"We're ready, boss," Zeb says, his face set in a determined line. "But we need to move fast. Those patrols won't stay in that pattern forever." As if on cue, one of the Banished soldiers suddenly looks in their direction, his hand moving to his weapon.

  "Time's up, looks like we'll be doing this the hard way." Jerome quips. Sabine, Zeb, Jerome, Ahsoka, Julius, Subaru, Beatrice, Garfiel and Bubba all exit the ghost under fire from a brute patrol as Hera Flys the ghost out of there. The sudden barrage of gunfire echoing through the air. The brute patrol, massive and heavily armored, charges towards them, their weapons blazing. The team dove for cover behind nearby crates and rocks, their weapons drawn and ready.

  "Stay sharp, everyone!" Jerome shouts, his voice barely audible over the cacophony of gunfire. "We need to take these guys down fast and get inside!"

  Julius with his spirits and sword art sends a huge explosion into the brute line, killing most of them in one shot.

  "Show off.", grunts Subaru. The remaining Banished soldiers, stunned by the sudden explosion, hesitate for a moment. This brief window of opportunity is all the team needed, laying down fire and pushing up, Ahsoka blocking enemy fire, Garfield launching brutes into the air with earth pillars.The Banished soldiers, shaken but not yet defeated, begin to regroup, their weapons trained on their positions. The crates and debris provide decent cover, but more Banished reinforcements are surely on their way.

  Ahsoka, her twin lightsabers ignited, darts forward with unparalleled agility, her blade cutting through the Banished ranks. Her blade sweeps and cuts. She leaps and twists with feline grace, dodging the hail of enemy fire with preternatural speed and skill.

  Zeb and Sabine work in tandem, their blaster rifles spitting death at the enemy. Zeb's aim is laser-focused, his shots taking out the brutes' knees, hampering their mobility. Sabine, takes out key Banished leaders with pinpoint accuracy. Julius channels his spirit and unleashes another devastating blast of energy, this one centered on a squad of heavily armed grunts.

  Bubba shoots through the chaos, "Sub! Shoot those fusion coils to explode them!"

  Subaru nods, understanding the plan instantly. He takes a deep breath, and fires his rifle into the man sized coils near a pack of covered KigYar, sending them all flying in an explosion.

  Bubba whoops, "Nice work bud!"

  Subaru gives you a small, grateful smile, his eyes haunted by the death. "Thanks, Bubba. I'm glad I could help." He adjusts his grip on his rifle, ready for whatever comes next. The explosion has created a massive hole in the Banished defenses, but more troops are already mobilizing. The Banished heavy weapons teams are setting up, their massive cannons beginning to power up.

  "Time to move!" Ahsoka shouts, her lightsabers still blazing. "Those cannons will tear us apart if we don't get inside now!" Suddenly explosions are heard in the compound. The cannons men temporarily are stunned, unsure where to fire.

  "Now's our chance!" Bubba says.

  As the Banished troops hesitate, the group seizes the opportunity to make a break for the compound. The explosion in the compound has created a perfect distraction, and the Banished forces are now caught between responding to the new threat and maintaining their positions The team sprints forward, weapons ready, as the Banished forces scramble to respond to the sudden chaos. The compound's walls loom ahead, a formidable barrier of reinforced metal and concrete. Zeb leads the charge, his blaster rifle barking as he takes down any Banished soldiers foolish enough to get in his way. Sabine follows close behind, her rifle's scope glinting in the dim light as she picks off targets with surgical precision.

  Julius, his spirit sword humming with energy, cleaved through a group of Banished grunts, his movements fluid and deadly. Ahsoka, her lightsabers a blur of motion, danced through the enemy ranks, her blades leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Jerome placed a hand at the door and a small copy of Isabel, a hologram, unlocked it. The team bursts through the now unlocked door, the sound of battle raging behind them. The interior of the compound is a maze of dimly lit corridors and sealed blast doors, the Banished heavy-handed security measures on full display.

  "Alright, everyone, stay sharp and stick together," Jerome barks, his voice a commanding presence amidst the chaos. "We need to find Frederica and Petra, and get out of here ASAP. Isabel, we could use some guidance here."

  The holographic Isabel flickers to life, her voice echoing softly in the confines of the corridor. "I'm picking up two life signs that match Frederica and Petra's bio-signatures."

  Bubba- "Any others?"

  Isabel's voice is tinged with concern, her hologram flickering slightly. "Yes! Just under a dozen... humans? Their readings are a little strange." Isabel's hologram flickers, her voice tinged with concern. "They appear to be human, but there's something... off about their bio-signatures. I'm detecting unusual energy patterns, unlike anything I've encountered before. The readings are faint, but they're definitely there."

  Jerome's brow furrows in thought as he considers the implications. "We can't leave them behind, but we need to prioritize Fredricka and Petra. Let's split up into two teams. Zeb, and Sabine, you're with me. Ahsoka take the others. We'll take point and secure the main objective."

  BUbba- "Isabel, before we split up, have you found Ratchet ?"

  Isabel's hologram flickers, her voice tinged with urgency. "Ratchet's signal is weak, but I'm detecting him in the lower levels. He's moving, but his vitals are erratic. There's some kind of interference down there - it's affecting my ability to get a clear reading. I can't tell if he's in danger or if he's just trying to stay hidden."

  Jerome nods grimly, his hand resting on his weapon. "Alright, we'll split up. Ahsoka, you take your team and secure the secondary objectives. We'll go after the VIPs."

  "You can count on us," Ahsoka confirms, already moving towards her group. The teams quickly divide, with Bubba and the others following Ahsoka's lead as they prepare to head down the winding corridor towards where Isabel indicated Ratchet was last detected.

  Bubba-"So Julius how are you liking the banished so far?

  Julius' lips curl into a grim smile as he matches their pace, his spirit sword held ready. "They're certainly... tenacious," he replies, his voice a low growl. "But they're no match for the combined might of our team. Their tactics are predictable, their defenses are brittle, and their leadership is... lacking." He pauses, his eyes narrowing as he scans the corridor ahead. "But we can't underestimate them. They've proven to be adaptable, and their numbers are vast. We need to stay vigilant and keep moving. We can't afford to get bogged down in a prolonged fight."

  Bubba- "Did Isabel say where those humans were?"

  Isabel's hologram flickers, her voice echoing through the corridor. "The anomalous human readings are coming from a sealed chamber deeper in the compound. I'm detecting heavy security measures around it - reinforced doors, energy shields, and a complex network of sensors. It's likely a high-value target area."

  Ahsoka nods grimly, her lightsabers humming with barely contained energy. "We need to get in there and find out what's going on. If there are civilians being held against their will, we can't leave them behind. But we need to be careful - the Banished won't give up their prize easily."

  Bubba- "If they are still imprisoned that means Eren is either soloing the compound or he made an explosion from inside the cell"

  Ahsoka nods grimly, her lightsabers humming with barely contained energy as the team races through the maze.

  Subaru frowns, his brow furrowed in thought. "You think Eren could have breached the chamber on his own? That's a big risk."

  Bubba- "What else could have caused the compound's internal explosions? He must have used the warhammers power. The Banished might not have noticed what really happened."

  Isabel's hologram flickers, her voice tinged with a mixture of awe and concern. "You may be right. The energy signatures I'm detecting are unlike anything I've seen before. It's possible that Eren could have generated an explosion of that magnitude using his unique abilities."

  Ahsoka's eyes narrow as she considers the implications. "If that's the case, then Eren may have inadvertently revealed his true nature to the Banished. We need to get in there and assess the situation quickly, before they can fully comprehend the threat he poses."

  Subaru nods grimly, his hand tightening on his weapon. "Lead the way, Ahsoka. We'll follow your lead and back you up." The team makes it through the halls, occasionally encountering Banished forces. Until they make it to the underbelly of the compound, looking for Ratchet and Clank. The dank, dimly lit corridors of the Banished compound's underbelly stretched out before them, a labyrinth of tangled reinforced metal and pulsing energy conduits. The air hung heavy with the acrid scent of sweat and the distant thrum of machinery. Isabel's hologram flickered erratically as you pressed deeper, her voice echoing with an undercurrent of unease.

  "This way," Ahsoka murmured, her lightsabers casting an eerie glow as she led the charge. "I'm detecting life signs in this section - and it looks like they're on the move."

  The team entered a large chamber where Ratchet and Clank were accessing a large table console. Ratchet and Clank turned to face you, their expressions a mix of relief and apprehension.

  "Thank goodness you're here," Ratchet said, his voice strained. "We found which one of the planet doors the Banished are going to ambush the UNSC at!" Clank's head spun around, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of Banished forces. "But we need to move quickly. They're going to attack the UNSC ship at the planet door in only a few hours!"

  Isabel's hologram flickered with increased intensity, her voice rising in pitch. "Multiple Banished units are converging on this location! We need to get out now!" The floor beneath their feet began to tremble, small cracks appearing in the walls as the compound's systems destabilized.

  Bubba- "Isabel, how far to the prisoners?"

  Isabel's hologram flickers, her voice urgent. "The prisoners are being held in a cell block just ahead, but we're running out of time! The compound is coming apart at the seams. We need to get to them and evacuate, now!"

  Ahsoka nods grimly, "We'll split up - I'll take point Garfiel and Julius. Bubba, you and Subaru go for the prisoners. Isabel, keep us updated on the Banished movements and any structural threats. Let's move!"

  Bubba and Subaru make their way to the cell block, where many humans only Bubba recognized were standing, a giant bone protrusion sticking out of the back of the cell, going upward.

  "And just who are you?" Asked Erwin from behind the cell door. Erwin Smith narrowed his eyes as he took in your appearance, a mix of suspicion and curiosity flickering across his face. The other prisoners pressed closer to the bars, their eyes wide with a mixture of hope and apprehension.

  "Bubba and Subaru," he replied, gesturing to himself and Subaru. "We're part of a rescue team for other prisoners. We're taking the time to free you lot, come with us or not, up to you. We've got transport out of here." A number of the prisoners took tentative steps towards them, clearly considering your offer. Several others backed away, eyeing the unstable cell door warily.

  Erwin, still standing in the back, fixed you with a penetrating stare, his head slightly tilted. "Wait a moment," Erwin said, holding up a hand. "Before we all rush out of here, I need to know - how exactly did you find us?

  Bubba- "We hacked into the Banished security network, those things mounted along the ceiling every so often are cameras, which let them see what's up everywhere."

  Erwin's eyes narrowed, a flash of anger crossing his face. "Those cameras? We've been watched this entire time? They know everything we've done and said in here."

  "I did say we shouldn't talk." Said Eren. A rumble shakes the compound, sending dust and debris raining down.

  "Speaking of which," Bubba says, "We need to get moving. That was the second tremor in a minute." Bubba and Subaru exchange a look, the urgency of the situation clear on both your faces.

  Erwin’s face sharpened, seeming to come to a decision. He stepped forward with a determined set to his jaw. "We're with you," he declares, glancing back at the other prisoners. "Let's get out of here before this place collapses on top of us."

  The group of prisoners begins to file out of the cell, moving with a mix of caution and haste. As they exit, Bubba notices a few of them casting furtive glances at the bone protrusion jutting up from the center of the cell.

  "Eren, you knew these people were coming didn't you?" Asks Armin. "That's why we didn't escape with the warhammer."

  Eren's face darkens as he looks away. "I didn't want to risk them coming here without a plan. It was better to let them come when they were ready, not before." He turns back to you, his gaze intense and unflinching. "You know what happens if the Banished find out about us? They'll dissect us. Study us. I couldn't let that happen to my friends. I couldn't risk it."

  Another tremor rocks the compound, and chunks of concrete crash down from the ceiling. The group hurries forward, following you and Subaru deeper into the maze-like corridors.

  Bubba- "As long as we all make it out alive it's cool, if anything you helped us with that distraction. Let's roll, we've got friends holding down the exit."

  Erwin's face flickers with understanding. "Our weapons and gear are in this room behind us...."

  Bubba stops, "Hm, okay y'all gear up and use the warhammer to exit. You'll see a flying ship that is box-like, that's our escape. Good luck!"

  As Erwin nods, "Gabby and Falco here don't have any gear. Could you take them?"

  Bubba- "On it, Godspeed. Let's go kids"

  The prisoners swiftly move to gear up, their faces a mix of determination and fear. Bubba and Subaru take the two unarmed prisoners, Gabby and Falco, by the shoulders, guiding them through the chaotic corridors as they complain. The compound shakes violently again, and the sound of distant explosions echoes through the halls. The group moves with a newfound urgency, driven by the imminent danger.

  As they round a corner, they spot Ahsoka, Julius, and Garfiel defending the exit. The sight of the allies engaged in combat sends a surge of adrenaline through Bubbas veins. Ahsoka's dual lightsabers dance through the air, deflecting Banished blaster fire with practiced ease. Julius stands beside her, his unique abilities creating a whirlwind of destruction around him. Garfiel, takes down enemy soldiers with his massive animal form claws. Ratchet and Clank fire from behind them.

  "Just what is he?" Asks Gabby, shocked

  Bubba- "Ahsoka! We've got 2 kids. The rest of them are making their own exit! Let's bounce!"

  Ahsoka nods curtly, not taking her eyes off the oncoming Banished soldiers. She makes a hand signal to Julius and Garfiel, and they immediately change formation to cover their retreat. "Hurry, get those kids to the ship!" she calls out.

  Julius and Garfiel redouble their efforts, the former unleashing a powerful gust of wind that sends the enemy scattering, while the latter leaps forward with a mighty roar, tearing through their ranks. Ahsoka falls back, her lightsabers still a blur of motion as she holds the line.

  Ratchet and Clank pop up from their cover, opening fire with a barrage of blaster shots that take out a handful of soldiers.

  Bubba shouts over the battle, "Any word on Jerome and their mission?"

  Ratchet shouts over the chaos, his words nearly swallowed by the sound of combat and explosions. "They made contact with Isabel in the control room about 2 minutes ago. But since then, no word."

  Clank chimes in, "The Banished have been deploying more troops than expected. Could be interference."

  Ahsoka's voice is tight with strain as she continues deflecting blasts. "They need to get out now or we're going to have to make a second push for them. The compound isn't stable and we need to move."

  Bubba thinks briefly, "I trust Jerome, let's move out"

  A massive explosion rocks the compound, bringing down part of the ceiling. Ahsoka shouts a warning as debris crashes down around them. "Fall back! Now!" The group turns and runs as the corridor crumbles, with Ahsoka covering their retreat with her lightsabers. The ground shakes violently as more explosions detonate throughout the facility.

  Garfiel growls as a falling beam strikes him, but brushes it aside with his super strength. "Just a scratch! Keep moving!" His massive form squeezes through the narrowing passageway as the entire section of the building collapses. The Banished soldiers, momentarily stunned by the destruction, fire wildly, their shots going wide as their formation breaks. The group emerges from the collapsed passageway into the open air, the cool breeze a welcome relief from the oppressive heat of the compound. Ahsoka, her face grim and smudged with dust, leads the way to where the ship awaits. Julius and Garfiel, both visibly battered but still standing, flank the group on either side, ready to fend off any remaining Banished pursuit.

  As they approach the ship, a commotion at the rear catches Bubbas eye. It's Jerome and his team, emerging from a different part of the facility with Fredricka and Petra in tow. Fredricka looks shaken but otherwise unharmed, while Petra appears more furious than frightened.

  Bubba- "Ratchet is your ship nearby?"

  Ratchet nods, his voice steady despite the chaos. "Clank, signal the ship to move in closer." Clank sends the signal. The ship descends from the sky, its engines roaring as it hovers just above the ground. A ramp extends from the side, providing a clear path for the two to board.

  Julius, his breath ragged, turns to Bubba. "We need to move fast. The Banished will regroup and send reinforcements." He looks at the prisoners, Gabby and Falco, who are still in a state of shock. "You two, stay close and follow our lead."

  Bubba- "Where's Eren and the others? We're running out of time before the Banished form up"

  As if on cue, bone protrusions exploded out of the facility and several forms in odm gear could be seen flying towards them. Eren, Erwin, and the rest of the team soar through the air, their movements fluid and precise, despite the chaos unfolding below. Eren's monstrous powers are on full display, as a pillar of bone moves towards you, carrying Zeke and Peick. The rest of the team moves through the sky with their odm gear, occasionally cutting down a banished soldier.

  "What the hell is that? That's awesome!", said Subaru.

  Bubba couldn't help but agree with Subaru's assessment of Eren's powers and the odm gear. As the pillar of bone approached, they could feel the ground shake beneath their feet, the sheer scale and power of it was breathtaking. Erwin leapt off the pillar, landing gracefully before you, his own monstrous abilities allowing him to glide to the ground. Peick and Zeke followed close behind, all three of them landing in a crouch, weapons at the ready.

  "Sorry we took so long, we ran into some resistance inside," Erwin explained, his face grim. "But we secured our people and destroyed as much of their equipment as we could." The Ghost waited as they moved ever closer. Jerome's group arrived just in time, bullets and blaster fire raining down behind them. The Ghost ship's ramp hisses open with a pneumatic whoosh, inviting the group inside. The Aphelion ship hovered above, its guns blazing against the Banished forces that had regrouped in the distance.

  "Move!" shouts Julius, gesturing for everyone to board. "We'll cover you!" He, Jerome and Ahsoka charge forward, their monstrous powers unleashed, creating a maelstrom of destruction against the oncoming Banished troops. Everyone slowly enters the Ghost cargo bay before the two ships take off with a whirlwind of dust and rush towards the mansion to drop off Frederica and Petra. Petra of course is hugging Subaru excitedly. Through the viewport, they can see the Banished forces growing smaller, their weapons becoming increasingly ineffective as the distance increases. The Aphelion follows close behind, its own engines leaving a trail of blue plasma in its wake.

  Inside the cargo bay, the group begins to settle in. Fredricka and Petra are still shaken but grateful to be free, while the other prisoners from the compound are checking themselves for injuries. Erwin and Eren exchange a knowing look, both of them acutely aware of the power they wield and the responsibility that comes with it.

  "Well, that was quite the rescue mission." Eren says, his face grim but his eyes twinkling with amusement.

  "I'd say so. Though I think we owe you a thank you for finding us and mounting this rescue." Subaru grunts.

  Erwin nods in agreement, then turns to you. "You said you found us using some kind of signal? Care to explain how that worked?" He looks genuinely curious, his tactical mind always seeking to understand new strategies.

  Bubba"It's technology ya’ll don't have, we’ll try to explain. Isabel, can we contact the fleet yet about where the ambush is taking place?"

  Isabel's holographic form flickers to life, her voice calm and professional despite the chaos. "Captain Cutter has been informed of the situation. The fleet is en route to the ambush coordinates, but they're still several minutes out. In the meantime, we need to prepare for a potential confrontation with the Banished forces that may have been alerted by the attack on their outpost."

  She turns, her eyes glinting with a mix of respect and concern. "As for your question, Erwin, the technology in question is a highly advanced tracking system that can locate individuals based on their unique biological signatures."

  Bubba- "Did Dr Anderson and you get control of the sentinels? Our fleet won't stand a chance otherwise"

  Isabel's holographic form flickers as she processes your question. "Dr. Anderson is still working on controlling the sentinels, but progress has been slow. We've managed to establish a weak connection, enough to gather some data, but not enough to assert full control." She pauses, her brow furrowing with concern. "The Banished are already beginning to deploy their ships, and will soon have a combined fleet waiting at the doorway for the UNSC."

  Eren spoke up, "Give me the data. I can go outside of time to get the sentinels on your side before the attack" Isabel's eyes widened at Eren's proposal, a mixture of surprise and cautious optimism flickering across her holographic features. "Eren, are you certain you can accomplish such a feat? Controlling the sentinels, even for a short period, will require an immense amount of skill and precision."

  "I'll have decades, centuries to figure it out," Eren explained.

  "Eren..." Mikasa grabbed his arm, worried about his mental health. Isabel's holographic eyes narrowed as she considered Eren's bold proposal. "Very well," she said finally, her tone a mix of trepidation and grudging respect. "I will send you the relevant data on the sentinel's systems and the current status of their programming. But you must be careful, Eren. Manipulating time and space in such a manner... it could have unforeseen consequences, both for you and the rest of us."

  Eren just nodded, already lost in concentration as Isabel's holographic arms moved, and a data packet appeared in a shimmering green glow before him. Eren's eyes scanned the data quickly before he closed them. His face dropped for a moment, his eyes moved wildly. Just a second later they opened. "It's done, the sentinels will attack the Banished on your signal Isabel, I'm giving you full control." Isabel's holographic form flickered with surprise and relief. "Eren, that was... incredible. Thank you." She turned to the others, her expression grave. "We need to act quickly. The Banished fleet is nearly in position, and the sentinels' attack will only delay them for so long. I suggest we prepare for a potential confrontation with the Banished forces that may have been alerted by the attack on their outpost."

  Julius stepped forward, his face set with determination. "I agree. We need to get Fredricka and Petra to safety, then regroup with the rest of our forces. The Banished won't stop until they've eliminated the threat we pose to their plans."

  "Eren... just how long did you spend in there?", asked Armin. Eren's eyes, usually so intense, softened with a hint of melancholy.

  "Long enough to understand their systems better than they do," he replied vaguely. "But let's not dwell on that. We have a battle to prepare for."

  Mikasa, still concerned, placed a hand on Eren's shoulder. "Just be careful, Eren. We need you here with us, not lost in the past or future."

  Eren offered her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Mikasa. I know my limits. Besides, I have something to fight for now."

  Isabel's hologram nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we all do."

  Bubba- "Eren, the plan was to leave you lot at the mansion, given what you could do to the spaceships. What does everyone think?"

  Eren's eyes blazed with intensity as he turned to face you, his face set in a determined expression. "The plan to leave us at the mansion was a mistake. We're far more useful on the front lines, especially now that I've... gained this ability." He gestured vaguely, and several of the other warriors shifted uncomfortably at the implication of his powers.

  Mikasa stepped forward, her face set in a firm expression. "Eren's right. We're not just cargo to be moved around. We can fight, and we can protect the others. Besides, with our abilities, we could turn the tide of this battle."

  Armin agreed, his face flushed with enthusiasm. "Eren's right."

  Bubba- "Well as long as the captain and the Admiral agree I certainly don't mind"

  Isabel's holographic eyes flickered as she considered your words, her expression a mix of concern and cautious optimism. "While I understand the allure of having Eren and his comrades in arms on the front lines, I must advise caution. Their powers, while undoubtedly formidable, also come with unpredictable consequences. Furthermore, the potential for collateral damage could be catastrophic." She paused, her gaze sweeping over the gathered warriors. "However, if the Captain and Admiral agree, I will not stand in the way. We will need every advantage we can muster in the battles to come."

  Eren, his eyes alight with an almost feverish intensity, nodded firmly. "You have our full support."

  "Is this really our fight? Zeke?" Asks Peick Zeke's face hardened as she looked ather commander.

  "It is. The Banished have threatened everyone we care about. We have to fight them, no matter the cost."

  Eren turned to the group, his face set in a determined expression. "We all have our reasons to fight. Some of us for revenge, others for protection, but in the end, we all fight for the same thing - a future free from the Banished's tyranny, or anyone else's. We may not always see eye to eye, but when it comes to this, we stand united."

  The group's eyes locked with each other, their faces set with shared resolve. The mansion loomed large, its imposing presence a stark reminder of the dangers they faced. "Isabel we will have a request for either the Captain or the Admiral. My people need a world of their own. I know there are plenty of empty ones." Asked Eren.

  "A world?" Asked Gabby, her shock wearing off.

  Isabel's holographic form flickered as she considered Eren's request, her expression a mix of surprise and contemplation. "A world for your people? That is a significant undertaking, Eren. We would need to find a suitable planet, one that can support your civilization and is far enough from the Banished's reach. It would also require significant resources and planning to establish a new colony."

  She paused, her gaze sweeping over the gathered warriors. "However, I must admit that your request is not without merit. The Banished's actions have displaced countless lives, and providing a safe haven for your people could be a step towards writing some of the wrongs they have committed."

  The ships landed at the mansion after a short descent. Frederica insisted Garfiel take a break. So they departed with Petra, who had to be taken off of Subaru. In his place, Rem joined them, stepping onto the alien vessel, she was happy to be with Subaru again. She held his hand as the ships took off and into orbit, where the Banished fleet was visible on the sensors.

  The group gathered in the command center, with Isabel's hologram appearing. "The Banished fleet is moving to intercept our UNSC reinforcements at their entrance door on the planet. Our fleet is moving in to distract. After our reinforcements arrive I will send the sentinels in to strike a powerful blow to the enemy fleet and buy us all time to escape." she reported, her tone urgent. "Isabel, I can take out their engines from close range with my warhammer power, the bone I was controlling earlier.", said Eren.

  "The Ghost could join the fighters and get him into position." Said Hera.

  "No way! That's enough crazy for one day." Whined Zeb.

  Chopper laughed at him and the kids joined in. Isabel's holographic form flickered, her expression thoughtful as she considered Eren's proposal. "Your power is indeed formidable, Eren, but the risk is immense. The Banished fleet is vast and well-defended. Getting close enough to disable their engines would be a perilous task. However, if you are willing to take on this mission, we will support you."

  She turned to Hera, her voice steady. "The Ghost could indeed provide the necessary cover and support. Hera, you will lead the mission, with Eren and a small team of fighters. Your objective is to disable the Banished fleet's engines, giving our reinforcements the opening they need."

  “And the rest of us?" Asks Erwin. Erwin's question hung in the air, a palpable tension settling over the group as they awaited Isabel's response.

  The AI's holographic form flickered, her expression unreadable as she considered their query.

  "While Eren and his team embark on their perilous mission, the rest of you will have a crucial role to play," Isabel began, her voice echoing through the command center. "The Banished will be vulnerable, and we still need to attack 18 spires. Your people could help on the ground or rest on the ships.

  "I'm not going to just sit back and wait," Erwin declared, his voice filled with determination. "We've come too far to let the Banished have the upper hand. I say we split up - half of us join Eren's team, the other half prepare for the ground assault on the remaining spires. We can't afford to let them regroup."

  The group murmured in agreement, the air charged with a sense of purpose and resolve. Eren stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with a fierce intensity. "I'll lead the team against the Banished fleet. Erwin, I don't need any ground fighters here in space, I need you to strategize the ground assault. Your tactical mind will be invaluable in taking down those spires."

  "Eren!" Mikasa scolded him.

  "Eren, we aren't leaving you alone in a strange new battle." Said Armin.

  Erwin nodded, "Armin, Mikasa, you two will guard Eren. Gabby and Flaco can stay on a ship while the rest of us join the ground assault. If the Banished win they will invade our world as well, and we won't secure a new home for the eldians as Eren suggested.

  Isabel's holographic form flickered with an almost imperceptible sigh, a hint of resignation in the way her image rippled. "Very well," she acknowledged, her gaze sweeping over the assembled warriors. "You are all determined to face this peril head-on. I will respect your decision. However, I must stress the gravity of the risks involved. Eren, with Armin and Mikasa by your side, you are to infiltrate the Banished fleet and target their engines, as we have discussed. Erwin, you will lead the ground assault, take Subaru Bubba, Rem and Julius with you. Jerome here is needed by the captain for a spartan mission.

  "Just another day for the Survey Corps." Said Connie.

  Levi slapped his bald head. "Don't go jinxing things Connie."

  "We're about to reach the home fleet. Those leaving get ready to jump onto a waiting Pelican, eh another ship, one of ours." Said Isabel. The Ghost landed in the Spirit of Fires hangar gently and everyone aside from Eren, his two friends, and the ghost crew exited the ship.

  "Oh this is amazing! So exciting! OH! What are those?" Said Hange Zoe, taking in the huge hangar.

  Levi dragged Hange to the Pelican by the ear while she protested. Bubba gave Eren a thumbs up as the Ghost left the hangar once again. Let's get acquainted as we wait", said Erwin, the UNSC personnel frantic, and Jerome leaving.

  "Ah, I'm Bubba, and this is Subaru, Rem, Julius, and Ahsoka. Everyone here but me has magic powers to some degree, so be warned it's wild.", I say.

  "Magic?! I've got to see!", Hange interrupted, receiving a look from Levi.

  "Understood. I'm Erwin as you know, this is Levi, Connie, Jean, Peik, Zeke, Reiner, Annie and Sasha. Eren, Mikasa, and Armin left with the Ghost.

  Just then, Hawkins and his ODST came their way, from the Pelican.

  "Hey there, I'm Hawkins. We've got orders to work with you lot planet side, got some spires to shut down. Well fill you in on the intel on the way. Hawkins, the grizzled ODST sergeant, stepped forward and extended a hand to Erwin. "Sergeant Hawkins, 105th ODST Battalion. I've been briefed on your situation and the threat posed by the Banished. We're here to help shut down those spires and get you folks back home."

  Erwin shook Hawkins' hand firmly, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Erwin Smith, Commander of the Survey Corps. We appreciate your assistance, Sergeant. Every able-bodied fighter will be crucial in this mission."

  Hawkins nodded, his gaze sweeping over the assembled Eldians. "I see you've got quite the motley crew here. I've heard whispers of your..." "Special abilities," Hawkins finished, glancing at Levi and the others with a mix of curiosity and wariness. "I don't know what kind of magic you're packing, but I do know the Banished are a formidable enemy. We'll need to work together and trust each other if we're going to pull this off."

  Erwin nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Our survival depends on it. Sergeant Hawkins, what can you tell us about the spires we'll be targeting? Any intel on their defenses or the Banished forces stationed there?"

  Hawkins rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "From what we've gathered, the spires are heavily fortified with automated defenses - turrets, AA, the works."

  Bubba- "Erwin what if we had a Titan on several sides of a spire? We're not the only people attacking, the UNSC and GAR are attacking in full force. We're just special forces"

  Erwin considered the proposal, his eyes narrowing as he mulled over the tactical possibilities. "Titan support... It's an intriguing idea. If we could coordinate with the UNSC and GAR, positioning Titans around the spires, it could significantly weaken the Banished defenses and give our forces a critical advantage."

  Levi chimed in, his tone grave. "But we need to be cautious. Titans are powerful, but they're not invincible. If the Banished have anti-Titan weapons, we could be walking into an ambush."

  Jean nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and if the Banished manage to take out the Titans, well be at a loss.

  Bubba- "A couple members with odm gear could be ready to pull the shifters out of combat? And the army could do the heavy lifting. The titans specifically or the odm users could maybe take our the Anti Air"

  Erwin's eyes lit up at the suggestion, a plan beginning to form in his mind. "That's a solid strategy. If we can neutralize the anti-air defenses, our ground forces will have a much easier time advancing. And if we can pull the shifters out of combat, it will give our troops a better chance of taking down the spires."

  Hawkins nodded, impressed. "I like where you're going with this. We could position a couple of Titans as decoys, drawing fire from the AA guns while our ODST teams move in to disable them. Then our combined forces can move in and take out the spires before they have a chance to fully deploy their ground defenses."

  Erwin stroked his chin thoughtfully as he weighed the options. "It's a bold plan, but it could work. We'll need to coordinate closely with the UNSC and GAR to pull this off."

  Levi stepped forward, his expression serious as ever. "I suggest we split our forces. A small team of our most capable fighters can infiltrate the spires and plant charges, while the main force provides a distraction and mops up any remaining Banished resistance."

  Hawkins nodded approvingly at Levi's suggestion. "I like your thinking. We could use my ODSTs and a squad from the GAR to make up the infiltration teams. They have the stealth and demolition expertise to get the job done."

  Erwin agreed, a plan taking shape in his mind. "And for the distraction, we can employ a mix of tactics. Titans, armored personnel carriers, even some good old-fashioned shock troops to draw out the Banished forces. "

  This book's true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

  Hawkins rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Exactly," he agreed. "And we'll need to make sure our communication lines stay open. We can't afford any surprises if we want to pull this off. We'll need to coordinate with Isabel and the other allies to ensure the Titans are deployed at the right times and places."

  Ahsoka, ever the strategist, added, "We should also consider the possibility of Banished reinforcements. If they have any nearby, they'll likely send them to the spires under attack. We need to be prepared for that."

  Erwin nodded, his expression resolute. "Agreed. We'll need to set up a perimeter defense around each spire, ensuring that any reinforcements are dealt with swiftly."

  Bubba- "If the odst are infiltrating, the survey corps with odm gear could move to deal with enemy reinforcements the fastest"

  "Good thinking," Erwin agreed, a plan taking shape in his mind. "The Survey Corps can move faster with their ODM gear, especially if they're dealing with reinforcements. We'll need to establish a secondary line of defense about 2 kilometers out from each spire, with ODSTs providing sniper cover from above and our combined forces forming the main line of defense."

  Levi nodded approvingly. "I like where this is headed. If we can create a killzone around the spires, we can funnel the Banished forces right where we want them. Our people with ODM gear can use the terrain to their advantage, raining hell on any enemy forces that approach the area."

  Bubba- "Piecks cart titan could move shock troopers quickly, like Julius here"

  Erwin's eyes widened at the suggestion, a flash of excitement crossing his face. "The Cart Titan... that could be a game-changer. If we could use it to rapidly deploy our shock troops to the front lines, it would give us a significant advantage."

  Julius nodded, a fierce grin spreading across his face. "I'd be more than happy to volunteer for that role. The Cart Titan's speed and maneuverability would allow me to quickly reposition our forces where they're needed most."

  Zeke nodded, "With the Cart Titan, we could rapidly respond to any breaches in our defenses or quickly counter any Banished flanking maneuvers," Zeke explained, his strategic mind already calculating the possibilities.

  Hawkins stroked his beard thoughtfully, his battle-hardened mind adding to the discussion. "I think we've got a plan here. We just need to coordinate with the Gar."

  Isabel listened to the conversation with keen interest, her processors humming with the complex tactical scenarios being laid out. As the AI tasked with overseeing this unprecedented alliance between the various factions, she recognized the importance of tight coordination between all parties. "Coordination with the Grand Army of the Republic is indeed paramount," Isabel affirmed, her melodic voice resonating with an almost maternal undertone. "I can facilitate the necessary communication channels. Commander Cody and Captain Rex have expressed their commitment to this mission and will no doubt be receptive to your strategic overview, Commander Erwin."

  Erwin nodded, a flicker of respect in his eyes as he regarded Isabel. "I appreciate your intervention, Isabel."

  Bubba-"How many spires can we hit at once? Or are we doing this one at a time?"

  "Multiple spires at once would be ideal," Erwin explained, his tactical mind already calculating the possibilities. "But we need to be realistic about our capabilities. We can probably hit 2-4 spires simultaneously based on the numbers on this hologram Hawkins has, but we'll need to be very careful about resource allocation and coordination."

  Levi stepped forward, his face set in a serious mask. "I agree with Commander Erwin. We can't spread ourselves too thin. If we try to hit too many at once, we risk losing control of the situation. We need to focus our efforts where they'll have the most impact."

  Hawkins stroked his beard thoughtfully, his battle-hardened mind adding to the discussion. "I think we've got a plan here."

  Bubba blurts out- "Dibs on Subaru and Ahsoka!

  "I also Dib Subaru!", says Rem"

  Erwin raised an eyebrow at the playful banter, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I trust you both will keep them safe and make good use of their unique abilities. We'll need every advantage we can get. Everyone! For our peoples peace, we shall fight!"

  The Eldians nodded, some saluting. Hange beamed.

  Isabel interjected, her voice calm and measured, "I can provide real-time tactical support and coordinate the efforts of all factions. My drones will be instrumental in gathering intelligence and relaying information. I'll ensure that the Cart Titan and other key assets are deployed effectively."

  Hawkins nodded, his voice gruff but approving. "With Isabel's support and the combined might of our forces, we stand a fighting chance. Let's make this plan a reality."

  Levi's eyes glowed with intensity, his fingers itching for the familiar touch of a weapon. "Once we've decided which spires to target, I'll lead our ODM gear equipped forces. We'll use our speed and mobility to neutralize any immediate threats and secure strategic positions."

  The group gathered, the air crackling with the gravity of what was to come. Each individual's role and responsibility weighed on them, adding to the intense atmosphere. They stood at the precipice of a moment that could change everything - for better or worse. Erwin stood tall, his gaze sweeping the group as he made his final preparations. "Alright then, it's settled."

  The team boards the pelican with several ODST and Hawkins. The ship lifts off with its engines blaring and exits the hangar for the surface. "The republic ships are deploying forces on the ground before they join the space battle. The spirit of fire is just now receiving transitions from the door, it's opening." Says Hawkins.

  "Isabel what's coming in?" Bubba asks.

  "It's USNC, it's the Infinity, its complement and the Swords of Saanghelios! But they are still heavily outnumbered. I'll launch the sentinels soon. Good luck on the ground everyone!", Isabel said.

  As the Pelican descends towards the surface, the ground below comes into stark view. The landscape is a desolate expanse of crimson dust and jagged rock formations, punctuated by the ominous spires of the Banished. The air is thick with tension, as a Republic venator lets off its ground troops and vehicles. Smaller craft from the Spirit landing beside them with troops and their own vehicles. Scorpion tanks dropping and rolling as AT-ET walkers stepped out into the light.

  Hawkins leans forward, his eyes scanning the terrain with a seasoned soldier's gaze. "We'll drop at the designated coordinates. From there, we'll move out in teams. Remember, our primary objective is to disable the spires, AA, and disrupt their communications. We need to hit them hard and fast."

  Bubba- "Subaru stick with me. Let me know if your... ability is triggered."

  Subaru's eyes flicker with understanding as he nods solemnly. "I will, I promise. If it happens, I'll try to control it, but sometimes it just..." He trails off, his face darkening as he remembers past incidents. The other soldiers give him space, though their concerned glances betray their worry.

  Hawkins barks out orders as the Pelican descends. "Alright, listen up! We're approaching the drop zone. Once we land, move out in your designated groups. Our scouts report Banished forces gathering at the spires. They're expecting us, so we need to be ready for anything."

  "Why did you call dibs on me Bubba?" Asked Ahsoka.

  Bubba- "What can I say. I... enjoy your company." he winks.

  Ahsoka's lips curl into a smirk, her eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and gratitude. "Well, Bubba, I must admit, your company is certainly... interesting. And who knows? Maybe together we can make a dent in this Banished mess."

  The Pelican touches down with a thud, kicking up a cloud of dust that obscures the view outside. The ramp lowers, revealing the harsh, alien landscape. The team files out, weapons at the ready, their breaths visible in the cold air. The Banished spires loom in the distance, their dark silhouettes a stark contrast against the blue sky.

  Hawkins led the charge as the team moved out, their boots crunching against the crimson earth. The air was thick with the acrid stench of the Banished presence, a constant reminder of the looming threat. Hawkins' eyes scanned the horizon, searching for any signs of enemy movement. "Our objective is to get to the main force and split up as we discussed." As the team advances, the crimson dust swirls around them, clinging to their armor and gear. The spires ahead seem to pulse with an eerie energy, casting long, dancing shadows that twist and contort with the wind. The silence is deafening, broken only by the distant hum of the Banished machinery and the occasional crackle of static from their comms.

  Subaru walks beside Bubba, his eyes darting nervously, his hands clenched around his weapon. The team can sense his anxiety, the fear of his unpredictable power surfacing at the wrong moment. Bubba gives him a reassuring nod, trying to convey a sense of calm and confidence. The teams make it to the front line, walking through columns of organized troops, and Hawkins discusses the plans with Commander Cody. The scout corps splits off and Julius leaves with Peick to the flank, leaving Ahsoka, Bubba, Rem, and Subaru with the mixed army.

  As the scout corps disappears into the dusty horizon, Bubba turns to the remaining team, his voice steady and clear. "Alright, we've got our orders. We stick together. Stay alert, stay focused."

  Ahsoka nods, her eyes scanning the terrain with a predator's intensity. "I'll take point. Keep your eyes peeled for any surprises." She moves ahead, her lithe form blending seamlessly with the shadows cast by the spires.

  Bubba- "Say Subaru, cards when we get back? Rem would enjoy it"

  Subaru's tense expression softens slightly at your mention of their shared pastime. "Yeah... yeah, that would be nice. Maybe it'll help us unwind after... all this." He gestures vaguely at the ominous spires rising in the distance.

  Rem chimes in, her usually stoic demeanor cracking a fraction. "I would indeed enjoy a round of cards with you both, once we are safe and sound. Perhaps then we can indulge in more... civilized pursuits. For now though..." She unsheathes her flail with a soft rasp of metal against leather, a grim reminder of their current predicament. "We have more pressing matters at hand."

  The team moves forward, the crimson dust swirling around their feet as they advance. The Banished spires loom larger, their ominous silhouettes casting long, dark shadows that seem to writhe and twist in the wind. Ahsoka leads the way, her movements fluid and silent, while Hawkins and Cody coordinate with the rest of the forces via comms. The air is thick with tension, broken only by the occasional crackle of static from the comms and the distant hum of Banished machinery.

  Subaru's hand tightens on his weapon, his knuckles turning white as he scans the surroundings. "I can feel it," he mutters, more to himself than to anyone else.

  Bubba- "We just gotta hold out till the infiltration teams hit the spires. Think of a timed video game mission."

  Subaru chuckles darkly.

  Hawkins barks over the comms, "All units, we have eyes on the Banished forces massing near Spire One. Weapons lock on my mark." Hawkins' words are barely out when the enemy springs into action. A wave of Banished brutes charges forth, their hulking forms silhouetted against the crimson land. Hawkins and Cody bark orders, directing the UNSC and GAR forces to hold the line. Ahsoka sprints forward, her twin lightsabers igniting with a hiss, cleaving through the first rank of enemies with blinding speed. The ground trembles as the Banished heavy gun emplacements open fire, the crimson earth exploding in geysers of dust and shrapnel as the marines and GAR set up temporary cover and gun emplacements.

  The team dives for cover behind a series of rocky outcrops, the air filled with the whine of plasma fire and the thunderous roar of explosives. Bubba can feel the heat of the battle, the adrenaline surging through their veins as they take cover behind a large boulder, Subaru crouching beside him. Rem, her flail whirling in a deadly dance, takes up a position nearby, her eyes locked onto the enemy. Ahsoka, a blur of motion, darts between cover, her lightsabers leaving trails of light as she cuts down Banished soldiers.

  Bubba raises his weapon, taking aim at a Banished heavy gunner. The Banished soldier's head snaps back as his shot finds its mark, the body crumpling to the ground. But before he can celebrate, a massive explosion rocks the battlefield, sending chunks of rock and dirt flying. The shockwave catches him off-guard, throwing Bubba and Subaru off balance. They stumble, his grip on your weapon loosening momentarily.

  Subaru instinctively grabs his arm, steadying him, but his own footing falters. "Watch out!" he shouts, as a piece of shrapnel whistles past their heads. The air is thick with dust and smoke, visibility reduced to mere meters.

  Through the swirling dust, they see Ahsoka engaging multiple Banished soldiers, her lightsabers a blur of blue and green. Her voice comes through the comms, tight with strain: "We need to push forward! The infiltration teams are in position, but they need covering fire!"

  Cody and Hawkins are coordinating the UNSC forces, directing artillery strikes at key Banished positions. The crimson landscape is now a hellscape of fire and destruction, with explosions and gunfire echoing in all directions. As the dust settles, Bubba and Subaru regain their footing, Subaru's quick reflexes having prevented a nasty fall. Bubba gave him a grateful nod, his grip tightening on his weapon. The Banished forces seem to be regrouping, their heavy infantry and armored units pushing forward with renewed vigor.

  Hawkins' voice crackles over the comms, "All units, the Banished are concentrating their forces! Prepare for a major push!"

  Ahsoka, her lightsabers humming with barely contained power, charges forward, cutting down Banished soldiers with every step. Rem and the ODST follow, their weapons spitting death as they clear a path through the enemy ranks. The Banished forces, undeterred by the initial onslaught, surge forward like a relentless tide. Their heavy infantry, clad in thick armor and wielding powerful plasma rifles, advance with mechanical precision. The air is thick with the acrid scent of ozone and the metallic tang of blood. You can feel the ground trembling under the weight of armored vehicles, their tracks grinding against the crimson earth. A scorpion nearby blares to life, numbing his ears into a ringing sound.

  Subaru, his eyes locked onto the enemy, mutters under his breath, "This is it. We need to hold them off long enough for the infiltration teams to do their job." He takes a deep breath, his grip on his weapon tightening as he prepares to charge.

  Bubba- "Rem! Surprise these jokers with your ice magic? They're all grouped up!"

  Rem nods, her eyes flashing with determination. "Al Huma!" She cries as a huge spike of ice forms out of thin air and blows through the Banished formation. Rem's cries ring out across the battlefield, and with a blinding flash, another massive spike of ice materializes from the crimson earth. The Banished forces, caught off-guard by the sudden appearance of the icy projectile, scatter in disarray as it tears through their ranks. The spike of ice, towering nearly ten meters high, punches through armor and flesh alike, leaving a trail of stunned and wounded Banished soldiers in its wake.

  The unexpected assault gives the UNSC and GAR forces a brief respite, the Banished relentless advance momentarily halted. Hawkins and Cody take advantage of the lull, barking orders to their respective units. "All units, push forward now!" Hawkins' voice booms over the comms, his words cutting through the chaos like a knife. "We need to capitalize on this! Press the advantage!"

  Ahsoka, seizing the opportunity, dashes forward, her lightsabers a whirlwind of blue and green. She moves with a fluid grace, her every motion precise and deadly. Banished soldiers fall like wheat before the scythe, their bodies crumpling under the relentless assault. Subaru and Rem followed closely behind, their weapons adding to the symphony of destruction. Subaru’s rifle barked with each shot, while Rem's flail whirled through the air, leaving a trail of ice and shattered armor in its wake.

  Several lighting Strikes came down as the titan shifters entered the fray elsewhere on the battlefield. Reiners roar could be heard above the gunfire. As the thunderous roar of a Titan echoes through the battlefield, the ground shakes violently, sending tremors rippling through the crimson earth. The Banished forces, momentarily disoriented by Rem's ice spike and the sudden barrage of lightning, struggle to regain their composure. The massive form of a Titan, its flesh gleaming under the harsh light of the alien sky, as it charges forward, trampling Banished infantry under its colossal feet. The Banished soldiers, despite their heavy armor and disciplined training, are no match for the raw, unbridled power of the Titan. They scatter like weasels before a stampeding elephant, their formations crumbling under the relentless onslaught. The Titan's every step sends shockwaves through the battlefield, toppling vehicles and sending soldiers tumbling through the air.

  Erwin's voice comes through the comms, calm and collected despite the chaos unfolding around him. "The Titans are in position. All ground units, advance and secure the perimeter."

  "That's a titan?!" Asks Subaru, shaking.

  "Yep." Bubba responds coolly.

  The Banished forces, momentarily stunned by the Titan's onslaught, begin to regroup. Their heavy infantry, clad in thick armor and wielding powerful spiker rifles, take up defensive positions, their weapons trained on the advancing UNSC and GAR forces. The air is thick with the acrid scent of bile and the tang of blood. Bubba can feel the ground trembling under the weight of their armored vehicles, their feet grinding against the crimson earth.

  Subaru, holding back nausea, his eyes locked onto the enemy, mutters under his breath, "This is it. We need to hold them off long enough for the infiltration teams to do their job." He takes a deep breath, his grip on his weapon tightening as he prepares to charge.

  Bubba spots a no man's land between their cover and the Banished and comms Hawkins, "Hawkins! Let them come, we can do a grenade barrage"

  Sergeant Hawkins barks into his comms, relaying his grenade barrage idea. "All squads, fall back and prepare for a coordinated grenade assault! I repeat, fall back and prep grenades! On my mark, let 'em fly!" The order crackles over the airwaves, and the scattered UNSC and GAR forces begin to withdraw, moving back from the front lines.

  The Banished forces, sensing the change in tactic, pressed their advantage. Their heavy infantry march forward, weapons at the ready, while their armored vehicles roll up to the front lines, turrets spinning and ready to unleash a barrage of fire. The Banished heavy infantry advanced, their massive armored forms closing the distance between the lines. Plasma rifles powered up, casting an eerie green glow in the crimson-lit battlefield.

  "Mark in 3... 2... 1..." Hawkins' voice rings out. Bubba’s squad and several others pulled the pins on their grenades. The moment Hawkins gave the order, they unleashed a hail of grenades. The metallic spheres arced through the air, trailing wisps of smoke, before landing in the midst of the advancing Banished heavy infantry. A series of thunderous detonations rip through the air as the grenades explode, sending up clouds of smoke, shrapnel, and chunks of twisted metal. The force of the blasts hammers into the heavy infantry, knocking them off their feet and sending them tumbling to the ground. Some of the soldiers, their armor torn and twisted by the blast, struggle to regain their footing amidst the chaos.

  Through the smoke, Bubba can see the devastation his barrage has wrought. The Banished forces, caught off guard by the sudden and coordinated assault, falter in their advance. Their heavy infantry, once a formidable wall of armor and weaponry, now lie in disarray, their ranks decimated by the grenade barrage. The air is thick with the acrid scent of burning metal and the pungent smell of spent explosives.

  Sergeant Hawkins barks into his comms, his voice cutting through the chaos: "All units, push forward! Capitalize on the chaos! Takedown those turrets!"

  Bubba and Subaru charged forward, weapons at the ready, their hearts pounding in unison with the rhythmic thump of boots hitting the ground. Ahsoka and the rest of the elite force surge ahead, ther lightsabers flashing and cutting through the smoky haze like blades of blinding light. The Banished forces, shaken but not broken, begin to regroup. Their remaining heavy infantry and armored vehicles take up new defensive positions, their weapons trained on the advancing UNSC and GAR forces.

  Sergeant Hawkins' voice crackles over the comms, his tone urgent and commanding. "All units, focus fire on those turrets! Take them out, and we can push through their lines!" The order is echoed by the UNSC and GAR commanders, their voices blending into a chorus of determination.

  Bubba quickly assesses the battlefield, spotting an opportunity, "Subaru, want to have some fun? I've got an idea"

  Subaru's eyes light up with a mix of excitement and apprehension at his words. "Fun? In the middle of a battle? I'm listening, Bubba. What's your idea?" He keeps his gaze fixed on the enemy lines, his weapon at the ready.

  Bubba grins- "See that Banished Wraith? Its turret gunner is down. If you use invisible providence. (Unseen hand) you could get the driver and then we could take it for ourselves heheh."

  Subaru's eyes widen as he processes the plan, a grin spreading across his face. "Invisible Providence, huh? I like the way you think, Bubba. Let's do this." Subaru takes a deep breath, his grip tightening on his weapon as he focuses on the downed Banished Wraith. The vehicle, a hulking beast of metal and weaponry, sits idle amidst the chaos, its turret gunner nowhere to be seen. The driver, however, remains inside, likely trying to assess the situation or call for reinforcements. Subaru's eyes narrow, his mind already reaching out to the unseen forces that he commands.

  Subaru's expression becomes one of intense concentration. The air around him seems to shimmer slightly, a barely perceptible ripple that only you, with your keen eyes, can detect. The Unseen Hand, Subaru's unique ability, manifests as he focuses his will. The air around the Banished Wraith distorts, creating a pocket of space that defies normal physics. The driver, oblivious to the supernatural forces at work, remains inside the vehicle, his hands likely gripping the controls as he tries to understand what's happening. The rest of the battle rages on around you, but this moment feels frozen in time.

  Subaru's eyes flash with an otherworldly light as he pushes his power to its limits. The Unseen Hand, invisible to all but bubba, reaches into the Wraith, its ethereal fingers wrapping around the driver's throat.

  Bubba-"You got this sub! We're about to take out a tank!"

  Subaru grits his teeth, his jaw clenched with the effort of maintaining his focus. The Unseen Hand, guided by his will, squeezes tighter around the Banished driver's throat. The man inside the Wraith, still unaware of the supernatural force at work, struggles against an unseen assailant. His hands scrabble at his neck, his eyes wide with terror as he chokes and gasps for air. The Wraith, now driverless, begins to drift erratically.

  Bubba rushes out of cover, "I'm moving in, I’ll call for you"

  As Subaru maintained his chokehold on the driver, Bubba swiftly moved into position. The Banished forces around him are distracted by the chaos of the ongoing battle, none seeming to notice your approach to the drifting Wraith. Bubba kept low, using the smokescreen and debris for cover

  Bubba got above the driver and shot into him as Subaru choked him, ending the driver. Bubba wretched and dragged out his heavy body. He hopped into the wraith, searching the controls wildly.. "OK, surely this can't be too hard to drive... Subaru! It's done"

  Subaru, his face flushed with exertion, releases his grip on the unseen force as you take control of the Wraith. His nausea getting the better of him for a moment as he doubled over. The Banished forces around you are still engaged in their desperate fight against the advancing UNSC and GAR troops, none seemed to notice the sudden change in the Wraith's status.

  Subaru, panting slightly, approaches the Wraith. "You sure you can handle this thing, Bubba?" he asked, his voice tinged with both concern and excitement.

  Bubba, grinning- “hell yea! Hop in the turret, I’m learning the controls.

  "Learning?!" Asked Subaru.

  "Just a sec... OK, I think I got it."- Bubba

  Subaru's eyes widened as Bubba confidently took the controls of the captured Banished Wraith. The vehicle's systems hummed to life, the alien feel of the controls quickly becoming second nature to him. Subaru, still slightly out of breath from his exertion, hops into the passenger seat above you.

  "Alright, Bubba, you've got the reins," he says, a mix of awe and apprehension in his voice. "But what's the plan? We can't exactly go charging into the fray in this thing. It's bound to draw a lot of attention."

  Bubba grinned, his hands steady on the controls as he guided the Wraith into a more sheltered position of hill and rock.

  Bubba- "It's more of an artillery piece, I'm messaging Isabel to mark us friendly then we can sit just behind the front line and wreak havoc"

  Subaru's face lights up with understanding as he processes the plan. "A mobile artillery platform, I like it. But we need to move fast - Isabel needs to mark us friendly before Banished forces realize we've turned one of their tanks against them." He reaches for the communication system, fingers dancing over the unfamiliar controls.

  "Isabel, do you read me? We've got a situation here. We need you to mark our new ride as friendly on all UNSC and GAR systems, ASAP." His words crackled through the comms, urgency evident in his tone.

  Isabel's voice responds with crisp efficiency. "Copy that, Subaru. I've already detected and marked your vehicle as friendly across all systems. You're good to go." As she speaks, the Banished forces seem to take notice of the newly captured Wraith, several of their units beginning to swivel toward their position. The air thrums with tension as plasma and brutes roared.

  "Bubba, we've got company incoming," Subaru warns, pointing to a group of Banished infantry advancing in their direction over a hill. Their weapons are already raised, ready to fire. "We need to move before they realize what's happened. Where's our best firing position from here?"

  Bubba- "Firing!"

  The Banished forces opened fire as he positioned the Wraith, their rounds pinging off the armored hull. The Wraith's heavy guns thunder to life, the targeting system locking onto the nearest Banished units. He squeezed the trigger, unleashing a devastating barrage that tears through the Banished ranks. Bodies and debris fly in all directions as the Banished soldiers are caught completely off guard by their own tank turned against them. The Banished forces, now in disarray, scramble to return fire, but their efforts are disjointed and ineffective against the relentless onslaught of the captured Wraith. The vehicle's heavy gun roars with each shot, the plasma balls exploding entire groups of enemies as the wave-like sound of plasma rings their ears.

  The battle rages on as the UNSC and GAR forces, bolstered by the unexpected power of the Wraith, continue their advance against the Banished. The enemy soldiers, once brimming with confidence, now seemed to falter as they grappled with the realization that one of their own weapons was being used against them. Panic begins to set in as more and more of their forces are cut down by the devastating barrage. The Banished forces regroup, calling in reinforcements. Several Wraiths and Banshees move to surround your position, their weapons charging for what promises to be a devastating counterattack. Through the chaos, Bubba spotted Commander Hawkins coordinating with UNSC forces, directing them to push forward and capitalize on the confusion. The Banished seem to be trying to isolate the captured Wraith, their superior numbers becoming increasingly apparent as more vehicles and infantry converge on your position.

  Bubba used the wraiths thrusters to boost back to behind the friendly lines. The Wraith's thrusters roared to life, propelling the vehicle backward with a sudden burst of speed. The maneuver catches the Banished forces off guard, their coordinated assault faltering as they struggle to adjust their targeting. Bubba expertly guided the Wraith through the chaos, weaving between friendly forces and using the terrain to his advantage. The vehicle's heavy armor absorbed the sporadic return fire, allowing them to safely retreat to a position behind the UNSC and GAR lines.

  Subaru, gripped the side of his seat, and let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "Nice move, Bubba. We need to keep this thing mobile. If they pin us down, we're done for."

  Bubba and Subaru find a relatively safe spot behind friendly lines, the Wraith settling into a position that offers good visibility of the battlefield while minimizing your exposure to enemy fire. The UNSC and GAR forces seem to rally around your unexpected victory, the morale visibly bolstered by the sight of a captured Banished tank. You can see Hawkins and the other commanders conferring, no doubt planning their next move and trying to capitalize on the confusion you've caused.

  "Okay, so we've got a little breathing room," Subaru says, his voice tight with tension but also threaded with excitement. "What's our next play here? We can't just sit back and let the Banished regroup."

  Bubba- "Well stay just behind the front line, I'll maneuver us there."

  Bubba and Subaru moved the Wraith forward, using the vehicle's maneuverability to skirt along the front lines of the UNSC and GAR forces. The Banished, still reeling from the surprise assault, seem to be scrambling to reestablish their lines. Bubba took advantage of their disarray, using the Wraith's heavy guns to provide cover for the advancing friendly troops. The plasma fire sears through the air, obliterating Banished positions and forcing them to keep their heads down.

  Subaru, watching the battle unfold through the turret's view, directs the fire with deadly accuracy. "Hit them again on the left flank." BUbba expertly guided the Wraith, its heavy guns blazing and obliterating a cluster of Banished positions on the left flank. The explosion sends shrapnel flying, the Banished soldiers scrambling for cover. The Wraith's armored hull absorbs a few lucky shots, but overall, the vehicle holds up remarkably well.

  As Bubba and Subaru continued to wreak havoc, Hawkins' voice crackled over the comms, his tone urgent. "Bubba, Subaru, excellent work! Keep that pressure on the Banished. We're pushing forward now."

  Bubba "Sub! We might even get more kills than Ahsoka or Rem at this rate! This is awesome"

  Subaru chuckles, a hint of adrenaline-fueled glee in his voice. "Don't count your chickens just yet, Bubba. But yeah, this is pretty incredible. I never thought I'd be driving a Banished Wraith like it's a joyride." He paused, his eyes scanning the battlefield intently. "There's a group of Banished infantry trying to flank us on the right. We need to take them out before they can get behind our lines."

  Bubba nodded, understanding the urgency. "On it." Bubba maneuvered the Wraith, its heavy repulsors churning up the battlefield as he pivoted to face the new threat. "I comm Hawkins sir, be on the lookout for invisible elites. I have a bad feeling that's the only way they could turn the tide"

  "Understood, Bubba. Stay vigilant. If those elites show up, they'll be here in force," Hawkins responds over the comms, his words crackling with tension. You can almost feel the weight of his agreement through the communication device. The Wraith's heavy frame thrums with activity, its systems alert to any threat.

  Subaru, still at his side in the turret seat, nods grimly. "I'll be ready if I see any signs. They won't get past me unnoticed. Not again." The battlefield around them seems to quiet momentarily, as if nature itself holds its breath in expectation. They continue to wreak havoc on the Banished forces, the Wraith's heavy plasma blazing and obliterating their positions.

  Hawkins' voice crackles over the comms once more, his tone urgent. "Bubba, Subaru, we've got a problem. Intel reports that the Banished have a contingent of Elite Snipers inbound. They're our biggest threat right now. I need you to keep an eye out for them."

  Subaru's eyes narrow, his jaw clenching with determination. "You can count on us, sir. We'll be ready for those sneaky bastards." Bubba nodded in agreement, and his hands tightened on the Wraith's controls. The Banished forces, still reeling from the surprise attack, began regrouping. Their heavy infantry advanced, supported by a phalanx of smaller Banished troops. The Wraith's heavy guns roared to life, shredding through the Banished ranks, but their superior numbers became increasingly apparent. A Banished Elite Sniper's shot suddenly tears through the Wraith's left side, causing the vehicle to shudder. The Banished have found their opening, and now they're closing in fast.

  Bubba- "I'm taking us behind the republic shields. We've become a target Sub" he expertly guided the Wraith behind the UNSC and GAR lines, its repulsors hummed as it glided over the earth. The Banished forces, caught off guard, can only watch as you slip away once again. As Bubba reached the safety of the shields, Hawkins' voice crackled over the comms, his words tinged with approval. "Nice work, Bubba. Get that Wraith back to the repair bay ASAP. We'll need it operational for the next push."

  The Wraith's systems whir and click as it powers down, the vehicle now a smoking hulk of metal. Bubba and Subaru exit, both covered in a fine layer of dust and debris. "That was intense."

  Bubba, panting while holding his knees-"What do you think Sub? Back to the front? I won't lie, I want to impress Ahsoka"

  Subaru grins, wiping a smudge of dirt from his forehead. "I thought you'd never ask. Besides, Rem is out there! Let's show them what we're made of." He clapped him on the back, his eyes gleaming with renewed determination. They made their way back to the front lines, the adrenaline still pumping through their veins. As they approach the battle zone, the cacophony of war greets them - the thunderous boom of artillery, the crackle of energy weapons, and the screams of the wounded. The UNSC and GAR forces are locked in a fierce firefight with the Banished, the air thick with the acrid smell of smoke and cordite.

  They spot Ahsoka and Rem, their lightsabers and flails flashing as they cut down Banished soldiers with deadly precision. "Brace yourselves!" Was heard over the coms as the spire erupted in a white light. Not a moment later a huge wind blew down many people, including the Banished. The spire was destroyed. It’s great height towering to the ground in plasma flames.

  When the dust settled, they rushed to help Ahsoka and Rem back on their feet. The battlefield is a scene of chaos, with the Banished forces reeling from the sudden destruction of the forerunner spire.

  "Everyone alright?" you ask, your voice strained with concern as you assist Ahsoka to her feet.

  She nods, brushing off her armor.

  "We're fine. But look at that carnage!" She gestures to the devastation around them, where the explosion had leveled much of the Banished encampment.

  Rem, her breathing labored, limped over to Bubba as Subaru held her upright. "I've never seen such destruction. Whatever did that..."

  Bubba- "Probably a small nuke. What's the word? Are we retreating? Moving? Cleaning them up?"

  Ahsoka's face darkens as she surveys the destruction. "We can't just leave them like this. They'll regroup and hit us harder next time. We need to finish this." She activates her comms, speaking with authority. "All units converge on the Banished position. We're not leaving until every last one of them is neutralized. This is our chance to end this threat once and for all."

  The UNSC and GAR forces rallied, their spirits lifted by Ahsoka's words. Bubba and Subaru moved to join the advancing troops, the adrenaline surging through their veins. As they push forward, a Banished Elite Sniper's shot suddenly tears through the air, narrowly missing Bubba’s head. The Banished forces, despite their losses, are not giving up easily. They begin a coordinated counterattack, their remaining troops pushing back against the UNSC and GAR forces with renewed vigor. The battle intensifies as both sides clash in a brutal melee, the air thick with the sounds of weapons fire and the screams of the wounded.

  Bubba- "Rem! Can your ice hit those snipers? The tanks are busy with the enemy armour"

  Rem nodded, understanding the urgency in his voice. She took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing as she focused on the distant Banished snipers perched on the ruins. The temperature around her drops sharply, and a thick mist rolls out from under her feet, creeping towards the enemy positions. "Al Huma!"

  The mist solidified into a wall of ice, shimmering and opaque, and moved swiftly towards the Banished snipers. The snipers, caught off guard, try to adjust their aim, but the ice wall is relentless. It crashes into their positions, encasing them in a frozen embrace.

  "Whoo that's my Rem!" Yelled Subaru.

  Rem smiles soft and blushed at Subaru's praise, but her face quickly turns to concern as more Banished troops pour out from the ice-encased ruins. "We need to keep moving forward, before they can regroup!" She shouts.

  Ahsoka nods in agreement, her lightsaber flaring to life as she charges ahead. "Stay close to Rem, she'll provide cover for our advance." The UNSC and GAR forces surge forward, emboldened by the destruction of the Banished snipers. The Banished troops, however, are not giving up easily as a tense round of seeking cover, firing, and mele began in the rocky terrain.

  Bubba comms Hawkins “Sir can I make a suggestion? Give them a fake lane of retreat?"

  A tense moment of static fills the comms as Hawkins considers your proposal. "That's… actually not a bad idea. We need to give them something to focus on, to draw their attention away from the main force." He pauses, the sound of gunfire and explosions echoing in the background. "Make it happen. But don't get bogged down. If it goes south, I want you back here in one piece, got it?"

  Bubba and Subaru exchange a determined look. "You're the man with the plan now, what do we do?" Subaru asks, already moving to implement the strategy. Bubba quickly coordinated with other units, rushing down to the left flank behind the chaos of battle, to set up a convincing but ultimately fake retreat path.

  Returning to Subaru behind friendly lines Bubba said,- "Heheh, let's take the wraith and lead them away into an ambush?"

  A wicked grin spreads across Subaru's face at your suggestion. "Now you're thinking like a true tactical mastermind. Wait isnt that a war crime?”

  Bubba- “Usually.”

  Subaru shakes his head and quickly hopped into the pilot's seat of the Wraith, the massive Banished vehicle towering above them both. "I'll take point, you coordinate with Hawkins and the rest of the forces."

  Bubba got on the comms, his heart pounding with adrenaline. "Sir, we're taking the Wraith for a little ride. Give us cover fire, we'll lead them into the canyon to the northeast." Hawkins acknowledged, and soon he heard the rumble of UNSC and GAR vehicles moving into position to provide covering fire for your decoy retreat. Bubba and Subaru sped off in the captured Banished Wraith, its repulsors propelling it over the scorched earth. The remaining Banished forces, seeing their Wraith retreating, follow suit, hoping to survive the battle.

  As Bubba led the Banished forces into the narrow canyon, you hear Hawkins' voice over the comm: "All units, move to your positions now. We have about 40 seconds before they're fully committed."

  Bubba’s heart pounded, head sweating as he realized they were now deep in enemy territory, with hundreds of Banished troops following behind him. Subaru keeps the Wraith at a steady pace, just fast enough to maintain the illusion of a retreating vehicle. "Almost there," he mutters, his fingers dancing over the controls. "They're completely focused on us, no one's paying attention to the sides anymore."

  Buba shouts, “Be ready with the booster on this thing!"

  Subaru's hands tighten on the wraith's controls, his knuckles turning white. "Ready Freddy as you say!” The massive Wraith thunders through the canyon, its repulsors leaving a trail of dust in its wake. Behind them, the Banished forces have fully committed, their vehicles and troops following in a long, vulnerable line. The narrow canyon walls echo with the sounds of their pursuit, the air thick with the smell of burnt metal and scorched earth.

  Bubba checked his HUD, noting the perfect position of the Banished forces.

  Subaru yelled, "Boosting!” the Wraith surged forward with explosive force. The massive vehicle rockets ahead, leaving the Banished forces far behind. Their shouts of confusion and anger echo off the canyon walls as they realize they've been led into a trap. Bubba and Subaru had created the perfect setup for the UNSC and GAR forces waiting in ambush positions on either side of the canyon.

  Bubba- "Turn us around, let's hit em! Fire that plasma cannon, haha"

  Subaru shook his head but complied with a dark grin. The Wraith turned back, moving slowly backwards now and its plasma cannon thundered to life, the intense energy weapon lighting up the darkening canyon like a lightning strike. The first volley slams into the Banished formation, as Subaru steers the massive vehicle in a tight arc. The Banished troops scatter, caught completely off-guard. Some dive for cover, while others return fire, their plasma shots impacting harmlessly against the Wraith's armor. Subaru keeps the Wraith moving, his movements precise and confident as he maneuvers through the canyon. "Holy shit, we just got a lucky hit on a Brute!" "One down, 150 to go." He grins, clearly relishing the mayhem they've caused.

  The UNSC and GAR forces launch their own attacks from their ambush positions, the narrow canyon turning into a chaotic firefight with Banished vehicles exploding in all directions, their crews abandoning ship and attempting to regroup under cover. Their position at the top of the canyon, however, is proving to be an ideal staging ground for precise attacks on their disoriented forces. The air crackles with energy as the Banished forces scramble to regroup, their once-organized formation now a chaotic mess of confusion and desperation. Bubba can see the panic in their eyes as they realize they've been lured into a deadly trap. The Wraith's plasma cannon roars again, its intense plasma enveloping an enemy chopper. The canyon walls reverberate with the thunderous explosions and the screams of the dying as the wheels fly past them.

  Subaru's hands dance over the controls, his eyes narrowed in concentration as he expertly maneuvers the Wraith through the chaos. "We need to keep moving, keep them off balance."

  Bubba- "Nah, it's dicy. Let's head back to friendly lines Sub. I don't want to over extend. Those brutes are desperate and fast."

  Subaru nods grimly, already adjusting the Wraith's course. "Smart call. I was starting to feel a bit too hot myself." The massive vehicle roared to life, its boosters pushing it forward as they left the chaos behind. The Banished forces were reeling from the ambush, their formation in complete disarray. But as they make their retreat, you hear Subaru's warning: "Watch out, 2:00 high, looks like a Kig-Yar sniper team setting up shop on that cliff."

  Indeed, Bubba spotted the telltale glint of Kig-Yar equipment as they begin setting up a cover on a high ridge overlooking your retreat path. He turned the repeating plasma turret to fire at the ridge. "Snipers!" he said over the coms.

  Subaru quickly reacted to the sniper threat, banking the Wraith to the left as a salvo of plasma bolts sizzled past. "You're on the ball, Chief. I got a bead on that ridge with the main guns. Hang on, this is gonna be a tight shot!"

  The Wraith's heavy plasma cannon pivoted and Bubba heard Subaru's shout as he unleashed a thunderous barrage directly at the Kig-Yar sniper nest. The plasma shots streaked across the sky like blinding streaks of white light, and the ridge exploded in a dazzling flash of blue-white fire. Bodies flying.

  Bubba, his mouth agape, “Goddamn Sub! Nice shot!”

  Subaru grins widely, "Thanks, but that was mostly luck. Though I gotta say, I've never seen such a perfect setup for a plasma shot in my life. Those Banished bastards picked the worst possible spot to set up shop - right in our killzone!"

  Bubba- "Alright big guy, get the boosters on, let's get back"

  Subaru flipped a series of switches, and the Wraith's engines roared to life, the vehicle lurching forward with tremendous force. The massive vehicle surged ahead, its boosters pushing it at a breakneck pace. Bubba felt the immense g-forces pressing him back into your seat as Subaru expertly guided the Wraith through the narrowing canyon, its hull scraping against the rock walls as he squeezed through tight gaps.

  "Screw me sideways, that was close!" Subaru shouts over the howling wind, his eyes fixed intently on the narrow passage ahead. Subaru guided the Wraith up an opening in the canyon and back to friendly lines. All along the ridge of the canyon, friendlies were cleaning up the last of the Banished army on this front. The Wraith thundered into the UNSC and GAR staging area, where Hawkins and Commander Smith were waiting. Several soldiers reacted instinctively and shot a few sounds their way before seeing Bubba in the turret seat.

  Bubba didn't have time to react, and chose to kept his cold chills to himself, only giving the soldiers a wry smile. The massive vehicle came to a stop, its engines still thrumming with power.

  "Well, I'll be damned," Hawkins says, walking up to the Wraith. "You two actually pulled it off. That was one hell of an ambush. And a war crime."

  Commander Cody nods in agreement, his face etched with a look of respect. "Your tactics were impeccable. Hawkins claps Bubba on the shoulder, a wide grin spread across his face. "Damn fine work, Chief. I knew you two could pull it off, but that was beyond impressive. The way you led those Banished right into our trap, and then used that Wraith to mop up the stragglers... I'd say you're as professional as they come, without training of course.”

  Subaru hoped out of the Wraith, stretching his arms with a satisfied groan. "It was a team effort, Sergeant. The Chief here had the brilliant idea to use the Wraith as bait, and I just happened to be at the controls. Though I gotta say, I'm feeling a bit stiff after all that maneuvering."

  "Thanks sir. Unless you guys are gunna shoot m again, I'm keeping the Wraith” Bubba laughed

  Hawkins chuckled, a deep, hearty sound that echoes through the staging area. "Well, I don't think anyone's going to shoot you, Chief. Not after that performance. You've earned the right to keep that Wraith. Besides, I think we'll need it for the next phase of our operation." He turns to Commander Cody, who nods in agreement. "We've got a new objective, and it's going to require some serious firepower."

  Commander Cody steps forward, his voice grave and determined. "We're being picked up by a republic ship and sent to another spire. Everyone pack up!"

  Bubba- "Sub that was wicked. I'm glad you're here. Let's find our amazing squad mates and pick up what we can."

  Subaru grinned, clearly invigorated by the adrenaline of the battle. "Wicked is right, Chief! I never thought I'd be saying this, but I'm glad I'm here too. That was the most fun I've had in a tank since... Well, ever!"

  They both exhale, surveying the carnage of the battlefield. The Banished forces were completely shattered, with only a few stragglers left to mop up in the canyon. Their squadmates were already starting to gather their gear, having heard the news about the new mission. Rem waves enthusiastically, Ahsoka is deep in conversation with some Republic soldiers. Rem rushes over and pulls Subaru into a tight hug, her face flushed with excitement. "Subaru-kun! I can't believe you guys actually captured a Wraith! That was incredible!"

  Ahsoka strides over, her lightsabers already sheathed on her belt. She claps them both on the shoulder, a rare smile on her face. "Amazing work, you two. I knew you had it in you, but that was beyond impressive.”

  Buba- "Does this mean I can buy you a drink Ahsoka? Heheh"

  Ahsoka laughs, a melodic sound that rings out across the battlefield. "You know what, Chief? I think I might just take you up on that offer. We've earned a little R&R after that performance."

  Rem bounces on her heels, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Ooh, can I come too? I want to hear all about how you guys pulled off that incredible ambush!"

  Subaru grins, clearly flattered by the attention. "Sure thing, Rem. I'm always happy to have you along. Besides, I think we all could use a little celebration after that win."

  Bubba- "Any word on the space battle?"

  Ahsoka's smile faded, a grim expression taking its place. "Unfortunately, yes. The Republic and UNSC forces are currently engaged in a massive space battle over the planet. The Banished have amassed a formidable fleet, and they're putting up a hell of a fight."

  She gestures towards the horizon, where the distant flashes of energy weapons and the occasional explosion can be seen against the darkening sky. "The situation is precarious, but we can't focus on that now. Our priority is to complete our mission and secure this planet for our allies."

  Rem nodded solemnly, her earlier excitement replaced by a steely resolve. "We'll do whatever it takes, Ahsoka."

  Hawkins approaches them. "We got a new intel. Apparently the monitor was captured by the Banished, not destroyed. Bubba, i don't know how to say this, but… from the Banished transitions, it looks like the monitor is asking for you. Using your name. And after today... I think you'll be a target for them.”

  Bubba's face set in a grim line as he processed the information. The monitor being captured is troubling, and the fact that they were asking for him specifically means they have some kind of leverage or knowledge that could be dangerous, like his meta knowledge. The Banished clearly want something from him, and the stakes of this mission have just gotten much higher. “In fact… I’m the only one here that doesn't belong in a show or game. Oh no…” he thought.

  “The Monitor said something about a Guardian and one that sees all or something. That being said, the monitor is being held at the next spire, I'd like you on the infiltration team." said Hawkinns.

  Bubba sighed and nodded at Hawkins. "Understood, sir. I'll be on the infiltration team. We'll get the monitor back, one way or another." His eyes flick to Subaru and Rem, who are both already gearing up, their faces set in determined lines. Ahsoka gathering fallen equipment, Rem and Subaru checking their weapons.

  Bubba- "Don't forget that drink Ahsoka! Or the card game Sub! I guess I'm going to join the infiltration team now. Sub, keep my Wraith safe please."

  Ahsoka's face falls into a smirk, "We'll hold you to that drink, Bubba. But first, we've got a monitor to rescue and the Banished to put down."

  Subaru gives him a mock salute, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Don't worry, I'll keep your baby safe. I promise I won't let anyone else have a go in it, not even if they beg." He winks, already turning back to the Wraith with a spring in his step.

  Rem moves closer, speaking softly. "Be careful out there, Bubba. We need you back in one piece for that card game."

  Bubba- "Thanks gang. So Hawkins sir, who else is on my team today?"

  Hawkins consults his datapad, looking over at you. “Your team will include Ratchet, Clank, and the survey corps members: Levi, Hange, and and Sasha. They're all ready to move out and support the infiltration. The Banished forces are still actively engaged in space combat, but they've pulled back their ground troops to secure their positions.”

  The spire loomed ominously in the distance, its towers stretching into the sky like fingers reaching for the stars. The monitor's capture had significantly altered the dynamic of the situation, and Bubba could feel the weight of the mission pressing down as he prepare to leave.

  would love any comments! thanks for reading if you made it this far!