Chapter 4: Christo-rophe

1K 30 34
                                    

(Partly Influenced by the Fallen Huntsman by @BattleDroid1106)

As the fleet emerged from hyperspace, Christophsis came into view, a planet of shimmering crystal spires and strategic importance. The Republic's defenses were already in place, with several Captial ships and smaller vessels patrolling the area.

"All ships, form up and prepare for engagement," John ordered. "Tactical droid, analyze enemy positions and recommend a course of action."

The tactical droid quickly began processing the data, their calculations and projections appearing on the holo-display.

"Captain, the Republic's fleet is concentrated near the planet's southern hemisphere," one of the droids reported. "Suggest a pincer movement to divide their forces and create an opening for our ground troops to land."

"Good plan," John agreed. "All ships, execute pincer maneuver. Engage the enemy and clear a path for our landing forces."

The Munificent-class frigates moved into formation, their turbolasers and ion cannons charging up as they advanced on the Republic fleet. The battle for Christophsis had begun, and John knew that this would be a pivotal moment in their campaign.

"How many ships do the Republic have?" John asked.

"It looks like two of the Acclamator-class assault ships with a Z-95 headhunters that have the Planets markings." the Tactical Droid reports.

"So, it's the Crystalline Milita." John mutters.

"That's correct, sir." the tactical droid confirmed. "The Crystalline Militia is known for their fierce loyalty to the Republic and their formidable defense tactics. This won't be an easy fight."

John nodded, absorbing the information. The Crystalline Militia's presence meant that this battle would not only involve the Republic's main forces but also local troops familiar with the terrain and capable of guerrilla warfare. This added a layer of complexity to their mission.

"Alright, here's the plan," John began, addressing the bridge crew and his tactical officers. "We'll split our forces. The Black Pearl and two other frigates will focus on the Acclamator-class ships, drawing their fire and weakening their defenses. The remaining two frigates will handle the Z-95 Headhunters and any other militia forces they encounter."

He turned to Kreig and his other key officers. "Once we've created enough chaos in their ranks, we'll deploy our ground forces. The Steel Phalanx will hit them hard and fast, securing key positions and making way for our landing teams."

"Understood, sir," Kreig replied. "We'll make sure the ground forces are ready for immediate deployment."

"Good," John said, his expression resolute. "Let's show them what we're made of."

The tactical droid relayed the orders to the fleet, and the Munificent-class frigates moved into position. The Black Pearl led the charge, its powerful turbolasers targeting the nearest Acclamator-class assault ship.

As the battle commenced, the space around Christophsis lit up with the flashes of laser fire and explosions. The Republic forces responded quickly, their Acclamators returning fire and deploying their Z-95 Headhunters to engage the Separatist fleet.

"Concentrate fire on their engines and main batteries," John ordered. "We need to disable those ships and clear a path for our ground assault."

The Black Pearl's turbolasers pounded the Republic ship, causing significant damage and forcing it to divert power to its shields. Meanwhile, the other two frigates engaged the Z-95 Headhunters, their anti-starfighter batteries providing cover for the larger vessels.

Star Wars; the Terran CommanderWhere stories live. Discover now