NationStates Jolt Archive

The Prophecy
[MEGA THREAD]
No posting without permission. No OOC posts please. You can contact me via a tg or if you want to have a discussion I can be found on Wardventure1@aol.com for my msn contact.


After the death of EMPEROR PALPATINE twelve years ago, The tyrannical DARK LORD of the Sith DARTH VADER has ruled the Galaxy through injustice and fear, striking down anyone who would dare to oppose him.

In an apparent last bid for freedom, one of the last JEDI KIGHTS has managed to steal the Empires most nefarious weapon, the GALAXY GUN, which has the firepower to destroy an entire planet.

Determined to track down the GALAXY GUN before it falls into the hands of the rebellion, DARTH VADER himself has moved to personally bring the traitors to justice.

Tracing the rebels to the remote jungle world of Ishthir, the Empire has begun to search for clues . . . .

Darth Vader surveyed the Ishthir system through the lens of mechanical eyes. His respirator mask, the one his former master had gifted to him, still remained functional even after all these years. The appearance on the outside was one designed to instil fear and terror on anyone who would declare themselves enemies of the Empire, while on the inside, Darth Vader was submerged in countless displays, each coloured in a different shade of crimson.

Vaders former master Palpatine, had personally required the survival suit to be painful, to be uncomfortable, to bring his apprentice to rage at the slightest moment, so that the dark side would truly be uniform in Anakin Skywalker. It was the perfect tool to halt any moves away from the path he had been dragged along, it was the last and only gift that Palpatine had ever selflessly given.

Standing to the right of Darth Vader was Admiral Liath, who clutched the most recent commscan report of the system. Unlike the long deceased Admiral Ozzle, Liath knew the preferred tactics of his master and kept the fleet undetected. Handing the report to Darth Vader, Liath waited.

“Admiral Liath, move the fleet into attack formation, and have general Hain prepare his men.” Vader threw the report onto a briefing table and walked quickly from the bridge, towards the primary hanger bay. Admiral Liath turned towards his crew and barked out the Emperors orders.

To Calculate a micro hyperspace jump inside a system is a most delicate affair, it is presented with countless dangers, of asteroids, debris, rubble, civilian vessels and of course military ordinances which may lie hidden in the path of any Imperial onslaught.

Yet despite this, perform a micro jump the task force did propelling the Imperial armada from the depths of nowhere to instantaneously appear above the jungle world of Ishthir. Deploying over the only habituated settlement on the planet the Imperial forces bean to tighten the hangman’s noose.

Darth Vader settled comfortably in the cockpit of his fighter as the routine start up procedures drew to a close. Technicians began their final checks on the fuel lines, scanning the laser barrels for any weakness and of course waiting for any command that the emperor could give them. Instead the green ignition lights for the ion engines flickered on Vaders fighter hurtled into space towards the skulking shadow of the Galaxy Gun.

Green Laser fire engulfed Vaders arc of vision as Imperial forces saturated the planet below in preparation for ground assault. Within moments a great orange tinge enlightened the southern continent as fire storms engulfed entire regions in subatomic flame.

There was no resistance in space as Vader made his advance. Flanked by ten heavy troop transports and fifteen wings of fighters, Vader could now see the Galaxy Gun clearly through his ocular implants. It showed little to no signs of damage on the surface, and curiously there wasn’t a joule of power being detected by any scans.

“Accelerate to attack speed” Vader ordered.

Abruptly the troop transports increased their forward thrust closing the gap between them and the superweapon. The absence of any form of resistance was the biggest concern for everyone on the attack vector. No one in their right mind would dare steal an Imperial warship of this importance and then leave it abandoned in space.

Decelerating, the first of the transports locked onto the hull of the Galaxy Gun, cutting through its wafer thin armour, the first storm troopers deployed inside the belly of the beast.

THE FOLLOWING IS THE AUDIO RECORDING OF THE INITIAL BOARDING PARTY:

Captain Appo: “There’s no light or gravity in here. Captain Leik inform Lord Vader that he will have to wait a few minutes before boarding.”

Major Leik: “Acknowledged patrol one. Proceed directly to reactor control and re-establish life support as a first priority.”

Captain Appo: “Orders received command.”

Trooper A: “I don’t like the looks of this sir, it’s like a bad movie from the holonet.”

Captain Appo: “You shouldn’t be watching that trash.”

Trooper A: “I just follow your example sir.”

Trooper Seuss: “Sir, this door isn’t going to budge. It’s jammed from the other side.”

Captain Appo: “Can you cut through it?”

Trooper Seuss: “Haven’t got a clue, don’t think it would be wise either, not with the hull this thing has sir.”

Captain Appo: “Command, our route to reactor control is blocked, bulkhead doors are non-responsive, we need orders.”

Major Leik: “You have new orders Captain, find the nearest data terminal and download all local information.”

Captain Appo: “Yes sir, you get that Seuss?”

Trooper Seuss: “Already downloading from the local drive.”

SOUND IDENTIFIED AS BULK HEAD DOOR OPENING.

Captain Appo: “Get the torch on that door. Serge, take position round that corner, try and stay in position.”

SECOND SOUND IDENTIFIED AS LIGHTSABRE INGNITION.

Captain Appo: “Command, we have hostiles, we need reinfor. . .”

RECORDING TERMINATED.

Darth Vader led the combat air patrol around the Galaxy Gun, getting a feel for piloting again. It had been such a long time since he had led a combat group, but now, now that he was in command of everything, he would no longer tolerate simple protocol.

The prestige of this capture would terrify the lesser commanders in the fleet, and warn them that Darth Vader was not too old to rip them apart, personally if necessary. Listening to the boarding parties transmission he waited for anything substantial.

“Lord Vader.” A small, holographic major Leik manifested before Vader.

“What is it Major?”

“We have lost contact with one of our combat patrols, audio analysis of the battle indicates the use of a lightsabre. We thought it necessary to inform you.”

“How long ago Major?”

“Two minutes my lord, would you like us to send additional teams to track down this jedi?”

“Leave him to me Major, once your men have restored power and gravity I will deal with this jedi myself.” The transmission ended.

Continuing his sweep around the Galaxy Gun for some fifty minutes Vader concentrated upon the force, searching its tremors for any clue as to who could be on his ship.

Five Years Ago
Planet Miranda
Farstars Confederacy

The Planet of Miranda laid deep inside the Farstars and it had little in the term of resources that would make it an important system for a nation. It was a dead end system in the Farstars with only a single wormhole acting as its entrance and exit point. Yet it was inhabited with almost a billion souls scattered across its two major continents and many islands. But society on Miranda was a collection of pre-industrial nation-states and even more backward towns. Yet, for all of this Miranda was one of the most important worlds in the Farstars and the Greater Republic, it was the training ground for Jedi.

The few Jedi Masters of the Republic would live in this backward society, and watch. They would watch people develop, and adapt to the events which unfolded around them. Every now and then they would discover force-sensitive and endeavor to train them in the ways of the force. But it was a harsh training on Miranda and barely half could be deemed successful candidates, the rest would have to stop their training and in turn accept a separate service within the Republic. Many of the Republic's best Jedi were born or trained on Miranda, Hera Agatheon is one example, but more failed their trials This is the story of one of those.

The Jedi Temple on Miranda was a non-descript affair, it laid near the center of the city of Harlech in a three story hall. It was here that the results of a trainee’s trails would be evaluated and a determination as to whether they could continue their training or not. Three Jedi sat behind a large oaken table looking down upon the young trainee.

“You subdued the bandit chieftain Korla, he was at your mercy Trainee. What did you do next, you were aware of the proper procedures were you not?”

“Yes Master Franklin I am. I should have restrained him and brought him back to Duke Tancred for trial. I did not.”

“What did you do instead?” The Jedi master asked as he leaned forward and peered into her eyes.

“He taunted me. He remembered who I was, he remembered what he had done to my family and I, and he laughed. I couldn’t help myself, I loved them so much and I had beaten their murderer, I avenged their death.” She said the words knowing that she couldn’t hope to lie here and get away with it.

“Yes, you gave into your anger, it was not justice you served here, it was you attempting to sate your sense of loss and grief. While these emotions are normal for most people, you are training to be something greater then that. A Jedi cannot give into those emotions for there is too much danger in them. You have been exposed to the dark side of the force and have opened a door for it into you. If only for a moment, it can not be closed it will forever tempt you and it has consumed some of the greatest Jedi known. You have failed in your training young one. You must be exiled from the Order training, and you will serve the Republic through another means.”

The sentence hit her so hard. She had spent the last four years training to become a Jedi Knight, she had sacrificed so much and gotten so close to the end only to be told it was not to be. She felt those dark emotion fill her and she looked upon the masters gathered with a silent fury. Then she quelled the emotions knowing that she would only be proving them correct. Without saying anything else she activated her light saber, and used it to cut the two foot long padawan braid from her head, then placed both on the small table before her, before she turned and left the chamber. When she was gone, the one robed figure who sat in the room stood and approached the three masters, he picked up the light saber and clipped it to his belt.

”This is not right, I can feel it she is meant to become a Jedi.”

The Chief Master spoke again,

“We can not take the risk Master Hawkins. She will be cut off from the force and sent to serve the Republic. She agreed to this she knew the risks.”

“You are wrong.” He said as he turned to follow his trainee, he caught up with her just outside the Hall,

“I will perform the ceremony, I can make it so you wont remember any of this.”

“Yes, Master I would like that. I am sorry I failed you, I am sorry for everything.”

“Don’t be young one. I can sense that this is not the end of your story, one day we will meet again, I can feel it.”

After this day Jedi Trainee Vai Mitchell no longer existed.

Listening Post B-574
Planet Ishthir
Present Day

Ishthir was a jungle planet located near the border of the Corporate Sector. It was deemed as an important listening station for the Republic to warn of any possible incursion from the ever opportunistic Corporate Sector upon the Republic’s northern frontier. But it proved to be a rewardless and dull duty full of routine and no excitement. It was a place one was stationed to a tour of recuperation, and for all the faults of the smugglers settlement in which the post was hidden it provided for much enjoyable entertainment for those without high moral standards. Which was one of the reasons why Captain Vai Mitchell of the 10th Republican Jump Marines was thoroughly enjoying this tour in command of the covert listening post with her squad of marines. It started off as a normal duty day with very little of interesting occurring. Several freighters had jumped into the system or departed but nothing out of the ordinary. That was when all hell broke loose. At first she couldn’t believe what she saw form inside the holotank. On the new arrival into the system. It was the Galaxy Gun one of the Empire’s most important superweapons. For fear of its safety the empire had always stationed the weapon system in deep space, and moving it often so that it never was resupplyed in the same place more then once. And yet here it was in her sector. There response to the situation was automatic, a messege was sent immediately to High Command on Mon Calamari to inform them of the presence of the weapon, then two of her twelve marines entered into a civilian freighter and launched from the space port heading in the opposite direction as the Gun had entered the system, they would do a short emergency jump out of the system before making a longer jump to the nearest republic system.

Then the Imperial Fleet showed up, it was the Death Squadron, Vader’s personal command centered around an SSD. There was very little else she could do when it encircled the system and the beginning launching its fighters and parasite craft to board the Gun and undoubtedly the smuggler city as well. There was really only one order she could give in this situation.

“Case Foxtrot. Everyone change into civilian gear and scatter into the town and lay low. Either High Command will come or they wont. Either way we are fucked. We will regroup at rally point T-21 in two days. May the Force be with us all.” As her small squad changed into local cloths and abandoned the post she went about rigging the charges which would destroy the post. Just as she finished and left, the bombardment began, and she doubted anyone would notice one more ruined building among so many.

But as she looked up to space and watched as the lasers swarmed down onto the planet she felt something strange inside her, she was filled with dread, a sense that’s something horrible was in orbit. She shook her head and cursed herself for stating the obvious, there was a lot of horrible up there and it intended nothing but death for those who stood in its way. The others would likely lay low and make for the hideout and wait for extraction. She inserted a fresh charge into her heavy pulsar rifle, and reminded herself she was a marine and if the enemy meant to kill her it wouldn’t come cheap.

Unknown Location
Imperial Space

She tried to move her arms but she only felt the cold steel of the cuffs dig into her wrists and hear the sounds of the chains which connected them to the chair. It was the same with her ankles. She could not see anything either since she woke up there had been a black bag over her head so she could not see anything or where she was. She could feel the bag expand and contract with her breath and she was thankful that she could still breath. She did not remember much about how she was captured, even now after it had all occurred.

She was a Captain in the Star fighter Corps attached to the light cruiser Agile, which was tasked with other similar scout ships with the gathering of reconnaissances from the Imperial base in the Maw. The Maw was a major imperial fleet base and was poised right on the border with the Republic. If the Republic was to strike back at the Empire at some point in the future it would have to deal with the threat poised by the Imperial forces staging out of the Maw, and to do so they would need accurate intelligence. That was her mission to help gather that information. Unfortunately her spy ship was compromised and before she could self destruct, her ship was hit by a powerful Ion cannon and she was captured. Next thing she remembered was waking up in her present condition which she reflected was not very comfortable.

She was sure that there would come a time soon when the Imperials, their clones, or worst would make themselves known to her. And then they would interrogate her using drugs, pain sticks or other nefarious instruments to learn everything they could from her. She knew that she would rather die then give them any information, but like anyone she heard of the horrific stories to reach back to the republic of the Imperial treatment of their prisoners. Even if she told them anything or nothing what did she have to look forward to? A life sentence in the mines of Kessel digging up spice...

So she tested the restraints again and found they did not buckle or yield and she groan in her acceptance of her current situation.

Tagging. Sithy you got a TG.

Godulan tag for further reading (and maybe more, though seems distinctly unlikely) with Wick's permission.

TAG (I'll be TGing you soon)

Planet Side

Trooper Goose Lain marched past the raised Imperial flag as it ruffled in the brazen wind. He looked up feeling nothing but awe as its black and grey demeanour bristled against the mighty fires traversing the horizon. The sky, blotted out to the human eye lay masked by a thick cloud of ash which would have turned day into night. Instead, what was left of the settlement choked in a sinister orange glow, its light foretelling the disaster to come.

Overtaken by the first walkers to lumber out of their transports Goose and his comrades followed in their wake, conscious of the time limit imposed on them from the fleet in orbit. The techs estimated that it would be little more than three hours before the fires devoured the small central enclave of this mercenary hovel. More than enough time to extract whatever prisoners were required.

Enjoying the peace of devastation that his emperor had wrought on this world, Goose savoured the reality of the situation. Animals could be seen just through the undergrowth flocking away from the fires, desperately seeking for some kind of refuge. “Goose! Did you get that?” A voice checked in through the link.

“Sir, get what sir?”

“Ach Goose, orders from command, we’ve only to take prisoners, the emperor wants them alive, for interrogation, set your weapons and grenades to stun.”

“I didn’t know we had a stun settings sir.”

“Neither did I until today.”

Goose mumbled and fought the stiff lever to click the forward setting on his repeater, alternating the power output for non-lethal frequencies. As he and his squad struggled to dust off the stun setting, the sound of imperial walkers and their main cannons reverberated through their bodies. Little more than four hundred meters ahead, the AT-AT’s scoured away the last barricades of vegetation, preparing the hovel for a frontal assault. Eerily, during the infrequent lulls of AT-AT’s a gentle humm of futile return fire could be heard.

Trotting into a short run, Goose jogged with his comrades and burst through the final tree line revealing the motley settlement in all of its poverty. Moss Eisley came to Gooses mind, a space port which had once been described by some poet, as the greatest hive of scum and villainy the galaxy had ever given home to. Yet, this place went to new pits of illegality.

Disused torture cages lay in heaps lining the main road towards the settlements landing pad. Rotting corpses could be seen in open air which had obviously been picked clean by carrion birds of some sort. This was a slaver settlement. Xenos, enslaving humans for their sick and twisted games.

Catching the implications Goose jerked his head towards the few hobbled roof tops that could hold snipers, somewhat concerned now that he was overly exposed. “All ground forces this is orbital command, request granted for supremecy support. Prepare for ion strike, in five, four, three, two one.”

A delay of five seconds held the squad as a series of blue ion blasts impacted the settlement. Squad leader, who was the seventh man in front of Goose raised his hand. “Alright you lot, lets move on and fix your damn vibroblades, they’ll probably use hand to hand weapons now. Remember, keep together, shoot first ask questions later, and if necessary, set your weapons back t o kill.”

Goose accepted his orders but he paused for just a minute taking the opportunity to look around and watch as hundreds of troopers emerged from the jungle. Like a furious envoy of ants, they all moved onwards, relentlessly. Tightening the snare.

Orbit

Pacing the command deck of the Executor Admiral Liath grumbled at the reports of multiple internal explosions stretching throughout the interior of the Galaxy Gun. Never having preferred to utilise the opulent command chair that his predecessors seemed so enamoured with, Liath instead enjoyed to pace. And pace he did.

Walking diligently, with precise care, he paused at the tactical control station and in a soft voice he whispered to the operating technician “All guns are to cease fire.” Moving onwards he came to the next station finishing his line of commands “Relay orders to the Deceiver, Irrespective and Injustice to assume tractoring positions around the Galaxy Gun, coordinate their efforts.”

Laith ceased pacing for a moment, detectinga presence to his left. “Yes, what is it captain?”

“Our probe droids have detected a communications burst from a small satellite in orbit. I have ordered technicians to begin taking the device apart, but initial suggestions lead us to believe that it is Republican.”

“Republican captain, now that is interesting idea.” Laith smiled and walked towards the bridges large observation portals. “Now, what if it is, would the Republic be doing in this remote system, so far from their territory capt ain? Perhaps you can make some suggestions?”

“Our ground forces have reported that the settlement appears to be a pirate stronghold sir, perhaps they are launching raiding strikes on the shipping lanes?”

“Yes, it is possible, but piracy has been almost unheard off in this sector, so what else captain.”

“I do not believe we can ignore the current situation with the Galaxy Gun Admiral.”

“Indeed, even more so since the detection of a Jedi upon our ship don’t you agree? And now, additionally we find a communications satellite.” Laith stopped at the observation portals. “It would appear, that whatever is going20on captain, that it would involve our Galaxy Gun in some respect. But, whether it involves the Republic or just some of their manufactured equipment is certainly another matter”

“Should I have the emperor recalled sir?”

“No, not yet, but have the Trident move into an escorting position.” Laith started to pace again along the wide berth of portals. “Communicate to our assault forces to be on guard for anything that is Republican in nature, I want that settlement torn apart.”

“And the Galaxy Gun Admiral?”

“Once main power is online, have the boarding crew input hyperspace coordinates for Tarkins Fang, I want t he vessel analysed, and I want to know what happened to the crew.” Allowing the good captain to be dismissed, Laith decided that he really should know the mans name.

Planetside

Chaos and confusion owned the streets of the hovel. People panicking and running in every direction at a loss of what to do. Some even tried to run through the flames to escape with predictable results. She had taken stock of the situation, there would not be any escape from this situation for any of them. The orbital bombardment had caused a great fire which now encircled the city. They would not be able to exfiltrate to the landing zone for extraction.

Vai was a veteran of the Jump Marines, who were specializing soldiers of the Republican military whose mission it was to insert from orbit with power armor against fortified enemy targets. As she watched the approach of the Imperial Legion she sorely missed her Hauberk power armor and its heavy weapons. Instead she would have to play this one smart, and try to maximize the casualties she inflicts before the end.

She could see the criminals and smugglers of the city running about, some had chosen to fight rather then die, but most of them had blasters which undoubtedly were rendered ineffective by the bombardment of the Ion cannon without specialized hardening systems that much was sure. The one who found themselves going hand to hand against a trained clone trooper would be in for a nasty and fatal demise. She knew that the three men of her squad would be doing now, looking for shelter from the fire or likewise attempting to wait out this storm. She had other ideas which was one she was laying prone atop of a kitchen table on the second floor of a hovel looking down the main street of the smugglers town. Unlike her men she did not change into civilian cloths but rather the skin suit of the Marines, it was a form fitting affair designed to be not only the toughest non-powered armor available but to also act as a survival suit in decompressed areas of a war ship. The Suit itself was comprised of the best anti-ballistic fabrics available, in addition to having 'storage vacuoles.' These are the extremely small cells, located throughout the structure of the skin suit itself, in which consumables are stored under immense pressure. In effect, each of these small storage "tanks" or vacuoles can be thought of as a small armored bead, which, taken all together, have the effect of producing a sort of chain mail-like, flexible, articulated armor that would not only serve to defeat projectiles but would also negate much of the effect of a blaster bolt.

From this vantage point she looked at the Imperials through the scope of he M-14 Pulsar rifle. She watched as six civilians attempted to surrender to the onslaught and continued to watch as they were apparently gunned down. Well now was the time to act. She would get two shots from this hide, before she would shift her position. Imperial Clones were good troopers if not the most knowledgeable about there weapons or all that creative. But they excelled at frontal assaults due to their fanatical sense of duty to their commanders and orders. Those commanders she noted were quite easy to find and identify, they were the one's whose helmets had yellow or blue stripes. She found one less then a kilometer away leading his troops forward against ineffectual resistance. He was about to discover not everyone in this down was defenseless.

She breathed in deeply as she sighted upon the clone officer, her computer assisted sights calculated the effects of wind speed, velocity of target, curvature of the planet, as she placed the cross hairs over the small but exposed area between the clone's helmet and chest armor. She held her breath for a moment before squeezing the trigger. One 15mm hypersonic dart sped from her pulsar, moving at a velocity much greater then the speed of sound the Clone would be hit long before he heard the rifle shot. She lined up on another clone to his right aimed a lot quicker simply sighting center mass and fired again.

Vai then rolled off the table onto her knees, she quickly pivoted and ran down the back staircase leaving the building.

Quermia System
Northern March
Republic Remnant

Admiral Stayr Nan'kav stood inside the armored bridge of his flagship the Bothan Assault Cruiser Ralroost. He stroked his neatly trimmed face fur as he considered the task that lay before him. The Bothan was in command of the Republic’s 3rd Fleet and responsible for the defense of the northern frontier based out of Quermia. The disposition of naval forces in the republic saw that each system contained a picket of mobile forces adequate enough for defeating any pirate attack or delaying an Imperial advance until a local defense fleet could arrive. The 3rd Fleet was responsible for the Northern March of the Republic, which contained more then ten systems. The Northern March was located at the end of the Perlemian Trade route and was considered to be the most secure of Marches under the least threat of attack. As such Stayr knew that his fleet was smaller then most other local defense fleets would be in the Hutt March or the Eastern March closer to Imperial occupied sectors.

Yet, his taskforce was the closest to the Ishthir system and in this mission it was the rapidly and shock of their response which would grant a victory not overwhelming application of force. He also took some small measure of pride in his people and their vessels and knew they were as well trained and equipped as they possible could be. As he looked at the holo-tank he was also comforted by the ten knew signatures that had arrived in the system only an hour ago, the Farstars 5th Carrier Group had been on training maneuvers in the Toola system and had been ordered to reinforce his taskforce for this mission. The Carrier group contained two of the Farstars Navy’s Fleet Carriers. Each was 4 kilometers in length and along their flanks were the launch bays for one of the two hundred light attack craft they carried.

His own flagship the Ralroost was the product of his nation’s recent militarization. He knew before the creation of the Bothan Assault Cruisers his nation was known more for its skills of subterfuge then its martial practices. The BAC changed this, the Bothan were indeed an intelligent race and they had listened to the new concepts brought in by the Farstars about naval ship design. The BAC was no longer then 850 meters but it was a ship designed to defeat other capital ships first an foremost. It had a combat power greater then a MK II Star Destroyer, and about a twentieth of the crew requirements. It was an advanced ship design with heavy concentrated firepower, strong shields and a surprising large hanger capacity. What it did not have was a legion of armored vehicles and a corps of storm troopers aboard, this sacrificed capacity for ground troops is what allowed the Republic to create such a powerful warship in a smaller than expected package. The four BAC’s of the 9th Bothan Attack Division would comprise the most potent ship killer component of his taskforce, supplemented by the 28th Republican Battle Squadron centered around the MC-90 cruiser Mon Terrande, two more older Mon Cal cruisers and four Corellian gunships.

“Stayr, I am sorry for putting you in this situation. The situation is fluid and we were not able to get a clear force composition and disposition of the Imperial fleet, but the listening post did get a positive identification on the SSD, its Vader’s flagship, we can expect most of the Death Squadron is in support. We can not let this opportunity to escape us though we need to attempt to destroy the Galaxy Gun, it’s a clear and continuing danger to the Republic.”

The hologram of Daneh Ghorbani flickered before the Republican Admiral. He had not seen her in a while, but it always warmed his heart to see the Warden of the Republic, her long red hair, and even the long scar that ran from her left eye to her chin. He himself was a veteran of many battles, and had served on vessels that had been seriously damaged but he had never once been wounded in combat. He looked to her and could plainly see that she had, but also that like him her greatest wounds were not visible.

“Daneh, my people know our duty. We will try.”

“My old friend, remember you must preserve your command if the situation is hopeless do not sacrifice anyone unnecessarily, and may the Force be with you.”

With that her image disappeared. And he ordered his taskforce into hyperspace.

Tag

Galaxy Gun

Darth Vader entered the main hanger bay of the Galaxy Gun, touching down in one of the few areas that wasn’t littered with twisted scraps of metal and rubble. Avoiding the numerous fuel fires that continued to burn on deck, Vader quickly discerned that proceeding deeper into the ship was currently an impossibility.

For over an hour he had been delayed by traps and diversions, forcing him to personally take command of the space patrol around the Galaxy weapon, and for over an hour the situation was unacceptably unclear. The lack of information that his officers clasped to with open hands, only pointed to the ingenuity of the Jedi and their tricks.

Vader seethed in his solitude at the very notion that the Jedi were strong enough to launch such an audacious attack. Frustration gripped him from his very core. He had destroyed the Jedi years ago, he had killed them, he had levelled their temple, exterminated their legacy, their civilisation and yet, they still fought on like reckless hounds. Palpatine had been right, the Jedi are relentless, and unless they are destroyed once and for all it will be civil war without end.

So, in the cold embrace of the hanger, Vader’s frustration quickly spawned into anger. He was angry, angry at being made to look the fool, angry that his empire now lay undefended, angry that the Jedi had managed to outsmart him, but most of all, Vader raged at the very fact that the Jedi still existed.

They were close now, so, very close. He could feel the presence of the lightside pushing against his own. He could feel thoughts, fears, and a futile inability to suppress eternal anger. Whoever it was, held a presence struggling for purity bulwarked in a methodical and calculating tenacity. But he could sense no more, the darkside clouded everything. Demonstrating brief and unusual patience, Vader closed his eyes for just a moment, commanding the force to search the expansive hanger bay, extending his grip through the many shadows and fires.

“Lord Vader.” The Executor comms officer suddenly interrupted.

“What is it?”

“My lord, main power will be online in five minutes, you will then be able to proceed to the command and control station from your current location.”

“I am waiting Lieutenant, be sure it is no more than five minutes.” Vader closed the channel and turned his face upwards towards the rafters, this Jedi was much closer than he thought. “The force is with you young Jedi, but it will not be enough.”

“I was wondering when you’d realise I was here.” A voice echoed from the darkness. “I’ve been waiting for a while now, but don’t worry your majesty I’m doing just fine.”

Vader answered by igniting his lightsabre. “You hide up there in the shadows Jedi, be careful, if you stay there long enough, you may just become one.”

“Only the weak fall to the darkside sith.”

“Oh how little you understand. The darkside only embraces the strong and the powerful . . .” Vader probed the boys feelings easily. This Jedi’s heart was open, his thoughts and feelings, fears and . . . inexperience “Soo you are merely a Padawan Your mind betrays you Jedi, I can sense your fear. Is this all the Jedi can do, can they only manage a boy? Tell me, where is your master?” The Padawan only gave a stretched silence, scuffled by the humm of Vaders lightsabre.

“Admiral Liath.” Vader communicated discretely. “Scan my present location for any additional life signs.” A brief wait followed.

“We are detecting five additional life signs in your immediate vicinity Lord Vader.” Vader acknowledged and returned his attention to the rafters.

“So, Padawan, you have lured me here into a trap.”

“No your majesty, we have come instead to send you a message. We did not steal your weapon, and we refuse to fight against you.”

“How foolish of you to think that I would believe your lies Jedi. Or care for your truth.”

“Surely you must have some concer. . .”

“My only concern is that you, and your kind still exist.” Main power sprung to life sooner than expected illuminating the hanger in instantaneous revelation. Disorientated, as his visual display readjusted, Vader turned to all angles surveying his revealed opponents.

Humanoids, cloaked and hooded in brown each clutched nervously at their lightsabre hilts as Vaders black eyes fell on them. “It is not our will to fight you, we came here to secure this weapon from those below and those unseen. We bring you a message” One of the revealed Jedi repeated.

Vader extended his arm, stretching a clenched fist upwards. “First, you three will watch this one fall.” The Padawan started to choke. “Then each of you in turn will meet your destiny.” Vader pulled the boy from his perch.

“We will not kill you Anakin Skywalker, but we will not let you kill an innocent boy either.” One of the Jedi set out to rescue the falling boy, trying to lower him slowly with the force. Simultaneously, two lightsabres ignited, in front of Vader.

Refusing to hesitate Vader Leapt to life crossing the distance between him and the two Jedi in mere seconds. Astonished at his speed he attacked with, the Jedi were unprepared for the viciousness of his onslaught. Relentlessly and repeatedly his crimson blade fell down upon the blue sabre of one opponent, forcing him to struggle in defence. And, without any effort, Vader capitalised, pushing his left hand through a sloppy guard dispensing with the Jedi’s windpipe instantaneously.
As the first dead jedi crumpled to the ground, Vader turned his attention to another. It had only been five seconds. “What omens brought you here Jedi?”

“We came because the force demands it.”

“Only a Jedi would move at the beckon whim of the force. A Sith, unlike your kind, controls the force and that is why you will meet your destiny in this place. You should never have come.” Vader swung down his blood like blade raking it against the dark green of his opponent. Light flashed as Vader engaged in the dance of combat. Behind him, the Padawan was now safely on the ground, having been lowered to by his master. Shaken but alive the boy charged recklessly at Vader, followed tactfully by his master.

Striking down his second Jedi, Vader pulled his lightsabre from the fallen mans chest and turned to face the remaining two. Accompanied only by the discomfort of his life suit Vader adopted an offensive stance. Memories flashed of the clone wars, where he and his old master OB1 dispensed with droids just as he had with these Jedi. He remembered his own reckless charge against Count Dooku which had cost him his arm. It would cost this boy, his life.


Planet Side

Goose smashed his fist into someones face before ducking a blow from a rather large object. Rolling to his left he kicked out the kneecaps of one merc before wrenching his vibroblade into the abdomen of another. Covered with blood Goose pulled off his helmet and gasped for some air.

His squad had been tasked with the last few mop up procedures. Command had ordered his CO to find at least one of the snipers who was moving through the streets. Unsure as to why they had been given this order, since the fire would burn them to death anyway, Goose moved to the next house, throwing in several stun grenades before entry.

He didn’t need to go in, Z squad announced over the link that they had found a her apparently, in one of the taller buildings, booby trapped to hell by the sounds of everything. Goose decided that they needed his help more than the locals did.

Passing several retreating Walkers which trawled through buildings and homes on their way back to the transports, Goose quickly came to a rickshawed tower, now with no staircase, but boasting a very well armed and acurate sniper somewhere inside.

Updated by Z squad that the last few troopers to go in had been shot in little more than eight seconds, Goose was damn sure he wasn’t going to go like one of them, or even risk it. Besides, Imperial operations directives decreed that there was only ever one answer to deal with a such an embedded sniper. Burn it out.

Clicking a thermal detonator from his belt, Goose sent it flying into the tinderbox tower.

Planetside
Rickshawed tower

This was it the sniper thought. He had been a corporal from the listening post, he had watched his comrades charge the clones un armed and in civilian garb, they died badly to preserve their cover. But he could go out like that, he had to take some of the Clones with him, just like his commanding officer had decided. He however did not have her advanced training just a year out of Marine boot. He did not think to shift his firing position and his blood lust made him far to aggressive to realize the dangerous position he was in. He looked out his gun slit again and sighted on the squad of approaching drones. His tactics may be suicidal but he was a good marksmen, as weapon skills were a priority in the Marines. He began to send rounds down range again and clones fell, some he knew were taking cover others would have been hit he knew as well. He smiled at their deaths and shouted out the ancient battle cry of his service.

"Ooo-Rah...Semper Fi Do or Die!" It was then that the thermal detonator went off and he barely remembered being thrown by the shock wave out into the street two stories down. He screamed in pain as his femur shattered on impact. He couldn't stand everything was moving so slowly. There was a deafening ring in his ears as his head felt like it was going to explode, the concussive force had ruptured his eardrums. He could see that squad getting nearer now and they would soon kill him or worst. He did the only thing he could, he reached for his belt and grabbed his own M-81 fragmentation grenade and pulled the pin then did the unthinkable. He cooked it off for two seconds and then threw it at the clones, it detonated one second later right above the clones.

Now he needed to finish himself off, he grabbed another grenade and went to pull the pin. Just as he grabbed it a bolt hit his wrist, and the grenade fell from it as he screamed in pain again, he tried to roll over to get at it with his good arm, but instead he simply couldn't, his body exhausted, pushed beyond its limits and broken. He looked up and saw the clone that shot him. He noticed his white armor was covered in red blood, more blood on his fist and vibro-blade.

"Go ahead you fucking clone, Kill me you Sith worshiping pussy!" He yelled.

In a Ramshackle Hovel not to far away

Vai could hear the Clones enter the house. She couldn’t see them hidden in the dark as she was. For all the loud chaos of the massacre outside, it was eerily quiet in the small building. The two clones entered the house nosily and in a rush. They were to confident in their stun grenades, whose effects were thrawrted by her marine skin-suit. She heard them talking to one another in well rehearsed voices,

“Clear.” Said One

“Clear.” Said Two.

She waited what seemed like a minute was more like ten seconds. When she heard One say,

“Did you check that closet?”

“Negative sergeant, Ill do it now.” She thought she heard One mutter, “Stupid Shinny” Then she heard to slow steps of Two get closer and closer she could hear him open the latch and pull the sliding door open. She couldn’t tell because of his helmet but she was sure he had big surprised eyes as her rifle spoke in a three round burst. She then charged forward grabbing the dead clone around his waste and used his body as a shield as she charge the sergeant who send many blaster bolts into the back of his dead comrade. Then with a scream she threw the dead clone to the ground and grappled with the clone. She felt a bolt hit her rib change, but the armor of her skin suit held, but it did not protect from the kinetic force of the hit, she felt a sharp pain which she was sure was a rib breaking. But she was on top of the Clone sergeant now, and they tumbled and grappled each looking to get the advantage over the other. Neither finding one until the clone punched her in her ribs, Vai saw stars and everything went black for a moment, she came to watching the Sergeant’s blade come down at her. She deflected it at the last moment with her forearm. The blade cut through her skin suit like it didn’t exist, she felt it hit the bones in her arm but it hadn’t killed her, screaming she plunged her own combat knife into the Clones throat and twisted it. His heavy body fell on top of her. She felt him spasm as his blood left him and soaked her, then he moved no longer.

She stayed like that for a while completely exhausted from the mortal combat. Then with great effort she pushed the dead Clone off of her, and begain to strip him of his armor. Soon she was dressed in the imperial armor and pulled the helmet over her head. She gathered the Imperial weapons and moved out of the cabin, she would have to find a way out of this, or die. There was still option 3, kill a lot more imperials before the dying part. She had a much better chance at that if they thought she was another clone separated from his unit. She walked for a bit looking for some form of transport to steal, when she came upon a street center. There was dead clones all over the street, and the fallen body of a man, who she knew to be one of the men under her command, she watched as one particularly bloody clone, the last one standing shoot her soldier grenade from his hand. And then move in closer to him.

She sidestepped into a dark alley as she heard the soldiers defiant words. She aimed her blaster at the Marine, aiming for his head. The Clone was speaking to he fallen marine know though she couldn’t make out his words. But the clone hadn’t killed him. Did he know who the marine was, would he capture him and torture any possible information from him. It would be a mercy if she eliminated the marine now before the Empire could do any more to him. She squeezed the trigger of the blaster, the ruby bolt took the Marine right in his eye. She shifted her aim quickly to the Clone back and fired at him on full automatic. She watched him go down near the group of dead clones. She wasn’t sure if she had hit him or whether he was a smarter clone who knew the benefits of cover and concealment. With a grunt she stood and ran down the alleyway. Then with a thrust of her shoulder she bashed in a wooden door. Pain again raked her side. It felt like she was breathing with nails driven into her lungs. She looked down and saw a trail of blood dripping from her shoulder. It was flowing out of her torso armor to fast. Whether it was the sight of the blood or the realization that she probably didn’t have much left to bleed a sense of lightheadedness over took her and she staggered right down the flight of stairs leading to the small home’s basement. She tumbled down the steep surface flipping over herself, when she hit bottom she found herself sitting upright somehow.

“Fuck.” Was all she could say, her hands worked at the torso armor plate, she pulled it off, and saw that her shoulder was bleeding, with a big black smoking hole in it. She did not remember getting hit, but who could tell with all the adrenaline in her system. It must have been that clone she last saw. He seemed a bit different from the rest. She could hear someone enter the house above and move about it. This was it she knew she didn’t have the strength to escape this last situation. She removed a fragmentation grenade from her belt and pulled the pin. She went to put it under her, so once the clones killed her and moved her body she would take a last few with her.

Vai Don’t do it. It is not your fate to die here today.

She heard a deep and weathered voice in her mind. She did not recognize it but she heard the authority in it, she knew she was to listen to it. She put the pin back in the grenade, and felt so weak. She felt her hands drop. She sat there unable to move her chest rising and falling so quickly as her damaged lungs attempted to draw in enough air, it felt like breathing through a small straw. Then she looked up and saw the Clone in the bloody armor standing on the top of the stairs. She raised her right hand in it was her pulsar, she steadied it as best she could shutting her left eye to aim. Her weapon weighed only two pounds but it felt like thirty,

“Come get some Clone.” She muttered quietly and fired, again and again.

Imperial Prison Barge
Aduba Hyper Lane
Destination: Kessel.

Inquisitor Valeris walked ever so casually into one of his many holding cells. It was clean, crisp, functionally designed to provide the maximum use of a limited space, and it was of course occupied by a temporary resident. A captured Republic agent, who had been so resistant to her Imperial overseers was now necessarily chained, bagged and drugged to a durasteel chair.

She had been in Imperial care for almost two weeks now, most of that time for her was spent unconscious while she was transferred for processing and interrogation, which was scheduled to start imminently. Valeris was happy that the prisoner was naturally regaining consciousness, which was clear from her occasional groans, but nonetheless she was still in a drowsy state. Valeris pushed a small button on his command bracelet commanding two storm troopers to enter the room, carrying a cushioned comfortable chair. They remained standing against the wall, while Valeris took a seat.

“Wake up captain. It is time to wake up.” Said Valeris. The prisoner done nothing except groan. “I know you can hear me my dear, that is why I am talking to you. Now lift your head please and perhaps we can take that atrocious bag off hmmm?” Defiantly the prisoner raised her head, slowly.

“Thank you, now Isn’t that much better. Take the bag off her face.” Valeris signalled to one of the storm troopers. “Let us take a good look at the person underneath.” The bag was lifted gently from her head, revealing a battered complexion. The captain, as far as Valeris was concerned had gotten off lightly, considering the amount of espionage she had been dabbling in over the past seven months. Looking him directly in the eye, Valeris could tell that this prisoner was now fuelling off of her hatred for the Empire. He laughed. She would soon have a lot more reasons to hate the Empire.

“So lets begin shall we, captain? I’m assuming that’s correct since you were the one in command of your team yes?” Valeris confirmed the data on a small information tablet in his lap. “Next, I need to know your name, rank, and serial number for our records. What are they?”

Galaxy Weapon

The force gripped around the neck of the young padawan as his feet left the ground. Vaders fist was raised and clenched as his obsidian eyes looked down at the boys fallen master as he squirmed helplessly on his back. “Please, please, do not kill the boy.” Vader tightened his grip.

“Kill him? The boy is badly trained, filled with anger and emotion, why would I kill this boy?” Vader threw the Padawan across the hanger bay with the force “This is your last moment Jedi, but I offer you this one chance. Join me and avoid your doom.” Vader placed his lightsabre a threads width from the Jedi’s throat. The Padawan turned his concussed head to his master crawling backwards on hands and feet.

“I will not join you Sith, I cannot.” The Jedi looked up pleadingly.

“If you will not join me, then your Padawan will.” Vader raised his lightsabre for one final strike. Holding it there just long enough for the Jedi to maintain at least some dignity.

“Noooooo.” Screamed the boy as he watched his masters head roll along the floor. Angry, afraid, powerless, the Padawan moved to pick up his fallen lightsabre. Vader casually pulled it away.

“You, will now serve me, or you will meet your destiny, my new apprentice.” The Padawan said nothing as he lay crumpled on the floor. Behind him, clones emerged through the hanger bay doors, bulkheads now opened. “Take him to the command ship.” Vader ordered his clones, “I will see to him there.”

Planetside

Goose stood, shaken and bloodied in the door way as shots went wildly past him. There she was, that damn sniper just lying there on the floor, still firing a pistol with an empty magazine. “Goose.” His C.O asked through the link. “Report back to the landing ground, we’re moving out. The fires speeded up this side of town, some heavy winds blowing it in faster, we’ve got fifteen minutes before this place is toast.”

“Copy that commander.” Goose walked down the stairs kicking the Republic dog unconscious. Next thing she will know, will be the close comfort of an Imperial cell. . .

Galaxy Gun

Vader arrived back on board the Executor expecting answers from his command staff. Awaiting him in the hanger bay was Admiral Liath, who seemed pleased with himself. Dismounting from his personally modified Tie-Fighter, Vader walked briskly. “What is it Admiral?”

“My lord, we have captured Republic agents on the planets surface, and our scouts have captured a deep space communications relay in orbit of the second moon. Our technicians believe it to be of Republican origin.” Vader remained silent. “My lord this entire operation appears to have been orchestrated by the Republic, and now with the discovery of jedi on board the Galaxy Weapon I would suggest that we request more forces be dispatched to the border.”

“No commander, not yet. Interrogate the prisoner and bring what information you find to me.”

“Yes my lord.” Vader walked faster, leaving the admiral behind. He had much to do. . .

Imperial Prison Barge

She already hated the Imperial who was her interrogator. She heard his voice patronizing her but at the same time sounding like a concerned father figure. She blinked her eyes quickly as the bag was torn off of her head. Again the voice trying to convince her that he was here to make her comfortable. She knew better then to believe his words.

But from the sounds of what he was saying, they thought she was in command of a team. Not that she was a solitary pilot of a reconnaissance craft on the edge of the Maw, trying to discern what she could of the Imperial Navy Base and the disposition of the forces arrayed there.

She bucked at her restraints trying once again to get loose but she knew it was futile, she only did it to show her host that she was far from beaten yet.

She tried to answer his question but she couldn’t talk. Her voice broke, her mouth was horribly dry, she licked her chapped lips and tasted only old blood.

“W-Water P-please” She begged of her captors her voice low and scratchy barely audible.


FWS Tiger Claw
Low Orbit of Gas Giant XA-53
Ishthir System
Outer Rim

Captain Senior Grade Theresa Thurston had to give it to the Bothans. They were if anything a subtle but dangerous race. The initial scouting of the system had occurred flawlessly. The Imperial Navy did not give any indication that it detected the Navy scout ships on the fringe of the system. They gave away few betraying emissions, and were heavily ECM-ed. What the scouts were able to detect with their passive sensors was the location of planetary bodies and the Imperial Fleet, allowing for Admiral Nan'kav to formulate his battle plan.

Two hours ago she jumped her CLAC’s (Carriers) into the system behind the mass shadow of the outer gas giants to ensure that the Empire did not detect their arrival. Then she ordered the four hundred light attack craft and fighter escorts of her two CLACs to launch and proceed to intercept the Galaxy Gun, but they did so under as much stealth and ECM as their onboard systems to generate. They had a great distance to cross but even the most alert Imperial sensor operator wouldn’t become suspicious of their presence for some time.

In the mean time she knew that the Admiral had something planned to keep the Imperials attention focused else where. A much greater threat to them while her strike forces would get closer and close to attack range. They were half way to the Galaxy Gun when all hell broke loose in orbit of Ishthir.

FWS-Ralroost
Behind Ishthir’s Moon


The Free World’s Fleet streaked out of hyperspace behind the larger of Ishthir’s two moons. Its face filled the view screen of his flagship which was one of the four powerful Bothan Assault Cruisers that spearheaded his Task Force. It was a risky maneuver to jump a force so close to a large gravity well like a moon unless you had exact navigational data, which he trusted the Farstars Navy scouts to provide him. Even so it was a risk and you took the chance that the benefits of this action would be worth the cost. On the right of the ship’s holotank that displayed all the tactical data of the system, he saw sadly that one of his Corellian gunships did not reapper from hyper, a victim of the moon. Even so it was worth the cost, the Imperials would not notice their arrival until they moved out from behind the moon at attack speed. Surprise and intensity of their initial attack is what would allow them to destroy the objective.


Already the six attack wings of fighters and bombers were hugging the moon sling shooting themselves around its northern pole as they crest the horizon they acceleration was greatly increased by the moon’s own gravity and they oriented their flight path down towards the Galaxy Gun not more then fifty thousand kilometers away. The Ralroost shook as it two used the moons gravity to increase its acceleration to attack velocity. Several of the bridge officers grunted as the inertial compensators struggled with the acceleration rates. Then the main body of the Northern Fleet had cleared the moon and bored down upon Darth Vader’s feared Death Squadron and the Galaxy Gun. This day would witness the first battle between the forces of the newly christened Free Worlds League and the Empire in over a decade of uneasy truce. Today that truce was shattered but so also was the notion that resistance against the Galactic Empire was futile.

“Fleet Orders, Main target is the Galaxy Gun, concentration on its propulsion and power generation systems. We must prevent it from escaping before we destroy it.

The new powerful heavy turbo lasers and Ion cannons of the four Bothan Assault Cruisers were activated their energies traveling towards the Galaxy Gun, a distance which they would cross in less then half a second. Soon the three aging Mon Calamari Cruisers led by the MC-90, added their own weight of fire to the bombardment. The wrath of the Free Worlds fire wasted not on a single star destroyer but rather the Galaxy Gun, trying to finish it off before the battle even really begain. The Admiral knew that soon he would have to reprioritize targets, but the Gun was the main objective her not defeating the Imperial Navy.

If they could not destroy the Gun quickly they would get involved in a slugging match that they were ill-prepared to fight. This was why this violent attack was also a fient to cover up the Far Stars stealthily attack craft that were getting ever closer to the battle from their trip from the outer system.

If the main body could not destroy the Gun, they would be forced to conduct a fighting retreat and while the Imperials concentrated on his cruisers and fighter bombers, the Farstars LAC would tear into the Galaxy Gun from its backside.

Executor Command Ship

Liath sat alongside several of his officers on the observation deck of the Executor command ship. This area reserved for the vessels elite came filled with the finest furniture, food, and entertainment – at times – that the Galaxy had to offer. Commissioned as an exclusive lounge by Liath when he took command, it provided commanders, captains and admirals of the fleet a discreet environment to discuss matters of war and politics, in luxurious comfort.

Just as he had many times before, Liath tucked into a roasted slice of meat in celebration of their victory. The Galaxy Weapon, which dominated the view, was now fully in Imperial hands and springing to life. Her systems primary and secondary started to come online as the technicians breathed life into her reactor core.

Lights flickered on and off all over the vessel before stabilising. “Gentleman!” Liath toasted. “Another victory and job well done.”

“Here here!” Came the reply. Glasses clinked progressively around the table.

“So, tell me.” Liath said to everyone. “What news with the crew?” Liath banked his eyes upwards as his knife and fork sliced into another piece of meat. “Celis, what about you, any news?”

“I don’t have much sir, as you know, we officers don’t mix with the crew that well. But the rumours are quite rife regarding the Galaxy Weapon. Most of the lower ranks believe that there are still renegade Jedi on board the vessel. Some are even speculating that Lord Vader lost his conflict on board the ship, and there is wide speculation, that it was an old Jedi Knight Hawkins whom stole the vessel in the first place.”

Liath chuckled. “Oh? And I suppose this rumour was started by our guests?” Liath was obviously referring to the known Coredian and Republic spies.

“No we don’t believe so, but, they are receiving the information gladly sir. We detected an encoded transmission from a maintenance section when we arrived in system. We have decoded the message, it was of little importance. Fuel inventory, munitions supplies. Unclassified material.”

Liath grinned. “So, they did manage to smuggle that device on board.” The admiral reclined back into his chair impressed at the subterfuge. “He must have bribed an officer somewhere along the chain.”

“We have narrowed it down to three individuals sir.” The other officers leaned in closer.

Liath took note of their curiosity, most likely each of them were hoping that the officer in question wouldn’t be under their individual command. “Demote all three suspects to the storm trooper corps immediately. Order General Cale, to train them with discipline, at his convenience of course.” Liath would not allow such careless competition and protectionism to divide his command staff. “What else?” He asked.

“Admiral, the crew is understandably anxious as to when we will next make port. Most of them haven’t had extended leave since the succession of Lord Vader. Sir, they need to see their families and they require a significant period of rest. Morale is definitely suffering throughout the lower ranks.”

Liath felt no sympathy for the crews desires, but suffering morale was something that could prove dangerous if it wasn’t handled appropriately. “Inform the crew.” The admiral paused while he thought. “That we shall allow three days shore leave on Tenetia, on a staggered rotation once we leave this system.” Liath thought ahead to Vader’s unscheduled meeting with Nightshade. “I will approach the emperor about seeing to more leave for the most loyal crewmen.”

Liath was about to continue another series of questions when a courier entered the room. “Admiral, your presence is requested on the command deck. First officer Talin would like to report that commscan has detected multiple in bound contacts.”

Liath nodded in receipt. “Gentleman, proceed to your stations. Captain, with me please, let us ascertain the situation.” Each man left the table and briskly walked to their duties.

*******************

Liath paced on to the bridge and walked quickly towards the first officer. “What is the situation commander?

“Sirs.” The officer replied, looking to both the admiral and the captain behind him. “An enemy force has emerged from behind the larger of the two moons. The Galaxy Gun has taken damage to her aft section from an initial salvo from an enemy task group, with several explosive decompressions erupting over the spinal sections. The vessel has raised her shields, and I have ordered the Executor to move between the Galaxy Gun and the enemy distribution. They are currently compensating their formation to get a better targeting solution.”

Liath thanked the officer and turned to his captain. “I want seven Destroyers to close with the enemy, and force them back from the weapon.” The captain quickly sought about transmitting the orders. “Commscan, I want a full update on the Galaxy Weapon, weapons systems and hyperdrive are a priority. Tactical, order all gunnery stations to provide a suppression barrage on the enemy formation. Push them back.”

A tearing sound of gunnery fire encompassed the Executor as countless flames of green were sent towards the Republic.

“Admiral!” A voice shouted from the operations pit. “Inbound fighters, fifty kilometres from our stern sir.” Liath looked down furious at the updated tactical projection. “Six squadrons of fighters, and six bomber wings incoming admiral. Your orders for the fleet sir?” The pressure was crippling. Liath had no idea how they had managed to stay off the screen for so long, but right now that wasn’t important. Individual Star Destroyers were doubtlessly attacking the squadrons themselves, but something more had to be done.

“Admiral. Lord Vader demands an update on the situation.”

“Sir, Galaxy Weapon reports that the hyperdrive and sublight engines are inoperable. Point defence systems offline, however, they report that their man cannon is fully functional.”

Liath allowed the situation to develop for a few seconds longer. “All fighters are to launch and fight the enemy ship to ship, including the reserve squadrons. Order the Razor and the Punisher to begin dealing with those fighters.” Liath started to pace. “And, order the Galaxy Weapon to open fire on the nearest bulk cruiser. We will make the Republic regret attacking the Empire this day!”

“Admiral, Lord Vader demands an update!” Liath wrinkled his brow from the stress. . . .

**********

Sirens and alarms sounded as the Galaxy Weapon continued to take damage. The outer hull and defensive armour, little as it was, was torn to pieces on multiple sections. The stern of the station was heavily damaged, that areas shields having suffered a direct hit from multiple ion cannons.

The Executor and Death Squadron fought hard, but the smaller faster ships of the enemy continued to strike.

OOC: Feel Free to RP my forces Wick for your next post.

Prison Cell - Executor

Raese Frent found himself lying on the floor of an Imperial prison cell on board the Executor. There wasn’t much to be found except for a bed and a toilet, and even that was a simple drain in the floor. Frent couldn’t think of anything to do, his mission had gone terribly wrong, and now, he was in the belly of the beast, staring at a blank and dull wall.

Vader was close, he could sense it in the force. The Sith scum was only a few levels below. Frent could even feel the Sith lords thoughts. Vader was angry, filled with rage and loss. His hurt seemed to stretch forever. But if Frent could sense Vader’s thoughts, then Vader could definitely feel his. Frent drew himself to himself and kept his mind upon the wall.

Eyeing the bed, for a little bit more comfort. Raese rolled on to his left side sneding a shooting pain through hisa rib cage. Letting out a small whimper of pain Frent slowly pulled himself up onto the bed which was little more than a metallic slate. Eyes closing, Raese allowed his dreams to take him. . . . .

Tag for Reading

The battle above the Jungle planet continued to rage in all of its fury. As Admiral Nan'kav drove relentlessly towards his objective of destroying the Galaxy Gun, the Imperials responding in kind throwing up a defensive wall comprised of their own destroyers. With the bulk of the Imperial Death Squadron interposing itself between the Galaxy Gun and his taskforce’s firepower they effectively cut of his forces ability to further damage the Galaxy Gun. The Bothan admiral had done all he could to destroy the Galaxy gun with the forces he had at hand. He did not have the necessary forces to over power the Death Squadron in a slugging match, a battle of attrition was something his taskforce would loose quickly. Yet, he had to order his fleet to stand off and attempt it anyway. He had to make the Imperials believe that his attack was blunted but that he was going to continue the fight against any hope of success, and he would. Because he knew from the start he did not have the combat power necessary for his force to succeed even with the element of surprise, which was why this attack from behind the moon was a diversion a diversion made real to the imperial fleet commanders at the cost of his men and women’s lives.

His force arrayed itself in a shallow crescent vertical to the system’s elliptic as they duked it out with the Death Squadron. Nan’kav watched the holo-tank and noticed his ships take progressively move damage, but he knew the Imperials to were suffering under his ship’s own punishing firepower. Soon the limit of battle would be reached. It was a point where the previous minor damages added up to a critical point where large holes in defensive systems would become exploited and lead to critical failures, so it was the first ships begain to fall out of formation due to damage on both sides. First was a Star Destroyer its superstructure awash with flames and secondary explosion. Then one of his MC-80’s likewise fell out of formation and he ordered it to withdrawal back to Quermia. The last MC-80 of the formation sustained an engineering casualty and even the best fail safes could not prevent its reactor core from breaching where once there was a kilometer long man of war now there was simply nothing. His rage at the loss was only comforted by seeing the trio of Corellian gunships at his command dart inside the Imperial formation. There was no ship in the Free Worlds that had such concentrated firepower as a gunship, acting as one the three were able to obliterate the conning tower of a ISD, uncontrolled it fell out of formation knifing through the bow of another unfortunate destroyer. As proof to the survivability of the Imperial design blast doors flashed shut preventing further damages to the ship even though the first 200 meters of its forward bow was now simply gone. In just under ten minutes of combat the Empire had lost three star destroyers and the Free Worlds two Mon Calamari cruisers. Yet these were losses that the Death Squadron could expect to afford and still claim a victory over the Republic.

Inside the Command Center of the Galaxy gun a tall man dressed in brown robes looked through a view screen at the combat occurring between the two fleets. He saw a blinking red light on the com screen and knew what he had to do.

“Tactical, Anti-capital suppression barrage. Start with that MC-90 then work your way through those Assault Cruisers. If the Free Worlds choose to stand against us they will fall, just like all our enemies do.” Within Five minutes the Galaxy gun fired two projectiles. Each was the size of a frigate with its own dedicated point defense and shielding systems. They were also unmanned and thus could move at a blistering rate of speed. He smiled ferally know that the Republic Fleet would have little time at all to respond to this threat that could destroy worlds.

Admiral Stayr Nan'kav saw the threat as soon as it was launch, he knew that the shields of the projectile were strong, and with the speed and maneuverability of it, the thing could avoid his fleets’ heaviest firepower. The lasers that could do it sufficient damage to destroy it could not track the projectile effectively. He had only one course of action and it would cost him the battle and at least one ship before it could be brought into play. But if he didn’t give the order his entire force would be destroyed in the next few minutes anyway.

“Contact the Deliverance and the Thunderer Order them to roll ship and interpose wedge. Then spin up the navi computer we are falling back to point epsilon 1.”

The Two Farstars Battle cruisers that were at the top and bottom of the crescent rolled their ships horizontally and vertically. The result would be that the gravity wedge that propelled their ships would be interposed in front of the incoming projectiles. They would explode against the intense gravimetric forces of the wedge without doing harm to the ships of his fleet. But it was a complex maneuver that would take time to complete in that course of time the projectile that was aimed at the MC-90 impacted, within five seconds of detonation there was nothing left. The only fortunate part was that some of the crew had evacuated in time. The next projectile wasted itself on the wedges of the Farstars ships, but his command was now on its way out of the system, he could only hope that the LACs would succeed in their own attack, he knew they should be reaching attack range at any moment.

A Light Attack Craft (LAC) of the Farstars Navy was not a fighter or bomber in the conventional sense it was 100 meters in length over twenty thousands tons of mass. It was a fast craft built around a large spinal graser which was of a size found only on Farstars Battle cruisers, it also had a small among of deadly effective missiles. The only problem was the craft had to get in close to the enemy to effectively use their weapons. It was a dangerous game but was one that worked this day. The 150 cm graser mounted on each Lac was far more powerful then the heavy turbo laser batteries found on a Republican or Imperial Destroy, but they had a much slower rate of fire. An pair of Imperial Star Destroyers detected their approach when they hit 200,000 kilometers and moved to interpose themselves. The Long range turbo lasers of the Star Destroyers begain to rain down among the LACs but they were small targets at such long range, and their ECM was quite effective. If the Imperial gunners aim was off even a thousandth of a millimeter they would miss by dozens of meters by the time the lasers traveled the distance. Conversely the Star Destroyers made for larger targets and were the targets that LACs were designed specifically to eliminate. The Graser spat forth their anger, each was much more akin to a kinetic impact then a traditional laser, which was not unlike the principles of the Turbo laser. So much energy was focused so intently that the energy would violently cut through shields and defensive armor. The Imperial Navy had never once before fought the Farstars in close range, every other time it was at massive range where the Missiles of the Farstars held the best imperials at bay. It was these tactics they likely expected to defend against. But the Farstars would close to energy range to finish off opponents. Where the strongest of Imperial turbo lasers would have to fire multiple time to destroy an enemy, the Farstars graser only need to fire once, within two minutes each graser of the surviving LACs had fired. One star destroyer was in flames... the other was split in half escape pods spewing forth from it. The holocaust worked moth ways however, even now Imperial fighters were upon the Lacs. Their own point defense inflicting many casualties on the TIEs but between the fighters and the ISD’s bombardments there were now less then one hundred of the deadly craft left. The remaining LACs fired off in quick succession the six missiles in its revolver turret. The TIEs broke off their attacks to pursue the missiles as did the remaining Star Destroyer, as the LACs fled back to their mother ships.

The battle over the jungle planet was over, the Empire had beaten off both attacks that Admiral Nan’kav could throw at them. They had taken heavy casualties but so had the Free worlds in terms of fighters, LACs, and Capital ships lost. Yet, as the Free World vessels landed damaged fighters and LACs before it would withdraw from the systems the last missile attack of the LACs struck home. The Imperials managed to down many missiles but just over two hundred made it to attack range and detonated, bomb pumped lasers shot towards the Galaxy gun, some missed other ravaged its already damaged structure. None manage to destroy the platform but three had struck the central magazine of the Gun, in this final attack the ammunition of the Galaxy Gun was destroyed. Unbeknownst to the Free Worlds whose forces were now withdrawing the Galaxy Gun now had only three shots remaining to be used. Who they would use these shot again remained to be seen.

OOC: With Sith’s permission I hurried this post out before I had to go to work. I expect there is some spelling errors and it probably could flow better so I will be looking at it later to correct that. But there you have it.

OOC: Part of this post takes liberties for Wick. But done to get the thread moving. He’s all O.K with it.

Executor – Command Deck

A round of applause erupted over the command deck as Commscan announced that the Republic was in full retreat. Allowing for this brief, and uncharacteristic outburst Liath started to issue more orders. “Commscan, send my congratulations to the fleet and order three relatively undamged Destroyers to pursue the main task force. Fighter and bomber squadrons are to escort. Helm!

“Yes admiral.” A voice snapped with pride.

“Take is in pursuit of the enemy! Flank speed. We are not above shooting the backs of rebel scum.” Liath thumped his clenched fist upon the tactical table. He was proud of such a momentous victory which would soon swamp the holo-net, every broadcast hailing him as a hero of the Empire.

I am a hero Liath truly thought to himself. With only medium damage to the Galaxy Guns internal structure, few losses to the squadron, and now chasing the very dogs back to Republic controlled territory, there was no better victory in his mind.

“This victory captain, will go down in Imperial history. Not only have we dealt the first crippling defeat to the Republic in our new war, but we have secured the greatest weapon the Galaxy has ever known!” Captain Velin did not share the admirals excitement. “Look at them.” Liath smiled as his eyes lingered on the tactical display. “Fleeing, like a Bantha. Let them run. Let them take this tale of defeat back to their homeworlds. They have little more than a few hours at best to wallow in despair, before the Emperor unleashes the horror of the Galaxy Weapon upon them!”

“Republic forces are continuing to accelerate admiral. They will be free of the moons gravity well in five minutes.”

“How long until we are in firing range?” Liath asked as the adrenaline of victory thirsted for more.

“Little more than a minute sir.” Liath didn’t even know who gave the information, all he knew is he would get what he wanted in little more than a minute.

“Admiral?” Captain Velin approached. “Are you certain it is wise to leave the Galaxy Weapon so undefended. The rebels have so far, though only briefly, demonstrated a great ability for stealth and surprise. This could be feint of some sort, or worse, a trap. . .” The captain looked away as Liath readjusted his attention.

“No captain, I do not think that to be a likely solution. They are obviously underprepared, and ill-equipped to fight my Death Squadron. These rebels have run out of surprises.” Liath drifted away from Velin, leaving his words as law..

“We are now in weapons range Admiral.” Captain Velin heard announced over the bridge noise.

Liath boomed with excitement. “Finish them off. All hands are to fire at will.” A flurry of green fire left the Executor as it continued its attack. A Bright orange blip in the distance signalled the first casualty of the pursuit.

“We have destroyed a frigate admiral.”

“Continue the attack. A promotion for the gunner who lands a crippling shot!”

“Admiral. Defender task force reports enemy ships have emerged from hyperspace!” Commscan reported suddenly. “Republic signatures!” Liath turned horrified to captain Velin. “All ships are to retreat. Status on the Galaxy weapon!?” Liath grabbed onto a railing as the Executor made an emergecy bank to starboard, the inertial dampners not quite compensating.

“Sir. I’m not getting anything. Transmissions are heavily garbled.” Liath marched towards commscan. His posture rigid and tense. Captain Velin followed him, fighting against the G-force of the turn.

“Sir, may I recommend that we proceed carefully. Incase we damage the weapon further.” Liath ignored the captains suggestion.

“Admiral we have something. The Valiant's Comm is reporting. Comm’s are back Sir. Confirm again Valiant?" The comm officers hands swept over several controls. "Admiral, the Galaxy weapon, they say it’s disappeared.”

Liath almost choked. “Impossible. Confirm that last transmission again.”

"Valiant confirm last transmission, with full ident clearance." Codes uploaded onto the Commscan screan.

“Codes check out admiral. Sir, Valiant confirms the weapon, it’s gone. They reporting that four hyperspace tugs emerged from hyperspace in precise fashion, and pulled the weapon towards Republic space before any reasonable action could be taken. They are requesting orders.” The admirals stomach sank as fear raked through him. Velin said nothing.

“I will inform the emperor of the situation personally. Captain, you have command.” Liath made his way from the bridge.

"Begin recovery procedures of escape pods and make sure that. . . . .

London
Earth SSR
United Colonies of Kobol -New Dornalia section

It was nearly time, as the young woman walked into her room. Her task was unthinkable as reached under her pillow to grab her gun, her pride and joy. Wrapping her thin fingers around the grip, she gently pulled it out.

This gun was not like most, especially in this day and age. The barrel was an octagon shape, not the smooth circular bore of most pistols, even the low tech slug throwers as the Dornies called them. The handle was made of wood, and at the lower end of the grip it contained a small pentagram, the symbol of protection, or of evil and the devil depending on who you asked.

Hera reached to the revolving chamber. Gently she slid a bullet into the first, then into the next. “What is he thinking?” Hera asked herself as she loaded another into it. “No, Daniel can’t be right. This isn’t like him. Yes he hates Fionna, but Hawkins would never kill a planet for revenge. No, no, I can not accept that.” she thought as she lingered over the mission.

Hera then walked over to her closet. Reaching up, she grabbed the much rougher grip of a 12 gauge pump. Flipping it over, she reached up again, and grabbed several shots of OO Buck shot.

“And what is up with Magriel?” She fumed some more. “Why can’t he see me? Why does he have to cloud everything? Does he think I am this stupid not to know what is at stake? Doesn’t he know how hard that order is for me? Hawkins is like my dad. Shit why does this crap always fall on me?” she asked herself as she finished loading the shot gun.

“My dear... you know the reason why. You are a tool. You are a scalpel, the Masaki’s dirty little secret. You are Magriel’s secret shame, that in which he can not admit to. You are nothing to either, only a instrument to further their will. You are nothing but a sword to Daniel, and a failure to Magriel. Soon though, you will see the truth. Soon you will see the lies of the Jedi, and the Malkir.”

Hera shook her head, as she reached for her pistol and turned around quickly. Looking around the room, she couldn’t see anyone, the room was empty. There was nothing left but a lingering feeling, like the stench of a dead mouse, that was hidden somewhere.

“Why Can’t you leave me alone?” she screamed in the room.

“My dear, you are mine, and you are not the only one.” the Man in White’s voice spoke mocking her, insinuating she was nothing more than some property.

“You little prick.” She yelled out in frustration. “I swear I am going to kill you again.”

No reply came. No feeling of dread, it was pure silence, pure nothingness. It was like the calm before the storm.

Frustrated and tired, Hera sat down on her bed. This mission was personal, to personal. Why would Daniel send her on a mission to take down her former Master? Didn’t he know how hard this would be for her? She thought to herself exasperated by the situation. This was the hardest mission she had ever been assigned. Nothing in her mind could even come close to the situation.

“You are looking at this the wrong way Hera.” another voice, a male voice, very deep spoke to her. “Daniel may want you to kill him, but Magriel is right. He is not in tune with the will of the force, Daniel. This is why he flounders and is punished at every turn. You are not to kill Hawkins, it is not your destiny. You should listen to Magriel.”

Hera looked up and around the room. Again she saw no one. “What is it with you people, are you allergic to knocking on door and walking in.” she yelled out.

“Listen to Magriel. Today is the day in which all that has been foretold will come.”

She gently put her face into her hands as she leaned over. “I am getting sick of all of you.” she murmured under her breath. “You guys are like ethereal stalkers. Can’t you just leave me be, or if you want to talk, just frakking text me or something.” she said growing even more frustrated at the intrusions.

No reply came, as the room remained still. It was like nothing had happened and nothing would. Hera took a deep breath, as she had to do the next part of her role in this eternal play. Hera pulled out her phone. Reaching down she began to dial, the Farstars republic. She knew of only one person aside from Hawkins that she could trust in the Republic. One that was much like herself, one Daneh.

“Hello. This is Knight-Errant Agatheon, Code ***********.” she spoke to the Ossus Council directory. “I need to speak with Warden Daneh at once. This is very important.”

Jedi Enclave
Special Operations Command Center
Planet Ossus
Free Worlds League

She sat crossed legged on the top of a small round short chair in the center of the darkly light room. Her eyes were closed as she meditated as she often did when she was looking for the calm needed to make important decisions, but in times like these it was hard to find the calm she needed. There was far to much unknown to much chaos to make the best decisions, if she couldn't find her calm she would not make the best decisions and people would die who may not have otherwise. She knew that perhaps that is why she meditated and looked into the fabric of the Force, to remind herself that even though she was responsible for so much and many she was just human and flawed.

She did not open her eyes as she heard the door to her cloister open because there was only two people in the galaxy that could enter unannounced and one was long dead.

"Mistress Ghorbani, there is a call for you from Knight-Errant Agatheon, she says it is urgent. Shall I patch her through?" Her aide de camp asked in a low voice.

She nodded that he may,

"Knight Agatheon, what has disturbed your training on Earth?" Daneh asked matter-of-factly with only a slight inflection audible in her voice.

It never ceased to amaze Hera, how no matter where she went, or what she did, even if she didn’t tell anyone about it, that somehow, some way, someone knew exactly where she was and what she was doing? Was she really that sloppy? Hell she didn’t even tell Atrox where she was, all she did was one day pick up a bag and left.

Hera shrugged off the thought, after all the Masaki’s did buy her the phone, and hell they were probably tracking it. Not to mention the Dornies probably called in her status to Issus. Despite her ranking in the Coredian system of For the Council and Emperor’s eyes only , that somehow intel always leaked. Hera shook her head at the thought. It was no secret, that nothing stays secret on Coredia long. Their codes were nearly as easy as a cracker jack box to open, and they had more leaks than the Titanic.

There was no greater proof of that then five mintues ago. Somehow Magriel found out about her mission, roughly a minute or two behind her, when the mission was sent with the Super encoded methods. Still though the thought of others knowing where she was, and what she was doing was not that comforting.

“It never ceases to amaze me how you keep track of me Daneh.” Hera said over the voice only phone. Although Daneh could not see her face, she could probably sense a smile coming from the other end. “I do hope that we do not need a restraining order.” she said trying to break the near monotone voice of the woman on the other end with a very bad joke.

Hera reached back, as she pulled a loose strand of hair out of her face. “I am calling about a certain mission to Coredia, specifically Issus. I got a report that the Farstars just sent a operative to meet with the Masaki leader, Daniel. Now before we go through the song and dance, we both know no one leaves or enters your country without your knowing and authorization. I need to know the name of the operative and the mission that they were on.” Hera said as her voice became much more serious.

Daneh of course could tell that Hera knew more than she was asking about, and probably knew exactly what the answer was already, but pretenses had to be kept.

It was a good thing that this conversation was audio only, Daneh was not pleased in the least that Hera Agatheon was aware of what her agent was sent to inform the Cordians of. Daniel Masaki was not known for his subtlety about anything. He was probably scream from the hills for a team of his best groupies to go and find then destroy the elusive Galaxy Gun. Well good luck with that.

"Knight Agatheon, out of respect for you old Master and for what you have done for the Raven Council I will tell you this. I sent an Agent Hunt who was to inform Daniel Masaki only about the circumstances regarding the recent battle in Ishtar where we sent forces to destroy the Galaxy Gun."

Not that anyone could see but Hera lowered her head towards the desk, and put her hand up on her forehead. “So it is true then.” she said in a quite matter of fact. “May I ask why is it that you would hide the knowledge of the current state of affairs about my old master from me?”

She took a deep breath, as she was becoming a mix of emotions, anger and happiness. For the first time in months, she reached into her drawer and pulled out a cigarette. Then with a quick hiss of her People's Acolyte made lightsaber she lit the now stale Caprican Ultra light. Taking a drag off the smoke, she waited impatiently for a response.

"Knight Agatheon, Chris has been for more then seven years now. I know not what you have been told but but Agent Hunt was to brief the Cordian Council on the Free Worlds' fleet action to destroy the Galaxy Gun, he is one of my best agents and I trust him." Daneh said.

"Hera," Daneh said using her first name in a rare occasion. "What is it that you are asking this for? Hawkins is dead and I would not think that strategic fleet actions against the Galaxy Gun would be of much concern to you."

OOC: Heh Sithy postage will come soon enough...been busy with work et al.

“He?” Hera asked as Daneh finished speaking. “According to Daniel, the agent’s name was Erica, and she said that Hawkins is responsible for the dis.....” static soon began to grow over the phone. “ance........... un.......” Then the call dropped.

Hera looked down at her phone. It had 5 bars of signal strength. She shook her head, at the phone. “So it seems that Daneh is either lying to me, or her own intelligence is stabbing her in the back.” she said in a calm collected voice. “Frak. Guess I have to do this alone.”

Hera walked over to the closet and pulled out her large black bag. Inside was some of her gear. The woman in white began by putting on her hidden wrist knives, then putting on the curved short sword on her back. Reaching in, she pulled out two nine mil. Pistols and attached them on her waist, and under her robe. Then she put on her miniature sith lavaraks, on the upper portion of her wrists. Finally, reaching down to her black boots, she placed a small pistol, and a combat knife.

It was a solemn moment for her as she began to walk out of the door. She had been chastised by Magriel, and now she didn’t know who to trust in the farstars. She knew if Daneh was lying, or if she had been betrayed, she could not just show up, at the door step of the Farstars. Not now... she needed another way in.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Time is Running Out (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN_NHk8QaKk)

Hera took a deep calming breath, then opened the door to leave the dorm. As she turned the knob, and opened the cheap wooden door, her eyes widened, as they grew somewhat brighter.

Magriel was standing on the other side of the door. His arms reached around his back, as he stood straight up. Hera looked up to him and flashed him a sweet smile. “Are you here to change my orders again?” she asked him, as she pulled her bag that was slipping slightly back on her shoulder.

“I wanted to say, that I was a bit hard on you.” he said to Hera. “You are going through a lot right now, and I understand that.” he said to her.

Hera smiled as she leaned against the frame of the door. “Do not worry.” she said. “I am sure that is not the last time you will do that.” she said to him. “I forgive you.”

Hera then quickly reached up, and kissed Magriel on the lips. She closed her eyes, as she wrapped her hands around his head. His lips were soft to her, as she pressed firmly against his. His hair was equally as soft. How she dreamed for this moment for a while. The warmth, the pressure, it was all euphoric to the woman in white.

AS she pulled back, she stared up into his eyes. Magriel, however didn’t seem to have the same point of view. He looked more confused than anything, as his eye lids contracted as he stared at her. He put his hands to his lips, as if trying to figure out what just happened. After an akward moment, he spoke. “What was that for?” he asked her.

Hera smiled as her eyes looked away, for a second then refocused on him. “You know last night on earth... all that.” she said obviously flirting with him. She stared into his eyes, as she leaned forward slightly.

“I am sure you will be back on earth soon enough.” Magriel said to Hera, as he stepped backwards. “May the force be with you.”

Hera lowered her head, as she tucked in her upper lip nearly biting it. How blind was Magriel that he couldn’t see that she felt something for him. Was he really that stupid? Did he even like her?

As he walked away, Hera looked up at him. “No need to worry about that vision then.” Hera said as Magriel cowered away around the corner. “It looks like those three children aren’t going to happen.” she thought to herself, as she pulled up her bag again and walked down the corridor alone. Saddness filled her, as she walked alone towards the airport. “The man can stand up to a thousand sith, but he can’t even speak to me.” she fumed in anger and depression as she walked.

“What else can I do? Frak it.” she thought to herself. “He can’t even tell me that he is not interested. Instead he stands there like a blind oaf. No, he can’t be this stupid, no one can. Grrrr....” she thought as she got in the cab.

“Where to?” the cabbie asked as Hera got in.

“To the airport.”

(OOC: Magriel was played with the express permission of Huntaer.)

Hera's words few as they were raised a great concern in Daneh. Hera seemed convinced that the agent who briefed Daniel Masaki was a a female, Hera would not deceive her about something this important. Eric was a veteran of the Ossus Order and one of her Ravens. If he was compromised and defeated with out her knowing it could only be a result of a leak or conspiracy from the Free Worlds. The Sith were masters of deception and of keeping their actions secret. She had thought that she had created an organization that would be difficult to infiltrate to corrupt but it appears that it had been done. She would have to initiate countermeasure and quickly. Likely whatever enemy had briefed Daniel Masaki also had the abilities to blind him to her deceptions as well, it would be the work of a powerful Sith to perpetrate that deception of her and a Masaki. That Sith wouldn't have been expecting Daneh to be aware of the deception just yet. It was only because a twist of fate that she had been made aware of it, and acting quickly they may be able to capture her.

The Empire had shut down the holo-net communication ability between the Free Worlds and the rest of the Galaxy, though the ability still remained inside her nation, they couldn't establish a reliable outside signal. But the holo-net was not the only communication available to the Free Worlds and even though other methods could not transmit such detailed information as the holonet they were perfectly suited for transmitting data-streams and mission packets. She was aware that the Free Worlds did not have more then an embassy on Jurai but the Marines of that outpost were well trained and equipped for this mission, and Knight Scot was a training guardian of the Order. They would have to be enough.

Daneh though had another mission to accomplish herself. She had to get to Miranda , Hera was right, Hawkins was alive, his death was necessary, everyone had to think he was dead so that he could perform his last mission for the Free Worlds, one that was critical for the survival of the Free Worlds.

Now she had to go and tell him that time was up, the war had resumed and that his mission was over.

Landing Pad
Near Alliance Meeting Location

Erica Hunt felt the cold night's wind hit her face as the doors opened to the landing pad at the end of its elevated platform was her assault shuttle. The one she took from the Raven and his marines that she killed. Everything was going as she had forseen, soon enough she would pass her master's last test. She had only reached halfway to the shuttle when another small test awaited her.

"Halt! Turn around slowly and Place your hands on your Head. Deviate and you will be killed." She closed her eyes for a second already knowing how this would play out. She complied with her instructions and placed both her hands on her head and turned around. She saw a Jedi Knight, his blue saber ignited. On each of his shoulders was a Free Worlds Marine armed with their heavy pulsars. The weapon shot hypervelocity darts that would be near impossible for her to deflect, they were the biggest threat her. "Now drop to your knees and place your face to the ground. She did this as well giving her captors just what they wanted. The Jedi now spoke to his comrades.

"Keep her covered. If she so much as twitches kill her, do not wait for my orders." They acknowledged his orders as he began to move forward to restrain the enemy agent. He was on guard though this was going to easily. Why had she complied with his instructions so fully without any resistance, she had to know nothing good awaited her in custody. The he knew what she was doing she wasn't comply to his instructions, she was going prone to clear a field of fire.

"Go Infra-red" He ordered to his marines. Their helmets already changing their displays. There by the shuttle were two camouflaged drones, the marines reacted quickly but the Drones did so as well. Desperate fire was exchanged, the drones spewed forth a prodigious rate of fire upon the marines who reacted with carefully aimed shots. It was over in less then a second both sides neutralizing the others. He ran quickly at the prone agent, he had to neutralize her now. She came up quickly as static crackled it was his only warning he had before lightning shot towards him. He stopped and brought his saber forward using it to absorbed the sustained blast. He strained with the effort it took defend himself from the powerful attack.

She was standing now and walking towards him. Her attack was not faltering as she neared him it intensified, he needed both of his hands to hold his saber against its power. He could see it was draining at least some of her energy the Sith Battle Meditation that she had used to disguise her tattooed face had worn off, her Sith marks were clear now.

"Now you will fall as all Jedi must." Her free hand whipped around carrying with it in a force grip the drone's broken body at great sped. He took one hand off of his saber and used a force push to hold the body back. He could not contain all the lightning now he felt it burn his forearm, could spell his flesh cook. He fell back a step then two as he tried to gather his power, he had to do something quick before...

He felt a sharp pain in his chest as he looked down and saw the hilt or her light saber pressed against it over his heart. He saw her face smiling at his shock. He gasped as she deactivated its red beam. He felt himself growing cold as she picked him up into the air with a force grip and just as his eyes closed for the last time she threw his body of the landing platform.

"Pathetic." She spat before she turned to make her back to the shuttle. She felt the pain of the large caliber projectile tearing through her back and just as the fallen Jedi did moments ago she looked down in shock as blood and gore gushed out from the large exit wound on her upper left chest. This all occurred before she even heard the sound of the gun, it came two seconds later the sniper was over two miles away. She used the last of her power to leap through the open shuttle door. It closed quickly as she laid in the corridor, her life leaving her. The shuttle took off escaping the system, leaving behind it a scene of mutual destruction.

The road she traveled was a long road, as the cabbie darted in and out of traffic, towards the airport. Hera watched out the window, as a slight reflection stared back at her. This kind of mission was never easy, and she somewhat dreaded it. Then again, this was not the normal mission for her... this was her friend, her mentor, her father.

If one’s mind can be clouded, and their emotions mixed, inside the young woman in white was a raging hurricane. Could she follow through with the Masaki’s order if need be? Could she take out the one man who saw her for what she was? Could she kill Hawkins?

Hera gently put her hand on her black bag as she closed her eyes. How she hoped she could do Magriel’s order. Hawkins meant the world to her, in a way that no one else had ever reached. It was not a love, or a lust, but true kinship. Together, she and Chris had gone through hell and back. Both of them had been tried, abandoned, discarded, and exiled. Both of them had suffered greatly at the hands of their enemies. This is why she wanted to do what Magriel wanted, not out of sense of honor of joining the Malkir, but because she had no choice. Killing Chris, meant she deserved to die as well.

It was strange how their fates intertwined Hera thought to herself, as she drove down the long dark road. How both had died, and seemed reborn, how even now, both were on their own, yet still connected.

Slowly the cab came to a halt outside of the airport. Hera reached down, and grabbed her black bag. Reaching into her front pocket she grabbed some cash and handed it to the cabbie. “Keep the change.” she said, as she turned towards the airport.

Holding her bag tight, she began to walk inside.

“Lady Sunshine, it is so good to see you again.” the sweet voice of Mary spoke to her as she entered the building. “I take it your trip to the wayward colony was a pleasant one?”

Hera nodded, as she walked with her black bag, “Yes, it was unique.” she said to her friend. “I will have to tell you about it sometime, but right now we got a job.” she spoke to the nothingness that was around her, as she clutched her black bag.

”Should I prepare myself then to leave?” Mary asked her.

“No, not yet. I need to find a way to get to Mon Cal. Taking you would be to obvious, but I would like you to follow once we leave Earth.” Hera spoke to her.

“Of course. Would you like for me to inform Atrox of your status?”

“You can let him know that I am alive and well, but I need to do other things first.”

“I see, you know I sense that something has happened to you, you seem different.”

Hera paused for a moment in the middle of the airport, “Yeah, it is a long story, I will tell you about it later.”

“By your command.”

Hera briskly walked out towards what looked like a Colonial Raptor. As she approached a hatch door opened for her, and a long black metallic ramp descended towards her. Hera didn’t wait for the ramp to touch the ground, as she jumped up on it, and walked inside.

Lady. Mary spoke again, What will you be needing for this mission?

Hera smiled as she sat down. “I need a change of clothes.” Hera opened the black bag and walked over to a drawer. As she came close to it, Mary took the liberty of opening the drawer for her. Inside was a Styrofoam looking material, each with the imprint of the weapons she had taken out of it, and filled with more. Hera put most of her classic weapons inside, the rapier, the colt, and her assortment of pistols and shot gun. She smiled as she pulled out the final weapon, the Dornie issued PA lightsaber. “Can you make me a spot for this please?” she asked.

“Of course” Mary responded. “Should I put them next to the rest of your lighters?”

Hera laughed, “Yes please, and thank you.”

A new slot formed next to her assortment of lightsabers, and Hera gently placed it inside. Then she walked over to her closet. Taking off her robes, she then put on a classic teenie bobber outfit. A purple shirt, with white wording, “If you can read this, then you are a pervert” adorned her chest, as she put on a pair of flowery embroidered blue jeans, and a pair of sandals.

Tourist?” Mary asked.

“For now.” Hera replied. She walked back over to the weapons drawer and pulled out a Colonial issue picon 5. “Can you make me a new passport? Tauron issued, name, Cally Cain. Place of Birth Sanctuary City.

“Of course.” Hera then watched, as a new passport came into being before her. Reaching down she grabbed it and tossed it in the black bag along with an assortment of normal civilian clothing.

Is that all you need? Mary asked.

Hera nodded, “Yes for now. Keep close, and out of sight please.”

By your command

Hera then walked out of the raptor, and walked out towards the awaiting ships. She knew she needed something, off the radar, something that no one would notice. As she looked across the sea of ships, she noticed one, unusual for earth... a Corellian Corvette. “Shiny.” Hera said as she walked closer to it, “That will do.”

(OOC: Due to work constraints, I was asked to post this for Wick. I take no credit for this post, or anything contained within, as I didn't write it.)

Two hyperspace tugs docked with the massive superstructure of the Galaxy Gun. Atmosphere, flames, and wreckage leaked into the vacuum of space. The first air lock opened revealing a figure cloaked in brown.

“Your late.” Said the waiting Jedi. “Why?”

“Dac is locked up tighter than Coruscant, why do ya think it took is this long. Looks like you got us into a shootin war.”

“Just get a move on.”

Marines moved forward into the vessel, covered in the latest military gear. Moving from the centre outwards, marines started checking for any stormies locked down behind whatever bulkheads they could find.

The Jedi waited for the techs who came onboard last. “Get to the control centre, we don’t have much time.” They bowed their heads and moved on through the docking corridor.

“They never said we would be dealing with Jedi.”

“They never say anything until we do the job.” Walking through the extensive maze of corridors and rubble, the technicians scowled as various systems were quite obviously down and out.

“Trust the empire to throw the command centre in the middle of a ship like this.”

“At least it’s a direct route.” Some roof panelling collapsed overhead. Leading the team Tundra jumped startled at the noise, he was uneasy at even being here. This action was dangerous, if anyone knew that they helped the jedi to do this, then the empire wouldn’t ever stop until Mon Cal was vaporised. His stomach churned, but there was no way out now. Tundra took a right turn, finding the command centre. The two heavy doors lay on the floor blasted open by some shaped charges. “Well look at this.” Control banks and holo tables were all empty with dead clones lying on the floor. Lightsabre marks on most of them. “So where do we start?” Tundra looked around the room as his team dispersed.

“Looks like weapons are still green boss.”

“Shields are shot, the hanger bay is venting like a squid in heat. It’s only in the lower sections though. Hyperdrive is gone, and we’ve only got manoeuvring thrusters. Hull damage all over the place but, I think we’re good to go. . . Wait, wait a second. We’ve got massive damage to the, well its not there any more. The ammo dump is gone, ships readings are showing only three, three shells in the tube.”

“You had better be shittin me. The jedi’s wanting to level almost everything with this.” Tundra looked around the room, which for the most part had green lights. His team members didn’t look up, afraid to make eye contact with him.

“You’re leading Tundra, you tell the jedi he’s got only three shots.” The feeling in Tundras stomach got worse.

“We’ve been on this thing for less than ten minutes, and already that jedi is going to be pissed.”

“Well, go on. Tell him.” Tundra scowled, his leathery skin wrinkling in the imperial atmosphere. Lifting a communicator he opened a channel. “Master jedi, we’ve got some problems up here.”

“What, is it?”

“We have some problems uhm sir, it seems you’ve only got three shots.”

“Seems?”

“You only have three shots, sir. What do you want us to do.”

“This upsets our timetable, target Tenetia right away, I need to communicate this to command. Fire as soon as you can, you will find the codes are already in the system.”

“Already? How, how did you get.”

“Just fire when the damn thing is ready.” The Comm closed and Tundra looked down at the computer console.

“Alright, we’re firing this thing.” Tundra pulled out a memory stick from one of the cases they brought in with them. Sliding it into the computer banks he uploaded Tenetias location.

“Uhm boss?”

“What!” Tundra was not impressed. “We’ve got some more results from the shells, looks like the imps have it calibrated for only a medium setting.”

“You mean the first one in the tube?”

“No, all three.” Tundra cursed in heavy Quarren. “Don’t mention a thing to the jedi, once we’re done, he won’t be able to touch us on Dac. They’ll kill him, and so will the empire.”

“It’s only going to wipe out the surface Tundra, they’re going have a planet left, for what its worth.”

“Yeah, but we’ll not be around when he finds out. We’ll be recalled by then. Jedi aren’t going to be able to find us underwater.” Tundra chuckled. “Tell you what the imps don’t waste time on killing things do they?” The console blinked green, codes and coordinates already uploaded. Tundra looked round at the rest of his team. “Nightshade is going to love this.” Pressing down, a Galaxy shell left the main cannon hurtling into hyperspace.

Moving seamlessly from sector to sector, it jumped until it reached the Tenetia system. Taking one last scan ensuring its location was perfect, it slammed home into Tenetia, home of sithscum.

“We need to fix this thing fast, before he finds out.” Tundra took out the memory stick, not realising just what he had done.

Imperial Prison Barge

Valeris nodded his head sympatheticly “Water, of course.” He pushed a small button on his operations wristband. “Bring in some water please, two cups.”

“Yes sir.”

Valeris kept eye contact with the prisoner while he spoke. “ You know, I am not a cruel man, I try and do my job with as little pain or unpleasantness as possible. I will be reasonable as long as you are. I will understand your contempt for me and my people, but, this, is a time of war. I hope you can at least respect, that we, well I, must get the information that my superiors demand from you captain.” The door opened with an aide bringing in two cups of water.

“We won’t be loosening your restraints my dear, I’m afraid the last time we allowed one of your people some, freedom, that it ended in a dead officer.” One of the storm troopers stiffened at the mention, while the aide started to feed the water slowly to the good captains lips until there was nothing left. “Now, I think we can start with the reasonable questions. Rank and serial number please?”

Executor Command Ship

Death squadron had retreated from the jungle system, some ships had moved directly towards Kuat for emergency repairs. While others could only boast that they received little more than a singe to their shielding.

The operational losses had been costly for this battle, with the primary objective being an absolute failure. The Galaxy Weapon, for all the empire knew was aimed directly at Coruscant, and they would never know, until a shell lumbered upon an Imperial system. The emperor still held hopes that it could be recovered, projections placed the Galaxy Gun at least a week away from republic space, via hyperspace tug.

So the empire had shut down the Republics external holonet, blocked trade lanes with the rest of the galaxy, and sent in spies, activated sleeper agents, all within little more than an hour to hunt down the culprit behind the greatest theft in history.

This had been the most stressful forty seven hours in Velin’s life, and by the sounds of anger rising from Vaders chamber, it was certainly set to continue.

The massive number of prisoners taken from the planet, were all seated within the main hanger bay, while those who had been injured were seated comfortable within medical capsules in sickbay.

The Jedi

Thoughts swirled and mangled as Frent dreampt dreams of horror. The darkside was everywhere, it was around him, pressing on him, even . . . within him. He could feel its temptation caressing his lusts like a sirens call.

It moved him, it pushed him, the very thought of tasting so much power made him feel strong, like his master. Frent woke up at that point realising that his master was dead. His cell was black, the lights had been turned off, though he was sure that somewhere an imperial technicians was watching.

All he could do was lie there in the darkness, waiting for the light to come again. Frent wondered if it ever would.

Hera then walked out of the raptor, and walked out towards the awaiting ships. She knew she needed something, off the radar, something that no one would notice. As she looked across the sea of ships, she noticed one, unusual for earth... a Corellian Gunship. “Shiny.” Hera said as she walked closer to it, “That will do.”

OOC: Well I know i said I would blast us off to space but not quite yet...

IC:

No one greeted Hera outside the Gunship. Instead its boarding ramp was left lowered and as she looked into the ship at the peculiar nature of this situation she would have felt in her gut that everything was fine. The Ship gave her a sense of something familiar, comforting, but also forgotten.

As she walked up the boarding ramp it began to lift from the ground, she had to walk quite fast to get inside the ship before the ramp closed. The floor of the bay in which she found herself was dimly light but she would not be able to see up into the catwalks or across to the opposite bulkhead. She could hear however the sound of the latch of a bulkhead being turned and opened and the slow beat of feet hitting the deck of the catwalk and then the stairs. Slowly the form of a man could be seen by Hera, He was tall, more then six feet by a couple inches. He wore a sombre outfit of black pants and a sleeveless tunic, which revealed his thick arms of a man who knew how to lift weights. On his left arm though there was a wicked looking scar that wrapped itself up his upper arm.

"Hera Agatheon I presume." It was not a question.

Vader scrawled through the latest technological, strategic and operational reports that filled the holographic presentation in front of him. The actions of the past fifty or so hours had been some of the most trying of his reign, and now, after his immediate rage had subsided, a quiet fury boiled inside his stomach.

Spies within the Republic were clearly showing that their military were being slow to respond to the mess in the jungle system, with fleets and forces not doing very much. This Vader noticed, left many planets vulnerable inside the neutral zone.

His generals had theorised that it was most likely that the Republic was not willing or in a position to entice things any further, leaving the skirmish as a desperate attempt to remove Vader of one of his most prized weapons. And they had succeeded.

They now had in their possession the Galaxy Weapon itself, and that was enough. Spies from Mon Calamari, had yet to pinpoint the exact location of where they had taken it, but everything pointed to a very top level operation. With rumours even coming from the rebel alliance, that it was in fact a Jedi Master behind it all.

Something had to be done, the Empire could not allow such a strike to go without retaliation. Something that was agreed, by at least all of the assembled admirals and generals.

Kessel had now for all intents and purposes become the emperors flag, with sector admirals arriving from over half the Galaxy. Thirty people sat around a large Obsidian table with the emperor, the first of what was to become many war councils.

Vader despised his former masters way of operating. Palpatine had been an astute politician, but he was no admiral or general, and Vader understood that neither was he. So he allowed those with the tactical minds to begin the planning. Presentations had been made, and three options lay open to the emperor. He could declare war on the Republic and mobilise a considerable amount of assets from the core to mount an invasion. He could order the Navy to begin raiding actions, with nothing too strategicly serious, but enough to remind the Republic not to poke their nose in the empires affairs again. Or option three, maintain the current balance. Vaders thoughts turned towards the future and what could happen.

There was the slick adrenaline rush at the thought that the Republic could finally be eradicated, but then again, the Empire could lose the war, or at least over extend itself to the extent that it wouldn’t be able to defend against a rebel incursion. But, he could do what his master never did, and exterminate the Republic once and for all! Yet, it will still a gamble and that visibly paused Vader as his mind thought of the war that forged him into what he was.

The Separatists had been far smaller than the Republic, they had less numbers, yet they caused countless damage, untold devastation, and brought the republic to its knees ideologically. The same, Vader knew, could happen with a war against the Republic, and danger, the chaos, the madness of that former war convinced him. “We will take option two.” Vader announced. Deep inside, he thirsted to be the hero again. “Make your preparations admirals, you have eighteen hours to exterminate the first planet in the neutral zone.” Vader left the room, still in intense thought. There would be time enough for heroism, but first, he needed to lay the stakes down for the Republic. Until his admirals came up with a sufficient operation, Vader had very little to do. Except of course, visit his new apprentice.

******

Frent walked through the valley of vision, the force consumed him as he lay in deep sleep. His mind, his heart, his soul, everything had abandoned the mortal coils and took him far into the future. His eyes hurt for some reason, he could actually feel pain. He tried to look around but it was pitch black, except for one thing, there was a far light in the distance, a light, a blue, yes, a blue light, and it was coming towards him. Its light was somehow intoxicating until it changed so suddenly. It flickered, it shrunk, and then it turned deep red. . . Frent stretched out his hand to touch it, he could feel a warmth, a drawing heat, he could . . . .

Vader walked into the cell, waking Frent from his dream. “You, you bastard, what do you want with me.” He said a little muffled as he spoke through a tired mouth.

Vaders respirator seethed deeply. “You are to begin your training today, but first, there are some things you must forget.” The emperor took a step to the side revealing a mind probe floating silently.

The pain you experience will only make you stronger, if, you let it, my apprentice.

Hera was not pleased, not one bit by the captain who seemed to know her name within the first three seconds of seeing her. This is beginning to become ridiculous, as she looked up to the man. How in the hell did she have any chance of completing her mission in secret when every damned person in the universe seemed to know everything about her? Was she on the cover of People and didn’t know it? When did she become as famous as Opera, for even a old sea dog like this captain to know who she was.

Hera’s eyes narrowed as she faced the captain of the ship. “The name is Cally Cain.” she said to him. “I am not a frakking blender, got it.” she said sternly to him, as she looked around the ship. The ship was familiar, almost like a dream from her child hood. Had she dreamed of this moment before, or was she here once upon a time? Not that it really mattered to her.

She reached her hand out to shake the Captain’s, “And whom would you be?”

"I beg you forgive me Cally, I seem to have you at a disadvantage. I am Herzer Herrick we both attended the same school though I think you were a few classes ahead of me, no reason for you to have heard of me, I wasnt a varsity athlete like you. Warden Ghorbani sent us here to keep an eye on you and that if you needed our help you would find your way here as you have. She is quite the seer as you know."

He reminisced to Hera, before he grew serious once again.

"It is well that you found us when you did. We have lost contact with home base, but what intelligence that has been sent our way is troublesome. There has been a large battle fought over the planet Ishtar, where the Death Squadron and our Northern Fleet bloodied one another but the Galaxy weapon escaped damaged according to some under the command of the Old Man."

"We both know thats a load of Kuso, neh? So why are you here and what do you need of my ship?"

Hera didn’t say anything at first, as she listened to the man’s statements. “Kuso indeed.” she thought to herself as she listened to his explanation of how he knew her, and his mission. The we went to school together, was almost as bad of a line as any, and usually the easiest lie to see through.

Hera leaned back against the bulkhead of the ship, as she crossed her arms. She became quiet, as she listened to him, his thoughts, his mind and his soul. She listened for any sign of deceit, for any desire to harm her, or for anything out of the ordinary. She gently began to sort through his memories, as she flashed him a quick smile.

“So you were a couple years behind me?” she asked him. ‘You must know Amber Wright then, she was about six feet tall, and dark brown hair. The two of us were quite fond of each other.” Hera said as she flashed a smile at him, and she made her cheeks blush slightly, as one often does involentary when they think of romantic thoughts, as her eyes for a moment picked up speed in blinking slightly. “How is she, or do you keep in contact with her?”

A moment passed and then her face became more serious, as she continued to try to look through his mind. “Yeah it is totally kuso to think the old man would do it. I mean if he was that pissed off, he couldn’t resort to piracy, he would have gone down and kicked someone’s ass first hand neh?” she said slipping into minor Farstar speak. “But anyway the Warden sent you? Why would she send you to watch me and not inform you of why I am coming? Strange isn’t it?” she said again trying to see if the man was telling the truth, or if this was another “Erica”

OOC: Hope u didn't forget about the woman you took on the surface Sithy...Remember she was a Jedi Recruit who washed out under Hawkins, had to many...anger issues.

As Hera spoke Herzer crossed his arms somewhat out of frustration for her test that he knew he had to pass for anything to continue. It was a pain still to do it, but then you don't stay alive trusting people even those you've know for years much less just met at the Airport.

"Eh." He confirmed. "My team has been stationed at this airport since you have arrived. You are a blood named member of the Ravens Cally. You will always have at your disposal certain support assets. You have just need to find us, other than that we will remain in the background unnoticed."

Then he answered Hera's test without a moments thought after all they went to the same school together, and to him the answer was very clear.

"I don't recall Amber at all. The one girl I remember most was Miranda, though she was an ice cold heartless bitch, though beautiful at times. I bet you haven't forgotten her, neh?" Herzer said to her.

Prison Barge

She didn't show her frustration that the guard did not untie her hands when he brought in the glasses of water. A broken glass made for a dangerous weapon in the hands of a trained soldier like herself and she would have taken a great joy as slashing open the interrogators throat and then to hear him gurgle as he drowned in his own blood.

Instead she drank the water and regained some of her strength. There would come a time later when she could get her revenge. She knew at this point there was only two options for the moment. She could not answer the interrogator and likely be punished for her impudence or she could answer him. After all name rank and serial number was all the information she was required to give.

"My name is Valentine, Bemy, Rank Wontcha. Wontcha Bemy Valentine." She laughed loudly at this. There was a third option to answer his question but to blatantly lie. For a moment she felt good. "Serial Rank 123-45-6789" Then she stopped laughing and looked directly at the Interrogator her eyes daggers.

"How about a Cig or a death-stick...p-please?" Her voice sounding like she was begging again her bottom lip stuck out slightly pouting.

The mention of Miranda sent a flood of memories through the mind of Herzer’s stowaway. One word, one name sent Hera back, as she closed her eyes and smiled. It was a time she loved, a time of relative innocence, a time of becoming.

Hera could still smell the trees, and the large forges in that small village. The gruff old man would rag on her every day, as he forced her to do the seemingly idiotic in this day and age. At the time she had no clue why she was forced to forge her own steel, but as she felt her weapon that came of it she knew now the reason why.

She opened her eyes and smiled, “Yes.” she said, “I remember her, how can anyone forget her?” she asked rhetorically of the pilot in front of her.

“Do you know where my dad is?” she asked him as she gave him a quick smile. “Last I heard of him, he was with Miranda, and I really would like to talk to him?” she said, refering to Hawkins of course.

OOC: Your other character is in a bacta tank in the med bay. Will have her dealt with soon enough.

Prison Barge.

An aide brought a smooth silver case through the cell doors as the prisoner decided that cooperation was not in her best interests. Calmly opening the case, Valeris took out a pair of silver gloves waiting for the prisoner to stop laughing. She did.

“Ever since Vader became emperor, my services have not been in as high a demand as they used to be under my former master.” The left gloved was pulled on. “But, it seems, that he has always had need of people like me, to, help people like you.” The right glove was now on his hand. “You see, I’m not a naturally unkind man, however I am naturally polite, and I’m afraid it is an expectation that I would expect even from the most deranged enemy.” Valeris dug his hands into the case, slowly searching for some mystery implement. “By no doubt, you are wondering what type of terrible torture you are about to receive. I’m afraid I prefer the more traditional methods of breaking someone like yours resolve. In here, I have one potent pain killer, when you have had enough, all you need to do is tell me some information, and I will give you this.” The syringe was placed on a back table, constantly in view.

“Inquisitor Valeris.” Comm chatter broke through the atmosphere. Valeris opened a channel from a device on his wrist.

“Yes captain, what is it.”

“Sir, we have reports from the Ishtar system, Death Squadron have engaged and defeated a Republic fleet. High command has ordered us immediately to Kessel, we’ve been requisitioned as a troop transport.”

“Thank you captain, make best speed to Kessel.” The channel was closed. “Now, where was I, ahhh yes. Dealing with your communication problems.” Valeris took from the box, a pair of silver pliers and snipped two middle fingers from the prisoners hands. She screamed. “Just like digging up some weeds my dear, the soil is hard at first, but if you work hard enough, you can get what you want.” Valeris moved to the next hand, blood dripping over the floor. He snipped of the middle fingers there as well. “Ahh, this is the part that will really hurt.” He took a different device from the case and cauterised the wounds.

“Now will you tell me what I need to know, or am I going to have to saw off an arm?”

Prison Barge
Unknown Space

Torture. Some people will tell you what you ask them just at the threat of it. Others will endure it stoically. Most will tell you just what you want to hear just to make it stop. The pain of having her middle fingers separated rather abruptly from her hand was nothing compared to the enduring sensation and stench of her burnt flesh. She looked up to her torturer her eyes red and tears flowing.

"Captain Allison Troem, Serial Number 008-32-9421" That was the truth, for as far as anyone back at fleet would be concerned. "There you bastard you know my name now. You are not a very polite man though, you should at least tell me your name as a courtesy." She managed her voice grunting through the pain of her wounds.

Airport,
Earth, Sol System

"The Old Man is with Miranda. They have always gotten along well enough and if he had his way I think he'd rather stay in her company. But as the old song says, we can't always get what we want."

Then he made sure she understood his next words very clearly as he steped close to her his voice low so only she would hear his words.

"The War has resumed Cally, the Old Man will need you. My home was destroyed by bandits once and he gave me another, as I understand he did with you Cally. You have changed much sense you left the Far Stars, and I know you hold special feelings for the Colonies and Cordia, but we leave what we were behind when we take the oath. Though we haven't met before today, You are a Raven, a knight of the Black, You are my sister, Cally...Will you call me your Brother?" Herzer extended his arm for her to grasp if she did.

They both were members of the Ravens, a special sect of the Ossus Order established by Hawkins, the Old Man. It was a tight knit organization, its members selected with the exception of Hera, from Miranda. Hera had spent six years on the Planet and was raised there, she had like they leave behind all they had, all they were, for the Order, their only family became the other members of the Order and Hawkins their father. Hera was unique among the order she was a Knight-Errant, allowed to join other national bodies as she please, such as the People's Acolytes and New Sith Order, but in her heart she had one home, and one family, that superseded all others, and if she clasped Herzer's forearm she would return to it.

“This man is really strange” Hera thought to herself as he extended his arm to her. “What is his damage, if I am in I am in, if I am not then I am not. What is up with this forearm deal?” she asked herself as he held his hand at him.

She looked down at his arm, as he extended it out towards him. “Alright Nick.” she said with a smile, referring to the only person she thought of as a brother. She reached her hand out towards his, and clasped his forearm. “Just remember Able, the story of what happened. If you know the old man, and if he taught you, then you should know what happens to betrayers. Daddy doesn’t care for them you know. Then again if you are my brother, I can trust you right?” Hera spoke softly, as she held onto his arm.

Herzer would know if he was truly taught by Hawkins, the truth in her words. Hawkins was the first of her masters, the Weapons master of the Jedi, and she was his pupil. He would know that she meant it, as Herzer could see it in her eyes.

Just then, the phone began to buzz in her pocket. She looked down to the floor, and then smiled, “Excuse me a sec.” she said to him, in a much sweeter voice. Reaching into her pocket, she flipped open her phone.

The text message was clear, as she read it to herself. She smiled, as Herzer could feel her heart lifting. Gently she closed it back. “Well I am ready if you are. I think it is time we went home.”

"It is sister. Come with me to the bridge." Herzer turned and walked up the stairs and through the corridor. Along the way the crew members and marines of the gunship, stood to attention greeting him. Herzer acknowledge them with nods and greetings. Soon they were at the bridge of the warship.

It was a small oval command center ten crewmen sat around their workstations controlling weapon systems, sensors, navigation and all. Each wore the black on black uniform of the Free Worlds Navy. For all the dingy appearance of the old battered gunship on the outside on the inside she was one of the most retrofitted and modern vessels in the Navy.

"Captain on Deck!" ordered the Marine sentry at the hatch. The crew members stood to attention.

"As you were" Herzer told them, "Navigation make preparations for our departure. Comms are we cleared for departure?"

"Yes Sir, We will be shortly." Herzer herad the ensign's communications with the ND tower,

"Hearthrow Tower this is Cordian Heavy Bravo-Eight-Two-Niner requesting permission to lift off, Over. Roger that tower we are clear for lift. Cordian Heavy Bravo-Eight-Two-Niner, Out.

"Sir we clear to lift off." the ensign informed his captain.

"Right then, Get us off this planet an on our way."

The gunship light its engines and entered orbit without issue, once clear of the planet gravity she did not head into hyperspace for her regestered flight plan's destination but rather instead the gunship pitched itself directly upwards relative to the elliptical plane of Earth and departed to parts unknown. As they travelled through hyperspace Herzer looked to Hera Agatheon.

"We are headed to Miranada by the Back Door" He said refereing to the seceret system that the Free Worlds controlled in the Milky Way, it was one of four systems that connected the Free Worlds' Farstars to the rest of the galaxy. The only known entry point was at Mon Calamari, the rest were the closest guarded secerets of the Free World. "We can not take a direcet route in case we are being followed and it make it much harder for our enemy to yank us out of hyper if we dont take a direct route."

While he was talking the gunship again left hyperspace, and oriented itself "Southwest" to the ellipical plane and entered hyper again.

"We will have six more dog legs to make Cally. Our ETA to destination is four hours. Ensign Royce here will show you to your quarters where you can get some refreshments and rest. In the wall locker you will find a uniform and service weapon. Welcome back to the fight. May the Force be with you."

OG go ahead and head for the quarters no need to wait for me lol.

Hera

Destiny chuckled as he appeared from behind Hera’s shoulder. Clothed in white the mysterious man leaned against one of the bulkheads casually watching the flight crew input their coordinates and tend to their duties.

“So Hera my darling! So good to see you again.” Destiny opened his arms for a hug that never came. “Oh, Hera my dear. You look very serious.” Destiny stopped for a second. “Well, It seems like you’re going to be very busy for the next few weeks.” Destiny said as he pulled a red apple from his pocket and started to bite into it. “I think we need to have a little conversation, well more of a brief, I tell you things. First of all, I’m glad you’re finally seeing things our way.” Destiny pointed around the bridge. “Its taken what, how many years for you to finally accept that you’re going to be playing the part in the last hurrah?” He crunched into his apple.

“I mean, look at these people. Just look at them.” He pointed around the room. “All of them so ignorant of the Calamity that’s about to fall from the very heavens themselves. And boy oh boy, are they going to be upset. You know I wish I could say that so many of them are going to die, I really wish I could, but, Calamity has something else in store. You know what she’s like.” Destiny checked a glance at the tactical station. “Oh, would you look at that, everything here is so, so modified. . . I wonder how the Empire would react hmmm?”

“Well, I guess we both know what they would do right?” Destiny brushed down his white robes and perfected his posture. “I tell you what. I’m going to suggest a course of option for you and your little crew here. I know what’s coming, and I tell you what, you’re going to want to be ready for it. Now I know this will upset you, but Hera my love, You're really going to have to ignore your orders on this one because if you don't then . . then I’m just going die inside.” Destiny laughed.

“Yes, I know, terrible, anyway the point is that if you don’t do what I’m about to suggest is, well, well that would ruin the surprise." Destiny smirked and discarded his apple. “Would you just look at this!” He exclaimed holding the apple up to his eye. “I mean really, you’d think they could get better produce wouldn’t you?” He turned it to show a worm wriggling out from the core.

So Hera, here’s the catch, you’re going to have to abandon your pride if you want to find the prize.” Destiny discarded his apple with a quiet “eeew.”

“Quite simply Hera, you need to become a prisoner of the little holiday home called Kessel. You're going to want to find an old Jedi master living there that’s needing saving. He’s a Seer of sorts, hidden down in the deep caves, the other prisoners are protecting him from the guards. Get to him within two days, and he can tell you all you need to know.” Destiny looked over the shoulder of one of the flight crew. “Oh don’t worry.” As he saw the worried look on her face. “I’m not about to vent the atmosphere, again.” He sniggered.

“Tell you what, you take a shuttle and go here.” Destiny took out a pen and wrote down some co-ordinates on a piece of paper from his pocked. “See these numbers, look at them carefully.” He held them in front of Hera’s face. “Good” He said before crumpling it up. “Go here Hera, cause you’re going to need to get ready.” He laughed and walked past her shoulder.

As Hera turned, Destiny, just wasn’t there. . .

Coruscant: Lower Levels – Two Weeks Ago.

Mithas Krand would go down in history had anyone ever known about him. He is a lowly beggar living in the slums of Coruscant beneath the grand and mighty skyscrapers which extend into the clouds. He has no money, he has no friends or family, he has no lovers and he has no future. Mithas Krand has done nothing of importance in his life, he failed in school, he was thrown out of basic training for drinking too much, and he lost his first and last job in a matter of hours. Yes, it could be said that Mithas Krand may as well just die instead of wasting Coruscants expensive and valuable oxygen.

No one knew of this man from the slums, his mother a human, his father some distant species from the unknown regions left Krand with two webbed fingers on his right hand. An unusual aspect to his physiology but apart from that, he may as well have been one hundred percent human.

But Krand was not fully human, so when he caught nothing more than the common cold, this man was surprised to find that instead of coughing up nothing more than flem, this time he forced up the deepest darkest blood he had ever seen.

Krand only lived for a few more hours after his first cough. It wasn’t for a further thirteen days until his body was found, burned, and recycled. Yes, Mithas Krand, the man with the webbed fingers, who died alone and desperate.

Present Day: Executor Star Destroyer.

The emperor was absent from these rounds of deliberations on what to do about the Republic. Many of the more senior commanders had remained silent, allowing the politically junior rivals to fight it out and first of all establish their pecking order of things.

The council had grown from a few commanders to know fifty three sector overlords, who each sat around the Obsidian command table, dressed in their respective uniforms. To the left and right of the vacant throne, sat the two of the senior of equals. The most trusted ambassadors of Vaders will amongst the empire. This week, it was up to Overlord Tralcan to oversee the proceedings. His hand smashed a hammer against the clear black of the volcanic stone. “ORDER, ORDER.” His voice boomed with authority. “In the emperors name I will have order.” The hammer fell down another five times silencing the junior admirals present.

“We are called here today.” The overlord began in a distinctive tone of authority.” To discuss matters of vital importance to the very survival of the empire.” Tralcan announced. “The war with the Farstars has gone no-where in forty eight hours since they began the conflict. The Tenetian incident is falling under control, and now, we have reports of many dead and dying citizens from Coruscant to Anaxes within merely twelve hours.” Tralcan lowered his voice. “The first two matters are mere formalities of war, however my fellow officers, we must deal with what appears to be a massive outbreak amongst the civilian populace quickly and efficiently. This matter will not be open for debate, it will only be open to the vote in the emperors absence.

“I am announcing to the council that we have had reports of eleven worlds reporting incidents of this unknown disease affecting at least nineteen million of our citizens in the past three days. The symptoms have been progressive and they have yet to be countered by any of our most potent medications in the private of classified sectors. The civilian branches of the beaucracy are preparing to declare a general state of emergency across the Coreworlds and the mid rimm. However we must first decide on how we are going to enforce what quarantine measure we may need to secure.”

“The options we have available are firstly to augment the faster than light inhibitor network. Recall the imperial fleet around Tenetia for picket command, and finally ban all hyperspace traffic for indefinitely until we can secure a solution to this disease.” The Overlord looked around the room and met his eyes with all present. “Gentleman, please cast your votes for all policies that you will give permission to be implemented throughout your sectors. Majority vote shall apply.” Each man quickly pressed his finger onto the appropriate controls on their screens embedded into the table.

“All of the above have been passed in the emperors absence by majority vote, forty six to seven in favour of all three items being passed.” Tralcan authorised the commands electronically. “They will be implemented shortly gentleman. Now onto the next item. Admiral Kyalsis, you wish to wages an item of importance?”

“Yes, thank you overlord Tralcan.” The admiral began by addressing the chair. “I would like to report, an overall fall in productivity from spice mining in the Kessel system. As you are all aware, my sector is reliant upon the Hutts black market trading for civil stability, and during these tense times, I must ask Admiral Rackal, to increase production from the planet to satisfy the Hutts incessant demands. We either operate such a course of action, or the chair will give me permission and the resources to begin exterminating the Hutt syndicates on Nar Shaddaw?”

Tralcan spoke up. “All hands will make their vote.” A brief interlude followed. “Majority vote of thirty one commands spice production to be increased to the necessary quota that Admiral Rackal requires.”

“Next item please, Admiral Keysis?”

“Thank you overlord.” Keysis said with a generous approval. “It is about this recent outbreak. As you all know I am responsible for the Core Sector, and I have had reports of eighteen million civilians alone suffer infection from this virus. Additionally, I have been leaked information which the chair has attempted to suppress, that this virus has been pre-registered by the weapons division of Rashin Corporation. Codenamed the Dark-Light virus. I request a majority vote on an immediate investigation to these links and the current state of affairs amongst the civilian population.”

“Thank you admiral Keysis.” Tralcan said dryly. “The chair will give opportunity to vote to the proposal. Yay or nay.” Fingers pressed down on buttons. “Majority vote in favour of an immediate investigation. Fifty-two to one in favour.” Tralcan smashed his hammer against the desk. “This meeting is dismissed, all further items are suspended until later on this afternoon. Admiral Keysis, if you could remain behind please.” Tralcan requested in a pleasant enough tone.

She was about to go to her quarters, and don the uniform of old. She thought she knew her part to play, such an easy mission, to locate and find out the intentions of her former teacher and friend. She thought wrong.

Gently as the ship shifted from the black empty void of space, into the blue hue of hyperspace, she found herself face to face with one of them…. Was she startled, not at this point, not any longer, as one of her six stalkers made his appearance to her. His words were dark and gruesome, and worse of all was the subtle implied threats, ones that she could only perceive.

Hera stopped walking as she listened to him, his talk of choices, and of fate. Destiny was not like Calamity, Destiny was not as cruel, but he was more arrogant. Such is the price of being between the lines, and having the strings of fate itself at your disposal.

His words were indifferent, yet amused, by the fate of the galaxy. His apple, Hera noticed, so beautiful, so tasty, until it got to the core. Something had to be happening to the core, although she didn’t know what. Her experience with the council of white taught her anytime they had props, it had a hidden meaning, and she was sure Destiny was no different. The only thing she wondered, was what it meant.

She then watched him vanish, as he is wont to do. Hera sighed, as the ensign next to her watched her really confused as she stared at the wall, like it was speaking to her. Hera leaned up against the bulkhead wall.

“I am growing sick and tired of all these games.” she said out loud in her frustration, as the Ensign watched and listened. “I never wanted this, I never asked for this. I have half a mind to tell him to frak himself.” she said again, her voice somewhat more depressed than it was a moment before. She crossed her arms and looked down at the bulkhead.

She knew that this moment in time was a crossroads moment. She looked at the ensign, her face was very serious. Without asking, as she rarely did with Hawkins, she reached around him and pulled out his pack of smokes, and his lighter. “Thanks.” she said as she light up the cigarette. She breathed it in, as she slumped down on the floor, pulling her knees up to her chest.

She took another drag as she thought of what was to come. Was it her death, or life? What did they want of her, to constantly hound her. She then gritted her teeth in anguish, as she stood up and walked towards the bridge. They want a show down with me? She thought to herself. “Then I will give them one.” she thought again in anger as she approached Herzer.

“Hey brother.” she said agitated. “Change of plans. I need to go here.” she said as she placed her hand on the screen. “Drop out of hyperspace here, and let me use a shuttle. Then haul ass and get the old man, and whoever in the hell you want.”

She knew the man before her was about to protest but she put her hand up to her mouth like a shhh. “Trust me ok.” she said to him. “This is something I have to do. In forty eight hours, I need you, and Hawkins, and whatever else you can muster to attack Kessel. Let Hawkins know that I am counting on him, he will know what that means.”

Keysis remained seated as the rest of his colleagues walked out of the room, Tralcan smiled as each man walked past. Of course their faces betrayed nothing but Tralcan knew that as soon as they were outside of the doors the conspiring would begin. How to best unseat him from his position is what they would all linger on, especially overlord Rachu. He would surely use this incident to damn him before the emperor. He could lose his seat on the council, or worse, his very life. The last admirals walked out of the door leaving nothing but an uncomfortable silence between him and Keysis. Tralcan drummed his fingers along the table for a few fleeting moments following it with a deep exhale.

“We had an arrangement admiral.” Tralcan said demanding an answer for the betrayal. “We had a bloody arrangement.” Tralcan clenched his fists in anger. “I told you that I would deal with the outbreak and in return.”

“And in return I would be executed for incompetence by the emperor.” Keysis interrupted boldly. His eyes were just as glaring as Tralcans. “What do you think Vader will do to the admiral who lost him eighteen million subjects. Subjects from the CORE! These are people who count, these are the people that have a voice in the emperors ear Tralcan. Are you blinded by the fact that they’re going to want revenge, because I’m not. Vader is going to want someone to blame.”

“We will blame the rebellion, just as we always do.”

“And when Vader finds out what this virus really does, what do you think then. No, I will not take responsibility for its spread, I will not risk it.” Keysis got to his feat.

“You will sit back down admiral.” Tralcan raised his voice just ever so slightly. Keysis got the hint.

“Your threats of bribes will do you no good, I am not going to be helf responsible for this disaster. Are you blind Tralcan, can you not see what’s happening out there.” Keysis raised his hands wildly, slamming his fist against the table. “We have a damn virus which is infecting every single bloody species in the Empire, and there’s nothing we can do about it. I’ve seen the projections, the estimated casualty reports, do you think I’m blind. I have my own bloody experts. No, I will not go down in history as the greatest murderer in history. Even Tarkin pales to your efforts Tralcan.”

“You talk to me like that!” Tralcan stood up in a fit of rage. “You will find no quarter from the emperor you dog. I will resolve this problem, I will engineer the solution. Your backbone may be weak, but mine, I can tell you this right now you piece of wookie crap, you or your family will not survive. As of right now, admiral Keysis, I am quarantining all infected planets and starships. Including Coruscant, and, your family. We will let this natural disaster run its course, just as we always have.”

Keysis didn’t move. “You would damn my family just for your petty revenge. Their death can do nothing.”

“Oh on the contrary.” Tralcan smiled. “It will make me feel better. Now, do you have another solution, a better solution to deal with this problem, since you have done so much research! Of course you don’t. The emperor has entrusted me to rule while he is indisposed. You will be taught how to respect your betters.” Tralcan extended his hand. “You can start by showing just how adept you are at submission.”

Keysis stood up and walked slowly towards the overlord. Taking Tralcans hand, he lowered his lips closely to the skin. “AHHHHHHH." Tralcan screamed in pain. "You bastard, you bit me, you bloody bit me!” Keysis stood up to his full height blood licking at his lips. Wiping his face with the white sleeve of his uniform the admiral laughed as Tralcan raged.

“I’m leaving.” Keysis said with little more than a glance to Tralcan, as he walked from the room.

“You fool.” Tralcan called after. “YOU FOOL!!!!”

OOC: This seemed the best place to put it...the thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=574475).

IC:



TO: His Majesty, the Emperor, Darth Vader
FROM: Grand Admiral Thrawn

My Dear Emperor,

It is with great sadness and regret that I must report sad tidings to your eminence this day. By foul and evil means a Rebel commando force has penetrated the Empire of Thrashia. The vast majority of their force was destroyed, but not before a few of their compatriots managed to crash land and assassinate his excellency, Emperor Treize Kushrenada.

Those responsible have been punished effectively and an investigation is ongoing at this time. The Emperor's death at this time is unfortunate seeing as events within the galaxy and diplomatic community are heating up. I have therefore exercised effective rights as Warlord and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the Empire of Thrashia, with the agreement and support of the Moff Council, to act as ruling Regent of the Thrashian Imperial throne until his excellency's son, the Crown Prince, is of the appropriate age.

If what my sources inform me is correct, Tenetia has suffered a rather crushing blow at the hands of Rebel scum and others. I am afraid that Thrashia can offer no immediate aid to help in the situation in orbit of that planet, but rest assured that I will commence operations as his Excellency had informed me of in his dealings with yourself, Emperor Vader. While I am politically solidifying the sudden vacuum left by Emperor Treize, the Thrashian Imperial Fleet under my protege, Admiral Belisarius, will be in touch to handle the immediate military affairs of the Empire as well as help the Galactic Empire in this time of dire need.

Signed,
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Star%20Wars/signature.png

Keysis boarded his personal star destroyer, his shuttle having departed from the Executor only five minutes ago. He knew Tralcan was right now the most dangerous man alive. With the emperor in seclusion, doing who knows what, the current commanding overlord was untouchable until the emperor communicated with his court. The best thing he could do was wait, safely aboard his own Destroyer.

The crew saluted him as he walked coolly towards the command deck and somehow the maintenance reports and paper trail was already beginning to find him with aides handing him what seemed like an endless number of datapads that thirsted for his thumb print. If only the intelligence services could be this effective Keysis thought to himself.

“Admiral on the bridge.” The salute sounded as Keysis calmly paced above the command pit. “At ease and back to your duties. Captain Brach, come with me please.” Keysis said as we walked past his number two.

Brach was a loyal officer, someone who worked well with his admiral. He was bright but not bright enough to think about plunging the knife into Keysis’ unsuspecting back. So the admiral trusted him and Brach knew this. For all the two men were concerned they were the best of friends, trusted colleagues, and now they were family. Brach having married the admirals sister only a few months ago.

Keysis led the captain to the observation lounge, which was empty at this time of day. “Take a drink.” Keysis said as he pointed to the unstaffed bar. ”We need to talk.” Brach grabbed two glasses, and a bottle of something green.

Tarkins Fang

Krashin woke up this morning with a Galaxy Gun crisis in his hands, and now it had devolved almost instantly onto a civil disaster crossing half the empire. The council was, for all he knew still in deliberation on what efforts they could take, but all he had gotten from them was orders to launch an investigation into some bureaucratic records of the Rashin Corporation. Needless to say that wasn’t Krashins priority.

The news cameras were out on the lower levels of Coruscant, busy recording whatever was happening so the media could have a field day when the emperor lowered the restrictions. There wasn’t much chance of keeping the lid on this one. Already over three trillion people knew and the wireless broadcasts would carry it to small pirate stations in good time. Krashin was playing a time game. He had to battle time, keep whatever it was confined to the lower levels of Coruscant and then mop it up.

For that, he needed more men, more troops, and he just didn’t have them. He would have requisitioned two legions from Kaminos if that planet hadn’t been locked down as well, so really he had no alternative. He had to use the damn droids.

He knew that it could potentially make the situation worse. The people hated battledroids, the navy despised them and the government mistrusted them, for whatever reasons Krashin just didn’t know. The clone wars were long over, and the empire literally had billons of the things sitting in cold storage at Pentova. Heck as far as he knew the last productivity report, said that the factory was still in operation at eighty percent efficiency. Numbers of droids weren’t his problem though. It was getting the blasted things to where they needed to be.

Pentova had plenty of outdated warships that the confederacy used, but it required an executive order to activate the damn things, and the emperor, well as all the command staff knew that the emperor was busy doing whatever he did with his damned foolish religion.

“I want.” Krashin announced. “The droid activation command codes for the Pentovan reserves, their ship codes, and their operational parameter guidelines in no more than.” Krashin checked the clock. “ No more than fifteen minutes. You have fifteen minutes to get me this information people. Search the data banks, tear open the damn machines, just get me what I need!” Krashins temperature started to rise slightly from the stress.

At least he had the consolation that if anyone wondered about the legality of what he had just ordered they were wise enough to keep it to themselves. As far as his subordinates were concerned, at this moment in time Krashin was god, and he would deal with any questions in the traditional imperial way. Sure, the admirals didn’t have the force to call on, but he did have a nice sidearm in its holster. A constant reminder of his preferred method of discipline.

The admiral took to his command chair, and began watching the visual information from the lower levels of Coruscant. There was blind panic. Millions were rioting, people could be seen falling under the crowd while others were chasing them. Whatever the hell this virus was, it was definitely unique.

The labs hadn’t been able to get a sample yet, they just couldn’t explain why. They took blood samples from the infected and nothing, not a trace of what they were looking for. Krashin turned away, as he saw a mother and child trip and fall under the crowd. Probably better that way he supposed. At least they wouldn’t have to endure the nightmare for much longer.

A nightmare was a good word for it. Coruscants nightmare. Truth is that the planet was incapable of dealing with a crisis of this magnitude. All they really can do is section off the slums from levels 2 and three and quarantine them for now. Not that would do much, already there were reported cases in the mid levels, but for some reason initial reports declared that the effects of the virus were completely different. Krashin couldn't get his head round it. There shouldn’t be any difference in the symptoms. Unless. They were dealing with a multitude of diseases. But for some reason which was suspicious enough, the intelligence services said that, that, was impossible.

Krashin held that thought for a moment then let it slip away.

Vader

Vader contemplated his empire, its expanse and reach. Holding countless stars in its influence and trillions of lives all beckoning at his command. Palpatine had once known power, his former master was the most foolish of all. Believing the power was to be researched in the expanse of the force, where, true power was control over anothers life. Vader rejoiced in the influence he exerted, the dominion that he cast over so many others. Empire, Republics, Unions, his shadow was indeed large and vast, but even he had to submit to a master.

Vader done nothing but sit in his sanctum, he was waiting, almost two days now, probing the silence. The force was definitely cringing upon a cross this day. Something had been set in motion and the emperor was desperate to witness what, where, and when. But he needed guidance, and so Vader waited, waited patiently for his guest.

Hours passed, minutes and seconds. And as Vaders eyes dipped until they closed behind his heavy respirator, the lights within his sanctum flickered, with several detonating in a crescendo of glass and inert gas.

Vader remained seated as he looked into the cast darkness of the room. “I am here.” Said a voice.

“You have taken your time. I have been waiting for days. Do you not understand that I can not afford such time isolated from the empire!” Vaders voice was unusually calm as he spoke, but inside he desired to kill this man.

“Yes, I understand your predicament, but I don’t recognise the importance.” The voice casually added. “You must know, that it is time for us to begin our final move, your time emperor is almost now.”

“My time is when I say it is.”

“True.” Confirmed the voice. “But your time will come, all that matters is when it happens and in the manner in which you choose it too. One way will instinctively be easier, the other, well, it will be a contrast to your . . .” He stopped for a moment. “Hmm Our nature should I say.”

“You tell me these things.” Vader said almost mockingly. “But I have never seen your face. Come, step into the light and let me look upon the man who has advised me.”

“Ahhhh, well that would be a problem. Stepping into the light is definitely something I cannot do. But, my dear emperor, let me tell you that three of the seven are now working against you. Your Destiny is still undecided, but fate is preparing to take its turn. Listen to me, and you will conquer your Destiny, and you will be able to forge your own! With, my help of course. In a day and a half, you will assault the planet Kessel, you will look for a man, accompanied by a girl who can see past and future but never the present. If you kill him, your reward will be final.”

“Final.” Vader acknowledged the conclusion of the word and breathed deeply, his respirator wheezed with its traditional mechanical hiss. He didn’t know how he knew, but he just knew that this man had gone. Pulling himself to his feet, the emperor wondered at the value of this meeting, but more importantly he wondered at just what was happening with the war. The council had better have made the correct decisions. Vader was in no mood for dealing with failure.

Brach held up his glass, rotating it against the soft light of the lounge. There really was nothing better than toasting to good times than with a friend. “You bit him?” Brach asked the question again.

“Yeah I bit the bastard.”

Brach laughed as he examined his glass. “No wonder you’re worried, but just don’t brother. Tralcan is viscious blood thirsty politician but he’s no fool. There’s not a chance that he can risk moving against you, not right now, not in the middle of this kind of crisis. The rebellion, the republic and now this, this disease. The emperor won’t stand for any in-fighting in the court.” Brach concluded definitely. “It would be suicide for him to even try and do anything to divide us.”

Keysis nodded. “That’s not what I’m worried about though. He doesn’t need to convince the council of anything. All he has to do is order us on some damned crusade.”

“Then we will wage it brother. We’ve done greater things you and I, and together anything that fool thinks of we will be able to overcome it. Brother, you did the right thing by alerting the council.”

“They will do nothing.” Keysis took a deep drink. “Its just another piece in the game of politics for them. It’s like Palpatine is still with is, the bastards legacy runs deep in the veins of everyone in the Navy. All they want is power, never, never to serve.”

“Which is why you will survive, which is why we will survive, me, you, our families.”

Keysis scoffed. “When did you become so damned idealistic?”

“I married your sister, she has that kind of effect on me.” Brach’s smile died away.

“Any news from Anaxes?” Keysis asked.

“They’re locked down like Coruscant, I’ve heard from the coded channels that the army there has thrown down far superior quarantine procedures. I’ve even taken a look at some pirate broadcasts, everyone is walking about in spare storm trooper suits, heck they’ve even raised shield generators over the cities to stop the civilians from escaping out. She’ll be safe.”

“Where is she, do you know?”

“She’s in, well should be in the mountains brother. I mean, if there is some disease, it won’t get here there, it’s too cold, there’s no way. I mean.”

“It’s the best place she could be, but right now we need to serve brother. We can worry about what is going to happen later. But right now, the first piece of service we need to do for the empire, is kill overlord Tralcan.” Keysis narrowed his voice. “Get captain Kest up here, he’s been wanting a promotion for a while. If he gets this done, tell him, I’ll make sure he gets a damn legion to command.” Brach smiled and finished his drink, while his brother in law held his tongue for a moment of thought. “And Brach?”

“Yes brother?”

“Get command to relinquish five shuttles. We’re going to need them.”

Brach didn’t ask why, he already knew. “They’re going to ask questions.”

“Let them, I don’t gave a damn about their questions. Just tell them to follow orders.” Brach finished his drink and got to his feet.

“Don’t stay here too long brother.” He said. “They’re going to reconvene the council in a few hours.” Keysis poured himself another drink as Brach left the room.

Kessel

Whether by chance or design, or simply because he had that nack for such things, the new Regent of the Empire of Thrashia arrived. Flashing out of hyperspace along predetermined coordinates, and docking with orbital platforms built, maintained, and manned by Thrashian personnel, was the Super Star Destroyer Olympus. Its small escort squadron of Star Destroyers likewise docked, alerts going out for any repairs or refueling that might be needed filtered the communication waves.

Standing in his usual stark-white uniform, Grand Admiral Thrawn watched the busy-bodied traffic within orbit of Kessel. It was the most unusual sight to be seen. Little to no civilian traffic, the usual spice traders, was in evidence. The Imperial Fleet on the other hand was in an obvious show of strength. Those few civilian craft that were still flying there either being tractor beamed into Customs Frigates or fleeing back to the surface under threat of immediate destruction via turbolaser cannon.

Of course Thrawn knew the reasons for why this was all happening. His new sources were giving him all the intelligence he could want these days. And the news he was collecting from around the Galactic Empire was troubling. When he'd read the emergency order to cease civilian hyperspace traffic he'd approved of the measure, but knew it would be costly for Vader to operate quickly, or react, to any Rebel actions. It was a troubling prospect. Which was why Thrawn was at Coruscant, just before the council was to convene. As the new Regent, Thrawn had assumed all of Emperor Treize's former powers and titles; which meant that Thrawn was the new Imperial Advisor.

"Communications," Thrawn said over his shoulder. "Inform the Emperor of my arrival and send a notice to the council members as well. Ask that a full discourse on the current situation be transmitted to the Olympus forthwith. Also send a message to Daala in the Maw, she is to be prepared to depoy at a moment's notice."

"Yes sir, Grand Admiral."

The council had assembled rather quickly, no one was late, no one dared be late. Not since news of the latest horrors of Coruscant arrived in the updated intel packages which would be discussed upon the emperors arrival. Vader had left his seclusion shortly after the last meeting had ended, and had been brought up to speed with the latest incidents to mark the empire. As far as Vader was concerned this was nothing more than an additional ploy from the Republic to strike at the very heart of the empire. The course of action for the Imperial Navy had already been decided.

Tralcan was the first of the two overlords to take his seat, sitting right of the imperial throne. An additional chair had been added, though it came equipped with a holo disc, if the emperor saw fit to allow the Grand Admiral entrance to this most sensitive of deliberations. Thrawn had already requested a full update throughout many imperial worlds, and Tralcan had just sent a clear request denied transmission, citing security and classification reasons. Tralcan felt that it would not be wise, to allow the full scope of the situation to fall on friendly but outside ears.

Tralcan was well aware of Thrans history, and he knew of Grand Admirals clear ambitions. Despite how much Thrawn felt he held sway, here and now, in this council chamber, only the emperor was capable of blocking his decrees. Still, Thrawn would be at the council meeting, Tralcan knew it would shape Thrawns future rule, depending on how he acted here. If the Admiral made a fatal slip in tongue, Vader would surely meddly in his aspirations for the Thrashian seat of power.

All of the seats were now occupied except the throne. The emperor was running late, which was just as well, Tralcan could begin the first item of business while Vader made his way to the meeting. “ORDER, ORDER!” He announced as usual. “We assemble in the name of the emperor to conduct the affairs of Galactic Interest. First item of business, a majority vote on allowing Grand Admiral Thrawn of the Thrashian star empire access to this meeting. Vote yay or nay admirals.” Fingers danced across voting panels. “Majority vote in favour of the admiral attending. Stipulation is he receives no voting rights on matters of internal policy.” Tralcan smashed his hammer against the Obsidian table quickly concluding the item of business.

A blue hologram of the Grand Admiral fluctuated and appeared at the table. “Welcome Grand Admiral, you have been granted admittance to the chamber.” Tralcan confirmed.

Two Obsidian double doors swung open from the far side of the room, each simultaneously interrupting the admiral as Vader emerged from the expanse beyond. All stood to occasion as the emperor took his throne.

“You may continue your items of business Overlord Tralcan.” Vader commanded. Now seated.

“Thank you my lord.” Tralcan and the assembled admirals took their seats. “Gentleman, the second item of business is to be presented by the chair. As of this moment in time, the empire is now in a state of Galactic Emergency, with all borders and inter-national trade and custom being closed. Acting Commander of the Core Admiral Krashin has activated the Pentovan droid fleet, without executive permission, but he has been pardoned so that our border space may be patrolled while the Navy concentrates on internal affairs for now.” A large three dimensional projection of the Empire manifested above the table. Each world clearly visible, many marked with a dark red colour.

“We have monitored the spread of this unique disease which has, we believe originated in the Coruscant star system throughout the bulk of the empire. Our technicians report, some stark findings gentleman. As far as we are aware, not one world which is populated and habited under Imperial rule has been unable to report a negative confirmation on the finding of any plague symptoms amongst their general populace. We have also now general confirmations of the death toll on Coruscant, which, and current estimates place the figures loosely at approximately fifteen million in the past hour. As far as our research teams have been able to report, the plagues symptoms manifest quickly, and death comes within an unknown and unspecific time span.” Tralcan paused and took a deep breath. “There have been no reported survivors of the infected.” A burst of conversation erupted throughout the room.

“The chair offers three proposals for voting. Grand Admiral Thrawn is excluded from voting on this issue.” Tralcan made no effort to explain the decision to the admiral and instead moved swiftly on. “The chair proposes, instant execution for all confirmed infections. The chair proposals planetary sanitation moves for all worlds with a sixty-eight percent infection rate, and the chair proposes immediate implementation of emergency contingency operations, consistent with a threatening extinction level event. Summaries of which will appear on all voting members screens. Yay or nay gentleman, please vote.” The council cast their decision, this time it took significantly longer almost five minutes for each man to cast his vote. “The chair reports on a successful Yay majority vote from all chairs presiding. The vote has not been blocked at any level from executive decree.” Tralcan inputted his confirmation into his panel.

“Before the chair makes any further proposals, I am offering the assembled admirals to floor their own questions or table a vote.” Tralcan looked around the room for any takers.

Sitting from the comfort of his private command room in what use to be the command suite aboard the Olympus, Grand Admiral Thrawn listened to the proceedings with care. He knew most of those assembled or if not personally, had a dossier on each. As Tralcan spoke Thrawn studied the man carefully. Tralcan reminded Thrawn of a certain serpent-esque creature from one of the worlds in the Unknown Regions, except perhaps Tralcan was more oily? Regardless of how he viewed the man however, Thrawn knew that they had a serious situation on hand.

Thrawn set his mind to comparing what Tralcan was saying with what his own intelligence sources had delivered to him en route to Kessel. The plague had originated within the Coruscant system. On a planet like that it was only to be expected that the occasional medical emergency would arise...but all the same there were safety nets to catch such eventualities, precautions put in place by the Emperor himself years before. So why now the sudden and unexpected plague? Thrawn looked one more time at Tralcan as the Overlord finished up his report. The ghost of a thought played across Thrawn's mind, but decided to let it rest. Pointing fingers and making, thus far, baseless accusations, would be a useless and damning action.

With a heartbeat of Tralcan's declaration allowing any officer of the Fleet to speak, Thrawn pressed a notifying button. Within the council chamber his signifier pinged, clearly displaying his desire to speak. Tralcon turned his head and nodded to him.

"Grand Admiral Thrawn...the floor is yours," Tralcon allowed.

Thrawn steepled his hands and allowed a small derisive smirk to settle over his face. He nodded in respect to Vader and a few other individuals before rising to speak, so all assembled could see him.

"Moffs and Admirals, my Emperor...I fear for us. At this point in time when the Galactic Empire is weakened to such a state. I fear for our ideals and citizens. Never before has the Empire faced such seemingly insurmountable odds," began Thrawn. He turned his head, letting his gaze sweep over each individual.

"However it is clear to me that this plague is no natural curse or blight. It is clear to me now that the measures that are to be taken by Overlord Tralcan and this council, already decided upon, are indeed the correct--if uneasy-- path to survival. We must not allow such a terrorist blight ruin our proud Empire beyond recompense. Many of you may know that I am now the Regent of the Thrashian Empire, elected by our Moff Council no less than five standard cycles ago, when his Excellency Treize was murdered by Coredian rebels. An attempt to disrupt the decisive power of the Empire.

"Now this so called plague...a virus. Natural? I hardly believe so. My sources have informed me that even as we sit here speaking, the Rebel scum are preparing to make an assault of some magnitude against our sovereign territory. Clearly in concert with a devious plot to hinder not only Thrashia, with the assassination of our Emperor, but with an unspeakable biological attack at the very heart of the Galactic Empire, on Coruscant. Forcing us to rely upon inferior forces to guard our borders and maintain an economy-crippling hyperspace ban within our interiors. Tying up troops and ships that could well be used elsewhere.

"Gentlemen, this is a moment when we must act far more decisively than has already been decided upon. These measures must be implemented post haste and with all dispatch, even though it may cause us pain of heart to sacrifice our citizens. But I say that they would do so willingly, for the Greater Good of the Empire, to save even more of their fellow citizens than allow them to suffer through even more spreading of this baseless attack upon our citizenry."

Thrawn turned to Emperor Vader. "Your highness, I propose that Overlord Tralcan's orders be carried out to the letter. And most of all we must revenge ourselves of this heinous crime against our people. Only the rebel scum like the Masakis would cook up an idea to attack the Empire so indirectly, and at its most vital resource. I declare to you that Thrashia shall help in all manner of arms to see this crisis through to its end and that the blood price paid by our citizens is put at the foot of the Rebels, so that they may reap what they have sown."

Finished, Thrawn sat back down.

March of Cambreadth
Unregistered Gunship
Outside Sol System

"Unity Sister" Herzer told Hera, it was an old Raven's word he hoped to calm her. "I will do as you say. The Old Man would like to debrief you, but I won't stop you from fulfilling your mission I can see the importance it has for you. Don't tell me of it unless you feel you must, if you have anything you must say to the Old Man you can write it down on the way to these coordinates.

"You should know that Kessel has become a holdfast for the Empire, its no longer a mere penal colony. It is the hub for the Imperial Fleet that threatens our Southern Border, and is one of the primary objectives for Operation Roundhammer. If you are made a prisoner do what you must to survive but we will come for you, we will not forget you, no matter what happens in orbit, Ravens never leave family behind, neh?"

He held out his hand one last time, "Go with the Gods Sister, and may the force be with you."

Vader raised his opinion after a brief albeit a patient consideration of the Grand Admirals suggestions. The Dark lord turned his voided eyes towards the blue holographic projection intently. “The chairs proposals, will indeed be carried to the letter, however, we must not risk opening a wider front than the empire already faces. It is clear that at this time, sacrifice must become our priority, therefore we must wait until we prosecute our campaign.”

“It is the Republic Grand Admiral, that we must deal with first. I am giving you remit over the offensive operations against their territory, with the command to visit upon them, what they attempted to visit upon Tenetia. Burn every world. Exterminate every being. Slay them all admiral, then I myself will set your crown upon your head.” Vaders finger was pointed exactingly at Thrawn. “Overlord Tralcan?” The emperor asked.

“How many warships has been allocated for the Republic operation?”

“Only fifty my lord, for the opening phase, they’re massing in Usin star system.” Tralcan quickly pulled up a manifest, detailing the names of the forty nine star destroyers, and the command ship Lucia. “We have in proposal an additional eighty five capital ships and their supporting squadrons for requisition from the Trison sector, we are waiting on your approval for the transfer my lord.” Tralcan left the point dangling, Vader didn’t bite.

“Admiral Thrawn, you will be given command of those vessels in due course, while the rest of my navy deals with this pestilence infecting our worlds. Coordinate with the Huntarians Grand Admiral, bring the Republic to their knees, I entrust you will be capable of doing it in your usual, good time?” Vader finished and waited for the next order of business.

Tralcan generously opened the floor for any further statements. There was a few proposals that were made, some insisting upon a cancellation of taxes for certain needs, and others proposing that trade be excluded from the quarantine measures. Both were voted down, after a lengthy discussion by the table.

Finally, the last item of business was to be presented by the chair, detailing the findings of the latest reports from the core. The details continued to implore the frustration at not being able to sample the virus or bacteria in any way shape or form, from the infected blood samples. Causing many to wonder at the true source and cause of these symptoms.

Of course news had now been allowed to break out, just mere second before the council took the information up for review, and all efforts were focused upon demonising the rebellion and the Republic, causing conversation to stir amongst the officials present.

Seven hours later:
Escape pod near the coordinates

Hera held her arms close to her body, as she shivered slightly in the small cramp quarters of the escape pod. Alone, in the black, it was quite unnerving, as she clinched her arms tighter for warmth. The escape pod was designed to extend it’s life support to a maximum efficiency, which meant using as little power as possible. Although alive, it didn’t comfort her much to be in forty degrees, and alone in the black.

As the pod limbered through the vast emptiness of space, accompanied by only the steady points of lights by very distant stars, Lady Sunshine began to wonder why in the hell was she out here. A few hours ago it seemed all to clear, as she clasped Herzer’s arm. She would never forget the look in his eyes, nor the feeling of his heart, as he nodded in approval of the impromptu mission. His look truly seemed like that of family, the trust he garnered for her, was like that of a sibling. She couldn’t help but to wonder if that faith would exist if he knew the truth. If any of them would…

She looked down to her hand, the very one that clasped his arm. She could remember the note, that she wrote for Hawkins, but it began to seem more like a distant memory. She barely could remember placing her hand on the paper, and writing the simple phrase. “Dad, Nitlis is back, and he is trying to steal the little girls. I have gone to arrest him, since you retired. Meet me at the crossroads in two days. Your loving daughter, Cally.”

It was a strange feeling as time no longer seemed to have any meaning to Hera. She felt as constant as the beams of light outside the window. It felt like something was close, guarding her, keeping her safe. She gently put her hand against the window, as her gray breath puffed out of her lungs, against the cold air of the escape pod.

“All right.” she said to the darkness that surrounded her. “I am here, as you wanted.” she said again to the nothingness that surrounded her. “What are you waiting for, Destiny, Calamity, or Truth?” she said again, as her hand gently slid down the window, leaving a streak of clearness down the now turning gray window.

Before the issue of taxation and trade was brought to debate and after Thrawn had been given the details of his new forces under his command, the Grand Admiral stood up and bowed formally to Vader.

"I will see to it that your will is carried out mi-lord," said Thrawn, his phosphorus-red eyes shimmering, even through the hologram. "The Rebel scum shall not survive our might."

Without another word, the transmission line was cut, and the hologram faded away, letting the council get back to its regular business. Thrawn, still sitting in his command chair aboard Olympus, studied one of his newly acquired paintings, a rather interesting sculpture made by a Duros some forty years prior. It was interesting to note the different mediums that the artist had used, combining larmal stone with imported Corellian marble.

Thrawn sighed. There were more important and vital things now that the time had come. He pressed the communications panel on his control board.

"Thrawn to bridge."

"This is Captain Brandai, Grand Admiral," came his trustworthy adjutant's voice over the comm.

"Bring the Olympus out of docking and prepare the ship for a jump into hyperspace captain. Also, have communications get me a clear line to Daala in the Maw," ordered Thrawn.

He closed his eyes and relaxed for a moment. He felt the vibrations, slight as they may be, as the main reactor of the Olympus flared into life. He looked at his control panel to see the docking links fall off one by one. Moment's late Captain Brandei's voice came back over the line.

"We've established the link Admiral."

"Thank you captain, inform me when we're prepared for the jump to hyperspace. Also, I am transmitting you a list of captains and vessels that are to be put under my command. The majority are in the Usin System, have them rendezvous with us at the Elom System."

"Aye sir."

Thrawn changed channels. "Admiral Daala?"

"Yes Grand Admiral?" came Daala's distinct voice. She was a woman but could never help but have a steely tone.

"You are to remain in the Kessel-Maw as per orders from Lord Vader. I entrust you will be faithful to them and not go gallivanting of on some damn-fool attempt to capture an enemy or something. Is that understood, admiral?" Thrawn asked. He could just imagine the tightening of her lips and the steeling of her eyes. Daala was fairly simply to inspire: give her an objective and tell her not to make a fool of herself and it was inspiration to remake Bastion over in its image.

"You may have full confidence in me Grand Admiral," replied Daala.

"Good. Thrawn out." Thrawn cut the line and turned to view the listing of his new, additional, vessels within his task forces. He now had more vessels than he had originally planned to use, which was always a positive aspect. And he knew just how to use them too. He just hoped that Commodore Spears had completed his assigned tasks, made more than a month prior when Thrawn had first begun seeing that a conflict with the Republic would become inevitable, or else the dear Commodore would find himself quickly punished.

Brandei's voice once more disturbed Thrawn's thoughts. "We're ready for the jump to lightspeed Admiral."

"Proceed, Captain, today marks the beginning of a grand new adventure."

"Glad to know its finally here," replied Brandei. The Olympus became pseudo-shadow and disappeared, leaving Kessel far behind.

OOC: Here is the thread that I made for the Imperial invasion of the Republic. Huntaer, WIck, that's you. LINK (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=14462679)

EDIT: I would like a confirmation on the star map from WIck, seeing as Huntaer and myself, according to Sith, had the wrong map...

EDIT x2: Map is now confirmed. No problems.

Coruscant – Lower Levels

The screams from outside followed Nicolai as he pushed his legs up the stairwell. He was exhausted. His legs were hurting, his lungs were burning and his arms were crying out for some rest, but he had to push on further he knew that they would be coming soon. “Shit” he said as the metal door swung open and thudded against the wall below. Taking a quick glance over the railings, Nicolai could see some vague shadows slowly entering the stairwell.

Pulling his head back as he saw one of the shadows look up Nicholai knew he had to do something and fast, he couldn’t hide like this forever. Taking a few more seconds to catch his breath Nicolai swore again as he heard the metallic whine of a droid commander. “Second company, advance on the meatbags. Clear this building.”

“Rodger Rodger.”

Nicolai didn’t even have to think, he started running again as he heard the patter of droid footsteps follow him up the stairs. He had no idea how many of them there were, there could be fifty of them coming up the stairs by now. Catching a glimpse of a sign covered in dust as he ran past, Nicolai was sure it said something like ‘Level eighteen’. If it was, then at least he had a damn good head start on the clankers.

The pattering stopped following Vladamir as he climbed up further and further, if he could only make it to the middle quadrant of Coruscant before the empire sealed the whole thing off, then maybe he could find a ship somewhere and get off the bloody planet. He passed level nineteen and twenty which were labelled far more clearly. As he ran past he heard the cries of a baby whining in the background just through one of the access doors. He thought about it for a second and didn’t stop continuing instead to run up to level twenty-one. His mind was abuzz with adrenaline, his life was almost flashing before his eyes, and he had no idea what he was going to do or what he needed to do.

There was no way he could take on a battledroid and win, and even worse, the mid level of Coruscant had storm troopers, not droids guarding almost every entrance and exit way, but at least they were human. They would have to remember the faces of those they executed plague or not. Nicolai stopped as he realised exactly what he thought, and the guilt of his sudden hypocrisy followed him. He came to a still again, panting desperately for breath. The stairwell echoed badly as his gasping for breath and the muffled cries of a child one level below bounced against the walls.

A large bang from the bottom of the stairwell jolted Nicolai. “Level one sanitised, proceeding to level two.”

“Rodger Rodger.”

“Crap.” Nicolai felt nervous as he turned back and moved down the stairs as fast as he could. This baby was going to piss him off, he just knew it. As he reached level twenty blaster fire soon echoed up the stair well as Nicolai reached the access door. Screams and shouts of those on the level trying to fight the droids came to an abrupt halt as they clankers moved deeper into the floor. The access door was jammed, and his Nicolai found himself fumbling with the lock which looked half molten. In fact the whole damn door looked like something had hit it from the other side, maybe a welding torch or something, but it was definitely buckled in the middle. Turning round he looked for anything he could use to pry the thing open. Grabbing a metal bar from the stair well banister, Nicolai was surprised at how easily the thing came loose.

“Level two sanitised, proceeding to level three.”

“Rodger Rodger.”

Nicolai pushed the bar deep into the frame and started to pull but the door wouldn’t budge. The damn thing was welded shut, and no matter what he did, it wouldn’t open. The bottom door slammed open again, and this time he could hear a lot more droids coming in. . .

(OOC: Post done with Sithy's permission, to avoid low quality one liners.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZSTqa7L2R0

Deep Space
Eight hours, thirty nine minutes after launch:

No one could say that the Imperials were gracious hosts, nor that in this time of need they had any cordiality towards their people. Her hands were bound tight, as two storm troopers each grabbed her by the arm, yanking her towards her new fate.

They showed little mercy, or little concern, of the victim of a hijacked vessel. Her protests went unheard, her lies and deceptions, went unchecked.

“I am Lt. Cally Cain, Independent Colony of Tauron. I was sent here to seek the aid of the Empire, where in the frak is your commander?” she yelled during processing. “Check my damn dog tags, or books.” she screamed out in frustration as the storm troopers continued with the processing, uncaring of the situation that she was placed.

“Quiet.” one of the mindless drones behind the pearl white storm trooper mask said. His voice was monotone behind the electronic speaker. “Or else we are going to throw you into a cell with a wookie.”

Her face grew flustered, as she stared into the blank eye covers of the troopers. Was this really her part, to sneak to Kessel, to go as some sort of damn slave? She looked up to the ceiling, gently biting her upper lip. “I hope you are having fun destiny.” she thought to herself.

Suddenly, a sharp pain shot her in the back, like being struck by lightning, as the stun baton cracked into her spine. She winced in pain, her heart began to beat quickly, as her legs felt like they were about to go numb from the shock. “Move it slave.” another one of the faceless storm troopers said as he readied the baton, for a second hit.

Her patience was coming towards an end, as a tear strolled gently down her face. Her eyes grew yellow, as the adrenaline began to build in her body. She wanted to tear this pathetic human apart, reach into his soul, and make him drown in his own blood. She could gently hear his heart beating, and feel the blood pumping through his veins.

One knee down, she slowly got up. Her body felt much heavier now, as she pushed herself off the floor. “Not now.” the voice of the man who sent her on this mission spoke. “Now is not your time, my apprentice.” the snide arrogant tone of Destiny spoke to her. “If you act now, like you desire, your path will be over, your role in the great play will come to an end. And I do not want that, you are my favorite actress. You want to see how this ends, don’t you.”

“Frak it.” she yelled out, as she continued to grow angrier. “Why don’t you show yourself, you coward.” she screamed out.

Crack the baton hit her back a second time. “You just do not know when to keep your mouth shut, you ingrate.” the Storm trooper said, as he pulled his baton back for a third strike.

“Now that wasn’t nice of you Hera.” Destiny spoke out. “Didn’t your mother teach you any manners. After all I am just trying to help you. I know you had your differences with the first Calamity, but I am not as malevolent as she is. Now stand up, and suck up your pride, and in the end, you will be the star of the show. I might even bring you roses.”

She pushed herself up once more, as the baton came swinging down. One of her guards reached up and grabbed the tormentors arm, stopping the final blow. “The Captain wants them to be healthy.” the second trooper said. “She can not work if she is in sickbay now can she?” he asked, his voice synthesizer covering up any emotion the trooper might have.

The tormentor shook his helmet at her, as he pointed towards the door. “Move it.” he said.
As she rounded the plain corridors, which were as colorful and artistic as a base ship, a man in white stood next to the door. “So this is my destiny?” she asked.

“No talking slave.” the tormentor said as he pushed her in the hold. She felt a tension ease off her hands, as the guards took off her restraining cuffs. Then a hard pressure, as the trooper shoved her into the hold. Hera fell to the floor. Her body still ached, her muscles were weaker, but still she managed to push herself off the floor. Destiny stood on the other side of the force field. Apple in hand, he gently winked at her. “You really need to tell me where to get decent food.” he said to Hera, as he showed her the bite mark. The core of the fresh apple was now brown, and covered in worms.

“Oh look at what he got here?” a pig nosed humanoid said, as he watched Hera get thrown down to the floor. He stared at her, as drool began to slip down his mouth. “Such a pretty one, don’t you say boys.” he said as he lifted his arm up, and began to wipe the drool off his mouth.

Hera shook her head as she began to stand up. “Go frak yourself.” she said as she tried to brush by him.

“Oh no, why do that, when you can help me out.” the pig nosed man said, as he grabbed her arm. “Now don’t be shy love.” he said, his breath reeking, as he was close to her face. “Give me a kiss.”

Hera looked into the pig nose man’s eyes, as he stuck his tongue out at her and moved closer to her. Hera put her head down, her voice trembling, “Alright, alright I don’t want any trouble.” she said. She put her hands up to his neck, and moved in closer. With her hands around his clammy skin, she shoved the palm of her hand into his windpipe as hard as she could.

In a moment, the pig man was out of air, as he bent over gasping for air. “You want me.” she yelled out, as she reached her hands around his head, one under his chin, the other, on the side of his skull, “Then take me.” she yelled, as she yanked his neck, snapping it like a twig.

Reaching down, as the man fell to the floor, she picked up his body with her right hand and tossed it at his buddies. “You want me?” she said again out in anger, as the adrenaline continued to pump through her veins. Her heart was racing, as the chemicals pumping through her added to her aggression.

A larger man rushed towards her. Tall, very well built, he ran as fast as he could. Hera, flashed him a slight smile, as he swung with all his force at her face. She ducked down below him, and with her left foot, kicked the man in the chest, pushing him back.

A third man ran up behind her, wrapping his arms around her torso. “You will pay bitch.” he said, as he held her tightly. The second man walked up to her, wiping his mouth with his arm. “I am going to enjoy this.” he said as he raised his arm up to her, to smack her down. With her left foot she kicked at his arm, the hand that was moving at her, then Slammed her foot down on the man holding her, toes. Her right foot then swung up as hard as the hybrid could, slamming it into his face over her shoulder.

She quickly turned, and elbowed the man behind her, in the throat, Then with a swift movement brought her knee into his nose. A loud crack could he heard, as the man fell to the floor. Hera looked down at the unconscious man, the man who dared try to defile her. Picking up her left foot, she slammed it down on his throat as hard as she could. She watched, as she felt his heart slowly stop. The sound of his neck popping in several places, filled her mind.

She turned back to the second man, who charged at her again. He swung his arm at her, like a hippo, strong, but not agile. His movements were slow to her, as she ducked around him, and kicked at the back of his knee cap.

His leg folded under the pressure, as he fell to the floor. By this time a circle of prisioners began to form. Their chants and laugher filled the hold, as they watched with excitement and glee, like barbarians, the ongoing fight. “Kill him.” one yelled out, in ecstasy, as another screamed, Murder that bitch. Their bloodlust filled Hera’s mind, as the man hit the floor hard. Reaching down to him, she grabbed his hair, and slammed his head against the bulkhead with all her might.

Blood splattered everywhere, as his head hit the bulkhead floor. Hera leaned down the man, and turned his head to her mouth. “When you fight a man, they are not your friend, they are your enemy. You kill your enemy.”

The man looked at her, as his eyes filled with terror. “No please.” he asked her, begging for his life. “Have mercy please.” he said to her. She looked into his eyes, as his pupil’s grew wide. His body shook. She took his head and slammed it on the floor again, with every ounce of strength her half cylon body could muster. Crack…

She could feel his skull caving in, as bone shards tore through the man’s brain. She looked at her hands, red as crimson. She felt no pity, no remorse. “Anyone else?” she screamed out, as she looked around the circle of prisoners. Her face, her clothes, her hands were drenched in the blood of the men. Her hands felt sticky as she held them out for all to see. “Anyone?” she screamed out again

The crowd slowly began to disipate. Hera could feel the rage inside her growing even more. She wanted to lash out much more than that, she wanted to tear this place apart.

Clap, Clap

Hera turned to see a woman, dressed like she when in her formal robes, a long white robe, and with a red sash. “I am so proud of you.” the woman spoke her voice dark as the night. “I must say, I thought my predecessor, wasted his time with you, Hera. Such teachings for so long seemed to be squandered, and wasted, like what the Masaki’s do with you. You are a beautiful sight, now that you listen.”

“Calamity?” she asked the phantom.

“New and improved. But you do not need to take my word for it. You know it, don’t you. You are not quite ready though… not yet. Soon though, you will be my dear, very soon. Hmm, should I kill these men for you, or would you rather have the privilege?” The woman said, as she smirked with her lips. “Oh come on now, do you think I am so unoriginal to flip the air switch again? No no, my dear, maybe a plague, oh yes a plague would be good. What do you say, should I? After all, you will download, so what does it matter to you?”

Hera crossed her arms, as she stared at the new Calamity.

Calamity began to chuckle, the way one does when a kid does something funny. “Please my love, do not worry. I would never actually ask your permission to do such a thing. After all, you are just an apprentice.” she said quite amused with herself.

Calamity began to walk slowly around the young woman, as she clasped her hands together. “If you keep this up dear, I might have to drop by more often. But too bad, our time is running short. The ship is docking with Kessel, and soon, you must fulfill your destiny.

Hera shook her head, as she tried to push aside Calamity’s statement. “And what is that?” she asked the woman in white. “You are to see the end, and the new beginning. Oh lookie, Vader is here. Atrox would be so jealous of you right now. Can you feel Vader, his heart beating for vengeance, and power. Of course you can. Although he is not as updated as you is he? No, no, he isn’t. I wonder what Vader will do when he finds you here, my little ray of sunshine.”

“He won’t.”

The woman then vanished, as the guards began to usher the prisoners out, to their new home… Kessel.

Kessel

“Alright you bloody dogs, get out and get off my ship.” The sound of cargo bay doors opening filled the pens with light, quickly followed by the feel and flood of fresh air as the pressure quickly equalised. Everyone took a deep breath.

A large bang jolted the crowd as heavy lights were beamed into the hold from outside blinding the assembled prisoners temporarily. As the slaves vision started to adjust as best it could, the forcefields were lowered gradually in the pens.

“You will all walk out in an orderly fashion.” Loudspeakers boomed. “Males will turn to the right and females to the left. All valuables will be confiscated. All hair will be shaved. You are all here because you have committed crimes against the empire. You all deserve nothing more than death. To live is generosity, to die is what you deserve. Work hard, and you will be free once more.” The message repeated itself.

Hera walked out of the Regenerate and entered into a new world. Crude fences of barbed wire formed a quadrangle where the prisoners would split off from each other. Stormtroopers on gang ways at the top of the fence each had their blasters pointed downwards in-case there was a riot.

Hera, trying to avoid the process was pulled by sheer force of the mob down he shallow channel, and was stripped like everyone in front of her by a droid. Given new, grey overalls she walked hesitantly to the next station. “Stand still. Feet together please.” A dry voice ordered. “Turn around, do not move your head.”

Hera was about to say something, when she saw all of her hair fall to the ground. “Next” The droid wheezed. Hera moved forward and changed into her new overalls. Announcements started to fill the corridor as she progressed.

“When you leave here, you will be transported into the mines. Your ident chip will log the number of hours you work each day. You will be granted two days adjustment time, before your ident chip logs how long you spend at the spice walls. Failure to meet quota, will result in death.” The messages continued, until another droid prompted Hera to insert her hand into a small alcove in the wall. She felt a sharp pain before being forced to continue again, but this time, it was to a grav lift.

“This lift, will take you to mine 334/C, thank you for your service to the Empire.” The announcement terminated. Hera looked at the thing suspiciously until a stormtrooper came up from behind and pushed her on the damn thing. Falling as though she was in freefall, Hera had made it in.

OOC:Sithy don't forget about my characters you captured. Sawing off an arm and all that.

This was nearly a nightmare for Hera, as she landed against the hard rocky shaft in Kessel. Destiny was right, this mission would be the end of her pride, as she reached up to her now bald head. Never before had her head been shaved, or had she been stripped and searched in such a manner, and that needle.

Hera reached down, and rubbed her hand, as the pain of the needle insert still throbbed, enhanced further by the tumble down the shaft. Pulling herself up, it took her eyes a minute to adjust. The lights were dim, and the air was very stale. A putrid smell stunk the mining shaft, the smell of feces, of sweat, and the sicking sweet smell of decaying flesh, and blood. Hera held her hand to her nose, as she looked around for something to guide her to her mission, some key that would lead her to the old seer.

The hall was filled, with people, as they brushed by the woman, hurrying to their destinations, frantically in search of the vein of spice to make their quota for the day. These prisoners of old, the ones never freed as promised had witnessed the truth of the speakers proclamation, failure did equal death, in this God forsaken place.

Hera looked around, as she tried to find her bearings, a sign of sorts to the lower levels. She needed help, in this unknown place. She could feel the expanse of this place, the shafts and tunnels extended on for miles, and for some reason, for the first time in her life she was truly helpless.

She closed her eyes, as she was pushed and brushed aside even more, and she searched the place. She couldn’t feel him, her target. It was like he didn’t exist, or he was shielded from her, by some unknown force.

She could tell there were tunnels in the lower level, so many different paths she could take. Even with the clue of the lower levels, it would take months to explore them all, time she didn’t have the luxury of having. She only had thirty six hours to get to him, and get out, before this place was razed to it’s foundation.

The thought of her death in the assault terrified her. Death was cold, it was harsh, and for someone who had been through it before, it was the most horrific experience she didn’t want to repeat.

“You have to make yourself humble Hera, or have you learned nothing?” a sweet voice of a five year old child spoke.

Hera opened her eyes, as she looked through the crowd. In the center of the commotion, was a young child, adorned in a white Sunday school dress. She had long locks of brown hair, and a blue bow in the center of her head. The child stood still as a statue, as the crowd seemed to pass over her unknowingly.

Hera reached up, to the people in front of her, the dirty workers, as her hand glided on their shoulders, gently shoving them aside, as she walked towards her vision. The child stared at her, such beautiful blue eyes, the color of the sky on a warm summer day. Hera was pushed back several times, as she finally reached the small kid in the center of it all, with robes as white as cotton. “Truth?” she asked.

The child looked up to Hera, and with a carnal smile, reached up and grabbed her hand. “You remember me.” the child spoke, with the hopeful words of a kid meeting a long lost friend. “The way you have been recently, I thought you had forgotten me. It has been a while, and with your indentured servitude, I thought you would have forgotten me.” the child spoke with hopeful eyes.

“I haven’t been here that long.” Hera said amused with the child.

The small girl began to giggle at Hera, as she covered her mouth so politely. “I do not mean this place, my dear sister.” Truth said to her. “You have sold yourself into slavery. Daniel, Hawkins, Atrox, the list goes on my dear, each an attempt to hide yourself from your destiny. But now, here in this place you are finally learning what it is like to be free.”

Hera pulled back from the child, and looked at her in total confusion. “What in the frak are you talking about?” she asked truth.

Truth began to skip around Hera, “You are not their slave, or have you forgotten. Humble yourself, accept your destiny, accept your role in the play, and you will be free of it all.” she said.

Hera kneeled down at the girl, “Free of what? No one has chains on me?” she asked as her eyes narrowed on the little girl.

“Free of the lies and deceptions, free of your life being tied to others. Now humble yourself, or you will not find him, before Vader finds you. He knows you are here, he is waiting for you, my dear sister.”

Hera reached up and touched her freshly shaved head, and then sighed. “How can I humble myself anymore look at me?” she lashed out at Truth.

Truth giggled again, then slowly walked up to Hera. The child’s hand reached up to her, slowly placing her hand behind her head, “My dear.” truth said to her, “if that is true, you would not care about your hair would you? It is always me, me, me. You can’t do everything alone. Just ask, and we will help you. Set aside your pride. You have fought us for so long, based on lies, and deceit. We are here for you, and others do not know it. Won’t you stop the war, and surrender. We will not let him harm you, he who like you believes his will is above ours.”

Hera, lowered her eyes for a moment and stayed silent. “Alright.” she said as she looked up to Truth. “Please help me.”

The girl stepped back and smiled, “What was that, I am sorry I am hard of hearing?” she said mocking Hera.

Hera pressed her lips together tightly, then asked again, louder. “Please help me. I need your help.”

Truth smiled as she grabbed Hera by the hand. “Why didn’t you just ask silly.”

The girl nearly pulled Hera up, and yanked her down the hall. Hera was naturally quick, but this girl was nearly dragging her like the owner of a German Shepard behind a leash. The girl ran down a twist of corridors, and halls, past the guards of storm troopers, who for some reason never noticed Hera going by. Down long forgotten damp tunnels, til finally she arrived at a cell.

The door was open, as two very large thugs waited at the entrance. Hera looked down to truth, who winked at her, then vanished. “Right.” she said as she walked closer.

“What do you think you are doing here?” one of the thugs said, as he put his hand up to her shoulder. The other crossed his arm and looked at her menacingly. “Get out of here little girl.”

Hera reached up and grabbed his hand, and twisted it sharply. “Get your frakkin hands off me.” she said to him coldly, as her eyes began to turn yellow. “I am here to see the seer, now get out of my way.”

The other thug, slowly reached behind him, and grabbed a lead pipe. Reaching back, he was about to swing, when a voice came from the other side of the cell. “Let her through, I have been expecting her.” a voice spoke softly from the cell

The two thugs backed off, as the first one grabbed his wrist. “Bitch.” he called out to her, as he rubbed his sore hand. Hera glared at him, as her eyes shifted back to brown. “Come in, come in my child.” the voice beckoned from the other side of the room. “We have much to discuss.”

The room was dark, with a few candles light around the old man. His skin was wrinkled, and worn, like he had spent most of his life in the dark tunnels of Kessel. Hera squinted past the darkness, until she noticed something very... odd. He wore a white robe, clean as if it was brand new.

The man held his hand up to her, his face hidden by the shroud he wore. “Please, Hera, have a seat my child. I have been expecting you for some time. I was beginning to think you would never come.” he said, his voice as kind as a grandfathers.

Coruscant – Lower Levels

“Organic life signs, on levels eighteen, nineteen and twenty, no survivors!”

“Roger Roger.”

Nicolai heard the droids moving up the stairs, there were so many of them now. Smashing against the door one last time he stood back nursing his shoulder. The damn thing wouldn't give an inch and there was nothing he could do. Dropping the metal pole he broke away from the railings he turned as it chimed against the floor.

His legs ached with pain now as they were forced to move one in front of the other, they hadn’t had rest in almost five hours of constant running, and for that on Coruscant, was almost a complete miracle. Nicolai's heart wrent at having to leave the baby by itself, but no matter how many times he replayed it in his head he still had absolutely no idea what else he could have done except maybe pray.

Nicolai’s arm tore a muscle causing him to grunt as he stretched it too far, he couldn’t do anything about it right now, he had to push on. Level fifty was only five minutes away and then maybe he could plead for the troopers to let him through. He was well, he wasn’t sick, and he had a pocket full of credits on H-disc.

'How the heck did it come to all of this?' Were the thoughts raging through Nicolai’s mind as he ran for his life. The empire had been in control of the galaxy for better part of four generations, and now the rebels launch a plague. Well he couldn’t fault them for choosing Coruscant, depending on how successful they were, the plague would hit almost every system in the empire.

Nicolai came a stop and caught his breath, he had arrived. Level sixty and his ticket to freedom. He had come this way about five years earlier trying to catch a glimpse of the Masaki trial on live holonet, but there were troopers blocking the way. There was only a small bridge, but it led to the upper levels and there was a space port close enough to get him passage of this rock.

Nicolai walked outside. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. They were dead, all of them, just dead. Clones, stormtroopers, civilians on the promenades, all of them were just lying down on the ground most curled up into the foetal position, with birds feasting on the corpses. Over on another bridge, Nicolai caught the tell tale signs of blaster fire. Red, and even. . blue. It looked like . . no, they were, the damn clones and droids were blasting each other.

“There he is. Blast him!”

Nicolai turned round as two droids pulled up behind him. “Shit” he cursed as he started running again. But for some reason the droids didn’t follow. Nicolai pivoted on his heels and swung his body round to inspect the droids. He carefully walked over to them and took a good curious look at the things. Maybe they were infected with the plague as well? Well, they were old models, B-1’s probably with a new software outfit, so it wasn't too hard to imagine the things breaking down. Lifting a boot Nicolai kicked one over the edge and then slumped to the ground next to a few dead clones.

He rubbed his face with his hands and then took a look at the skyline. Coruscant looked so beautiful when it was still. And this was probably the first time Nicolai or anyone else for that matter had ever been outside and heard the whisper of the wind by itself. The spires of the Imperial Palace stretched into the sky, and the clouds were purest white not even daring to threaten the briefest of rains. Nicolai just watched in awe of the beauty the calamity gave him.

As he admired the scenery from his perch a small feeling started to pull at his heart that not everything was right, nor was it safe. “SHIT!” Nicolai screamed as a blinding light hit his eyes. The heat he felt on his skin was intense. Rubbing his face Nicolai parted his hands to reveal a hail of atomic rain. Spire after spire started to collapse on the horizon as the creeping terror seemed to grow brighter. Clouds from above exploded as he saw green turbolasers push through and impact upon the city.

Getting to his feet, Nicolai felt the urge for survival lure him again as his eyes were dragged towards the space port.

Byss

The Galaxy Gun emerged from hyperspace plunging itself between Byss and the worlds binary moons. Smoke and debris trailed from several stricken sections while the planet below scurried forward with transmissions, demanding to know the various details of the operations success, or failure.

Darth Kral received each query personally within the operations section. His anger boiled to the surface as every fibre of strength began choking the life from the last of the engineers. The Calamari mercenaries were useless to their very core, nothing had proceeded to plan. The Republic and the Jedi were still at peace, and the Empire was barely mobilising for a protracted campaign.

“Please, we can still be of some.” Struggled the engineer. Kral clenched his fist terminating the wretches life. The loud crunch of vertebras snapping at least gave Kral some satisfaction.

“Use?” Kral asked. “No, I think you’ve done quite enough.” The Sith Lord moved out of the operations centre towards the only operational cargo bay. He now had to meet with his master who would not be as forgiving as Kral was to failure.

As he passed one of the viewports, Kral caught a glimpse of an Imperial Star Destroyer, coming in to view. His master was coming to him, he could feel it in the force. Passing ruined bulkheads and beams, dodging several live conduit terminals, Kral entered the primary hanger bay as a Lambda shuttle was finishing her landing procedures. The ramp already touching down upon the floor.

Kral quickly moved into position and got to one knee as his lord emerged after a coterie of guardians. ”My lord, you honour me with your. . . .” The ignition of a lightsabre and the rolling of a head quickly followed as Darth Sidious terminated his servant for failure.

“Get this ship functional.” Palpatine commanded. “This kind of failure shall not be tolerated amongst those who still serve me.” His crimson blade sent a gentle reflection against the durasteel floor. “Commander Astin, take control of this wreck, fix it, and take it behind the fifth planet and wait for my instructions.” Palpatine turned and walked back up into the shuttle. “I want success commander, this time.”

Executor

Images of Coruscant being burned from orbit filled the holographic projection of the council chamber. Tralcan brought the meeting to order dryly as he always had. Keysis sat in his seat, still as ice. The bombardment had come so quickly, the rescue operation he had so carefully planned, nothing . . .

“Assembled gentleman, this sight is only the beginning of what will be the largest purge in Galactic history. The plague which we have yet to identify by any means has already infected fully our greatest metropolis’s, fortresses, trade centres, and research installations in less than three days. Our analysts are presuming that incubation of this disease has been for at least several months.” The room was perfectly silent.

Keysis said nothing as the news that his family was now dead kept him concealed in bitterness. “We are estimating a ninety-nine percent infection rate on all Imperial worlds. And we are also predicting a seventy four percent infection rate throughout the imperial navy, leading to a one hundred percent rate. Gentleman, we must prepare for the worst, and strive for the best.”

Keysis rose to his feet. “Does the emperor know of this news?”

“The emperor is fully aware of the situation that we are facing, and has ordered an immediate evacuation to Listis for all essential personnel, civilians and military assets of technological value. We’re aiming to place as many as we possibly can into cold storage.”

“How can we even hope to do that, when our holds of the bulk of our fleets are filled with Tenetians?” One admiral demanded to know. Tralcan brought up some information on his monitor.

“The Tenetians have been vented into space during the fleets transit back to Coruscant. I then gave the order for the bombardment.” Tralcan looked carefully into eyes of Keysis.

“We have had to begin the strategic burning of worlds, as the plague our scientists believe is not just complicit in complex biological life. Plant life, animal life and even varying surfaces have all demonstrated unforeseen effects due to this abomination. We will be choosing by random lottery all those elected for storage.”

“And non humans?” The question was proposed.

“They will bravely present their superiors with the most noble of sacrifices, only humans shall be given the chance for suspension.” Tralcan continued. “We are storing enough ammunition, vessels, and droids, that for when a cure is discovered, we will be sufficient enough to launch a campaign of defence.”

“And what about the?”

“The empire, in a worst case scenario?” Tralcan finished the question promptly. “Our droids have been ordered to defend our borders and to reproduce themselves indefinitely. We will be adequately defended if the worst is to come.”

“Lord Vader admirals, has personally ordered the council to place itself in suspension immediately. He will be tending to the Galactic crisis personally, while we ensure the survival of the empire.” Tralcan updated the holomap. “All the planets in red you see, have no survivors. All communication with them has ceased." A great swathe of red filled the map. "We estimate, complete depopulation of the entire empire in no less than four days." Tralcan finished the meeting without allowing time for questions. "You are all to follow me, we are leaving for Listis immediately."

The cell

Two old hands rolled up a scroll tightly as Hera entered the room. The scroll was placed in a basket to his left which contained many others. “Mathian?” The old voice asked. One of the thugs came appeared in the doorway from outside. “Please, seal these scrolls, and do with them as normal.” The thug from outside pushed his way past Hera and picked up the basket.

“Do you need anything else?” He asked in a concerned tone.

“No, just some privacy. Close the door please, and allow me to talk to the girl.” The door closed loudly to the cell blowing out one of the candles, not that it mattered to a blind man. “Well, here you are Hera I’ve been waiting a long, long time for you to come along. New beginnings take a long time to dispense with the past it would seem. So tell me, what do you want to know?”

Hera sat down, as the old man spoke. She pulled her knees up to her chest, as she watched him. "What is it that the men in white want with me?" she asked him

"Ahhh." Said the seer. "That is your question, but that is not the one you want to know I guess. What I know, you desire to preview is what will happen to you." The seer pulled out another piece of paper and began to write upon it forming another scroll. "You are intoxicated with fate Hera, it is a failing of you and your kind."

Hera's eyes focused on him as the seer began to write. His quill scratched at the paper tirelessly as words in a dialect to old to be remembered were etched on the page. "My kind? I have no kind, I am the only one." she said as she scooted closer to him. She then sighed for a moment, "Well then, if this is the case, what is my role in this?"

“The only one.” The seer snorted. “There have been many before and there are many to come, you are one of three, of which there are to be five. So please dispense with the pretences of ignorance girl. Your part in this I will not tell you, because you are not ready to know. What you need to know is what you do not want to see, and what you need to see is the horror of your future.” The seers hand quickened on the page. “You know of what I speak, a man clothed in black, aged and filled with despair. You remember him as he remembers you. Your paths are intertwined yours and his, but not yet the same.”

Hera pulled back slightly, as she thought of the man in black. The dark mask, his heart of rage. "I see." she said assuming the man was vader. "I take it you are speaking of the Emperor then. We are not the same, he and I. But what do you mean our paths are not yet the same?"

“So young and so fast to understand, yet little does she know that her understanding is a lie, as is her quest. You trust the truth, yet you have never sought out what it is. You ask what is your fate, when you know you can choose your destiny. I see what you will choose Hera, I know what you will become and in my part I a role to play as I have to those in the past. And so I offer you this.” The seer extended his hand. “I offer you friendship and.” He paused. “my trust.”
She shook her head, as this was getting really weird. Damn old man seemed allergic to a straight answer. Still though, she knew he was important, he had something to do with it all. She looked at his hand, so old so wrinkled. Then the words came back to her. "Humble yourself." She reached out to his hand, as the second part came to her. "You can't do this alone." She looked up to him and smiled, "Then I accept."

The seer shook her hand surprising Hera with strength still in the weakened veins. Mathian is honourable and loyal to me. He has left with the scrolls, but you, Hera must begin to dance. In twenty seconds, the door will open. Knock the man who enters unconscious. Do not kill him.” Said the seer


Orbit

Vader entered the Lambda shuttle bathed in a serene red light. “So, you sense her?” The voice asked from the shadows. “I know you do, I can sense her as well.”

Vader took a seat facing the darkness. “You lurk better than my former master.”

“Yes you would think that, but I’m known and he is not.” The voice stabbed. “You must kill her when you find her Vader. She must die, or everything will fail. All you have worked towards, everything you need. Kill her and take revenge upon the future, you can finalise your destiny Vader, as long as you make the right choice.”

“I will be the decider of my destiny.” Vader enforced. “I don’t need you to encompass my future.”

“Then why, why are you here?”

Vader didn’t reply, instead he decided to ignore whoever this apparition was in the force. He was already losing patience with the rapid and sudden emergence and disappearance of these ghosts, and now, they were beginning to presume too much for Vader to be content with their interference. Once before, he had listened to the guidance of one lord manifestly great in the force, and that only led him to disaster time and time again.

Time passed as the shuttle continued its transit from the Executor. Small bumps along the journey signalled that they had just entered the thin atmosphere for the world, and Vader knew that soon, he would have a choice to make.

“So, asked the voice. What will it be?”

“I shall choose, the way my will dictates, not yours.” Vader pointed and took to his feat. The cabin lights turned blue, then green, as the landing process went ahead promptly.

Living in Sin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q64EtHkx0HI)

Twenty seconds, til it began. Twenty seconds until Hera stepped into her new life, a world that she could never have anticipated. It was the day that would turn a mere woman, into what she was to become. Not that she knew it.

Hera got up, the darkness surrounding her, with the small pin pricks of light from the one remaining candle. Her heart raced in excitement, as she walked towards the cell door. It was a moment like this, that she lived for, a moment like this that made her feel alive.

Her back pressed against the hard wall of the cell, to the side of the door, where the hinge didn’t swing open. Her mind was clear, as she focused on the task at hand. A weapon didn’t think, it didn’t feel fear, it did it’s job, and here once again, she was to be a razor.

Her muscles loosened as she could hear her target approaching. His heart bear in her head, she could smell his putrid sweat. His thoughts were like water to her, his greed knowing no bounds. His heart was of pure malice, just a lowly creature.

Each step he took teased her, as she stayed still. The sound of his steps echoed in her mind, as her prey got closer to her. She gently tightened her hands, into a fist, as the metal hinged door began to open.

She watched from the shadows, as the man approached. His head was shaved, and he was damn big. His arms looked to be nearly at thick as an elephant trunk. “Alright old man.” the toothless ogre of a man spoke. “It is time. The boss doesn’t have all day.” he said unaware of the danger behind him.

Hera lashed out at the man, from the darkness. Her leg kicked as hard as it could, with the speed of her mother’s people. The man caught off guard didn’t know anything was about to happen, as he felt his legs buckle under neath him.

His body hit the ground hard, as gravity is often want to do with heavy objects. A loud crack was heard. Hera then pulled her left foot up, and kicked for the back of his skull. His head hit the ground again, under the pressure of her boot. Blood squirted out of his nose, and gently began to puddle on the floor. His breath was heavy, as Hera lifted her boot again.

“Do not kill him.” The old man yelled out, as he held his hand to her. She turned to him and paused. “He is the enemy. You kill your enemy.” she retorted.

“You do not know your true enemy, my child. If you did, you wouldn’t kill this man. Do you not hear anything I say?”

She placed her foot down on the ground and glared at the old man. “Fine.” she said as she turned over the man. As he flipped over she took the palm of her hand and slammed it into the unconscious man’s knee caps. A quick pop and her deed was done.

The old man slowly got up. He shook his head at the young hybrid. “I told you.” he warned her, shaking his finger at her.

“I didn’t kill him.” she protested. “Just made sure he wouldn’t follow us.” as the man’s legs laid broken and shattered.

The old man, walked over towards the poor man on the floor. Reaching down he straightened his legs. He placed his hands over his knees, and began to focus.

Hera could feel what he was doing, as the bones mended, each back in place where it was. “What are you doing?” she yelled at him, but the old man ignored her protest.

The old man hobbled over to the door. For a blind man, he seemed to know exactly where he was going. “And what did you think the Empire will do to him now? Have you seen an infirmary around here? No, they do not treat the wounded, they kill them. You may as well have placed him in an airlock, and flushed him out.”

Hera stood up and quickly walked by his side. “Then you should have said something. I didn’t kill him, as you wanted. Next time stop being so vague.”

The old man snorted, “You are too impatient.”

“No, I am careful.” she said back to him, growing much more annoyed at his bleeding heart, towards a man whom he sicced her on like a rabid dog.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eight hours later, due to the old man’s hobbling. (Fifteen hours til The farstar’s fleet arrival)

The scene carried itself on many times, as several thugs came by. Each time with a warning, and a plea for mercy. Each time, the men were unconscious, laying in their own fluids. Each time afterwards, he spoke to her as if she was too ruthless as he followed it up with his healing touch. It grew.... taxing.

They came to a open room, much like that of a cargo bay. The room was wide open, and there were many steel bulkhead doors. Hera was nervous as she walked into the room, it was empty, no cover, no where to hide, or to run. “Come on.” she said to him, as she waved him on, we need to get going.

“I am not a young man anymore.” the old man snapped at her. “I need to rest.” he pleaded with her. My hips aren’t what they used to be young miss.”

Hera put her hand up to her face, as she reached down to his arm. “We can rest when we are dead. We are so close, just one more level to go.” she said as she tried to pull him up faster.

The seer snorted again in laughter. “Some of us don’t have that luxury as you damn well know Sunshine.”

Hera let go of him, as she took a step back. “How do you know that name?” she asked, as her fist balled up. “No one does.” she said as she looked around the open space.

The Seer cackled at her for a moment, “I have been watching you, there is nothing that is hidden from me.” he said to her with the kind words of an elderly man.

She tilted her head slightly to the left, as the doors swung open. Thugs from every entrance came pouring in, in great numbers. Hera shook her head, “So then you lead me into this trap.” she asked him, as she tightened her lip.

“No my dear. I didn’t. You assume too much.” the seer told her. “I am your friend, I meant it. I gave you my trust, you should learn to trust as well.”

Hera walked closer to the man, as the circle of men approached. Bats, Batons, Pipes, shanks, any and all weapons they could get their hands on. Hera watched them all, their voices were deafening. She looked up to the ceiling, and then closed her eyes. “Any time now.” she whispered to herself, hoping against all hope that something would happen, to get her out of this mess.

Lieutenant Grias Quarters
Guard Level
Kessel Mining Prison Complex C

“You will not get away with this Allison.” The Imperial Officer hissed at her. His face was bloodied and his left eye removed leaving only a ragged depression. He was clearly in a lot of pain. “Let me go and I can promise you and you the other conspirators a quick death.

The woman who stood him up against the bulkhead wore the prison coveralls issued to all inmates. She had a hard look about her, one of her hands was missing a middle finger and the other was removed at the elbow. She leaned close to him and kissed him full on the lips.

“Oh trust me when I say you Imperials never kill your prisoners quickly. I did enjoy our little affair though and for that, and the pass codes you gave me, I’ll show you that we Free Worlder’s are better people then you lot.” With that she thrust the combat knife in her only hand into the man’s stomach she felt it tear into the organ inflicting a fatal wound, and then she twisted it leaving an open wound. As the man sunk to the deck he looked up at her his eyes begging for her to finish him off. “Stomach wounds are nasty, you don’t die quickly it will take about two hours to bleed out. That’s about how long it took your inquisitors to hack off my arm, they really wanted me to feel the pain, and I did, now so will you.”

She wiped off the knife and moved to the officer’s wall locker and took out his uniform. She stripped of her overalls and changed into imperial grays. She took his web belt off the hook and tied it around her waist, with the lieutenant’s side arm in the holster. Allison then opened up the hatch to his quarters and saw the ten men and six women standing in the corridor. They were likewise dressed in imperial uniforms with storm trooper armor covering vital areas. Each was heavily laden with weapons and carried rucksacks stuffed with ammo and additional weapons. Their mission was to infiltrate the Guards level and kill the garrison and take their weapons. She had to return to the rally points now to distribute the ammunition and weapons. They had to hold out now until the fleet arrived for liberation.

”Captain, his pass-codes worked we gained access to the barracks. The clones were caught my surprise, it was a slaughter. They did take out Bevill and Cranston the bastards.”

“Do we have contact with Vai’s team?”

“Last report was that she was going to engage the thug’s gang. The geezer and the Raven will soon be safe as can be here in Kessel”

“Send four runners with supplies to Vai’s position. She is ordered to hold the shuttle bay, make it a death trap for any quick reaction force.”

“Yes Captain, can do.” The Marine POW replied, excited to finally be fighting back after so long toiling in the mines.

Outside Supply Bay Nine
Guard Level
Kessel Mining Prison Complex C

The Thugs were closing in on their target. Vai knew about Ravens, they were extremely adept at close range combat, but the odds were much to great against the small women and the blind old man who were surrounded. The Thugs knew that she would get some of them assuredly, but they would overwhelm her and Vai knew only to well what would happen to the women at that point. It wasn’t like the black market thugs to go to so much effort over a new girl, they were acting on someone else’s orders but whose? It wouldn’t matter, soon the thugs would be dead. They were concentrating so much on the young women that they did not notice the squad of POW’s moving up upon them until it was to late.

One thug turned around thinking he heard something coming up on him. His hands moved up quickly to the two foot long spear that was thrown through his neck. Blood gushed out through his fingers and he fell to the deck dead, the shock of the attack still fresh on his face.

In the first two seconds of the fight the Free Worlders had eliminated three more thugs in a similar fashion. But now all they had were their hand to hand weapons, clubs, pipes, knives, any sort of weapon they could get their hands on. They charged the enemy who were just now turning to face them.

Vai was running at them with a scream, one man nearly twice her mass swung a club at her but she parried it with her own club and then thrust it into the man’s solar plexus, he crumbled over. Her next thrust hit the back of his neck and the man fell limp never to stand again. The thugs now were embattled with the POWs, they had the POW squad outnumbered by a good six to eight men still, but they made a big mistake. The thugs did not kill Hera when they had the chance.

Vader

Vader’s shuttle touched down inside the shuttle bay, the smoke and ceremony of the landing already in full screen. Disembarking, the garrison commander, and a sizeable number of storm troopers were on one knee bowing before their emperor.

The commander rose, and stepped in line just behind the emperor as he walked past. “Lord Vader, we had no idea that you were intending on visiting the planet personally, if I had known.”

“I have no interests in surveying this operation commander, I am here for my own reasons.” Vader walked onwards flanked by his guards.

Seer

The Seer smiled as Hera talked to the wind, naively asking fate to personally intervene. The Seer however, knew better than to trust in mere chance. “Do not strike them Hera.” He counselled her. “There is already enough death in this place, you will not be harmed.” His voice reassured her, as the first marine came crashing into the crowd of thugs.

The sound of pipe against skull cracked through the room, as every thug turned in surprise. So suddenly the mob degenerated into a brawl with months of frustrations finally boiling over into murder. Oddly, the violence seemed to circle around Hera and the Seer as they stood and done nothing.

As blood spread from limbs and body parts the Seer held Hera back from entering the struggle. “They made their choice when they attacked these men” he said. “Learn the council of patience and peace Hera, and you may find rest with fate.”

“How can I find rest in this!” Hera pointed around the room, as limbs dropped to the ground. “I know where I’m going old man.” Hera said as anger started to boil up from inside. “It’s not with these damn bastards I can tell you that. You can sense it too, can’t you. I know he’s coming, I can sense that he’s already on his way. He’s after me, I can smell it from his heart.” Hera crunched her fists into tight balls as fear started to tinge at her soul. “You led me here!” She accused.

“No Hera.” The Seer corrected. “You led yourself here the day you gave in to your fear, and now, is the first time you are poised with facing something more terrible than what you’ve learned in your young life.”

Hera grew more frustrated as one of the marines called out for her to help. The Seer grabbed her hand as she almost plunged into the fight. “If you kill any of them, I will be unable to help you” he said. “Wait and be patient Hera, there is nothing you or I can do to save these people. They have made their own choice by coming here.” The Seer got down to his knees. “Do the same as me Hera, NOW.” He snapped.

Hera fell down to her knees, filled with fury at being ordered about by some old cripple. People were killing each other, blood was soaking into the dust, and here she was doing nothing. Hera looked at the Seer who had bowed his head.

“He’s here.” He said finally. From his silence the sound of blue blasters ripped into the mob. The ignition of a lightsabre screeched, and the crimson glare of Vader’s blade echoed against the walls. High pitched screams droned against the rhythm of mechanical breathing as the dark lord cleaved his way through the crowd of prisoners.

Arms, legs, heads, all fell in quick succession, while pieces of rubble lifted from the sandy earth, impacting whoever got in their way. Some ran off down the passages in retreat, Vader left them untouched. Hera and the Seer slowly got to their feet while Vader placed his lightsabre upon his belt. “You should never have returned old man. You were banished for a reason.”

The Seer smiled courteously. “And I have returned for a reason. Your destiny is approaching, and so is mine.”

Vader ignored the words. “Step away from the girl.” He commanded.

The Seer laughed. “You know by now Vader that you can’t kill her, not yet. The force has been urging you to do it, but it’s not her time. She has a part to play yet, just like you.” The clones rattled slightly as they took careful aim upon the Seer.

“Take them prisoner Commander Appo, escort them to the Executor.” Vader finished. Turning he headed back towards the shuttle bay.

“YOU MUST KILL HER” Came the voice from the shadows. Vader said nothing in return.

Her instincts told her to fight, her very soul beckoned to reach into Vader’s chest, as his power flowed into hers. His soul, his knowledge licked at her lips, as the huntress followed behind Vader, surrounded by his troopers. She could hear his pain, ‘Anakin... you are breaking my heart.” the distant echo of a lost love haunted the man in black.

His power was great, as she felt it beating in her very heart. She walked behind him, almost intoxicated by the natural reserves that Vader embodied, and in the back of her mind, she wanted it for herself.

It would seem vengeance was playing this angle two fold, as Hera’s desire to reach out, and slay Vader grew. Her fist balled up, as she followed the man in the black cloak, who was just a simple choke away from being hers forever, married in her soul, conjoined in power unlimited.

The only thing greater than his power was his pain. She could hear the haunts of his life, the turmoil of choosing his son over his master, the pain of the flames licking his flesh in a battle long ago, the guilt of killing his wife and lover echoed in her mind, driving her passions darker with each step she took behind the Dark Lord of the Sith.

The Seer reached down and grabbed her hand. His touch was warm, as he emited light around her, “You are in danger of losing yourself my child. Remember who you are, for when you make your choice it will be only you.”

Hera turned to him, and stared into his eyes. His heart was so light, so pure, and he too was powerful. His heart beat like a young man, and his thoughts were of pure peace and love. Such a strange duality...

“Quiet your mind, my child.” he spoke again.

“Stop Talking.” One of the troopers commanded, as he shoved the barrel of his gun into Hera’s back, pushing her along.

One level later, the party approached two shuttles. Vader turned to the pair, the young girl who wanted him, wanted what the force gave him, and the old man, who restrained her. Reaching up with his dark glove, he pointed at the old man. “You....” his dark mask began to hiss heavily with the life giving breath. “Are coming with me.”

Hera took a step forward, to the sound of many storm troopers levying their rifles at her. The seer smiled at Hera, as he held up her hand. “It is quite alright my child. Go. You will not be harmed. This is my part, you still have yours. Remember what I taught you.”

Hera stepped back and crossed her arms. “Fine.” she said. As one of the troopers reached to grab her arm, she pulled her arm from him and glared into his eyes. Her eyes shined as yellow as the sun for a moment, before changing back to brown. “I will go myself.” she said, as she walked towards the shuttle.

The Seer shook his head as he looked to Vader. “Such arrogance of youth. You remember those days don’t you?” he asked the Dark Lord.

It was the last thing she heard him say, as she took the shuttle up to the Executor.

The Engines hummed to life, as she felt the shuttle take off. Alone, and silent, in a ship full of white helmet buffoons, she rode to one of the Empire’s strongest vessels.

Soon after a long walk, she found herself in the officers observation lounge. It was empty, as she stared out into space. The planet, if it could be called that was nearly a barren rock from up here.

She held her hand up to her chin, as she fidgeted with her fingers at the sight. The sky was filled with star destroyers, each gliding with their tie fighters, in orbit of the planet.

“He is going to kill you.” she heard a dark voice speaking to her.

Hera turned around, to see a man in white, hiding in the shadows. Hera sighed, as she walked over to the bar. Reaching down she poured herself a simple weak drink.

“Is that so?” she asked apathetically as she took a sip.

“He will kill you, and then all will be as it should.” the man with the obfuscated face spoke to her.

“That is lovely.” Hera spoke out, as she took another sip. “I do not believe we have met. My name is Hera, and you are?” She asked him.

“I know who you are, you are an abomination to all that exists. The child of man and machine.”

Hera shook her head, “For such a wise creation, you would think you could come up with something I haven’t heard a million times. Yes, I am half woman and half cylon. Guess what who gives a frak. You berate Vader also for being half machine?” she asked him. “Now will you be civil and tell me your name, or will you sulk in the shadows?”

“I am vengeance, I am hate, and I am the harbinger of your destruction.” the man said as he held back in the shadows. Hera nodded, ‘Well pleasure to meet you then. Would you care for a drink? The Empire is not as fully stocked as a Battlestar, but it is still very adequate.”

“You are such an arrogant thing?” he hissed in the shadows.

She sighed. “No I am trying to be civil. You should learn that basic trait, even Calamity has better manners.”

“She is but one aspect of the total.”

Hera swirled her drink around in a glass and took another sip. “I am aware. What is your part in this? Aside from hiding in the shadows. Why not step out here into the light and have a drink. If you are the harbinger of my death, I would like to have a civilized conversation first. You can afford me that can’t you?”

The man then vanished. “Figures.”

She reached down to her drink and soon finished it. Placing it in the sink, she then began to stare out the window.... alone again. Suddenly the black shifted to blue, as the fine point of the stars began to streak at the window. Hera crossed her arms, "Where are we going now?" she asked herself.

Executor

Vader stood with the Seer deep within the Executors heart. Both men, were standing upon a raised platform while steam licked at their heels. Technicians fearfully whispered in the background while droids scurried about their business, Vader, and the Seer ignored it all. “I would tell you of what is about to happen to you old man, but you already know don’t you?” Vader frustrated walked over and tugged at the Seers restraints. “You’ve planned all of this, you have let it all happen, again, and yet you do nothing to ever stop it.”

“I have heard this all before Vader.” The Seer said annoyed.

“And you will hear it again. Look at what you have caused you witless fool, the rebellion happening right now, down on the planets surface. Thousands of prisoners that have overwhelmed my garrison. Why did you not warn them all of what was about to happen to them?”

“The answer is the same as before Vader, I allow people to make their own choices, the future is never decided until they do, what right do I have to interfere with their chosen destiny?”

Vader pulled a communicator from his belt. “Commander Kestive, order the Municipal to commence a base delta zero operation upon the planet.” Vader turned disgusted with the Seer. “You Jedi, so arrogant, so ridiculously noble, you have every right to use the gift you have received. You could have warned them and now they would be alive!”

The Seer sighed. “This is not about them Anakin, and we both know it. You are looking for an excuse for what you’ve done over these many years. I never warned you because you would never have listened, what good would it have done you, when you were so willing to embrace the lies?” The Seer subdued his voice to a more sympathetic tone. “You set your destiny Vader, when you fell in love.”

“And you set yours by returning old man.” Vader walked away towards the control panel as the Seer laughed happily.

“I can accept that, and I can also accept what you’re about to do, those are the consequences of my choices, I will not hide away from them.”

“So why did you return?” Vader asked as technicians began positioning the Seer in the centre of the platform.

“I came.” The old man laughed again. “To tell you what you already know. You have delayed enough Vader, and your destiny still beckons at your heart.”

“My destiny was fulfilled years ago, I need care not for your witless legends Jedi.”

“Have you now?” The question hovered like a sword, its point dangling above everyone in the room.
The technicians dared not stop or stall and moved away from the Jedi and started the countdown.

“He is dead!” Vader repeated. “I know, I felt it, he died.”

The Seer shook his head with pity. “Byss.” He said as suddenly the room become engulfed in steam, as mechanical drones of gears struck to tone. Vader gripped both fists tightly, the very thought of the implied forced anger from the darkest depths of his soul.

“Store what’s left of him.” Vader dictated. “Commander Kestive, set a course immediately for Byss.”

Byss

The Executor ploughed out of hyperspace above the enthroned world of Byss and opened fire without second thought. The Galaxy Gun, already damaged and hurting was scoured by the first elements of fire, while a lone Imperial Star Destroyer, turned, and attempted to flee.

Igniting in a blaze of fire, the super-weapon detonated in the planets night sky, as the first flurry of transports and assault craft left the Executors womb.

Vader sat in his personal shuttle with his squad of guardians, Hera too was with them strapped in at the back. The red warning lights signalling the entering of a combat zone keeping everyone silent. The vessel rocked from side to side as the Galaxy Guns shockwave dissipated through space, and then, the familiar screech as the shuttle punched its way into the atmosphere.

From the cockpit tactical sounds started to leak out to the cabin, while through the metallic hull the drone of Tie Fighters whirled past. “Lord Vader.” The shuttle captain began. “We have encountered light resistance from enemy air defence and fighter squadrons, commander Kestive reports that the Executor has destroyed the Star Destroyer in orbit and ground teams alpha and beta have landed and have given us the green light.”

“Very well commander, take us as close to the mountain as possible, communicate to alpha team, that I want their armoured vehicles in use before I arrive.” Vader tightened. He had no idea what he was going to find inside this lair. As far as he knew it had been abandoned years earlier, ever since the Black Order initiative failed dramatically. But somehow, it had grown to be capable of fending off, or slightly resisting an assault. Vader grew anxious.

A judder from the shuttle meant that now he had arrived. Vader was the first to get to his feet, followed by commander Appo and the rest of his squad. Peering down at Hera, Vader felt confused as to what he should do. The girl should be killed, his mind kept on telling him to kill her, while his heart spoke of something else. “You will come with me girl, let us see what happens if you live.” Vader left the shuttle into the harsh jungle of Byss.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0amYyiW4ec&feature=related

Two men in white armor, faceless, nameless walked over to the Lady in White. Her arms were restrained, her legs shackled. They reached around behind her, as the pressure released with a click.

Hera, was free.

She reached down, and rubbed her wrist, as she looked into their faceless helmets. “Thank you.” she said humbly, as she walked out into the unknown world. The air was thick with humidity. If she still had hair, it would have fallen limp with the moisture in this tropical climate. The ground was soft, and wet, as she watched her friend’s master walk into the jungle, the man so much like her, yet so obsolete.

She ran up next to him, the Emperor, the Dark Lord of Bane’s Sith. He was focused, on what was ahead, she could feel it. Something was beaconing him, something was beaconing her, something in the jungle. It was dark, and cruel. Passionate and intelligent, it was something she hadn’t felt in years.

Loud crashes, and explosions could be heard in the back ground. A humming noise buzzed by, as Hera looked into the sky to see Tie Fighters, dogfighting in the atmosphere above. Green lasers blazing, as they fought with the savagery that the Empire had taught their faceless drones of soldiers. Hera smiled, as she felt each of them parish, she could feel their lives enter her, as if they were her.

She could hear the roars of the beasts, and the battle cries sounding out, as blasters fired from an unseen battle. The air was full of anger, and death, as she walked next to the man who embodied both.

He didn’t speak, as he walked with his personal commandos, towards the large building barely visible through the trees. She turned to him, “Lord Vader,” she spoke to him, very rash and brazen, most people would never dare speak to him unless spoken to. “I must say you are nothing like what I have heard. You are not like what Atrox described you as being.” she said to him.

For a second, he turned his head to her. She could feel his anger grow, at his failure at training an apprentice. His black orbs for eyes turned his focus on her for a moment. She could feel his power rising. Then he turned to the distance. Reaching out his black glove he reached out with the force, and began to choke. Three red robed men were ripped from the ground, as they dropped their staffs. Suddenly, their necks were twisted, as their helmets were turned towards their back.

Vader then glared back at Hera. Pointing his finger towards her, he extended his index finger. “You have much to learn.” he said to her, scolding her.

The young woman looked up to the man in black and smiled, “Yes, my lord.” she said, as she walked next to him again through the jungle terrain.

“So how did you do that?” she asked him, as they continued to walk next to each other. “Breaking their necks like that, that is quite a good ability?”

His anger continued to swell. “Maybe it wasn’t a good idea to keep her alive? If she manages to survive, I will have to meditate on how best to gut this woman.” Vader meditated to himself.

Hera shook her head, as she listened in. “Knife works well. Usually across the stomach horizontally if you want to spill out their intestines quickly. If you desire a much slower method, you should start below the diaphragm and cut to the belly button. That way the organs fall out slowly. It is much more painful that way.” she replied to him.

He looked at her once more, “You will be silent.” he said heavy of breath. The metal legs, were a burden on him, and the heat, the unbearable heat, that made her clothes soaked with her own sweat, she could tell was much worse on him. His suit itched and irritated him. His arms were heavy, and he was calling on the force just to move as quickly as he was.

It was the gift of Palpitine, forever trapped in this hell, forever encumbered, forever in pain and suffering. She felt sorrow for him, not anger. How could she actually hate this man? He was pitiful, a broken shell of a man. He was like a dog, starved and beaten. It was no wonder he lashed out at so many, biting all he could. No, she couldn’t hate him, no matter how much she wanted.

Vader held up his hand, as he pointed to his troops. Hera watched as they fanned out, moving across the jungle floor. Suddenly fire began to erupt around them, as green and blue fire streaked across the jungle. She ducked to the ground, then rolled over to a tree.

Hera could feel the enemy, feel their duty, their loyalty to... someone, someone who was hiding from her. Hera reached out to them, and she found her new companion. She could feel him once more, as she felt the cycle of life and death renew. Hera reached out with one hand towards some of the men in the bush. Clutching her hand out, she like Vader did before pulled a couple of storm troopers up by the collar, then snap, twisted their necks like a doll.

Vader reached his hand out, as two blue blasters flew at him. With his hands, the shots hit him, as like he had a lightsaber in his hand, they deflected back to their target. Hera could see his power, feel his moves with his every breath. She watched him eagerly as she studied him, learning from his very moves. He reached down towards his belt, and grabbed his crimson blade. As his commandos continued the pursuit, he reached up and threw his lightsaber.

The blade twirled like a helicopter as it ran for the small cluster of troopers. They shot with all their fury, mostly missing as Troopers are wont to do, but the few that hit the blade reflected off with ease, as it sliced them in two. Hera turned her head, as she ducked behind the tree. She watched as blaster shots began to rip through the commandos and troopers alike. Not that it bothered her much, she could care less for the faceless ones, but she could feel Vader again. Each death was almost personal for his elite commando guard. Reaching out to the force again, he tossed each of the remaining troopers into a tree, breaking their bones beneath their armor.

Hera walked over towards one of the bodies, and grabbed one of their rifles.

Then she heard a hum from behind her. She turned around, to see Darth Vader holding his crimson blade close to her throat. “Drop it.” he said to her, any emotion hidden under his respirator.

She sighed as she dropped the gun. “You will learn, young one, that you do not need such gadgets to fight, the force is your weapon. Reach out with your anger and strike them down. But do not attempt to betray me young one, or I will strike you down where you stand.”

Hera nodded again, “Yes my lord.”

The trek through the wilderness was quite long, and strenuous, as the party made it’s way through the jungle. Hera watched everything she could, learning the terrain, the markings on the ground, as the battle continued off in the back ground. The rest of the trip was more of the same, while Vader was eerily silent.

Until, they came to the building. Hera peered out, as she noticed the entrance seemed to be unguarded, except by two red robed men with pikes. Hera kneeled down, as her hand touched the soft topsoil of the jungle floor. “So, this is where it ends.” Hera mused to herself as she looked up to Vader. “So how do you want to do this?” she asked him. Vader just reached up, and slung the guards aside like they were dolls in the jaw of a pit bull. Brutal, savage, but effective....

Hera shook her head as he walked on, with his guard. “Alright then...” she said as she stood up and walked with him.

As she entered the building, a cold shiver came over her. This place was fimiliar, it felt, like a dream from her childhood, one that she couldn’t place. Had she been here before? Why did it seem so familiar? She walked with Vader at her side, on towards their fate, towards what Destiny had set up...

The hallways were surprisingly empty, except for the odd troopers here and there, which none were a match for the commandos, nor the Dark Lord at her side. She watched him, and studied him. Dispite his rage, he was starting to become a good teacher to her. His silence, his actions, his deeds, reflected his soul, which she studied and learned from with eagerness. It was more of the same until, she reached a hall way.

It was another engagement, where blaster shots were fired, and the pair easily began to dispatch the defenders, until one picked up a shoulder fired missile. Hera saw the bright flash, then she felt a shove, hard into her back, like someone delivered her from it’s fate.

The next thing she saw was smoke, and dust. She looked down at her hands, as her lungs began to force up the dust and mortar that she inhaled. She was covered in a fine white dust. Her legs hurt, as she looked behind her. A pile of rubble stood in her way, separating her from her dark companion, her target, her new teacher. Frak...

She slowly got up, and looked around. She was alone. No troopers, no mechanical nightmares, no beasts of burden, nothing, but silence and emptiness. The hall lead to one place, the heart of the mystery, the great end...

“It has all happened before...” she said to herself, trying to reassure herself, as she walked down the long path, to the final act...

As she came to the end, she was met with two large obsidian doors. Hera closed her eyes for a moment, as she placed her hands on the door. “...and will all happen again.” She shoved the door, hard, as it slowly cracked. When she came inside, she entered a new realm, and was met with a wonder she would never have imagined.

The room was full of computers, with dark obsidian walls. The presence was strong here, as she entered the room. Lights and gadgets hummed, as she looked inside. In the center of the room was a chair, one that was not empty.

“Nitilis?”

Vader lost all concentration as he flew against a wall, impacting, he muffled an “oomph” before falling to the ground, helmet first. He was dazed though only for a few seconds. Even with his durasteel plating on his helmet, some of the impact still managed to make its way through to the delicate organic material beneath. Annoyed at his mortality, Vader struggled with his eyes, as his ocular implants done nothing but convey a swirling blur around him. Adjusting his position, the dark lord propped his back against a wall as composure started to take him again.

Vader could hear the sound of fire crackling somewhere close by. Though, it was only a gentle whisper compared to the high pitched flurry, and the frequent rumbles of blaster fire and explosions which pulsed through the air. Vader’s suit managed to compensate for the sudden disorientation and his senses gradually readjusted to the artificial norm. Lifting himself from the ground, Vader’s mechanical lungs wheezed rapidly for a few moments, as extra Oxygen was pulled in for his heart.

The voice from the darkness joined him again. “I told you to kill the girl as soon as you found her. And you paid no creed to my warning Vader. You fool, now your future has been set, and with it, the future of your Galaxy.”

“If that is my destiny.” Vader said uncaring. “The girl, has a part to play in this, as do I. Your part is finished.”

“That is where you are wrong, you stupid fool. I birthed you, I created who you are!”

Vader suddenly collected his anger, and he turned to the shadows lacing the corridor. “YOU DID NOTHING. I HAVE MADE WHO I AM, AND I WILL MAKE WHO I WILL BE.”

“You fool, you do not even understand the consequences of your destiny!” Vader ignored the voice and walked on. He was finished with it.

Walking away from the rubble Vader met two storm troopers as they turned in to view. It was commander Appo and another nameless grunt. “My lord, we have secured the first two levels of the citadel, and the top fifteen. But sir, I have been ordered to report, that numerous clones have been reporting plague symptoms. The Executor reports likewise.”

Vader continued walking. “Follow me commander, that plague is the least of our concerns.” Appo and his comrade fell in line, as Vader led the way. The level was oddly quiet Vader noticed. The throne room, so close, Palpatine so near, and yet his guards were almost nowhere to be seen. Perhaps, he had overestimated his former master, and his abilities to defend himself. Or perhaps, Palpatine had only just returned and had little strength.

The latter of the explanations Vader knew was incorrect. He could feel the force rupturing with potency, as through it were the precursor to a storm. Power, especially the dark-side was everywhere. Palpatine had certainly spent a lot of time here at one point in his life, and Vader could feel is dark effects upon the very stonework of Palpatine’s crimson citadel.

Vader though anxious did not waste his time worrying on what was to come, but instead
he reached out with his feelings, trying to grasp at what the force had planned. The last
time Vader had felt such a culmination of power was at the death of the Republic and
now curiously he had a similar feeling, which gnawed at him.

Vader turned angry with the fear and ignited his blade with a quick shriek of power. Appo and his comrade stopped walking and kept a respectful distance while Vader plunged his blade firmly into the stone work, and started to slice his way into the wall.

Molten droplets of metamorphosed rock started to trickle down before it quickly became a small flood of molten magma, which started to crystallise once more before the feet of the dark lord. Vader in his concentration could sense him ever so firmly now, his former master, and he could sense Hera with him with certainty. The force nudged at his conscience, it began to pull upon his values, before finally revealing to him, why he was here.

“The Prophecy!” A voice echoed inside his head, and with that the wall gave way, revealing Palpatine’s throne room. Vader could sense that there were no guardians in here, the force was already insisting to him that there were no traps or abominations which would lay waste to his person. All there was, was Palpatine’s, cackling in the centre of the room, mocking Hera who stood confused and afraid.

Vader watched, furious that Palpatine would not even turn to face him, then he advanced, through the newly formed hole into the chamber. The throne room was smaller than what used to exist on Coruscant, though it did have some memorable characteristics. Obsidian pillars stretched from floor to roof decorating the chamber in an ambiance of fear and intimidation.

At the centre of it all, sat Palpatine, who only now turned upon his throne, to face Vader.
Vader stopped and glanced at Hera. “Flee” was all he said as Palpatine rose with broken laughter. “And so you come, my apprentice!” Palpatine said, ignoring Hera as she retreated quietly. “I must thank you for bringing me the girl, I have had my attention on this one for a long time now, perhaps, she will turn out to be a better servant, though I may still have some use for you, in my new empire.”

Vader stood resolute. “Once I was the learner.” He said. “But now I am the master.”

“You have learned much my apprentice, especially the art of treason!” Lightning forked out from Palpatine’s hands.

Vader lifted his blade tightly absorbing the bolts, while he started to advance. “I will use this blade to humiliate you in front of the girl. You are most unwise returning to this galaxy.”

Palpatine cackled at the mere thought of receiving wisdom from Vader and ignited a lightsabre of his on. “I once told your Jedi friend, lord Vader, that the best way to humiliate his kind was to use one of these, trinkets.”

Vader charged, and met Palpatine in combat. Both used the striking fury of the darkside. Two red sabres swirled against the Obsidian background relentlessly, while the force began to build in concentration. The darkside yearned for more, more anger, more hate, it flowed from both of them as Palpatine focused upon the obstructions to power, while Vader yearned to have back again, the ones that he loved.

Palpatine in the midst of the duel threw his hand forward commanding the force to execute his anger. Vader felt the concussively blow all over as he left the security of the ground and impacted upon a pillar. Vader got to his feet quickly, as Palpatine followed through with a charge of his own.

Commander Appo and his comrade saw the danger and quickly intervened, sending blaster bolts came from the make-shift entry way. More clones came from behind them and started to pour through in greater numbers, forcing Palpatine to turn his attention to the growing wall of blaster fire.

Vader capitalised and clenched his fist tightly while Palpatine was unprepared. Sending the Sith lord against a pillar himself Palpatine grunted as cracks shot up through the structure. The clones not stopping for a second continued to flood into the throne room, desperately readjusting their position to get a clear shot at Palpatine as he fell. Vader unknowingly intervened as he engaged with the blunt force of his lightsabre.

“You’ve grown strong in the force lord Vader, I was right to take you as my apprentice.” Palpatine cackled over the conflict of blades. “But then again, so have I.” Vader immediately pulled away, as several pillars exploded and came crumbling towards him, rubble and shards of glassy Obsidian filled the room. In the chaos, Palpatine entered the falling debris and battled with Vader mercilessly.

Falling daggers of rock landed to the left of them, and rubble smashed between them, but still they continued their battle. Palpatines blade sliced past Vaders guard nicking the top plate of his armour. Turning, quickly, Palpatine slashed at the other arm, severing it completely from Vaders torso.

Palpatine backed up slightly and sent more arcs of lighting forward, which now, licked at Vader’s suit, shorting circuitry and disabling systems. Smoke, started to rise from the dark lord as leather burned against skin, yet somehow Vader still managed to keep his guard up, though it was wavering.

Conscious that the dust of the rubble was starting to clear, Palpatine knew he only had a few seconds to kill Vader before the clones intervened once more. Attacking, in the style he had struck Yoda so many years before, Palpatine Parryed Vader’s blade away and pierced the Sith’s heart. Vader agonised in a great cry of pain.

Palpatine bared his yellow teeth with a smile, before gasping in abject horror. Looking down as his arms shook and legs started to buckle, he saw Vaders lightsabre slide upwards into his own chest, as both of them fell to the ground in mortality.

Palpatine hit the ground with a smirk, as his essence began to uplift from his body preparing to search for a new clone, there were many on Byss, thousands to choose from.

In a last bid of rebellion Vader, in defiance stretched out his hand, and bound himself to Palpatine sending shrieks throughout the force. The attack was quick, it was instant, as the light side of the force, burst through the darkness. Explosions spontaneously erupted with justice consuming the clones who tried to help their master. From the dust, a great, impenetrable light emblazoned the chamber. And then as time lingered there was silence.

The End

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_HfdorDvzA

It was all done, as the final act began. The stage was cluttered with debris, as the duel of fate had ended. All were gone, all were dead, except one…

The stage was now hers, as she lay unconscious under a pile of rubble. Obsidian shards covered her, as she lay motionless. Her chest barely moved as she breathed in and out, her soul quivering in the darkness.

She felt it all, the pain, the hurt, the anger and the hate. Each moment passed, as she reached out to her lover, her gloved hand and began to squeeze the life out of her. She cackled in the darkness, as her enemies came, extending their blades in a moment of treason. She smiled as they fell so easily into her hands, as she looked upon the boy whom she had loved and cared for since he was a child.

Her eyes were closed, her cover-alls were burned and shattered, as her breast laid open, under the cover of the rubble. Torn, beaten, she would never forget his words to her, the words he spoke before the final act descended upon her.

Her body shook, slightly, as she was trapped in her head. She wanted to get out, she wanted to scream, as the nightmares continued. Her children were gone, taken by her hand, cause of them and their intolerance.

She could feel her blade, as she looked upon her master. Her heart was craving his power, his body was weak. While he slept, she grabbed her crimson red blade. Destiny had brought this moment to come, as she lifted it into the air and plunged it into his chest. His skin sizzled, as his body contorted. It was the way it was meant to be, it was her way…

In the end, she could feel the struggle, as she fought herself. Her face was hidden behind the mask, her arms heavy, as the light poured from her. Her face was old and wrinkled, as she unleashed her hate upon her apprentice. And she destroyed herself.

Her eyes began to flutter, and in the darkness, it was the only thing that was seen. Two yellow iris, glowing in the night, as she feasted upon the energy, as it ran into her like electricity through a wire. Now she knew, now she understood, as the rubble flew off her.

Gently she stood up, as she looked down on herself. Her body was exposed, as the sheer force of the explosion ripped anything on her off, tearing it asunder. Not that she cared, not now. She looked down at herself, and she felt no pain. She took a deep breath as the last memory entered her brain. She gasped for a breath, a real breath, not the respirator she felt for what seemed an eternity.

She gently folded her naked hand, no pain, no arthritis. She was young again, free of the ravages of old age, and the ravages of the dark side. There was no smoke in the room, as Hera stood up in the rubble. The room was silent, except for the sound of clapping…

Clap, clap, clap

“Now you are finally understanding.” a single voice said behind her, as she turned around. Seven people, stood before her, each adorning a white robe, each with a sword, all their faces covered but one…

“Destiny.” Hera spoke as she walked exposed before them…

“It is such a beautiful thing to see your child grow up. Some of us here never thought that day would come. Especially Calamity.” He said as he held out his hand towards the woman to his left.

“This was the end, this is what you wanted?” she asked the council before her.

The man in the center walked forward. In his right hand he held a rotten apple. Gently he put his hand on her left bare shoulder, as he laughed, ‘No, my child. This is what you wanted.” He said to her as he placed the rotten fruit in her hand. “Take it, it is yours now.”

Hera dropped it on the floor. “I do not want it.” She said as her yellow eyes stared into his. You are not all knowing, you are not something that is to be feared. No longer. You are merely the victor of chance, the path of a set amount of choices.” She said to him, mocking his title, and his role.

Destiny stopped laughing, as he walked around her. His eyes looking her up and down, as he gently touched her arm. “Then it is time.” He said to her. “Please follow me.”

“To what end?” she asked him as he reached down and grabbed her hand. He looked at her, his new born child, naked like all babies are when they enter the world. “To gain your reward, love. To see the path you have chosen, and the path you will choose. You are free now, truly free. Free of Atrox, Free of Daniel, Free of Emma, Free of Magriel, and Free of Hawkins. Today, you will live your life, not their desires. It is what you have chosen, it is what you are.

Hera’s eyes slowly changed back to their natural color. “Free of you?” she asked him. He smiled, as he looked at her. “You were never our prisoner, you wanted us. You can feel it even now, the thought of being alone frightens you my dear. Fear not, you will never be alone, you are one of us, and you always will be.”

Hera looked around the room, as her bare feet touched the shards of glass and obsidian. It didn’t hurt, not like it would, not like it could as she stepped across the floor. In her heart she knew it was true. She remembered that time, seemed like ages now, when Magriel beat back Calamity. Her mind was silent, she was alone, and it terrified her.

The man whisked her down the hall, until they came to a fork in the road. “You closed one door at the Opera house, do you remember?” he asked her.

Hera nodded, “The time I danced with Atrox on the Ares?”

“Yes, then you decided to stand still and not move. The slightest move will forever change your destiny. Now you have but two choices.” He said as two doors opened. One was dark, dark as midnight, except for some glowing objects, crimson and feint. The other was bright, like the sun, with a slight green hue inside. “This is your choice, this is your end. One will lead you to power, and in the end, death. The other will lead you to peace and love. Which do you value?”

Hera stood there as she looked at the choices. Her power hungered for the dark, reached out to it, nearly pushing her into it. But there was something else, something lurking in the back of her mind as she looked into the blinding light. She stared at it, until she saw a face, a face of the one she wanted, more than anything else… Magriel.

Hera stepped towards the light as she entered the room. The man smiled, “Then you have finally chosen.” He said to her, as she entered a storage room, filled with vast amount of holocrons. “Here you will not find the answers you seek, but the answers you need. This will be your place of refuge, your hidden sanctuary. No one will come here, but you. We have made sure of it. No one else will know, except those you wish to know. You are free, our sister. Remember, even the largest of cycles can be broken.”

Hera looked back at Destiny, as she nodded. She finally knew why this was happening, what was going on. And she wasn’t alone.

“I only ask that you do for others what we have done for you. Tell this story, to all who will hear. Make sure that no one else gets trapped in the cycles. It is all we ask.”

Hera turned and nodded, as she gently picked up the green cube. She could feel it’s power, but she felt something else, it’s love. She smiled at the box as she placed it back down. “So say we all.”

“The girl believes all this was for her.”

“She is only part human, we can expect nothing less.”

“She believes the cycle is broken.”

“No.”

“All she knows is that it can be delayed.”

“But she will tell the others.”

“It is necessary.”

“Yes, we agree.”

“You will have to begin things afresh.”

“It has already started.”

“Be sure.”

“That you bring.”

“Total calamity.”

“It is, my nature.”

“You do not have long. Destiny has begun the tide of redemption. There is a greater force at work.”

“I will not fail.”

“You must not.”

“I know.”




To Be Continued . . . .