Another Brick in the Wall(Italia)

[Jace]

Whirring, the shape of a globe slowly rotating, bathing the room in a pale orange light. He was looking it, or was he? All he saw was a hazy orange outline, the terrain of the planet no longer visible. Which planet was he looking at? Concord Dawn? No, that wouldn't have made sense. Shogun, of course it was Shogun, what else would it be? He flicked off the holoprojector and watched as the orange globe flickered and then disappeared.

I need to take a break

Of course Bane needed to take a break, he needed to take one hours ago. Though he did not like to admit it, his wounds hadn't healed fully, and he still wasn't at a hundred percent yet. He had got himself patched up on arrival to Concord, but quickly jumped back into his duties. Bane was pushing himself, he always did, and he wasn't about to stop now. Mandalore himself was coming to Shogun, everything needed to be ready in an efficient manner.

He hit a button and the lights slowly increased in brightness until finally the room was well lit. He could now see the star on his shoulder that signified him as a Brigadier General. It was of course a great honor, but it was not the highest honor he been given since he returned from Coruscant. He had the trust of Mandalore, he had recieved so much undeserved praise, yet he could not deny that which was given by his leader. Bane only did what he was commanded to do, yet he kept receiving such great honors, he was at a loss there.

Once again he looked down at his desk, at the plans for the assault on Shogun. While it wasn't going to be as complicated as the last mission, it was going to require quite a good deal more manpower. Bane had to split up the forward strike team into two separate ones. That would mean that he wouldn't be leading one of those squads. He knew he had capable officers to lead, but it still made him somewhat anxious. Bane knew it was because that he felt he could protect his troops if he was with them. Sending troops to their deaths wasn't new to him, but it wasn't easy, even for a man like him. This mission would be a good deal greater in danger than the previous had. They would be attacking Military fortifications on the enemy's turf.

There was nothing that could be done about that fact though, they would obtain that which was theirs. This wasn't just a mission to gain some piece of equipment, this was home. Bane may not have been born there, or lived there, but it was home to all Mandalorians just as Mandalore or Concord Dawn was. They would take back their planets one by one, and then finally hand the Republic the fiery retribution that they will have brought upon themselves.

I am getting ahead of myself....

He sat back in his chair, trying to relax a bit before he got back to work.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

After the events of the Mess hall, Italia thought a visit to Bane was in order. Yes, she was likely about to die, no, she didn't WANT to die, yes, she was walking into the rancor's den, no, she wasn't expecting to come out unscathed. It had been an eventful week, the last two days being the most eventful. She'd had the farm to care for and everything THAT entailed, she'd met up with Daryn again and everything THAT entailed, she'd argued with Mal and Daryn and that WASN'T fun, she'd poked fun at Bane that WAS fun...until he wanted to kill her, she'd visited Ark and helped him out with his droid and everything THAT entailed, then she'd met with Mandalore.

THAT was interesting.

She still didn't know what to think of the meeting, or the man for that matter. There was no doubt the man was a great leader...none at all...but there was just something to him that caught the little flame warrior's attention. Lia just couldn't put her finger on what it was. He'd been rather more happy than she'd expected, and he CARED. He genuinely cared about the people he dealt with, and that was one thing she REALLY liked about him. Solus'ad Atiniir. That was his name, and she felt honored to know it. When he'd told her she'd been stunned. In all honesty, she'd expected to receive an answer along the lines of "No, Mandalore or Sir, please" and have it left at that. The fact that he'd not....she blushed slightly even now. Get a hold of yerself ya silly girl, actin' like it's the first time you've ever gotten somebody's name!

The light step of her boots down the hall, the bright florescence of the lights above, the cool night air. She noted it all as she walked down the hall of the base. Italia was moving around more easily now thanks to the first kolto treatment she'd received. She still wasn't one hundred percent, far from it, but at least the more fickle injuries were considerably more healed, and that helped. It helped her ego too, since much of the bruising had been healed, leaving her feeling far less self conscious. This did wonders for her mood.

Finally she reached the door that she'd been instructed was Bane's and pressed the com button on the side panel to notify the man that she was there. She DID have manners after all, much as some might not have thought so, she did.

Colo....um....Brigadier General Bane? It's Italia. I was wondering if I could talk to you for a few minutes?

[projectsunfire]

He was feeling a bit ready to find his bunk, and let his body do the work to make his armor padding fit, but he'd needed to talk to Bane. There were some details for the mission to Shogun that needed some attention.

Solus'ad had decided to break in a new set of armor padding for the mission to Shogun. That usually meant sleeping in it, and the armor. He'd smell fantastic tomorrow. Ahh well, whatever it took to make the armor he wore work best for him. His black and silver armored Boots made soft thumps on the floor of the hallway as he made his way to Banes offices. He'd heard that he was staying up to work and he wanted to talk with him about what he had in mind for the mission ahead.

If he walked slower and more carefully the thick souls would subdue the impact of his footfalls to a whisper. His Body Armor felt light, and the new armor padding hugged his body like an Ysalmiri hugged a tree.

It felt almost natural. That was good. There were a few parts the developement team had added to the original he was used to. They might be usefull, but for now it seemed like pointless extra weight. His Armor still had most of its dings, scuffs, and digs since the takeing of Concord Dawn. He'd done some touch up, repair and a re-enameling recently.

He adjusted his gauntlet and tightenned one of the straps ,1 notch, to make it a bit more snug on his forearm.

As he rounded the corner of the hallway he saw Italia standing at Banes door, with a resigned look on her face. He smiled. She was likely there to apologize. Good. That pleased him. Not that her antics didnt make him laugh, they were good natured. But to tease a superior officer in public was like begging for some time alone in the brig.

He strode up Slowly and stopped next to her, waiting for Bane to answer his door.

"Something has your engines lit. Just got out of the Kolto tank?" Mandalore said as he leaned against the wall just outside Banes door.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

((for future reference, forgive any mishaps in spelling/phrasing/word order/ect. for mando'a. I'll do my best, but it's new to me, so just assume Lia said it properly, k? kthxbai))

This…is gonna be awkward…

The sound of armor and boots coming down the hall had the short woman looking around. The sight that met her eyes had her blinking, then smiling, then grinning. Solus’ad…and in armor. Her eyes glittered slightly, a mischievous look in them as she watched him walk up. She leaned casually against the doorframe and folded her arms across her chest lightly and smirked at his question, chuckling lightly.

Bah, yes actually. I had ta get all nice an’ healed up so he’d have something decent to fight ‘fore he skins me alive….actually, I came to both apologize and try to soften this old goat up. Wanna help? I mean, softenin’ him up. Don’ expect ya ta help me apologize. That would be pretty funny though.

She let out a bright laugh and gave him a wink at her teasing. Her grin faded as she became more serious. The woman was seriously concerned about Bane, and not just for her own health, but that of the man himself and the rest of the team. Her face had darkened visibly, a side of the woman that was rarely seen.

I worry…about him an' the team...

Her voice was just above a whisper as she spoke this time, certain to keep the conversation between them.

Mal already feels like no one from the team cares 'bout him, and if nothin' else the leader should care…maybe I’m wrong, but I’d fight harder an' want to stay alive if I felt like someone cared, well speaking hypothetically that is. I’m hoping that maybe my apologizin' to him will open up the door for other conversation.

She sighed and gazed at the metal of the closed door. It was ironic, in a way, how the door reminded her of the man behind it.

…I know he’s in there, but he’s so closed off…

Italia was musing aloud, her eyes getting a distant look as she gazed unseeingly at the door. She wasn’t, obviously, talking about the physical man…though they both knew that he was, in fact, in the room…but rather in a mental and emotional sense. Tucking a strand of her loose hair behind her ear, she came back to reality and gave a bright smile that didn’t quite reach the emerald orbs of her eyes.

Well, it’s worth a try anyway, right dral'verd?

Strong Warrior. Yes, it suit him well enough she thought, especially with him outfitted in his armor. That was a question...why WAS he wearing his armor anyway? Surely there was no need of it here at the base?

[Jace]

He pressed his fingers against his forehead, massaging them slowly. Bane had just began looking at the personnel files for the new transfers. There was a good deal of talent among them, even the lower ranking soldiers. A spec ops private was the equivalent of a normal sergeant. It was expected of course, Special Operation troops were the elite of the elite. Bane made sure that his outfit was trained to the edge of perfection. Of course, such rigorous training also caused a plethora of injuries. That didn't bother him much though, an injured Mandalorian could still equal whole squads of Republic soldiers.

Bane was about to go over the next soldier's file when his room comm buzzed. It seemed that Italia wanted to have a word with him about something. He had long since gotten over what had happened in the mess hall. He had overreacted somewhat to the girl's taunt. Though he would need to talk to her about the chain of command, and how to treat superior officers. Technically Bane wasn't her superior army since she wasn't even part of the military.

"Come in" He stated into the comm

He watched as Italia entered the room, followed by another man. A man whom Bane immediately recognized as he jumped to attention, pounding his fist against his chest. He had not expected Mandalore to be outside with Italia.

"Mandalore, it is an honor.please..." He stated as he motioned towards the chair in front of Mandalore.

"What can I do for both of you?"

[projectsunfire]

Mandalore leaned against the door frame and listenned as Italia talked. She was a cheeky Mando'ade. Quick mouth, and Mandalore knew that meant a nimble mind. Mercenary life had given her a casual outlook on things. Italia Firians was an empathetic Dala. Unusual in a Mandalorian. Solus'ad caught himself wondering how she had gotten that way. Mercenary life was sometimes a cut throat job. Hutt eat Hutt, literally sometimes.

When she began to talk about Bane, Solus'ad shifted his position to get a little more comfortable. He crossed his arms and listenned. Nodding occasionally to let her know he was listenning. His eyes squinted a bit in the soft light of the hall. He wasn't sure about Bane just yet. But you didn't get old without learning about people. Bane was a serious man. He seemed to take everything seriously. Which meant he likely, if anything, cared too much about his team. If the problem occured where he would have to leave somone behind, or let somone die... Mandalore had his doubts that Bane would be able to make the decision.

Though doubt mingled with faith in Bane. He was a good soldier, and soldiers survived following a simple rule. Do what is necessary. It was a cold thought, and it brought no joy to Mandalore's heart. He wanted to tell her that Bane was ok. He wanted to tell her they would all grow old and glorious...

But Mandalore couldn't tell the future...

Before he could offer any words of comfort the door hissed open and Bane invited them into his offices. Mandalore pushed himself off the wall and followed Italia into Banes Office. It smelled strongly of Caf and it looked like Bane was going over personel files. He was putting the team together. Good. That was one of the issues Mandalore had in mind. Bane jumped to attention and Mandalore returned his salute with a clap of his fist to his chest. It made a resounding thump against his breast plate. "At ease Bane, I'm not here for an inspection. I came to talk to you about the advanced teams dropping on Shogun. As for Italia, I'm not sure." Mandalore rested his hand on the holo table briefly and found it to still be warm. Mandalore waited for Bane to relax before he took a seat in one of the rooms chairs.

((Reminds himself he needs to mention the Eyes of the Jai'galaar Ceremony to Bane.))

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Italia watched Solus’ad’s motions every moment her eyes weren’t busy….this was most of the time, save for when she was staring off into the oblivion of the door anyway. There was something familiar about his movements, she couldn’t quite tell what, something that reminded her of the predator she could be, but didn’t always WANT to be. Shrugging it off mentally, she stood when the door hissed open and she walked inside, stepping away to allow Mandalore to enter. Bane, as expected, snapped to attention and offered the man a seat. She had to keep herself from snickering. Instead she settled on a half smile and waited for the other two to sit before she did. Staying silent, she allowed Mandalore to speak first, casting him a sideways glance as he stated that he wasn’t sure why she was here. Another mental dismissal. It was likely for the best that Bane didn’t know that Mandalore knew her intentions.

I…actually came for several reasons.

She sighed heavily and shook her head, a light smile playing across her face. It wasn’t one of humor, but rather a sad and embarrassed smile. Maybe, just maybe, the little spitfire wasn’t always as cheerful as she seemed.

First off, I wanted to apologize…for yesterday I mean. My good…or perhaps bad…mood tends to get to my mouth before my mind can. My intention wasn’t to embarrass you in front of everyone, Bane.

Another pause as her eyes narrowed slightly, gazing steadily at the desk, the grain of the wood inlaid there a stark contrast to the metal of the rest of the holo table. Her hands settled lightly in her lap before she looked back up at Bane, then turned her green eyes to Solus’ad.

Since I have you both here…I also have a different topic to broach. One of joining the military…

Her voice trailed off as she studied the two men, first Bane, then Mandalore, before returning to Bane once more. There was no sign of that glowing humor now, only a fiery determination that smoldered behind her eyes. Italia had taken a lot of time to mull this situation over, pondering the consequences of her actions either way. Death was not one of her concerns, not for the reason most would fear death anyway. Italia wasn’t afraid to die, she’d been close to it on more than one occasion, but it was all just part of the job, part of the life she lead. No, the only reason the woman feared death was because of the strain it would put on her mother, her brother, the farm and her clan…small as it was. The process had taken her the span of the mission and the several days after it, and she had only decided yesterday, today solidifying that decision. Perhaps others would have thought the woman to be slow to action, perhaps that was the case, but to the auburn it was a matter of being certain that she could, and would, follow through on her actions no matter the outcome. Even in the mercenary world, Italia wasn’t known for making mistakes by rushing headlong into situations.

She got the job done.
She got it done on her own time.
She got it done right.

Getting things done right didn’t mean going blindly into a situation and then hoping to blunder your way out. You didn’t live long that way.

Before I go further, however, I have questions and concerns about my joining.

That was putting it mildly. The woman had what felt to be a dozen or more questions buzzing through her mind, and wanted to have a full blown conversation about her concerns. Most of them were about Bane and the team's well being. Italia knew for a fact that his leadership was top class, she had no qualms with it, but she did worry about how he TREATED the members of the team...or rather...how he DIDN'T treat them. Either way, she waited patiently for the men to absorb her words and formulate their replies.

Her steady gaze didn't stray far from the two (she had positioned her seat to face at an angle to better see both of them before she had sat down), and she locked eyes with Bane for a long moment before doing the same with Solus'ad. Those deep emerald eyes would seem to be looking into the men, searching for something, and never once did they waver to break away until she wanted them to. Whether this was from her years as a mercenary and sniper, her mandalorian upbringing, or her fiery spirit it was uncertain, but the flickering fire behind them was unmistakable: determination.

[Jace]

It was only until after he had taken a seat, that Mandalore slipped into his own. Mandalore had been throwing him off again and again these last couple days. Bane had grown up under a rigorous chain of command, and hence his attitude towards Mandalore. The man was his commander in chief, and deserved the greatest respect. It seems that he had come to Bane's office to discuss the current Special Operations invasion.

"I had just finished up the final roster for the squads, Mandalore"

He hadn't mentioned anything specific yet, so he listened to quietly to Italia.

Ahhh soo it looks like she has finally decided to join

In all honesty, Bane thought she would have brought up the subject much earlier. There was no doubt that she was a fierce warrior, and had a cunning mind. She also had many skills in various areas such as technology and the like. He had no doubt that she would be an asset to his outfit. That being said, there were some things she needed to understand and respect about the military. One of these was the chain of command, and following orders no matter what.

Italia undoubtedly had some sort of problem with the way Bane ran things. Bane was only more sure of his notion when she had mentioned that she had concerns. They are differing personalities, that much was obvious. Bane was the cold warrior, the man who would get the job done no matter what. She was the young fiery mercenary, emotions leading the way. Well it looked like they were about to settle some differences in following minutes of their conversation.

"It is alright Italia, but remember there are reasons for the chain of command. It is important that soldiers follow orders on the battlefield, it is a matter of life and death. While I know you meant no harm, respect towards a senior officer is crucial to the chain of command, always keep that in mind. Anyways I shall lecture you on the importance of the chain of command another time.

What are these questions and concerns that you wish to address?"

He would give her a chance to address what she wanted before he gave her a little talk about what happened back on Coruscant. Bane had warned her that she was not to put her squad in danger under any circumstances. She had done just that when she decided to go blood crazed after watched the near death of Ark. Instead of escaping and losing no soldiers, she ran into the fray and almost caused the death of another fellow soldier. This was one of the many things she would need to learn if she was to truly become a soldier.

[projectsunfire]

Mandalore sat stony quiet and listenned. He was seeing a new side to Italia. Then again it wasn't as if he knew her that well. Quite an enigma, that one. Mandalore crossed his arms and nodded slightly. Slowly he closed his eyes and listened thoughtfully.

When Italia had finished, Bane did what any good commanding officer should. A little reminder of the way the military was supposed to work. Likely if she had been somone else who had endangered the team, they'd have found themselves in a bit hotter of a pot. She was getting off light. Mandalore hoped she was aware of it. As General, Bane had a lot more power to wield. Includeing calling of a Military Trial.

Mandalore cracked an eye to watch Italia. Not that he was worried. Mando'ade were tough, resiliant, and adaptive. He just wanted to be sure she didn't hold it against Bane personally. That could cause issues on the field, not to mention Mandalore had a feeling Bane might not forgive himself if he made her cry.

Mandalore loosenned his arms slightly and began tapping out details on the comeing engagement. Useing his MultiGaunt for sliceing on the fly in the field was its purpose. But for now he was going to make a temporary link from the shadow op server, to the holo table so he could bring up plans, mark locations, layer maps and set times.

When Bane asked Italia what concerns she had about joining the Military officially, Mandalore stopped what he was doing and gave her his undevided attentions.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

A light sigh came from the woman and she nodded to the first part of Bane’s words. Indeed, she understood. She didn’t always agree, but she understood, why did he think she needed reminding? She’d followed his orders on Coruscant hadn’t she? No questions asked. Then he said he would be lecturing her on the chain of command later. THAT made her bristle visibly. Those eyes of her sharpened dangerously and she tensed, but she didn’t reply right away, thinking over her words carefully and biting back the scathing remarks that wanted to come out. Instead, she took a breath and tilted her chin up slightly, gazing at the man from the corner of her eyes for a moment before looking at him fully.

I’m quite aware of the chain of command, Bane. There is no need to lecture me, and I suggest you don’t ‘lecture’…tell me once and I’ll make the changes necessary. I’ve never taken to ‘lectures’ well, they’re for idiots who don’t listen…if I become one feel free, but for now, you’re more likely to get the results you want by simply stating changes needed once.

That had turned out better than she’d thought. The whole thing had threatened to come out far more harshly than it did, only coming out with a mild coloring of her true anger at the thought. Questions and concerns, yes, those needed to be covered. Another breath and she was calm again. It wouldn’t do to go losing her temper over something so idiotic as Bane stating he would ‘lecture’ her…especially not when the situation might be remedied by keeping her head about her and playing fair. He wasn’t trying to anger her, and he couldn’t have known about how she felt on the subject. She let it go for now. A run later would deal with any lingering frustrations anyway.

Questions before concerns, I think.

Lia paused a moment, closing her eyes briefly as she mulled over her thoughts, folding her arms lightly across her chest and sitting back comfortably. Seconds later, she opened her eyes once again.

My main series of questions deals with training. What training might I need to complete, if any? Are there aptitude tests that will need to be preformed? If so, when and where should I start them? Also…

Italia paused again, pondering how to phrase her next question. It was tricky, at best, to even put the idea into words.

The duration of my time in the military…when I enlist, is there a set time limit for how long I must serve? I want to aid this cause, but I’m not a soldier, nor do I intend to be one forever…I like my freedom too much to live that kind of strict lifestyle, and would, at some point, like to start a family. Neither of these things are conducive to a long term military career. So, while I’m more than willing to join you until this…struggle…for our freedom ends, or my life does, I would like to know exactly how much time I am expected to serve, or if I may leave the service as soon as one of those things come to pass.

….Well….obviously I’d be dismissed from service if I died, but you get the idea, I’m sure.

A morbid sort of smirk formed on Italia’s face. She knew quite well that she may die during this “struggle”, as she put it, but death came with her line of work and she’d resigned herself to it long ago, allowing her to overcome the fear of it for the most part. Now she just found a morbid sense of humor in the situation, and couldn’t help but make light of it even now.

Also, I’ll need to know most of the details on service, and what duties will be expected of me. As I’m fairly sure I’ve told you before, and if I haven’t I’m telling you now, I’ve had very little inclination to join any branch of any military and so have not bothered to go and search out the details of service. Even after joining, I’m afraid you’ll have to expect me to be a rather casual soldier while not on an mission.

Another slight smirk, this time accompanied by a short snicker, as she cast a glance in the direction of Solus’ad, mildly curious on his reaction to what she had to say before returning her shrewd green eyes back to Bane. Mandalore had been sitting rather silently before she'd started, and now she'd gotten half of it out of the way, she wondered what his body language might tell her that his words might not.

I believe that’s all for the questions as of right now.

With that, she fell silent and allowed the two to share their knowledge, or opinions, or….whatever the might have to say in reply.

[Jace]

Bane didn't take too kindly to being told what he should not do from Italia. He let it go though, he wasn't about to argue semantics with the girl. He looked over at Mandalore who had remained quiet throughout, he wasn't sure if that was a good or bad thing.

Ahh so here come the questions, its obvious she has some heavy concerns on her mind

He could no doubt guess at some of these concerns, but he listened patiently as she asked her series of questions. They were valid of course, and what one would expect of someone in her position. In all honesty, Bane wasn't too fond of this whole, informal way of joining the military. He believed it was a commitment, and one made to Mandalore, not something to just be dropped at the individual's convenience. They were at war though, or soon would be, and Bane didn't have the time to be picky.

"Normally you would undergo certain aptitude tests, but our last mission has saved you the necessity of going through such a test. Of course you have passed with your achievements on Coruscant.

As for your duration of service, a topic which I have much debated on. In times of war, many non military personnel are drafted and then return to their normal lives after. While we are not at war yet, we soon shall be, and this is the logic I am using. You must give sufficient notice before you take your leave of the military though. Therefore the duration of your service shall depend upon you."

Bane paused after that, for this next part would most likely irk Italia, and not sit well with her. He honestly did not understand what she meant by 'casual soldier' but he didn't like the sound of it. There was nothing casual about being in the military or being a soldier, especially not in special operations.

"Special Operations is the most elite outfit in all of the military. If you are to join, you will be expected to follow the rigorous training regime that we follow here. Joining the military means you are also subject to the full extent of martial law. Thus I suggest you carefully make sure you are well acquainted with our law. In all honesty, I do not understand the term casual soldier. I have not decided what rank you are to be given, but you are to respect the chain of command whether you be on a mission or not. This is what is necessary in order to be a soldier in the Mandalorian military"

Military life was not something for the faint hearted. He knew that Italia was tough, but she also didn't have a militaristic soul. As she stated before, she liked her freedom too much. Military life was about completely dedicating your body and soul to the lifestyle. He needed to make sure she understood that she understood this before she joined.

[projectsunfire]

Italia had vaild concerns, and the position Bane was in was not one of gentleness. Mandalore had to be honest with himself. He would not have wanted to have this talk with Lia. He may have tried to be a bit more tactful. But he was right. A war was no place for a casual soldier. Mandalore knew she had obligations for her family, but when one got into a fight. You had to give it your all, no pulling punches.

There was a light silence that filled the air once Bane finished. Mandalore took the moment to speak.

"The war won't be won with casual fighting, Italia." Mandalore tried his best to make his tone level. Not intending to hurt her feelings, but he wanted to make sure she understood this was something non-negotiable. "Spec Ops is meant for surgical strikes, and special tactics. Our unorthodox natures, and abilities make us unpredictable and deadly for these fights." he brought his right closed fist in to his left hand, holding them away from his chest as he continued.

"No one is saying we can't depend on you to do what is needed. What I believe Brigadier General Haseful is trying to say, Italia, is that we need you to understand what you are asking for. It's not a life you may be used to. Though I have no doubts you are ready, and would never dishonor us, or your people." Mandalore stood and approached her slowly.

His boots thudded dully on the floor of Banes offices. When he stood before her he placed his left hand on her shoulder, and smiled. "You are a Mandalorian Italia. You are already Dha Werda Verda, A shadow warrior of our people. You need not fear this commitment. It will never hang upon you, like a Bantha's yoke." Mandalore smiled proudly. "Your ready for this," Mandalore looked into her emerald eyes with his dull green "Italia."

He withdew his hand and walked over to Bane's desk and joined him behind it, briefly looking over his shoulder. His eyes quickly found their way back to Italia, and he cast an appraising gaze upon her. "The Ghost star is Italia's ship is it not, General Haseful? Perhaps something in the area of Lieutenant and Major would be appropriate." Mandalore brought his hands behind his back and rolled his shoulders back. "What do you think Bane?" At this last question Mandalore turned his attentions to Bane, a curious tone in his voice.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Bane’s little speech about her time of service, and the terms she would and wouldn’t have to adhere to in order to join. He was blunt about it, but she could have cared less, and the terms he lay out for her were agreeable enough. She wasn’t planning on leaving until they had reached the end of their path anyway…whatever that path may be. As Bane continued, however, Italia groaned slightly as she listened. Yes, she’d been afraid her meaning would be misunderstood and she had been right. It was time to clear that up before anything else went wrong…and to be sure she made her meanings more clear the next time around. She had been about to clear up the misunderstanding when Solus’ad spoke up. She promptly fell silent again, her face heating as she was chided again. Dratted misunderstandings! She hadn’t meant it that way! There was never anything casual about fighting.

The fiery woman felt her temper begin to flare up again and she forced herself to take a calming breath to keep from saying or doing anything stupid. Lia knew that Mandalore didn’t intend to cause harm, but the way he said those things just made her anger and hurt flare up more, and there was little to be done to sooth the angry woman as her eyes flashed daggers. What a misunderstanding this was….her and her stupid mouth had gone and said something that they were now trying to make her understand something she already knew. It wasn’t until those hardened green eyes watched the man stand and walk over to her and rest his hand on her shoulder, that the now rigid backed woman managed to ease her temper down to a simmer again. The use of her first name made the young woman narrow her eyes ever so slightly and raise one eyebrow minutely as she pondered the meaning of the action, keen green eyes trained on the more dully colored ones of the man standing over her. It was unlikely Bane would have noticed the change in expression from the position of where he sat and where Solus’ad stood. Bane…ah, perhaps that was why…or perhaps she was simply reading too much into it.

It was the time it took for Mandalore to move around behind Bane that Italia seized her chance to speak.

I believe you misunderstood my meaning and intent by my saying that I would be a more casual soldier. My only intent was to warn you that here at the base I would be far less likely to salute than many other officers who have been in the military for longer. I may still say things that most “proper” soldiers would not, and my penchant for teasing is hardly able to be ignored at times.

I know very well that a casual anything during a fight of any kind is a ticket to death, and personally I’d rather not die any time soon. I know well enough about taking orders as well as giving them and have no qualms in doing either. Training I expect, in fact, I half expected to be giving a full aptitude test. I’m not one to ask for special treatment often, and nine of ten times would prefer to go through things properly so that I won’t be seen in such a light, plus it allows me to know what others of the same status would have gone through. So you see, my statement was simply one of warning about my attitude here at the base and nothing more.

As Bane can attest, I tend to have a rather cheeky personality…speaking specific examples: my taunting of the officers at the doors to the museum with the detonator, or my “Think you can keep up old man?” joke during the same time…

That should throw her joke from the mess hall earlier that week into greater relief for the two men.

…it is things like this that I mean, nothing to do with fighting, taking orders, or the lifestyle that needs be led. All I ask is that you give me time to become accustomed to having to salute every man, woman, and floor tile inside these halls…and that you also give me some time to try to get my more…vexing…qualities under better control. This isn’t to say they’ll vanish, however, and it is because the will not vanish that I say I will be a more casual…or perhaps unorthodox is a better word?...soldier.

She sighed slightly and shook her head, chuckling slightly.

I suppose the only reason I said that at all was to try to convey my…fear isn’t the proper word, but it’s the best I can come up with at the moment…my fear of becoming some of these humorless and personality deprived beings that call themselves soldiers.

There…now it was out. It was out and oh how she hated herself for saying it. Green eyes averted themselves from the men behind the desk, barely hearing what Mandalore was even saying. Something about the Ghost Star and what Bane thought of something or other, and she couldn’t even get her mind to focus any longer so angry she was at herself. How weak that sounded! She let out a light huff of displeasure and stubbornly forced herself to return her gaze to the men that were positioned there.

[Jace]

Bane was slightly surprised when Mandalore began to speak, for he hadn't been expecting it. It seemed that Mandalore's words reflected his own but he conveyed them in a lighter manner. Bane had been a soldier all his life, his subtly lay in his tactics, not his words. This wasn't to say that Mandalore wasn't a true soldier, he was of course, but he was also a leader and not just a military one. Bane was sure that he had to deal with politics and those sorts of things; he felt bad for the man. He was a soldier, and he could tell that Mandalore was yearning to be in the heart of battle once again.

Italia cleared up the issue about her use of the casual soldier term. Bane was slightly impressed, she had managed to keep her temper in check. He wasn't totally complacent with what she had said, but it would have to do. Bane couldn't force the woman to change who she was, he knew a losing battle when he saw one. As long as Italia respected her senior officers then she should be fine.

Bane narrowed his eyes ever so slightly at Italia's last statement about soldiers being personality deprived beings. That was obviously something she had wanted to get off her chest for some time. He left that aside for the moment, for Mandalore had queried him about Italia's rank. There was no doubt that she was a talented woman, and she showed leadership skills. Bane still wasn't fond of the idea that she was joining the military and becoming an officer right away. Mandalore was right though, she had her own ship, and it qualified her for an officer rank.

"I believe that the rank of Lieutenant is appropriate for Italia" He stated before focusing his gaze on the girl once again.

"You seem to have some issues about the state of my soldiers. I assume this is one of your concerns that you mentioned?Are there any others you would like to address at this time?"

It was finally time for the true purpose of this meeting to come to light. Bane felt as if she was using her queries about joining the military as a front for what was about to come. He was impressed that she had decided to address him, instead of just burying her doubts. A soldier could not go on the battlefield with doubts, the slightest hesitation could be the difference between life and death.

[projectsunfire]

Mandalore stood stiffly. His eyes were narrow and focussed on Italia. She had a fire in her belly. That could be used as a weapon if focussed on the right objective. After a long moment Mandalore Took a deep breath and exhaled slowly almost as if he were releaseing the tension electrifying the room. He waited for now. He had important work to discuss with Bane, and he didn't want to risk elongateing Italia's meeting. Mandalore turned slowly and looked out the window of Banes Offices into the dark of the night. The two moons seemed to hover just above the horizon. He sighed softly in introspective thought.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Lieutenant? Now, she didn't know much about military ranking, but Lia knew enough to know that that most certainly wasn't some enlisted rank...that was an officer. She wasn't entirely certain she was cut out to be an officer of any kind. Sure she had experience in being a captain of a ship, but those were merc crews...not military soldiers. Her thoughts were diverted, however, when Bane spoke again and she nearly winced....NEARLY...her cheeks flushing slightly. Sighing, she shook her head slightly.

I'm going to be blunt, so forgive me if any of this comes out....more harshly than I would intend, or would be appropriate for the current situation, but you asked.

Italia kept herself from shifting uncomfortably under the gaze of the two men. However, the only way she was really able to do this was by closing herself off, thick walls coming up behind those emerald eyes, shielding her from her own uncomfortable feelings in order to get things done. She was beginning to feel as if it were time for her to go, so she opted to end this as swiftly as possible.

Yes, I do have a problem with mindless soldiers, but not as big a problem as I have with emotionless ones. My last comment on this was unintentional, however, it does lead to my main concern.

That concern, Bane, is you.

She paused a moment and sighed. This was going to end poorly.

I don't mean that to be disrespectful, I've seen how you fight and have no doubts or concerns with your leadership abilities but....I DO have concerns for your well being and the mental and emotional well being of those below you.

Those emerald eyes were cold, unfeeling, and unyielding as she gazed at Bane.

It's been two weeks since we've arrived back from Coruscant. I understand you're busy...but my question for you is this: have you bothered to check up on any of the team in that time? I tried, once or twice, to get hold of Ambria and Trin....from what I hear, they've not been around and the only reason I know were Itani is is because he's my brother and is staying with me at the farm to help. Have you bothered to check on the status of Mal? I arrived late the day he came out of the kolto tank....I was the only one there. Have you bothered to see Ark? He's practically confined to his hangar, or he was until we got that droid working for him...but no one had really gone to see him either.

As the commanding officer, don't you have a duty to see to it that your troops are well, mentally and emotionally as well as physically?

I know Mal feels horrible, like a failure...I can't tell you exactly why, don' know much myself as he won't talk about it, but I know it's 'cause of the mission. Then, to have no one, not even you, there to meet him...Even as the lowly little merc I am, I know better 'n' to leave a crew member like that. It can cause problems....big ones...like carelessly throwing one's life away type of problems if it ain't seen to.

And here came the country accent. Oh well, there wasn't much she could do about it now besides try to keep it from overtaking her entire way of speaking.

Ark's strong in character, but he's feeling trapped. I would've been there sooner had I been able to afford it, and had known the situation. He's been alone in the universe long enough to not need to be trapped alone in a hangar tryin' to patch up a droid so he can see somethin' else. That should've been your job too...seein' to it that he got the help he needed. Metal grips can only do so much.

Trin...I don' see her as one to stay away from anything for as long as the people here at the base are makin' it sound, not unless somethin's botherin her...and she seemed none too pleased with herself as we came back from the museum....but again, I shouldn'a been the one to notice and try lookin' for her. You've known 'er longer.

Ambria, from what I hear she's been training her arse off. Now maybe that's just her, I'm not sure on that either....wouldn' know...I just hope she knows you're thankful ta still have a leg. Medics tend ta like ta know that their patients appreciate their work....keeps 'em from feelin' like they did a good job. Self assurance of a job well done can only stretch so far.

Italia paused. She was potentially digging herself a big hole here and she knew it. Those green eyes of hers had softened slightly, however.

Aside from the obvious reasons I stated already, I suppose I'm concerned for the...I'm not sure if moral is correct since they seem to have plenty of it, but what I'm also tryin' to say is that...speakin' from experience, as both a leader and a follower...people fight twice as hard, follow orders twice as well, if they know...or at least THINK that their commander cares about them and their well bein'...

I'm just not seein' it from you.

Now I'm not askin' you to be all lovey dovey with the team, or coddle them or much of anythin' more than to just check in on 'em every once an' then and make sure they know they can come to you with their problems.

You're not easily approachable Bane, hell, at times you can be damned frightenin', and if you want a team that you can rely on, and that can rely on you, you need to make the effort to let 'em know you're there if they need ya or have a concern....or if possible, be there for 'em before they know they need ya.

Another pause as she turned her gaze to the desk between them.

I also worry about you, Bane. Bein' so stiff all the time isn't healthy...but I can't ask ya ta change who or what ya are. I just feel like your gonna end up wearin' yourself down to nothin' tryin' ta be the cold hearted super commander and not bein' human.

It was, by this time, obvious that everything the woman said stemmed from concern. Not concern for herself, but concern for the team and the man seated across from her. Lia's eyes had lost that hard, uncaring, glint to be replaced with a much softer one as she gazed at the desk settled before her. She had completely forgotten about the presence of Mandalore by this time, only realizing again that he was there as she turned those green eyes back to Bane.

Now, it was time to wait and see.

[Jace]

Angry or impressed, he wasn't sure which he should be feeling. Impressed because this girl had the guts to say something that bold to his face. Angry, for just about everything that she did. Bane was not about to lose his temper though, not again, and not because of this girl. He gave himself a few moments to let everything she said wash over him. There was truth in her words of course, he had not gone and checked up on his squad. Bane of course wanted to make sure those in his squad were alright, but the invasion took precedence, and they were on a truncated timetable.

How was he to respond to this girl? sure there was truth, but he also saw a great deal of ignorance. This girl was lecturing him about what a commander should do from her...vast experience? Bane didn't think himself as exceptional in any right, but he knew what was required of a commanding officer. He would speak his part, whether she understood and accepted it, wasn't an issue to him.

"Italia listen well, I am not their mother and I am not their father. They are not children, they are experienced soldiers. Men and women whose sole occupation is to take life. Killing is not easy business and not for the lighthearted. That is why only the strong, only the cold, can be good soldiers.

My men are the best of the best, the most elite soldiers in the galaxy. They don't need a pat on the back every time they do something right. That is how you reward a child, and these people are not children. Their ranks, their skills, their pride are all more than enough reward for them. If they need someone to coddle them after every little thing, than they don't belong in Special Operations.

Surprisingly enough, I don't keep you privy of everything I do. I had been receiving daily status reports on Mal's condition. I know where all my soldiers are, and what their condition is. Believe it or not, I know what is required of a commander on and off the battlefield.

Do you know how soldiers actually care for each other? They don't praise each other, or hug them, or cry with them. They watch their squad's back by putting their own life at risk for them. I put my life on the line for my squad, just as they put theirs for me. That is the ultimate manifestation of care, concern, and trust. Even now I spend day and night planning so that the chances they die are kept to a minimum. Honestly, if you were a soldier I wouldn't have to explain this to you, but you are not so I am. How could they not know I care? I train them constantly day and night, so that when they are on the battlefield, they have a chance of once again seeing home.

As for myself, I am what I need to be....but don't you ever again question my care for those under my command"

His last statement, was complimented by his icy cold glare fixated on Italia. Bane wasn't sure why he had even explained himself to this woman. He had not once doubted who he was, not for a very long time. Long ago he learned what was necessary to be a soldier, and he still knew it to be true to this day. Bane was not about to let some child to war tell him different.

"Now unless Mandalore has anything to say, you are dismissed" He finished in an even voice.

[projectsunfire]

"That concern, Bane, is you." Mandalore tilted his head to the side slightly to hear Italia better. He listenned intently as she called Bane on his lack of personal attention to the wellfare of him and his soldiers. Her words would have been a barb to him if she had said them to him. Mandalore knew that if Bane had a heart that beat Mandalorian Blood in his chest. He'd feel shame. A leader has an obligation to those beneath them. They have an obligation to make damn sure they are given every tool that can use in their duty.

She was worried about Bane. Now that was unusual, for a soldier to be worried about their superior. Most of the time a soldier had an overarching fear, loathing, or distrust of a superior unless they'd served in a prolongued tour of duty with them.

Bane's response was understandable. Solus'ad didn't agree with everything he said, but he wasn't about to undermine one of his generals authority. That would have to wait till later.

"Now unless Mandalore has anything to say, you are dismissed" Mandalore took a deep breath and shook his head. Returning his attentions to stars in the sky. His mind was already mulling over the situation they were about to deal with.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Italia listened silently, an almost amused air about her as she watched the general from behind green eyes. Ah, so her words had gotten to him. This pleased the mercenary woman to no end, but not for the reasons most would think. Clever eyes, so much like her father's, gazed at him as he ranted at her, belittling her. She didn't really care right now....the fact that he was bothered by her words meant there was truth to them and that it had gotten to him. Maybe a change would be made. The fact that he became so agitated, getting defensive over her accusations, made a ghost of a smile touch her face for a moment before she suppressed it.

By the end of his rant she was having to work twice as hard to keep from smiling outright. Now, finally, she knew he cared. He wouldn't have gotten so defensive over her words if he didn't. Emerald eyes sparkled happily, their look almost gentle as he dismissed her angrily. She stood calmly, the movement simple and almost graceful. Italia moved easily around her chair, that smile still flickering around her face, there one moment but gone before it's appearance could really be noted. Once she was away from anything that would block her exit, she saluted lightly, dipping her head as well before looking back up at Bane and Mandalore.

Thank you for your time, General, Mandalore....I believe I've received all the answers I'm looking for at the moment. I look forward to working for you.

With that placid, if slightly amused, statement, Italia turned and left the room. No sooner had she left, the doors sliding shut behind her, than that smile emerged as she padded down the halls and out toward her farm once more.

[Jace]

His eyes narrowed just a little more as he watched Italia's reaction to his little speech. The damn girl was forcing herself not to smile, and doing a bad job of it. She had once again gotten under Bane's skin, and he had lost his temper. Bane had just promised himself earlier that she would not get to him again, but she had. Not only that, but for the second time it was in the presence of Mandalore. He watched as she walked away, clearly pleased with what she had accomplished.

Bane had cooled down by now, his temper usually took long to rise, and quick to fall. It was his ability to keep a cool head, even in the heat of battle, that kept him alive for so long.

At least she is saluting properly now.... Bane thought as he released a light sigh.

He could finally get discussing important details with Mandalore on the invasion. They had been over the general strategy earlier, but now they would go over it one more time before the final briefing. Bane had met with the leaders of the other military branches over the last two weeks. This invasion would be the crowning achievement for them, at least in Bane's lifetime.

"Mandalore, you said you wished to speak about the advanced teams for the invasion"