Tales of the Mandalorians

[Dieter Schprokets]

Mandalore Bishop and his consuls stood before his assembled pilots.

The parade formation was unusual; The Alor'ads stood before the warriors, who formed diagonal lines on the square, pointing directly to the Mandalore and his consuls.

He spoke.

"Warriors, several of you have distinguished yourself in battle, demonstrating both raw skill, and the ability to lead others in combat."

"These are the criteria by which we decide who is to become Alor'ad : Honour, Skill, Leadership."

"Seven of you shall make this leap today:"

"Lilian Isadora, Goran Beviin, Samuel Hennessey, Sagitarii, Joe Mizerk, Dan White, and Vau Bendak"

"Do not misunderstand me when I say we do you great honour in this promotion, but do you no favours. There is another requirement. A very thick skin. Men will die under your command. Get used to it."

Each new Alor'ad recieved his rank from one of the Consuls. They then took their positions ahead of the warriors. The Mandalore's voice raised several octaves:

"Prepare to march past, Kidos' Kyrar, RIGHT.. TURN!"

More orders, and the men marched past their Mandalore and Consuls.

And headed for the hangers. To perform inglorious but necessary maintenance on their birds.

Solar anomalies had kept them grounded, but that did not mean their was no work to be done.

Even for the new Alor'ads.

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