it, Rosey." The Marine snarled. "This ain't the Goddamn 'Jetsons'!"
"Out! Now!" Sam barked as an explosion tore through the facility and water came rushing in. The quartet were out in the hallways, heading toward the elevator at double time to the surface when Lana contacted the strike team.
"Hello again." She said, "I'm afraid all the emergency pods have been ejected and the hatches back to the facility's entrance sealed. Fortunately, a friend and I… procured a small watercraft for such an eventuality. The autopilot should have it docked at a hatch nearby shortly."
'Friend?' Jake asked himself, but shook the Leatherneck his head. The Marine needed to focus on surviving the waves first.
"'Shortly' might be a little bit long as far as we're concerned." Sam shouted over the rush of water.
"Their cyborg champion is after you!" Lana said, sounding slightly agitated. "I can feel its power from here. It's considerable."
"Fuck!" Jake shouted, firing at the prototype. "I need covering fire!"
"I'm on it!" Samuel began firing at the augmented creature, spreading lead in an attempt to slow the invention down.
"Sasquatch!" Meyer paused from shooting at the creation and beckoned to the former prisoner. "I need you to use that fancy crossbow of yours at the joists! With the water pressure, the ceiling should collapse right on top of him!"
"My master is not a fictional ape from Eart-"
"That's it droid! I'm shutting you down once we escape from this retrid place!"
"Please master! I'm just only translating!"
Jakarro huffed as he aimed his bowcaster at the designated target and caused the support beams to collapse right onto the cyborg. The creation arm was seen attempting to crawl its way out, but it eventually stopped, the fin twitching it last movements.
"Is it dead?" Westbrook asked, breathing heavily.
"I don't want to stay here and find out." Meyer determined. "Let's just get the Hell out of here."
The Paratrooper nodded and the comrades rushed towards the docking bay located at the corner of the hall.
"Apologies for the interruption, but both Lana and Agent Shan are currently occupied at the moment. Nevertheless, your two acquaintances thought they needed to have an extra hand in this mess, although I'm surprised that you didn't invite me to the raid, Jake."
"Sounds familiar?" Sam inquired regarding the identifiable clipped voice.
Jake pressed the button to his earpiece and asked the "Is that you, Sara?"
"Now is not the time." The Commando chastised. "You and Samuel need to 'haul ass' as you Americans say and 'get the hell of out of dodge'."
"Seems like we may have gone a bit overboard with the expressions, pal." Jake grumbled as he sprinted towards the docking bay.
"You think?"
The quartet came across a holoterminal and the figure of a female Imperial Commando flickered to life with the Sergeant busy tapping away at presumably the 'electrical typewriter feature' from Meyer's and Westbrook's perspective.
"So should I bring flowers and chocolate for the reunion?" The Leatherneck quipped, but Kelrein sighed at the antics.
"Look, we can catch up after you're out of the kriffing lab." The redhead promised as she continued to press buttons on her holopad. "There, the shuttle should be ready for your departure to the surface , unless you prefer to swim of course?"
11:06:15 ATC/ November 6th, 1968 - 15:24/3:24 PM
Ever since Lana met Jake, the blonde couldn't get her mind off of the handsome American.
For some reason, Beniko believes she's falling heads over heels whenever she sees him and yet Lana didn't want to put a friendship at risk.
"Sara?"
"What is it Lana?" The redhead asked, head peeking up from a holonovel she's reading.
With a deep breath, Lana explained the situation. "I believe that I'm falling in love with Jake, but I know he already have someone who is dear to him and I do not want to put our friendship in jeopardy."
Sara blinked at Lana for a few moments, smirking. "Why am I not surprised." Kelrein declared, the answer Lana wasn't quite expecting. "Lana. He's a great guy and I know you long enough I you wouldn't risk our friendship. We have so much in common that I wouldn't be surprised that you have feelings for him too." Sara's smile turned into a sly grin. "Besides, I'm not the jealous type anyways."
"That's...good to hear."
"I wonder what he thinks?" Kelrein wickedly smiles before calling out. " Jake! Can Lana and I talk to you for a minute! It's important! "
11:06:15 ATC/ November 6th, 1968 - 15:30/3:30 PM
Jake was taken aback by the proposition. The Terran never expected for two ladies to be captivated by him and now he was in a rather awkward situation at the insinuation of being romantically involved with the enemy. This was either a dream come true or a perilous nightmare depending on one's point of view and he was conflicted reacquainting with one of them.
"Umm...So let me get this straight. You both desire to be in a relationship with me?"
"Well, if you're uncomfortable..." Lana mitigated herself, understanding his reluctance and hesitation regarding the concept.
"No, it's fine." He quickly declared. "It's just that I'm trying to wrap my head around it." Meyer sighs as he ponder as to what the best course of action is. "Look, I already had fallout over a certain spy, but the head of an enemy intelligence agency as well?"
"Sorry about that by the way." Sara muttered with sincerity. "I've never intended for you to get scrutinized."
"It's fine." Sighing and praying that he doesn't regret this, he nodded. "Okay then. I'm willing to give this a shot."
11:06:15 ATC/ November 6th, 1968 - 16:00/4:00 PM
"Lucky bastard." Samuel grumbled as he saw his friend being mesmerized by the blonde and the redhead.
"You were playing matchmaker, Sam." Sara cheekily pointed out. "Goes to show that women play the game better."
"Whatever, Space Limey."
Beniko and Kelrein glanced at one another and rolled their eyes. "Men."
"Okay, moving on." Theron intervened, changing the subject. "We now know that a certain ancestor of mine is planning an intergalactic powerplay."
"Understatement of the century." Jake interrupted.
"Yes, well, and we also know that he hasn't successfully recruited any Earthlings due to the planet being involved in the galaxy for only a year. As such, Earth hasn't cemented itself, unlike Alderaan or Chandrila."
"Thus we can discount encountering any Terran Revanites." Lana finished.
"Who cares!"Jakarro roared. "We're wasting our time!"
"Err...What did Sasquatch say?" The paratrooper inquired, regretting it only moments later.
"My master..."
"Way to go, Sam."
Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:30/9:30 AM
"So this potential vacation hotspot is the origin of a race of cannibals?" Jake quipped he, Sam, and their handler sat on a crate discussing their next move. "I'm unimpressed."
"Well, then at least it's not Rishi." Theron interposed. "Intel place it as a hotspot for smugglers and gangsters despite being a tropical paradise."
"Pirates?" Sam questioned, clearly interested. "As in 'Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum'?"
Shan still wasn't sure what the Earthling was talking about but he recognized rum. "When you put it that way, piracy is surprisingly common in the galaxy."
"Sounds lovely. Magicians, Cultists, and now Pirates." Meyer scoffed. "What's next, an intergalactic apocalypse to wipe out all life?"
"Oh, give it a break, Jake." Kelrein interrupted as the commando and the others walked over to the men causually discussing strategy. "I'm sure you can ease off being melodramatic once you realize that reality of the galaxy is not going away anytime soon."
"I can even call up a few of my pirate friends!"
"We still can't understand you, Sasquatch."
"Jakarro is not Bigfoot." The blonde corrected."He's a Wookiee."
"A what?"
"My master species call themselves Wookiees and their homeworld is know…"
"Shut up droid." Sara glared at the head. "Can you see that you were being rude?"
"My apologies...Go ahead Miss Beniko."
Lana coughed and continued. "Anyway, Jakarro is a Wookiee and thanks to their biology, they can only communicate by using growls."
"So they speak through roars?"Sam noticed. "I guess this is why he strapped a robot to his chest."
"How many times do I have to you that I'm not a robot! I'm C2-D4, a Protocol Droid formerly in service to Queen…"
"Quiet down or I'll sell you for scrap! They're just misinformed!" The smuggler roared. "I hear there is a high demand for the C2 series lately on Tatooine!"
"Please don't master! It's just only a misunderstanding!"
It clicked for the Marine that one of the strike team hadn't show annoyance at the 'Protocol Droid' as of yet. "I'm surprised you haven't lashed out at it yet. Are you supposed to be driven on anger?"
"It takes more than this to annoy me." The Sith confessed. "I just find patience to be a virtue."
"Moving on, what do we know about the insane cultists?"
"The Order of Revan…A Cult that preaches the teaching of Revan, a famous or infamous figure depending upon one's point of view."
"And who is this Revan guy?" The paratrooper pressed.
Theron sighed. Maybe he should have contacted Havoc Squad for this operation. "Revan was a famous Jedi three hundred years ago who later went rogue, redeemed himself, and became a hero for the Republic once more...Look, I can send you a history file after the work is done."
"Three hundred years." Jake snorted. "Sam, do we know anyone who is over three centuries old and walks like a sack of bones?"
"The only living ancient man I know Jake is your Great-Great-Grandfather." Westbrook chuckled. "I'm sure he could tell us tales about his adventures in Dixie putting down the rebellion or his participation in the March to the Sea under Sherman."
"This is no joking matter." The spy groans. "Whether this is the actual Revan or an imposter, it doesn't matter. The Republic, Empire, Earth…He threatening to place the entire galaxy under an iron heel."
"Theron's right." Lana agreed with the assessment. "The madman desires to rule over the galaxy and strip every sentient being of their liberties."
The two Americans were about to comment about the hypocrisy of authoritarianism when the beast howled.
"All of this talk makes me thirst for blood! When are we going to storm the place!"
"Calm down. I'm sure that we'll learn in time and be home in time for Misses Meyer's cheesecake."
Sara ears perked up "Did someone say cheesecake?"
'Oh great.' Jake thought. "Umm…Sam, you know she's addicted to the dessert, remember?"
"Ah shit." The paratrooper facepalmed as he realized his error.
"Cheesec-ake?" Lana inquired with an awkward, yet curious tone.
"Cheesecake is the best thing ever! Cheesecake is amazing because…"
Chapter 16: Besieged Part One
Chapter Text
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Vaiken Spacedock - Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 05:30/5:30 AM
'Striking at Kuat again?' Zasha mused at the Council's latest directive for her fleet. The Imperial Admiral has become aware of the notoriety of the Republic's new allies in the conflict: some were just mere brutes and others were refined, civilized beings yet oddly they all hailed from one world known as 'Earth'. Ranken had heard rumors of even 'impostors' amongst their ranks, calling themselves 'Britons' or 'Englishmen' but by Imperial standards this was just a new low.
'It's rather interesting that the Republic would simply leave a token garrison this time, the fools must be arrogant enough regarding their allies to accept such a risk.' The woman thought as she read the intelligence report.
Nevertheless, the commanding officer of a taskforce consisting of numerous Harrower- dreadnoughts, Terminus-destroyers and Gage-class transports waited for the arrival of two more squadrons of Supremacy-class Starfighters before proceeding to jump into hyperspace.
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:00/6:00 AM
"So the Imperials finally decided to take the bait." The Hoosier-native smiled as the enemy fleet exited out of the 'Star Trek' style Warp Drive. "We can probably wipe out this entire naval task force and hopefully bring the Dark Council to the negotiating table when they lose their current best Admiral. The bastards surely are still feeling the aftermath of losing that precious Rakton of theirs back on that 'sacred' world of all holiness Korriban."
"As much as I hate to admit it, the plan is either bold or it might just work." Admiral Aygo confessed as taskforce Aurek proceeded to maneuver around the opposition, positing themselves behind the Imps.
"Incoming high priority transmission from the Imperial Fleet!" A Republic Navy 'crewer' with the rank of 'Private' called out, the terminology difference causing Raymond to snort.
"Put it through!"
"Ah, Aygo my old friend, what a lovely surprise." A tan skin brunette woman with sparkling dark blue eyes greeted the trio. "I see you brought along your two Earthling pets to accompany you at this time."
"Whatever lady," Raymond snorted, "and sorry for ruining your vacation, but do us a favor and turn your Carribean cruise liners around before we blow them out of the water, so to speak. Surely you're not stupid to stand up to a trap."
"So you must be the famed Admiral Spruance of Midway." Zasha grinned as she witnessed the American taken aback from shock before composing himself. "Quite a feat you pulled back in this Pacific Ocean of yours yet the files failed to note how handsome you are."
"Sorry, lass, but he's already married." Montgomery defended the Yank. "How about surrendering?"
"Curious, I've been wondering why some of you Earthlings are speaking with Imperial dialects?"
"More like British, madam," Montgomery smirked, "I, however, do believe you need to learn how to speak it properly, you incarnation of humbug."
"So Bey'wan?" The victor of Midway and the Philippine Sea asked the dog-like creature in a whisper while the Briton kept their opponent distracted. "What do we know about the arrogant… wench?" He had to refrain himself from calling her worse.
"Admiral Ranken served under the now deceased Grand Moff Rycus Kilran during the Sacking of Coruscant and unsurprisingly, the witch enjoyed bombarding civilian targets," The Bothan's ears drooped at the memory, "she caused significant collateral damage that day."
"How ghastly." The Spartan General noted as he adjusted his beret. "So this bloody bint is a narcissist? Irregardless of the dear Impostor's sensibilities, old chap, what do you think that they're about to commit?"
"We don't know what the Imps are planning other than that they either desire to capture Kuat or…" The Republic Admiral's eyes widen in realization. "Kriff!? They might want to just sabotage the Drive Yards!" If they couldn't take it, they would most certainly want to stop their ability to repair and produce more ships for their fleet.
"A raid does make sense." Raymond agreed. "Bernard, how are the defenses coming?"
"We're preparing a mainline just outside the in case of boarders breaching." Montgomery replied. "Mainly consisting of the garrison already present, not to mention both my First Commonwealth Division, some of your Sailors and Marines in addition to a Battalion from the 25th Infantry Division, plus some 'Company Guards' I must add."
"I also sent out word for reinforcements but I'm confident that we'll repel them again." The Bothan grinned.
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy "
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:30/6:30 AM
"Corporal Nilsson!" Sergeant McHugh barked. "Have your machine gun team set up blocking positions outside Hangar Bay Bravo Two-Four!"
"Yes, Sergeant." Hanzo acknowledged as he waved Alex and the two men towards the location. "Alright, so I think we'll set up at the top right corner, the balcony." The Head Corporal noted, applying his experience from 'Nam'. "It seems to be a good angle to rain down fire on 'em."
"Excellent suggestion." McAllen approved as he clutched the tripod. "Apparently we'll be having droids and security augmenting us."
"Wonderful." Edwards mutters sarcastically. "Glorified rent a cops."
Hanzo sighs as overheard the gripe. "Edwards? Are the crates ready?"
"Yes, Corporal. We have plenty of lead for the Browning to shoot the fuckers."
"Alright, we don't have all day, so let's move people!"
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 06:30/6:30 AM
Admiral Ranken met the strike team on the bridge, the company of Commandos and a platoon's worth of Sith warriors were carefully selected for this vital task in this latest attempt at Kuat, only this time the desire was to put the driveyards out of commission. And as such, wardroids will be augmenting the assembled force as well, since this mission was critical for the success of the raid.
"Your objective is to distract the Earthling force defending the western flank." The Admiral revealed to the subordinates. "You are authorized by the Dark Council themselves to utilize whatever force you see fit except summary executions. Their desecration of Korriban shall not be forgotten and these Earther scum shall feel the wrath of the Empire."
"So why should we use overkill against these barbaric primitives?"A Captain in charge of the detachment scoffed as he glanced at one of the droids being prepared for the assault.
"Because the Earthlings don't play by the accepted rules when it comes to warfare." Admiral Zasha announced. "You are all experienced in numerous campaigns against both the Pubs and their Jedi pets, yet the nations of Earth are unpredictable, with different strategies and tactical expertise amongst their diverse military organizations. Accept the unforeseeable, realize that some of you may not come back alive but most important of all, may the Force serve you well."
Lord Krovos stepped forward as she recognized her cue. "Today the Republic shall long remember that they cannot continuously rely on their newfound allies. Those Earthlings of the Second Field Army, specifically the First Commonwealth Division, made a mockery of our forces on Tython, a planet that is an anathema to their entire primitive and barbaric race." It was even reported of one soldier in particular was responsible for a number of Sith deaths during the assault, even with his own bare-hands.
The Sith Warriors standing before the Pureblood snarled like baying wolves. In their eyes, the mere forceless freaks were lower than womp rats and not fit for even enslavement.
"And let's not forget that the majority are imposters from the lands they call Britain, New Zealand and Australia as well." Admiral Ranken added. "They believe that ever since they had an Empire, they have the birthright to make a mockery of us. No more. Today, the True Empire shall rule the entire galaxy by bringing the Republic to its knees and Earth will learn the cost of earning the fury of the Empire."
"Taking prisoners is a secondary objective but our main focus is to demolish critical machinery and set back production for years." Lord Krovos added. "No executions. Just go in, destroy as much machinery as you possibly can, create havoc, and then get out. The engineers will finish the task after the main force deals with the defenders then we'll retreat back into Imperial space, is that understood?"
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 08:49/8:49 AM
"Fall back! Fall back!" McHugh ordered as he witnessed one of his men getting frozen by a cryo grenade thrown from a commando. The Canadians and Republic soldiers with their remaining droid support units were being forced to abandon the first line of defense as the wardroids headed right toward the defenders, pushing those standing behind the barricade out of the way or slaughtering them with their turrets.
"I'm tired of running, let's make a stand for once!" A Rodian Private shouted in clear Basic, frustrated at the lack of a resistance by his fellow soldiers.
However a green skinned Twi'lek Republic Sergeant voiced his disagreement. "The Earthling is right, would you like to go up against that thing without a launcher?"
"No, Sergeant." The Private conceded.
The allies began retreating in a somewhat chaotic order away from the approaching droids, the monstrosities pushing all before them out of the way in order to allow the Imperials to mop up those who remained behind.
Nilsson noticed the scrambling down below and opened up with the converted M1919A4 down below, blowing away two Imperial soldiers with the powerful standard 7.62 x 51 mm NATO round, utilizing the armor penetrative abilities of the M61 to its fullest potential, watching as it just ripped through their armor and an agony death awaited for them.
"Ah hell, that robot fucking spotted us!" Jack cursed as the Imperial Annihilator T4-1Ds and DX-6 Ravagers assisting the Sith and Commandos in their slaughter turned in their direction and began to open fire. Hanzo and his men immediately ducked behind their sandbag barricade, the blaster bolts slamming into them like jackhammers as the smell of melting sand choked the air. While their defenses were holding, the gun crew knew it wouldn't for much longer.
"Go find us a LAW, Edwards!" Hanzo ordered as he continued to lay down withering fire on the Imps supporting the wardroids, forcing a few of them to seek cover before he himself had to duck again as a blaster bolt nearly took his head off.
"LAW, right." The subordinate noticed a launcher leaning up against a box and proceeded to extend the tube before aiming the piece at one of the robot's head and fired. The rocket struck the wardroid in the face, detonating the circuitry and power fluxers inside in a thundering fireball.
A brief silence followed as even the wardroids were caught by surprise at this grizzly sight. That didn't last long and they doubled their efforts to kill the gun crew. As Hanzo ducked again, an idea suddenly occurred to him.
"You two." Nilsson pointed at the security guards assigned to him. "We need some grenades. Doesn't matter if they're thermal detonators or Lemons, just get 'em." He'll need to remember their names if they survive this battle.
The Weequay and Aqualish nodded in acknowledgment, sprinting to the strategically placed supply cache.
"Ha! How about stick bombs as well!" The Weequey cried in excitement after opening the crate. "Perfect!"
"Gammon bombs and stickies?" McAllen questioned. "Must be surplus."
"And Republic issue ones as well." The other mercenary grinned. "What's the plan, Corporal?"
"Dump the Frags on top of them." Nilsson ordered. "The ro-droids can have the glue." Damnit, it was starting to get to him about the 'proper' correction for droids in this galaxy.
"And have them run the gauntlet of improvised mines. Good thinking."
The detachment poured the grenades and they rolled across the floorboard, spreading shrapnel and destruction in the radius. The wardroids received scratches to their legs yet a few well-placed anti-armor rockets to the heads or sides disabled the machines, causing the Imperial supporting fire to gradually cease.
The remaining Imperials knew that they'd lost the initiative and that without their droids to back them up, charging the dug in Earthers was be a pointless slaughter. So instead, they dug in and waited for reinforcements to arrive.
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 08:49/8:49 AM
"Sir? We need to move, now!" A Staff Sergeant of Spruance's security detail recommended.
"Too late, Sarge! They're starting to breach!"
The Royal Marine Bootnecks, Leathernecks of the USMC, sailors from the Allied navies, and soldiers across the Anglosphere aimed their rifles from their barricades alongside their Republic counterparts.
"Want to borrow my pistol, Yank?" Bernard inquired with a grim chuckle, unholstering his old yet reliable Webley.
"No, I'm good but thanks for offering the Six Shooter." Raymond grinned as he aimed his M1911A1. "Stand firm, men. Remember that today we are proving our worth in a proper defensive engagement. If we lose this shipyard, Earth will fall victim to these bastards."
"And set back our entire effort as well." Admiral Bey'wan added, his blaster pointed at the inbound unwelcome guests.
Suddenly, the blast door blew in and three Sith rushed inside first, anxious to cutdown the Forceless blights before them.
"Ah shit, we have some of those bloody banshees incoming!" A sailor with a Somerset dialect warned as he cooked a grenade. "Eat this, you fuckin' tossers!"
The grenade landed directly in front of the charging heathens, sending out hot fragmentation in a five-meter radius. The attacking Sith Warriors threw up a protective Force-Shield, but the concussive force was enough to knock them on their collective asses with a few embedded shards in their limbs for good measure.
Before the Earthlings could finish them off, a commando threw a cryo grenade at a Leatherneck, freezing the poor soul in ice. He was taken down in turn by a shot from Spruance's handgun, the .45 caliber round blowing the Space Fascist's head off like a pumpkin.
"Fine shooting, old chap." The Spartan General complimented before placing an .455 caliber slug into the skull of a 'Pureblood,' "Ghastly creatures."
"More like ugly. Reminds me of the inscriptions about demons."
"You don't say." The Field Marshal deadpanned.
"Come on lads! Let's show these bastards what 'primitives' can do!" A Chief Petty Officer of the Royal Navy bellowed. "Drive the imposters back!"
The soldiers, seamen, and Marines were emboldened by the example of the NCO, causing them to increase their fire rate slightly, intent on repulsing the opposition from taking over the command center.
"Is the surprise ready?!" Spruance shouted, hoping that his men had the trump card prepared.
Two Devil Dogs set up the tripod, placed the tube into the rest and loaded a Recoilless Rifle with flechette 'beehive' rounds, intending to unleash a hornets nest of nails at the intruders. "Gun ready! Stand clear from the blast!"
"Ah Kriff." An Imperial Corporal muttered as he saw one of the enemy 'Marines' aim the tube at the doorway. It was the last object he ever saw as the weapon fired, ripping him and quite literally everybody else in the hallway into fine chopped liver.
"Kierfek! You took down three Sith with that monstrosity." Aygo declared in awe.
"Seventy-Five millimeter M20 Recoilless Rifle."Raymond smirked."How many rounds are left, Top?"
"Two left, sir." The Master Sergeant from Nebraska informed the Hoosier. "Seems like the rest were taken."
'I'm going to have a chat with the supply officer later and see if a court martial is necessary.' The Admiral thought. "Put up a barricade! No doubt this is only the first wave and they'll try again later!"
"Aye, sir."
"Monty? Have Jack come here to reinforce us. We might need his assistance."
"Good God!" Bernard was flabbergasted at the suggestion, before moving his head out of the way of a blaster bolt. "He's an absolute madman, and I rather have him on the front dispatching the Impostors!"
"I think the Imps wanna capture us, which means there'll be plenty of action to satisfy him. Also, two can play the same game."
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:00/9:00 AM
Admiral Ranken gazed from the bridge as she witnessed her gun-crew finish off another Republic vessel that attempted to launch a boarding party. The Admiral realized that their intention was to capture her, perhaps even as a bargaining chip but the woman wasn't going to play into their plot.
"Helmsman!? Bring us two degrees northeast!"
"Aye, ma'am." The crewer acknowledges as he turned the ship's starboard side.
"Focus your fire on the Victory on Bothawui. It appalls me."
The enemy Valor-class Cruiser attempted to bring it turrets broadside against the sudden maneuvering. However, a squadron of Extinction-Class bombers disabled the of the vessels engines before Ranken's flagship finished it off under an unrelenting barrage of turbo-laser fire.
"One down, twenty-six more to go in this sector." Zasha muttered as she watched the flame engulfing inside the wreckage.
"We surrender, mates!" A so-called 'Australian' shouted, lowering his L1A1 and raising his arm into the air. "Say you blokes are really ferocious today, reminds me of the Dingoes back home."
"Quiet!" Captain Dezz ordered as one of the men struck the scum's face with the butt of his carbine. "Acting under the authority of the Empire, I order you to kneel."
"Alright then." The Corporal and his fireteam knelt down, hands behind their heads, expecting to be cuffed. Three Imperials followed their commanding officer's lead and proceeded to aim their weapons at the quartet's heads.
Staff Sergeant Roberto Sanchez - Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:00/9:00 AM
'You goosestepping bastards!' The Californian thought as he witnessed the summary execution of the four Australians by the Imperial boarders. The thought sickened him, reminding him of what the Japanese did to their prisoners. As a buck Private during the conflict, his Lieutenant had advised his men to kill the fuckers to the last as payback for Manchuria, Bataan, and Wake Island.
Before now the American hadn't encountered any war crimes committed by these Space Nazis themselves, only the aftermath on a few instances and those had been again nonhumans. But now? Witnessing this sheer brutality against his fellow Earthlings brought vengeance in the Platoon leader's mind.
"Sarge?" Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn whispered. "Should we take these bastards down?"
"Wilburn?" Roberto uttered to the former gangster from Philly and one of his best men. "Take your fireteam down the hall to your left and see if you can outflank these psychopaths, second squad will assist. Rest of you, fix your bayonets and wait for the red smoke." The Staff Sergeant watched as his men drew their M6 blades and affixed them to their M14s. Waiting patiently for the estimated time for Wilburn and his detachment to get into position, the NCO withdrew a smoke grenade and pulled the pin, cooking it for a moment before throwing the cylinder out into the open.
"What the Kriff!?" An Imperial Corporal shouted in surprise as the cylinder started to splurt out smoke, the red fumes filling the room with the vapors that unknowingly signaled their demise.
The Americans poured out from the hallways, charging directly into the mist and utilizing the element of surprise to its fullest potential.
"Oooha!" The Infantrymen shouted their warcry, the wail of inevitable carnage flowing through the air like a tidal wave they crashed right into their attackers. After what the thugs had just done, the Americans showed them no mercy. Sanchez himself buttstroked the Imperial Captain who ordered the execution of the Aussies, the impact flooring the Space Brit. Before the Hispanic could finish off the fiend, the enemy had his pistol aimed at his chest.
"Earth scum!" Dezz snarled as he fired, the bolt producing a sudden billow of smoke from firing at such close range as Sanchez fell. "Damn you and your damn barbaric ways of conducting war!"
"Sarge!" Wilburn cried as he saw the platoon leader gunned down. The Specialist fired his shotgun at the enemy officer, ejected the spent shell and pumped it again before shooting the next load of 00 Buckshot. "Die you son of a bitch!"
Dezz felt the impact of the minuscule primitive slugs plastering themselves into him. The officer never thought he would go out like this to some mere unsophisticated Earthling. The thought of bringing glory to the Emperor, the Sith and the Empire as a whole was what he was trained for, to bring the Republic to their knees. Instead, he was to die to some pathetic, backwater race that barely had reached their moon. They were simply too barbaric for intergalactic society, just barely below the infamous Mandalorian warriors and Wookiees of Kashyyyk.
Wilburn proceeded to casually walk up and pointed the barrel of the M1912 at the officer's forehead, smiling at the cowardly fear in his opponent's gray eyes and fired.
"That's for both America and Earth, Captain Nobody." The former street thug from Philadelphia mocked before spitting on the corpse.
Admiral Zasha Ranken-Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 09:54/9:54 AM
"Status report on the boarding party!" Admiral Ranken demanded as Imperial reinforcements began to arrive alongside additional enemy warships from the Republic. This raid was quickly and inadvertently becoming one of the largest naval engagements of the entire war as both factions spewed volleys of turbolasers at one another or launched waves of starfighters to cripple the other fleets. In short, things had gone sideways fast.
"Sir, our strike team reports that Phase One is complete, but Phase Two is being delayed."
"Delayed?" Zasha questioned. "Petty Officer, Phase Two was supposed to be commenced an hour ago. Even the most flexible of estimates show that they would've sabotaged the main generator twenty minutes ago."
"The Pubs sent in a highly decorated SpecForce unit, second only to Havoc Squad I'm afraid. Chaos is verified to be partaking in the defense on the Drive Yards."
"Very well." The Admiral noted. "What about the main assault?"
"Heavy counter-attacks throughout the Driveyards by angered Australians, apparently a few of our troops proceeded to conduct unauthorized executions, some by the authority of rogue officers and some by Sith."
"Fools." Lord Krovos fumed. "Those Warriors were inexplicably ordered not to anger the Earthlings by conducting summary executions amongst their ranks. They just gave those Earthers Carte Blanche a reason to continue fighting in this war."
The Lord of the Sith decided to reveal the latest in the Empire's internal politics. "The Council was considering opening negotiations with President Kennedy, Primer Khrushchev, and other world leaders yet those blasted morons decided that avenging Korriban and Soviet attacks took precedence."
"Well, it's best to inform the Council with an update. We made it this far and we'll see if we can hold the initiative."
"Perhaps reinforcements as well." Ranken advised. "The Republic would've learned about our raid by now."
Nat paced around outside the chambers as she and her friend awaited their slot for discussing the current state of the conflict.
The war against the Republic was now not just some engagement for survival but now a course of delaying the inevitable if the Council didn't change course as the planet of Earth and its forces continued assisting the Republic in the war.
Earth.
One world, a lone inhabited planet of its system had proven itself to be a case of appearances not being what they seemed. On one hand, the planet was backwards in its politics, structure and technology. But on the other, their ways of conducting warfare were advanced even compared to the barbaric Rakatan's centuries prior. In some circumstances, the pragmatism of the Earthlings on the frontlines were regarded eerily similar to the infamous Mandalorians.
The strategic mindset of the majority of the Earthlings were similar to the Republic in which combined, coordinated assaults were conducted with a clear chain of command structure, unlike the Moffs of the Army and Navy bickering with Sith Intelligence stuck in the middle.
Their fighters, despite not being space worthy, were especially designed to conduct combat maneuvers against opposing aircraft; the engagement speed of the 'jets' being significantly faster than the intergalactic counterparts as hyperdrives were intended for intergalactic travel, not aerial dog-fighting in atmosphere.
The tanks, kriffing and annoying beasts with treads, had a low target profile compared to walkers, yet mines were effective counters against them. However their scouts, unconnected to the Force and trained to utilize camouflage in the terrain extensively, could discover weaknesses in their defenses and usually only scanners gave their positions away.
Their officers and NCOs were indistinguishable from their men on the battlefield as they wore the same pattern of uniforms respective of their organization as their subordinates. This made killing them difficult unless snipers paid attention to who was giving orders and even this wasn't always successful.
Sighing at another migraine to be sorted out, Avarice glanced at her friend. "Lana, I suppose that Marr and the others finally see reason?"
"It brought them some pause, yes, but half of the members still desire to conquer Earth."
"You have to be kriffing me." Avarice grumbled. "What's the point of invading the Sol System then if we can't even engage them outside their territory...at least without heavy losses?"The Wrath mutters Old Corellian curses before continuing. "With their recent wars, surely they organized a home guard, not to mention guerilla warfare being an expertise of some of their sub races like the Apaches and Maori. Why the stubbornness?"
"Resources." The blonde revealed with a frown. "If the Empire controlled this unique world, the Empire gains materials not connected to the Force and as such, we could better protect the fleet, Imperial troops from the Jedi and other Force-users."
"Yes, but has the thought come across the Council minds that some Moff could use it in a coup attempt?"
"It came across my mind a few times." Beniko confessed. "Yet the estimates shows that if we equip only two battle groups, the resources, if unmanaged, could last generations."
"What about the natives?"
"That's what strikes me as odd as usually the Council informs us both of their intentions yet they're deciding to hold it back."
The two women had a bad feeling regarding the Dark Council's intentions with the Earthlings as Lord Krovos exited the chamber. The Pureblood was apart of Forward Command and the fleet was always on the forefront against the forces of the Republic but seeing the executive officer of the battlegroup in person was a rare occurrence.
"You know where they're heading?"
"Unfortunately even I don't know." Her friend sighed."The Council isn't taking any chances and I was only told that Admiral Ranken and Lord Krovos have their orders to cause a blow to Republic morale."
Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn- Fireteam Bravo, First Squad, Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:00/11:00 AM
The former mobster from Philly grinned in satisfaction as he killed another expendable grunt of the Empire. The remaining Americans of C Company had linked up with Republic reinforcements fresh from Coruscant, the 398th Counterassault Regiment, a unit literally born for plugging in gaps along defense lines such as the ones at Kuat.
The Specialist noticed an Imperial sniper behind one of their fancy portable shields, making hits slim yet not impossible as the Republic soldier standing beside the Philadelphian proved.
"Not bad shooting, Tex."
"Sorry, what?" A Zabrak look at him quizzingly, confused at the colloquialism.
"Earth expression." Anthony clarified before yelling. "Take cover!"
The rocket smashed into the barricade, the impact causing some of the troops to fly in the air.
"The Imps are getting desperate if they're using launchers!" Another Pub shouted before muttering vulgarity.
"Oh, yeah?" Wilburn snarked as he picked up an M79. "Just wait and see the 'bloop tube' in action."
The Specialist waited for the right moment to lob a 40mm grenade from the oversized shotgun at the incoming Imps before seeing a better target. "Watch and see this fucker go down." Wilburn smirked as he fired the grenade launcher, yet the incoming round maneuvered to a different location as if he noticed he was being targeted. "What the hell?"
"Rrrraghhh!" The alien 'Sith' roared, continuing to sprint directly at the main defensive line.
"Fire at the kriffing Stereb!" Colonel Solies barked at the joint unit, realizing the significance of the current threat.
The Americans presumed that the tall, reddish-orange and muscular creature was their designated target and opened up, focusing their fire at the extraterrestrial being.
Major Jessie Lane- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:00/11:00 AM
"Damn." Enilly noted as she saw the carnage of the Kiwi defenders lying on the ground with various lightsaber slashes, quite a few with horrified gazes in their eyes, especially the pair of decapitated heads. It took no expert to see what transpired. "The Sith didn't take any mercy on these Earthlings."
"Kiwis or New Zealanders to be precise." Marala sighed as she glanced at the patches. "We're probably dealing with either a Darth or a highly experienced Sith Warrior, the latter most likely."
"I agree." Major Jessie acknowledged. "This isn't some mere apprentice a year or two away from Korriban, we're facing some animal who thrills in the concept of killing, disregarding the value of life."
"In other words, keep our eyes peeled?" The Alderaanian inquired.
"Exactly and I fear our allies may be too arrogant to realize the peril they're in." Her Cathar comrade noted.
"I think you're right Jorgo. Let's double time it."
Specialist Four Anthony Wilburn- Fireteam Bravo, First Squad, Third Platoon, C/Charlie Company, First Battalion, 25th Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:49/12:49 AM
Wilburn was on his back crawling, attempting to aim his M1912 at the approaching fiend, and Anthony had a feeling that this brute saved him for last as the rest of the company-not to mention the detachment of the 398th- were wiped out to a man by this lone individual.
"It appears that your lack of a connection with the Force didn't save you today." The alien grinned, slobber coming out of its mouth.
"You really need Crest." The former mobster fired back as he forced himself to unleash the trigger. "Your breath really smells terrible and it wretches of a dead skunk-rotten egg cocktail." The shotgun fired its standard load of buckshot yet the pellets bounced off the heavily armored breastplate, barely scratching the surface of the chest protection.
"Foolish, yet noble." The wizard complimented."Be grateful then that your death will be quicker than what I had originally intended."
Major Jessie Lane- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 149 "Chaos Squad", Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:09/1:09 AM
"Ah, Firefek!" Jessie cursed as she and her detachment gazed at the carnage. The sight of so many corpses scattered reminded the SpecForce troopers the critical threat aboard the station. "Admiral? Do you have holo footage of what occurred at Besh Two-Seven?"
"Give me a sec, Chaos! Imps are breaching our perimeter again for the fourth time today! Our allies and their bodyguards are holding them off yet-"
"Kriff! They even struck the command center!"
"Focus, Kovo." Jessie reprimands, attempting to bring the focus on the current situation.
"On the contrary, I would listen to her fear." The recognizable Imperial accent declared. "It may do you some good." Chaos noticed the detachment of infantry escorting a high ranking individual, his distinct robes and armor distinguishing him as an experienced Sith Warrior, "What do you want, Sith?"
"A challenge." The Sereb stated simply as he ignited his lightsaber. "Your… Canadian allies are going to be preoccupied at the moment, little good it would do for you."
"Keep talking." Jorgo spat, bringing her G-56 Projection-X Carbine to bear. "I'm getting awfully tired of listening to your witticisms."
"Permission to engage, my Lord?" The officer inquired but the palm of the Sith concluded the inquiry.
"Surround but don't open fire. I want to have some fun." The Sereb directed. "Anyone who crashes our party or if the SpecForce attempt to escape, kill them."
"Understood, my Lord." The Lieutenant acknowledged. "Men, fan out and secure the perimeter!"
The twenty grunts obeyed the command and spread out to cordon off the impronto arena from any Republic response, intending to allow their superior space to have his 'fun.'
General John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming "Mad Jack" Churchill
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:09/1:09 AM
"Secure the hall, lads!" Fleming directed. "We're going to reinforce Monty and his boys!"
"Yes, sir." The Para acknowledged eagerly, aiming his Sterling down the hall.
Jack watched approvingly as his men secured the area, utilizing the advantage of cover from the walls and forcing the unexpected Imperials to shoot back. Old fashioned CQB techniques squared off against the latest in shield barriers in a struggle of dominance.
"Blast them!" An Imp shouted. The officer, however, received a 40mm HE round in defiance, taking him and two goons down, one of whom became an inadvertent example of carnage caused by primitive slug rounds.
"My leg!" The Private howled. "My leg!"
The squad of Paras fired a burst from their submachine guns, the 9mm volley raining a hell storm of molten lead toward the congested Imperial ranks that were focused on assaulting the HQ, the targets being inadvertent fish in barrels. A machine gun section added to the carnage with their L7s, the three 7.62 caliber support weapons withering down the column.
"Keep up the fire, lads!" Fleming encouraged, his sword ready to add to the slaughter if the need arose. "For Queen and Country!"
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
Temporary Republic Command Post - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:20/1:20 AM
"What the blazes!?" Bernard was taken aback by the sudden gunfire ringing outside and noticed the Imps finally deciding to fall back as their comrades were massacred right before their eyes. "Jack?"
"Sir, one Madman as requested!" Churchill laughed as the lunatic hacked the enemy officer in front of him in two with his Claymore. "Seems like he forgot his sword."
"He's undeniably insane, isn't he?" Bey'wan inquired the two Earthlings standing beside the Bothan.
"Unfortunately." Spruance sighed. "He tried to convince me to partake in fencing lessons the other day. Said it would do me some good as a 'proper officer'."
The remaining Anglo-American-Republic naval personnel and soldiers of the United States Army, Australian Army, and New Zealand Army plus an infantry section detached from the Scots Guards linked up with the British Paratroopers and kept their bayonets trained on the surviving Imperials, including the wounded.
"I surrender!" One of the goosesteppers whined in fear. "I surrender!"
"Well I'll be damned, we have ourselves Paras in our midst." A Bootneck snarled, glaring at the soldier with the trademark red beret standing beside him.
"That's enough, Marine. Interservice rivalries can wait." Montgomery snapped. "Aygo? Think we should move the HQ to a temporary location?"
"Well, I did always desire to have a proper office." The Bothan grinned. "Private Tork? How long does it take to erase sensitive data in the room?"
"Umm, about five minutes, sir."
Spruance scoffed as he overheard the ranker. "Sailors as Privates, who would've thought of such nonsense?"
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson - Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 13:20/1:20 PM
"Is it just me or is it too quiet?" Alex wondered as he handed Hanzo another belt for the MG from the crate. The gunners took advantage of the lull in the fighting to replenish their stocks and adjust their defenses as needed, well aware that their survival during this onslaught depended on it.
"I agree, something's up." The Master Corporal nodded in agreement. "The Imps wouldn't be brewing tea while we dig in." As if on cue, the door to the hanger bay began to bulge as if a battering ram was being utilized. Soon enough, three Sith charged head on at the main defensive line, intending to cut down the interlopers.
"Ah fuck!" Edwards yelled before the Canadians, Mercenaries, and Republic Troopers focused fire onto the Imperials as they came pouring in, heading directly at the defenders.
"SHOW NO MERCY TO THE EARTHLINGS!" The head Sith warrior roared. "REMEMBER KORRIBAN!"
Hanzo watched as Private Willis at the other balcony operated the bolt to his L42A1 Sniper Rifle from his perch, aiming at the bastard who gave the command. He managed to graze the Twi'lek before the Sith launched lightning from his fingertips near the marksman position, causing the munition stockpile behind him to explode and Willis to fall to his death.
"Shit, the Imperials are waving the black flag!" Alex realized. "They're definitely upset about their holy world."
"Hue." Hanzo muttered. "Khe Sahn. Even motherfucking My Lai. These Sons of Bitches desire to become the NVA." Though again, he wagered some blame can be shared on the Soviets for this hate but that's war for you.
"Yeah, they're pissed alright but they know we mean business." McAllen grinned before his friend fired the M1919A4's next burst.
The Imperials divided their forces into three columns, droids at the forefront followed by more Sith then the grunts to deal with the survivors but the allies were not allowing these pseudo-axis goosesteppers the courtesy, obliging them with defiance instead.
"Ah, Kriff, not those droids again!" One of the mercenaries, a Bothan, shouted fearfully. "That's it, I'm outta here!"
McHugh noticed the doglike creature getting ready to desert the defenders and the NCO withdrew his Browning Hi-Power before pulling the slide back. "Stay and fight or I'll kill you myself, you greedy son of a bitch."
"I don't have a choice, do I?"
"More like two actually." McHugh corrected. "Fall back in line."
"Yes, sir."
"DON'T CALL ME SIR!" The Sergeant corrected, roaring at the insult. " I FUCKING WORK FOR A LIVING!"
"TAKE COVER!" Lieutenant Swanson shouted as one of the Anillinator droids fired a rocket directly at their position, the blast scattering six of his men into the air, either killing them outright or causing broken limbs.
"Reinforcements coming in! Watch your soddin' fire!" An Aussie hollered. It was the voice of Lieutenant General Paul Cullen, Commander of the II ANZAC Corps. He was followed by a succession of infantry with the desire to settle the score.
"Say you blokes need a hand?"
"I think we have the situation here under control." Alex deadpanned.
"Duty First." The Tiger retorted as he aimed his L4 Bren and struck an enemy Major. "Ha! You're worse than the Japs! Even the damned Dingos are more aware of their surroundings, not to mention the fucking Emus!"
"Emu War?"
"Don't mock us, boyo." The Aussie grumbled. "It isn't my fault that everything in my homeland desires to kill humans. Even the damn Toads."
Lithgow manufactured L1A1s added to the firepower of Canadian Arsenals Limited produced C1s, gradually pushing the aggressors back and the servicemen of the Second ANZACs continued to retaliate against the random summary execution, seeking vengeance for their comrades.
"My best friend was killed by you Pig Shites!" A Queenslander growled before putting a bullet into the Imps brain.
"Major Burns? My lads will take care of the rest of the miscreants." Cullen pledged. "You are relieved."
"Alright, one in three will take one hour shifts to provide watch." Major Burns declared to the battalion. "We don't know when the Imps are going to strike again but prepare yourselves for a siege. Reinforcements will be arriving in the next few days but until then we're on our own."
"Sir?!" A Radio Operator interrupted."Chaos Squad is requesting reinforcements and we're the closest unit to respond."
"Sergeant McHugh? You and your squad proceed to offer assistance. I'll have the rest of Alpha act as a QRF but that's all we can spare."
"Understood, sir."
Jessie threw a thermal detonator right next to the line of grunts blocking her escape route, desperately trying to open a hole for them to escape as the Sith was proving to be a tenacious sleemo; avoiding withering blaster fire whenever the trio attempt to use their main weapons against the surprisingly agile Shereb, forcing them to use more unconventional means. A liberal dosage of explosives had proven somewhat more effective against their opponent although they were running low.
"Blast! You know when reinforcements supposed to get here?"
"They should have been here by now." Enilly guessed.
Hanzo came up behind one of the Space Nazis and covered his mouth before plunging his Ka-Bar into his Adam's apple, silencing the conscript for his eternal rest while his friend took out the other one. The Canadian Section noticed that the scene was more like an improvised gladiator arena with the goosesteppers watching the fight between their Sith overlord and the three SpecForce soldiers attempting to hold the Sith off with grenades and point-blank blaster fire.
"You know, it's rather pitiful that we catch their sentries off guard." Alex quipped after snapping his foes neck. "Almost like some sickening hockey match."
"With technology, comes arrogance." The Corporal sighed as he remembered the listening devices from the jungle. Even simple tin cans proved more effective than the Acoustic Seismic Intrusion Detectors. "Wouldn't be surprising if they thought their sensors would be an end all."
"Halt!" An enemy assault gunner ordered as he noticed the Canucks arriving on scene, preparing to use his blaster cannon before Corporal Nilsson rushed him and grabbed MG by the barrel, wrestling control of the weapon before throwing the implement to the ground and finish him off with a vicious kick to the face, literally breaking in his face.
"Dammit Hanzo." Alex cursed at his friend's rage, "You got some serious anger issues."
"I'm just venting, Alex." Besides, this wasn't him angry, this was him focused.
The commotion drew attention away from the brawl to the interlopers in the corridor, intending to break up the party. Lead and plasma fire was quickly exchanged as both sides dove to cover and attempted to flank the other.
Meanwhile, two of their compatriots, Private Campbell and Corporal Anderson were cut down by the Space Wizard before the Sith noticed that one of the soldiers was causing trouble with his men; dodging the grunt's punch before trapping his arm and breaking it with a sickening snap!
"Ah!" The Imperial cried in pain yet when his comrade attempted to shoot Nilsson, the Canadian used the poor soul as a meat shield. Hanzo threw the corpse before him and drew his pistol, striking the would be killer across the head before shooting his buddy. The Corporal threw the carcass down and aimed his Hi-Power at his next target, popping the foe in the cranium when another Imperial came at Hanzo from behind. The soldier, however, delivered a blow to the groin with a well placed kick before spinning round and peppering the assailant with 9mm projectiles to his centermass, four rounds striking near his heart.
The Sith smiled appreciatively as he noticed the fury from the hazel eyes of the fatuous human, a being not even a Womp Rat would steal foodstuffs from yet this soldier was giving it his all. Needless to say, this forceless being drew his curiosity. 'This one knows how to fight, interesting.'
Nilsson turned and suddenly found the Sith staring him down, a smirk on his face. "What makes you believe that you could take me on, Earthling?"
"Let's just say I've seen shit. You ain't nothing compared to them." Nilsson spat, using the distraction to his advantage as he pulled the pin to the flashbang and threw it, the device landing next to the Sith's right boot.
The Sith was stunned momentarily by the concussive force of the blast but recovered quickly by channeling the Darkside. Yet after regaining his sight, the blight was gone. "Coward!"
Hanzo maneuvered around the Sith Overlord, intending to strike the being out with his rifle but quickly realized that going for the breastplate with potshots wasn't going to take him down as the rounds ricochet off the armor, causing more harm than good as the bullets whizzed by. "Your armor definitely can take a few hits." Nilsson commented, studying for any weaknesses. "Unlike the flak jackets."
"Took some significant credits to get beskar off the black market." The alien informed him, although he didn't noticed McHugh getting onto his back but a quick use of his lightsaber and a Force-enhanced throw did wonders when it comes to pests, throwing him at the Earthling's feet.
Hanzo was stunned by the sudden death of his squad leader. The Vancouverite witnessed as his squad leader took his final breath, muttering his final words to him.
"Finish the fucker." McHugh wheezed, granting his last order before his eyes close forever, comatose from the fatal wound.
"Care to join your friend?" the Sith sneered putting aside his saber, and spreading his arms wide, "I'll even make it a fair fight."
"Big mistake dumbass." The Corporal snarled in anger as he tackled into the creature. Hanzo delivered a chop while his opponent matched his blows with blocks before sending him back with a push kick. The Corporal righted himself and took up a Zenkutsu Dachi stance, intending to hold his ground and kill the son of a bitch regardless of the cost.
"Interesting martial art." The fiend complimented with sarcasm before attempting to deliver a strike of his own. Surprisingly, the Earthling parried the blow with ease and met him with a swift riposte, his nose suddenly exploding with pain.
"Karate." Nilsson spat before striking again, this time at the neck with a knife hand yet the Sith did a backflip and struck the Canadian in the chest with legs, the blow knocked the soldier off his feet and slammed into the ground. 'Right, Force abilities with martial arts.' He'll need to watch himself here.
"Teräs Käsi." The Dark Sider informed him 'kindly' while Hanzo kip up back to his feet. The Sith, surprisingly, calmly resisted the blows from the enraged individual. "Something is telling me that you're going to be so much fun, welp." The alien chuckled as his hands met the Earthling's punch. "Otherwise I would have killed you by now."
Hanzo didn't bother giving a reply, conducting a roundhouse kick but his opponent twisted himself out of the way and grasped the soldier's wrist. Before he could break it, Hanzo struck him with his leg, smacking right into the back of his head that forced him to let go of his leg. He landed on the ground with a roll back up to his feet, the Sith was now pissed off.
"I'll kill you for that!"
Hanzo ignored the rant and used the distraction to his advantage, pushing his opponent back into the corner and that was when hell broke use. The Canadian leapt out of the way as lightning came out of the cornered being's fingertips, intending to reduce him to a fine crisp. Hanzo didn't make it easy for, rolling and dodging as the Sith chased him with electricity.
"I suppose you ruined the fun." The Sith mocked as he lunged forward to meet his rival. "What a pity. What an absolute pity as I would have choked you if I could."
"And I pity your intelligence." The Corporal scorned before grasping the extraterrestrial's forearm and delivered an uppercut and the beast returned the favor with a blow against his chest, and Hanzo felt some of his bones cracking. 'Gah!' He groaned in pain.
The Sith, enraged at the mockery, reached for his saber. Before he could ignite it, a stray bullet struck the hilt and blew it clear out of his hand, the weapon's internal circuitry exposed and made useless. "It seems as if fate wishes us to continue as sparring partners." He was however enraged at the damage done to his lightsaber.
"Perhaps." Nilsson concurred, wincing slightly from the pain but not willing to give in. "But I'm not quite finished with you yet."
"Neither am I, my pet." He snarled before meeting the Earthling head on once more, rage driving him to continue this personal death match.
The Sith met Hanzo full on again, directly his blows towards the human's jawline despite the counter parries. Teräs Käsi and Karate balanced each other in a death spiral, neither person backing down as they intended to finish their brawl once and for all.
Nilsson granted the alien a flying knee strike to the being's shin, causing the Sith to drop. Before Hanzo could deliver another to his head, the Sith grabbed him by his belt and took him with him. Soon, the engagement turned into a grapple, each opponent twisting, turning and ripping into the other to try and get a footing.
Hanzo finally managed to get so breathing room and drew his combat knife, stabbing him directly under the armpit. "Die, you son of a bitch!"
The Sith knew he was done, but he was going to take this vermin with him. With his left hand, he grabbed onto the Earthling's knifearm and pulled him in, allowing him to shove his ignited shoto directly into his stomach. "You first." The opponent spluttered as blood began to pool into his lungs.
Before the Sith could extract the weapon and cut him in two, Hanzo slammed his head into the alien's face; giving him just enough time to extract his blade and bury it into the Sith's eye. As the life finally left his enemy, Hanzo was suddenly aware that he was falling. He was out before he even hit the ground.
"Medic!" Jessie shouts. Marala's eyes widen in shock and fear took hold when she saw the state Hanzo was in.
"I could jerry-rig a stretcher." McAllen suggested, rummaging through his fieldpack. "Got a blanket, but I need two poles."
"Kovo? See if you can find while I stabilize him!"
The Specialist found some X-52 Wraith Infiltrator Sniper Rifles leaning against a nearby wall and retrieved them. "These might do."
"Ready Jorgo?" The Major asked the Cathar as they prepare to lift the improvised stretcher.
"Three...Two...One."
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Generator Room - Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 02:00 / 2:00 PM
"You know, I never thought I would become a Partisan." Montgomery commented as he maneuvered around the hallway toward the generator room. "Very ungentlemanly."
"Neither did I. Being some Filipino guerilla haven't been the plan yet, we need to raise hell in order to prevent the Imperials from either capturing or destroying the Shipyard." Raymond clicked on his earpiece. "Aygo? We're near the central reactor."
"Acknowledged Midway." The Republic Admiral acknowledged from his temporary HQ, gazing at the Security Feed."Bringing you up on my scope now."
"My Lord!" One of the expendable goons saluted at the Sith. "We finished checking the corridors and not a single defender remains."
"I do believe it's best to sweep this room one more time, Sergeant. Earthlings and their equipment are not connected to the Force afterall and I'd rather know for sure."
"Fuck." Raymond muttered. "You still have that flashbang?"
"I do. Why Yank?"
"We're going to give them a headache."
"I like your plan already." Jack smiled, causing the Admiral and Monty to groan at the Madman. "My Commandos and I will be honoured to raise hell with you."
"Here son, you have a better arm than I do with regards to my age."
"Thanks, sir." The Welshman grinned at the honor of being handed the device from a highly decorated legend.
"GREN-!"
The blast deafened the Darth and the Imperial fireteam, causing them to cover their ears or place palm over their eyes in reaction to the deafening shockwaves.
"That's what I call an entrance!" Churchill laughs as he led the charge. "Focus fire on ugly there!"
"Aye, Sir." Petty Officer Second Class Morrison declared, aiming his M1928A1 Thompson with its one hundred round drum loaded to beat. The submachine guns from the Anglo-Americans peppered the Sith from multiple directions, not allowing it to have a chance.
"Room secured." Raymond declared.
"Copy Midway. Sending security droids to guard the reactor now."
Major Qryin- Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 326 "Havoc Squad", Republic Special Forces Division, Republic Army
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 15:30/3:30 PM
"Major Qryin?"The Supreme Commander and founder of Havoc himself beckoned, debriefing the unit of their current assignment." You are to link up with Chaos and proceed to engage any high profile targets in sight. We cannot lose the Driveyards, especially now. I'm gathering reinforcements to overcome the siege but as of now you're on your own."
"Understood, sir." The Trandoshan hissed. "Fourex? You and Vik rendezvous with what's left of the 27th US. Dorne, report to 4077th MASH and see if you could lend a hand techwise. Jorgan, Yuun? You're with me."
"The Republic, with the assistance of our Earth allies, shall crush all Imperial resistance before our combined forces!" M1-4X praises. "We're going to terrify the evil overlords through sheer combined might!"
"Yeah, yeah. Four." Vik snarked. "Earthlings this and Earthlings that. Let's just take out their pathetic fleet already."
"Knock it off you two." Captain Jorgan, the Executive Officer, snapped. "There's enough Imps for us to blast away on arrival."
"Agreed." Dorne declared. "Sir, do you believe that as stated in Section 12, Paragraph 19 (a), that we should transfer all our medical supplies to the main ward for the siege's duration?"
"Might as well, Lieutenant." The Major relented. "Especially since stores will be running low."
Lieutenant Elara Dorne- SpecForce Squad 326 "Havoc Squad", Republic Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Heard you Earthlings might require some expertise on medical technology and alien biology."The medical expert of Havoc Squad announced herself to the personnel of the 4077th MASH. "Leftenant Dorne reporting, sir."
"You know Hawkeye, think she's some spy?" Trapper nudged his comrade's arm, grinning at the recognizable clipped accent.
"Sounds like the perfect partner for a certain Colonel." Pierce retorted.
"Nah." Blake retorted as he operated on a Corellian with second degree burns caused by an incendiary grenade. "She's too beautiful for espionage work. Besides, if she was some operative, would she be announcing 'shoot me'?"
"Why thank you, sir." The blonde blushed at the praise, though she'd heard that Earthlings still had traditional values when it comes to gender roles. Her experience when dealing with sexism was to ignore and carry on with her assigned task by conducting them more efficiently. "I assure you that I've been vetted by the SIS after my defection."
"Damn robot!" Burns cursed, the surgeon from Fort Wayne, Indiana was incompetence at its finest and the Colonel managed to have him supervise the hardware instead of being hands on. It appeared judgement didatated that he wouldn't have a future in the medical field.
"You know after all we went through, it's such a shame we couldn't bring Major Houlihan along for the ride."
Elara arched an eyebrow and grew curious, using it as an advantage to bond. "Friend of yours?"
"Margaret was the head nurse back in Korea." Mclntyre informed the SpecForce soldier. "She's stationed at Walter Reed now."
"Oh, I see." Elara knew that Earth regulations prohibited having their women on the front line, regarded as too dangerous yet if this Houlihan survived Korea, why should they stay within the Sol System for the duration of the conflict?
"Scalpel?"
"Here, sir." Benjamin handed the instrument to Henry.
The blonde grimaced as she witnessed the blade being used on the poor scout. "Are they-"
"Sterilized? Yes, Lieutenant." Blake informed the woman. "Now since you're here, we can finally ease the pressure off your medics and assist with operating on non-humans."
"Zabrak coming in!" A Sergeant announced as he and a Corporal brought the alien in a stretcher.
"Grab a mask and hair net out of the drawer, Dorne. Apron as well."
"I'm fine-"
"Do as you're told. This is a Field Hospital manned by the men of the United States Army Medical Corps and regulations dictates that surgeons and their assistants are to wear masks and hair nets while operating on patients!" The Colonel chastised. "If you have any complaints, please feel free to forward them to General Potter!"
Dorne sighed and placed the white cloths on her person yet kept her armor on.
"Zabraks are simple except they have two hearts." The former Imperial informed.
"Two hearts, huh? Not as freaky as those ETs with an upside down face with eyes at their chin. What are they called again?"
"Beats me, Hawkeye." Trapper shrugged.
"Careful now." Dorne advised as Blake utilized the scalpel to cut into the flesh. "You should see an artery a few centimeters to the left."
"Understood."
"You know, I do believe that we work well together." Elara smiles.
"We got another wounded!" Havoc Squad's medic overheard the unmistakable voice of Chaos CO bellow from the back.
"Major Lane?"
"Dorne, are there any spare beds?"
"Who's the patient?" Major Pierce wondered.
"Fellow Earthling." Lane informed him.
"Canadian." Marala added. "Princess Patricia's-"
"We got it from here." Blake acknowledged. "I'm familiar with the Canucks."
"He was stabilized en route but I'm surprised that the saber wound didn't pierce his rib cage." Dorne declared as she scanned the unconscious Earthling."Did he take on a Sith by himself?"
"Murderistic brute of one." Jessie acknowledges. "Surprised he came out on top."
"I guess you know him?"
"We met him and his friend at Carrick Station after the Assault on Tython."
"I see." The blonde recognized the worried gaze from the usual emotionless woman, wondering how close she was to him, though she wondered the same for the dark furred Cathar teammate as she had yet to leave the patient's side. "We'll get him taken care of although relief won't be arriving for a few days."
"Understood." Lane accepted. "Jorgo, I believe we best replenish our ammo before heading back to the front."
Chapter 17: Besieged Part Two
Chapter Text
Supreme Commander Jace Malcom - Commanding Officer of the Republic Military
Aboard the RNS Extricate - Valor-class Cruiser: En route to Kuat - Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 14:45/ 2:45 PM
"Sir, the garrison at the Drive Yards are being gradually pushed back by the Imps yet as of this time, our forces are holding on." A navy crewer informed the commanding officer of the entire Republic Military with an update on the situation.
"Let's pray to the Force that we're not too late."
"Exiting hyperspace in three… two… one."
Jace stared at the size of the armada before him, it was as if the Sith Empire sent their entire navy to engage the defenders and take out the crucial drive yards in order to hinder the Republic war effort for generations.
"Get me a line to General Dayan!" The Supreme Commander ordered, receiving an affirmative from another crew member.
The distinct eyepatch reminded Malcom of the scars he suffered on Alderaan after attempting to kill off Malgus with a thermal detonator.
"It appears that our mutual adversaries are getting desperate." The Israeli noticed. "Can't seem to blame them."
"The Empire is coming down on its last legs." The founder of Havoc Squad declared. "I heard you requested a special package?"
"Already prepping the greeting gift as we speak just to pose a distraction. My men know what they're getting themselves into."
'These Israelis are bold, I'll give them that.' The founder of SpecForce thought. "Either way, this is a one way trip with only a five percent chance of success."
"We capture the HVTs and blow up the flagship, just send it to hell and high water, or we can just distract the leaders of the attack. The result is still the same, we'll snatch victory from underneath them."
"Very well." Jace relented. "We got ourselves a war to win."
Grand Moff Ilyan Regus- Commander of Imperial Forces
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 15:00/ 3:00 PM
"It seems as the Pubs decided to send their Supreme Commander himself to supervise matters in person." Regus revealed to the war council aboard the flagship, currently consisting of himself, Admiral Ranken and Lord Krovos.
Illyan arrived the day before to supervise the situation which was getting out of hand not through Republic might, but delaying tactics by the allies while additional reinforcements were en route.
"Not to mention Havoc Squad is confirmed to be on the station working alongside Chaos." Krovos added as the Pureblood began pacing around the holotable. "Soon we're going to encounter a joint Earth M.E.F alongside an entire Field Army under the command of Moshe Dayan."
"What do we know about this Dayan? Other than losing an eye of course?"
"He's an impressive one. Led the defenses of his outnumbered nation surrounded by threats on all corners and dealt with his foes in only six days."
"Six Days!?" The Helmsman inquired, overhearing the conversation.
"The conflict is called the Six Day War for a reason." The Sith purred. "It's clear by now that we're not dealing with amateurs."
"Korriban and Tython certainly points toward the fact, not to mention their recent history."
An Imperial Marine barged in the bridge, rushing towards the trio to deliver a warning.
"Israeli Commandos!" The Sergeant panted as he warned the three superiors. "Israeli Commandos have boarded our ship!"
"Blast! As if we didn't have enough to be concerned with already." Ilyan growled. "They're bold, that's one trait I have admired most of these Earthlings; willing to do whatever it takes to meet our forces and destroy them, even if we hold the numerical advantage." The Moff shook his head, wondering how he didn't think about the bold move. "Why am I not surprised?"
Five Minutes Earlier...
Seren (Lieutenant) Yusef Rosenberg-Shayetet 13, Israeli Defense Force Navy
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 14:55/ 2:55 PM
"Seren? You and your men are authorized to capture HVTs on the bridge but the crew are expendable."
"Aye, sir." The Naval Commando acknowledged. No one in Israel would dare refuse an order from Dayan himself, after all. "Republic troops will secure the device?"
"Alongside a detachment from Sayeret Matkal with one of their squads acting as a QRF, if required."
"Understood." Rosenberg nodded as he pulled the slide on his Uzi. "We'll link up with our brethren in the hangar bay. Nachum!" he called one of his men, "You have the Stoner?"
The Rav-Samal Mitkadem (Chief Petty Officer) lifted the Stoner 63 configured into a surprisingly light weight belt-fed and grinned. "Loaded with the experimental APIs. Should theoretically pierce the armor of those damn goosesteppers, maybe blow up some of their robots as well."
'Aren't all their soldiers mindless robots?' The Seren snorted in amusement. "Still, it's an unknown with this varmint round. Even our nine mils barely makes dents in their armor and the terminal energy is wasted trying to pierce it."
"Which is why we have the HK-21s to back up our G3s." Rav-Samal Bakhir (Senior Chief Petty Officer) Jeb Gadi snickered.
"And G3SG/1s." One of the sharpshooters, Samal Rishon (Petty Officer Third Class) Adli Halevi, added. "Wasn't there an international headline eight years ago when some Curtis LeMay labelled this AR-15 as a waste of garbage? I think after the barrel burst when he unofficially tested it out by shooting at watermelons at some picnic? Anyway, I'm surprised that NATO didn't standardized Heckler and Koch."
"Their loss." Rosenberg sighed before feeling that their transport landed, judging by the thud.
"I'll deal with the pests." Krovos snarled, leaving no room for argument as she storming off with the intentions of dealing with the infiltrators.
"I have a bad feeling about this, Admiral."
"Oh? Do you now?" Ranken mused as she watched the security cams. "Those nerf herders are playing it smart, as if they know where the air locks are located. Helmsman, have Second Platoon secure the docking bay. Inform the Vengeful and the Eternal Glory to have their spare marine complement lead a counterboarding op."
"Aye, ma'am."
First Lieutenant Ron Kovic- First Platoon, D/"Delta" Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, United States Marine Corps
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 15:05/3:05 PM
"Ready to kick some ass, ladies!?" Lieutenant Ron Kovic asked his platoon, the mustang officer anxious as the transport dodged turbolaser fire from Imperial AA guns.
"Sir, yes sir!" The Marines shouted enthusiastically, clutching their M14s and M60s tightly as the gunship weaved up, bringing a whole new meaning to flight sickness.
"It's your lucky day. We're going to land into a hot zone and you are about to embark on a journey through Hell. Welcome to intergalactic warfare, Devil Dogs. Lock and load!"
Forty-two bolts were cocked, charging their rifles as the shuttle landed.
"Green light! Go, go, go!"
Three of Kovic's men went down in a hail of laser fire the moment they hit the ramp. The Leathernecks however continued on with their counter assault, aggressively taking ground with a barrage of ballistic fire and grenades. They couldn't afford to be pinned down, or more Imperial reinforcements would arrive on the platform and overwhelm them.
The First Lieutenant was one of the first to reach the hastily set defenses of the enemy and picked off a goosestepper with his M1911A1 Service Pistol, the manstopping round bringing his target down. "Keep moving forward!"
"You heard him! Let's knock some sense into these blackclad trash cans!" Sergeant Xavier beckoned from behind his superior, encouraging his squad to continue on before being gunned down by a laser.
Ron watched as PFC Sanderson pierced the fatigues of his opponents with the bayonet before he was cutdown by a laser round himself, flopping over like a wet fish before feeling intense pain himself.
The Lieutenant realized that he was hit when his legs buckled, Kovic hit the deck hard. "Bastards. Goddamn fuckers!" Ron cursed at the pain in his legs, unable to move. The officer glanced up and noticed three Imperials and a Sith staring down from the barricade curiously.
"What should we do about this one, sir?"
"Don't dare question me again, Private." The Sith growled. "Kill him."
"He's an officer-"
"Eat American lead, you Nazi sons of bitches." The Lieutenant snarled as he dropped a grenade at his feet, planning to take them with him. "Enjoy Sieg Heiling in Hell!"
Master Sergeant Antonio Garcia - B Company, 2nd Marine Rifle Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 15:15/3:15 PM
"May the Lord forgive the brave officer." Master Sergeant Garcia prayed, the devout Catholic crossing himself as he addressed his men. "Rally around the Americans and South Koreans! We're about to break through their line!"
"Aye, Master Sergeant!"
The four closest to Antonio, Sergeant Bautista and Private First Class Torres aimed their M1 Carbines at two of the unarmored Imps while Corporal Ocampo and Private Cruz pointed their M14s at the chest plates of their slightly more protected comrades.
"Keep up the pressure! We're driving them back!"
The Filipinos charged forward and leapt over the barricade, engaging the enemy in ferocious hand to hand combat with bayonets, blades, and bolos with liberal usage of handguns and suntukan as well.
Antonio grasped his machete and began slashing away at the Imperials like a madman, using his experience in the jungle and brush to hack and chop away his adversaries.
Korporal Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger - Jagdkommando, Landstreitkräfte, Austrian Bundesheer
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 15:50/3:50 PM
Arnold clutched his StG 58 tightly, the thought of the former tanker, conscript and bodybuilder chuckling dryly at his 'fortune.' Once, he'd dreamed of being Mr. Olympia. Now he was a Jagdkommando about to fight aliens. Though he admitted that would make for a good movie, and maybe even a good career when this was over. A war hero turned actor...
"Das situation ist critical!" The voice Sergeant Huber shouted, instinctively causing Arnold to regain focus as their transport evaded enemy fighters. "General Montgomery and Admiral Spruance ist having us secure this LZ from the enemy at all costs! Without it, our efforts are in vain!"
"Für Österreich!" Lieutenant Hofer shouted as the ramp dropped. "FÜR ÖSTERREICH!
"FÜR ÖSTERREICH!" The Austrians yelled enthusiastically, their warcry, wagering joining their fellow Earthlings in the engagement.
"Schwarzenegger! Pick up der M60!"
The bodybuilder grabbed the machine gun and began laying down suppressive fire from his hip. "Sagen Sie hallo zu meinem kleinen Freund!" Arnold grinned. "Blei essen, Ficker!"
The Imperials launched a counterattack of desperation against the defenders. Waves after waves of Imperial infantry charged the Austrians and the Marines, intending to drive them out towards the darkness of space, but Earth stubbornness was proving to be a familiar trait whenever the Imperials encounters them.
"Hasta La Vista, Sith!" Schwarzenegger laughed as he turned the M60 on three charging warriors, turning the cocky fanatics into humanoid pincushions.
Seren (Lieutenant) Yusef Rosenberg-Shayetet 13, Israeli Defense Force Navy
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught: Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 15:50/3:50 PM
The commandos were intending to disable the engines to prevent escape before continuing up towards the bridge and either capture the HVTs or kill them. Yuself pointed his palm towards the corridor, motioning two of his men to silence the two grunt standing guard outside the hatch to the hyperdrive room.
Rav-Samal (Petty Officer 2nd Class) Jonatan Kostiner aimed his suppressed HiPower at the one on the left while Samal (Seaman) Danil Gadi maneuvered on the right, drawing his combat knife.
"What the Kri-" The Imperial gasped as Gadi gagged him, bring him down to drive a knife through his back. Before he could, however, an all too familiar ignition reported the commandos death as he dropped to the floor, a burning hole smoking in his chest.
Yusef and his detachment drew their weapons upon the revealed Sith. "Krovos, I presume?"
The feminine demon like alien laughed as she gestured with her blade. "More like Lord Krovos, you insolent whelp. You need a lesson in manners, especially to your betters."
The Pureblood punctuated her point as she threw her lightsaber and unleashed lightning from her fingertips. Two more of his men fell, bisected by the blade as it rounded back to her hand like a boomerang as she charged, dodging incoming rifle fire. She reached her hand out, and Yusuf watched in horror as his men's grenades that were issued to them by a Republic armorer were armed.
"Drek! Grenade!"
The commando was blinded as he was thrown from the explosion. His ears ringing, vision blurry, and his mind a popping stew, he was vaguely conscious that he was alone. That was morbidly confirmed when he felt something sticky on him and he realized it wasn't coming from himself. He suddenly heard a piercing cry, and caught sight of the succubus killing one of his men before she winked at him flirtatiously.
"You… bitch!" he coughed, his chest feeling on fire. The Sith shrugged.
"Come now, Israeli, don't tell me you don't enjoy your work either?"
"Well, I hope you enjoy Hell, becomes you're coming with me."
"Ah, you must mean the explosives my men disarmed a few minutes ago?" she tutted him, "I honestly expected more from you based on your fearsome reputation."
"I wasn't just talking about that." He gestured to the window, her face creasing as he guessed what she saw.
"Thirty thousand Rangers, Marines, Air Assault, Commandos, Marinejegerkommandoen and my country's own 35th Brigade," Yusuf gave her a bloody grin, "I think I'll go ahead and save you that seat in Hell."
"Oh how generous of you. Shame I have to cut this short," she smiled as Yusuf's vision was consumed by a piercing crimson light before his world was consumed by darkness… and eventually light.
Krovos watched the head fall from the Israeli's neck with mild fascination before she touched her ear. "Admiral? Moff Reyeus? We have a major problem on our hands."
Moshe Dayan- Commander of the Earth Coalition's Seventeenth Field Army
Aboard the RNS Aspiration - Valor-class Cruiser: Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Our first wave just secured the hangars. We can begin unloading our troops and outflank the Space Fascists."
"Good." Moshe grinned. "Have the APCs be unloaded in Phase Two."
"APCs, sir?"
"We might as well use the firepower and improvised bulldozing or battering ram capabilities to push them back. The Imps are using droids to support their forces, why not beat them at their own game with a one-up?"
"Actually sir, it's not a bad thought. Let's give these Pseudo-Nazi bastards a taste of Israeli might."
"And all of Planet Earth as well." Moshe added as the holocom chimed.
"I heard that your forces have secured our western flank and are now proceeding to conduct a drive toward the command center?"
"That we are, sir." The Israeli confirmed to Malcom. "We'll have our forces link up with your 206th Battalion upon securing the area, assuming that the time schedule is kept."
"By now I wouldn't be surprised if you're early."
"So, you think it's about time to spring our Coup de grâce, Yank?" Bernard asked.
"Coup de-?"
"He means bring in the fighters." Spruance smiled. "And blow their parade ground armada to hell and highwater."
Commander Conrad Gall - Commanding Officer of Dagger Wing, Republic Navy and Operations Officer for Operation: Midway
Kidir - Kidir System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 19:00/7:00 PM
"Alright, boys, we're at the spearhead once more." The leader of the Republic Navy's equivalent of the Army's Havoc Squad began. "I'm not sure if that Earthling's insane but we've put a lot of effort into this surprise of ours and if all goes well, we'll have the enemy overwhelmed."
"What in the blazes!? This can't be right!"
"Speak to me, crewer." Ranken demanded of the panicky radar technician.
"Admiral, if the readings are right…we're about to face an armada of fighters and bombers."
'BY THE FORCE! He convinced the Pubs to pull another Midway and I should've expected it. This was one well orchestrated trap.' Zasha thought but then again she wasn't expecting Spruance's presence upon arrival. "Have all batteries prepare to engage! And recall the fighters!"
"Ma'am, if we concentrate all of our guns at the incoming threat, the enemy ships will blow us to pieces." Her Executive Officer warned. "I don't like this either but that kriffing Earthling is one of their brightest admirals and I dare say that for one with only aquatic battle experience he pulled his cards right."
"Blast it all to Chaos." Ilyan cursed. "I was cut off guard as well but it goes to show our newfound thorn are acting like outsiders looking in. We're going to have to retreat."
"Retreat!? Respectfully, I think we can still pull through as we have already gone so far!"
"They know that their sacrifice is in the name of the Empire." Zasha sighs. "Have Battlegroups Cresh and Dorn jump now. Aureck will provide covering fire to prevent the starfighters from strafing their withdrawal. Besh, on the other hand, will wait for any possible evacuees from the Drive Yards until I give the command. It's a sad day for the Empire and I will answer directly to the Council for this."
Moff Regus posture was calm despite the sweat. "I will as well."
Commander Conrad Gall - Commanding Officer of Dagger Wing, Republic Navy and Operations Officer for Operation: Midway
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 19:30/7:30 PM
"Ha!" Gall laughed as he shot down a fleeing Imperial Supremacy-class Starfighter. "I can't believe that Old Coot's bold idea is working!"
"Tell me about it." One of the subordinates chuckled. "This is probably the largest number of Starfighters we have used in an engagement." Adan snickered. "Is it, like, two hundred fighters and bombers for every ship we brought?"
"Sounds about right." Conrad determined as he strafed the command deck of a Harrower. "Wouldn't be surprised if that estimate is bumped up to three hundred."
"Nah, that's an exaggeration."
"We'll see about that. Whoever's estimate is way off is buying the drinks."
"That is if the true numbers are revealed."
Major Qryin - Commanding Officer of SpecForce Squad 326 "Havoc Squad", Republic Special Forces Division, Republic Army
Kuat Drive Yards - Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - Day Six of the Siege - 19:30/7:30 PM
"So, Major, how many explosives you want on this thing?" Vik questioned as they stacked up against the blast door between them and the last of the 'Imperial interlopers,' as Spruance called them. "Enough to pancake 'em or deep-fry 'em?"
"What!?" The Trandoshan officer hissed. "I thought you are the best demolitions expert in the galaxy?"
"Relax, sir. I was kidding." Tanno chuckled as he placed the prepared charge onto the weak point. "There, this should put some shock into them."
"Alongside the flashbangs we were given." Yuun added. "They should assist us in completing our journey here."
"Yeah, Yeah, Yuun…" The Weequey snarked. "Okay, the timer set and I advise everyone to step back!"
The trio rushed backwards into the corridor and knelt down, Vik holding the detonator. "Fire in the hole!"
Ris knew prediatoringly that was his and Yuun's que to toss in the 'flash bangs'; the pair leapt up and threw the two cylinders through the Wookie-sized gap, the devices clanking downwards around the room.
"Kierfek!" An Imperial accented voice shrieked. "GREN-"
The Major and Yuun immediately charged into the gap and pointed their assault cannons inside the room, scanning the room for any threats but seeing only pitifully terrified Imperials that hunkered down and shaking.
"Havoc Squad?" Another questioned, "I thought you were Imposters trying execute us."
"You mean Australians." Vik grunted. "Where's Colonel Sovagh?"
"He left an hour ago and was mauled by six...some Earth beasts."
"Probably were Dingoes." Qryin determined. "Fitting for a war criminal without honor. And you are complacent in the crimes."
"It wasn't direct orders!" One of the surrendered soldiers cracked. "The Dark Council didn't want this occur as they're planning on starting up negotiations!"
"Don't continue." A Sergeant beside him advised. "They won't believe us as the Empire always get the blame."
"Go on, Private." Yuun encouraged, wondering if there was some truth to it.
"Colonel Sovagh and Lord Vurto conspired to ignore the prohibition order by the Dark Council itself on summary executions! " The low ranker confessed. "They're the most zealous advocates for killing any Earthlings and everything relevant is on the datapads!"
Admiral Zasha Ranken- Imperial Forward Command
Aboard the INS Subjugator- Harrower-class Dreadnaught
11:14:15 ATC/ November 14th, 1968 - 21:45/9:45 PM
"Instead of making solutions, my fellow Council members continue to squabble over minuscule nonsense!" Darth Rictus sighed as he paced around the holotable.
"I'm well aware, my Lord." Zasha frowned but instinctively hushed up as the Darth raised his palm.
"Lords Nox, Ravage, and Aruk are fools, their lust for power has made their thinking illogical as of late, Moff Ranken. You, on the other hand, have personally witnessed the threat first hand. These primitives are emboldened with the drive to have their independence, zealed with fury thanks to that leak we had, not to mention the passion of hope for a better galaxy. This race is but a tool, a means to an end."
"My Lord?"
"Regard it as a promotion." Rictus informed. "With the current threat, we require more than ever to counteract not just the Republic but Earth. Only their cautiousness when it comes to conserving their manpower are holding them back. It, however, doesn't mean they won't take risks like you've endured."
"Permission to speak freely?"
"Granted."
"The Empire still outnumbers these newcomers thousands to one and I could easily launch an forlay into this Sol System, taking advantage of a less defended-"
"We lost the initiative today, Moff. Our task now is to hold onto our remaining territory."
"Understood, my Lord."
Fleet Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance- United States Navy (Assigned as an attaché)
Kuat Drive Yards, Kuat, Kuat System, Kuat Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:15:15 ATC/ November 15th, 1968 - 16:00/4:00 PM
"We lost brave men." Spruance mourned as he inspected the casualties alongside the Spartan General. Seeing the corpses being placed into body bags after the tags were collected and the wounded being patched up brought the reality of a full scale, interplanetary conflict in the heads of the two legends.
They were simply getting beyond their years yet Earth required the most experienced leaders it could muster for the duration although the concept of the war against the Sith and their Empire lasting an entire generation or two hadn't exited their minds, the haunting thought of having their grandchildren partake in an engagement on Earth itself after they passed on lingered but the duo resolved to end the conflict quickly by any means.
"Heard your lads lost an entire company to one of those magicians." Montgomery lamented as he took off his trademark beret in respect. "You Yanks were always brave in combat, reminds me of the Australians and Canadians in some ways despite the over-reliance on supplies."
The naval officer who fought entirely in the Pacific Theater stared at his European Theater counterpart, the admission taking him by surprise. "From what I heard, you're really hard to work with yet here we did well together."
"I'll admit that I didn't necessarily agree with either Ike nor Bradley. Hell, even your Blood and Guts is still an insufferable bastard but you also had MacArthur to deal with, especially with his preoccupation for proclaiming his return."
"Fair point." The American conceded. "But whatever the circumstances, this war is quickly becoming something else entirely. The Empire just lost an excellent opportunity to force the Republic to negotiate, an issue we have been pressing our allies to conduct for months yet it as if Coruscant is the new Saigon and they desire the ARVN to capture Hanoi."
"In other words, you think that the Republic leadership desire to raise the flag over Kaas City just like the South Vietnamese pulled off back in June of '67, a mere two days before First Contact? Is that what you're suggesting Old Chap?"
"The more things change, the more they stay the same." The victor of Midway and the Philippine Sea quoted as he gazed at the stars from the transparent plexiglass. "I fear in a way we're being used."
"Do you have any evidence?" The Briton inquired, realizing that it makes sense.
"None. But George has always said he was never going to run for office and I don't blame him. Saresh is taking us for fools and I'll see if ONI can dig something up."
"Agreed." Bernard concurred. "I'll see if I can pull favours with MI6, if we are being used and we can somehow slip pass SIS, we should know about it sometime a little pass the next Republic's -but our first joint- offensive…In fact, I think I know the exact man for the job."
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior - Commander of the Unified Earth Coalition
11:15:15 ATC/ November 15th, 1968 - 16:00 / 4:00 PM
"So the Imperials failed to destroy Kuat?"
"Yes, sir." Heinrich acknowledged. "Dayan, Spruance and Monty all report that the enemy had been successfully repelled from the shipyards-what they call drive yards-and they're still rounding up prisoners as we speak, some of whom will be tried for committing war crimes against our forces with the rest being turned over to the Republic as POWs for the duration of the conflict."
"What's the latest report on standardizing the equipment of NATO forces?" Patton inquired. "Surely the trashy FALs got replaced by the M14s in the TO&E by now, especially since it's an improved variant of the greatest battle implement ever devised."
'Personally, I would've went with the G3.' The German thought. "Sir, seventy percent of our infantry have received their M14s, straight out of the box from either Earth or Czerka alongside the maschinengewehr from Rheinmetall. The Chieftains are being pressed into the armor battalions as seen fit and Field Marshal Rommel is proposing to revive two wunderwaffes from the dustbin."
"And those are?"
"The Maus and Ratte projects." Colonel Heinrich smirks at the tanker as he laid the blueprints onto the desk. "However, unlike what was originally planned, the Ratte will be equipped with a more powerful engine and Czerka said they could easily build a functional prototype with our metric system within the week if approved."
George scanned the behemoths with a keen line of thought and tactical mindset, seeing the potential to take down the damn Crawlers head on and as long as air dominance was maintained, the size wouldn't be an issue.
"Why how devious!" The American laughs. "I approve wholeheartedly and let Erwin know that if he has any more tricks up his sleeve to push back the Space Fascists further into their territory, this war may be over within six months." The man then glanced over to another "Of course, that is if the Chancellor and then the Senate approves of the strategy."
"Sir?"
"What do you think about Saresh?"
"In all honesty, I find her to be over her head." The German replied truthfully. "Trusting advisors that don't know anything over policymakers that do. However, it also unnerves me at the same time. I was only nine when Adolph came to power. My father pulled strings, as the American saying goes, and I was sent off to the academy in Wurtenburg to become an officer. In the end, I was a Captain fighting the Soviet horde trying to survive."
"What's your point, Colonel? You're not the only former Nazi amongst the ranks. The French Foreign Legion has loads of them."
"Sir, I was the Führer's bodyguard. Take it from me, Saresh might just turn into him. If she does, we need to be ready for it."
Patton sighed, massaging his forehead as he realized that the damn green-skinned reptilian creature was using the entire Coalition as pawns. "Your concerns are duly noted, Colonel. If and only if this woman is playing us, we'll see if our espionage units could launch a covert coup to overthrow this… Hitlerette, and place a more democratic leader as head of our allies. Preferably someone willing to negotiate by the end of this campaign."
Blood and Guts gazed over to the intergalactic 'holomap', seeing the sizzle of the known universe once more. "Of course, despite our successes on Korriban, Kuat and other worlds, this plan will probably be disregarded by the damn bureaucrats as infeasible, especially since we're relatively new kids on the block when it comes to intergalactic warfare."
"Well, I'm confident in the strategy, sir."
"Took three hours to convince Supreme Commander Malcom to accept our demonstration on the holy world and even then he did so reluctantly. This is though is not so minor. The Navies of NATO are pressuring me to somehow transport destroyers and landing craft meant for oceanic warfare across space in order to conduct an amphibious landing and I think they are onto something."
"Sir, you do realize that this hypothetical bold action would possibly be the largest amphibious assault since Normandy, assuming that the Republic politicians accept your proposal?"
"Yes, and Tion is where we'll first strike. The world has a small landmass the size of just the Americas yet the planet is about ninety percent water, perfect for a battle group or two to infiltrate and play around in their tub. However, the largest ships we could bring carrier wise is the LPHs, which means that the F-4s are staying behind."
"Not a great loss," the German replied, "the F-8 Crusaders are better for dogfighting from what I've read. Being designed around guns, not missiles."
"True. The LSTs and LPHs alongside some obsolete vessels from the mothballs providing gunfire support will be landed into the middle of the oceans with modified transports. Support will be provided by Colorado, South Dakota and North Carolina-class battleships since the Iowa's and Montana's are too valuable to the Navy. We'll also utilize a few Fletcher-class destroyers they're willing to expend."
The holographic displays began playing out the attack in motion, "Britain, Australia, France, and Canada will all provide support for the landing with ships of their own and ground contingents as well of course. If we take Tion, then we'll move on the next world. Concurrently, the Soviet's will be sacking planets on the western edge of the galaxy while the 'neutral' nations will be pushing east."
"Cut off in a pincer maneuver on the flanks and a main thrust at the heart, Marr will be forced to either surrender or watch as the flags of nations fly over Dromund Kaas next to the Republic's banner," the Colonel nodded in approval, "however, how will the troops leave?"
"Once the beaches are secured, the landing ships retrieved and the outdated ships scuttled, a Republic armada will jump out of hyperspace and begin pushing their way inward. Some of the craft meanwhile will pick up our boys for much-needed R&R on Coruscant."
There was a knock at the door. "Sir?" A Belgian Major announced. "We just received confirmation from the Chancellor. She approved your plan and is now arranging a meeting with the Senate."
"Oh, General?"
"Yes, Heinrich?"
"When will the offensive commence?"
"Just five months from today." Patton declared. "And once it's over, we'll be home long before Thanksgiving."
Barry Morris Goldwater- Former United States Senator [Republican-Arizonia] and the Newly Inaugurated President of the United States of America
Arlington National Cemetery - Arlington, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:31:16 ATC/ January 31st, 1969 - 17:14/5:14 PM
"And it is within my gratitude to thank Lieutenant Ron Kovic for making the ultimate sacrifice for his nation." President Barry Goldwater sorrowfully declared. "As President of the United States, I'm humbly honored to posthumously grant the Medal of Honor to this fine Marine. His actions prevented the Sith Empire from damaging Kuat Shipyards, the loss of which would've crippled the entire war effort."
Eli and Patricia Kovic, the parents of the deceased Leatherneck stood up and walked toward the podium, still mourning the loss of their heroic son who sacrificed himself for the cause of Liberty.
"On behest of a grateful nation, and in the tradition of the naval service and a grateful nation, please accept the flag and the Medal of Honor as symbols of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service."
"Detail! Ready!" The firing party from the United States Army's 'Old Guard' chambered a blank in their M14s.
"Aim!" The detachment raised their rifles into the air and waited for the inevitable command.
"Fire!" After the shots, Taps was immediately played by the bugler in a final farewell for the devoted Patriot who has died for those oppressed.
Chapter 18: A Choice, Not an Echo
Chapter Text
Barry Morris Goldwater - Presidential Elect from Arizona
The Capitol Building - Capitol Hill, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:20:16 ATC/January 20th, 1969 - 12:15 / 12:15 PM
Barry was feeling some pressure as the crowd and news cameras focused in on the soon-to-be sworn in Thirty-Seventh President of the United States.
The Arizonizian, and indisputable de facto head of the Conservative Wing for the Republican Party, didn't entirely expected to win in a landslide over former Vice President Lyndon Baines Johnson. Yet luck apparently was on his side with a full-blown scandal courtesy of senatorial aide Bobby Baker coming to light in August; suspicious and conflicting financial statements provided to the Internal Revenue Service by Lady Bird, and questions over Robert McNamera's discernment. The media had a field day over the revelations that Goldwater didn't account for at all. He'd expected the election to be like 1964, when his good friend Jack faced an upscale battle from Nelson Rockefeller but still managed to get reelected with a comfortable margin of Electoral Votes.
While he didn't necessarily always agreed with Kennedy's New Frontier initiative, he could respect the young man's firm stand against any foe.
'Right now I need to focus on the present and future.' The once small scale businessman from Phoenix thought as he held up his left hand and placed his right onto the Holy Bible.
"I, Barry Morris Goldwater, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, so help me God."
"I, Barry Morris Goldwater, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, so help me God."
Galactic News Network Building - Galactic City, Coruscant, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
02:09:16 ATC/February 9th, 1969 - 13:18/1:18 PM
"Good evening. I'm Zay Sneralda, and welcome to GNN. Thank you for joining us."
"Our top story tonight is that our American allies from Earth have elected Barry Goldwater of a province called Arizona as their next leader. Chancellor Saresh was looking forward to working alongside Lyndon Johnson when, in a surprising development, the Texianian was accused of corruption and embezzlement, sending shockwaves throughout the nation-state and securing votes for the Goldwater's campaign pledge of keeping the Government honest. We cut now to a statement from the newly elected President."
"I'm still astonished at the revelation that while under the American people's watch the Vice President was corrupt beyond recognition, but I before then I knew of his reputation as an intimidator for the Democrats in the Senate. All I will say on the matter for now, until the investigation is over, is that I hope that I'll be able to restore honesty in government."
"As far as we know, Goldwater is known as an honest and principled man, unusually so for a politician. While it is unknown as of now how his diplomatic relationship will be with the current Chancellor, it is assumed that he will be sticking with his principles as labeled in his book 'Conscience of a Conservative'.
"In other news, the Sith Empire has managed to successfully repelled an incursion by Republic forces, Trandoshan Auxiliaries and Earth troops from India on the Outer Rim world of Pavia in the Tapani Sector after heavy fighting. While the defenders were estimated to have suffered catastrophic losses, the Indians were annihilated and the Republic were forced to withdraw when Imperial relief arrived."
"And there have been some recent developments in the arrangement of confining Prisoners of War. Some high-level prisoners will be confined on Earth in undisclosed locations to help ease the pressure off of the overstrained prison system and to also take advantage of the unique atmosphere."
"Finally, the Republic Military Board of Ordnance rejected adopting either the Earth-designed AR-15 or the Stoner 63 Weapon System, and .223 Remington projectile ammunition due to unacceptable performance against durasteel armor and reliability issues. Immediately following the announcement, ArmaLite liquidated all assets relating to their design."
Barry Morris Goldwater - 37th President of the United States
The Oval Office - The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
02:09:16 ATC/February 9th, 1969 - 2:45 PM
"So, what's first on the agenda, Mister President?" The Thirteenth White House Press Secretary, William Buckley, inquired. "I know that we have a lot of work to do, ranging from attempting to reverse some of the New Deal initiatives without upsetting the moderates and streamline the government for efficiency sake, nevermind the war effort."
After taking a moment to ponder, Barry decided to prioritize on the current situation at the front as his social platform could wait.
"How's the war effort going so far, Omar?" Goldwater asked the Secretary of Defense he retained from the previous Kennedy administration.
"Overall, still astonishingly well despite the setback in the Tapini." the experienced and decorated warfighter revealed. "Our boys in particular wiped out a few garrisons on Tapana after they refused to surrender. The rest surrendered en mass, and we handed them over to the Republic."
"Wiped out?"
"Like the Japs back in the Second World War, Mister President. According to a Republic memo, no surrender orders were given by 'Mainly Sith or some General trying to keep their pride in check'. Still, these Imperials are tenacious and wield highly advanced equipment, so they should not be underestimated."
"Definitely." One of Goldwater's military aides, Medal of Honor recipient Major Robert Franklin Foley of the United States Army and formerly attached to Company A, Second Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, concurred. "If what we heard about the Sith specifically are true, it's a complete and utter bitch to handle them hand to hand combat wise. But if we engage them at the five to six hundred yard line with our M14's, we can just pick them off with our superior marksmanship training." The Major concluded before showing a hint of annoyance. "The Jarheads are just showing off by hitting anything with a red haze out to eight, nine hundred, and even a thousand yards. Needless to say, Sir, our Republic allies are impressed."
"Too many optics in use and not enough marksmen in their ranks but of course we are showing off. Just as the Corps did at Belleau Wood, and we also had a winning streak at Camp Perry so far." Major Edward James Land grinned. "Hell, I know even Hathcock is picking off serious targets with his ragtag merry bunch, and at times making bets with the Republic Deadeyes."
The Fifty-Fifth Secretary of State, Jesse Helms, decided to interrupt before interservice rivalries could commence. "By the way, Mister President, representatives from Coronet Arms will be arriving on February the 17th to discuss the possibility of securing a contract for producing small arms. If their claims of quality is right, they'll probably match or even succeed the TRW productions."
"Are you sure that's a fair comparison?" The Secretary of Defense chuckled. "Who would've thought that an Aircraft Production company would make quality service arms and astoundingly still have no rejections to date?"
"ArmaLite certainly proved that's not always the case when the Army tested out their AR-10 and AR-15 designs in 1958 and 1962." The 38th United States Secretary of the Interior and firearms enthusiast, Hubert Leon "Bill" Richardson, sighed. "While I could understand the appeal of them, the shortcomings were too great compared to what the military adopted but it's still a shame that they were focusing on military contracts instead of selling them openly on the civilian market as it would be successful... especially the AR-15 when dealing with Coyotes."
"Hence why it was referred to as a varmint round." Omar grinned. "Stoner, Eugene is his first name I believe, gave me a Semi-Automatic only presentation model as a gift, and Ike and I used it at his farm in Gettysburg to take care of some foxes. But the ones I witnessed Ordnance tested out back in '62 showed that it's a mere fad, especially after every prototype had the buttstock cracked during the bayonet phase."
"Well, at least our boys are equipped with the descendant of the greatest battle implement ever devised, and we don't have to worry about the what-ifs." Barry smiled. "Imagine if McNamara became Secretary of Defense?"
"Respectfully Mister President, McNamara doesn't know anything except calculating and his arithmetic is always wrong. Book smarts doesn't necessarily translate into logic." Omar growled. "I'm just glad that the fool will never be Vice President, nevermind your crazy hypothetical, sir."
Zay Sneralda- Host of The Sneralda Hour
Galactic News Network Building - Galactic City, Coruscant, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
02:09:16 ATC/February 9th, 1969 - 20:30/8:30 PM
"Good evening. I'm your host Zay Sneralda, and with me tonight is my co-anchor from the critically hit politically inclined Holonet show 'The Kaven Haven', and some say my rival: Kaven Skeloe.
"Very funny, Zay. You realize that we're live, right?"
"I'm perfectly well aware but we're not emotionless droids. Earlier today, I broke the news about Goldwater taking office and mentioned a book of his titled 'Conscience of a Conservative'. Unfortunately due to the wartime quarantine policy enacted by the United Nations and every nation-state on Earth in which trade is only limited to selected goods, all ships are searched immediately even if the proper codes are given.
"Strict media censorship and tourism is prohibited with only selected persons of the government, officials from at least three contractors, and those under official military business being allowed on the planet. Those who fail to heed the travel restrictions are immediately treated as spies or invaders and the intruding spacecraft will be shot down on sight. Denizens will have to wait until the war is over to receive a copy but luckily for us Senator Krasul decided to hand his favorite news network an extra copy he bought during his time as an ambassador on Earth."
"Oh, we're definitely now officially criminals in the eyes of the Earthlings," Kaven chuckled.
Zay rolled her eyes at the quip and got serious. "So what are your thoughts on the book so far, Kaven?"
"Well, while I haven't read all of the book yet, Zay, I have at least managed to get to Chapter Four and I'll admit that I'm predicting some clashes of views up ahead between Goldwater and Saresh."
"Clashes?" The host inquired.
"You see, from our perspective the concept of nation-states died millennia ago; while Earth is still divided and just only started forming formal ties with the Republic last year. The point is though that Chancellor Saresh firmly believes that the Republic needs to step to assist anyone's needs, while Goldwater on the other hand is firmly against what he refers to as 'handouts'."
"Handouts? That's a new one… the equivalent is Coruscanti Sludge used by the Mid and Outterrimmers, right?"
"That seems to be the case but the good news is that he is more supportive of private charitable aid that could be simply compared to as what the Jedi did before the Sith returned to the galaxy and The Hyland Organization for Rakghoul Neutralization. Also known as THORN that was founded by Addalar Hyland, but that's not all. It's also an excellent chance that he will be against any suggestions for Earth to unite into a universal, single planetary government, and that's not even taking into consideration that the planet is technically having an ongoing cold war which is still unresolved."
"Speaking of the Jedi, did they offer to meditate?"
"At least three times only to have it shot down at the United Nations every time. The only nation that consistently voted for mediation was North Korea and that's only because they want to have their claim over South Korea legitimized."
"Huh? North Korea might be a theocratic powerhouse." Sneralda assumed. "Shame we don't know much about how this world is divided up overall as the exportation of maps is banned for, quote unquote, 'security reasons,' due to the current conflict."
"That's a reasonable guess as all we know for sure is that North Korea is Communist in ideology and South Korea isn't."
"Anything else you would like to share?"
"Again, I don't have enough information on the overall political situation on the world but based on what we know so far, their military might and creativity has been unmatched despite their technological limitations. Their slugthrowers are second only to Verpine railguns, and the planet is divided into cultural, ideological, and or religious lines. Still, even though I can only guess at what Goldwater is inferring, safe to say he is a diehard advocate for Liberty and therefore while not Johnson, he'll support the war effort based on his values."
"Well, I appreciate your time on the show, Kaven but unfortunately that's all the time we have for tonight. Until next time, this has been Zay Sneralda of The Sneralda Hour, signing off."
"Cut!" the on-stage director shouted, "Zay? A word."
The brown-haired anchorwoman wearing a dark grayish-blue leather jacket and a white crewneck T-Shirt immediately sauntered over upon overhearing the holler. "You wanted to see me, boss?"
"You did an excellent job tonight, and ratings are up fifteen percent. We're still the most popular on the network but there's a problem."
"A problem? Look, if it's about my contract, I'm sure we can work it out. And I don't need a raise as the board did decide two years ago to increase my salary from four hundred thousand credits to twelve million, which is still overly generous in my opinion."
"It's not the contract nor a compensation issue but...umm, the thing is, Zay, the Board just decided to have Kaven handle anything political related from now on, and that includes the unofficial examining of books written by politicians."
"Is there any other restrictions that I need to know about?"
"No comedy as Torion got that covered but you're free to cover fashion, music, some culinary such as sneak peeks for the cooking show and a few other subjects. I'll have a memo sent to your datapad "
"Understood." Sneralda accepted.
George Walton Lucas, Junior - Aspiring Film Director and Documentary Producer
The Frolic Room - Hollywood, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
02:09:16 ATC/February 9th, 1969 - 20:30/8:30 PM
George was in denial. After he and his friend, Francis, decided to hang out at the Frolic Room in Hollywood, the pair somehow ended up talking to the creator of Star Trek and a screenwriter, but after discussing his ideas and sharing a few scripts, the aspiring director now felt like he needed another drink.
"You know, George, I honestly like your idea and ambitiousness." Gene Roddenberry declared. "But I think right now is not the time to produce a Buck Rogers film. I advise that even your Indiana Jones documentary will unfortunately have to wait as it was announced that the legendary archeologist will be heading to Coruscant soon."
"I suppose you're right." The young, aspiring director sighed, "Frank and I were going to document the fighting in Vietnam as well but we couldn't receive permission in time."
"Hey, Sailer. What book are ya reading?"
"Ah, just some promotional copy I got from the Republic diplomatic party a couple years back." The screenwriter shrugged, adjusting his glasses. "It's about this mysterious Jedi named Revan and his ragtag bunch of misfits. Here's the kicker: it's apparently all real."
"Ragtag bunch of misfits?" Coppola wondered. "And a true story as well? Say, George, does that sound like something you would like to do?""
"Honestly, I think you should do it, George. It's right up your alley. Kind of Space Western Opera if I say so myself," Sailer slid the book to George. "Give it a read, might give you ideas. Ah hell, I'm late for another meeting. I'll talk to y'all later. Buenos Dias, Mister Lucas."
"Um… y tu?" George replied.
"Bueno," Sailer smiled as the New Mexican screenwriter left the room.
Gene smiled and offered Lucas a way to get his foot into the door. "You know what, here's a proposal if you three can work something out. I'll be the benefactor, George can be the primary director, Francis the co-director, and Sailer could collaborate the script with you George as… frankly, your dialogue needs work."
"Actually, I will let George have at it as he was the brain behind the Buck Rogers film."
"You're sure, man?" George questioned, taken aback by the humbleness.
"I'm sure. Big productions aren't my thing really and I have a feeling that this will be a hit."
"Alright," Lucas relented. "But we need a name. As Gene will be helping, how about 'Star Wars?'"
"Ha!" Roddenberry laughed, slapping Lucas behind the back. "It took place a long time ago in that galaxy next door as well after all."
Chapter 19: Gitarzan
Chapter Text
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 10:20 AM
"You know, I'm still denying that somehow you're not even slightly jealous." Jake muttered in front of his betrothed as he leaned casually against one of the native palm trees, still denying the entanglement.
"Why should I be?" Sara shrugged, dismissing the matter as if it wasn't unusual. "If it was anyone else, you would have already been made aware that you made a crucial error in judgment, loverboy."
Shaking his head in bemusement, Meyer then sighed as he got straight to the point. "It's certainly going to take some getting used to though. Most guys dream of this but I never imagined that it would be reality."
"To be honest neither did I but I presume circumstances led to it." The redhead smirked. "You're not bad on the eyes after all."
"You're something else." Jake scoffed, but with a smile but before the couple were able to carry on with their conversation, they were interrupted by a cough from behind.
"If you two lovebirds are done…"
"Who knew Red Jacket is such a killjoy?" Meyer grumbled.
Agent Theron Shan - Strategic Information Service
Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 10:25 AM
"I've done a bit of scouting. The Revanites are camped in the Temple of the Ancients, an old ruin nearby." Shan reported at the designated meeting place. "We've gotten this far without being undetected. It's time for you to go and make some noise."
"You know, there might be another way instead of just trying to run and gun our way to the temple." Meyer proposed. "Because I have a feeling that's what you're suggesting."
"Alright, Mister Marine." Theron snarked. "Tell us what you have in mind since you think you know better."
"It's called using the terrain to our advantage." The Leatherneck grinned, pointing out the obvious. "You snuck around yourself, Red Jacket and mentioned how we haven't been discovered but now you're saying we need to waste ammunition by shooting guards and potentially tip our two targets off that we're coming after them when we can just continue sneaking around right under their nose and take the two ringleaders by surprise?"
"They do have a point, Theron." Lana interceded. "If you managed to look around without getting caught, then it's worth the risk, not to mention the added benefit of catching Arkous and Darok off-guard until we're ready to nab them."
"Look, the Rakatans and Revanites both have the temple heavily guarded-"
"I know that it can be done." Jake interrupted. "Ever heard of White Feather?"
"You mean the legendary sniper, presumably a Leatherneck of the United States, that the Empire just only recently placed a bounty on?" Lana inquired. "Two and a half million credits and counting due to this Sureshot 2-1, Earth's direct equivalent of the Republic's Deadeyes, he's leading?"
"I knew him for a short time back in 'Nam - Hell, I was even trained by him - And I heard that he crawled three days across an open field and killed some NVA General with one shot to the heart from seven hundred yards away under similar circumstances so respectfully Secret Squirrel it can be done as it's my job to sneak in and take a precise shot or two if required, not yours. You said it yourself that these Rakatis are not using technology and downgraded so what do we need to worry about?"
"Again, the temple and the outside perimeter are heavily guarded so there's no way you're sneaking past them. It's impossible."
Shan noticed that the United States Marine was getting irritated at being doubted or considered the field operative as being hypocritical. Either way, the patience was slowly and gradually coming to an end.
"Look, with all due respect, clearly we think of snipers from two different perspectives. On Earth, it's firing one shot from a concealed position with no fancy red barrier then move in order to not get caught or don't fire at all and observe what the enemy is doing before reporting it to command while here, it's just basically infantry taught how to use a specialized rifle and fire it anywhere they so choose but not wear camouflage or take any attempt to prevent someone from spotting them after the first shot, which in my opinion is better defined as sharpshooters or skirmishers due to the lackluster marksmanship training your typical grunts recieve. A true sniper on the other hand uses knowledge of fieldcraft as part of his duties in addition to being handed a accurized rifle and using fieldcraft is how snipers stay alive." Jake explained to the spy as calmly as possible but his usual patience lately has been tested from trying to comprehend over why what seemed to be common sense was a low priority within the Republic Military and the Space Monks. "But sometimes I wonder if you need to look at a fucking dictionary about warfare or, I can't believe I'm phrasing it like this, attend West Point and learn some commonsense as it seems like newly commissioned West Pointers have more commonsense than you when it comes to military tactics."
'Looks like I got to have a nice private chat with that ignorant know-it-all Nerfherder from a rudimentary backwater. '
"Take it easy, Jake." Westbrook interceded. "We don't need a scuffle drawing attention to us here. In fact, we're losing precious daylight by arguing over doctrinal differences."
"He's right you know." The droid added. "My Master-"
"Shut up droid unless you want to become a sundial!"
Lana groaned and decided to intervene before the precious time was lost. "I'm confident in your abilities so may the Force serve you well."
"Okay, smartass, you want to bring it o-" The SIS Agent stopped as he was astonished by the sight of Meyer sewing vegetation onto the back of a jacket, wondering if the Marine snapped and has gone insane."What in the name of the Force is that?"
"It's a ghillie suit."Jake shrugged as if it was obvious. "But apparently I'm some nonsensical idiot because I know the meaning of camouflage instead of wearing some shiny color like yellow, can kill Space Wizards from over a thousand yards away with a well-aimed bullet instead of using an obviously superior laser rifle that is effective at less than half the distance and can be blocked by their laser swords as we need to be courteous to them, or using commonsense instead of playing cops and robbers at some Jedi's, Republic Officer's, or even SIS Agent's say so. I guess I now need to stand out by painting a bullseye on my uniform since someone from a technologically advanced society believes us primitives need to ditch and burn the olive drab and resurrect the blue and tan last used during the Boxer Rebellion in China. Now, what were you saying? Something about a brawl to settle something?"
"You know what. Since you're suicidal and ignoring my advice as you think you know better, go get yourself killed, primitive." Theron snarled. "Here's a good spot if you can make it there without getting mauled from the wildlife."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:06 AM
"You look so ridiculous." Sara snorted as she noticed the talking shrub. "In fact, you appear to be almost like Jakarro."
"Oh, come on I'm not like Sasquatch."Jake quipped as he adjusted his ghillie suit. "Look, the plan is for us to provide covering fire while Sam and Jakarro confront these two deranged cultists."
"How far?" The Sergeant inquired.
"I was thinking about eleven hundred meters away." The PFC answered as he screwed on the Sionics suppressor to his XM21 Sniper Weapons System. "A reasonable distance based on the FFP Mister Red Jacket selected for us after some debate over doctrinal differences and fucking logic, not to mention how you decided to give the other XM21 a try." The Leatherneck got down and began to crawl. "Hope you don't mind getting dirty, beautiful."
"Nerfherder." Kelrein grumbled before following his lead.
Agent Theron Shan - Strategic Information Service
Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 11:54 PM
"Excellent work sneaking to the temple." Lana congratulated the main strike team. "Theron is slicing into the facility's structural plans now."
"It's not looking great." The Agent informed the trio frankly. "Your only option is to pass through the conscription center dead ahead."
"Anything vital we need to know?"
"The Cyborgs ahead are in some kind of standby mode. They'll activate as soon as you'll enter the room so be ready for a fight."
Shan decided to make an excuse to have Beniko leave the room and advise the paratrooper that on a wise course of action."Blasted sensors." Theron profaned. "Lana? Can you please do a quick perimeter check? I can't tell if these contacts are real or not."
The blonde raised an eyebrow in suspicion at the Republic field operative but like any good Imperial, Theron witnessed her acknowing the excuse without question.
"Right away."
Theron did a slight victory smirk at the haste of departure before composing himself to the task at hand. "Alright, we don't have a lot of time, but we cannot risk the tech in the conscription center falling into Imperial hands."
"Well, we could blow it up." The American Paratrooper suggested. "I do have some Willie Pete and Thermite on me."
"I'll consider that to be a backup plan but I'm sure that I could slice my way in and sabotage the power converters. You just need to take care of the guards inside first so no one would raise the alarm for the sabotage."
"They're pork chop one hundred percent guaranteed."
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Infinite Army Conscription Center - Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:00 PM
"Damn." Sam cursed as he witnessed some of the goons being led to their assigned tubes. "They're dedicated to their cause. I'll give them that."
"They are cultists after all." The paratrooper's companion growled."But waiting is making me angrier!"
"I still can't understand you, Sasquatch."
Jakarro snorted and aimed his 'laser crossbow' as the last of the cultists entered their assigned tubes
"You should've waited, man!" Sam shouted as he fired his M60 at three of the inbound guards before immediately seeking the prone position. "Fucking Sasquatch just pissed off the nest of hornets."
"What are you doing lying on the ground, Samuel?" The irritable, incessantly talkative robot questioned. "You're missing out on all the fun!"
"Fight smarter, not idiotically!" The Sergeant retorted as he fired another burst from his belt-fed support weapon directed at more of the zealous followers. "Or Adapt and Overcome, that's how you win a war!"
Westbrook spotted one of the cultists aiming from and began firing a short, five round, burst of M61 Armor-Piercing projectiles at one of the few fighters using commonsense.
'What's the matter with this universe? Well, honestly it would make for an excellent franchise if it wasn't real!'
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:32 PM
"You know, I can't believe we crawled three hundred meters through kriffing muck and vegetation."
"All in the trade." Jake smiled as he retrieved the 3-9X Redfield Auto Ranging Telescope aka the 'ARTEL' from its protective case and screwed the securing nut of the mount onto the side of the rifle.
"Jake?"
"Yes, angel?"
"I noticed you have a carbine on your back."
"Oh, the Paratrooper model?" The Jarhead mused, the M1A1 Carbine, while not necessarily a choice when it came to either stopping power or piercing plastoid armor was meant to provide him some protection as Meyer only brought one 7-round magazine for the XM21. "It's only in case trouble finds us."The Commando was about to remove her helmet when the Marine spoke up.
"I wouldn't remove it if I was you."
"Why not?" The redhead wondered. "The helmet gets in the way of my sight picture at times."
"To clarify, you would show the outline of your gorgeous face to enemy marksmen, which is why I'm wearing camo paint on my ugly mug."
"Makes sense." Sara relented. "I do admit that the galaxy mainly sees foliage camouflage as being an outdated concept except for scouts."
"Why scouts and not snipers such as yourself?" Meyer wondered with bemusement.
"Because the role is to harass the enemy and take out High-Value Targets." Kelrein informed. "However from time to time I've utilized personal cloaking devices."
"Ah, so you Space Brits just disregard any notion of taking real advantages against the enemy and just goosestep in perfect marching order clad in all black or gray outfits while the Republic responds in kind, huh? Honestly, I'm unsure as of now if this universe is supposed to be a large-scale resurrection of 18th Century European military courtesy to the opposing faction with the mass prisoner exchanges to boot or the Wild West with the excessive running and gunning."
"Why I'm not British." The Imperial's green eyes twinkled with mischief. "It's pure Dromund Kaas."
The American with a complicated heritage rolled his eyes before fixing his gaze into the scope, searching for any signs for either their compatriots or foes. "It's still kinda ironic that one of my ancestors, Thomas Schmidt, spotted for Timothy Murphy at Saratoga, and here I am, slightly less than two hundred years later fighting against basically a copy of the soon-to-be-extinct British Empire."
Sara sighed as she felt an incoming headache over the complication. "I recollect the mention of Drogheda, Sheriffmuir, Prestonpans, Culloden, Bunker Hill, and Vinegar Hill from your mum."
"Don't take it the wrong way but the opportunist English nobility made a living hell for anyone of Scottish or Irish blood in their own land, like the Cameron's and Dallaghan's." Jake asserted as he thought of his maternal forebears. "Life would be better without any of those inbred brats, hence why the Constitution has a provision outlawing titles as everyone needs to be held accountable to the law in addition to having a say in government and while everyone might be different because of income or heritage, we still all bleed red and saying that a certain pedigree is superior to anyone else is inexcusable. Anyone, if they put their mind to it, can be as successful as Andrew Carnegie and that what makes the American dream possible but Marxism and Socialism, of course, is an elaborate scam."
Sara nodded after processing the erudition, remembering her comprehensive exposure to the culture of the United States during her time on Earth. While the redhead had traveled to Mongolia, Bonn, and Jerusalem, there was an appeal that continued to draw her back. "Obviously as you've heard, the Sith and certain member worlds of the Republic ironically hold one commonality: The nobles are not accountable and not all of the laws apply to their class. That's one of the main hypocrisy's with the Republic, they accuse us of having inequality with the division between Sith and Non-Sith and slaves, the latter of which is abhorrent of course, and the Pubs were even sanctimonious to point at the House of Dak-Ah as an example but they have worlds that are authoritarian or have reigning monarchies."
"Even Chandrila, a planet of literal Space Hippies, have aristocrats." Jake groaned. "That's mindboggling as hippies don't believe in property."
"Says the Marine who arrested John Lennon during a riot outside Quantico." Sara smirked.
"It was a Godsend to have him deported and be declared Persona Non-Grata, to say the least as he was firing up the Hippies. Last time I checked, while Freedom of Speech is protected, causing a riot that in a way helps the enemy is not and hypothetically speaking if he was a United States citizen that was discovered to be financially aiding Victor Charlie during the war in addition to the riot charge, he would've been sent to fry in the chair but he's just an Anti-American foreigner."
"Do not get me started on Krasul's infamous gaffe in Washington." Kelrein chuckled nervously. "Wasn't half of the capitol occupied and looted by the Hippies?"
"I don't even want to know how much of my taxes had to be spent to repair the damage after my old unit and the Army quelled the disturbance." Jake grumbled before spotting their counterparts just outside the door standing between them and the HVTs. "Get ready, Sam and Sasquatch are making their move."
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:40 PM
"Alright, Sasquatch, I'll lead the way but please remember that we need to capture them unharmed if possible."
"Then I shall wait until the interrogations are done! Vengeance will be mine!"
Sam rolled his eyes, dreading the hostile body language as he placed two fingers on his opposite wrist. "Jake?" Westbrook spoke into his commlink. "Are you in position?"
"Yeah and Sara complained about the mud."
"As city girls usually do." Sam chuckled.
"Very funny." Sara griped. "It'll take hours to get the muck off!"
"If you would like, I could help clean it."
"How sweet." Lana chimed in."But in all seriousness, remember to focus on the operation before you and do consider that you're dealing with an experienced Darth and a traitorous SpecForce trooper."
"Wilco." The paratrooper acknowledged.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:48 PM
Jake relaxed as he concentrated on his target, slowly exhaling as he waited patiently for the opportunity to get his kill. The experienced sureshot gazed squarely at the crosshair, bringing it in-line with his target before checking with his partner to confirm the distance.
"Range?"
"About one thousand two hundred fifty standard meters give or take." Sara estimated from her range finder. "Definitely outside the range of any personal blaster but do you believe that these slugthrowers would get through his lightsaber? It's a little extreme distance-wise."
"Just enjoy the show." The crackshot smirked as he squeezed the trigger.
Crack!
At two thousand eight hundred feet per second, a single 175 grain projectile fired from Lake City produced M118 match loads left the muzzle and spiraled toward the spot where the rifleman aimed the crosshairs, potentially knocking the target down to the dirt.
Arkous felt something slammed into his right bicep, the shock of the impact forcing the Sith Lord to drop his lightsaber.
"Arghhh!"
"Snipers!" Darock warned, realizing that their attackers have support off in the distance.
"How very observant, Colonel." The Pureblood muttered as he realized that it was a slug that caused his arm to be damaged beyond repair.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 12:52 PM
"Elevation is good." The Sergeant confirmed from her rangefinder. "It's the wind I presume."
"Appears to be five clicks left." The Private First Class guessed as he dialed in the windage on the scope's adjustment turret to compensate for the miss while the red-skinned, demon appearing creature attempted to strike Sam again in order to get out of sight and dodge the targeting. "Oh no you don't you son of a bitch."
The next round struck the Pureblood dead center of the forehead, causing him to topple over fatally.
"Kill confirmed." Kelrein smiled after confirming the traitor's demise. "Hope you don't mind if I take out the dear Colonel."
"Go ahead." Meyer shrugged innocently. "He was the brainchild of Korriban anyway."
"Well, in that case, I'll go for his groin first before working my way up to his head."
'Ouch! I don't even want to know how that feels with 7.62 x 51.'
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 1:28 PM
"Fine shooting. Saw it on the camcorder we sliced into." Theron complimented in a still somewhat irked tone from the hologram while the quartet plus one droid regrouped inside the temple. "Although it was a shame that Arkous and Darok couldn't be taken in alive."
"You know that camcorder came in good use, Theron." Lana mused.
"Yes, well, she wouldn't let me have access to the datapad."
"Like I was going to allow some SIS spy rummage through my data." Beniko snickered before pausing, feeling a sense of dread. "Wait, I sense something. We are in danger."
"Multiple sensor contacts! Capital ships dropping out of hyperspace, one of them coming in hot!"
"Arkous and Darok were valuable allies in my cause but their deaths will not delay what's coming."
Lana took a step forward in a mixture of disbelief and awe. "That voice."
"It's him." Theron recognized. "Revan."
"My Infinite Army could have achieved so much but I still have other weapons in my arsenal."
"Try us, bud." Samuel grinned confidently. "I'm sure we can adapt and make them all backfire."
"That remains to be seen. My followers are legion, my ranks grow every hour as more and more people see the truth of the galaxy. In fact, Earth would be a valuable ally but your backwater mindset and governments just as corrupt as the Republic's delude-"
"Shut up, asshole!" Jake interrupted. "You have the nerve to wear some mask because you couldn't be intimidating enough without it or are trying to compensate for the lack of something. Actually, I think you're trying to hide your cowardice which explains why you're not here in person."
Revan
In Orbit above "The Temple of the Ancients" - Rakata Prime
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 1:30 PM
'That insolence! If he knew what I have endured, he wouldn't have been so rude!'
One of the bridge officers approached the imminent savior of the galaxy scowling not at the only hope left but the trash on the ground. "Want me to give the order to answer the insult, My Lord?"
"Fire on my command." The Prodigal Knight ordered as he crossed his arms. 'We'll see who's smug now.'
"They're powering up weapons! Get out of there now!"
"You really did it this time, Jake!" Samuel shouted as he and the others sprinted out of the collapsing temple as hellfire rained down from the laser guns of the spaceships.
"He has gone senile!" Jake concluded out loud, dashing and dodging the falling debris. "Three hundred years clouded his judgment!"
"Of everything you could've done, mocking Revan wasn't the first thing in mind!" Sara deadpanned. "It's your kriffing fault that you made him angry!"
"I could've called the smug bastard worse!" The Jarhead defended as they reached the gap to safety outside the ruins.
Jake panted and decided to relent his opinion. "Okay...Maybe I was a little harsh."
"Still, that...was frighteningly close." Sara determined as she caught her breath. "Next time, leave the diplomatic chat with me."
"Waste of time unless you need a distraction, Imperial." Samuel shrugged.
"Of course." Sara murmured, sniveling at the abrupt mistrustful tone.
"Sam..."
"It's honestly going to take time to fully get reacquainted." The soldier promulgated, interrupting the Leatherneck. "Look, I know you're being wholehearted to Jake but you still deceived us and I know him since I was in diapers. You should've told us the truth as we would've understood."
"Yes, but would you even believe in the revelation that Empire isn't as morally unjust?" The Commando questioned rhetorically. "Krasul, despite his faults, managed to successfully exaggerate everything about the Empire and painted the Republic as caring for all beings. Was it surprising to discover the neglection about a certain occurrence on Korriban after the raid?"
"This discussion can wait as I don't want to stand here in case His Worship Mister Overkill is sending units to search for confirmation at our demise." Meyer interceded.
"You're right, pal." Westbrook relented before glaring at the redhead one last time. "Just make sure you know that your heart is in the right place."
"You know that it is." Sara sighed before placing her helmet back on.
Agent Theron Shan - Strategic Information Service
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 2:30 PM
"You know, I believe I see the reason why there's a need to upgrade our sensors." Lana sighed. "Obviously they know what they're doing."
"I'm still going to give that cocky Earthling a piece of my mind." Theron growled in annoyance. "Smug piece of Bantha turd thinks he's justified because he and even his friend both got lucky in getting pass the defenses unnoticed. He was even brazen enough to call my ancestor an asshole. Asshole!"
"Let it go, Theron. Sergeant Westbrook and Private Meyer both clearly are just approaching this as he situation dictates."
"Oh sure, like they know everything about Revan."
"It's not that and you know it!" The towhead snapped. "Actually, I hate to admit it but the tactical record has clearly demonstrated that they have a completely different mindset when it comes to warfare." The head of Sith Intelligence reluctantly divulged. "The vast majority of our respective forces don't use camouflage yet to the Earthlings, it's a vital necessity after the appalling carnage inflicted during their First World War. They use slugthrowers instead of blasters and they obviously know the weakness of Walkers. The last time their infantry have truly fought like us was around the last turn of their Century during the aforementioned First World War." Beniko sighed as she revealed her conclusion."They have evolved differently as a civilization due to being isolated until last year. That's why they're so hard to predict as we've been foolishly comparing them to what we're used to from our own history and believing that there's nothing else to learn, not looking at it as a case of perhaps they're advanced in some areas and are outsiders looking in or they just simply refuse to play by our rules, reject to abide by our standards."
"And the multitude of the Earthlings repudiate the concept of the Force as well due to their unique geosphere and religious beliefs." Theron sighed, relenting at the analysis. "Somehow the Milky Way was cut off and it makes me wonder what other extragalactic civilizations are not linked."
"Jake, I'll admit, does brush it off as well and it's something we clearly disagree on but also, I do believe that I've read a report on how a certain Jedi Grandmaster is besotted with some Holoseries called Star Trek. What's going on?"
"Don't remind me." The SIS Field Operative groaned. "My own mother is now a diehard Trekkie and convinced the Council to have it be officially a part of the training due to its 'educational nature'."
"Oh, I can imagine." The blonde Sith smirked deviously as she casually revealed the latest potential blackmail. "Be quite a shame if the entirety of Republic space knew that the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order has an imposing, prized collection of Star Trek paraphernalia."
'My only regret is that I haven't destroyed her Star Trek memorabilia collection when I had the chance.'
Jedi Temple - Tython
11:08:15 ATC/ November 8th, 1968 - 2:30 PM
"Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds. To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly go where no man has gone before!"
"Whoa!" One of the younglings commented in awe as they watched the introduction with the starship zooming past in the background.
"Are you sure it's wise to have the younglings watch Star Trek?" Master Tak-Zi frowned. "I can understand that it does showcase values that the Order believes in and demonstrates respect for other beings but it's…unconventional."
"The Council only recently decided on it unanimously and that was after Master Gnost-Dural caught me binge-watching it." Satele sheepishly confessed. "But despite my biased stance, I think the younglings need to be exposed to something that they can enjoy while not hurting the Jedi Code."
"If you say so…" The Togruta acquiesced before smiling. "You know what? Maybe I shouldn't have dismissed it so soon."
Chapter 20: Back to Manaan
Chapter Text
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Ahto City, Manaan, Inner Rim, "The Galaxy"
11:09:15 ATC/ November 9th, 1968 - 8:40 AM
"You know, I didn't think we could've pulled it off without sniper surveillance and support." Sam chuckled lightheartedly as he and Jake approached the conference room. "Too much running and gunning like cowboys is both the Republic's and Imperial philosophy on warfare."
Jake shook his head in amusement at the assessment. If it wasn't Napoleonic style marching to square off against each other on the battlefield, it was detaching men from their assigned units to complete a completely different task while the unit proper was about to be committed to the front. "I don't get why their snipers are using easily spotted red barriers at times when concealment takes precedence but they apparently know better and I'm not going to complain."
"Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit." Sam deadpanned. "But I enjoy the look on the mugs of those Republic officers who sneer at us because they were taught at some military academy that is twenty thousand years old only to be humbled when we take the objective they failed to take four or five times."
"Would it be amusing if the Republic for some reason decided to build walkers that are seventy-four feet high and use them on the battlefield?"
"Don't be ridiculous, that would be very unstable." Sam snorted. "But I wouldn't put it past them or the Imperials."
The two friends laughed as Jake pushed the button to activate the automatic doors and entered the rented conference room.
"What's funny?" Sara wondered as she gazed up from her holomagazine.
"Oh, just a humorous thought about walkers." Meyer confessed. "Sam and I were thinking that it would be a waste of money if either the Republic or Empire decides to manufacture a variant that's twenty-two and a half meters tall."
Even Bigfoot himself began laughing at the pair's hypothetical. "The mighty Jakarro could probably trip them with cables!"
"I'll admit that the Moffs of the Empire have made some poor decisions from time to time but there's no way such an impractical design would be approved by either the Ministry of Logistics or the Sphere of Production and Logistics." Kelrein defended. "Our equipment runs on the philosophy of efficiency and practicality but I can see the Republic doing it."
"Well, maybe the walkers were fine before Earth became known to the galaxy but now it's a guaranteed duck gallery for our tanks, bazookas, and recoilless rifles." Jake shrugged. "How many heads are rolling on Dromund Kaas?"
"Classified." Sara declared immediately before glancing back down on her holomagazine. "Huh, this is interesting. Apparently there's some movie about Revan being produced on Earth."
"Wait, what?" Sam wondered. "A movie about the deranged guy who just tried to kill us by overkill?"
"Yes, a movie about him." The Imperial Commando articulated in her cut-glass. "Being produced by some George Lucas, whoever the hell he is, and Gene Roddenberry is supporting the project financially."
"Damn, I'm not sure what to think about it quite yet, beautiful." Jake drolled. "That's a funny coincidence."
"Clearly." Sara rolled her eyes in disbelief. "There's also this new hit song by an Impostor named David Bowie."
'It's just a coincidence! How were Limeys supposed to know that every regional and even the Posh voice their society speaks are also spoken by an extraterrestrial civilization?' Meyer thought. "Talking about Starman?"
"Yes. Why?"
"Polonsky was playing it nonstop for an entire week in the barracks so I switched the Pollack's record with Preußens Gloria to teach him a lesson before Roebuck murdered him." Jake sighed. "I didn't want him to be partitioned."
"At times, I don't know if you're more Irish, more Scottish, or more Kraut, pal." Sam grinned as he gave Jake a slap on the back."But that's one hell of a way of telling a Polish-American to stop playing a song excessively."
"Admittedly he almost killed me afterwards but it was either that or listen to it incessantly before Roebuck or even the entire company partition his limbs."
"If he was an Imperial, a Sith would've…" The redhead paused as she thought back to Korriban. "Choked him on the spot."
'That's right. Shit, I can't believe that I've forgotten about it!' "How's your arm by the way?"
"Was lucky that the slug didn't embed in my arm." Sara divulged. "And I was able to save it."
"Seven point Six Two would've annihilated it so…"
"A few bits of my armour nicked me, not the slug, but apparently the projectile went in at the outer edge, curved upwards, and popped right out at an angle."
"A magic bullet?" Sam snorted. "Just like what occurred in Dallas with Oswald missing three times yet somehow the angle from where he was aiming one of his shots contributed to a bullet flying in a curve?"
"Sounds like a lack of propellant but that's only a theory." Jake considered as Mister Red Jacket and the Jarhead's other girlfriend arrived.
"Jake? Is it alright Sara and I talk to you in private?"
The Marine glanced over to the redhead, her previous cheery mood appearing sorrowful and heartbroken as if she knew that the private discussion was planned beforehand. 'I'll admit that I didn't expect a poker face.'
"Actually, there's something I need to discuss with Sam and Jakarro anyways." Shan interceded. "We can go to another room and give you a moment alone."
Sam and Sasquatch looked at each other momentarily before shrugging.
Lana sighed after the others withdrew from the main rented conference room and Sara stood beside her friend, the two women gazing at their mutual lover fretfully.
"Look, Jake, I do realize that I haven't known you long, but I wish we had more time together." Lana began.
"You don't have to go anywhere. I'm sure I -"
"I believe we do." Sara corrected. "Lana and Agent Shan learned some troubling things after we escaped Rakata Prime. Then there's the fact that Jakarro received death head contracts, Theron is disavowed by the SIS, and-"
"The Dark Council placed a bounty on my head for the murder of Darth Arkous." Beniko finished. "The Revanites proved themselves to be everywhere and we don't know who to trust. While so far none of the Earth Coalition, as far as Theron and I are aware, are members of the Revanites, they probably would turn me over to the Republic."
Sara gazed at Jake's blue-gray eyes tearfully. "I do not know when I will be able to see you again. I'm leaving with Lana, Theron, Jakarro and that annoying droid to hopefully discover a safe location and work against the Revanites covertly."
'Dammit.' Jake thought as while they didn't openly say it, their tone indicated goodbye. "You know I'm going to miss you both."
The two lovebirds pulled their gallant in for an embraceful hug, savoring the moment they had left with the man the two girlhood friends cherished.
"I love you, Jake." Sara mournfully murmured to her fiancé. "We'll see each other again one day."
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook -First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Ahto City, Manaan, Inner Rim, "The Galaxy"
11:09:15 ATC/ November 9th, 1968 - 8:52 AM
"Well, I know we got off to a rough start, Sam, but we did pull through." Theron began. "However, there's...a new complication."
"What kind of complication, Red Jacket?"
"Maybe I should change outfits." The SIS operative muttered. "The Revanites placed bounties on everyone except for you and Jake and that's because the Earth Coalition hasn't been infiltrated by the Revanites nor is there any interest by Earth to work with the Bounty Hunter's Guild as of now."
"Ha! Imagine that. For a Civilization who doesn't believe in the Force, how can a cult of Force believers infiltrate and convert those to their cause?" Sam asked rhetorically.
"Plus Earth has only been known to the entire galaxy for just a year, the Quarantine Policy is meant to prevent espionage and sabotage as much as possible and most of your religions, except for maybe Buddhism and Shintoism, doesn't correlate with the Force." Theron finished. "Which means Revan is hindered from successfully recruiting Earthlings to his cause plus Patton from time to time threatens to shoot Republic officers and Jedi for stupidity that to me doesn't seem stupid."
"In short, Revan will be forced to take on Earth if his cause grows large enough. I dare him to try."
Shan rolled his eyes at the paratrooper and took a deep breath before getting to the point. "Lana, Sara, Jakarro, and I will be leaving soon and working against the Revanites covertly. But until we contact you, watch your backs." Theron handed Samuel two tickets for a ride back to Coruscant.
"Wait? Sara and Lana are going with you?"
"Well, I can't work against the cultists alone and quoting one of your aphorisms: The enemy of my enemy is my friend." Shan reasoned. "Do me a favor, will you?"
"Another one already, Red Jacket?"
The operative rolled his eyes before uttering the request. "I suggest Jake take a vacation to Voss after the war and see the mystics. Perhaps they could enlighten him about the Force."
Samuel just smirked as he about-faced and progressed to the exit. "You might as well have him burn the United States Constitution or support the Communist Party of the United States of America in addition to getting his stubborn head to start accepting the existence of the Force. While I'm honestly agnostic to it, I'll be sure to tell him that you're joking!"
Theron's eyes widened at the remarkable response. 'I wasn't being sarcastic!'
Sergeant Sara Kelrein- Imperial Army Commando unit 421 "The Ravagers"
11:09:15 ATC/ November 9th, 1968 - 10:29 AM
"I can't believe I have to say goodbye to him again." Sara lamented.
"You're not the only one." The Minister of Sith Intelligence ached. "In the short time I got to know him, I can see why you are smitten with him. He's isn't exactly bad on the eyes either."
Sara chuckled softly at her friend's affectionate blush. "If you were someone else, I would've already made you disappear but I'm not going to complain if it's you."
"I wouldn't desire to harm your attachment." The blonde reiterated to the redhead.
"I know." The engaged woman smiled. "But you're not and so far...the ménage a trois seemed...was seemed to be working out." Sara felt lightheaded and empty as she realized the departure. "Dammit. I miss him already."
"We'll see him again. I'm sure of it."
"It's a matter of not if but when." Kelrein sniffled. "I don't want him to wait hopelessly."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Ahto City Spaceport - Ahto City, Manaan, Inner Rim, "The Galaxy"
11:09:15 ATC/ November 9th, 1968 - 10:29 AM
"You know, I'm still denying the fact that not only you and Sara somehow rekindled by now, you also somehow got a bombshell blonde smitten with you and Sara's cool with it." Sam brought up as the pair boarded their flight that's taking them to Coruscant. "Sounds like a dream come true."
"Look at it from my perspective, it was Sara's idea, not mine." Jake reminded him. "And I'm still getting used to it but as far as I know, she's not bothered with Lana in addition to her but if it was anyone else, as Sara stated, then it would be an issue, not that I would put that theory to the test."
"I know that you wouldn't be a guy to have an affair or dalliance but I guess Sara really trusts her if she's not getting jealous over this."
"Lana is her friend from childhood so…"
"That explains it." Westbrook snorted. "You're still one lucky bastard."
"Maybe but that's debatable." Meyer grinned as he leaned back in his velvet-like seat. "Still, I think I'm going to enjoy it as it's working out surprisingly well between the three of us so far…Well, if I ever see them again."
"No shit, they're both undeniably enamored with you. In fact, it looks like you're hooked for life. " The paratrooper acknowledged. "And judging by the two run ins, I wouldn't be surprised if there's a third."
"I'm sure there's someone waiting for you around the corner, pal. It's just that the path to it hasn't been found yet."
"Can I get you two any refreshments?" A male Twi'lek steward asked the pair. "We just received Cherry Coca-Cola's from Earth."
"Two Cherry Cokes please." Sam smiled as he grabbed his wallet. "Hope you accept cash and change instead of credits."
Chapter 21: Revelations
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Second Lieutenant Paul Meyer - Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC / November 14th, 1968 - 14:22/2:22 PM
"Apparently Agent Shan has used you two for unauthorized activities." Paul explained to his son and Samuel. "And of course, Old Blood and Guts is extremely pissed about this, which means that from here on out, there will be no joint special operations without his direct authorization or the heads of NATO, the Warsaw Pact, and the Unalligned Nations forces. Also, there will be no more joint operations with the SIS until everyone, quote unquote, 'Gets their asses in order and clean up house'."
"Oh boy." Sam muttered. "He probably threatened to shoot SIS Agents with his Peacemaker, didn't he?"
"He did, Sergeant." The Lieutenant deadpanned from his seat behind the desk. "Now, I know you're wondering why I'm telling you this and that's because you're being called to testify at a committee about why you were dragged into being a part of a conspiracy to steal life-saving medical research from this Gorima and sell it to the Exchange without your knowledge."
"Anything else?"
"You're on restriction to stay inside your barracks unless you are going to eat, to exercise, or shit. Also, as part of your restrictions, you are prohibited from interacting with either Republic personnel or Jedi until further notice and if they get close, the sentries will deal with them. I don't get why they think they can detach personnel heading straight into combat to help repair a blown-up house located miles from the ongoing engagement but that attitude will end or Patton will convince the Supreme Chancellor to let us choose our battles with the Republic Navy acting as our taxi service."
"Yeah, I don't get why some of those Space Monks are morons when it comes to destroying the objective." Jake muttered while rolling his eyes, though he didn't want to admit having respect for Cas as he wouldn't hear the end of it. "Helping people is noble and all but it's not the fighting man's job and if there's a battle, we're heading to the sound of a firefight, not stopping because some Jedi thinks we need to get a rare bird out of the way. He can do himself if he's that concerned about the local wildlife."
"You got that right." Paul smiled. "Almost formed a makeshift firing squad because one of them thought we could spare thirty minutes to help repair a water tank while the Empire was about to overwhelm the defenses at a firebase we were relieving. I'm not a plumber, no less a plumber knowledgeable in using Republic technology."
"Huh? How nice to volunteer himself as a weapons function check target." Jake snickered. "Surprised you didn't mention it, pal."
"While your pop and I were tempted to use our rifles, he unfortunately wised up and requisitioned a Republic outfit instead."
"Good for him."
The mustang officer chuckled but the solemnity of the circumstances forced the recalled veteran to compose himself. "Okay, it's off to be confined to quarters for a week." Paul declared sternly. "Oh and if one Jedi or Republic Trooper tries to get in contact with you, you are authorized to punch them in the face, no matter the rank."
"Yes, sir." Sam acknowledged before the duo vacated the office.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:14:15 ATC / November 14th, 1968 - 14:38/2:38 PM
"Stealing medical research?" Jake snorted as the pair walked out of the office. "That's the best those nutcases could come up with?"
"Well, to be fair, pal, we were in a lab and those parts are used for life-saving purposes."
"True." Jake conceded. "But here's our problem. How are we going to prove to the board that some guy who was imprisoned for over three centuries by the Emperor of the Sith Empire that supposedly himself ruled for more than five hundred years is coming back with a vendetta against the entire universe and he has a cult around him?"
"I don't like this but we're probably gonna have to lie under oath yet with Thanksgiving coming up, they're not going to be in the mood for perjury."
"There's got to be another way...What if we prove that Gorima was doing shady business? Both Arkous and Darok were wanted for robberies in their respective factions before we killed them."
"It's still a long shot. The lab is in Davy Jones's locker last I checked."
Jacob pulled out a certain intergalactic gimmick from his pocket and grinned. "I forgot to give this back to Red Jacket after he translated everything from Aruba-whatever to Latin letters and English. This datapad is our insurance policy."
"Is that the one that has Gorima discussing to Arkous and Darok how potentially effective the Infinite Army can be against the Republic and Empire?"
"Yep. And even though we can't prove anything about Revan and his involvement, this will at least vindicate us in preventing a third party from threatening Earth. Hopefully at least justifying that there is a conspiracy as well."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Second Squad's Barracks - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:15:15 ATC / November 15th, 1968 - 24:00/12:00 AM
Jake was on his rack slumbering, sleeping soundly when the Marine started to have a dream.
Meyer saw a cottage directly in front of him, engulfed in flames, not to mention the entire surrounding village was ablazed, and within sight were three men holding torches. The three individuals were encased in Medieval Era plate armor, over their breastplates were white mantles with black crosses, and their helmets had either horns of varying shapes and sizes, some of them even being crest-like instead of cattle horns, or just plain helmets.
Nearby were more knights mounted on steeds of war followed closely by a mixed detachment of crossbowmen and pikemen on foot wearing gray mantles with black Tau crosses over their simpler armor in contrast with the knights.
Meyer recognized them as Ritterbrüder and Diendebrüdern of the often overlooked and underrated Teutonic Order who were once as mighty as the Templars and Knights Hospitallers. The Order of Brothers of the German House of Saint Mary in Jerusalem fought against the Saracens in the Levant, stamped out the last holdouts of pagans in Europe, annoyed Poland, and even were daring enough to stand firm against the infamous nomadic Mongols, not to mention forming their own state in the Baltics that eventually became Prussia, achieving much more on the fields of battle against supposed infidels and travelling further in the name of God than the arguably overrated Templars ever did.
Meyer's dream became more detailed as he began hearing the conversations between the Knights and Sergeants of the Deutsche Order.
"Broder?" One of the Knights spoke in Plattdeutsch - the Low German regional dialect somewhat prevalent in Northern Germany - after kicking the hacked corpse of a Baltic Prussian that was still clutching a sword. "Do you believe that this is the last of them?"
"Ne." The man turned around and gazed directly at Jake as if the American was there first hand. "Meyer? Scour the wilderness and see if any Dämonen, heretics, and their cambion remain."
Jake then heard distinct hissing and saw a dozen red blades igniting in the woodline, the scene causing Jake to snap his eyes wide and awake, even sweating not from fear but not knowing why he dreamt this.
"What the Hell?" The American asked himself, startled by the completely unexpected sight. "Is this a dream? Or something else?"
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Mess Hall - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:15:15 ATC / November 15th, 1968 - 07:15/7:15 AM
"Hey, did you have trouble sleeping last night?" Sam asked his friend as they headed to receive their breakfast to take back to their room per the confined to quarters rules.
Jake sighed groggily before revealing why he had a lack of rest. "I'll admit that I hardly got any sleep but you'll call me insane if I tell you exactly why."
"Try me."
"I had a surprisingly realistic dream last night in which the Teutonic Order somehow fought against the so-called Sith Purebloods." Jake whispered to prevent anyone other than Sam from overhearing. "And apparently I was a Diendebrudern Crossbowman augmenting the Ritterbrüder of the Order. Before you say anything, I don't think it's something about reincarnation but more like trying to understand what exactly occurred despite not knowing exactly where though my guess would be somewhere in northeastern Europe."
"I wasn't going to say anything." Sam shrugged. "It's probably just a dream but it sounds intriguing."
His dark flaxen-haired friend took a deep breath before divulging the details of his dream.
"Neither side were giving quarter and none was expected based on the ferocity. The Purebloods at one point had the edge but the Knights and Sergeants continued hacking and slashing, impaling and firing bolts at the Purebloods and the ones labeled as heretics, consumed by both rage and fear. Also in my dream, the Germans mentioned fighting Demons and Satanists before but none of it describes what we know about the Sith. But you're probably right, I'm just overreacting." Jake figured. "There's no way that Purebloods were here on Earth as every history book about the Medieval Era would be mentioning it as either a grand victory over Satan or a tale akin to the Kyffhäuser Legend. And if a Starship did crash in the Baltics, it probably would've been discovered by now as the damn Commies would be showing it off at Red Square."
"And knowing the Russkies per the Brazil Incident with Professor Jones, they clearly would be interested in it and the CIA or Defense Intelligence Agency would've got wind of it eventually." Sam concluded.
"Or the Office of Naval Intelligence or Marine Corps Intelligence." Jake concurred. "Still, it just seemed real."
"I'm pretty sure it's just a bad dream but let's not talk anymore about the past." Sam recommended. "We need to prepare for this hearing in a few days. Is the evidence safe?"
"It's safe and at a place no one would think to look." Jake smirked.
"Don't tell me. It's probably hidden in the closest thing considered a hog pen aboard this ship."
"Nope but I'm not saying anything about its location until the day of the committee."
Captain, First Rank Sergei Rustem Vadimovich - Proyekt Zvezdnaya Pyl / "Project Star Dust"
Hangar One - Kaliningrad Chkalovsk, Kaliningrad Oblast, the United Soviet States of Russia, Eurasia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
11:15:15 ATC / November 15th, 1968 - 16:00/4:00 PM
"Well, Comrades, now we know what type of spaceship we discovered seven years ago is." Captain Vadimovich, the man in charge of the research team, declared. "This vessel is a Derriphan-class battleship of Space Fascist origins, so ironically a lance of the Teutonic Order were fighting Sith based on the different swords and skeletons we found inside the hull."
"It's very good that the Nazis didn't discover this." The KGB attachè and overseer of the project grinned. "And now we're back in the lead for the Space Race."
"Comrade? Is it true that the Primer would like to inform the entire United Nations Security Council and even the Republic about our discovery?"
"In a year's time." The KGB supervisor nodded. "For now, we're reverse-engineering everything ourselves. We don't want to lose our monopoly here on Earth quite yet."
"The future of the Soviet Union is here, comrades! Let us drink vodka in recognition of it. Down with Capitalism!"
"Down with Capitalism!"
Notes:
Just in case anyone is interested and unlike the Templars, the Teutonic Order still exists though only as a charity partly thanks to non other than a certain Napoleon Bonaparte back in 1809.
http://www.imperialteutonicorder.com
https://medium.com/history-of-yesterday/the-most-feared-knights-of-the-feudal-era-ce70217898ba
https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/asia-and-africa/middle-eastern-history/teutonic-knights
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiHL9WUAZ2E
Chapter 22: Dog and Pony Show
Chapter Text
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 06:47/6:47 AM
"Well, the big day is here." Sam sighed as he buttoned up the four brass buttons of his United States Army green service uniform jacket with khaki undershirt and black tie. "Hopefully we don't screw this up."
Jake, on the other hand, was lacing up his freshly polished dress shoes for his Service Alphas consisting of a forest green coat, forest green trousers with khaki web belt, a khaki long-sleeve button-up blouse, and a khaki tie with a tie clasp. The Marine also has his ribbons, Expert Qualified (with Expert Requalification clasp) , Distinguished Marksman, Division Rifle Competition (Gold), and Rifle Team Match (Wharton Trophy) badges on the left chest of his coat. "Yeah, I wouldn't want to be placed in a cell next to some guy I arrested years ago." The former Marine Corps 5811 chuckled nervously. "But I'm confident that they'll not dismiss our evidence out of hand. We'll just have to pretend that it was already written in 'High Galactic Standard' when we found it."
"Ah, not a bad idea. High Galactic Standard is literally just plain English and Latin letters." Sam chuckled. "Even the known coincidences in this galaxy are just giving us the strategic advantage."
"No need to say that twice." Jake grinned. "Though to be fair, the exotic burgers at times look more appetizing than the C-Rats."
"Touchè."
Specialist Regid Zira - Twenty-First Infantry Regiment, Republic Army and covertly a member of the Order of Revan
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 07:00/7:00 AM
'Looks like they're leaving now.' Zira thought as he watched the two targets peering out of the room, comically acting as if they were watching out for any assassins appearing out of the blue but the Revanite knew that because of the sudden wariness, his job was going to be harder than anticipated. The cultist was about to draw his blaster pistol to take the targets down when by luck the gunman noticed an arriving detachment of American Army Military Policemen now blocking his view.
"A close protection detail?"
"By order of the committee. With two witnesses testifying against corruption of an espionage organization, it's wise to take precautions." The lead MP reasoned.
'So much for a clear shot.' Regid lamented as the opportunity was taken away from him due to unforeseen prior arrangements. Usually, the Republic relied on Jedi and specialized protection teams for such tasks but the man began cursing himself for not thinking of contingencies.
And then immediately after they left, Zira's holocommunicator pinged. The devout Revanite was dreading the unexpected call as his day so far was one of bad luck yet despite his misgivings, he knew that the call couldn't be delayed and begrudgingly answered.
Regid's eyes widened in shock as the call was by nonother than the esteemed Revan himself!
"Did you take them out of the picture?"
"Regrettably, they were under heavy guard, My Lord." Zira confessed, hoping that the failure through circumstances would be forgiven. "I didn't have a clear shot."
"Blast...Well, we're gonna have to go with Plan B and take them out in the room before they could spew anything." Revan relented as if he sensed his follower's unease. "Also, make sure you have Meyer pay for his conceited obscenity. He doesn't know what I have been through."
The devout follower of Revan was irritated at the revelation of the insult. No one, absolutely no one insulted Revan, the man who saved the Republic in her darkest hour and now on a crusade to save the entire galaxy from the one who wants to eat everything away out of self-worship. "As you wish, My Lord."
Committee to Investigate Manaan - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 08:00/8:25 AM
"Sergeant? Private? You know why you were brought before us today?"
"We do, sir." Samuel answered as he was the senior ranking of the pair.
"Very well. So, Sergeant, were you aware that Agent Shan was using you to rob medical technology from an alien scientist named Gorima?"
"Respectfully, sir, it wasn't a robbery." Westbrook replied. "Agent Shan of the Strategic Information Service was investigating what occurred on Tython and noticed that there was an odd linkage between Korriban as well. We also have some evidence, though unfortunately minor, to prove that this is a conspiracy between Colonel Darock and Darth Arkous to participate in a well-orchestrated coup against both the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire."
"Well, it isn't the first time such craziness transpired here." Another board member sighed. "Apparently some Malgus pulled off a stunt on Illum that unbelievably caused the Republic and Empire to cooperate but that might be an overreaction."
Jake out of the corner of his eyes saw one of the Republic troopers off to the side raising his rifle and a Jedi standing at another corner reaching down for his lethal flashlight, both gazing predictably at the pair's location to make their intentions clear.
"TAKE COVER!" Meyer warned the assembled military officials and witnesses, forcing the assembly to seek shelter behind the desks or instinctively drop to the floor.
Two of the United States Army MPs fired their M14s from the doorway and other American Military Policemen drew and fired their M1911A1 pistols at the threat and riddled the two assassins with lead before they would be able to carry out a mobster-style massacre.
"What the-"
"Sir, respectfully, this is much bigger than some robberies of ancient artifacts and Manaan is minor of the three occurrences." Jake explained. "We got dragged into investigating something that is more ambitious than the coups in Ancient Rome."
"And loons believe that Oswald was apart of a grand conspiracy when he unsuccessfully tried to kill the President but this is different." The Colonel nodded, still understandably shaken up the quick gunfight inside the hearing room. "We'll investigate your claims of a conspiracy as best as we can but this, unfortunately, will require assistance with the Republic."
Captain Talia Mayveri - Senate Guard and secret Revanite
Supreme Chancellor office - Senate Building, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 14:15/2:15 PM
"What do you mean that this didn't occur! I saw it before my eyes!" The Colonel snapped before his eyes widened with realization."You're apart of this, aren't you!?"
"Guards! Escort the Colonel outside." The Captain in charge of the Chancellor's security detail ordered. "We don't need a paranoid lunatic around Your Excellency and warning her about some unfounded plot!"
"Yes, sir."
Mayveri supervised the forced eviction of the meddlesome Earthling then immediately contacted Revan with an update.
"My Lord, we failed. Judging by our 'friend' my men are dealing with currently, both Americans have somehow successfully convinced the Investigating Committee of their findings and surely Patton knows about it by now. All we can do is delay them bureaucratically."
"Not a bad idea."
"My lord?"
"The Earth Coalition can work against us but if the Republic government or military is unable to assist them in countering us, then they can't do anything."
"What about the Colonel? We can't kill him as that would cause more suspicion, nevermind keeping him against his will."
"Try to wipe his memories, use cocktails if you need to."
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior- Commander of the Unified Earth Coalition
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 15:25/3:25 PM
"It seems like we can't do anything." Heinrich muttered as Patton read the documents from his desk. "Colonel Holland tried to get an appointment with the Chancellor afterwards but he came back bruised and didn't remember anything during and after his visit. In fact, he thought he completely missed the committee he was supposed to conduct."
"Obviously they have more supporters than we can count as it sounds like they infiltrated even the Chancellor's office." Patton determined. "For all I know, the entire Republic naval crew aboard this ship are Imperial infiltrators who are supportive of the two rogues." Bandito doubted there was an underground cult worshipping a long lost man claimed by the two witnesses and instead was leaning more toward the Imperial infiltration theory per the official memorandum produced by the board he held in his hands yet Old Blood and Guts smirked as 'goose chase' came to mind. "We got to pretend it was a wild goose chase and there's no credible threat."
"Sir? How many people so far know about this datapad, other than us and the discoverers?"
"The Committee, the Guards of the Committee, one of the discoverer's fathers, and Rommel as I don't trust Zhukov. That's honestly it."
"Trust works both ways afterall." The aide nodded, understanding the wisdom of not giving the Commie everything. "Okay, so should I typed the report as inconclusive or…"
"Actually, have it as the datapad was damaged en route to the committee and therefore while we doubt the validity of said supposed elaborate conspiracy of a coup de'tat, we'll offer our open cooperation with the Republic and the neutral world of Manaan with the investigation."
"What about our actual response?"
"We need to find people we can trust without question, those who are not one of Saresh's yes men or a suspected undercover agent of whatever faction committed this and proceed from there. Also, I'm going to regret this but get Monty on the horn. I'm approving the proposal and his...specialist is now going to need to kill two birds with one stone."
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
Aboard the RNS Perseverance- Valor-class Cruiser
11:16: 15 ATC / November 16th, 1968 - 16:19/4:19 PM
"Evening, sir." The requested individual in his sharp white collared undershirt with a bowtie and black tuxedo announced his presence at the doorway of Bernard's office.
"Agent Bond, please do have a seat." The Field Marshal greeted the exact man he had in mind for this critical assignment. "Would you like some tea? I'm aware that you are quite fond of martinis but we don't have any available I'm afraid."
"Please. It truly has been a long trip."
A British Second Lieutenant, who Bond assumed was an orderly, immediately exited the office to retrieve the desired refreshments, which also allowed the pair to conduct part of their meeting in private.
"I'm going to get straight to the point, 007, as I'm glad MI6 can spare you for this mission. The rest of the known universe is wackier than we have ever imagined so, I need you to kill two birds with one stone."
007 raised an eyebrow at the use of the expression. "Kill two birds with one stone, sir?"
"General Patton himself is wanting you to infiltrate the Supreme Chancellor's office to uncover any plans she has regarding both Earth and the Empire. We also need you to find any evidence of infiltration either by the Imposters or these so-called Revanites in the high office as if the Chancellor is not a threat, these Revanites potentially will."
"I understand the Imposters but Revan-?"
"Revanites or…" Monty glanced at the sheet laid on top of his desk to confirm the designation. "The Order of Revan. Romeo-Echo-Victor-Alpha-November-India-Tango-Echo-Sierra."
"Revanites. Understood." Bond nodded."Anything else I need to know?"
"We already have a detailed sketch of the Chancellor's office courtesy of the recollections from a few Military Policemen who escorted Patton recently. Study them well but prepare for the unexpected."
"I will not fail." Bond grinned. "I'm the best in the business after all."
Chapter 23: Kill Two Birds with One Stone
Chapter Text
Agent James Herbert Bond aka 007 - British Secret Intelligence Service "MI6"
Supreme Chancellor's office - Senate Building, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:20:15 ATC / November 20th, 1968 - 12:00/ 12:00 PM
"Excuse me, Gents? Is there any way I could meet with the Chancellor for lunch without being in a tarry?"
"Imperial assassin!" One of the two guards securing the office shouted in response to Bond's voice. "Blast him!"
007 quickly dispatched the two guards with his suppressed 'slugthrower' the disguised British agent purchased off of the black market, though he felt more comfortable with his Walther PPK compared to the alien knockoff and the operative sighed in disbelief at the waste of opportunity for the guards to strike him down. 'No need to think about the what-ifs, I have a job to do.'
After peppering the corpses two more times to be certain that they were decease, James rushed over to the large screen and gazed down at the keyboard, pondering on how to best proceed.
"Okay, let me see here. The Republic did give us translators so in theory it could work against them as it does with the Impostors." Bond placed the 'flashdrive' into the port, watching as the foreign letters converted to 'Galactic High Standard' on the screen on his datapad.
"Hmmmm...Says here I need two key cards."
Bond retrieved the two key cards from the dead guards and slid them through the slit, gaining access to the computer.
Access Granted
Query?
The MI6 Agent quickly typed in Earth into the computer and received one matching result.
Operation: Uplift
'Sounds interesting.' Bond thought as he downloaded the data about 'Uplift' then searched for Empire and found something that in his gut sounded the most intriguing.
Operation: Bes'kar
"Hey!" Bond calmly shot and killed the other guard who entered the room then immediately typed in Order of Revan with the keyboard in case the loons decided to hide information in plain sight.
Operation: Yavin IV
Password?
"That's probably the Revanite one I presume. With a universe as peculiar as this, who would've thought looking into the Supreme Chancellor's computer for information about a supposed cult planning to overthrow her?" The MI6 operative mumbled sarcastically. 'Well, it's five words and it's a cult.'
REVAN
Access Granted
"Well, it's time to get going." Bond muttered, hoping that everything about the operation could be directed at the Imperials and neither Britain nor the planet of Earth.
Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery - 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and Commander of Her Majesty's Commonwealth Forces of the 'True British Empire'
11:20:15 ATC / November 20th, 1968 - 13:45/1:45 PM
Montgomery smiled at the agent who evaded capture standing at the doorway, signaling success in his mission. "Glad you got out without a single nick, old boy."
"The map provided to you kindly by the Yanks was slightly off." Bond scoffed, rolling his eyes. "I would've vacated quicker if it was to scale."
"Fair enough, lad." Montgomery smirked. "I'll have the information analyzed right away by the cryptographers."
"Fair warning, sir. Apparently the one result for Earth is called 'Operation: Uplift' and that could only mean one thing."
"They're going to turn on us when the war is over and forcibly impose their views on us." Bernard guessed.
"It's only a theory for now but with some of their leadership openly sneering at our way of life and our values, it makes sense."
"Bloody hell." Montgomery cursed. "I can't believe I'm saying this but I agree with Patton. She's a Hitlerette."
"I never thought that the second time we chatted in person, you agreed with a Yank on something."
Montgomery gave 007 his best 'don't test me' glare. "Well, please do be so kind to pretend that it's classified information beyond belief. I would never hear the end of it if word gets out."
"Understood."
Chapter 24: Thanksgiving
Chapter Text
Casivir Therin - Battlemaster of the Jedi Order / Hero of Tython
Room Number 777 - Equinox Apartments, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 10:30/10:30 AM
Cas was reading the forwarded files on his datapad with updates on the ongoing war effort when Kira divulged something quite unanticipated by the current Battlemaster of the Order.
"You won't believe this but apparently somehow we received an invitation."
"An invitation?" The Battlemaster's eyebrows ruffled with curiosity as he set the device down onto his desk. "For what and from whom?"
"Thanksgiving and it's from Sam, which is very thoughtful of him."
Cas desired to curse as he suspiciously felt that the paratrooper was setting him up to sit directly across from the Meyer/Cameron family at the dinner table just for some entertainment. "'Thoughtful' wouldn't be the word I would use to describe this."
"Oh, that's right." Kira realized as she glanced back at the invitation precariously and noticed the fine print. "So...This might be awkward with Jake and his relatives hosting the feast but it would be impolite to refuse."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Moonlight Crystal Lodge - Polar Region North, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 10:30/10:30 AM
"I still can't believe that you arranged a surprise skiing trip for Thanksgiving, Dad." Jake commented as he removed his M1951 Parka and hung it on the coat rack. "Been one hell of a blast so far."
"Apparently I was the only one who accepted the deal they were promoting." The father smirked. "Though I had to ask for favors in scrounging for the traditional meal and send it here."
"Still, I thought skiing in the Alps was only for rich folks and I never imagined doing it recreationally." The Marine shrugged. "Shame I had to slow down for you."
"At least the Corps sent you, Stephen, and Jack to the Mountain Warfare Training Center for versatility purposes." Paul grumbled. "The Army didn't think it was necessary to send me to the Northern Warfare Training Center."
"Every clime and place after all." The Leatherneck grinned. "Now I'm tempted to try Biathlon one day."
The father rolled his eyes. "There's a chance that it could occur under live fire conditions if we're all sent to Hoth, Orto Plutonia, or some other ice planet but who knows exactly where we're being shipped off to next?"
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Coruscant Spaceport - Republic Plaza, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 10:30/10:30 AM
'God help us.' Sam thought after he and his old man were pulled out of line by security due to the guards getting suspicious of a supposedly strange odor from the roasting pan. 'Security isn't this overbearing back home.'
"We're going have to hold you two until we can see you're not trying to sneak a bomb aboard a shuttle."
"A bomb? A bomb? It's fucking Lobstah!" Sam's father complained with exasperation in his minic of a rustic New England drawl, preferring it over Transatlantic."Look, we're going to be late to a holiday meal hosted by friends and I'm not sure if we can arrange for a new flight if we miss our scheduled departure."
"I'm sorry, sir, but you're going to be in custody until we can completely verify that you're not carrying any explosives on your persons." The other guard proclaimed authoritatively.
"Well, if your mother learns about this, she's going to try to convince me to go completely kosher once more." The father groaned. "At least she doesn't proselytize."
"I don't want to think about scoldings at the moment, Pop." Sam muttered. "We might be ending up in an alien prison for Christmas."
"Still, I have to respect her for being resolute despite what those unspeakable animals did at Haunstetten." The elder declared after snorting at the mention of the Republic's jail system. "Those damn guards, those inhuman Totenkopfverbände at that subcamp and Dachau justifiably deserved the bullets and bayonets but admittedly that was too good for those fucking savages."
Sam's eyes widened at the confession of his father taking part in reprisal killings against the SS Guards. "Dad?"
"Nevermind, my boy. Let's just get this over with and be on the road. We're already late as it is."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Moonlight Crystal Lodge - Polar Region North, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 11:05/11:05 AM
"Happy Thanksgiving, Jake!"
"Didn't think that I would see you here, Scott!" Jake laughed at the United States Army artillery gunner. "Miracles don't occur until Christmas."
"Well, Christmas came early and it's snowy here." The First Sergeant retorted before Uncle Steve interrupted them.
"Scott?"
"Hey, Uncle Steve."
Stephen snorted instinctively at one of Jack's and Shannon's eight zany spawns as the brat threw him a shit-eating grin. "I'm going to regret asking this but since you just have to mention the magic words 'Christmas came early': When are your brothers supposed to arrive?"
"One Fifteen at the earliest and they somehow managed to get onto the same flight unlike myself. Why?"
"To be perfectly honest with you and no offense but I thought only my boys were coming, Scott." Steve divulged, adding further confusion over who was exactly coming to the gathering. "In fact, your father didn't mention that you and your siblings were arriving."
"Well, I think it's nice to have a family reunion for once even if it's not everyone due to the circumstances of course." Paul smiled lightheartedly despite knowing the eccentricities.
'A family reunion!? I thought it was just only Dad, Uncle Steve, Uncle Jack, Sam, and his old man were coming, not Cade and Zach or four of the eccentric Celts!'
Six Star General George Smith Patton, Junior - Head of the Unified Earth Coalition
Room 201, Fifty-Ninth Floor - Diplomat Hotel, Plains of Coruscant, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 11:05/11:05 AM
"Well, Happy Thanksgiving."
"Thanks, Pop." The Colonel in charge of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, George Smith Patton IV, smirked as he cut into his casserole.
"Thanksgiving is such a peculiar holiday." Erwin muttered from his seat. "Glorified gluttony."
"Now, now, Erwin, you didn't have to come you know." Old Blood and Guts grinned at the German. "This isn't a surrender ceremony after all."
"It wouldn't have been polite to refuse without justification." The Desert Fox upheld, though his nose was showing signs of irksomeness at the minor jab from a former foe. "Still, I bet Bernard does not have a legitimate excuse for his absence and he's doing it out of spite."
"Bernard will always remain an ass." Bandito growled. "An egotistical, self-worshipping, attention driven son-of-a-bitch." Patton finished his analysis on his old rival when the buzzer sounded. "Or he has finally acknowledged that I captured Messina fair and square."
"Not sure if it's them but I'll get it." Manfred offered as he stood up from his seat to answer.
"Apologies for the tardiness." David excused. "Took time to convince father to attend."
"I'm not surprised." Manfred nodded in understanding. "There's still bad blood between them."
"Let's just get this bloody meal over with and then leave." Bernard sighed as he removed his trademark black beret and placed it on the coat hanger. "I still can't believe I'm doing this."
"Truth be told there is an excellent reason why you needed to come here anyway." The head of the entire Coalition revealed. "But it can wait until dessert."
"Lovely, as we really need the sugar." The Spartan General grumbled further. "Hopefully this won't be long."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Moonlight Crystal Lodge - Polar Region North, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 14:12/ 2:30 PM
"So, how's the Chieftain, Pat?"
"It has some ups and downs, Sean." Patrick replied while stabbing his fork into the baked sweet potato. "Number one, of course, being an English designed tank with a boiling pot meant for that damn worthless leaf water they're addicted to for God only knows why but it has an excellent main gun and the trashy engines were replaced with much better American designed ones at least though it still doesn't entirely compensate for the switch."
"Can't believe we traded our Patton's for them and it was all with Patton's approval." Scott groaned. "I might not be a tanker but I'm sure we could've retrofitted the M60s with a one hundred twenty millimeter, preferably of American make."
Jake watched as the four decided to discuss the necessity of another Boston Tea Party before turning to his only two paternal cousins with deadpan humor. "Shame there hasn't been another Jacobite Uprising in the Highlands yet."
Cade snorted at his blood relative's assessment. "Well, then we wouldn't be able to have such lively discussions courtesy of them at the dinner table anymore."
"There's always the discussion about how Franklin Roosevelt was a tyrant and Silent Cal could've resolved the Depression better." Zachary mentioned after taking a sip of his drink."But then again that's more like Dad and Uncle Paul. Besides, we all voted for Goldwater so... Boring is just putting it lightly."
Jake shook his head and chuckled at the hypothesis before getting back to the main subject."While I don't have a clue on who's the current claimant since the attempt with Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, it's a bit ironic that we all steadfastly believe in American Republicanism yet Jacobitism upheld the divine right ideology."
"Don't let them and Jack hear you." Cade advised. "They might think you're mocking your lineage and your mother would raise hell if she only hears their side of the story."
"They're busy cursing the King Georges and the accursed House of Windsor." Jake grinned. "Besides, it's not like you're excused from being connected to absolute monarchism in the bloodline with Frederik de Groot in mind."
"Wi ar beide Nachkommen aus Preußische Lutheraner, Jake. (We are both descendants of Prussian Lutherans, Jake.)" Cade reminded him, nudging his relative's shoulder. "Un wi weten beide, dass deutsches Bier Guinness überlegen ist (And we both know that German beer is superior to Guinness)."
"Vergiss nicht, dass Korn auch besser ist als Whiskey. (Don't forget Korn is better than Whiskey as well.)" Zach added, the 2112 Rifle Team Equipment Repairman reminiscing about the time he, his brother, and Jake stumbled upon what could have been moonshine but it was another type of liquor instead and it was imported from West Germany.
"Urgroßvater Gewissheit kennt sich sonntags mit Bier aus, Hausgebräu natürlich aufgrund aus Indiana's Blauem Gesetz. (Great Grandfather certainty knows his way around beer on Sundays, homebrew of course due to Indiana's blue law)." Jake chuckled as he imagined the family Patriarch taking a sip of homebrewed top-fermented dark-copper colored Altbier and rambling something in the Ostwestfälisch dialect of Low German but the voice of Scott snapped the Marine out of the light-hearted joke.
"Why are you three speaking in that Dutch-sounding German?"
"Umm, we were discussing some interactions we had with conscripts of the Bundeswehr who are from Westphalia and some of it is classified?" He fibbed, not wanting to reveal the actual conversation in Plattdeutsch. "I mean at least we weren't talking to Brits who were formerly of the contingent garrisoned at, I mean occupying the ancestral Meyer home of Minden."
"Rrrrighhhht." Timothy glared suspiciously. "Maybe Ash has a point about her indoctrination through sauerkraut theory."
"How many times do I have to say that Oktoberfest is more entertaining compared to Saint Patrick's Day even if it was created by Lederhosen wearing Bavarians?" Jake wondered, still annoyed that such a theory was even conceived by his relative. "I wasn't brainwashed since birth and it's just an opinion of mine."
"Okay, that's enough. It's Thanksgiving so those are past." Stephen interceded. "Paul should be back any minute now and speaking of the devil-"
"Sorry for the wait but the Westbrook's are here."
"Forgive me, we were held up by some obnoxious Republic security guards." Daniel, Sam's father, sighed as he sat his dish of steamed lobster on the table. "Something about never smelling and seeing lobster before."
"Goddammit, now lobster affronts them? What did they think you were carrying in the roasting pan, Dan?" Jack asked curiously. "A bomb?"
"Believe it or not, that's exactly what they thought." The former resident of Salem, Massachusetts that was employed by Eli Lilly's Pharmaceuticals before the current conflict complained. "I'm not some Irish Republican Army gunman or Palestinian hijacker even if I was actually heading to a ski resort."
Jake shook his head at the poorly conceived joke from Mister Westbrook about ski masks. "Or the damn Weathermen." The former 5811 muttered as he remembered the hectic time due to the traitors. "Still haven't heard how exactly those Viet Cong guerrillas advising the brats studying at the thankfully shuttered Berkeley campus managed to sneak into the country under Uncle Sam's nose."
Paul rolled his eyes at the mention of the VC-backed traitors that made the state of California a battleground on and off for almost three months with their bombing campaign and brazen raids, even managing to strike at Ronald Reagan at one point on Christmas Day through a specially wrapped package implanted into the Governor's limousine as a crude sick sense of Christmastime spirit albeit unsuccessfully. "Wunderbar. I guess Sauerkraut and Haggis are next."
"They can confiscate Haggis over our dead bodies!" Sean affirmed. "The Republic may not be entirely fond of us at times but taking away our cuisine would backfire."
"Don't forget Johnny Horton, Elvis, Janet Greene, and The Amboy Dukes." Patrick added. "Much of the universe are surprisingly fans of Jazz-style tunes over Rock and Country music."
"Janet Greene is technically folk music, Tim, but she and Vera Vanderlaan are leagues ahead over Joan Baez musical talent-wise."
"Can't believe even Baez joined up with the Weathermen robbing banks and manufacturing bombs in the name of Marxism but I have never been a fan of the late turncoat's music anyways."
"Like any true Patriotic American rightfully should be."
"Well, we're getting off track, Scott." Sean interjected. "As much as I want to put Hanoi Jane's and Pinko Joan's portraits on a dartboard, they're still dead as a doornail while there are those here in the Republic who think we're a joke and utilize our music as evidence."
Jake groaned as the discussion switched from remembering Culloden to cursing Fonda and Baez to one over haughtiness from a small yet vocal minority of soldiers and citizens of the Republic ignorantly equating Earth with Ewoks and other societies seemingly not out of the Stone Age. 'Well, at least the soft apple cider should distract me.'
"They're still crazy?" Sam wondered in a whisper.
"What do you think?" Cade asked rhetorically. "Yeah, they're still kooky."
"Jesus. They might try to kidnap some poor Jedi and torment him by hinting at the dunk test followed by being tied to a stake to be incinerated."
"Not funny at all." Jake grumbled. "If they heard that, they'll think it's an excellent suggestion for April Fool's Day to pull on some poor Jedi and besides, we've moved on from those times. There's no need to unnecessarily mock the Space Wizards any further as we still got to cooperate with them."
"I know about the darkness of the past as I got roots in Salem, Massachusetts, remember?"
Jake sighed at the snark 'reminder' when he overheard Tim's analyst of the viewpoints.
"Again, it's probably down to a cultural difference due to the Jazz-like tunes." Timothy shrugged. "Now it doesn't excuse their behavior of course but unfortunately we're generally going to be seen as primitives for quite some time here by everyone overall. At least the brightside is that most folks just don't have an opinion if the Holonet News polling is accurate."
"Do we look like the Flintstones to you, Tim?" Scott scoffed just as an interruption occurred.
"Now who would be knocking at this hour, on Thanksgiving no less?" Stephen wondered. "My bet is not American."
"Australian maybe?" Jack chuckled. "Never understood why November is summertime in Australia. Guadalcanal on the other hand is just a tropical island and therefore completely understandable."
"I'll get it." Jake offered as he rose from his seat and walked to the door, answering it but the Leatherneck wasn't expecting them.
"Jake?"
"Didn't expect to see you, Cas, Kira."
"Well, we were invited." Casivir confessed, looking at Jake's gray and yellow striped sweater, khaki pants, and russet brogues disconcertingly as the Jedi hardly saw him attired in civilian wear even back on Earth.
"I didn't invite you." Jake deadpanned but the shout revealed how they exactly received an invitation to the holiday meal.
"Hey, it's the two guests!" Sam grinned in his sky blue polo shirt, waving at the arrivals. "Nice for you to stop by."
"Why did you invite them?" Paul wondered curiously, still surprised by the unexpected visitors.
"You said we could invite two people." Sam reminded his friend's father/commanding officer.
'That's right.'"Well, since we have them as guests, no talks or any mentions about this nonsensical Force that supposedly needs to be balanced from any of you, got it?" Paul advised with a chuckle. "We already prayed before the meal so let's remain calm, okay?"
"Yes, sir." Timothy acknowledged the 'rule of engagement' with a devious smirk. "But does that mean talking politics with the Space Magicians is authorized?"
Paul sighed as his brother-in-law glared at his son and proceeded to chastise him in front of the guests.
"You only brought it up because the unanticipated arrivals are the only ones here in the room who aren't Republicans, as in the GOP." Jack growled. "Now, apologize to the Jedi before I have you sit in the corner while the rest of us enjoy our dinner as a family."
"Yes, sir." Tim nodded apologetically. "I'm sorry. It was rude of me to suggest political discussions at the dinner table."
"It's alright, Timothy."
"Sean?" Cade asked to help ease the tension. "Can you please pass the sauerkraut?"
"Of course." The 0311 Marine Corps reservist nodded at the Indiana Army National Guardsman as he reached for the specified side dish. "Can you please pass the mashed potatoes and beef gravy, Cade?"
"Sure thing."
"Happy Thanksgiving, everyone." Paul declared as he carved more turkey with the knife.
Colonel George Smith Patton IV - Commanding Officer of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Division, United States Army
Room 201, Fifty-Ninth Floor - Diplomat Hotel, Plains of Coruscant, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 14:30/2:30 PM
"If this is important, then why are we hearing it, Dad?" The younger Patton wondered.
"As a precaution since undoubtedly just like the Empire might try something with you three in an attempt to pressure us, so could Saresh. Now while we're still attempting to unravel what that Hitlerette's intentions are exactly with our common planet and how deep the Imperial infiltration is, we need to prepare for any worst-case scenario from exploitation to annexation and janissaries to outright eradication."
Monty rolled his eyes at the utterance of 'eradication' but the Briton knew that it wasn't entirely out of the realm of possibilities if the Republic just decides to just blow Earth to smithereens with some superweapon if subjugation doesn't work out.
"No matter what, the primary concern is still the Sith Empire but it's becoming evident that we cannot completely rely on the word of the Chancellor anymore. Still, what I revealed to you stays in this room and it's between us for now, understood?"
"So we're keeping up a charade?" Manfred humored.
"Exactly." The Old Man declared. "The rules in this galaxy are more complex and arguably unfamiliarly nonsensical compared to back home, almost as if the Laws of Physics are consistently broken such as sounds being emitted in space despite being a vacuum, but even with the outlandishness in mind, war, war never changes. As long as an individual soldier is willing to fight with the latest tool at his disposal, then by God, he will do so but as the adage goes: 'Keep your friends close but your enemies closer'. I have noticed from past meetings that Saresh is manipulative and conniving which means she cannot be trusted at all."
"Ja, even I have been wary to even speak to her. That's how much she reminds me of das Fürher."
"What about Zhukov?" The Spartan General wondered. "Should we bring him into this?"
"What about him, Bernard?" Old Blood and Guts snorted. "During our poker game, I kept him partially in the loop by casually mentioning how the Hitlerette is manipulative but I still don't trust that Communist."
"You played poker with Zhukov recently?"
"I needed a break and it gave us something to do." Bandito justified. "I've played cards with worse people but anyway watch your backs. There's no telling what she's capable of."
"We're still watching our backs."
Marshal of the Soviet Union Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov - Commander in Chief of Warsaw Pact and Communist Forces
Room 1242, Forty-First Floor - Diplomat Hotel, Plains of Coruscant, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 14:30/2:30 PM
"Patton is foolishly naive." The Marshal of Soviet Union declared while pacing near his desk. "Da, he's aware of Saresh manipulative behavior but there's no indication that he's suspicious of her motivations and that's truly unfortunate as I'm concerned about the suka's intentions with our glorious Motherland and her sons."
"So, what should we do, comrade? We can't overtly drag Saresh out of her office and force her to kneel before aiming a Makarov at the back of her cranium, not without vindication and public support for the execution that is."
"GRU will watch the Supreme Chancellor closely." Zhukov ordered. "And if our worst fears are realized, we can see if those in the underworld could be...persuaded to rise up against the Bourgeoisie of the upper levels, just to help even the odds for us."
"But that could spark World War Three back home, Marshal Zhukov! The nations not aligned with us and entirely against us wouldn't stand for Communist Supremacy even if it's the way forward!"
Georgy curled his lips to allow a sly smirk to form on his mug. "Perhaps, and you do raise a fair point, but if the result is NATO being outnumbered by billions of fellow comrades …?"
"Ah." The other subordinate realized. "We can spread the teachings of Marx across the stars and overwhelm our enemies through sheer might alone. The Space Fascists, NATO, even the Hutts will have no other recourse but to go extinct under the might of the red banner!"
Zhukov grabbed a fine Cuban cigar from the presentation box gifted to him by Fidel Castro personally in Beijing with Primer Khrushchev, Chairman Liu Shaoqi, and Kim Il-sung looking on. "Realpolitik at its finest. All we need to do is to bide our time and know for certain before we roll the dice and play this card as unwittingly Saresh would be causing her downfall. China is inevitably joining the Warsaw Pact officially soon enough and if this course is followed as predicted, it would be only a matter of time before Communism spreads even if Nikita and Liu believe in peaceful coexistence with the capitalists."
"But what if the prediction is wrong?" The first subordinate wondered. "What if Saresh is just a typical politician of a rotten capitalist system?"
"Then we'll just have to follow the Politburo's peaceful coexistence plan." The Marshal sighed. "Either way, I believe capitalism will be dust sometime in the near-future. It is inevitable for Communism to reign and the fools of the West just hate to admit it."
Leontyne Saresh- Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 14:30/2:30 PM
"Well, it looks like we're going to be forced to upgrade our security systems procedures, again." Leontyne groaned as she personally assessed the damage inflicted to her office under heavy guard. "Thankfully I was at a conference on Tython when that Imperial Assassin struck."
"He even managed to get through the encryption and as much as I hate to admit it but we'll have to assume that everything on your computer is compromised."
"Did Patton propose a meeting recently? Something about a joint operation?"
"Err, yes, yes he did, Your Excellency." Evran confirmed. "It's supposed to help address concerns of combined operations and hopefully repair the strain relations with the SIS and the Jedi."
"We're going to have to clean this mess up and overhaul everything. Have the meeting set in two days from today and we'll have to play dumb with Uplift by hinting at it being an Imperial ruse, the Earthlings are ignorant savages that seriously need uplifting anyways."
Moonlight Crystal Lodge - Polar Region North, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 15:37/3:37 PM
"You sure you don't want any dessert?" Jake asked the two unanticipated guests politely despite their differences. "Pumpkin or Apple Pie is traditional. Also got Sugar Cream as well."
"No thanks. Cas and I are sure."
"Alright. Just figured to check while it's still available." The Hoosier muttered as he sliced himself a piece of the official Indiana state dessert. "So, is there anything new on your end?"
"Not much really. Just have been occupied with keeping up with reports, doing the occasional behind enemy lines raids here and there, Kira, the crew, and I even just finished finding a significant artifact of Jedi history for Master Gnost-Dural that's classified and I'm not at liberty to discuss."
Jake placed the pie server down and nodded as he took the first bite of his Sugar Cream pie. "I see. Running errands for the brass basically?"
"Something like that." The current Battlemaster of the Order shrugged before changing the subject. "It's funny how many coincidences there are between this galaxy and miraculously just one planet in another."
"Yeah, while it's more of a parliamentary system, your government is still bound by a written constitution. Then there's the fact we're speaking English and Latin letters exist as 'High Galactic Standard'." Jake chuckled. "It's not just only funny but insanely hilarious."
"Still is quite the adjustment but I'm getting used to it." The Hero of Tython admitted. "Nevertheless, arguably you've turned the galaxy upside down." Cas added. "The military academies are envious last I heard."
"Well, in that case, I'm still pretty sure that this Force is nonsensical and nonexistent."
'Here we go again.' Cas thought, not surprised that it was brought up. "Honestly Jake, at this point you can believe in whatever you want as there's no point in trying to change your mind. An old saying goes that everything is seen from a certain point of view and that old hermit or whoever exactly uttered it had a point. You're going to find that many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view, Jake, and no matter what, everyone will hold different opinions and views."
"Fair enough, Cas." Meyer concurred. "As I still think it's just overcomplicating magic by making it even more outlandish with concepts such as dividing everything into four subcategories or the entire universe would somehow end all at once if the so-called bind is broken. Case in point is me walking, talking, and breathing just fine without this supposed 'Living Force', one whose interpretation wouldn't allow me to exist or the reputed meaning behind the 'Physical Force', which also doesn't cover the Milky Way. I can accept people literally shooting lightning out of their fingertips or hurling Republic soldiers through thin air but regardless of our differing views, everyone is entitled to their beliefs no matter what."
"It's long overdue I'll admit but it's just time to agree to disagree." Cas concurred. "Thanks for the feast by the way."
"Don't mention it." Jake shrugged. "Today is Thanksgiving after all."
Casivir Therin - Battlemaster of the Jedi Order/ Hero of Tython
Room Number 777 - Equinox Apartments, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"Remind me to never eat so much food ever again." Cas groaned. "Especially the turkey and stuffing."
"No promises." Kira smirked. "At least the brightside is we didn't consume the dessert as a precaution. We wouldn't want to have effects similar to consuming cheesecake now, would we?"
Cas chuckled at the reminder of possible addiction to a consumable sweet previously unknown to the galaxy. "Well, I would be more concerned about Jake's family. They're comical in a way."
"How so?" Kira wondered with bemusement. "They still are a close family despite the war."
"They're following the social conventions of conformity for one but the four Cameron siblings are indisputably eccentric rascals."
"You know, that is a fair analysis." Carsen nodded. "Scott, Sean, Timothy, and Patrick are exuberant, to say the least."
"Exuberant is just putting it lightly." Therin groaned. "And of course I don't want to think if the other four are just as whimsical as their brothers..."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Moonlight Crystal Lodge - Polar Region North, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28:15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 22:45/10:45 PM
"Woohoo!"
Jake's eyes snapped open in response to the enthusiastic shout of Sean and dreadfully gazed at the scene to discover the facts around the commotion but the farmboy instantly regretted laying sight on the scene. "Ah, hell no! Wat geiht denn nu bi di!? Dat is nich goot!(What's wrong with you!? This is not good!)"
Meyer watched as the quirky quad without a care for the world courtesy of the now scattered alcohol bottles took turns to punt golf balls with a club and send them recklessly at the priceless decor set on the furniture or hanging proudly on the wall, mostly statues of Republic war heroes.
"Hey, I bet that I could knock that statue of Cartho Nasha down." Timothy bet with a slurry tone.
"Ya sure you don't need a bowling ball to hit Carth O'Nessy, Tim?"
"Are we even playing bowling, Pat? I thought we're doing the fine Scottish tradition of golf."
"Fair point." Tim relented. "Thank God for our Scottish and Irish blood."
"What is that racket!?" Paul demanded as he stormed down the stairs, the slippers not softening the impact of his stomping feet in the slightest.
"We're playing indoor golf, Uncle Paul." Pat admitted while tipsy, his Guinness bottle clutched fondly in his hand. "It was snowing hard outside so we thought to adapt and overcome. Hopefully Aunt Becky doesn't mind the redecorating."
'Actually, if she was here, Mom would be beyond infuriated, Döösbaddel (Dummkopf).' Jake groaned. 'And Aunt Shannon would be disappointed in you four as well come to think of it.'
"Well, you're about to play a new game called PT, you shitfaced goofballs and you better be grateful that we're not doing it outside in the snow." The Captain snapped. "Drop and give me one hundred, NOW!"
'Why can't my maternal cousins be normal?' Jake wondered for the umpteenth time since childhood as the four brothers cranked out halfhearted push-ups despite not even having their hangovers yet then an uncomfortable thought came to mind. 'I don't even want to know if Ash, Nikki, Natalie, and Amy would be capable of doing the same idiotic stunts as their brothers despite being slightly eccentric themselves.'
Joe Pyne - Host of The Joe Pyne Show
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:03:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 3rd, 1968 - 19:30/7:30 PM
"Good evening. With me in the hotseat tonight is Tohil Rans, former Supreme Commander of the Republic Military."
"Glad to be on, Mister Pyne."
Pyne nodded as he tapped the excess of his cigarette into his ashtray. "Anyway, Mister Rans, since you have experienced the onslaught of the Sith Empire from the very beginning until Illum, what can you tell those tuning in tonight about why our forces were stemming the tide when the Republic was barely holding on?"
Rans thought for a moment before answering the shock jock's inquiry. "Well, we have been fighting this conflict for almost thirty years at this point and personally I believe we're just worn out but when Earth officially entered the war, you brought not just a willingness to fight for your homes but also a willingness to innovate."
"How so?"
"Don't get me wrong here but despite trying to create superweapons to give us an advantage, I think the Republic failed to look for other chinks in the armor and exploit it. The galaxy, I hate to admit it, has gone stagnant and complacent so you're looking from the outside for flaws and implementing it into your overall strategy."
"So that does pose another question." The television host announced. "Based on your assessment, would you still consider Earth to be a backwater full of primitives or what?"
Rans sighed as he realized that he fell into a trap. On one hand, the military actions vindicate this world as a probable superpower that even the Hutts were fearful of but on the other hand, there were still nation-states, reliance on fossil fuels, hardly any space travel, and traditional social mores. "I'm probably in the middle opinion-wise as there's a case to be made for both perspectives. While I believe that if someone wants to fight they should be able to, these are your forces after all and not the Republic's."
"I sense a 'but' here…"
"But, how can I best put this? There have been grumblings from organizations over some of your values yet it's your culture and no one should dictate what's right or wrong on you. And as for the grouching from a few of my former colleagues, I believe that the ones who are unappreciative or unwilling to embrace your input on military matters are just obstinate because the galaxy is just familiar with a certain way of doing things for centuries and believe it's preposterous to accept advice from, in their minds, a backwater even if it's good-natured or strategically sound."
"When you put it that way some of the things we heard about society from over there are, well, ludicrously radical in our eyes." Pyne revealed.
"Now coming from the other end it's none of our business to dictate how people should live over there in the other galaxy but hopefully it can be reciprocated unlike Krasul stirring the pot here, his gaffes notwithstanding."
Rans felt that he got ensnared into another trap from the acclaimed reactionary columnist and was forced to evade the snare once more. "I, unfortunately, can't speak for the current administration, the current High Command, or the Jedi Order but I'm sure that the Republic, in general, will respect each individual nation-states customs and mores."
"I and the viewers appreciate your time on the show, Mister Rans."
"Thanks for having me, Joe."
Yes, in case you're wondering, that REALLY is Patton's son (in fact his only son and Bandito also had two daughters) and as two quick sidenotes:
1) After finishing his tour in Vietnam, George Smith Patton IV went on to command the 2nd Armored Division ("Hell on Wheels") that his famous father had commanded just before the U.S. had entered World War II, making this the first time in U.S. Army history that a father and a son had both commanded the same division
And
2) George S. Patton IV became close friends with Manfred Rommel and David Montgomery, the sons of you guess it: Erwin Rommel and Bernard Montgomery respectively.
In fact, both Manfred Rommel and George S. Patton IV shared the SAME Birthday of December 24th.
Talk about a coincidence.
Thus it's feasible to portray a scene where the fathers and sons sat down at a dinner table together.
And I suppose you can classify Jake and the Meyer/Cameron family as Arbitrary Skeptics.
Speaking of which: I will confirm that this won't be the last appearance of the extended family and they'll pop up again. In fact, it might be sooner than you think yet you will all have to wait and see.
Also, yes, as mentioned the maternal cousins of Jake's are undeniably crazy alright but this is mild compared to other 'stunts' I have in mind for the characters.
And it seems like the Communist Bloc has something up their sleeves. The downtrodden masses in the undercity seem likely candidates for… Wait a minute...
…
3…2…1…
A potential Communist Revolution on a planetary and even intergalactic scale as a contingency, anyone?
*Cough awkwardly*
Oh, I almost forgot to mention that Joe Pyne (the literal Bill O'Reilly, Tucker Carlson, and Sean Hannity of his day) just made his debut in the story as well.
While it's not certain, Fanfiction probably will never be the same again once this story is completed. Just a feeling.
Chapter 25: “Study the past if you would define the future.” ― Confucius
Chapter Text
Doctor Grawhmet Phoz - Republic Medical Corps
Kuat City, Medical Station - Kuat, Kuat Sector, Kuat System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28: 15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 16:40 / 4:40 PM
"Damn, he got lucky." Doctor Grawhmet Phoz noted as he read the file on the patient currently getting treated in the bacta tank. "In addition to the melee, that lightsaber only pierced his spleen, what damage the burning had done to the surrounding tissue was thankfully not as severe as we feared, but he's definitely gonna be sore after the kind of surgery we had to do on him. Crazy that he managed to take a Sith on hand-to-hand."
"You tell me. And to think we only have to deal with lightsaber wounds in rarer cases, most tend to find out the hard way when engaging Sith Warriors in close quarters."
Doctor Phoz nodded at the Rodian nurse's assessment, still getting used to the straightforward fact that the lack of midichlorians, a literal case of asepsis, negated the complete usage of Force Powers on Earthlings, making telekinesis and sensing their presence by Jedi and Sith alike an exercise in vanity. "I'm still unsure if it makes our job somewhat easier or harder but I suppose it's an advantage when it comes to dealing with wounds by not having to worry about Force-based ailments. No asphyxiation through telekinetically choking, no Force draining, not even causing insanity…. That we know of anyway, just trauma from Lightsabers, Blasterfire, shrapnel, and etcetera."
"That reminds me. Apparently there's a new theory on midichlorians being 'Conduits of the Force'."
Doctor Phoz's ears perked up at the news as it sounded interesting. "Oh?"
"Well, they did inadvertently make the Jedi begin questioning previous notions about the Force afterall once the facts of the complete omission in their galaxy were revealed." The nurse declared as she nudged her shoulder at the tank holding the patient with the given name of Hanzo Elwood Nilsson displayed in Aurebesh, the middle and surname they had learned is interestingly Swedish, a nationality from Earth, while his first name was another known as Japanese, this made Hanzo a rather unique mix of ethnicity.
The Doctor rolled his eyes as it should've been obvious. The millennia old gospel theory that midichlorians were vital for life had been challenged and arguably even was completely invalidated by the open existence of those breathing vigorously without the specific cells in their bloodstream.
"So, I think we can reasonably start surgery on him in two days, give the bacta time to settle." Phoz determined as he brought up the scanner to analyze the internals.
"Doctor?"
"Or maybe not." Grawhmet mused. "The regenerative properties of the bacta healed up his wounds. He might be able to walk around soon in a few days after rest."
Master Roa Tec - Barsen'thor of the Jedi Order
Jedi Council Chambers - Jedi Temple, Tython, Tython System, Deep Core, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:28: 15 ATC / Thursday, November 28th, 1968 - 16:40 / 4:40 PM
Jedi Master Roa recently returned from the known gap in the so-called 'Hyperspace Disturbance beyond the Edge of the Galaxy' extracting microorganisms and nanobacterium samples from those closest to Earth, the Asteroid Belt, and meteorites near the gap before venturing back to Tython, a four-month long expedition that was coordinated with the Jedi Exploration Corps and Republic Survey Corps under the veil of charting more efficient hyperlanes for strategic military purposes, which was only part of the truth.
The shockwave of the nonexistent presence of the Force, not a simple void but a complete and total absence was challenging to give credence to, which was why investigating a chance at potential refutation no matter the odds was a gamble the Order was willing to take but the venture Roa partook in was mournfully all in fruitlessness.
All of the council other than the Master Bestros were present, the Miraluka councilmember was currently heading to Earth to discuss a possible non-military cooperation and therefore was attending the conference through holo.
"Barsen'thor Roa, Knight Grell, it has been awhile."
"I'm afraid we don't have much to report." Tec revealed. "There hasn't been anything resembling midichlorians and Nadia discovered two new species of microbes instead of the elusive objective."
There was a slight glimmer of hope, as if the Council expected him to divulge good news after the bad with a revelation of a possible evolutionary split explanation but the Barsen'thor revealed the facts.
"But when we attempted to levitate the microorganisms out of the petri dish, it didn't respond to Force Lift, as if we weren't doing anything to remove them."
"Our arms got sore from trying to telekinetically manipulate all the samples we gathered." Nadia added.
"Well, I suppose we're gonna have to accept reality and not disregard the irrefutable truth." Master Giffus Fane accepted halfheartedly.
"Now that does leave us with the new theory which was recently hypothesized by Master Gehnso." Master Gnost-Dural brought up. "Midichorians being not essential for life but instead are 'Conduits of the Force'."
"Conduits of the Force?"
"Remember how we determined that Earthlings cannot be classified as voids in the Force due to the neighboring galaxy not being connected to it in the first place?" The Barsen'thor evoked before reporting his findings. "Well, after reading Master Gehnso's report on comparing DNA of creatures native to Earth and their known closest counterparts in the galaxy, there has to be a link between possessing Midichlorians and being binded to the Force. While the exclusion of Midichlorians may explain the nonsusceptibility, it doesn't explain why inanimate objects indigenous to the Milky Way cannot be manipulated."
"You mean something or even someone implanted midichlorians in every gentlebeing native to the Galaxy?" Master Wens Aleusis realized. "And for that matter, Earthlings could be a case of parallel evolution when the cosmos materialized or implausibly some civilization conducted mass genetic experimentation on everyone else, only to stop before reaching the Milky Way?"
"As outlandish as it may be compared to the parallel evolution theory, the Rakatans did conquer the entire galaxy eons ago and enslaved about every known species including humanity." Roa considered the likelihood of the civilization somehow being responsible, not willing to entirely dismiss it as a possibility even if it sounded illogical. "But then again, why would they spread midichlorians en masse into non-sentient creatures as well? And for what benefit?"
"That's like saying this holofilm-director, George Lucas, created the entire universe and dreamed up the cells one day for this 'Star Wars' film he's producing." Master Nikil Nobil snorted, skeptical of the new theories that potentially discredited all prior understanding of the manifestation of life in the universe.
"Though it would be funny I suppose if this was in fact a case of breaking the fourth wall." Nadia chuckled, earning a look from Roa and the assembled Council. "What?"
"Perhaps we should move on and discuss the director's and Roddenberry's scheduled visit to Tython a few months from now?" The Grandmaster suggested as the mystery honestly was a confounding headache. "Obviously we can't permit them to access the archives containing forbidden knowledge even if supervised but we could offer to chaperone them around the sites Revan and the Ebon Hawk were known to have journeyed to."
"Agreed. It's better to speculate until Master Gehnso can explain her theory in-person."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Sunday, December 1st, 1968 - 06:45 / 6:45 AM
Jake was currently sitting on a pew in the makeshift church beside his father and paternal uncle, listening to the Reverend hosting liturgy for those of the Lutheran denomination at the allotted time for an hour and a half of worship.
The farmboy momentarily scratched his head, feeling the dark flaxen strands of his side part with his hand before gazing his attention back at the Pastor preaching to the assembled congregation from the pulpit.
"And as it is written, the Lord Almighty himself is with us in this war against the Empire. Please turn to Deuteronomy Twenty, Verses One through Four."
Being divided interfamilial between Lutheranism affiliated with the Missouri Synod and Roman Catholicism for the Hoosier was an experience to put it lightly.
His mother baptized him at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church downtown in the city of Indianapolis and his father managed to have him alternate worship by having him be present at the Saint John Lutheran Church on Southeastern Avenue during boyhood but until he came of age it was a unabating silent struggle between his parents to decide on exactly when and where to be attending mass.
That's not to mention that Pastor Schröder, the chaplain conducting the current service, was having an ongoing rivalry with Father O'Reilly and his fellow ordained Catholic Priest Father Huber, as well as Rabbi Altschul; the four men representing three sects of Judeo-Christian faiths going so far as to making bets over trifle matters such as keeping a majority of the congregation awake throughout the entire ceremony and how many alms were gathered up.
Just last week, the loser of the previous wager, Huber, walked around publicly with a dunce cap due to missing part of the lyrics from 'My Country Tis of Thee' but inadvertently the 'friendly rivalry' in a way made it even more awkward interfaith wise for Jake.
Nevertheless, the Hoosier flipped his personal King James Version of the Bible to read the passage :
1 When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the Lord thy God is with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.
2 And it shall be, when ye are come nigh unto the battle, that the priest shall approach and speak unto the people,
3 And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them;
4 For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.
"The Lord is with us as we confront and push back against those who've attempted to conquer the very world the creator himself has materialized, enslave his children and all the creations, not to mention spreading a path of destruction in the name of their reclusive yet influential idol Vitiate, an Emperor claimed to have lived longer than Noah back when the Lord flooded the Earth yet was merciful to Noah and his family, urging them to build the Ark and house creatures two by two." Schroöder preached. "I myself do not believe this to be the will of some supposed Force as the Jedi claimed nor do I believe, unlike Mister Brokaw of NBC, that this conflict should be entirely labeled as some holy war between them and the Sith, despite justifiably being the root cause of this mess being wrought here in this neighboring galaxy. Instead for us Americans, as part of our contribution, this is a just cause not only in the name of defense, but of spreading hope and freeing subjects wrongfully being chained up in the clutches of tyranny. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is Liberty. Now let us Pray."
Jacob clasped his palm and bowed his head, silent as he waited for the prayer to commence.
"Oh Almighty God, who is heaven, we here before you today humbly ask for guidance as before us we tackle an adversary willing to create needless suffering, enslave anyone and everyone who doesn't pay homage to their civilization, their leader, and their theocratic institution. We are willing and capable to help stem the tide against the relentless onslaught, stand firm alongside our allies in the grand and noble cause of freedom despite the overwhelming odds. While we may disagree from time to time with the Galactic Republic on procedures, while we are rightfully skeptical of this so-called Force as followed and practiced by the Jedi Order, we also humbly know that despite our tactical might, we cannot neglect faith and we hope to forever remain in your good graces. In Jesus's name, Amen."
"Amen."
"Thank you for your time, gentlemen. Don't forget that if you need anything, if you require someone to confide with, I'm available."
Jacob stood up from the bench and turned to face his father and Uncle Steve as the services concluded.
"You know, there's certainly truth to it." Paul chuckled as he placed the current United States Army standard AG-344 green shaded service cap, part of his Class A Service Uniform, back onto his head. "It gives additional credence over this Farce and it doesn't take a genius to be skeptical."
"Ultimately those space wizards can believe in whatever they want since there are no atheists in foxholes." Stephen shrugged in his Marine Corps forest green and khaki Service Alphas before patting the cover of his bible. "I'll just place my trust in the scripture here."
"Well, unfortunately I got to get back to my side of the barracks and make sure the men don't get overboard with their break." The father glanced at his son with annoyance. "By the way, if Junior plays that damn song 'Starman' one more time, I'll put a pineapple in his jaw and impenitently pull the pin."
The two Leathernecks, E-2 and E-7 respectively, groaned at the reminder of Polonsky's shenanigans.
"I'll take care of it, Paul." The Gunnery Sergeant vowed to his brother. "Because I had enough of listening to that tune incessantly as well."
Raider's Cove - Horizon Island, Rishi, Rishi System, Abrion Sector, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Saturday, December 1st, 1968- 07:13 / 7:13 AM
"Well, here we are." Theron declared. "Welcome to Rishi."
"The tropical world ruled by pirates?" Lana wondered, her cloak swapped for a forest green 'Zayne Carrick' pattern flight suit while her friend also wore one but colored in ruby red.
"Jakarro knows this world like the back of his hand." The SIS Agent shrugged before taking a moment to gaze at the current attire of his blonde companion. Theron gawked at the way Lana's outfit hugged her willowy curves, never before seeing her without her distinct cloak and cape which, along with the high collar, acted as an optical illusion to hide the nubile physique well. "You know, I never thought you would look beautiful in normal clothes, Lana."
"Do you desire a blaster bolt?" Sara questioned from her position on a nearby crate as she wiped her X-15 with an oily rag. "While it is not necessary, a function check couldn't hurt."
"Errr…"
"Sorry, Theron, but my flirting days are over." Beniko sincerely declared while glaring at the overprotective and quick to the trigger redhead. "You may have better luck with a Jedi even if the stoicism is taxing to grasp at times."
"Very funny, Lana." The SIS Agent snorted.
"Is it just me or did Agent Shan get rejected?" C2-D4 commented.
"Shut up, Droid!"
Sara gave off her 'What? He knows better' glance in response to the scowl from the blonde before changing the subject. "You know, since we're here, I think we should play beach music."
"Beach music?" Lana asked with befuddlement, her gaze metamorphosing into one of confusion instead of the previous 'Seriously? I could've handled it' expression.
"Songs by The Beach Boys, Dick Dale, and The Surftones." Kelrein clarified, grinning. "Earth has songs for every occasion."
Theron groaned at the mention of the world he's beginning to detest over a transculturation that's at an alarming warp speed - damn Star Trek! - rate supplanting traditional music with the notable exception of what the Earthling refer to as 'Jazz' and some other seemingly minor but popular fads such as twinkies and Fanta.
Even Pugs were gradually becoming more popular than some Akk hound puppies in the galaxy but still it was a peril smuggling the dogs off-world without the culprits getting caught due to the zealous enforcement of the 'Quarantine Policy' as pets for the time being were not authorized exports for trade and the spy internally shuddered at remembering news about the recent execution of smugglers in Sierra Leone trying to evade the strict, time-consuming inspection policies for both arrival and departure when a simple code authorization process without the need to inspect every incoming vessel like the Republic military conducted even at black sites would have been more efficient in his opinion.
"Star Trek, Elvis Presley, Coca-Cola, and Pepsi but now apparently there's something known as beach music. What's next? A song about this James Dean that Mister Marine mentioned?"
Sara smirked deviously as she set her freshly cleaned blaster aside and without hesitation tapped on her datapad to play Phil Ochs's 'Jim Dean of Indiana', a eulogy to the late and reputedly famous holostar.
It was on an Indiana farm
In the middle of the country
Growin' in the fields of grain
Jim Dean of Indiana
His mother died when he was a boy
His father was a stranger
Marcus Winslow took him in
Nobody seemed to want him
The hired man sang like a storm
Sometimes he would beat him
'Cause he would never do the chores
He was lost in dreamin'
He never seemed to find a play
With the flatlands and the farmers
So he had to leave one day
He said to be an actor
"That's it. I'm outta here." The Republic spy declared as he stormed out of the room.
Once he'd come back to the farm
With starlets from the stages
They locked themselves inside his room
The people turned their faces
A neighbor run from the movie house
Chickens, they were scattered
He swore he saw upon the screen
Jim Dean of Indiana
He played a boy without a home
Torn with no tomorrow
Reaching out to touch someone
A stranger in the shadow
Sara waited until the irritated spy was out of sight before pausing the tune. "Problem solved."
"Kells? You seriously are something else."
"It's not my fault that the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order is quite a adamant Trekkie or so I have been informed."
Lana shook her head in amusement, denying that she witnessed the circumstantial shenanigans from her friend. "I honestly don't get the appeal of the holodrama but I'm sure Theron will get over it."
Nurse Gindra Sonnu - Republic Medical Corps
Kuat City, Medical Station - Kuat, Kuat Sector, Kuat System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Saturday, December 1st, 1968- 07:13 / 7:13 AM
"What's the status of the patient's vitals?"
"They're stable, ma'am." The medical droid informed the nurse as the patient was tucked onto the bed. "He should be waking up from the sedative in a moment."
"And just like any soldier, he'll attempt to get back to the front." Grindra groaned as she firmly grasped her holo-chart and headed to the ward, finding the patient's room and stepping in as the doors opened for her. "Mister Nilsson?"
The human male, an Earthling specifically, was already attempting to remove the covers of his bed to escape, a record the Rodian mused. The patient, however, wisely acknowledged the presence and authority of the medical specialist.
"Yes?"
"I advise you to get back underneath the covers unless you want to be sedated. You need to rest until you're cleared." Sonnu reprimanded. "And I would rather not have to sedate anyone."
"Yes, ma'am." He relented reluctantly, laying back in the bed. Nurse Soonu sympathized with him though she was still glad that the young man was listening and showed himself to be polite despite his quietness.
"Good, rest easy, by this rate it shouldn't be too long before you're cleared."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Saturday, December 1st, 1968- 08:29 / 8:29 AM
"Hey, Jake, not sure if ya heard but Goldwater won in a landslide!"
"I already heard, pal, and I'm proud that my absentee ballot counted to his landslide but I'm also grateful that a majority of Middle America, the Silent Majority, including the Hard Hats, realized that the Great Society will be the next great con." Jake smiled at the Ohio native.
"By the way, isn't one of your cousins at the Pentagon?" The Ohioan wondered. "I overheard it when you were talking with your uncle earlier."
"It's a long, complicated story, Neil." Jake admitted. "But don't ask me to request for favors as she's by the book and I mean by the book."
"She?" Even with the deterrent, Neil sounded even more intrigued after the revelation.
'Welcome to my world with eight insane maternal cousins.' Jake mused, wishing for a stiff drink as the Marine knew it was another instance of a poor soul believing he could try to request special favors while under the pretense of dating Ashley without realizing what he was exactly getting himself into, not to mention that as of last year she was already engaged to someone who wouldn't take advantage of her. "Well, my mother's side of the family is of both Scottish and Irish origins, though Mom from time to time jokingly says that there's Welsh somewhere as well. Uncle Jack and Aunt Shannon have four sons and fours daughters, my cousins and expect for Amy they're all in uniform. In fact, Pat's unit recently got their M48s replaced with Chieftains."
"On second thought, I kinda forgot about your other uncle. He wouldn't appreciate me dating one of his daughters so I'll forget about it."
"That would be wise, Anderson." The aforementioned man gruffly uttered from behind the Buckeye, announcing his protective presence. "She's engaged to some West Pointer that she met at the Pentagon and was stationed there until recently anyways."
"Should've kept my mouth shut as well then."
"What's that, Private?"
"Nothing, Staff Sergeant."
The NCO glared at the subordinate proclaiming false innocence, snarling like a starving Bull Shark about to rip flesh off of a poor minnow if it was by fate the only available meal for the pitiful predator. "Get out of my sight before you're on latrine duty and I don't think you want to do latrine duty on a Sunday, boyo!"
"A-a-aye, S-Staff S-Sergeant!" Anderson acknowledged before scurrying away, not willing to endure the wrath of the evidently overly-protective father.
"Surprised Uncle Steve wasn't with you." Jake commented cautiously to the still-scowling E-6 who was observing the pace of departure. "No offense but you always had the rivalry."
The Staff Sergeant about-faced and chuckled at his nephew's assessment. "No need for the Kraut in this matter, especially involving one of my daughters." Jack grinned. "But to tell you the truth, Polonsky played that damn song again and it was either him or Roebuck to throw the book at him."
Jake kept a poker face as he wasn't sure if this was the planned disciplinary action Uncle Steve vowed to conduct after church or if Polonsky decided to test the E-7's patience after the scolding but it might be likely the latter case judging by the tone of irritation on the matter. "Oh boy."
"Still, Stephen and I also just learned about a certain occurrence that you failed to mention at Thanksgiving or to him after Church." Cameron revealed, the infuriated scowl returning as he confronted the PFC over the details. "Now who in the hell would try to whack my nephew by scuttling the goddamn building into the ocean!?"
"It's a long story and you wouldn't believe me if I told you." Jake muttered yet the irkly disappointed Staff Sergeant was unconvinced.
"In this case, I have plenty of time to hear you out as no one messes with our family and gets away with the misdeed unscathed." The E-6 retorted, waiting for the full-on explanation over some world called Manaan.
First Sergeant Tom Sullivan - C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Sunday, December 1st, 1968 - 09:05 / 9:05 AM
"I still say the entire Company should have a blanket party on his ass." Roebuck suggested to the Company CO as part of the after-church poker game and 'unofficial meeting'. "Stephen can get his point across if need be but due to Jacob's prior attempt with Heine martial music, it probably will fall on deaf ears."
"I was already one step ahead of you and it has been taken care of, Roebuck." Minoso grinned, using the wit to hide the quality of his deck. "Starting today, Junior is prohibited from having access to any record players and radios for three months time and he better get used to the Christmas music."
"Thank God as otherwise somehow we would have to raise Polonsky from the dead and have him ground his boy." Sullivan muttered, not expecting that his son turned out to be a handful. The First Sergeant took a quick glance at his cards and noted that for Texas Hold'em he was decent but hoped that neither Frank nor Roe had a superior hand. "But speaking of Jacob, what about the matter with PFC Meyer, sir?"
"While I don't know the full details as of yet, I'm leaning towards the corrupt SIS agent theory." Frank sighed. "Maybe I should've forced Agent Shan to look elsewhere for patsies or threaten to shoot him on the spot."
"Well, what happened happened and we can only plan for the future, sir." Roebuck reasoned as he drew one from the deck.
"True yet it's precarious and this matter wouldn't be good for unit morale."
"Thankfully everyone in this room is disciplined enough to prevent word from leaking out about this incident." Sullivan upheld as only a few personnel have been debriefed about and made aware of the occurrence: namely Frank, Stephen, Jack, Roebuck, and Tom himself. "I don't like keeping this under wraps myself, especially from the men, but justice will be coming to those responsible once they're discovered and I'm sure the men would be eager for it if they knew what occurred."
"Of course, you're forgetting about me." The Captain growled. "No one messes with a fellow Marine and escapes unscathed."
"Damn fucking straight." Roebuck agreed sentimentally. "Mess with one Devil Dog, you mess with the entire Corps." The Gunnery Sergeant laid down his deck and grinned victoriously "Royal Flush by the way."
"Dammit!" The Captain cursed at the E-7. "And I thought my Full House was going to teach you humility, Roe."
"How did you manage to get a Royal Flush? Frank beat you twice before this."
"Guess I was lucky today." Roebuck shrugged at the E-8 and his old brother-in-arms from back on Makin, Pelieu, Tarawa, and even Okinawa. "Doesn't hurt that Frank was with Willy, Jimmy, and Tommy on the other side of Makin."
"Very funny, Roe." Minoso deadpanned at the humor which pretended that he wasn't within literal earshot. "But we're all in the same Company now, not to mention that you're speaking to the commanding officer of the company or have you forgotten?"
"And Tom happens to be the Company First Sergeant, sir." Roebuck fired back.
"Fair point. I'll give you that, Roe." Frank relented, the former Gunnery Sergeant and Mustang officer knew that NCOs were the backbone of the armed forces.
Shaking his head in disbelief at the entire occurrence, Tom retrieved his wallet to pay the winner as did Frank.
U Thant - 3rd Secretary-General of the United Nations
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / Sunday, December 1st, 1968 - 10:00 / 10:00 AM
The Burmese pacifist still wished that it didn't came to this, that the nations of the world wouldn't have to suffer another war on a global scale and despite his misgivings the situation was out of his hands but thankfully, at least for now, the planet wasn't a battleground.
Still, Thant, despite being an enthusiastic follower of the flying saucer craze, yearned for the days when Earth just only speculated that life could theoretically exist elsewhere in the universe instead of having it confirmed to them during First Contact as the world seemed better off being ignorant of the known galactic civilizations warring with one another nearby.
Throughout this Cold War a majority of people across the globe believed that the great questions of humanity were ideological in nature. Both sides stressed international cooperation and agreed that humanity should be united under a single ideology, but disagreed what the ideology should be.
While it wasn't perfect antebellum of course, before the Sith Empire circumstantially forced them to join the intergalactic conflict as an ally of the Galactic Republic's, a detente was arguably close even if publicly the citizens were not aware of it. Premier of the Soviet Union Nikita Khrushchev and President of the United States John Kennedy were covertly on the path of peaceful coexistence between Capitalism and Communism despite the proxy wars between them.
Arguably if the push was stronger still, world peace would have been secured without needless bloodshed and the transformation to having a practicable united global government with no boundaries could have been feasible.
But then the 'Reawakening War', unofficially known internationally as the Second Chinese Civil War, erupted four years ago due to some of Mao's followers believing his death was not a heart condition as claimed by state media and it wasn't concluded until when coincidentally on the same day the Army of the Republic of Vietnam raised the yellow and red South Vietnamese banner on top of the Presidential Palace in what was then Hanoi before being renamed Diem City.
And further complicating matters was that during both the Reawakening War and Second Indochina War, the Soviet counter-intelligence agency SMERSH went rogue to support the Hanoi government and the Maoists forces in China due to believing war with the west was inemiant, not to mention in their mind Khrushchev was a non-believer in Communism, the rogues even went so far as to coordinate with the National Liberation Front of Southern Vietnam to instigate trouble within the American state of California, recruiting insurgents from Hippie communes and the campus of Berkeley to fight under the banner of the Weather Underground Organization, just to further their agenda of sparking World War Three so Communism could rule the world.
It was a mess to put it lightly and Thant still was shocked that live on-air Kennedy was the one who ceremoniously turned the key of the bulldozer which demolished People's Park instead of Governor Reagan before officially announcing the complete disaccreditation of the institution and all scholarships having to be completely restituted by former students of the university. Even former faculty were hard pressed to find employment from what the Secretary-General remembered about the whole occurrence.
But now, thanks to the geopolitical shift and new opportunities presented on a universal level, the war against the Sith Empire was inadvertently and unofficially becoming a test and competition of who will be known throughout the neighboring galaxy as the exemplar of hope when the Republic faltered and hence a continuation of the Cold War on Earth despite the common enemy.
"If only I could turn back the clock. World Peace seemed to have been within reach only for these occurrences to take it away from us." Thant lamented when he heard a knock.
"Sir? Master Bestros of the Jedi Order is here." An aide announced.
Thant smiled as he remembered his first exposure to the telekinetic abilities of the Jedi during a trip to Tython and being a devout follower of Buddhism, he found the Force to be fascinatingly similar to his faith, nevermind the Shaolin Monks that accompanied him and Chairman Liu Shaoqi as their official bodyguards during the diplomatic visit, becoming a symbolic moment which demonstrated the possible closer friendship between Earth and the Jedi Order.
"It's good to see you again, Master Bestros."
"Please call me, Shol." The Jedi politely insisted. "There's no need for formalities among friends."
"Well, Shol, would you like any refreshments? Tea perhaps? Ever since I first arrived here in New York, I occasionally drink raspberry iced tea but it's not the same as brewed herbal from home."
"Perhaps another time." Bestros refused politely. "So, U, as much as I wish this to be a social visit, the Order was thinking about a joint venture between the AgriCorps and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations."
Thant nodded, believing it to be an excellent proposition based on the similar objectives between the two organizations, particularly ending hunger. "The proposal sounds like an excellent opportunity after the war."
"Ending hunger everywhere is a noble cause afterall." Bestros agreed.
"There's also something you should be made aware of, Shol." The Secretary-General was about to mention the neoteric irritation when the Jedi cut him off.
"If it's about the recruitment matter, the Grandmaster has already advised the Chancellor to halt it immediately even though she and the Supreme Commander weren't aware that this was occurring behind their backs." Shol mollified. "This world isn't a member of the Galactic Republic and there are a few court martials on Coruscant to be held over this affair."
"That is appreciated as I was getting hounded about it for months and so was the Ambassador."
"Speaking of the Ambassador, where is Krasul? I'd thought he would be here." The Miraluka wondered, being the one of the only prescence on this world he could 'see' other than other beings from Republic space and the ships, which caused the Jedi to rely on following his escort and adapt, it was therefore easy for him to quickly notice that the Cathar wasn't here.
"In Mexico, he's on vacation." Thant revealed as he began fidgeting nervously, remembering the outlandish gaffes the talking catlike Senator made from time to time. "He's, well, having a great time and I think he earned it after the hard work for bringing us together diplomatically."
"Right." Shol kept his face calm but it was unfortunately a hit or miss when it came to Krasul intermingling with the geopolitical atmosphere on the complex world known as Earth yet the Supreme Chancellor herself believed he was competent for the position. "Well I'll contact him by holo later tonight in that case."
Zorin Krasul - Senator of Anaxes and Galactic Republic Ambassador to Earth
Cancún, Benito Juárez, Quintana Roo, United Mexican States, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / Sunday, December 1st, 1968 - 10:00 / 10:00 AM
"Ah, you know, dear, margaritas are not so bad." Ondia purr at her husband affectionately after setting down the drink.
"Yeah, it's almost as if it's natural for the climate and atmosphere."
Nearby, a mariachi band struck up 'La Cucaracha' as the couple and other beachgoers enjoyed the clear, sunny day to enjoy the oceanfront waves or simply tan under the radiance.
"Ah, remind me to see if we can import mariachi music after the war." Zorin sighed, feeling content with the discovery and even daily findings about this world.
"Riv and Valdon also enjoy their time here, even if from time to time our rascals get mistaken for house cats."
"Remember the trip to The Indianapolis Zoo?" Zorin mentioned with a snicker."The felinologists and zookeepers were flabbergasted by our presence."
"Oh, I remember and you got jealous of that tiger."
The Ambassador snarled at the reminder of the exhibit male trying to attract his mate. "It's justifiable to be protective in all fairness."
"I wasn't interested anyways. Cathar mate for life afterall."
"That we do." The husband and father of two boys laughed before gripping at a different matter.
"The only thing though is that those Chilaquiles are too greasy for my taste buds and they need to lighten up on the beans."
The mariachi band immediately halted their brass instruments and any locals who just happened to be walking nearby paused mid-step to glare at the foreign feline who derided one of the traditional dishes, even young children were crying in response to the criticism by the outsider from another planet.
"You might've spoken too loud, hon." Ondia whispered.
Zorin sat up from his beach towel and removed his sunglasses to glance around before noticing the dirty looks amongst the bystanders were being specifically directed at him. "Kriff. Actually, I might've outdone myself this time."
Zay Sneralda - Galactic News Network
Galactic News Network Building - Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / Sunday, December 1st, 1968 - 10:00 / 10:00 AM
"Good morning, this is Zay Sneralda with GNN." The brown-haired celebrity anchorwoman greeted the viewers tuning in for the broadcast. "Our top story today is the recent transfer of Polar Bears to the Galactic Zoo after significant negotiations between Canada, the United Nations, and representatives of the zoo to permit the exportation of the non-sentient beings to Coruscant, becoming the first species from Earth to be hosted in the Galaxy."
Footage of the fearsome white-furred carnivorous creatures being placed into the enclosure was shown with one of the bears lunging at a Nautolan keeper but the boar was sedated before he was able to do harm.
"Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau of Canada was outvoted overwhelmingly on the matter by parliament as his defense of preserving Canadian wildlife was seen as hypocritical when he accepted Pandas from China." The hostess reported.
"And what's being referred to as the 'Sahel Drought' inflicting a few nation-states of Earth on the African continent is being managed as we speak. The Jedi Order and Republic military personnel have distributed aid packages and there are ongoing talks with local leaders about potential solutions to prevent another such drought from occurring." Zay noted. "In other news, Chancellor Saresh turned down giving Colonel Gaddafi of Libya a medal after learning about the complete occurrence behind the disaster."
"Finally, later tonight our panel will be discussing the question of whether the Sith Empire is gradually showing signs of inemiant collapse or if we are on the verge of another stalemate."
Lance Corporal Nicole "Nikki" Cameron - Communications Analyst, Women's Marines, United States Marine Corps
National Mall, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 11:45 / 11:45 AM
"There certainly have been a few changes these past few months." Nicole sighed as she, Natalie, Ashley, and Amy walked around the square, the four sisters deciding to use their ration books at the shopping center due to the uncertainty of wartime preference and to also visit the Smithsonian. "It's too quiet with most of the men gone."
"Well, Nikki, at least the brightside is that we're not fighting World War Three." Natalie shrugged as if the threat of nuclear holocaust wasn't worrisome. "But I agree that it feels quiet without dad, our brothers, Uncle Paul, and even our Kraut cousin around."
"I never thought Jake would volunteer for the Raiders yet dad and Uncle Steve did the same thing after getting strafed by Japanese Zeros at Pearl Harbor." Nicole stated. "Still, it's obviously not normal."
"It's not the same without Tony here either." Amy lamented at her husband being far away.
"James as well." Ash agreed, her Women's Army Corps uniform being a sharp contrast to Nicole's and Natalie's WM uniforms. "The only young men left really are just those assigned to the Military District of Washington. DC hasn't been this fortified since the American Civil War."
"Or those from the Republic." Natalie groaned. "They're surprisingly rude for aliens." The light blonde-haired Second Lieutenant then corrected herself as it wasn't equitable to label all the travelers as know-it-alls and not everyone from the Republic had been the same, if anything there had been cases where they had been the ones coming off as rude. "Well, the ones with the big mouths and bluster anyways."
"Yeah… Because they think they're enlightened or are superior while we're somehow ignorant savages." Amy 'analyzed' while rolling her eyes at the bigot's egoistical arrogance. "Don't get me started on some of those ridiculous hairstyles and to think that I had a low opinion of the beehives."
"Not to mention that I thought Hippies were bad with hair but what's with the half-shaved heads and bewildering, knotty cinnamon rolls?" Ash wondered. "It's a little peculiar."
"I still remember one of them was hounding me relentlessly and trying to recruit me into the Republic Army for a few days." Nicole snorted, still denying the occurrence. "Commandant Puller himself led him away and had a chat."
"You saw Chesty Puller in person? The Chesty Puller?"
"For a few seconds before he chewed the pestering Zabrak out." The carrot top shrugged as if it wasn't something to brag about despite meeting an icon just as legendary and renown as his second cousin George S. Patton. "To date, the Republic has been unsuccessful in recruiting on Earth, at least as far as I know. The only recourse I can think of, and obviously the recruiters are not that stupid, would be using press-gangs."
"Heh, I see the Commandant occasionally at the office." Ash chuckled, attempting to change the subject away from the uncomfortably irreconcilable values dissonance between the Galactic Republic and parts of Earth, chiefly the Western World when it came to the accepted consensus perpetuated by even the Silent Majority despite in recent memory the upheaval inflicted nationally from the now petering counterculture with even the residual hippies openly day by day abjuring their incongruous crusade and capitulating to the mainstream.
"Of course, we all call you 'Miss Pentagon' for a reason, Ash." Natalie teased. "You literally work next to the Army Chief of Staff's office afterall."
"When will you stop making fun of me working at the Pentagon or me literally being near General Westmoreland?" Ash wondered. "I've been posted there for over three years now and until I receive official transfer orders, four."
"As soon as you stop working there and transfer to a new post."
Ash moaned in agony. "It's not funny! I risked my career because of Jake when he asked for that small favor of his and before then I only accepted the spot because it was the one handed to me by the Army."
"Yeah, we know. That's exactly why we don't ask you for favors, Miss Pentagon."
Ashley gave her three sisters ice cold daggers from her brown eyes. "Will you please stop?"
"Nope and that's because we care about you, sis."
"Well, moving on, I never thought Goldwater was going to pull through." Natalie admitted. "Of course, we all wanted him in the Oval Office over Johnson."
"The New Deal was a sham and so is Kennedy's New Frontier. I'm just grateful that the majority of the American people finally woke up and rejected the proposed Great Society scheme outright, a literal case of 'fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me'."
"Not to mention corruption. He and Lady Bird, even George Parr, the so-called Duke of Duval, will probably all be caged up for the rest of their lives courtesy of the repugnant scandal with Bobby Baker."
"Still, Thanksgiving was depressing and so will Christmas."
"By the way, remember the day when Kennedy and Reagan announced the closure of Berkeley as a public university?" Amy mentioned, her tone was trying to change the subject to something slightly more pleasant.
"Oh, that was a blast!" Natalie laughed, reminiscing the glorious day. "Rumor has it when Krasul watched the news last year showing the President turning the key, his fur sprang up in shock but regardless Fort Yates is a fitting name for the repurposed complex."
"I would be more curious about how many Hippies decided to bathe and head to the nearest barbershop for a proper trim afterwards." Nicole snickered, still amused by the short yet spectacularly entertaining event. "Though perhaps Tailgunner nailed some fellow travelers en route as well."
University of California, Berkeley - Berkeley, Alameda County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
September 14th, 1967 - 4:05 PM
"Good evening, my fellow Americans." The former actor and current Governor of California, Ronald Wilson Reagan, greeted those who decided to tune in for the historic ceremony. "It is my honor to announce that the Campus of Berkeley will be shuttered and the defunct public university will be transferred to the Department of the Army as a research facility with the former dorms being repurposed as barracks and the so-called People's Park will be demolished for the placement of Nike missiles. Mister President?"
Kennedy nodded at Reagan cordially as he stepped up to the podium in preparation of addressing the entire nation on the fate of the now infamous public institution known as the University of California, Berkeley.
"It is with remorse that by unforeseen and unforgivable circumstances I'll be participating in the decommissioning of a previously fine campus. What has transpired here within the past three years have been repugnant and unbecoming of youth who were on the path of having bright futures ahead of them. They've wasted fine opportunities of employment, they've ruined chances of finding adventure in potentially aiding our newfound friends with research if they so-choose, but evidently instead of focusing on their studies, they saw their birthplace, the United States of America, as somehow complacent in the ills of Earth. I say no more!"
With the cameras following his steps on cue, the current President of the United States shook the hand of the foreman standing beside a bulldozer that will demolish People's Park and the palm of the operator.
With the driver focusing on the clutch, Kennedy then turned the key on the ignition and started the bulldozer, grinning as the destruction of the pathetic park littered with garbage around the trees and shrubs was inemiant.
Still grinning satisfactory, Jack glanced back at the cameras as the demolition commenced, uprooting the littered jungle to make way for better usage as a site of anti-air missiles to fend off Soviet strategic bombers carrying nuclear weapons.
"I would like to thank Mister Reagan once more for his kind invitation and the Patriots across this land for standing firm against those who abhor our flag of liberty. Seven years ago, when I utter the words 'Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country', I meant it sincerely from my heart but as we've regrettably seen, these brats that were previously throwing bricks at Law Enforcement in the name of disorderly and violent protest here on this very ground had before us escalated into openly colluding with the Communists of Hanoi. As defined by the Constitution: 'Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort', which these morons and bums ignorantly forgot to read before hosting enemy guerrillas on American soil." John then cracked a smile though knowing that the parents of the former students will be enraged by the announcement. "By the way, folks, the scholarships for those formerly attending this campus will have to be restituted with no exemptions being granted. Afterall, no one is above the law."
Present...
"That's probably one of the good things Kennedy has done for this nation." Amy noted. "Other than making sure skin-color isn't a barrier and getting us to the moon of course."
"To be fair, it was the California State Legislature who voted to officially transfer the complex to the Department of Defense with Reagan signing the measure." Ash grinned proudly, not remorseful for the eminent domain in this specific circumstance. "Justice was served."
Nicole instinctively sighed in relief, feeling that despite the current conflict in outer space, the insanity of the past four years was finally turning around. "Bye bye Hippies. The world is better off without your ne'er-do-well annoyances and therefore won't be mourned."
Roger H. Sterling, Junior - Chief Executive Officer of the advertising firm Sterling Cooper & Partners
Sterling Cooper & Partners - Madison Avenue, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 11:45 / 11:45 AM
The head of the advertising firm sighed at the offer, not because of the compensation he was willing to pay but the content he wished to have showcased on billboards, in newspapers, a page in magazines, and the television screens.
"Respectfully, Mister Sacni, I don't think it would be wise to have this be advertised."
"Why not?"
"Well, you see, for one. there's an unspoken rule on decency, especially if it's showing a product. For another, we don't openly advertise the use of narcotics, especially if they're illicit and the FDA hasn't ruled on spice as of yet. Hell, even when I made that anti-legalization of marijuana poster when Lowell Eggemeier began protesting against the Controlled Substances Act of 1965, folks mistakenly thought that it was for it due to showing the damn weed."
"Yet there's advertising with scantily clad women and openly smoking cigarettes." The potential client from Rendili countered. "How are they different?"
"You probably have a fair point there." Sterling muttered, not denying the contradiction. "Still, the morality committee would be screaming for my neck in the verbal sense before advocating for my head to be placed on a pike if I don't recant. I'm sorry but I got to reject this for the sake of remaining in business."
"I understand." The client tone, however, painted to one of exasperation, as if this wasn't his first rejection by an agency in this very locality, makes only sense with the thousands of different worlds out there in the now known galaxy. "Still was pleasure doing business with you regardless."
"You as well, sir but the door is open once the Food and Drug Administration determines medical use."
Doctor Glenn Horowitz - Psychiatrist
Oakwood Psychiatric Hospital - Dearborn, Wayne County, Michigan, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 11:45 / 11: 45 AM
"Whose this?" The psychiatrist glanced at his board and gasped when he saw the name of the occupant for Room 1968. "Robert Strange McNamara!? The President of Ford!? Wasn't he also Johnson's running mate?"
"The very same." A nurse nearby acknowledged. "He was brought in just a week ago after suffering a mental breakdown at the office and for some reason he can't stop incessantly making mathematical calculations. The patient even counts how much food he eats, how much water he drinks, and how many pills he takes. Everything he sees currently is just a number to him."
Glenn glanced wearily into the ward to check on the patient's welfare and the professional overheard McNamara making random, incoherent calculations, causing him to realize that the orderly wasn't joking about the statistician's current mental state.
"Two plus two equal four." The President of the Ford Motor Company rambled while clothed in a straight jacket as a precaution to prevent self harm, intentional or otherwise. "E equals MC squared, ha-ha-ha, we could've won the election, ha-ha-ha, the computer proved Johnson had the votes! Statistics don't lie, ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! We would have won Vietnam sooner as well if, as much I hate to admit it, the damn Commie Oswald nailed Jack with three rounds that fine November day, and it's feasible to shoot three bullets in eight seconds or less with a Carcano per the math, but regardless Johnson would've won it, he would've! Hell, no one can withstand the might of the American military as statistics don't lie, ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! STATISTICS DON'T LIE!"
'As much as I hate diagnosing conditions early, he seems to be a lost cause.' Horowitz surmised based on prior experience. 'Still, the chaos from the Flower Children and whatnot have stressed us all so I can understand why he snapped yet then again he's still suffering a fate worse than death.'
John Fitzgerald Kennedy - 36th President of the United States [Outgoing]
The Oval Office - The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 11:45 / 11:45 AM
"Well, at least the brightside is that one of my good close friends emerged victorious over my enemy." John quipped lightheartedly to his Secretary of State about Goldwater winning the race over Lyndon and despite their ideological differences, it wasn't uncommon for the Brahmin and Arizonian to be seen together cracking quips or even seeking each other for advice, not to mention three years ago, Jack even managed to ride in a plane flown personally by Barry over the Secret Service's objections due to memories of President Dewey's fatal flight in Feburary of 1953 and the incident caused a stir in the press but the two friends laughed it off since it wasn't as if the President was escaping from Washington per se, he and the Senator who enjoyed flying aircraft as a hobby just needed a break from politics for a time, hence the impronto excursion. "The bad news is of course Barry is more Conservative than I and the media just enjoys portraying me as the man, the moderate who failed to control wild adolescents breaking curfew, not to mention refusing to bathe and shave. I'm not a Liberal like Hubert Humphrey nor am I George McGovern."
"It still has been a pleasure serving you for your two terms even if it became chaotic in the past four, sir."
"I just hate being associated with those ungrateful brats who refused to trim their hair, carried signs just to spite the unity of the nation, and openly smoked marijuana in full defiance of every principle Americans stand for." Kennedy lamented as he gazed out of the Oval Office window, disappointed by what he felt was a complete betrayal on a personal level and by now the former skipper of the PT-109 was absolutely disgusted that he even believed that the future would have been bright courtesy of those bongos-banging ilk, almost as if he inadvertently led them astray or his words were taken completely out of context. Either way, Hippies were not what he envisioned for the nation when he gave his inaugural address during his first term and his second term somehow went straight to hell domestically, making him wish that he could just go back to that fateful day in Dallas five years ago and let the nation mourn him for who he was as an individual, not some closeted mastermind of spreading socialism that the John Birch Society accused him of being. "They took my words completely out of context such as Vietnam. Ask not what their country can do for them fell on deaf ears."
Dean Rusk saw the depressed mood of the outgoing President and decided to list the notable accomplishments of his time in office as a counterweight. "Well, at least those brats were demographically in the minority anyway and their supposed movement is about extinct yet you still got the Civil Rights Act of '64 signed into law, you oversaw the final end of segregation across the nation, and even got men to the moon as you vowed in your Address at Rice University only for us to encounter extraterrestrials."
"But now because of First Contact our nation is embroiled in a new conflict, the likes of which makes the two world wars seemingly miniscule in scale. I have no doubt about Barry when it comes to military decision making but I wonder if his idealism of chipping away Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal measures will succeed or how he would cooperate with the United Nations. To be fair, the Galactic Republic could be labelled as a bloated bureaucratic supergovernment if he so chooses."
"That question remains to be seen." Dean admitted. "And speaking of the United Nations, I'm not sure what to think about Goldwater's proposed appointment of Ronald Reagan as the next Ambassador to the United Nations. No doubt North Korea would hypocritically point at him over his actions at Berkeley but so far the Gipper is content with being Governor of the Golden State."
"You really want me to have a headache for my last Christmas as President, especially with the whole Weathermen affair on my mind, don't you?" Kennedy groaned as he maneuvered the swivel chair and reached for his glass of whiskey which was sitting on the desk, the Brahmin was still agitated with the entire fiasco committed by those filthy traitors who were also openly aided by the enemy guerrillas from Indochina.
Kennedy still couldn't believe that the Viet Cong were daring enough to risk being on American soil and it turned out that per the FBI investigation report compiled by Director John Edgar Hoover they had assistance from a certain Soviet counterintelligence agency which went rogue, SMERSH, in smuggling the suicidal Communist diehards onto shore, not to mention acting behind the scenes, but as far as the public knew, officially it was those damn Viet-Cong bastards themselves who managed to bring the war home to the streets of America and them alone, becoming the first enemy combatants on American soil since the War of 1812 and even the Japanese incursion of the Aleutian Islands back in 1942 though Alaska was only a territory and not a state at the time in regards to the latter.
"No, Jack, it wasn't my intention."
John glared at the Secretary of State, not sure if to believe him or not despite his loyalty and service in the administration. "Eight years behind this desk, Dean, eight long years. And I'm rated only slightly better than both Herbert Hoover and Harry Truman due to those lazy-assed naive bums and their riots in my hellish second-term. It's true with the old saying: 'Being President is a thankless job'."
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS News
CBS Broadcast Center - 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:30 / 6:30 PM
"Good evening, this is Walter Cronkite reporting." The news anchor introduced the nightly program he hosted as it aired across the nation. "To start off, it has been officially determined by the Food and Drug Administration that what the rest of the galaxy refers to as spice is as dangerous as marijuana and heroin, and therefore serves no medical purpose. The Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs will be enforcing the Controlled Substance Act and those smuggling spice will be prosecuted per the internationally agreed Quarantine Policy."
"On the war front, while it still is locked in an vicious stalemate, the Republic has reported that the situation is stabilizing and the Empire is gradually being pushed onto the defensive."
Cronkite recently was getting curious about the exact situation on the ground which was why after some convincing, CBS will be sending the acclaimed newscaster to report in-person once the planned trip to the galaxy and thus report on the conflict firsthand when it was approved by both the United States military and the Galactic Republic bureaucracy.
"In related news, word has been received that Libyan forces under the command of vocal Anti-American advocate Colonel Muammar Gaddafi were slaughtered after information forwarded to him by our Defense Intelligence Agency was ignored even when it was verified by the Republic's Strategic Information Service and Soviet's Main Intelligence Directorate. Gaddafi himself was personally decapitated by the Sith leading the attack, one who was interviewed on this very program: Darth Avarice."
Cronkite was expressionless when he reported the Libyan's demise but mentally he was still stunned by the graphic details around it, at least the bits that weren't blotted out in the name of National Security. Gaddafi was the person who seemed likely to launch a coup d'etat if he was capable but evidently the assumption was wrong if he just dismissed warnings and through hubris got himself killed.
"Finally, tonight, it is rumored but not yet confirmed that executives of The Walt Disney Company are frantic by the potential success of this film being developed by Gene Roddenberry and an upcoming director by the name of George Lucas. To quote the supposed utterance by Mister Tatum, the current President of the Company: 'While it is too early to tell, if Star Wars will be a hit, and a box-office shattering hit that it could very well be, we might have to shutter our doors for the final time as kids would rather see lasers and space wizards they're hearing about than animated animals these days."
"And that's the way it is."
Donn B. Tatum - President of The Walt Disney Company
Tatum Residence - Pacific Palisades, City of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
"How in the hell did Walter Cronkite get that rant, Card!?" Donn hollered in the phone, incensed by the broadcast. "That was during a private board meeting and no one interrupted us."
"Obviously there has been a leak." Esmond Cardon 'Card' Walker theorized from the other end of the line. "So how are we going to deal with this?"
"After the press conference I scheduled to dispute this 'rumor' I'll be meeting with our dear friend Al and see if he can aid us in finding this ungrateful mole, perhaps see if he can whack Roddenberry and Lucas while at it just to make the potential problem disappear."
"Scarface? You can't be serious, Donn! Is that what Walt would want?"
"I'm usually not the paranoid type but if that son-of-a-bitch is willing to forward unauthorized quotes to the media, then surely that rat is also giving away trade secrets." Tatum reasoned. "So, yes, I'm bargaining with Scarface and the Syndicate."
"I'll keep my mouth shut this once and only this once but I still think you're making a deal with the devil. Hell, if the Untouchables and Feds couldn't end his reign back during Prohibition, if the Federal Government was embarrassed after Al and his lawyer proved that he in fact actually did pay his taxes only for Uncle Sam to not accept the returns in court, if he to this very day managed to avoid the slammer, then obviously he'll outwit you and give you the garbage end of the deal."
"That's all I ask, Card. Have a nice night." The head of the company hung up the landline and reflected on the upcoming meeting with the infamous mobster, the once ruthless boss of the Chicago Outfit who has evolved into becoming the de facto head of 'The Commission' and therefore the undisputed Godfather of the entire Italian-American Mafia.
'At least it's not Bugs Moron, those two goodfellas have been feuding for years even if it's more covert and less of the brazen bravado from the Twenties nowadays.' Donn reflected nervously, now holding regrets but there was no backing out from the arrangements. 'Desperate times call for desperate measures after all.'
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
"I'll be darn, there are 'High Galactic' editions of books about Revan." Sam declared as he sat the plastic shopping bag down. "Jake? You there? Earth to Jake?"
"Huh?" The Marine gazed up from his book and noticed the store-bought goods. "Oh, sorry, you needed something, Sam?"
"You are fixated on that book, aren't you?"
"They still are more awesome than puny Templars." Jake grinned.
"Alright, alright, the Teutonic Order could've mauled and completely annihilated the Knights Templars on the battlefield, I get it as they clearly were the superior militaristic order during the Crusades. Now, please kindly bookmark that page you're on and start reading these biographies about Revan."
"Killjoy." Jake muttered as he dogeared his current page about the exploits of Martin von Golin, an individual who made Simo Hähya, Mad Jack Churchill, Peter Ortiz, and Larry Thorne combined all appear to be only mere amateurs, thereby making the Pagan Hunter one of the most feared men in history. After closing his book, Meyer reluctantly hopped off of his rack and retrieved one of the six biographies on Revan.
"Okay, this is a little confusing." Sam brought up as he read the background. "The Republic told us that they haven't fought the Sith in over one thousand years."
"The 'True' Sith, the Purebloods with the redskin they haven't seen since the Great Hyperspace War, until up around when the Great Galactic War broke out." Jake corrected. "I guess this Empire is supposed to be an imitation of sorts?"
"That's probably it." The paratrooper conceded before seeing the clarification. "In fact, this paragraph mentioned Revan's order being inspired by the teachings of the actual Sith and there's also this Star Forge that mass produced thousands of warships, battle droids, and... Wait a minute, wasn't that was the stuff being put into those 'volunteers' for the so-called 'Infinite Army'?"
"A little crazy and mind-boggling but they're cultists to be fair. Still, that's like putting pieces from a tractor, combine, and pick-up inside you. No sane person would put machinery inside their bodies."
"The rest of the universe doesn't make logical sense at times." Westbrook groaned as he continued reading and his eyes widened in surprise. "Heh, the Republic Military used to be competent on the battlefield even if they still stood out wearing rainbowish uniforms of yellow, red, and black plus utilized walkers though not the only type of vehicle they used."
"Didn't you buy a book about warfare by chance?"
"You know I did."
"Not only we'll learn about Revan, we'll also see why warfare regressed among our allies." Jake smiled. "I'm getting sick and tired of having conflicting orders being issued as the chain of command concept somehow got broken down."
"Their entire military could use an overhaul in addition to reforms."
"By the way, I gave the rundown to Uncle Jack and Steve."
Sam knew that it was about the occurrences courtesy of the cult, causing the paratrooper to press for additional information about the exact rundown. "And…?"
"They're understandably skeptical. Uncle Jack thinks it was actually Imperials who tried to silence us while Uncle Steve thought we ran into some new group of space mobsters. They were debating it after I left."
"That sounds like them alright." Samuel groaned. "And of course your old man is leaning towards the rotten, corrupt spy tale as handed down to him. This is going to be much harder than I thought."
"Maybe, maybe not but with the downtime due to Patton planning a strategy, just like with Thanksgiving I'm sure this Christmas might be interesting."
George Walton Lucas, Junior - Taking the gradual steps of producing " Star Wars "
Roddenberry residence - Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
"You know, at times I wished the Indiana Jones interview would've panned out." George lamented as he began harboring some doubts over the entire concept, wondering if this venture would even be profitable. "Archeology at times sounds more exciting than space wizards."
"I have confidence in this venture as otherwise I wouldn't have invested in it." Gene asserted reassuringly as it was from his opinion the truth.
"Gee, thanks."
"Look, we're in this together and I have confidence that this will be a hit at the box office, George." The creator of Star Trek reiterated. "Okay, maybe the Force is at times derided as the 'Farce', especially by Billy Graham and Jerry Falwell, but we shouldn't let that hold us back. People are superstitious by nature and if we finally have confirmation of life existing beyond Earth, then reasonably Sasquatch could be confirmed next."
"Hey, now that doesn't sound like a bad idea!" Lucas beamed as he heard a suggestion. "Maybe after this, we can find Sasquatch."
"One step at a time, George." Sailer advised, butting in. "One step at a time. We barely even started formatting Star Wars."
Lucas nodded at the advice as creating a film, especially a successful one, couldn't be rushed. "Well, that's funny as we won the bid with the Department of Defense." The aspiring actor waved the Western Union telegram showing the contract for 'Lucasfilms'.
"William Shatner is doing the voiceover of course." Gene grinned.
"Contract for what, exactly?" Sailer wondered. "I didn't hear anything about it."
"Some propaganda film to exaggerate the capabilities of the F-104 Starfighter." Gene summarized with a shrug.
"But those aren't space capable, not to mention the name was a coincidence before we even knew anything about our neighbors." The scriptwriter pointed out.
"I believe that the United States Air Force is aware." George muttered as he read the contents and handed it to Sailer.
"Ha! A rather fitting red herring! No wonder Shatner is doing his opening monologue to introduce the coincidentally named 'Starfighter'."
"In order for the charade to be successful, you need a 'Starfighter' afterall and the F-104 is available." Lucas smirked, still enjoying the humorous coincidences he has been discovering about the rest of the known universe with each passing day. "Say, just out of curiosity, Sailer, what you think about that statement by Cronkite?"
"If true, then it sounds like Disney might fall like a deck of cards." The script-writer chuckled. "Though perhaps we could buy them out as it would be a shameful waste otherwise."
"Buy Disney? Own the entire Kingdom of Magic?" Roddenberry snorted. "That sounds preposterous to put it lightly."
"I said could, not that it would necessarily happen."
"Touchè."
Corporal Hanzo Nilsson- Weapons Section, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia Light Infantry, 1st Commonwealth Division
Kuat City, Medical Station - Kuat, Kuat Sector, Kuat System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
'As much as I hate to admit it, the nurse is probably right.'
Hanzo figured after reflecting on the memories of his fight that had led him to be here. The injuries inflicted as a result of his brawl against the Sith were horrendous, to say the least, with not only just broken ribs but permanent scorching from the vibrant blade, he was lucky to have survived the encounter with the Sith brute and it had given him much to think about facing Sith in combat, making him think back to the Sith he had fought and killed during the Empire's attack on Tython, resulting in the scar he now bared on his left eye.
'I wonder how much of it has recovered by now?' Hanzo can swear that he could almost still hear the deafening ringing from the Empire's bombardment on the surface. Remembering how massive some of the explosions were, completely leveling landscapes around Tython, recalling that the Empire had apparently used a very rare mineral energy source called Isotope-5 in their bombing, it had explained the results he had seen for himself, it had felt and sounded like the world was gonna end as they did their best to stay in cover while there were other positions that had not been as lucky to have escaped the bombing.
Even as the Imperials were assaulting through the Republic's/Commonwealth's defenses and destroying their artillery targeting arrays, the Commonwealth/Republic soldiers/Jedi still continued to fight with everything they had, Hanzo was proud to have fought alongside with the brave men and women he had met on Tython. But he had seen just as many of those said brave soldiers killed during the ensuing battle.
Such as when his company had been tasked in trying to defend Kalikori Village from the Imperial Troopers advancement after they had taken out the artillery arrays. The Twi'leks had begun to evacuate, they had been lucky that the previous bombardment hadn't hit their village but it had been damn close to when they saw for themselves the craters and damages left behind in the surrounding area. Many of the adults had decided to take up arms to defend their home alongside the Canadians.
Just as they did against the horrid Flesh Raiders that had been the Commonwealth's main focus of an enemy throughout their stay on the Tython before the Sith Empire had shown up.
The Flesh Raiders had taken the opportunity to exact vengeance on their division by attacking remaining outposts that had been set up with Republic forces and Jedi to keep the Flesh Raiders at bay in their territories. They overran some while others desperately held the defense despite being severely outnumbered by the ferocious monsters, those that did pierce through had gone almost as far to the Jedi Temple, but the Imperials had ironically taken care of the threat for them when their forces crossed into each other's paths, intercepting the battle for Kalikori Village when the Imperials attention was drawn to the Flesh Raider hordes, it had given them just enough to recover for when the Empire's attention returned to them.
'Bought us some time but still… Too many died in that retreat.' Thought Hanzo grimly.
Alpha Company and the accompanying Jedi/Republic Troopers with Twi'lek volunteers, had held out as long as they could in their makeshift defensive positions, making the Empire pay for every step they took to reach them but the Imps had eventually overrun their positions through a vicious determination of their own and inflicting casualties as they got closer. They had been forced to pull back once Imperial Walkers had started tearing through their defenses, at this critical moment they didn't have the means to properly deal with them as a majority of the tanks were spread thin attempting to plug gaps across the line and the few air support were occupied with aerial threats, even munitions for the Recoilless Rifles were expended long before the final drive, the final relentless push by the enemy, if only they stockpiled more shells beforehand...
Being under heavy fire, Alpha Company and their allies with the volunteers had begun a fighting retreat, each taking their turn to give others the chance to pull back, and it had been just in time too for those that had made it out when they escaped.
Kalikori village was hit by the restarting orbital bombardment, destroying it almost completely and much of the rest of the once beautiful land. He can still remember just how heartbroken the Twi'lek survivors had looked as they watched their home burning and everything they had built for themselves, destroyed. But their spirit still had remained strong, they had been left inspired by the Canadians and their Republic/Jedi allies who gave their lives to ensure that many of them escaped and from what Hanzo was hearing, the retellings of their sacrifices were spreading across the galaxy.
He only hoped that the Twi'lek Pilgrims were doing alright but he had every bit of confidence that their new Matriarch, Ranna Tao'Ven, whom he recalled fondly as she really displayed her bravery and dedication to her people that day, he knew she will lead them well through their recovery like the rest of Tython.
Seeing that there weren't many other options to do besides watching the news on the holonet that he had already done, or gaze out in the window that showed the busy activity in Kuat City, it had been quite shocking to the Canadian to see the massive size of the city and the skies covered of hover cars or ships flying by, the sounds of the city ringing in his head, making him remembered how some of the bigger cities he had visited in America after Vietnam had been like when he traveled through, touring the sites on the way home.
'Or when I could, always was somebody looking for an opportunity to fight or stir up some shit.'
Still, he needed a way to tune out the busy noises from outside.
Hanzo grabbed his finicky datapad on the stand beside his bed, pressing the 'on' button to turn it on and waiting till the screen came up, typing in his password, and finally, he began reading where he had left off on the book about Revan he had found prior from the Battle that had taken above in the Kuat shipyards.
Hanzo hadn't needed to worry about reading Aurebesh anymore… Not as much anyway, while he still preferred to get his hands on the English copies he had been hearing about, he'd still had plenty of enough time back on Tython to pick up the learning and studying of it, and thankfully getting assistance from some Jedi he had befriended.
Like that of a stoic quiet Kaleesh Jedi Master named Cin Tykan, after the two had spar and started to gain some respect in each other, Hanzo didn't win it but he had still surprised Cin a few times during their spar by hand to hand. The two would later after getting the chance, had both started exchanging some knowledge of survival skills and tactics when they had started talking about their separated experiences in surviving and adapting in jungle/forest environments. Cin Tykan is considered to be the Jedi Order's best survivalist expert and the type of environments he would tell him had left Hanzo in astonishment of the kind of worlds there are out in the galaxy and what lay within their harsh environments, there had been plenty he warned Hanzo about should he ever found himself on any of those worlds Cin had visited. In the end, the two had found a quiet understanding with each other.
There was a female Rodian Jedi student named Krista who had taken up always following Hanzo around when he was at the Temple or when she kept trying to visit the barracks in her mass curiosity with the Earthlings and he had to admit Krista was much alike to what he figured of what having an energetic little sister must be like.
Serena the Twi'lek Jedi Knight he had fought alongside during the battle, had also befriended him though others like Alex had kept insisting it was more than just friendship between them to which it hadn't been, far as he knew anyway. While he couldn't deny that Serena was quite attractive and he had developed a strong respect for her, and he had found peace in talking with her as she showed him that she understood all too well about the hardships soldiers like him go through in war, sharing some details of what the Sacking of Coruscant had been like. But, he's with Marala now and he was perfectly happy with her as he hoped she is as well, he hoped to see her soon.
There had been others he met and befriended or at least he had respect with but it was the three who stood out the most.
Either way, he is now able to read and somewhat fairly write in Aurebesh though he wasn't perfect at it still. Though it had helped that he held a natural interest in learning languages, just as he does for history, philosophy, culture, and geography.
So far he can speak Ryl or Huttese fairly well since there were plenty of speakers of the languages on Tython that were alright with teaching him. He can somewhat understand Binary as he saw the necessity of it but he didn't consider himself an expert or fluent. Some Mando'a from what he could find on the Holonet and some words that Marala had told him but he was still learning and there was only so much that was available on the net, she had also taught him a little of Catharese. He had learned some Rodese from Krista, and Cin Tykan had taught him a bit of the Kaleesh's language but it was quite difficult as he found out how rare it is for outsiders to know the language.
From his current reading, the more Hanzo read on about the Prodigal Knight, the more that Hanzo was growing intrigued by him and even grew to have a respect for the complex Jedi.
It was clear to the Canadian that Revan was an orphan like himself, since there were barely any records of where he had come from, besides the fact he was found as a child in the Outer Rim, being born sometime around 341 BTC or three hundred forty-one years before the Treaty of Coruscant, he was eventually found and brought into the Jedi Order, leaving a mystery behind his true origins. When Revan became older, he grew interested in learning everything that he could, whatever it was history, knowledge, Force forms, Lightsaber combat, Revan had a thirst for knowledge and Hanzo was surprised to learn that Revan had several teachers that had made him wonder just how much of a prodigy he must have had been in his youth, given there were records detailing that he had even been studying rather uncommon Force powers during his time even as a Padawan.
He was advancing at an alarming rate, along with a great eagerness to learn if the old records were anything to go by.
And his masters were quite notable, judging from what he had read of them or what he could find on them as some of the records were apparently still missing, due to the Jedi Purge after the Jedi Civil War.
There was the Twi'lek Jedi Master Zhar Lestin, who was responsible for training some of the greatest Jedi duelists of their time like that of Revan and Malak, even serving as a Council member on the Dantooine Enclave during the Mandalorian Wars and the Jedi Civil War.
The Jedi Master Dorak, serving as one of the Order's historians or as he had learned back during his time wandering through the Jedi Temple on Tython, Jedi Chroniclers, who were dedicated in researching and preserving history, a goal that Hanzo respected and from what he had found on Master Dorak, it showed that he was among the most wise of the Jedi Order during his time considering who his students were besides that of Revan.
The Jedi Master Vandar Tokare, he was one of those little goblin-like aliens he had yet to find out their name, they always seem to be Force Wielders, he hasn't met one yet but from what he had heard from others who did, the conversation would be like the times he had to talk with the old Chinese man named Chong Cong. He ran a fishing shop in his hometown back in Vancouver Island, his thick accent and often mixing Mandarin in his broken English that made him hard to understand or easy to miss something, and sometimes, Hanzo had a feeling that Chong liked to confuse people with his riddles since it allowed him to scam some of his customers that would be very rude to him. But from what he had read on Vandar, he played quite the key role in the Jedi Civil War and his teachings are still being taught for a reason.
The Jedi Master Vrook Lamar, he had found a lot of notes and records by others on his brusque manner, stern demeanor, and appearing to be quite the hardliner Jedi but Hanzo could see why from his apparent experiences like that of his fallen students and there was plenty detailed about on his accomplishments that showed why he had sat on the High Jedi Council, though it didn't stop him from developing heavy criticisms against Vrook's view towards the Revanchists decision to enter in the Mandalorian Wars.
The Jedi Master Arren Kae, she certainly made his eyebrow raised at her history, like the affair she had with the famed Echani General Yusanis. He'll certainly say, finding one of the few images of her displayed her very beautiful appearance, he could see among the reasons why Yusanis fell for her and apparently even having a daughter together, Brianna who would play her own vital role in the rebuilding of the Jedi Order after the Dark Wars. Still, from what everything else he had found on Arren Kae, it showed she was an outstanding Jedi Master of her time despite being apparently among those blamed for the fall of Revan and Malak.
But there was someone else that had caught Hanzo's attention. For some reason, he could almost find nothing else about her besides some of her record notable actions and a handful of details, her apparent role in Revan's fall in the Mandalorian Wars as recorded by the High Jedi Council, her exile from the Jedi Order, her challenging views on the Force against the held views of the Jedi Order and even the Sith, and her role in a scheme that had almost saw the Jedi Order decimated.
But nothing else, nothing about her past or where she had come from, almost as if someone had intended on wiping her from history but he did know her name.
'Kreia...' Or at least that was what she had called herself, she had also been known as Darth Traya.
Whoever she had been... She was dangerous.
'Who are you Kriea?'
Still, going back to Revan, Hanzo couldn't help but grow intrigued with the more he stumbled onto Revan. The more he learned, the more questions he had about him and that of his connections. Whatever it was his origins, whoever his Master Kreia had been, his friendship with Alek who would later on become the feared and utter brutal Darth Malak, and the Jedi General known as Meetra Surik who would later go on and become more famously known as the Jedi Exile, whose tale just as interested and intrigued him as Revan's, given Meetra's role within the Mandalorian Wars that had been vital to the war effort and her astonishing ability to inspire her men to fight even at the impossible odds they had fought through, and even with great sacrifice, it had gained them great victories.
Some of them had shocked Hanzo of how she was able to accomplish this, much less survive them. He had started to see why the Mandalorians had grown to respect and even fear her for her leadership ability.
There was just so much he had stumbled on what began with him wanting answers and questions about where this whole war with the Sith began, he had instead found himself searching through record upon record that he could access in order to find what answers he could, some being like the adventures of the Jedi Padawan fugitive Zayne Carrick that honestly sounded like it could fill a whole series of novels.
"And yet still so little remains." He quietly mutters to himself.
It would seem much there was still much that had been unfortunately forgotten in the chaos of war. Though there was still much for Hanzo to find and what he did had allowed him to grow to have respect and fascination about Revan, such as his surprisingly military intelligence that bordered on a genius level that rivaled some of the greatest from Earth's own history. Despite the odds, Revan was at given what had remained of the Republic military that survived against the Mandalorian Neo-Crusader onslaught, was battled and tired and weary from the bloodshed. But it didn't stop him from doing the impossible by turning the tide of the war back to their favor by turning what had remained into a real fighting force that had finally driven the Mandalorians out from their conquered systems.
Hanzo would learn however about how Revan and Malak were able to accomplish this when he dived deeper into the details of the battles.
They had matched the Neo-Crusaders ruthlessness, brutality, and with a viciousness of their own, the tactics and the decisions that his Revanchists or as Hanzo preferred to call them, the 'Jedi Crusaders', that they were willing to do in order to accomplish victory had greatly surprised the Canadian, it was almost completely different compared to what he had come to learn and understand about most of the Jedi Order he has now become familiar with or at least heard of, beyond that of some others who have taken harder steps to achieve victory in these last few galactic wars he had also heard of like the deceased Jedi Battlemaster Jun Seros and Jedi Master Belth Allusis who died defending Bothawui, just to name some examples.
The extent of the casualties that had mounted on both the Galactic Republic and the Mandalorians was horrifying. Such as the Battle of Serroco, Battle of Duro, the Battle of Jaga's Cluster that ended in complete disaster, the Second Battle of Althir that saw an almost complete annihilation of Mandalorian ground forces. And the Battle of Onderon and Dxun that had very heavy casualties and as Hanzo dug further, he grimily discovered like in the other battles or actions taken during the Mandalorian Wars, several war-crimes were being committed during this campaign and it wasn't just Mandalorians who were committing some of these acts of killing unarmed prisoners, torture, rape, or so on of brutal acts, even being committed by Republic soldiers who had grown to truly hate the Mandalorians for everything they had done to them and the galaxy.
It had eerily reminded him of some of the worse battles that took part during World War II like the Pacific War or the Western Front, and many other wars that went further back in humanity's darker parts of history.
Or to what he had seen for himself during the Vietnam War.
Hanzo tried not to think of the memories as he focused onto back despite having the flashes of a burned village and the dug-out holes that were full of corpses of villagers went through his mind or the sounds of echoing bullets and shouting in the night that still rang in his mind. Recalling the details of what the fighting in the jungles was described as on Dxun by the Republic and few accounts by even Mandalorians that were either recovered in datapads or in few rare cases, Mandalorian veterans getting interviewed by brave few journalists that had to earn permission and had arrangements done to hear these veterans explained their perspective, it was from these accounts and others that showed just how truly astonishing it was that the Republic was able to pull off a victory. Those who'd survive the Mandalorians fierce ferocity and brutality, the hidden minefields, booby-traps that sounded all too familiar to the Canadian veteran, the anti-air turrets that shot down the Republic's transports, and many of those who had survived were half wiped out by the ferocious beasts that roamed the infamous 'Demon Moon'.
Though Revan's plan was complex as the losses continued to increase, it got the job done but had forced the requirement of sending hundreds of small-unit feints with the aim of probing the Mandalorian emplacements while deploying battle droids to try to take out the anti-air turrets that had continued to hammer and pin the Republic soldiers for days. Cut off from the main command and their numbers depleted to a quarter of their former strength, the responsibility of leading these units had fallen to Jedi General Meetra Surik who despite the terrible odds, had led a valiant yet desperate charge through enemy minefields to strike at the emplacements, but despite the bravery of the soldiers that had followed Meetra through the bloodshed. It had ultimately failed and the Mandalorians continued to refuse to give ground while the fighting would go on to take several months of continuous bloody assaults to dig the Mandalorians out of their fortifications.
Both sides were giving into true vicious behavior and his blood ran cold and a stirring rage built in when he read on some disturbing about the said war crimes being committed by both sides, the stumbling on a report of how Revan executed two ill-disciplined Republic soldiers for attempting to rape a injured Mandalorian scout, snapping their necks with the Force and the writing in the report clearly showed just how startled the Republic soldier must have been when he was witnessing this.
That was something truly unlike most Jedi he knew but looking at what the two soldiers did, it would've enraged any sane person and the anger he felt through him was bringing back a rush of memories from Vietnam, he tried his best to repress back.
Long before returning home, before this new war caused him to be among the first Canadians to enlist, Hanzo decided to cross the border to prove himself as at the time the Canadian Army was not engaged in the conflict but the United States Army on the other hand was gradually getting embroiled in a far off land in Southeast Asia hardly anyone knew about, a divided country known as 'Vietnam'.
Initially, he had been a part of an American infantry platoon of the United States Army when he first came to Vietnam and it wouldn't be until around New Year's Eve of 1964, in the midst of being mustered out in the northwest state of Washington due to his two-year enlistment expiring, that he had made the decision to go into the internationally renowned United States Marine Corps instead of continuing with the U.S. Army.
After an intensive grueling thirteen weeks of recruit training, what Leathernecks referred to as 'Boot Camp', at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego to earn the prestigious Eagle Globe and Anchor, Hanzo ended up with the 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, better known infamously as 'The Walking Dead' due to the horrific casualty rate the unit suffered during the fighting in Vietnam.
But as to why the memories came back, some of the reasons being due to what he had seen and experienced in his time with the platoon. Like when the platoon was on a subsequent patrol but instead had ended up finding three American Seabees of a Naval Construction Battalion that had been killed by booby traps, the sailors probably not knowing it was infested with them when they ditched the abandoned and rusting Bulldozer, their bodies were crudely just left to rot by the enemy.
The Marines had been set on edge and enraged at the state of the bodies, he felt the rage as everyone else did and they knew they would make the bastards responsible pay, tracing it all back to a village they suspected was a Viet Cong hideout.
But what soon happened in that village after they had found the weapons and supply cache and when they were given the order to torch the place...
''Hanzo ya gook! The fuck you doing? Ruining our fu-'' Hanzo hadn't let the older private finish his sentence when his fist had met the Private's nose, he set on the four with most rage he had ever felt in his life since the day he had learned his father was killed in Kapyong during the Korean War. He'd fought and beaten them even as they tried to gang up on him and landed in their hits, he still let his rage out on them and each hit they got in only made him more angrily while the Vietnamese farm girl was being tended by another Private who had been just as disgusted as Hanzo was.
He remembered how satisfying it felt when he kneed the most annoying member of his unit in the crotch, Junior, who would always complain and blame someone else for his problems, like when he had tried to fall asleep on watch duty before Hanzo decided to wake him up… By grabbing a large snake and dropping it on him that made him scream and curse out loudly that'd awoke everyone else up, he's Sergeant wasn't particularly happy about that.
After Junior fell to his knees in pain, Hanzo had elbowed him in the face for good measure but he was stopped by a different Sergeant who pulled him back hard and Hanzo can still remember how his head rang when he felt the parkerized aluminum buttplate of an M14 rifle striking his helmet.
"PRIVATE NILSSON! If you don't settle your ass down, I'll personally send you off to Hell myself with a bullet through your brain! Tayor, get them out of here. As for you 'animals', pick yourselves up!" He never did quite get along with him but then again, neither did he with his own Sergeant, not after what he had seen him do in that village.
'Let it go, let it go, don't go into those memories now!' But no matter how much he had tried chanting it, it couldn't stop the images of his memories going through his mind, memories that he had kept buried, but now being triggered awake.
"Damnit!" He placed the datapad down on his bed as he fought to try to ease his heart-rate as he did not want to alert the medical droids of his stress.
"Breath in and out, breath in and out." He quietly muttered as he kept his eyes closed and slowly he repeated his Karate breathing techniques, everything he had been taught by Sensei Aiba, the closest grandfather figure he ever had to back in his childhood. Exhaling in through his nose, letting the air build in his stomach before he slowly exhaled out and repeated, it took a few minutes before at last he was feeling more at ease with himself.
But he couldn't stop the words from appearing in his mind.
"You know, if we lost here in Vietnam... I think it might've driven us crazier. As a country I mean hehe, but we did win and we're going home victorious, get a hero's home welcome with parades like what I'm guessing that your father encountered after World War Two, I sure as hell did, not to mention join the national bashing of ungrateful Hippies alongside the Police and Brennan's Hard Hats to much applause, all thanks to men like us. Thank God for Uncle Sam and American pride." Hanzo still cursed his teammate's name after what he had prevented him from doing in that bar, after the war had been won.
He grabbed his datapad, thankful there wasn't any damage to it he went back into reading, but his thoughts still remained on Dxun.
The battle had ultimately been a Republic victory but it was with a great cost.
The Republic's casualties were horrifically ten times worse than the Mandalorian losses, apparently Mandalore the Ultimate had made the decision to order his forces to abandon the fortress but the walls continued to be mannered by few volunteers that had fought to the very end until at last, the Republic had overrun the headquarters with everything they had left, ruthlessly the Republic soldiers under Revan and Malak's command took no prisoners but in ways Hanzo frankly didn't blame them, it was an all too familiar story that many soldiers bare knowing or having done it themselves in middle of war.
In the Mandalorians case, they at least didn't try to pretend they didn't shoot at anybody or raise their hands in surrender just moments after killing their friends and expected to get off scot-free of their actions, they didn't. The Mandalorians that had remained alive took their executions with what pride and honor they had left, as they were either in line to be shot by firing squads or they were beheaded by Revan and Malak themselves, that would go unrevealed to the public until after the war, causing quite the outrage within the Galactic Senate and the Jedi Order.
But still, with the victory on Dxun and the later retaking of Onderon with the help of the Onderon resistance fighters and Iziz Royal Guardsmen led by General Vaklu, it had sent forward the next phase of the war.
There had been a great deal of hard decisions to even some immoral decisions that continued being committed throughout the rest of Mandalorian Wars as the war effort got more desperate, there were ones Hanzo didn't agree with on the moral level but he can still see why others were being made in the first place when he noted the death counts for the Republic were in the millions, they had needed every victory to survive and to keep their morale up but they had been done so with sacrifices, such as abandoning worlds to their doom fates if it meant deploying their defenders to important battlefronts.
He didn't like it, but he saw the ruthless practicality of it and he had seen for himself that on the battlefield, there wasn't much place for morals when you're doing your best to try to follow your training and instincts, plus avoiding getting shot or worse. But still, it didn't justify them knowing they were leaving those innocents to suffer cruel fates where their defenders could've made the difference, though the war would have still been continuing on much as he hated to admit it.
But then, the war had come to its end conclusion in the Battle of Malachor V.
There were still details that had been left blank due to what Hanzo could only imagine had been the secrecy around the secret weapon they had intended to use but from what he did gather was that Revan had chosen to split his forces into two fleets, one fleet given to General Surik that would lure and delay the Mandalorian fleet while Revan's fleet would ambush them outside the system. Revan knew the Mandalorians wouldn't resist the challenge and even when Malachor V was apparently forbidden to them, something that made him rather curious as he wondered of the world's largely unknown history. Still the Mandalorians came and unfortunately for the Republic, things didn't go as planned, however.
A Mandalorian scouting fleet under Cassus Fett's command had ambushed Revan's fleet outside the system and kept them delayed as Meetra's fleet was torn apart by the Mandalorians, their fleet had already been battled and it was only of what they could gathered, damaged, weakened from other battles. By the time Revan's fleet had arrived, there had been barely enough vessels left, thus came the decision to use a superweapon to end the conflict at last, it had reminded Hanzo of America's decision to use the Atomic Bombs to end the war with Japan and during the same war, most of his extended Japanese family from his mother's side were killed during one of the American firebombing campaigns as far as he knew when they were dropped in Nagasaki.
But only in this case, the Mass Shadow Generator had killed countless thousands of Republic soldiers and Jedi on the surface too while the ships that remained on both sides were caught in its gravity field that soon everyone within it had died.
It ended the war yes, along with Revan dueling and defeating Mandalore the Ultimate in single combat onboard his own flagship before executing him in front of the Mandalorian survivors, having all their weapons, armors, Basilisk War Droids, and etcetera be destroyed, leaving them to then scatter across the galaxy or returning to the Mandalore Sector.
It was a ruthless display and one that can bear much criticism for the unnecessary deaths of their own soldiers in Malachor IV, but still, Revan had needed to send a message to the remaining Clans that their Crusading days were over, in a way Hanzo couldn't disagree fully that Mandalorians had a lot coming for them with the number of atrocities they had committed. But still, genocide is genocide, one atrocity doesn't excuse for another, and he still heavily questioned much of the implications of his decisions in that battle, it had all spoke of a man who was willing to do anything to achieve victory.
But Hanzo acknowledged the grim truth all the same that there were some things that needed to be done, in a way, he looked at some of it alike when looking at his Japanese heritage. Despite all of the discrimination and the stares he had to endure since he was a child trying to survive mostly by himself on Vancouver Island, only because of who his mother was and the looks he inherited from her.
His Japanese inherited features had not helped to have to deal with when he was getting stared at, the scowls as he walked by, the whispers or muttering behind his back when they thought he wasn't listening, the taunts, punks trying to bully or challenge him, and the countless times he had been called a 'Gook' or 'Jap' during his service in Vietnam. He knew it wasn't fair and of course, he had grown up hating it, which was part of why he had chosen to volunteer to go to Vietnam, to finally prove everyone wrong that ever thought lesser of him. He had wanted to follow in his father's footsteps, when he had been a young man volunteering to fight in the Canadian Army during World War II, even though this had meant Hanzo would have to instead serve in the American Military due to Canada not being at war, he signed on regardless, he wasn't gonna let discrimination get in his way.
But instead, Hanzo had found more of the same with those that saw him nothing more but a gook in their eyes, more challenges being presented to him, but even with all that he still earned at least a begrudging respect from those who doubted him at first.
And even so, Hanzo's true resentment for everything that he and of his deceased family had been forced to endure, was all still pinned towards against what the Imperial Army of Japan had done and what leaders like Hideki Tojo had either ordered or allowed to be committed by their soldiers, or the treatment of war prisoners, starting a war that was only gonna bring more death, and what the things they did despite their claims of honor.
It was all by far in Hanzo's mind, some of the worst atrocities that were ever committed in that World War and because of their actions, it had tarnished the reputation and hard work of Japanese American/Canadians like that of his grandparents, had put into to earn so they could call themselves proud Canadian or Americans, to make North America their home just as others did.
Hanzo's own grandfather had fought in the First World War to show he was willing to fight for Canada because he had loved his new home, but like everyone else of Japanese descent, they were thrown into the internment camps, treated as enemy aliens and outcasts despite everything they had done to fit in and respected, to be treated as an equal. But he wasn't ignorant to assume it was any worse compared to what Imperial Japan had done to war prisoners or civilians under their occupation, he knows about the truth there.
Still, his grandparents had died in those camps when a bad fever swept through the camp, and with the kind of conditions they had to live in during winters while being cramped together, it resulted in a number of deaths, it had almost claimed his mother but in the end, after the war had finally ended, she was still alive and had nothing else left to return to, with the belongings and the land that her family had worked for being sold off by the government without their permission.
'Mom never did like to talk much about what it was like trying to manage herself after the war, before she had met Dad.'
It was something he had learned for himself as well, he's had to deal with such discrimination for most of his life, but from those who did as such to him, it had shown him what he needed to do to be a better man.
He felt that way would be honoring his deceased family more and living by their example. He learned how to ignore the stares, he learned how to keep his emotions in check, even when he felt the urge to. He would work harder than anyone else did, he would dive into whatever work he could get into, doing what was needed of him, he had done the same in Vietnam and while it still wasn't easy, his attitude still earned him the recognition that saw his potential like the Sergeant he had directly answered to in his unit. While they didn't always agree or necessarily liked each other but he had seen for who Hanzo was and he had always appreciated that he always gave him the opportunity to prove himself.
He wasn't gonna wallow or complain while petty racism or judgments continued to annoy him, he instead went to prove that he is a proud Canadian and that he will Stand Guard For Thee, just as his family did.
But going back to his analysis of the conflict between the Galactic Republic and the Mandalorians, Hanzo had found a level of disturbing comparisons to the Imperial Japanese Army from the Neo-Crusaders own zealotry and brutal actions that they were committing in the Mandalorian Wars for their thirst for conquest and glory. Cassus Fett while he would not deny had been a great military leader and his prowess as a tactician goes without question, finding it intriguing that the man was apparently known for his stone-cold will and his unflinching calm composure regardless of what was happening, but his mindset and the actions he would commit had reminded him of Tojo, though Cassus Fett was by far not ignorant or dismissive as Hideki was of foreigners. Cassus's actions on Cathar however still painted a darker picture of him and from what he had stumbled on, Cassus was also involved in the slavery the Neo Crusaders were conducting during that war.
It had become no wonder to him as to why there was so much resentment and hatred by many to this day in the galaxy towards the Mandalorians.
Add to some of the Mandos more recent actions like their involvement in the Great Galactic War, the Hydian Blockade, the Cold War, and their ongoing actions now in this current war. It has not helped with their 'warmonger' reputation that most of the galaxy sees them as and already he was hearing that certain officials back on Earth that were condemning the Clans aggression on the galaxy, some that had been obvious as to why given the reputation of Mandalorian Raiders like that of Clan Varad, or the actions of Mandalorian mercs or bounty hunters that often worked for the Sith Empire like that of the famed Great Hunt Champion who currently stands as the galaxy's best hunter, or so he'd heard.
But there were others who were largely laying their criticisms about the Mandalorian culture itself or just simply spreading propaganda against them like the Galactic Republic.
The matter made him wonder where Marala stood on the subject?
But still, that hasn't meant improvements hadn't happened with them, as with newer ideals emerging and leadership after the Crusades that had changed much of their direction, and the Mandalorians from what he has gathered still hold to a strong sense of honor even if it was rugged, it was still worthy of respect, there had been plenty of similarities he found with their culture that of ancient Earth warrior cultures, some of which he could trace to his own heritage, like the Vikings and the Samurai, thus despite what many will claim, the Mandalorians are not savages, brute yes and there were definitely bloodthirsty killers within their society, but others are still proud warriors or soldiers that held to a noble code, they had their reasons for fighting and they are committed to self-improvement be it by conflict but he still couldn't deny that about them was growing appealing to him with the more he was learning of them.
But that doesn't mean the Mandalorians are their friends and he had no doubts there's be a day where he may have to fight them, their allegiances to the Sith Empire has cost the Republic greatly, something the Warsaw Pact has been finding out for themselves the hard way from what he had heard of the Korriban invasion. The more he knew about them, the more he could try to prepare himself for the day that he may end up encountering them.
His thoughts drifted to Revan's tactics in countering against the Mandalorians' viciousness and brutality. 'I wonder if Revan's actions that day on Malachor was one of his first decisions that had led onto the Dark Side's path? Or was it bloodbaths like Dxun had awoken something within him?' Or did Revan ever truly fall at all? Was what he had done during the Mandalorian Wars was merely revealing who he was truly? Were his choices always his own?
He did notice that a great deal of the Republic and Jedi forces that had died on Malachor IV's surface or caught in the gravity field when the Mass Shadow Generator was active, were not among Revan's biggest supporters and looking at the bulk of the Republic/Jedi deserters/armies/fleets that would join Revan's Sith Empire, it had made him wonder just when was it that had truly tipped Revan over into becoming a Sith when he and Malak returned from the Unknown Regions as Dark Lords of the Sith.
Even as the Dark Lord, Revan's actions in the conflict would still continue to catch Hanzo's attention of how just much he went into ensuring of the worlds that he conquered, were left largely undamaged or how he ensured resources were being used in the conflict despite the limitless possibilities they had with the Star Forge. The assassinations of several political figures across the galaxy that had been traced to him like Senator Mimas Yoon of Corellia, Senator Lelin-Dor, and a popular Echani Senator that drew General Yusanis's attention onto him and it resulted in a duel that Revan won by killing Yusanis, but despite having caused much in destabilizing to the Echani government, it also prevented them from seceding from the Galactic Republic.
That's what led Hanzo into finding other similar actions he had dug up finding that Revan did that it made him realize something, he wasn't sure if it was fully true or not but it seemed to him that Revan was keeping the Republic's political and economic infrastructure intact instead of destroying it.
He slowly started to believe that Revan's main goal maybe wasn't to destroy the Galactic Republic, unlike what the old Sith Empires had tried in the past or what the current Sith Empire is now trying to do now.
Instead, it seemed as if that he was trying to unite the galaxy and reform the Galactic Republic through conquest and total domination, his decisions, and tactics in conquering worlds honestly reminded him in ways alike to Alexander the Great or Julius Caesar but with modern tactics and modern knowledge involved, just as shown in his actions in the Mandalorian Wars, but they were all still what could be described as modernizations to leaders like what Alexander and Caesar would've done if they had the technology.
Mass deceptions, feints, counterattacks, covert assassinations, Revan's training of elite Commando/Assassin units for black-ops operations or the like that had required stealth, dealings with corporations such as Czerka to fuel the Empire's economy, and so on that to Hanzo it became obvious on how Revan was able to turn and convert so many to his cause. The respect he had commanded of those who willingly followed him even if it was betraying their original oaths, these were men and women that would've followed Revan straight into Hell and back.
But something else that also caught Hanzo's eye, it had taken rereading articles and going over other notes but he had kept noticing until it was clear to him, the massive death count or MIA list of reports of Jedi during the conflict. The numbers on the list were truly shocking to him, there were barely a hundred Jedi left after the Jedi Civil War, and even then, that hundred would soon disappear, eventually leading to the belief spreading across the galaxy that the Jedi Order was extinct, until the return of Meetra Surik from exile five years later that is.
There were also even reports of grim to horrific discoveries that were being made by Republic Soldiers or Jedi of the state of prisoners that had been left in Sith Prisons, they were raided during and after the war and Hanzo noticed how few of these said prisoners rescued were even Jedi compared to other Republic personnel, it had bared similarities to the current Sith Empire's treatment of war-prisoners and torturing methods. It was a ring of patterns that Hanzo was finding that pointed to that Revan's focus seemed to be on the destruction of the Jedi Order than the Republic's, being through converting captured Jedi into Dark Jedi by whatever disturbing means of breaking them, those that couldn't be or wouldn't be killed, once again showing Hanzo there was far more to about the Force and what it is to feel with it and what this apparent Dark Side can do to a person, the questions he was growing to have about the Force was making him think back to some of his own strange experiences with it back on Tython.
One, in particular, stood out, he had found a Force-imbued blade within the Ruins of Kaleath when his Company was helping to escort a group of Jedi researchers through the ruins while they dug up or researched what they could find but all of it halted when Hanzo had found the katana-like blade beside a skeleton corpse. When he had picked it up, it had a strange reaction to him and he felt that almost as if the green energy that rolled off it was somehow trying to reach into him but couldn't.
It seemed so as when Hanzo had given it to the Iktotchi Jedi Master assigned with them, it had put him into a trance and he wouldn't respond to them till one of Padawans snapped him out of it at last. The last he would see of the sword was when it had been handed over to the Kel Dor Jedi Master, Gnost-Dural, after they all had returned to the Temple.
He shook the memories off and went back to focusing on reading.
Barring from the flaws Revan that one may or can point out about him or his morally questionable decisions and actions, he was still a rather complex figure that drew Hanzo's attention. Along with his actions as the Prodigal Knight when Revan was apparently reverted back to the Light Side through questionable means as he frowned on the idea that the Council had somehow convinced Revan to side with them again, there was far too many blanks about the truth of the details that was bugging him and what little of the truth he could find didn't left a good implication, the idea that the Jedi Council would brainwash and memory wiped him didn't set well with him just by the seer thought of power like that, it had made him glad of his immunities to the Force but he wondered if there were limits to it.
Still, Revan would still ironically go on save the galaxy from the man who betrayed him, Darth Malak, who had gone on a senseless rampage of bloodshed and destruction on the galaxy with the Sith Empire now under his command, the number of atrocities he would both commit or order or had allowed to go unpunished, it was truly beyond atrocious.
Where Darth Revan had been a tactical genius that had foresight and subtlety in his strategies and conquests, Darth Malak wasn't as subtle and was more painfully obvious on his intent in seeing the Republic destroyed and crushing all resistance in the galaxy that opposed him, by whatever means necessary in his eyes. Malak didn't care at all if the galaxy burned and its innocents crushed under his feet.
It's apparently often remarked or debated by some galactic historians that between the two, the galaxy would've been far better off with Darth Revan as ruler of the galaxy than Darth Malak.
The adventures that Revan would have with the Ebon Hawk crew honestly makes him hope that the apparent plans for the 'Star Wars' movies by George Lucas will do their best in capturing the adventures accurately as possible while still having fun with all the new possibilities to use in making films for entertainment, much so for the members of the Ebon Hawk crew as there was so much he felt they could explore with them.
Like the famed Republic expert-pilot and decorated War Hero from the Mandalorian Wars, Carth Onasi. The man had a very impressive record of service in the Mandalorian Wars and Hanzo felt sympathy to the fact his own mentor, Admiral Saul Karath, had betrayed him and would even bomb his homeworld of Telos IV that would not only kill millions of Telosians but among them were also his wife and presuming his son, it was discovered that he was actually alive during the Jedi Civil War. Thus, while there may have been a few things Hanzo had found himself disagreeing on with Carth, he did not fault his anger towards the Sith or the Republic deserters that had betrayed their oaths, for he had fair justified reasons in why he did and the amount of war-crimes committed by them in the war doesn't help. Far as he can tell, whatever issues Carth Onasi had resolved itself after the Jedi Civil War and would continue to serve the Galactic Republic as a highly respected Admiral, five years later he would be presented to defend his homeworld of Telos IV from the Sith Triumvirate when they attacked and were finally defeated there.
The proud Jedi Padawan, Bastila Shan. Playing a key role in the Jedi Civil War with not only her great potential in Battle Meditation but of her accomplishment in bringing down Darth Revan 'officially' when she lead a Jedi strike force to board his flagship and attempted to bring him down but had actually chosen to save Revan when Darth Malak used the opportunity to betray his master and ordered his ship to be destroyed but the two made it off safety, Bastila's decision made him wondered if perhaps Bastila and Revan had shared a past together? Whatever the case, she had been the one responsible bringing him to the Jedi Enclave on Dantooine and had since then been involved with his progress in his alias as a Republic privateer, from the Endar Spire above Taris to their capture on Darth Malak's flagship the Leviathan. And to much irony to the Canadian, it would be Revan that would help bring Bastila back to the light when she had fallen to the Dark Side and become the apprentice of Darth Malak. After what he had read up before on the converting and torture the Sith do to their victims, he could only imagine of what Darth Malak did to her that had ultimately made her swear loyalty to him, still she was convinced to return to the Light Side and back to Revan, assissting in the destruction of the Star Forge with her battle meditation to assist the Republic fleet. She had even after the war would become Revan's wife, that surprised him considering the Jedi's view on love, something that he didn't agree with, though it seemed the marriage was unpopular by members of the Jedi Order after the war, judging from some of the old records on the matter.
The feared Mandalorian Mercenary, Canderous Ordo who would go on to later become Mandalore the Preserver. He really very much intrigued Hanzo and helped gave him more knowledge about the Mandalorians, he had found it to be a great shame that his legacy as Mandalore has now gained conflicts given the Mandalorian Clans are now allied with the Sith Empire currently and the Civil War that was fought over several years ago about his ideals hasn't helped as well, with Mandalore the Vindicated crushing the rebel clans, still, Hanzo respected the Rebel Chieftain Jicoln Cadera for defending Canderous Ordo's legacy, it revealed to him that there is much conflict of ideals that's going on between the Mandalorian Clans.
The eccentric old Grey Jedi hermit and veteran of the Great Sith War, Jolee Bindo. His own list of adventures in his youth too caught his eye, quite a bit of it honestly reminded him of what he had read on Zayne Carrick's own adventures, especially the fact the two had largely remained as Pawadans throughout their adventures and both would even later on go on to serve on the High Jedi Council though in Jolee's case, it was an absentee role and he had stumble upon quite few records of him voicing complaints and criticisms on the Jedi Order's actions in the Mandalorian Wars and the Jedi Civil War, from what Hanzo had learned Jolee Bindo would disappear around when the hundred remaining Jedi scattered and his final fate, unfortunately, remains a great mystery.
The Cathar Jedi Knight, Juhani. She certainly made his eyebrow raise as he read on her record, telling of her hard life from escaping her homeworld of Cathar during the Mandalorian invasion, the struggling childhood on Taris, the murder of her father, and the death of her mother that had hit close to home with Hanzo. Her inner- conflicts in trying to be a Jedi Knight, and despite her brief fall to the Dark Side, he had respect for her resolve and determination after Revan helped brought her back to reason in the groves of Dantooine, she was not without her flaws but those were not of her fault as they were a result of her hard life and she still went on to become an outstanding Jedi Knight that was heavily inspired by Revan's example, both from her childhood when she was rescued by him on Taris and as an adult traveling with him on the Ebon Hawk. Apparently she would even go on to serve as a member of the High Jedi Council years later after surviving the Jedi Civil War and even the Great Purge that had forced her into hiding until remerging after the Dark Wars had ended.
The Twi'lek street urchin, Mission Vao and her Wookie companion Zaalbar. They were a duo that fascinated him and even chuckling a little at some of their shenanigans, Mission Vao despite her young age of fourteen was quite gifted with skills and showed herself to be a natural survivor, and a true loyal friend to the crew and her Wookie companion Zaalbar, he was quite angered about the small mention of her deadbeat older brother had abandoned her on Taris and he had briefly wondered if anyone gave Grif a well-deserved smack for his irresponsibilities. Her companion Zaalbar also caught his eye, he had felt himself enraging at the thought of what his brother Chuundar was doing to their own people with the Czerka Corporation, he felt sympathy he was exiled for rightly confronting his brother though he made note to look into the meaning of 'Madclaw' for future reference. The friendship/loyalty between the duo was admirable and it quite showed in the Crew's adventure on Kashyyyk that proved to be quite something else, he felt a lot of satisfaction reading how Chuundar met his fitting end and how the Wookiees with the Crew's assistance had driven Czerka off of Kashyyyk. The two after the war would even go on to create an import/export business that would expand greatly and even play a contributing role in the galaxy's recovery from the horrific devastations of the Jedi Civil War.
The utility droid, T3-M4. A simple droid by one's glance but one that had proven itself both loyal and reliable, always doing it's very best to help the Ebon Hawk crew since having helped them escape Taris before Malak's bombing. Despite doubts by others in the crew, T3-M4 had always pulled through, even traveling with the Jedi Exile five years later after the Jedi Civil War, though unfortunately disappearing into the Unknown Regions along with the Exile after the Sith Triumvirate was defeated, never to be heard or seen again by the galaxy.
And the bloodthirsty Assassin Droid, HK-47 whose made it a habit of reappearing and disappearing to even current events, that had surprised him despite being reportedly destroyed at the Battle of Ilum. After what he had read on the droid, he came to the conclusion that HK-47 was quite possibly one of the most dangerous and deadliest of assassin droids that had ever walked across the galaxy.
His attention on his datapad was intercepted however when he heard the doors opening and a familiar face appeared through the doorway that brought a smile on his face.
"Hey Marala, you were able to get past through Nurse Sonnu I see..."
Joe Pyne - Host of The Joe Pyne Show
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 20:00 / 8:00 PM
"Now folks, I'm sure you're wondering about the surprise guest appearance on the show tonight and here's two hints for you: One, he's not some poor Pinko getting lambasted and two, he also happens to be an average Joe such as yours truly." Pyne waited patiently for the cue before he revealed the identity of the guest when he began walking on stage. "Tonight's honor goes to the one and only Senator Joseph McCarthy!"
The crowd began enthusiastically applauding and cheering at the announcement with those able standing upright to roar approvingly at the surprise yet welcomed esteemed guest of honor.
"Glad to be on." The crusading anti-communist politician from Wisconsin smiled as he sat down on the 'hot seat'.
"Well, Senator, it still has been years since Representative Samuel Dickstein was discovered to be a paid agent of the NKVD and therefore the Kremlin."
"It's ironic how my former colleague was the one who established the House Committee on Un-American Activities in the first place." McCarthy growled. "When I made that list and publicly announced the said list of names in congress one by one, he was at the very top of it. As much as I wish to hold a benefit of a doubt, all ties should be thoroughly vetted and the paper trail led to the Rosenbergs then straight to Moscow."
"Moving on, you also discovered that Jerry Rubin was collaborating with that traitorous, well, rhymes with itch, and Hanoi, finding where his real loyalties shamefully lied."
"As long as I'm able to, not one agent, be it a Communist or those of the Sith Empire, will dare infiltrate the United States government and its institutions." Tailgunner vowed. "It is the unspoken solemn duty of every American to remain vigilant of traitors and spies in this beloved nation of ours. If something seems out of place, it most likely is."
"There's also the fact that Doctor King denounced you back in '64 despite voting for the Civil Rights Act."
"I'm honestly still surprised by the Reverend's condemnation as I have always stood up for the rights of blacks. In fact, back when I first campaigned for the United States Senate, I was the only candidate to visit the neighborhoods and to be labelled as a bigot despite using every opportunity in the legislature to stand against the Segregationists in Congress is perplexing to say the least."
"Which is unfortunate as I'm a good friend of Maulana Karenga, who two years ago created the holiday Kwanzaa. While we may disagree at times, it shouldn't preclude us from collaborating and finding common ground."
"No wonder why he's a frequent guest on your show." McCarthy cracked, causing the host to chuckle.
"You're welcome here anytime as well, Senator." Pyne proposed.
"You know, I think I'll accept your kind invitation, Mister Pyne." The Wisconsinite took up. "Having Pinkos, Commies, Hippies, and Neo-Nazi stooges on the show to be castigated does arguably get boring after awhile."
"They all believe in socialism afterall." The shock jock snorted, despising all variations of Socialism, from the 'Great Society' initiative proposed by that now jailbird Lyndon Baines Johnson to National Socialism of the Third Reich and Marxism with a passion.
Captain, First Rank Sergei Rustem Vadimovich - Proyekt Zvezdnaya Pyl / "Project Star Dust"
Hangar One - Kaliningrad Chkalovsk, Kaliningrad Oblast, the United Soviet States of Russia
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 -
The Captain watched the 'holo recording' from beginning to end for the fifth time after it was discovered aboard the derelict vessel, the significance of which couldn't be understated.
It was literally the only known example of actual Medieval Era knights and their sergeants - possibly even their levies - being captured on film, recorded on extraterrestrial footage at that, and while Vadimovich knew that this hologram wasn't the priority of the project, instead its fate was inevitably either being locked up securely by the KGB to gather dust or even destroyed to leave no trace of its existence, the Soviet couldn't help but to marvel at this evidence of a unique event in history dating to the Middle Ages.
"Gott mit uns!" One of the Teutonic Knights shouted as he swung his sword to hack a red-skinned beast.
"What is that monstrosity?"
"Apparently, they're called Massassi." His aide divulged after checking the chart on the Sith species. "A spinoff species of Purebloods."
"Make sure to forward all known details about them to command as a precaution. We might encounter some eventually."
"Da, Comrade Captain." The orderly acknowledged. "Still, it's amazing how those damn German Knights fought against Sith during the Northern Crusades."
"And it was years after Lake Peipus."
"How do you know that this was sometime after the Battle on the Ice?"
"Judging by the armor and the swords, which are of no later than Fourteenth Century design and the location compared with the known surviving historical record, it is in my opinion that this confrontation occurred at least in the Summer of 1274 in the aftermath of the Great Prussian Uprising at the earliest but no later than the Summer of 1314 yet the evidence is scant and circumstantial."
"So all we know for certain is that sometime in the late Thirteenth or early Fourteenth Century, a Sith warship with cryogenically frozen passengers crashlanded in East Prussia, presumably fleeing from the Republic's genocide on Korriban, intermarried with a local pagan tribe that managed to survive the retaliation after the failed fourteen-year rebellion led by Herkus Monte, then the Teutonic Order discovered their presence, believed the Purebloods to be demons and annihilated them all, leaving no survivors?"
"Pretty much. Still, it is a golden opportunity to create our own space fleet independent of purchasing them from the Republic."
"Which is a good goal to have, especially with suspicions on Chancellor Saresh by comrade Zhukov." The KGB supervisor smiled, revealing a tidbit on current matters of state security and why this endeavor in the facility must succeed. "Let's finish this recording."
"Gott mit uns!" Another knight bellowed as he decapitated one of the Purebloods as he brazenly confronted the Teuton. Another Pureblood came up from behind the warrior monk, ready to impale him with the recognizable red blade but before the space wizard was able to, a crossbow bolt struck the alien's right eye and killed the, for the lack of a better word, backstabber instantly.
"Dankeschöön, Meyer." The Ritterbrüder appreciated in Middle Low German, revealing that the knight hailed from somewhere in Northern Germany, not Central or Southern Germany. As a matter of fact most of the contingent that confronted the Sith sounded like they originated from one of the states of the Holy Roman Empire that made up the present-day northern parts of West Germany such as Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia as well as of course obvious to the Soviets: East Germany with only a handful being native speakers of Middle High German.
"Fast forward a few minutes. I'm curious about what happened aboard this ship."
Christopher Meyer - Crossbowman, DiendeBrudern, Teutonic Order
Lithuania Minor - State of the Teutonic Order, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
July 28th, 1278
"So, this ist where the Demonic rats were fleeing to." Jörg von Giesbrecht of Westphalia growled as he led twenty of his brother knights and sixty of the Order's foot soldiers in pursuit of their quarry. "To their castle thinking they would be safe from us. They sure are cowardly, having to conspire with the Sudovians to even gain a foothold but no matter, just like their pagan allies who somehow evaded us for four years they will be cleansed from the Earth."
"Not to mention that ist a monstrosity." A peer agreed. "Only Satan himself would create such an ugly fortress."
Jörg nodded at the assessment as the castle was of an odd but presumably unholy design with the architecture being befitting for the followers and spawns of Satan. "Meyer? Ik need you and your crossbowmen to find an advantageous perch to support the assault."
"Jawohl." The DiendeBrüdern acknowledged, wielding his windlass crossbow.
"You trust that peasant?"
"With my life." von Giesbrecht declared. "Peasant birth or Noble birth, he proved his loyalty here in the Baltics and the Holy Land."
"If you say so, Broder." The fellow RitterBrüder relented as the catapults were brought forward near the woodline, the crews preparing to bombard the structure from Hell.
"We'll show Lucifer that his presence isn't welcome." von Giesbrecht declared, waiting for the catapults to set up before leading a charge on those on the outside.
"GOTT MIT UNS!" The RitterBrüder cried as they pointed their lances directly at the red-skinned enemy with tentacles underneath their chins.
"Balistas!" One of the knights warned as red bolts streaked toward them, forcing the Teutons to scatter.
V on Giesbrecht 's steed was hit by one of the infernal flaming missiles but the Westphalian watched the Demons manning the artillery being struck by well-aimed crossbow bolts.
"It seems like fate had this be the second time."
"They were bolder at Notre-Dame-de-la-Boissière but here they're cowardly, though they were a different spawn with heads of goats and wings of bats to be fair." Christopher shrugged. "Looks like there's few of us left."
"Unfortunately but we'll have to make do." Jörg lamented. "Come on Broders! It is time to finish them!"
"GOTT MIT UNS!" The Germans cried as they charged down the hall inside the enemy 'castle', attacking any of the demons on sight.
Two of the Sergeants part of the assault cried out in pain as they felt the odd lightning from strange fire-weapons striking their chainmail before completely disintegrating to ash.
"There's the Swein!"
Meyer aimed his bolt at one of his demonic equivalents, inflicting vengeance on the red-skinned humanoid devil spawns for the demise of his Kameraden.
"Gah!"
"Why do they sound like de Waliesch?" One of the Knights wondered after hearing the similarities of the accents shared between the Dämonen and the Welsh.
"Ik do not know, Broder. Perhaps Satan ist trying to confound us?"
"That may be so. Now Ik wouldn't be surprised if Herkus Monte bargained his soul with the dark prince though his damn reinforcements were late." A third reasoned before a great thud was heard.
Seeing the monstrosity, Meyer knelt down and aimed his crossbow toward the enemy beast, much bigger than the previously encountered humanoids, firing his bolt and striking the being's snout but it still kept charging.
"Ik got him!" von Giesbrecht vowed as he used his longsword against the Devil Spawn. "Find where they're coming from and seal it off!"
"Ne!" Not willing to allow his friend to sacrifice himself just to bide time, Meyer picked up one of the strange weapons and aimed it at the beast, cautiously squeezing the unfamiliar firing mechanism rearward with his index finger out of a mixture of uncertainty and not wanting to accidentally kill the Knight.
The commoner from the Prince-Bishopric of Minden watched as the lighting streaked out like a bolt and struck the beast's back, instantly vaporizing the monster just mere seconds later, causing the Knight to glimpse at the resulting dust with curiosity.
"Perhaps Ik should use this for awhile." The humble crossbowman grinned at the nobleman.
"You better cleanse yourself afterwards, mein Fründ. That ist a heretical device afterall."
Christopher nodded reluctantly, almost as if he wasn't permitted to end the incursion in the most efficient way available.
'Du ar nicht lustig (You are no fun).'
Present Day...
"From there, the crossbowman with the Disruptor known as 'Meyer' and the other attackers found the engine room, believing it to be another 'Portal to Hell', messed with it including by firing the Disruptor directly at the machine, and blew half the ship up, escaping from the resulting implosion in time before they themselves could be incinerated within the inferno." The KGB supervisor shrugged after reviewing the recording and roughly translating the Middle Low German, still processing the entire unique historical occurrence. "Of course, I highly doubt that they encounter anything similar to this before."
The Captain, First Rank rolled his eyes at the preposterous mention of a waning superstition in the Soviet Union. To Sergei it was as if the handler instead revealed to him that the renown American archeologist by the name of Indiana Jones found either the mythical Ark of the Covenant or even the Holy Grail, which was on the same level of absurdity. "Portal to Hell my ass. While they were crazy and zealous, it was a trait expected of the Teutonic Order."
"That does also explain why it's taking time to reverse engineer the engine, nevermind the scorching. Their damn Medieval Era superstition and lack of technical knowledge for engines made our job slightly more difficult."
"Da but even with this unexpected and inconvenient delay to our efforts of replicating the engine, at least we're making progress regardless, comrade."
"Say, I just realized something."
"What?"
"It's very ironic how current individual Sith decide to add decorative horns on their armor while the stranded ones here were being put to the sword by a strikingly ruthless order of crusaders who wear them as unique identifiers and purposely intimidating crests."
The Soviets chuckled at yet another discovered coincidence, only this time one which was conspicuously unexpected, but at the same time it was almost if in some strange ways history was repeating itself.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 19:45 / 7:45 PM
"I can't believe that I'm saying this but I was wrong calling Revan an asshole." Jake muttered after finishing the last page. "It's actually Carth Onasi who was the fucking asshole."
"What?"
"Quoting this passage, he believed that some were above the law: 'While Carth despised Malak and the Sith for turning to the dark side and betraying the Republic, he especially hated the non-Force-sensitive soldiers who defected. He viewed them as even worse than the Sith and undeserving of mercy because the dark side had nothing to do with their choices.' In other words, he thought the Force was a legitimate get out of jail free card and thereby ignoring the principle of everyone is equally held accountable to the law, hence asshole. You either a traitor or you're not, no exceptions."
"That's actually a fair point, pal." Sam concurred. "Just because one is a space wizard, it shouldn't mean that they can't be prosecuted."
"The best comparison to Revan is obviously the ever-to-be condemned Benedict Arnold. Both were revered and respected generals until they decided to betray their country." The Marine sneered. "I can respect the battle prowess, I can respect him being a master tactician in his day but I can never excuse him for getting off scot free from getting hung for his treason and war crimes. Redeemed my ass."
"Still, Jake, I'm starting to wonder if this Force is at least probable and there's science here that vindicates it."
Meyer gazed at him awkwardly, not expecting his friend to defend the nonsense. "Scientific research with flaws is still flawed."
"I'm not denying it but at the same time I can't just shrug and say that it's just magic either like an arbitrary skeptic." Westbrook reasoned. "For all I could know, even Earth used to have these so-called 'Force Adepts' until they were persecuted for witchcraft yet that doesn't explain the lack of these midichlorians or why telekinesis doesn't work on anything originating from our galaxy. I'm sorry but I'm still agnostic and unsure over this."
"As Voltaire once declared 'While I may not agree with what you say, I will still defend it until my dying breath'. However, I'm sticking to my guns and we just have to agree to disagree."
"Not to mention that it's getting ever closer to Christmas." The Paratrooper grinned. "By the way, when you're done with it, is it alright I borrow your book about those German knights?"
Jake shrugged as he picked up the book and reached it over to Sam. "Actually I've read it four times already. Merry Christmas."
Sam snorted and flipped to a random page but as he read the passage he couldn't help but to admit that the claim by his friend was surprisingly not outrageous and narrow minded but actual historic fact. "Hey, you're right! The Teutonic Order were more badass than the puny Templars!" Sam chuckled as he stared at the illustrations of the Knights fighting Ayyubids, Mamluks, and Saracens in the Levant, Cumens in Hungary, Baltic Pagans, Polish-Lithuanians, and Russians of the historic city-state known as the Novgorod Republic, not to mention that the Teutons were even brave enough to stand firm against the infamous Mongols when the nomadic horse archers attempted to sack all of Europe.
From the sands of the Middle East to the snowy forests and frozen tundra of the Baltics, the Deutscher Orden were in the literal sense ruthless zealots and coldblooded combatants who took not even a single prisoner unless ordered to and even then, the enemy that hunkered behind their shields more often than not prayed for salvation upon sight of the recognizable horns on the helmets and black crosses on white mantles charging at their line, wishing for whatever deity they worship would intervene on their behalf as the Teutonic Order were indisputably the best equipped and organized faction of Knights in all of Christendom, the Order not allowing mere wooden shields stand between them and destroying the heretics who foolishly decide on confronting them instead of waiting for their already sealed fate.
"I can't believe these guys were underrated as they fought more battles and participated in more campaigns but then again the Templars only became popular due to the persecution and rumors of riches, over glorified bankers in other words."
"I told you." Jake grinned with understandable smugness, glad that Sam got the picture."The extremely pathetic and pitiful Templars have nothing over the Teutonic Knights. Those overrated red cross wearers would have turned tail or begged to be burned at the stake as heretics after seeing the helmets adorned with horns and black crosses on the white surcoats."
"Not to mention that unlike the Templars whose reign as a status symbol ended short, the Teutonic Knights created their own goddamned nation, the State of the Teutonic Order, which later evolved into Prussia." Sam snickered as he remembered tales about the exploits of Frederick the Great, his friend's Great-Great-Grandfather regale to them back in boyhood. "Voltaire wasn't wrong in proclaiming Prussia to be an Army with a state."
"Even Napoleon himself admitted that Prussia was hatched from a cannonball." Jake shrugged while still amused by the change of opinion after a reading of history. To him, the Templars as an institution truly would have been relegated as a mere footnote if the rumors were never circulated as the Teutons were justifiably the superior Order when it came to might on the battlefields of the Middle Ages. "Funnily enough, the Teutonic Order still exists as a charity and that also is thanks to Napoleon. Though while Prussia may be forever gone, its legacy and impact on the world is still felt today."
Dark Council Chambers - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 19:45 / 7:45 PM
Marr didn't expect a perplexity for the debriefing when Kovach requested a meeting with the Dark Lords. Ever since the revelation that his trusted advisor was in fact a conniving traitor, the Dark Lord who held the Sphere of Defense of the Empire was on the edge to commit another shake-up and replace Intelligence for a third time but when Kovach stepped up and even took measures to discover the depth of the treachery by his now discredited superior, Marr determined that it was more pragmatic to not hinder all information-gathering efforts and risk giving the Republic another opportunity to exploit the Empire's weakness but to also see if it might be wiser to reform the current organization instead of complete dissolution.
"Are you certain that the information is correct, Agent Kovach?" Marr queried, not desiring a waste of time.
The impact of the joint 'International'/SIS misinformation campaign 'Operation: Misdirection' was still being felt in Sith Intelligence and combined with the so-called 'Quarantine Policy' implemented as a security measure, validated information about Earth was a luxury.
Gradually with each disaster, not to mention the thwarted annexation through both luck and cunning, it made Marr consider the incontrovertible truth of Earth being a legitimate menace instead of simple-minded troglodytes requiring enforced civilization.
In a way, whether ironically the darkside withered his peers sense of judgment or some sort of infliction somehow caused by the Jedi, Marr and his fellow Councilor Vowrawn were using what influence they hold to not only make certain that the course was thrust back in the Empire's favor but to also have the Wrath be a crucial spearhead of the turnaround.
"We have checked the validity thrice, Lord Marr." The second-in-command of Sith Intelligence and now acting Minister reported, though it was sensed by the Councilors that it wasn't the full picture despite the verification of the findings. "Cipher Nine reported in her findings that Earth has at least three orders we should be on the watch for: The Shaolin Monks namely of course but there's also the Knights Hospitallers and the Teutonic Order. The latter two Medieval Era institutions, unfortunately, still exist."
"It's most peculiar that we haven't faced them in battle yet."
"Perhaps they're waiting for the right moment?" Ravage speculated. "Weaken us first before fully committing the Orders?"
"How useful will they be on the battlefield when they're all completely devoid of the Force though?" Vowrawn mused as it was quite puzzling. "They would be no better than their grunts and their grunts are already doing a nice job as it is."
"It wouldn't make sense to hold them back and even if they are in reserve, Patton would be wasting a valuable source." Marr concurred even if he himself was baffled by the matter yet the de facto leader of the Empire could not afford to disregard anything in the slightest unless the evidence dictated otherwise. "What are they up to and why haven't we encountered them alongside the Jedi?"
"That's what we're unraveling, My Lord, but it will take time."
"Time which we do not have, Kovach." Marr reminded the acting Minister.
"Of course, Lord Marr. I'll personally see to it that it's a priority."
Thijs Visser - Ballick of Utrecht of the Teutonic Order
Utrecht, Province of Utrecht, Netherlands, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 19:45 / 7:45 PM
"Hallo. We were wondering if you're interested in donating to the Republic's War Orphans Fund?"
"Of course. They're our allies after all."
"Bedankt." Brother Visser appreciated the generosity of the donor before departing but the monk remembered the upcoming celebration and decided to wish the mother and her family good health. "And Merry Christmas!"
"You as well!"
"You know, I still can't believe that the Jedi thought that we were exactly like them back during First Contact and the resulting diplomacy." Brother Janssen smirked. "We are not Shaolin Monks."
"Yes but in all fairness Napoleon Bonaparte forced us to never be a militaristic order again back in 1809. However, I believe we do better service to God as a charity and purely religious institution instead of being combatants. We did evolve with the times afterall."
"Helfen, Wehren, Heilen." Janssen smiled as he quoted the Order's centuries old motto. "Help, Defend, Heal. We'll live to those vows until the Holy Spirit calls us."
"Amen, broeder." Thijs agreed. "And may the Lord continue to guide us evermore."
It seems Hanzo has made a recovery from his injuries, combining the experience of doctors from the hellish Korean War and ongoing galactic conflict with Star Wars technology and the result is a return to active duty once fully healed.
And while I have debated including the church scene as portrayed due to people i.e. SJWs getting easily offended nowadays, I ultimately decided to include it not just to show additional background but to also help clarify the reasoning behind the dramatic irony of doubting the Force plot-wise and to be fair, if you think about it logically, the concept does make sense.
If one day aliens show up with peaceful intentions and declare openly on camera that they have proof that their deity exists and everything from Islam to Christianity and Hinduism to Shintoism is either flawed or entirely false, would everyone immediately begin worshipping their religion due to said evidence?
One of the biggest clichè here on when it comes to Earth in Star Wars stories is having the Force be accepted wholeheartedly with no questions asked, which realistically wouldn't happen.
Though it doesn't mean that everyone is close-minded about it.
For instance: Sam is agnostic to it (for those who don't know, it means he can't either confirm its existence nor prove it's a falsehood) , Hanzo is curious and intrigued by it, even the Secretary-General of the United Nations is embracing it.
Now hopefully this helps clear up the reasoning around it in case anyone was wondering if I was nuts or something and while you don't have to agree with my reasoning, it to me at least seems sensible, especially with arbitrary skepticism and philosophical disputes in mind.
Jake and Sam have also started adapting to the situation as they quickly realized that while Revan might be, well, out-of-touch I suppose, it's better to know who you're exactly dealing with than just blindly confront him.
And some of Goldwater's, well, unique eccentricities just got revealed. He was quite the person after all.
Plus it turns out that both Al Capone and Bugs Moran are still influential in the criminal underworld and I will confirm that they will inevitably be making their debut in the near future...
Yes, THE one and only Alphonse Gabriel "Al / Scarface" Capone and George Clarence "Bugs" Moran respectively. Your eyes were not deceiving you :P
As another bonus, the one and only Joseph McCarthy is back! And it is planned that he'll be now striking against the Sith Empire in addition to his Anti-Communist crusade! :D
Now before you start accusing me of being a racist, anti-freedom witch-hunter: After reading in-depth about the whole affair, it can be best summarized that McCarthy greatly exaggerated the extent of the infiltration and went overboard in his moment of fame, leading to his downfall, hence quote on quote 'McCarthyism'.
Again, I'm being completely apolitical here but it's pretty interesting to discover after digging for information about the whole circumstances behind the whole hunt for Communists within the government that had support from both political parties and base off what I read, I decided to retcon the story from having McCarthy still dying of alcoholism as in actual history to having him be an unlikely hero as it kinda fitted in with the plot to be honest.
While it is a misconception that no Communists were found and he was a racist, does that mean that I agree with how he conducted himself?
No, I don't at all. But his actions was during the Second Red Scare (1947 - 1957) in the United States and Anti-Communist panadonium was mainstream in society so the atmosphere was brewing for something like it to occur and fate had it for Joe to take up the cause.
Again, to reiterate, I don't agree with how he handled it in actual history and he went overboard to put it lightly but it is confirmed in the declassified Venona papers that at least four of the names on McCarthy's infamous lists were agents of the Soviet Union.
FOUR! And they are: Lauchlin Currie, Harold Glasser, David Karr, and Mary Jane Keeney.
Four names out of ninety or two hundred or how many exact names in total he actually listed, it's hard to tell and Tailgunner certainly was one for exaggerations.
Unbeknownst to Senator McCarthy though, over next door in the House of Representatives, Democratic Representative Samuel Dickstein of New York and IRONICALLY the VERY politician who ESTABLISHED the House UnAmerican Activities Committee in the first place, was being paid by the NKVD (the Interwar and World War Two predecessor of the infamous KGB) for classified information!
I'm shocked myself when I read about the revelation but the founder of the very committee wrongly associated with McCarthy was a Soviet agent.
Instead, McCarthy was a Senator and Tail Gunner (McCarthy's nickname) was the chairman of the Government Operations Committee and its Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations of the United States Senate.
It is not a conspiracy theory and you can fact check everything here yourself if you so choose but safe to say McCarthy was somewhat right, he just mishandled it.
In fact, we probably will never know the complete truth due to conflicting information over the years and the first hand witnesses, as far as I'm aware of, are now long since deceased.
To reiterate and in short: It turns out that it's completely wrong to say one Joseph Raymond McCarthy didn't find any actual spies at all and therefore conducted a nonsensical, unnecessary, unlawful, unconstitutional, and immoral witch hunt that was more of a wild goose chase with everyone on his lists being totally innocent of the finger-pointing charges although indisputably McCarthy did decide to caused a political firestorm which in the end cost him.
And I don't think anyone will ever know what would've happened if McCarthy didn't go overeager on it for the sake of attention but I'm convinced that he should be vindicated and be labeled as a hero despite also being a bully.
Oh and by the way, in addition to Joseph McCarthy being a supporter of Civil Rights for minorities, the Kennedy family were great friends with Joseph McCarthy despite the different political party affiliations.
In fact, a certain Robert Francis Kennedy, brother of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was an aide to Tail Gunner Joe before becoming a Senator himself.
Yes, none other than THE Kennedy's. The ones with a supposed family curse. It's on the historical record if you want to double check for yourselves and in fact here are two credible links in case you're interested about the specific circumstances:
www . smithsonianmag (type dot here) com (type slash here) history / how-robert-kennedy-transformed-from-conservative-into-liberal-champion-civil-rights - 180969242 /
mcadams . posc . mu . edu / progjfk2 . h t m
It's a shame everything is completely partisan nowadays.
Moving on from McCarthyism, the mystery deepens around the crashed warship as it again got hinted at that SOMETHING occured before the fateful encounter between the Teutonic Order and stranded Sith, almost as if it was just a hapless case of mistaken identity.
But anyway, foreshadowing aside, it's also apparently foretold that nations will not be giving away sovereignty despite the state of affairs. There's too much distrust and discomfort along geopolitical lines and a wave of Patriotism by citizens to submit to supranationalism.
Therefore a coalition is just a temporary alliance as defined and who knows what happens post-war.
Plus a character from the hit series Mad Men has officially appeared as a cameo, not to mention four more of Jake's relatives including one revealed to be stationed at the Pentagon.
Rest assured readers, more of the comical background and complete familial situation will be showcased here in this story and the two planned prequels as well. It will be interesting to say the least and you haven't even read the good parts, eccentricities and all, quite yet. :D
McNamera is suffering a fate worse than death but to be fair he was part of the whole FUBAR catastrophe of decisions that made the Vietnam War what it was for the United States Military doctrinally, not to mention while being Secretary of Defense he saw even the servicemen, people with families, only as another number that can be disposable to save the government a cent (unfortunately I'm being completely truthful about it) , and therefore it's poetic justice, though you can interpret the scene however you wish.
Whither the fate of one Robert Strange McNamera is fitting or too dark, it's officially part of the story as one of the alternate history aspects.
Oh and I just remembered, while they were only referenced so far, the famed Shaolin Monks will be making an appearance fighting Sith soon.
To clarify: Not in the next few chapters but soon enough.
Yes, THE Kung-Fu fighting, orange-cloth robe wearing, adherents of Buddhist virtues Shaolin Monks of the Shaolin Temple. Who would've guessed? :P
And heck, I might as well have a little amusing scene at the end as with quote unquote "coincidences" being part of the plot, it isn't entirely unreasonable to have some mistranslations occurring from time to time as a result and therefore the conclusions could be justifiably erroneous with the limited vague information on hand in that very scene not helping matters :D
P.S. As of when this chapter was published, I'm honestly blown away that no other Earth in Star Wars fanfic here on this site had used the Shaolin Monks yet despite being arguably fitting for such a plot, just saying, and therefore a wasted opportunity.
So I guess this counts as another instance of E:ARD being a first in going where no other such tale has gone before! :)
P.S.S. The Teutonic Order was the superior militaristic order during the Medieval Era and they would have triumphed over the Templars if hypothetically the organizations fought one another.
Despite the presumably unpopular opinion I hold, I base my opinion off of the historical record and therefore thanks to the credibility of the sources about the different militaristic orders which fought in the Crusades against the Saracens and other groups labeled as heretics by the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages, nothing will convince me otherwise.
And believe it or not, the Teutonic Order does still exist but as a mere charity.
You can blame Napoleon Bonaparte I of France one hundred percent on disestablishing it as an Militaristic Order in 1809.
In fact, here's their official website:
www.imperialteutonicorder.com
Oh and remnants of the Hospitallers also still exist as well apparently but of course everyone knows the fate of the Templars.
Chapter 26: Operation Midnight Part One
Chapter Text
Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:30: 15 ATC / November 30th, 1968 - 16:00 / 4:00 PM
"Look, George, no one here is doubting your experience but your experiences are not intergalactic warfare."
"Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only sane person in this room."
What was supposed to be a conference of an hour duration had evolved into a three-hour shouting match between Patton and Malcom after the Chancellor unwittingly suggested a 'quick' campaign of liberation while the Empire was still licking its wounds and take advantage of the opportunity immediately but the professional military men instead decided to explore the overall bigger picture of ending the menace once and for all.
The Earthling advocated for something he kept referring to as 'planetary hopping', a strategy which was an intriguing concept based on the Pacific Theater of Earth's Second World War, never mind bold. It entailed bypassing fortress worlds and instead of targeting planets with only the value of being on the path to the main objective, using each captured world as a springboard toward Dromund Kaas.
However, it also necessitated a buildup and some reforms the General was implementing, which was estimated to take a couple of months yet it also still held the potential benefit of bringing a speedy conclusion to the war and keeping the enemy on their toes as they wouldn't realize the reasoning behind the unorthodox move until it was too late.
The Supreme Commander, on the other hand, believed it would be wiser to make a gradual push taking sector by sector until the Dromund System was all what remained to be swollen up, even if it meant a longer conflict due to caution, sticking with the conservative approach and one that the Republic in fact have been conducting before Earth entered the picture.
Personally, the Chancellor was leaning slightly to Patton's scheme as even though it was riskier, it also was something fresh in a state of stagnation and the Sith wouldn't know the exact targeted locations or there was a policy of skipping 'strategically vital' planets and keeping the flanks exposed until it was too late.
"Gentlebeings, I think we should have a fifteen-minute respite before getting to the main topic at hand."
"Agreed." Patton relented. "It should give us time to reflect as well."
After the council temporarily discontinued due to discontentment, Saresh massaged her temples and groaned. "You know, Evran, I'm honestly surprised by Patton."
"What do you mean, your excellency?"
"He's a handful." Leontyne clarified, exasperated. "I mean his bluster and straightforwardness can be quite irritating and if he was in the Republic Military with such an attitude, he would have been cashiered without a second thought."
"Well, from what I understand, part of the reason why he was chosen was to prevent any attempts of amalgamating Earth forces within the Republic Military as a precaution." Evran shook his head but the reasoning behind it nesciently interfered with part of his superior's plans.
"Not to mention being a potential hurdle to integration with galactic society."
"Speaking of which, your excellency, is there any news about the intruder and what he potentially unraveled?"
"SIS hasn't found the culprit yet but he did act like an Imperial spy on the holosecurity recordings." Leontyne sighed. "And it is unfortunate that the Jedi are currently overstretched but I'm sure we'll discover who's responsible."
Second Lieutenant John Robert Bolton - United States Army
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:30: 15 ATC / November 30th, 1968 - 16:05 / 4:05 PM
"I don't get it, Bolton, I absolutely just don't get it."
The Maryland National Guardsman who was honored to be one of Bandito's orderlies alongside Tom Clancy was perplexed as the General of the Armies paced endlessly around the room, deep in thought. "What do you mean, sir?"
"This universe is still wacky with space wizards and other nonsense straight out of some tale like that show 'Star Trek' or even 'The Twilight Zone'."
"Permission to speak freely?"
"Granted."
"Sir, personally I believe it to not be a case of ignorance and unwillingness to adapt but a misunderstanding and stagnation. Before the Empire decided to target our planet, the Republic had been fighting this faction on and off for almost thirty years now. We're the new kids on the block just squeezing ourselves into the wedge and treated as such due to being seen as the new kids, not wise sages from next door."
Old Blood and Guts nodded at the assessment, aware that it was true to an extent but at the same time some of the strategic decisions were baffling. "That's a fair point, Lieutenant. These walkers for instance have been used for centuries before we became aware of each other but our tanks are mauling them due to the lower profiles."
"Not to mention our rifles." John smirked. "Their laser rifles are ineffective beyond four hundred meters or so."
"The boys who had competed at Camp Perry and Bisley sure are enjoying it." The old man chuckled heartily as the 'gravel bellies' were gratified at not only being vindicated but the situation has even officially halted any further consideration of possibly fielding a small-caliber, high-velocity rifle for the foreseeable future, possibly even never, especially with the after-action reports of the Israeli Commandos at Kuat dealing the final evidential blow against the proponents, nevermind Stoner's rifles having been less than worthy for consideration by any military for the past decade. "In any case, we certainly are the new kids on the block but until the Empire gets their house in order we are on top of them yet that also applies to our allies as well. They need to overhaul and it should have been done yesterday!"
Supreme Commander Jace Malcom - Commander in charge of the Republic Military
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:30: 15 ATC / November 30th, 1968 - 16:05 / 4:05 PM
"I can respect Patton's cunning and I can understand his perspective but I wonder if he's getting overconfident?"
"What do you mean, sir?"
Malcom paused his pacing midstep and sighed. "Think about it. Patton hunted down Pancho Villa and launched the first American tank assault during Earth's First World War before becoming the spearhead for the downfall of these Nazis in the Second, approaching Berlin from the west. He was in the thick of it on Okinawa and led the armored thrust during the landings at Inchon. He's a living legend but at the same time he was out of uniform for fifteen years until he was reinstated and given command of the entire Coalition. He's surprisingly not that much out of touch and has advisers assisting with helicopters and whatnot but what I'm concerned about is him underestimating the Imps."
"Permission to speak freely, sir?"
"Granted."
"Sir, with all due respect, Patton's plan may be the key to ending this war for once and for all. His plan might be bold but arguably we have been too cautious and it still entails the invasion of Dromund Kaas."
"That may be so but the matter of the fact is the Empire will overcome its shock and begin withstanding the onslaught. The recent debacle involving Libyan forces under Gandalf gives credence to it."
"Umm, it's Gadaffi, sir. You're probably thinking about the character in that novel Tom, I mean Lieutenant Clancy gave you, 'Lord of the Rings'."
"Right but while that name doesn't matter now, the point still stands and unfortunately only a significant wake-up call will make the 'Unified' Earth Coalition truly realize what they're up against."
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
11:30: 15 ATC / November 30th, 1968 - 16:15 / 4:15 PM
"So, where were we?" Saresh turned to the Director of the Strategic Information Service, Marcus Trant, who was planning to speak only for the debate to occur.
"I believe we should move on to the main discussion, namely a matter that should sound familiar." Trant uttered as he pulled up the mug of a being on the holotable. "Grotta the Hutt, wanted by the United States and Canada for murder and distributing narcotics. When he arrived, he soon recognized the opportunity to sell spice to this movement known as 'Hippies' and decided to set up shop in Chicago as the location was central enough and had the infrastructure for transporting it across the continent but he underestimated the resilience of the native underworld and the Federal Bureau of Investigations."
"His one task, one task was bringing material for the embassy in New York City, not causing a diplomatic nightmare." Sarsesh groaned, still wishing that the fiasco never occurred. It was by luck that Krasul and the diplomatic staff even managed to successfully sway the United States government that it was not sanctioned by the Republic in any way and the Hutt Cartel disavowed him, even placing some deathmarks on the overly ambitious upstart. Even so, after all this time evading capture or summarily execution, why pop up now?
"Chicago became a fucking warzone as Capone and Moran made an unlikely alliance to evict the bastard who sprouted from the anus of the decomposing corpse of an inbred, buck-toothed whore." Patton grumbled.
"We know George, we know and the Democratic National Convention a week prior was hectic enough per what heard about it."
Patton rolled his eyes and mentally cursed that sellout Abbie Hoffman to damnation before having a figure step forward.
"Agent Wescott?"
On cue, a man in a gray suit and wearing a fedora stepped forward, manilla folder in his hand.
"Agent Connor Wescott is an agent of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Security Service." Patton informed the gathered conference.
"Police? I thought he was a spy?"
"With all due respect, Director Trant, I had experience serving under the Special Operations Executive during the Second World War. The Canadian government officially doesn't have a foreign intelligence service of its own."
"And unofficially?"
Connor only smirked. "Let's just say that Timothy Leary is no longer problematic."
Patton's eyes widened in surprise as Leary disappeared without a trace in Geneva while demonstrating acid to the locals only to be arrested by the Swiss authorities who were going to turn him over to the United States Marshals Service for being a wanted fugitive per the extradition treaty between the two governments but on the morning of his transfer it was discovered he wasn't in his cell.
"I see…" Saresh trailed, not expecting the confession revealed casually as if it was of no significance but underestimating Canadians seemed to be hazardous to one's health.
On cue, Connor began listing the makeup of his chosen personnel. "Chaos Squad and Agent Balkar need no introduction so I'll skip them over." The Agent mentioned as he pulled out the papers and handed each of the leadership a copy. "Masters Serena Ashak and Andrik Bizzle of the Jedi Order."
"Among the best lightsaber practitioners in the Order, outside of other notable masters like Master Therin."
"Not necessarily swordsmanship, Grandmaster, but because being a joint operation and their skills may come in useful in some circumstances." The spy justified. "Next is Alexander McAllen of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry."
"Looks like he was one of the foreign students who attended Ranger School." Patton noted.
"I'm sure his experience in rock climbing will prove beneficial to this as well." Wescott reasoned. "Finally on the roster is Corporal Hanzo Nilsson of the same unit and he's already quite familiar with another of the candidates. An interesting thing to note, he's a veteran from Vietnam, and served in the United States Marines to be exact, though we're finding some parts of his service records covered in black ink."
"He's obviously smitten with the kitten."
Patton wasn't sure how to react as while hearing about interspecies romance between humans and aliens, even awkwardly witnessing some public displays of affection and rushing by it, but seeing an instance of a subordinate being in a relationship with a Cathar even if it was through a photograph was another.
"Alright, so there may be more than one way of convincing him." Bandito stated while wishing to clear his mind of such images.
"May I suggest the ruse of a military inspection to throw off the attention of any Space Brits due to the fact that very important officials would be visiting?"
"Could work as any Imperial spies would be focused on us."
Kuat City, Medical Station - Kuat, Kuat Sector, Kuat System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
It was a long reflection, analyzing what he had learned during his time on Tython about this Galaxy, the adventures of Revan and the Ebon Hawk during the Jedi Civil War centuries ago, as well as thinking back to Vietnam that had brought unpleasant memories, memories of which still continued to haunt him.
But Hanzo's attention on his datapad was intercepted however when he heard the doors opening and a familiar face appeared through the doorway that brought a smile on his face.
"Hey Marala, you were able to get past through Nurse Sonnu I see..."
"I wasn't going to leave you hanging." The Cathar purred affectionately, approaching the bedside with an aura of both confidence and allure, causing Hanzo to chuckle as his partner was still the same woman as he remembered he had met during shore leave on Carrick Station, she leaned down and he welcomed the kiss from his attachment.
They pulled back a bit, she traced her hand on Hanzo's cheek, inspecting the scar. 'First a lightsaber across his face, now, stabbed.' She thought to herself.
"How are you holding up?" She wondered out of concern.
"Feeling much better than before, I'll say that much. Certainly looking forward to getting out of here with you." He smirked a bit as he traced his hand to her back, making her leaning down more of herself to him, pressing her chest against his as her forehead came to rest on his.
"I would give you a love tap for that remark but I wouldn't want to risk it." She jested.
"Well, if it makes you feel better, I'm cleared to leave here tomorrow morning, Marala." He stared into her green cat eyes, finding comfort in seeing the understanding in them that only a fellow soldier could, beyond the fact of their different species, he had never met any other woman quite like Marala that could actually understand what he had gone through in Vietnam.
Or that of his was harder life back home: There weren't many women he had known that didn't hold an interest in him or even were on friendly terms, due to being obviously of partial Japanese descent which usually made it clear of what the first impressions were going to be like, the reminders to him of the stain left behind by the atrocities committed by Imperial Japan during the Second World War. He had always done his best to be at least polite, be considerate, and he was damned if he was gonna be greeted by his father in the afterlife to be scolded for disrespecting a lady.
But still, he did it in knowing it wasn't going to be received back, even recalling times of when there were a few that had sought a 'crueler' means of telling him to back off, trying to manipulate him into positions where he would either be humiliated or facing their jealous boyfriends ready to try to defend their 'honor'.
That was about when he had started to admittedly develop a smartmouth in pissing them off, there was just something enjoyable in watching an overly confident person suddenly going red as a tomato as they struggle to find comebacks to his 'blunt' words, made them predictable too of what they were gonna do and how he responded back.
He also developed an enjoyment watching the ladies either sitting or standing there in complete shock, putting it further when he either refused their attempts to get with him to pretend to impress or still acting much as a gentleman he can as he left them there on spot. Others simply just were not worth the effort upon seeing they had attitudes that he didn't like or true value in themselves.
Though for the few women that he did meet that had tried to actually understand him… He didn't want them to be burdened by someone like him, someone still scarred from war or had little to offer to them beyond who that he showed himself to be. They deserved far better than him.
But Marala was different, it was almost hard to describe but there was something that felt far more comforting in being with her than he ever did with anyone else. He didn't want to rush this in the fears that their different lines of work could cause possible issues for their relationship, or dealing with what was growing apparent from the viewpoint that many of his fellow Earthlings were developing on 'interspecies' relationships.
He didn't care what others would make of it, but he was still thinking of what was going through Marala's mind. He was heartily glad to find that Marala was similar-minded on the subject as him.
She smiled as she looked into Hanzo's green-hazel eyes, tracing her claw finger on his torso. "In that case…"
The lovebirds however heard a cough and were astonished to see none other than the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order herself standing near the doorway.
Grandmaster Satele Shan
Kuat City, Medical Station - Kuat, Kuat Sector, Kuat System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:01: 15 ATC / December 1st, 1968 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
"I was going to release him in the morning anyways, Master Satele." Doctor Phoz declared."He's in the room down the hall, third door on the right."
"Thank you.." Without a beat, the Grandmaster began heading to the ward to recruit the Earthing of the Canadian tribe to the mission, coming to the door and waiting for it to open.
But upon doing so as she was about to enter the room, only to see though that the newest member of Chaos Squad laying her top-self on the man she had come to see, it didn't take long for her to sense the feelings coming from the tall Cathar, it brought certain memories back for her that she would've preferred to have kept buried.
Satele's arrival unexpectedly halted whatever that the two were intending on doing, she raised her hand to her mouth. "Ahem."
The couple were in a state of surprise at her unannounced visit but composed themselves due to having an unannounced visitor.
"Lieutenant? I need to speak to Corporal Nilsson alone, it shouldn't be more than a moment."
The Republic military officer nodded and stepped out of the ward to wait in the lobby, though in an apparent attempt to draw Hanzo's attention, her hips had noticeably sway with each of her steps though she kept herself in a professional posture as she left the room, throwing a wink at him as the door shut before her.
"How are you faring?"
Hanzo raised an eyebrow at the question as there has to be more to this than checking on his health. "Never been better, ma'am, with all things considering after being stabbed with a lightsaber.."
"Word has been going around that somebody took down a particularly murderous Sith with experience from the previous war with their bare hands."
"Well, it wasn't easy but I had to do what needed to be done. He would've kept killing more of us if anything wasn't done."
Satele accepted the response. "Your personnel file mentioned that you had some experience fighting in Vietnam with the Americans, some of which is interestingly blacked out."
"I love Canada and I'm proud to be a Canadian, but I needed to prove myself and the only conflict at the time where I was able to do so was in Southeast Asia." Hanzo declared. "As to the bits that I assumed are classified, suffice to say, there were spooks that wanted to make sure that I and my unit were gonna keep our mouths shut about a particular 'incident'. Unfortunately, unless you get permission somewhere, I doubt I'd be allowed to say without spooks coming knocking on doors. There has to be a reason why you came here, ma'am."
"The reason I'm here is because the higher-ups have something in mind and need you for this purpose." Satele handed him a datapad with presumably the information encoded into it. "I understand if you're still recuperating but be sure to read it before eleven hundred tomorrow."
Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:08: 15 ATC / December 8th, 1968 - 10:00 / 10:00 AM
"Atten-hut!"
Patton and Malcom acknowledged the snappy presentation of arms upon their arrival and began inspecting each trooper one by one personally, mostly seeing the maintenance of their equipment.
"This one looks a bit rusty here." Old Blood and Guts growled as he noticed specks on this individual's piece and it reminded him of the soldiers who neglected their appearance all those years ago, the time when he was given command of American forces in North Africa and to restore much-needed discipline in the ranks after the disastrous rout at Kasserine Pass, a time where he threatened to shoot any GI who wasn't wearing a tie just to restore the esprit de corps. "More than just piled with shit and left to rot. Did you think this was a fucking joke!? Where's your Sergeant, Private!?"
"That's paint, George." The Supreme Commander corrected, interceding on the subordinate's behalf as it was the truth.
"Well, I'm not familiar with blasters to be fair." Bandito snorted as he handed the rifle back to the Republic soldier. The said trooper was doing his best to remain composed but there was a detection of annoyance of being questioned for his professionalism as a soldier. "And it's still baffling that over two hundred varieties are all regarded as 'standard'."
Jace sighed and proceeded to inspect the next subordinate on the line with the barracks being soon enough.
Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:08: 15 ATC / December 8th, 1968 - 10:30 / 10:30 AM
"We better finish up sprucing the barracks before the two get here." One of the expectant voices reasoned as he walked into the room, the automatic door splitting to provide entry. "Polish our helmets as well-" The merc, however, paused when he noticed some completely unfamiliar strangers in their room, as if they were waiting for their return. "It seems like we have some uninvited guests."
"Sorry, I think we went to the wrong room by mistake." Connor apologized with a wicked and not so innocent smile."We're very sorry and my friends and I were about to leave."
"Right you are." One of the mercenaries growled as they drew their blaster pistols or rifles. "And it will be the last error you'll ever make."
"Alex?" Wescott requested. "You have the welcoming gift?"
"Sure do." The subordinate with the position of loader in a machine gun section smirked as turned the knob of the canister to vent out the vapors. "We're sorry, very sorry about this."
"Gas, gas, gas!"
The mercenaries attempted frantically to leave or grab their weapons to attack the intruders while the unwelcome guests placed their gas masks on but the automatic door was unresponsive as if it was purposely deactivated to provide a seal and trap the hired guns inside.
Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
December 8th, 1968 - 10:30 / 10:30 AM
"Thank you, Jefro." Balkar acknowledged the agent impersonating a supervisor of cleaning droids who were to place the corpses in capsules and covertly dispose of them.
"No problem, Jonas. These scum deserve to be vented out of an airlock." The other SIS Agent shrugged while the armor of the former owners was distributed with Major Lane holding silver Elite War Hero Eliminator armor and Lieutenant Jorgo getting the Verpine Med-Tech armor, which was painted in purple, the owner was unfortunate to have not been wearing her helmet or else it would've more than had kept her safe from the technology was amongst the most advance and best in the whole galaxy.
Hanzo, however, was given a set of armor that was a spare set owned by one of the now-deceased mercenaries, a customized TT-17A Hydra colored gold and red that was very clearly Mandalorian, the helmet was a dead giveaway with the famed T shaped visor. But for some reason, the Corporal suspected that this might be someone else's as none of the dead Howling Heathens were wearing anything resembling it as they were all clearly not Mandalorians themselves, being a mixture of humans and few aliens as he noted a dead Weeguay, Kiffar, Karkarodon, and Togruta among the bodies, the Karkarodon he guessed was female based on both his fishing experience back in Vancouver Island where he occasionally had to deal with the pesky dogfish or even the rare time that a salmon shark had attempted to steal his bait, and upon noting the female shaped figure that was a dead giveaway, some of it subtle but he was able to still make out the difference. It was harder to tell at times with some species who were far less humanoid in physiology as compared to the human similarities, he had already seen a great wide variety of them across the station that had left him almost overwhelmed by the reminder of how massive this galaxy was.
Yet at the same time, it was possible that it was a case of any one of them not being selective with appearances just as long as the armor was intimidating and functional for the purpose, the reputation alone has made the very sight of the armor could cause many to flee in terror than to learn how accurate the stories about Mandalorians were, to read that there was more to it than labeling the warriors as ones who do it out of only being available for hire. No, there were Clans that are more honorable than being mere mercenaries with traditions dating back millennia and labeling them as 'brutes' or 'thugs' was not only an oversimplification, it was bound to create falsehoods, a misconception which was just as wrong and tantamount to saying he was unworthy of being a Canadian because of his maternal grandparents were from Japan.
But on the other hand… He can see as to why many other of these stories were made, the Mandalorians were just as brutal as their honor was and it more than reminded him of his own ancestors, the Vikings, and even the Samurai as he thought of the brutality of their famed brutal raids across Europe or eras of war such as the Sengoku Jitai or the Imjin War that saw Japan while under the rule of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, attempting to become a Colonial Empire that would engulf Asia in the flames of war.
This current war has seen the Mandalorians as the Republic's enemies not seen since the Mandalorian Wars three centuries prior. Battles or engagements seen on such as Taris, Balmorra, and Corellia had done enough to remind that the Mandalorians are incredibly dangerous.
Hanzo, out of curiosity, decided to try on the helmet to see if it not only fit him but more of seeing what Mandalorians saw out of it and he was amazed. He noticed that there was a display of a 'floating' red crosshair that moved when his eyes moved, as if the crosshair was automatically aligned to a target and from he recognized as Aurebesh numerals, the range was automatically compensated for as well.
Concentrating on one of the bunks, the Canadian serviceman noted that the distance was registered as twenty-five meters and he switched his focus on a vase behind him, noting that it was five meters away.
However, as soon as he turned around, he noticed that somehow he could see whatever - or whoever - was behind him. 'Three hundred sixty degrees? This is good for tactical awareness'. Nilsson noted, aware of the possibilities presented with such capabilities, though he will need some time to properly become used to fighting with a suit of advanced armor like this.
"It seems like you're enjoying yourself, Hanzo." Marala commented half-jokingly, amused by the seeming, for the lack of a better word, playfulness by the Earthling while testing the helmet.
"Alright, cut it out." Connor interrupted, thinking the same way even though it was with a different conclusion. "McAllen, Nilsson, let's give the ladies some privacy."
"What's the matter, boys?" Enilly wondered cheekily. "Afraid to be around us?" She had her bodysuit's top zipper down which more than exposed some of her cleavage, obviously to get Alex's attention, to which it certainly did.
Major Lane herself didn't show any apparent discomfort of it either, though that can be more led up about her Echani heritage. "I would think at the least you and Marala wouldn't have any issue considering your 'activities'." She was already moving to remove her Republic Trooper armor, dropping her gauntlets on a table with her helmet before moving to do the rest with her armor, leaving her in a bodysuit that more than showed her curvy yet very athletic figure that was a testament of her status as a Special Operations soldier.
"Thankfully this is a two-room suite." Wescott muttered.
Erick Priest - Howling Heathens
Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:08: 15 ATC / December 8th, 1968 - 11:15 / 11:15 AM
The dark blond-haired, blue-eyed Mandalorian outcast was imposing in his TT-16B Master Powertech as he headed back to link up with the others at their temporary lodging and while the Dar'manda was not ashamed for what he had done, what was deemed to be immoral and dishonorable activities on Balmorra collaborating with a fellow Mandalorian, Monta Drai, a professional mercenary who kept a slavery business on the sideline, enslaving the local inhabitants and selling them off to the Empire for credits, nevermind burning villages for sport yet he never regretted his actions, he wasn't ignorant that it wasn't honorable but honor wasn't what drove him, he didn't lie to himself that he still had any honor after the things he did unlike the other Mandalorians within Monta's band.
Regardless of what his fellow Mandalorians across the galaxy thought of what he did, he still considered himself more honest than others would care to admit. He knew if he showed himself around any other Mando'ade, they would surely try to kill him on the spot without second thought or hesitation, he was just a scrorage who needed to be ended.
And therefore he only became one of the 'Heathens' not necessarily by choice but because of circumstances and he enjoyed the time on Alderaan during the Civil War, but the recent decision by the leader of the band to work for the Republic while profitable did also prove difficult to adjust and there were a few of the group who shared the same sentiment.
As a matter of fact, there was going to be a discussion after the Supreme Commander of the Republic Military and General Patton - a man he only heard about - inspected the quarters, a possibility of seeking employment elsewhere instead of charading themselves as some upholders of morality when to the contrary the Howling Heathens all had blood on their hands during the Civil War, even at one point massacring five hundred peasants just because they were toiling the land of the wrong house as that was how they operated, not be some do-gooders.
Approaching the door, Erick noticed a specific device laying on the ground. "Looks like Molin accidentally dropped her datapad." He chuckled before opening the door, only to see that no one was there and the place was almost like they left it, except for notably the personal datapad.
The discrepancy caused him to immediately have klaxons go off mentally, it was completely unlike the others to just neglect a task of any sort even if this one involved sprucing up a place for visitors. And scanning the room, he noticed something else was off - more like missing - from the otherwise 'untouched' room:
His spare set of Mandalorian armor was gone.
"Damned chakaars!"
Carrick Station, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
December 8th, 1968 - 12:00 / 12:00 PM
"Well, Han, I didn't expect us to be dragged for wet work." Alex sighed underneath the helmet after he changed into the armor back in the room, his being a 'TT-15A Powertech' - specifically the 'Republic' version - and the corpses of the former owners now being disintegrated in tubs of acid before the canisters were vented into space intermixed with the jettisoned trash just to get rid of their existence.
The team embarked on the star transport owned by the Alderaanian mercenaries, settling in for the trip ahead and the leader of the operation decided now was a good time to review everything.
"You remember the plan?"
"We're going to be posing as the Alderaanian mercenary group 'The Howling Heathens' and act as being hired on as security with rotations being one group on-duty at the front, one off-duty, and a third conducting surveillance on our target to figure out which location would provide the best opportunity to strike him down. Sometime in-between, we'll arrange ourselves to be hired as firepower to one of the warring gangs that are enemies of the Shadow Syndicate but not allies of the Republic publicly, and in order to keep up appearances, we're doing what needs to present ourselves as hired paid mercenaries. But otherwise, we do what's necessary and able for the mission and the cause."
Wescott nodded at Specialist Kovo's paraphrased recitation of the plan, the war criminals they were impersonating wouldn't be missed in the slightest, and the group needed to do anything to stay alive in the midst of the chaos occurring on the planet.
"Why did I have to turn my lightsaber to Master Satele again?"
"To keep everything sanitized." Wescott reminded the Twi'lek Jedi. "I'm not having any unnecessary risks here as a lightsaber attracts attention and narrows down who uses them rather quickly. Besides, none of our now departed 'friends' were former Jedi."
"He does have a point, ma'am."
"You know it would come in handy."
"We've been over this, Serena. If you disagree, you can drop out of this Operation right now and return to the Temple. Agent Balkar and I discussed in-depth the approaches and the only other one would be planting a bomb inside the casino that Grotta likes to visit and blow it to Kingdom Come. Unfortunately, a certain Grandmaster swayed everyone except Patton for it."
"Hey, don't look at me but all I'm going to say is he has his reasons to be overbearing." Balkar defended.
"You all don't need to gang up on me about this, you wouldn't like it either if you were being told to put away something that's your very life." Serena didn't expect them to understand the connection that a Jedi or Sith have with their lightsabers, particularly their connections to the crystal of their sabers.
Hanzo though had a better idea of it, his time spent on Tython had exposed him more to it and Serena herself had even shared the light with him on the subject. In fact, he still had Darth Goh's lightsaber somewhere. "Besides, this isn't the first time I've had to go undercover without it, besides… I was born on Nar Shaddaa, this will be me returning home."
Happy May Fourth, everyone!
I know it has been a while since the story was last updated but without further ado, I'll let my pal Mando have the honor of explaining the contexts here.
Mando?
Mandalore the Survivor: Thank you Jumper and Happy May Fourth as well. Essentially this is a story arc in hopes to further explore the characters that you see involved here and to give a deeper depth level of Earthlings exploring the galaxy by having them see what Nar Shaddaa is truly like and of its dangers. Hanzo's character in particular I hope to show as something truly different from the others and to present how Hanzo's experiences during the Vietnam War were different and provide a contrast to Jake's experiences and how Hanzo was affected by the conflict.
While I admit me and Jumper don't always agree with each other and we have different contrasting views from each other, we still learn to work together and it helps create other elements in the story here with our characters and their storylines. I, overall, hope to show something that's always shown more about Star Wars with my friend We'retheDesperateMeasures-ODST here.
We'retheDesperateMeasures-ODST: I got to give all the credit to Mando here as he was the one who came up with this and put the effort into making this arc reality, guys and I will continue to give the credit where due.
While we may respectively have some opinions that are, I won't lie, completely different and opposing , we don't let them be in the way of cooperation, an example of what is sorely needed in the current divisive climate, and I'm proud to declare that Mandalore the Survivor is one of the persons I know who I can always count on and I'm also grateful to call him a friend.
Mandalore the Survivor: And I as well.
Chapter 27: Little Saint Nick
Chapter Text
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 15:00/3:00 PM
Jake now somewhat regretted volunteering for the third watch when it came to the arguably dull yet vital sentry duty, his experience formerly as a Military Policeman, United States Marine Corps Military Occupational Specialty 5811, aside, as once the afternoon shift was completed he got dragged into the occasional verbal political quarrel.
Marvin Huett, the New Dealer, was ideologically opposed to the economic theories of Milton Friedman and off-time became an unofficial political debate club between the Goldwaterite and the New Deal zealot ingrained with notions that getting rid of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's programs to go back to the economic years of Silent Cal would somehow reignite the Great Depression at least within the United States, maybe globally, but that was just only one disagreement among many shared between them.
"Do you have a cousin named Patrick, Jake?"
"What about him?" Meyer asked suspiciously.
"Oh, nothing. He just seems to not be able to let go of his teddy. I overheard Staff Sergeant Cameron earlier."
"I see." Jake wasn't going to permit Marvin to start talking smack about his relatives in addition to the staunch political differences between them. Politics were one matter but family would be crossing above the threshold and therefore the Hoosier decided that the best course was to lead the conversation astray. "He had that stuffed animal since he was an infant and just like Linus from The Peanuts, he symbiotically attached to it. Hell, out of separation anxiety he was practically pleading for Aunt Shannon to ship it to him at basic when the lucky one got drafted and sent to Fort Knox to become a tank gunner."
"Jesus. A tank gunner who can't grow up."
"Can you see why I don't usually talk about family, especially the eccentrics?" Jake groaned. "You know, just to change the subject somewhat as it's the season, Christmas was always special to me, not only because of family sitting around the fireplace and tree layered with ornaments but knowing that even if the world went to hell, there's always someone willing to bring joy across the globe."
Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer
Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
Thursday, December 24th, 1953 - 11:45 PM
Six year old Jake stirred out of the covers to head downstairs to grab a glass of water as he was thirsty.
He pulled down the handle of his door slowly, taking care to not give off even the slightest sound.
Upon opening the door, the boy noticed across the hall that his parents were still in bed, cuddled with one another, dozing.
Jake tiptoed down the hallway before cautiously treading down the steps, taking care to avoid the known creaks and he paused midway to check on yet another potential hurdle, not wishing to disturb Opa's rest.
From the middle of the stairway, Jake in his blue/green striped pajamas and nightcap spotted the patriarch, Great-Great Grandfather Wilhelm, passed out on the recliner, the now ancient veteran of the 32nd Indiana 'First German' Volunteers was known to sleep through even the roaring stampede from a herd of Elephants but the boy knew that even so, even with Urgroßvater slumbering, he still shouldn't risk rousing the other members of the farmhouse awake and thus still crept downward carefully lest he desired his mother to give him an earful.
Entering the kitchen, befuddled as to why the lights were on when they were shut off before bedtime, Jake's eyes widened as unexpectedly there was in fact someone else who was awake in the household, though certainly not a relative!
The man's cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow!
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath!
He had a broad face and a little round belly that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly!
Jake immediately recognized the person he was facing, why for it was none other than the legendary Saint Nick!
"Ho-ho-ho!" The visitor uttered. "What are you doing out of bed, young man?"
Before Jake could respond, Santa seemed to determine why the youngster who should be under the covers sleeping was stirred awake and not because of attempting to take a peek at Weihnachtsmann placing goodies in the stockings, nevermind presents underneath the tree.
"Ah." Claus recognized instantly the reason and retrieved a glass from the cabinet to fill up with water from the sink.
Jake took a sip and without another word spun about-faced to head back upstairs, knowing that the caller still had quite a night ahead, a route to follow, and an inflexible timetable to complete. "Night, Santa."
"Merry Christmas, Jacob."
Present...
"Are you sure you're the sanest, Jake?" The New Dealer snickered. "You, of all people, still believe in Santa Claus?"
"I know who I saw." Meyer insisted, irked by the accusation of deserving to be placed in a straight jacket for delusions. "You can believe whatever you want, Marvin, but I'm telling you that it was none other than Saint Nicholas himself munching on a slice of Mom's always delectable cheesecake, drinking the homemade chocolate milk, and toting his sack filled with presents."
"Whatever. It might as well have been Calvin Coolidge who so happened to rise from the grave and walked all the way from Vermont to the farmhouse in that state full of hicks, Indiana, without getting spotted on the way westward."
"Not funny." Jake glared, tempted to give the arrogant New Jersey prick a well-deserved bop but relaxed.
"Still, if you think about it for a moment, how is Santa any different from Social Security? You get something in return to something, being good in return for presents compares with working most of your life then retiring to get a check."
"The spirit of giving is superior to receiving entitlement programs." Jake countered, though uncertain as the New Dealer did have a point despite the farm boy more often than not making Marvin the one to pause and think. Even with the jab, the Hoosier who was having second thoughts due to Marvin mocking his home state decided not to hold back as it was still the season of giving and therefore begrudgingly revealed the surprise. "Merry Christmas by the way."
Marvin was taken aback by the unexpected gift but accepted the small box and began shredding the wrappings, specifically a promotional wrapping with the planned logo of STAR WARS, and opened the cardboard lid to reveal a mug.
On one side of the mug was a portrait of Calvin Coolidge with the caption of 'Keep Coolidge' and on the other side was a quote by Silent Cal himself: 'What we need is not more Federal Government, but better Local Government.'
"Yeah, thanks. How thoughtful and I like it already." Marvin grumbled. "Merry Christmas."
"It's just the perfect size for a bit more Joe or Cocoa after all." Jake snickered. "I got the last laugh but, still, Moie Wiehnacht (Merry Christmas)."
"Shame that I don't have anything for you in return ya fringe."
"No need, you utopianist. Just sit out if George Wallace and his so-called victory wagon get the Democratic nomination for 1976."
"You know I would anyway." Marvin snorted. "That's like saying Reagan has a chance of becoming President in 1980 so don't get ahead of yourself, wingnut."
"Reagan in '80? While that might be the greatest idea I ever heard from your mouth, Marv, I for one think John Wayne would make for a fine President as an alternative."
Marvin rolled his eyes at the shit-eating smirk. "You're just giving ahead of yourselves, ya delusional wingnut."
"Yet we're still getting the last laugh, you tax and spend New Dealer." Jake fired back. "Goldwater will have another term, I bet the farm on it."
Private Patrick Conner "Pat" Cameron - MOS 11E10 (Armor Crewman) assigned as Tank Gunner to Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 16:54/4:54 PM
"You still have that thing, Pat?" Specialist 4 Victor Edison wondered jokingly, knowing completely well long ago that the gunner wasn't going to relinquish the stuffed animal without a fight.
"It's not a thing. It's Snoopy." Pat countered the tank driver, clutching his prized possession on the bunk fondly. "Don't tell me you never have read the funnies."
"You're still something else." Victor chuckled before noticing the gunner smirking to place a discus into the record player. "What band?"
"The Royal Guardsmen." Patrick shrugged. "Who else?"
O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum
Do kannst mir sehr gefallen!
"The opening takes me back to Christmas up at Uncle Steve's cabin in Elkhart, a few miles away from his farm."
Patrick Conner "Pat" Cameron
Stephen Meyer's Cabin - Thirty Minutes outside Millersburg, Elkhart County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
Sunday, December 25th, 1955 - 8:00 PM
Five year old Pat could not understand what the lyrics meant even though they did in a way sound familiar. The fact that Uncle Paul and Uncle Steve were singing the carol at all was an unexpected offer but even with the barrier of understanding what the words meant, the tune still resonated.
"O Weihnachtsbaum, o Weihnachtsbaum, wi treu sind deine Blätter!"
"Du grünst nicht nur zur Sommerzeit, Ne auch im Winter, wenn es schneit."
"O Weihnachtsbaum, o Weihnachtsbaum, wi treu sind deine Blätter!"
"What is it with German?" Ashley wondered. "I thought Uncle Paul and Uncle Steve were going to sing 'O Christmas Tree'?"
"To be fair, sis, 'O Christmas Tree' is of German origin." Nicole revealed. "Though I thought it was Tannenbaum?"
"Even so, didn't we fight a war or two against Germany though, Nikki?" Amy inquired. "You're the brains after all so you should know."
"Yeah, Nikki, I thought Uncle Paul fought the Nazis." Natalie added, just as confused. "Right Tim? Sean?"
Before Nicole could offer her input, another sibling decided that he had a better explanation and to offer his seven brothers and sisters in total words of wisdom.
"Wilhelm fought to preserve the Union. Not all Germans are Huns and Nazis, Amy, Natalie." The eldest of the eight siblings at twelve years of age, Scott, interrupted his four sisters and three brothers with reasoning. "It's like saying all Scotsmen eat Haggis."
"But Aunt Becky makes it occasionally." Sean pointed out.
"Nevermind. The point is you should judge people by their character, not their skin, heritage, culture, and traditions." The firstborn upheld before glancing at the youngest, Patrick, appearing as if he was thinking of him especially. "I know it will be a while for you all to understand, but while the world will never be perfect, we still can do better."
Present...
The news had come out in the First World War
The bloody Red Baron was flying once more
The Allied command ignored all of its men
And called on Snoopy to do it again
Was the night before Christmas, Forty below
When Snoopy went up in search of his foe
He spied the Red Baron, fiercely they fought
With ice on his wings Snoopy knew he was caught
Christmas bells those Christmas bells
Ring out from the land
Asking peace of all the world
And goodwill to man
"From that day onward, I understood what Scott was saying: While people will disagree no matter what, whether politically, culturally, religiously, or whatsoever the exact disagreement is, we can still do better."
"Your eldest brother, the cannon cocker, is a wise man." Victor nodded. "More folks should take in that piece of advic-" The pair were cut off by the sound of two separate gunshots followed by a hail of laser fire. "What the-"
"Imperials." The pair's CO revealed as he and the loader, Corporal Arnold Manning, rushed inside, the barrel of the M14A2 rifles was warm judging by the condensation. "We finally have some expected guests coming."
"Well, I guess it's time to spring the little Christmas Surprise, I mean trap we were tasked for."
Sergeant Jayyos Lolfir - Second Squad, Second Platoon, Besh Company, 1298th Engineer Battalion, Third Brigade, 981st Infantry Division, Imperial Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:02/5:02 PM
"Alright, keep your eyes peeled." Jayyos reminded his subordinates. "We're supposed to have an armor unit somewhere in this compound."
"This appears to be a little cramp to hold an entire Armor Battalion with their blasted tanks, more like four men."
"You might be right, I only see four cots and one stove here."
The ten-man Imperial Combat Engineer detachment - a full-strength Imperial squad - scoured around the semi-permanent living quarters to see if it was all clear yet it just seem to be suddenly abandoned by the occupants which were further emphasized by the annoying lyrics coming from the primitive soundbox.
The Baron had Snoopy dead in his sights
He reached for the trigger to pull it up tight
Why he didn't shoot, well, we'll never know
Or was it the bells from the village below?
Christmas bells those Christmas bells
Ringing through the land
Bringing peace to all the world
And goodwill to man
Particularly irked by the tune conceived by uncultured barbarians, Corporal Flyeroo shot at the primitive soundbox only to fail as the music still played.
The Baron made Snoopy fly to the Rhine
And forced him to land behind the enemy lines
Snoopy was certain that this was the end
When the Baron cried out, "Merry Christmas, mein friend!"
The Baron then offered a holiday toast
And Snoopy, our hero, saluted his host
And then with a roar they were both on their way
Each knowing they'd meet on some other day
Christmas bells those Christmas bells
Ringing through the land
Bringing peace to all the world
And goodwill to man
"Kriff! How do you even stop this accursed thing!?"
"How about you turn it off next time?" Lolfir reasoned, flipping off the switch. "It's just more of this damn kriffing Life Day nonsense as Edict GR-1NC4 covers."
Private Patrick Conner "Pat" Cameron - MOS 11E10 (Armor Crewman) assigned as Tank Gunner to Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:02/5:02 PM
"Well, I guess we now officially know they don't like Christmas." Pat muttered while unhinging the Type V folding stock of his M14A2 rifle along with the front and rear foldable pistol grips of his issued weapon.
"Yeah, what a bunch of Scrooges."
"Shhh…" The tank commander, First Lieutenant Mitchell Gromley, ordered his three men as he racked back the charging handle of the MG-3 machine gun.
"Respectfully, sir, why do you get to have fun with the buzzsaw?"
"Quiet until three." Gormley chastised, aiming down the sights of the ripper and waited for half of them to pass by before unleashing the infamous storm of lead. "Merry Christmas you Space Brits!"
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:05/5:05 PM
"Merry Christmas you Space Brits!"
"Take cover!"
Four of the Imperial infiltrators went down when the burst went up, the shear rate of fire from the slugspewer astonishing the saboteurs, being significantly greater than the latest rotary-barrel assault cannon in use by Imperial Assault Troopers, even the ones equipping Republic Commandos under the enemy's SpecForce Division!
"Fall back and regroup!" The Sergeant ordered before falling to an aimed rifle shot, the cohesion gradually breaking down due to the unanticipated ambush.
First Lieutenant Mitchell Lee Gormley - Commander of Chieftain Tank Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:12/5:12 PM
Gormley paused his firing as the surviving half of the enemy took shelter behind whatever cover was available despite being a kill zone. Unluckily for the Imperials, they weren't aware of an obscure tunnel that would permit two of the Americans to box them in from the flank.
"Cameron? Prepare to chuck Snoopy in front of the bastards."
"What!?" The Gunner was slackjawed by the request from his CO, not believing his ears.
"It's an order, not a suggestion, Private!" Gormley insisted.
Patrick reluctantly flung his toy toward the Imperials, the devout Roman Catholic praying to God, the Savior, and even the Virgin Mary that Snoopy would not be struck by a shot from the enemy's laser weaponry.
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:15/5:15 PM
"Grenade!"
The surviving remnants of the Imperial strike team ranked no higher than Corporal jumped flat down to the snow, seeking shelter from the expected explosion. Seconds ticked by only for the lack of a small boom to cause cautious curiosity among them.
"Was that a dud?" One of the Imperials wondered before taking a glance "That's no grenade, lads. It's a toy!"
"A what!?"
"One of the Earthlings threw a pathetic stuffed creature." A third laughed out of disbelief. "An idiotic toy meant for children to enjoy!"
First Lieutenant Mitchell Lee Gormley - Commander of Chieftain Tank Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:25/5:25 PM
"Alright, that tears it." Cameron growled, intent on shooting the Space Brits from the flank for mocking his friend.
"Manning? Go with him, we'll take them from the left." Gormley ordered the loader. The First Lieutenant lifted the caliber converted MG-42 and hoisted it with one hand grasping on a leg of the bipod, preparing to storm the trapped Imperial 'guests'.
Mitchell watched as Manning followed the annoyed Private to envelop the visitors, before shaking his head out of denial. 'He really needs to grow up.'
Private Patrick Conner "Pat" Cameron - MOS 11E10 (Armor Crewman) assigned as Tank Gunner to Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:35/5:35 PM
"You really are one insane Irishman."
"I'm partly of Scottish extraction too." Pat growled. "Cameron isn't an Irish surname last I checked."
"Fair point." Austin relented.
Pat leaned his back against the ice and clutched an M26 fragmentation grenade while his brother-in-arms and fellow tank crewman, the loader, aimed his M14A2 at the goosesteppers from the other corner, taking care not to extend the twenty-two inch long barrel beyond the edge of the manmade cave.
The tank gunner unpinned the explosive and flung it to a decent spot in between where some of the Imperials were congregating with the intent of nailing at least four within the five-meter lethality radius.
"Grenade!"
Pat initially fired off a short, controlled burst from his weapon, five 150 grain 7.62 x 51mm NATO projectiles striking wildly off target.
Realizing that it was on Automatic, Pat switched the selector to Semi-Automatic and aimed once more, striking one of the Imperials in the head, killing him instantaneously with a thirty caliber projectile before moving on to the next target and shot the enemy twice center-mass of his torso.
The superiority of precisely well-aimed rifle fire under the American military doctrine, adhered by not only the Jarheads despite their recent accomplishments at Camp Perry but by the United States Army as well, had been vindicated ever since World War I, nevermind ever since the nation's founding, and saturation fire, also derisively referred to as 'Spray-N-Pray', would never be accepted if experience fighting beside Republic forces and against the current enemy is anything to go by.
And even if there were elements within the United States Army loathing the 'Gravel-Bellies' despising the 'Cult of the Rifleman' and deriding 'the Camp Perry Long Range Target Mafia' all adhering to the doctrine, retired Brigadier General Samuel Lyman Atwood Marshall recently confessed openly to Congress that the percentages in his already discredited report Men Against Fire: The Problem of Battle Command were made up from thin air and the testing by Norman Hitchman were criticized for using personnel from the United States Army's Engineer School instead of Infantry when studying the effectiveness of long-distance rifle fire in combat, with the statement of 'no combat occurring over three hundred yards' being grossly exaggerated as more often than not the American Infantrymen and Marines in the current war against the Sith Empire were engaging from beyond five hundred yards whenever and wherever the terrain permits; the retaking of the Jedi Temple on Tython, Kuat, and even here being among some of the few exceptions.
'Thank God we never adopted that Stoner trash.' Pat reflected with a smirk. "You're surrounded and reinforcements are arriving! Surrender now!"
Specialist Jairgust Tirmerr - Fireteam Three, Second Squad, Second Platoon, Besh Company, 1298th Engineer Battalion, Third Brigade, 981st Infantry Division, Imperial Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 17:55/5:55 PM
"You're surrounded and reinforcements are arriving! Surrender now!"
"Time to surrender." Jairgust sighed before raising his hands. "We surrender!"
"No, we can't. They're bluffing!"
"They have the advantage and we entered their nest." The Specialist attempted to reason with his female comrade. "You want to live?"
"Coward." Weltro spat, reaching for both her pouch and her blaster pistol. "At least I'll go down with a fight you disgraceful scum."
The Specialist's eyes widened as he noticed Sheba was pulling out the volatile charges from their protective cylinders, in fact, he realized that she was going to shoot the charges and take everyone with her.
"Sheba. Don't do this." Tirmerr pleaded. "Are you willing to waste Detcharges on four Earthlings?"
"It's still four less the Empire would need to kill later." Weltro concluded.
But before she could finish removing the first pack, the suicidal comrade was riddled with bullets from behind, the miraculous timing preventing an implosion, nevermind a vicious cave-in.
"Anyone else?"
First Lieutenant Mitchell Lee Gormley - Commander of Chieftain Tank Don't Tread on Me, Third Platoon, B/Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 4th Armored "Breakthrough" Division, United States Army
Crondre, Condre System, Dufilvian Sector, Midrim, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 18:00/6:00 PM
"No." The first cooperative Imperial accepting his status as a Prisoner of War replied. "I would be careful by the way. One of us was going to take us all with her."
The First Lieutenant nodded, his men's eyes still glaring for any sudden movements from the trio especially after the warning. "Secure that pack."
Manning cautiously walked toward the corpse, the muzzle of his rifle trailed at the POWs' direction in case they attacked by surprise, and knelt down, using his free hand to gently tap the explosive back inside the case.
"Well, I bet you were disappointed. This is just the picket line." Gromley revealed with a wicked grin. "The main garrison is farther back but I won't say anything more."
"Though, of course, we do have ways of making you Space Brits talk." Cameron smirked as he removed his M6 Bayonet from the scabbard for emphasis while clutching Snoopy fondly in his left arm. "Such as stuffing frozen potatoes up somewhere...unpleasant before making you do KP peeling the rest for dinner."
The three surviving Imperials gulped, not wanting to go through what was being prescribed to them even if they were unaware of the fact that it was just a ploy to get them to spew out what they were exactly up to.
"We were a raiding party to immobilize the parked tanks with explosives!" The blond one with a crew cut confessed. "The main attack won't occur until tomorrow!"
"Excellent work, men. The Colonel will be pleased." The First Lieutenant chuckled. "In fact, Edison, go ahead and inform him about our Christmas gifts."
"Yes, sir." Victor acknowledged as he walked to where the reciever was.
"Oh and wish him Merry Christmas as well while you're at it!" Gormley added.
Private Roywes Wisgau - Radar Technician, RNS Valiant , First Section, Fourth Squadron, Second Battle Group, Thirty-Eighth Fleet, Republic Navy
Aboard the Valor-class Cruiser RNS Valiant - Earth's atmosphere, above the State of Texas, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 21:40/9:40 PM
Roywes was bored out of his wits as he and his Wookiee comrade, Rairkazza, manned the radar.
Down on the planet below, a majority of the native inhabitants were in the midsts of celebrating some holiday which in ways were eerily familiar to the galaxy, especially to Wookiees in particular, while up here the main deterrent to Imperial aggression was just a rotational fleet fresh from combat to recuperate until relieved in addition to an extensively elaborate outer and inner defense ring constructed in joint cooperation between the United Nations, the Republic Military, and the Strategic Information Service early on starting just a week after Earth officially entered the war as an ally of the Galactic Republic and completed merely three days before the raid on Korriban.
The last time Wisgau had shore leave was three months ago planetside and while he wouldn't say he was unwelcomed per se, there were stringent rules to follow and various local customs to respect in numerous nation-states.
As matter of fact, he was almost shot by a militiaman armed with a surplus .30 Caliber M1 Rifle for inadvertently leaving the city limits of San Diego as some 'Area 51' was in another state, rumored to be a top-notch military research complex located somewhere in Nevada, and the locals desired to control the flow of travel for the purpose of security, which while overbearing, was proving to be rather effective.
The astounding capture rate of Imperial spies caught trying to purchase local wear or attempting to leave the outskirts of New York City to head to Niagara Falls for sabotage was remarkable but then again the rules enacted here were emplaced and zealously enforced for a reason: Being quickly identified trying to skirt the nonnegotiable, zero tolerance, policy was asking for local authorities to try the culprits as spies and if found guilty of wartime espionage, be sent straight to the gallows.
Of course, while these 'common sense' measures meant that the opportunity for tourism was extremely limited, the crewer could agree with the sayings: 'Reasonably anyone attempting to leave authorized tourist areas to search for a facility they heard about located in the middle of nowhere is up to no good.' and 'If someone is snooping around where unauthorized, they have to be spying.'
Needless to say, forcing the Imps' information they even managed to gather to be scant and vague due to hindering their ability to spy was always a good thing even if it came at the expense of not being able to tour everywhere on Earth and grumblings from intergalactic megacorporations desiring to have access to new marketplaces and business ventures.
"You know, Razz, perhaps Coruscant should embrace a 'Quarantine Policy' there as well. If the Imperials keep sending their agents here to die per se in the desperate attempt of gaining information of wartime production and sabotaging foundries when even I don't know where I'm going, then that speaks for the effectiveness."
The technician's attention dropped back to his assigned screen when a blimp appeared, signaling an unknown presence was approaching the fleet at slower than a jet from Earth, even slower than a Starfighter, yet still coming hot.
"Houston Control, this is RNS Valiant. We read an unauthorized departure near Houston, do you have anything?"
"Negative, we don't have anything on our scope other than what's expected for tonight. You sure it's not Santa's sleigh?"
Rolling his eyes and without a word, Wisgau switched the channel to the main defense center in the region as a precaution.
"NORAD? This is RNS Valiant, we are registering an unauthorized departure near Houston, Texas, do you have any sudden flights we need to be aware of?"
"Negative, Valiant. There were reports of the Jolly Saint Nick in the area before losing sight though. Lots of disappointed kiddos tonight if we don't regain track!"
"Jokesters." Roywes grumbled. This holiday was more important than protecting secret information apparently! Nevertheless, the technician received the confirmation he needed and decided to hail the presumed Imperial spy ship attempting to flee with whatever tidbit they remarkably managed to gather in spite of the top-notch to a tee precautions.
"Attention unknown and unauthorized spacecraft, this is Private Wisgau of the Republic Navy, you are ordered to deviate from your present course and turn back for inspection or you will be fired upon!"
No answer was given to the hail and the technician was about to push the alert button to warn the entire fleet when the sight outside startled him.
Out in the freezing night, snow falling all around, was an elderly man riding in some sort of open-air vehicle that was being pulled by - unbelievably - nine flying deer, a mixture of four Fallow and five Reindeer, one of whom had a red nose acting as a guide lamp!
"Ho-ho-ho!"
It was a picture-perfect instance of local folklore and superstition being, in fact, reality, Jedi and their powers were one thing but to see something that even the Jedi believed to be only exaggeration and hyperbole was absolutely mind-blowing.
"I'm going to open the shield and permit him to land."
"What!?" Roywes exclaimed out of disbelief. "How do you know we didn't drink too much before our shift, fuzzball?"
"Because that, right there, is Santa!" The Wookiee reasoned with excitement as he sat up. "Let's welcome him aboard!"
"Now wait here you tree swinging - Hey! Where do ya think you're going!"
Hangar Bay - RNS Valiant
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 21:48/9:48 PM
"Thanks, my friends." Santa smiled at the two Republic crewers. "Ho-ho-ho!"
"We're still going to get court-martialed for this, Razz." Roywes groaned, still denying that the furball allowed anyone unauthorized onboard even if it was with good intentions in mind.
"Relax, tomorrow is Life Day and this Christmas is coincidentally similar!" Rairkazza reasoned in a reassuring tone. "Not to mention Santa is revered as Wroshyr trees!"
"I don't think that's how it works." Roywes muttered, not buying the supposedly justified excuse for a minute. "Even if you place this Jesus instead of Santa, the comparison isn't the best."
The Wookiee huffed and flat-out ignored the complaint before facing the visitor.
"Can you please lend me a hand with making your friends' first Christmas here special?" Santa requested. "I brought along Christmas trees for every ship present after all and presents for everyone as well of course."
Before Roywes could decline, his walking carpet fellow crewer answered before he was able to decline.
"Sure!"
"I have a bad feeling about this, a very bad feeling, and the Wookiee is going to be the end of me."
Group Captain Emmryl Tepper - Captain of the RNS Valiant
Valor -class Cruiser RNS Valiant
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 22:23/10:23 PM
"What the kriff!" The lead deck officer, Lieutenant Rhejarr Markgann, cursed, taking the words straight out of the Captain's mouth.
There were Life Day gifts under a pine tree and he didn't even know where the blasted pine tree came from!
"Mister Markgann? Assembled the crew. We're going to find out who these merry pranksters are and have them assist the cleaning droids with swabbing the deck."
"Aye aye, sir." The XO acknowledged without a beat, as they mutually shared the sentiment.
Foredeck - Valor -class Cruiser RNS Valiant
12:24:15 ATC / Tuesday, December 24th, 1968 - 22:40/10:40 PM
"Men, it has come to my attention that sometime in the past few hours, some pranksters decided it was an excellent idea to not only sneak gifts aboard but somehow managed to set up this pine on deck! This here is a safety hazard and if it's toppled the size can pierce the transparasteel viewport from within, causing the infamous vacuum which will suck us all out to meet the grisly end every spacefarer fears."
Emmryl waited patiently for a confession from the guilty party among the nineteen hundred hands but not one stepped forward, either because of embarrassment or a desire to pretend that the matter wasn't serious to warrant a court-martial proceeding.
"We'll be here all night if we have to. I'm going to investigate and pull up the holosecurity footage as part of my investigation. If you don't speak up now, the punishment sought will be the maximum sentence."
The attention of the crewers, however, was now not focused on the two annoyed senior officers of the ship but instead staring at something, or perhaps even someone, outside and one of them spoke up not out of guilt but because of awe.
"Sirs? You better look outside."
Grumbling underneath his breath, the Captain and even his XO about-faced even if they felt that it was another practical joke only for the sight before them to illustrate that it may not be the case.
"Ho-ho-ho! Merry Christmas!"
"I don't believe it." Tepper stared outside the bridge's viewport, seeing the more likely culprit with his own eyes departing from another Republic vessel. For good measure, he did rub his pupils in case it was a mirage yet the view was still occurring in reality."I just don't believe it."
"And he's certainly no Force-user." Master Za noted as she watched the 'sleigh' veering downward to presumably the next location after finishing his visitation. "A major and obvious one is there's nothing in the Force which can cause deer to fly, especially these deer."
"With all due respect, Master Jedi, I'm more concerned with how he infiltrated the ship as we don't have chimneys, not if he's a blasted Jedi or something!" The Captain of the vessel snapped. "This isn't a pleasure liner for some obscure holiday from a backwater of arrogant fools but a technologically state-of-the-art warship!"
A Wookiee crewer stepped forward confidently, not remorseful for his part in the affair as he himself revealed. "I just simply let him aboard after I opened the Hangar to his sleigh! He wanted to pass out Life Day gifts for everyone!"
"Neither the Captain nor I gave authorization." Markgann snarled, angered to learn that an insubordinate crewer violated Republic Naval Regulations and acted as a remorseless accomplice for the interloper. "Why don't we just invite Imperials onboard while we're at it, Private?"
"Umm...Sir? This one is for you."
The executive officer sighed and unwrapped the gift, only to see it was a toy airship he ogled at a trinket shop in Antwerp only last week but this figure, this 'Santa Claus' not only went out of his way to gift him one but also somehow knew what to get. "So this transpired across the entire fleet, not just the Valiant."
"Well, clearly something is up." The Captain muttered, clasping his hands behind to stand at ease and glance downwards outside the bridge at planet Earth. "As this world is just something else entirely."
Casivir Therin - Battlemaster of the Jedi Order / Hero of Tython
Room Number 777 - Equinox Apartments, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Wars, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
12:25:15 ATC / Wednesday, December 25th, 1968 - 10:40/10:40 AM
"Cas? You remember that train set?" Kira inquired of her husband.
"Oh, I remember. What about it?"
Kira smirked as she noticed him attempting to hide the very locomotive that was mysteriously gifted to him in the middle of the night, supposedly by a particular fabled holiday figure on Earth.
"A certain Claus with these unique Reindeer capable of flight got spotted again but the Council is still failing to reach out to him."
Cas stroked his beard, still unsure if it was wise to chase someone who was a harmless, jolly soul. "Personally, I still believe he wants to be left alone. While the Council may wish to make contact with him somehow if possible, he's reclusive and we still don't know where exactly his workshop is located other than being somewhere in the North Pole. Why he's not even a threat so..."
"Fair point. The only harm he does is trespassing private property to leave gifts and invading privacy." Kira concurred, even if the Council were insistent due to attempting to unravel why the presence of the Force was nonexistent in the Milky Way as thus far it seems the evidence is hinting at it to only occur in the Galaxy per Master Gehnso's report though it didn't necessarily mean the Order were giving up as to why it was the case. "By the way, aren't you a little old for playing with toys?"
"There's nothing wrong with collecting models, dear."
"Until you run out of space of course." Kira retorted wittingly. "Don't get any ideas."
"No promises." Cas grinned as he went back to admiring the choo-choo.
Hey, in all fairness, it wasn't like I was going to have the Galaxy miss out on Christmas and the experiences that come with it in the fanfic as the fictional Life Day created for the Star Wars universe through that, that, *shudders* perpetually infamous and horrid piece of torture, Star Wars: The Holiday Special, righteously disavowed by George Lucas himself, isn't exactly the same thing :P
And while including Santa Claus does at first glance appear to be a little anomalous for this tale, to be fair there will be some mentions of Indiana Jones's adventures and whatnot in the future but I'll just leave it at that for now.
Regardless of your thoughts at the moment, this is ultimately just something lighthearted and purposely intended as a Christmas gift to the readers of the story here :)
I would like to also wish A Merry Christmas to OfficerDonNZ, Mandalore the Survivor, BraveSeeker3, JSailer, PaladinDelta, and Squasher but most of all Merry Christmas, everyone!
Sincerely, ODST
P.S. In case anyone was wondering or scratching their heads, the Republic Naval ranks are exactly the one's canon for Star Wars: The Old Republic .
Sailors, I mean 'Crewers' are ranked as Privates, Specialists, Corporals, and Sergeants before getting to Petty Officer for some reason...
Bioware could have done Spaceman instead of Seaman or something that sounds marinerish without being directly seafaring but that's apparently how the writers of the game want it.
Oh well, it's no big deal as I'll be sticking with it for the purpose of highlighting the different military traditions / mindset for the sake of the story ;)
Chapter 28: What About God and Country?
Chapter Text
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:08:16 ATC / March 8th, 1969 - 23:57 / 11:57 PM
Meyer was trying to sleep but no matter what he did whenever he shut his eyes to rest, all he observed was demonic flying goat creatures with wings of bats pouring out of a castle which appeared to be infested with them.
"Crossbowmen! Kneel! FÜER!"
Jake heard one of the crossbowmen shouting frantically and 'turned' to 'his' side to see what was occurring.
"Ne, ne! NE!"
He watched as the hapless foot soldier was swooped up in the razor-sharp talons by a pair of the hellish creatures and brought upward into the sky, immediately dispatching the poor soul, going as far as to feast on him with the forked frog-like tongues tasting the entrails and it was unbearable to witness.
Trying to ignore the gory display, Jake then discerned a sense of backing away warily from the inbound threat before spotting a sword on the ground and picked it up, wielding the sword and slashed it against the torso of the incoming hellspawn, watching as the creature instantaneously disintegrated to ash upon getting struck by the steel blade before noticing a downed Knight about to be mauled and swung the edged weapon at the approaching creature.
"Dank." The Ritterbruder appreciated it. "Keep it for now, my friend, as we must not allow this heresy to continue. We'll find the proper owner after we deal with these demons and the cowardly devil worshippers held up inside openly collaborating with Satan. I'm Jörg von Giesbrecht by the way. You?"
"Christopher Meyer of Minden." Jake was incredulous about what he just overheard being uttered, becoming aware of possibly the name of his progenitor, assuming that this was in fact a literal revelation based on the unmistakable adversary, but at this point he woke up, sweating and the Leatherneck without second thought decided to head to the nearest bathroom across the hall to wash his face.
"Am I going crazy?" The Marine asked himself as he stared in the mirror, reflecting. "First dreaming about the Teutonic Order going after Sith because of a fortuitous mistaken identity and now this?"
Gunnery Sergeant Stephen Yeager "Steve" Meyer - C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 6:45 / 6:45 AM
"Trouble sleeping?"
"I'm sure I'm fine, Uncle Steve."
"You know, Jacob, Guadalcanal was a bitch when the Japs continually shelled our positions and to be honest I think I know what you're going through."
"You do?"
"Sure, it took time to repress the memories of the shelling of our line but by the time we shipped out for the New Georgia Campaign, it was no longer any concern." Stephen declared encouragingly with a pat on his nephew's back.
Jake, however, still stared down at his coffee awkwardly but he seemed to change the subject. "Well, if the pundits are right, the GOP will be retaking the House and possibly even the Senate in 1972 in a landslide."
"I'm sure they're right. After all, the gains made in both houses of congress, not to mention Goldwater winning, indicates it." The Uncle chuckled. "Enjoy your breakfast."
"I'm sure Grandpa Doug is enjoying his grits in peace." Jake muttered before cutting into his goetta breakfast sausage. "Dankeschöön för dat Diskuschoon, Uncle Steve."
The uncle snorted at the nonchalant usage of Plattdeutsch but shrugged it off. "Geern daan, Jacob. (You're welcome, Jacob.)"
Roy Marcus Cohn - 65th Attorney-General of the United States
Office of the Attorney-General - Department of Justice Building, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 10:26 / 10:26 AM
"It appears that our success rate for the apprehension of potential spies is better than estimated, Roy." The Director of the FBI himself, John Edgar Hoover, stated matter of factly.
"Good to know, John." Cohn smiled.
"Even so and while I don't think I really need to ask this, Roy, but do you really trust Saresh?"
Roy stared at John blankly, disbelieving that he would even ask such a question yet the famed counsel to none other than Joseph Raymond McCarthy himself back in the day responded. "As the old saying goes 'keep your friends close and your enemies closer'. No, I don't trust that Chancellor in the slightest and as a matter of fact, she reminds me of myself, but she's unwittingly being useful as she helped make this happen and even believes us to be more trustworthy with regards to her agenda than Barry, ruthless but counterable."
"Which is why she also unnerves me and I wouldn't dismiss her from becoming suspicious quite yet." Hoover confided. "We have known each other for years, Roy, and while trust is an absolute luxury, it's no secret that there're Republic soldiers creating instances of subversion and undoubtedly the trail can be traced to the Chancellor as some of my agents learned before disposing of them and declared them as Imperial spies to Republic authorities."
'Smart. Learn about who ordered them to do subversion and use the system of dealing with Imperial Agents to avoid suspicion.'"If you need to ramp up COINTELPRO, feel free and I'll keep my eye out of it."
"Glad we have an understanding unlike our mutual adversary Robert." Hoover growled as he thought about Cohn's predecessor in this very office: Robert Francis Kennedy.
"That little snot really should consider disappearing." Cohn snarled, the mere mention of Bobby ticked him off exactly just like how the mentioning of the same individual enraged Hoover.
"Well, I'm sure being unelectable due to his brother's dismal second term should take care of it."
"You're right, John. What is there to worry about?"
Kennedy Compound - 50 Marchant Avenue, Village of Hyannis Port, Barnstable, Barnstable County, Massachusetts, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 10:26 / 10:26 AM
"Jack? You're in there?"
"Go away."
"Jack, it's Bobby and Ted." Robert announced outside the bedroom door. "Jackie wanted us to check on you."
"I said go away!" The two brothers heard glass shattered which caused them to open the door and burst in, only to notice that it was an empty beer bottle that was thrown at the door and there were at least fourteen empty bottles of liquor from Brandy and Cognac to Schnapps and Champagne scattered across the floor near their depressed sibling lying on the floor absolutely shitfaced.
"Jesus Christ!" Edward cursed. "Get some coffee Bobby while I put him in the shower."
Robert left while shaking his head out of belief and Edward began manhandling the former President to the shower, turning on the faucet to 'cold' before holding him inside to be blasted with the ice chill water.
"What the hell is wrong with you, Jack!? You were President of the United States and now you're drinking yourself worse than our friend Joe McCarthy ever did before he went cold turkey!"
"Those damn rotten, ungrateful brats whom I believed were the nation's future, those Viet Cong guerrillas raising hell in California ambushing National Guardsmen, Law Enforcement, and even everyday Americans going about their daily lives…" The former President of the United States muttered slurrily as he felt the cold water being blasted on him. "I shouldn't have deluded myself with preaching 'ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country' to the youth, as matter of fact, Ted, the more I think about it, the more I realize that perhaps I should've actually died in Dallas that day, Oswald should have ended me as it was my fate - my literal destiny - maybe having my brains splattered across the limousine and across Jackie's coat would have prevented the Hippies from coming into existence at all."
"Don't talk like that, you hear. Don't you dare ever mention that day again!"
"Ted, winning Vietnam might've made things worse because no matter what, nothing would appease them unless they had their way."
"But the Hippies are no more, Jack, they self-destructed themselves by trashing streets and caused every American to turn against them." Edward reminded him as soon there would be none in sight. "They're no longer problematic, even Jerry Rubin's Yippies and Valerie Solanas's group of absolute nutcases are no longer of any concern, Jack, with Phyllis Schlafly nationally commended for her excoriating, a majority of what the Hippies advocated for became discredited overnight and they petered out, or they certainly have by now, don't you remember?"
"True but it would have been nice if none of it happened, if flower children never came to be at all. And while America would've been screwed to shit if any of them got their way, I'm still getting blamed for sparking the turmoil." John grumbled, incensed by how a scant minority decided to cause chaos nationally while wearing beads and sandals. "God, I'm the catalyst for it, maybe Nixon should have been elected in 1960."
"Don't beat yourself too much on the what-ifs. Just remember the accomplishments and move on. Besides, Barry still has faith in you as otherwise he wouldn't invite you back to the White House."
"He might see the good but the Oval Office still holds memories I want to leave behind." John groaned.
Joseph Patrick Kennedy, Senior - Patriarch of the Kennedy family
Kennedy Compound - 50 Marchant Avenue, Village of Hyannis Port, Barnstable, Barnstable County, Massachusetts, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 11:00 / 11:00 AM
"I want a divorce."
"What!?" The patriarch, described as being to the right of Herbert Hoover politically by his son, John, despite being a registered Democrat, was admonished.
With the effects of the stroke he suffered back in 1961 gradually withering away courtesy of treatment received at one of just a handful of Republic medical centers set up on Earth due to security reasons with the stringent Quarantine Policy in mind - with two of them being located on Fishers Island, New York and Angel Island, California for the United States specifically and all selected locations being easily supervised such as the Orkney Islands - Joseph was not only able to respond to his daughter-in-law's stunning declaration but as simple as setting the newspaper down in order to do so. "Jackie, even if that was simple and wouldn't cause another scandal, that honestly would be the worst thing you can do right now to your husband and children."
"I'm just at the breaking point Joe. Jack's eight years at the White House was bringing in sluts and whores to bed and now he's becoming a drunkard because of the past two years! Two years of drugged bums banging on bongos irritably and chanting incessantly, two years of rioting and instances of bombings, then there's the fact we're currently at war with aliens, aliens, aliens for crying out loud! I mean this is not what I asked for when I married your son and I thought he loved me… I thought he loved me!"
Joseph allowed the woman on the verge of tears to collect herself after the outburst before responding. "Then be there for him, Jacqueline, then show him that he needs to get his ass in order or I'll bust him myself."
"You really think there's even a chance he'll turn around?"
"These past two years were hell for everyone you know. Goddamn hippies aside, remember how there was a bombing attempt on me and Rose courtesy of Hanoi? Reagan wasn't the only one."
"Yes, I remember. And there was a Vietnamese sniper in a tree just outside here as well."
"My butler had to grab my Elephant Rifle in self-defense because of that persistent gook." The patriarch scoffed, the backer of Joseph McCarthy's crusade still denying the two incidents of first a car bomb with four gunmen jumping out in case he survived followed by the sniping attempt three months later both orchestrated by the Viet Cong. "Those fucking Communists were more stubborn than anyone believed but that's not the point. The point is there's always a bright light at the end of the tunnel, give him one last shot and I'll pay for his therapy like McCarthy in order to do it or I'll pay for your divorce, no questions asked."
Rebecca Davis (nèe Cameron) Meyer
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 16:20 / 4:20 PM
"You know, Becky, I have to say I didn't expect you to offer to host the next meeting here."
"It's no trouble at all, Nancy." The life member of both Minute Women of the U.S.A. and its affiliated sister organization for Catholic women, the American Public Relations Forum, smiled. "I don't have much to do except for the harvest and thankfully the 4-H Club and neighbors have been obliging."
"Heard anything from Paul or Jacob?"
"Well, nothing of significance, Susan." Rebecca informed her son's godmother. "Though Jacob did mention that he and some of his fellow Marines chucked some captured carbontight, carbonlite-whatever into the nearest lake after discovering that they were full of tea."
"Of course they did." The transplant from Hampshire scoffed before taking a bite of her finger sandwich. "I shouldn't be surprised by the Imposters' fondness for tea to be quite honest. There are too many mind boggling coincidences."
The other guests attending the quilting bee laughed as it was funnily enough the literal truth in regards to the neighboring galaxy adjacent to the Milky Way.
"Thank goodness that Hippies are no longer problematic as otherwise I'm sure we would be, well we'll still speak English of course, but if the peaceniks had their way we would all be writing this aurebesh script right now."
"Well, what do you think about the statement in the newsletter?"
"Which one?"
"The one on subversive actions by a negligible number of Republic personnel so far but to be on watch for any more activity, especially by these Zeltrons, whatever they are."
"Zeltrons? You mean that alien species which are solely seductive sybarites and beyond indecently immoral?"
"That's right! There was an incident of them trying to sneak in to cause havoc exactly like the filthy Hippies
only for their transport craft to be destroyed before they were able to even reach the planetary gate after refusing the hails to be boarded followed by warnings to turn back and depart our space immediately or be fired upon."
"Are we going to war against them as well?" Susan wondered half-jokingly. "It would be less confusing obviously."
"No, no, but diplomatically speaking it's tense. Phyllis Schafly and Anita Bryant are actually having a national petition drive to ban any traveling to the planet in the future, not just the current prohibition for military personnel."
"I'll be sure to sign it." Rebecca acknowledged without hesitation as preventing depravity in the name of public decency was a good thing in her eyes even if in reality the 'ban' would be more of a symbolic gesture than something that could be realistically enforced.
"By the way, while on topic…Becky? Didn't your son unwittingly date an Imperial spy?"
The chestnut brown-haired homemaker sighed, not expecting it to be brought up this late long after the exposè. "Yes, I did but Sara was the last person I would have ever expected of being a spy, her curiosity aside."
"Curiosity?"
"You know, as in wondering why we're still relying on paper instead of these datapads, inquiring on how to appear presentable in a dress indistinguishable from any resident, questions that are more relevant to someone considering emigrating more than military matters. The girl literally came across as naturally intrigued by character and innately sweet."
"Oh. That is really surprising as I thought it would be more toward finding out where the best invasion routes were to land."
"The funny thing is, and this has been bothering me ever since, is that I believe she sincerely was besotted with my son and was going to leave everything behind for him, even going so far to acculturate and overly so, perhaps literally going native but circumstances threw it off..." Rebecca then sorrowed which resulted in the ladies committee to unspokenly decide on moving on as it was still a sensitive subject.
"I have to say that the lemonade is delicious. New recipe?"
"It's still the same word-for-word but the lemons were ripe."
Lana Beniko - Minister of Sith Intelligence
"Safehouse" - Raider's Cove, Horizon Island, Rishi, Rishi System, Abrion Sector, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 16:20 / 4:20 PM
Lana was attempting to keep her mind occupied with the task at hand, reviewing transactions the Nova Blades had on her datapad but out of curiosity glimpsed at the pan Sara sat down, befuddled by the contents or why she decided now was the time for dessert.
"What's this?"
"Cheesecake." The redhead replied candidly as she unwrapped the foil.
"And where in all places did you get this 'cheesecake', Kells?" Beniko pressed, unsure what to think of the desert with a yellowish tint which seemed to be more like a pie by appearance, not a cake.
"Oh, one of the booths happened to either import goods or steal the cargo shipments en route from Earth and were offering them for sale. By the way, there's a fork for you."
Lana rolled her eyes and reached for the fork to try a bite only to savor the flavor. "You know, Kells, this is really good." She commented before having another bite. "There's nothing else quite like it."
"Not as delicious as Misses Meyer's but it's better than nothing."
"Theron?" The blonde piped up. "Would you care for a slice?"
"Umm, no thanks, I'm good actually…" Shan sputtered nervously, scratching his head. "In fact, I already had lunch."
The towheaded Sith didn't believe the curse and sensing the fib only confirmed her suspicions."Alright. Do not complain if you find the tray empty then."
"Trust me, it's all yours." The SIS agent on the run due to being framed insisted. "I don't want to be addicted to whatever ingredient is causing it."
"More like close-minded and picky with food." Jakarro countered, clutching a pan of his own in his arm.
"Not you too!" Theron groaned.
"Oh, give it a break, Theron and ease up."
"I'm the one who needs to ease up, Lana?" The spy scoffed with his eyes trying to avoid the dessert that had the side-effect of cravings for it. "Ah, you know what, nevermind, if you need me I'll be in my room."
Thomas Edward Lawrence - Former Archeologist, Diplomat, Writer, and Marshal of the Royal Air Force
Alexandra Palace - Alexandra Park, London, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 16:20 / 4:20 PM
"...I do believe that Peter O'Toole nailed it down in the film about my exploits during the Arab Revolt but I still loathe the Sykes-Picot Agreement and the Suez debacle was just as appalling."
The interviewer, Richard Douglas James Baker, nodded as he remembered Lawrence speaking out against the whole Suez scheme back in 1956, he even broke the news of it."And while I realize it is tiresome for you, is there anything you wish to share about Singapore to the viewers?"
"Percival certainly wasn't up to par and while ungentlemanly, the circumstances in Singapore forced my hand, especially as our aircraft were obsolete and other matters such as attempting to have our man trained to no avail. I didn't want to take up banditry again yet I hold no regrets on what was necessary."
"The Japanese undeniably did not anticipate your presence." Baker commented.
"No, they did not." 'Lawrence of Arabia' and the 'Lion of Singapore' smirked. "And when they learnt that I was present, it terrified them to no end."
"I would wager not." The interviewer concurred. "It's no wonder the Japanese garrison couldn't have been deployed elsewhere given your activities and the Yanks actions at Wake Island, Midway, the Solomons, and the Relief of the Philippines certainly made it additionally impractical."
"Perhaps they were fated to be stranded with yours truly." Lawrence shrugged. "Oh well."
Daniel Joseph Hendricks - Veteran of World War I
Indiana Veterans' Home - 3851 North River Road, West Lafayette, Wabash Township, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 16:20 / 4:20 PM
Daniel was in denial, not believing what he was hearing from the eccentric who became a boarder a year ago after attempting to pull the same stunt that he's considering doing again but at the same time, he shouldn't be surprised that the individual forcibly retired from the United States Army in the 1920s after fifty years of service including initially underage and as an volunteer trooper of the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry who charged up San Juan Hill with Theodore Roosevelt still desired one last go. Afterall, he attempted to get back in during the Second World War, Korea, and even had hope of being permitted to fight in Vietnam with his experience against Apaches, Moros, Pancho Villa's bandits, and Sandinistas being arguably useful but to no avail.
"Douglas, I'm going to be blunt about this but you are too old for this."
"Nonsense, I never felt better but since I keep getting turned away, I say I shall hitch myself on a train like the hobos did frequently back during the Depression - say one heading to Newport offloading grain and - stowaway on a spaceship heading to the front, that way they can't send me back due to impacting logistics."
The man who fought at Chateau-Thierry and the Meuse-Argonne glared at the Rough Rider and fellow Doughboy, still denying that he just wanted to get himself killed.
"You are going to regret it, Douglas, that's all I can say." Daniel grouched.
Rebecca Davis (nèe Cameron) Meyer
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09:16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 18:00 / 6:00 PM
"Thanks again, Becky."
"You're welcome here anytime, Nancy." Rebbeca mentioned to the departing guest before turning to Susan. "Remember how you asked if I received any letters from Jacob?"
"Yes?"
"Your godson really needs to write more." The mother grumbled. "Sometimes I wonder if he just wants me to be concerned."
"I can imagine that the current war may preclude writing at times in all fairness, notwithstanding the destruction of transports possibly carrying mail." The Hampshire transplant reasoned. "Lawrence of Arabia was occupied with derailing trains, what's not to say it's similar with Jacob? It's not as if he's being held against his will for late payments like Capone would have done in Chicago back in the day."
"Or my son is just lazy for some reason unlike his father." Rebecca jested, pretending to ignore the ironic statement of late payments. "Maybe I should send in a priority one care package Pfefferpotthast or Stippgrütze, pumpernickel, kartöffelsalat, and coffee cake like how my mother-in-law made it as an incentive, even whipped up his boyhood favorite ice cream: homemade strawberry."
"Bribery with family recipes baked by mum?" Susan chuckled. "That might work."
The ringing of the phone however interrupted any further scheming of bribery and the mother immediately went to answer the call. "Hello?" Rebecca immediately began groaning as she was informed that her father was currently being returned to the two hundred acre state veterans home that opened up back in 1896 after somehow getting to the train station and attempting to do freighthopping only to be caught by the Railroad Police in the act. "I see. I'll be there." She hung up and began massaging her temples out of frustration."Not again."
"Let me guess? Family?" Susan guessed.
"Of course but why can't he just accept reality and stay put?"
"He's probably just being stubborn, Becky." The war bride surmised."It can come with age."
"More like an insane Döösbaddel who cannot accept he's too oolt för war." The patriarch who fought at Rowlett's Station and survived the second deadliest engagement of the American Civil War at Chickamauga declared in broken English intermixed with Low German, leaning on his cane as he arrived at the front porch.
"Here, Wilhelm, let me get you a chair."
"Ik fine, Becky." The German-American dismissed. "Ik walk fine, du know. Ik will manage to get to de Stohl."
Susan was forced to admit to herself that it was astonishing that he managed to maneuver at all with his age in mind and his handlebar mustache was well kept, almost comically and stereotypically so.
"That may be so but I don't want to risk a fall." Rebecca countered as she grabbed the rocking chair.
"Would you like any coffee or lemonade?"
"Kaffee, bidd. Ham un Kees on pumpernickel un quarkspeise as well."
First off, for, well, the obvious significant twist, you have to enjoy foreshadowing at times and I'm sure you are all now especially anticipating the appearance of Indiana Jones.
And while undoubtedly having Roy Cohn be the United States Attorney-General in the story is, well, nightmarish to put it lightly and dystopian is only understating it, I also have a legitimate reason why he is holding that position and I, therefore, urge everyone to please remain calm as Barry Goldwater will remind him that he serves at the President pleasure and therefore can be dismissed/fired from the position at any time. Trust me on this, okay?
And in this tale, not even the homefront was safe during the Vietnam War. Poor Kennedy.
Which brings me to why on Earth did I decide on portraying JFK this way?
To quote both George Santayana and Voltaire:
"If you fail to learn from history, you are doomed to repeat it." ~ George Santayana
And
"I may disagree with what you say yet I will defend your right to say it to my dying breath." ~ Voltaire
It's an open secret that in this tale even though Kennedy survived his assassination attempt and unlike the vast majority of alternate history tales with the 35th President surviving which paints everything optimistically, not everything in this story background wise turned out rosy as a result of him returning from Dallas unscathed to say the least.
Of course, you don't have to agree with the portrayal even if it's doing something different but this may come as a surprise here: Just barely a few months before he was assassinated, national polls listed that John Fitzgerald Kennedy's approval rating was declining in the Fall of 1963, hovering barely above fifty percent and his record highest depending on the poll was anywhere from seventy to seventy-five percent in February of 1963, just four months after the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Think about it for a moment. Would JFK have been in Dallas that November day if he was immensely popular, in a city that literally was filled with voters who despised him politically and caused investigators to initially believe he was assassinated by some quote-unquote 'right-wing nut' before it was discovered that the shooter was actually, in fact, an openly vocal Communist?
Based on what I have read, the answer is a definite NO.
Kennedy was in Dallas not only to resolve a dispute between fellow Democrats but red hot on the campaign trail as the 1964 reelection season was imminent.
In fact, the Presidential motorcade on November 22nd of 1963 was heading to none other than a luncheon where he was expected to speak and this gathering had the sponsorship of the powerful Dallas Citizens Council - a group of local business leaders - and two other organizations affiliated with it: the Dallas Assembly and the Science Research Center, who could have been pivotal for the 1964 Re-Election Campaign but when he was en route to give his anticipated speech John Fitzgerald Kennedy was gunned down by Lee Harvey Oswald from the sixth-floor window of the Texas School Book Depository.
And I decided to do something different as most of the portrayals painted the '60s being rosy and peaceful if Kennedy somehow had lived.
The ugly, blunt truth is that:
1)There is credible evidence that Kennedy would have intervened in Vietnam just like his Vice President turned successor, Lyndon Baine Johnson, even if it's still being debated among historians.
2) It is generally agreed that the counterculture / Hippies coming into existence was inevitable.
And
3) The polls didn't look good for the 35th President (he's 36th in this tale due to Dewey winning 1948 per the timeline FYI but JFK in actual history was the 35th President just to clarify) to be re-elected as public approval of his administration was starting to decline.
Hell, there's even validation and reasonable argument that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 would have been watered down or not even passed the chambers of Congress at all if Kennedy lived due to a so-called 'Martyr Effect' and the fact that one Lyndon Baines Johnson knew exactly where and when to apply political pressure, unlike his assassinated predecessor.
I prefer to be completely open and bluntly honest about my research here than hold it back as, mournfully, honesty is becoming a luxury nowadays yet the more you know as historical misconceptions should be disproven even if the truth is ugly.
Oh and he also might have not survived past his second term and even if he did, JFK would have in all likelihood been confined to a wheelchair due to Addison's Disease, his back pain, and the numerous narcotics including but not limiting to amphetamine and methamphetamine prescribed to him a certain infamous Doctor who later in 1973 was charged with fraud and two years later in 1975 lost his medical license as well: Doctor Max Jacobson, also known infamously as 'Doctor Feelgood'.
JFK was unfortunately not as healthy as he appeared in popular culture and I was stunned, I mean absolutely taken aback and blown away by the estimates of career medical professionals who in their opinion believe that the President was going to die in office or, if lucky, die sometime in the 1970s if he lived that long.
I know I'm quite beyond a killjoy here that in all likelihood just ruined the mythos of The Kennedy's Camelot internationally but again I prefer to be sincere and open about everything I have researched than hide it from you.
With the health reports in mind, I already have something planned for the President in the First Contact and resulting diplomacy prequel as he truly deserved better but even so, regardless of your thoughts at the revelation, even with the above out of the way, I now hold an even deeper respect for JFK.
He averted nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis, a terrifying thirteen-day period during October of 1962, I respect his pressure on congress even if not always successful, hell I even have a much deeper respect for his actions after his PT boat was cut in half and despite his poor health, swam with injured crewmen clutched before heading back out to retrieve more.
I perfectly understand if you don't take my word for it and/or disbelieve me as it is hard to take in so feel free to research and 'fact-check' the information for yourselves.
Again, I prefer to be open and honest about my research, show the reasonings for the portrayal with justification, and I even go so far as to list sources from time to time in extreme cases such as with the inclusion of Joseph McCarthy as the very man synonymous with McCarthyism and the Second Red Scare is to this very day a contentious matter but you have my absolute word that I will be candid and forthright about the actual history and why in this story it either remained the same or took an alternate course.
By the way, I also have a few ideas of a comeback for Jack Kennedy as I'm perfectly well aware that he's portrayed as tainted much to my regret even if the evidence completely vindicates the reasoning for the portrayal one hundred percent but even so you have my word that JFK will go from a borderline pariah with a mixed and divisive legacy to approaching someone whose portrait would be displayed proudly in a majority of households.
As the old saying goes: You learn something new every day.
But to move on as I'm sure you understandably need to wrap your heads around it:
On another, hopefully, more lighthearted instead of dismal note, Lawrence of Arabia never had his fatal motorcycle accident.
And you could say that Jake's family is one complicated mess but it only got started and I'm not understating it! :D
P.S. In case anyone is wondering, the title of this chapter was taken from the vintage record 'What About God and Country?' by Larry Heaberlin and the song is available on YouTube.
Chapter 29: Trekking Through Star Wars!!!
Chapter Text
Barry Morris Goldwater - 37th President of the United States
The Oval Office - The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:09: 16 ATC / March 9th, 1969 - 8:27 / 8:27 AM
"Even though we're in a war economy currently with rationing and have imposed tariffs on extraterrestrial products, we've been making significant gains." The Secretary of State, Jesse Alexander Helms, Junior, grinned. "I learned that some of their tycoons are willing to make investments."
"Good to know." The President smiled. "It is just amazing that we're even seeing a booming economy under these circumstances, not to mention other nations are seeing an increase in prosperity."
"Would it be funny if as a result poverty is completely eradicated here on Earth?" One of the economic advisers, Milton Friedman, mused.
"By the way, Mister President, never in my lifetime did I ever consider that Pyongyang would one day be labeled as the capital of a superpower by an alien news agency."
"But it goes to show that the globally coordinated misinformation campaign to the rest of the universe is working for us as the Sith Empire has to continuously sort fact from fiction." Barry smirked before turning to the Secretary of Defense. "Omar? What's the status of Operation: Red Herring?"
"Our coincidentally named, Pre-First Contact designed Lockheed F-104 Starfighters that the Luftwaffe and other forces including ours retired back in '65 and replaced with F-106 Delta Delts, Mirages, Lightnings, and other aircraft are all currently being filmed with special effects to portray them as being outer space capable when they are obviously not. They will be described as the most advanced starfighter in the entire universe with the astonishing speed of forty-six hundred miles per hour courtesy of a specially designed hyperdrive/jet engine hybrid and it will be armed with four twenty millimeter GAUs rotary cannons to augment the completely fabricated heat-seeking 'Zeus' missiles and once the Sith taskforce heads to the location where they are being 'produced', it should be a Kuat Two Point Oh."
"Technically a Third Kuat but the sentiment is there and if they thought that the SR-71 Blackbird used for reconnaissance purposes only was fast, then this will blow their minds." Goldwater grinned, the former United States Air Force Reserve Brigadier General knowing the irony with the actual specifications in mind. Then there was also the spaceplane known as the X-15 with all three of them in storage and even though the design would need to be weaponized as well as somehow adapted for interplanetary travel and expenditures procured, it was another option on the table if it was decided to leapfrog the enemy but for the time being it was unnecessary and complete overkill with little gain in return. "A small elite team of their utmost, especially this so-called 'Empire's Fury', or another armada, the Empire are just wasting themselves against our creativity."
"All credit for the special effects goes to the new startup firm called 'Lucasfilms' of course. I can't believe William Shatner agreed to do the voice-over for the disinformation and bait."
"Not our fault 'Star Trek' became mildly popular in the other galaxy." The President chuckled.
"Space...Our common frontier." The voice of Shatner began in a background completely reminiscent of the intro for each individual episode of 'Star Trek'. "We have found ourselves new friends and unfortunately a new enemy."
Footage of Imperial troops in their black armor and gray fatigues marched in Napoleonic parade ground procession as they entered the capitol of an unknown conquered world the Sith Empire have successfully annexed with the chained prisoners being hauled away to the fate of in all certainty enslavement.
"The Sith Overlords of the Empire however will soon learn about the might of our highly advanced and ambitious F-104 Starfighters. Its purpose: To assist our allies in the common cause of liberty. To seek out and destroy facilities that are vital to their warmongering machine. To boldly go where no group of liberators of slaves has gone before!"
In the clip, a squadron of F-104 Starfighters streak by in the background of the dark vastness of space going slightly faster than the SR-71 Blackbird but much sleeker and unlike the Blackbird: Clearly Armed.
The scene immediately cuts to President Barry Goldwater, Secretary of Defense Omar Bradley, and General Curtis LeMay of the United States Air Force clinking glasses as they watch the 'prototype' being rolled out into the hangar.
The entire footage ends with lyrics from Johnny Cash's 'Ragged Old Flag' and a joint statement from two friends and a recognizable figure of liberty.
"Back in 1960, in my inaugural address, I asked people to ask not what our nation could do for them but instead what they can do for their country. It was unfortunate that there were those who were deaf and decided to be against the last war we were in." The previous and former President of the United States with a mixed legacy due to his chaotic second term but here at the invitation of his friend, Kennedy, declared. "Right now, our very own nation and every nation on Earth is dedicated to the fight against the Imperials. You know who you are. There will be pardons for the evaders of the draft who change their minds and report for induction but those found evading service will be shipped to basic then report to a court-martial hearing."
"This isn't the time to argue between upholding the New Deal and Conservatism. We are not black or white, but each and every one of us is an American at heart." Goldwater added. "May I remind you that those who seek absolute power, even though they seek it to do what they regard as good, are simply demanding the right to enforce their own version of heaven on Earth. And let me also remind you that they are the very ones who always create the most hellish tyrannies."
"The Sith don't care about any of our freedoms as they do not believe in equality nor do they care about our ways. I urge those who believe that this war to be unjust to change and volunteer for service." The renowned reverend, Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior himself pleaded to those who would be watching. "May the Almighty Father be with us all and liberty perpetually continues to shine brightly in this land. 'Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is Liberty'!"
"Mister John Wayne also kindly allowed us to include a poem of his to finish our presentation." Kennedy smiled. "God bless America "
When the trio sitting humbly behind desks faded away and John Wayne's voice began to be heard, images of Old Glory along with past conflicts began to be shown, even a scene of the Founding Fathers signing the Declaration of Independence at Liberty Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Why Are You Marching, Son? I'd really like to know!
Is it because of Valley Forge, or perhaps the Alamo?
Or, "One if by land, two if by sea,"
A trumpet's call...the will to be free?
And what of a man who stood straight and tall,
Who wept silent tears when he saw brave men fall?
No matter-no difference-the blue or the gray,
All were his brothers...how often he'd pray.
And what of Antietam-that now peaceful stream
Where the water, blood-red, glittered and gleamed?
Appomattox...Chickamauga..Vicksburg...Bull Run...
Cumberland...Gettysburg...and then Washington.
Why Are You Marching, Son?
Stills of Daguerreotypes taken by photographer Matthew Brady during the American Civil War appeared as a flood with the aftermath of Antietam and Gettysburg being an intentional reminder of the price for Freedom was not cheap in between painted portraits of men duking it out for either the Union or Confederacy.
Then came pictures of World War One with a much younger George Patton in his uniform then ranked as a Colonel and Doughboys charging over the top to engage the Huns before a field of flowers was symbolically shown after the carnage.
In Flanders Fields, how proud were they
Whose forms beneath the poppies lay.
Men who saw Verdun...
And died at the Marne...Soissons...
And those who tried the fearful foe at Chateau-Thierry,
Who fought and bled...whose hearts grew weary,
But in whose minds one thought kept churning-
That the torch of liberty keep burning.
Why Are You Marching, Son?
Next was the U.S.S. Arizona and the aftermath of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii were still fresh in the minds of the survivors, the attack that Sunday morning of December Seventh remaining a Day in Infamy alongside photos of the fighting in the North African Campaign, Italy, France, Belgium, Germany, Austria, and little known islands across the Pacific.
The planes swarmed in, and the rising sun
Glowed fiercely on the evil done
To men whose blood runs through our veins,
Men who died, and whose remains
Life forever locked in waters deep.
Now, is it right that they should sleep
While the warm sea laps at a twisted hull
And see the torch of liberty grow dull?
Anzio...Cassino...and the Po!
St. Mere Eglise...Le Mans...St. Lo!
Gardelegen...Buchenwald…
On and on the roll is called!
And why?...Why Are You Marching, Son?
And images from the Korean War with the landings at Inchon, the struggle of Pork Chop Hill, even the frosty fighting at the Chosin Reservoir.
Bugles shrilled in the frozen night,
And at first dawn, the awful sight
Of seas of men...row after row,
Left to die on blood-stained snow!
Pusan...Pyongyang...Suwan...Kyongju!
And blood-red ran the swift Yalu!
In South Vietnam the big guns roared,
And once again we fought a war
To honor a pledge our nation gave
To help that little country save
Her people from the certainty
That she'd be ruled by tyranny.
In never before seen footage due to a wartime censorship policy enacted, the discovery of mass graves and evidence of a massacre inflicted on civilians by the North Vietnamese Army at Hue recorded by Leathernecks of the United States Marine Corps after stumbling upon it was shown with the caption of: 'This is What Our Boys Discovered at Hue Just Like How Their Fathers Came Across the Concentrations Camps in Europe' included above followed by 'Never Forget!' below.
No matter where the big guns roar,
Our fighting men, like those before,
Take the torch we all hold dear
And face freedom's enemies without fear.
Our fathers died from sea to sea,
And blessed the torch of liberty.
Why?...Why Are You Marching, Son?
George Walton Lucas, Junior - Film Director and founder of Lucasfilms
Andrews Air Force Base - Camp Springs, Prince George's County, Maryland, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:10: 16 ATC / March 10th, 1969 - 22:00 / 10:00 PM
"What do you think, Mister President? Mister Kennedy? Reverend?"
"Young man, I think the Dark Council is going to have another round of regrets in their next session." Goldwater grinned.
"That speech could've been used against Tojo, Mussolini, and the Fürher back in the day but I think those brats of the type from Berkeley will reconsider after they see this." Kennedy upheld.
"Let's hope that while I didn't believe in the war in Vietnam, this conflict is a completely different matter entirely." King inputted. "The Empire needs to fall and the society rebuilt from the ground up like Germany and Japan."
"Good to know." Lucas smiled despite himself technically being one of the 'Berkeley types' but the revelation of what reportedly occurred at Hue made him regret falling in with the wrong crowd. "If I didn't have diabetes, I would've enlisted myself. In fact, I was seeking a commission as a United States Air Force officer two years ago, come to think of it."
"Son, Governor Reagan served in the United States Army Air Force during World War Two stateside producing training films." Goldwater reminded the young director. "If you're still interested, there is a way for you to be commissioned. Besides, diabetes is no longer disqualifying due to the medical technology being capable of curing the condition completely."
George considered the advantages and disadvantages of resurrecting his earlier decision before deciding on aiding his nation in its time of need. "Mister President? My only request is that, unlike Ronald Reagan, I would like special permission to head to Coruscant to conduct research for my planned Star Wars movie. Afterward, I'll be here in America doing training films for the duration or whatever the Air Force decides is best for them."
"I'll see what I can do, son, but if you're getting commissioned as an officer of the United States Air Force, you're going to have to start following orders."
"I perfectly understand, sir."
Barry nodded at the resolve of the young man before turning to one of his personal friends. "John? I know it's late but is it alright to talk to you in private."
"Of course, Barry." The previous President of the United States acknowledged even though Jack wasn't sure what the subject of the conversation was about.
Two months later...
Second Lieutenant George Walton Lucas, Junior - Public Affairs Officer (AFSC 35PX), United States Air Force Reserves
RNS Admiral Cede - Wanderer-class transport: En route from Koda Space Station to Coruscant
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 8:01 / 8:01 AM
"Welcome aboard the Admiral Cede." One of the crewmen greeted the inbound passengers. "We'll be en route to Coruscant within the hour."
"I can't believe that I'm finally going to be able to make my dream a reality." George smiled at his patron, Gene Roddenberry as they and Sailer planned to visit Coruscant to conduct additional research on Revan and his journeys on the Ebon Hawk before making a proposal with a major production firm back on Earth.
"Well, George, it's certainly going to be interesting to learn about life in the rest of the universe." The originator of 'Star Trek' smirked at the young, aspiring filmmaker. "Though it is still too early to tell how successful this movie about Revan and the Ebon Hawk will be."
"True but we and Sailer all agree that it's well worth the risk financially." George countered. "That book was enlightening to say the least."
"Just curious, George, have you thought about any actors to cast yet?" The lead script-writer asked.
"I think Charleston Heston would make for an excellent Revan and James Earl Jones could easily be Jolee Bindo but it's too early to tell."
"Hmmm… James Earl Jones is a natural choice, come to think of it, especially with the deep voice that Jolee was described as having." Roddenberry agreed with the decision. "May I suggest Carrie Fisher for the role of Bastila Shan?"
"Any reason why, Gene?"
"She's young and high-spirited, which makes her perfect for the role."
"Shame I can't use Mark Hammil or that carpenter, what's his name…" Lucas paused as he tried to remember his name before recalling it. "Harrison Ford! Yeah, Ford, but it's a shame I can't use either Hammill or Ford for the role of Carth Onasi and Canderous Ordo respectively as they're in the Army Corps of Engineers for the duration."
"I honestly don't know why you thought Hammill would be Onasi but Ford is an unconventional choice. Why him?"
"He honestly looked like the roughneck, space cowboy type, which made him perfect for Canderous Ordo."
"I stand corrected then." Gene conceded, seeing the wisdom only for the problem of availability. "Well, I guess we'll wait until we learn more at the Coruscant Museum of Galactic History and then Tython before making any alternatives." Jacob looked like he was disagreeing with the assessment by George on Ford's role with Canderous Ordo as he knew they needed something different than a John Wayne type for this actual historical figure. There was a respect he wanted to preserve, not a disrespect towards galactic history. He sighed as he pushed up his glasses and was going back into his writing.
"Sounds like a plan."
Darth Nox - Sphere of Ancient Knowledge and Dark Councilor
Aboard the INS Annihilator - Harrower-class Dreadnought: Expansion Regions, Grid Coordinates J-15
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 9:45 / 9:45 AM
"If I may be so bold, my Lord, but why do you believe this Gene Roddenberry is important for us to take captive?" Lieutenant Drellik wondered as the Annihilator and two other Harrower-class Dreadnoughts waited patiently to ambush the convoy that the Admiral Cede was assigned to and board it to capture the HVTs.
"He's a cultural icon on Earth, the one who created this 'Star Trek' franchise." Nox revealed in a loud tone for the entire bridge crew to hear, much to their disgust.
"Blasphemy!" The lead engineer shouted instinctively in rage after hearing the revelation. "That horrendous show produced by barbarians doesn't even portray hyperdrives right!"
"And photon torpedoes are a poor knockoff of proton torpedoes." The lead Gunner's Mate seethed.
"Respectfully, My Lord, we already tried kidnapping famed archeologist Professor Indiana Jones and it failed." Talos noted. "What makes you believe that this attempt will be more fruitful?"
"Because there's no protection detail this time around, especially a protection detail of Earthlings." Nox grinned. "This is too good of an opportunity to waste."
Eugene Wesley "Gene" Roddenberry - Screenwriter, Producer, and Creator of 'Star Trek'
RNS Admiral Cede - Wanderer-class transport: En route from Koda Space Station to Coruscant
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 10:30 / 10:30 AM
"Imperial ships off our portside!"
"Take evasive action!"
"We can't, sir!" The helmsman shouted, panicking as he attempted to get the controls functioning."We're stuck in a tractor beam!"
"George! Come quick and bring the camera!" Gene shouted to his friend as he overheard the exchange between two of the Republic crewmen. "We got some action occurring here!"
Lucas unpacked his 35mm movie camera from the case and sprinted to the scene of the action, watching as the gray hulls of the Imperial ships began firing broadsides at the Republic corvettes escorting their ship.
"We need volunteers in case of borders!" A Republic soldier pleaded.
"This is going to be interesting, Mister Lucas." Sailer smirked as he unpacked his M1911A1. "Boarding just like the pirate movies."
"Shiver me timbers!" George laughed. "This is one experience I will never forget."
"I don't think any of us are going to forget, George." Gene corrected. "In fact, maybe just like for 'Star Wars' there could be influences for 'Star Trek' here."
Lieutenant Hoder Wheca - Imperial Marine detachment, Imperial Navy
Boarding the Republic Wanderer-class transport RNS Admiral Cede
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 10:57 / 10:57 AM
"Alright, you know the HVT. Everyone else is expendable."
"Aye, sir!" The marines acknowledged as the boarding pod latched onto the side of the targeted vessel.
Wheca just only smirked as he activated his blaster and heard the door decompressing.
"For the Empire!"
Jacob Sailer - Scriptwriter for the planned film 'Star Wars'
RNS Admiral Cede - Wanderer-class transport: En route from Koda Space Station to Coruscant
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 11:00 / 11:00 AM
Sailer emerged from cover and fired his M1911A1 handgun and watched as the 230 grain .45 ACP hollow point projectile punctured the breastplate and presumably expanded within its intended victim. As a civilian acting in self-defense, the New Mexican didn't have to abide by the Hague Convention of 1899 prohibition on the use of expanding rounds of warfare but hollow points, including the ones used in hunting game like deer and bear, were meant to end a life quickly.
"Ahh my leg!" The incognito black armored goosestepper wailed as the blood spluttered out of an artery and immediately went into shock, his screams though did demoralizing to his comrades, they remained steadfast as they returned fire while their surviving medic tried to close the wound on their squadmate's leg but it struck an artery with blood gushing out like a geyser.
"Moko! Stay with me! We'll get you to the infirmary soon."
"He's done for! Don't worry about him!" A series of rapid shots of blaster bolts ran out following that, forcing the defenders to take over or share the fate of few that were struck by the plasma, the sounds of their pain erupting as smoke emerged from their wounds of the vaporized inner fluids.
Jacob glanced around the corner and shot off his second aimed projectile at another one of the borders, striking this time at the leg which in human anatomy had more arteries than the average joe realize and the American watched as the firing from the enemy gradually decreased as the combined efforts from the passengers and crew cordoned off any possible attempts of taking over the vessel.
"Cease fire! We surrender!"
Second Lieutenant George Walton Lucas, Junior - Public Affairs Officer (AFSC 35PX), United States Air Force Reserves
RNS Admiral Cede - Wanderer-class transport: En route from Koda Space Station to Coruscant
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 11:40 / 11:40 AM
"Ha! That was awesome!" George laughed after capturing everything on film, even the counter-boarding action with a quick firefight. "I feel like John Ford at Midway!"
"Well, I'm sure Intelligence will appreciate the footage here when we get back to Earth." Gene grinned. "It's just like 'Star Trek' with the space battles."
For the hell of it, Lucas made the Vulcan sign to recognize the victory. "Live long and prosper."
"I'm kinda surprised that the Jedi are more stoic than the fictional Vulcans though but I'm sure we'll have everything clarified." Roddenberry chuckled.
Coruscant Museum of Galactic History - Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
05:04: 16 ATC / May 4th, 1969 - 16:30 / 4:30 PM
"I cannot thank you enough for the private tour." Gene appreciated the curator as the Bothan showed the trio around the Mandalorian Wars and Jedi Civil War displays and the archive specific to the period. Sailer himself paused with George for a moment as they stared at a holo-image of the assembled Ebon Hawk crew posing together, a feeling swelled within the two as they took in the holo of the people they were intending on creating a film about. 'We need to do this right. In honor of these heroes.' Thought George.
"It's no trouble at all, Mister Roddenberry. You, Mister Sailer, and Mister Lucas were the first to show interest in making a film about Revan and his companions, though I cannot fathom why no one had the idea of making such a feature holofilm in the first place."
"They're lost."
"Gene! Jacob! Get a load of this." George smiled as he gazed at the representation of some alien creature called 'Gungans' from some planet called Naboo. "Is it just me or do they look...clumsy-looking?"
"Err…" The Bothan curator stuttered. "They are quite clumsy in...well, characteristics to say lightly."
"There's no way that they would exist in the 'Star Trek' universe." Gene proclaimed. "I wouldn't allow it!"
"You're right. In fact, I probably wouldn't portray them in the 'Star Wars' universe either, though the thought of those Teddy Bears called Ewoks fighting Imperials on their home planet of Endor sounds like a fine idea for a comical cartoon."
"But we're not making cartoons though the animators at Walt Disney might be interested."
"They can have it. 'Star Wars', on the other hand, will not be the property of Disney." George declared with determination.
"If this film is successful, it would probably make Disney insignificant as a powerhouse." Jacob grinned. "Think about having 'Star Trek' and 'Star Wars' themed amusement parks, maybe hosting both franchises on the same grounds."
"I have a good feeling about this." George smiled.
May the Fourth be with you, everyone!
As a surprise bonus, this is a special for STAR WARS Day and there's no better way to celebrate than to have something centered around the one and only George Lucas himself :)
For those who are unaware, I can confirm that the F-104 Starfighter is an actual historic Cold War-era fighter jet and before you ask no, it is not space capable in the slightest.
Instead, as has been portrayed, the capabilities are being greatly exaggerated here as disinformation so the Empire could have another headache, courtesy of the magic of George Lucas himself no less! :D
And ironically, I'll go ahead and reveal that Lucas will be touring the galaxy he himself envisioned long ago in reality ;)
After graduating with a bachelor of fine arts in film in 1967, he tried joining the United States Air Force as an officer, but he was immediately turned down because of his numerous speeding tickets. He was later drafted by the Army for military service in Vietnam, but he was exempted from service after medical tests showed he had diabetes, the disease that killed his paternal grandfather.
In 1967, Lucas re-enrolled as a USC graduate student in film production. He began working under Verna Fields for the United States Information Agency, where he met his future wife Marcia Griffin.
Working as a teaching instructor for a class of U.S. Navy students who were being taught documentary cinematography, Lucas directed the short film Electronic Labyrinth: THX 1138 4EB, which won first prize at the 1967–68 National Student film festival. Lucas was awarded a student scholarship by Warner Bros. to observe and work on the making of a film of his choosing.
The film he chose was Finian's Rainbow (1968) which was being directed by Francis Ford Coppola, who was revered among film school students of the time as a cinema graduate who had "made it" in Hollywood. In 1969, Lucas was one of the camera operators on the classic Rolling Stones concert film Gimme Shelter.
And that was a purposeful cliffhanger there involving the chat between two friends i.e. Barry M. Goldwater and John F. Kennedy, the subject of which will be revealed not in the next chapter but in a flashback.
While admittedly I'm still a heretic for including Star Trek (*proceed to grab Emergency barf bag*) and having George Lucas be a patron of and somewhat of an apprentice to Gene Roddenberry…
Mark my words, Trekkers, the superior franchise of Star Wars will still be striking back with a vengeance! That is the open secret of what will transpire when the time comes and I'm not deviating from it. Muh-hahaha! :D
*cough*
Anyways, my sincere devious promise to devout Trekkies of making sure Star Trek isn't treated well in this tale at all aside, it's official: George is touring the galaxy he himself has envisioned in RL for the sake of making a movie about Revan ;)
(And choosing to not incorporate either Gungans or Ewoks into the lore either).
Who says breaking the fourth wall isn't fun?:P
And yes, that statement about Disney is intentional.
Chapter 30: Lest We Forget
Chapter Text
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Bowdarr's Bowcaster Cantina - Quadrant G-19 Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
05:26:16 ATC / May 26th, 1969 - 18:45 / 6:45 PM
Today was Memorial Day, meaning that there were no drills and inspections or anything major scheduled other than what was specifically for the day but even so, most of the men had been reflecting and remembering the past generation of American servicemen and their brothers-in-arms especially those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending the nation from all threats foreign and domestic.
Taking a sip of his drink, an Coruscant Cooler that was surprisingly and remarkably tasted like the hooch made from fruit cocktail and other ingredients back in Vietnam confiscated during an MP raid only for 'Paddy' O'Sullivan to spike the lemonade some Red Cross 'Donut Dolly' brought to the office as an prank with Charles getting the most of it and it was embarrassing to say the least when the gal came back to retrieve the pitcher.
In complete irony in the aftermath, an irate Sergeant Nelson locked O'Sullivan in the then unoccupied brig to give him time to 'reflect on what you did but I'm not going to be your mother' but to this day Jake believed he had no remorse and in hindsight while embarrassing, the occurrence was funny beyond belief and the 5811s were just lucky that they weren't reprimanded as an officer or other MPs could have walked in anytime.
"You have quite the peculiar family, Jake."
"Tell me about it." The Leatherneck muttered to the only Alabamian in his platoon, Lance Corporal Darrel Hutchison, as he raised the can of Budweiser to his lips. "Take my Great-Great Grandfather as an example. During the Civil War, out of a household of ten at the time - seven brothers and his parents - he mustered in with the 32nd Indiana while his father and one of his brothers enlisted with the 19th Indiana of the Iron Brigade fame. Another brother joined the United States Army instead of a volunteer unit, the one being coincidentally numbered nineteenth as well and an additional brother somehow managed to become a United States Marine only to get fittingly stationed aboard the U.S.S. Wabash after being aboard the U.S.S. Wyoming - and interestingly while onboard the Wyoming he was in a naval action at Shimonoseki Straits in Japan on July 16th, 1863 - before eventually participating in the Second Battle of Fort Fisher, not to mention that two other brothers enlisted in the 17th Indiana Mounted Infantry of Wilder's Lightning Brigade and Birge's Western Sharpshooters respectively. The other two siblings on the other hand remained on the farm due to, well, upkeeping as someone needed to do it and there also was a need for agriculture to supply the armies as well."
"Except for the Iron Brigade and of course unsurprisingly the United States Army and the Marines despite the limited role at the time for our beloved Corps, I never heard of those units."
"Which is a damn shame that they're overlooked as they were all important units that made vital contributions to Preserve the Union." Jake smirked as he noticed that the southerner was slightly irked by the three simple words while reaching into his pocket. "Still, my five Great Grand Uncles and Opa's father did their share once they arrived to America and settled in Indiana just after the failed 1848 Revolution." Jake flipped open his wallet and pointed at one of the photographs taken during his mandated for every Marine Corps basic training graduate ten-day leave home after Parris Island. "Come to think of it, in case you're wondering, I just received a letter from him a few days ago."
"That Blue Belly is still alive!?" The staunch Dixiecrat and supporter of George Wallace's American Independent Party was slack-jawed at the revelation from the Conservative-leaning Republican and adherent of Barry Goldwater, Ronald Reagan, and Joe Pyne.
"What?" Jake shrugged 'innocently'. "He's quite healthy for his age. And besides, Crump might want to talk to someone who experienced the same conflict even if he was a Union soldier who was born in Germany and was three when he came to America."
"The South will rise again." Darrel vowed. "But it will have to wait until this business with the Sith is over with."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever pal." Jake waved off. "Us Hoosiers and the entire Midwest in general are on standby in case states from Virginia down to Alabama decide to invade Massachusetts and other New England states somehow."
Private Herbert Reinhardt Meyer - Company F, Second Battalion, 17th Indiana Mounted Infantry Regiment, Second Brigade ("Wilder's Brigade" / "Lightning Brigade / "Hatchet Brigade") , Fifth Division, XIV Corps, Army of the Cumberland, Union Army
Hoover's Gap - Bedford County and Rutherford County, Tennessee, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
06:24:90 BTC / June 24th, 1863 - 16:45 / 4:45 PM
"Well, I'm glad that we have these newfangled breechloaders!" One of the Union soldiers proclaimed as he reloaded his rifle by dropping the first of seven .56-56 metallic cartridges into the buttstock. "Otherwise we wouldn't be taking this position outnumbered!"
"Ik know dat feeling." Herbert concurred in accentic English as he cranked the lever briskly and pulled the external hammer of his Spencer back before taking aim. The Hoosier felt proud that he was entrusted with such a marvelous weapon that replaced his 1853 Enfield muzzleloading rifle and felt confident that the Graybacks could be whipped with the implement that could be loaded on Sunday and shot all week. "The Johnnies better run back to Richmond courtesy of our Horizontal Shottowers."
"Little do the Rebs know that at least we don't have to use our hatchets on them as hacking them seems overkill."
"And this isn't?"
The detachment of Mounted Infantrymen chuckled before each man continued taking coordinated turns to fire their individual repeaters and eject the spent copper cartridges with each briskly racking of the lever before pulling back the hammer for another shot at the outnumbering mass of gray attempting to drive the Hoosiers and Illinoisans of Colonel John Thomas Wilder's 'Lighting Brigade' out.
Private Linus Johan Meyer - Company D "Invincibles", Second Battalion, 19th Indiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade "Iron Brigade", First Division, I Corps, Army of the Potomac, Union Army
Herbst Woods - West McPherson Ridge, Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:01:90 BTC / July 1st, 1863 - 10:00 / 10:00 AM
"Get the Nineteenth into line, Colonel." The former commanding officer of the Nineteenth Indiana before taking command of the entire Iron Brigade, Brigadier General Solomon Meredith, directed.
"Yes, sir." Colonel Samuel J. Williams acknowledged with a snappy salute before barking out the command. "First Battalion! On the right, by file into line, march!"
"Attention Battalion! On the right, by file into line, march!"
"Company, right flank, march!"
The men of the 19th Indiana immediately formed their battleline at the order passed down from Regimental to Company-level commanders, continuing forward in the direction of the enemy and waited for the inevitable command to halt before engaging the enemy.
"Company halt!" Captain David S. Holloway ordered his detachment before snapping out the next, inevitable command."Load!"
Linus with a snap immediately planted the butt of his 1861 Springfield Rifle-Musket onto the ground at an forty-five degree angle with the ramrod facing him before opening the black leather cartridge box to grasp one of the paper tubes containing gunpowder and a .58 caliber Minnè Ball before biting into the rear of the cartridge, pouring the propellant down the barrel.
Next, he tore the projectile out of the wrapper and placed it into the muzzle, pushing it down first with his thumb then proceeded to remove the rod and rammed it home, tapping the contents to compress and remove the tool, placing it back in the position underneath the barrel.
Finally he lifted the weapon with the butt underneath his arm part with the lock plate close to his breastbone, grabbed an percussion cap and placed it on the nipple cone before returning to shoulder arms as the first firing was for some reason at shoulder arms and any subsequent volleys were from the ready position unless directed otherwise.
"Ready!"
Linus exhaled and had his rifle-musket pointed down-range at a forty-five degree angle, knowing that the confrontation was inemiant.
"Aim!"
The soldier lined up the rear notch with the foresight at one of the graybacks at the opposing battle line with a chance that the unknown individual may become a casualty if the Hoosier inflicted the traumatic effects of the Minnie ball on him.
"Fire!"
"That ain't no militia!" One of the Confederates remarked as he spotted the distinctive headwear - the United States Model 1858 Dress Hat - of the infamous Iron Brigade of the West, not to mention being standard issue among United States Army Regulars of the currently divided nation's professional standing military. "It's those damn black hats of the Army of the Potomac!"
"Pour it into them, lads! Pour it into them!" Major General John Fulton Reynolds, the commanding officer in charge of all of I Corps, shouted in encouragement from horseback, intending on driving the Rebels away from his home state of Pennsylvania. "They can't withstand the will of men with iron!"
"You heard the General, men! Don't let him down!"
"Hurrah!" The Westerners hollered as they stood firm against the vicious onslaught of the graybacks.
"Firing by rank!" The Captain barked suddenly as the infamous Rebel Yell taunted the men standing firm like iron. "Front rank, aim! Fire!"
Meyer knew that the rear-rank was next and at the command 'aim', he took care in having the ear of his front rank file partner between the first and second barrel band of his rifle-musket.
"Rear rank! Aim! FIRE!"
Linus shot his piece and reloaded as quickly as possible, the skirmish was escalating gradually into an ugly slugfest with men falling down dead and wounded left, right, front, and back, the ranks being whittled down randomly across the battle line, but still the men of Indiana alongside their Wisconsin and even fresh-fished wolverine brethren of the 24th Michigan Volunteers valiantly held firm against the onslaught from the vanguard of the Army of Northern Virginia.
"Iron Brigade, forward! Forward men! Forward for God's sake, and drive those fellows out of the woods!"
"General!"
Linus overheard the cry of Reynold's aide-de-camp as the General fell from his horse and he then noticed a glint of glass coming from a tree, which resulted in the German-American aiming his 1861 Springfield at the Confederate sharpshooter who likely was the killer of the beloved Reynolds. The Hoosier focused on the front blade of the foresight and exhaled before slowly squeezing the trigger rearward with even pressure, watching as the Grayback fell from his perch to the ground mere moments later.
"Goot scheten, Söhn (Good shot, son)."
"Danke, Vadder." Linus nodded grimly, knowing that even with one less Johnny this cruel war was still hardly over.
Private Kurt Ekkehard Meyer - Company B, First Battalion, 66th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment "Birge's Western Sharpshooters", Union Army
Somewhere in Tennessee...
07:18:90 BTC / July 18th, 1863 - 15:40 / 3:40 PM
"See anything, Kurt?" Edward Norman, a Missourian, wondered.
"A field artillery officer." Meyer informed as he lined up the crosshairs of the lengthy telescopic sight on his thirty-five pound target rifle with double set triggers and noticed red stripes on the butternut's uniform through the optical sight.
"Good catch." Tucker Smith, an Ohioan, complimented the Hoosier."There's probably a battery somewhere as well since you spotted an artillery officer."
Kurt nodded as he cocked back the hammer and waited for his quarry to stop walking. 'Come on you son-of-a-bitch. You're going to chat with someone as there's no batteries near here as far as I can tell.'
The Indiana sharpshooter noticed the officer finally stopped to talk to an NCO and the Hoosier proceeded to pull the rear 'set' trigger back in order to lighten the front actual firing trigger. Kurt decided to wait until he could kill two birds with one stone and followed the pair as they walked to continue conversing.
'Come on, come on…' Meyer still waited as even if the artillery officer was more of a priority to render a battery ineffective due to a lack of guidance, taking out a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer in a Infantry unit would still be a handicap for the Rebels as well.
Kurt finally had an excellent angle to strike them both down and by luck they paused. The Sharpshooter exhaled as his index finger gently squeezed the firing trigger rearward, propelling a .65 caliber paper-patched lead ball through the rifling and spiraling toward the targets: one in front, one behind.
The sound of the crack alerted the enemy pickets to the trios presence, causing the Confederates to aim their M1842 smoothbore muskets at the Unionists.
"There he is! He's in that darn tree!"
"Alright, it's time to get going!" Tucker exclaimed as he provided covering fire from beside the trunk of the oak tree with his sixteen-shot Henry Repeater, buying time for his two fellow Billy Yanks to retreat.
Private Eckhard Uwe Meyer - Company C, First Battalion, 19th United States Infantry Regiment, Third Brigade, First Division, XIV Corps, Army of the Cumberland, United States Army
Horseshoe Ridge - Snodgrass Hill, Chickamauga, Walker County, Georgia, Confederate States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:20:90 BTC / September 20th, 1863 - 17:48 / 5:48 PM
Eckhard enlisted into the United States Army, a regular formation, on July 9th of 1861, out of a belief that a professional formation could whip the rebels better than the volunteer and militia units that sprang up when war was declared on the rebels.
Now it was somewhat justified as the 19th U.S. alongside other elements of the Regular Army - the 15th, 16th, and 18th Infantry - standing out on the battlefield with their Model 1858 Dress Hats that unintentionally became associated with the volunteer units under the Iron Brigade due to a sense of professionalism by a insistent regular officer who took command of the Westerners instead of having them wear the more prevalent kepis and forge caps - were ordered by General Thomas to hold firm to cover the withdrawal though Colonel Morton Hunter's 82nd Indiana Volunteers was the first organized regimental-sized unit to reach the position to make an stand.
"Hold the line, men!" Thomas himself encouraged his subordinates - four divisions in total - from the top of his mount. "Hold the line! Let us be a symbol to rally around! Let this moment be long remembered as we are The Rock of Chickamauga!"
'Rock of Chickamauga?' Meyer wondered before he and his file partners fired their 1861 Springfields at the encroaching Confederates, feeling the need to stand their ground even if the rest of the army was withdrawing from the field.
Private Wilhelm Jäger Meyer - Company A, First Battalion, 32nd Indiana 'First German' Volunteer Infantry Regiment, First Brigade ("Horn Brigade" / "Iron Brigade of the Cumberland"), Second Division, IV Corps, Army of the Cumberland, Union Army
Missionary Ridge - Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Tennessee, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
11:25:90 BTC / November 25th, 1863 - 15:40 / 3:40 PM
"Skirmishers forward!"
Wilhelm knew it was his cue as he clutched his .451 caliber Whitworth outfitted with a vernier sight mounted on the tang of the rifle and a front 'globe' sight adjustable for windage with crosshair inserts. It was completely ironic that the precision weapon, the luxurious and ludicrously expensive smuggled contraband shipped directly from Britain, and confiscated after overrunning Rebels at Shiloh was about to be used against the Confederacy.
Meyer lied down prone, using his knapsack as a makeshift shooting rest and began scanning for targets up the ridge with acquired field glasses, intending on thinning out the enemy's ranks before the inevitable assault commenced.
'Looks like an enemy officer at fifteen hundred yards.' He estimated as the brandished sword glinted off in the distance, causing the German-born American to set the field glasses aside and grasped the prized muzzleloader.
Wilhelm adjusted the soule sight mounted on the tang of his rifle and the front globe sight, accounting for elevation and estimating the windage due to the necessity for the distance, before taking aim. 'Ik going to need some luck for this.'
Meyer made certain that he was aligned as he carefully pulled back the hammer twice - going from half-cock to full-cock - attempting to maintain his position steadily for the utmost precision before squeezing the trigger, feeling the shake of the weapon as the propellant burned inside the barrel and sent the unusual hexagonal projectile designed specifically for the polygonal rifling spiralling through the air, hopefully striking the intended target downrange.
The German-American from Minden in the Prussian Province of Minden-Ravensberg, Westphalia grabbed his binoculars to analyze the results and he was astonished to see that his luck paid off but the admiration had to wait when Wilhelm heard the 'recall' bugle call, telling the skirmishers to reassemble with the main body.
'Mein Gott.' Meyer was still processing how he landed a shot that far. Hunting Wild Boar and Roe Deer in the backwoods of Westphalia rarely presented targets beyond four hundred yards in the American measurement but he managed to hit someone at three-and-a-quarter times the distance!
Nonetheless, Wilhelm still had an obligation to uphold, the very nation he considered home was on the line and he took his place among the reforming ranks of his fellow Deustche - no, fellow Americans - for the assault against the rebel line.
"Bereiten Sie das Laden vor! (Prepare to load!)" The commanding officer of Company A, Captain Emanuel Eller, ordered. "Kompanie, bereit! (Company, ready!)"
Wilhelm prepared to shoulder his weapon and upon hearing the command 'aim', he pulled back the hammer, the click signalled that his piece was ready to fire.
"Füer! (Fire!)"
One concurrent, thunderous crackle rang across the blue cladded ranks, the musketry volley sounded more like one mighty roar instead of numerous rifle-muskets due to being fired at the same time on command exactly like they were trained.
The men of the Horn Brigade - the Iron Brigade of the Cumberland - fired off two more volleys in the hope of weakening the rebel line when the Brigade Commander determined that the time had come to take the fight to them.
"Verriegeln bajonette! (Fix bayonets!)" Brigadier General Johann August Ernst von Willich ordered, drawing his sword for emphasis. "Mach dich bereit, die Höhen anzugreifen! (Get ready to attack the heights!)" The man who challenged this Karl Marx who wrote some manifesto to a duel and respected fondly by his men for providing freshly baked bread everyday growled as he intended on vengeance for the fiasco that occurred at Chickamauga, revenge for enduring the siege by the rebels here at Chattanooga, and even a desire to prove to their relief from even elements of the Army of the Potomac that the Army of the Cumberland were capable of handling themselves in a fight. "Und erinnere dich an Chickamauga! (And remember Chickamauga!)"
"Chickamauga! Chickamauga!" The German immigrants and second-generation Americans of German descent shouted as they charged up and began climbing the crest of the hill, polished bayonets glistening in the sun and demonic fury in their gaze.
"Damn Yankee Dutchmen!" One of the Graybacks hollered from his rifle pit as he overheard the language being spoken by the furious bluebellies.
"Mach ihnen die Hölle heiß! Zeig keine Gnade! (Give them hell! Show no mercy!)"
Reaching the top of the parapet. Wilhelm lunged his rifle-musket downward and skewered one of the Confederates in the torso with his bayonet, twisting it out in order to inflict maximum damage to his foe's internal organs.
"Für das Union!"
Private Friedrich Walther Meyer - Fourth Division of the Naval Landing Party, United States Marine Corps
Fort Fisher - New Hanover County, North Carolina, Confederate States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
01:15:88 BTC / January 15th, 1865 - 12:51 / 12:51 PM
"This is going to be interesting." Friedrich muttered as Sailors of the United States Navy individually equipped with a cutlass and revolver and U.S. Marines armed with either 1861 Springfield, 1853 Enfield, 1859 Sharps, or even the seven-shot Spencer Repeating Rifles hopped out of their assigned boats to 'Board the Fort' per Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter's orders.
The plan for the landing force consisting of two thousand American Bluejackets and Leathernecks plucked from their assigned ships across the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron was to land and attack the fort's seaward side with the naval force, armed with revolvers and cutlasses, to attack in three waves while the Marines provide covering fire with their rifles. And while the Landing Party got organized onshore the ship's continued to bombard the fortress with their guns, hopefully causing a breach in the defenses and bring the glory of capturing the final significant Rebel fort protecting blockade runners to the Department of the Navy instead of the Department of War.
And to Friedrich, it was ironic that he finally had the chance to fight the Graybacks after all this time, after being aboard a vessel - the U.S.S Wyoming - that got assigned to the Far East Squadron of the United States Navy only loosely involved in the ongoing civil war.
By circumstance not of his own accord and completely out of his control, the United States Marine was involuntarily a participant in a joint allied show of force in Japan alongside crews of British and French warships - and Japan was an exotic land whose rulers were formerly isolationist and barely knowledgeable of the outside world except for what international news arrived at one Portuguese trading port at Nagasaki until Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry of the United States Navy arrived to negotiate diplomatic relations barely ten years prior with the Convention of Kanagawa being signed on March 31st, 1854 - not to mention being involved in the pursuit of Confederate commerce raiders - particularly the ever elusive C.S.S. Alabama under that damn rebel pirate Raphael Semmes the Wyoming had prior history with around Java in the East Indies - which were active in the Pacific only for it to be an instance of futility much to the dissatisfaction of the Bluejackets and Leathernecks.
Friedrich only enlisted into the little known branch of the Department of the Navy called the 'United States Marine Corps' he had to read up on beforehand after seeing an obscure advert because of a desire to preserve the Union - not head to Japan - and he came to regret not joining one of the State Volunteer units that sprang up back home in Indiana as signing up for the comparatively larger than the Marines by tenfold but still insignificant by size regular formations of the United States Army - the sparse and exiguious professionals of the nation's land warfare military branch, not the local militias or state volunteer units - meant it was just as likely to be posted out in the middle of nowhere in a frontier garrison at some inhospitable desert or be surrounded by one of the hostile tribes as it was to engage Confederate forces yet here he was, finally getting the opportunity a bit later than anticipated.
After returning to the Philadelphia Naval Yard on July 13th of last year, Meyer was reassigned to the U.S.S. Wabash which was especially ironic as the ship was named after a river in his home state but at the same time the Hoosier couldn't complain to be posted on the steam screw frigate, one which was actively involved in the conflict completely unlike the Wyoming.
"Let's go get the Rebels!" One of the sailors whoop enthusiastically as he and his fellow servicemen hopped off of the boat, the exclamation snapping Friedrich out of his recollections on the engagements in Japan and unsuccessful chase of the Confederate sloops built at the shipyards of Liverpool in the supposedly 'neutral' Britain. "Hurrah!"
Friedrich meanwhile formed up with his ad hoc unit of Leathernecks and lowered the lever of his 1859 Sharps Rifle to load a single, individual .52 caliber nitrated linen cartridge into the breech while listening to the officer for guidance.
"You will secure the landing zone and eliminate all resistance!" The First Lieutenant barked. "I want everyone of you to meet me there. Wait at the wall breach for further orders. Forward!"
Meyer charged forward, occasionally pausing to fire his breechloader at the enemy beside fellow Marines, watching as yards ahead with gallantry waves of bluejackets armed with their cutlasses and revolvers attempted to board the fort as if it was naval warfare yet it was quickly evolving into a mess.
The Sailors were just armed for close range fighting and out in the open they were targets for the Confederate defenders with no effective means to defend themselves, the Marines were attempting their best with their marksmanship but the fog of war made everything chaotic and combined with the mishmashed landings of crew who were intermingled with those they weren't familiar with and it was gradually becoming even a fiasco.
Even so, Meyer knew he had a duty to perform and he looked for leadership in the midst of the chaos behind a sand dune just short of the enemy fortifications, just short of the abatis and chevaux-de-fraise meant to slow the assaulting force down for easier pickings.
"Alright, apparently somewhere, somehow the plan went to hell so here's what we're going to do, Marines." The Ordnance Sergeant stated. "We're going to link up with an Army unit nearby and be there for the final assault on the parapet. This is it, men! We'll end this last smuggling port and the war will soon be over with! For the Union!"
Encouraged, Friedrich sprinted toward the enemy defenses and leapt over the parapet and jabbed his sword-bayonet into the nearest Johnny, skewering the Confederate's chest and ripping flesh.
"Victory men!" A Naval Lieutenant encouraged, waving his sword and firing his revolver at the defenders. "Follow me to glory!"
"Hurrah!"
Cave Hill Cemetery - 701 Baxter Avenue, Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
07:17: 08 ATC / December 17th, 1961 - 13:49 / 1:49 PM
Jake and his parents alongside Uncle Steve, Aunt Michelle, Cade, and Zach treaded toward the site of the nation's oldest surviving memorial to the American Civil War and the reason for the visitation was not out of tourism but of respect.
Upon approaching the monument, Jake knelt down and read the inscription engraved by hand by Private Christian Friedrich August Bloedner, which was chiseled entirely in German:
HERE REST THE FIRST HEROES OF THE 32ND INDIANA GERMAN REGIMENT WHO LAID DOWN THEIR LIVES FOR PRESERVATION OF THE FREE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF NORTH AMERICA. THEY WERE KILLED DECEMBER 17, 1861. IN A FIGHT WITH THE REBELS AT ROWLETT'S STATION, KENTUCKY, IN WHICH ONE REGIMENT TEXAS RANGERS, TWO REGIMENTS OF INFANTRY, AND A BATTERY OF SIX CANNON, OVER 3,000 STRONG, WERE DEFEATED BY 500 GERMAN SOLDIERS.
Jake felt the hand of his father on his shoulder, which caused him to glance up.
"You see, son, while they didn't ask for a war at their new homeland after voyaging across the ocean packed like sardines just above the cargo hold and settling down to toil the soil or venture to find employment in the cities and towns, whether they came here to America for the availability of farmland, the opportunities at the factories and foundries, or out of idealism, they all decided to make a stand as there's only one United States of America and their sacrifice one hundred years ago helped preserve this country as one, unified nation."
"It's a shame Opa couldn't be here." Jake perceived dolefully, wondering if his Great-Great Grandfather felt desolate as only a scant handful of veterans from the conflict remained, not one of them being of the same unit and it was astounding that there were still those who had once worn the blue or the gray during the divisive conflict in which brother fought brother being extant.
"He would have come if he was able but I'm sure his brother-in-arms understand in regards to his age." Paul asseverated. "Even so, with us being present here on this day, one hundred years after their deaths at the Battle of Rowlett Station that transpired seventy-four miles south of here, it shows that we have not forgotten their sacrifice nor should we even trivialize as they did not die in vain and it was due to them that this nation, under God, was granted a new birth of freedom and that the government of the people, by the people, for the people, will not perish from the Earth."
Present...
"Still, a bluebelly?" The Southerner groaned in denial.
"I don't like bragging in the slightest, Darrel, and I'm not trying to make a reputation or anything. There's no glory in war, just a need to defend one's nation against threats."
"I never said anything about you being a celebrity or anything, Jake, as you're one of the most humblest down-to-earth individuals I know, but it's just mindblowing to know that your grandpappy is one of the few remaining veterans of the War between the States."
"When my three times Great Grandfather bought the acreage of arable land which became the family homestead in Franklin Township, the patriarch became an adherent of the Whig Party before switching to the GOP when the Whigs went the way of the dodo and supported Honest Abe naturally. Guess you could say the Meyer family since leaving Germany always upheld American conservatism, particularly republicanism and strict constructionism, more or less."
"If you're conservative then why support darkies? And it sounds like you support State Rights, I'm just honestly surprised by you."
Jake rolled his eyes, wondering if the George Wallace follower didn't know what republicanism and originalism was even if they both in a way shared the opinion of a need for small government albeit for different reasons and from completely differing perspectives.
While the 'big tent' concept within the two-party system was just mind boggling at times with begrudging alliances between the factions of the opposing parties such as notably the 'Conservative Coalition' which formed a bulwark against any expansion of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's 'New Deal' program, the ideological similarities between Conservative Democrats and Conservative Republicans did not mean that there was agreement on everything outside of keeping taxes low and the Federal Government small. Republican Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen - who was at the time the Senate Minority Leader - for instance was crucial in getting the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed while his ideologically similar counterpart in the other chamber of Congress, Democratic Representative Howard Worth Smith of Virginia, attempted to kill it outright by 'keeping the bill bottled up indefinitely' as the staunchly segregationist Smith was chairman of the House's Rules Committee.
"To quote the Declaration of Independence: 'All Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness'. I don't see anything that excludes men of a certain complexion at all within the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and Constitution. Plus there's also the hypocritical fact that the South violated State's Rights when they demanded the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act be zealously enforced by the Federal Government even in states where slavery was outlawed such as Pennsylvania and of course Indiana due to the Northwest Ordinance but overall Doctor King is right, every man should be judged by their character, not color of their skin." Sighing, Jake decided that it was best to move away from politics unless it got heated. "Still, can we at least agree to a toast on Fonda rotting in Hell?"
"I can drink to that." The Alabamian concurred. "Especially since you're a Midwesterner and not a filthy Yankee."
"No." Jake sat his drink down and gazed at Darrel sincerely to further reinforce his declaration. "I may be a Hoosier and a United States Marine but at the end of the day, I'm still a American plain and simple. God bless the United States of America from sea to shining sea."
"May we never forget our fallen comrades. Freedom isn't free."
~ Sergeant Major Bill Paxton, USMC [Ret.]
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States Armed Forces, a day of remembrance, and at times, sadly, there are those who unfortunately who for whatever reason decide to besmirch them but at the same time their First Amendment right in order to do so was protected by the men who were in the uniform of the branches of the United States military.
That's your right of course and I won't stop you but I for one will continue to reflect on the sacrifices this nation has endured in order to remain free.
This chapter written by We'retheDesperateMeasures-ODST for Memorial Day is therefore dedicated to the American Servicemen and Servicewomen of the past, present, and future and the casualties throughout the years.
Lest We Forget
I can confirm that I'm bringing forth often overlooked history to light here in the story such as the often forgotten Teutonic Order and Northern Crusade to even the smallest, minute footnote.
While the United States Marines attached to the Naval Landing Party that assaulted Fort Fisher in January of 1865 did fail to capture the fortress on their own, unless being an unintentional distraction counts, it marked the drift toward the Corps exploring amphibious landings as their niche by the turn of the century.
And out in Tennessee, one year, seven months, and twenty-two days earlier; The usage of the Spencer Rifles by Wilder's Lightning Brigade at Hoover's Gap also marked the FIRST engagement in history when repeating rifles were used in combat.
As a quick sidenote, during the Battle of Chickamauga, the 21st Ohio Infantry Regiment equipped with their Colt Revolving Rifles put out such a murderous fire it convinced the attacking Confederates that they were attacking an entire Division, not just a single regiment!
That's not mentioning to this day, no one knows exactly why the Army of the Cumberland assaulted Missionary Ridge in a charge much larger than Pickett's WITHOUT orders to do so by the chain of command other than the obvious fact that the men were infuriated at being beaten at Chickamauga then besieged.
No matter if it was just simple rage or a spur of the moment initiative by the besieged men, arguably this was one of the major turning points in the American Civil War as afterward the southern heartland laid open to invasion.
Other than the fact that the father of Douglas MacArthur was a participant, most folks ignore the Battle of Chattanooga and the Western Theater in general, unlike Gettysburg.
And the Battle of Rowlett's Station received national attention due to being one of the earliest Union victories in the war.
In fact, the 32nd Indiana 'First German' Infantry Monument carved by August Bloedner is the nation's oldest American Civil War monument and while the original was forced to be placed in a museum due to decay, a replica erected in its place that was carefully carved out to appear similar to the original can be seen today.
It's a shame really as General Longstreet and elements of the Army of Northern Virginia were involved in the Battle of Chattanooga as well as elements of the Army of the Potomac fresh from Gettysburg under the command of Joseph Hooker.
It goes to show that the fight out West was judged to be of strategic importance while the East was mainly symbolic due to Washington D.C. and Richmond.
Then there's the fact that Grant, Sherman, and Sheridan were fighting in the west long before Grant and Sheridan were brought Eastward or Sherman leading his Westerners through Georgia and up through the Carolinas with the intention of linking up with Grant only for Lee to surrender at Appomattox followed not long afterwards by Johnston surrendering to Sherman.
Don't get me wrong: The two battles at Bull Run, Antietam, Gettysburg, and the two forgotten battles literally just on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. known officially as the Battle of Monocacy and the Battle of Fort Stevens respectively were important but so was Perryville, Shiloh, Cumberland Gap, Corinth, Vicksburg, and yes, even Chattanooga.
When the East was in either a stalemate or just quiet due to McClellan's overcautiousness, the majority of the engagements, the bloodshed, were occurring out in the West.
While the land battles in the Eastern Theater has been overglorified to death and caught the public perception of the conflict for generations, the war was arguably won in the West by Mid-1863, not to mention the Anaconda Plan of the United States Navy constricting the flow of vital supplies marked for Confederate forces as well, and the historical record vindicates this.
As again the West was the strategic key to winning the war, the East was symbolic due to the two opposing capitals.
Hopefully this chapter open some curiosity of the often overlooked yet still interesting tales from the past such as:
The Mad Russian Brigadier General Ivan Vasilyevich Turchaninov, better known under his Anglicized name of John Basil Turchin.
Or the ingenious exploits of August Willich, an openly staunch Communist who ironically challenged Karl Marx to a duel (I'm not joking! He challenged the co-author of the Communist Manifesto, Karl Marx, to a duel!) and fought to preserve the Union.
Most of the consensus about history makes other tales more often than not overlooked or even ignored outright but for those who read more into it, the more interesting tales one unravel.
Thus history can be intriguing if you look into it :)
To use an example from what I dug up during my own research:
Indiana during the American Civil War was a majorly rural 'western' state that was the first 'western' state to mobilize for the Civil War, ranked second among the Union States in the percentage of men of military age who served, its railroad hubs and access to the Ohio River were vital to the Union war effort, and of course, provided crops since the majority of the south, well, seceded.
Units from Indiana fought in the first substantial battle of the war at Philippi, Virginia, on June 3rd, 1861, and in the last significant engagement at Palmito Ranch, Texas, on May 13th, 1865.
In fact, officially the last soldier killed in combat due to the conflict was Private John Jefferson Williams of Company B, 34th Indiana Volunteers at Palmito Ranch in Texas.
Hoosier soldiers overall were involved in three hundred and eight battles in sixteen states and one territory and Indiana regiments fought in all major theaters of action, but more were involved in the fighting west of the Appalachians than east of them.
For example, just six Indiana regiments were involved in the Battle of Gettysburg and six regiments and artillery batteries in the fighting at Antietam, while some fifty-five Hoosier regiments and artillery batteries fought at Atlanta, fifty-five at Kennesaw Mountain, and fifty at Resaca.
"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." ~ George Santayana
Chapter 31: Missing the Mark
Chapter Text
Specialist 4 Mark Richard Hamill - Carpentry and Masonry Specialist (51B), 502nd Engineer Company (Pontoon Bridge), 555th Engineer Brigade, Corps of Engineers, United States Army
Imperial Holding Center 14301, Kalaan, Kalaan System, Churnis Sector, Mid Rim, "The Galaxy"
12:02:15 ATC / December 2nd, 1968 - 15:06 / 3:06 PM
Mark couldn't believe his hapless luck, that another instance of bickering had led to this.
The Combat Engineer was in the midst of fabricating a pontoon bridge while under fire but the project however was interrupted midstream due to the infantry being overrunned when the enemy unexpectedly emerged from the flank, counteracting the operation entirely.
While hiding and deciding to take a cue from the Jedi playbook as one of the rumors was trickery, he attempted to mimic the voice of the enemy CO as Hammil considered doing voice acting but it fell flat as the Commander was already overseeing the rounding up of prisoners in the aftermath.
So much for wanting to get his hands on one of those fancy lightsabers as pulling a Jedi-like stunt backfired and now Hammil as well as Ford were being detained at a local installation awaiting transport to any of the Imperial Prisoner-of-War Camps.
"What's your name and where are you from?"
Mark figured out a response in the hope of misleading the interrogator, something that he had concocted jokingly awhile back with Harrison but he never figured to use the bluff. "Ummm...My name is actually Luke, Luke Skywalker from a moisture farm in the Great Chott salt flat outside Anchorhead on...Tatooine. Yeah, Tatooine." The man paused as the interrogator took the information in then Hammil finished divulging the fiction. "My Uncle and Aunt unfortunately perished when the Sand People attacked it while I was away with an old hermit and two droids and they burned the farm down. Since there was nothing left for me I departed the planet at Mos Eisley."
The interrogator 'smiled' slyly and quizzed the man obviously wearing the recognizable olive drab as it was also apparent he was playing games. "How many suns does Tatooine have, 'Luke Skywalker' or should I keep referring to you as Hammil?"
"Errr...One?"
The interrogator's expression gave off 'caught you' and was grinning satisfactorily. "Wrong answer as unlike Jedi, you're not a convincing actor in the slightest."
"Fine, I'll admit it." Mark relented, bowing his head down onto the table out of seeming despair. "My name is Ben, err, Kenobi, a nephew of...umm, Qui-Gon...Jinn? And I have to warn you that my uncle is a Jedi."
"Sure he is…" The Imperial rolled his eyes at the bluff of having a Jedi relative and another fictional uncle at that, thinking that the prisoner was just testing his patience. It was not as if the whelp before him was destined to become one of the warrior-monks anyway, it was more likely to stumble upon some hermit and his hut on Dagobah or be ambushed by a Wampah on Hoth and dragged to its cavern as its next meal instead. "Take them away to be shackled to the pain pulsers and if that doesn't work, freeze them in carbonite!"
"Way to go, Mark." Harrison sneered, believing that the false ploy failed due to a lack of a poker face as well as misremembering vital information. "I knew I should've insisted on handling it but now we're about to become wall hangers in some Moff's or even Sith's palace."
"To be fair, you wanted to call yourself 'Han Solo' if we ever got caught." Mark reminded as he mentioned the Specialist Six's false Corellian smuggler identity. "At least it wasn't by these Hutts but then again they likely would have made us walk the plank and fed us to these Sarlaccs I read about."
"Yeah, right, that's like saying every guy wants a princess." The carpenter snorted. "Those Alderaanians in particular are a piece of work and it's like the Middle Ages with literal feudalism and all that jazz."
The two guards enclosed in their black and red armor and mugs covered by the keg-like helmets immediately approached from behind and roughly whisked the two bickering Americans of the United States Army's Corps of Engineers off of their seats to be tortured.
"Now wait just a minute! This is all a huge misunderstanding! As you can see, just like how my friend here is no whiny moisture farmer from Tatooine with a babyface, I'm no devilishly handsome swashbuckling smuggler from Corellia! We shouldn't even be here but you dragged us in!"
"Right. And as a result of this 'elaborate charade' I'm sure some blasted Jedi is going to break you and the others out as if this was a real life story about rescuing a Princess from confinement inside some planet-destroying superweapon but then again this isn't the site of a superweapon, not to mention the lack of said royalty." One of the guards snorted only for the door to be telekinetically pushed into the room.
"Everyone outside, now!" The Battlemaster of the Jedi Order, Casivir Therin, himself ordered.
"What are the odds?"
"Don't tell me the odds, Hammil!" Ford groaned as he followed his sprinting compatriot and other former internees, not wishing to have an aneurysm on top of a migraine. "And next time, let me handle it, kid!"
"Understood, Harry!"
"Specialist Six, Hamill!" The senior Specialist and de facto NCO corrected as the pair fled.
Specialist 6 Harrison Ford - Carpentry and Masonry Specialist (51B), 502nd Engineer Company (Pontoon Bridge), 555th Engineer Brigade, Corps of Engineers, United States Army
Kalaan, Kalaan System, Churnis Sector, Mid Rim, "The Galaxy"
12:02:15 ATC / December 2nd, 1968 - 15:21 / 3:21 PM
"Can I use a lightsaber?"
"What!?" The copper-haired woman exclaimed in shock, flabbergasted that it was asked by the soldier with the surname of Hammil and she couldn't help but to think of Meyer during the ill-fated day in regards to 'fencing'. "Not this again…"
"Kid, you can't even hit the broadside of the moon with your rifle, nevermind muskrats, and first you wanted to fly that starfighter with an X-shaped wing but now you want to fight with swords!?" The rank equivalent to but not holding the authority of Staff Sergeant on paper snapped at his subordinate.
"Killjoys." Mark grumbled. "You all think I'm some clown."
"If you're a clown, it would be one to scare the bejesus out of anyone." Harrison grouched.
"What? Like the Joker from the Batman show starring Adam West and Burt Ward? It seems too campy to me."
"Fair point but maybe you should transfer to, well, I don't know, the 1st Infantry Division?" Harrison suggested. "The Big Red One could use you and your humor."
"Nah, I'm fine where I'm at." Mark growled. "After this war, I'm buying myself a nice Chevrolet Corvette in red and taking a summer vacation around Southern Cali, maybe even head to Vegas and try to strike it rich."
"Oh, yeah? Well don't make me tell you the odds of getting a jackpot!"
"Cut it out you two!" Carsen interceded. "It sounds like you need a third individual to keep you from bickering, like a lady to teach you manners."
"Who? Farrah Fawcett?" Ford remarked dryly only for the Knight to glare sternly at the pseudo-NCO. "Nevermind."
Present…
Drunkard's Vote - Senate Commercial District, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
05:28:16 ATC / May 28th, 1969 - 17:08 / 5:08 PM
Ford figured that something was amiss regarding his career as he reflected on the current situation and their remarkable break from becoming involuntary guests of the Sith Empire.
He could not exactly explain the intuition but for whatever reason Ford couldn't help but imagine that he should have been casted in a pivotal role in a movie, not just any film but specifically the one entitled as 'Star Wars'. It just sounded right up his alley yet of course his current whereabouts prevented it.
Maybe he was going bonkers but then again Ford always considered himself to be some swashbuckling character and his minor role in 'American Graffiti' just was a wastage of his charming talent but he was in the United States Army and his obligation, his duty was to his country first and foremost.
"You know, I have been thinking about how we involuntarily missed an opportunity and somehow I wished we were part of the film that's getting buzz, Star Wars, by that aspiring director George Lucas, that same fellow I worked for in the past."
"What brought this up, Harry?"
The technically not an NCO on paper but in practice was glared at the continual usage of his first name as if they were on a first name basis and not referring to his rank of being a senior Specialist, nevermind respecting it.
"Just an inkling, Hammill. If things were different we probably would be significant and indispensable across Hollywood but the Empire ruined our moment."
"Are you a Jedi now?" Mark wondered. "I mean didn't we just celebrate 'May the Fourth'?"
Three weeks and three days prior on Sunday, May 4th, 1969 the cooks unexpectedly served a decorative cake after church after recognizing a pun and it was partially meant as a joke with GIs goodnaturedly saying the pun but a while after having Master Hallen of the Jedi Order cut it with her lightsaber and a few rounds of drinks spiked with Jim Beam later, even the Jedi among them reciprocated the saying of "May the Fourth be with you." albeit slurrily.
But the recent memory of impromptu festivities wasn't what his compatriot was getting at as Harrison simpered and pointed a thumb at his chest as he cockily declared himself to be the next chick magnet. "Kid, if I was some Space Wizard, I think Carrie Fisher and other gals would be swarming to me."
"You and your harebrained delusions."
"At least we're faring well under the circumstances." Harrison chuckled. "But wasn't it your wish to become one of the Space Monks, Altar Boy?"
"Wanting to try out their laser swords and being qualified to become a Space Wizard are two different things." Hammil retorted unconvincingly and he also ignored the jab regarding Catholicism from someone who became agnostic despite Ford's father also being Catholic. "Besides, neither one of us are eligible to join their institution anyways due to the lack of a Force signature and presence within it, not even a single speck of these midichlorians to boot."
Ford then smirked as an idea sprang to mind. "Now I'm tempted to use Han Solo as a pseudonym as maybe we could con someone for the hell of it."
Before Mark could interject, Harrison laid out the reason why it was unworkable.
"But then again, I don't have a Wookiee to get me out of trouble nor the fastest spaceship that ever existed and therefore that falsified background is not going to work." Harrison declared as he brought the beer bottle to his lips. "Oh well, maybe in another time and place perhaps."
"Or if it was in a galaxy far, far away." Mark sighed, wishing that things were different. Who knew if they were actually Luke Skywalker and Han Solo in some parallel universe or conversely actors who starred as them in another? There was just no way for them to know.
What?
Alright, maybe that was a bit much when it comes to breaking the fourth wall but at the same time, in my defense, the planned 'little and insignificantly minor' utterance by Hammill if he's caught doing something by calling himself Skywalker sounded too good to refrain from including and as a matter of fact it is also another purposeful instance of dramatic irony here as well as Hammil in this scene thought up some random names and the Imperials didn't buy it plot wise but we all know dramatic irony wise it isn't the case!
Of course I had to reference him voicing the Joker too! Oh and mention Hammil starring in The Big Red One and Corvette Summer as well.
And rest assured that this won't be the only time Ford and Hammil appear in this work :)
In fact it will be another instance of breaking the fourth wall but I won't spoil it as it's going to be a surprise in the making. While on the subject I think you should look forward to see the cast of the Revan movie in this tale popping up every now and then in the story in addition to Ford and Hammil.
I mean you're going to be blown away by who is being casted as Malak and according to JSailer the actor who will be revealed when the time comes easily could have fitted in the role if the actor was willing to shave his hair.
While originally the above scenes were going to appear much later in another chapter (which is why this was short), since I already had it on hand and only needed to transcribe it off of the rough draft I had in a notebook then do some polishing up then t weaking such as adding in a mention of some shenanigans that occurred on May 4th, I decided to modify it into a standalone chapter instead and implement it as an interim / interlude until the actual planned chapters are ready for publication.
By the way, two facts for you guys and gals:
According to Wookiepedia, the planet of Kalaan actually had an Imperial prison (well, Galactic Empire that is per the lore) and Luke Skywalker was imprisoned there for a time so it is quite fitting!
And the late Farrah Leni Fawcett who starred as Jill Munroe in the first season of Charlie's Angels was one of the actresses considered by George Lucas to be casted as Princess Leia in the 1977 film just to clarify in case no one got the subtle reference. Of course he ultimately settled on the late Carrie Fisher (still can't believe she's gone, R.I.P.) but Fisher was not the only candidate for the role.
Also, I sincerely apologize for the lack of updates but I will be sure to get the ball rolling again even if chapters are being published sporadically.
Happy May Fourth everyone and May the Force be with you! :)
Chapter 32: What's Come Over This World?
Chapter Text
Battery Seventeen - Pluto Defense Fence, Outer Defense Ring, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:02:16 ATC / March 2nd, 1969 - 09:21 / 9:21 AM
"Divert from your current vector and prepare to be inspected!"
"No can do! We are hot and intent on landing, boys!" The voice of the pilot proclaimed, smiling smugly in the hologram. "This is a gift from Zeltros!"
"Listen, this is a restricted area! You are now unauthorized for passage so turn away or you will be fired upon!"
"You seriously need to relax along with the Earthlings as the inhabitants in America and Europe need to ease away from monogamy and their 'conventions' and have a good time!" The Zeltron laughed as she turned off from further communication.
"Oh kriff. That explains it."
"Explain what?" Captain Gary Crossley, the executive officer of Golf Battery, wondered.
"The Zeltrons are lazy thrill-seekers with hedonistic pursuits known to dress in wildly colorful or revealing attire with bizarre color designs, patterns, and symbols and they also view monogamy as quaint and if they see someone not having a good time, they'll use their pheromones."
"Just like fucking Hippies." Gary realized after his eyes widened and recognized that it sounded like the insane spiking the Hoover Dam with LSD scheme two years ago with hopes of contaminating the water supply and spreading their supposed 'Peace and Love' through the hallucinogenic drug. "Shit!"
The two officers and their subordinates watched as a squadron of Liberator-class starfighters which had been in pursuit disabled the transport with an EMP torpedo that left it dead-still in space with two other transport craft - those of the Republic Navy - prepared to latch on and board it to sort this mess out but from the announcement it did not sound to be an attempt at smuggling at all but more of an presumptuous attempt at a cultural interchange given the sharp contrast.
Out of his peripheral vision, Crossley watched one of his men rushing to where the 'trigger' of the battery was located in the station and sat down as if he was going to target the dead-in-the-water, more like 'dead-in-space', vessel.
"Hey, get off that control panel!"
The United States soldier however fired off the turbolaser, sending the bolt streaking at the disabled transport and upon impact, it was obliterated with only debris and corpses of Zeltrons that were vented in this part of space, one which was a vacuum unlike the known Galaxy.
"What did you do that for!?" Crossley growled. "That was uncalled for, Specialist!"
"I did it for my niñita, sir!" The Specialist 5 justified the act as he was forcibly pulled away from the controls. "For my baby girl!"
Marcos Coronil Bienvenida Ureña
Stearns Wharf - Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
January 14th, 1967 - 1:05 PM
"Daddy!? Daddy!? Can I get some Ice Cream?"
"I suppose we could get a cone, pequeña niña." The father chuckled as he allowed the tugging toddler to lead him to the stand, but in spite of the lengthy line, Marcos was willing to wait and get his daughter a treat, even go for a chocolate with sprinkles himself. As he and daughter walked on the boardwalk to the concession stand selling ice cream, the father couldn't help but to notice a few of the flower children were mingling and he shook his head, why anyone decided on such a repulsive lifestyle was beyond him.
It was unAmerican.
Still, he ignored the bums who should find employment and stepped behind the lengthy line with his little girl clutching his hand, waiting patiently to grab their cones.
The father watched in horror as a Hippie stepped forward to expose a vest rigged with dynamite, his finger clutching a pulley to the cord.
"Fuck Uncle Sam, screw Capitalism, and Long live the Revolution! The Weathermen will see it through!"
Before anyone could react he and other bystanders saw an explosion, the blast knocking them down on the planks with splitters becoming additional projectiles and only added to the carnage.
Marcos crawled to where his daughter was lying unconscious, parental concern and instinct taking precedence over his own health.
"Dora? Dora!?"
"D-daddy?" She acknowledged, her voice raspy. "W-why?" The girl coughed painfully, and as much as the father wanted to deny it, the severity of her injury was mortal. "W-why d-do...People hate each other?"
Marcos watched as she closed her eyes and he frantically, clutching her tight.
"Dora? Stay with me, sweetheart. Dora!"
Specialist 5 Marcos Coronil Bienvenida Ureña - Battery G, Second Battalion, 43rd Space Artillery Regiment, Space Artillery Corps, United States Army
Battery Seventeen - Pluto Defense Fence, Outer Defense Ring, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:02:16 ATC / March 2nd, 1969 - 09:30 / 9:30 AM
The day was unforgettable with his daughter dying in his arms, murdered by one of the Weather Underground and having one's child killed by a bomb was something no parent should ever experience and it still haunted him. He wished that the Hippies never came into being but to have newcomers that were similar to them was too much to bear.
No, it could not happen, never again! He was one of the American GIs garrisoned at this allotted station, protecting his home and everyone from the scourge of a reignited Hippie Movement, one that claimed to be of peace and love but became militant due to not getting what they desired, the collapse of decent civilization into anarchy and repugnance.
'This is for you, mi pequeña niña.'
Queen Lista - The current elected monarch of Zeltros
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:11:16 ATC / March 11th, 1969 - 13:14 / 1:14 PM
"Two of my handmaidens were on the shuttle and all they desired was to ease off the uptightness in certain areas."
"May I remind you that it was Republic personnel who disabled the shuttle and it was going to be boarded?" Saresh pointed out, not believing what she just heard. "The situation on Earth is delicate and they're mistrustful of outside influences that conflict with what they value. You and I can agree that there should be a change in attitude before they integrate with the rest of the Galactic Community, even becoming a member-world of the Republic but that will take time."
"Yet you are defending this smite." She accused impatiently.
"No, I don't agree with this affair at all, but I also must accept the facts that led up to it. While it is unintentional, you are very remarkably reminiscent of these Hippies and one thing led to another. I'm sure your people had good intentions, Lista, but the natives are still weary of the past few years and don't desire any further chaotic upheaval in their perspective."
"We have been made privy to the information in regards to recent history but unlike these...'Hippies', we're warriors, Chancellor, not pacifists and this insult won't go unanswered." Lista threatened irkly. "They are judging us by what they know about the movement that occurred and petered out, we are not Hippies."
"Look, let's not think drastically here, Lista." Saresh soothed. "I'm prepared to compensate for the lives lost from this incident with funds from the treasury. I just need to do a few taps on the datapad."
"Nothing short of indemnity after retaliation is sufficient." Lista snarled. "I'm doing what's best for my people and it is evident that this meeting today between us is not going to resolve anything."
Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:11:16 ATC / March 11th, 1969 - 13:28 / 1:28 PM
Saresh felt trapped as a siege mentality was taking shape on the planet of Earth and this affair only exasperated the psychological belief, completely in contradiction to what she envisioned, a model world for what the entire universe should represent.
Equilibrium and acceptance, one completely rid of all previous boundaries and rivalries to collaborate toward one goal, yet her subtle attempts backfired and the only reason why she decided on this course was to finally have peace in the entire galaxy, first would be the Empire then the Chiss and finally the Hutts, something that only three of her confidants knew due to it being beyond uplifting and she believed that this one planet held the key, being an unstoppable juggernaut only if they took the right path but it was baffling how it seemed subconsciously they just don't see themselves as the Galaxy's best hope.
Now unless she acts quickly to salvage it, it may fall apart. She was intelligent and ruthless but this situation was out of her hands.
"Force, I could use a Coruscant Cooler or two right now." The Chancellor muttered as she massaged her temples yet a sight for sore eyes might give her some reprieve. "Ah, Satele, it's good to see you."
"I heard about the failed attempt to settle it privately."
Or possibly not, so much for hoping that another subject would get her mind off the incident for the time being.
"Yes, it's a grave matter unfortunately." The green skinned Twi'lek sighed. "The Zeltrons have the right to be outraged but there's also justification in regards to security as well."
"Normally I wouldn't suggest this but Prime Minister Trudeau and William Shatner are interested in heading to Zeltros to attempt rapprochement. They proposed it at the United Nations and Krasul."
"William Shatner? As in the holo actor who stars as Captain James T. Kirk in 'Star Trek'?"
"The very same." The Trekker convert smirked.
"Do they know what they're getting themselves into?" The Chancellor inquired given the facts about the Zeltron homeworld.
"I'm sure they know before committing and we'll provide all the information they need as well of course." The Grandmaster soothed. "It's ironic how Kirk in a way is going to get himself acquainted."
"It is." Saresh chuckled. "Has there been any development on which the Imperial Agent infiltrated this office?"
"Unfortunately not, your excellency." Satele divulged.
"It's a shame that the facial software was tampered with as somebody used the 'James Bond' franchise and the face of Sean Connery specifically to overlap the culprit."
"It's probably an 'red herring' as the Earthlings say." Leontyne surmised. "Though is it funny how coincidentally Mister Connery was at Montgomery's office that day before signing autographs for British troops who wanted them?"
"It's a small galaxy after all."
Orbit over Coruscant - Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:11:16 ATC / March 11th, 1969 - 13:28 / 1:28 PM
"It is becoming apparent that the Republic may no longer have our interests." Lista justified it as she discussed the meeting with one of her advisers. "I think we may have to reconsider our relationship and look to the Empire for guidance."
"The Sith Empire, your Majesty?"
Nodding. "Yes, Narla. The Sith Empire."
"With all due respect, my Queen, but I'm uncomfortable with entangling ourselves with them."
"I know but at the same time declaring neutrality before striking at Earth would be seen as supporting the Imps anyway." The monarch sighed. "I'm not considering this lightly, Narla, but if we decide to retaliate and only if, then we must do so from a position of strength and be willing to commit to it."
"Be willing as a civilization to commit to it you mean."
The monarch nodded her head. "These are grave times after all." The communicator buzzed and
"Excuse me, I must take this."
"Of course, your highness." Narla bowed and departed to give her Queen privacy, not knowing that the caller was more of a contact.
"It seems like the cards are falling together, Your Highness." An Imperial Agent with shoulder-length brown hair and brown eyes chuckled with her arms crossed over the recognizable gray fatigues with the purple collar tabs representing Sith Intelligence. "The Republic at times...overlooks history in regards to newly discovered worlds. It's almost as if they forget that neglecting to learn about history is dooming them to repeat it."
"That they are, Cipher Nine. Just like with the Tingel Arm in the last war."
"Though I cannot believe that the shuttle was destroyed since it would have been boarded and discovered that some of my court wished to spread lightheartedness."
"Their sacrifice will be remembered for generations to come."
Galactic Senate General Assembly - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:11:16 ATC / March 11th, 1969 - 15:30 / 3:30 PM
"Order, order!"
"Friends, gentlebeings, it is with a heavy heart that I must profess that we have a quandary Zeltrons have a right to be troubled at this indignation but we must remember that we couldn't have known at the time that the ship included some of her retinue and retainers aboard or what their intentions were, the intention of which they see as goodwill in lightening up the mood of the inhabitants yet would instead backfire with the recent history in mind. I have offered compensation from the Republic Treasury but Queen Lista refused and believed that this redress must be an indemnity, this must be an eye for eye, a tooth for a tooth." Saresh informed the chamber. "However, the Jedi still believe diplomacy is possible."
"This is a time, an opportunity to emphasize our commitment to be mediators between worlds, members of the Republic and newly discovered worlds alike, diplomacy is preferable than escalation and we believe that we can respectfully resolve this before it could reach a breaking point."
"I, however, must take some of the blame as it was I who assisted in constructing the defenses during the few months advantage we had, designed by Doctor Oggurobb to not only be a planetary defense system as otherwise our newfound allies would be exposed but to also be the most elaborate trap in rooting out spies and as a side benefit prevents smuggling due to the measures enacted and enforced, some of which may be implemented elsewhere due to the outstanding effectiveness at apprehensions. That is all."
"Safehouse" - Raider's Cove, Horizon Island, Rishi, Rishi System, Abrion Sector, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
03:12:16 ATC / March 12th, 1969 - 07:50 / 7:50 AM
"You have to be kriffing me." Sara muttered as she read the Holonet news article on her datapad which remained neutral and illustrated the points of the opposing parties, she was astonished that this incident even transpired but given the nature of members of a specific civilization and the chaotic period on the discovered planet, it wasn't surprising that it was a diplomatic affair, more like a nightmare.
"What's the matter?"
"It seems as if some Zeltrons went rogue and decided to try visiting Earth."
"So...What's the problem?"
Sara rolled her eyes at the indifference but then again he was not really interested to say the least while she had on-the-ground witnessed reasons why it was no surprise such an incident even occurred at all. "Zeltrons, other than being warriors, are approximately one of the few cultures in the galaxy who would be reminiscent of Hippies alongside the Chandrillaians."
It took the SIS agent a moment to connect the dots between the remarkable similarities and realize the reasoning. "Oh."
"'Oh' would not be the descriptor I would use for this circumstance. No doubt some of Becky's friends have commented about the comparison in regards to the attempted spreading of pheromones on the planet plot."
"Is that Jake's mother?"
"Yes. Why do you ask?"
"No reason."
Sara decided to humor the burned SIS operative out of enjoyment. "I'll privy you that in some ways she is more studious than her son."
"Good to know I suppose." Theron muttered. "I couldn't even begin to imagine what her outlook is if Jake is a moderate in comparison."
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:12:16 ATC / March 12th, 1969 - 16:00 / 4:00 PM
"I don't think we need Space Hippies resurrecting love-ins anymore than we need Space Nazis goosestepping victoriously on Broadway with the banner covering the Empire State Building." Jake expressed over a can of Schlitz beer. "I mean from what I read and heard about them, they are the equivalent of flower children with colorful garb and all, not to mention their pheromones could be a standin for acid. What's the difference besides being so similar?"
"Normally I would say you're a nut but in this case maybe it was a good thing that ship never reached the planet."
"Actually, come to think of it, I wonder if Mom overstated her opinion?" Jake wondered. "No doubt she and her friends at the quilting bee discussed it."
"She's on some morality committee, isn't she?" Marvin's eyebrows furrowed as he guessed what it unofficially was, a cabal of likeminded women to discuss their political stances and maybe even kickstart letter writing campaigns.
"Minute Women of the U.S.A. and its sister organization - the American Public Relations Forum - as well." Jake grinned with pride. "You think I'm stubborn, then you shouldn't underestimate my mother who in some ways could make Senator William Jenner seem to be an apparatchik for the Politburo and I don't mean to disrespect Senator Bill Jenner in the slightest but mom has been regretting voting for Kennedy in 1960 even though she saw Nixon as being too soft and she also sees Scoop Jackson as a Pinko despite his hardline against Moscow."
"You're still a wingnut regardless."
"Not really. I'm just someone who's proud to be an American and believe that All Men are Created Equal." Meyer chuckled. "Eddie and Carter didn't take freedom rides or sit-ins but they and their families certainly did their part with fundraising and writing editorials, I even donated to the NAACP twice myself before they denounced Goldwater of course."
"How come I never heard about them before?"
"Maybe because I don't have to say everything about my personal life?" Jake reasoned. "Besides, Eddie is with the Seventh Marine Division currently and I heard Carter is a field hand back home."
"Oh."
"To be fair, not everyone can be inducted as there's production and occupations essential for war."
"I know that, everyone does. Why did you think my cousin decided to contribute at the local munitions plant doing heavy lifting and operating the forklift at the facility?"
"Because the Rosies are trying to find a husband?" Marvin wondered rhetorically but he was joking.
"Maybe. But at least he's no fucking Jodie."
The Jarheads laughed at the quip about that always sly bastard back home, the ever loathed Jodie.
Senator William Ezra "Bill" Jenner - [Republican - Indiana] and Chairman of the United States Senate's Special Subcommittee to Investigate the Administration of the Internal Security Act and Other Internal Security Laws
Senate Chambers - The Capitol Building, Capitol Hill, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:12:16 ATC / March 12th, 1969 - 16:00 / 4:00 PM
"With respect to the Great Senator of Wisconsin and Chairman of the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, I must implore that this matter should be handled with care as we can ill afford to have another war on our hands."
"And you sir must remember that there were freaks terrorizing the country with their indecency and openly collaborating with the enemy in California, Viet Cong fighters that our boys should have dealt with in Vietnam, not in our backyard." Tailgunner proclaimed, pointing his finger at the Rockefeller Republican and personal enemy, Senator Prescott Sheldon Bush of Connecticut, from the stand. "I want it to be known that no longhaired flower children whenever foreign or domestic will be tolerated in these United States and it doesn't matter if they were fellow travelers, card-carrying members of the Communist Party, or coincidentally existed before we were made aware of the other galaxy, it will be treated and dealt with equitably."
"We all remember the past few years, McCarthy." Prescott sneered at the ignorant Midwesterner who was in his opinion a guzzled buffoon. "My son George is out there fighting in a naval squadron and my grandson will be heading off to war soon with his Texas Air National Guard unit as well."
"Mister Vice President? May I say a few words to the Senator of the Great State of Wisconsin?"
The Vice President of the United States, William Edward Miller, nodded and gave the floor to the Hoosier. "Go ahead, Senator."
Jenner rose from his seat and interceded, hoping to reason with someone who he agreed with. "I have known Joe for a long time and we have worked together to jointly investigate the infiltration of our structure by Communists and even found additional spies who forwarded research material on the Manhattan Project to the Kremlin, not to mention our former colleague who as we all know was the very individual who established the House Un-American Activities Committee in the other chamber of Congress. But at the same time, Prescott is also in the right. While we don't agree on every principle despite being both Republicans albeit of different wings of the party, this matter should be attempted to be resolved initially through diplomatic means since as Abraham Lincoln once said during the Trent Affair: 'One war at a time.'."
Knowing the credentials of Jenner, McCarthy reluctantly relinquished the speakership and headed back to his seat but not before deciding to converse with his compatriot.
"What was that all about, Bill?"
"Look, Joe, we both know that we must do everything in our power to protect our country against any acts of espionage and sabotage and I don't think that act was wrong but for the sake of fighting the actual threat, we must not divert ourselves from fighting the Sith Empire and we cannot afford to shoot ourselves in the foot by giving them new allies."
"You're right. But I just wish we weren't dealing with any more Hippies, especially ones from Outer Space."
"You and I both."
Captain Ronald Ernest "Ron" Paul - Flight Surgeon, Texas Air National Guard, Air National Guard, United States Air Force
Ellington Air Force Base - Houston, Texas, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:13:16 ATC / March 13th, 1969 - 11:00 / 11:00 AM
"Now, Lieutenant, I'm honestly surprised that your outfit was called up to serve outside the U.S. like most of the National Guard."
"It sure was surprising to be called up as I was under the 31st Air Division of Air Defense Command but I understand that there is a need to use any available manpower which can be spared without impacting continental defenses, agriculture, and wartime production."
"Can you please extend your arm like this?"
The patient and grandson of United States Senator Prescott Sheldon Bush of the state of Connecticut followed the directive of the physician and superior, extending his right arm and clutching his fist.
"Good, good. Now I'm going to check your pulse and blood pressure."
"By the way, sir-"
"Please call me Ron." The Captain insisted. "I don't mind informality when in private."
"So, Ron, will you be heading to the other galaxy as well?"
"I sure am and for some reason I'll be attached to a Company of the 82nd Airborne Division as the lead physician."
"Paratroopers are not pilots." Bush pointed out. "That's a very odd transfer even if it's interservice."
"It's a long story but a good friend of a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend's grandfather with the surname of Westbrook for some darn reason thinks someone needs to keep an eye on their grandson and I'm sure you're very familiar with WASPs of New England with your own grandfather in mind. Now hold still, George."
Second Lieutenant George Walker Bush - First Squadron, Second Flight, 147th Fighter-Interceptor Group, Texas Air National Guard, detached from the 31st Air Division and being transferred to the 8th Air Division, United States Air Force
Ellington Air Force Base - Houston, Texas, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:12:16 ATC / March 12th, 1969 - 11:40 / 11:40 AM
"How did you fare on your physical, George?" The son of the current Governor of Texas, John Connally III, wondered.
"I passed with flying colors."
"We're going to war." Connelly laughed, thinking how he, Bush, Lloyd Bentsen Jr., the son of U.S. Senator John Tower, James R. Bath, and seven members of the Dallas Cowboys were all being sent to the front in the other galaxy. "We are heading off to war!"
"Yeah, I know." Bush sighed. "We are literally going to war, in outer space no less."
Alright, maybe it didn't came out right in Chapter Twenty-Eight to say the least and put it lightly but the fact is the Zeltrons would be reminiscent of the Hippie Counterculture per the lore about them and I wouldn't have done it if there wasn't any purpose behind it as I figured that having a diplomatic nightmare could be a significant twist and admittedly the Empire could use some help here in this tale even if diplomacy prevails as undoubtedly there could be those who may very well decide to fight for the Empire.
You don't have to agree with my above reasoning, my justification for this and I sincerely respect your opinion, I even had to correspond with Mando as it was intended by yours truly as a surprise for everyone and he wasn't aware of it at all.
I should have expanded it and go into detail but I was on a deadline and wanted to keep everything chronological for Star Wars Day (err…of 2021 that is, I still can't believe it's been so long either but hopefully the readers are doing well despite the circumstances).
Take it for what it is, but I did it for a justifiable reason and while I won't apologize for sticking to my guns and therefore won't scrap the concept for the aforementioned reasons, I will however apologize for the lack of in-depthness and suddenness in that scene.
I truly could have presented it better and I take full responsibility as it was exclusively my idea here, my concocted intention, and solely mine alone.
I will be uploading the revamped and cleaned up version of Chapter 28 after this one is published to hopefully provide clarity but even so, be aware that the elements are going to remain unchanged.
So, with that out of the way, if you decide to discontinue reading this story as a result of it, I understand as that is your right.
If you want to flood my PM Box with accusations, go ahead but just know that I'm being honest about the disclosure of this concept regarding the Zeltrons was a personal decision by a single, lone individual based entirely on what would seem to be a sensical step for the story and be a significant plot twist diplomatically and militarily, not a decision by the consensus of a group.
Again, to reiterate, I'm not taking the heat by being some sacrificial lamb but as a person who believes in honesty and courtesy, for the sake of transparency I just want it to be openly known that in regards to Chapter Twenty-Eight it was by yours truly and yours truly alone and the others had nothing to do with it at all in the slightest.
To quote famed Eighteenth Century French Philosopher Voltaire:
"I may not agree with what you say yet I will defend your right to say it to my dying breath."
~ Voltaire
With that out of the way, I hope this clears it up as I was going to purposely expand upon it in this very chapter anyways and I think some of you may respectfully be surprised by the Meyer / Cameron family and I apologize for this upcoming lengthy explanation here but I might as well go ahead and clarify for context purposes the historical political situation in the U.S. during this timeframe.
Based on everything I have read thus far to format this tale including material on John Fitzgerald Kennedy, his brother Robert Francis Kennedy, and Reverend Martin Luther King Junior, it is in my opinion, unlike the alternate history novel:
If Kennedy Lived
THE FIRST AND SECOND TERMS OF PRESIDENT JOHN F. KENNEDY: AN ALTERNATE HISTORY
by JEFF GREENFIELD
That Kennedy would have not been supportive of the 'New Left' and there has been a controversy over Greenfield's decision to portray it. Please allow me to explain...
Was Kennedy a Democrat?
Yes. But during the era both Democrats and Republicans had three major wings due to both being 'Big Tent' Parties up until the 1980s and declining to the current level sometime around the 1990s: The Liberal Wing, the Moderate Wing, and the Conservative Wing.
Also, both parties other than some members of the liberal wings of both parties were arguably socially conservative until the late 1960s. In fact, in the elections during the period, it just more often not simply boils down basically to does one support the New Deal or not?
For instance, during the 1950s and up to the mid 1960s African-Americans living in rural areas of the South predominantly voted Republican and the Dixiecrats (a group of Southern Democrats) supported Segregation. In the North, on the other hand, African-Americans in urban areas voted for Democrats or occasionally Liberal Republicans like Nelson Rockefeller.
So it's not just a clear cut case of Liberals versus Conservatives unlike nowadays but regionalism and factionalism intermingled as well.
Here's another revelation that may come as a surprise to many and it is the complete truth: John Fitzgerald Kennedy voted AGAINST the Civil Rights Act of 1957 that was proposed under the Eisenhower Presidency while McCarthyist William Ezra Jenner voted FOR the same piece of legislation that became law.
Yes. JFK. The very man who conspiracy theorists believe had more than one assassin firing at him on that tragic day on November 22nd of 1963, supposedly from either the grassy knoll or a man with an umbrella.
And to use an Conservative-leaning Republican example other than Everett McKinley Dirksen and William Ezra Jenner, a certain Barry Morris Goldwater did vote ONLY against the 1964 Act despite voting for ALL previous Civil Rights bills, but he was a huge supporter of the Civil Rights movement.
As a matter of fact, Goldwater helped found the Arizona chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People / NAACP and up until the 1964 Civil Rights bill he voted for every single civil rights bill he could. And he only opposed the '64 bill because two of the seven main provisions were against his libertarian beliefs. Here they are (paraphrased):
Title II
Which outlawed discrimination in hotels, motels, restaurants, theaters, and all other public accommodations engaged in interstate commerce; exempted private clubs without defining the term 'private'.
And
Title VII
Which prohibited discrimination by covered (taxpaying) employers on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
Now he supported the other titles that prohibited discrimination on any federal/state agency or entity that received funding just not on individuals engaged in private commerce with the exceptions of religious and indian groups.
Despite being for Civil Rights, Barry was a firm believer in giving EVERYONE an equal opportunity even if they decided to be discriminatory. And I do hold a similar philosophy: Don't like the owners of a business? Go shop somewhere else or open one up that is entirely inclusive. Maybe the store owner doesn't like shoplifters and has a lifetime ban policy on shoplifters or maybe in another shop they don't agree with something because of their religion. It's up to the consumers themselves where they want to go buy merchandise from, not sue someone trying to make a living.
In other words: Vote with your wallet. It's common sense.
Again, folks, everything I have researched about Goldwater including and especially those from nonpartisan sources always mentioned the same thing: Goldwater valued honesty. And I'm confident that he was an individual who indeed did 'told it as it is', hence the 1964 Campaign Slogan 'In Your Heart, You Know He's Right'
Now in comparison, there's this quote by Lyndon Baines Johnson that is from a RECORDED telephone call and thus in the historical record:
"These Negroes, they're getting pretty uppity these days and that's a problem for us since they've got something now they never had before, the political pull to back up their uppityness. Now we've got to do something about this, we've got to give them a little something, just enough to quiet them down, not enough to make a difference... I'll have them niggers voting Democratic for the next two hundred years."
~ Lyndon Baines Johnson, 36th President of the United States.
Goldwater interestingly later his life evolved to hold more Libertarian views on homosexuality, abortion, and eventually marijuana unlike many of his peers and constituents, not to mention being regarded as one of the forefathers for the U.S. Libertarian Party but initially during the Sixties he was mostly a Social Conservative attempting to wrangle in the Federal Government albeit Libertarian leaning.
Overall most but not all politicians of both main American political parties (Democrats and Republicans alike) before the mid-1970s meet the current 'pro-guns, anti-gays, anti-abortion' definition of social conservatives. The distinctiveness is literally on economic and social welfare policy.
But to go more in-depth and provide clarification even though as a disclaimer this is a generalization as individual politicians (such as the aforementioned views Mister Conservative believed in) had different personal opinions:
From just before World War Two when Franklin Delano Roosevelt created the New Deal until the end of major U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War in 1973, both the Republican and Democrat Parties during what historians refer to as The Fifth Party System have three major competing Interparty wings: Liberals, Moderates, and Conservatives.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy is a perfect example of a Moderate Democrat in the 1960s and his views were mainstream during the period: Kennedy believed in a strong military, made tax cuts after thinking they would lead to economic growth, and was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
Yes, John Fitzgerald Kennedy was actually a Life Member of the National Rifle Association.
On March 20th, 1961 JFK became a life member and in a letter to then President of the NRA, Franklin L. Orth, Kennedy wrote: "Through competitive matches and sports in coordination with the National Board for Promotion of Rifle Practice, the Association fills an important role in our national defense effort, and fosters in an active and meaningful fashion the spirit of the Minutemen."
And John Fitzgerald Kennedy's privately owned National Match M1 Garand (serial number 6086970) brought in a whopping $149,500 at auction in October of 2015, setting a world-record price for a Garand that was previously held for only five months by an M1 bearing the serial number of '7'.
Quoted word-for-word from Business Insider :
Roughly 20% of US presidents have, at some point, been members of the National Rifle Association.
Since the NRA's founding in 1871, nine of the following 28 presidents were NRA members. Of those nine, eight were Republicans while one, President John F. Kennedy, was a Democrat.
The first president to join the NRA was Ulysses S. Grant. The ninth president to also be an NRA member is Donald Trump, who touted his NRA connection and pro-gun rights platform along the campaign trail last year.
And in John F. Kennedy's own words:
"... By calling attention to a well-regulated militia for the security of the Nation, and the right of each citizen to keep and bear arms, our founding fathers recognized the essentially civilian nature of our economy. Although it is extremely unlikely that the fear of governmental tyranny, which gave rise to the Second Amendment, will ever be a major danger to our Nation, the amendment still remains an important declaration of our basic military-civilian relationship, in which every citizen must be ready to participate in the defense of his country. For that reason I believe the Second Amendment will always be important."
That was from the famed 35th President of the United States himself, folks.
Northern Democrats were generally speaking supportive of Civil Rights as were a majority of Republicans.
The Dixiecrats (i.e. Southern Democrats), on the other hand, were staunch Segregationists and opposed Labor Unions but were war hawks and otherwise supported nominally the New Deal.
Unlike the Dixiecrats, the Conservative Republicans abhorred segregation and racism as a principle but otherwise were Socially Conservative, Strict Constructionists when it came to the United States Constitution, and were vocally opposed to the New Deal programs and anything seen as socialistic.
That's not to mention up until the death of Robert Alphonso Taft Sr. in 1953, ideologically Conservative Republicans were mainly isolationists in regards to foreign affairs and just like with the League of Nations, they didn't want the U.S. to be in the United Nations nor get involved with world affairs.
However, the 'Conservative Coalition' in both chambers of Congress (the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate) was an unofficial Congressional coalition that brought together a conservative majority of the Republican Party and the conservative (mostly Southern) wing of the Democratic Party.
The coalition was dominant in Congress from 1937 to 1963 and remained a dominant political force until the mid-1990s when few Conservative Democrats remained in Congress, the Blue Dog Democrats. Yet most of their votes were on issues impacting labor unions.
The final footnote example is the Liberal Republicans, aka the 'Rockefeller Republicans' and 'the Eastern Establishment', who can be best described as being Liberal for Social Policy and either Fiscally Conservative or Moderately supportive of the New Deal Financially. A wing for businessmen of the East Coast more or less and the father of George H.W. Bush and grandfather of George Walker Bush: Prescott Sheldon Bush was one ideologically as was Mitt Romney's father: George Wilcken Romney.
Ultimately the overall decision of who to vote for in the primary and election was down to whether a person supported the New Deal or Not.
Thus, unlike today as a result of evolution in the 80s and 90s, politics in the U.S. wasn't exactly clear cut in the Post-War period and especially so during the 1960s when the so-called 'New Deal Coalition' was collapsing. I understand that it was quite a bit to process but the information is freely available if you wish to check it.
Still, the day where both Democrats and Republicans had the 'Big Tent' political policy of mishmashing social liberalism with fiscal conservatism and so on between rivaling intra-party factions in the United States is arguably ancient dust.
In fact, there is argument that John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Robert Francis Kennedy, if the brothers were somehow politically active today, would in all likelihood form a Third Party that is economically liberal but socially conservative in philosophy yet please don't take it as gospel as everything written here is ultimately guesswork based on what I have read from books, academic papers, and posts by fellow members on alternate history dot com.
Does it mean Republicans are better than Democrats principally or vice versa?
No. Not at all.
But it goes to show that while the political parties have changed somewhat considerably since the 1960s, at the same time arguably the so-called 'Party Switch' is possibly a complete fallacy and in fact a grave oversimplification, one which fuels misconceptions about both major political parties to this very day.
Ultimately however, I'll leave the actual Post-1960s (such as for example: the current "Sixth Party System" in the United States unlike the above full-blown explanation about the historic "Fifth Party System") political opinions up to the readers as:
1) I'm not going to discuss current issues, which while some of it can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, the majority internationally has been ongoing since the 1980s and 1990s.
But, for here, I was only JUST sharing what I have found out after reading for contextual reasons and it is just amazing how polarized the political situation has evolved (or devolved) into nowadays
AND
2) I'll be frank and admit that I personally am a Republican who had at one point considered changing his political affiliation with the Constitution Party but in no way I'm being biased here and as aforementioned you can fact check everything here for yourselves.
I actually urge readers, if they so choose, to research the subjects for themselves and your opinions / conclusions may very well respectfully differ from my own yet it is on the historic record that JFK did vote AGAINST the Civil Rights Act of 1957.
It is also on the historical record that Kennedy is the only Democratic President of the United States to date to also have been an official member of the National Rifle Association, LBJ did utter those racially charged words in a recorded phone call, and Barry Goldwater was a member of the NAACP and Desegregated the Arizona Air National Guard historically before President Harry S. Truman ordered the entire military to be desegregated.
Would the history of the United States be better off if Richard Nixon won in 1960 or Barry Goldwater in 1964? Or would it be better off if Hubert Humphrey defeated Nixon (Yes. Mister Watergate ran for President twice as he was Dwight D. Eisenhower's Vice President) in 1968 or Mondale defeated Reagan in 1980?
That is an answer that will forever remain untested but I'm only stating this after researching works, studies, and findings by, including but not limiting to, authors who are openly Liberal Democrats currently or Nonpartisan Independents.
Again, I only stated the facts here after feeling comfortable that the above statements are in no way biased, false, nor misleading and I do know people who, while they disagree with me politically and openly supported Bernie Sanders in 2016, can vouch for my sincerity in the above presentation here.
And I will be sure to list all of my exact sources once this story is completed so you, the readers, are aware of what works and articles I have used to help me format this as I'm perfectly willing to be open about it and won't hold anything back from you.
Now moving on before either someone decides to begin trolling after reading the above or someone thinks I'm attempting to start an actual political conversation despite explicitly stating that I was explaining the difference between political parties in the United States specifically compared to then and now in a historical context and also help answer what Liberal / Rockefeller Republicans and Dixiecrats are for clarification purposes were as an courtesy for those who were unaware:
I will let it be known that I'm going to have Earth be developed into a retro futuristic society to a tee as envisioned during the 1950s and early 1960s and I'm also exploring other avenues such as having a feasible African Union coming into existence and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics not collapsing at all.
While in this tale the mainstream culturally and socially for the U.S. is, I won't lie, is evolving into a more conservative direction, the United States of America is still only one sovereign nation among many after all and the Side-Story 'Tales of Forged Destinies' which is the Expanded Universe for 'Earth: A Rendezvous with Destiny' will delve more in-depth into what isn't presented here or explored further due to constraints.
And to be honest I will have to brush up the chapters that have been published in TFD and update the long-overdue spin-off even though I have been primarily focused on the main story, E:ARD, here yet you have my word that it will be updated even if not congruently nor frequently.
By the way, in case anyone was wondering, the title of this chapter was taken from the vintage record 'What's Come Over This World?' by Billy Carr and the song is available on YouTube.
Chapter 33: The Fightin' Side of Me
Chapter Text
John "Duke" Wayne / Marion Robert (Michael) Morrison - Revered Western Film Star
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:14:16 ATC / March 14th, 1969 - 06:15 / 6:15 AM
The journey took three months and everything had to be arranged, a surprise visitation in the making until the word was officially announced forty-eight hours prior to the two-day event, which was after drawing lots the tour was scheduled to commence at Fort Duqua Dar and would continue on the next day before journeying to the next location.
News quickly spread like wildfire in the chow halls that a special festival was in order, confirmed to be hosted by two celebrated actors and the garrison was excited at the surprise announcement.
And it was no small affair either as it was none other than the Duke himself who have arrived to the other galaxy in-person as well as fellow actor Steve McQueen, the two being the designated hosts of the show and dinner managed by the United Service Organizations, a nonprofit-charitable corporation that since being established in 1941 provided live entertainment, such as comedians, actors and musicians, social facilities, and other programs to members of the United States Armed Forces and their families.
And the lineup for the two-day event here before touring elsewhere was excellent. It had the talents of Pat Boone, Jerry Reed, Jimmy Sweeny, Glen Campbell, Buck Owens, Freddie Hart, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, and Johnny Cash on the lineup, even the Man in Black's little known brother and singer Tommy Cash was temporarily detached from the U.S. Army to perform tonight in front of his fellow servicemen and countrymen.
"Alright, pilgrims, easy now, easy does it!" Wayne hollered, overseeing the unloading of equipment and pre-made meals in insulated containers, still adjusting to the sight of robots unloading the wooden crates in conjunction with the more familiar forklifts and good old fashioned muscle.
"Welcome to Fort Duqua Dar, Mister Wayne."
"The pleasure is mine, son."
"Can I have your autograph?"
"Why, sure." John pulled out a pen and signed the soldier's journal. "There. I hope to see you at the show tomorrow night."
"Oh the guys and I will certainly be there, Mister Wayne. I for one wouldn't miss it for the world."
"Say, what's for breakfast this morning?" The Duke queried but there was still a long day ahead.
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Bowdarr's Bowcaster Cantina - Quadrant G-19 Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:14:16 ATC / March 14th, 1969 - 19:33 / 7:33 PM
Jake and a few of his brothers-in-arms were on leave intermingling with fellow Marines drinking away and the Devil Dogs of differing Military Occupational Specialities all decided to sample the booze at the intergalactic establishment with the Hoosier this time settling on tasting some cocktail called a red dwarf.
Some of the guys were in the midst of discussing the arrival of John Wayne and Steve McQueen while other Jarheads were wondering about the lineup with Pat Boone and Merle Haggard rumored to be on the roster but while the visitation was unexpected it still was certainly a boost in morale and spirit, a clear reminder of home yet a few including Meyer were watching the screen of some sport known as phaseball being played, it bore a close resemblance to baseball and the former right fielder for the Franklin Central High School Flashes couldn't help but to reminiscence about competing in America's pastime even if his batting average was only three hundred fifteen, something that was around the median for the High School level but he couldn't complain as he was more proficient in riflery even if the Hoosier did enjoy baseball and even shooting the occasional ball into the hoop but he personally preferred the former over basketball.
"Is there anything about this place you're not uneasy over, Jake?" One of the newest transfers, a former Rodeo star and talented musician from Wyoming, Private First Class Chris Ledoux, wondered as Jake watched number nineteen struck the Galactic equivalent of a home run which caused the entire team attired in yellow running towards the diamond while those in red frantically attempted to retrieve the ball to no avail.
"I have been thinking it over, about this galaxy I mean, and I think it's an acquired taste." Meyer reasoned. "Not everything is bad about it but there's too much mumbo jumbo and at times, some decisions I don't understand."
"You are stubborn at times to be fair." Polonsky added. "And you also dislike Science Fiction."
"No, I don't hate it and you might be surprised to learn that I have read some of my old man's Buck Rogers comics but Science Fiction isn't my thing really." Jake sighed."Though Ash does enjoy watching 'The Jetson's'."
"I thought you said she was a fan of 'Foghorn Leghorn'?" Howard Dean questioned.
"She is and her reason is because she always found a rooster speaking with a southern accent funny but as to 'The Jetsons', I don't get why she finds it appealing other than admiring the conveniences Jane uses I suppose and while 'Star Trek' is described as a space western, it's actually communist."
"'Star Trek' is communist?" The other newest member of the unit, John Frederick Milius, who claimed to know both George Walton Lucas Jr. and Francis Ford Coppola personally, frowned with disappointment. "It's not that I don't believe you, Jake, as we're both conservatives unlike Marvin but if so, that is rather...disconcerting to say the least."
"You know that I can hear you, right?"
Jake ignored the New Dealer and gazed squarely into John's eyes. "It is, John. It bothered me that Spock kept saying 'Live Long and Prosper' and to quote something Kirk uttered from Season Four that was in the headlines of the National Review: 'The acquisition of wealth is no longer the driving force in our lives. We work to better ourselves and the rest of humanity.' Face it, Roddenberry is a damn filthy unAmerican Commie with the five year missions being subtle stand-ins for five year plans and other nonsense. Your friend George should find himself another benefactor pronto."
"You're a spoilsport." Howard grumbled.
"Alright, guys, maybe I'm a stick-in-the-mud but you can't deny that this is a completely different culture generally speaking and I don't mean by alien but more like an instance of seeing and encountering things that are, well, unsettling compared to what our norms are. And that's not to mention this underworld we heard about. I thought Saigon and Da Nang were bad but if true..." Jake decided to pause and not go further into detail as it was astonishing that there was an epidemic of anarchy and worse occurring on the lower levels of this city-planet, something that just was dismissed, ignored, and shrugged off as a fact of life by the native Coruscanti. "Now I wouldn't say everything is negative but there's some aspects I'm disappointed with."
"I don't like saying you're right, wingnut, but you have a fair point there." Marvin sighed. "I think we can agree that the upper levels are well maintained and the shops are endless but open fairies may be a bit much."
"Needless to say, I think we all unsurprisingly share mixed feelings about this place as it is an alien culture afterall."
But the evening came to an end when some Republic troops decided to confront them and cause trouble.
"Hey, some of you Earthlings are wearing our bloodstripes!" One of the Corellians pointed out to the American serviceman in an infuriated tone. The Raiders and other Jarheads didn't know what in the hell they were talking about in regards to the scarlet trouser seams worn by those with the rank of Corporal on up the pay scale and officers of the United States Marine Corps, the recognizable bloodstripes on the blue trousers.
"No, we earned them at the Halls of Montezuma." Jake corrected after setting his beverage down on the counter, taking care not to spill any on his long-sleeved khaki shirt with green chevrons representing the rank of Lance Corporal stenciled on each shoulder plus the service stripes on his cuffs due to him serving four years as a Marine and ironically while he didn't intend on re-enlisting to serve another four years or even be a career 'lifer' like his Grandpa Doug, the newfound war of course threw his plan of applying for the Indianapolis Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff's Department for a Law Enforcement career off as it was currently a total war for the duration situation. "The red represents the blood the Marines lost in the Battle of Chapultepec during the Mexican-American War back in 1847. Let's calm down and sort it out, I'm sure it's a misunderstanding."
"Sithspit! Any Corellian is entitled to kill without repercussion any other Corellian or non-Corellian we catch wearing bloodstripes that hadn't earned them and you Earthlings certainly have not!" He retorted before throwing a fist at Meyer, but it was swung wildly.
"Oh, it's on now, scumbag." Jake growled as he granted the fool an uppercut, his patience and calm demeanor had understandably disappeared and metamorphosed into one of defense. "Clearly you Corellians don't understand that we are known as Uncle Sam's Misguided Children."
Marines left and right began striking the Corellians, utilizing beer bottles, chairs, and anything handy to teach the extraterrestrials a lesson in civility. The Hoosier could have sworn he saw a few switchblades being pulled out as well. Clearly this barroom brawl was spinning out of control, yet the Gyrene was not going to let a bunch of spacemen tarnish the honor of the United States Marine Corps and neither would his fellow Leathernecks. Meyer granted a raven-haired Corellian a knee to the groin before lifting him up and threw him at two of his fast approaching comrades.
"Okay you sons of bitches! You really want us to demonstrate how Devil Dogs fight!" Milius roared, giving a hook to another Corellian, this time a light blond-haired serviceman. "Well, here you are!"
Off to the side, a pair of Corellians nodded at each other before rushing straight at Jake, yet the former Military Policeman knew the tactic and sidestepped before tripping them with a barstool. "Ha! You gotta do better than that, bastards." Meyer cracked. "Clearly you have a lot to learn about ground combat, flyboys!"
"You just didn't go there."
"Oh, yes I did." The E-3 smirked. "Fighting in the skies is a common stereotype from what I understand."
"We've suffered a eighty-five percent casualty rate during the Sack of Coruscant!"
"Too bad. So sad." The Hoosier deadpanned. "You besmirched the entire Marine Corps, so I don't give a fuck at the moment." He snarked, knowing full well that he was being an ass, yet the farm boy believed that the only way to teach them a lesson was to be a jackass himself and in all fairness he did attempt to be reasonable before all hell broke loose.
"Garrrggghh!" The tan-skinned man charged, yet Jake once more jabbed a Republic soldier. "Funny how you call these bars cantinas while Brits call them Pubs and we're fighting against Space Brits who call you Pubs." He humously declared to his fallen opponent while placing a knee against his chest. The Pub attempted to strike at Jake, yet the Marine calmly held his hands, the Corellian spanned around and tackled Jake to the ground. Meyer managed to strike the off-duty soldier in the balls, to which his opponent moaned in agony and the American struck his face, forcing the Pub to get off of him and groan.
The barroom brawl, however, attracted the attention of the Provost Marshal as well as a few Jedi, resulting in them intervening.
"What in the Nine Corellian Hells is going on here?!" A familiar voice shouted when the Military Policemen from the Republic, the United States Army, and the West German Bundeswehr rushed in to break up the brawl between the amphibious warfare branch - Uncle Sam's Misguided Children - and the Republic Army unit composed mostly of Corellians.
'Ah, great. It's Mister Monk himself.' Jake groaned internally. "Good evening, Casavir. Want to sit down, have a drink, and catch up?"
"Very funny." The Jedi Master was not amused one bit. "I don't think that there's going to be any more drinks served tonight."
"Just what I figured." Jake chuckled nervously. 'It seems that Sara neglected to mention something about Corellians when she posed as one.'
Casivir Therin - Battlemaster of the Jedi Order / Hero of Tython
Room Number 777 - Equinox Apartments, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 07:45 / 7:45 AM
"Sometimes I wonder if Jake is going to be the end of me the next time I run into him." Cas groaned as he reflected on last night. "Not because he's necessarily a bad person and he's usually even-tempered even if he believes himself to be witty but it just seems like trouble finds him at times for some reason and it's just best to stay away, far away."
Yet Cas couldn't help but to reflect that there indisputably was a change of temperament regarding the Marine he had gotten to know and the Jedi theorized that it could be some sort of self-consolation due to dealing with frequent riots after Vietnam and the matter involving his then girlfriend that was a gut punch. Honestly he couldn't blame Jake as it honestly would test anyone's resolve and it was unfortunately how his formerly imperturbable nature and being an exemplar of equanimity had evolved into this yet it just hasn't been the same.
'If only we've met under better circumstances.'
"Might be a good idea but on a different note, will you be heading to the USO Show tonight at Fort Duqua Dar?"
"We can but I think it's more for the Americans." Cas determined. "Still, I can't say I met John Wayne in person, only watched some of his holofilms. Then again, we need tickets anyway in order to attend."
"We could try sneaking in." Kira suggested, causing Cas to roll his eyes.
"Kira, I don't think we need to be ejected and after last night, I don't want to bump into him again."
"That's fair, but I'll be going as I'm actually curious and I'll see if I can get you an autograph."
Rebecca Davis (nèe Cameron) Meyer
Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 07:45 / 7:45 AM
With a mug of coffee in her left hand due to retrieving the three papers, Rebecca waved at the passing newspaper boy who threw the latest editions of National Review and the Indianapolis News as well as the weekly community newspaper The Southside Times and the Informer by the Franklin Township Civic League to the porch of the farmhouse.
Glancing at the headlines of The Southside Times, she couldn't help but feel some pride:
Three Franklin Township Natives Hold the Line, One Nominated To Be A Medal of Honor Recipient
On Tuesday, February 10th, 1969, in three separate engagements, three of our own held on against the odds when faced against the Sith Empire and their allies.
During the Battle of Crondre, Henry Davis, an Private First Class in Foxtrot Company, Third Battalion of the Seventeenth U.S. Infantry Regiment under the United States Army's Seventh Infantry Division and his detachment were faced with a mixed force of Imperial Commandos and Mandalorian Warriors.
During the skirmish, his M79 Grenade Launcher was shot from him and due to the damage, he retrieved an M14 Rifle that was loaded with M118 Match, calmly mowing down the enemy with deliberate aimed rifle fire in the tradition of marksmanship as taught by the United States Army, placing three shots on three of the encroaching Mandalorians due to being the main threat and killing them outright before engaging the enemy commandos with the bayonet.
His superior officer, who was killed in this action by a Mandalorian, Second Lieutenant Damian Watson of Brusett in Garfield County, Montana used his example to rally the platoon and led a countercharge, capturing seven surviving Imperials as prisoner-of-war and dispatched all of the five remaining warriors who fought to the last, their armor punctured by the M118, which due to the discovered capabilities of piercing the particular armor during this firefight and other confirmed instances will be superseding M59 Ball as standard issue as it is likely for more such encounters with Mandalorians to transpire when our boys continue to press forward over there.
While Private Davis was initially destined to be awarded with the Silver Star, it was upgraded to the prestigious Medal of Honor after a review.
For his heroic actions at great hazard and personal risk, for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty, Private First Class Davis is expected to receive the Medal of Honor to be personally presented by the President of the United States himself.
"Well, at least it wasn't Jacob." The mother noticed as she continued to read about the details of the trio. "We don't need any recognition but I'm sure he's proud of his old classmates."
Captain Paul Meyer - D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 07:45 / 7:45 AM
"Well, what you know." Paul chuckled as he read the latest publication of Stars & Stripes. "Henry Davis, the boy who wasn't great at basketball, is recommended for the Medal of Honor."
"It's probably a good thing you requisitioned pallets of M118 and trained the company to a high standard of marksmanship, sir."
"Which is why we're going to survive and win this war by outshooting the enemy who wear fatigues and armor that contrasts nicely against the terrain." Paul chuckled as the gray and black of the Imperial Infantry standing out - not to mention the gaudy armor of each Sith to their own individual preferences - was an incentive to whittle them down and the Imperial emblem on the pauldrons was ironically like a bulleye but unfortunately it wasn't on the breastplate as alas not everything could be perfect.
"Didn't you also attempt to have some soldiers with experience in DCM competitions transferred to this outfit as well?" First Sergeant Kevin Becker smirked 'innocently'. "Even brazenly attempting to pluck those on the United States Army's Marksmanship Unit roster?"
"I sure did and I won't deny it, Top." Meyer grinned. "Every trooper under my command will be expected to shoot accurately out to six hundred yards with their rifles at minimum or they'll be transferred and I know you and the other Staff NCOs have done one thousand yard matches, whether with the service rifle or any rifle."
"You could've waited until Yulant to be honest."
"In my defense, if I have known that there's going to be an restructuring taking shape, I wouldn't have done this at all but at least we have an head start and it isn't like we can do rifle practice actually out to one thousand yards currently anyway due to space limitations and no backstop for it." Paul reasoned to the First Shirt. "The best we can do is use targets scaled down to size to represent one thousand yards but firing at the actual distance is better."
"Of course, sir, I don't disagree with the implementation at all." The Company First Sergeant smiled, knowing that it was actually advantageous to thin out the enemy ranks from beyond their effective range before they could retaliate with their own small arms, not to mention the obvious benefit of dispatching Sith before they could dismember limbs. "I'll keep this hoarding matter between us but I have to say I have to pity the Space Brits."
Kevin recalled that a rifleman with the M14 could deliver at least thirty aimed shots per minute, which was more destructive and demoralizing to the enemy than the spray type of fire of submachine guns, to say nothing of the waste of ammunition with little gain in return regarding the burp guns, and aimed fire was more effective in terms of hits than hard-to-control full-auto bullet spraying.
To quote Marine Corps General Merritt A. Edson: 'One hundred rounds do not constitute firepower. One hit constitutes firepower.'
It was no wonder that the M14 was being described as a super weapon by the holonet media and part of the restructuring on Yulant was making the varying individual standards of rifle marksmanship among the member-nations of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization be more coherent and Becker personally was just beyond elated that the fine marksmanship tradition was not only making a complete comeback but evidently was here to stay and the shortsighted foolhardiness of trying to field the Stoner rifle was rightfully condemned for all eternity, the poodle-shooting jam-o-matic would have only just be giving the advantages away, nevermind the poor performance against the armor of the enemy as the Isreali commando team at Kuat unfortunately learned and it was no surprise really as the best way to reliably pierce armor ballistically was to have a large caliber, high velocity projectile, preferably those with excellent Ballistic Coefficients.
Why 'armchair generals' who knew diddly-squat about firearms, ballistics, and military tactics even believed it would have been useful even if to the contrary it was in fact useless circumstantially was something he never understood yet the NCO enjoyed how in the end those few sensational articles attempting to promote that pea-shooter were recanted and the authors of those editorials quickly realized that perhaps the nature of the conflict made the M14 the weapon needed, not the supposed 'Space Age' black plastic Mattel with kinks that still needed to be worked out but in the end would never be utilized in any fashion at all and Becker believed that those who even after the discreditation still continue to advocate for introducing the counterproductive weapon should be imprisoned in the Stockade - not the Brig in Naval speak - for the crime of aiding and abetting the enemy as well as hindering the war effort through sabotage or better yet taken for a psychological evaluation and placed in an asylum.
On second thought, it was a capital offense to commit sabotage for the enemy anyway - aka literal treason - and Kevin certainly would be among those to volunteer to be on the firing squad, armed with an M14 of course and requiring only one cartridge, something that was fittingly ironic but then again who would in their right mind still support the concept after the whole debate was settled and Armalite became defunct?
"They might as well paint bullseyes to make our task easier." The mustang officer snickered. "By the way, are you heading to the USO Show tonight? John Wayne and Steve McQueen will be there in-person and believe it or not, McQueen was born in Beech Grove, only eleven miles away from Acton."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:33 / 4:33 PM
Jake and his fireteam along with the rest of Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion of the Second Marine Raider Regiment were in the midst of doing calisthenics in their olive drab PT uniforms when Sullivan noticed two officers arriving.
"Officers on deck! Attention!"
"Why aren't the men saluting?" The Republic officer wondered, theorizing for a moment that the arrival of celebrities got them lax but it was clarified that it was for another reason entirely.
"Marines don't salute when uncovered or indoors, sir." Brigadier General Merritt Austin 'Red Mike' Edson, Senior explained. "We're not the United States Army."
"Most peculiar." General Ros Stanton mused. "I never heard of any formation who doesn't conduct a hand salute in some fashion upon spotting an officer."
"We're United States Marines." Edson chuckled before glancing at the subordinates, more like glaring and he was beyond disappointed at those who otherwise were regarded as model Devil Dogs, most of whom didn't have even an Article 15 in their service record - three out of four of these men were just spotless in regards to discipline action taken against them - but while the anger toward the besmirching was understandable, it still didn't excuse their actions even if what transpired was an inadvertent misunderstanding that got out-of-control. "It has come to my attention that some of you were involved in a barroom brawl against a Republic unit of mostly Corellians last night." Red Mike mentioned. "Now while the matter was the result of another coincidence and a cultural misunderstanding, Besh Company of the Republic Army's 275th Infantry shouldn't have lash out and act unprofessional, you are still representatives of the Corps - the Marine Corps! - and having a late night scuffle reflects poorly on our beloved Corps."
There were no murmurings, just men standing at attention silently taking it in as they knew that repercussions and a reprimand was inemiant and they had to take responsibility for their action.
"Personally I would be sending the culprits straight to the Brig and have them transferred out of the unit but our friends interceded on your behalf. Next week you will be facing Besh Company as OpFor in a field exercise to blow off steam. That is all, gentlemen."
Major General Merritt Austin "Red Mike" Edson, Senior - Commanding Officer of the Marine Raiders, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:40 / 4:40 PM
After the lecture, Red Mike watched the men immediately go back to their calisthenics that they were doing before and nodded approvingly before walking out with his current companion.
"So, Merritt, what else should I know about the United States Marine Corps?" Ros inquired.
"It might be easier to lend you a book on the history of the Corps but what I will say is that you'll find us to be not exactly like your definition of marines at all despite sharing similar roots."
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:40 / 4:40 PM
"A exercise to blow off steam?" Polonsky muttered. "Seriously? When we didn't even provoke them? How in the hell were we supposed to know that wearing bloodstripes such as mine is eligible to have Corellians murder any Marine at the paygrade of E-4 and up wearing them, apparently with no repercussion? And don't get me started on the formal dress trousers of the United States Army with the yellow stripes or the service stripes!"
"Space Monks, Space Samurai, Space Nazis, Space Mobsters, Space Pirates, Space Hippies, and after last night I think we still haven't learned everything yet." Jake analyzed but he and everyone in the room knew that unlike the bloodstripes, the service stripes were not located on the trousers but instead on the lower part of the sleeves, specifically the cuffs with each stripe denoting four years of service as a Marine, it was just that Junior was understandably wrapping his head around this tidbit, they all were.
"That little scuffle certainly showed it." Marvin grumbled. "Turned out we were a blight on Corellian culture."
"Wait a minute." Polonsky turned to confront his frenemy and inquired after realizing something. "Jake? Didn't a certain spy and a former girlfriend of yours pretended to be from Corellia?"
"She did, Junior." Jake muttered. "And I thought about it but the only mention that I can think of was her commenting about how handsome I looked in my dress blues and wondering why I didn't have stripes on them one day. Maybe that should have been my first warning sign yet then again she was the one who was informing me about her supposed birthplace and home."
"Well, I'm sure that was awkward then." Ledoux mentioned with sympathy.
"No need to gloat about it, guys, I know, I know. Sara certainly didn't mention anything that could have deescalated that situation if possible before it resulted in blows."
"Speaking of blows, does anyone still feel satisfied with the Hard Hat Riots against those bead and sandals cladded long-haired freaks?" Milius mentioned with satisfying snickering.
"I think some bandsmen of an Orchestra who once played with Glenn Miller were playing at the time of the bashing in Boston or so the rumor goes." The Cuban-born American, Private First Class Eduardo Hernandez, snickered. "Either way, the AFL-CIO made the right call in having a nationwide counterprotest."
"That would've been the sight to see." Jake chuckled. "Quincy's Uncle was caught up in it and those Hippies learned not to mess with Patriots like him from Hell's Kitchen."
"And let us not forget about the New York City firemen who were present using the hoses from their engines as they were having lunch nearby at the time." Marv added.
"Those flower children sorely were in need of watering in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Saint Louis, Indianapolis, San Diego, and San Francisco. Oh and Jackie Robinson was forced to use his bat, Howard Hughes had golf clubs being handed to him by his valet, Elmer Keith and Jack O'Connor both fire off warning shots...say, Jake, didn't you arrest John Lennon who was outside Quantico two years ago singing 'Give Peace A Chance' during the demonstration that became violent with bottles and rocks hurled?"
"I sure did along with three other MPs manhandling him and I'm just glad his ass was deported and declared persona non grata by the State Department." Jake smirked. "The Democratic National Convention in Chicago was something else as well and while I wasn't there two weeks later, there was that incident with the space slug in Chicago and I was one of the guards who assisted in the transfer of his subordinates to Republic custody."
"Besides space mobsters, I still can't believe that Zeltrons and Chandrillaians are the closest thing to Hippies that exist here."
"You can say that again." Jake groaned. "There's too many coincidences that it's not even funny anymore!"
"By the way, would anyone want to listen to 'The Fightin' Side of Me' by Merle Haggard or Pat Boone's 'Wish You Were Here, Buddy'?" Chris asked. "I could even sing something on my guitar if you would rather listen to an actual voice."
"Why not. We all hate Hippies and they both are instant classics." Jake smirked yet couldn't help but with country music in mind he realized that he and possibly the others had forgotten about the schedule. "Shit."
"What?"
"We're missing the USO Show and Dinner with John Wayne, Steve McQueen, Jerry Reed, Pat Boone, and more!" Jake realized.
"Ah hell!" Milus cursed.
The six other Marines glanced at each other before rummaging to grab their wallets and tickets before hurrying exiting the room, noticing that everyone else had already departed for the USO Show without them.
John Winston Ono Lennon - Former Beatles musician, founder of The Plastic Ono Band, and leader of the Plastic Ono Commune
Chandrila, Chandrila System, Bormea Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:40 / 4:40 PM
"It's a shame we'll never be welcomed anywhere on Earth ever again." One of the Flower Children who snuck away from being drafted into one of the national armies lamented. "If we went to France and seeked asylum there for example, we'd immediately be shipped off to the desert and be trained as Foreign Legionnaires. Every country is drafting every and all available manpower and placing the conscripts in uniform and issuing them a rifle or even a medical kit if the Pacifism excuse is accepted by the Draft Boards but they hardly are granted from what I heard. I don't want to kill any Space Brits who are misunderstood and the Sith are probably not the bloodthirsty monsters people make them out to be."
"Don't fret about it man, Big Brother will never draft us against our will nor put any guns into our hands now." A fellow former American reassured him.
"I survived the Hard Hat Riots in Pittsburgh and was bruised up by those union men fresh from their shift at one of the steel mills but man, as much as I hate to say it, they were right. You must either love America, love it or leave it on one of the planes or ships leaving everyday."
"And I still can't believe that Bobby Seale shot at Bob Dylan!" A third doped up on pot added, an occurrence that hit the already disgruntled counterculture movement like a shockwave. "I heard a rumor that it was something to do with some girl but, man, the Black Panthers became unexpected allies of the right and are no better than the Klan!"
"It's good that you still believe in the spirit of the movement Marlin. Peace should have a chance." Lennon smiled, ignoring the comments about Dylan as it was too much to bear and made John wonder if he could be gunned down for his beliefs. "While a Marine with the surname of Meyer believed I was naive, foolish, ignorant, idealistic, idiotic, and other words he listed off I forget but were insulting now let's hope that our new home here is a utopia and becomes an enlightened example to the rest of the universe."
Joleen Mothma - Knight of the Jedi Order
Chandrila, Chandrila System, Bormea Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:49 / 4:49 PM
Knight Mothma smiled in the lobby as she approached the temporary lodgings for the refugees from Earth including this musician John Lennon and his wife Ono.
"You're always welcome here on Chandrila as we believe in peace, love, and nature."
"Yeah, our values are similar to yours." Lennon smiled at the Chandrillian-born Jedi who aided in the 'Great Escape' from Earth.
The Republic security officers and soldiers did not prevent them from emigrating except for searching their possessions before letting them depart, deciding that turning any draft dodgers of military age to local authorities wasn't worth it but there was no place on Earth for the caravan to go due to every last nation being involved in the war.
Canada had a citizenship program where any military age man fleeing the U.S. must become Combat Engineers before gaining citizenship with similar programs occurring internationally and both France and Spain were placing anyone dodging conscription in their Foreign Legions.
There was no place to run except ironically to this very Galaxy and it was only by sheer luck they managed to get out as the Jedi was called in to explain her decision and the military personnel were being reprimanded by the chain-of-command with transfers expected.
Still, Joleen believed that the decision was justified as no one should fight against their will even if their civilization, their individual liberty was at stake as they would still die for what they felt was right. Bloodshed only resulted in further needless bloodshed and peace was always preferable to killing other beings. The Jedi had considered leaving the Order due to being pacifistic and believing in upholding peace herself, which was unfortunate due to the Order being by circumstances actively fighting in the war and she wanted no further part in it. The devolution from peacekeeping to becoming warriors was too much and her patience has finally run out.
Her transfer to the AgriCorps was denied and feeling that there was no other choice, Joleen submitted her resignation to the Jedi Council, the approval or rejection of her request being considered but for the time being she was going to assist with the settling of these refugees who were persecuted for either not getting clean-shaved and an job before the war for the men but now being conscripted against their will or the pressurization and social expectations for the human women.
"You can stay however long you need." Joleen declared."There will be a communal dinner welcoming you and the other refugees from other worlds at 18:14."
"On behalf of my friends, I would like to say thank you, Miss Monthma."
"It was no trouble as you are refugees fleeing inhospitablity. Not everyone in The Galaxy likes Chandrillaians either, finding our respect for nature and environmental beliefs overbearing."
"Groovy! We humbly appreciate the generosity." Lennon exclaimed. "Guys, I'll be singing 'Strawberry Fields Forever' to mark our newfound homes."
Let me take you down, 'cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields
Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about
Strawberry Fields forever
Living is easy with eyes closed
Misunderstanding all you see
It's getting hard to be someone but it all works out
It doesn't matter much to me
Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields
Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about
Strawberry Fields forever
No one I think is in my tree
I mean it must be high or low
That is you can't you know tune in but it's all right
That is I think it's not too bad
Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields
Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about
Strawberry Fields forever
Always know, sometimes think it's me
But you know, I know when it's a dream
I think a 'No', I mean a "Yes"
But it's all wrong
That is, I think I disagree
Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields
Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about
Strawberry Fields forever
Strawberry Fields forever
Strawberry Fields forever
Barry Morris Goldwater - 37th President of the United States
The Oval Office - The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 14:00 / 2:00 PM
"Sir, it appears that the 'Jane Fonda Legacy Movement' is planning a demonstration at the Lincoln Memorial today." The Vice President, William Edward Miller, frowned at the Arizonian.
"The Communist-aligned group both publicly and privately denounced by the Chinese, Soviets, and even the Cubans? I'm honestly surprised they're even still active under these circumstances." Barry sighed as he wiped away the fog from his glasses. The President knew that the majority of the group's members ironically came from luxurious backgrounds with celebrities or industrialists or even those of American Old Money as parents, the naivety of Marxism in the minds of the brats being rather comical.
"Yes, I know. The formerly backed by North Korea 'peace organization' until Pyongyang cut off funding desires a peace-settlement with the Sith Empire, declaring that the current conflict has gone on long and far enough."
"This is also their last significant protest they're able to organize given the reality." Roy Cohn grinned. "It's almost as if they wanted to have one final symbolic but fruitless act before the draft evaders are arrested and shipped straight to induction and it wouldn't have mattered if they scheduled it on Saint Patrick's Day as their luck has run out."
"What's the response plan, Ronald?" Goldwater inquired of the visiting Governor of California who immediately during his trip became an inadvertent adviser to the President on dealing with the inevitable rioting that would be commenced by this bunch of misfits, only this time it was not the now shuttered campus of Berkeley but rather the nation's capital once more.
No wonder that the 1968 Presidential Election went down in history as the first time since 1912 that the nominee of a Third Party was the second-place candidate and it was none other than George Corley Wallace Jr. of the American Independent Party.
'It is unfortunate that domestically our nation went to hell these past few years.' Goldwater reflected on how he became the Republican Party's nominee and he was not the first choice, as matter of fact the pundits believed that William Warren Scranton was certain to be on the ticket yet it quickly became apparent to the GOP leadership that the Governor of Alabama was gaining momentum, making inroads where he shouldn't have and even those who consider themselves as 'Rockefeller Republicans' were planning to vote for Wallace only because of the chaos and a need of leadership.
Goldwater was derided by the Republican Party leadership and everyone knows it yet arguably the nation needed to regain its confidence and neither Wallace nor the former Vice President, Lyndon Baines Johnson, were the answer. The New Deal Coalition had arguably collapsed and there was no way the Hippies were going to make gains politically either.
Therefore begrudgingly the GOP gave the nod to the man who once joked about lobbing an atomic bomb into the Kremlin's bathroom not because they approved of him but presented to the electorate as an alternative to Wallace as well as to gain an edge, an opportunity that was not available previously.
The Republican Party had been relegated to nothing more than an opposition since the 1930s, since the implementation of the New Deal and the Party of Lincoln also at one point was almost certainly on the brink of dissolution as they were blamed for the nation's plight during the Great Depression and accused of kindling the economic catastrophe when it could not have been predicted.
And the only chance at governance was during Dewey's first term as well as Eisenhower's, a chance that was soon lost due to being blamed once more for economical reasons, the 1958 Recession even though the Moderate and Liberal Wings of the Republican Party followed Keynesian economics.
Yet this time it was not because of economic uncertainty but an unexpected nightmare in the midst of a struggle against world domination by the Communists.
Goldwater was principled and believed in the Constitution, he was a strict constructionist, and most importantly of all he believed that 'All Men Were Created Equal', he was fundamentally a staunch supporter of racial equality. The Arizonian desegregated the Air National Guard of his home state a full two years before Truman signed the Executive Order to integrate the military, he voted for the Civil Rights Acts of 1957 and the Twenty-Fourth Amendment to prohibit poll taxes, Goldwater even believed that voting laws can be an Federal responsibility yet despite financially supporting the local chapter of the NAACP and voting for previous Civil Rights Acts, Goldwater became derided as a racist and it was only due to disagreeing with two portions of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
Goldwater did not believe that the government should force anyone to accept customers and as much as it disheartened him, Barry was uncompromising in his Constitutional views and took the step to vote against the then bill, only because he believed everyone should have an equal opportunity no matter their values, not to mention government interference in an matter that was not prescribed to it.
Goldwater believed that racism was not a matter of legislation but of the heart. And he was heartbroken by the fact that he was regarded as a racist despite his reputation.
Still, while he was glad that the country was finally moving on from what should have never been, what shouldn't have existed in the first place due to the ideals cherished by the American people, there were those who were arguably misguided as soon as the matter that should have been resolved during Reconstruction was settling even if gradually, a new movement that sprang up and it was not one of reconciliation but instead a radical vision and one of naivety with the idealistic slogan of 'Peace and Love'.
It popped up shortly after the United States intervened in Vietnam when the South was invaded by the North though it was rooted on the campus of Berkeley in 1964 and the movement was peaceful at first with demonstrations that were reminiscent of the non-violence the famed Reverend, Doctor Martin Luther King Junior, used but tragically it quickly got out of hand with false rumors of what was occurring in Vietnam causing reactions domestically and they were mostly rumors due to wartime censorship.
It was pure pandemonium and the situation had devolved into national riots and sporadic incidents of bombings but while Kennedy attempted to conduct a crackdown and while it gradually became calmer it was not quick enough, as far as many Americans ultimately came to believe society had deteriorated and blamed John for it, for his pronouncements of how the youth were the future.
Then unexpectedly during the midst of this crisis, in late 1966 California became a front in the Vietnam War when it became apparent that elements of the Viet Cong arrived on American soil and managed to link up with an group of disgruntled Hippies to found the Weather Underground, and that was not to mention that another VC cell who arrived from Paris attempted to murder the Kennedy family at their compound.
It came and went but the impact just cemented that as far as the people were concerned the New Frontier was not the answer.
Barry felt devastated for his friend, he and Jack never completely agree politically but the two were more often than not seen together publicly yet while the Arizonian knew that it was beyond the Irish-American Brahmin's control, the optimistic dream of the New Frontier was just scrapped and the Kennedy's were tainted, even cursed, only because of the actions of out-of-control bead-cladded pot smokers.
Even so, while against advice from his cabinet who wanted Goldwater to cut off all ties and association with Jack, he was there for him and wanted him at his side, to show that it was an unforeseen situation that spiraled out of control, acting as an intermediary between Kennedy and the American people to showcase that it's time to move on and forward together as Americans regardless of what rift occurred before.
'We truly have plenty to work on and while everyone still believes in America, we need to make sure we are on the right path.'
Barry was convinced that he might be the best hope for the sake of the nation and he was willing to step up to deal with the challenges, both old as well as new.
"After the Attorney-General, Secretary of Defense, and I chatted about it, the response force will be composed of two battalions of Military Policemen from Fort Myer, U.S. Marshals, FBI Agents, Park Policemen, and the entire local Police Department to greet the protestors at the Lincoln Memorial." The former movie star, Ronald Wilson Reagan, informed the President.
"All of them?"
"Well, we do have the home guard literally consisting of elderly VFW members and American Legionnaires as well as Boy Scouts since the National Guardsmen are currently at the front at the moment but we do still have some other troops here at home."
"And they are?"
"Such as the detachment of The Old Guard, the First Battalion of the Third Army Regiment of the Regular Army, take your pick." The Gipper grinned. "They should make those naive brats take pause."
"That's right." Goldwater remembered the mission. "Although The Old Guard primarily functions in a ceremonial role, it is still an infantry unit and meets standards for certification in its combat role, not to mention contingencies."
"Which is exactly why they're responding." The Attorney-General, Roy Cohn, declared himself the current President of the United States. "And due to it being wartime, those ignorant brats forgot that martial law is applicable here and could really use the reminder."
"No, Roy, we'll have them charged in the civil courts." The constitutionalist directed. "I have no problem with Freedom of Speech and desire the Constitution to be upheld no matter what but given the reputation of this organization of radicals, this heavy response is unfortunately not unfounded. Even so, I still want only the minimum level of force to resolve this inevitable riot here when maintaining Law and Order, not heavy-handedness, you understand?"
"Yes, Mister President." Cohn muttered begrudgingly.
'At least Roy is starting to realize that he only has his position as long as he's serving at the pleasure of the President.' Goldwater smirked as while the position of United States Attorney General meant the officeholder was a statutory member of the Cabinet of the United States, it did not mean that he held all of the power and the Attorney General could be dismissed by the Commander-in-Chief at any time.
Corporal Daniel Jay Schneiderman - Firing Party Platoon, Delta Company, First Battalion, 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, United States Army
Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 15:00 / 3:00 PM
"Schneiderman? You got the tear gas rounds?"
"Sure do, Sarge." The young Corporal who was a battle hardened transfer from the Second Battalion of The Old Guard acknowledged. "Those fucking disrespectful brats will regret not going to 'Nam like I did or forget the sacrifices of every American buried at Arlington."
"Men, you know the drill here as riot control is part of duties, which most civvies don't realize! Stand your ground then bash on sight." The commander of the First Battalion ordered. "If it becomes too dangerous that it threatens the lives of civilians and only then, live ammunition will be issued, but for now it's just 'harmless' bayonet scabbards."
"Pigs!"
"Baby killers!"
"Fascists!"
"THIS IS AN UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY! TURN AROUND AND GO HOME!" A DC Patrolman ordered the crowd through a bullhorn. "YOU HAVE ONLY FIVE SECONDS TO COMPLY!"
"We have the right to protest! This is a free country, man!"
"Not in wartime according to the Supreme Court." Daniel snorted at the poor usage of the Constitution when it came to public demonstrations since two could play the game regarding constitutionality. "Commerce clause covers the free movement of troops and the judges say otherwise when it comes to time of war where invasion is an immediate threat, pal."
"FIVE!"
"Hey, hey, Big Goldman, how many Sith kids have you killed today!?"
"Morons." Sergeant O'Keefe snarled. "I'm just appalled at these reprehensible, disrespectful, dimwitted brats."
"We all are, Sergeant."
"FOUR!" The patrolman continued with the countdown. "THREE!"
"These idiots can't tell the difference between a screwdriver and a hammer if it hits them."
"Evidently their parents didn't spank them hard enough or belted the brats." Sergeant O'Keefe growled before proceeding to shout back at the Hippies. "How many of you have fathers who fought in Europe, in the Pacific, or even Korea!? How many of your grandfathers were fighting Spaniards in Cuba or were at the Meuse-Argonne!?"
"TWO!"
"Stay calm, men." The Major directed. "We're not going to become Imperial propaganda because some agent of theirs is watching us."
"You think there's Imperial Spies here on Earth, sir?"
"No doubt that some will manage to get through despite the over-extensive and extreme beyond belief security measures designed ironically by a Hutt." Daniel reasoned. "Here they come."
"Reagan, Reagan, cowboy hoodlum y'all, are you going to continue spewing tall tales to us all?!"
"Gee, I wonder how many evaded the draft?" Daniel wondered. "I see mostly Hippie chicks gathered but it's very odd that about a quarter of those before us are men in their early to mid twenties."
"Probably not much left as Canada just hands them a uniform as soon as they arrive as does Mexico." O'Keefe grinned. "Free buzzcuts and delousing showers as well. These are the remaining holdouts I suppose."
"Wait, really? They're being drafted across the border?"
"ONE!"
"In the words of their governments, if they're moving north or south, they better fight. Face it, these activists have no way to go except to prison or shipped straight to the front after training." The Sergeant declared as he noticed a bottle about to be thrown. "And that's a common sense policy, which these complainers, who literally are the final legs of the so-called counter culture movement, lack."
"And there's the rocks being chucked." Daniel noted, watching the Hippies beginning to pelt various objects toward the DC Patrolmen and United States Marshals.
"ALRIGHT THEN! RIOT SQUAD!? YOU ARE AUTHORIZED TO ARREST ON SIGHT!"
District of Columbia Jail - 1901 D St SE, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:50 / 4:50 PM
"Make love, not war!" One of the prisoners from the anti-war riot whined as two Soldiers and two Sailors visited his cellblock where all of the male rioters were being held.
"Sorry brother, but welcome to the Navy." Daniel smirked at the draft dodger as two Shore Patrolmen prepared to drag the last of the known hippies in America forcefully out of his cell. "You can either be inducted peacefully into your nation's navy or take the Canadian program."
"Canadian program?"
"Duration of the war plus seven years in the Canadian Army's Corps of Engineers as either a bridge builder in hot zones or demolitions expert, Mister Jones." Sergeant O'Keefe revealed this to Harvey Jones. "Then citizenship automatically granted once your term of service is either over with or hostilities with the Empire cease since as of now our planet as a whole is in it for the duration."
"I'm screwed, am I?" Jones pouted, quickly realizing that his fingerprints were used against him with how the soldier who placed him and his comrades in the cell knew his name. And there's also the chance that if he accepted the Canadian Program he may not live long enough to become a Canadian citizen given how it literally meant being under fire from snipers and artillery while serving as Combat Engineers but at least he had a choice unlike his fellow Flower Children who escaped to north of the border only to be involuntarily conscripted and placed in the construction or demolition units. "We're pretty much all that's left of the movement. What about the Peace Corps?"
"You probably were high when the news came out but when war was declared, the Peace Corps has been suspended for the duration being and conscious objectors are doing their service for their Uncle Sam in non-combat roles as medics or cooks. I can only help you if you cooperate with us."
The prisoner weighed his options, he could either remain American even if unwelcome but at least he would be placed in a non-combat role and had a decent chance to live or risk it all to become a Canadian with no guarantee for survival.
"Fine, I'll do the goddamn, worthless navy then! My uncle was a worthless sailor anyway."
"Good boy." O'Keefe smiled warmly. "While obviously I'm no sailor: Welcome to the Navy, Mister Jones."
Harry Allen Gardner - VFW Post 9439
On the outskirts of the remote small town of Crimson Dawn - Crimson Dawn, Natrona County, Wyoming, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:50 / 4:50 PM
"Play the song, Harry." The lead VFW member ordered as the posse assisting the Sheriff Department pulled up next to the Hippie encampment.
"With pleasure." The Deputized Doughboy who was part of the posse smiled as he played 'Ballad Of The Yellow Beret' by Bob Seger to announce their inmeniant arrival to raid the caravan and arrest the draft evaders.
What should have been a day of discussing old times at the VFW Post in Casper and drilling for their part in the local Saint Patrick's Day parade was thrown off due to reports of spoiled brats trying to evade the draft and to the elderly Doughboys who went 'Over There' it was repugnant - a slap in the face - and completely reminiscent of the slackers during World War I, meaning that the Slacker Raids had to be revived from time to time due to the necessity of the conflict with all the manpower that could be spared from essential wartime occupations being placed in uniform and now was not the time for slackers during this conflict.
It was at times very reminiscent of 1917-1918 in regards to slackers especially with what occurred in New York a week prior when New Rochelle Policemen, the New York State Park Police, New York State Troopers, New York Guard, and New York Naval Militia as well as VFW men and American Legionnaires raided an encampment on Travers Island and dragged off the Hippies to get taught a lesson in hygiene and do their part in the conflict instead of lounging about to smoke marijuana or shoot LSD.
But at least the slackers fifty-two years ago were civilized and respectable unlike these uncivilized, delusional, and ungrateful miscreants the agencies of the State of New York including the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs had rounded up and transferred to the custody of the Federal Government for induction.
At seventy-two years, Gardner was far from the twenty year old man who was at the Battle of Cantigny on May 28th of 1918 but he was gleefully going to make sure these brats had a chance to preserve and defend this nation from being vanquished by the Sith Empire. There was no use for Hippies in these circumstances nor was there ever a need for their existence at all.
This is a protest against protesters:
Fearless cowards of the U.S.A.
Bravely here at home they stay
They watch their friends get shipped away
The draft dodgers of the Yellow Beret
"Come on you hippies!" The Sheriff of the County shouted at the commune after the posse surrounded them. "Off to war you go!"
Yellow streaks up and down their spines
Men who gladly stay behind
They won't fight for the U.S.A.
They fought hard for the yellow beret
"Not Mooney!" One of the women sobbed as the men had no choice but to surrender to the Law Enforcement officers surrounding them.
Men who faint at the sight of blood
Their high heeled boots weren't meant for mud
The draft board will hear their sob stories today
Only the best the yellow beret
"Does he have a draft exemption card, ma'am?"
Back at home a young wife waits
Her yellow beret has met his fate
He's been drafted for marching in a protest
Leaving her his last request
"No. I qualify as 1-A." 'Mooney' admitted, holding back tears as he knew there was nowhere else to run or hide on Earth as Canada and Mexico, nevermind the entire world, were drafting even noncitizens to fill their individual manpower needs. "I and the others and I will accept the consequences."
Put a yellow streak down my sons back
Make sure that he never ever fights back
At his physical have him say he's gay
Have him win the yellow beret
"Welcome to the Army, son." The Sheriff smiled reassuringly at the men before facing the women. "As for the rest of you, ladies, I advise you to go to the diner in town and call your relatives to pick you up or make arrangements for a flight home at the Natrona County International Airport." The highest Law Enforcement officer with jurisdiction over the entire county couldn't help but grin at the outsiders who were going to learn how to shave and bathe properly at taxpayers expense as the public were finished with their ilk, nevermind receive free haircuts. "Load them up, men! I'll call the recruiting offices back in Casper in the morning to arrange their induction."
The yellow beret
The yellow beret
The yellow beret
"With pleasure, Sheriff." Harry chuckled, the Doughboy had his M1903 Springfield Rifle at port arms and prepared to strike any of the draft evaders if they attempted anything. "You heard him, get into the vehicles! You are malingering, unpatriotic and ungrateful cowards! It's time to grow up and be men!"
"Hey, you can't take me! I got a hurt knee, and a bad back, and I'm allergic to everything, and I have asthma, and look at that hang nail! And I got a pimple on my trigger finger and besides, I'm learning to play an instrument at college but I just started to learn and - ahhh, nooooo!"
The yellow beret
The yellow beret
Yeah the yellow beret
"Well, we were planning on having children sometime soon…"
The yellow beret
Yeah the yellow beret
Sergeant Samuel David "Sam" Westbrook - First Squad, Third Platoon, D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:50 / 4:50 PM
"Hey, Sam, what are you placing in the player?"
"'Ragged Old Flag' by Johnny Cash." The Sergeant declared. "What else?"
I walked through a county courthouse square
On a park bench, an old man was sittin' there.
I said, "Your old court house is kinda run down,
He said, "Naw, it'll do for our little town".
I said, "Your old flag pole is leaned a little bit,
And that's a ragged old flag you got hangin' on it".
He said, "Have a seat", and I sat down,
"Is this the first time you've been to our little town"
I said, "I think it is"
He said "I don't like to brag, but we're kinda proud of
That Ragged Old Flag
"You see, we got a little hole in that flag there,
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
And It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it, writing "Say Can You See"
It got a rip in New Orleans, with Packingham and Jackson tugging at its seams.
And It almost fell at the Alamo beside the Texas flag, but she waved on though.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville, and she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on
That Ragged Old Flag
"Today it is a time to reflect and remember after all as Freedom isn't Free." Sam sighed. "There's also old memories between Jake and I and unfortunately some of them are in regards to domestic disturbances."
"More like recent memories."
"Unfortunately…" Westbrook groaned, wishing he never had to deal with the ungrateful Hippies in addition to the Communists in Vietnam and the paratrooper never asked to fight a war back home.
"On Flanders Field in World War I,
She got a big hole from a Bertha Gun,
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp, and low, a time or two,
She was in Korea, Vietnam, She went where she was sent by her Uncle Sam.
She waved from our ships upon the briny foam
and now they've about quit wavin' back here at home
in her own good land here She's been abused,
She's been burned, dishonored, denied an' refused,
And the government for which she stands
Has been scandalized throughout the land.
And she's getting threadbare, and she's wearin' thin,
But she's in good shape, for the shape she's in.
Cause she's been through the fire before
and I believe she can take a whole lot more.
"So we raise her up every morning
And we bring her down slow every night,
We don't let her touch the ground,
And we fold her up right.
On second thought
I do like to brag
Cause I'm mighty proud of
That Ragged Old Flag"
"Still, at least those attempting to evade conscription have their chance to be useful militarily. I mean some literal nobody, this fella named Sylvester Stallone, got in the headlines for becoming a French Foreign Legionnaire after fleeing to Europe to evade the draft."
"It's appalling but what can I say? He didn't want to be inducted into the United States Army and I'm just grateful he's not in this Army but fate undeniably caught up with him."
"Yeah...Talk about irony. I'm sure he regrets not spending time with Uncle Sam given the nature of Foreign Legion training." Jason snickered.
"The Drill Sergeants in their smokeys would just make him dig his own grave and kneecap him." Sam shrugged. "Though come to think of it, Jake must've become cynical."
"What do you mean?"
"He used to be even-tempered and optimistic but I think the past few years got to him with the Hippies running amok." Sam sighed.
"You know I can't blame him. War can change men."
"And it was a goddamn war at home that did him in."
"Say, speaking of the Man in Black, Sam, will you be at the USO Show tonight?"
"I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Hanna-Barbera Productions, Inc. - 3400 Cahuenga Boulevard West, Hollywood, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 16:50 / 4:50 PM
Despite the full schedule and desire to beat rush hour to return home, William Denby Hanna and Joseph Roland Barbera agreed to stay and listened to the proposal for a new cartoon series jointly conceived by employees Charles Kenneth 'Ken' Spears and Joseph Clemens 'Joe' Ruby with intrigue.
The co-created program and proposed franchise - what would be entitled as 'Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!?' - was about a team of teenage sleuths and their dog traveling to solve crimes with the crooks masquerading as supernatural entities when they committed their crimes.
While it was appealing to Hanna and Barbera and met Fred Silverman's criteria, the two veteran cartoonists recognized a serious flaw in regards to pitching the concept to Silverman and the board, something that would kill it outright before it could even air given the current climate.
"Look, it's not because I don't like the concept but we need to make some changes to this proposed program." William advised. "That Hippie needs to be changed to appear more conventional - clean-shavened with a fedora, the whole nine yards - or be edited out."
"Shaggy is not a Hippie but a Beatnik." Ken corrected.
"Alright, you have a fair point, Ken, and those formerly obscure beatniks somehow evolved into be widespread hippies but to be fair that painted Volkswagen you call 'The Mystery Machine' threw us off." Barbera reasoned. "It's just that recent events made anything to do with Hippies unmarketable and Silverman would immediately reject this as a result if you were pitching it to him today."
"I will get on it, sir." Ruby understood. "Maybe we could change his appearance to be more of a typical clean-shaven student in contrast to the Ivy Leaguers Fred and Daphne, we can also change Shaggy's name to Norville Rogers as that's what would be his Christian name anyways -"
"Hold on. You said his name is 'Norville Rogers'? Norville? Why Norville?"
"Umm...Because that's why the character prefers to be called Shaggy as part of his backstory but since it is being changed...How about Charles Rogers?"
"Charles Rogers? I like it. Now that only leaves the...Great Dane was it?"
"The talking dog is supposed to be a Great Dane." Joe verified.
Hanna snapped his fingers when a thought of salvation occurred. "Charles 'Charlie' Rogers and Scotty-Doo?"
"Hmmm...It could work." Ken figured. "Scotty-Doo, Where Are You? Wait, wouldn't that infringe on 'Star Trek' though?"
"You're right, in that case, perhaps retaining the name of Scooby is fine as the only change other than the vehicle being more like a business van is just that Hippie, Beatnik, whatever to someone more mainstream and unmistakably proud to be an American."
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 17:00 / 5:00 PM
"You don't need to see our tickets." Kira smirked, waving her wrist to do the mind trick. "You'll let us through."
"I don't need to see your tickets." The Duros contractor manning the booth for the R&R area where after being rented out the USO Show was being held tonight acknowledged. "I'll let you through."
"Hold on, where's your tickets, sir? Ma'am?"
"Uh oh." Cas spotted two Shore Patrolmen of the United States Navy approaching, their white helmets and armband with 'SP' along with the blue uniform immediately helped the Jedi identify them as ordinary American sailors who were tasked with augmenting the Master-at-Arms as auxiliaries in keeping order.
"We recognize that stunt, Jedi, and know you're trying to sneak in like some kid who didn't pay to see a hit film playing at the local motion picture theater."
"Now what's the trouble here?"
While the Jedi only know of his appearance from posters, the voice was that of Steve McQueen with John Wayne close behind.
"We forgot our tickets." Carsen fibbed to McQueen.
"Well, unfortunately you won't be able to attend."
"Hurry up, will you!?" A Coast Guardsman shouted out of irritation and impatience at the hold up. "We're going to miss out seeing Jerry Reed!"
"And Johnny Cash!" An Air Force Airman grumpily added.
"Two friends of ours gave them to us as they didn't want to attend due to not being fans of country music."
"I see. Well, I guess we can make an exception to two Jedi we heard about." Wayne justified. "Let them through and I hope you enjoy the steaks, onion soup, and show." The Western actor then realized something. "Aw, shucks, I forgot the index cards."
"Hey, that's right, more like we both forgot the cards!" McQueen uttered. "Enjoy the show and dinner you two!"
"You really wanted to see the show, didn't you?"
"I won't deny it." Kira smirked, causing Cas to groan.
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 17:15 / 5:15 PM
Turning around the corner, Jake didn't notice that two individuals were walking in the lobby and the Marine's eyes widened like a deer caught in headlights as he realized that he accidentally knocked into the two main stars hosting the concert.
"I'm sorry Mister Wayne, Mister McQueen."
"It's quite alright, son. Where are you from?" The Duke pried, chuckling.
"Acton, Indiana, eleven miles away from Beech-"
"Beech Grove." McQueen finished, chuckling as well, especially as it turned out this serviceman hailed from a locality literally near the actor's birthplace. "What a small world."
"Here, allow me to help pick up the index cards." Jake offered as he knelt down and assisted the two hosts of the inemiant USO Show.
John "Duke" Wayne / Marion Robert (Michael) Morrison - Revered Western Film Star
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 17:30 / 5:30 PM
"Now howdy everyone. I'm sure everyone attending here tonight recognizes my friend and I." Wayne began. "If not, well… you should."
The American servicemen of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who made up the audience laughed while Steve McQueen took over the microphone and continued with the introduction.
"What my compatriot geared up for the O.K. Corral
standing next to me here unlike the comfortable bomber jacket of yours truly meant that you must have been primitives living underneath a rock and be neighbors with the Flintstones to not be aware of us or Marlene Dietrich."
"Don't you mean Maureen O'Hara, Steve?"
"Haven't you read the papers with the rumors about her and Marylin Monroe, John, or are they too primitive compared to those finicky datapads we heard so much about? Actually, come to think of it, the latter rumors involve John Kennedy, not John Wayne, my bad."
"Well, I'm certainly no Jack Kennedy. The last time I glanced at the mirror, I appeared to be more down to earth than someone who went to Harvard. Or was that Bobby?"
"I'm pretty sure it was Bobby but either way, at least we all know who's who."
The laughter became a roar and the attendees were applauding at the creativity by the two actors who were not professional comedians in any way.
"Now before we begin, we would like to begin with a prayer to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the name of Freedom and recognition of friends, family, men we have all looked up to and passed on while serving as an American soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine."
"Remove covers!"
The American servicemen immediately took off their hats and bowed to observe the prayer which was led by John Wayne.
"Oh Almighty Father who is in heaven, gathered before you here today are men in uniform who took the step to enlist or were called up in the service of their country during her urgent hour and today is a day where they, our guardians, and we, the American people, recognize and remember the sacrifices of not only the ones currently standing against those who tread on the liberties granted to us by you, Oh Lord, but also those of the generations past and those of the future generations in addition to ones present here before you and at other fronts of this conflict, one where it is not on Earth but across the stars. We are hoping that this war that has gone on for so long and we only recently got involved in due to circumstances will cease. Amen."
"Amen!"
"God bless you, gentlemen. Now first up is Pat Boone."
Wayne gave way and shook Boone's hand before he took over the microphone.
"Hello, fellas. I'm sure that you've enjoyed listening to this tune and wished certain friends of yours didn't neglect their contribution when they conveniently claimed to be following their conscience after being called upon by Uncle Sam." The folk guitarist smiled, earning chuckles. "Yes, I'll be starting off with 'Wish You Were Here, Buddy' as everyone should be pulling their weight and we don't need slackers."
Well, hi there, buddy
Thought I'd drop you a line
I haven't seen you
For a hundred years
When you get time
Will you let me know
If it's true what a fella hears
Heard you been leading
Those campus demonstrations
You're as busy as you can be
If the sit downs, walk outs
And others aggravate you
Bet you hardly ever think of me
Well, I'm on a little
Vacation in South Vietnam
And expense paid trip for one
I got my own little rifle
And a great uniform
And a job that must be done
Well, we're sleeping in the jungle
And ducking real bullets
And man, it's a lot of fun
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
I heard you let your hair grow
Til it's hanging on your shoulders
And you hardly have time to shave
Bet the girls all flip
Cause you look so fine like
Something crawled out of a cave
Heard Uncle Sam
Nearly scared you to death
But you fooled him just in time
Just stuck a little match
To your old draft card
And you burned up
A future like mine
Well, I'm on a little
Vacation in South Vietnam
And expense paid trip for one
I got my own little rifle
And a great uniform
And a job that must be done
Well, we're sleeping in the jungle
And ducking real bullets
And man, it's a lot of fun
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Oh, I know you're not scared
You're a real brave guy
You're a regular Cassius Clay
And I know woulda fought
When the country was young
But the world's just different today
Well, you just stay home
And leave the fighting to us
And when the whole
Darn mess is through
I'll put away my rifle
And the old uniform
And I'll come looking for you
Well, we're sleeping in the jungle
And ducking real bullets
And man, it's a lot of fun
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here, old pal
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here
(Wish you were here)
Wish you were here, little buddy
(Wish you were here)
I wanna introduce
You to them Comms
(Wish you were here)
Come on over and we'll just
Hold em til you get here, okay
Wish you were here
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 19:45 / 7:45 PM
Cas watched Mel Tillis come out onto the stage and without missing a beat after an introduction, began playing 'Stateside'.
Well, the Japany's moon is bright tonight and Tokyo is full of life
Busy people everywhere but busy people just don't care
I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside
He was having something known as a 'Surf-n-Turf' which apparently had both a 'New York Strip' steak and Lobster for the main part of the dish with mashed potatoes and gravy as well as fried mushrooms on the side plus for him tomato soup instead of French Onion or the Potato and Cheese with Bacon. The root beer wasn't particularly appetizing and he didn't know why plopping scoops of Ice Cream into the drink was popular but now he regretted not getting a cream soda instead.
Kira, on the other hand, while having the same main course as her husband, had the French Onion soup and a Cherry Coke as her chosen beverage, which apparently meant Coca-Cola that had flavored syrup mixed in, not off-the-counter and already included like the similar tasting zherry-flavored sodas in the Galaxy.
"Good thing we didn't get the cheesecake." Kira mentioned offhandedly. "That's one particular addiction we don't need."
"I don't know what it is or what ingredients cause it but I have to say that Earth has a significantly valuable export which caused them to make an exception for rationing."
In and out the honky tonks but nothing's there I really want
Sat a while and look around get up and leave and walk the town
I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside
"No wonder pirates have been intercepting shipments lately in the Moddell Sector." Kira snorted. "There's actually rumors circulating that the Pepsi-Cola Company is considering forming a Navy of their own and hiring mercenaries to hunt down the pirates given how the Republic is overstretched dealing with the Imps."
"Where did you hear that?"
"Some trade official posted a holo-tweet claiming that he overheard the CEO thinking about it at a conference in New York City." The redhead revealed.
"Well, while there's no way to prove the validity, needless to say there has to be something about the process that causes it." Cas wasn't sure what it could be however as the other sugary desserts or soft drinks didn't produce the effect and neither did s'mores which discounted Graham crackers, leaving only cream cheese but could it be that somehow in conjunction it caused the effect? 'Maybe I'm thinking about it too hard. As far as we know, it's harmless, relatively speaking, it just results in cravings for the dessert.'
"Well, it might be one of those mysteries that may never be answered and forever remain unexplained." Kira reasoned. "It's not like we're mentioning spice here and calling it ab addiction may be the inaccurate way to describe it, more like intermittent cravings."
"Still, it's certainly something I'm not going to try."
"Me neither." Kira deadpanned. "Are you enjoying the show by the way?"
"It's...Interesting to say the least." Cas analyzed, not sure what to make of it quite yet.
The giashy girls don't understand the lonely life of a service man
When his heart is far away to a girl in the USA
I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside
I've heard say a man don't cry but I can't keep my blue eyes dry
I've been away about two years I know I've cried a million tears
I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside...
Lance Corporal Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 22:00 / 10:00 PM
We don't smoke marijuana in Muskogee;
We don't take our trips on LSD
We don't burn no draft cards down on Main Street;
We like livin' right, and bein' free.
Yes, sir
We don't make a party out of lovin';
We like holdin' hands and pitchin' woo;
We don't let our hair grow long and nasty and dirty,
Like the hippies out in San Francisco do.
"Everyone sing one time!"
I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball.
Yes, sir
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all.
"Oh I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee." Jake with his beer can in the air and the other Americans in attendance sang along to 'Okie From Muskogee' by none other country singer Merle Haggard himself after performing 'The Fightin' Side of Me'. "A place where even squares can have a ball, yes sir! We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse! And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all!"
Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear;
Beads and Roman sandals won't be seen.
And football's still the roughest thing on campus,
And the kids, they still respect the college dean.
"Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear! Beads and Roman sandals won't be seen! And football's still the roughest thing on campus! And the kids, they still respect the college dean!"
And I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball.
And we still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all.
"And I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee! A place where even squares can have a ball, yes sir! We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse! And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all!"
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.
"We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA!"
"Well, that unfortunately concludes tonight's show, folks." Merle apologized. "There will be an showing tomorrow-"
Yet the bombastic crowd however demanded more, enjoying the show by the country musicians and the servicemen were gravely disappointed that it was ending for the evening.
"Encore, encore!"
"Come on, Merle, let's hear 'Some of Us Never Learn'!"
"Jimmy Sweeny's 'What'cha Gonna Do About Me'!"
"No, we want 'Eastbound and Down' by Jerry! Strum up those chords, Jerry!"
"'Country Boy', Johnny! From the man in black, Johnny Cash!"
"Alright, well, I suppose we could do one more show and one more show wouldn't hurt." The Duke determined as it became rather boisterous among the unsatisfied and disappointed audience. "We'll have our musicians draw straws and determine the finale among themselves, make it a surprise to you all."
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 22:15 / 10:15 PM
"Well, what we could do instead is have all of us sing one song." Jerry Reed proposed.
"Hmmm… That might resolve how we could placate the entire crowd by having all of us finish concurrently but the question is which one?" Johnny Cash wondered.
The lineup would combine the voices and chords of Johnny Cash and his brother Tommy who took leave from the Army to participate in the show, Jimmy Sweeny, Jerry Reed, Glen Campbell, Buck Owens, Freddie Hart, Mel Tillis, and Merle Haggard.
"Since Jerry suggested it, how about… 'Fightin for the U.S.A.'?" The African-American singer who was unknown to many was both influential and a mentor to a certain Elvis Presley, Jimmy Sweeney threw out.
The eight country musicians grinned as they reached a concurrence.
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 23:00 / 11:00 PM
Jerry was the first to reappear on stage "We have decided to finish off with 'Fightin' For The U.S.A.' but with a twist. All of us will be taking turns singing the lyrics three times." Reed revealed to the audience. "Enjoy the show." Jerry strummed up the chord and began.
When Uncle Sam found that I wasn't married
He sent a letter saying son don't tarry
And make it down to your boat for induction
when you arrive you'll get further instruction
They said ya training outta do it so they put me right to it
And they sent me on an aeroplane
My destination Da Nang, Vietnam
Next were the two Cash brothers Johnny and Tommy.
Now I'm a fightin for the USA
Oh Glory and the USA
If you don't like it cause I'm over here in Vietnam
Well you can take your complaints to my Uncle Sam
I'm just a shooting my rifle like he taught me to do
Doing exactly what he wants me to
Well I'm U.S Soldier fighting for the USA
Then came Glen Campbell and Buck Owens.
I go crawling through the swamp and the marshes
Steppin on vegetables and squashes
Duckin bullets comin at me from the trees
Jumpin round knockin holes in my knees
Bullets flying right and left got my scared half to death
But I know the job has got to be done
and that's why they sent me over here to Vietnam
And on cue was Freddie Hart and Mel Tellis.
I got captured by the Viet Cong
And for a while I thought I was gonna get hung
But they just beat me on the nose
Kinda mashed all my toes
All the time a-yellin' 'Yankee Go Home'
Well they stretched me and squashed me
And tried to brainwash me
But I stuck up and snuck away
Then I popped up a fightin again for the USA
Followed by the one and only Jimmy Sweeney.
Now I'm a fightin for the USA
The Red White and Blue American Way
If you don't like it cause I'm over here in Vietnam
Well you can take your complaints to my Uncle Sam
I'm just a shooting this rifle like he taught me to do
And doing exactly what he wants me to
Cause I'm U.S Soldier fighting for the USA
Oh Glory in the USA
Oh Glory in the USA
Finally it was Merle Haggard who finished it off.
Would you believe I'm a Marine ha ha ha
Oh Glory in the USA
The Red White and Blue American Way
Oh Glory in the USA
Hmmmmmm
United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
03:15:16 ATC / March 15th, 1969 - 23:15 / 11:15 PM
"Well, gentlemen, that concludes tonight's show!" Wayne declared from the microphone on the temporary stage. "Have a safe night, everyone!"
"Wow, that was awesome!" Jake laughed as the crowd began to disperse. "It's a shame it's over tonight though, even if I got autographs from and a picture with John Wayne and Steve McQueen."
"But there's tomorrow." Marv beamed. "God bless America."
"Say, Chris, have you ever thought about trying out a career as a musician?" Jake wondered. "You have a knack for it."
"Once or twice." The Wyomingite confirmed. "But this war needs to end first before I get into it or get back in the saddle and wrangle cattle. I was going to become a professional rodeo rider when war was declared."
"I still need to see a rodeo sometime."
"Well, tell you what, if we pull through, I'll be sure to make arrangements to have you witness an authentic one in Wyoming."
"Now that sounds like an offer I can agree to, but now I just need to figure out how to return the favor." Jake chuckled only to spot someone unexpected.
"Umm...Hello, Jake." Cas greeted awkwardly. "It sure was an...interesting night."
"Well, only less than a quarter of the songs played tonight were derisive against Hippies if that's what you mean by interesting."
"I know songs such as Mel Tillis's 'Your Kind of Living', Pat Boone's 'Speedy Gonzalez', Merle Haggard's 'Mama Tried', and Jerry Reed's 'Soldier Joy'." The Jedi listed off just some of the songs which were performed for the spectators this evening.
"I don't mind some Tennessee Ernie Ford myself but 'The Fightin' Side of Me' is a favorite of mine." Jake smirked as he quoted a line with a sing-song intonation. "They love our milk and honey, but they preach about some other way of livin', when they're runnin' down my country, hoss, they're walkin' on the fightin' side of me."
"We know that you seriously don't like Hippies." Kira deadpanned. "I hope you have a nice night, Jake."
"You too, Cas, Kira."
"Well, it sure was an experience, Cas, with all of the beer floating around and whatnot."
"It certainly was and it was rather rancorous as well."
That's right, it isn't just George Lucas and Gene Roddenberry but John Wayne and Steve McQueen alongside a few others are present as part of the United Service Organizations and will be touring for a time!
Per the information straight from the lore it seems that Corellians are protective of their bloodstripes which is a prestigious decoration in the fictional civilization and to quote directly from the article on Wookieepedia here:
Some sources say that a Corellian was entitled to kill—without repercussions—any other Corellian or non-Corellian caught wearing them that hadn't earned them.
So it isn't unreasonable in the slightest to portray a cultural misunderstanding and coincidence to result in blows between United States Marines and Corellians.
Needless to say, for good and ill, there are plenty of 'coincidences' to choose from.
John Lennon, formerly of the Beatles, is no longer present on Earth and he's not in the British Military but a refugee due to not wanting to be conscripted and handed a rifle anywhere on Earth.
As a matter of fact, the Counterculture was squashed to extinction and that was why John Lennon was forced to flee unless he wanted to be handed a uniform, even a Soviet, Chinese, or North Korean uniform.
Guess that means Hippies won't be having their wild parties and causing chaos no more on Earth.
Oh well.
And now before anyone posts any reviews on it, I would like to state for the record that John Wayne was not a Draft Dodger at all.
Wayne was exempted from being drafted due to his age (He was 34 Years Old at the time of Pearl Harbor) a nd family status (classified as 3-A – family deferment). Wayne repeatedly wrote to the famed director who brought the Duke to stardom John Ford saying he wanted to enlist, on one occasion inquiring whether he could get into John Ford's military unit.
Wayne did not attempt to prevent his reclassification as 1-A (draft eligible), but Republic Studios was emphatically resistant to losing him since he was their only A-list actor under contract. Herbert J. Yates, the President of Republic Studios, threatened Wayne with a lawsuit if he walked away from his contract, and Republic Pictures interfered in the Selective Service process, requesting Wayne's further deferment.
The U.S. National Archives records indicate that Wayne, in fact, did make an application to serve in the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the literal precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and had been accepted within the U.S. Army's allotted billet to the OSS.
William J. Donovan, Commander of the OSS, wrote Wayne a letter informing him of his acceptance into the Field Photographic Unit, but the letter went to his estranged wife Josephine's home and she never told him about it.
Wayne toured U.S. bases and hospitals in the South Pacific for three months in 1943 and 1944 with the USO.
During this very trip, he carried out a request from Donovan to assess whether General Douglas MacArthur, commander of the South West Pacific Area, or his staff were hindering the work of the OSS. Donovan later issued Wayne an OSS Certificate of Service to memorialize Wayne's contribution to the OSS mission.
So the claims on him being a Draft Dodger that has been popping up on the internet for the past few years are withholding the reasons behind it and not telling you the full story at all.
Wayne was so guilt ridden even though it was no fault of his own circumstantially that he worked harder to be a public champion of patriotism in order to compensate and you should blame Republic Studios and a wrong address for Wayne not serving in uniform during World War Two when he was more than willing to do his part.
I encourage you to read the biographies on Wayne to get the full story since as the saying goes: Don't believe everything on the internet.
And that portrayal there is correct, the First Battalion of the Third United States Infantry are not purely ceremonial guards who watch over Arlington National Cemetery and other similar functions such as being an honor guard when foreign dignitaries visit.
They are a multipurpose unit who can be deployed outside the United States or respond to an emergency situation in the District of Columbia including but not limited to conducting riot control as illustrated in the Insurrection Act of 1807, which if enacted is one of the few exceptions to the Posse Comitatus Act.
Although The Old Guard primarily functions in a ceremonial role, it is an infantry unit and thus required to meet standards for certification in its combat role. The unit also trains for its support role to civil authorities in a wide range of scenarios and for deployments in support of overseas contingency operations. In order, it conducts defense in support of civil authorities in the National Capital Region and deploys elements in support of overseas contingency operations.
And you might not believe it with the above in mind but as much as I sincerely didn't want to change Scooby-Doo here as Shaggy and the Mystery Machine are part of the heart - even the soul - that made the franchise great, in all fairness as a repercussion due to a failed Hippie Movement - even though Shaggy is technically a Beatnik that was more 1950s than a 1960s Hippie and yes I know it's confusing - it's very likely that it would be seen as problematic.
And I'm still sure you weren't expecting John Wayne, Steve McQueen, and both famous and obscure country musicians to appear or to have an ending that was inspired directly from an actual occurrence as uploaded in this video available on YouTube:
Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Buck Owens, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, Jerry Reed & Freddie Hart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJ8QRjXochI
I can confirm that Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Buck Owens, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, Jerry Reed, and Freddie Hart were all awesome beyond belief when they sang together!
They are all legends in their own right but all lineup together?
It was a dream come true and to be honest, I thought I was drunk when I saw the title and watched it but it turned out I wasn't! :D
And while Jimmy Sweeney has faded into obscurity even though he did advise Elvis Presley, believe it or not there are some significant similarities between them as part of this despite being two different singers.
Case in point: Check out Jimmy Sweeney's song 'Sick, Sick, Sick' which as of the time of publication is available on YouTube uploaded by BenBop1965 and you can see, well more like hear what I mean. 'Boogie Woogie Jockey' and 'What'cha Gonna Do About Me?' are pretty catchy tunes as well :)
Sweeney in my opinion deserves more recognition than being an influence to Presley so hopefully you enjoy his inclusion and appearance alongside some more famous country musicians.
Admittedly I might have gone overboard with the lyrics here and I perfectly understand but at the sametime I think the oversaturation is justifiable given the setting and circumstances. Even so, this will be an outlier and none of the other chapters will be overlaid with it.
Anyway, I sincerely apologize for the delay but at least there's two new chapters available and while I cannot give a timeframe for the next one, just be aware that I am still resolved and committed to seeing this tale through no matter what.
P.S. Did anyone notice that the legendary rodeo star and country singer Chris Ledoux made his appearance?
Of course he wasn't the first as Arnold Schwarzenegger has appeared in this tale nor will they be the last.
And I've already hinted at a certain someone appearing down the line not to mention the fate of Sylvester Stallone even though it's only a mention so far regarding the latter.