The rebel alliance is finalising their tactics for an attack at the strategic hub of the Empire’s heartland. Having spent much of the last few days attempting to heal the rifts that have threatened to tear the alliance apart, the Jedi feel the time is right to bring the fight to the Empire, and are heading towards the planet of Ventoux, hoping to claim this crucial trading outpost for the rebels.
The key leaders of the alliance have been invited to the bridge of the Millennium Falcon, flagship of the rebel fleet, to discuss the best methods of securing the planet with the Jedi council. Froome Skyrider is keen that bloodshed should be minimal. This view is opposed by Contador Solo and the Belkin warriors, who contend that given the strategic location of the planet the means will justify the ends, and thus any approaches are legitimate. Given the particular atmosphere of the planet, Cavrissian and Grrreipel know that deploying fighters will not be possible, and are prepared to offer their squadrons as ground troops. The Oricans and OPQS droids are also keen to be at the sharp end of the action. The Jedi council decide that Skyrider and Solo will lead up their respective detachments, with support from the Belkins and Oricans, and try to keep the casualty rate low. However, the situation an be very fluid, and decisions will need to be made on the ground as events unfold.
The plan for the next day largely established, the alliance are dismissed, with the exception of Skyrider and Solo. The Jedi want to discuss further the Separatists, just how much of a threat they pose, and whether they can be persuaded into joining the alliance against the Empire, or if there is a risk they will join the Empire against the rebels.
While the Jedi and the leaders of the alliance are discussing the upcoming battle at Ventoux, a mixed scouting party up ahead scans the area for Empire patrols. A possible enemy is sighted, and Simon wheels after him, attempting to take down the lookout craft. Unable to lock onto his quarry, Simon calls for backup. It is vital that word does not get to the Empire before the alliance can make its move, and the lookout ship must be destroyed if the rebels are to have any hope of succeeding at Ventoux. Racing after the lookout, it is left to Trentin to fire the shot that maintains the rebels’ element of surprise.
Trentin fires a deadly stealth shot for the rebels. (REUTERS/Jacky Naegelen photo)
To be continued…
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