Briefing Room -- Spec Ops HQ (open)

[Sait]

Caazun nodded to the general swiftly.

"I understand. I was just..." Caazun drifted off into his thoughts. He hadn't noticed until now how many other people had entered the room, nor did he have the opportunity to introduce himself and greet them individually. He was a newer higher-ranking officer, after all, so it was to be expected that nobody in this room knew his name.

The tall man worked his way to the outer edges of the briefing room and placed himself in between two individuals whom he did not know. He folded his arms across his chest and began to wait and see who was coming in.

"Whoever this guy is that's coming in must be really important if Bane is alerting everyone that he is on his way. I should be ready for anything..." he thought to himself.

[projectsunfire]

The call to attention had been sounded. Mandalore slowly descended the stairs of the briefing room, his rain slick gently flapping as it hung over his shoulder. When he stood in full view of the soldiers residing he saluted with a great pound to his chest. The clap his gauntlet made was like the snap of a concussion rifle. A horn was sounded and all was still. A sound of might it sang. Of honor. of booted feet, marching to glory, to victory!

His silvery gray and black armor was polished to a lustrous sheen. His gauntlets seemed poised to grasp hold of any weapon, so great was the tension in his hands. His right hand was closed in a fist, over his heart. His left gripped the hilt of his Muniit’beskad, tightly. The symbols on his armor stood out like stars in the heavens. The scar on his face told of the glory of battle, both horrible, and magnificent. His posture was taught, like the chords in a muscle.

His eyes wandered through the group, though he stood stock still. They searched the faces of every man and woman soldier dedicated to the glorious future of the Mandalorian culture. They saw a group of a people hungry for justice, for honor, for revenge.

The Horn became silent, and for those few moments Mandalore felt the electricity of life. He was the lord of a people ready for what needed to be done. A people who without question would march on their enemies, and bring death upon them. The Republic would be sent to become one with the force, to meet their gods, to find their end. The engines of war were ready. Now was the time to begin again, as they had so many times before. In the forges of war, of glory, of honor.

“Be seated.” Mandalore said, his voice rich and full. He rested a moment, watching the men and women gathered there in the breifing room. When all were seated, he took a deep breath. “Ner’ade the Republic told you, that you were no longer Mandalorians. They spent thirty years trying to drive your honor from you. Trying to beat it from you. Those of you with wisdom, knew this to be impossible. All Mandalorians live, breathe, fight, and die with honor.” Mandalore spoke with a reverence for his people. He gestured to the group, his gauntleted hand spread out as if he could touch them. “All true Mando’ade love, the joining of battle." He closed his hand into a fist and shook it. "That is where they find their glory. THAT IS WHERE WE EARN OUR HONOR!” Mandalore emphasized the word honor with a slamming of his right fist into the palm of his hand. His shout and glare, dared any to oppose his words.

His firey countinence softenned, and he began to walk around the holo table slowly. His eyes flowing from Mandalorian to Mandalorian as he spoke. “When you were children, your fathers taught you how to hunt. How to kill. Once this was the very nature of our survival... Our ancestors lived on Dxun where no soft bellied republic society could ever possibly set root.” Mandalore swiped with his hand as if slapping away a large bug. “This life we live is part of us!" His barritone rose in a crascendo of fury, and descended once again to the softness of cloth. "and we will never lose it... No republic, or sith empire, can ever take that from you.” Mandalore completed his encirlement of the holo table and stopped. His back to the soldiers. Slowly he straightenned, and his jaw seemed set.

“Today, you are here for three reasons." Mandalore turned in place, on the pivot of his booted feet, and stared at his soldiers. "First, you are here to take back the homes of your ancestors. These places were earned in blood spilled by and of your most ancient of grand mothers and grand fathers, Nu kyr'adyc, shi taab'echaaj'la." His head turned as his vision washed over the crowd. "Second, you are here for your own honor. This is your right as Mandalorians!Thirdly, you are here because you are true Mandalorians, and true Mandalorians love a fight. Where else would a true Mandalorian be other than feeling the sting of battle. Driving stagnation away from their hearts, and their souls.”

Mandalore breathed softly, letting the silence fill the room again. His face seemed stony, but his eyes were lit with the Mandokar.
“You are not all going to die. You need not fear death." He snorted a heavy breath through his nose, makeing his nostrils flare. "Death can come to you any time. Weather you hide under a rock, or you charge gloriously forward on the field!" He waved his hand over the soldiers in their seats. "Death comes for us all."

"Every one is scared in their first real engagement. If they say they are not, they are full, of Osik.” Mandalore paced. “A true mandoade is the Mandalorian who fights even though they may wish to retreat to safer ground." Mandalore flexed his jaw makeing the muscles on the sides of his face tense. he paused in his slow paceing

“Some get over their fear in moments when they are under fire. Sometimes it takes days. But a true Mandalorian will never let their fear of death eclipse their honor. Your sense of duty, is to your people." Mandalore's dull green eyes rested on Bane for a moment. Just as casually as he had rested his eyes on Bane, he broke his gaze away and continued to eye the seated soldiers.


Slowly Mandalore turned at his hips his eyes glanceing from Mandoade to the next. "The republic military has dug themselves in on Shogun. They fear you." The evil grin that sprang to Mandalores lips was fericoious. His scar excentuated the sadistic lines already formed there. Crosshatching his face with dark contrasts. "Of each and every one of you! They know that you are true Mandalorians, and you won’t stop until victory is yours."

Mandalore began to pace again, his eyes watching the floor as he walked. "You soldiers are veterans or you wouldn't be here. You are ready for what's to come. A soldier must be alert at all times if he expects to stay alive. If you're not on your toes, sometime, a Republic Cantina Rat is going to slip in behind you and beat you to death with a boot full of Osik!”

Abruptly Mandalore halted and pointed at the window of the breifing room. "There are four hundred neatly marked graves here on Concord Dawn, all because one sentry went to sleep on his shift." He spat these words as if the very taste of them in his mouth made him sick. Slowly he lowered his arm and chuckled. "However, those are Republic graves, because we caught that poor Mir'osik fast asleep before his unit did."

He began to walk around the holo table again. Stopping in front of a soldier now and then. His eyes rested for a moment on Italia Firians. He would not let them linger. With great discipline he shifted his gaze and began to scan the group of Mandoade again as he walked. "A strike force is a traat'aliit. It eats, sleeps, and fights together. No fighting unit needs a hero, heroes get people killed, themselves included." Mandalore paused a moment and breathed in deeply.

"In your day you may have seen holo dramas all about heroism. All those ast'ehut holo drama di’kut wouldn’t know war if it rode down on them, on a golden Bes’ulik, and bit them in the ass!" The gravelly quality in his voice seemed to come out, and he cleared his throat before continueing his march around the holo table. "We have the finest equipment, the best aggressive quality, the most motivation and the best soldiers in the Galaxy. By Manda, I pity those poor excuses for soldiers we’re going toe to toe with." Mandalore chuckled and smiled softly, his eyes sparkling with the shimmer of experience.

"My Ner’ade never give up, and surrender. I don’t ever want to hear that any Mandoade under my command has been captured unless he’s taken a blaster bolt to the torso. Even if you are sitting there, bloodied from enemy fire, you can still fight back. Don’t think for one minute that just because you’re a little damaged you can sit down and poor yourself a Netra’gal." Solus'ad halted and looked at his men with contempt. As if they had already dissapointed him.

With his eyes glareing like daggers at his own men, he turned his gaze and continued his march. "Not all of the true heroes in this war are combatants, either." Mandalore waved his hand casually to the air, gestureing to the sky outside. With a swift turn his eyes met Malak's "Every single man, woman and child of the Resol'nare plays a vital role in making this victory... Every one of us. Your families here, the ones you love, the ones you even despise are contributeing something to this fight. Don’t think for one minute that your job, or your life is unimportant." Mandalore let that last sentence ring just for Malak.

Mandalore took a deep breath and sighed, as his eyes shifted back to the crowd. The leather parts of his armor rubbed together, in a satisfying creek. "Every one of you has a roll to play, and must do it. Your people, are counting on you, don’t disappoint them."

"Each of you, can’t think only of yourselves… But of the ones fighting beside you. Be brave together, take care of one another, and you may live to see the end of this."

Solus'ad's rain slick swished as he would turn, in his paceing. His gate slow, but purposeful. "My soldiers don’t dig foxholes, or make fortifications. We leave that sort crap to the engineers after we’ve purged our enemies with fire and there are none left to even weep their own passing." He took turns pointing to varied soldiers in the crowd, holding their attention with his cold gaze. "Creating fixed positions slows down our advance. We will not give the enemy time enough to make their own fortifications either. You will be constantly on the move! We’ll have our victory, and our Honor, but we’ll earn it only by showing the republic we’ve got more shereshoy than them."

"We’re not going to just shoot those laandur republic osik’a, we’re going to rip out their cowardly bellies with our damn bare hands!" Solus'ad gripped his muunit'beskad with his hand and knocked it without thinking. His restraint kept him from drawing it fully, so great were the emotions he built within himself. "We’re going to slaughter every one of those dirty layari republic bastards. We're going to Wade into them! Spill their blood! Shoot THEM in the guts!" He said forcefully, as if it were an order outstanding. He snapped his muunit'beskad in its scabard and continued around the holo table.

"Now, time and again, you may hear complaints that we’re pushing you too hard." Mandalore laughed softly, his throat once again becomeing gravelled. "I don’t Give a mott's backside about that osik! One ounce of sweat will save a the lives of your fellow Mandalorians, however insignificant the number you think it may be. It could even be one person." Mandalore halted where he started and brought his hands behind his back. "But that person could be your mother, your brother, your father, your son, your daughter, or sister. It could save the one sitting next to you right now. The one you may love the most." Mandalore's eyes glazed over a moment, almost as if he were seeing somone far away. He shook his head slowly to shake off the memory. "The harder we lay into the enemy line, the fewer republic soldiers there will be, and that means fewer blasters and artillery strikes against us. I want all of you to remember this."

Mandalore took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. That was enough. He eyed them with his dull green gaze once more and turned to Bane.

"General Haseful, give these salty meat cans the plan of attack!" With his final words, Mandalore stepped back and took Banes spot at the wall, as Bane stepped forward. Solus'ad folded his arms, his eyes watching tenaciously, and his ears keenly intent.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

((I'm fairly certain that Jace put into his post that PSF was supposed to be posting directly after him UNLESS you hadn't yet entered the briefing...I wonder what happened to that ))

Italia had been about to reply to Fable and Mal when Bane had called them all to attention. Standing against the wall of that room she couldn’t see the man as he entered, but she had a damn good idea of who it was. As the silver and black glinted with his arrival, that rain slick coming into view she nodded slightly to herself, correct in her assumption. Her hand came to her chest as he passed, her muscles tensed as she watched him pace toward the front of the room. Every ounce of him seemed like the jai’gaalar the symbols on her helm resembled. His hands poised like talons until he saluted, one over his heart the other grasping his beskad. She had known he wore masks, this was one of many that he wore, and a far different one than she’d seen a few days ago, the quiet man who enjoyed the simpler things in life. His challenging gaze was met with fiery green eyes that showed she refused to back down from him or anyone else. As he told them to be seated, she chose her perch in the back set of seats, blue, black and red armor glinting slightly as she moved to seat herself.

She didn’t want to sit.

Every muscle in her screamed for her to remain standing so they could tense and relax as they wished, but she would have none of their rebellion right now, so instead she settled herself on sitting on the edge of her seat, her helm settled on her lap. As he spoke, her ears remained trained on the man, not only absorbing his words but absorbing this new side of him…something she hadn’t yet seen. Lia wasn’t sure yet if she liked it or not. Suddenly she found her first disagreement with his words. No, not all true mando’ade loved joining in battles…she decidedly didn’t. This was a battle of necessity, not of a desire for honor or glory, but rather to right a wrong that had been made years ago. It was a personal vendetta against the people who had tried to tame her people and taken their homes…it was a long coming punishment that they deserved and one she would bring upon them, the honor and glory would follow in the wake of doing what was right for her people. Her eyes narrowed at him and she huffed slightly, displeased by his assumption.

He continued, speaking of fathers who taught them how to hunt, to kill. Yes, she had been taught, yes she did kill, but only when needed. No, no quarter would be given to those aiming to harm herself or others of her team, but that didn’t mean she had to like it, and no, no one would ever be able to take her pride or her culture from her. Heh, it was funny he should mention Dxun. Even she had survived on Dxun for a week alone at thirteen…she wondered how others from the Republic or Sith would have fared in that position. He went on to name reasons that they were there, first…their homes. She nodded again slightly and smirked a bit at the thought of Ark. He was not gone, he was still around, and it was almost mind boggling to think that he was fighting again to take back something he very likely helped protect in the first place. Honor again was brought up. Yes, she liked the thought of gaining honor, but that was far less of a concern for her than the first and to protect her family and her rights to stand tall among the people in the galaxy and proclaim she was mando’ade without caring what others thought. Third, fighting. No…it was not the fight she lusted for, it was the hunt and the challenge. The fight itself did little more than bloody her hands, it was the way they got to the fight and the difficulty of it that she relished…the ability to test her own limits and boundaries to see just how far she could push herself before she could push no more.

Death, yes, death came to them all. No, the fiery auburn was not afraid of death, not really. She loved life more than anything, but she wasn’t afraid of death…it was simply a difficult part of life. It was because of death that she chose to live her life to the extent, trying bits and pieces of everything she could just to get a good sample of what was around her. She smirked. That came with interesting memories, her love of life and her ‘sampling’ of it. Fear, now fear she knew. She’d been nervous on the way to Coruscant, almost to the point of fear, she’d been afraid before then as well, but she’d never let it get her down or lock her in place. Well…once…but even then she’d been younger and more inexperienced. Her fear could be tempered, hammered and molded into something useful, energy and speed and anger to fuel and strengthen her. Fear was a fickle ally, but an ally none the less…it kept her careful and cautious and could be harnessed for use in a pinch.

Even as he resumed his speech and his pacing, Italia caught his look, a grim smile appearing only to vanish without a trace, almost faster than might be registered in the mind. Green eyes locked with his for a moment before he moved his gaze away. The auburn wasn’t certain if she was happy for the shift in attention or not. This new side to Solus’ad was even more dangerous than the one that she had opened up to. This man, this mask, knew, in part, how she thought and now about part of her past. She almost snarled at herself, her stupidity, for letting him get so close. She had even told him that he was a dangerous man, so now he knew that SHE knew he was. The very thought made her want to squirm. She didn’t.

Lia smirked again slightly, in her morbid sense of amusement, at how he said he pitied the soldiers they would be facing. Yes, she pitied them as well…it was certainly going to be a hell of a fight. Even as he accused them of allowing themselves to be captured she snorted slightly. It couldn’t be helped, that involuntary show of annoyance. She’d rather be dead than captured anyway, Mal could attest to that…if he’d seen her look on Coruscant anyway. Lia’d be twice as damned if she allowed herself to be taken on any mission. Even as he glared at them, she had to withhold a derisive little chuckle from escaping. Running a hand over the three strands of beads and the daggers hidden within, she watched as those green eyes of his locked onto Mal’s. The words he spoke next made her smile grimly. So her words had reached someone and now they would reach Mal. Good.

The speech continued and she sighed slightly. As fiery as she was, Lia wanted to get to the meat of the meeting, to know the plan. Enough of speeches, time for talking of actions! Pulling herself back to the moment she cleared her throat slightly as her lungs seemed to clench slightly. Now was a bad time for that, and she’d have none of it. Taking smaller breaths, she waited for her lungs to relax before taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. Solus’ad’s tone changed slightly and her eyes glinted as she returned them to him. He seemed lost in thought, and the words he spoke came ringing back into her ears. Ah, his mother or his ba’buir she supposed was who he was thinking of. She couldn’t blame him. Finally he turned to Bane and called for the plan of attack. Good…at last time for actions. Again she felt her muscles tense as she narrowed emerald eyes at the general as he came forward to say his piece.

It’s about time we get our homes back…

[Meira]

Trin had sat, lost in her own thoughts as people filed into the briefing room. She had smiled and nodded at Ambria, who sat down near her. She had raised her eyebrows when she saw Italia enter, fully clad in beautiful armor. Others entered, some she didn't know. Her eyebrows raised again when she saw Itani, also armor clad. Had the siblings joined them after all. Trin couldn't help the blush that rose to her cheeks when she smiled and returned Itani's wave. When Mal entered, Trin smiled yet again, glad to see the juggernaut of a man was in good health. But what was wrong with his face?

Soon enough, Col.... General Bane called the group to attention. Trin stood quickly, her right fist moving to her chest in salute. Who was coming? His feet were the first things to be seen, then his legs, and so on. The armor looked so familiar. But Trin's mind was too slow, she saw his face before she could remember the armor, but no matter. She knew the man. Mandalore. It had been quite some time since Trin had laid eyes on their leader, but she remembered every scar on the man's face. She had never known him as a friend, only as a leader, but in some way Trin saw him as family. Maybe an uncle. She couldn't help it. She was so new to the Mandalorian culture and she had no family to speak of. When she was in boot camp, she saw the women of her bunk house as her sisters, the men in her platoon as her brothers. Then, when she was sent to train in the secret facility on Dxun, Mandalore himself took her and the men under his wing and instructed them. He was too cold to be seen as a father, but too close to not seem like something.

Solus'ad began his fire filled speech, and even as Trin returned to her seat, she felt as if it couldn't hold her. Part of it was that she simply had no idea what their next mission was. Another part was that she simply couldn't help being moved by the man's words. He spoke of battle, of honor. Were they moving on then? Past the subtle missions and out into the light of open combat? Honor... being a true Mandalorain. Was she? She hadn't grown up in the culture. Her father had never taught her to hunt, to kill. She had never known the man. The one she thought was her father had only taught her to lie and steal. She couldn't bring herself to meet Mandalore's eyes. She felt below every other person in the room. There was a brief moment when her heart swelled at the mention of Dxun. She had survived there, with this very man and others. Her greatest skills had been forged in the darkness there. But was that really enough?

Solus'ad's speech continued, even as Trin averted her eyes. Her ears perked up at times, especially at the mention of Shogun. So that was where they were going. It was true, they were marching into all out war. Was she ready? Trin knew that when the time came, she would do what must be done, but she wasn't sure if she would be as capable in such circumstances. Her training had been in more subtle things. Surely she would continue to recieve orders that fit her approach.

Again Trin's ears perked as Mandalore spoke of never giving up. That much, she knew she could handle. Trin never liked the idea of being captured. But yet again, it seemed that Solus'ad's words bore into her, when he spoke of not letting petty wounds stop them. That one stabbed her heart. Trin was still nursing a particularly nasty bout of shame from her performance on the last mission. The way she knew that Bane, Mal, Ark, and Italia had faught on and on, in spite of their wounds, in the face of death. And she, with one lousy shot to the arm, had retreated to safety. So what if it had been an order? Trin's eyes involuntarily sought out the man who had sewn her up, but looked away again quickly. She sighed, trying hard to let go of the shame, but it wouldn't release it's grasp on her heart.

Mandalore called for Bane to lay out the plan and Trin forced her eyes to look up from her hands. She had to pay attention now. If she was ever going to get over her guilt, it would be on this next mission. She filled her heart with resolve at that moment. She would breathe determination until it was over. She would fight, fight, and fight again until she purged herself of it all. She would have the honor that Mandalore spoke of.

[Jace]

Stepping back as Mandalore entered the room, Bane made room for the man to address the soldiers. While the others sat, Bane remained standing off to the side, patiently waiting for Mandalore to begin. Begin he did, and he started off reminded them of what had happened in the past. Who here didn't know what Mandalore was saying?They had all grown up on some Republic occupied planet. Many like Bane, refused to sit back, and soon joined militias or caused trouble in their own way. Bane was fighting the Republic was soon as he passed his verd'goten alongside his father.

Bane had lost his father during one of those very battles, a faint memory in his pass. Though it was just one of the many deaths he had witnessed, he had his father's blades with him to remind him, that he still owed something to his ancestors. Mandalore's words greatly appealed to Bane's sense of honor and pride. Bane was not one for speeches, and never had been, but he was glad that their leader had the talent. Morale was key in any battle, and usually Mandalorians had high morale regardless but a stirring speech by a leader would push them even farther.

He spoke of the fear of death, his words rang true. If one didn't fear death in the slightest, they may just waste their life needlessly. Dying in battle was a glorious deed but there was something to say for the soldier who lived on and continued to fight to preserve his cause. Why is it that when even near death, people struggle to live. There was honor in fighting until you can no more, but self preservation was a natural instinct. It could give you that crucial burst of adrenaline to fight on and to live.

Bane's thoughts stopped there as Mandalore finished his speech, calling upon Bane to begin the briefing. He made his way forward towards the center table with the holoprojector. The lights dimmed as Bane activated the holo and an orange sphere materialized in the center of the room.

"Alright listen up everyone, as you have no doubt guessed, this is Shogun. The Republic have dug in and placed themselves in two main fortifications. Our duty is to make sure that the main assault force can land and attack as swiftly as possible."

He stopped for a moment as the image zoomed in, and showed two separate bases, a significant distance apart.

"This is the East base, and this is the West, designation Red and Blue. As you can see, each base is tucked into a canyon, making it virtually unassailable from three sides"

The image reflected Bane's words, showing a military base, surrounded by three sheer vertical cliff walls. The only entrance was from the north side of the base.

"These bases have split among them, key Republic operational facilities. Each of these must be neutralized for a successful and effective invasion of Shogun. Red holds the communications center which if taken out will make coordination extremely difficult. Blue base houses the anti aircraft control station. This must be taken out if we are to be able to land the ground troops for the invasion. Now because timing is crucial, we will have to hit these bases almost simultaneously. This of course means that we will be splitting into two different squads."

Eyes scanning over his troops, some were excited, others determined, some both, and some neither. This was undoubtedly the most important missions they had ever had to undertake.

"Squad 1, designation Alpha Team will be led by myself. Squad 2 designation Beta Team will be led by Mandalore. Alpha team will be tackling Red base, and Beta, Blue base. The squad breakup is as follows.

In Alpha Team, Corporal Velos, Private Kaarmine, Lieutenant Arcane, Itani Firians, Captain Xoxin, and Lieutenant Rivas

In Beta Team, Captain Kra'Nelen, Lieutenant Colonel Phelan, Lieutenant Firians, Colonel Cazuun, Sergeant Barris, Lieutenant Colonel Kor, and Staff Sergeant Callahan'Rika"

He waited a few moments after reading the squad rosters, making sure each soldier looked to their left and right for the person who would be watching their back.

"Now listen carefully, each Team also has a secondary objective. Intelligence from our sources on Concord Dawn suggests that many of our brothers and sisters are being held in Red Base. Alpha team's secondary goal will be to free these prisoners and cause havoc within the base. According to satellite imaging, the bulk of the Republic's artillery division is housed at Blue base. Beta team's job will be to sabotage as much of the division as you can."

Pausing once more as everyone focused on the aforementioned positions on the holoprojector. First focusing on the possible location of the prisoners and then on the artillery division.

"Alright, we have dealt with the who and what, now we will deal with the how. As you can see, the north quadrant and only entrance to both bases are heavily fortified, making it a less than intelligent option. The Republic is overconfident in their natural cover, leaving the other three sides lightly guarded. Our best option is to repel down the southern cliff face and then make our way into the respective bases.

Now our main problem is the fact that the Republic will mostly stupid, have some sort of minor intelligence in their command over there. They have set up heavy anti air defense especially around their bases. This makes a normal delivery though a dropship impossible to do undetected and in one piece. Thus we will be doing High Altitude Low Opening(H.A.L.O) drop using one time repulsor lifts. This will ensure that we make our way quickly and quietly to the plateau above the base.

Make no mistake, we are infiltrating a highly guarded Republic military base. The success of the operation depends solely on our ability to complete our designated missions. Failure is not an option. We leave two days from now, from hangar 18, at 0600. Anyone late will be left behind."

As Bane scanned the room, his eyes reassured him that he had the right set of troops to complete the mission. For anyone else it would seem like a suicide but it was just another day in the life of a Mandalorian Special Operations soldier.

"Unless anyone has any questions you are dismissed, go get some rest and make your preparations. Malak, Velos, Arcane..you three stay behind"

[Val - Warning:Contains Sarcasm]

So that was Mandalore? Such an impressive figure, someone she'd heard a lot about but never actually seen before. She had observed him very closely that briefing, taking in much of what he had said. Unlike the others she had not been brought up by Mandalorian parents, and her cultural upbringing had been the product mainly of her training, and the rubbing off of beliefs from those around her. Though she agreed without question when he talked of honour, and fighting through pain. She would do that regardless of situation, unless it were to put her battle brothers at risk if she were to continue. At the end of the briefing she found herself continuing to evaluate him, as he had made a large impression. He was a man who carried a large... she couldn't describe it, like a Force aura. Something that drew her old Jedi side to the surface to examine him as well.

And now the other commander was back up and talking. She was in Alpha group, hitting red base, saving other prisoners and destroying a communications array. Sounded like fun, not the typical missions she'd expected, where she was probably going to end up in charge of a random group of soldiers rushing a position. She was curious as to what she was needed for. She had travelled across all this way to be part of this group as someone's request, and she still had yet to find out who. Were there truly so few Force sensitives in the army that she was required so badly? That couldn't be it. Each of these people in this room was easily capable of handling anything, even without Jedi abilities. But the shortage of Mandalorian Jedi was understandable. Jedi teachings and Mandalorian culture didn't mix very often.

Finally dismissed she moved onto the next mission she had been set. She needed to find somewhere to stay. Somewhere to sleep, and spend the next 2 days, or at least the next 2 nights. She could spend the days in a training room if she found one. If this was anything like Dxun she wouldn't have to look far in order to find one. She did a quick equipment check, tapping the two swords on her back, the pistols by her sides and the assault rifle. She did it to make sure she hadn't lost anything, every so often. Slightly obsessive, but it's better to be safe than sorry. She hadn't talked to any of the other members of this group before, and didn't know who was in Alpha team and who wasn't. She was aware that they were probably well enough versed with each other's company, however, so if they wanted to talk to her they'd be aware of whom she was.

[Sait]

So the man of the hour finally makes an appearance...

Caazun recognized the man. How could anyone not? He was Mandalore, leader of the Mandalorians. He was the man in charge of everything he'd worked towards so far. His fist pounded to his chest in salute almost immediately-- naturally. Having served many years in the army, he knew when and where respect was due, and this man had earned a plethora of that, if not more. Taking charge of such a group of soldiers and leading them to battle is not an easy task.

Mandalore's speech did not particularly strike anything influential in him (not that it was possible to tell, anyways). Caazun prided himself on dedication to his duty and his skill with a blaster, nothing more. Death was not an obstacle for him, but he knew he wasn't ready for death. He'd faced numerous difficulties within his short lifespan and he wanted to tackle many more before his life faded away.

Before long, Mandalore finished saying what he had to say. That meant it was time for Bane to give them the rundown on the mission.

Finally...

Caazun returned to a relaxed position when Bane began speaking. He told them of the Republic bases on Shogun that were well-defended-- but naturally this time-- much better than most he had seen. They were to attack the base and disable the anti-aircraft control station. Seemed like a simple enough task, after all, since he had the knowledge to break codes fairly easily. Piece of cake.

The team assignments were also handed out at this time. Caazun did not recognize any member of his team besides Mandalore himself, though he did not make much effort to. He read each name and memorized it; he packed the list firmly away in his mind. He hated losing troops for the simple fact that it made him look bad, so he would make sure to do everything in his power to keep them all alive.

Bane finally announced that they were dismissed-- a blessing in disguise as they'd been cooped up in the briefing room for quite a while. Caazun decided to make himself available to the rest of his team. After all, what good would it do them if they didn't know each other, at least on a familiar level? He knew the answer already: none.

On his way out the door, Caazun turned back for a brief moment. "I will be in the Mess Hall if anyone from Beta team would like to join me." With that, he turned and left the Briefing Room.

[Mara]

Ambria's thoughts turned then to her conversation she had earlier with General Haseful, Bane. She remembered then that he had mentioned the upcoming mission would have more use of her skills, and the woman silently chided herself for forgetting as such, as she was lost in her hopeful thoughts of such action. Though, she couldn't remember if he had mentioned where the mission would be taking place. She would find out soon enough, though. Her green eyes sparkled slightly at the thought of getting out her trusty sniper rifle, fighting for the good of the Mandalorians. And their further glory.

Lost in her thoughts and theories of how she would be using her skills and who against, she didn't notice some of the last to arrive, a female Togruta and a thin-looking human, both standing in the back against the wall. As such, she was startled almost to the point of calling out in surprise when Bane yelled out for them to be quiet and stand at attention. Ambria hadn't even noticed him finishing the conversation he was having with the other officer, but she quickly obeyed, standing up quickly from her seat. She wasn't sure who would be entering, but he or she would obviously be someone of high rank, someone even the new general was reverting power to. In unison with those around her, she slammed her fist on her chest, emotions flooding her mind. Emotions that overflowed as she fed off the emotions of the others in the room, all excited for whomever was about to join them.

She sat down hard in her seat after a moment of standing there frozen. Mandalore himself! Ambria couldn't believe it. She wanted to pinch herself. Having never seen or met the man before, she was still impressed with his overall bearing. He just seemed to exude power as he walked through the room.

His appearance made her feel suddenly underdressed. Here she was in the briefing room, a second lieutenant in the spec ops of the Mandalorians, Mandalore himself entering the room, and she was in leggings and a plain shirt! A part of Ambria wanted to disappear into the floor, regretting that she hadn't put on her armor once returning to her room after speaking with Bane. But she couldn't help that now, and so she sat up straight and displayed her confidence, no matter that she wasn't donned in her amber armor.

But her nervousness left easily as he began his speech. Ambria wanted to shout with him, glory and honor to the Mando'ade! His words moved her, stilled her emotions even more than when she hadn't known who their guest was going to be. Again, there seemed to be an overwhelming flood of emotions flooding the entire briefing room, and the woman was taking them in all, her emerald eyes lit up as she sat there listening, not able to take her gaze off of their leader.

He spoke of their childhoods, of their families and how they were brought out. Ambria couldn't help think of her own parents back on the planet of Mandalore, not knowing where she was or if she was okay. Or even alive. But she had made a choice, and she wouldn't regret it... couldn't regret it. She was a soldier now. She needed to be in the action, not slaving in the fields and waiting for an attack to come to her home. No, a decade before that had happened, and her life had changed forever. Now she would be in control of her fate.

Pushing back those thoughts, she focused back on Mandalore's speech, rebuking herself for daring let her thoughts wander away from his important remarks. He spoke of death. Ambria was not afraid of death. She would gladly give her life for The Cause. It had already taken her leg, and she would give more, much more until she had no more breath left in her body. That was her duty, her inheritance, as a Mandalorian, just as their leader was talking about. It would be the ultimate honor.

Shogun, the next step in the reclamation of the Mandalorian empire. The next step in reclaiming what was theirs. What the Republic stole from them. Her emerald eyes darkened as these thoughts passed through her mind. Ambria echoed Mandalore's sentiments; No, they would not stop until they had finished, until they had achieved ultimate glory. She would not stop until she had received complete honor.

The familiar prideful emotions swelled again as he spoke about their might and invoked more pride in everyone as they thought about their superior equipment and fighting power. No one would be able to stand in their way. Eventually, all would bow to the Mandalorians, and they would rule their sectors. And the galaxy as a whole. The armor-clad warriors were to be feared. Ambria also pitied those poor Republic soldiers, soldiers who would die by her hand before they even realized it, dropping from a blaster bolt between the eyes. She allowed herself a small smile.

Mandalore spoke of their families back home, and her heart caught in her throat as she thought again about her family back on Mandalore. They went unwilling towards her memories of her husband Turin, the thoughts she had been so desperately trying to bury deep within her mind earlier in the day. There was one Mandalorian who wouldn't be contributing to the war effort... Ambria choked back her feelings, keeping her mind as blank as she could manage. This was no time for sorrows... This was the time to think of glory and retribution. Of retaking Shogun.

At the end of his speech, Ambria wanted to shout along with him once again. Shout her pride for her people. For revenge on the Republic. For glory! She couldn't think of any other time in her life that she had been this proud of her heritage, of her people. She would do all she could to help the cause. Spill sweat and blood if it would help her fellow Mandalorians. There was no longer any hope for her husband, but her parents and the rest of her family were still out there. She would fight for them.

He stopped, and Ambria allowed herself a small deep breath to calm herself and bring herself down from the elation she had felt during his speech. It had brought back a few painful memories momentary, but overall it had brought her a pride for her culture and her people. She was proud to be a Mandalorian.

Ambria forced herself to focus as General Haseful reached the podium. Time to focus on the business at hand. Warm fuzzies from Mandalore were all and good, but if they didn't know their job, it wouldn't do any good. She listened intently as he laid out the parameters for the attack on Shogun. Two teams, hitting two different bases, one for communications and one holding the weapons systems controls. Two very crucial locations.

She listened carefully for which team she would be assigned to. Being assigned under the general left Ambria with mixed feelings. She was partly excited for the opportunity to work with Bane again, but partly reluctant, due to their conversion earlier in the day. The one that left her feeling slightly awkward about the whole thing after she had left. But she swallowed the thoughts; they were Mandalorians and wouldn't let anything else get in the way of a successful mission.

Ah, and Trin would also be on her team. She glanced quickly at the woman sitting beside her and smiled. It would be good to work with her again and see what the woman was capable of in a fight. Just as Ambria herself was looking forward to getting a good workout from her rifles. Itani Firians--it would be good to have an extra pair of medically skilled hands on the team, but she wasn't sure how dedicated the man would be to the cause. He wasn't military by any sense of the word. However, hopefully his dedication to his people would overwhelm that.

The other three members of her team, she didn't recognize, glancing quickly around the room for any signs of recognition towards her. Nothing came to her gaze and she put the thought away. She would find out soon enough who they were and what they would bring to the fight.

But the actual mission... taking out the communications station,designated Red Base (the irony of it coupled with her amber armor was not lost on the woman), Ambria doubted Bane's earlier comment to her about needing her sniper rifle. Taking out the station seemed more like a job for demolitions. If she would just be taking out a few guards again like at the museum... No, those thoughts weren't right. She would do anything for The Cause. No part was too small, or too large.

Her ears had just barely caught the members of the second team, but one thing had stood out to her. Italia was a lieutenant now? She just joins the army a few days ago and already became an officer? A good share of Ambria's mind and heart was outraged. She herself had started out at the bottom when she first joined the army and worked herself up the ladder based on her good merit and skills. And now this farm girl was just waltzing in and getting a higher rank than she herself held! She bit back a lot of these thoughts, shoving them away for later. Ambria respected the woman, but wasn't sure if she deserved the rank, despite her performance on Coruscant.

Though, her heart swelled a bit when the general spoke of releasing prisoners after they had brought down the communications systems. So they would have an even more important job to do after they got inside. Freeing their people; what better mission could their be?

After the general quickly went over their infiltration options, he dismissed them, listing their leave time in two days at 600 hours. That would give her plenty of time to make sure her equipment was in shape and to get some more practice in at the range with her sniper rifles. Second Lieutenant Ambria Arcane would be ready for a fight with the Republic scum.

Ambria had stood up and was about to move around the room to figure out who else was in her team, when the rest of the general's words hit her. He wanted to see her? Her? What for? Her face drained of blood as she thought back to their conversation earlier in the day. But it couldn't be that... he had also asked Trin and Mal to stay behind. A coincidence that it was all members of the previous mission team on Coruscant? She wasn't sure. No matter what it was, though, Ambria would take the news as a true Mandalorian, without emotion or regret.

She slowly made her way with the other two up to the front of the room where General Haseful was waiting. Ambria stood at attention, trying to look as formal as possible standing in her civilian clothes. Again, she regretted not having the time to put on her armor. Her heart beat against her chest so fast that she hoped no one else could hear it. What could this be about?

[Lionheart]

Alrond was not really sure what to expect from whoever was coming into the room, but the last thing that came to his mind was Mandalore. If Mandalore was there it definetly meant that this mission was of the upmost importance. He'd been in the Special Operations unit for mere weeks and he was already assigned to such an important mission. ALrond was somewhat nervous, though his nervousness stemmed from excitment more than any other emotion; he would have the chance to prove himself to those in the Special Operations earlier than he would have expected.

Standing at attention, when ordered Alrond took a seat. He listened carefully to the speech made by Mandalore. He said all of the basic things that would be expected from a leader trying to inspire the troops. Alrond smiled quietly as Mandalore mentioned learning to hunt from fathers, though of course in Alrond's case it was his mother though it was his more masculine mother. Alrond feared more for the death of his comrades than his own, since as the medic the lives of those on his team were his responsibilty.

So, their mission was to take Shogun from the Republic. A rather large task but the planet rightfully belonged to the Mandalorians anyway. And after Mandalore finished his speech another began to speak about the mission specific. He assumed that the man speaking was the General Bane, and his guess was correct.

Alrond was put into team Beta and he obviously did not know anyone in the group, as he was just transfered anyway. He was assigned team Blue, or Beta and their mission was to take out the anti-aircraft and the secondary objective was to take out the artilleray division. Alrond took all of the information to heart, thoug he'd mostly just patch up anyone who is injured and give out stimunlants to relieve fatigue, but he wasn't to bad with his slugthrowers either.

So, the mission was assigned and they were dismissed. Alrond looked around the room to see if he could find anyone from team Beta, but luckily he didn't have to look long. One fully covered Mandalorian, a male as Alrond could tell from the voice, offered for those of team Beta to meet in the Mess Hall. Alrond was rather hungry and this would be a good time to meet those he'd be puttoing through bantha butchery, so he followed the man to the mess hall.

[Apillis]

Shannon's brow furrowed a little from under her helm the moment they were all dismissed with exception for those were called to remain. She mentally shrugged in reaction, and nonchalantly took her leave. As she walked out she wondered what she would report to the Fleet Admiral, there was not any Naval involvement to this, so really she was left with reporting ground forces activity after they drop them out of their ships. The feeling of being slightly disappointed in that there was nothing she could use in the form of stratagems in her own plans for the Navy to crush the Republic fleet left feeling a little incomplete. However, after a passing moment she moved on and exited the briefing room.

For a little while as she crossed the base to the hangars where her starfighter is docked, she thought about Mandalore's speech. Recalling that it gave her small smile, and noticed it gave others a measure of pride. She shared that as well, but a speech does not stir her, a battle does. But the speech gave her inspiration, something to ponder over - ruminate on. There was more than just Shogun staked in this battle to reclaim what was theirs, it was about reclaiming not just a part of their culture, but a part of their collective soul as Mandalorians. That is something she doubts any Republic soldier would ever dare understand.

Upon reaching the hangar, she aided the other soldiers in prepping it for take off before she hopped into its cockpit. The second the canopy closed and sealed over her, it felt like to her that the fighter itself was part of her own body. Once she was granted clearance to take off she did not waste a moment in lifting off the surface of Concord Dawn and flying into the deep blue skies, and vanishing into the darkness of space heading back to the Tenacity.

[Jace]

He waited patiently while the other soldiers left the room, turning off the holoprojector as he did. Bane probably could have done what he was about to do in front of everyone, but he didn't want the others wasting time. While reviewing the personnel files for the mission, he realized that he had almost missed a crucial task before embarking to Shogun. A minute or so later, the others filtered out of the room, and Bane motioned for the three to approach him.

"Each one of you has proved your worth time and time again. Each one of you participated in our mission to Coruscant, and Velos even at Kuat. These were highly important missions, and all three of you preformed remarkably well, as to be expected of a Spec Ops soldier."

Bane then stepped forward, first towards Malak, looking up at the man but staring him straight in the eye. Apparently he was having some minor issues, but Bane knew the man to be a fierce warrior. Bane then looked down to his right hand, opening his palm slowly as he did to reveal a set of bars.

"Major Malak, you fought superbly on Coruscant, I expect a superior performance on Shogun"

He handed the man his new rank, both literally and figuratively. Bane then stepped back, moving to the side, and stepped forward once again, this time towards Ambria. Though the woman had a prosthetic leg, she was a cunning fighter, and a crack shot with a rifle. She hadn't had much chance to prove her abilities lately, but her consistent composure and ability to adapt were worthy of recognition.

"Lieutenant Arcane, your prowess with a rifle is undeniable, use it to its utmost capacity in the coming days"

Once again he revealed a new set of bars and handed them to the woman. He then made his way over to the final soldier, and stepped towards her. Velos was his tech expert, and had been key in both gaining the Tenacity and on Coruscant. Her promotion had been long overdue, which Bane knew was his fault.

"Staff Sergeant Velos, your expertise with technology combined with your martial prowess makes you an asset to this unit. Both will be needed in the mission to come."

Bane then took a few steps back and surveyed his troops once more. They were fine soldiers indeed, and he knew they were the right people for this mission and special operations. Together they would attain glory for their people.

[Keilara]

Fable stood outside the briefing room leaned against the wall with her eyes closed thinking back over every second of the briefing. True, she hadn't engaged in battle much, but never had her heart been stirred as it had by Mandalore. She knew her eyes had been shining with a child-like wonder as he had started speaking. She would earn her honor in this fight.

Her heart began to race as his words ran through her mind once again and she had to quickly jerk back on her emotional reins. She was a sniper. There wasn't going to be any charging wildly onto the battle field and that was a good thing. She was more likely to cause damage to her side if she did that. A wry smile crossed her face, a drill sergeant in boot camp made that mistake only once... He spent the rest of her time there in the infirmary nursing a shot to the butt from when she tripped and fired her rifle into his ass. No, she'd be providing cover fire and she'd do a damned good job. She was on a team with Mal, Lia, and Mandalore of all people, she would do all she could to see that not one suffered a single injury.

Mal... a silly, girly smile drifted across her face as she thought of him and a light giggle slipped from her lips. He had been so obviously uncomfortable at Lia's comments and her choosing to hold his hand. Fable mentally rolled her eyes at the memory of him ruffling her hair. They would only have a few hours together before the teams left for Shogun. A sigh escaped her lips. Precious few hours and she planned to make the most of them, which is why she was waiting right outside the door for him.

[Latus]

As time marched on the briefing room grew more crowded.. Ambria, Malak, and a number of other obviously teched-out soldiers with fire in their eyes. He didn't care about them, not at that point. Thought he knew this battle, and it was exactly that, would require him to “play nice with the other boys and girls” he had to enjoy what brooding time he was given to get himself in the killing mindset. Try as he might, thought, Itani's mind slipped perpetually towards those injured on Coruscant, his eyes sliding over Mal, Bane, Lia, Ark; where his hulking ba'buir was certainly perplexed the young man. As they passed over his sister, Itani's gray eyes caught her motioning him over, her finely polished armor radiant in the light of the room. Smiling at her in return, the assassin looked away, continuing to scan the room. He had his reasons, besides, he didn't belong aside the others. What mattered was the mission, a mission he was hesitant to support. When he had brought it up with Italia the reason he had settled on was their father, it would honor him. Honestly he didn't know what to think at the moment.

Thankfully Itani didn't have to think for very long, Bane's voice cut through the idle chit-chat like a vibro-knife through poly-butter. Calling everyone to attention, the perplexed Itani followed Banes eyes upward gracing the beskar of a very regal looking individual. He grinned to himself; “Mandalore, never would have believed...” Only soldiers were really graced with this man's presence, the commander of high commanders. An assassin, a snake in the grass, that's what he was; not a soldier, in fact he hated the military. It took no stretch of Itani's imagination that he did not deserve to be in the presence of the Mandalorian hinge-pin, perhaps that was something in itself. Itani hesitated as Mandalore ordered them to be seated. His hate for the military stemmed from the formalities that had to be followed for every thought, every action. Deciding it was proper, Itani slid into one of the open seats closest to where he was standing, placing his helmet smartly under his arm.

Mandalore spoke frankly but with purpose. Itani realized why he was so revered; every word utterly ablaze with an inner fire that would inspire even the most cowardly soldiers to action. His words spoke of the Mando'ade, of the people Itani was to represent. However, the charisma behind the words failed to mask things from Itani's mind and he shook his head. For instance, not all naturally born mando’ade loved battles, the assassin was one of them. Though he did enjoy fighting and killing came quite natural, he decidedly disliked battles, preferring his own methods. The battle to come was no exception, honor and glory played no part. Perhaps that was why the Republic viewed them as blood-thirst killing machines, the stereotype was not very flattering. Itani smirked, that was the thing about stereotypes, they could be abused and broken, hopefully to his own benefit. His wandering thoughts were brought back by the outburst, “he certainly has dedication.”

The man failed to keep Itani's attention for long as his words wandered to that of more inspirational fluffery. The formalities again had failed to keep the assassin's attention along with more carrying on about philosophy, purpose, duty, honor. The moment Mandalore mentioned death, however, Itani's eyes grew a fraction wider, his attention gained. Such attention was immediately erased by more unnecessary talk. Yes everyone was going to die eventually, in fact, Itani helped the process along quite often. Ironically, given his prowess as a field medic he had helped save lives on a few occasions. Unintentionally, Itani caught the eye of the imposing man who just happened to gaze in his direction and he straightened up quite quickly. The assassin may not have agreed with the philosophy but that didn't mean the feeling from all the soldiers was mutual.

As the roving eyes moved on and the speech continued, the faux soldier tried to listen sincerely. Veterans? Slip in behind you and beat you to death? Itani couldn't help but mutter to himself; “I think they got the wrong guy, heh.” The speech continued on for what felt like an age to Itani but he found it hard not to feel somewhat inspired. That was the intent though, it seemed for as Bane took the floor Itani saw that every soldier present sat straighter in their seats, looked more intently at their commander. The young man couldn't help but shake his head. They were just words after all. If any of those present was not already in the proper mental state words only served to mask fear polish a weak resolve. Sure he was in it all the way, sure there was a chance he might not come back, but Itani couldn't help but doubt.

A moments pause later Bane took the floor, his armor decorated with a few new unnoticed symbols. “General, eh? Want to truly measure a man? Give him power.” The line flashed through his mind and he sighed slightly. “If anyone could handle such a position its Bane,” he thought. Any doubts were swept back as Bane began to explain the mission in earnest. Thoughts of “the two bases seemed an easy enough target” and “this will be a difficult job” clashed in his mind. He had no doubts of his own abilities of infiltration but he wasn't going to be alone. Any thoughts of who his comrades would be was answered immediately and Itani's heart sank. He knew not one of the other souls on his team. It did give him a boost in confidence, however, when Bane mentioned ranks making it known that he was not part of the military, not to mention the ranks of his sister and previous companions. Glancing about the room as Bane continued Itani thought he could detect glares of uncertainty here or there but he gave it no more thought. If anyone questioned his skill or dedication they would have to take it up with one of his knives.

A few moments later Bane finished the primary and secondary objectives; the who, how, where, why, and when. Itani wasn't the first out of his seat when the General dismissed them but it would be difficult to say who was. He gave Ambria a nod as he moved toward the exit and punched Malak lightly in the arm as he moved past. Luckily he managed to find his way to Trin's side, placing a hand on her shoulder he smiled, both eyes gleaming at her.

“I will be in mess later if you wish to join me.”

Moving past her and out into the hall Itani couldn't help but smile at his own comment. He never would have believed that he would eat anything in the mess with anyone. Either way, he needed food before he started studying what intel they had on the republic facility. Spotting his sister standing against the wall he strode over to her and clapped his hand on her shoulder giving her a great mocking smile, his mask of happiness serving its purpose.

“You certainly looked the part in there, Lieutenant. If you aren't careful I might just start saluting you on a regular basis.” Stepping past her he gave her a lopsided farewell. “I'm looking over the plans to the facility tonight feel free to drop by.” The instant he was out of view from anyone the smile faded, holding up a facade for such a long period of time was exhausting.

[Grawn]

Kaarmine sat with his helmet laying beside him, his brown eyes watching as events unfolded before him. His first combat experience, his first fight would be beside a legend. Against the hated Republic most fittingly. Mandalore's speech had brought a fire to his chest that couldnt be extinguished, it burned with pride and honor. The Republic had indeed tried to strip him of his birthright. They had taken his planet and HIS father from him, in an attempt to squash his spirit. All they did was hasten their own destruction.

He had been given the assignment to accompany Bane in Alpha Squadron. Kaarmine's first battle experience would be next to a legend and it swelled his chest. All he could hope for that it wouldnt be his last. As Mandalore had said "Death comes for us all" and as if a ghost of the past, Kaarmine remembered his own father speaking of such things so many years ago.

"Brandus...One day you will know what it is to be Mandalorian. You have the birthright and try as they might, these Republic dogs cannot take it from you. Never give them the chance. They can try but they will never drive it from you. As i may have lost my arm, i will never lose my spirit. And i hope you never do as well"

"I wont father. I swear" he muttered under his breath. Even if he was a rookie, a Private to yet prove his worth he would eventually. He would prove he earned the position with Bane in Alpha and he would prove he was a Mandalorian. Weither it was his destiny to fall at Shogun or to survive to die another day, he would go with honor.

After it was clear that the briefing was over, Kaarmine rose up from his seat and grabbed his helmet. A mixture of excitement and fear was slowly rising as he realized he had preperations to make. His rifle needed a new scope, his blaster carbine needed a new stock and each needed to be cleaned. Ammunition needed to be rounded up and he needed to acquire close quarter weaponry, a boot blade and a shoulder knife most likely. His helmets interface needed adjustment and calibration as well. Training would continue as planned, he would be at peak for the conflict. Plus he had to look good for Bane, no need to act as green as he looked.

Two days. Two short days.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Italia did nothing more than sit back into her chair comfortably and listen, her eyes drifting closed slightly.

Two bases. Both naturally fortified on three sides. No doubt they'll have anti-aircraft weaponry. We're HALO jumping to the cliff then repelling down. Alpha team is Red base, Beta team is blue. Bane and...well there's a slight surprise...Mandalore.

Ah, so I'm on Beta team. Well I can't keep an eye on Itani, but I can keep an eye on Solus'ad....not that I'll be the only one doing that....or that he'll even NEED it. Either way, why else would all the heavy hitters be on our team?

Okay, that's another reason....huzzah for artillery demolitions and anti-aircraft sabotage. Ark will be loud, he'll need to cover our backs as we plow through and set the charges to blow the thing sky high, then he can likely lead the charge to the artillery, clearing us a path. Thank Manda he's got heavy shields. Question is...how to get him in without being noticed...He'd have to bring up the rear. If there isn't another sniper I can pick off the guards and we repel down, clear the path to the gate as quiet as possible and have him drop behind.

Yes, I'll need to find out if there's another sniper in the team. I'll also have to ask about how we're taking down the AA defenses, and then we can just set loose and wreak havoc in the artillery before working our way out again.

Now, if we do this thing smart, we set up a sniper ta take out the lights an' as many of the guards as possible while we repel down. Once we're on the ground an' clearing a path, the sniper an' Ark get down the cliff. From there we head toward the AA defenses, Ark and his shields cover our rear while we bring them down. Ark plows us through to the artillery where we wreak havoc, then we get our arses out of there...an' hopefully no one there will know what hit 'em 'til it's too late.

Okay, two days....

Even as her mind barely registered the dismissal, Lia was moving toward the door, lost in her own thoughts. She needed to speak to Solus'ad about what the exact plan was for their part of the mission, so she opted to wait just outside of the briefing room door, her petite frame coming to rest casually against the wall as she gazed unseeingly at one of the floor tiles.

I need to see Daryn, I promised him I would. I need to check my weapons, and see if we have another sniper on the team. The Star needs to be moved to hangar 18 from Mandal Motors and a full systems check needs to be run...hell, I need to FLY her for a while. Both my rifles need to be re-checked, I should take more blades with me this time around, and I should bring some flash bangs and a few smoke grenades. Can't forget about checking my ammo either, won't do to run out of shells or charge packs. There's the matter of the AA defenses to see to also.

Are we hacking it, or are we detonating it? Either way I'll need to see to whatever is needed for that, make sure it gets on the Star. If we're leaving at 6 I should stay on her that night so I can have her prepped and set to go by 5.30...Question is....who's piloting her if I'm headed down with the teams and so is Itani....? I can't have just anyone piloting her, fickle creature she is....

A hand landed heavily on her shoulder and she jumped slightly beneath the armor, green eyes flickering up to meet Itani's grey ones. Ah, time for masks again. A bright smile reflected back at him from her and she chuckled as he teased her, batting his hand away jokingly. Yes, she and Itani had learned the best of all of their siblings how a good mask worked wonders...they were the pros in using them out of the four after all.

Bah! You try anything of the sort Itani and I'll kill you myself!

She laughed, cuffing him in the shoulder playfully as he stepped around her. Smirking mischievously, she gave him a knowing little wink.

No thanks bro...I've got people to see and things to do....and YOU have people to do and things to see....I mean...people to see and things to do as well.

Lia snickered and stuck her tongue out at him slightly before retracting it again. She knew very well about her brother's little crush on Trin, it was only obvious in the way he acted around her, and as an older sister Italia couldn't help but tease him about it. She wouldn't DARE do that around Trin, but seeing as it was only Itani around at that particular moment, she had no qualms in tormenting him a bit. It was a way of life for her and him after all....teasing each other, trying to put on a good face for each other even when they didn't feel it....

Even as Itani slipped out of view her mask slipped and she sighed, gazing at the place where he had disappeared.

I shouldn' 'ave pressured him inta this...it wasn' right of me. I'm so sorry Itani...I was just tryin' ta do what I thought was right...seems I mussed up again.

Subconsciously she twisted one of her gauntlets to sit more comfortably on her arm and let out a long sigh.

When am I ever gonna do right by you ner aliit?

She did not mean her clan.

[Dire Wolf]

Don’t think for one minute that your job, or your life is unimportant

That sentence was obviously directed at Mal, and it didn't take hyper-space theorist to figure that one out. But Mal knew his place, it was on the battlefield, and nowhere else. His life was important, very important actually... but only so long as he could continue to slay Mandalor's enemies in the most brutal fashion possible.

These musings were quickly swept away in the fiery speech that Mandalor gave. To say that Malak was pumped up and ready to kill the next Republican soldier he saw would be a massive understatement.

Then Mandalor gave the floor to General Haseful for the briefing. His great brow furrowed slightly at the sight of not one, but two sights for the mission to take place. This not only meant two teams, but it made the operation twice as complex with (at least) twice as many opportunities for failure.

The frown on his face and the furrow in his brow quickly turned into an amused expression almost the instant that he saw that both bases were tucked into a canyon. The big man shook his massive head at the moronic Republican engineers to put a COMMUNICATION base inside a CANYON. Mal could already see where this was going, they were either going to rappel down the side of the canyon, the far simpler path, or they were going to us-....

Bane cut off his thoughts. They were using disposable repulsor lifts. Technology. What does technology tend to do? Fail. Often. Malak himself barely trusted the giant rifle that he brought on sorties to work every time he used it. To be honest he was liking this plan less and less at every word. The more “advanced” technology that they used the more likely that this operation was doomed to failure. And they were relying very heavily on those repulsor lifts working.

The great Mandalorian was reminded of one of the running cadences that he used to go through back on his home world, it was about parachutes... a “rudimentary” technology, but far more reliable than repulsor lifts nonetheless. “If my shoot dont open wide, then ive got a reserve by my side. if that one don't open too, then look out ground cause ima comin throu.”

Mal nodded, yes he had many questions, none of which the General seemed to keen on answering seeing as he dismissed the audience fairly quickly. Minus Ambria, Trin, and himself. A great brow quirked, he began to ponder what this was actually about. Then, just as the last of the Mando'ade cleared out, Bane began to speak of their performance on Coruscant.

Mal knew what was coming... a promotion. To be honest the giant was nonchalant about it, people didn't tend to get too hung up on rank in special operations, and credits were of no object of him. A decade of work as a mercenary and a bounty hunter covered that for him.

He gave a sharp nod as his commanding officer gave him a set of bars to signify his rank. “I dont think that I should get rewarded for doing my job, sir,” but elected not to say it. Getting a promotion wasn't exactly a choice.

After the three were given a promotion he turned, gave out his congratulations, and walked out of the briefing room. He turned to the Vahla woman and gave a little smile. She was probably waiting for him, silly girl. An amused smile cracked across his face, Mal hoped that he was making it obvious that he was teasing.

“You happen to be waiting for Lt. Arcane or Staff Sergeant Velos?”

[Keilara]

Fable settled further back against the wall, drawing her presence in as Itani and Italia exited the briefing room. While she would have normally edged towards Lia and taken the opportunity to get to know her better, the other womans' expression told Fable that she was better leaving Lia to her own thoughts. With that in mind Fable let her own thoughts drift back to the people the General had kept...

For a second she thought she imagined it. Her thoughts had been so focused on him that it wouldn't have been outside the realm of possibility for her mind to have conjured his voice. She jerked her head to look at him and a blush stained her cheeks. A guilty blush, not all those thoughts had been for the kiddies.

"N-no" A look of frustration followed swiftly by a deepening of the blush, the way he could set her to stammering was just so embarrassing. "No Captain. I was in fact waiting for you. I seem to have this feeling that you owe me a meal..."

She hoped he would pick up on the hint and not ignore it. She hoped he would want to spend the time before the mission with her as much as she wanted to spend it with him. If he said no, or acted as though he didn't know what she was talking about she would hide her disappointment and hide it well, but she was hoping.

[Meira]

Trin couldn't help but smile slightly to herself as the General detailed the plans. These missions just kept getting more and more interesting. It was crazy, suicide even, but she couldn't keep the smile off her face. She had always wanted to try a HALO jump. She'd done a few lower altitude jumps before in her advanced training. There was nothing like the feeling of falling through the air, like flying. She could only imagine the rush of jumping from so high up. Two days was going to be a long time.

Bane gave out the names of who was on which team. She smiled again at hearing she would be teamed up with Bane and Ambria. And Itani too? So he really was sticking around... interesting. Trin didn't have time to muse, however. The briefing was over and people were beginning to file out. Trin had stood and was moving towards the door when she heard Bane call for her, Ambria, and Mal to stay. Were they going to be given more specific orders? Trin didn't doubt that her skills would come in handy when taking the comm base. Was there something more?

She had turned to move back to Bane, eyes curious as to what was up. From the corner of her eye, Trin caught movement coming close. She recognized that it was Itani and turned her head towards him with a smile just as he placed his hand on her shoulder. She nodded at his invitation before turning back to Bane.

Once the briefing room was clear, the General approached the three who had assembled themselves in a loose line. Trin stood at attention, sensing something serious, but still quite curious as to what required a less public audience. She got her answer when Bane approached Mal and presented the giant with a promotion. Trin smiled her happiness for the man, he did deserve it.

Bane then approached Ambria and presented her promotion as well. Again, Trin smiled her agreement. She had only worked with Ambria a little on the Coruscant mission, but she remembered how quick and deadly they had worked together. And then her work that saved Mal's life on the return trip. Trin would be proud to call the woman Lieutenant.

Bane then came to Trin, and for some reason, she still expected to just be told about some specifics of the mission, such as a particularly tricky security system she might want to bring extra equipment for. But no. Bane spoke of her service on the last two missions, and that her further service would prove useful. Staff Sergeant. Oh, it wasn't an officer rank, but to Trin, it was the affirmation that she needed, that she belonged. She wanted to smile, to grin. She even wanted to pull the man into a tight hug. But she did none of these, at least, not all of them, and not right away. She accepted her new insignia and saluted. She held on to her soldier face until Bane dismissed them.

Trin broke from her attention stance, her smile stretched from ear to ear. She thanked Bane and turned to the others. Congratulations were exchanged and then they filtered out of the briefing room. Trin was out the door and down the hall, walking on air. The small amount of reserve she had left kept her from running to the mess hall.

[10Tickler]

The slight figure that had been sitting in the shadows, in the back of the Briefing hall, had gotten there earlier, having slipped from the Mess hall without being noticed and heading straight to the Briefing room. She wasn't surprised when her name wasn't mentioned in either of the teams, nor when the three requested to stay behind were promoted...they, especially Velos, she deserved the promotion and Celke mentally applauded her, making a note to buy the other female a drink later on.

The Mandalore was inspiring, to say the least. A strong, male, figure that had the charisma to lead an entire army on his own, he also had the strength of intelligence behind him, appointing skillful officers into command positions, from the Simple Lieutenant all the way up to Generals. Bane had skills, Bane had balls, this mission would be fun for those who were assigned onto the fire teams.

Somewhere, deep in her mind, Chief Warrant Officer Second Class Celke Tarria wished that she could be going, that she had focused more on ranged weaponry while training with her father, or that she wasn't more then slightly afraid of Jumping with only some machine under her feet to keep her from dying. In the end though, she hadn't gotten to her rank for being a Run-of-the-mill Mandalorian. She could shoot, she could Jump, but she was best at scaring people.

Whenever there was CQC involved in a mission, Bane had called her, it was what she lived for, the feel of another's Hot Lifeblood as it flowed over her hands, splattering her armor. To Celke, there was more Honor in Giving her enemy something to fear, a known reason to die, rather then sniping them, or raining down bombs on their head. Shogun was her home planet, a dump, sure...but she missed it, missed her parents, who had died several years ago. Inside her own head, she wondered if her birthplace still stood, that old homestead, surrounded by Razor-sharp Crystal.

The other soldiers had left, for the most part, or had formed groups, discussing their respective missions, talking amongst themselves. Celke merely stayed in her shadow-concealed seat and sighed a little, daydreaming about the fun she could have if they were able to stick her in the base alone. To infiltrate among the bestial men that ruled over her home with an Durasteel fist. She could almost feel their flesh beneath her fingernails... Eyes flashing open, Celke stood, stretching her tiny five-foot frame out. Even if she couldn't help this time around, she wanted to be there, to watch the rats fleeing from her homeland.

This idea in mind, Celke slowly walked over towards Bane and the Mandalore, her Helmet off as it had been the entire day, showing the bright blue of her eyes to the two commanders, one of an Army, the other of an entire Culture. Straightening her form, the woman slammed her fist into her breastplate, Bowing her head slightly to the Mandalore, and then repeating the process to Bane, waiting for Acknowledgment, and only speaking once she had gotten it.

My Lord, Mandalore, My General, Bane she said, her head rising to glace from one to the other as she addressed them. I request permission to accompany this Group to the Operation, if not to assist, then to Observe. Shogun was...is my Home. I was born among it's Crystals, trained to fight there, and my parents lived there until they died. I ask your permission to watch the Rodentlike Republic die under the Exterminating fist of Mandalore's will. she said, Stepping back to allow them to contemplate her request, bowing as she did so.

[Jace]

He was not unaware of the other presence who had remained in the room. Even though he had dismissed the others, it was only natural that she would stay. So it came to no surprise to Bane when she approached Mandalore and himself. Bane quickly returned her salute with one of his own.

"At ease Warrant Officer. I did not include your name in the regular briefing for a reason. You have requested leave, and I still wish to respect that. I called you here so you can understand the mission in its entirety and decide if you still want to accompany us."

He paused for a few moments, looking the woman over and considering her words. She had a better reason than most to be fighting down on Shogun. It would make her even more fierce than she already was. There was no doubt she was an asset but she was also somewhat of a lose cannon. While Bane trusted his soldiers, he thought it would be best for him to keep on eye on her, and with that his decision was made.

"It is clear from your words that you wish to participate. Very well, Warrant Officer, you will be joining me alongside Alpha squad. You heard the rest of the details...Dismissed"

She would make a deadly addition to their current team, and there would be an unending line of Republic soldiers for her to kill. Bane had seen her bloodlust first hand, it even through him off sometimes. As long as it didn't endanger the rest of his team or the mission, he didn't really have a problem with it.