Cor's hologram speaks up briefly.

"B0-B1," Cor greets the droid, smiling faintly, "given that you come with a recommendation from Colonel Jax, I doubt that your inclusion will be difficult.  Devon Kismet is our leader," she adds, indicating Devon.  "I am Cor Lambar, serving as our communications specialist.  If you like I will provide you with relevant identification for our squadron."

Turning her attention to Nootka, she looks more stoic.

"If you will forgive me, Commander, Mr Endeel is new to the Talons and may not yet have received a full list of the fleet's complement.  I shall certainly make that information available to all Talons shortly."  She taps on a key-screen just out of sight.  "Our plan is still in the information-gathering stage; a single two-seat S3 will be sufficient for our purposes, and will use fewer resources.  Our intention at this stage is exclusively to scan space lanes for target civilian freight vessels, extrapolate their flight paths, identify their origins and gauge their capabilities.  The plan carries some risk, of course, but that was inevitable and the reason for our backup plan.

"Once we have that information, we can issue a formal requisition request along with a detailed operations plan and accompanying equipment and resources list."

The Commander reviewed the new data.  "Thank you Ms Lambar, this is a lot clearer.  I am happy to authorise a single S3 Y-Wing for surveillance purposes in the listed sector.  Provided you maintain standard Alliance rules of engagement of course.  The ship can be ready within one standard hour if you wish."

Devon studied B0-B1 for a moment, wondering what it was capable of.
This was the problem you always faced with droids - on the outside, B0-B1 looked like a fairly standard protocol model... but who knew what was hidden inside the shell?  Zyra clearly thought that B0-B1 would be of value to the Talons, so the droid must have more going for it than just an ability to be polite in many languages.  They'd have to have a talk later.

He nodded a quick greeting to the droid, but didn't speak - Cor was already talking to Nootka and he didn't want to interrupt.  It seemed that between them Cor and Arcas were making head way that Devon strongly doubted he would have been eloquent enough to achieve on his own.

Devon chewed his lip a moment.  One Y-wing?  he would have preferred two... but he was beginning to understand Nootka's position - the limitations she was operating under, and how important it was to win her over.  But still, only one Y-wing?  He would settle for one, but two would be better.
"Commander, we can carry out our plan with just one Y-wing, but speaking as the teams leader, I would prefer two - that means the person in the cockpit has a wingman to back them up - added safety if something were to go wrong."

Cor closes her eyes briefly and flexes her hands behind her back, but otherwise says nothing.

The Commander stared at Devon long and hard for several moments before speaking.

"I suppose I can authorise a pair of A4 models for this mission package."

"However Trooper Kismet, I strongly advise you to get your house in order before future briefings.  Your plan was limited, your information was sparse, your requests non-specific.  Even worse you don't even seem to have a clear understanding of what you want.  When you and your second in command can't even agree on the number and type of ships you want to requisition you have a serious issue in both your strategic planning and command structure."

"Come prepared next time Trooper.  Dismissed."

She looked to Zyra.  "I have nothing more at this time ma'am.  With your permission?"

Receiving a nod from Zyra, the Commander stood, saluted Zyra and left.

Cor comes to attention as the Commander passes by, her pose not quite at military standard but pretty good for a civilian. She does not relax once the Duros has left, however, waiting for Zyra's next comment.

Zyra returned the Commander's salute and watched her leave.  Then she turned her attention to the trio before her.

"Be at ease and speak freely.  Happy to be 'one of the Talons' when there are no others present."

"Let me say I think the Commander is a gifted strategist and tactician.  I don't think she's as good as Mark, though of course I'm biased in that respect.  She also lacks the. . .flexibility Mark has to think outside the box.  She's more an expert on probabilities and threat analysis.  A valuable skill on a larger fleet scale.  Mark always thought at squadron level before.  As for Nuth, I'd recommend you take her words to heart."

She turned her eyes to Devon and her tone softened, "Devon, I know you've done a wonderful job keeping the team together when Mark and I were captured at Corellia.  I also know you're not Mark but I'm hoping you can remember how he prepared and led a briefing.  He always came prepared.  Had his plans and contingencies in place.  He admitted when he didn't know.  He also never contradicted me in a briefing or vice verca.  All our planning and discussion was done before the briefing and we stood by each other.  If we disagreed we spoke about it behind closed doors later."

"I know being in a large military structure is hard and if you want someone to take over aspects of the team I totally understand.  I brought you to Nuth's attention as she can help you with planning, much like Mark and I used to do.  You also need to start earning the respect of senior officers, especially if you want to be given the latitude the Talons need to function effectively."

"Wether by accident or lack of planning you unfortunately came across as a group who didn't know what you were doing and you contradicted your XO.  This can dissolve trust in the command structure.  I know how I would have felt if Mark had done that to me.  You might want to ask Cor how she feels about that.  Wether that is now, or later when you have some privacy."  She motioned to Arcas and B0-B1 who were still in the room.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:08, Wed 04 Apr 2018.

Mika shrugs, "I guess I've had worse jobs since joining the team, and it's a damn sight better then being back with the fleet.  I've never thought of myself as military material.  Back in the day, I was a pilot for hire driving a freighter hauling fuel.  That was about as exiting as this, but it was old enough to have the added excitement of wondering if it was gonna leave me stranded in some out of the way corner of the Galaxy."

Kira continues to clean her gun as she speaks. "I grew u[p on a backwater planet....controlled by the imp's. My father owned a ship repair yard." The woman smiled at the thought of her father and the old days. "Before i could speak properly i was helping him. I could fly a ship before i had my first boyfriend. He taught me how to fly and how to repair them." She lost her smile as she continues.

"If he hadn't have died, i may have followed him....been into repairs of ships. They were my happiest times with my dad and brother. Anyway, when he died, my brother and i were shipped off to an aunt.  He joined the local guard and became a soldier....sounded a lot like Kyvarr at times. Me, i hated soldiers and blamed them for...."

She stops mid sentence, pauses cleaning, then sighs, but continues shortly after.

"I fell in with some merc's as a repair assistant. Within time i became pilot of their ship....a pie ce of junk, but i still could make her move.  The captain taught me all I know."

B0-B1 comes to the closest thing to attention a droid can while Nuth leaves the room and listens as Colonel Jax advises Devon in strategic presentation and quartermaster acquisition requests. He looks to Devon when she finishes and offers him advice of his own;

"If you are having trouble with military regulation, I would be more than willing to assist you in proper communication methods, and help you to draft your proposals before you embarrass yourself in front of high command? It is a part of my programming after all, and I have had exposure to military command structures so I am familiar with the expectations therein."

Whilst tone is not well perceived coming from a droid, there certainly wasn't any element of sarcasm behind the words spoken. It seemed that in his own way, B0-B1 was making an attempt to be sincere.

Getting off the Ghtroc, Lin gave Heigren a wink. ”Let us not get carried away, shall we? You know where to reach me, if you find yourself in the need of backup”, she said before heading out in to the seedy streets of the spaceport. It was not her first, and probably not the last time either, at a locale such as this. She knew to keep the blaster ready and where to find what she was looking for - a bar full of spacers, getting themselves drunk and robbed poor at a game of Sabacc. And that was exactly, where she suspected to find herself the suitable captain of a freighter that would work well with their ploy.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:13, Fri 06 Apr 2018.

CC9, at the sensor station of the Ghtroc's cockpit, has been largely ignoring the conversations around it as the organics do what organics do (that is, for the most part, talk).  It maintains a watch on the neighbouring space, keeping at the task both while on the ground and once they lift off again, with Lin and Heigren disembarked.

As they move through space the droid maintains its ceaseless vigil over the sensor feeds, analysing the data on passing ships and, for the moment, maintaining its silence.

Att: Ghtroc team

The three remaining Talons on the Ghtroc all sat on the bridge.  Mika and Kira sat in the pilot/co-pilot seats, the latter spreading blaster components and cleaning agents all over the console while the pair discussed their respective histories.

B2-CC9 meanwhile engaged neither in conversation nor cluttering his workstation.  The droid watched the passive sensor feeds to watch the dozen or so ships visible in their sector of space.  Most of traffic was cargo transports, some Imperial, some civilian.  A private yacht and two cargo transports traveled together with a pair of fighter escorts and a single passenger transport traversed the spacelanes.

Once onboard the Voidsong Dohr searched for the Medbay to have a look. Nodding approvingly, he thought of dropping his gear inside, but decided against it. He had no idea what Cor's plan was, so it didn't really make sense to make oneself at home just yet.

The Doc lowered his backbag on the floor of the main floor cargo bay and turned to Aderek. "I assume Cor is in the cockpit. I will give her a call nevertheless." Dohr knew Cor wasn't a fan of crowds and although he personally wouldn't call three people one, the Kel Dor thought it would be polite to announce their arrival before barging in. Then again, one of her droids had probably noticed Dohr and Aderek already...

"Cor, we have arrived."

:: Fleet ::

After waiting a few moments for Devon to respond, letting the silence stretch out to uncomfortable lengths, Cor lets out a heavy sigh.

"We will discuss the matter in private," she states in her gently neutral tone, the one she uses when being Official.  "For now, the moment is past and we will work toward fixing it as best we can - ah.  The doctors have arrived on the Voidsong; one moment."  Her hologram freezes briefly.

:: Voidsong ::

Cor's voice comes over the PA system of the luxury freighter which does, indeed, seem pretty luxurious.  It obviously isn't a new ship, with years of wear showing here and there, but it is well-maintained and looks to be in the process of an overhaul of its amenities.  The lighting level is just a little lower than one might expect but, considering the ship's owner is Umbaran, that is hardly surprising.

"Welcome to the Voidsong, doctors," Cor's disembodied voice says.  "Please, follow the floor lighting to your quarters and then make yourself at home.  I apologise that I was not present to meet you, but I am currently in a meeting with Devon and the Colonel.  The galley should be fully stocked if you need or want anything to eat or drink."

Strips of lighting blink into existence along the floor, showing the pair the way.  When they arrive they find the quarters selected for them to be both spacious and comfortable.  The sickbay is well-stocked for its size but still constitutes little more than a bed, basic trauma equipment, a stock of medkits and 2-1B-D3, Cor's medical droid.

:: Fleet ::

Cor's hologram unfreezes.

"Unfortunately," she continues, "the manner in which the Talons have historically operated is not necessarily compatible with the mentality of the Alliance.  As we cannot expect them to adapt to us, we must adapt to them - or go our separate ways from them.  We relied on the direction of yourself and the Brigadier," she adds, smiling a faint sad smile to Zyra, "and simply made do as we could in your absence.

"I have already recommended that Sergeant Dulvan assist the Talons in preparing for a more military existence - even if that only means appearing more military in front of the other Rebels while maintaining our informality in private, though in truth I -"  She pauses, catching herself, glancing briefly at B0-B1 and Arcas Endeel before continuing.  The manner in which she changes the subject is not especially subtle; perhaps she is bad at hiding such things, or maybe she actually does not care to hide it.

"You are looking well, Colonel, and I hope the Brigadier continues to improve.  Do you have any word about our former squadmates?"

"Thanks for taking us in Cor." he calls out in response to her welcoming them on board.

"Shall we go on then?" he asks the Doctor, imagining he might already be familiar with the ship, but not for certain.

"Nice ship." Aderek adds in a complementary tone.  The combination on its apparent age and the fact that it has been maintained and is in the process of a refresh gets his appreciation.  While the wealthy's ability afford the extravagance to buy almost disposable crafts and systems, can be impressive, he really feels those who have something and take care of it over time, deserved his true respect.

He drops his stuff off when they get to his accommodations, and is very surprised at them compared to the bunks they had just recently be housed in.

When seeing the MedBay, he can't help but mentally think through what he'd change, but quickly pops the thought, as he realizes that if Cor did ask for it to be changed any, it would be under the direction of the Doctor, not himself.

Although it doesn't stop thoughts from coming to mind, he focues more instead on general ways he might be able to help out.  Trying to think of ways he could offer to help Cor with the upgrades that appear to be already under way, or if he notes anything seeming important about the life support system for instance.

Devon grimaced to himself as Zyras explanation made it clear what he had just inadvertently done.  He'd have been better off keeping his mouth shut and letting the other two handle things.
_{"I am bad at this..."} he mumbled.

He cast Cor an apologetic look .

Devon slumped back in his seat.  It was beginning to dawn on him just how different life in the Alliance would be compared to what he was used to.  He had advocated this.. but now Devon found himself wondering if the Talons - if HE could adjust.



"Yeah, that'll be handy.  An' since I'm gonna be in one of those Y-wings, I'm thinkin' I better have a refresher on Alliance rules of engagement."  The last thing Devon needed to do now was compound his error by screwing up during the mission and giving Commander Nootka something else she could sink her teeth into.  Zyra was right - they needed to earn some respect with the brass:  their latest mission going off well would be a good start.

He tapped a hurried note into his datapad.
"An' I agree with Cor -we better get Kyvarr to give people some trainin'.  I'm gonna need it even if no-one else does."

Devon sighed and looked at Zyra, waiting for her to answer Cor's question.  He wanted to know how former squadmates were doing to.  He'd sent Flash a message the previous day, but so far the Duros hadn't replied.

The three remaining Talons on the Ghtroc all sat on the bridge.  Mika and Kira sat in the pilot/co-pilot seats, the latter spreading blaster components and cleaning agents all over the console while the pair discussed their respective
Mika's mouth makes a clicking sound.  "That's interesting.". She pulls up the sensor logs.  "Two cargo transports with a couple of fighters flying escort and a yacht too.". She runs up the navcomp to see if she could extrapolate either their origin or their destination.  She'd do the same for the cargo transports.

While she works, she responds to Kira's last comment.  "My folks and I never got along so well.  They wanted me to get a dignified degree, a right proper job and a afluent husband to boot.  They didn't find my swoop buddies to their liking.  We didn't get along so good."

"The team is doing quite well.  Sheila is a Lieutenant in a Y-wing squadron and seems quite happy.  Flash has been transferred to an R&D unit working on a new fighter.  Something based on the old R-22, Delta-7 and Eta-3 designs.  Not sure what.  Still he hasn't been courtmartialled yet so that's something I guess."

"As for Mark and I.  Well Mark's a feelings are a little bittersweet I think.  He's finally getting to use his abilities for a larger organisation that actually has a chance against the Empire.  Though I know he misses commanding a starfighter squadron.  Of course at the moment his new leg isn't working quite as well as his old one.  It may be some time before he certifies as starfighter competent again."  She didn't add 'if he ever does' but her tone suggested this.

She sighed.  "We're all adapting to this new Alliance.  It's been a change for us all.  Give it a chance and see if you can work within it's limitations.  We could use you.  Of course if you choose to stay independant in the end Mark and I will completely understand.  Well. . .I will and I'll Mark mark understand."  She corrected with a grin.

"If you do choose to go it alone there will be no hard feelings.  I'll also try to throw jobs and intel your way when I can.  Don't get me wrong, I'd love you on the team but either way I'll try to support you."

Both Mika and CC9 worked the sensor data, trying to extrapolate more information.  While the ships squawked transponders there was no need to advertise their travel plans.  Conceivably, four of the ships could be heading towards the Imperial base and at least five could be heading away.  There were also numerous other places they could be heading from/to.  Space was a vast place and even a nearby transit point did not supply definitive information.


Four possibles heading towards: Private yacht with escort, three cargo transports (2 imp, 1 civilian)
Five possibles heading away - Passengar transport, four cargo transports (2 imp, 2 civilian)

Alliance standard Rules of Engagement state that during any fire fight or conflict there is to be no collateral damage, particularly civilian. There is also to be no engagement into a fire fight but retaliation from an attack is deemed acceptable. The only exception is if the target is identified as a genuine Imperial military threat, in which case an attack order can be issued. In a reconnaissance situation these rules apply the same, however operational security must be upheld, so if it is contrary to the ultimate goal of the mission, Imperial military targets should not be engaged.

B0-B1 finished rattling off the company line and looks at Devon. He walks closer in to make himself a part of the group talking, moving with a lot more silence and fluidity than would seem typical for a protocol droid of his appearance and build.

 Forgive my ignorance but I am currently without full information. What is the mission to which you are undertaking? I have had previous experiences in battles and reconnaissance and believe this may be why Colonel Jax has concluded I could be of assistance to you. Perhaps if I am aware of what the mission entails I would be able to offer more suggestion as to a course of action to begin?

Kira, through then surveillance took note of the type of ships, styles and possible armor and weapon on said ships (If they were standard for their models)


She looks at Kira with a smile. "What ya think Mika?" It was obvious that Kira was changing topics....he had no issue hearing about Mika's history and family, but Kira wasn't comfortable talking about her family more than she had.

...she always hated talking about her family.

Seems reasonable, Arcas thought to himself after listening to B0-B1's description. For the duration of Cor and the Colonel's reminiscing Arcas kept thinking about the situation the Talons were currently in.

After the protocol droid's question, Arcas came to attention, more out of reflex than intent. "I think I can offer that briefing. As we are operating on a schedule, should we prepare for the planned reconnaissance? The station flyby Fiarr suggested would be beneficial to perform as quickly as possible", he said, indicating towards the door.

Devon pursed his lips for a moment, thinking.  All the fighters Zyra had listed were tiny, highly maneuverable speed machines.  Just the sort of thing that would hold Flash's attention He said as much.
"If they ain't thrown him in the brig yet, then they must have got him interested... so whatever they've got him flyin', its not going to be somethin' slow...  I'm bettin' some sorta interceptor."





Arcas was right.  Time to get moving.  Devon nodded and heaved himself to his feet.
"Time for us to do some work, I guess.  Wish us luck."  he told Zyra and headed for the door.

As they exited, he gave the droid B0-B1 a curious glance.
"You said you have recon and combat experience?  That's fairly non-standard for protocol droids, right?"

After some light reminiscing the team quickly left Zyra's office, now with B0-B1 in their company.  They quickly returned to the recreation area where Fiarr and Kyvarr were deep in conversation.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:49, Fri 13 Apr 2018.