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Magnetomic Gription Boots

Location: Vandor

Date: 10 BBY

During the Empire’s reign, elite soldiers known as range troopers—trained to endure harsh conditions—were stationed on far-flung worlds. On the snowy planet of Vandor, a range trooper detail was posted to guard the 20-T Railcrawler conveyex line, which carried coaxium and other valuable cargo to keep the Empire’s fleet running. Guarding the high-speed transport required courage and a certain gastrointestinal fortitude. At the first sign of any threat, range troopers had to spring into action, patrolling the exterior of conveyex trains as they hurtled onward at speeds of more than 80 kph (50 mph).

To perform this dangerous task, each trooper was issued with a pair of magnetomic gription boots. The controls were usually tucked into a matching vambrace. Once activated, the boots’ mag-seal grip allowed a trooper to plod securely across the roof of a speeding conveyex. Weighing in at 4.5 kg (10 lbs) per boot, it took considerable effort and training to be able to walk—let alone fight—while wearing them.

The rugged, heavy-duty boots have a somewhat droid-like appearance, with an exposed servomotor assembly at the ankle. Twin lights on each shin give clear readings as the mag-seal grip is activated. The boots’ oversize, chunky components appear clumsy, but in reality made it easier for troopers to maintain and repair them without assistance from mechanics. At the top of the front shin, a handle enabled soldiers to carry each boot between shifts or during downtime onboard the busy transport system.

The few soldiers who served in this sub-sector of the Imperial military, such as Captain Denwade Banevans and his squad, were known to be exceptional troopers who relished their work. Thanks in part to their gription boots they not only welcomed trouble, they were well prepared for it.

DK