Orders came in about a rebel group just outside of our scanner range, reports that were confirmed by three viable sources. A skilled pilot was needed to lead the group sent to end the conflict before it got out of hand. Jeff knew this was his mission and volunteered as soon as word went out. His abilities were well known and his piloting skills were respected by all.
The safety and welfare of his children and family were always in the forefront of every decision he made. His sons would be his legacy, he would ensure he left a better world for them by any means necessary. A satellite was spotted on the edges of the dark side of Jungle Moon Rizpah. Staying in the twilight afforded enough light to conserve energy while offering the cloak of darkness for those without a keen eye. With eight of the best friends and pilots he knew behind him, Major Harrell gave the order to engage. The element of surprise was on their side. The few pods that deployed were quickly targeted.
One by one, Raging Vengeance rained down destruction on their opponents. Lasers fired and cannons roared. Ice blasts were able to slow down targets, precision kicked in and solid hits landed. Major Harrell could feel his inferno's chassis strain as he pulled hard right, seeing someone circling back on Commander MK Mathews. It seemed like a classic mission, without flaw, when the unexpected happened. A mecha came into range, returning from recon to see the fight ensuing. The new arrival got a hot shot off before being taken down by Commander Mathews. It's target was Major Harrell, the damage had been done. With a single crit hit, Harrell found himself inside a crippled vessel, unable to stop the impending explosion.
As fumes built up from the leakage, there was only one thing left to do, take down as many as he could with him. Their mission was to ensure the safety of this sector and he would see it to the end. He spotted the remaining pods in the satellite and headed straight for it. The damage from a few of those cores going off at the same time should do the trick, he'd take them all out. Just before impact, with his final breath, he pledged his life and loyalty to his family and friends. The whole sky was illuminated by the explosion, the flash seeming endless. Debris flew in all directions, a large part nearly taking out Captain van Fleet and Lt. Alexs as they shot by. ~cue epic explosion
The crew returned to base, success was theirs but the cost was priceless. A valued comrade and friend was lost but will never be forgotten. His sacrifice will be immortalized in songs, his victory over the rebel clan will be written about for decades, and his legacy lives on in his children. All who face them will have a ghost to deal with, it's said the spirit of Harrell guards over those he cared for during his life. I'm just glad they're on our side. Thank you for the strength you showed in life and in the face of death, well played my friend. We honor you and your legacy. Viri, non morietur!
Deborah Roaché-Hudak #289133