Tales of the Mandalorians

[Dieter Schprokets]

The Warriors, Alor'ads, and Consuls were in formation on the parade square in the (recently repaired) hanger.

The formations had a similarity to a Bretonian squadron on parade, in that the Consuls were in front, their "Wings" behind, and the Alor'ads before their respective squadrons. But the similarity was lost in one regard; the Mandalorians were in diagonal formations. It looked good, but marchpasts were hell, and usually not even attempted.

William took his place at the Dias, and called Mandalorian drill commands. At a certain point the Mandalorian equivalent of "Stand at Ease" was given, and the pilots all relaxed somewhat.

"Warriors", William began, "I have called you here for two solemn tasks, one which gives me pleasure, the other great pain."

"Firstly, we are here to honour an Alor'ad who is being elevated to Consul; Sagitarii."

The new Consul marched smartly up to the dias, and received his signet ring; the only mark of the Consul. His new medal, the "Inya'Motir", actually looked far more impressive, but conveyed none of the authority that the signet ring did.

This was popular with the men. Sagitarii had distinguished himself in battle, and had frankly made the Mandalorians more money than most. Good pilots kept the organisation in the black; the more money, the more (and better) ships, the more kills, and the more money.. etc.

God help the balance sheet if peace were to reign..

William continued.

"Secondly, I regret to report that Consul Kandosii is missing in action; he is feared lost, in Kusari."

The crowd stirred with a murmur of alarm.

"He cannot function as a Consul in absentia, if , rather WHEN he returns, he shall have the rank of Alor'ad."

The Mandalore smiled.

"Do not lose hope, warriors. Bear in mind, not all those who are lost to us stay that way. Right, Aden Jango?"

A grim looking man currently commanding a forward squadron nodded. His gunboat was a welcome addition to the fleet.

William dismissed the pilots, who then crowded around to congratulate the new Consul.

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