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PBF NL 1/28/2003
By FA Tyrell "Spokes" Borran
Unit: Patriot Starfighter Group
Fleet NL, Jan 28, 2003
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Unit: Patriot Starfighter Group
Fleet NL, Jan 28, 2003
Back to Articles
WHITE GUARD SPACE
CADU LAMBADA ASTEROID BELT
GENERAL MCGRATH’S SHUTTLE
Slyder sat at the co-pilot controls of his shuttle, watching the sensors intently as the White Guard fighters scanned through the asteroid belt in search of their prey. While his Lieutenant Spheres had managed to elude them and hide the shuttle, piggybacking in a narrow fissure on one of the larger debris bodies, their luck was running out. The pair of Interceptors were almost on top of their position. He could not be sure that they would pass right by without detecting the shuttle’s engine signature – and waiting until they attacked him while the craft was dead in space was not occurrence that he wanted to entertain. Lieutenant Spheres cleared his throat to draw Slyder’s attention, “Sir, should I ready the shuttle? Those Guard fighters are nearly within range.”
“Yes Lieutenant, and hurry. I’ll work on a jump route out of here.” Pulling up his Nav Computer, the General began to plot a course, any course, which would see them safely out of the Cadu Lambda Belt and free from the clutches of the White Guard. The sudden piercing sound of twin ion engines passing within 300 meters of his shuttle’s position nearly caused Slyder to jump out of his seat. His time was running out. Quickly he scanned the possible hyperspace routes that his Nav Computer offered.
“Emperor’s Black Bones… ” Slyder swore as he came to the only available coordinates that were hyperspace safe. “Planet UR35-557… not much here, no name aside from the number… Imperial controlled… well we do have a temporary treaty with them in this region due to the White Guard. Gives us 50% odds that they won’t vape us at first sight.”
The shuttle rocked as green lasers incinerated bits and pieces of asteroid as they chewed there way towards their target. “They’ve found us!” Corporal Decker called from the ship’s gunnery station. “Returning fire. I recommend we get out of here now!”
“Very astute Corporal.” Slyder responded dryly. “Shields! Spheres, get us out of here as fast as you can!” The shuttle lifted off from its perch, freeing itself from the asteroid and opening its wings to engage full mobility. Slyder confirmed the hyperspace coordinates and pulled on his crashwebbing. “This is going to be much rougher than I would enjoy. Lieutenant, get us to those jump coordinates… and give me control of the torpedo launchers.”
“Aye, Sir.”
Slyder ran through the warhead configurations available for the proton torpedoes. It was a good thing this shuttle had been heavily modified. Without the ship custom back ordinance launchers, his plan to escape would have never worked. He instinctively braced himself as another salvo of enemy fire connected with the shuttle’s already weakened shields. The Tie Interceptors sped past on their side of the shuttle, heading around for another attack run. The sensors suddenly lit up again in 4 new places, signaling addition enemy craft inbound. “Sir, we have another flight of squints moving on an intercept course. Whatever you’re planning needs to happen or we are as good as dead!”
The lead enemy fighter had turned and was barreling down hard on the ship. The shuttle reached its jump point and Slyder allowed a slight grin. “Exactly Spheres, we ARE dead.” Firing duel torpedoes backwards at point blank range, the White Guard fighter had no time to use evasive maneuvers. The Interceptor was hit by one of the proton torpedoes, exploding with deafening force. The other torpedo was caught partially in the explosion radius and also detonated, taking with it a mid-sized asteroid. Starship and asteroid debris joined together in a destructive display that blinded everything within 500 meters. Slyder pulled back on the hyperspace level and the shuttle shot into nothingness.
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
OFFICE, GENERAL GAH’VOR
The office was immaculately clean and orderly. While quite sizable, the room housed only a large, cold metal desk, along with two matching chairs in front, and solid rolling gundark leather cushioned chair in the back. There was little decoration save for the rotating holoscreen of landscapes from various worlds around the galaxy. General Keito Gah’Vor sat behind his desk, scanning through a pile of reports that had been filed over the last few days. The General licked his thumb as he flipped from page to page of the various documents. He had just finished reading the report of Flight Officer Vicst Elsam. The Tie Interceptor pilot had been involved in chasing a Patriot Battle Fleet shuttle into the Cadu Asteroid Belt and had been tasked with capturing its occupants. However, when attempting to escape to hyperspace, the shuttle had collided with Elsam’s wingman. Both spacecraft had been obliterated leaving no survivors.
Pausing for a brief moment, Gah’Vor set the report to the side and attempted to clear his mind in order that he might make sense of the more pressing situation facing the White Guard. The Guard’s most recent operation, or perhaps debacle, had been met with complete and utter disaster – and the worst part about the failure was that it should have been an easy victory. Someone had made a grievous mistake. He refocused his eyes and began to read the next report from Commander Frenzer of the CRS WHITE DRAGON:
REPORT 272.340-WG CMDR Frenzer, Stza
CRS WHITE DRAGON
The Frigates UNFORGIVER and COURAGEOUS, were ordered into a direct assault of the Patriot Battle Fleet Flag Ship. Our capital ships took the New Republic forces by surprise, sending wave after wave of B-wing and X-wing fighters against the WINDSTORM. The Mon Cal’s shields had fallen and it seemed as if we had won the day. However, the Frigate ECHOHAWK managed to position itself between the UNFORGIVER and the PBF flagship, preventing our craft from a direct line of fire and allowing the cruiser the precious time it needed to escape to hyperspace……
The UNFORGIVER, which had been weakened by the combined fire from the two PBF capital ships, was destroyed by a torpedo barrage sent by a flight of X-wing fighters. The COURAGEOUS also sustained considerable damage and was forced to jump to its rendezvous point with the WHITE DRAGON……
Aside from the UNFORGIVER, we lost a number of various snubfighter craft in the action. The ship IDs, names and numbers are listed at the end of this report along with pilot casualties……
Gah’Vor’s lips curled into a bitter smile as he continued reading the raw date from the report. So… the Patriot Battle Fleet has once again eluded my grasp… And this time it was costly, too much so I’m afraid… The UNFORGIVER cannot be easily replace, and the COURAGEOUS is extremely vulnerable until it receives a new shield generator… I will have to deal with Commander Frenzer… The General continued to lose himself in his thoughts when the entrance chime sounded, indicating he had a visitor.
“Come.” He called.
The door whooshed open, revealing a solidly built figure dressed in the standard uniform of the White Guard Navy. He wore the rank of a naval Lieutenant and held himself with discipline and confidence. The striking man’s eyes were a light hazel, and his close-cropped hair was a dull earthy brown. He entered the General’s office and took up a position five paces away from the front of the desk. The officer snapped into a crisp salute and reported. “Lieutenant Hasuadan, reporting, General. Captain Wynwyth sends his compliments, and wanted you to know that the WHITE DRAGON and the COURAGEOUS have just dropped out of hyperspace and are enroute. Estimated time of arrival is 27 minutes 34 seconds, Sir.”
Gah’Vor returned the salute and leaned back in his seat. Lieutenant Berso Hasuadan was fairly new to the White Guard, and for that matter, his staff. But the 25-year-old human male from Obroa-skai had proven his worth time and again by his promptness and attention to detail. He had also demonstrated considerable knowledge – both tactically as well as socially – which had prompted the General into taking the Lieutenant on as his personal aide. Of course, his knowledge was not all that surprising, seeing as he was from a world famous for its extensive libraries and centers of learning. “Thank you, Lieutenant.” Gah’Vor arched an eyebrow. “Please, take a seat. I would like to ask you a few questions.”
A brief flash of uncertainty flashed over Hasuadan’s eyes as he situated himself on the leftmost metal chair. “Yes, Sir, as you wish.”
“I do wish it. Now, Lieutenant, I assume word of our recent defeat at the hands of the Patriot Battle Fleet has reached the majority of the fleet.” He paused. “What are the officers and enlisted saying about the ordeal?”
The stiffness in Hasuadan’s back relaxed slightly. “Sir, may I speak freely?”
“You may.”
“Sir, from what I have gathered through observation and conversation, I have concluded that while the loss is quite a substantial blow to the fleet, morale is still relatively high.”
“Indeed?” Commented Gah’Vor, “Please, elaborate if you would.”
“Well Sir, I have overheard a number of people commenting on the incompetence of Commander Frenzer. With a better plan of action, he should have been able to take the Windstorm down without the loss of either of our capital ships involved in the operation.” The Lieutenant stopped as he chose his next words. “To be completely honest General, the officers and enlisted soldiers want you to lead them. They want their true leader to carry them to victory over a foe that they believe will crumble under their collective fists.”
General Gah’Vor pondered these words for a quiet moment before responding. “And for me to have full support and control… Commander Stza Frenzer must be removed.”
“I believe that to be a safe assumption, Sir.”
“As do I.” Gah’Vor brought up his visual comm channel at his desk and connected to the bridge. Brief static was replaced by the image of Captain Koivrao Wynwyth. The commander of the JUDICATOR quickly saluted. “General, a pleasure.”
Gah’Vor nodded in acknowledgement.
“The WHITE DRAGON and the COURAGEOUS will rendezvous with us in-”
The General held up his hand, “Yes, Captain, I have already been informed. When the WHITE DRAGON is in position, have Commander Frenzer report to the bridge of the JUDICATOR. I will meet with him within the hour.”
Captain Wynwyth seemed to grasp the doom that was destined for his fellow starship commander by the General’s tone, yet gave a simple satisfying nod, “It will be so.”
“Thank you Captain.” The screen darkened and was replaced by the White Guard crest as Gah’Vor returned his attention to his aide. “That will be all for now Lieutenant. I appreciate your comments concerning this situation. I will no longer rely on subordinates to carry out this confrontation. The Patriot Battle Fleet will feel my wrath from a much more real perspective!”
“Thank you, Sir. You have my utmost confidence,” responded Hasuadan as he snapped to attention and saluted.
The General returned the salute and shifted his focus back to his desk as Hasuadan made his way out the exit. Gah’Vor withdrew another report from the pile of documents and began to look it over. Frenzer…
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
BRIDGE
General Gah’Vor entered the bridge of the JUDICATOR and was met with a hail of salutes from various naval personnel as they went about their duties. Lieutenant Hasuadan fell in behind the General as he made his way across the massive control room. Captain Wynwyth stood near the top of the command pit. He was flanked on the right by his executive officer Captain Grishold, and on the left by ground forces commander Captain Exavier. To the side of this trio was Commander Stza Frenzer, looking less than assured in his reasons for being aboard the Imperial Star Destroyer. Gah’Vor’s face was a solemn mask as he approached the group of high-ranking officers. Each of the men offered perfect salutes as he reached them. Wynwyth started the formalities. “Welcome General. What is it that you wanted to discuss so openly?”
Gah’Vor met Wynwyth with firm answer. “You will soon find out Captain.” His eyes shifted to Frenzer, meeting him in a locked gaze of death. The Commander appeared frozen as if he were made of stone. Gah’Vor then turned to the crew of the JUDICATOR and raised his voice.
“ATTENTION!” The bridge fell silent as each pair of eyes found the General towering over the command pit. Gah’Vor held the silence briefly and then continued.
“You all know of our recent failure in attempting to deliver a devastating blow to the Patriot Battle Fleet.” He motioned towards Commander Frenzer. “Our task force consisting of the Cruiser WHITE DRAGON and the Frigates UNFORGIVER and COURAGEOUS were lead by Commander Frenzer to destroy the Mon Calamari Cruiser WINDSTORM, the flagship of our enemy. However, due to complete incompetence and lack of vision, the Commander let the enemy slip through his fingers without the lose of a single capital ship. No, the only significant losses were inflicted upon us, with the lose of the UNFORGIVER and near destruction of the COURAGEOUS. We cannot afford to allow such action to go unpunished. We must cut off the weakness from our body as if it were a mortal disease.” He paused to let his words sink in to all present. Then, nodding to a pair of soldiers, he stepped to the side.
Frenzer could not hide the look of impending doom from spreading across his face as the soldiers gaited towards him. He looked to Wynwyth, then Grishold, and then even to Exavier, searching for any sign of support. He found nothing but the cold realization that he was alone. Suddenly the two guards appeared at either side of him and locked their hands on his arms. They kicked in the back of his legs and he fell to his knees. Frenzer looked up and was met with the face of General Gah’Vor less than an inch away.
“I’m sorry Stza, you should have been more successful.” Gah’Vor, still staring directly at Frenzer, held out his palm to the ground forces commander. “Captain, your holdout blaster.” Frenzer’s eyes grew abnormally wide as Exavier quickly withdrew his standard issue weapon and placed it in Gah’Vor’s hand. The General took a few steps back and held the barrel of the blaster straight at Frenzer’s head.
“Goodbye Commander.” Gah’Vor pulled the trigger.
Frenzer’s head snapped back as the laser bolt pierced his skull, killing him instantly. His body sagged in the arms of the guards. Shock was evident on the faces of most of the officers present. Gah’Vor returned the blaster to Captain Exavier and again turned to the bridge crew. “Let this be a lesson to those who would take their jobs lightly. We are at war with two very powerful enemies. Failure is not an option if we plan on surviving.”
Wynwyth, who was quite rattled with what had just taken place, ordered the guards to remove the limp corpse from the bridge. He also summoned a cleaning crew to clean the mess that had just been made. Exavier boldly stepped forward next to Gah’Vor. “Sir, if I may offer a suggestion.”
“You may.”
“We need you at the head of the fleet. We need your skill, cunning, and ruthlessness to be directed at our enemies. I believe I speak for everyone present when I say that our greatest chance for victory is to have you at the helm. I therefore move to offer you control of the fleet. In addition, you should be assigned the rank of High Admiral, a title that is a much more fitting for a fleet commander,” Exavier concluded.
Gah’Vor arched an eyebrow and once again addressed the bridge. “Is this the wish of the fleet? Do I have your support and confidence?”
The crew and officers erupted in applause, enthusiastically showing their support for the General. Gah’Vor looked to each of the senior officers present for approval. Each gave supportive gestures. “Then as High Admiral Keito Gah’Vor I will lead the White Guard to victory, not only over the Patriot Battle Fleet and the Imperial forces, but over any foe that dares to stand in our way!”
Amid the chaotic noise of cheering and clapping, no one seemed to notice as a side entrance open to permit a lone figure to slip out. Everyone was much to busy focusing on the newly appointed High Admiral to notice the absence of Lieutenant Berso Hasuadan.
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
QUARTERS, LIEUTENANT HASUADAN
Hasuadan quickly pulled up the com unit in the room and brought it online. He punched in an override code and ran a security spike to prevent tracking of his activity. He then set the comm to send an ultra-secure tight-beam transmission on a special designated frequency. He had been trying to reach his specified contact over the last few days, but had been met with failure. Thoughts raced through Berso’s head as he completed the transmission setup. If his main contact was no longer available, there was only one other person that he knew should be contacted. While only the original contact knew about his covert operation, he was going to have to reveal himself sooner or later. This message was being sent on a frequency that had been designated as a last resort.
The transmission connected and became live. He realized at the last second that he was still in full disguise, but there was nothing that could be done about that at the moment. He only had a short time before he would be missed. He started the transmission. “This is Colonel Gavin Phalon reporting on covert operation mission papa-bravo-foxtrot-zero-niner-echo…”
PATRIOT BATTLE FLEET RENDEZVOUS
DEEP SPACE
CRS WINDSTORM
PERSONAL QUARTERS, LIEUTENANT GENERAL SPOKES
Spokes shot up out of a deep sleep as he heard a distinctive ping that he had not heard in a long, long time. He rubbed the back of his hand across his eyes and shook his head, trying to push away the sleep that was calling him back to his pillow. “Lights, dim,” he called out as he swung his legs off of the bunk and slid into his chair to make his way over to Squelch. The R2 astromech unit was jacked into the quarter’s comm unit and was emitting a steady pinging noise that was quite distinct from the droid’s usual array of pings, beeps, and whistles. Then it dawned on his half non-functioning mind. Spokes quickly pulled up to the desk and flicked on the comm and began to receive the tight-beam transmission.
“Who the hell could this be Squelch? And at this hour? I get next to no sleep as it is, and this joker has to find me when I was actually under long enough to start dreaming… and I don’t remember giving this frequency out to anyone recently who wasn’t…” His words trailed off as he thought about the situation. “Odds are its Slyder… probably calling to explain why he went and got himself labeled MIA.”
Squelch offered a querying string of beeps and twitters.
“Yea, and he probably wants to make sure I haven’t used up his entire store of Whyren’s… either that or he wants something else… like for me to save the galaxy, again.” The transmission ended and began to broadcast. The screen was filled with a man who was strangely familiar, although Spokes could not seem to tell why. It was obviously not Slyder; which was probably a good thing since his beverage reserve was nearly depleted. Spokes made a mental note to send out an alcohol order the next chance he got. The man began to speak:
“This is Colonel Gavin Phalon reporting on covert operation mission papa-bravo-foxtrot-zero-niner-echo. This transmission is of the utmost importance and of the highest classification. I have been unable to reach General Slyder McGrath, and I am thus utilizing this backup frequency to report on the current White Guard activity in the Enoma Rim. Since infiltrating the White Guard command structure, I have earned the rank of Lieutenant and have been appointed as the personal aide to General Keito Gah’Vor. Gah’Vor has just recently attained the rank of High Admiral and taken control of the entire White Guard fleet operations. Commander Stza Frenzer, the commanding officer of the Cruiser WHITE DRAGON has been executed due to his inability to destroy the WINDSTORM in the most recent White Guard action against the Patriot Battle Fleet. Currently, the White Guard fleet is massing together and preparing to make a major movement against the Patriot Battle Fleet. However, their forces are vulnerable. The Frigate COURAGEOUS is without shields and waiting repairs from the damage it sustained during Frenzer’s last command. It should be noted that additional forces will be arriving over approximately the next two weeks. The ISD JUDICATOR will be leaving to perform maneuvers near Om'Uigu, but will be returning to the fleet rendezvous by the date specified in the following. Here are the coordinates of the fleet along with current ship IDs and numbers and other various data…
Spokes stared at the man on the screen for lingering second as he tried to pick out details of Gavin that he recognized. The hair was usually black, the eyes usually brown… and his skin seemed a bit off color. “Well he’s sure covered his bases on making himself unidentifiable…” He scrolled through the information and marveled at the wealth of raw data he was looking at. “This explains why Gavin suddenly disappeared all those months ago…” Spokes sat back and contemplated his next plan of action and wondered what other secret missions that Sly had put into play. With this information, the Patriot Battle Fleet could completely dismantle the strength of the White Guard… one crippling, decisive strike… he had some work to do. Spokes reached for the comm and prepared to wake the SO and the Tactical Officer… “No one sleeps tonight.”
PATRIOT BATTLE FLEET RENDEZVOUS
DEEP SPACE
CRS WINDSTORM
PERSONAL QUARTERS, COLONEL EARTHKEEPER
Colonel Chris Earthkeeper had finally started to drift off to sleep, when his comm unit buzzed. He activated it. “Unless you are about to say I’ve got the next 24 hours off, you are in deep trouble.”
“EK, it’s me. Sorry, but we’ve got work to do.”
“General?”
“Yes, that’s what I meant when I said, ‘it’s me’,” Spokes said in a very sly voice. “Now, get the lead out of your legs and let’s get going. My office, ten minutes.”
Spokes ended the transmission before Earthkeeper could counter.
“Very funny,” Earthkeeper thought to himself. Spokes knew very well how Earthkeeper didn’t like talking about his metal prosthetic legs. Quickly, Earthkeeper grabbed his legs located beside his bed, attached them to his leg sockets, and got dressed in the uniform he had worn the previous day.
If Spokes doesn’t like the way I look, it’s his fault for me rushing like this.
**********************************
I must say that the PBF shown brightly this month. We had not one, but three Squadrons turn in 100% Flying reports in one of the most competitive missions in recent memory. Blue was the first to do it, then Sabre, the Gold. Outstanding work!!! We have 73% reporting Fleetwide so far and I expect that to increase with the submission of Narratives by January 31, 2003. That makes the PBF the most active Fleet in the RS!!!
NEWS:
1. Colonel Gavin Phalon has returned to the PBF XO Spot. Feel free to beat him about the head and shoulders as it becomes necessary.
2. Colonel Sig Pillar has taken over as PBF IO. The PBF Website will be worked over after Siggy has an opportunity to review what we already have.
3. It is my sad duty to inform you all that 2nd Lt. Froggg of Jade Squadron was killed in a crash in Germany. Our condolences have been sent.
Here are the Current Standings for PBF 409:
-----PBF 409 Current Mission Standings-----
Top Pilot: LGN Spokes Gold Squadron 41 81,457
Top Squad: Gold Squadron 268 587,513 12/12
Top Wing: Crusader Wing 521 1,123,525 25
-----PBF Medal of Victory-----
The medal awarded for the best overall performance in the current PBF mission.
Lt. Colonel Han Suul
[<|=(V)=|>]
-----PBF Mission Report Medal-----
[<|=(PBF*MRM)=|>]
The medal awarded for the best written narratives for the current PBF mission.
Yet to be determined, so get to writing!!!
-----PBF Activity Medal-----
Given to each member of a squad that reported with 75% of it's pilots for the current mission.
{[-PBFMoA-]}
Gold
Blue
SabreGreen
Fireclaw
(more may be added after Narratives are due)
Bonus merit for squads flying or sending in a non-flying MR at 100%:
Gold 12/12
Blue 11/11
Sabre 8/8
(more may be added after Narratives are due)
-----PBF Information-----
1) IRC---
I'd like to invite all pilots, new and old, to take part in whatever activities they have running in the Rebel Squadron's Bar and Grill, on the Undernet IRC network; #RS_Bar_and_Grill is the name of the channel. The Patriot Battle Fleet has it's own channel as well, #PBF. I spend a lot of time on these channels, and it's a good way to contact me if you have problems. It's also a good way to meet new people and gather information about the RS. Make sure you're connected to an Undernet server, and if you have trouble connecting to the Undernet, visit the Undernet homepage at:
http://www.undernet.org
To download an IRC program for Windows PCs, and also learn a lot about how IRC works, visit the homepage of the program mIRC at:
http://www.mirc.co.uk
To download an IRC program for macintosh, visit the ircle homepage at:
http://www.ircle.com
2) Masters of Combat Tactics---
Do you think you're the best? If so, then ComTac might be for you! ComTac is a set of missions that you can run to increase your ability level and gain fame! You can download the ComTac missions at:
http://www.rebelsquadrons.org/academy/postgrad/xwcomtac/
3) Operation Lanvarok---
For anyone who wants to fly a bit more than you are now, there's a group for you. It's called Operation Lanvarok. This group flies the Academy missions weekly in a storyline. If you're interested in joining, contact oplanvarok@yahoogroups.com
4) X-Wing Mission Building Academy---
If you would like to learn how to build missions for the game this fleet is based on, join the X-wing Mission Building Academy You can find more information at:
http://www.rebelsquadrons.org/academy/mba/
Out for now,
LGN Tyrell "Spokes" Borran
PBF Commanding Officer
--Rebel Squadrons, A H.I.E.R.* organization--
--(* Honesty, Integrity, Equanimity, Respect)--
CADU LAMBADA ASTEROID BELT
GENERAL MCGRATH’S SHUTTLE
Slyder sat at the co-pilot controls of his shuttle, watching the sensors intently as the White Guard fighters scanned through the asteroid belt in search of their prey. While his Lieutenant Spheres had managed to elude them and hide the shuttle, piggybacking in a narrow fissure on one of the larger debris bodies, their luck was running out. The pair of Interceptors were almost on top of their position. He could not be sure that they would pass right by without detecting the shuttle’s engine signature – and waiting until they attacked him while the craft was dead in space was not occurrence that he wanted to entertain. Lieutenant Spheres cleared his throat to draw Slyder’s attention, “Sir, should I ready the shuttle? Those Guard fighters are nearly within range.”
“Yes Lieutenant, and hurry. I’ll work on a jump route out of here.” Pulling up his Nav Computer, the General began to plot a course, any course, which would see them safely out of the Cadu Lambda Belt and free from the clutches of the White Guard. The sudden piercing sound of twin ion engines passing within 300 meters of his shuttle’s position nearly caused Slyder to jump out of his seat. His time was running out. Quickly he scanned the possible hyperspace routes that his Nav Computer offered.
“Emperor’s Black Bones… ” Slyder swore as he came to the only available coordinates that were hyperspace safe. “Planet UR35-557… not much here, no name aside from the number… Imperial controlled… well we do have a temporary treaty with them in this region due to the White Guard. Gives us 50% odds that they won’t vape us at first sight.”
The shuttle rocked as green lasers incinerated bits and pieces of asteroid as they chewed there way towards their target. “They’ve found us!” Corporal Decker called from the ship’s gunnery station. “Returning fire. I recommend we get out of here now!”
“Very astute Corporal.” Slyder responded dryly. “Shields! Spheres, get us out of here as fast as you can!” The shuttle lifted off from its perch, freeing itself from the asteroid and opening its wings to engage full mobility. Slyder confirmed the hyperspace coordinates and pulled on his crashwebbing. “This is going to be much rougher than I would enjoy. Lieutenant, get us to those jump coordinates… and give me control of the torpedo launchers.”
“Aye, Sir.”
Slyder ran through the warhead configurations available for the proton torpedoes. It was a good thing this shuttle had been heavily modified. Without the ship custom back ordinance launchers, his plan to escape would have never worked. He instinctively braced himself as another salvo of enemy fire connected with the shuttle’s already weakened shields. The Tie Interceptors sped past on their side of the shuttle, heading around for another attack run. The sensors suddenly lit up again in 4 new places, signaling addition enemy craft inbound. “Sir, we have another flight of squints moving on an intercept course. Whatever you’re planning needs to happen or we are as good as dead!”
The lead enemy fighter had turned and was barreling down hard on the ship. The shuttle reached its jump point and Slyder allowed a slight grin. “Exactly Spheres, we ARE dead.” Firing duel torpedoes backwards at point blank range, the White Guard fighter had no time to use evasive maneuvers. The Interceptor was hit by one of the proton torpedoes, exploding with deafening force. The other torpedo was caught partially in the explosion radius and also detonated, taking with it a mid-sized asteroid. Starship and asteroid debris joined together in a destructive display that blinded everything within 500 meters. Slyder pulled back on the hyperspace level and the shuttle shot into nothingness.
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
OFFICE, GENERAL GAH’VOR
The office was immaculately clean and orderly. While quite sizable, the room housed only a large, cold metal desk, along with two matching chairs in front, and solid rolling gundark leather cushioned chair in the back. There was little decoration save for the rotating holoscreen of landscapes from various worlds around the galaxy. General Keito Gah’Vor sat behind his desk, scanning through a pile of reports that had been filed over the last few days. The General licked his thumb as he flipped from page to page of the various documents. He had just finished reading the report of Flight Officer Vicst Elsam. The Tie Interceptor pilot had been involved in chasing a Patriot Battle Fleet shuttle into the Cadu Asteroid Belt and had been tasked with capturing its occupants. However, when attempting to escape to hyperspace, the shuttle had collided with Elsam’s wingman. Both spacecraft had been obliterated leaving no survivors.
Pausing for a brief moment, Gah’Vor set the report to the side and attempted to clear his mind in order that he might make sense of the more pressing situation facing the White Guard. The Guard’s most recent operation, or perhaps debacle, had been met with complete and utter disaster – and the worst part about the failure was that it should have been an easy victory. Someone had made a grievous mistake. He refocused his eyes and began to read the next report from Commander Frenzer of the CRS WHITE DRAGON:
REPORT 272.340-WG CMDR Frenzer, Stza
CRS WHITE DRAGON
The Frigates UNFORGIVER and COURAGEOUS, were ordered into a direct assault of the Patriot Battle Fleet Flag Ship. Our capital ships took the New Republic forces by surprise, sending wave after wave of B-wing and X-wing fighters against the WINDSTORM. The Mon Cal’s shields had fallen and it seemed as if we had won the day. However, the Frigate ECHOHAWK managed to position itself between the UNFORGIVER and the PBF flagship, preventing our craft from a direct line of fire and allowing the cruiser the precious time it needed to escape to hyperspace……
The UNFORGIVER, which had been weakened by the combined fire from the two PBF capital ships, was destroyed by a torpedo barrage sent by a flight of X-wing fighters. The COURAGEOUS also sustained considerable damage and was forced to jump to its rendezvous point with the WHITE DRAGON……
Aside from the UNFORGIVER, we lost a number of various snubfighter craft in the action. The ship IDs, names and numbers are listed at the end of this report along with pilot casualties……
Gah’Vor’s lips curled into a bitter smile as he continued reading the raw date from the report. So… the Patriot Battle Fleet has once again eluded my grasp… And this time it was costly, too much so I’m afraid… The UNFORGIVER cannot be easily replace, and the COURAGEOUS is extremely vulnerable until it receives a new shield generator… I will have to deal with Commander Frenzer… The General continued to lose himself in his thoughts when the entrance chime sounded, indicating he had a visitor.
“Come.” He called.
The door whooshed open, revealing a solidly built figure dressed in the standard uniform of the White Guard Navy. He wore the rank of a naval Lieutenant and held himself with discipline and confidence. The striking man’s eyes were a light hazel, and his close-cropped hair was a dull earthy brown. He entered the General’s office and took up a position five paces away from the front of the desk. The officer snapped into a crisp salute and reported. “Lieutenant Hasuadan, reporting, General. Captain Wynwyth sends his compliments, and wanted you to know that the WHITE DRAGON and the COURAGEOUS have just dropped out of hyperspace and are enroute. Estimated time of arrival is 27 minutes 34 seconds, Sir.”
Gah’Vor returned the salute and leaned back in his seat. Lieutenant Berso Hasuadan was fairly new to the White Guard, and for that matter, his staff. But the 25-year-old human male from Obroa-skai had proven his worth time and again by his promptness and attention to detail. He had also demonstrated considerable knowledge – both tactically as well as socially – which had prompted the General into taking the Lieutenant on as his personal aide. Of course, his knowledge was not all that surprising, seeing as he was from a world famous for its extensive libraries and centers of learning. “Thank you, Lieutenant.” Gah’Vor arched an eyebrow. “Please, take a seat. I would like to ask you a few questions.”
A brief flash of uncertainty flashed over Hasuadan’s eyes as he situated himself on the leftmost metal chair. “Yes, Sir, as you wish.”
“I do wish it. Now, Lieutenant, I assume word of our recent defeat at the hands of the Patriot Battle Fleet has reached the majority of the fleet.” He paused. “What are the officers and enlisted saying about the ordeal?”
The stiffness in Hasuadan’s back relaxed slightly. “Sir, may I speak freely?”
“You may.”
“Sir, from what I have gathered through observation and conversation, I have concluded that while the loss is quite a substantial blow to the fleet, morale is still relatively high.”
“Indeed?” Commented Gah’Vor, “Please, elaborate if you would.”
“Well Sir, I have overheard a number of people commenting on the incompetence of Commander Frenzer. With a better plan of action, he should have been able to take the Windstorm down without the loss of either of our capital ships involved in the operation.” The Lieutenant stopped as he chose his next words. “To be completely honest General, the officers and enlisted soldiers want you to lead them. They want their true leader to carry them to victory over a foe that they believe will crumble under their collective fists.”
General Gah’Vor pondered these words for a quiet moment before responding. “And for me to have full support and control… Commander Stza Frenzer must be removed.”
“I believe that to be a safe assumption, Sir.”
“As do I.” Gah’Vor brought up his visual comm channel at his desk and connected to the bridge. Brief static was replaced by the image of Captain Koivrao Wynwyth. The commander of the JUDICATOR quickly saluted. “General, a pleasure.”
Gah’Vor nodded in acknowledgement.
“The WHITE DRAGON and the COURAGEOUS will rendezvous with us in-”
The General held up his hand, “Yes, Captain, I have already been informed. When the WHITE DRAGON is in position, have Commander Frenzer report to the bridge of the JUDICATOR. I will meet with him within the hour.”
Captain Wynwyth seemed to grasp the doom that was destined for his fellow starship commander by the General’s tone, yet gave a simple satisfying nod, “It will be so.”
“Thank you Captain.” The screen darkened and was replaced by the White Guard crest as Gah’Vor returned his attention to his aide. “That will be all for now Lieutenant. I appreciate your comments concerning this situation. I will no longer rely on subordinates to carry out this confrontation. The Patriot Battle Fleet will feel my wrath from a much more real perspective!”
“Thank you, Sir. You have my utmost confidence,” responded Hasuadan as he snapped to attention and saluted.
The General returned the salute and shifted his focus back to his desk as Hasuadan made his way out the exit. Gah’Vor withdrew another report from the pile of documents and began to look it over. Frenzer…
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
BRIDGE
General Gah’Vor entered the bridge of the JUDICATOR and was met with a hail of salutes from various naval personnel as they went about their duties. Lieutenant Hasuadan fell in behind the General as he made his way across the massive control room. Captain Wynwyth stood near the top of the command pit. He was flanked on the right by his executive officer Captain Grishold, and on the left by ground forces commander Captain Exavier. To the side of this trio was Commander Stza Frenzer, looking less than assured in his reasons for being aboard the Imperial Star Destroyer. Gah’Vor’s face was a solemn mask as he approached the group of high-ranking officers. Each of the men offered perfect salutes as he reached them. Wynwyth started the formalities. “Welcome General. What is it that you wanted to discuss so openly?”
Gah’Vor met Wynwyth with firm answer. “You will soon find out Captain.” His eyes shifted to Frenzer, meeting him in a locked gaze of death. The Commander appeared frozen as if he were made of stone. Gah’Vor then turned to the crew of the JUDICATOR and raised his voice.
“ATTENTION!” The bridge fell silent as each pair of eyes found the General towering over the command pit. Gah’Vor held the silence briefly and then continued.
“You all know of our recent failure in attempting to deliver a devastating blow to the Patriot Battle Fleet.” He motioned towards Commander Frenzer. “Our task force consisting of the Cruiser WHITE DRAGON and the Frigates UNFORGIVER and COURAGEOUS were lead by Commander Frenzer to destroy the Mon Calamari Cruiser WINDSTORM, the flagship of our enemy. However, due to complete incompetence and lack of vision, the Commander let the enemy slip through his fingers without the lose of a single capital ship. No, the only significant losses were inflicted upon us, with the lose of the UNFORGIVER and near destruction of the COURAGEOUS. We cannot afford to allow such action to go unpunished. We must cut off the weakness from our body as if it were a mortal disease.” He paused to let his words sink in to all present. Then, nodding to a pair of soldiers, he stepped to the side.
Frenzer could not hide the look of impending doom from spreading across his face as the soldiers gaited towards him. He looked to Wynwyth, then Grishold, and then even to Exavier, searching for any sign of support. He found nothing but the cold realization that he was alone. Suddenly the two guards appeared at either side of him and locked their hands on his arms. They kicked in the back of his legs and he fell to his knees. Frenzer looked up and was met with the face of General Gah’Vor less than an inch away.
“I’m sorry Stza, you should have been more successful.” Gah’Vor, still staring directly at Frenzer, held out his palm to the ground forces commander. “Captain, your holdout blaster.” Frenzer’s eyes grew abnormally wide as Exavier quickly withdrew his standard issue weapon and placed it in Gah’Vor’s hand. The General took a few steps back and held the barrel of the blaster straight at Frenzer’s head.
“Goodbye Commander.” Gah’Vor pulled the trigger.
Frenzer’s head snapped back as the laser bolt pierced his skull, killing him instantly. His body sagged in the arms of the guards. Shock was evident on the faces of most of the officers present. Gah’Vor returned the blaster to Captain Exavier and again turned to the bridge crew. “Let this be a lesson to those who would take their jobs lightly. We are at war with two very powerful enemies. Failure is not an option if we plan on surviving.”
Wynwyth, who was quite rattled with what had just taken place, ordered the guards to remove the limp corpse from the bridge. He also summoned a cleaning crew to clean the mess that had just been made. Exavier boldly stepped forward next to Gah’Vor. “Sir, if I may offer a suggestion.”
“You may.”
“We need you at the head of the fleet. We need your skill, cunning, and ruthlessness to be directed at our enemies. I believe I speak for everyone present when I say that our greatest chance for victory is to have you at the helm. I therefore move to offer you control of the fleet. In addition, you should be assigned the rank of High Admiral, a title that is a much more fitting for a fleet commander,” Exavier concluded.
Gah’Vor arched an eyebrow and once again addressed the bridge. “Is this the wish of the fleet? Do I have your support and confidence?”
The crew and officers erupted in applause, enthusiastically showing their support for the General. Gah’Vor looked to each of the senior officers present for approval. Each gave supportive gestures. “Then as High Admiral Keito Gah’Vor I will lead the White Guard to victory, not only over the Patriot Battle Fleet and the Imperial forces, but over any foe that dares to stand in our way!”
Amid the chaotic noise of cheering and clapping, no one seemed to notice as a side entrance open to permit a lone figure to slip out. Everyone was much to busy focusing on the newly appointed High Admiral to notice the absence of Lieutenant Berso Hasuadan.
WHITE GUARD SPACE
ENOMEA RIM
ISD JUDICATOR
QUARTERS, LIEUTENANT HASUADAN
Hasuadan quickly pulled up the com unit in the room and brought it online. He punched in an override code and ran a security spike to prevent tracking of his activity. He then set the comm to send an ultra-secure tight-beam transmission on a special designated frequency. He had been trying to reach his specified contact over the last few days, but had been met with failure. Thoughts raced through Berso’s head as he completed the transmission setup. If his main contact was no longer available, there was only one other person that he knew should be contacted. While only the original contact knew about his covert operation, he was going to have to reveal himself sooner or later. This message was being sent on a frequency that had been designated as a last resort.
The transmission connected and became live. He realized at the last second that he was still in full disguise, but there was nothing that could be done about that at the moment. He only had a short time before he would be missed. He started the transmission. “This is Colonel Gavin Phalon reporting on covert operation mission papa-bravo-foxtrot-zero-niner-echo…”
PATRIOT BATTLE FLEET RENDEZVOUS
DEEP SPACE
CRS WINDSTORM
PERSONAL QUARTERS, LIEUTENANT GENERAL SPOKES
Spokes shot up out of a deep sleep as he heard a distinctive ping that he had not heard in a long, long time. He rubbed the back of his hand across his eyes and shook his head, trying to push away the sleep that was calling him back to his pillow. “Lights, dim,” he called out as he swung his legs off of the bunk and slid into his chair to make his way over to Squelch. The R2 astromech unit was jacked into the quarter’s comm unit and was emitting a steady pinging noise that was quite distinct from the droid’s usual array of pings, beeps, and whistles. Then it dawned on his half non-functioning mind. Spokes quickly pulled up to the desk and flicked on the comm and began to receive the tight-beam transmission.
“Who the hell could this be Squelch? And at this hour? I get next to no sleep as it is, and this joker has to find me when I was actually under long enough to start dreaming… and I don’t remember giving this frequency out to anyone recently who wasn’t…” His words trailed off as he thought about the situation. “Odds are its Slyder… probably calling to explain why he went and got himself labeled MIA.”
Squelch offered a querying string of beeps and twitters.
“Yea, and he probably wants to make sure I haven’t used up his entire store of Whyren’s… either that or he wants something else… like for me to save the galaxy, again.” The transmission ended and began to broadcast. The screen was filled with a man who was strangely familiar, although Spokes could not seem to tell why. It was obviously not Slyder; which was probably a good thing since his beverage reserve was nearly depleted. Spokes made a mental note to send out an alcohol order the next chance he got. The man began to speak:
“This is Colonel Gavin Phalon reporting on covert operation mission papa-bravo-foxtrot-zero-niner-echo. This transmission is of the utmost importance and of the highest classification. I have been unable to reach General Slyder McGrath, and I am thus utilizing this backup frequency to report on the current White Guard activity in the Enoma Rim. Since infiltrating the White Guard command structure, I have earned the rank of Lieutenant and have been appointed as the personal aide to General Keito Gah’Vor. Gah’Vor has just recently attained the rank of High Admiral and taken control of the entire White Guard fleet operations. Commander Stza Frenzer, the commanding officer of the Cruiser WHITE DRAGON has been executed due to his inability to destroy the WINDSTORM in the most recent White Guard action against the Patriot Battle Fleet. Currently, the White Guard fleet is massing together and preparing to make a major movement against the Patriot Battle Fleet. However, their forces are vulnerable. The Frigate COURAGEOUS is without shields and waiting repairs from the damage it sustained during Frenzer’s last command. It should be noted that additional forces will be arriving over approximately the next two weeks. The ISD JUDICATOR will be leaving to perform maneuvers near Om'Uigu, but will be returning to the fleet rendezvous by the date specified in the following. Here are the coordinates of the fleet along with current ship IDs and numbers and other various data…
Spokes stared at the man on the screen for lingering second as he tried to pick out details of Gavin that he recognized. The hair was usually black, the eyes usually brown… and his skin seemed a bit off color. “Well he’s sure covered his bases on making himself unidentifiable…” He scrolled through the information and marveled at the wealth of raw data he was looking at. “This explains why Gavin suddenly disappeared all those months ago…” Spokes sat back and contemplated his next plan of action and wondered what other secret missions that Sly had put into play. With this information, the Patriot Battle Fleet could completely dismantle the strength of the White Guard… one crippling, decisive strike… he had some work to do. Spokes reached for the comm and prepared to wake the SO and the Tactical Officer… “No one sleeps tonight.”
PATRIOT BATTLE FLEET RENDEZVOUS
DEEP SPACE
CRS WINDSTORM
PERSONAL QUARTERS, COLONEL EARTHKEEPER
Colonel Chris Earthkeeper had finally started to drift off to sleep, when his comm unit buzzed. He activated it. “Unless you are about to say I’ve got the next 24 hours off, you are in deep trouble.”
“EK, it’s me. Sorry, but we’ve got work to do.”
“General?”
“Yes, that’s what I meant when I said, ‘it’s me’,” Spokes said in a very sly voice. “Now, get the lead out of your legs and let’s get going. My office, ten minutes.”
Spokes ended the transmission before Earthkeeper could counter.
“Very funny,” Earthkeeper thought to himself. Spokes knew very well how Earthkeeper didn’t like talking about his metal prosthetic legs. Quickly, Earthkeeper grabbed his legs located beside his bed, attached them to his leg sockets, and got dressed in the uniform he had worn the previous day.
If Spokes doesn’t like the way I look, it’s his fault for me rushing like this.
**********************************
I must say that the PBF shown brightly this month. We had not one, but three Squadrons turn in 100% Flying reports in one of the most competitive missions in recent memory. Blue was the first to do it, then Sabre, the Gold. Outstanding work!!! We have 73% reporting Fleetwide so far and I expect that to increase with the submission of Narratives by January 31, 2003. That makes the PBF the most active Fleet in the RS!!!
NEWS:
1. Colonel Gavin Phalon has returned to the PBF XO Spot. Feel free to beat him about the head and shoulders as it becomes necessary.
2. Colonel Sig Pillar has taken over as PBF IO. The PBF Website will be worked over after Siggy has an opportunity to review what we already have.
3. It is my sad duty to inform you all that 2nd Lt. Froggg of Jade Squadron was killed in a crash in Germany. Our condolences have been sent.
Here are the Current Standings for PBF 409:
-----PBF 409 Current Mission Standings-----
Top Pilot: LGN Spokes Gold Squadron 41 81,457
Top Squad: Gold Squadron 268 587,513 12/12
Top Wing: Crusader Wing 521 1,123,525 25
-----PBF Medal of Victory-----
The medal awarded for the best overall performance in the current PBF mission.
Lt. Colonel Han Suul
[<|=(V)=|>]
-----PBF Mission Report Medal-----
[<|=(PBF*MRM)=|>]
The medal awarded for the best written narratives for the current PBF mission.
Yet to be determined, so get to writing!!!
-----PBF Activity Medal-----
Given to each member of a squad that reported with 75% of it's pilots for the current mission.
{[-PBFMoA-]}
Gold
Blue
SabreGreen
Fireclaw
(more may be added after Narratives are due)
Bonus merit for squads flying or sending in a non-flying MR at 100%:
Gold 12/12
Blue 11/11
Sabre 8/8
(more may be added after Narratives are due)
-----PBF Information-----
1) IRC---
I'd like to invite all pilots, new and old, to take part in whatever activities they have running in the Rebel Squadron's Bar and Grill, on the Undernet IRC network; #RS_Bar_and_Grill is the name of the channel. The Patriot Battle Fleet has it's own channel as well, #PBF. I spend a lot of time on these channels, and it's a good way to contact me if you have problems. It's also a good way to meet new people and gather information about the RS. Make sure you're connected to an Undernet server, and if you have trouble connecting to the Undernet, visit the Undernet homepage at:
http://www.undernet.org
To download an IRC program for Windows PCs, and also learn a lot about how IRC works, visit the homepage of the program mIRC at:
http://www.mirc.co.uk
To download an IRC program for macintosh, visit the ircle homepage at:
http://www.ircle.com
2) Masters of Combat Tactics---
Do you think you're the best? If so, then ComTac might be for you! ComTac is a set of missions that you can run to increase your ability level and gain fame! You can download the ComTac missions at:
http://www.rebelsquadrons.org/academy/postgrad/xwcomtac/
3) Operation Lanvarok---
For anyone who wants to fly a bit more than you are now, there's a group for you. It's called Operation Lanvarok. This group flies the Academy missions weekly in a storyline. If you're interested in joining, contact oplanvarok@yahoogroups.com
4) X-Wing Mission Building Academy---
If you would like to learn how to build missions for the game this fleet is based on, join the X-wing Mission Building Academy You can find more information at:
http://www.rebelsquadrons.org/academy/mba/
Out for now,
LGN Tyrell "Spokes" Borran
PBF Commanding Officer
--Rebel Squadrons, A H.I.E.R.* organization--
--(* Honesty, Integrity, Equanimity, Respect)--