Five hours after receiving the distress signal, the task force emerged from hyperspace above Liora-7. The planet's surface was marred by destruction; smoke billowed from smoldering settlements, and the remnants of a fierce battle were evident. Cassian's heart sank as he took in the devastation.
"Scan for life signs," he ordered, urgency creeping into his voice. The crew quickly complied, their monitors displaying troubling data. "There are survivors, but many are in distress."
"Your Highness, we're detecting multiple ships in orbit," Lieutenant Asha reported, her eyes focused on the console. "But they appear to be retreating. The attacking force is pulling back."
Cassian felt a mix of relief and frustration. "Can we identify them?"
"Negative," Asha replied, shaking her head. "They're using a cloaking technology we haven't seen before. We can't pinpoint their origin."
"Order our ships to maintain formation and prepare to assist on the ground," Cassian commanded. "We need to secure the area and provide aid to the survivors."
As they descended through the atmosphere, Cassian couldn't shake the feeling of unease. Who had attacked Liora-7, and why? The retreating forces left more questions than answers. As the task force landed, he steeled himself for the challenges ahead, knowing that the safety of the planet's inhabitants depended on their swift action.
The task force's landing craft touched down amid the chaos on Liora-7. Cassian led the charge as the doors opened, revealing a scene of devastation. Debris littered the streets, and injured civilians huddled in makeshift shelters, their faces etched with fear and uncertainty.
"Secure the perimeter!" Cassian commanded, his voice firm but compassionate. "Medical teams, move in and assess the wounded!"
As the soldiers fanned out, medics rushed to help those in need. Cassian approached a group of survivors, kneeling beside them. "We're here to help. Please, tell us what happened."
An elder woman, trembling, spoke up. "They came without warning—ships raining fire from above. We tried to fight back, but they were too powerful."
Cassian's heart ached for the people of Liora-7. "We will ensure your safety and find out who did this. You are not alone."
Hours passed as the task force distributed food, water, and medical supplies. Cassian coordinated efforts with local leaders, assessing the damage and prioritizing relief. Each moment spent aiding the survivors reinforced his commitment to protect them from further harm.
"Let's set up a command center," he instructed his officers. "We need to gather intelligence on the attackers and prepare for any potential follow-up."
As night fell, Cassian looked up at the stars, vowing to restore peace to Liora-7 and uncover the truth behind the assault.
With the sun rising over the battered landscape of Liora-7, Cassian's task force worked tirelessly to restore order. Medical teams operated in the main square, treating the wounded, while others set up temporary shelters for those displaced by the attack.
Cassian moved through the crowd, offering words of encouragement and support. He felt a growing connection to the people, their resilience inspiring him. "We will rebuild," he assured a group of local leaders. "Together, we can make Liora-7 stronger than before."
As the day progressed, Cassian held a town hall meeting, inviting survivors to share their experiences. Stories of bravery and sacrifice filled the room, igniting a sense of community among the attendees. Cassian listened intently, gathering information about the unknown attackers.
"Have you seen their ships? Any distinctive markings?" he asked, hoping to gather clues.
One young man spoke up, his voice shaking. "They were dark, almost blending into the night sky. I think they had a symbol—an emblem like a claw."
Cassian's mind raced as he noted the details. This was the first tangible lead they had. "We will investigate this further," he assured them. "Your bravery will not go unnoticed."
As the people of Liora-7 began to unite under the shared goal of recovery, Cassian felt a renewed sense of purpose. Together, they would not only survive but thrive, reclaiming their planet from the shadows of fear.