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Post by Fireteam Castle [Retired] on Apr 30, 2017 19:52:35 GMT -8
BO-2263. Black Operations Captain Thomas Blackwall.
First Order Special Operations
0930 hrs. Ossus. En route to LZ.
The Atmospheric Assault Lander known as the Bucket plummeted through Ossus' atmosphere, having launched from the Resurgence. Captain Thomas Blackwall stood in the trooper bay, gripping on of the overhead hand holds. He stood with his back to the entry ramp, facing the five men of his squad. Other various crates of equipment and military hardware were strapped down in the bay. Heavy weapons, defensive turrets. That kind of thing. Seeing as how Fireteam Castle was a special ops team, they are given special privileges. Such as the use of an AAL all to themselves. After a few moments of silence, Blackwall spoke through his helmet's external speakers.Alright ladies, listen up! Command has seen fit to send us here to provide support for the Knights of Ren leading this little picnic. This is straight forward. We link up with the newest member of the Ren. A Zabrak that used to be a Jedi. We are to assist him up to the Security Substation, then provide a distraction. He will be infiltrating the Library. Once he gives us the signal, we give him an extraction point and we hold it at all costs. Thriesa Company and the other two Knights will be heading the main assault directly against the Library. The new Knight's R2 unit will send up the schematics to the Library once it overrides the security substation. Any questions?"Blackwall didn't expect any questions. His team knew what their job was, and he knew they'd do it to the best of their abilities. The mission was in good hands.Oohrah!The team shouted their response in unison. Beneath his helmet, Blackwall grinned. This was about to be interesting. As the craft descended into the atmosphere, the pilot came over the cabin's comm.Captain, enemy fighters inbound. Prepare for evasive maneuvers.Blackwall clenched his jaw beneath his helmet."Buckle up, ladies! It's about to get bumpy!"Blackwall then moved to his seat, using the crates in the bay to keep himself upright as the craft bucked and rocked. Sliding into his seat, he strapped himself in. Towes voice crackled over the comm.We're in atmo. Landers 2-3 and 2-5 have been hit. Hang on! TIE's on an intercept course!Even with the rumbling of the Lander itself and the roaring of re-entry, Blackwall could still hear the unmistakable howl of the Twin Ion Engines of the Strikers as they approached. A sudden jolt of the craft and a klaxon blaring alerted him to trouble. Towes voice crackled over the speakers once more. It sounded remarkably calm.We've been hit. I've lost maneuvering and secondary thrusters. We are going down. Brace for impact!"The ailing craft plummeted from the sky, trailed smoke. The vast expanse of green rapidly rose up to greet them. A tremendous scraping noise followed by several bone-jarring jerks against the restraints and the craft was down...BO-8163-Black Operations Second Lieutenant Jorge 'Helo' Ramirez
First Order Special Operations
0945 hours. 5 Clicks North West of designated LZ. Helo's eyes snapped open. He looked around, moving his head as little as possible. The interior of the AAL was dimmly lit and smokey. Shifting slightly, he realized he was still strapped into his seat. With some effort, he hit the emergency release for the harness. And then he dropped. With a thump and a groan, he lifted himself up. The AAL was laying on its right side. He glanced around, taking stock of the situation. Reaper and Jester were still strapped into their seats, above him. Their limbs dangled loosely as they hung. Orion, Viper and the Boss were slumped back in their seats on the 'floor' ahead of him. In his ear, he could hear the automated distress beacon going. Getting to work, Helo reached up and unstrapped Reaper. Slinging his unconscious team member over his shoulder, he carefully made his way to the ramp. Hitting the manual release, he was able to shove it open enough to step through. The sun was beaming down on him. The wind was gently rustling the trees around them. And the sounds of battle could be heard. Scanning the area and determining it was safe for the time being, Helo set Reaper down and propped him up against the AAL. He then trekked back inside to retrieve Jester. As he carried Jester out, the Boss began to stir. Quickly placing Jester along side Reaper, he returned to the AAL's trooper bay. The Captain spoke to him."Lieutenant. What's our status?"Helo sighed."We're down, sir. Reaper and Jester are unconscious outside. Haven't heard from Wings yet and have no clue where we are."The Captain nodded as he hit the release on his harness. Pulling himself to his feet and retrieving his blaster rifle, looked to Helo."Get the other two out of here and see if you can wake them up. I'll go check on Wings and see if I can't get out an actual distress call."Helo nodded."Understood, sir."And with that, Blackwall disappeared from the bay as Helo moved to unstrap Orion. He jerked awake."Helo? Shit. How we doing?"As Helo helped him to his feet, he answered."Not good. Captain is out seeing to Wings. Reaper and Jester are out, as is Viper. And we have no kriffing idea where we are."Retrieving his rifle, Orion nodded."Well this turned into a shitstorm real fast. Not sure I like tagging along with the Knights. I'll get out there and scout our perimeter, make sure we are all clear."Helo clapped the young soldier on the shoulder."Take care of yourself out there. I'll have the Captain buzz you once we're ready to move out."Orion nodded in acknowledgment."Yes sir!"And with that, he made his way out of the AAL and jogged off to scout the perimeter. Helo, on the other hand, released Viper's harness and carried him outside the ship, placing him next to the others. He then went back inside and retrieved his teams gear and took stock of what supplies and equipment had survived. Not much was usable at this point. Damaged or trapped within the bay, they didn't have time to get it free. As Helo walked back outside, the Captain and Wings rounded the corner. Wings was banged up pretty bad, nursing a bloody nose and several lacerations to his face.
The Captain helped him sit down. He turned to Helo."Comms are a mess. No getting through right now. Our best bet is to link into the B-net and see where we are. Once we know that, we need to get on with our mission."Helo nodded."Understood. I'll get to waking the others and preparing to mobilize on your word."Blackwall nodded and watched Helo move off to tend to the others. He leaned against the hull of the ship, thinking on their next move. |
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Kurōn
Member
Reborn Again!
Posts: 83 
Affiliation: Unknown
Traffic Light: Red
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Post by Kurōn on May 1, 2017 10:15:41 GMT -8
Ossus Wilderness. Security Substation.
The trek from the landing zone to the Security Substation had been uneventful and relatively smooth. Vlad walked towards the building as 'Clank' rolled alongside him. Upon approaching the entrance, the main guard snapped to attention.
"Master Savage. What brings you out here? You weren't on any scheduled visits for today."
Acting fast, Vlad motioned to his droid.
"Clank and I have come across some information we determined to be valuable to the Jedi. Clank is here to obtain security clearance to the Library. It's been some time since we were there so I believe the proper procedure is for us to update Clank's clearance, correct?"
The guard remained silent for a moment, then nodded.
"That is correct...however you really should go through the main checkpoint in the Library. We generally don't deal with that sort of thing out here...I'll buzz them and let them know you are heading their way...-"
Vlad gathered the Force around him and send out a wave of invisible energy. Malacia was a very useful technique when it came to infiltrating something. Especially since Vlad didn't feel the need to kill them. As the trooper teetered unsteadily on his feet, Vlad then shoved him with a Force Push into the wall behind him, hard enough to render him unconscious but otherwise not harm him.
"I apologize for this, but I am in a bit of a hurry. Clank, get to work. And this time, before you open the door, let me know how many are inside. Let's not have a repeat like on Contruum."
The droid whistles and chirped as he rolled towards the interface and plugged in. Scanning the surroundings and making sure they didn't attract more attention, Vlad kept watch until Clank chimed up, informing Vlad of the stations inhabitants.
"Two right inside the door and another three on the way to the security hub? Hmmm...looks like fighting them will be unavoidable. You make your way to the hub, I'll take them down and ensure they don't call for raise the alarms just yet. We don't need the entirety of their defenses coming our way before Soku has a chance to engage them."
Vlad inhaled and then exhaled slowly. His eyes fluttered closed as he remembered the weak points in the defenders' armor. He had no intentions of killing any of them, but wounding them would be acceptable. He reached down to his belt and curled his fingers around one of the hilts, the blue blade. It was better equipped to deflect blaster bolts anyways, which would make this easier. Inhaling again, he exhaled and spoke to Clank.
"Alright. Open it up."
The droid chirped in response. After a whirring noise, the doors parted, revealing the startled guards. Before they had a chance to react, Vlad was moving. He picked up the one on his left with the Force and threw him into the one on the right. The soldiers collapsed in a pile, groaning and gasping. As Clank trundled past, Vlad approached the guards. He grabbed them both, one in each hand, and with the assistance of his powered exoskeleton, he lifted them up and smashed them together. As they fell unconscious, Vlad was on the move, hilt in hand. He could hear the surprised shouts at Clank had already reached the hub. Vlad sprinted down the stairs and rounded the corner. The three guards spun about, blasters leveled at him. Without hesitation, they opened fire. Vlad's blue blade sprang to life as he expertly deflected the shots back at the soldiers, aiming for the abdomen, knees and shoulders. Once they were down, he stepped forward and unlocked the access panel for Clank.
"Get it open and get the sentry guns firing on the defenders. Stun rounds only. Lower accuracy enough to keep the defenders under cover and alternate firing sequences so that they are forced to stay down. And upload the security key for the Library's service entrance."
Clank whistled an affirmative and a few seconds later, he chimed that he was complete. Vlad nodded.
"Excellent. Let's get out of here. We will only have about thirty minutes once we breach the service entrance. Even with how good you are at making a fake code,
the system will correct it. Let's go."
Vlad and Clank then left the hub, heading back up the the main entrance. Ensuring that it was still clear, the duo took off for the Library's service entrance.
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
Posts: 240
Affiliation: Jedi Lords/Ossus Jedi
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Apr 28, 2020 19:21:45 GMT -8
The new orders, from Duke Malvern, saw a fresh wave of transports stream down to the planet's surface. Count Dendarrion had been ordered to coordinate efforts beyond the Eocho Mountains and the Ooroo Canyon. Knossa was the capital of the planet, but there were others. The fleet, in orbit, had been scanning the surface for various other settlements, taking in details of the surrounding areas. Sectors were created and assigned to various military units. Each unit came with supplies, specialist crews, and other necessities. Jedi retainers, leading their respective companies, encouraged cooperation with the local authorities at each major settlement and city. Malvern would seek to knit the world together, piece by piece.
The first to be approached were the larger settlements. This meant further contact with the Ysanna tribes and migrated species of Ossus. Keeping with the code of their cause, the Jedi and their troops unloaded supplies and asked for the cooperation of local securities. Word of Knossa's voluntary submission meant more followed in the same peaceful manner. The Jedi Lords did not want conflict and it was clear the natives didn't either. Both sides wanted peace and the benefits brought by the newcomers were certainly tempting. Soon enough, Dendarrion and other officials were getting positive reports as settlements willingly joined and cooperated.
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
Posts: 240
Affiliation: Jedi Lords/Ossus Jedi
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Nov 5, 2021 17:33:54 GMT -8
Harcey KeepCastle of the Duchy of Harcey (a.k.a. Kingwood Duchy) Ossus had grown on Lucien Malvern the more the Duke spent time here. There was a history here, one rich with the Jedi Order. The natives, though abrasive and uncooperative at times, still showed respect. Some tribes weren't as cooperative, but plenty welcomed the boons that the Jedi Lords brought to them. Boons such as security, prosperity, and a new future. Though the planet was barren, there were still some lands that could be cultivated and were as green as what had been seen on Serenno. Slowly, and surely, Lucien seemed to become less a Lord of Fiyarro and more into a Protector of Ossus. In fact, he was even seen more and more at the revived Jedi Academy, greeting younglings and dispensing his knowledge to them. Serenno colonists arrived daily to help rebuild the land and bring about a new Ossus.
With this connection growing stronger, the Duke found a nice plot of fertile land near the Imhar Canyon, which ensured he was within reach of the Jedi Praxeum. With the approval of the Ysanna, and the aid of those who were his subjects, a castle was built upon the land with several villages plotted and established. It became one of many new fiefdoms, taking the honored name of 'Dukedom of Harcey' after Lucien's great-grandfather, a notable Jedi warrior of House Malvern. However, the people called it the 'Kingwood Dukedom' after an abundance of a native tree on Ossus within the area called Kingwood.
Stone walls were built up and augmented with modern security measures and gun emplacements. Yet, these were kept concealed in order to not disturb the beauty of the stone complex. A handful of a hundred knights were settled upon the land to establish military houses so that they may serve the Duke directly as vassals and officials. Even a number of allied Ysanna were invited to join in a new class of middle tiered nobility, a way to bridge the cultural gaps between the Jedi Lords and the Ossan natives. Here, Lucien hoped to make a... new future for himself, among the barren beauty and rich history of Ossus. |
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Nov 9, 2021 5:06:02 GMT -8
Descending through the clouds above, the yorik-trema 'Blood Chalice' made its approach towards the castle. In the rear compartment, Nem was seated and staring at his personal qahsa device, which appeared to be connected to a port in one of the walls by what looked like a slender length of artery. The Intendant had actually bio-hacked his way into the organic shuttle's visual sensors and was watching a feed of the landscape and the nearing Harcey Keep. He let out a whistle. The Duke hadn't been mincing words when he had called it a castle. Mind you, in his past travels around the galaxy aboard the Cutlass, the Intendant had a chance to see many similar homesteads of royals and nobles alike. This one appeared a little more rustic at first glance than those, which was a part of its charm he supposed. Nothing ostentatious, though perhaps a little more than quaint, like a cliffside manse of some sort. Six long segmented spindly legs emerged from the underside of the shuttle and punctured the ground as they took the weight of the Chalice. The pilot signalled the dovin basals to rest and unsealed the exterior hatch sphincter.
A seam split in the ablative hull of the ship and a long molleung worm unraveled from the bottom of the opening down to the ground, effectively forming the Yuuzhan Vong version of a boarding ramp. Nem swaggered down the ramp, his long coat of robeskin swishing behind him as he casually strutted, followed close behind by his chazrach assistant. There was an all to familiar twist in his guts upon exiting the ship. He had felt it before when the shuttle had first entered the planet's atmosphere, but now that he was actual exposed completely to Ossus' natural gravity, it had only gotten worse.
Millenia spent in the intergalactic void, sometimes frozen in stasis and sometimes not, had caused the Intendant to develop an unfortunate malaise. He was as comfortable as a clam when aboard a space station or ship, somewhere that the gravity was artificially generated, but once within the confines of natural gravity and his stomach began to churn and turn knots. It was a similar experience to a sea bound sailor having lost their land-legs. He tended to treat the illness with an over-indulgence of narcotic sparkbee honey and euphoric smoking herb, an unhealthy method of treatment according to Mira, but it seemed to be the only thing that helped. Speaking of which...
Upon reaching the bottom of the ramp, Nem reached into his long coat and found the bladder-flask of sparkbee honey located on his hip. He removed the liquid containing biot and brought it to his lips, stroking the flask while suckling at the end, imbibing a small measure of the thick viscous liquid. When done he returned the bladder to his side and wiped the sleeve of his coat over his lips, clearing any particles he might have missed. "You think the castle's got a princess?" Nem jested to the chazrach at his side. The creature just stared up at the Intendant stupidly, giving a confused expression. Nem sighed and shook his head. "Oh, that's right. You don't actually think."
There they waited for the greeting party.
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
Posts: 240
Affiliation: Jedi Lords/Ossus Jedi
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Nov 15, 2021 18:53:49 GMT -8
Nem Yin and his... creature, if one could call it that, were greeted at the entrance of the castle by a retinue of Jedi Knights. Not in the sense of the rank of the Jedi Order, but oath-bound swords and shields of their Jedi Lords, the basis of nobility and the military of their lieges. These men wore traditional armor of the Jedi and wore the crest of Duke Malvern upon their right shoulder. These knights weren't exactly sure about the Vong being present on Ossus, but none dared speak against the will of their master. The sworn swords moved to make an aisle as the dark haired Duke walked between them, followed by Kel Dor, dressed in a ceremonial looking armor. The pair came to the head of the knights who quickly formed two columns on either side.
It was the Duke Malvern who moved further though as Yar Sho stayed back, watching his liege and eyeing the Vong too.
Executor Yin, welcome to Ossus.
Lucien exclaims with his hands slightly extended to express gratitude and openness. The Jedi Lord kept a respectable distance, considering the strange creature with the Vong. Many knew of the predatorial creatures these aliens kept with them and created. The Jedi glances at this chazrach assistant before refocusing on Nem.
Please, let us head into the castle and discuss further. Representatives of the Ysanna and my vassals have come to hear your proposal.
Duke Malvern motions to the visitor before turning to head back towards the castle.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Nov 17, 2021 10:41:33 GMT -8
Over the years Nem had the opportunity to interact with quite a few Jedi. First during the war, then later during his activities as both a steward of his people and an intelligence operative working out of a pirate vessel. Most Jedi he had met wore robes, of a variety of different colours mind you, but still mostly robes. The Yavin Order had worn brown, the Corellian's green, and the only Felucian Jedi he had met had worn blue, or was it red? His memory was a bit foggy on that one. These Jedi, if that was what they were given the lightsabers on their hip, wore armour. He supposed that was fitting given that their Order was called the Jedi Lords.
Emerald green glowing eyes lingered on the Duke as he introduced himself. Nem offered a quick return bow, not entirely certain of the protocol in this situation. The man was mostly what he expected of someone with a noble title. He began to follow as the Duke and his retainers led them inside the castle, his ocular implants never idle as he studied his surroundings with genuine curiosity. The chazrach limped beside him, hobbling awkwardly as it kept up with the Executor's longer stride. Though it was likely best to hold his tongue until he met with the other representatives, he couldn't help but inquire about the unique nature of the building and the Jedi accompanying them.
"This is a interesting domain you've built for yourselves, Duke Malvern. I take it the Jedi Lords don't operate exactly as the other Jedi Orders do, your choice of apparel an obvious difference I have noticed." He paused, then quickly added. "Call me Nem, by the way. I'm not big on titles."
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
Posts: 240
Affiliation: Jedi Lords/Ossus Jedi
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Nov 21, 2021 12:32:09 GMT -8
"This is a interesting domain you've built for yourselves, Duke Malvern. I take it the Jedi Lords don't operate exactly as the other Jedi Orders do, your choice of apparel an obvious difference I have noticed." He paused, then quickly added. "Call me Nem, by the way. I'm not big on titles." |
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Metroclus
Member
"I will do my duty until I cannot."
Posts: 11
Affiliation: The Republic
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Metroclus on Nov 22, 2021 19:55:16 GMT -8
[ Metroclus Garrik | Castle Entrance | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern & Nem Yin
The young girl had been through a gamut of emotions and experiences, having discovered that she was thousands of years past her own timeline, never to see her family or friends again, and the way the Aldar revered her as all but a goddess, she had literally jumped at the chance when Lord Lucien Malvern invited her to take refuge on Ossus, away from the Aldar, and away from the memories of everything she lost. Thusly, Metroclus was duty-bound to follow her where she went, which was why he was now standing out here alongside Jedi Knights, bearing the same symbol on his armour, beside the symbol of the Republic, which he still maintained, if nothing more than out of loyalty to the ideals it stood for.
He had declined to wear or change his armour for something newer, even if it was supposedly more advantageous. He was awakened in this armour, and he reckoned he would manage well enough in it, even if it made him stand out far more, as a definite relic of a time long past.
He did not know much about the Yuuzhan Vong, but he had quickly consulted a datapad that he carried with him with direct access to the holonet and the archives from the Jedi Lords. They had actually attempted to conquer the Known Galaxy at one point, and very nearly succeeded too. They'd since forged for a more peaceful approach to the rest of the galaxy since, but it never hurt to be alert. Which was probably why he was brought out here. Metroclus was familiar with war, and for him, it was something that had been ongoing before he and Sorsha were frozen in carbonite.“It looks clear, your highness,” said Metroclus, his voice metallic and raspy through the pic-up mic of his helmet, “think you don't have to hide behind me.”Sorsha was tiny even for her age, which was barely thirteen, but the girl was quite timid and shy, and tended not to know how to act around people. The man felt very protective towards her, and now that they were basically time-displaced, he felt even more like a father-figure for the girl, so he took it on himself to try coaxing her and encouraging her to interact more or try being more assertive.
As it was, she was fearfully clinging to his gauntleted hand, and almost half-hidden behind him.
He kept his free hand resting on the handle of his blaster, strapped to his right thigh, while his starforged assault cannon remained slung on his back. Not threatening, but ready to draw in a split second at the first sign of danger. His very posture indicated a readiness to act. But for now, he was just observing the proceedings.
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Sorsha Sunrunner
Member
“Death is lighter than a feather, duty is heavier than a mountain...”
Posts: 13 
Affiliation: The Force
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Sorsha Sunrunner on Nov 22, 2021 20:13:31 GMT -8
[ Princess Sorsha Sunrunner | Castle Entrance | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern & Nem Yin Sorsha Sunrunner in short, felt quite miserable. It was hard for her to focus on the present and push her sorrows out of her mind. She was about reaching her thirteenth birthday when the incident occurred that had her and her protector, Metroclus, trapped in carbonite for what was over thousands of years. So much had changed, and so much was lost to both of them. She'd lost track of the days she spent crying and sobbing over her family, whom she'd never see again. Through it all, she'd formed a bond with Republic Trooper, who was the only one left to her from the same timeline she'd been from.
He had quickly become a parental figure to her, and despite her status and his, she always deferred to him on any decision making. Even if it looked like she had been the one to rush to Lucien's invitation to visit Ossus, she had spoken at length with Metroclus to glean his advise and recommendations.
Of course he would follow her, so she had tried to take into account how he felt about the world. If he so much as voiced discomfort, she would have been rushing back to Serenno, even if the Aldar there, all who were modern descendants of her people, greatly unnerved her with their awe-filled stares and deference to her as if she were their queen. They already had their own princess, but even she acted like Sorsha was a goddess. She did not want such treatment, and she would have been happier just hiding herself away forever.
Everytime she thought of that, she'd lower her head in shame, as the voices of her parents and siblings questioned if that was the way an Aldar princess was supposed to behave. Thus, when Lucien informed the castle inhabitants that a Yuuzhan Vong was arriving, which was a bit of a surprise based on the little bit of history she'd learned since arriving on this planet. She was curious, but at the same time afraid. The Vong were a warrior race, and looked downright intimidating. She didn't favour Metroclus' odds if he had to fight one up close, so she'd persuaded Metroclus to let her follow him to the entrance, while she clung tightly to his hand like a little child.
As she got her first unaided look at the representative, she had all but melded herself against Metroclus' side, half hidden from view as she continued studying the Yuuzhan Vong. Her small tiara, made with gold and crystals, glinted in the light, giving away her presence despite her being mostly hidden by Metroclus' bulk, and despite his encouragement, she merely fixed her green eyes on him a moment, before just shaking her head and resuming her cautious regard from relative safety.
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Aerandir Calmcacil
The Jedi Order
Posts: 1,731
Affiliation: The Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Nov 23, 2021 0:47:01 GMT -8
*Aerandir Calmcacil had not been as directly involved in the Ossus rebuilding efforts as he may have liked, his attention already split between duties to the Jedi Order and to his family. The current dark times hadn't made things easier, though he made sure to at least keep tabs on the progress and sanction lend whatever resources he could.
The Jedi Lords had rather impressed him, their initiative admirable... and very much what the Order needed right now to preserve and rekindle the dwindling peace in the galaxy. His approval of their operating officially as a branch of the Order had once been reluctant, but he now saw it had been the right call.
"Reluctant" also described his visit here, to a degree; it didn't feel very long since Morgan had returned home and some part of him didn't wish to separate from her and his newfound granddaughter. Morgan, however, was now a grown woman, and her ten years of survival, with a child, proved more than enough evidence that she could take care of herself. Still, paternal instincts were difficult to shake, and he often thought of the two during the brief time he had spent on Ossus so far.
Regardless, this event mattered a great deal. Ossus stood strong once more. Ten long years ago, the Knights of Ren had seen to its destruction, but now that battle seemed little more than a distant memory. Many of the battle's survivors had returned to aid in rebuilding efforts and once more called the world their home. The effort stood as a testament to the will of the Jedi, their indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
Despite missing most of the rebuilding, however, Aerandir found himself present for a new momentous occasion: The potential revival of the Ossus Project. A Yuuzhan Vong Executor answered the call of Duke Malvern and traveled to the planet to speak with him. While the Duke met with the Executor, Aerandir remained behind at the castle, familiarizing himself with its basic layout. Before too long, he stood outside the entrance, clad in his white adventure robes, waiting to greet the Yuuzhan Vong and observe talks between the two parties.*
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Nov 23, 2021 13:42:10 GMT -8
It seemed in a certain sense the Jedi Lords traditions went back further than the modern day Jedi of which he was more familiar with. Interestingly enough, when this different breed of Jedi first emerged, the Yuuzhan Vong were still in the midst of traveling the intergalactic void from their home galaxy to this one. Though he supposed a lot could happen within the span of the fifteen thousand year trip, especially given that he had been in stasis during most of it.
The decorative bone hooks at the bottom of the Executor's robeskin long coat pricked at the flesh of the glossy black cloaker bodysuit he wore like a layer of second skin, snagging on the material as he came to a stop before the entrance of the castle. He put the long spindly grey fingers of his hands on his hip, peering up at the tall archway leading towards the manor's interior. It was perhaps not as inviting to the Intendant as the dilated hatch-sphincter of a damutek, but nor was it as oppressive to the senses as say the durasteel corridors of a Coruscant hab-complex. He'd survive it well enough. Dark purple eye sacs pulsed thoughtfully and he focused his skeletal features on the Duke, offering a nod and a solemn look of understanding.
"Oh, I know quite a bit about dark times. I've seen my people nearly destroyed thrice over now." He held up three tattooed fingers to emphasize the point. "Once at the hands of sentient machines, then later in the endless night between stars by our own hands, and finally when our conquest of this galaxy was routed and the Chiss bio-weapon Alpha Red brought my species to near extinction." His ocular implants dimmed and the hue changed from green to dark blue, almost displaying what could be construed as melancholy. "I'm sure most of that we brought on ourselves, but the loss still weighs heavy on our collective spirit."
Next to the Intendant, the reptilian chazrach that served as a sort of personal assistant to the Executor, nestled its scaly head against Nem's leg and broke him from the spell of bitter memories. He looked down at the hobbled creature and offered its head an affectionate pat, his mqaaq'it once more growing bright as though possessed by witch-fire.
"Even so, I am not broken yet. The Yuuzhan Vong will not go quietly into the void."
By now he noticed something of a crowd at the castle entrance. His words had mostly been meant for the duke, not intended as a declarative speech for all to hear. Had that been the case he would have made a better effort to choose said words carefully. Perhaps a quick clarification was due to avoid any misinterpretation. He held up his empty hands, palms facing those gathered at the front entrance, as disarming a gesture as he knew to offer.
"But we do need to change. My people have so many wonderful gifts that have been twisted and turned towards the purpose of war. I would see those gifts used for something good. You see, this isn't just about repairing your planet and our galactic reputation, though both of those are a goal of the project. I believe my people need to participate in this to begin our own spiritual healing process. Maybe in time when the races of this galaxy speak of the Yuuzhan Vong, it won't be to point out the planets we've destroyed, but rather, the ones we've brought back to life."
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
Posts: 240
Affiliation: Jedi Lords/Ossus Jedi
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Nov 23, 2021 21:15:10 GMT -8
A smile crosses the Jedi Lord's face at what was said by Nem Yin. This was a Vong with an idealistic and chivalrous purpose to his coming here. It was not entirely selfish, but one meant to impress upon the community, both local and beyond, that his people, his kin, could do wonders for the galaxy if given a chance. Like the Vong, the Mandalorians were a warrior race themselves. They conquered huge swathes of territory, waged Crusades across the stars, and were heralded as warriors unlike any other. Yet, they proved to the galaxy that they were more. They were heroes and villain, farmers and warriors, diplomats and commanders. Every race, in this galaxy, was more than what met the eye. Nem Yin , I would be honored of Ossus could be the first step towards that process and this renewed purpose in our galaxy. Together, with your excellent Shapers, my biologists, and the Ysanna tribals, we will make Ossus bloom like it did before the Great Sith War! A paradise among the stars! We will do great work together, I foresee it.Malvern gestures towards the entry of the castle where several awaited the return of Lucien. A few members of his court and nobility, the revived Metroclus and the Princess @ofistarchaser, but more importantly, one would stand among the rest. And it was this individual that Nem Yin directed to first and foremost. Lucien brought the Executor to the presence of a rather tall Jedi with green eyes and brown hair. Before speaking, Lord Malvern bowed to his superior within the Jedi Order before motioning Nem Yin to the male.Your arrival has stirred much within the Jedi Order, Nem Yin. As such, this most important of Jedi has come to see this meeting to witness and participate. I present to you, Aerandir Calmcacil , Jedi Master of Felucia and Grandmaster of our order. In a ways, perhaps he can be remembered as the Jedi Master who saw Ossus bloom once more, just as Kol Skywalker sought to achieve with your predecessor.Lucien's attention then turns to Aerandir.Master Calmcacil, this is the Yuuzhan Vong that has been heard of. I present Nem Yin, Executor of the Praetorite Vong. His proposal will likely see this world be a utopia as it was for our noble ancestors before us. And, just to state now, he likes to go by his name rather than his title.
After formal introductions were made, the gathering all convened within the interior of Harcey Keep. A lot of notables were present such as military commanders, officials of the government, the staff of the Jedi Praxeum, nobility of the growing Ossus gentry, and Ysanna chiefs who wanted to hear of this proposal themselves too. Immediately, Lucien motions to the controls, causing the entire hall to be dimmed so that the focus could be upon a large holoprojector. A light blue glow begins to emit, illuminating all those present. The High Lord took his spot at the center of the congregation that circled around the projector.What you are about to see is something that is only speculated based upon record, holocron, and the word of our Ysanna allies. There are many historical and personal memoirs left behind to give us a picture of what Ossus was in the millennia before. Today, I want you all to see what has been recreated.Lucien then turns and keys the console, causing the holoprojector to explode to life. Images poured forth, coming together to reveal a picture of an unnamed city, similar in appearance to Knossa. Jedi Guardians walked the streets as law enforcement, children played with each other, the streets bustled with pilgrim, native, and more. It was a world long lost. For now, Lucien simply let the images play as a new holoimage came to life, revealing a world with fertile plains, a vibrant fauna, and greenery as far as the eye could see. More images played from there, showing the Great Jedi Library at its height, Jedi mingling and speaking with each other in its halls, more images of cities and the continued portrayal of Ossus before."It's so peaceful here… the Force permeates everything." Words spoken by Nomi Sunrider. Our records show that Ossus was originally a rugged, lush world with two-thirds of its surface covered in water and an abundance of flora and fauna. It was scarred though by the destruction of the Cron Cluster at the end of the Great Sith War... a permanent defilement, left by Exar Kun...Lucien exhales deeply, shaking his clutched fist slightly before turning and gesturing to the ongoing display of images. All of them eventually coming upon two individuals, Kol Skywalker and the Shaper Nei Rin. It lingered upon the pair before moving on to cycle the images once more for all to see.Ossus can be restored! Kol Skywalker and, his colleague, Nei Rin, saw that potential and even managed to restore some of the world. They transformed Wayland into a thriving floral landscape. A desolated part of this world still shows that work to this day! A successful terraform that was only tainted by the workings of the Sith and not the Vong intentionally. Ossus was... a paradise for our ancestors. A fortress, yes, but a spiritual paradise nonetheless. I want to see this happen! I want to see Ossus thrive again! So that all can walk under the shade of beautiful trees and smell the scent of flowers.All knew of the Imperial success with Caamas. So why not them? Why not the Jedi try to reborn Ossus?
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Aerandir Calmcacil
The Jedi Order
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Nov 24, 2021 14:27:12 GMT -8
*Nem Yin was not the first Yuuzhan Vong Aerandir had laid eyes upon; he recalled a particular emissary he met on Belkadan, more than half his life ago. Still, their people were no less fascinating to behold, in spite of the mark they had left upon the galaxy. One that remained still, and yet one that would hopefully be removed.
No, not removed, Aerandir realized as he listened to the Executor speak, but replaced.
Truthfully, it was impossible to discern the Executor's honesty, his voided presence seeing to that. This too fascinated Aerandir; even a Jedi with a deep understanding of the Force failed to detect their presence. He knew of Vongsense, of course, however he saw little reason to pursue such techniques. The Yuuzhan Vong of modern times tended to keep to themselves, and had indeed changed their ways. In that sense, Aerandir was sympathetic to the Executor's desire to repair his race's reputation in the galaxy.
Lucien then began to introduce Aerandir to the Executor. Aerandir returned the bow, though when he was referred to potentially as "the Jedi Master who saw Ossus bloom once more," he inwardly grimaced. In his own eyes, he was the Jedi Master who witnessed its destruction. Outwardly, he only smiled and said,* "Duke Malvern gives me far too much credit; he and the Jedi Lords have seen to most of the rebuilding efforts here. Regardless, pleasure to meet you, Executor Yin..."
*At the gathering, Aerandir looked at the images intently as Malvern spoke over them. He too had seen the records, the visions of an Ossus long past... and an Ossus that yet could still be. He supported this undertaking fully, hence why he was present now. For the most part, he was merely here to observe, only to give input when asked or needed. For now, he remained quiet, hoping to hear more from the Executor.*
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Sorsha Sunrunner
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“Death is lighter than a feather, duty is heavier than a mountain...”
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Post by Sorsha Sunrunner on Nov 24, 2021 16:17:36 GMT -8
[ Princess Sorsha Sunrunner | Meeting Hall | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern , Nem Yin & Aerandir Calmcacil Duty compelled the young royal to step out from behind Metroclus when Lucien had introduced her. It just wouldn't do to hide behind her protector then, would it? Especially given that the Vong was obviously not here with ill intent. They all eventually convened at the Meeting Hall, where Lucien revealed a holocron that offered a view of what the world once was.
Through it all, her expression remained somber.
She was the youngest person in attendance, quite likely, not that she raised her head to look up and observe people. Her ever-present protector, Metroclus, sat beside her in attendance, both to watch over her and to participate in the discussion when necessary. Personally, Sorsha thought she was invited as a courtesy, given how badly displaced she and Metroclus really were. What could they honestly contribute aside from her worthless title to a throne long gone, to a world grown beyond her? And a galaxy that was just so much larger and more terrifying?
Still, she felt compelled once more, to speak, even as she abhorred the notion of drawing attention to herself, she was concerned about something.
“Th-the last project...” she raised her head uncertainly, glancing towards Lucien, but holding tightly to Metroclus' hand for support, “...it was sabotage, was it not? W-will there be...I mean, will there be steps taken to ensure it doesn't happen again.”
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Metroclus
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"I will do my duty until I cannot."
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Post by Metroclus on Nov 24, 2021 17:10:42 GMT -8
[ Metroclus Garrik | Meeting Hall | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern, Nem Yin & Aerandir Calmcacil
He smiled a little when the princess spoke up.
It was possibly an unnecessary matter of concern, as more than likely the likes of Lucien and Nem would have considered such precautions to prevent a repeat of the Ossus disasters. The people here had suffered enough, for certain. It would be time for good things. He admired the display which showed Ossus in its former glory, and it was a sight to behold indeed.“The other concern would be securing our activities from prying eyes,” he added after the princess spoke, “I'm not completely caught up on the tech of this timeline, but do we have a means to ensure that the latest version of an Empire or the Sith do not learn of our undertakings here?”
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Lucien Malvern
The Jedi Order - Ossus Jedi Conclave
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Post by Lucien Malvern on Nov 24, 2021 17:59:35 GMT -8
Now this was a key counter argument and point made by others like Metroculus and the Princess Sunrunner. Those very same voices began to murmur among the crowd now, both Jedi noble and otherwise. All remembered by the Sith before, under Krayt, sabotaged the Wayland results, causing bone thorns to plague their victims. It was said that Ossus, at that time, witnessed the flora beauty become a nightmare overnight by what was believed, today, to be a manufactured virus. Whatever secret it was had died with the One Sith though.
Your words have already been spoken more than once.
Lucien states as he addresses the two. Then turns and begins to walk around the circle now.
There is a key difference though between what had occurred before and now. Then, the One Sith wanted to manufacture a means for a galactic war between the Galactic Alliance and the Fel Empire. One that would suit their designs and ambitions. The Jedi Order is no longer attached to a galactic power. We maintain ourselves independently and ally with like-minded powers who believe in democracy and freedom. We work with them as equal partners. The First Order has had many chances to come after us, yet they have relatively left us alone.
For over ten years now, since the Empire resurged, it had not once come close to Felucia nor any other Jedi world. There was the attack on Dantooine, but the academy there had been relatively abandoned by the beginning of the Third Galactic Civil War. Other than that, the Imperials kept their distance from the Jedi. Only the Ren had come to Ossus and many knew they sought their own agenda besides Imperial-aligned goals.
Sabotaging Ossus would only delay the project. It would not the spark of a galactic war. The Sith have no reason beyond to be a hinderance to their traditional foe. And the Imperials... they have terraformed Caamas. Ossus is far from their territory. I see no reason why they would interfere. There is no reason to hide our project either. What we are doing is for the good of this system. Nonetheless, security will be in place to protect our progress.
That was all that could be said to assure any concerns. The Ren could easily be back tomorrow and so too the Sith. The Diarchy was too far and reclusive. And this First Order seemed content with their borders... for now. But for what reason other than to hinder progress? As Lucien said, it would not spark a galactic war nor turn the galaxy against the Jedi as it had done before when the One Sith sabotaged the Ossus Project.
We will be vigilant. That is all I can assure.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
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Post by Nem Yin on Nov 25, 2021 6:36:29 GMT -8
Master Calmcacil, this is the Yuuzhan Vong that has been heard of. I present Nem Yin, Executor of the Praetorite Vong. His proposal will likely see this world be a utopia as it was for our noble ancestors before us. And, just to state now, he likes to go by his name rather than his title. *Lucien then began to introduce Aerandir to the Executor. Aerandir returned the bow, though when he was referred to potentially as "the Jedi Master who saw Ossus bloom once more," he inwardly grimaced. In his own eyes, he was the Jedi Master who witnessed its destruction. Outwardly, he only smiled and said,* "Duke Malvern gives me far too much credit; he and the Jedi Lords have seen to most of the rebuilding efforts here. Regardless, pleasure to meet you, Executor Yin..."
When they were in the meeting hall, the Intendant found himself surrounded by other members of the Jedi Lords. He did his best to listen politely to Lucian's speech, clapping at the right moments and nodding to show his support, but his curiosity got the better of him. There appeared to be a young female in attendance, clinging to a knight in a very serious set of armour. He wondered how it would compare to the vonduun skerr kyrric the warrior caste of his people wore. Not that Nem was about to be running comparisons any time soon. He preferred the freedom and flexibility of his cloaker body suit. It might not stop a blaster bolt, but it allowed him to make full use of his martial training as a member of the illusive Domain Yin. When the girl spoke there uncertainty he could detect in her voice, having spent years infiltrating the infidel races and studying them intensely. He respected the courage it took her to address a room of her elders, for it was not something often seen amongst his own people.She had a good point as well. The last project had been a dismal failure, due in part to the manipulations of the One Sith at the time, but that was not where the entirety of the blame lay as far as the Executor was concerned. Having spent so many years as a spy for his people back before the start of the invasion, he had trouble trusting others, even if this project required that to some degree. Back during the first project, more steps should have been taken both by Kol Skywalker and Nei Rin. He swore in that moment he wouldn't follow in their footsteps. He would do better.Standing and listening, he waited for Lucian to finish addressing the girl and her bodyguard's concerns before interjecting himself into the conversation. Not an easy feat for him to do as a familiar queasy sensation was beginning to settle into his stomach. The old space legs were acting up as it were, too much time within a natural formed gravity well and he started to turn green if you know what I mean. He swallowed down the bile rising in his throat and addressed those gathered."While I can not speak to the security issues, as this is your domain and I have no expectation that members of the Praetorite Vong's warrior caste be allowed to occupy and defend the Project, I can address the issue of sabotage. While I have nothing but respect for Master Shaper Nei Rin's talents and original efforts on the Ossus Project, she was careless in her work to not see that it had been manipulated. That lack of due diligence was unacceptable for someone of her station, and while she was certainly a skilled bio-engineer, she was not what your people would call a 'savant'. However, there is one among my people who fits that title. Master Shaper Mira Yim will be overseeing this Project on the Praetorite's behalf. Even now at Zonama Sekot she prepares a Sh'rip Sh'pa, what your people would call a seedship, with the materials for terraforming the planet. She is without equal among the shaper caste and truly deserving of the title Master Shaper."The broiling in his stomach reached a crescendo point thanks to the malaise he suffered from, and he was forced to break for his own speech long enough to retrieve the bladder-flask of sparkbee honey on his hip. He brought the organic container to his lips and imbibed a portion of the sweet smelling liquid quickly, before returning the flask and running the back of his hand over his lips to wipe away any residual residue. He peered at the young girl with his two luminous eye implants."The mistakes of the past won't happen again, because we can not afford for a repeat of them. It was hard enough convincing my people that we needed to do this, if we fail, there will be no third attempt. This has to work. My people need this as badly as the planet does." |
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Sorsha Sunrunner
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Post by Sorsha Sunrunner on Nov 25, 2021 11:08:40 GMT -8
[ Princess Sorsha Sunrunner | Meeting Hall | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern , Nem Yin & Aerandir Calmcacil Sorsha glanced up at Nem in surprise when he addressed her. Her curiosity had her reaching out in the Force because of something she saw in his expression. She was perturbed to say the least when she felt nothing whatsoever around the Yuuzhan Vong. As if he didn't exist at all. That was when she remembered something she'd read in the databanks about them. They were invisible to the Force. Somehow they existed outside of it, so she could not tell what troubled him, but she was sure from her visual observation that he was discombobulated somehow.
When she'd been freed from her carbonite imprisonment, the first thing she'd witnessed once her hibernation sickness was tended to, was how sickly all the modern Aldar really were, even after she'd helped cure them and removed the Sith Curse that unnaturally shortened their lifespans. It took a while for the sense of illness to go away, especially the ones that were close to death, like Princess Lyrica Starlight.
While Nem Yin was no where near that level ailment, he was nonetheless not comfortable. Or was he adjusting to something? She knew that Yuuzhan Vong had some...curious practices to say the least. Still clutching to Metroclus' hand, she lightly inclined her head in a slight nod of acknowledgement to first Lucien, then to Nem Yin, to whom she addressed further, “Thank you, Execu-ehm...Nem. Umm...are you...are you all right?”
Green eyes met the Yuuzhan Vong's, alight with concern. As she leaned forward, her small tiara began to slip off.
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Metroclus
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Post by Metroclus on Nov 25, 2021 11:33:07 GMT -8
[ Metroclus Garrik | Meeting Hall | Harcey Keep | Ossus' Open Terrain | Ossus ] Attn: Lucien Malvern , Nem Yin & Aerandir Calmcacil
Whichever the case, now he seemed to be able to notice the subtle signs himself.
Removing his helmet with one hand and practiced ease, he set it on the table and studied Nem Yin carefully, but after that schooled his features to neutral politeness, lest he accidentally offend the Executor. In any case, since Sorsha was taking the lead in a conversation with Nem Yin, Metroclus turned his attention to Lucien and his assurances of security and vigilance.
“Thank you, my lord,” said Metroclus, “if I may share the benefit of my experiences with the Empire and the Sith of my time...they will stop at nothing to upset or undo the work of the Republic and the Jedi...even if it's of no actual benefit to them in the long term, if it hurts us in any way, it's all the incentive they need. As Nem has just expressed, there will be no third attempt should this fail again. Having seen the beauty of Ossus in the past, I dread the world never recovering from the various horrors inflicted upon it. At the risk of going to extremes, perhaps it would be prudent to establish...what were they called again, the Jedi Shadows? Consulars who took a more proactive approach to seeking the truth and identifying threats to security? Do you still have such an organization?”
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