Community > The Cantina
The Skies have no Limit
BdrLineAzn:
Vystorg, Zankief's Warehouse
(Lorena)
"So what do we do?"
Brining a hand to his chin, BdrLine thought about it. After a few minutes of speculation, he drops his hand with a sigh.
(Althea)
"What? Couldn't think of anything?"
(BdrLine)
"No I thought of something."
(Althea)
"So, gonna let us in it?"
Those who are in the room turn and look at the man.
(BdrLine)
"Okay, but first, Zankief."
(Zankief)
"Yeah."
(BdrLine)
"Do any of these crates have clothing from Yesha, especially formal ware?"
(Zankief)
"Sure do, a few crates."
(Charles)
"Ok, besides a fashion choice BdrLine. That still doesn't show us your plan."
(BdrLine)
*sighing* "Well, let's just saw that my four years studying at the Scholar Palace will pay off. Gods I really hate politics, but thank you dad for making me take it."
(Charles)
"Wait, so you mean.."
(BdrLine)
"I'll go in all formal and act as a representative for my father. Since he is the Ox, we can get away with it. Also since my sister is going to be in there, we can try and help her out of this."
(Gareth)
"If you are acting as a representative, how about the rest of us."
(BdrLine)
"To avoid too much suspicion, a few of you will come with me as a security detail. They can bring in some weapons but has to be minimal. Once inside they can look around while I talk to both Slava and my sister. So Althea and Charles, after this find Courage, you three will come with me inside."
(Althea)
"Gotcha."
(Zankief)
"hmm this may work. But what about the warships and troop transport."
(BdrLine)
"Zankief, see if you and your men, or anyone else can go in and sabotage some of the airships. See if you can find my sister's crew, I'll bet they can help as well. But let me get ready, got a meeting to attend."
With a makeshift plan thought out, everyone exits the room to carry it out.
Vystorg, Slava's Guild house
After the initial introduction of meeting Slava, Ny-Lee finds herself in a massive dining room. All around her she sees many members of the city's upper class mingling about and servants with glass trays serving them. Music fills the air as a small orchestra plays in the corner.
Leading her to a table, Slava picks two glass from a passing servant and hands one to her in which she accepts. Taking a sip, he asks her.
(Slava)
"So Captain, why in the change of plans, and when do we expect the Deer and Tiger to arrive."
(Ny-Lee)
"They believe that this matter of business would be better handle by them, knowing the history between you and the Deer."
(Slava)
"Yes of course."
(Ny-Lee)
"And they departed a few days ago, they may arrive later in the evening or around midday tomorrow."
(Slava)
"if that so, I'll keep my schedule open for them. But in the mean time, I can't wait to see what goods await us in those transports. By the markings, the White Lotus Trading Company?"
(Ny-Lee)
*with a slight grimace*"Yes, my mother's as a sign of a more open trade between the two factions."
Not noticing her change of tone or her facial expression, Slava continue to drink from his glass and turns to the hall. Soon a bell rings thoughout out as a chef enters the room through a side door leading to the kitchen.
(Chef)
"Ladies and Gentlemen, if you so kind, please take your seats. lunch will be served."
As people takes their seats on the long table, Slava takes the head while Ny-Lee I positioned at the right of him. Coming through the kitchen door, a line of waiters holding the first course place them in front of the many people.
As the hall continue to eat and the waiters bring the next course, as small commotion is heard from the door leading out from the dining room. A young Yeshan man enters in tow three people and a few of the buildings security. The whole room turns to see the sight, Slava standing up from his seat to face the coming group.
(Slava)
"What is the meaning of this! And who are you!"
From her seat, Ny-Lee moves her head to catches a glimps of the man and mentally face palms while giving a sigh of relief.
(Guard 1)
"My apologies Master Slava, but this man insisted to go and see you. Saying that he was late for the meeting."
(Guard 2)
We tried to stop them, but his bodyguards..."
With a hand up to silence his men, Slava walks towards the new man."
(Slava)
"Again, who are you and why did you come and disrupt my luncheon."
(BdrLine)
"I'm sorry Master Slava for my intrusion, but there has seem to be a mistake of my invitation. But let me introduce myself, I am Azn Zhao son of the current Ox Shen Zhao, I am here to represent him in these negotiations."
As he says this, BdrLine lifts up and shows his family crest from his pocket. Inspecting it, Slava turns from him to Ny-Lee.
(Slava)
"hmm I can see the family resemblance, fine then. But have your guards exit the room, they will be with the others."
With the group of guards exiting the room, Slava returns the crest to BdrLine.
(Slava)
"I would say Mr. Zhao, at there has been a slight change of plans, instead of the Captain being representing your faction, the Deer and Tiger will take her place."
(BdrLine)
"The Deer and Tiger are coming?"
(Slava)
"Why yes, maybe that's why they didn't tell you about this, but come lets us eat after this scene."
Piemanlives:
--Slava's Guild house Cellar, 45 minutes ago--
Barkeep
"And that's the last of the wine, now where's my payment?"
Servant
"Right here sir."
He passes him a fairly large number of crowns, must have been fairly expensive wine. Alex and Richard prop the last of the barrels up on a stand, the two of the look around the cellar, wondering what they could do. The cellar door opens and another servant enters, for a moment both servants converse with one another, probably about the approaching meeting.
Servant 1
"Now, I must ask you and your lackys to leave, we're expecting guests soon."
The barkeep mumbles something under his breath, probably about how rude even the servants of aristocrats were in comparison to workers of the lower class. Alex motions him over to the last barrel, confused he moves towards them, shushing the servants in protest.
Barkeep
"What do you need?"
Alex
"Your help."
He points to the servants who were talking amongst themselves.
Alex
"Slava's a traitor, and we need a reason to stick around and hopefully thwart whatever it is he has planned."
The barkeep looks at him incredulously.
Barkeep
"How do I know I can trust this is the truth?"
Alex
"You don't, but you're gonna have to anyway."
Richard departs and strikes up a conversation with both servants, Alex nods his head towards them. Sighing the Barkeep follows, in moments both servants are lying unconscious on the cellar floor. Alex and Richard begin stripping them down, after a few moments they look like the sons of a minor family, ones typically relegated to serving their betters. They stuff both of them in an empty container and look at the barkeep.
Alex
"Right, take this crate back to your bar, give them an alibi or something, maybe put them in a room surrounded by empty bottles, give them clothes. Anyways, thanks for the help."
The Barkeep still in a slight daze, nods and takes the crate out of the cellar.
Richard
"We're going to have to find a place to hide our clothes."
Alex
"Servants quarters."
--Present--
Servant
"You two!"
Alex and Richard turn their heads.
Alex
"Yes?"
Servant
"You are to offer more drinks to our guests, now hurry up and get moving."
Richard
"Yes sir."
Queso:
Locking at the request of BdrLineAzn to be revived at the time of his return from the navy.
Update 11/30/14: Thread unlocked upon request.
BdrLineAzn:
(Yeah, just gonna post what I have at the moment. Gonna be in segments, but here is what is currently happening in Vystorg.)
Narrator
Three days has pass since the announcement of the coming of both the Tiger and the Deer by Slava. BdrLine and his group are now in a rush to place final preparations to sabotage the Yeshan army hidden within the merchant vessels. Suspicions rise as well inside the Guildhall as Slava is now keeping eyes on both the young Captain and supposedly appointed Oxen ambassador. Having sent spies out to follow their every movement.
Day 18
Vystorg
Zankief's Warehouse
Underneath the main floor of the warehouse, huddled and encircling a table, BdrLine, Alex, Zankief and some of his trusted men look at a map of the docks that are housing hidden Yeshan invasion force.
Pointing to the White Lotus Trading Ships, BdrLine addresses to those in the room, "Alright, as we know from my sister, my mother's ships are housed with at least one tank company and the rest with infantry. Not taking account of her Pyramidions, we got thirteen total combat ships. 5 being Galleons, 4 Junkers, and the last 4 being Pyras as well."
"So how can we tell which ones are their? We don't want to accidentally destroy her ships." asked one of Zankief's men.
"Before we left yesterday, Ny told me that she will fly blue flags to differentiate her ships. The rest are flying the color of the Tiger, red."
"Ok we know our targets, so Bdr, what about the army. I know they are trained die for their cause, I hardly doubt you want Yeshan blood to be spilled," Zankief points out.
"I don't really want anymore blood, we all seen too much," the rooms nods in agreement, "Try to take them out but getting to the transports and use knockout gas, but if worst comes, sabotage and damage the ships as may as you can."
"We can do that, my men and I can easily get access to that area."
Suddenly the door to the room burst open with Archer stumbling in. The group looks on in curiosity to the young red head.
"Archer, What's the rush? You could have called in via radio you know." Zankief says to him.
Panting and hunched over to catch his breath, Archer stands up with a hand on the doorknob for stability and address the room, " Sorry I busted my radio when I tried to call it in, but they're here. The Yeshan officials, I just saw their Galleon and escort ships just land in the docks where the rest of the Yeshan Fleet is at."
"Oh Flak.... Ok looks like we have to be quick about it now. I'll go and get changed, Alex get Richard, we are going to the guildhall. If anything goes south at least I got you two on the inside."
Giving a quick nod, Alex quickly leaves out the door. Following behind him Zankief is giving out orders to his men to get explosives and other weapons ready with BdrLine in tow heading towards his room.
Within the hour BdrLine, Alex, and Richard arrives to the hall, BdrLine entering through the front while the duo goes through the servant entrance. As the three wait in the calm hall, things are hectic back at the warehouse. Directing the chaos are both Althea and Zankief, while the rest of Alex's crew, Charles, and Courage help support others with their effort. Soon two trucks are loaded, one driven by Zankief, and head towards the Yeshan docks.
Left back at the warehouse is a decent amount of men all equipped for combat if the time comes. Staged on board the Starlight Althea and the ex Anvalan Defenders ready their own weapons. Althea with her dual pistols plus BdrLine's rifle, while Charles and Courage still have their weapons when they were still part of Anvala's Defender Force. On their own craft the Skyrunner, which they moved inside the warehouse, Reagan and the others sit by idle watching the mobilisation.
Slava's Guildhall
Waiting patiently in the main boardroom, BdrLine is scratches his neck that is hidden under his collar. An hour has pass and other Guildmasters start entering the room. A few looks at the young Yeshan before going about their own conversations with one another.
Flak, looks like majority of the head masters are here for this meeting. This is almost perfect for a take over. Get majority of the leadership and take them out. He thinks to himself as he scans the room.
On the floor serving drinks, Alex and Richard also takes note of the highly valued members. Going to the kitchen to get refills, the two converse on the situation.
"Way too many officials here, how are we to cover them all." asks Richard.
"We do the best that we can, for the most part we can assume its just the Tiger, the Deer, and Azn's sister that will be coming. If they bring too much security to a peace/trade conference, it may tip people off."
"Since the Captain is on our side, we can subdue them quickly. This could just work."
"HEY WHERE ARE THE DRINKS!! WE GOT ALOT OF IMPORTANT GUESTS HERE AND THEY ARE DYING OF THIRST. SO GET OUT THERE." Yelled the head chef from behind a counter as he eyes Richard and Alex.
"Yes, boss right away," chimed the two as they grab another set of drink filled trays.
Another fifteen minutes has pass, and the door to the room opens once more with a group of people in tow. In front is Slava deep in a conversation with the Tiger. Behind the two is the Deer and Ny-Lee. The entire room ends their current conversations as Slava gestures for everyone to be seated.
Heading to the front of the long business table, Slava addresses to the many guildmasters, "Welcome my fellow Guildsmen, today marks a great day for our faction. For the first time in annums the great Yeshan Empire and the bountiful Mercantile Guild come together to open talks for trade that can help benefit all of us. I would like to introduce first the Deer, Councilman Fu. Next, the young aspiring Captain of the Ox, Captain Zhao. Then the brilliant tactician the Tiger, High Admiral Fang."
As each name was called, the respective person took a step forward and bowed to the audience in front of them. A subtle smirk forms on the mouth of Tiger as he rise back up knowing the plan that is ahead of him. Standing tall, he straightens his uniform and stands in a knowing matter, wondering a little why Slava implied that there is another person when there is only three. His posture drops slightly as he continues.
"And finally an unexpected arrival. We all thought that the Ox would not make it to this important meeting, but he has sent a representative. Welcome Ambassador Zhao, son to the Ox and brother of our Captain here. Before we start the negotiations, I assume most of you would be hungry. So I taken the liberty to have lunch served."
Coming from behind the three, BdrLine stands next to his sister and bows to the Guildsmen. The Tiger and Deer turn their heads between the unexpected arrival and Ny-Lee. As Slava request for everyone to be seated, a fury is brewing inside the Tiger as his carefully thought out plan has hit a major speed bump.
Docks, Yeshan Fleet
As the negotiations takes place across the city, Zankief arrive to the docks entrance with his trucks. Giving the guard at the gate an ID, the man looks over it several times, going back between Zankief and the card.
Giving back the card he gaffs at him, "Finally you guys showed up, you know how long those damn Yeshans are asking for maintenance. Getting annoying. Go on through"
Taking back the card, Zankief tips his hat and both the trucks drive in. Finding a nice seclude spot to the the vehicles, Zankief and the rest of his team jumps out and unloads the explosives and gas. Placing them into trolleys taken from the trucks, they cover the materials.
"Ok, we all know the plan, disable the combat airship, the transports, and knock out as many infantry we can. Hopefully we can knock them out so that the military can secure them before any fighting takes place. Remember the ships that are flying red are the targets, the Midions with blue are friendly. Got it?"
Nods from each of his men signifies that they all understand and sets off to proceed with the plan. But following through with the plan seems harder then it seems. As each group of men approach the different individual ships, Yeshan sentries patrol much of the surrounding area making it difficult in setting the charges without getting caught.
As his men struggle to bypass the security, Zankief spots the two Pyramidions marked with blue flags. As he nears one, One of the crew members spots him. Going over to the bow she yells to him.
"Hey you! Stop and state your business. This is an official Yeshan vessel. Unless you are part of the maintenance crew, move along"
Hold his hands over his chest and stopping short of the Pyramidion, he answers back, "Are you second in command of the Captain Zhao?"
Growing suspicious, Syá draws her pistol, cocks and aims it at Zankief.
"And who is asking?"
Hearing the verbal confrontation and the sound of a pistol being drawn, both ships crews gather around trying to get a view.
Unnerved by the weapon, Zankief states, "I'm just a friend between your Captain the older Zhao. I assume that she has talked to you about us trying to help."
"So you are Zankief," she says as she lowers the pistol, "Yes she told us about your group. What are you doing here anyway? There are a bunch of soldiers here. Isn't there a plan to stop them? I mean the Tiger is here for Gods sakes."
"My men and I are trying the sabotage the transports, but the patrols around them are a bit difficult to plant the explosives and gas."
"Gas? What gas?
"Knockout gas, Azn wanted as little loss of life possible."
"Gonna be hard, Tiger put up those patrols. Plus he kept us on a tight schedule. Soon those ships are going to move out towards the guildhall where everyone is present."
"When?"
Looking down at her watch, Syá widens her eyes in surprise. "Flak, it's almost one, got thirty minutes."
"I don't think that will be enough. Well there goes minimum casualties."
"If you have too, do what you must. Both of our crews have came to that decision as well if we are to stop this."
"Well then, time to make some noise...what the? They are moving!"
As Zankief has stated, majority of the fleet are now rising above their berthings and turning towards the city. On the radio of the Lightning a communication is being broadcast saying all Yeshan ships are to make way over to Slava's Guildhall for the surprise.
"Nononono, this is way too early," yells Syá as she over hears it.
Jumping on board, Zankief radios all his men on the ground to head back to the warehouse and to tell the others to get the ships ready and to move up.
Moving towards the young officer he says, "We need to go and follow them now. This maybe our only chance. Who has the other ship?"
"The Captain's crew, they can handle it on their own. But what about you?"
"Just let me hitch a ride and use your radio. I need to coordinate with those still at my warehouse."
Giving Zankief a nod, Syá goes over to the helm and orders for both ships to rise and follow the fleet. On the radio, Zankief dials in for his warehouse.
Slava's Guildhall
As lunch has been served, and all the remaining plates removed, Slava addresses the hall.
"Now that we have our fill, let's begin with the negotiations, first the Tiger who has generously help open this talks."
Standing from his seat, Fang bows and approaches the front of the table. The four who knows of his treacherous plot eyes him to death as he is about to give his opening terms.
"Thank you Master Slava, but it is about time that both the Guild and the Empire come to some agreement. Trade between our two factions is a stepping stone to start and end the forward hostilities."
"I almost find it ironic that the face of the military is asking for a start for peace with trade. And the one who should speak who has the experience
should be Councilman Fu, and to negotiate on the Faction's behave is the young ambassador," a Guildsman interrupts the Admiral.
"That may be so, but we are all here to help come to that," answered Fu, "Plus to help come to terms, even Liu Zhao has offered goods from her company to spark that. We are sending them here as we speak to show all of you."
The Guildsmen murmur among themselves with the news. Knowing Liu owns the biggest trading company on the western side of the Dunes, trade competition between her has been rough for them. While they all seek profit from their companies, Liu's humanitarian aid to small, unfortunate cities places her on good terms with them. They are willing to pay her back trough trade for stabilising their town. Trade between the Guild's companies and here's would increase their profit by margins once inside Yeshan borders.
The same man who interrupted earlier, Fyodor, speaks, "Very well, when will they arrive."
"Soon, they will be over the plaza. One will land so that everyone can the goods that we all offer." replies Fu.
"Excellent, now that we have some agreement. How about you young ambassador, how does your father, and more so the Emperor feel about this?" asks Slava to BdrLine.
Traitorous, backstabbing, a disgrace to all that is good. That no good, two faced son-of-a
"They are pleased to hear about this proposition. They agreed that the benefits will greatly raise both of our Factions. My sister would even agree."
"Why yes, before I departed, my father told me to try to reach an understanding."
As further discussions continue, roar of engines can be heard outside as heads turn towards the window. As promised, the trade vessels are en route to the guildhall. Accompanying them are the escorts ships that were part of the original fleet.
"Ahh, perfect. Now would everyone follow me to the plaza, we can see the gifts from the Empire." says Slava as he stands from his seat. As he heads towards the door, a smirk forms on his lips fully knowing what is to come. Sharing a similar express is both Fu and Fang.
As the rest of the room exits, BdrLine faces Alex and Richard to and eyes them to follow the group. He then turns to his sister with a face full of wonder as to why the ships are still operational.
In a whisper, "What's with the face?"
"Zankief and his men should have damaged those ships from taking off. Something must have happened." BdrLine whispered back.
Giving a mental face palm Ny-Lee explains the situation, "Flak, when the Tiger and Deer landed, they placed extra patrols around the area as they suspected something were to happen. He even limited myself and my crews from leaving our ships. Azn, he has our family and the Emperor and his wife hostage if I don't comply. I don't know what will happen now since they both know you are here."
"What? Flak, we need to take them out soon if not now. Alex and Richard are here, plus with you and me, we can take them."
"But how about the ships?"
"Captain, Ambassador, would you care to come?" ,a guild master ask.
"Apologise, we are just catching up a little bit. We will be out soon." replied Ny-Lee
Nodding the man leaves the two along.
"Come on, Fang and Fu are already suspicious of us already.
Following the last guild master, the siblings walk through the maze of corridors that leads to the plaza. Out in the sunlight the group shields their face as the trading ships hover in the air. One of them then proceeds to land from a signal given from the Admiral. As the ship touchdown, BdrLine notices both Alex and Richard hidden in the back near the doorway leading out, donning holsters and pistols.
Standing in front of the gangplank of the transport, Slava, Fu and Fang faces the rest of the Guildmasters. Stepping forward, Slava addresses them.
"Gentlemen, now it is time to see what the Empire has offered. Behind this door lies the goods that will start a new future. A future where the Empire will rise and I will be the sole leader of the Guild."
Shock comes over all the guildmasters at such a statement. Fyodor steps up to speak.
"What! This is an outrage, Slava what you are stating is traitorous to the Guild!"
"Quiet you. You have been a torn in my side ever since I came into power. You have too much influence on the others on how to run this faction, too conservative. You don't know that spoils that we can have if we just go out and take it by force. You should have seen the expeditions that I fund into that desert hellhole called Arashi. The profits that came from it, is glorious and the destruction to came with it was magnificent."
"But with you and many others in the picture, you all would deem this unnecessary. With all of you out of the picture, anything will be free game, especially with resources from the Empire. And now, say farewell Fyodor."
Reaching underneath his robes, Slava produces a pistol and aims at Fyodor. Before pulling the trigger, a shot echos through the plaza as everyone ducks from the sound. Feeling his chest, Fyodor with wide eyes looks up to Slava as he holds a bloody hand, pistol a few feet from him.
Coming up to the front, Alex and Richard has their weapons drawn with smoke coming from Alex's pistol.
"Nice shot," replies BdrLine as he strips his suit down to only his vest. Rolling up his sleeves he reveals his hidden blades that he has kept with him.
"I would have aimed at his head instead, but hey beggars can't be choosers," says Ny-Lee as she draws her own pistol and aims at the three.
"So Admiral, why don't you call off this little escapade and we can all go back to the Empire where we can hold both you and the Councilman on trial for treason and conspiracy against both the Emperor and Yesha." states Bdr as he extends the blades and the others aim their weapons.
They are taken aback as he casually smiles.
"Oh if only it were that simple. As you see I don't see myself with that Yesha anymore. That government was weak, never want to take things by force. The senate, the emperor, even your father, weak, simple-minded people. I don't abide by those laws, and I don't take orders from children. Guards now!"
From one of the transports still in the air, shots ring out as the bullets target the group. Scattering, several guildmasters are hit by the onslaught as the rest head for cover inside the guildhall. Before retreating back inside, the three fire a few rounds at Fang and those around him, but where reflected away as it hits the gangplank that starts to descend. Fully extended, tanks roll out into the plaza and onto the streets. From the air the Pyramidions, Junkers, and three Galleons start to fire upon the city. The remaining two Galleons instead and aims at the guildhall. As for the rest of the transports, splitting off to different parts of the city, ropes are thrown over board and imperial soldiers slide down into the streets.
------
BdrLineAzn:
Heading inside the transport that landed, Fang heads towards a radio with Fu and Slava following behind him, still holding his hand.
"I knew those two were trouble, but the spies that I sent couldn't find anything against them. Arggh should have killed them myself." says Slava as he motions for a medic to bandage his hand.
"Don't worry, I knew something like this would occur, that is why I have a backup plan." replies Fang as he powers up the radio and tunes in to Saull back in the Empire.
"Saull, this is the Admiral, I want you to go back to the mansion where you are keeping the Emperor and the others captive. I want you to execute them, time to break away from the old."
Seconds has pass until a response is finally heard, "Yes sir, but there is a slight complication."
"What is it?" Fang says heat forming on his face from anger.
"The entire household has escape and is assumed to be hiding in the city. At the moment I declared that the capital is under full lockdown and are using our troops to search for them."
"They escaped!! How did you let that happen!! Find them quickly and kill they."
"Yes sir....What the?"
"Saull, what is it?"
The entire room in the transport is silent as they wait for a reply back. Then from the radio, a loud screeching voice which is assumed to be from a speaker comes through.
"Major Saull, we know you are in there. The Tiger and your men has caused enough these pass few days. Surrender now and the punishment awarded will be less severe."
"That's the Emperor! Do what you can take him out. We are never listening to him again."
"Yes sir, on it," and the radio falls silent as the line is cut.
"I thought the Emperor was dealt with." Muse Slava as the medic tightens the bandages on his hand, "Ow you fool! Just go."
"We thought he was, I managed to trap the entire household in their own very manor. But it looks like they are more difficult then I expected. Nevertheless, they will be dealt with and you will have your Guild. If you do try to turn..."
"I know Admiral, I'll supply the war machine of the Empire."
"Good, now let's see our progress."
The transport then rise out above the plaza leaving the pair of Galleons and the few tanks that stayed to fire on the hall. Inside the bombarded guildhall, the guildmasters who survived the initial shots try encircle the two Zhao. Angry slurs and shouts are made towards them wanting their heads for the treachery of Slava and the deception of the Tiger and Deer. The crowd is only held back as not wanting to get close to the pistols or blades.
"This is an outrage! If we manage to route those troops, which caught our open military by surprise, war will come upon Yesha! " Cry out an enraged Fyodor.
"If you haven't notice I save your life, plus these two are trying to stop this madness." Alex snap back.
"Doesn't matter, two Yeshans senate heads compiled this scheme. As we all see this, it is an act of war that we can't overlook!"
"And if you do go to war with Yesha, we have a common pact with the Baronies. If you go to war with one, you will fight the other as well. I believe you don't want another humiliating lose against them do you hmm? Also do you want the world to know the dealing that you had with a particular group of 'Birds back in the last war?"
The angry mob is hushed by the statements made by BdrLine, more so to the knowledge of their old dealings with the Birdmen.
"Had you know? We covered it all up when we surrendered to the Barons."
"Oh I have my sources," smirks BdrLine, "So if we can work together, we can end this. First things first, getting out of this building without getting shot at by tanks or the Galleys."
At the mention of the two war machines, rounds hit the exterior walls causing the beams to vibrate and dust to fall.
"It's useless, I know Slava, he didn't built any escape routes in this hall. I should know I help design it," answers one person.
After 5 minutes of constant bombardment, as what looks like the support beams were about to give up and collapse inward, the shooting stops. Perplex, BdrLine slowly moves towards to a broken portion of the wall and peaks out.
"Azn what's happening?" shouts Ny-Lee.
Jumping over, he calls back, "Come on! Let's move! Ny looks like your ships are giving us some help. They manage to get the tanks and are now distracting the Galleons."
Following the young Yeshan, the group of Guildsmen take in the sight. True to his word, the tanks are disabled with smoke spewing out and in the air two Yeshan made Pyramidions are in an elaborate dance against the heavily armoured and much powerful Galleons.
BdrLine shouts to Alex, "Alex, we need to take the Guildmasters back to the warehouse. They should be safe there underground."
"How, we got ways to go. Plus we may run into imperial troops along the way." Richard states.
"Well we can't stay here, Syá's crew and mine can hold out against those galleons for awhile. But the longer we wait, they will spot us and proceed to shoot. So, let's move NOW!" commands Ny-Lee with the look as she would personally kill them all before the airships.
Not wanting to be under her death stare, the group moves rapidly out of the plaza and into the streets. Going to cover to cover, Alex and Richard are in the lead looking for potential enemies and to signal if the coast is clear. In the rear are Ny-Lee and BdrLine checking if they are being followed and to make sure that everyone is present.
Throughout the city, smoke rise above the skyline as air raid sirens ring out. Distant firing of guns are heard as some sort of resistance is being mounted against the imperial force.
"At least the military are trying to mobilise," remarked Fyodor to the Captain, "We may win this day."
"If only that were true. The troops that are currently following the Tiger is a good portion of the army's special forces units. They are not close to the effectiveness as the Emperor's Elites, but still can hold well against superior numbers. They are even outfitted with our newest line of tanks."
"TAKE COVER" yells Alex as he and Richard scrambles to an abandon food cart and turning it over. In the middle of the street, a small squad of Yeshan troops spot the group and opens fire. The majority of the group manage to run towards the alleyway out of the line of fire, some were not so lucky. One being Fyodor who gets hit in the leg.
Stumbling down, he clenches the wound as bullets whizz all around him. Still firing from cover, Richard notices this and waves to BdrLine who spots the downed Guildsman.
Grumbling, he call out," Cover me, I'll get him."
Understanding, Alex, Ny-Lee, and Richard peaks out from their cover and fires at the open troops. Downing a few, the Yeshans turn to the defensive and run for cover. During the distraction, BdrLine runs out and picks up the wounded man. With an arm wrapped over his shoulder, he helps Fyodor limps over to the alleyway.
"You good?"
"I'll live, someone, help me bandage this. You just get them out of our hair"
Nodding, BdrLine rush back to his sister who is reloading her pistol.
"Any chance you have a spare?"
"Nope only one which is running out of ammo. How about you guys? How much bullets you have left," she calls out.
"Got a good five mags left"
"Four, and here Bdr, catch. Not much use to us if you can't shoot."
Unholstering another pistol, Alex tosses the weapon over to him plus two magazines.
"Make them count"
Catching the gun, BdrLine quickly loads one of the magazines in and pockets the second. Looking over the corner of the alley, a bullet ricochet of the wall prompting him to hide again.
"Flak, how do we get out of this? We are out gunned."
"Think I can pull rank on them?"
"Highly unlikely, I think Fang branded us as traitors."
Taking pot shots and trying to conserve the little ammunition they have, all seems to be lost as a portion of the imperial squad moves around them.
------
In the air, Syá maneuvers about not wanting to be caught in the galleons broadside. During the initial engagement, the two Pyramidions waited until the transport where the traitors were on left the area, then they both took out the tanks that were harassing those inside. With the ground threat dealt with, their sole focus is now on the toughest ships ever made.
"If it was to be against one of our own, why can't it be a Junker class? A Yeshan Galleon? They are built to last!" cries out Syá as a hawacha barrage barely miss over their balloon as she drops.
"At least those inside manage to escape while we distracted these two." Zankief replies back helping the crew with manning of the guns or repairs.
"Well, now we are in need of help, I don't know how much longer we can take them on. Where is our backup, I thought you called it in?"
As answered by the Gods, a distinct report is heard as one of the turning engines of the Galleon Syá is fighting explode into pieces. Coming over the skyline, a familiar Goldfish fires it's Heavy Flak again. Rocking from taking the hit, the Galleon tries to compensate in the uneven turning as it bears its port side guns at the new enemy.
A barrage of rockets fills the air as both hawachas fire simultaneously. The Starlight turns hard to starboard to protect the Heavy Flak, taking the brunt of the missiles on its armor plating.
On the YIA Lightning the radios stutters as a young male voice comes through. "Oh that's gonna leave a scratch. Hope BdrLine is not going to notice."
Quickly rushing to the radio, Zankief grabs the receiver, "Archer what are you doing on that ship? Never mind don't answer that, just keep doing what you are doing, we'll kill this guy. And don't wreck that Fish if you know what's good for you."
"Ah yes Pops, got it."
"Commander!" Zankief yells to Syá as he finishes talking to Archer.
"I heard, turning fore guns. Rip those traitors to shreds."
As the Galleon follows the Starlight Syá positions here ship directly behind the massive ship. The topside Gatling gun comes to life as it mows down upon the deck of the Galleon. The ship's helmsman jumps over the balcony as the rounds hits the deck. With no one in control of the ship, the Galleon lurch to the left as the helm rotates freely. Still firing, the Gatling tracers manage to hit the boilers causing the aft portion of the Galleon to go up in flames. Seeing the advantage, the YIA Lightning's mortar gunner fires upon the wounded ship.
With the lost of their primary source of power, the Galleon balloon begins to deflate and the ship drops quickly from the sky. No longer being threaten, Archer turns the Starlight around a full 180 degrees and bears the Heavy Flak. With both ships focusing their fire on the already burning ship, it doesn't takes much as a flak round hits a magazine of a hawacha causing the ship to explode before hitting the ground.
Relieved in having a few seconds of rest, Zankief radios Archer, "Thanks for the assist, but what in bloody hell are you doing on BdrLine's ship? Where is Althea and the rest of my ships?"
Some shuffling is heard in the background as Archer hands the receiver to said person, "Sorry about that Zankief, he was checking the ship when you gave the call. He didn't have time to rush back to his so we let him fly ours. It work well as I can't pilot and fire the gun at the same time."
"How about Charles and Courage? They have experience with shooting."
"They do, but they opt me to be on the main gun. And neither of them can fly well under combat, they are better with solid ground underneath their feet, so they go about with repairs."
"Ok, I can assume that if you are up here, then the others are in the air?"
"Yes, they scrambled at once."
"Good, now let's get rid of this other Galley. My ships should handle the others."
With the YIA Comet distracts the remain Galleon in the area, the two ships make quick work to the tough airship. With the fire power of the Heavy Flak and the constant harassment of the gatlings and smaller arms of the two Pyramidions, the second Galleon falls just like the first.
------
As a portion of the imperial squad flanks around through the alley, those on the street slowly moves up. Behind cover, the four hears faint clicks from those advancing, a few grunts can be heard and three grenades are tossed over. Eyes widening in surprise, they all jump out of the way. Two landed near Alex and Richard, as they rolled out, the grenades blew their overturned cart. Quickly they rush to the other side of the street to an alley that is perpendicular to the one BdrLine and the others are in. Separated and pinned, the advancing squad moves out of their cover and rushes them. At Alex and Richard' position, the flanking group rounds the corner and spots the two.
Trapped, BdrLine and Ny-Lee empties their current clips and runs behind a dumpster where the guildmasters are using for cover. Dropping a few more men, the imperials continue to advance.
"Ah Flak, I'm out, you Ny?"
"Down to two bullets. And by the looks of it we are trap. Look a dead end."
Turning to where Ny-Lee is pointing, she is right as the end of the alley is a high brick wall. Looking over the dumpster, he sees three men coming at them.
"Ok, I got a plan. On the count of three, I'll jump out and take them on with my blades. Then you'll come in and take one out with the bullets you have left. We then finish them off with hand to hand combat and take their weapons to help Alex and Richard. Got it?"
Sliding the clip back into her pistol, Ny-Lee pulls back the receiver and readies her weapon. Giving a nod to him, BdrLine listens to the approaching Yeshan's foot steps. As they are near the dumpster, with his fingers, he counts to three. On the third count, BdrLine gives out a yell and extend his blades, behind him Ny-Lee pops out and fires off her last two. Surprised, one falls to the bullets as the other two use their rifles to block the incoming blade attack. Coming out to help, Ny-Lee runs, jumps, and kicks one of them knocking him and his weapon to the ground.
As Ny-Lee takes her assailant on, BdrLine dodges each rifle swing that is thrown at him. In one swing, the soldier overextended his elbow and shoulders which swings him forward. Taking the change, BdrLine spins behind him, kicks his knees and plunge a blade into his neck. Retracting them, the body falls onto its side as BdrLine picks up the rifle and ammo pouch. Turning to see how his sister is handling her fight, he watches as she grabs one of the arms and flings him over her body before being knocked out from hitting the ground.
"Nice work, come on we need to help them"
Picking up the extra ammo and grenades, the two rush out of the alley back onto the streets to see dead soldiers at the entrance of the alley where Alex and Richard are in. Cautiously, they bring up their weapons as they enter. Senescing that it is too quiet, they call out their names but there is no reply. Further down the alley, they see a pool of blood behind a pile of crates.
"You don't think they got them?" wonders Ny-Lee
"No, with the time I spent with them in the warehouse, they wouldn't be taken down easily."
Slowly they round the crates, fearing the worst they raise their rifles but are relieved to see that it is the body of a Yeshan soldier. Dropping their weapons, they wonder what happens to their two accomplice. Back at the streets they hear the sound of engines and, realising they left the Guildsmen, rush back out of the alley. As soon as they run out, instead of an enemy airship, they are greeted with the Skyrunner, with Alex and Richard on board waving at them. Waving back, the ships hover off the ground low enough for everyone to board.
Helping Fyodor up, BdrLine is the last one on as the ship rises and heads to the warehouse. Perplex, BdrLine walks to Alex as he and Richard are being tend to by Lorena and Dahlia.
"Glad to see that you two made it out, but how did you guys do it? You guys were in a pincer."
"Oh yes we were," started Alex, "After those grenades explode, Richard and I were stuck in that alley."
"Yeah, then came the rest of their squad from the other side," added Richard, "we were also low on ammo. All seemed lost until we noticed a few open crates."
"We mange to hide in them just in time as the two groups rounded the corner, they thought that they were us and started to shoot at each other."
"After a few minutes of exchanging fire, they realised that they were shooting at their own and quickly ceased fire. Rushing to the middle, the survivors from either side are wondering where the blazes we have gone."
"During their confusion, we popped out of out hiding space and knocked two of them out. They were surprised as we quickly shot the rest with our remaining ammo." finishes Richard.
"Then we grabbed their weapons and are ready to take the rest on in the streets when..." says Alex
"When we spotted the fighting and swooped in and took the rest out with our guns" states Lorena as she finishes bandaging her father.
"We then took off to look for you guys, until we notice the large group back on the ground where we pick them up," added Dahlia.
"Thanks, so the others are up in the air?"
"Yeah, those who were at the warehouse and a few others that Zankief told around the city." says Dahlia, "And since we found you guys, Reagan is flying us back to there."
"Well she better fly fast because incoming tank shells," cries out Preston as he spots two tanks on the ground.
The air around them is buffered with burst shells as the tanks fire one after another to hit the fleeing ship. One round explodes near the airship that the shock wave pushed the ship upward. Seeing that each sequential shot is nearing the hull, Reagan places the throttle into full. The Skyrunner lurches forward at the increase acceleration outracing the shells.
As she lengthens the distance from the enemy, the warehouse comes into view. At the moment there is no fighting as much of the shooting is taking place around the main centre of Vystorg, but with the proximity of the tanks to the warehouse, the Yeshans are quickly advancing. Docking the ship, some of Zankief's men, who stayed to defend the building if necessary, help the remaining Guildsmen to the underground facilities.
-----
(Still more to come.)
Navigation
[0] Message Index
[#] Next page
[*] Previous page
Go to full version