The Ordo Imperialis - Dark Solace

[Kenji Solvang]

The Ordo Imperialis

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Hey guys, figured I'd lay some info down before I get into the story so here we go.

well as far as I go... I was apart of the GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) under Yuri Fonzarelli. My Position at the ending of that career was Republic Commando and head engineer, horray I want a cookie. Right, so after a bad...Situation I along with Keith Daguerre (Xang Xiao) joined the Ordo Imperialis. And have been with it ever since, even during the time it was down.

Now I have been finding my abilities to go on raids less and less like good-fun-fighting, and more of me turning into cannon fodder as my Computer would not allow me to do any better. So I decided to Write a story based on The original concept of the Ordo Imperialis. As Aryte had designed it. As it was sapose to be a Futureistic Roman style Millitary. Now I took it further and made an entire universe and story setting around it, both past and present. Being as most stories I have read seem to have humans in them I decided to take it a different direction. So in other wrds, there are no humans....and I'm not sorry. Now imagine if the Aliens we meet are not green bodied small creatures, or even some large monster. what if, they were a humanoid version of the very feral animals we have on earth. Well here we go. Now this is a furry story, but it takes place 4000 years after we left our home known as Earth. Now I don't want to give away too much, but this is 2000 years after a great war that crippled the "Clans" of the former setting. So after 500 Years they reformed a Republic in the form of a democracy known as the Ordos Centurio (Civilian Order) headed by four members of a Preatorian Order. Now to defend the teritories of the Ordo, they formed a Millitary known as the Ordo Imperialis (Imperial Order).

Now my story takes place 1500 years after the Ordo was formed. Where some of the former powerfull deligates were exiled for War Crimes, they were known as the "Orsii" (Ore-Sigh)and ended up on the fringes of Ordo Territory. My story follows a Ferrata Squad known as Shadow Claw ("Umbra Ungula" in Latin) as they take on missions in service of the Ordo.

The members are: in ascending rank

Lynceus "Lynx" Glaicermaw - (E-5) Decurion Sergeant

Kenji Solvang - (E-4) Veteran Sergeant

Greymane Darkholm - (E-4) Veteran Sergeant

Flynn "Brisk" Sapure - (E-2) Legionary Corporal

So without further adue, I give you:

The Ordo Imperialis - Dark Solace

[Kenji Solvang]

Ordo Imperialis - Dark Solace

By Scott Kephart

Prologue

Humans... the past shows they are the first here.

They are wrong.

We once had a beacon of civilization; one that rivaled any - anywhere. We were a multitude of species, with Earth as our home. We are not sure how things began, but we did discover a part of our world was somehow closed off to us. For years this was the case - this "grove" sheltered from our eyes - until something happened. Ancient clan tales spoke of one clan's attempt to gain access to this grove - an attempt that only succeeded in bringing forth the grove's inhabitants.

This grove sheltered a new sentient race, along with many species of feral beasts. We knew nothing of them; for generations they spread through much of the world. Though they were peaceful enough, no one trusted them. We set up trade with them, trying to accept them, but they worshiped us as if we were gods. Fools.

Change. Change is often something one wills away - as if Change is the very evil one fears. Earth was now a human world. Much of it was controlled by them, and we had no say. As fast as the humans came, we were forced to leave. At least we were able to build our new home.... it was originally built as a research station, but it ended up being our salvation. We left the "Milky Way" as it is known now and for twenty years we flew through space. Some died from disease, while others died..... for reasons we still don't understand.

Eventually we came across a planet - rich with plant life, terran in every way. We settled on this world, calling it Stallis. The old ways separated us across our new home, split apart in clans, and we thrived. Eventually we spread to other planets, terraforming them as we went. It was a glorious time; but as we learned, certain things cannot be left behind. War - war never changes, and the conflict that taught us this was devastating. Many of the great clans were left in shambles and we had no one to blame but ourselves.

So we learned.

Four races unified the remains of the old clans. We formed what we call Ordo. An "Order" of government where we no longer wanted power or wealth - we just wanted to live and better ourselves. Once this order was forged, we needed a force for protection. One that would rival any other, and not stand for the evils we had already faced - especially the ones we created ourselves.

"Ordo Imperialis" in the main language means "Imperial Order" - a force created by the unified clans for the Organization and safeguard of all races that stand under one banner - Ordo. We do not wish for glory - we make our own Honor. Most of all, we keep our people safe from anything that may harm them, Foreign or Domestic. We are the peace keepers. We... are the Imperial Order.

-In Hominorum Imperator

Location - Tomaria, Tome system

Aboard Blazing Talon, Navis Constello class Jump Ship

"Blazing Talon to Titan Command, come in..." the pilot of the jump ship said in a flat, almost bored voice as she flew toward the huge Titan-class command ship.

"Jump ship Blazing Talon, welcome to the fight. You are cleared for Hanger 2; bring her in."

"Roger that, Titan command. Glad to be of service." The pilot glanced out over the enormous bulk of the dated-looking yet still impressive command vessel, her own ship looking tiny by comparison. The Titan-class was one of the older designs in Ordo's Navis, looking like a giant chunky U with a pair of engines on its bottom. The space between the jutting halves of the ship had almost enough space to fit one of Ordo's enormous destroyers. The ship had the feel of a giant carrier, but the jump ship pilot knew the Titan was far more than that - she was also an extremely important command ship that would never in any situation put itself in danger.

The pilot guided her jump ship under the dwarfing Titan toward the opening hatch in one forward "wing," the bulk of the much larger ship filling her view as she drew closer. As her ship neared the hatch, her escorts broke off to join the rest of the Ordo fleet in formation around the Titan. Soon the drop ship manuevered into position under the yawning hatch and began to rise inside. A number pad lit up near the pilot's interface counting down to when she would hit berth. She typed in a series of key codes and the keypad turned green, indicating access had been granted. Blue lights lit up around the jump ship as it began to settle in, giving the pilot her cue for final authorization. Another key code from her activated catching arms which flew in to hold the ship in place.

The bay doors began to close, announced by rotating lights around the perimeter of the hatch. The pilot turned on an external camera and watched the doors grind slowly closed. After a long wait the door finally finished closing and the air inside began to repressurize while gravity was restored. An outer shield deactivated, which allowed the pilot to see that the jump ship was now in the company of several other identical ships as well as an Ordo frigate that was undergoing maintenence. Taking a long sigh, she opened the side hatch to allow her passengers access to the decks of the Titan.

Lynx, Grey, Brisk and I among 12 other Ferrata Squads walked out of the drop ship and towards the directed path to the briefing room and "cool down" rooms we would be in for two days. Inside I could see 3 other Drop ships above the one we were in. A Frigate up higher was currently being worked on. I then stole a look at the bay doors. No Force field, puzzled I nudged Grey who followed my gaze and nodded

"I looked at the technical schismatics of the titans, evidently they use their own weapon systems apart from the fleet and since most are so old, they don't have upgrades like that missing force field"

"Interesting, wait, how did you get your paws on schematics of a Flagship?"

"I'm an engineer Kenji, I could get the technical readouts of the fire base in Titan if I needed them" I didn't believe him, still......

"So could you get the readouts of say the Imperator's Bunker?" I asked

"Not really, nor do I want them." Grey finished and continued on. I giggled to myself. I loved doing that to him, I knew he couldn't get them, though before I knew he couldn't get a Titan's readouts so..... I moved on and looked up sniffing in the air, it was fresh, opposite of what the Blazing Talon was like, felt like a Destroyer's Engine room inside, and they had us next to the fusion engine, least that's what it felt like. It was also very cool, witch made me glad, considering I was in my uniform.

We continued down the corridor witch was a gray and black theme with Ordo's insignia painted on the wall in between what I figured were breach arches. As we moved a Feline officer greeted us, she looked small like a Siamese. She had green eyes and like all felines I encountered, she looked pissed. All 12 Squads stopped including ours and saluted, she did so as well.

"At ease gentlemen, I'm here to direct you to your new quarters." she said still in the pissed look, and gave all of us a look down as if she was counting us "Good, follow me." we grabbed our gear and followed her.

The next morning, the entire ship was on alert. We woke up to Klaxons Blaring, and ran to the only window our bunks had, out side one of the Destroyers was blown in half. I almost didn't beleive it. The "Kamasitra" one of our escorts here, was buckling and fell to the planet in two pieces, I looked at Lynx who was next to me, and he stared back in fear.

We got our Armor on as fast as possible, all 12 squads, throwing this and that to each other getting ready.... for whatever was going on. For two hours we never got anything. Lynx was putting polish on Nightbane while Brisk was typing in a console, he had a hard look on his face. I didn't even need to wonder why. I looked over at Grey, he was starring at his Girlfriends picture. The one I met once, she had red curly hair, and was like him a leopard but black. I smiled inside a little.

"GOT IT!" Brisk meowed practically.

We all looked at him, when Jester the other Comy walked over, they both were reading the screen when Lynx piped up

" Bring it up Brisk, lets hear it." Brisk flicked his tail and did so

"MAYDAY MAYDAY, this is Legionnaire Brant, we have multiple enemy movement, base defenses are down, I repeat, Multiple enemy mov........"

The transmission ended but in the background we could hear railguns blasting away. A punisher class Mech walked by. And I heard the distinct Roar of a Lion turn gargle then fade. I almost heard fear as well. Everyone was quiet. A deck officer ran into the room, we all Stood strait, he motioned for us to come.

" Ferrata, proceed with me to the Briefing, as I know you know." He sighed a little "things just got worse."

Grey and I looked at each other grimly and followed as quickly as we could.

We were sat down, everyone was quiet and it scared me, never were we ever this quiet. A Centurion walked in and we all stood fast and Saluted, he stopped at the desk and saluted back. "Greetings Ferrata, I am Centurion Redmond." The Lynx put down a pad and faced us. "I'm sorry we meet under such a dire situation, but as you know 3 hours ago we received an alert from the surface of "Tomaria" as well as one of our Destroyers were lost."

He sighed "Reports tell us that there was no ion charge from the planet, just that the Kamasitra's Shield's buckled, and the Hull was ripped apart."

Some of Ferrata murmered a little. Normally that would have not happened. But two shields buckling symotaniously.... The Lynx then inserted a card into the pedestal and the wall behind him lit up showing the "Kamasitra" stilled while in two pieces. " But we were able to deduce that this was indeed a weapon from the surface."

He clicked a button and blueish dust appeared around the destroyed area of the ship as well as a trail from the surface. "This is what we uncovered, we don't know what it is, or how it works. But, we do know where it came from." The screen moved to the surface and showed a red area "This is where field command is"- then blue lit up in the same area "And this is where what ever that is, came from." we all looked at each other "We've lost contact with the base, and sent a arial in for a layout of what's there. But, there is nothing." He sighed again while shifting his feet. He started agian as he leaned on the plateform.

"Now we need you to go down there, and find out what happened, all your other missions are now scrubbed." he walked over to the side of the pedestal "Any questions?" no one said anything, we were all too angry to come up with anything that would be a question. " Alright." he said sternly "you will be dropped in by pod, move out Hunters." We all got up and left for the pod level.

As we walked, I could smell anger emanating from everyone, and that brought a smile to me inwardly.

Location - "Titan" in the Vinashara System

Planetside in the Volcanic Base "Toginara"

Aryte paced in his office as he often did, the deep coolness blew on his face and moved his Armor/uniform as he moved. He paced with his hands behind his back and his sword wobbling with every movement as if to complain at his impatience. He looked at his office door, then continued his placid but impatient walk. "It should have been here by now...." He said quietly to himself. Just then as if an explosion went off, the door burst open. Aryte put one hand on his Gladius, his other at his side as his ears went up as to take in every sound. He stood there and watched as Praetor Ryoaku and Kira walked in followed by one of his Frumentarii agents. A mouse in Recon armor. The mouse saw him and snapped to attention. He did so as well in response. Ryoaku just stood there smiling, trying to "lighten" the mood as usual while Kira was emotionless and had her arms crossed.

"Sir, I have news from Decurion Corvan." said the mouse still at attention

"At ease son, and when you are ready tell me everything, I have been waiting for you." Aryte replied showing a small smile.

"Sir, the Centurion has arrived with 12 Squads of Ferrata's finest. As we speak they are being sent down to the surface for recon, what they were able to see so far is most disturbing, and even more so Sir.... we lost a Destroyer - the "Kamasitra" The mouse pulled out a small pad no bigger then a slip of paper and read it. "We were able to pull out a total of 580 officers from the carnage and from the escape pods."

"The Centurion has ordered a full investigation and rescue operation on the surface, but....." the spy stopped for a sec.

"Go on son, I must hear this." the spy continued his voice a little shaky.

"Reports say that the cities are completely destroyed, the one outpost is all that is still intact but no communications have been established. Estimates of civilian loss say over 40,000 families, and Military loss including the destroyer are a little over 8,000."

Aryte wanted to fall on the floor and throw up, but he held his composure - if not for the man here, then for his own sanity. "Very well, Send word to the Centurion that I want no more losses, get the survivors out and get out, understood?"

"Yes, my Imperator." the spy Saluted and left.

Ryoaku looked at Aryte with a grim look on her face "We should never have sent anyone there, we had reports of...."

"I know Kira, you don't have to remind me, I am as much at fault as you are but right now I intend to save the ones I can and worry about the repercussions later." Aryte looked at Kira "These men are the best, let them do their....." "Jobs!? what about us Aryte.... I am sorry to be so hard on you but this....is an outrage." "We went there peacefully, there was no need for them to exterminate us....."

Kira started again but Ryoaku cut her off. "Kira... one day you will understand, we moved in on their land. We invaded them, not the other way around." Ryoaku looked at Aryte as she said. "To them we are the transgressors." Kira stood there starring at the ground for a moment longer. She almost looked like she was crying.

Finally she said "Its a waste, a goddamn waist....." and trailed off out the door. Aryte looked over at Ryoaku who looked back warmly.

"She's young Aryte." She said as walked over and leaned against his desk. "Don't worry, she'll grow the calluses soon enough."

"I know, your right but then again...she's right as well."

"I know...." Ryoaku let a small smile out as she looked down to the ground. She looked back right into Arytes eyes "That's what makes her so irritable."

Two hours later - Stallis home world " The City of Mane' "

As usual a required prematory meeting was needed, all of the Preatorian and Legionary council save Decurion Corvan was there. Aryte was expected to speak, and given the situation..... it was placid at best. Aryte knew this, and best of all one of his Officers might be put under a microscope. Aryte knew it was no ones fault, but this, this needed to be addressed. He walked down the hall with Sly behind him, the feline keeping no more then three steps behind. Aryte had known him for a long time, even before he was the Imperator. Sly offered his audience when he needed too. But only at Aryte's request, still not even this, Sly could help him with.

When he reached the doors the two guards (bears) stood at attention weapons drawn up starring strait. Aryte looked at each one. As he expected, they didn't look back. They weren't sapose too. Just then the doors opened creaking with a sound that made Aryte feel unwanted, he sighed and started in. Sly turned on his Stealth system and went silent before either of them could even be seen.

Aryte continued to his own seat, and sat when Idella got up. Her wings hanging over her thin but large body she moved in her own Dragon like grace to the center so everyone could see her. She was a full blooded Dragon, and as old as she was she was the most intelligent and wise Preator of them all.

"Council, I thank you for coming. I have called for this meeting to bring to light a disaster that fell upon our people. In the Tome system we may have lost 40,000 of our people as well as the military force that guarded them. And as distressing as this is, it.... brings a new light to the planet if not for what we had planned for it then perhaps for a new enemy to show it's ugly head, and ban us. Or was it simply an undertaking on our part that cost us dearly, we must discuss this, as we speak more of our hunters go to save those that may yet live. My heart and I know all of yours go with them that they may save who they can. I now turn the floor to the Imperator of the Ordo Imperialis." Idella looked at Aryte as she said it, then moved around towards her seat, her tail trailing behind her.

Aryte then stood and moved to the center, his tail and dress part of his uniform trailing. He sighed

"Thank you Preator Idella, as she has said a standard Terra group left for the Tome system. For a Planet called "Tomaria." Aryte shifted his glasses. "Now weeks earlier a scout team of Astra's finest the 301st scouted the planet out. It was a deserted planet, with no life and still at a young age. Showing and I say again no life. After providing this information to the fleet the Colonists were allowed to get started. When the colonists reached the planet they set up their Terraforming systems with the Terra/Navis force securing the rest of the planet in efforts for a new colony. As expected reports showed no discernible life and no problems."

"Now on Aprilis the second Navis fleet Commander Garius lost contact with the surface. He then dispatched a team of rescue pods with a Preada escort. When they arrived the cities were destroyed, and no life signs could be found anywhere, and so the rescue team then moved to the base where they were immediately destroyed."

A little murmering started but quickly stopped. "By what?" Aryte looked around

"We do not know." He looked down again at his pad

"The Preata escort however fought back, and from thier bravery were able to get some shots of the race that attacked. These will be viewed later." "However, the Preada Stars were recalled before they too could be lost." Aryte paused when he heard the council room doors open.

It was two Curia and Commander Garius. Garius stood there in his full uniform and his sidearm was removed. Aryte nodded toward them and continued "After this he called for Navis Reinforcements."

"Legates Keith Daguerre" Aryte moved his paw toward Keith who nodded.

"Was called and sent twelve of Tetria Ferrata's Squads in the company of two Wolverine class BattleCruisers, three Corvanis class Destroyers and The Ordo Flag ship "The Projanator."

"Commanded by Centurion Redmond Corvan." Aryte shifted

"The next day Aprilis the Third. Corvan arrived, debriefed the Commander, and took command of the Investigation they are now conducting. Farrata's Orders are to secure the area, rescue any survivors they find and get out."

Once Aryte was done He took off his glasses as the Council started murmuring "Council." Aryte started again lifting his paw into the air

"I know that this loss is a horrible one, but I ask for you to allow my Warriors to do their jobs." "We do not know yet all the details but we do know that the cities and Military base were destroyed by a species that lives there. And I assure you we will not leave until everyone who is still alive is pulled out and brought home safe."

The Council room was now quiet as Aryte looked around, he knew they would question Garius next though there was not much more he could tell them that Aryte had already said. Still it was the procedure and at least he wasn't to blame, after all the Hare did what he was suppose to do. Nothing more could be done or said.

"I shall take my leave now, and turn the floor to Preator Idella, thank you." Aryte nodded towards his seat and left passing Garius who looked at him. Aryte stopped looked into Garius's eyes and said one thing to the Cabbit. "Good luck." He then continued on with the invisible Sly right behind him. When they were further down Sly spoke up witch suprized Aryte.

"You didn't tell them that the Ferrata Squads were already en-rout to the Tome System for another assignment?" he asked like a child asking their father a question.

Aryte smiled, he liked it when his guard was confused. It made him seem less perfect "No need to tell them that, I do not want to cloud the issue at hand Sly. Besides, they are too busy with the Planet and this new threat to care. Anyway, it was scrubbed and a long shot mission at best." Aryte smiled so that sly could see him. "Don't worry, I am not withholding anything from them." "But I do ask that you don't ask me about it again."

"Yes Sir." he said without any emotion at all. Aryte continued on. It was a long shot, a very long shot.....right?

Location - Tomaria, Tome system

Aboard Blazing Talon, Navis Constello class Jump Ship

Lynx got tired of the procedures, whether they were necessary or not. Ferrata was transferred back to the jump ship they came on and then 4 hours of staying on the drop ship inside the jump ship they were finally ready for launch, the Jump ship had to move into position. Moving a Flag ship into a defenseless position is unheard of after all.

Twelve very impatient and eager Ferrata squads waited for the "short drop into Hell" as some troops called it. The fighter squadrons flew over the landing area. It evidently took this long for them to secure it for drop. After what happened before they weren't taking any more chances. All that would let Lynx know of the pending drop was a light that was currently red, and would go amber for 4 minutes, then green and they would drop like a bat out of Hell.

Lynx stole a look around. It was a well designed system, all of the soldiers were held in place with bars that came down in front of them, and they were separated from each other on both sides for encase the pod came under attack then each soldier could be launched in a smaller pod, and wait for pickup. Up a little in front of him was a long walkway where you would have to step down to get into the seats. There were two steps were one had warning yellow and black stripping to let you know there is a step here.

Lynx looked up at his squad, witch wasn't much to see. Both Grey and Kenji were asleep, and Brisk was starring past the bulkhead, most likely thinking of what to do when they reached touchdown. Brisk snapped out of it and looked over back at Lynx, who smiled at him. Brisk smiled back and gave him a paws up.

Just then the door opened with a drop officer looking for them "Lynx's Squad? Come with me."

Lynx looked at Brisk again and then they started waking up Kenji and Grey. "Squad, we have a new objective for you." The Rabbit sighed and handed Lynx a pad. "You will go down with a lancehawk and scout the area as the pod lands."

"See if you can get a hold of Mekal, he is in charge of the base. If not then speak with who ever else is in charge, but let them know we are still here, and wait for the rest of your group."

Both Grey and Brisk looked at each other "Sir, Mekal is down there?"

"Yes, you both know him?"

"Yes sir, he is a friend of ours, least before he left into the Ordo 10 years ago."

"Good, well he is in charge of a command group down there, they were put in command of the guard detail for the Terran-ation." "Mekal is in Command, with Roshek for the Armored core, then Serantis is the Communications Officer, and Michelle is the Moral officer." "Make contact and wait for the rest of your task force, understood?"

They all saluted "Yes, Sir." the drop officer saluted and left.

Lynx nodd to the others and they reported for the smaller drop pods.

They arrived in time to see a strange pod over a port hole, the pod was almost shaped like a lancehawk only bulkier. "Wow, bulkier then I thought it would be."

"Smaller too."

"what does it have for armaments?"

"A duel Cruor turret and twin Vulcanus cannons." Lynx said

"The turret is controlled by a passenger while the pilot controls the Volcanus' on the front."

The three wowed for a few minutes "GUNNER SEAT!"

"GUNNER SEAT!" "FRACK!" Grey won.

With that 4 fully armed and Armored Ferrata Warriors climbed into the "pod." Lynx got front, Grey got gunners seat while Brisk and Kenji sat in the middle next to the port holes, they quickly buckled in.

Grey was playing with the turret controls when the amber light came on. "4 minutes to drop, make sure your tray tables and seats are in their upright and locked positions and enjoy your drop into hell. thank you for flying Pod Airs, where we aim to please." came the voice of the Deck Officer.

Lynx smiled from his front seat witch all he saw was blackness.

"Do they have a in flight movie sir?" Grey and Brisk giggled while Lynx just gave Kenji a snort and looked back to his window of blackness. Then the ticker went to zero, as the light went green and they dropped.

Lynx felt his stomach fly strait up into his throat.

2 hours later - Planetside Lavitas Base

Mekal walked out into a new morning. The air was saturated with smoke from the carnage that issued the night before. It had been a long night, and it may be a long day but Mekal just wanted to take a moment for himself. As he stood on the top concrete step he closed his eyes and tried picturing home.

He saw the old tree he use to climb when he was a kitten, he loved that tree, it was huge to him and like his mom when ever he was in it, he felt....safe, like nothing else mattered. He could climb to the top and never feel sad or scared, just.......safe. He could hear Birds singing to each other about the news of the day as they passed him out toward the large field that he would run every day, just because he could. "Come on, what are you doing." he said to himself quietly.

He snapped himself out of it. This isn't him, retreating like this. He was in charge and these men need him, he looked around seeing there were no birds singing, no field, instead there was nothing but the crackling sound of fires burning while in the distance screams and cries of the wounded not yet found.....not yet helped. There was too many of them and too few to help them. At least he could hear a few shushes of the ones still alive and able to help as they tried to calm down the others that were either missing half of their bodies, or worse.

All Mekal could do was stand there and hope, for what who knows but he can't just give up. Mekal forced himself to reality and focused on what he saw while sniffing the air, other then the smell of death there was nothing else. He started down the concrete steps of the now destroyed communications center, as he moved he passed the destroyed carcass of a Venerator, they had pulled the pilot out last night, but in vein since he didn't make it. Mekal ignored it. Then it hit him. Battle fatigue is what he felt. Of course, other warriors have been recorded with it, caused them to escape from reality and into their own minds. Great, now not only does he have to worry about what Warriors he had left but his own sanity as well, he forced himself to move on, and as he did so a Warrior was running at him.

One of the survivors from the "Rescue" pods that was shot down, on its way here. The Report Mekal is going to have to write will be interesting at the very least. Besides what the hell was he going to write down, how was he even going to start.... The Warrior stopped in front of him and Saluted, Mekal gave one back.

"Report?"

"Not good sir." the Coyote said

"We lost...." Mekal interrupted him

"Don't tell me what we lost Corbin, tell me who is still alive, that's more important right now."

Corbin nodded liking this report more " 251 Sir. that includes the survivors from the Pods and 15 Civies out of the 30 we pulled from the destroyed Terris Manis." Corbin gave a wry smile.

"Some are wounded though, we have them inside the makeshift Triage Hut, and Sir, some of them survived the.... whatever the hell that was."

"How are they?"

"We have them sedated and as comfortable as we could do, they are ok though." Corbin stopped the smile and gave the ground a look. "How I have no idea." Mekal thought to himself

"Keep on it, report to me if anything changes."

"Will do Sir."

With that Corbin and Mekal saluted and Corbin was off. Mekal stood there for a minute more, he turned to the Venerator. He felt anger rise up from his stomach, but he ignored it and went back into the Com center. As Mekal got to the doors he looked one of the guards in the eyes, and Mekal could see it. Both with their ears down "No, I will not have that...." he walked up to one of the gaurds. "Warrior, I will not have that."

He looked at the other one "From either of you, what are you." he asked, neither said anything "I asked for an Answer Cats. Are you both some kind of mute Unic's?" that got their attention and they both lifted their eyes with a sharpened look on their faces.

"What are you?!"

"WARRIORS, SIR!" they both yelled

"That's better. Now if any other "Warriors" come into this building and they have that same sad and dumb look, I expect you to ask them the same thing." Mekal was pissed, but not at them. "Now as you were!"

Mekal screamed and then went inside. He knew he pissed them off with the terms.... but he had too, anger is a lot more useful then fear, or doubt. The last thing he wanted was two scared gaurds.

The doors opened and inside he saw a center console with a Large Bear, a Lion who had a Bandage on his throat, and a Smaller Feline all "discussing" in heightened tones.

They were his command group. Mekal started toward them, his news may brighten their moods....maybe. As he walked up the Lion saw him and Saluted, witch made the other two stop and salute as well. Mekal forced a smile and saluted as well

"I got word that 251 of our people made it, witch is more then I expected. how are we on everything else?"

The lion spoke first, Roshek "Sir, Communications is down, base defenses are down, and we have enough rations for, say two months?" Michelle spoke up next.

"Communications is more then down, we are blind." She looked up. "But as if it matters. It's not like anyone's up top, the battle group should have left by now as per procedure." "Anyway, I have the Engineers on it, but with what we have left....I doubt it."

Mekal nodded "Ok, remind me to post a complaint to the council. But I still feel a nagging want for what we DO have then?" Serantis was next

"Our supplies is low, we have plenty of nano paste, but nothing to program it with, our explosives stores are close to full but weapons and ammo are limited." He sighed "For now we are going to have to rely on our skills with our blades." Serantis looked at Roshek "But considering how that went, I....well we are all thinking it but no one is saying it."

"Nor will anyone either Serantis......" Mekal said tersely. He walked away from the console and looked around. The Comm center was left at minimal power witch was enough for lights and the little communications they had.

Mekal walked back to the console and looked at it "So what your telling me is if we were attacked again, the best we could do is rocks and sticks, then hope we die quickly."

No one said anything. Just then a holo screen came up. "Incoming transmission." Serantis said as he immediately started trying to trace it

"I thought you said communications is down?" Mekal asked puzzled

"It is, we tried everything, but nothing can get through, the nearest planet is just to far for what we have."

"Could it be angels up above?"

Serantis looked at Michelle with a hard look on his face "No, even if they were up there the best we could do is send a pulse to them. But all that would do is tell them we are here, and that's it."

"Drop Pod." Roshek spoke up.

"Maybe, it's worth a look."

"Then answer it."

Serantis nodded and then started tapping on the console. He looked up and a holo screen appeared with a female rat wearing an old Corhort uniform. Her demeanor showed her to be grinning as if she was a queen.

"Well well, as if it isn't the mighty Ordo, brought down to there knees." she giggled. In a not so cute way. "Tell me, great and powerful Levitas, proud anymore?"

Mekal was too stunned to get angry....yet. "Who is this, and what do you want?"

The Rat stopped the queen act and went to a humorous one, as if she was laughing at them. "Huh, so if your brought to your knees then you suddenly become stupid, very well I'll play along, and try to use small words so you can follow me."

Mekal was angry now but before he could say anything she continued "Your on our planet, so we sent you and those poor colonists a "welcome" party. But as it turns out you couldn't hold up to thier level of.....say "fun." "But they didn't destroy you fully....pity, so now I am forced to see how things are going and wonder if you need me to rectify this problem."

"No, were fine. Though, if you do want to come. By all means, I'd love to throw my own party." Mekal said trying to hide his anger with a smile. "Though I am not surprised. Leave it to a bunch of Ferals to resort to having someone else do their work for them. No honor back then, and still no honor now." Mekal shot back.

The rat wasn't laughing anymore "Honor? We shall see if honor holds you out when I'm standing over you and the last thing you see is the flies over your dead corpse!"

The transmission ended, and Mekal looked at Roshek who looked back. "Why am I not surprised?" Roshek finally said. "Do you think she is coming to prove what she said?"

"If she doesn't then surprise will be the last thing on my mind, we can't handle another attack from what she sent the first time."

"We need reinforcements."

"We need to leave...."

Mekal walked away from the console pondering when one of the guards ran in. "Sir, we got reports of a Drop pod landing near by and a Lancehawk just showed up at the gate!"

"It can't be...."

"No, no way can they have a lancehawk or one of our pods, it has to be us."

Roshek said, to himself more then anyone else. A red light started blinking on the console in front of him. "I'm getting an ID." He tapped the console when a screen came up with a Ferrata logo. "Its....Ferrata sir."

"Thank the gods...." "Guardsman, show them in, and tell them they are most welcome."

"What do you guys see?" Lynx asked over the com.

"Dirt, rocks, and sand." We responded, scanning out across the area. We landed with a nice bang, and started off for the base. Lynx had me and Grey look around with our scopes witch had better range then his eyes. It was day, but not very hot considering how it was very bright.

"Are you sure those are the coordinates, because I don't see anything."

"could they have a hologram up?"

"No, there was no amountable energy signature....." Replied Brisk.

I saw something that didn't make sense, almost like the ground stopped..... "Lynx, I found something, they are in a crater."

"How do you know?"

"Look my way, I see a lip where it falls. It looks good for where they are suppose to be, not to mention the smell....."

"Smell?"

"Yeah, it smells like something died. can't you smell it?"

"Feline Kenji."

"Oh yeah." I said realizing.

Lynx moved his head as if he was rolling his eyes. "Ok, Brisk Let Kenji out and head over there, we'll cover you."

"On it." I said, and started out towards the "lip.".

When I got there, I looked down into the "crater" But there was to much smoke, then I saw them. I felt like I would throw up, the ground where the base was. Was red with blood, I could see soldier's bodies torn apart, their armor now their tomb.

The places I didn't see blood, were covered with smoke. One of the prided Venerators was mangled near the Com Center. I could see blood streaks where the pilot was pulled out. I lifted my arm and closed my fist signaling them to me. Lynx slowly moved the Lancehawk towards me and pulled up behind me.

"My.....god......."

Lynx barely said as he looked down the crater. The suprize present in his voice. Grey and Brisk were getting out "See if you can find the survivors...."

"Yes Sir."

I zoomed into a place where there was less smoke, it almost looked like a makeshift medical bay. Several Levitas soldiers were laying still and some were writhing while several others were holding their hands, trying to calm them down. A Civilian Doc was moving from soldier to soldier trying to help whom he could.

"Found them Sir, their in what looks like a Triage Hut."

"Sir, look over there, I see an entrance, looks like we will have to jump off the cliff, and hit here." "From there it should be easier to reach the entrance, or what's left of it." Brisk said as he moved up.

He brought up coordinates on our HUD, Grey moved back trying to hold off his bodies reaction.

"Then let's get them out, everyone pile back in, Brisk send a message to the Drop ship, give them our position."

"Already on it Lynx."

We climbed back into the LanceHawk and Lynx flew off the edge towards Levitas' base entrance.

"Lynx, Grey, good, I was afraid we were alone in this." Mekal came out to greet us. "Please tell me good news."

"Sir, we came with 12 squads and a armored division, we're here to pull you out. The rest should be here soon, but for now we need to know all you know."

Mekal nodded, and led us to the Com center. I looked around at the soldiers, and could only see very little in the way of anger, more of fear...... As we walked Mekal started.

"A few days ago we received an alert from the outer Terran colony, they said some strange creatures were tearing apart the machines. So, I decided to send one of our Platoons to help, it was no use." "They gave them hell all right but instead of fighting them back, the platoon was ripped apart.... Next came the rest of the colony." Mekal looked down at the Venerator. "So we sent in the 90th Armored, and recalled all the other colonies, just in case." Mekal stopped to pick up a Poena from the ground. He showed it to us. The Small pistols being "just" a pistol was made to withstand a lot, even a railgun shot. the Poena that he had was missing its entire barrel and looked like some creature bit it in half. Mekal continued on "They did better, but not without paying the price as well. Thing I didn't get was the soldiers, well all they did was just bite them."

"Did they call for back up or anything?"

"Of course, they fell and screamed. Who wouldn't. And we sent help." Mekal swollowed dryly "But the creatures just bit them, no fighting, and it didn't even look natural." "Not to mention the armor did nothing to protect them." Mekal closed his eyes, and continued "Then the creatures moved on, when all the terris manis' were destroyed, that's when they left, we aren't sure why or where they went either."

I looked to my Squad "Kenji, get to your Sniper position, alert us if you see anything first. Grey, go see if you can help with Levitas, Brisk go wait for the rest of ferrata, Show Jayce in here when they arrive. and Brisk."

"Yes sir?"

"tell him to hurry." They saluted, and left "Sorry sir, please continue."

Mekal looked like he wanted to fall over, but he instead continued. "We brought back the wounded to the infermory, but all we could find was that they were bit." "so naturally we patch them up." "Nothing unusual?" No, infact they were given a clean bill of health and were sent back to the common houses that we set up for them." Lynx didn't like where this was going.... "The Soldiers went back to work, nothing bad." Mekal closed his eyes hard this time and forced the words out. "Little did we know what they did Lynx, fourteen hours ago, some of the colonists started keeling over." "We couldn't figure out why. We did all we could, but instead of helping they just got worse." Lynx felt like he would be sick "Some of them started screaming about how their chests were burning." "We should have figured it out then but we didn't."

I looked at the ground when Mekal continued "Then...... two hours ago without warning most of my men, and the civies exploded." "The ones who didn't, well we got everyone we could and ducked into here." Mekal moved his arm to point at the com center. "The stores for our weapons followed suit..... it was chaos, Brant and Roshek moved out to see what was going on, but when they did a weapons cache went off and hit Roshek in the neck, he fired off his rifle and fell over gargling. Poor lion... I and Veteran Brant brought him in and Brant tried to radio out. That's when we lost power, we could see a huge blue.... thing moving up, we couldn't figure it out, and the men..... the men were dead, the colonists were dead." Mekal sighed. "Lynx, I am talking men, women and children just all blew up....."

Mekal looked away and walked off as he wiped his face off. He moved his paw down his leg to wipe the sweat and turned around. "What else Sir?" Lynx forced himself to ask.

"Well after that, the ones who were in the Com center and I all went out and did what we could, but as you can see not many made it." he sniffed as I looked up and shifted. What are you suppose to say to that? "Sir, I feel you need to know this." Mekal lifted his ears

"What?"

I closed my eyes and then looked at him "That blue thing came up and took out one of the Destroyers. The "Kamasitra", she was lost but we did save some of her crew including her command group." Mekal looked down again. Ok, so bad news, now good news.... "Sir, we are here to pull you and everyone else out, we were sent here by Legates Daguerre himself, along with Centurion Redmond Corvan, who is leading us. He has a battle group up top waiting for us to re-establish communications."

Mekal stopped at that and looked at Lynx "Redmond Corvan is here?"

"Yes Sir, so I need you to start packing up all the wounded and everyone else so we can leave, Sir."

The Feline started walking back and forth in a line, deep in thought. He finally turned to Lynx, his eyes were feirce "Lynx, we can't go."

"Why not Sir?"

"Because Sgt." Mekal walked over to Lynx, makeing sure the Dracat was listening. "We have unfinished buisness, and the guests coming. Will need a proper welcome."

"Ferals?!" Said Jayce the lead Decurion Sargent. We were in the com Center of the base, or what was left of it. When the rest of Ferrata came here I showed Jayce to the center, while the rest of Ferrata started fanning out to help who they could, the Venerator and Agressor squads moved to a downed building and started setting it up to make room for more of the wounded. I felt better, now that we were doing something. When I and Jayce showed up Mekal told him everything, and the Wolf was furiouse, as was Lynx from what I could tell.

"Sir, your telling me this abomination was set forth by the Orsii?!" He was roaring, but no one could blame him.

"Yes, so that's why I need your help Sgt. they are headed here."

He looked at all of the Ferrata who were present and then looked at Mekal showing a small glint in his eye. "Orders Sir?" For the first time in what seemed a long time, Mekal smiled.

"Good." Mekal looked to Lynx "Lynx, we need all the warriors we can get. So I need you to heal them, are you up to it?"

"Yes Sir, I have Grey already out there now."

"Good, get who you need and help who you can." Mekal looked at Jayces Comy "Jester I want you and the other comys to help Serantis get communications back up."

"Yes Sir."

"Lets move people." We all moved.

Jester walked up to me as did the other guys. "Well you guys heard him, lets do this." I smiled and we got to it. The entire base was moving, a lot of the bodies were cleaned up and covered. While the Mechs were on Construction duty, Lynx as well as a few other Ferrata hunters were using their magic to heal the warriors. Grey along with several other Ferrata and Levitas were moving ammunition supplies and other things from the Lancehawks as they brought it in from the Drop ship.

This could work, I thought to myself, maybe we can get these guys out after all and in the mean time, get a little payback.

Mekal walked out of the Comm center, he had just talked with Centurion Redmond, who was sending a star of Warhawks to give air support. Mekal was finally feeling better, he actually felt.... excited. Ferals.... we'll show the bastards what Levitas is made of. Mekal was so far in his day dream he didn't notice brisk walking up to him. "Diamond for your thoughts?"

Mekal smiled "Nothing important Flynn, just thinking."

"Wow, your the only guy I know who still calls me by my given name and not my nick name."

"Why not." Mekal shrugged "It is your name right, besides I'm suprized Grey calls you Brisk."

"He started it. Since I am the son of the Brisk Lion...." Brisk rolled his eyes "Was annoying at first but....I don't know I guess I got use to it."

Brisk brought over a basket and let Mekal sit on it then brought over one for himself, and sat down. "How are things for you guys?" Mekal asked as he sat down.

“Well since you left Grey and Kenji got bored with life I guess. Since you were always the one who got us all into trouble." Brisk Chuckled a little. "We just went on hunting raids and that was about it, Lynx left for Astra training a while after with a friend of his. No clue who that guy is. I think Kenji knows him pritty well, you should ask him."

"I might.. if I can."

Brisk smiled a little and continued "And well, a few years later Grey and Kenji went in together. Then I left when I was old enough.” Brisk shifted Mekal widened his eyes "What?" "Your dad allowed you to go into the Millitary?"

“Hell no, my dad hated that I went in but they were offering some cool Tech training, and you know I love computers." Brisk finished smiling.

Mekal chuckled "Yeah, you always did prefer a computer over a cute girl."

"Shut up, I told you I had a girl friend, we just broke up is all."

"Right, anyway what about Grey?"

"He has a g-f but he rarely sees her." Brisk sighed "Lynx is the only one who's actually "taken" though it is rather annoying since for us to go on hunting's she has to come along all the time...."

"Come on Flynn, sounds like he loves her." Mekal playfully smacked Brisk in the shoulder "Besides can't be that bad, bet she is cute."

"To him." Brisk said in a lower voice. Mekal chuckled when comm clicked

"Sir, I see movement." Came Kenji, then Xavier piped up.

"I see it too. looks like a 5 man scout team, they are wearing old Corhorrt uniforms."

"Ferals." Kenji finished as I clicked my Com.

"Take them out guys. Everyone else lets wrap this up, sounds like our guests are comeing for a party." Brisk nodded to Mekal as they got up.

I could see them, five of them but as covertly as they were moving, they seemed like amateurs rather then well trained. "Xavier, you take left and I'll take right, leave one of them to go back."

"Will do Kenji." I locked on for center of mass, the poor guy wouldn't even see it coming.

"Ready." Xavier said

"fire, Fire, Fire!"

I yelled and in unison on the last fire we both fired. With a through and through hit, our Censura' cycled through with another round. The other three stopped suddenly seeing their buddies falling over for no reason, they moved to help but only one was left. I smiled as my Censura cycled again.

The last feral ran for it, as he did he tried to move in a zig-zag motion, both I and Xavier looked in each other's direction and laughed. "Targets neutralized, the last one is running for it Sir, we should expect the others soon."

"Good shooting Snipers pull back and move to inner positions. Everyone else meet in the middle I want to say a few things."

With that everyone stopped and moved toward where Mekal and Brisk were standing. The Venerators and Agressors opened up and the Pilots jumped out so they could join in. The other snipers got up and moved in, as they did so I watched the Feral move off until the dot was no longer visible. I listened to Mekal talk.

When everyone was there Mekal looked at all of them, a few more then three hundred Levitas, fourty Ferrata, and two stars of Venerators and Agressors. Mekal looked at everyone, feeling a little more proud. He felt a lot better then he did fourty hours ago. "Hunters." Mekal looked down and started pacing "We lost a lot of good men, some of them were our brothers, sisters and friends. We lost most of the People we were suppose to protect, and now here comes the ones who sent those things at us. Who took them from us."

Mekal looked up and stared at all of the Hunters he would be commanding, they all had anger in their eyes, and Mekal loved it. "Give them no Mercy, give them nothing." Mekal could hear the growl in his own voice as he spoke. "But take from them, whatever you can. Dismissed!" Mekal finished. It made everyone salute, Mekal saluted back. They left and went back to what they were doing. Mekal nodded as he watched them leave. This may work, maybe.

I zoomed in with my Censura at the mountain on the left of the large gorge where the entrance into the base was at, looking for anything that shouldn't be there. Xavier was in the destroyed dish of the Com center, I was behind a wall section that was half destroyed, a small hole big enough for me to aim out of was there. I was back farther leveled toward the entrance, aiming out of the hole. Only rookies made the mistake of sitting up against a opening and aiming out of it. One of the many ways to get yourself found and killed.

We were tasked with the job of finding any scouts, if there were any. Not that the ferals had any form of Stealth tech, but still always better safe then sorry. Xavier clicked once, I aimed my rifle at his area, as I did he piped over the com “See that?”

“No...” I kept looking.

“Brax, did you see it?” He asked the hunter on the other side of him.

“No...wait, I see it.”

“Oh, I see it too, cute.....” I said mockingly.

It was a sheen, barely visible. One of the Ferals was using a older tech shield, evidently he was trying to find us. “He should see the formation of Levitas, but not us.”

“I think he is just scouting out, see what we have in store for them.”

“Then Leave him be, we want him to only see Levitas.”

“Will do.”

We were in different placements around the back structures of the base. I looked down and saw Grey and a few other Demo teams setting up the last few placements on what was left of the wall. “Explosives placed, moving back to the line.”

“Hold your team there Grey, we have a scout in a old tech shield system. Wait for our signal.”

“Acknowledged Sniper teams.” I looked back at the silhouette as it moved some looking around.

He was moving something that resembled a rifle, he then pulled back. “Go.” With that Grey and 3 other demos were running for the Levitas line. After they made it I looked back up where the silhouette was, nothing. It was a mile away but he still would have had a perfect line of sight on Grey or any of the others. One of the other Snipers clicked his com, I moved my Censura, to the wide gorge.

What I saw I did not expect. The scout had reported alright, but not only was there over 2000 ferals all in old armor they had before the Great Worlds War. But there were a few Punishers with them, none had Artillery that we could see. “Sir, we've spotted two thousand Feral warriors on approach, they have 5....make that 6 Punisher class Mechs with them, none that we can see have artillery.”

“Ok, Levitas, get ready. Venerators, do what you do best on our signal. Every one, ready sound off.”

“Levitas line Ready, Sir.”

“Venerators Ready Sir.”

“Scout teams ready Sir." Mekal turned to Roshek.

"Navis says they have a Star ready for us Sir."

"Bombardment green on our signal Sir." Serantis said

"Here they come!" Brax screamed.

Location - "Tomaria" in the Tome System

Aboard Navis Titan class "Projanator"

Nova Walked up to the briefing room in full uniform with Kaylee right next to him. His tour ribbons were strapped over his pocket on his chest left side. Kaylee walked in before him and looked around "Are we early?" Nova smiled a little but kept Kaylee from seeing it.

"Yes, remember Kaylee, never arrive on time. Be punctual and arrive before your commanders, it will go a long way." He said sternly.

"Yes Sir."

They walk over to the seats that were in rows along the right of the breifing room. A small wall seperated the seats from the rest of the room. It had a opening and a pathway all the way up to the wall in the back. Nova and Kaylee walked over and sat down in the first row. "So why am I here Nova?" He looked at Kaylee who was sitting right next to him. "Your my second in our fighter only Kaylee, you will go with me on most of our briefings. Unless I tell you otherwise. But keep quiet, the commander will be talking to me mostly. Your here so you are on par with me. We will have to brief the others."

"Alright Sir." Kaylee leaned back and kept quiet.

Just then, Centurion Redmond walked in with two Curia. Both Nova and Kaylee stood sharply and saluted while Redmond stopped at the podium and put his pad on top of it, the two Curia stood at the door and looked out. Redmond saluted briskly back and both Nova and Kaylee went to attention.

"As you were Astra." Redmond nodded to them as they both sat down "Alright, Novus, Kaylee thank you for being here, we have an assignment for Aquilus Angelus." Red walked from the podium and got closer, he sat down on the wall separating him from the two. "Fourty four hours ago Tomaria was attacked. Her colonies and the Levitas base were destroyed. We have Ferrata on station but a battalion of ferals are attacking with serveral outdated weapons and Punishers, we need you to give them and the last of the Levitas guard air cover, now we will be on station and we are ready for a bombardment, but there may be things the Ferals have we don't know about."

Red clasped his paws together. "So, we need your special skills. Levitas has decided to burrow down and fight this out. We know that the Ferals have no chance, but we want to make sure. I know your Squadron is one of the best, and Legates Daguerre pulled some strings to get you here, and with good reason." He stood up and walked back to the podium and outlined what Mekal told him, and what he already knew.

As he talked, Nova went from serious to pissed. Novs stole a looke over at Kaylee who looked pissed as well but her eyes were glassed over as if she could cry. He turned back and listened to Redmond "So now you see why I need the best." Redmond looked down at the floor and then walked back to where he was so he could quiet down some. "Besides, I see that you have a new wing man... or in this case wing woman, and I'm sure she can use the practice." Redmond looked down and sighed. As he spoke he looked up "Novus, all I can say off record is when you get in there, kill as many of the Bastards as you can, they deserve it." He stood up once more as did Kaylee and Nova, they all salute.

"Sir, with pleasure."

Red smiled evilly "Dismissed." With that Nova and Kaylee walked out.

Agares uncloaked and walk over to Red who was suprized to see him there. "Red, good to see you."

"You too, Agares....."

Red was still shocked "So what can this grizzled old Lynx do for the Praefectus of the Preatorian Gaurd?"

Red said not as suprized as he was. "I came with them though they don't know it. Curia, you may leave." The two Gorillas bowed and left "I am hear on Arytes' behalf, do you know of the attack on Onyx in the Ovarian system?" "Of course, they attacked with outdated weapons much like.......wait."

"Yes, this is highly classified Centurion, so this will not leave the room."

"I don't gossip Preatorian."

"Good." Agares smiled wiping his hands as he said "Now Aryte sent those 12 Squads to a planet we have been informed is their base of operations, when this happened. I am here to make sure they survive to carry out that mission, or scrub it. Depending on what takes place here." Agares shifted while crossing his arms. "There is talk, that one of the Secs of the Orsii is gaining power, and we know they intend to use it." Red sighed "If they gain to much....."

Red interrupted him, knowing full well where Agares was going "Then they will use that power to get what they have for the longest time been wanting. Our forced allegiance, I know."

It was Agares's turn to be suprized "Then you know we can't stand by and watch this unfold. No matter the cost Redmond."

Red looked down and sighed again "What does my Imperator ask of me, and my men?" Agares chuckled, giving a small smile to Red.

"I will remain on station here with you and I am to know all you know. But like the current guard you have I will also be hidden, and no one is to know I am here. As well your Guard still takes orders from you. I hope he understands that." Agares said tersely. Red smiled as well and nodded making sure his gaurd saw "Understood, Agares."

"Good." and with that Agares turned on his own shield and they left.

1 hour Earlier - Planetside Lavitas Base

Marconis stood there, his brother Aeriese was next to him on his left. They had been best friends for as long as he could remember. He looked over at Aeriese, the Cabbit was starring strait. Looking for any sign of the ferals that were sapose to be attacking. Aeriese turned his head and looked Marconis in the eyes. No one said anything. Marconis nodded and Aeriese returned it, they both looked back ahead. Marconis could see some of Ferrata's Techs running back and he knew that had to be a sign.

He put his helmet on. Aeriese and the rest of Levitas followed suit “Ok Levitas, get ready. Venerators, do what you do best on our signal. Everyone, ready sound off.” All of the commanders sounded off, Jayce Iredell one of the Ferratas squad leaders spoke for Levitas.

"Ok Levitas, you know your jobs, and remember what these freaks did, what they sent.....I expect you to make them pay."

Marconis pulled his Hesta from his belt and lifted his left arm. "Front line, ready your selves, and may your gods be with you!"

"FOR THE IMPERATOR!" One of the warriors said. Aeriese and Marconis looked at each other again. When they did everyone yelled back. "FOR THE IMPERATOR!" Marconis smiled as he looked ahead and clenched his left arm. As he did so his energy shield switch on, and the "wings" came out to form a barrier. It vibrated in a low hum. He put his thumb on his Hesta's center diamond, and it popped out. With another low hum, he got low and leveled his Hesta's head end over the top of his shield. He felt two Occisor's sit over his shoulders aimed where the Ferals were comeing from. "Lets see how you pricks handle this."

He heard Aeriese say, but all Marconis could do was agree, and wait. "Here they Come!" Marconis smiled evilly, then he saw them. All of them were wearing old Armor suits that they had since before the great war "I guess they thought we would be far worse then we are." Aeriese said.

"Yeah, works for me." I said back.

"FIRE!" With that Marconis felt the two rifles fire. At that instant several ferals fell over dead.

"Come on, come on...." Marconis said under his breath.

Kenji couldn't help but smile at the sight of several hundred ferals fall over from the first volley. It had taken a while but the ferals finally sent their horde. Each one looked angry, and out for blood. "Sorry to rain on your party pricks." Kenji said in a low voice. In a sound like a rifle going off, the ferals front line finally hit the Levitas line. At first they were able to push them back, but as fast as they hit, the line suddenly stopped. As they did the warriors pushed back with force and Kenji watched as the ferals flayed. Some looked distraught as they fell back. The ones who didn't got a Hesta stuck in their gut. Kenji could see it in detail as the Hesta blades went through the armor and into the poor ferals chest. Kenji saw one of the Levitas jump out and swing his Hesta around, it almost looked poetic. As the warrior jumped in a spinning motion. His Hesta moving around him and hit the first feral across the snout, blood flew as the cat fell away.

The next got it in the chest, the Hesta sliced through his old armor as it went. Without pause it went through until it hit bone, and the feral fell back in pain. The Levitas warrior landed with his shield arm in the air and his Hesta and other arm poised back. He thrust forward and got the last one in the waist through and through forcing him back.

As quickly as it went in it was pulled back. The warrior looked up pulling his shield arm back down in front of him and his Hesta blade back over the shield ready. The dead feral canine hit a few others that were trying to run at the Warrior. The rest of the ferals fell in step and moved in on him, but his own brothers were already covering him poised and ready. The ground suddenly rumbled, Kenji could feel it. he moved his Rifle up to see. Where Grey and the other techs set up their toys was now a pile of rubble and a lot of dead feral soldiers. Witch gave him his next target.

One of the servivors of the onslaught was wearing a Corhorrt uniform, as he got up Kenji zeroed in. He slowed his breathing, and when he did time itself stopped, he aimed for center of mass. When he was relaxed enough he fired. Holding the trigger down he saw the ferals chest explode while two other feral soldiers got a spray of blood in the face. They watched their commander fall over dead, Kenji let the trigger go and the Censura cycled leaving him 5 more shots.

Lynx stole a grin as several of the ferals flew in the air missing parts of their bodies. He looked at Jayce who nodded to him "Venerators now!" Lynx yelled in his com. Ten large and fierce looking metallic warriors moved out from the buildings in the back and moved up behind the line of Levitas who at that moment gave out a loud roar.

Some of the ferals looked scared, and some didn't. thats when it happened. One of the Venerators as it leveled its weapons suddenly exploded. The others fired "We have Arty!" Xavier yelled.

"Damn, they will tear us apart. Lynx get to the Infernius' and take who you need."

"On it, Grey, Brisk come with me. I need three other volunteers to get to the other one, Move!"

Lynx said into his com as he ran into the back when another Agressor exploded. Lynx ducked and moved faster his wings using the air to push him along. Grey was tailing behind him, "I'm here Lynx setting it up." Brisk said over the com.

Lynx got there in time to help move the nose end up, Grey was last and jumped in. As soon as the Leopard landed on the ground Lynx punched a button on the side of the machine "Infernius shield up, Coordinates?" Lynx asked Brisk brought up his C.I.B and switched it to FOF for a 100 meter radius.

"Coordinates 43.134.89, mark." Lynx and Brisk setup the shot while Grey got the round ready.

Grey tried to rush and stopped himself. he took a second and breathed, then easily tapped a chip into the round. Sighing he handed it to Lynx who dropped it in the nose and they all ducked down. As the round slid it hit the pin and launched with a loud crack.

The round flew in the air, Brisk watched his braclet as the round hit two feet off target but was close enough. Three ferals flew in the air along with a destroyed mortar stand. "Good shot Lynx, Levitas push them back, send these bastards to hell!" with that Lynx watch as Levitas moved towards the ferals trying to stop them all the while the Venerators in the back were spraying fire into the fold of ferals with their MARS systems and Volcanus cannons. One Agressor was wielding a flame thrower.

"Watch your heads Levitas, they have cloaked snipers!" Xavier yelled over the com but before any of them could raise their shields 4 shots rang out and 4 Levitas warriors got knocked over. They weren't dead but it was enough to break the line, and the ferals took advantage of it. The second line put their Occisor's away and branded their own shields and Hesta's as the front went to single combat "Kenji, how many shots do you have?"

"3 more, you?"

"I'm out."

"Completely?"

"Yes.... what part of that don't you understand?" Xavier said sarcasticly.

"How did you..... never mind.....Then stay where you are and spot for me, I'll take them out."

"Will do, anyone else still up here?" a few minutes passed by.

"Sorry Xaxier, you guys will have to take them out, we're on our way to help the Levitas line." Came Riggs who was climbing down.

Kenji thought to himself..... "Xavier, I have an Idea, spot them for me if you can, any that we don't get I'll call an air strike, got it?"

"Waist of an air strike but I got it, check elevation 1-5-6, left 2-4." Kenji moved his rifle to the position watching the counter in the lower left of his HUD.

"Got it." Kenji zoomed in but saw nothing "Come on, move. Make a mistake, I dare you....." He said to himself, just then a slight light refract moved and Kenji fired.

Where the refract was came a sudden sheer then the shield went off and Kenji could see a dead feral.

"Good hit. Next elevation is 2-3-4, right 5-7." Kenji followed where Xavier was pointing him to. There was nothing, not a real surprise.

Zooming in Kenji willed the guy to make a mistake, but instead the guy fired his rifle. So did Kenji. There was another sheen twitch, and the feral fell from where he was hiding, his shield failing.

"Anything else?"

"I'm looking."

"Look faster." just then Kenji saw another refract. "Xavier, look to elevation 1-2, left 1-4-5."

"I see him, he's trying to hit them level at close range."

"Not anymore." Kenji fired and the guy dropped.

Kenji let his left hand relax and the Censura fazed out and collapsed into his hand, then out came his Occisor. "Damn, Kenji I got the other guy but I have no shot can you hit him with your Occisor?"

"Where is he."

"Elevation 2-3-5, right 2-1-3." Kenji looked in the direction, nothing, he carefully watched for anything, even the slightest movement.

He saw a feral lift his head over a small ridge, scan around and then duck back down.

"Crap, I have no shot either." Kenji lifted his arm and tapped on the holo in his bracelet witch connected him to Roshek. "Sir, Xavier has coordinates for a lone Feral, possible sniper. We have no shot, and need an Air Strike."

"Copy Kenji, your clear to call it."

1 hour Earlier - Ordo Aknivar Class Carrier "The Warrior's Chariot"

Nova was in the fighter hanger on the Carrier that brought them in-system. The hanger he was in was separated from the launch bay by a large breach door. In the top deck that he was in had Fourty squadrons of Warhawks, and Ten of the Preadas. He was taking a break from working on his Warhawk, and was drinking a chilled beer. Nova chuckled to himself about how Astra got a lot more privileges then Terra did.

Almost felt sorry for his friend Lynx.....almost. He moved to his Warhawk as he took a drink and looked her down. Then he remembered what Corvan said in his briefing. "Kill as many of the bastards as you can, they deserve it." "As soon as I can, I intend too." He said to himself remembering how pissed he was.

"Intend to do what Nova?" Kaylee walked up branding a hot drink of her own.

"Nothing, just remembering what the Centurion said." Nova showed a small smile to her.

Kaylee lowered her ears "Oh, yeah." She graced over and moved her hand down the Warhawks wing. Closing her eyes she let loose a small smile. Nova smiled with her, but inwards. He knew the "look" she was giving, he had it his first year when he was a greenhorn.

"Sometimes it takes instinct and luck, but you will get through it." Raven, his drill instructor said. "When you fly, you aren't flying a machine, you are the machine. Get to know her, and she will get to know you."

He remembered how dumb he was then, as well as Lynx..... Kaylee walked over to the table that was next to the fridge, and placed her drink down. Then walked over to the warhawk. Nova watched as she moved her hand across the nose of it. She moved her hand back towards the fuselage still looking sad but she looked as if she had moved on with her train of though.

He chuckled a little then got up. "Don't worry Kaylee, you'll ride in her yet." Kaylee smiled still moving her hand across the side of the Warhawk.

"I know." Nova took the last of his beer and walked over to the nose of the Warhawk and moved his hand across it with her. "I remember when I did this my first year." Kaylee smiled listening. "Lynx thought I was crazy for being so close. But she was more then my bird, she was me, and I was her." They both continued to move their hands down the hawk. "Do you guys need a moment or should I hose you off?" Kaylee and Nova stopped and stared at the newly arrived tech. Nova gave him a dry look. The Tech walked over to the diagnostics equipment. Kaylee stopped and walked over to help him.

"Do you know when we are suppose to move out?"

"When they call us."

"You mean we may not go down there at all?" Nova looked at the Wolf with a suprized look on his muzzle.

"Yeah, you didn't know that?"

Kaylee continued to unscrew a power cord. "Not really, we had nothing but flight training after flight training. We were taught to always be on guard, they never really came up to us and told us we were rarely going to do our jobs."

"Hmm." Just then another Tech ran up, he Saluted Nova and reported. "Novus, an Airstrike has been called in, your up." Nova gave Kaylee a sharp look.

"Happy now?"

"Very." Kaylee nodded and they were off.

The large hanger door slid open as Nova walked across it. It then closed behind him and he looked up from his roster pad. There was a lot of bustle going on for just 4 Warhawks to take off. Nova heard the dock master over the hanger's Com. "All crews Ready for Launch, flight crews report to Hanger Sierra." Nova walked up to his Warhawk where the same Tech that gave him and Kaylee guff was finishing up the start up procedures. Kaylee was in her full armor and standing with 3 other pilots from another squadron.

They saw him and saluted, he saluted back. "Whats going on?" Nova asked sternly. One of the people, a young Dragon. Who was standing there answered him.

"Your not the only ones going out Sir." Nova tilted one of his ears. "We got a call four clicks from the base that they need a aerial fly by, and a pick up."

"I take it the base can't spare any help?"

"No, they are using everything they have already. And besides, they may not make it in time."

Nova thought for a second. "And us?"

"As far as I know your still providing air support for Levitas." Nova nodded rubbing his muzzle still thinking.

"Hmm, alright have fun I guess."

"Right, catch ya later Sir. You as well Kaylee, nice meeting you." with that the 3 Full blooded Dragons saluted and left. Kaylee saluted back and watched the one who talked as he left.

"Making friends are we Kaylee?"

Nova spoke with a glint of humor in his voice. Kaylee looked back at Nova and then back at the dragon still walking away.

"He is cute...." She said making Nova sigh.

"Trust me Kaylee, you don't want to date Canyew."

"Why not?"

"Because." Nova said as he put his pad down on a table near by, still disgusted. "He's a player, and will play you like a dulcimer, then throw you away."

Kaylee looked back at her commander lowering her ears a little. "Pity." and started climbing into the Warhawk.

Nova just shook his head chuckling and got in after her. Kids.....

The warhawk taxied into position. Both Kaylee and Nova were setting the Warhawk for stratosphere flight.

"Engines?"

"Check."

"Weapons?"

"Check."

"Lunches?"

"Banana beef, with green trees."

"Mmm Mmm Mmm, Ordo V Rations at their finest." Nova said sarcasticly.

Kaylee chuckled "All systems nominal."

Nova gave the Dock Master a thumbs up "Pre-flight set, ready on green Angels."

"Roger F-C, ready on green." The Warhawk lifted up and arms came down attaching to it. They then moved to the runway toting the Warhawk with them.

Nova tapped a few holocontrols and the Warhawks wings moved down as the landing gear moved up. The arms let go when they were in position and the hover systems started up keeping the Warhawk from hitting the deck. Nova looked up and saw a amber light. He closed his eyes for a second focusing, then he opened them. He zoned in, breathing slower. The light went to green and the Warhawk Blasted down the runway.

Half Hour Later - Planetside Lavitas Base

Lynx looked around "Brisk status."

"We've got the civies on, and most of the wounded."

"Good, keep it up." Lynx looked towards the levitas line. Most of the ferals were dead, and all but one of the punishers were gone. Lynx could see some other Armored mechs in the fold but Levitas was giveing them something to think about..

"Grey, whats your status?"

"I and Brent are fixing up one of the Venerator pilots right now, Brisk get your arse down here."

"Roger Grey on my way."

"Good keep it up." Lynx looked around at the Levitas line.

"Kenji what's your status?"

"I have a line of sight now, waiting for the angels, over."

"Lynx this is Jayce, be advised the ferals are moving back, I repeat they are moving back, over."

"Understood Jayce."

"Jayce this is Kenji, watch your heads. Be advised I have multiple enemy movement up here. Possible Snipers and/or ambush."

"Copy Kenji."

"Kenji this is Lynx, do you need help?"

"Negative, I have them, just wish that air support would get here." As if it was on cue, Lynx heard jet engines. Before long Four Warhawks came into view.

"Somebody call for some fire?"

"Nice timing angels!"

"We aim to please, just tell me where to shoot and get out of the way."

"I have it marked, hit at your convenience."

Two of the Warhawks moved off and took out what they could see. Lynx watched as Nova manuvered up and back down towards a rock face. As Nova's Hawk was moving back up a rocket pounded into the ground causing four ferals to fly into the air. "Yeeehaaa! I love my Job!" Nova yelled over the radio.

"Done, give me another." came Kaylee's voice.

"Jayce, this is Mekal. Take your squad and help a downed Hawk. I'm sending you the coordinates."

"On it sir. Jalec, Xavier, Grant, meet me at the Cliff face in the back of the base."

"On it Sir."

"On my way Squad Leader."

"Moveing to your position Sir."

Lynx watched as Jayce ran by. "Good luck Jayce."

"Thanks Lynx."

The other three cought up to him and branded their Anchorarius'. They took aim at the top and fired. four anchors flew to the top and pulled taught. Jayce and his team then clipped the Rifle part to their chest armor and started scaleing the cliff face. When they got to the top they unhooked the anchors. The lances then disapated into their gloves. They then branded Occisors as they ran off. Lynx silently wished them luck one more time and looked back to the front line.

Kenji was already zeroing in on Nova's next target when one of them brought out a Anti-Air Rocket system. "Nova Watch your tail, they have A-A!" Too late. The Cabbit took aim and fired as Kenji did too. The cabbit fell over dead, but it was no use. The rocket was already air born and trailing the Hawk. The others returned fire and Kenji instinctively ducked.

Nova did a nose dive down into the buildings. Kenji Watched as Nove spun around the building he was hiding in "What the hell is he doing....." Kenji whispered to himself, as the crazy firelynx did less then super sonic around the buildings. As Kenji watched a small smile worked it's way across his muzzle. Kenji got an idea. He moved down and spun around until he was aiming down where Nova was heading. He fired just as Nova gunned it away and over Levitas, the A-A following close by.

Nova was trying all his moves to loose the Rocket. "So they aren't as low tech as we thought." Nove said to himself, as he tried to get a fix on the thing. As he did he noticed a small wake next to his wind shield. "Can't be...." he said, and looked closer, sure enough it was an Occisor's percussive round floating next to his Warhawk. Suddenly he got an idea, and rolled the Warhawk around the small projectile until he was a little lower then it. He then kicked his speed a little higher. Booom! came a loud bang from behind as the Rocket hit the round and exploded. Nova got a small grin across his face as he cut the accelerator. The Hawk stalled and flipped backwards as he did a small barrel roll and punched the accelerator back to full. Kaylee sighed, glad the Warhawks came with inertial dampeners.

"Lynx this is Grey, we have everyone loaded up."

"Good, when you can get back here."

"Yes sir."

Lynx ran for the Com center. It was time to get the command group out, and hopefully they wouldn't argue. Lynx got to the doors, the two guards stationed on either side moved their weapons up doing a "weapon salute" Lynx salute as he ran in. He looked around and found Mekal leaning against one of the walls. The rest were around the center console. Lynx walked up to Mekal.

"Sir, we have everyone on board, it's time to get you and your command group out of here."

Mekal looked up and sighed. "Ok Lynx, your in charge then."

"Understood sir." Mekal got up from the wall and walked over to the others.

"Time for us to go. I've left Lynx in charge."

"Make sure Jayce knows Serantis."

"Ay, sending a trans now Sir."

"Ok Lynx give us some cover, then get my....your teams out."

"Yes sir."

Mekal smiled a little and looked to the others. They all nodded and headed for the back where a Lancehawk was waiting. Lynx walked out and nodded to the two guards. They started following him.

"What are you two doing?"

"Sir? You're in command, and we intend to keep you safe." Lynx sighed.

"Ok, just make sure you can keep up, and out of my way."

"Yes Sir." They both saluted.

Lynx chuckled giving one back and walked down the stairs.

"Kenji, how are those snipers coming?"

"Got em' all Sir, you can....."

"Kenji, say again?"

"We got them Sir, but the lines are back."

"Damn, ok Levitas the ferals are coming back watch yourselves."

Nine Hundred ferals came strait at the line of waiting warriors. The fighting ensued again.

"Lynx is it me or are they trying their best to keep us here?"

"My thoughts exactly." Lynx thought for a second.

"Grey, Brisk, whats your ETA back here?"

"I and 3 other squads who were helping are in a lancehawk on our way back. We should reach the cliff in a few minutes why?"

"I have a job for you, get the rest of your explosives ready, grab who you need." Lynx didn't need to see Grey, he could hear the smile crack on Grey's face.

"On my way sir."

Brisk jumped out of the Lancehawk as it landed. He and Grey did a beeline for where Lynx was standing. 3 others followed them while the others ran out to back up Levitas. When Brisk and Grey were in front of Lynx they forewent saluting, now was not the time.

"Grey I want those buildings ready to come down."

"Brisk go up and give Kenji some back up."

"On it sir." they all said at once and left.

"Kenji on your six."

"Nice of you to join me Brisk. You wouldn't happen to have any Censura ammo would you?" Kenji said as he turned around.

Brisk was standing there with a clip in his hand, handing it to Kenji.

"Your my hero." Brisk shrugged.

"I try."

As he bent down opposite of the "window" that Kenji was hiding behind. Kenji immediately switched to his Censura and inserted the clip. "I love my job." Kenji commented as he got down and leveled his rifle. Brisk took out his Trucido and gave Kenji cover.

Akurei watched as his brothers were being pushed back by the ferals. The first line had lost thier hold and were forced to fight hand to hand. The second was close to falling. It was only a matter of time. They were losing. All Akurei could be thankful for was they only lost 14 men so far. Akurei waved to his friend Milly who walked over to him. "Lynx this is Akurei over?"

The blue fox said over the com. He looked over at Milly who's armor was bloody and she had grim all over her face. She waited with him watching his back.

"Akurei, this is Lynx, go ahead."

"Sir, I have to warn you, we are being pushed back. Not to mention our ammo." Akurei gave a look at the line when he mentioned the Ammo.

"please tell me command has been evacuated." Milly suddenly moved and shot a feral that got through the line, she then moved back with Akurei.

"They are, I have three squads moving to give you some help. Hold them off if you can." Akurei looked up at Milly who was looking back.

"How much time do you need Sir?" A minute passed as Lynx connected to Grey.

"How much time do you need Grey?" Grey sighed as he answered back.

"I don't know...give us five if you can." Akurei looked back at his men. The first two lines were in full out combat as the third was firing randomly hitting whom they could.

"I'll give you ten."

"Akurei wait!"

"Sir?"

"How do you feel about some air support?"

"Love it."

"Good, when I tell you, cover yourselves. I'm going to see about getting you some." Akurei smiled some at this.

"Yes Sir." Milly smiled and they moved off again to help their men.

"Nova, this is Lynx come in?"

"Go ahead Lynx." Lynx sighed happily. He wasn't sure if he would get Nova or not.

"Nova, please tell me your still here and set for some bombardment." Nova looked to Kaylee.

"Kaylee, your up." Kaylee brought up the list of weapons she had.

"What are you thinking sir?" Lynx thought for a second remembering when he was with Nova.

"Got any Illuminare Vectus?" Kaylee brought it up.

"Yes Sir, four of them."

"Good, Nova, see if you can lighten Levitas' load."

"Will do. I have some company as well."

As soon as Lynx was done with Nova he looked up at Kenji. "Kenji, think you can spot one more time for Nova, he's going to bring in some fire for Levitas."

"Will do Sir, Brisk take this and aim it at the lines."

"I know what to do Kenji." Lynx looked down.

"Grey?"

"Give me a minute!"

"hurry up, we don't have time."

"Were on it sir. But yelling at us won't make us go any faster."

"What if I promise to shave you the very next time we go out hunting?" Lynx could hear a small sigh over the com.

"Going faster Sir..." Lynx smiled.

"That's better, Nova?" As Lynx asked he heard three Warhawks fly over him.

"Yes Lynx?"

"Give em' Hell"

"Got it."

"Levitas, cover now!"

As he said that thirty Three Shield bubbles went up and the rest moved out of the way and covered themselves with their personal shields. As they did three warhawks flew over and unloaded. It was a strait shot as three Warhawks dropped Napalm on the lines of Ferals waiting to be unleashed. Instead they burned under extreem heat. Some even flew in the air from the small explosions that the fire set off. The Levitas soldiers Roared as the Ferals burned. Only Akurei held his composure.

"Akurei, this is Lynx. Do you read me?"

"You got me Sir." Lynx sighed with relief.

"Grey's done. Pull your troops back now." Akurei looked over at Milly who was under another shield and nodded to her.

"Levitas, pull back now. I repeat, pull back now!" As Akurei said that Milly was screaming it too.

Over Two hundred soldiers who were bloody and battered ran back for the building lines.

"Lynx we're on our way."

"Good, Grey get ready. Kenji you and Brisk pull back too, now!"

"On our way Commander."

The buildings suddenly bustled with life as Levitas ran through them. The explosives that Ferrata laid down sat just waiting to be let loose. Lynx turned around to see a Venerator standing behind him, The Mech lifted it's cannons and started firing at the ferals that got too close to Levitas. The two soldiers that were guarding Lynx were now firing their own weapons. Lynx couldn't help but let a smile crack. He shook it off. "Grey NOW!" 14 buildings lost thier footing and came crashing down on the ferals that were under them, the rest stopped as they watched in horror. Their path now blocked. They tried to climb over.

"Lynx this is Jayce. Command's Drop ship is taking off, where are you?"

"On our way, did you get the pilots?"

"Yes, they're alright. Just get moving."

"On it Jayce." Lynx waved to his Guard to pull back.. Whom did just that, albeit reluctantly. The Venerator started moving back too moving faster then the rest.

"Lynx, Hold up. One of the Levitas Soldiers got his leg stuck." This was not what Lynx wanted to hear.

"On my way."

"NO! No, we got him. Just give us some cover." Lynx looked at the Venerator.

"Venerator Pilot we have a soldier who is stuck and a team trying to get him out, can you provide cover?"

"I'll get 'em out Sir. Where are they?"

Lynx sent the corrdinants, and watched as the Venerator turned around and switched its cannons to hands, it then started running back to help the team.

Brisk was on top of a rock above keeping an eye out while Grey and Kenji started digging like only a wolf could. Aeriese had gotten caught under rock and dirt that fell.

"what happened?" Marconis asked as he ran up.

"Aeriese got his leg caught." Kenji started.

"Sorry Sir...." Aeriese forced out trying to hold back the pain.

"I trpped on....something. But before I....I could get up, Grey set the explosives off." Aeriese stopped as a little blood started draining out of his mouth.

"He was screaming for help. Luckily I could hear him." Kenji continued. "Brisk, Grey and I came to see what was up and we found him here."

Marconis Nodded and started to help when a Venerator came up. It easily hefted the rock that was crushing Aeriese' leg and then reverted it's hands into cannons helping Brisk guard. "Never thought I'd be happy to see one of them." Kenji said as he pulled out his Rifle. Grey and Marconis pulled Aeriese out and lifted him under each of their arms.

Kenji took point watching for anything as Brisk took aft doing the same thing. The Venerator was last watching their backs. They moved as fast as possible trying to Ignore Aeriese's objections in pain. They got to Lynx who helped ease Aeriese' pain. Then they quickly started up the makeshift ramp that was dug up to the cliff side. The Venerator was already on its way when they got up to the Two Guards sitting in a Lancehawk. They were waiting for Lynx. They all piled in not caring about the room and left for the waiting Drop pod.

Location – Enrout to "Titan" Navis Base

Navis Jump Ship "Blazeing Talon"

Lynx was walking down the ships corridor after a long and talkative debrief. It seemed like command was aggitated after what he said. What Mekal had to say didn't help either. Jayce was last and both Mekal and Lynx had to stay for what his as well. Lynx's butt felt num from sitting in the chair for so long, and his tail.... It had taken 6 hours. But it comes with the territory.

As ordered Lynx and Jayce's teams were to take two weeks off, and collect themselves. So they were heading to the Naval base where they would catch a transport for home and lots of rest. Lynx was planning a little hunting too, get his teams stress shaken off. One thing that he did not look forward to was the fact that they were going to get a medal pinned on them. "Extraordinary Conduct" they call it. But Lynx knew his squad was just doing their jobs. Oh well, at least there would be cake. Lynx rounded the corner and stopped at the medical bay, Aeriese was inside with Marconis and Kenji sitting by. Both of them saw him and Stood saluting. "At ease." Lynx said saluting back.

"How's Aeriese?"

"He's fine sir, they said the surgery was a success." Lynx nodded approvingly.

"Good, keep me informed if you don't mind."

"Absolutely not Sir, I will." Lynx smiled and then shifted, flexing his wings.

"Mind if I barrow my Sniper Marconis?"

"No Sir, I was just thanking him." Lynx nodded as Kenji got up and followed Lynx.

Kenji stopped at the door and waved at Marconis who nodded smiling.

"What's up Sir." Kenji asked when they got to their bunk.

Grey and Brisk were already there waiting. "I wanted to discuss what happened, and get your ideas."

"Well Sir...." Lynx stopped Grey. "At ease, and speak freely."

Grey nodded. "Well I'll admit that was the first time I have ever seen Mekal scared out of his fur." Everyone nodded.

"What did he say about it?"

"As far as I can tell a group of the Orsii sent those....things there, but they have no idea why."

"Could it be possible that the Orsii are going back to how they were?" Lynx sighed.

"Possibly, though right now I think they are going to send some spies in. See if they can find out what is going on."

"Isn't that dangerous?" Kenji started "I mean say one of the ferals gets his hands on one of our spies. That could get them killed, or worse, all out war."

"I know, but lets not give up on the Frumentarii just yet, they are trained well."

" I for one can't wait to get back, maybe I can get some sleep before they call us out again." Lynx smiled at that.

"Actually Grey, we are being given two weeks of time off." Everyone was suprized.

"Two weeks. Well then we must have done well."

"Very astute Kenji." Kenji smacked Brisk upside the head who gave it back harder. Lynx sighed and continued.

"Plus we are getting some commendations. So I can only assume we did very well."

"Or they are trying to make us hero's when we aren't really."

"Either case it should go well with my Uniform."

"In any case I'm going to call Nova and see if he wants to join us."

Kenji smirked as Lynx went to call Nova. "Think I could talk Kaylee into cooking for us?" Grey nodded. "Wait, your sister can cook?" Kenji just stared at Grey.

Who was interrupted by a loud "SHUT UP, LYNX!" that came over Lynx's com. No one knew why, just that Lynx was smirking a little too much.....

Location - Rogue Planet Delphii Prime near the Percasian System

Brotherhood of the Reconers base

The crackle of the fire burned as Merandis sat drinking his finest wine. His associate Barns was also drinking a cup sitting on a polished leather couch opposite of him. "So I take it. All went according to plan?" Barns took another sip enjoying his well earned drink.

"to the letter."

"It seems the Ordo is oblivious to what is going on."

"Well done." "We may yet get our ally."

"Make sure our good friends are welcome, if they ever decide to greet us."

"Everything is prepared my friend."

"And also be sure......"

Just then the doors opened as a pissed rat walked in. His old Corhort uniform flapped around as he stomped towards the couches. He stopped where the two cats could see him and didn't salute. "Am I to understand that you sent my men to their deaths!?" Merandis waved his hand to a couple of soldiers who followed in aiming at the angry rat. They walked out and Merandis put his cup down

"No Commander, I did not." Merandis looked up at the man. "I sent MY men to do their jobs."

"Well, YOUR men were just massacred in that hell hole, along with my wife."

"Your wife son, asked to command them in. She wanted to do the honor of pulling my plan together."

"Sir I...."

"Oh, now your going to use your manners." Merandis got up and walked over to the still angry rat. "I will forgive this.....outburst this one time." Merandis started walking around with his arm behind his back and emphasized with his other "You lost your wife, and that can make a man do things." Merandis looked over to Barns. "Do things he wouldn't normally do." Merandis stopped and looked back at the rat. "But I do warn you commander, my patience is wearing." Merak straitened his jacket and calmed himself.

"Sir, may I ask what your plan is?"

Merandis chuckled and walked back to his couch sitting down. "You may not commander." he took another sip. "Now get back out there and make sure my base is secure." Merak forced himself to bow and walked out.

"You may have to watch that one."

Merandis smiled at his friend "Already am." "After we leave, he will be staying here permanently." Merandis finished his cup and reached for the bottle that was sitting on the crystal table between the couches.

"Now as I was saying. Be sure to send my regards to the Ethereal's." "Their help in our affairs will go a long way."