This only deepened the Republican pilots' desperation, but to no avail. As the initial surge of manic energy began to fade, their flight speed and evasive maneuvers slowed. Left vulnerable, they became easy targets for the Obsidian fighters and were systematically obliterated over the next thirty minutes.
"Regroup, everyone," Varek ordered calmly, his voice revealing not a shred of fatigue despite the prolonged, high-stress maneuvering.
"Damage reports, one by one," he commanded once the squadron had reassembled into formation.
Samantha spoke first. "My group lost thirty percent shield integrity in that engagement. Factoring in the previous skirmish, overall shields across my flank are down below fifty percent, with slight variations from ship to ship."
"Hmm," Varek hummed, holding his thoughts and waiting for the rest to finish.
Cathy spoke next. "Same situation for my wing, Captain. No significant difference on our end."
