Soft whimpering filled the air as young Durmat paced back and forth within his holding cell, desperately trying to make sense of what happened within the last few hours. It all happened so quickly. He had been working in the medical labs when they came. Not an explanation or anything, just, "Ensign Durmat?"
"Y-y-yes?" replied the timid shy boy.
"Come with us." And within minutes he was escorted by two large troopers down to the keep's holding cells.
Durmat sighed. He knew this was something that had to do with his father. It was just a few nights ago he remembered coming home for dinner. The older man sat at their table, deep in thoughts as Durmat entered their apartment. He hadn't even notice the young man until Durmat clumsily bumped into a wall on his way over to his father.
"You're home," he remembered him saying.
"Trouble at work today?" Durmat questioned, but his father only eyed him as he continued to think. It wasn't unusual to see his father in his state of mind. Being a Commander in the Republic army usually does things to one's mind. There were times when his father would come home as if he had seen a ghost and other times as happy as can be. Whenever Durmat would question him, he would let go of random mumbling here and there, which added to the young boy's already growing confusion.
"I've done a terrible thing today," he would say at times and retreated to the privacy of his quarters, leaving Durmat wondering. At first, Durmat found his father's behavior odd, but grew accustomed to it over time. Lately, however, the expressions and random mumbling increased significantly, leading Durmat to question his father's health. Perhaps his years of service had finally caught up to him?
"Sit down, my son," his father had said to him that night. "There is something you must know, but you must swear on your life that you will not repeat a single word to another soul or we both shall suffer terrible deaths."
The words sent chills down Durmat's back and for a second, he thought it best if he didn't learn what his father was about to tell him. Before he had a chance to convey that, however, his father continued.
"I'm an Imperial agent…" The statement was so plain and direct that it threw Durmat off guard for a while.
"What do you mean? You've been loyally serving the Republic for years!"
The older man shook his head, "No, that's only a cover up." And before he knew it, his father had told him his whole life story of being an undercover spy for the Empire and how recently there were suspicions of such activities.
Durmat groaned at the memory.
"Pipe down, Durmat!" the cyborg overseeing him commanded. "There's something going on outside. I'm trying to listen." He stood up from his chair and concentrated on the ruckus on the other side of the door.
"Come on, Zixx! Throw me a bone. Who is this agent comin' to interrogate me? At least answer that, will ya?" Durmat said ignoring the older cyborg's earlier instructions.
"Argh…" Zixx said with frustration. He turned to face the young ensign in his cell, crossing his arms, quite annoyed.
"Fine, stay clamped," said the young ensign finally taking a hint from the cyborg's expression. "I don't care who it is. I ain't talkin'…nobody's gonna get nothin' out of me. Nothin'."
Zixx raised a brow before turning back to concentrate on the commotion. Behind him, Durmat let out a small sigh before continuing to pace back and forth in his cell, head hanging low. On his fourth or fifth time around, he looked up and around. He was one of two prisoners here in this keep, the other being a hooded Imperial they had captured hours before. His eyes shifted from the other prisoner's cell to his own, taking careful notes of the bars and the material used to seal the top, bottom, and sides. A small frown came over his face as he came to the realization that he was indeed trapped. Wished I paid more attention when Father was giving me the rundown on different metals and their vulnerabilities… The thought of an agent coming to interrogate him had the hair on the back on his neck standing up. He had heard about interrogations done in the Republic. Depending on who is doing the asking, it may go smoothly or had one wishing he had never been alive. Knowing his luck, Durmat imagined the agent to be a big overpowering cyborg or alien of some sort insensitive to human's emotions and when they discovered the secret he had been hiding-Durmat shuddered to think of his consequences. Maybe it was best to confess now?
"Alright, alright…I ain't proud, I give!" he began again. "My dad's an Imperial agent!"
Zixx whirled around at the ensign's last statement. Had his ears deceived him? Did he hear him right? "What did you say?" He walked toward the cell. "Your dad's a what?"
Durmat stepped back at the cyborg's advances. Another panic attack was coming up.
"Yes, please repeat that, Junior," said a voice.
Zixx and Durmat both turned to see a young Sith and twi'lek walking toward them. At the sight of them, Durmat instinctively began shaking, "Oh…oh…oh no…" His heart pounded ferociously within his chest.
"This is a restricted area," said Zixx. "What are you doing here and who are you?"
"It's not who…it's—it's a what….S….Si…Sith…" said Durmat, his voice quivering with fear.
Xy'liah smiled at the amount of fear radiating from the young boy, "He's going to need a new pair of pants."
"Who cares what Durmat needs? You gave me enough time to get what I need," said Zixx, smiling. He had silently triggered a small alarm alerting the keep of the Sith's appearance.
"Ugh…" said Vette. "I have a very…bad feeling about this…" Her usual blue skin tone turned pale as she gave the Sith a worried look.
"Take a look behind you, Sith. That's what two squads of the Republic's finest looks like." As if on cue, Republic soldiers came pouring in, taking their position at the entrance.
Xy'liah turned to assess the soldiers before turning her attention back to Zixx, "Just how do you think I came to be here in the first place?"
Zixx frowned at the Sith's statement, "Come on, men. Let's send this Sith home in a body bag!"
Red blaster bolts flew their way as Vette dove for the desk behind them for cover, "I think we might be in trouble here!" She took out a small grenade and quickly threw it over toward the soldiers.
Xy'liah quickly drew her sabers and before Zixx had a chance to react, she bashed him over the head with her hilt, rendering him unconscious. Next to her, Durmat cowered in a small corner of his cell, trying to stay out of the line of fire. Xy'liah frowned at the sight of the young man. Never has she seen someone so cowardly. She was used to the Republics that held their heads high until the very end, faithfully believing in their cause. It gave her quite the satisfaction killing them, but this boy….Xy'liah groaned at the thought of even having to deal with him.
A red blaster bolt shot past her, interrupting Xy'liah's thoughts. Oh right…the soldiers… She, then, summoned the empty cells around her and directed them toward the soldiers. The empty cells evened out the odds a bit with the help of the grenade, knocking more than half the soldiers down. With a powerful force leap, the young Sith planted herself firmly between the remaining soldiers.
They all turned toward her, surprised, as she quickly knocked out a significant amount of soldiers with a just a few twirls of her sabers. Behind her, Vette took the opportunity to take out a few of her own.
With the rest of the standing soldiers, Xy'liah summoned the Force to knock them back hard against the wall, where they all fell either unconscious or dead.
The young Sith frowned as she walked toward her companion, "I'm kind of disappointed."
Vette stood up and let out a sigh of great relief, "You are crazy, girl. They nearly gave me a heart attack!"
"ugh…" came a voice. The pair immediately turned their attention toward Zixx, who was regaining conscious again. He shook his head and rose to his feet before looking around the room. His eyes widened in fear as he only saw his two enemy left standing while a bunch of Republic bodies scattered the room. "What the!" He grabbed his gun and aimed at the Sith, who had a smug look on her face.
"I love that look on people's faces when they realized their impeding death," said Xy'liah stepping closer to the cyborg.
The cyborg raised his rifle and shot at the Sith, who dodged it pretty easily. She continued her walk toward him, close enough that even the gun couldn't do her harm. Zixx cursed under his breath, subtly grabbing his vibroknife and bringing it down toward the Sith.
Xy'liah caught his arm with her hand and knocked him down once more, this time using her head instead of her hilt.
At the sound of his body dropping on the ground, Durmat rushed to his comrade's side, kneeling at the bars of his cell, "Zixx…Zixx. Come on, talk to me, Zixx…get up, man…" His voice trailed off and Xy'liah could sense the fear once again building up within him.
"Look at me, Ensign Durmat," she commanded him.
"But…if I don't look…maybe you're not really here…" his voice quivered uncontrollably and Xy'liah found him sneaking a peek at her. "Oh blast…I looked…" He stood up to face her. "Please-please, I know why you're here. The-the Republic…the Republic is investigating my dad…and an agent is comin' to put the screws to me…But…I won't break, I promise. Let me live, my dad's secret is safe with me. I-I'm a rock."
Xy'liah raised a brow at the young man's statement. Never had she seen someone so pitiful in her life, "You must think I'm an idiot."
"Fine, fine. You're-you're an idiot! If it'll save me, I'll think whatever you want me to."
At this, Vette turned to give the kid a quick look. She, too, raised a questioning brow as he continued to try and explain himself.
"My father's done so much for the Empire. Maybe…maybe the apple fell off the tree…kinda far from the tree…but it's…still…the apple's still…" He looked at the Sith and her companion's confused faces before realizing how much little sense he was making. He sighed and started again. "Uh…I'm-I'm-I'm not exactly sure where I was going with that. Please don't kill me!"
"I'm putting you out of my misery," said Xy'liah. She raised her hand as Vette turned back to avoid watching.
Durmat stepped back in fear, "But…who will put me out of my misery?" Before he could reach the back of his cell, he felt a powerful force clamping around his neck.
The ensign fell before Xy'liah as the life was squeezed out of him. She heard Vette sighed behind her, "Poor fool. Not sure we've come across anyone so useless."
Xy'liah turned to face her twi'lek companion, "Not everyone can be as talented as you, Vette."
"A compliment? I'll take it," the twi'lek's eyes twinkled with delight. Her nose then wrinkled as the smell of smoke and blood made their way to her. "Ugh…it smells awful in here. Let's move on, shall we?"
"I wonder how bad the Lieutenant is missing me right now," said Xy'liah stepping past some of the bodies.
"Seriously?"
Xy'liah walked into the office once again, feeling slightly irritated. Vette had made it her personal duty to inform her of every single ache and pain she was feeling when exhaustion caught up to them on their way back. Xy'liah had to force herself to tune out the twi'lek's endless chatter as she went on and on about random things from food to planets to shopping. This was her companion's way of dealing with everything however, and Xy'liah had found herself wishing on several occasions that she had not taken off that shock collar. Every single muscles in her body ached as they cried out for relief. She had landed on this planet as its sun was rising and now it was way past midnight to the point where the sun was almost rising again. She could see the Lieutenant's back, no doubt concentrated on his tasks, but the sounds of her approaching footsteps turned his head.
"I must be honest, your success at the satellite control tower station and Republic crater outpost has surprised me, my lord," Quinn said upon Xy'liah's return. "I computed the likelihood of success as nearly negligible. In my assessment, however, I only considered the capabilities of a typical Sith. Clearly, you are not a typical Sith. I will adjust future calibrations to account for your unprecedented abilities." He seemed to be already computing as he said this and Xy'liah couldn't help, but smiled at the way he presented the information. It was amusing to her how awed he probably was of her. It wasn't new to hear how she managed to, once again, exceed the expectations of others. She had been underestimated ever since she first landed on Korriban. By now, comments such as the Lieutenant's only added more to the young Sith's ever growing ego. She had always liked to keep those around her guessing as much as possible and he was no different. The expressions on their faces after she had proven them wrong were so worth it. She could even feel a change of tone in the Lieutenant's voice as he addressed her this time around.
"Quinn, you know just what to say," said Xy'liah. Her manners and sarcasms were far from the expected typical etiquettes. However Xy'liah had always found it quite boring following the Imperial's expectations. Politics rather bored her most and when she was growing up; she dreaded going to the studies her parents had set up everyday. Behind her, she could hear Vette giggling at her comment. Apparently, she entertained the twi'lek too.
Quinn lowered his head in embarrassment, "I'm not too proud to acknowledge when I'm mistaken." He lifted his head and immediately continued with the debriefing. "Lord Baras is pleased. He said it's time to zero in on your prime directive and he awaits your contact. My barracks are yours. Activate the holoterminal in the next room to speak with Lord Baras. The line is secure."
"Don't wander off now," she said in a playful tone.
"I will be right here if needed, my lord." Quinn bowed as Xy'liah made her way next door. She entered his room and quickly looked around. Not bad. Everything was just how she expected it, neatly organized and placed accordingly.
"Apprentice, I hope you can see the smile on my face. You are turning me into a true believer," her master said.
"Pretty hard to see anything going on behind that mask of yours." Whether he was smiling or not behind that metallic mask of his, it was definitely a frown now.
"I'm sure you're impatient to complete your time on that little rock. With the satellite control tower destroyed and Rylon's son neutralized, my spy's tracks are covered. Now the only threat to Rylon being exposed is the man himself. It's time to end that threat. Permanently." He waited for her acknowledgement, but instead received an answer typical of his student.
"Do I have a choice in the matter?"
"I like that idleness makes you disagreeable. Just be sure to give Commander Rylon an honorable death. It's the least we can do. I've had him imbedded within enemy ranks for decades. His contribution to the Empire's interests is unrivaled."
"That man is a hero. Pity he had to die." And for someone like you…
"He's always known the risk. The Jedi investigator must have no hard evidence that Rylon was killed to silence him. It must look like anything but a targeted execution. Annihilate everyone there."
"Sounds like overkill to me. Maybe you didn't hear, but I just spent three hours slaughtering droids and Republic soldiers left and right," Xy'liah's voice dropped to a low whisper that only her and her companion could hear. "And many more just travelling back and forth between those stupid places. I never knew how cheap the Empire was with their transportation services."
"Your objection is noted. Your orders however remain. I'll summon Lieutenant Quinn. He'll prepare you for your final task."
A few minutes after her master's briefing, Quinn entered, clutching documents in his hands to further brief Xy'liah. The first thing he saw was the two companions, each in a chair slumping over his desk; eyes closed trying to catching a bit of rest. He stopped for a moment for the sight of the Sith apprentice caught him off guard. There was apart of him that frowned upon them. The action was so unprofessional, but then again the other side of him found it intriguing to see the sight of the powerful Sith sleeping. She looked so…human as he watched her breathing in and out.
A small snore sounded from the twi'lek, snapping Quinn out of his thoughts. He continued his walk toward the two and cleared his throat rather loudly, hoping to alert them of his presence.
Xy'liah and Vette opened their eyes and frowned at the sight of the Lieutenant holding the documents. Xy'liah rubbed her face, "I was hoping you and Baras had found something to discuss for a few hours before sending me off again."
"Apologies, my lord. When I'm on an assignment, I usually try to finish it as fast, but effectively as I can. It makes the rest and relaxation afterwards worth it."
"You're not the one that has to go out and do all the dirty work. After I leave, you will be resting while I, once again, run errands."
"I assure you, my lord that I won't rest until this assignment has been completed. A small break might result in the investigator coming out ahead of us. It's not something I want to witness happen."
Xy'liah frowned. She could sense Quinn indirectly pushing her to the next assignment and she did not appreciate being rushed especially when she was feeling weak due to the exhaustion. She turned toward the Lieutenant, irritated, "Was there something you wish to tell me?"
Quinn took the statement as his cue to begin her briefing and did not hesitate one bit, "Your next target is the Balmorran Arms Factory. The resistance forces recently captured it and made it their headquarters." He handed her the necessary documents and continued as the young Sith briefly scanned the paper works. "An incursion into the Arms Factory will be a monumental feat. I'm excited by the prospect of you laying waste to that place."
At this, Xy'liah's raised a mischievous eyebrow, followed by a smirk. "So…I excite you, do I?" she inquired, handing the documents back to the Lieutenant. If he was going to make her depart at such a late…or early hour, then she was definitely going to a little fun before her next adventure.
Behind her, Vette rolled her eyes. Here we go again.
His face instantly reddened as he retrieved the documents, "W-well, what I mean was…" He looked down to avoid eye contact with the intimidating Sith, who stood her ground, smirking as she watched him shift uncomfortably before her. "…when I imagine all the ways you will shape the galaxy, I get very excited. Yes." He looked up to face her once more, quite satisfied with his answer.
"Admit it, you like me, don't you Quinn?" Xy'liah said crossing her arms while she watched the Lieutenant squirmed with more discomfort before her.
"My lord, is this an appropriate place and time for such an inquiry? You're putting me in a—a very awkward position."
"Are your quarters not an appropriate place?" Xy'liah teased motioning for the Lieutenant to look around. To her delight, his face flushed red again. How easily you fluster, Lieutenant…
"Uh…I grant you that. It's not the place perhaps, but, uh, rather the time that leaves something to be desired."
"You're right. We wouldn't want to rush things now, would we?" She was enjoying this all too much. It was one of the many perks she had while on her missions. Most of the other men she flirted with would've gave in within minutes, but she was becoming intrigued, even excited at the Lieutenant's resistance. It made her mission even more enjoyable now as she calculated the amount of time it would take before he too would give in.
"N-no, nor…nor would I, my lord. May I continue to brief you on the Balmorran Arms Factory?"
"Alright, but I reserve the right to readdress this issue in the future."
"That is your prerogative, of course." Quinn quickly resumed his dutiful stance and walked past Xy'liah, quickly reviewing a few points on the documents. "All right. The Republic Command Center is deep inside the Arms Factory, the most heavily protected installation on the planet." He entered a command into his computer and instantly all information on the Command Center appeared before them. "In order to reach Commander Rylon, you'll have to make your way past all of the factory's defenses—which are considerable."
"Give me a rundown on those defenses."
"Unknown, my lord. But the resistance will certainly have state of the art security and attack droids. Stationed inside are an estimated one thousand of the Republic's best trained soldiers. Specifically, Rylon's elite squadron is responsible for some of the most precise, improbable resistance victories on Balmorra. They're legendary."
"Until I showed up."
"The Empire's cause here on Balmorra will be greatly advanced once they're gone. One final thing, the investigator the Jedi sent has been concentrating all of her activities around the Arms Factory. I have her under minute by minute surveillance. If she becomes a problem, I will contact you on your comlink."
"I'll answer if I feel like it."
"I hope there'll be no reason to disturb you. I will be here to salute you when the Balmorran Arms Factory is a smoking husk, my lord."
"Captain, what's going on out there?"
"The factory's under attack. Headquarters has been breached and casualties are severe," reported Captain Eligyn to his superior. Next to him, his troops rushed toward the incoming enemy.
"Keep your wits, Captain. What do we know of the enemy?"
"Target's carving a bloody path in this direction. Unconfirmed reports suggest it's Sith."
Xy'liah stabbed the last remaining soldier outside the blockade casually before pulling out her lightsaber and roundhouse kicking him down, "You're about to become part of the bloody path." She eyed the Captain as she walked toward him.
The men in front of him quickly aimed their blaster rifles toward the Sith while moving to create a line of defense separating their Captain from the enemy. Behind them, Captain Eligyn peeked at the young apprentice before going back to his report, "Commander, come in. Contacts confirmed. The enemy is Sith. Repeat, the enemy is—"
"I can see that, Captain. Shut up!" came the voice on the other end, startling the Captain at his Commander's sudden irritated tone. He nodded as he followed his next instructions.
Xy'liah stopped before the blockade, waiting as the Captain before her messed with a device behind the blockade.
Within seconds, an older man appeared before her via holo.
"Sith, I know why you're here. Be aware that these are the finest troops I've commanded in all my decades of duty," the voice resonating through out the operation room.
Quinn turned toward the unexpected interference.
"Sir, what should we—"
"Quiet!" commanded the Lieutenant coming closer to the monitor. He watched as the Sith encountered the Republic Commander.
"Should I turn tail and run now?" He heard Xy'liah's voice between the statics.
"My men and I would be disappointed if you did." There was a slight pause before the same voice continued. "Captain Eligyn, engage at will and hold the line. I'm coming with reinforcements. Rylon out."
"Sir, should we send in reinforcements too?" asked one of Quinn's subordinates.
"No, I want to see how this plays out," said the Lieutenant, eyes glued to the screen.
Captain Eligyn reached for his rifle as Rylon's image disappeared, "You're about to see what we're made of."
The Sith yawned mockingly, "I may die of boredom."
"We're not going to let boredom steal our kill."
The Sith gave him a small frown, "You're not very funny."
"I'll have time to laugh later. Men…attack!"
"Find out where that signal is coming from!" Quinn commanded.
"Right away, sir!"
Quinn turned back to watch as Xy'liah attacked the remaining Republic soldiers. The fight should give him just enough time to investigate.
"Sir, it seemed as if it's coming from one of the Jedi investigator's channels."
"She bugged him?" A smile touched Quinn's lips. "Well played, investigator."
Static sounded again.
"The commander…he should've been here by now…"
"Your commander left you to die."
"No, he's safe…all that matters is he's safe."
Static sounded again, but this time on the monitor.
"Sir, we're losing sight of them," said one of the subordinates as the big monitor went blank.
"That's ok, we can still hear them. Everyone quiet!" Quinn yelled giving the room a quick glance over. He then turned his attention back to the speakers.
"Please…enough of this," came the same older gentlemen's voice. Rylon…
"Commander, no! RUN! Save yourself!"
"Just put him out of his misery, Sith."
"I think it would be so much more poignant if you pulled the trigger."
"Commander? What does this mean?"
"Good bye, Captain."
"I-I-I can't belie—" There was a blaster bolt and then silence.
"It's unfortunate they were on the wrong side. They were excellent soldiers and exceptional men."
"If that's the case, then why didn't you convert them to our cause?"
"I follow Baras' order to the letter. Recruitment was never my purpose here. I served for the glory of the Empire, but the life of a spy is a slipper one. In essence, I had to become a Republic soldier and I've done things against the Empire that has sickened me."
"Now you die like a Republic soldier." Quinn couldn't help, but smiled at Xy'liah's words.
"Before I embrace my end, there is one thing I must know. My son. He was the only thing in the world that was truly mine. And in love or weakness, I told him my secrets. I…I know you had to cover my tracks, but please tell me…did he face his fate well?"
There a long pause with static playing in and out of the speakers and then, "His chin was held high, Commander."
"Then I can die with a smile. When they find my corpse, there must be evidence of a valiant fight. We must make this look convincing, Sith. So I won't hold back, I will fight you as if you're my mortal enemy."
"Maybe I'll break a sweat."
"Then arm yourself. Tell Lord Baras it's been a great honor to serve him." Quinn closed his eyes as the sound of a lightsaber ignited. He felt sympathy and a great amount of respect for the Commander. There were few men that had such dedication and loyalty to the Empire. Most of the higher Imperial personnel nowadays were corrupted by greed, wealth, and power. To lose a soldier such as Rylon was, in Quinn's opinion, a devastating blow to the Empire. The Empire needs more men like you, Rylon. You won't be forgotten…
"Lieutenant! The investigator is attempting to send out the conversation."
"Block her at all cost. Do not let that conversation go or I will personally see to your death myself!"
"Yes, sir!"
"My lord, I believe we've got trouble. I heard your entire conversation with Commander Rylon."
"How is that possible? Were you spying on me, Lieutenant?" the young Sith responded in her usual playful, flirtatious tone.
"I told you that I've had the Jedi investigator surveilled and that she's been snooping around the Arms Factory. Apparently, she bugged Rylon's quarters and as she listened in on your conversation, I heard what she heard. The investigator knows everything, my lord."
Xy'liah's smile quickly turned into a frown at the unpleasant news and she found herself once more irritated, "This is your mistake, Quinn! If that conversation gets in the wrong hand, it'll be your head not mine." Thoughts of Baras' last torture scene entered her mind, which only made her angrier toward the Lieutenant. She should've known something like this was going to happen and there was no doubt that Baras was going to hold her responsible for the situation. She could already hear the Dark Lord lecturing her on her carelessness.
"Apologies, my lord," he replied, though his tone didn't suggest a single ounce of it. "I was as surprised as you when I heard your voices through her channel. She was heading toward her ship, but I had my men move in and cut her off from the Republic landing bay. I am systematically blocking her avenues of transmission and escape, herding that Republic scum to her only hope—the spaceport at Sobrik."
"How does she expect to survive an Imperial spaceport?"
"My men who engaged her report that she's wielding a lightsaber. It seems that this investigator is a Jedi Knight. Unless you stop her, she is more than capable of fighting her way through and commandeering a ship. I'll be able to delay the Jedi long enough for you to engage. But I advise caution when facing her."
"I don't need your advice, Lieutenant after the mistake you just made. You should know that I grew up killing Jedis!"
"Then my concern is unfounded. My apologies. I will gather the rest of my remaining men and meet you at the spaceport. We will crush this Jedi!"
Vette bit her lips as she watched her master fuming with rage. Surely she had to know her carelessness would inevitably result in a mistake? The young twi'lek braced herself as the Sith turned toward her. Usually in situations such as this, the twi'lek noticed that the Sith liked to take out her frustrations on the nearest living object which seemed always be her. She sighed. Well if the Sith could take her nonstop chatter, she probably could survive an insult or two.
To her surprise, however, this time she didn't, "Ready your blasters, Vette. Today, we kill a Jedi." It was as if the galaxy's most foul tasting food just suddenly appeared in Vette's stomach for the twi'lek found herself wanting to vomit at the Sith's words. She had never been fond of unnecessary kills nor torture, but ever since she had joined up with Xy'liah, it seemed as if it was a part of a regular routine to them.
Xy'liah and Vette rushed into the hangar, both panting heavily, trying to catch their breath from their literal sprint back to Sobrik. The commotion caused the Jedi to turn her attention toward them and with a wave of her hand, the Imperial officers before her ran off.
"You're too late Sith," she said as Xy'liah stopped before her, still catching her breath. "I've already transmitted your conversation between you and Commander Rylon to the Jedi Council. Nomen Karr has his proof. Now Master Karr and his Padawan will track down and expose every Sith agent in the galaxy."
"Mark my words, they will be hunted every step of the way." Xy'liah was already quite annoyed of Quinn's incompetence to prevent the conversation from being recorded in the first place, now they were just rubbing it in.
"You fight a losing cause, Sith. I have purity of purpose. I seek neither thrills nor satisfaction. Unlike you, I am calm."
"How incredibly boring," Xy'liah said between breaths. Her hand gripped her lightsaber harder, resisting the urge to swing the deadly weapon at her foe.
"Living an enlightened life is not boring. The dark side shall fail you, Sith. Save yourself and surrender. The Jedi Council will give you every opportunity to discover redemption."
Xy'liah smiled at the Jedi's confidence, "Ha! I offer you the chance to surrender and live, Jedi. Which one of us is about to get cut up here?"
"Surrender is not possible. I am in the right. I won't kill you, Sith, but I am leaving. So I'll have to incapacitate you." With that, the Jedi pulled out her own lightsaber and ignited it.
"You talk big. I'm going to enjoy making you regret your words, Jedi." Xy'liah smirked. This Jedi added tenfold to her already irritated state. She could never stand anyone that was so self-righteous because everything about peace, about harmony, about the light side was an absolute lie. The Republics were as equally "evil" as the Empire as she saw it; the only difference between the two sides was that the Empire did not find it necessary to constantly justify their actions whenever they had to kill someone or something. If her plans were to be exposed to the Jedi Council then so be it, but she, at least, will be able to take out her frustration on a worthy opponent.
It must have been her fueling rage that did it, for Xy'liah no longer felt tired, but instead felt a surge of energy running through her body as the Jedi attacked her. They danced with their lightsabers for some time before Vette's blaster bolts distracted the Jedi, allowing Xy'liah to quickly disarm her and struck a blow to her rips.
She fell to the ground, clutching her side and Xy'liah once again found herself gasping for air.
"Your victory means nothing. The damage has been done. The proof has been transmitted. So deal the deathblow, Sith. I am at peace, knowing that the greater good has been served." The Jedi bowed her head in defeat, awaiting Xy'liah's blow.
Xy'liah frowned. She didn't need to be reminded constantly of her mistake. She raised her lightsaber, the faster she ended this, the more time she will have at finding Baras' next victim. However right before she could swing at her head, she heard a familiar voice.
"I hate to burst your bubble, Jedi," Xy'liah turned to see Quinn approaching them, accompanied by his men. He stopped short of them. "No, that's a lie. I'm reveling in it. I intercepted your transmission to the Council. The Jedi knows nothing." He smirked and Xy'liah could see a hint of darkness in his face.
A great relief ran through her whole body. "Quinn, I could kiss you!" she exclaimed. She meant it too.
"I'm only doing my job, my lord," the Lieutenant smiled, obviously proud of his accomplishment. "I had her monitored and screened the whole time. There was never any risk at all."
However you took the time and effort to worry me? Xy'liah thought.
"Gloat all you like, it means nothing. I remain at peace. And Nomen Karr and his Padawan will still defeat you," the Jedi voice pierced through Xy'liah's thoughts. Right. Celebrations were far from over. She still needed to deal with her rather annoying foe.
"I've had enough of your Jedi talk! Tell me the name of Nomen Karr's apprentice now!" Xy'liah demanded.
"I will never betray her identity. I am resigned. Strike me down. I offer no further resistance."
"I didn't know you were so eager to die," said Xy'liah and before anyone could interject, swung her lightsaber, forcing it deep through the core of the Jedi's body. "That has got to be the most annoying Jedi I have ever faced." Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see the Lieutenant smiled with satisfaction while Vette winced at the sight.
Quinn directed his men to the Jedi, "Dispose of her body." He then turned his attention toward the young Sith. "How bizarre. She just closed her eyes and stood there."
"It almost took the fun out of killing her," Xy'liah said, eyeing the body.
"No matter. The threat has been averted, my lord. Well done. Lord Baras will be anxious to learn what became of this. When you're ready, I will contact him from my office."
"That old man can wait."
Quinn frowned as it became clear to him that the young apprentice lacked both the discipline and commitment to her duties. He would never make his superior officers wait unless there were good reasons. The Lieutenant, however, refrained from urging the Sith to make contact. The job has been completed and the lack of sleep from all those late nights he had dedicated to this mission was quickly catching up to him, "Of course, my lord. Take your time. I'm not seeking to impose. I'll be waiting in my barracks." Quinn gave his bow and turned to follow his men out of the hangar.
Xy'liah turned toward Vette, who still had a sour face on, "I promised you a drink, Vette and perhaps maybe a shower isn't a bad idea either. Let's go before I change my mind."
At the sound of that, Vette's face lit up, "Hmm, maybe we can go shopping while we're at it? Get some real nice dresses to wear aboard the ship while we're bored?"
"Don't push it."
"It's not my place, Lord Baras. I leave that for your apprentice to convey."
"Then step aside, Lieutenant. My apprentice has arrived. Nice of you to finally join us. Quinn refuses to update me on the situation, insisting the privilege be yours. I assume the Jedi investigator has been stopped?"
"I handled it. Your doubts and worries are becoming intolerable," said Xy'liah, still somewhat irritated from the whole mission.
"Considering recent developments, yes I had much concern," Baras said through clenched teeth. "I had hoped to avoid confronting the Jedi, but our hand was forced. What matters most is that Rylon can no longer be exposed. And how would you assess Lieutenant Quinn's contributions?"
"Lieutenant Quinn is an exceptional officer. I couldn't have done it without him," Xy'liah said. She knew she sounded out of character to everyone around her, but it was the least she could do for the Imperial after he had saved her from a world full of pain and torture. Her mind wandered again to the bugged device. He sure did save her from that one. Who would've known that a non Force sensitive such as him would be able to save her from anything? She gave him a quick look and he nodded in acknowledgement.
"High praise indeed. Quinn, I believe you have successful repaid the debt you owed to me. I'm putting you up for captaincy and transmitting an executive order allowing you to be station wherever you choose. You are dismissed."
"Thank you, Lord Baras," Quinn's eyes lit up. "If my actions benefited the Empire, they benefit me. I would have done the same regardless of our past." Quinn turned toward Xy'liah. "My lord, before I depart, it's been my extreme honor serving you. You are the epitome of everything the Empire stands for."
"I'm going to miss your rugged good looks, Quinn," Xy'liah gave him a flirtatious wink. To her surprise, he didn't back down like before. Instead he smiled back, probably too excited about his promotion to even care how the young Sith was addressing him.
"Maybe our paths will cross once more, my lord." He saluted the two Siths once more before leaving.
Baras watched as the young man left, "He will have his hands full. There are powerful Imperials dedicated to keeping him down. But if Quinn can overcome that and rise to the station he deserves, there will be great hope for our Imperial allies."
"If given the opportunity, he will excel."
"Either way, it's not worth worrying about. Quinn's affairs are a speck compared to what we face. Your presence on Balmorra is no longer needed. Return to your ship when you're ready. I'll contact you there."
Xy'liah and Vette both waited for the Dark Lord's image to disappear once again before turning toward the exit.
"So…we're leaving right? On to our next exercise in domination and destruction?" Vette asked.
"It would seem so, Vette."
"Well hope the next place has at least a beach."
Xy'liah smiled at the young twi'lek's comment, "You know what? Me too."
After a few hours to unwind and relax, Xy'liah decided to head toward their ship's hangar with Vette following. To her surprise, she found Quinn inspecting her ship. She raised a curious brow at his presence. Surely if it was about the mission, he would've contacted long ago.
"What's Captain Boredom doing here?" asked Vette.
"I was wondering the same…" Xy'liah continued forward toward the clueless Captain. He must have sensed her arrival for he turned around immediately, his blue eyes lit up as he saw her.
"I hope you don't find my presence here obtrusive, my lord. I beg an audience."
"You don't always have to beg for my audience, Quinn. It's not befitting of an officer." She must admit his overly polite manners were cute and tolerable at first, but after sometime Xy'liah quickly found them rather annoying and unattractive; a sign of weakness. She had always prided herself with self-respect. Her parents had taught her long ago that she was born to two of the most powerful Siths within the galaxy; she should bow down to no one. It was a lesson Xy'liah took to heart.
"Pardon my word choice, my lord. I will speak plainly. As you know, Lord Baras enabled my reassignment to anywhere I choose. It is an evolution I've longed for and assumed would never come. Aiding your mission on this planet has reawakened the ambition I began my career with: to make the most profound impact possible for the Empire."
"Heh, welcome back to life, Quinn." It was nice to see some passion lit that rigid face of his.
"That's how it feels, my lord. And I cannot think of a more glorious and honorable way to make a difference in the galaxy than to serve you," Quinn knelt on one knee before Xy'liah, who was quite taken aback by the sudden show of respect. The Sith and twi'lek quickly turned to look at one another, both feeling quite awkward. "I am here to pledge myself to you. I'm ready and willing to serve in whatever capacity you see fit."
"Hmm…whatever capacity I see fit?" Xy'liah pondered a minute on his words. "How interesting…"
"More like nauseating," said Vette.
Xy'liah frowned at her companion, "She thinks she's funny."
"My lord, if given the chance, I know I will prove myself to you. I'm a top notch pilot, military strategist, and a deadly shot. I can fly this ship, plan your battles, assess your enemies, and kill them. You won't find a more tireless and loyal subject. I offer my military prowess and dedicate every ounce of my strength to your cause."
"Um, I guess I can find something for you." His whole action and request were rather unexpected. She knew she made an impact on him when she proved her might and skills on the battlefield; she had no idea however that it was this much of an impact where he would want to join them for the rest of her campaign. The idea somewhat irked her. She was not used to having people under her control. Vette was one thing, but now she has an Imperial personnel watching and observing her every move. Had she known he was going to request this, she would never have flirted so much with him.
Quinn stood up, "Thank you, my lord. I will submit my reassignment papers as we depart." The young man smiled and left to retrieve his personal belongings as Xy'liah stood there, somewhat still dumbfounded by his request.
"Should we leave him while he's gone?" Vette inquired sensing her master's emotions.
"The idea sounds so tempting," said Xy'liah turning back to see the Captain coming back with a few satchels. "Get the ship ready. I'll be back. I think I need one more drink before we leave."
Vette nodded as the young Sith headed toward the spaceport's exit.
"My lord, I have settled into my quarters and fully acquainted myself with the ship. I am at your disposal," said Quinn as Xy'liah entered the cockpit area. They had waited awhile for the Sith to return from her little outing. However, during her absence, Quinn took it upon himself to utilize his time efficiently to explore the vessel.
"I should probably inspect those quarters, Captain," the Sith responded. A whiff of whiskey made its way to Quinn's nose and he noticed the Sith looking a little red, buzzed from the alcohol perhaps. He brushed off her statement.
"You'll find them spotless and in order, my lord. You'll also find that I'm fully trained in all aspects of this vessel. I can both navigate and pilot."
"If you're half as good at evading obstacles as you are my advances, then my ship is in good hand."
More drunk talk.
"I am here to do a job, my lord," he reminded her.
