At last the next chapter is posted. My computer broke and is needing fixing so for the time being I've have been force to use a chrome book to write my story. It's been a pain in the ass typing it on here. Nevertheless, I have finally finished it and now working on the next chapter. Enjoy.
Chapter 9
Days passed and much occurred in that time.
The Mandalore Revolution, as it was called by the Mandalorians, carried on with thousands upon thousands of citizens rising up and fighting back against their Imperial oppressors. The Mandalorian Protectors had done much damage to the Empire too, sabotaging mines, freeing slaves, and recruiting as many as they could, their numbers swelling to the thousands as time went by. Weapons and armor were reclaimed and soon the Protectors had an army of their own. Though no vehicles were within their possession, they had numbers upon their side. Those who wanted freedom, but wished not to fight, chose to work as spies to try gathering vital information.
At the base of the Mandalorian Protectors, Fenn sighed running a hand along his face. Why exactly was he doing such a thing, it was because this was the fifth barracks captured with no important information.
Like the Rebels, he too wanted to put an end to that Imperial project. The project that brought the Rebels to Mandalore in the first place; the creation of lightsaber resistant armor constructed through the use of Mandalorian Iron.
The Mandalorian leader was fortunate that his people finally started fighting back, in doing so the production on the armor had come to a complete halt. The issue being that of sabotaging mining operations, slaves revolting, and convoy attacks.
Mandalore knew that with all this occurring at once, focus on the project would be a lot harder for Empire. Sure they could keep rounding up people but with so many Mandalorians fighting for freedom it was becoming very difficult and even if another force occupation force came the Mandalorians wouldn't die. No, they would rise and rise again till they were free from the Empire's control! Mandalore itself could be liberated alone. However, to free the whole sector would take much longer. With how large the Empire is and the limitless resources at their disposal, there battle against them could take months if not years. Hell the Empire could just keep sending expendable troops at them to prevent a total take over. This was why they needed the Rebel's help.
Speaking of the Rebellion everyone was asking the same question; where was the Rebel Alliance? Two and half weeks had passed and not one Rebel ship had been spotted within the skies of Mandalore. Did Vince transmission not get through? No, he made contact with the Rebels. Tapper was told he spoke to them. So where the hell were they? If complete control over the Mandalorian Sector was to be achieved they needed the Alliance help to do it. This sector didn't belong to the Empire! This was Mandalorian space and by the blood of their ancestors they would fight to the last man to see their homes taken back!
With another sigh Fenn looked around the table looking at the familiar faces. Clearing his throat he spoke. "We have dealt a great blow to the Empire by casing this revolt. I have wanted this. I have waited so long to see my people, my sons and daughters, rise up and fight back against tyranny that is the Empire. We have to do something more. Liberating slaves and stopping mining operations can't continue forever. We must achieve another major victory over the Empire to rally more support for liberation, but what exactly? I've thought of taking the whole Imperial blockade and hole the Empire hostage. Or capture a fortified base and make it our headquarters."
"What about the capital?" All eyes turned to Luke. "Why not commence a full out assault?" Said Luke, all eyes turning to him. "The resistances in the capital, as well as those around the planet are stretching Imperial forces thin. This could be our chance to take back the capital." He paused for breath and continued on. "The Rebel Alliance faced much worse odds and still won. Look at the Battle of Yavin, we destroyed their superweapon. We even liberated Mon Calamari from the Empire. Why there taking so long I'm not sure. However, I know there's no way we won't let Keldabe's defense stop us from achieving victory. We can achieve a major victory against the Empire by retaking the capital."
Fenn stared at Luke as if he were the greatest tactician in the galaxy! Why didn't he think of it before!? If they could retake the capital moral would skyrocket and the tide of battle would turn! They would achieve a major victory against the Empire! The warrior leader rose to his feet with a confident grin upon his face and turned to his second command. "Voin, gather our forces."
Hours later, hundreds of Mandalorians gathered within the war room. They were informed that a battle plan was formed. What it was however wasn't told. As the last warrior entered the room Mandalore stepped forward. The Mandalorians stood at attention upon seeing their leader.
"I am glad you have gathered. We have put together a daring plan that may gain us a great victory. Many may not live but those who fall shall be honored for their sacrifices in the coming battle." He paused looking at the men and women who fought and bled for the freedom of Mandalore and lived. "Warriors of Mandalore! Today we strike back and retake Keldabe!"
Like engines coming online the gathers soldiers cheered as one! War cries, claps, and even some swears to the Empire. The cheering died down when there leader waves a hand to silence them. When all was quiet again he spoke once more.
"Plans have been made to make sure this battle goes smoothly. As I said before. We are going to Keldabe to take it back from the Empire. We will take back the city and with luck possible find any valuable information on where to find the Imperial project. The very project that our beskar is being used for. That our people have been enslaved to mine for! With the revolt occurring in the city our manpower will doubled but don't take the Empire lightly. Defense will hopefully be weakened with the revolt but we must be on guard. I will personally lead the charge to capture the city. The Empire came and stole our planet's, stole our weapons, our people, and stole our honor! We will now show them the wrath of the shadow warriors! Gra'tua! Gra'tua will be ours!"
Keldabe, the capital of Mandalore, was just like any other city on the planet; streets filled with citizens, buildings as tall as the trees, and Imperial security. At least that's what it once look like, now however, the heart of Mandalore was in ruins, chaos!
The source of the chaos was that of the two factions battling for control over the city; the Galactic Empire and the revolutionaries of Keldabe. The Mandalorian fighters or Keldabe resistance, as they were called by the Empire, were a great hassle to deal with. It was expected to be an easy put down but it wasn't. These people were determined to kick the Empire out of the capital but if they wanted to they'd have to fight for it and fight they did.
Citizens within Keldabe took up arms against the Empire, first fighting with their bare hands and household items, in the days following Imperial weapons were collected by the resistance and soon both sides were engaged in shootouts turning the city into a battlefield! Corpses laid everywhere and blaster fire could be see exchanged by both sides from a bird's eye view. The resistances was proving to be very persistent to Imperial forces.
Hit and run attacks were knocking Imperial numbers down bit by bit. Ambushes on the streets were the worse, the streets were long and had many sharp turns in them making them excellent ambush points for the resistance to use against Imperial walkers that tried maneuvering through.
On and on the revolt continued and soon every street within the city was occupied by fighters of both forces. There was violence everywhere within the city, on the streets and buildings. The resistance had even set up barricaded on captured roads to prevent Imperial advances. These barricades were constructed with whatever the Mandalorians could get their hands on, such as furniture, vehicles, and even ruble from blown out buildings.
While these battles were occurring, the security checkpoint on the western entrance was very lax. So lax that the infantry guarding it weren't taking their posts serious. Well why shouldn't they? All the fighting was going on deeper within the city. Nobody had tried breaking out of the city and nobody would dare break into it! Two E-web cannons, two TX130, and a whole company would be more than enough to defend the west entrance.
"Sir, were we told about transports coming today?"
Those words caught the commanding officer's attention. Raising his macrobinoculars the colonel looked through them in the direction the trooper pointed to. Sure enough he saw a rather large convoy of transports coming out of the jungle road. This was curious. Command hadn't told him of any convoys coming in today. Did they not know there was a revolt going on in the city? Perhaps they were carrying reinforcements. Hopefully more E-web blaster cannons were carried within them. They could be used to slaughter the enemy and not be used to protect the governor.
The colonel frowned. That man was so paranoid! He was guarding his complex like it was fortress! If he wasn't then this revolt in Keldabe would be over already. But no, the governor had to think only of himself. Yet even with the man's actions it didn't matter. The Empire was having a difficult time in ceasing the revolts. Many wished to just leave the planet and cease the creation of this stupid project. Others, mainly being the high ranking officers, wanted to bombard the planet into submission. The Inquisitor however, told the Emperor of these suggestive actions and had forbade all them. The officers did not like this but knew they had no choice. Of course some of the revolts had been put down but still resistance was meet. It was stretching their forces thin. So quelling the Keldabe revolt wasn't going to be easy.
When the transports drew closer the colonel lowered the macrobinoculars. He motioned for the two tanks to block the path. This had to be done. Sure they were Imperial vehicles but a convoy of this man transports was a little suspicious. Plus he and his men weren't informed about this. He had to know exactly what they were doing here.
Suddenly all the transports stopped. The only one being coming forward was the leading transport. What the hell was-His eyes widened as he saw through the transparent steel window that nobody was driving at all! It also increased speed charging at them not stopping! He jumped to the side avoiding the transport! The dirt however would be the last thing he'd see!
The transport collided into the tanks and in doing so the bombs within the troop carrier section went off turning the three vehicles into a massive ball of fire sending metal every direction! Stormtroopers and officers were sent flying in all directions! Others hit the dirt trying to protect themselves best they could!
As the remaining Imperials tried to get themselves reorganized the many transports that stayed behind started advancing forward! In the cockpit of one of the vehicles, its two pilots were jeering with laughter while the third occupant stood behind them, hand outstretched, and starting at the accomplishment he performed.
It was the Jedi who had been piloting the transport with the Force. Through its connection he took control and rammed the vessel into the enemy. Vince would have been proud of his work. With the way clear the Mandalorians could storm the city.
Of course the enemy didn't know that beforehand. On the outside it looked to be just a normal convey of Imperial transports. But on the inside of each transport were Mandalorians armed to the teeth ready take back the capital. Yes, each Imperial transport there was captured by the Mandalorian Protectors in each of their successful raids on the mines. They had more than just transports, speeders, and blaster cannons had been taken too to strengthen their forces. The speeders however would do no good in urban warfare. But E-webs, which were carried in other transports, would provide most effective in defending barricades used by the citizens.
This was Fenn's plan; they would use the stolen Imperial transports to carry his men into the city to assist resistance fighters held up at barricades and capture key targets, such as barracks, hangers and communication array. The most important target to capture was the governor's building. He knew if they captured him, then the battle would be over and the Imperials would either surrender, retreat, or die to the last man. They would also hopefully obtain a great deal of important information. Fenn and Skywalker knew that if the Protectors attacked the capital and the revolutionaries saw this, their morale would skyrocket knowing their leader had come to save them and take back the heart of Mandalore. So there was no time to dillydally.
Each transport zoomed into the city bursting through the flame and stormtroopers that tried to stop them. Sneaking into the city could have worked but Mandalore wanted the Empire to know they were here. They had come to take back Keldabe!
As soon as the transporting carrying Skywalker and Mandalore turned a corner it came to a halt and deploy its loading ramp. Its cargo, a company of Mandalorians, rushed out their weapons raised for battle, eyes scanning all around for enemies. For the time being there was no opposition. With a clear path the warriors followed their leader through the streets. On and on they went always on alert should they walk into a trap. The sounds of battle could be heard all around then, blaster fire and explosions with occasional screams of dying or cheers of victory!
Fenn and his Mandos would not pause to help anyone. Their missions was to take the governor's building. Their fellow warriors would assist the Keldabe rebels. Yet it seemed odd they had not run into the enemy yet. Either they were too busy dealing with the others, or luck was on their side.
Swiftly entering a building the warriors huddled up onto the rooftop taking guard positions while scouts took to the skies in search for the governor's building.
"I hope this battle will end soon." Luke said to Mandalore.
"I much do not care, Skywalker. My men have waited for years to take back Keldabe. They have waited to strike back at the Empire and spill their blood."
"You let this battle carry on more and more of your will die. I thought you wanted to free them?" Protested Luke. He wanted the Empire to lose but to drag it out just to see the Empire loose resources would be a waste of manpower.
"I do…but I will not take away my men's gra'tua just to achieve a swift victory." The Mandalorian had his back to the Jedi starting out at the war torn city.
"Gra'tua?"
"Vengeance, Jedi. Vengeance. Gra'tua cuun, our vengeance. Sa kyr'am nau tracyn kad, Vode an! Motir ca'tra nau tracinya. Gra'tua cuun hett su dralshy'a. Bal kote, darasuum kote, Jorso'ran kando a tome. Sa kyr'am nau tracyn kad, Vode an."
Luke had no idea what he that last part mean. He didn't speak Mandalorian nor did he understand the blasted language. He didn't know if he was insulting him or was talking about something else. He didn't wanna know either way. There was a battle they had to win and thinking about a foreign language would get him nowhere.
"Mandalore, we found it. It's 10 clicks away from your current position. Enemy defenses are infantry, light walkers, and couple blaster cannons. There currently unaware of our presence at the time how do you wish to processed?"
"Stay out of sight and keep monitoring their movements will be there soon as we can." Swiftly ending the conversation Mandalore and his warriors took to the skies, carrying their Rebel allies who didn't have jetpacks, to where the scouts were located. When they arrived at the building occupied by the scouts, Mandalore looked down onto the streets. There indeed was a tight security outside the building.
"Hmm…AT-ST's, E-web cannons, shock troopers…damn this isn't gonna be easy." Muttered Tapper.
"You seem to know your Imperial stuff, Rebel." Commented Fenn.
"When you're a veteran of the Clone Wars and defector of the Empire you know your stuff." The dark skinned Rebel replied.
Tapper was indeed a veteran of the Clone Wars. Being one of the many non-clone officers within the army. Serving in many space and ground battles throughout the war. When it was reformed into the Empire Tapper continued to server them till he, like Jan Dodonna, defected to the Rebel Alliance seeing the evil deeds performed by the New Order. They were nothing like the Republic. They were racist, power hungry, arrogant, and evil. He gained the Alliance trust with knowledge about the Imperial navy and army. Indeed it wasn't much aid and felt useless to Rebels but his knowledge did prove useful and it had been when he took part in a raid to sabotage a factory building the mammoth AT-AT's. After the success of that operation he would go on to fight many more battles against the Empire, were his knowledge would prove effect in achieving victory over the enemy. It had even aided in gaining the rank captain within the Alliance Special Forces.
"No matter what thought. Powerful as their defense seem we must break through, take the governor, and win this battle."
"That I can agree on." Fenn said scanning the building. Judging from the size of the building there had to be many levels on there the governor-
"I sense him! He's on the top level!" Luke called out.
"Thanks for the info, Jetii. What you plan to do, Mandalore?" Voin questioned turning to his leader.
Fenn stared at the top floor of the building. That was where the governor. That was here his prize was. As much as he wanted the battle to go on, Skywalker was right, wasting time fighting would lose man power. "Ready you jetpack boys, were gonna bring the roof down on them."
"Was that a bad joke?" Tau questioned his answer ignored as Mandalore blasted off to the governor's building. The Weequay was grabbed by the arms and taken into the air. Tau tried not to scream. He hated doing this. He trusted the Mandos but one slip up and he'd possibly fall to his death. That and…He swallowed the lump in his throat trying to not look down. Yes the Rebel Weequay, Tau, was scared of heights and he wanted nobody to know about it.
Mandalore and his warriors, like before gathered atop the roof of the governor's building. The Empire seriously needed to think of better defenses.
"Now what? How are we supposed to get in?" Questioned one of the many warriors.
"Like this." Luke exclaimed stepping away from the gathered soldiers. He ignited his lightsaber and stabbed it into the ground and started running around them slicing through the roof.
"Ready those blasters!" Fenn ordered double checking his weapons ammo. His eyes staying on Luke knowing what was going to happen when he completed the circle. As he thought the whole section of roof they were standing on suddenly gave way and fell straight into the governor's room! There was a loud crash and many gasps of surprise. Fenn swiftly glanced around seeing the officers and stormtroopers standing there completely shocked at what they just saw! But who wouldn't be if they suddenly saw the ceiling come caving in with armed troops on top. Fenn's glancing stopped when he spotted exactly who he was looking for. His eye blue eyes staring malevolently into the wide brown ones of the Imperial governor. A vicious smile came to his lip knowing the man was probably terrified at the moment. "Hello governor. I've come with an offer. Surrender or be destroyed."
The governor was speechless too surprised by this sudden attack. He thought he had the area covered! How in the galaxy did they-stupid! He should have had snipers stationed on the roofs! Well no point in it now! "Kill them, double payment for the one to take Skywalker and Mandalore's lives!"
Luke jumped out of the circle swinging his lightsaber. The blue blade cutting the head off an Imperial trooper trying to react to the sudden surprise. He threw a hand out to his side sending a blast of the Force to an officer launching him through the air and slamming into the wall. Another swing of the blade and another Imperial trooper fell dead. He enhanced his movements with the Force making his reflexed fasted and stronger. He was just a blue blur to the enemy. He was too fast for them to it. One by one the enemy was being cut down by the Jedi.
The Rebels and Mandos burst from the circle shooting everyone in sight!
Fenn for his part rushed the governor knocking aside two officers who tried to stop him! He lunged over the desk tackling the scared man and pinning him to the ground, his EE-3 pointed at his face. "Now I'll ask you again. Surrender or be destroyed."
The governor was sweating bullet now. He knew the battle was lost. It was over. "I yield! I surrender!" He yelled loud enough to make everyone here. His cries were no deaf ears as the Empire continued fighting. He watched the last of his guards fell to the enemy. He was now alone and a prisoner of the Mandalorians.
Mandalore hauled the governor to his feet his weapon still pointed at his head. "Well would you look at that. Your enemy couldn't hear you. Now you're going to listen to what I want. Give the order to have your troops stand down. You'll surrender the city to us and you will answer my questions. There will be no negotiations with you Imperial scum!"
"I can't give the order to surrender! I'm just a governor!" He exclaimed sweat coming down his face.
Fenn frowned behind his helmet. If that was the case then they had to keep fighting till the whole city was retaken. Before he could answer his next question blaster fire was heard. Turning around he saw stormtroopers rushing down the hall toward them! Fenn singled his warriors to take cover and fight back. The governor had to stay alive in order to know where Project Iron Star was! He would take care of the governor.
"Listen," He growled his grip tightening on him. "If can't give the order to surrender, then you'll hand over the information about Project Iron Star. Where it is?"
At the doorway Luke held his ground his blue blade a blue a deflecting blots back at the Imperials. Yet no matter how many he killed more and more kept coming! They had to take back the city one way or another! This would raise Mandalorian morale and deal a critical blow to the Empire.
The Mandalorians pushed forward refusing to let the enemy block them him in the room. They would see this day won. They wouldn't let the Empire take anymore from them!
"As the hours passed the fighting continued with Imperials losing ground. As the sun began to set a cried was shouted out!
"Mando'ad parjai mar'e!"
Mandalore said it means in common tongue. "Sons and daughters of Mandalore, victory at last!" This announcement was answered by loud cheers and clapping. The day was ours! Keldabe at last has been liberated. The news of this victory spread like fire across a burning forest! With the city lost the Imperial garrison retreated. We're currently building defenses. I hope the Alliance can arrive soon…"
Luke stared at the words written within his datapad. The Jedi Knight was laying against the wall of the room he chose to sleep in.
The battle for Keldabe had taken longer than expected.
The Empire's resolve to hold out as long as they did had surprised the Jedi greatly. He expected them to surrender when the governor was captured. It had done the opposite and redoubled their efforts to crush the Protectors. It was in vain…Their efforts were profoundly destroyed. Their heavy weapons were turned against them and the Mandalorians knowledge of the city's layout and the multiple ambushes had turned the tide against them. It was after the capture of the barracks did they had no choice but to retreat.
In the end; Keldabe was liberated but casualties were high for the Protectors. Nevertheless, it was worth it. They had seized the day and the winners were the Mandalorians. However, before Imperial forces retreated they destroyed their communications array to prevent it from being captured. It was a crippling blow to the Mandalorians and Mandalore himself wasn't too happy about this. Without it they couldn't contact the Alliance.
He hoped they would arrive soon. It month was almost over and if they didn't arrive soon then he and last two Rebel Commando's would be stuck here for the rest of the war! He wondered if he would ever get back. If he did he'd have to inform High Command of the outcome of the mission and the death of….
Luke stopped his train of thought at once, his eyes softening. Vince…he missed him. He wished he hadn't stayed aboard the destroyer. Had he escaped he'd could have been here leading the charge against the Empire. Luke tightened his fists, he hated them so much. He remembered the anger he felt to the Empire after he aunt and uncle died. The killing of Obi-Wan Kenobi, his best friend Biggs, now Vince. He wanted to hurt them, to kill them! Make them suffer just as they made him suffer for the loss of so many loved ones!
Yet with the all battles fought, all lives he took, the young Jedi began to think maybe revenge was wrong. A part of him wished to relish in taking revenge on the Empire but…revenge was no the Jedi way. Anger, fear, aggression, revenge, hate, all of these were not the Jedi way and he most certainly hadn't been acting like a Jedi one bit. He could swing a lightsaber, he could use the Force, but the philosophies of the Jedi way had not been ingrained into his mind. Vince would be disappointment in him for his actions. He still remembered the slap and scolding he got from the old Jedi.
Like a grandpa to a child.
Grandpa to a child…
Luke felt tears well up in his eyes. He loved Vince like the grandpa he never had. He truly needed him. Without Vince who would train him? Who would help him overcome these challenges? Certainly not himself. He couldn't do it himself. He'd never be the Jedi his father, or Obi-Wan, or Vince ever were.
But you can. Said an old wise voice. A voice he hadn't heard since…
"Ben?" He thought remembering the man who started his Jedi training.
Do not let your negative feelings consume you, Luke. Clear your mind. Remember what I, what Vince, have taught you.
With a long breath Luke sat in a meditative position. Inhaling a breath of air he held it for a long time before releasing it and the first of many negative emotions go. He remembered the words Vince told him.
When a Jedi draws their weapon they must be prepared to take a life.
A Jedi will only use its weapon for defense. Never attack.
Knowledge is granted to those who seek it for peace and harmony, not greed and power.
A Jedi can feel his strength flowing through the Force.
Meditation clears your mind. Calms your body.
Releasing a final breath Luke opened his eyes scanning the room. He felt…calm. At peace. But there was still some anger within him. Anger to the enemy. He shook his head fearing he may never let go of his hate but…he knew relying on them would never allow him to become a true Jedi. With that in mind he chose to mediate once more. To purge him mind of the tragedies of the past and move forward. Before he could do so however the door opened. "Voin, what can I do for you?" He asked sliding off the bed.
"Commander Skywalker, Mandalore wishes to speak with you."
Fenn looked at the datapad over and over again. Grateful to know the governor wasn't lying. He was sure the fool had been deceiving him he wasn't. This was where it was situated. His eyes continued to look over the words carefully.
Project name: Iron Star.
Purpose: Mass production armor forge out of Mandalorian Iron to create lightsaber resistant armor.
Location: 7-5-3-8-0-0-1-3-6
…7-5-3-8-0-0-1-3-6…
The location was east, east on the opposite side of the planet. So this was where it was situated. This was where the Beskar was being transported to! With this knowledge they could now commence a full scale assault on the base and put an end to the project one and for all. Of course to do so they would need ships and vehicle for the attack. Unfortunately, there was no way they could build either fast enough to attack the project's location. They'd need designers, builders, resources, money, and time. All of which Fenn didn't have time for at the moment. Perhaps when Mandalore was liberated, or when they acquired the materials, or if the Alliance ever arrived they could do so. For now his focus would be building defenses for Keldabe.
The defense wouldn't be much however. Most of the Empire's vehicles had been destroyed in the battle and what remained was still in their possession when they retreated. Leaving the Protectors without suitable vehicles for ground and air.
Air support…air support would have been something he really wished they had. There wasn't a single starfighter hanger in Keldabe. The only hangers being those of the spaceports.
Although Fenn was glad Keldabe was back in Mandalorian hands, he hoped they'd have obtained vehicles within their army. The upside however was they had obtained a great deal of heavy weapons, such as rockets, mortars, blaster cannons, and a few mines.
There was another upside to this victory too, with Keldabe liberated thousands of citizens flocked to join the fight against the Empire. More and more joined the ranks of the Protectors, and reports were coming in of towns liberating themselves of Imperial control. The tide was slowly turning within their favor.
It was all thanks to the plan of Vince to destroy a Star Destroyer to make the people rise up and fight back for freedom. That man, that Jedi…he didn't know him much but he would honor the old general's actions to make his people rise up and fight back for freedom.
He was brought out of his thoughts when the door opened and looked to find Skywalker approaching.
"Glad to see you. The good governor was glad enough to hand over the location of the project but," He frowned handing the datapad to the Jedi. "It's on the other side of the planet. Out of our reach, and in a location were none of our bases are situated and that is a problem I wish to speak to you about. Firstly; with no vehicles captured in the battle we have no way to transport our forces over nor attack it with full force. Walking will take too long, and the ground transports would run out of fuel long before we arrive. Those damn Imperials!" He swore banging the desk roughly. "If we hadn't let them take their shuttles we've have had this blasted problem solved. We could fly to the project just like we did with the Star Destroyer."
Luke had no reply for this and kept quiet, deciding to let the Mandalorian do the talking.
"Well, at least Keldabe is back in our possession. Mind you, we did take some casualties but the prices were worth it. Our vengeance, the Empire has lost much and the city."
"But they were able to cut transmissions before there retreat. We have no way to contact the Rebel Alliance. I hope they arrive soon. I do not wish to be stuck here till we free the whole sector." Said a new voice with a grumble in its tone. The speaker was Tapper.
"Oh and why say that, Captain?"
"Have you've forgotten this is an Alliance mission and I, as well as Luke and Tau, belong to the Rebellion? We need to get back to them. If we keep waiting will have to steal a ship off planet. We need to report the loss of General Silverton and other commandos. This will greatly damper our forces and drop morale will drop."
"I think you're forgetting where I said I'd help you."
"Yeah only to see your people freed!" Spat the dark skinned Rebel his eyes narrowing.
"If it wasn't for us you'd be out there wandering the jungles ending up as food for the animals or prisoner to the Empire!" Retorted Fenn.
"Stop both of you!" Luke said stepping between the two men. "Fighting won't get us anywhere! Captain Tapper, I understand your frustration for waiting but we still must see the destruction of Project Iron Star. We now know where it is and once we seek transportation over to it we can stop it once and for all. You're dismissed." He watched the commando glare at the pair before turning without a salute and mark out the room. Once gone, Luke chose to address Mandalore. "Project Iron Star will have to wait. It's obvious to all that we must set up defenses for the city. Our victory will bring the full might of the Empire down on us. They'll return and want to reclaim."
If Mandalore was worry he didn't show it. Instead he snorted and looked to the jungle on the horizon. "Let then try."
Morning came, the ground was damp, rain had softened the terrain overnight and a thick fog fell over the landscape. The only sound being the birds and the dripping of morning dew on the jungle leaves.
It was soon replaced by a loud booming sound, like an earthquake or the booming of thunder in the distance! It grew louder and louder, till a shaped came forth within the fog. It was tall and grey skinned like the sky above, its legs were long and thick reaching up to a large body shaped almost like an uneven box, and connecting to that body through a short neck, was its head, also shaped like a box but more even.
This strange animal, along with its brethren of the same shape and size, came trumping and thumping out of the fog like a pack of hungry beasts in search for food. The animals of Mandalore and had no idea was it was. However, the people of the people…the people of the galaxy knew exactly was it was…
This was the terror of all infantry, king of the battlefield, like a monster sung in tales of old it frightens all into surrender, less it be those with the bravest of hearts to face such a mighty foe! Its name alone is enough to make soldiers quiver in fear! This, was the fearsome AT-AT!
Yes, All Terrain Armored Transports, the bane of the Rebel Alliance. The primary war machine of the Imperial Army used to crush all enemies. It's armor build to be near impenetrable like that of the Zakkegs on Dxun and blaster cannons powerful enough to obliterate defenses with a few volleys. With these titans leading the charge reclaiming Keldabe would be a piece of cake and in command of this force was the former garrison general of Keldabe and man to order the retreat, General Knox.
He had furious at his failure to defend the city, to be beaten by these terrorist! Now he had to lead the counterattack to take back the city.
The Imperial General was a smart man, passing the academy with high marks but refused to get his hands dirty in combat. Meaning he'd never set off on the battlefield at all. As a general of an army he's place was at the command center, safely guarded, observing the battlefield. He'd command battles from either be a base or mobile command center, but in this situation all he had was a makeshift outpost upon a hill overlooking the battlefield.
The Imperial General frowned, his request for the 2nd Armored Division, 7th Legion, and 130th Heavy Assault Battalion to assist in the attack were denied by the Inquisitor. All he had were what remained of his garrison situated in Keldabe. It truly was infuriating. That damn witch didn't give care about the capital! Keldabe was the heart of the Mandalorians. She scoffed at his needing of more troops saying he had enough to crush this rabble. Truly she underestimated this "rabble"! They had, started a planet wide revolt and reclaimed the capital. Nevertheless, he has his duty and would see the city reclaimed.
His plan was simple; surround the city and overwhelming the enemy with superior numbers, and if Skywalker refuses to surrender, he'd have him captured and brought to Lord Vader. Yes, he could see it now. Skywalker would be delivered and Lord Vader and then the Dark Lord would promote the successful general to highest rank in the Imperial Army; Grand General! The rank all army officers should strive for! He'd claim are the reward, capture of Skywalker and the crushing of resistance once and for all! Yes, all the glory would go to him he'd-
"Sir."
Knox's black eyes fixed on the officer addressing him. A frown forming him his face at his thoughts being interrupted. With a clear of his throat he answered the man who responded immediately.
"Sir, our forces have engaged the enemy but heavy resistance is slowing by a minefield, snipers, mortars, and entrenched infantry."
Knox looked down from the hill to the battlefield; AT-AT's marched forward firing effortlessly upon the entrenched defenders, AT-ST's covering there exposed flanks. Closer and closer they drew to the city not halting in their assault on the enemy. He could see the Mandalorian defenders within their trenches refused to retreat. It was admirable to see these warriors stand firm and fight back, unlike the Rebel scum who ran in fear at defeat. Nevertheless, this rabble defense would be broken and once inside the city they would spare no one, as orders by the Inquisitor.
The general snorted. "It's a futile gesture. They know the end is near and are going to kill as many as they can. If we are prevented entry into the city well… you will see when it is time. For now, tell all troops to continue advancing and crush there feeble defense."
Commandos, the best of the best within every army, specialized training make them a force to be reckoned with among common soldiers. Missions performed by them ranged from infiltration, sabotage, reconnaissance, assassination, capture, rescue, and search and destroy all done behind enemy lines, so it was a strange sight to see two commandos trained for such missions fight on the frontlines but in the current situation however, it was necessary. Keldabe was being attacked and all troops were needed to defend it.
It was in the trench of the northern defense that one of these commandos was situated manning an E-web blaster cannon and firing endlessly upon the enemy. Captain Tapper swiveled the cannon to the left blasting another stormtrooper off his feet. This was too easy, the white armor made them easy targets to take out and they were on an open field without cover. Movement to the right caught the Rebel attention making him cease the firing of the weapon to check what it was. A Mandalorian aimed a rocket launch toward an AT-AT.
"Aim for their neck if you can!" The dark skinned man called over the sound of battle and return his focus back to defending the city. He had said in the briefing before the battle over and over again that AT-AT's were weak at the neck. The neck was the soft spot and a well-placed shot would bring it down.
Listening to the advice the warrior moved along the trench a little to get a clear shot of the neck. When he got it he pulled the trigger letting loose the rocket! It soared through the air toward the walker nothing stopping its travel till it made contact with the neck. A great explosion erupted from the impact shaking the wake. It turned its head to wherever the attack came from preparing to counterattack but it was too late, a second rocket was fired second after the first at the same area severing the head sending it plummeting down to the ground with its armored body toppling over like a dead animal!
Tapper grinned at the success, one down and many more to go!
He knew he shouldn't be smiling over this achievement, a minor loss like that did little to hinder the Empire's advance. They continued on and on, there AT-AT's heavy cannons firing onto the city blasting buildings to pieces and obliterating Mandalorian defenders but still the Protectors held firm returning firing at their opponents. The Mandalorians determination to hold out and win was proving a major hassle to the Empire. Their choice to not abandon their positions was admirable to Tapper.
The Mandalorians were not like the Rebel Alliance. They weren't common folk fighting for freedom to liberate the galaxy, nor were they farm boys seeking adventure and blowing up superweapons, nor smugglers looking for money to pay off debts to Hutt's, and certainty not Jedi war veteran, they were warriors! Men and woman born and raised in the principle of war! These warriors were the ones, the only ones capable of fighting Jedi and Sith. If the Rebel Alliance was more like these warriors this war would've been won long ago.
More and more Imperials fell by Tappers hand. He didn't know how much longer the battle would go but he was certain one side would break first and he hoped it would be the Empire. Their relentless assault was putting strain on the defenders, it was dwindling away their numbers and ammo. Soon they'd have nothing but their bare hands to fight with!
Suddenly a noise came from overhead forcing him to look to the sky and swear loudly! Flying toward the city were TIE bombers escorted by TIE fighters! Were the hell did those come from!? He never saw a single starfighter hangers within Keldabe, meaning these ships must have been reinforcements sent to provide air support!
Wasting no time Tapper aimed toward the sky as best he could fire at the blue starfighters hoping to do some damage to them before they dropped their payloads. It was in vain, the cannon couldn't reach them and what rockets remained were used on the walkers. Releasing his grip on the cannon he dived for cover as a shower of laser fire came down upon them! Dirty fell upon the commando and he could hear the screaming of the dying who were cut down by the TIE's. Looking to the sky he saw the bombers fly over toward the city and a second later heard the sound of falling bombs and explosions behind him!
Those monster bombed the city! They bombed the citizens!
"Stand your ground! Let no Imperial set foot in Keldabe again! Forward! Fight my brothers and sisters of Mandalore! Fight!" Shouted a warrior rallying the defenses to carrying on fighting.
Tapper scrambled to his feet looking back onto the city. Buildings were destroyed, firing burned, and smoke rose into the air. Those poor people within thinking they'd be safe. Growling at the Empire's evil act he grabbed a blaster and joined the rallied defenders in the fight to stop the Empire. There were many more walkers still out there coming from all sides but not one man or woman would leave their post. They would stand their ground to the last man!
In the command center, Mandalore's face contorted into one of uncertainty as he watched the battle unfold. And why shouldn't he make such as expression, Imperial force had air support and overwhelming numbers that were steadily whittling away the defenses, and the city itself was assaulted second ago! The battle was turn in the Empire's favor but Fenn and his men wouldn't surrender! No, even if the city was breached and only a handful remain, they would fight till the last warrior! Fenn hoped that'd never come to pass though, there had a planet, a whole sector, to liberate from Imperial rule!
This wasn't a band of freedom fighters, or droids, or clones that the Empire was fighting. They were fighting Mandalorians, the greatest warriors to ever live! Warriors who fought the Jedi Order and the Republic, who made the galaxy fear them, and whose ancestors created legacies so great that pages of history would never forget them as mere legends! Let the Empire send all the cannon fodder they want, they would lose a thousand for each warrior who fell!
This wouldn't be a glorious last stand against an evil Empire! This would be just another battle fought on the surface of Mandalore. A battle to determine the outcome of Keldabe and its occupants. Should they hold out, another victory for the Mandalorians but should it fall it would just be occupied once more and possibly have its inhabitants slaughtered! Fenn would not let that happen on his watch, Keldabe would not fall to the Empire again!
Fenn could see Imperial forces start to breach their lines. The southern defense was faltering under pressure and the west defense was breached the defender retreating into the city. Mandalore said should their defense be breached, they'd pull back to the city and use to their advantage. This wouldn't be easy however with those blasted Imperial TIE flying around dropping bombs on their heads! Speaking of TIE's his eyes took notice of a bomber flying over the city toward-
"Everyone out! Out now! Their sending a bomber to hit the command center move, move!"
Fenn threw on his helmet, grabbed the nearest weapon and bolted for the exit with his warrior's pursuit. He turned down corridors, and ran through doors yelling aloud to get out the barracks. Finding a window, he smashed through it igniting his jetpack and zoomed away from the danger zone! Looking back he watched the TIE bomber drop its payload upon the barracks turning it and those who were unlucky to escape into a burning wreck of twisted metal and charred corpses.
He would mourn the dead later, for now they had a battle to win!
"Mandalore," Addressed one of the warriors. "Do you think we can hold out?"
The leader of the Protectors turned and gave his truthful answer. "No, I am not sure. All I can do is hope for the best that we win this battle."
Hope for the best indeed, with how things were going now only a miracle could save them and that miracle would occur soon. He shook his head and addressed the woman again. "I-" But he was short by a TIE fighter zooming overhead its cannons firing at whatever it was targeting. He glared toward the sky wishing they had air support, those damn ships had come down from the blockade within orbit. "Come we must join the battle and push the enemy out." And he took off down the streets in search for his fellow warriors.
At the other side of the city within a blown out building was a company of Mandalorians engaging advancing Imperial forces.
Among them was Tau, who kept firing from his position. The alien ducked behind cover as fire came his way once spotted. He tossed aside his empty magazine and pulled out his last ammo clip. He stared at it for a long while. Was this out he was going to die? On the warrior culture planet Mandalore surrounded by Mandalorians? Would death finally taken him to join his comrades in arms? If it be so…then let it be as a soldier who fought to the end, not a coward hiding!
Loading his last power cell he popped out of cover giving a loud battle cry in his native tongue and unloading onto the Imperials. Taking out one trooper, than two, three, four, and so on! He chucked a piece of rock at the enemy, sending an officer crashing to the floor dead, face bloody and broken by the impact.
"Come on you dogs let's see what you got!" The brown skinned alien screamed definitely in his native language again. His eyes darted left and right as more and more Imperials converged on him. Movement to his left forced him to turn and see a Mandalorian fall dead. Another good man dead. He aimed down sight again and pulled the trigger but no energy bolts came forth. He was out of ammo!
Tau cursed and tossed the empty weapon away taking up the fallen Mandos EE-3 and continued shooting. Still the enemy advanced as more and more fell on both sides of the shootout. The Empire would soon overrun them and they'd have to scatter again in order to survive the battle.
Suddenly a clanking sound caught the Weequays attention. Looking to the sound he saw rushing around a corner another company of stormtroopers escorted by a pair of Scout walkers. He narrowed his eyes alerting his allies of the new arrivals. This was hopeless, they'd be dead by night!
The two walkers stomped forward, aimed their cannons at the defenders and opened fire!
Tau grunted as dirt rained upon him but refused to yield to the enemy. If they had more firepower they could bring down those walkers and finish off the stormtroopers. But all they could do was hold out till they fall or a miracle happened.
As the walkers kept up their fire, the infantry advanced under their protection gleeful to win this shootout.
Tau in the meanwhile was taking cover behind a large piece of rubble glancing around at his Mandalorian allies. "We need better cover!" He called over the explosions. "We need-"
"Freeze! Agh!"
The stormtroopers reached their building and soon the battle had become close quarters! The Mandalorians fought like krayt dragon's defending their homes! Their aim dead center on the Imperials helmets making them easy targets but more and more Imperials charged forward replacing their fallen comrades.
Tau slammed the butt of the rifle into a trooper's helmet knocking him off his feet. He winced in pain from the grazing of a blaster shot to his shoulder. He grabbed two E-11's and began firing like a crazed man. If this was how he was to die then he'd take as many as he could with him! "For the Rebellion!"
Another shot hit his other shoulder and two more shots graced his body and left leg. But he refused to fall. He'd stand tall like his allies till death would take him! Throwing aside the empty weapons he reached for a T-21 but felt immense pain sore through his body and sent flying through the air and roll down a hill, his face cutting against jagged rubble till he reached the bottom.
Quickly he scrambled to his feet and tried climbing back up the hill to help his allies. He ceased however when he saw the walkers fire once more upon the building with grenades!
He swore and rolled down the hill to get away from the deadly weapons. The explosions and screaming of dying rung through his head! Reaching the bottom again he ran for it to get away from the overrun position to find cover and hopefully link up with allies nearby. As he took his tenth step pain shot through not his left but both legs and sent crashing through the floor! He swore again pushing himself up, blood dripping from the wounds gained by the cuts on his body.
"It's over Rebel, give up."
Tau grit his teeth at the order and stirred in pain at the wounds. He was done for, he had no weapons, his body was in pain, and possibly dying from the wounds gained in the battle. There was no way he could escape now. With a sigh he carefully rolled himself onto his back hands raised in surrender a frown on his face. "I surrender." Tau said glaring hatefully at the Imperials waiting for them to drag him off to the spice mines of Kessel.
Two soldiers marched forward to do so but were suddenly sent crashing to the floor both having a large hold within their helmets.
The Imperials dropped into battle positions looking around for the shooter or shooters but saw nothing as another stormtrooper was sent to the grave, then another, and another! Till the officer fell last.
Tau blinked in surprise wondering who saved him. His answer was given by the sound of jetpacks and the landing of boots on the ground. He craned his head to who arrived and saw not one, but a squad Mandalorians; three wielding sniper rifles and the fourth carrying med equipment. Before the Weequay could talk he was hoisted up by two of the snipers and flown to a rooftop where he was laid out upon. Tau couldn't suppress the agonizing pain coursing through his body that felt like crashing into a speeder bike and sent flying into a wall.
Nevertheless, he was indeed grateful to be saved. The Force was truly looking out for him. His life was now in the hands of the Mandalorian medic who searched his body for wounds needing treatment. Tau's minor wounds were wrapped in bandages while his more serious wounds, mainly his legs, back, and stomach were treated by bacta patches. While the medic saw to his injuries Tau spared a glanced to the other Mandos who stood on guard watching for any Imperial movement.
"There that should do it. This should keep you alive long enough for a full bacta treatment once this battle ends." The Mandalorian medic said completing his work. "Movement will be difficult but you must try and stand if you're to find shelter from the battle, were open targets for their fighters."
"Shelter from the battle? Nonsense I can keep going." Tau protested doing his best to stand on his own finding it difficult with the wounds on his legs forcing the snipers to support him.
"Not in that state you're not. Now let's get you out of here."
The Weequay tired to protest again but was stopped like before being forecfully grabbed by two of the warriors and carried away to safety. He hoped the others were having better luck than him.
Luke and Voin were back to back fighting Imperials on both sides. They, with a company of warriors were what remained of the west defence. They were in terrible condition. Ammo was running low, and many were wounded, including Voin, who sustained wounds in the left shoulder and stomach. His helmet was now discarded after receiving a great dent on the left side rendering it useless. Luke on the other hand had to switch to his lightsaber after running out of energy cells for his pistol. The blue blade deflecting shots back at their owners.
"Never thought I'd die side by side with a Jetii." Remarked the red armored Mandalorian gunning down another Imperial.
"What about dying side by side with a warrior?" Luke asked a sincere smile on his face. Though his training wouldn't be complete he would die on his feet like a Jedi, like Vince alongside his comrades.
Voin glanced over to the Jedi. Once he looked down on the boy seeing him as brash and arrogant. rushing into battle but as time went on he grew to respect the boy as a fighter. A fighter who if Mandalorian would have gained much honor in the battles fought together. Now he saw Skywalker not as a boy or a warrior, but a Jedi, a Jedi he befriended in a short time. He cracked a grin at the question adrenaline coursing through his body. "Yeah…could do that."
Luke refocused on the battle at hand remembering the Force push technique. He threw his off hand forward unleashing a powerful blast of the Force at the advancing Imperials sending them flying through the air and come crashing back down dead. With his side clear he turned his attention to the enemies facing Voin. His swordplay of Form III was exactly as Vince taught him. But even he wasn't unlimited, he could feel his energy start depleting. They couldn't keep this up, they'd be overwhelmed eventually and the city would fall.
Before he could speak to Voin, the Jedi was suddenly sent flying by an explosion from a rocket launcher. He gasped in pain as he landed painfully onto jagged rocks. He scrambled to his feet to fight on but stopped when he saw TIE bombers approaching quickly, their bombs ready to rain death on the city again. He stared at the ships, despair filling him. It was hopeless, their defense was breached, the Empire had air support, and numbers were on their side.
"Hope is not lost."
Luke's eyes widened at Ben's words. Then he started to heard another sound coming from the skies, from above beyond the clouds. As it grew closer it became clear they were starship engines, engines he immediately recognized. Hope filled his heart and as he looked to the cloudy sky all his dread left him. "THE REBEL ALLIANCE HAS ARRIVED!" He cried a voice over the sound of battle.
Indeed it was, diving out of the grey clouds where X-wings and Y-wings their cannons unleashing a barrage of red rain onto the Imperial bombers and ground forces! The fighters broke off their dive bombing flying to other sections of the cities to provide air cover.
The Mandalorians cheered in joy at this miracle given to them. Some however, weren't pleased by this, Fenn being one of them who scowled up at the Rebel ships. Whoever was in command of this taskforce needed answering for taking so long to arrive. How many could have been saved in this battle had they arrived sooner? Who could have been saved? He wondered shaking his head as he laid against a wall staring up at the grey sky.
Soon he saw a company of therteen GR-75 transports, escorted by another another wave of fighters, appeared flying down to Keldabe, each landing within a large clearing within the battle ruin city, one landing a ways off from where Mandalore rested.
The leader of the warriors watched infantry rush out into the city to search for Imperials stragglers. He raised his communicator to helmetless head and gave orders to his warriors to provide aid to their saviors and drive Imperials off! With his order given he finally let exhaustion take over. He would speak to the Rebels once the Empire was gone for good.
He looked to the skies once again to see two Nebulon B frigate sore over the capital firing their turbolasers at Imperial forces outside the city. Yes, it truly was mericle the Alliance arrived in time.
Luke watches the battle start to wind down as the minutes ticked by. Rebel ships destroying the Imperial forces, showing no mercy to them. The more they killed, the more casualties would be dealt to the Imperial gassion. Glad as he was his heart held sadness, for among the dead in was Voin, whose face was badly burnt on the left side and a deep wound upon his head. "Voine, we did it." He said aloud to himself wishing the warrior was still alive. Mourning over his dead comrade would have to wait however, he needed to speak to the Alliance leader of task force. Gathering up his emotions he approached one of the many soldiers helping defend the sector
"Soldier, I need to speak to who's in charge of the task force."
So the Jedi was lent a communicator to make contact with Korthis Bar'tha, who was recently promoted to Colonel. "Colonel Bar'tha, this is Commander Skywalker do you read me?"
"I read you Commander." Replied the Bothan. "Mandalore requests a meeting with you and I. He isn't pleased and will need some explaining for the delay."
"Something I'd like to know too." The Jedi said to himself. "I'm on my way." he answered the Colonel and made haste to meet with Fenn and Korthis.
Korthis looked between the two humans, one being very unhappy. He was quite surprised to heard the disastrous approach to planet and the loss of Vince during the Star Destroyer assault. This news would be devastating to the Alliance. Sorrow filled his soul. It was he who convinced the Jedi to join the war. All they had now was a still-in-training Jedi leading them now. Nevertheless, they couldn't let this make them lose hope. The Alliance came to Mandalore to stop the Empire's project and Korthis would see it was finished. He cleared his throat to speak but was cut off by Mandalore.
"Why the hell were you so late in arriving!? You know how many could have been saved had you arrived sooner!?"
Korthis stared at the warrior who's face was filled with furry. He predicted this question would be asked. He wondered if Skywalker wished for an answer too. Would the reason be enough to calm the enraged leader? Again he cleared his throat and spoke calmly. "The reason," He paused looking between the two humans again then sighed. "High Command has been uneasy about sending a full liberation force. We want to liberate Mandalore but we are not like the Empire. We don't have a galaxy spanning military. Amassing manpower and resources are taking a long time and to send a large portion of the Alliance here would make it a big target. So for now I was given command of a strike force to make contact with the Mandalorians. That is why we took so long, Mandalore, hate us if you wish but we can't risk the whole Alliance fleet for one planet and you should be glad we were even able to send a strike force to assist you."
Fenn suppressed a growl of frustration at the answer but the Bothan wasn't wrong however, assembling a massive invasion force to free his planet would take a long time and make it a large target for the Empire to attack. Plus this task force had proven its assistant in turning the tide of battle. With these reinforcements they could now launch a full scale assault on Project Iron Star and put an end at last. He rubbed his face and expressed a tired sigh. "Well I guess this is good enough then. At least you arrived in time, but what about the Imperial blockade within orbit?"
"That wasn't an easy battle but we did destroy two of the five capital ships before driving them off. Our fleet will stay in orbit to maintain a defense while our ground troops help attack project. Speaking of which you told me you acquired the location?"
Before Mandalore could answer one of his soldiers suddenly rushed into the room panting heavily as if he had just run all around the planet. "Mandalore, a civilian speeder is approaching the city from the east."
The three men looked to one another then rose to their feet to see what was so important about this speeder. The trio made haste to the eastern entrance and arrived in time to see said transport arriving. The guards stated up front signaled for it to halt which it did. The vehicle powered down and out stepped a man whom nobody expected to ever see.
Luke being the most surprised out of everyone and the happiest. The figure was still the same but wearing civilian clothing. "Master." He said running to the man and embracing him in a hug.
Vince Silverton returned the hug patting Luke on the head as well. "Hello, Luke. Long time no see." His eyes flickered to Fenn "Mandalore," then to Korthis. "Korthis Bar'tha, I haven't seen you in a long time. How goes your spy missions?"
"My spying days are over, sir. It's Colonel now, General. I'm in command of task forces."
Vince was about to congratulate the Bothan but cut short by Luke.
"I thought you were dead?"
Releasing his student he gained some distance for a little space before speaking. "I do have some explaining to do. Yes I fought the Inquisitor and managed to escape. I tried to get back to the hanger but with the wound I sustained, which I will explain later, was slowing me down. So I had no choice but to jump into an escape pod and not a moment too soon either for the Star Destroyer exploded. However, the explosion sent my pod spiralling out of control to the southern region of the planet. Like the last time I was in a pod, it wasn't a soft landing. I sustained more wounds and a crack on the skull. I thought I had been trapped in another jungle or one of the barren deserts. The Force however proved otherwise. I had in fact landed near a village. A village fortunately unoccupied by the Empire. With their aid they sheltered me and healed me to full health. Unfortunately, they had no hospital and my wounds had to be healed through stitches and bandages." He showed truth to the wounds by lifting his shirt to show a large scar on his right shoulder. "But enough of that, I see much has occurred in my absence. The capital has been freed and the Alliance arrived."
"Just in time too. Your Rebel friends arrival couldn't be sooner. We were almost overrun." Fenn said glaring at the Bothan. "But now that they were we can finally take the fight to the Empire. We can destroy their blasted project. Come their is much to speak of, Jedi."
With a nod Vince followed, Luke beside him.
"What happened? How did you sustain that wound?"
"This was a parting gift by the witch but don't worry." A sly grin slowly came to his face. "I made sure to give her one too."
"Your failures have left me questioning your skills."
"My skills are more than enough to kill the Jedi, Lord Vader!"
"Yet you prevented him escaping you multiple times. He escaped Teth with you not joining the pursuit, you failed to save the Dark Horse, stop the Rebels from sending a message for reinforcements, quell the rebellion on Mandalore, as well as protect the planet, and you failed you save Project Iron Star from being destroyed."
Zenobia whirled around glared hatefully at the Imperial General. She was not happy one bit! Her failings had been reported to Mortem who in turn reported this to Vader. When she got word of this she stormed into his quarters ready to raise hell on him only to see he was in talk with the Dark Lord himself via hologram. Now here she was being scolded like a child by the supreme commander of the Empire. She turned back to the Sith hoping to make him understand. "My Lord, all the Jedi I've hunted have NEVER escaped me. This Jedi-"
"Is more skilled than you apparently. Perhaps the usage of bounty hunters would be more suitable." Mortem interrupted
Zenobia once more turned her eyes blaring with anger. She wanted to strangle him right then and there! Bounty hunters!? Bounty hunters were inadequate to hunt Jedi. They couldn't do what Force wielders could. But the Jedi Order was crushed by an army of Clone troopers and there many were Jedi hunters within the galaxy, GI-88 and Boba Fett to name a few. Yet even those rogues couldn't do what she or Vader could with the Force.
Before she could retort Vader spoke once more. "You will double your efforts and kill that Jedi. Fail the Emperor again…and I will order the hiring of bounty hunters." With those last words Vader's image disappeared.
Zenobia whirled around still glaring at the Imperial General. Oh how she wanted to cut him down right where we stood!
"I have no regrets for contacting Lord Vader, Inquisitor. Your methods have cost us valuable resources that would be better suited on the battlefronts fighting the Rebellion. Not chasing after a Jedi that you were ordered to kill." His eyes glanced to her waist seeing her hand near her lightsaber. Itching to use it and kill him. He rose a brow and look back into her red eyes. "If you think killing me will satisfy you then by all means, strike me down and search for another General to take command for your forces."
"Hold your tongue, human!" The Nightsister finally snapped. "Your words mean nothing to me. I will complete this task Lord Vader assigned me. No bounty hunter can do what I can. No bounty hunter you hire, will EVER come close to killing that Jedi."
"Says the witch who lost her arm to-" His words suddenly feel silent and his hands shot to his throat. He was finding it hard to breathe and realized he was choking. He started gasping for breath.
"Do you see now, human? No bounty hunter. Can do what I can." Zenobia boasted, a hint of arrogance in her tone. Then she released the General from her Force choke and departed his chambers relishing in his gasps for hair.
"You…arrogant witch." Mortem gasped rubbing his throat. "Your arm won't be the only thing you lose next time you confront Silverton. Just you wait." Then the door shut sealing the general within his quarters.
Zenobia raise her left arm stared hatefully at it. What was once a forearm of skin, muscle, blood and bone was now replaced by wires and metal.
Damn Vince Silverton. Damn that Jedi! She was sure that technique would have killed him. But no, he deflected it to hit his shoulder instead and gave him the chance to remove the arm. With a critical injury sustained, Zenobia had been forced to retreat and escape via an escape pod.
The loss of her arm however wasn't severe. No, it was a minor loss. What she was glad to still have was her lightsaber. She unclipped the weapon and squeezed the hilt tightly anger filling her at Mortems words. She would not let that damn Jedi beat her again.
She swore that next time she fought him the last thing he'd see was her saber plunged into his chest.
"You can do it, Luke."
"I'm trying."
"Don't try. Do it. You can DO it. Don't think, feel. Use the Force." Said Vince encouragingly standing beside his studen arms crossed.
After reuniting with his allies and many more saber practices with Luke he now felt it was time to teach him now to use the Force like a proper Jedi. Like a real Jedi. He had started with simple items such as rocks, boxes, blasters, anything small. Skywalker's training was progressing rapidly However, now was came the challenging tests. The Jedi Knight was encouraging his student to do what he was tasked with.
Lifting a landspeeder into the air.
Luke however, was having trouble getting this task complete. He couldn't lift it. Even with the encouragement of his master. He just couldn't do it. It was…was…
"I can't." Luke gasped releasing the grip on the vehicle. "It's too big."
"No," Vince replied simply. "You think it's too big. Size doesn't matter, Luke. The Force can do anything…" Vince stepped forward and put his hand out toward a stored X-wing. He closed his eyes focusing upon the ship. Then very steadily, it began to rise. He heard Luke gasp but refused to let it distract him. "You think it's too big of an object and allow that to cloud your mind. What you must do is clear your mind, be a peace, concentrate on the object. You must feel the Force around you, Luke. Let it aid you in your task." The X-wing went higher and higher till it reached the ceiling and was gently set back where it was before. "Now, do it once more."
"Alright." Luke shut his eyes once more and concentrated on the airspeeder. Repeating Vince words in his mind. Then with a deep breath he used the Force. He felt it flow through him. He felt its presence all around him. Surround him in a calming aura. Calming… like waves washing upon a beach. Or rain gently falling upon a roof. Another deep breath and he cleared his mind of the thoughts and then he could see it. The speeder was clear as day within his mind. He saw its shape, the color, and the distance. Relaxing his muscles he let the Force take control of him. Allowed it to guide his actions. Then, he felt the speeder rise off the ground.
"Luke," He heard Vince whisper with amazement. "You're doing it. You're really doing it. Kept it up." Indeed he was, Skywalker's task of lifting the vehicle was taking shape. Though not as high as Vince sent the X-wing the speeder was gently hovering off the ground. Though it started to steadily go higher. "Well done, Luke."
Luke set the speeder down. His brow was sweaty and deep breaths of air were inhaled from so much concentration. Though feeling winded from the performance Luke nevertheless smiled at his achievement. "You were right, Vince."
"See? What did I tell you? You keep this up and you'll be pulling Star Destroyers out of the sky."
Luke laughed at Vince words. Grateful as he was at the compliment but knew he still had a long way to go. ""Vince, I don't know where I'd be without your guidance. You've helped me so much."
Vince popped a grim at that comment. "Your are kinds, Skywalker. However, I believe Master Yoda could have trained you better."
"Who's Yoda?"
"He was the leader of our Order, the most powerful and wisest of us all. They say he was over 800 years old when the Clone Wars occurred." He laughed at Luke's expression.
"Speaking the of Clone Wars, you never talk about it. You told me one story of my father saving you but that didn't give much detail. What was it like back then? Fighting alongside Ben and my father."
A shadow seem to fall over Vince face and his smile faded at the question which didn't go unnoticed by Luke.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories." He said quickly. "I was just curious."
Vince didn't answer the young man, only staring off into the distance. Memories of old faces through his mind. Yoda, Obi-Wan, Mace, his master… "Another time perhaps."
"Vince, why haven't we attacked the project? We could have struck immediately after defending Keldabe. Why are we still waiting?"
"To figure out a suitable plan of how to attack and, if you haven't forgotten, rebuild the city and strengthen its defenses should another attack occurs."
"But Korthis said-"
"The Empire has the whole sector under their control this campaign will continue until we've freed all the Mandalorians. A Jedi's life is one to protect the innocent and help wherever they can. You may return to the Alliance but I vowed to see these people freed from Imperial tyranny."
"And that has earned my respect."
The two Jedi turned to find Fenn walking over. "This fight with the Empire isn't over, even if Mandalore is liberated we still have the other systems to free. But more on that later, for now listen to what I have to say. Spies have gathered intel on the factories defenses and there's another, they have slaves working within the factory. The project must be destroyed but I will not sacrifice the lives of civilians for victory."
"I agree but how to attack is the question. Come lets us plan our attack and prepare for battle."
End
I know i should have added in the destruction of Project Iron Star but I've wanted to get this chapter posted. So I apologize for not adding it. Read and Review please.
