Fate Approaches

"We're not the police and we're not medicos. We're journalists. Our first duty is to report the facts, to report the story, not to interfere with it."

-Madhi Vaandt

*****I*****

"…And with the collapse of the coalition government, the political situation of the once influential Outer Rim power of the Tion Hegemony is now in doubt. Political leaders failed to agree on a new constitution and the right-wing True Victory Party walked out of the negotiations after claiming that the current draft panders to the Royal House of Tion more than is healthy. It seems oddly ironic that the dissolution of the unity government should come on the eve of the six year anniversary of the end of the Yuuzhan Vong War. New elections are scheduled to be held in a fortnight, but it is unclear whether any one political party will gain the majority it needs. Hegemony-watchers are likewise concerned with the Tion Hegemony's security fleet and the military leaders waiting in the wings. It is no secret that the Hegemony military has been one of the victims of recent events, and no one can say for certain what the military will do should anti-military politicians come into power. More on this and how the Tion Hegemony government collapsed, in thirty seconds. You're watching the Perre Needmo Newshour, Madhi Vaandt reporting."

****I****

"Cianba here, of your one and only HoloNet station for the unvarnished truth, Freedom's Cry. To all you refugees and scattered populations still looking for a home, stay strong and don't ever give up hope. The galaxy may seem like a dark place at the moment, but you're all still alive, can still make a difference and help better the lives of those around you. Even if the politicians and Jedi are still fouling things up over on Denon, there are still some people who actually have a heart in this galaxy. The Five Worlds system of Corellia recently allowed seven million more refugees to settle on planets in their system. For those still looking for family or loved ones, I have it on good authority that the majority of those settled were from the New Plympto and Bright Jewel systems. There were also two super-transports that hailed from Fondor. Currently scrolling across the screen are the names of the refugees I have confirmed to be on Corellia, so I hope it helps brighten more than a few lives out there, connecting families separated by the war.

Also opening their doors is the Bakuran Republic. With their recent acquisition of Ssi-ruuvi territory, they've allowed another eighteen million refugees into their territories. Most are from Coruscant, but there are also Dantooine and Gyndiners there as well. All names revealed in this and previous broadcasts can be checked on the Freedom's Cry's HoloNet page, and more are added every day. Don't worry, people. This galaxy has seen some good and bad times. We're definitely in a rough patch for now, but things will get better..."

***I***

"After several years of concerted effort, the planet of Obroa-skai has finally managed to recover from the devastation it suffered during the Yuuzhan Vong War. Thanks in large part to the efforts of the Hapan Consortium and the Jedi of the Jedi Order, the Obrean University has once again opened its doors to students, and life is gradually returning to what it was before the war. The reversal of the Vongshaping of the Ciutric Hegemony has also been a resounding success, with hegemony members flocking back to Ciutric and its neighboring systems in record numbers. And perhaps even topping that feat is the restoration efforts of Bastion. Now in its fourth year, the human population of Bastion has risen to twenty-million. Overall trade is on the rise throughout Galactic Alliance territory, and food-shortages down thirty percent from last year. Pirate activity has also decreased since the destruction of the pirate base a month ago and, coupled with the vigilant efforts of the Galactic Alliance Navy, this has led to safer travel throughout the main hyperspace corridors. Keep up the good work out there soldiers, we're lucky to have you. I'm Sella Marik of the Galaxy Nine News, more to come after a message from our sponsors."

**I**

"New Order Progressive NewsNet is proud to continue our nearly four decades' old tradition of bringing you the news straight from the chambers of the Council of Moffs. Our Editor in Chief, Alendar Jarvis, ensures that only the most relevant and accurate information reaches you. With that said, just yesterday Twi'lek and Gotal extremists destroyed sixty metric tons of food stores intended for the refugees of the Clacis sector. Due to the senseless and short-sighted act by these alien terrorists, nearly a billion people will now be at risk for starvation. It is all the more serious since Bisellia is currently undergoing a harsher than usual winter. Grand Moff Quille had this to say about the matter: 'We will hunt down and exterminate the perpetrators like the animals they are. Their actions threaten the very livelihood of our great Empire, and anyone assisting them will likewise be viewed as traitors. They will not escape the arm of justice for long.'

Expanding to more regional news, the arrogance of the Chiss Ascendancy once again shines through as they have rebuffed Moff Sarreti's attempts to reclaim the Prefsbelt sector and the lost Velcar sector systems. As reported last, it has now been one year since the Ascendancy unilaterally annexed these pure Imperial territories. The Chiss continue to hold our territories despite our demands that they be returned. According to the Council of Moffs, 'all options are still on the table at the moment, including the use of military force to retake what is rightfully ours.' Only time will tell if these Chiss can actually see reason and do the sensible thing.

In other parts of the galaxy, the alien-led coalition of the Tion Hegemony has finally succumbed to its internal bickering and short-sightedness. Since the human-led House of Cron was among those that collapsed during the Yuuzhan Vong War, the non-human-favoring political action groups that replaced them have done nothing but degrade the Tion…"

*I*

Jedi Praxeum Celebrates its First Birthday! By Halden Wes. It was exactly one year ago to this day that Corellia's very own Jedi academy opened its doors and its arms to the galaxy. In honor of the occasion, the recently installed emerald prism at the top of the building was lit up for the first time, a sign that the academy is truly open for business. Though the praxeum itself is still under construction, it is very much operational, with a population of twelve Jedi initiates, eight Knights and three Jedi Masters. The three leading Jedi of the academy, Masters Corran Horn, Matarmenos Krahnn, and Corask Slen'da, were all on hand for the celebration, praising the efforts of Prime Minister Aidel Saxan for bringing Corellia through these difficult times with great success. And a reason to be even prouder of this moment? Eight of the Jedi Initiates, six of the Knights, and all three Jedi Masters currently hail from Corellia herself, showing that Corellia is ready to become a major player in this galaxy. We have our very own Jedi helping to keep the peace; the rest of the galaxy can't say the same. So, when you have the time, feel free to stop on by the praxeum and thank the Jedi there for all their hard work. Profiles of each of the Jedi Masters and the Jedi Knight instructors can be found on the next page…

*****II*****

"Voter turnout for the election of a new government is much lower than anticipated, as members of the Tion Hegemony express their disgust with the government by staying away from the ballot boxes. The Royal House of Tion has issued a plea to all those eligible to vote to do so, stating that a complete collapse of government benefits no one and hurts those most in need.

Riots and angry protests can be seen in a majority of the twenty-seven system territory, with many ordinary citizens fed up with the current status quo.

Since the end of the Yuuzhan Vong War, the Tion Hegemony has suffered a steep rise in slave-trading and piracy, with rates rising as high as twelve-percent of the previous year's total. Even those on the legal side of the law haven't been entirely blameless. The planet of Brigia, ravaged during the war, is currently undergoing strip-mining by several major industrial companies, and is one of many in the Tion Hegemony suffering such a fate as resources and wealth become more and more scarce. Though the Tion Hegemony is not alone, as most of the galaxy is currently suffering similar downturns in living conditions and security, the political situation has only exacerbated the problem.

The shattered economy and sluggish recovery of the trade networks have done little to bolster the confidence of the public in the ruling Royal House of Tion and its allies. And for the first time, the military has chimed in on the growing political disaster unfolding out here in the Outer Rim. Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar is on record as saying that the Hegemony fleets are ready to step in should the House of Tion be unable to rein in the unruly population of the Hegemony. Sources close to the election process say that the Royal House of Tion has already informed the Galactic Alliance Senate about the situation and have requested logistical aid..."

****II****

"…And over on Denon, the Senate just passed the Derelict Planet Reclamation Act, giving a finder fee to any spacer who locates a planet suitable for living. And though this will probably help in the long run, it still does nothing to alleviate the suffering of the over two trillion refugees who still have nowhere to go, or the several hundred planets already habitable but in need of reconstruction funds tied up by all the red tape. What's worse is that the Senate didn't pass this bill out of whatever goodness is left in their hearts. RePlanetHab, an arm of the multi-conglomerate Corporate Sector Authority, sponsored the passage of the bill, lining the pockets of several senators in the process. It's clear that the politicians back on Denon haven't learned the lessons of the Yuuzhan Vong War. These days they seem more concerned about keeping the wealth and power to themselves than worrying about us little people out here in the galaxy. Any place outside of the Inner Rim might as well forget about help in the near future. The Senate is adamant that any new funds go towards restoring Coruscant and Bastion. Not that they can agree on much else. Even the shadowy High Council, made up of Jedi and ministers, can't seem to decide on anything without being overridden by the quarreling, children-like senators. When will they wake up, look outside a window, and see that the rest of the galaxy is falling apart?"

***II***

"Some good has already come from the recent passage of the Derelict Planet Reclamation Act. Thanks to the bold political maneuvering of Chief of State Cal Omas and his cabinet, five planets suitable for living have been located in Wild Space. Arrangements are already being made to transplant seventeen million refugees to these planets, which philanthropy corporation RePlanetHab has promised to help develop. Additionally, Galactic Alliance Fleet Admiral Cha Niathal has devoted elements of her fleet to safeguard these new planets. These five planets look to be the beginning of a new era for the Galactic Alliance, proof that old wounds are slowly healing.

And speaking of new eras, the fighter squadron of great renown, the VibroSwords, has done it again, taking down yet another hive of scum and villainy. This time their target was renowned pirate bandit Three-Eye and her band of cut-throat accomplices who preyed on the shipping vessels that supplied reconstruction efforts across the galaxy. In an action coordinated with the Reconstruction Authority Space Patrol force, the VibroSwords single-handedly went up against much greater odds. But as their spokesperson, Syal Antilles, daughter of famed war-hero General Wedge Antilles, has said in times past, 'never tell me the odds'…."

**II**

"New Order Progressive NewsNet continues our tradition of brining you the news as it happens from the boardroom of the Council of Moffs. Alendar Jarvis, chief editor. The unrest in the Tion Hegemony has driven up the prices of basic technological goods in the Empire. Almost untouched during the Yuuzhan Vong War, the Tion Hegemony has been a large supplier of industrial droid processors, blaster weapons, and ship-board computing systems to the many systems in the Outer Rim and Wild Space. The recent rabblerousing of non-human separatists, however, has led to multiple work-stoppages and a decline in exports across the board. To compensate for the overnight near tripling of prices, Grand Moff Quille has issued temporary subsidies to all loyal companies of the Empire. It is unknown how long this price increase will last so the Council of Moffs and Jedi Representative Turi Altamik are making contingency plans.

Needless to say, much of the reconstruction of war-ravaged worlds rely on the goods supplied by the Tion Hegemony's industrial sector, and more drastic measures are certain to follow if this situation is not resolved soon. Both the Gold Fortress and the Blood Fin have been dispatched to the Tion Hegemony at the request of Tion Sky Marshall Antonin Erzar to help maintain law and order in some of the more unruly sectors. Moff Ephin Sarreti, of Bastion infamy, also stated that they would be on hand to evacuate any Imperial citizens should the situation continue to deteriorate. "

*II*

Corellia, Aiding Friends in Need. By Hol't Deb Orah. Some days you just feel so proud to be Corellian. Political troubles in the Outer Rim have left several systems in dire need of life-saving tech and supplies, and the Galactic Alliance government appears to have been caught flatfooted. Never fear, Corellia to the rescue! Recently elected Prime Minister Aidel Saxan has approved a good-will gesture to the planet of Adumar, dedicating a sizable portion of the Corellian Engineering Corporation's manufacturing capabilities to fill the sudden gap. The first few shipments of logic boards and fissile materials just left Coronet and should make it over to our allies on the Outer Rim before their own stockpiles run out. Also, due to Corellia's strength, we were also able to donate several hundred metric tons of food to Adumar, Altyr Five, and Bimmisaari. The best part is that Corellia can afford these good-will gestures and still have plenty of her own supplies to spare. Let the galaxy know today that Corellia's ready to step up and do their part in making it a brighter and happier place.

*****III*****

"Madhi Vaandt here with the latest from the Tion Hegemony. I'm standing out in front of the parliament building at the moment, and after a week of counting, the largely symbolic vote is in. Unfortunately for the Hegemony, things aren't looking good. If you can believe it, a mere forty-three percent of the Hegemony actually voted; seventeen-percent lower than needed to meet quorum. The demographics break down mostly along political lines. Most of those who voted are loyal to the royal families, while most of those who stayed home are affiliated with the Corporate Sector Authority and True Victory factions. It was said that the royal families wanted to keep Tion Hegemony as it is, investing not in military expenditures, but in infrastructure and local businesses. The True Victory party and the CSA both wanted the opposite, an opening of the Tion Hegemony to outside corporations and a stronger military force. Since the vote did not meet quorum, the political impasse within the parliament remains and…Great Force! Shohta, get the camera on that! Everyone, I…I can't believe what I'm seeing! The forces of Sky Marshal Erzar have just deployed around the parliament building and…the Royal Guard is opening fire on them! I don't understand, Erzar was supposed to be backing the royals. And…ladies and gentlemen I think we're witnessing coup-in-progress! Shohta, over here, we have some cover here!

As things are unfolding, it's blatantly obvious that the Royal Guard is outnumbered. Sky Marshal Erzar appears to have the support of the CSA, since Espo forces are working in conjuncture with his own. And…oh no…no, no, no, no. I'm not sure if you caught that, but a parliamentary escape shuttle just tried to take off. It was intercepted by Tion Hegemony's security force, and it is now clear that the Sky Marshal is not the only leader in this coup. Fighters from General Talamina's fighter-wing just blasted that shuttle out of the sky. Shohta and I will try to keep a live feed going, but we're going to move to a more secure location. There's no telling what'll happen next!"

****III****

"Boy does Cianba have a scoop for you all today! The leaders of the Tion Hegemony have apparently angered their constituents in a big way. What do you expect when you allow slavers and unscrupulous businesses to have their free reign with your population and the refugees who came to you expecting protection? I have it on good word that many of the refugees within the Tion Hegemony are backing the regime change led by Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar and a cabal of sensible military leaders. Even some in the Hegemony are already calling Antonin a hero for his bravery. For those not in the know, Antonin is a Vong War veteran, survived the disastrous campaign that took the life of Admiral Kre'fey and much of the Tion Hegemony's war fleet. He's always been a big backer of laws that come down hard on ne'er-do-wells, and has a strong following in the Hegemony's armed forces. As we speak, he and his allies are launching an all-out effort to oust the royal houses from power. It's said that even the Imperials are getting in on the action, with four of their Star Destroyers providing holding actions over systems already under the Sky Marshal's control.It's very possible that in the near future, the ineffectual way the Tion Hegemony has been run these past few years will be little more than a bad memory. Here's to you, Sky Marshal, those at the Freedom's Cry hope you have quick success in revamping that corner of space and cleaning out the filth that had made it unlivable."

***III***

"A delegation from the Tion Hegemony recently expressed its support in the strength and growth of the Galactic Alliance by requesting diplomats from the Jedi Order to help resolve a political deadlock amongst their people. Rapid growth in the Core and Colony Worlds have created demands on the less stable Mid and Outer Rim sectors, resulting in some dissatisfaction among the Tion Hegemony commoners. Most of the dissatisfaction revolves around the re-appropriation of wealth gained by the upswing in manufacturing and distribution industries in tech-heavy areas such as the Tion Hegemony. The increased tariffs and dues are used to fund the thirty five restoration projects currently nearing their end phase, and over fifty others in progress. This is just a reminder that we all have to give a little to support our neighbors all across the galaxy, even if it lightens our pocketbooks just a little bit. The Galactic Alliance is doing its best to make our home as bright a place for all races and peoples, and it needs your cooperation to make that happen. We've managed to make the Core, Colonies, and Inner Rim regions a better place for all, so let's all band together and extend that success to the Expansion Region and beyond. This is Sella Marik of the Galaxy Nine News, wishing everyone a wonderful day."

**III**

"As we have done for the past forty years, New Order Progressive NewsNet is honored to be the Empire's choice news network. The situation in the Tion Hegemony remains very fluid at the moment, with military forces loyal to Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar engaging in active combat with forces loyal to the Tion Hegemony's royal houses. It is only the third day combat, and yet we can confirm that several of the minor royal houses are now completely under the control of Erzar and his men. The Royal House of Tion, however, still commands a sizable military presence and has managed to push back the Sky Marshal's initial offensive for the moment. Yet it seems only a matter of time before the royal houses fall, and the Council of Moffs is already making preparations to enter into negotiations with the Sky Marshal and the Tionese generals to ensure that the technological lifeblood of the Empire remains flowing.

Elements of our fleet have been dispatched to ensure that Imperial holdings and citizens remain unharmed during this moment of turmoil. In the meantime, we have requested an increase in exports from several Core-ward companies. Though the shipping costs promises to be high, it is no worse than if we were to cease receiving any shipments all together. To compensate, the Council of Moffs have passed several austerity measures to compensate for the increasing cost of daily living. In addition to higher taxes and debts being called in, tax evasion and money laundering are now Class One offenses; punishable by death depending on the severity. The Council of Moffs have also granted themselves the power to seize the assets of anyone they deem a traitor to the Empire. These measures ensure the continued wealth and prosperity of the Empire and once again prove that humans can survive no matter how difficult the going gets."

*III*

Corellia's Tion Tribulation. By Vani Korr. Long time ally of the Five Worlds, the Royal House of Tion, is facing its toughest challenge yet as military hardliners have launched an all-out coup in an attempt to seize power for themselves. Prime Minister Aidel Saxan has already dispatched two of Corellia's own Jedi, Jedi Knight Valin Horn and Jedi Knight Natua Wan, in an attempt to mediate a peaceful solution, but understands that such an outcome may not be likely. Several CorDef troop carriers were sent along with the Jedi to the Tion Hegemony loaded with food and medical aid for the supporters of the royal houses. In the meantime, Corellian businesses, and allies of Corellia, have upped their output in order to provide for the many systems that had relied on Tionese exports. Already Corellia is seeing new waves of refugees fleeing the conflict, the first since the end of the Yuuzhan Vong War, and are opening up camps to help deal with any additional influx this conflict may produce.

It is the hope of this reporter that the military leaders in charge of the coup realize just how badly they are hurting the rest of the galaxy with their nonsensical and feckless grab at power. Even the Mandalorians realize the futility of such a maneuver, as commandos and ships under their Mandalore were seen safeguarding member of the remaining royal houses of the hegemony. All of Corellia's eyes now turn towards the Galaxy Alliance Senate in hopes that the governing body of this galaxy can step up and be the leaders we all need at the moment.

*****IV*****

"Madhi Vaandt here, reporting with my crew from a secure bunker in royalist-held territory. As you can tell by the gunfire and explosions outside though, 'secure' and 'battle-lines' are very fluid terms. The coup is entering its third week as forces loyal to the royal houses of the hegemony have overcome their initial surprise and have dug in at several systems across Tion-held territory. They've been bolstered in large part due to a sizable Mandalorian force and several battalions of Corellian marines. The longer this goes on, the more it looks as if this will be a protracted battle between military forces loyal to Sky Marshal Erzar and those who still back the current administration. My sources from within the royal estate of the Tion family tell me that word has been sent of the Galactic Alliance pleading for help in ending this coup. And believe me, help is needed. Desperation to end the coup quickly is leading to rushed decisions and many civilian casualties.

The rebels loyal to Erzar know that if the coup drags out for too long, the likelihood of outside intervention increases dramatically. They've taken the gamble that the Galactic Alliance government will not intervene, and that the allies the royalists can call on won't do anything to be drawn into a civil war so soon after the devastating Yuuzhan Vong War. It's a huge risk since the disruption in exports caused by their movements will no doubt leave more than a few feathers ruffled.

Meanwhile the royals risk losing their supporters the more lives the conflict consumes. The already frail economy of the Hegemony has essentially collapsed, leaving large numbers of people unemployed and more likely to side with the rebel forces. Unless the coup attempt is ended soon, and the Galactic Alliance intervenes, the royalists are the ones standing on thin ice. Years of dissatisfaction with the royal houses' inability to clamp down on a burgeoning slave trade, as well as corruption caused by inroads being made by the Corporate Sector Authority, have led to the royal houses receiving a twenty-two-percent approval rating in the last polls; with an additional twenty percent refusing to rate the royal houses positively or negatively. Yet, the royal house may be buoyed by the fact that there was at least some semblance of order under their rule.

Piecing together reports from the different systems in Hegemony space, seventy-thousand lives have already been lost in this civil war, and that's not counting the civilian population, where I have numbers ranging from fifty to eighty thousand. Keep in mind, this is only after three weeks of bloodshed, with most of the casualties coming in the first few days of the coup attempt. Nevertheless..."

"Vaandt! We have to go! Imperial artillery has reinforced the Sky Marshal's forces, the royalists are being pushed back!"

"Alright folks, you heard my holocam operator. This is Madhi Vaandt, signing off for now!"

****IV****

"What started out as a quick and easy coup attempt has quickly devolved into a carbon flush that has the politicians in Denon running about like gizka without heads. The Tion Hegemony is one of the original signatories of the Galactic Alliance, and unlike some of the smaller governments that have already collapsed under the rampant corruption and crime in this galaxy, actually lines Core-ward politician pockets with a fair amount of credits. Not helping the matters any are the fact that several other prominent Galactic Alliance member-states have been providing not-so-subtle support to one side or the other of the coup attempt. Any action taken by the Galactic Alliance council will risk alienating another signatory, but at the same time, if no action is taken, they run the risk of losing the Tion Hegemony as a whole.

Even before this civil war, the Outer Rim region of the Hegemony was known by savvy spacers as a 'no-go' area due to the very high likelihood of getting hijacked, kidnapped, and sold into slavery. It wasn't until Jedi Knight Ambassador to the Tion Hegemony, Jedi Knight Sothais Saar, was killed last year while trying to bring down the slave-loving Zygerrians, that the Jedi Order and the Galactic Alliance finally did something about the slave traders. In all those years before, though, my people had free reign over the hapless Tion Hegemony. No matter what is said in the future, there is no doubt that the central Galactic Alliance government shares some blame over the collapse of one of their cornerstones…"

***IV***

"An emergency meeting was called by the High Council this morning as events in the Tion Hegemony have escalated. Mid-Rim and Expansion Region systems are reporting influxes of Hegemony refugees, straining camps already bustling with refugees from the Yuuzhan Vong War. Most of the criticism is directed at the rebel leaders for launching such an ill-timed and detrimental grab for power. At the moment, the Jedi Order, renowned for their non-violent stances and ability to broker peace among even the most mortal of enemies, seem powerless to stop the dispute as the situation continues to degrade. The Senate has likewise called on them to resolve the situation, as the rebellion's effects on the rest of the galaxy are being keenly felt in key systems all the way to the Core. Several reconstruction projects have had to be abandoned, and many Mid-Rim worlds that relied on Tion Hegemony tech, are at risk of collapsing themselves. It is this reporter's hope that the rebel leaders realize the folly of their actions and lay down their arms peacefully. Nothing more is to be gained by starting another war, especially a civil war; and the galaxy stands united in this thought.

Chief of State Cal Omas has already authorized a small fact-finding mission to ascertain the details of the state of affairs within the Tion Hegemony, with more forces promised should the situation call for it. But he is reluctant to intervene in an internal power-struggle of one of the Galactic Alliance's strongest allies. In any event, a decision on the matter will be made shortly, and we'll have more on that as the information comes in."

**IV**

"Bringing you the news straight from the Council of Moffs for over four decades, New Order Progressive NewsNet is proud to continue our time-honoured tradition for the Empire. The latest news from the Tion Hegemony is in, and Imperial forces under the command of Moff Evelyn Tanal were reportedly engaged by mercenary forces loyal to the despotic rulers hiding behind the façade of 'royalty.' Imperial Intelligence has recently obtained information that alien-sympathizers within the royal houses of the Tion Hegemony have spent over two-hundred million credits to hire a full force of Mandalorian mercenaries to do their dirty work. The money, of course, came from the royal treasuries, hard earned tax dollars being mismanaged in a horrendous abuse of power.

The Imperial forces were engaged by the mercenaries when a band of loyalist besieged the Empire's embassy on Tion. Moff Tanal, sent to relieve the garrison there, was then fired upon by Mandalorian and Tion royalist ships working in concert. We are proud to say that our Moff was successful in her defense of Imperial assets, and the Imperial embassy on Tion remains under our control. The Council of Moffs has petitioned the Galactic Alliance Senate to intervene in the matter before other governments become equally embroiled in this affair. The situation in the Hegemony is nearing an impasse, as neither the royalist nor the Sky Marshal's forces have the means to dislodge one and other from their current holdings. Grand Moff Quille has pledged the Empires support for the people of the Tion Hegemony regardless of the outcome, as this event will no doubt alter the balance of power in the Outer Rim for a very long time to come."

*IV*

Corellia's First Casualties. By Vani Korr. Corellia has suffered her first casualties of what is being called the Tion Disaster, when an Imperial Star Destroyer bombarded the neighborhoods surrounding its embassy in a blatant violation of several galactic laws. Relief workers in the area never had a chance, and at the time of publishing, it is confirmed that two-hundred and thirty-one aid workers were killed in the attack. Prime Minister Aidel Saxan expressed her fury over the incident and called on the Galactic Alliance Senate to issue sanctions on the Imperial Remnant for deliberately firing on a clearly civilian zone. The High Council and leading members of the Senate have yet to reply, but sources say that they are meeting at this very moment to discuss a plan of action. In the meantime, Corellia will honor the sacrifices of those brave men and women by continuing to drop food and medicines to the supporters of the royal houses of Tion. The only way we can ensure that their lives weren't lost in vain is to help the rightful government beat back the traitorous forces of rebel leader Antonin Erzar. For those wishing to contribute to the Tion Disaster relief effort, donations are accepted at all spaceports, medical centers, and Jedi-owned buildings within the Five Planet region. Every little bit helps, so here's the challenge to all true Corellians out there. If you raise the equivalent of five million credits in aid, the Corellia Times will match that donation and then some."

*****V*****

"It's been three months since the coup attempt by former Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar was launched, and the situation within the Hegemony grows dimmer with every passing day. Already on the capital planet of Tion, this reporter has seen long queues for basic food goods and fuel. Entire city-blocks have been leveled by fighting, and there are countless millions of people now displaced but unable to escape to one of the refugee camps in the neighboring systems. With the Empire assisting the rebel forces and Corellia providing military and logistical aid to the royalists, the events only continue to spiral out of control.

Just last week even the Mandalorians acknowledged that the situation had deteriorated far worse than anything they could have predicted and pulled their forces out of Hegemony space the moment their day-to-day contract was up. The withdrawal of Mandalorian military support has helped to tip the balance of the civil war back in favor of the rebel forces, with several systems falling under their control within days. My crew and I are currently reporting from the Royal House of Tion's palace, a location that is now under direct siege from rebel forces.

As I had predicted at the start of the war, a prolonged conflict would only benefit the rebel side of things. With combatant casualties passing a hundred thousand just yesterday, and non-combatant casualties nearing the same number, a majority of the populace is now rallying around Antonin Erzar with the hopes of ending the civil war as quick as possible. Even the Tionese people realize that any further warring will only leave them with ruins in the end, and are increasingly calling on the members of the different royal houses to abdicate for the good of the Hegemony.

The observer force from the Galactic Alliance, in the meantime, appears to be doing little to stem the violence. Instead, they've become the targets of both sides of the conflict, each venting their frustrations with the Galactic Alliance Senate for being tied up in bureaucracy while hundreds die every day. The High Council remains deadlocked on a course of action, with half in favor of intervening, and the other half opposing the use of Galactic Alliance and Jedi resources for such a direct interference in the affairs of a foreign government.

In tomorrow's broadcast I've been granted an audience with Crown Prince Corzal Tion, where we will learn about where the royal houses stand in this war. Until then, this is Madhi Vaandt, signing off."

****V****

"The events in the Tion Hegemony have gone from bad to worse, people. With the pull out of the Mandos, a collapse of the status quo now appears inevitable. Several smaller governments have begun to acknowledge the forces of former Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar as the legitimate government and are only throwing oil onto fire by sending arms and other supplies to his side. On the opposite end, the royal houses of the Hegemony are becoming increasingly desperate as their forces lose control of more and more systems. And trapped in between all the fighting are the every-day people of the Tion Hegemony and the countless millions of displaced peoples this fighting has created.

In all the fighting it seems so easy to forget about the every-day people who are suffering the most. It is why Cianba is now on Tion, to give you all a firsthand account of things here. With the royal treasuries closed off, no one can make a living. Shops are closed, so there is nothing to buy for those with credits in any case. Food aid is being hoarded or selectively given depending on one's perceived allegiances, arrests and raids are terrorizing households, and atrocities are being committed by the armed forces on both sides of the conflict. Sewer systems were damaged by the constant conflict, and power stations were among the first to be targeted so many of the neighborhoods are relying on candle-light alone. Most hard hit are the children of the Tion Hegemony, who were too young to remember the Vong War, but are now getting their taste of war anyways. Something has to be done, people, to end this fighting. Go to your senators and have them force an end to this ridiculousness.

Cianba is already hard at work compiling names so that those in the Hegemony can once again locate family members they may have been separated from during the chaos. For those looking for a way out, don't use the Perlemian Trade Route for your exit. There is still constant fighting over control of the vital hyperspace route, and you're liable to be caught in the cross-fire. Instead, use the Overic Griplink hyperspace lane, as it is now being policed by elements of the Galactic Alliance Outer Rim Security Fleet and is probably your best bet if you want to avoid any pirate entanglements. Also, Dac and Pakuuni have set up new refugee camps, so they'll be equipped to handle your temporary shelter and food needs…"

***V***

"The events in the Tion Hegemony have just taken their first Galactic Alliance casualty. Flight Officer Indare Haz, of the renowned FireSpar squadron and a part of the Galactic Alliance observer force, was killed this morning when she sacrificed herself to allow two refugee ships to flee the continuing aggression. Flight Officer Haz and her wingman were patrolling the Tion Trade Route when they came across refugee ships under fire from pirate groups taking advantage of the chaos. Though greatly outnumbered, Flight Officer Haz activated her hyperdrive and sent her fighter into the bridge of the pirate flagship, destroying both vessels and allowing her wingman and the others to escape. Three-hundred and twenty-four souls were saved by her daring and selfless maneuver.

Flight Officer Haz's sacrifice comes on the eve of another High Council vote, the fifth time the High Council has voted on whether or not to intervene in the civil war occurring within the Tion Hegemony. It is a highly controversial and thorny issue, with aspects of member-state rights and the overall power of the Galactic Alliance coming into play. Does the Galactic Alliance have a right to pick sides in a civil war? Where do the identities and authorities of the member-states end, and the overall authority of the Galactic Alliance begins? If the Hegemony does fall, what occurs next? Can the Galactic Alliance afford to let one of its cornerstones destabilize to such an extent? These are questions that have been repeatedly asked by both Senate and High Council members over the last two months. Even the Jedi are conflicted over the matter, with Jedi Masters Octa Ramis, Kenth Hamner, Cilghal, and Jedi Knight Jacen Solo voting against the use of Jedi to interfere militarily in a political matter. Jedi Master Kyle Katarn, Tresina Lobi, and Kirana Ti, are in favor of using Jedi to end the conflict, however, stating that more lives will be saved and stability restored than if events played out naturally.

The death of Flight Officer Haz is sure to factor in to the discussions, enhancing the fact that the Tion Hegemony is fast becoming a lawless region the galaxy can ill-afford to have. The possibility that the civil war will drag on has also become an issue, with the galaxy needing the Hegemony stable to speed its recovery from the Yuuzhan Vong War. Galaxy Nine News will have the results of this afternoon's vote, as well as carry the debate live on our sister-channel the Galactic Star."

**V**

"You're watching New Order Progressive NewsNet, the number one news network, serving the Empire for over four decades. As per the request of the Galactic Alliance Senate, Imperial forces have withdrawn all military assets from Tion Hegemony space. Similar withdrawals are also underway for other governments caught up within the conflict as the Galactic Alliance attempts to gain a handle of the situation. In exchange, the Galactic Alliance observer force was tripled, and is now taking on peace-keeping duties as negotiators attempt to hammer out a cease-fire between the two sides. Nonetheless, all Imperial citizens have been evacuated from the Tion Hegemony and Imperial citizens are warned not to travel along the Outer Perlemian Trade Route for the time being.

The Council of Moffs have set up tentative contracts with businesses in the Ciutric Hegemony to fill the void created by the lack of Tionese exports. Further negotiations are underway with Ciutric Hegemony leaders in an attempt to convince the war-ravaged consortium of planets to accept Imperial stewardship in exchange for protection and security. Similar to the deals Jedi Knight Turi Altamik helped make with the residents of the D'Astan, Fath, Trailing-ward Clacis, and Albarrio sectors, the Council of Moffs wishes for the Ciutric Hegemony to give a portion of their exports, tariff free, in exchange for the peace and security being a part of the Empire provides.

Unlike the mongrel-filled governments of places like the Tion Hegemony, we as an Empire can be proud of our pure culture and secure in the knowledge that what is happening in the Tion Hegemony can never happen here at home. Other systems in the Mid and Outer Rims, who have been affected by the events within the Tion Hegemony, see this and have begun to reach out to the Council of Moffs with hopes of once again sharing in the glory of the Empire. Within the past two years alone, the Empire has warmly welcomed five sectors and a myriad of systems stretching all the way into the Mid Rim and Hydian Way.

One thing is for certain, however, and that is that the balance of power in the galaxy will be forever changed by the events occurring in the once insignificant Outer Rim."

*V*

The End of an Era. By Halden Wes. Following the Galactic Alliance's request to withdraw all non-Tion military vessels from Tionese space, the last of Corellia's armed personnel have left the Outer Rim territory at precisely midnight, Coronet time. But Corellia has far from washed its hands of the matter, however, as we have nearly three thousand aid workers still entrenched with the general populace while the royalists and rebels battle for control of key planets. Among those still in Tionese space for the purpose of keeping order is Corellian Jedi Knight Natua Wan and her Selonian apprentice, and Jedi Ambassador to the Corporate Authority Sector, Jedi Knight Bazel Warv and his Rodian apprentice, Twool.

Given that it has taken the Galactic Alliance over three months to even act on the issue, Corellia High Command expressed its doubt that the token force sent in to replace the CorDef forces can maintain order. The CorDef ships that have left Tionese space are still a single hyperspace jump away should they be needed, as Corellia will never abandon her allies or those in need. The Corellian Jedi Praxeum has also pledged its support to the civilians trapped in the fighting, with Jedi Master Matarmenos Krahnn stating that 'a Jedi's solemn duty has always been to protect those unable to protect themselves, to bring peace and tranquility to places of violence and chaos. The Corellian Praxeum will continue to assist the Corellian aid workers in any way we can until the Tionese authorities are in a position to better care for their people.'

Already the Jedi of the Corellian Praxeum are hard at work overseeing the collation and distribution of the many metric tons of aid you noble Corellians have scrounged up for the Tionese people and our allies scattered throughout the galaxy. As bad as things have become in the Outer Rim, there is no doubting that this is fast becoming a defining moment for Corellia. Who are we as a people? The events within the past few months are your answer.

Corellia, from this point onwards, will become a guiding force in this galaxy, gladly accepting the fate that was assigned to us. We help to fund eight reconstruction projects on planets not within our sphere of influence, provide some form of aid to ten other systems, and help fledging and weaker governments maintain their stability in another twelve. With the help of our Corellian Jedi, we have only just begun to assume the role destiny had planned for us, and the galaxy can only benefit from it as we do.

*****VI*****

"Despite hopes that the peace-keeping force can end the rampant violence spread throughout the Tion Hegemony, just the opposite appears to have occurred. With both sides fearing a settlement will be forced, each has launched all-out attacks on each other's positions. In a worrying development, former Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar claims that he no longer has control over several brigades supposedly fighting for his cause. Likewise, Crown Prince Corzal Tion, has recently implied that not all royalist fighters have the backing of the royal houses. For a conflict dragging on to its fifth month, there still appears to be no end in sight. As for the Galactic Alliance forces? Already, this reporter has seen Galactic Alliance peacekeepers fired on both in space and on the ground.

Head of the peacekeeping forces, Admiral Kadra Bres-Durron is reported to have sent a request for reinforcements as the civil war continues unabated. Though the numbers will not be confirmed by the fleet's media representative, it is thought that the peacekeeping forces consists of only sixteen capital ships and four wings of fighters. In comparison, these sixteen capital ships must safeguard twenty-seven systems and prevent the myriad of ideologically different factions from fighting amongst each other. And this is on top of the privateers, slavers, and other bands of criminals who have taken advantage of the collapsed government and are preying on the civilians. The decision to send the peacekeeping force was in itself a political compromise made by Chief of State, Cal Omas. By sending a small force, he was attempting to appease those in the senate who argue against Galactic Alliance intervention; and the Tionese royalists and their supporters who were crucial voices during the formation of the Galactic Alliance.

The six Jedi currently working in the Tion Hegemony have their hands full with daily death counts ranging from the low hundreds to several thousand. In addition, over twelve billion people have been displaced by the fighting.

As great as the efforts of the Jedi are, they're still only six people. Their actions are akin to trying to plug a leaking dam with one's fingers. The fact that the Jedi have also stayed neutral in the matter isn't helping anything either. I know they're not supposed to take sides politically, but assisting the countless displaced peoples is doing nothing to end the cause of the problem.

Whatever the reason, it is becoming increasingly apparent that much more help will have to be sent or the killing will continue. And if it is as the leaders of either side say, that violent splinter groups are forming, then it is even more imperative that the intervention come much sooner than later. This reporter is now pleading with the Galactic Alliance Senate to do something, to space politics and end the fighting. I've covered several planets ravaged during the Yuuzhan Vong War, and Tion is fast resembling them.

Just yesterday two members of my crew, Alda'ri Sene and Mial Kalbe, were killed by errant mortar fire. We weren't the only ones. I've heard that the crew of the Freedom's Cry was also hit when Tionese fighters fire-bombed a refugee camp. This close to the front, it feels more and more like the lines are being blurred with every passing day.

****VI****

'Error. No signal detected. Either you currently do not have this HoloNet subscription or the host-site is down. Please contact your service provider if the problem persists.'

***VI***

"As the events in the Tion Hegemony near the end of its fifth month, the High Council has overcome their impasse and decided to intervene in the matter. The swing vote on the council was Jedi Master Kenth Hamner, who said in his explanation that the Jedi could no longer afford to be idle in a conflict with an end nowhere in sight. 'The quicker the Jedi and Galactic Alliance bring stability to the Tion Hegemony, the quicker we can go back to life as usual.' He cites the loss of Flight Officer Indare Hass and the other members of the Galactic Alliance peacekeeping group as further grounds for intervention.

Jedi Master Hamner joins fellow Jedi Kyle Katarn, Tresina Lobi, and Kirana Ti, as well as Supreme Commander Sien Sovv and Director of Fleet Intelligence Ayddar Nylykerka in favor of the Galactic Alliance using any means necessary to end the rebellion in the Tion Hegemony. The decision has led to the mobilization of the Third Fleet, with all remaining shore-leave canceled and supply ships seen refueling and rearming several advanced Galactic-class battle carriers.

In addition to the mobilization of the Third Fleet, a special faction of the Jedi Order known as the Death Knights, Jedi commandos, is said to be preparing to journey to Tion and will personally lead combat operations. The decision has been met with both praise and criticism from all corners of the galaxy.

Chief of State Cal Omas, who was against the deployment of Galactic Alliance assets, issued a statement: 'I understand that the decision to send in our forces is not wholly popular. But the alternative, to sit back and let the Tionese people kill each other, is just as distasteful. Though I am against the deployment, I can see its necessity. The Tion Hegemony has been a cornerstone of the Galactic Alliance and stability needs to be achieved as soon as possible. The Galactic Alliance Senate is in a situation where there are no right decisions, at least not a definitive one. Shall we value the sovereignty of our member-states, even when hundreds of lives are being lost on a daily basis? Or shall we close our eyes and ears and try to pretend that all those lives being lost don't matter because of a matter of principle? If you are capable of thinking of a better solution, I am all ears. But in the little over two months since they were deployed, fifty-seven lives from the Galactic Alliance peacekeeping force have been lost. Enough is enough, and since Sky Marshal Antonin Erzar has admittedly lost control over portions of his forces, it is time for the rebellion to end. As of this afternoon, the High Council, with the approval of the Senate, has authorized military deployment with the purposes of aiding the royal houses of the Tion Hegemony and bringing peace and order to the Outer Rim once more.'

Senators from several conglomerate governments with collation governments similar to that of the Tion Hegemony, are already drafting bills to prevent future intervention. Meanwhile, the Tionese senator Thuv Shinev has thanked the Senate for approving the intervention, promising that many lives will be spared due to their bold move..."

**VI**

"New Order Progressive NewsNet is proud to bring you the latest information straight from the chamber of the Council of Moffs. The Empire has officially ended its involvement with the Tion Hegemony affair, refocusing her attentions on matters closer to home.

Tensions remain high as Chiss delegates continue to court systems within the Velcar, Perrinn, and Presfbelt sectors. The blue-skinned near-humans claim that they simply want to supply humanitarian aid to those in need, but their barely veiled attempts at territorial grabs are not fooling anyone. Moff Ephin Sarreti, the lead Moff in charge of Imperial-Chiss relations, has issued stern warnings to the Chiss Ascendancy, stating that war will become inevitable if they do not cease their actions. The Chiss Ascendancy responded by saying they would not allow the millions of non-human refugees existing in those sectors to starve when the Ascendancy is fully capable of caring for them. Only time will tell if the Chiss are so unintelligent as to deliberately provoke a fight with the Empire."

*VII*

The Day of Rhysode. By Hol't Deb Orah. It was eight years ago to the day that the great Jedi Knight Ganner Rhysode stood guard over the now named Rhysode Memorial Spaceport on Palanhi and declared that none of the hundreds of Yuuzhan Vong warriors arrayed against him would pass the line he made in the ground. Nearly ten meters high, a golden statue in his image, full of defiance and passion, now stands guard over that line; eternally daring any foe to challenge him. The diamond-studded dedication at the base of the statue proclaims his immortal words for future generations to see: None Shall Pass!

Sadly, Ganner Rhysode would die in the final battle of the war, protecting his fellow Jedi as they neutralized the Yuuzhan Vong World Brain planted on Coruscant, but in doing so, he played a crucial role in ending the war.

His memory lives on in the official holiday created in his honor. Started on Palanhi, Corulag, and among some members of the Galactic Alliance military, the Day of Rhysode is now officially recognized in nearly fifty star systems. The holiday consists of a pilgrimage following the 'Way of Rhysode,' traversing from the line he created on Palanhi to the line carved into the Senate atrium floor on Coruscant.

Far from it being a solemn occasion, those who visit the lines are said to recall the happier moments they have had with loved-ones lost. Laughing and smiling at the better days, and looking forward to a brighter future. The fact that these pilgrims are doing so with countless others who have experienced the same tragedy has only created an unbreakable bond among them, healing their sorrows through the madness of traveling from one line to the next. So even in death, Jedi Knight Ganner Rhysode still continues to work his particular brand of healing magic on this galaxy.

Fresh out of the conflict in the Tion Hegemony, Jedi Knight Natua Wan once again leads the local Corellian delegation in the annual pilgrimage to this fallen hero. As has been the tradition of Corellia since the end of the Yuuzhan Vong War, the Corellian government fully supports the Day of Rhysode and has declared it a national holiday; a day not just to remember Ganner Rhysode, but all the brave Corellians who died during the war as well.

****VIII****

"Madhi Vaandt of the Perre Needmo Newshour reporting live from Tion itself. If it weren't for the fact that my holocam operator has it on record, I wouldn't even believe what we have just witnessed. The Galactic Alliance reinforcements for the royal houses of the Tion Hegemony have arrived, and have already made an impact on the war in their second day. Just this morning, the Jedi Knights from Yavin Four's Jedi Praxeum defeated one of the elite rebel brigades without a single loss of life on either side.

As you'll be able to see in the recordings we're showing you, all they did was hold out their hands towards the well-fortified rebel fortress. A short time later, nearly two-hundred heavily-armed rebels all cried out in terror and threw their guns to the ground, surrendering without any resistance. Rebel Tionese starfighters called in to support the ground forces were then forced down by the sheer number of Galactic Alliance fighters swarming Tionese airspace. And this is not an isolated instance or stroke of luck. The Galactic Alliance forces are coming in hard, with a no-nonsense attitude. They've made it clear to the rebels that this week will be their first and only chance to surrender without any repercussions or loss of life. After the week is up, lethal force will be authorized and it will be up to the individual unit commanders to use it or not.

We're currently in the troop transport being used by the Jedi Knights of the Yavin Four Praxeum en route to another hotspot on Tion. According to the latest numbers, it is estimated that a thousand rebel fighters are hiding out in the Rothcar Mountains north of the southern hemisphere's capital city of Ulla. With me now are Jedi Apprentice Maika and Jedi Apprentice Toile Senn, members of the Death Knight Jedi faction.

Jedi, can you elaborate on what you and your fellow Death Knights did this morning? How were you able to single-handedly defeat that rebel force? I mean, the only thing the Galactic Alliance reinforcements and other Jedi with you had to do was process those who surrendered."

"Fear, hatred, even zealotry, all have their strengths and weaknesses. What we just did was magnify the worse-case scenarios, make the soldiers doubt themselves and the cause they were fighting for. On the journey to the Tion Hegemony, our masters had us look at images from the refugee camps and hospitals, of all the suffering this fighting has caused. We replayed those images in the heads of the rebel soldiers, added to their own experiences and hardships until it became too much. The other Jedi helped to boost our strength through the battle meld, and we were able to broadcast our thoughts and emotions to those hundreds of soldiers all at once. "

"That doesn't exactly sound like a Jedi ability, although I will admit that I know little about your order."

"[When the alternative is those hundreds dead, losses on our side too, I'd say things worked out pretty well, don't you?]"

"You didn't answer the question."

"[Was there one? The Jedi of the current order all specialize in different aspects. The Death Knights are good for, shall we say, crowd control. With luck, the rest of this operation will go like it had this morning. Once the rebel leadership surrenders, then we can all focus on rebuilding the Tion Hegemony together.]"

"And what would you have to say to those who see this as a blatant abuse of the Galactic Alliance and Jedi Order's authority? Why have you chosen to side with the royal houses when current public opinion among the Tionese support the rebellion?"

"Saving your harder questions for last?"

"I just want our viewers to understand the mindset of the Jedi being thrown into this mess. Do you agree with the decision to intervene?"

"In the long run, it doesn't really matter, does it? We're just the boots on the ground, obeying higher powers."

"[Maika's right. We're here now because the politicians told us to be here. Our own masters objected to the intervention, but were overruled by the rest of the High Council and the Senate. The only thing we can do now is follow orders and make sure this debacle is ended as quickly as possible.]"

"So the two of you are really don't support either side of the war?"

"[We're Jedi, we're not supposed to be partial to anyone except whatever cause will save lives the fastest and keep order longest. I think the politicians back on Denon would rather embrace a known government, a known system that's been working for the past half-century or so, than an unknown cabal of coup leaders. Especially in this time of instability.]"

"Given that the system led to the civil war in the first place, what makes it so certain you won't have to intervene again?"

"Nothing, to be honest. But again, starting a completely new government, under new leadership, and trying to bury any grudges, will take a whole lot longer than continuing on with the systems before. Maybe, if the galaxy was a bit more stable, the Galactic Alliance Senate might have had second thoughts about siding with one group or another. They might have even put more effort into a diplomatic solution. But this civil war is having far reaching repercussions throughout this galaxy at a time when everything's being held together by strands of twine. Bluntly, I don't think the Galactic Alliance Senate really has a choice in the matter, despite what detractors might say. "

"[At the same time, this is a war unlike that of the Vong War. There are no 'good guys' or 'bad guys' this time around. We can't walk down a street and easily pick out the rebel or the royalist like you would have a Vong. The challenge is not ending this civil war, but keeping it from occurring again by creating a safe forum where all Tionese can voice their opinion and hash out a new agreement. We as Jedi will only be successful here if we can keep another civil war from breaking out in the near future.]"

"Thank you for your time, Jedis Senn and Maika. I'll leave you to your meditations now."

"No problem."

"[Happy to help.]"

"You heard it straight from two Jedi intervening in the Tionese Civil War. With any luck, this civil war has just gotten one giant step closer to being over. This is Madhi Vaandt, until next time."

***VIII***

"Combat operations in the Tion Hegemony are coming to an end after only two weeks of intervention. Using overwhelming force and teams of elite Jedi, the Galactic Alliance was able to successfully subdue the rebels in a majority of Tionese space with minimal loss of life in record time. Due to the swift and efficient action of the responding forces, civilian casualties were non-existent and rebel forces and leaders surrendered en masse without any difficulties. There were twenty-two reported deaths on the Galactic Alliance side, and fifty rebels were said to have lost their lives.

Media representative for the Jedi Order strikeforce, Jedi Knight Sanola Ti, has said that after combat operations are over, several teams of Jedi will stay behind to help rebuild the Tion Hegemony. The Galactic Alliance Senate has likewise issued a statement saying that the royal houses of the Tion Hegemony can count on senatorial support to fast track any necessary funds to help make the Hegemony a functioning part of the galactic economy once more. The quick resolution and subsequent support is being met with wide-spread relief by the various systems that had come to rely on Tionese material and support.

And with the end of combat operations, the galaxy can once again focus on rebuilding our worn-torn homes and planets. Galaxy Nine wishes all of those listening, and your families, the very best as we emerge together into a new era of growth and hope.

**VIII**

"Cianba's here, and this is the Freedom's Cry. Thank you for all the kind words of concern and support. Unfortunately, most of my team was killed and Cianba herself was badly injured. We want to thank Jedi Knight Doran Sarkin-Tainer and his apprentice Kyrelle Frieneil for covering our rears as the rest of us were evacuated. We have since returned to our home-base a little more battered than we have left it. But even if Cianba's back home at the moment, it doesn't mean I don't have my ear out for the news.

The Galactic Alliance intervention no doubt saved many lives, but it's had many of its member governments shaking and a bit paranoid. In a span of two weeks, a single group of Jedi near-singlehandedly ended an almost six-month old civil war with hundreds of thousands of combatants on both sides. If the Jedi and Galactic Alliance have this ability, what will happen if other governments start doing something the High Council or Jedi disapprove of? If the Jedi and High Council really wanted to, there's no stopping their use of tactics reminiscent of the old Empire.

It's for that reason that many senators from smaller governments, such as Adumar, Bothawui, and the Imperial Remnant, are sponsoring a very popular bill called the Regional Powers Act; forbidding the Galactic Alliance from using its fleets to solve internal matters of its members states regardless of how bad things become. It also sets limitations on the types of occasions Jedi can be used, barring any all-out combat or suppression that was seen during the intervention in the Tion Civil War. The bill is widely expected to pass, and will deliver yet another painful blow to the Omas administration; which has struggled as of late to build any momentum in rebuilding this galaxy. His decision to approve the intervention in the Tion Hegemony saved one ally, but may have cost him more than he expected. With a government already struggling for legitimacy, Chief of State Cal Omas can ill-afford any more missteps.

And now we turn to the segment the Freedom's Cry is known for, the list of refugees and the locations some of them might be found. You've been listening to the Freedom's Cry, and we once again thank you for all your support.

*VIII*

"New Order Progressive NewsNet is once again proud to deliver you the news straight from the chambers of the Council of Moffs. Weeks of pressure from the myriad of governments that make up the Galactic Alliance have finally led to the resignation of the Supreme Commander of the Allied Fleets—the Sullustan, Sien Sovv—and the Director of Galactic Alliance Fleet Intelligence—Tammarian, Ayddar Nylykerka. It is rumored that the deciding vote in the matter of the Tion Hegemony, Jedi Master Kenth Hamner, may step down as well. Though the intervention arguably saved many lives, many governments are now seeing it as a blatant misuse of the powers given to the High Council and, even after the passage of the Regional Powers Act, are pressing for clearer separation between the Galactic Alliance and their own systems.

Though the Tion Hegemony affair was undoubtedly the catalyst that brought this issue to a head, dissatisfaction with the Senate and High Council has long been very high. In an attempt to restore damaged planets, and make others habitable, the excess taxation, tariffs, and austerity measures invoked by the central government has kept many systems in recession and has proven to be very unpopular.

We are very fortunate that two of our own are stepping forward to replace the vacancies created by the non-human officers. Our own Grand Admiral, Gilad Pellaeon, has graciously accepted the post of Supreme Commander of the Allied Fleets, leaving the Imperial Fleets to newly promoted Grand Admiral Tanda Pryl. Hailing from a system still loyal to the Empire, the new Director of Intelligence is Belindi Kalenda, a graduate of the Imperial Military Academy and the only intelligence operative to successfully exfiltrate from the Corellian system during the First Corellian Insurrection. Both are to start their posts at the beginning of next week, so we at New Order Progressive NewsNet wish them the best…"

*IX*

"Listening to the old HoloNet reports again?"

"You know me, ever the scientist. We may have left that galaxy behind, but it doesn't mean I'm not curious about what's happening over there."

"And here I was, about to comment on the nice weather outside."

"We're on a sentient, Force-capable planet, the weather's always nice. Too much sun is bad for your skin anyways, even for Jedi. Besides, these past few months of reports have been more than illuminating. I've learned a lot about the state of the galaxy. "

"Good thing the convoys record those copies for you wherever they go."

"No kidding. It really is amazing to see and hear about the same events from all these different viewpoints. It's like each of them are painting a piece of a picture, and it's not until they all have their say that I can see it as a whole image."

"Anything on those recordings that might be a problem?"

"Nothing we can do about them out here. Besides, as strong as you and your wife are, as powerful as Sekot is, I doubt even you can reach across the void between galaxies and right all the wrongs. Things are just taking their natural course."

"And…any news about…"

"Only a few tidbits about Jacen. He's still on the High Council, but they're all having a rough time."

"…"

"You okay?"

"Like you said, nothing we can do about it from here."

"But?"

"Still have a bit of that 'hero complex' I guess. Jace's always been better at the political stuff anyways. If he can't solve the problems, it's even less likely that I can."

"You haven't seen or even talked with the rest of your family since coming here. It's been six years, you know."

"I know…it's just…Is it wrong to want that peace I've had for six years continue to last? I'm happy here, have a beautiful wife and wonderful daughter. Jaya, Jace, they've always been independent of me, never really needing me, especially now that they've got lives and jobs of their own. And mom and dad? They don't know the first thing about taking a break from it all. Everywhere they go its politics and blaster fights. But here on Zonama, there's none of that. Besides…."

"Go on."

"Besides, I've felt it in the Force."

"Felt 'it'?"

"Fate, approaching. Someday soon, I think, we'll have to go back. Unbury all the skeletons we left in that galaxy, face everything we tried to get away from. Call me crazy or pathetic, but until that time comes, I want to go on pretending that the life here is the only thing we should be worried about. Because once we go back, I highly doubt we'll be returning to the peace of Zonama Sekot anytime soon."

"Fate approaching, huh? You know as a scientist I never really put too much stock into fate. The idea that we're all preprogrammed puppets with an illusion of choice just seems so nihilistic, and makes life rather boring. I guess that's where I'm lucky to be weaker in the Force than most. To me, the future is unseen. My fate, if you want to call it that, is undetermined. I'm not blindly walking into it, I have a reasonable idea of where I'll end up, but I'm not fearing it either because I have control of where I'm going. What you feel might come to pass, it might not. The only thing we can do is wait. Wait and hope that when the future finally arrives we're as ready for it as we possibly can be."

"I guess you're right."

"That was a big yawn. Rough day with the Ruling Council?"

"Very. Shimrraists have been stirring up trouble and the council members might have picked up some of the less desirable traits from our galaxy's senators."

"That's why I just sit in my yorik coral tower and dream up ways to make life better. I let you hearty Jedi do the heavy lifting for me."

"Smart."

"I'd like to think so. See you tomorrow, Solo."

"Tomorrow, Quee."

*Epilogue End*

A\N: Well, that's it for the interlude, and so ends the second piece in the Star Wars: An Origami Fish's universe. As you noted, I once again decided to play around with the format. You may or may not have enjoyed this chapter as much as the others, but that was to be expected. After Jedi and pilots, I wanted to give you all the same look at the galaxy as its everyday people would be viewing it. It gave me a chance to set the stage for what's to come in the sequel and bring back all the characters introduced in this story in one form or another.

Any resemblance of the story-line to current day events is purely unintentional, though events certainly influenced my writing style at the time of this chapter's creation. The collapse of the Tion Hegemony was actually an unused story-plot I had when I was writing aDA, back in 2011, that was recycled to demonstrate how chaotic the post-Yuuzhan Vong War galaxy had become. So for those leaving a review, please keep any mention of politics and your opinions of said present-day events out of your reviews. Thanks!

One last note. For those with the patience to go through a Solo/Skywalker-less fish-sized story of mostly OC proportions, you get a little treat. I'll be posting a sneak-peak of select scenes from chapters in A Fate Unseen this Saturday, to give you all a bit of a hint about what to look forward to. Afterwards is that dreadful wait until November. Barring unforeseen circumstances, the 14th of November, 2013, will be the date the first chapter will be posted.

I'm currently working on chapter 15 of the story, so I hope to have a fairly large buffer by the time November comes along. This means either weekly updates or an update biweekly until at least the New Year.