Author's note: Once again; I'm really sorry about the long hiatus but I got a lot of writer's block and that made things difficult and I've also been busy catching up on Game of Thrones.
Battle of Shili
War on Shili! With the Imperial blockade broken and an Important Imperial outpost captured, the Alliance has been making advancements across Shili. Despite this however, the Empire maintains a foothold in the capital city of Corvala.
Whilst Admiral Ackbar leads his fleet against the remnants of the Imperial blockade and Captain Han Solo takes out Imperial forces; General Kota prepares his forces to lead an assault against Grand Vizier Amedda…
Shili
It was night time. Rahm Kota and several other rebel troopers stood inside an AT-TE in front of a hologram of Byph. Byph said something in Ithorese.
"Good to know, Byph" said Kota "Thank you" Byph nodded and the hologram turned off. Marc walked up to him.
"The troops are preparing for battle" said Marc "Commander Skywalker says he'll be landing in a few minutes to meet up with us. As far as I know, we're ready. We should attack at dawn"
"What makes you so certain of that?" asked Kota.
"Well; preferably the sooner we take down the Empire, the better" said Marc.
"The Empire still outnumbers us" said Kota "We need to work on a strategy. If we don't, it will all be for nothing" It was then that they heard shooting. Dawn Evergreen ran into the room.
"We're under attack" said Dawn "An Imperial team has found us. We have the upper hand at the moment, but they're gaining advantage" Kota stood up and ran out. A group of stormtroopers with Imperial vehicles had arrived and were battling with his forces. He got out his lightsaber and ignited the green blade. He leapt on top of a Rebel AAT and then leapt towards an AT-ST and sliced it down the middle. A group of stormtroopers ganged up on him, but he force-pushed them away. A stormtrooper commander walked in from behind an AT-MP.
"Jedi!" said the stormtrooper commander. This stormtrooper commander however was different from most commanders. His armor was mostly colored black except for a few red marking lines and white on the face of the helmet and the forearms. The bottom part of his armor was a long kama that resembled a long trenchcoat as well as a pauldron on his shoulders. The top of his helmet resembled a hat and his visors were colored red. His voice sounded like a clone trooper voice. "Men; get behind the vehicles, unless you want to be cut down" He stepped back behind the Imperial vehicles. The stormtroopers followed him.
"What are they doing?" said Dawn.
"Going with a strategy" replied Kota "The commander wants his men to last longer, so he defends them behind their vehicles"
"That's not what most Imperial commanders go with" said Dawn.
"You're right" replied Kota "This commander has more experience than most" An AT-MP walked towards him and started shooting firing its chaingun at him, but he dodged to the side. He then force-gripped the vehicle and threw it at the other vehicles. Since the AT-MP was holding missiles, the impact was much more explosive and took out most of the vehicles and stormtroopers.
"Form a retreat!" said the stormtrooper commander "No exceptions!" He and the remaining stormtroopers and vehicles turned around and retreated.
"Well; that drove 'em off" said Dawn.
"Not for long" said Kota "We should pack up and find somewhere else; we'll have to inform Commander Skywalker that we are changing drop-zone coordinates"
"You heard him, everyone" said Dawn "We need to get out of here as fast as we can"
"We'll inform Commander Skywalker to change the dropzone coordinates" said Kota.
Meanwhile
A GR-75 medium transport descended down from the rebel fleet and towards the planet's surface. Onboard, Luke sat in the cargo area around various rebel vehicles. R2 sat next to him.
"You okay, Skyguy?" asked a voice. He looked up to see Ahsoka standing before him.
"Just fine" said Luke "Actually, better than usual; I don't know why, but everything seems less tense" Ahsoka smiled and patted him on the shoulder.
"Great to see you're feeling better already" said Ahsoka "The last battle was quite rough and I can't help but notice that you've been uneasy lately"
"Well…there has been something bothering me lately" said Luke. The smile vanished from Ahsoka's face.
"What is it?" asked Ahsoka whilst sitting down beside him.
"Well…like you said, I think things have been tense lately" replied Luke "Growing up on Tatooine never prepared me for any of this, and it just feels so…I don't know, everything's changing so fast and I feel unsure of myself for no good reason"
"Don't worry; trust me, we've known each other for quite a while now and I can honestly say that you're just as good as Anakin or Obi-Wan" said Ahsoka.
"I admire the complement, but we both know that I'm not anywhere as good as those two were" said Luke.
"Don't be hard on yourself" said Ahsoka "Just live in the now and appreciate what you have" What neither of them noticed was that a female rebel trooper with brown hair and brown eyes watched them. She smiled wickedly before her eyes briefly flashed green.
Meanwhile
Mas Amedda, Major Crowshan, and Octeren stood in the central tower of Corvala (which resembled the Governor Roshti's tower on Kiros). A hologram of Maral Hatana stood on the strategy table.
"…and from last I heard, my master's search is nearing completion" said Hatana.
"How so?" asked Amedda.
"We have captured a Jedi who knows Master Yoda's whereabouts and we are interrogating him as we speak" said Hatana. It was then that a stormtrooper commander walked into the room.
"Sir, if I may interrupt; I have just received word that the General Fraw's outpost has been taken by Rebel forces" said the stormtrooper commander "He was killed in the battle"
"That was the last great line of defense before this city" said Crowshan "If the rebels rally together and take on the city, we're done for"
"You overestimate their chances" said Amedda.
"But perhaps he has a point" said Hatana "That outpost was the last major line of defense before the city; without it, the Rebels may have an advantage"
"I already have that covered" said Amedda "I have set up a perimeter of autoturrets guarded by a countless troops and vehicles at a 500 mile radius of this city. No one gets in or out without my permission. The Rebels can call for help; but it'll be destroyed before it can reach them, and they will have to surrender if they want to come out of this alive" Hatana smiled.
"Very tactful" said Hatana "Inform me if there are any problems" The hologram switched off. It was then that the doors to the room opened. The Mandalorian figure aboard Admiral Riada's ship stood in the doorway.
"The Togrutas are getting dangerously close to the Alliance forces" said Amedda "We have prepared a party for you. You know what to do" The Mandalorian figure emerged from the shadows, revealing himself to be Boba Fett.
"Of course" said Fett.
Meanwhile aboard the Executor
From all the torture he endured, Hom Ferm could barely stay conscious. All he could make out was the stormtrooper who stood at the controls awaiting further instructions. It was then that he heard the door open and someone stepped in. As soon as he heard the breathing he knew who it was.
"We have tried everything, my lord" said Piett who had entered the room with Vader "Electrocution, drugs, we've even crushed some bones; but he is too resistant"
"He has been trained well" said Vader.
"Vader…" breathed Hom Ferm.
"Perhaps it'll please you to know that Captain Eclipse is as equally resistant" said Vader "We used every form of interrogation we have yet she wouldn't speak. Don't worry; she's still alive, but you're next" He walked up to Hom Ferm, extended his hand out, and attempted to use the Force to pull out what he wanted from his mind. However, he was too resilient and Vader found it difficult before giving up. "Impressive; I have not seen a Jedi resist my powers like this before"
"You're wasting your time" breathed Hom Ferm "You might as well kill me here and now whilst you have the chance"
"You're already dying, it just hasn't taken hold yet" said Vader. A confused look befell on Hom Ferm's face. "Did you really think that incident you had while fighting Emerl Hatana on Kashyyyk didn't go unnoticed? After she reported back to me that you almost collapsed mid-battle, I went digging and finally found an old anonymous doctor's report of a Baragwin who was diagnosed with inoperable cancer. Why didn't you tell the other Jedi; were too afraid of how'd they'd react"
"I have my reasons" said Hom Ferm.
"Whatever they are, you'll be pleased to know that you don't have to discuss them; because you're never leaving this ship alive" said Vader "I waited years to find Master Yoda; I can wait a little longer. The best way to break someone is with time; and once I have what I want, then you will die"
Meanwhile
The stormtrooper commander in black armor stood in the wall of Imperial vehicles and autoturrets. He got out a pair of electrobinoculars and looked through them. He could see Luke and Ahsoka's transport flying towards them.
"Looks like we've got ourselves a transport attempting to land in our area" said the stormtrooper commander "Fire at will" All the vehicles aimed at the transport and opened fire intensely, supported by the autoturrets.
Meanwhile
Inside the cargo hold, Luke and Ahsoka were shook by a hit.
"Something hit us" said Luke. R2 came rolling down at him screaming.
"C'mon; let's get up to the bridge" said Ahsoka. They turned to go to the bridge. However, the brown haired rebel trooper stood in their way.
"Your transport is under attack by an impenetrable barrier" said the rebel trooper "There is no point in alerting the pilots, because they already know. However; do not worry in not getting into the area beyond the barrier" She started waving her hands around creating green mist which circled around all three of them until they were transformed into a green ball of mist which vanished.
Meanwhile
The three of them reappeared on the plains within the perimeter.
"Okay; what just happened?" said Ahsoka.
"Your ship was under attack and had to retreat" said the rebel trooper "I was testing out my teleportation abilities on whether or not I can transport other lifeforms with me, which has proven successful"
"What a minute; that voice…" said Luke quietly to himself. Ahsoka meanwhile was confused.
"Okay…so where are we?" asked Ahsoka.
"The Imperials have set up a barrier of autoturrets and vehicles within a radius of Corvala" said the rebel trooper "No one gets in or out with Vizier Amedda's permission. You are within the radius"
"How do you know all this?" asked Ahsoka.
"Ahsoka, get back" said Luke. He stepped forward towards the rebel trooper. "Who are you?" The rebel trooper smiled evilly before her eyes turned green.
"A friend of a friend" said the rebel trooper. It was at that moment that her appearance changed to that of Carth'la the Nightsister before she vanished into green mist.
"I should've known" said Luke "It was that Nightsister I met on Rharlium, the one who told me about the Master"
"And she just helped us" said Ahsoka "She must have some hidden agenda"
"They always do" said Luke. It was then that they heard some beeping. R2 rolled up to them. "At least we have R2. We'd better call our ship. Hello; this is Commander Skywalker, do you read me?" There was no reply. "This is Commander Skywalker, do you read me?" There was still no reply. "She must've done something to my comlink"
"Hello, this is Commander Tano, respond" said Ahsoka into her comlink. There was no reply. "Mine too"
"Then I guess we're stuck out here in the middle of nowhere" said Luke. Ahsoka looked around until she saw some footprints and tracks in the ground. She ran up to them and examined them.
"Maybe not" said Ahsoka "These are Alliance vehicle prints and they're heading in that direction. They shouldn't be too far, hopefully" They walked off in the direction that the tracks were heading in. Ahsoka looked around herself as they walked. "I'm home…"
Meanwhile
Jedi Master K'Kruhk and Danielle Sanders stood aboard a Liberty type cruiser.
"It's been weeks since they disappeared" said Danielle "We still haven't found them"
"They're alive" said K'Kruhk "I know it" It was then that he heard something call out through the Force. It was then that he saw an image of Hom Ferm being tortured. "No!"
"What's wrong?" asked Danielle.
"I know where he is" said K'Kruhk "Set course for the Vahada asteroid belt"
Meanwhile
Kota's group moved across the plains. In the pilot's seat of Kota's AT-TE, the pilot noticed something off in the distance coming towards them. It wasn't until it had come close enough into focus that it could be seen. It was a male Togruta riding atop a welpuk (a teal and cerulean horse-like creature).
"General Kota, we have spotted what appears to be a native Togruta coming towards us" said the pilot into his comlink "How do you wish to proceed?"
"Stop the vehicles" replied Kota into his comlink "All of them" The pilot told all the vehicles to stop and they did. The loading platform descended down from his AT-TE and he and Dawn walked out up to the Togruta who stop dismounted the welpuk.
"You are General Kota of the Rebellion, are you not?" asked the Togruta.
"I am" said Kota "What is your business here?" The Togruta bowed his head.
"It is an honor to meet you, general" said the Togruta "I am a messenger from Governor Kando"
"Really?" said Kota.
"He asked me to bring you this" said the Togruta whilst handing out what appeared to be a hologram projector. He placed it into Kota's hands and mounted his welpuk again. "I must be off. Farewell" He rode off.
"Who is Governor Kando?" asked Dawn.
"Thil Kando was the Governor of Shili before the Imperial invasion" said Kota "We had assumed that he was either killed or captured during the invasion; but this seems to say otherwise" He looked at the hologram projector in his hand. He activated and it projected a map. "Now this is interesting. We should get moving"
A few minutes later
"Governor Kando alive and not in Imperial containment?" said Mon Mothma's hologram.
"According to the map, he is within this rainforest area" said Kota whilst pointing at the map.
"Could be a trap" said Crix Madine's hologram.
"That remains to be seen" said Kota "But I believe this may be a step in the right direction. Rumor is that within this rainforest valley lays a stronghold where some of the bravest Togruta fighters reside. Perhaps that's where the governor is hiding. Captain Hushin…"
"Yes sir" said Jake Hushin's hologram.
"I am sending a copy of the map to you" said Kota "You will rendezvous with us there"
"Can do" said Jake Hushin's hologram "We're a little far out at the moment but we should get there before sundown"
"I'll try to get to you as quickly as I can too" said Madine "But it is proving very difficult. My forces and I are trapped on Fondor. The Empire has a Grand Admiral leading the assault and he seems to be predicting our every moves"
"We still await confirmation on Commander Skywalker" said Kota.
"I'm afraid Commander Skywalker's reinforcements might not be coming" said Ackbar's hologram "I have received word from his transport ship that they cannot reach your coordinates. There appears to be a wall of autoturrets and vehicles that aim at anything non-Imperial that attempts to enter or exit. They tried to reach you but were almost shot down in the process. However, I have also received word that Commander Skywalker as well as Commander Tano have disappeared from the ship without a trace"
"So what we have is what we have" said Kota "Which is why making an alliance with the Togrutas more essential"
A few hours later
Kota's group moved towards a rainforest valley. They stopped at the edge of the rainforest. Kota hopped out with Dawn.
"Doesn't look like the forest will support our vehicles" said Dawn.
"Then we'll travel on foot from here" said Kota "Dawn, assemble a squad together"
"Yes sir" said Dawn.
"The rest of you, stay with the vehicles until we get back" said Kota. Marc stepped forward. "Stay with the vehicles, Marc"
"What; why?" said Marc.
"I'm leaving you in charge of the vehicles until we return" said Kota "Watch over them"
"Alright; fine" said Marc. He walked back to the vehicles. After Dawn prepped the squad, they, along with Kota, walked off into the forest. The rainforest was deep and dense. Lots of chagnuhseos (small green lizard-like creatures with fin-like wings for gliding) flew across from tree to tree above them.
"We should be getting close by now" said Kota "Stay on guard; more than Togrutas in this forest, keep an eye out for akuls" Dawn could hear some rustling in the bushes.
"Everyone; set your weapons to stun" said Dawn "In case we encounter a Togruta by surprise and we react, we need to make sure we don't kill them by mistake" It was then that Kota stopped.
Force sight
Kota looked around in the forest. He could see some blue glowing humanoid figures sneaking around behind the trees.
Meanwhile
"Everyone stop" said Kota. All of them stopped.
"Have we found them" asked a rebel trooper.
"Looks like they've found us" said Kota. It was then that a shuffling noise behind them was heard. They turned around to find a group of Togrutas equipped with energy bows (that resembled Nightsister energy bows except they were colored green instead of purple) standing there with their arrows pointed towards them. When they turned to look at the front again, they found another group of Togrutas.
"Enough" said a voice. The Togrutas lowered their bows. A male Togruta wearing an akul tooth necklace stepped forward and examined Kota carefully. "General Kota; so the messenger was right, you are here on our planet"
"I seek an audience with Governor Kando" said Kota.
"He is waiting for you at our stronghold" said the Togruta "Follow us; we'll take you there" They turned and headed forward.
A few minutes later
Kota's team and the Togrutas arrived at what appeared to be a large stronghold in the trees. They walked up to the gates which opened when the lead Togruta gave the order for them to open. They walked through to inside. Around them, countless Togrutas and welpuks stood around them.
"Wow, incredible" said Dawn.
"We heeded the Governor's call during the fall of Corvala" said the Togruta "When we arrived however, the Empire had the city overrun. We were able to save the Governor and his wife as well as many civilians and we retreated back here. The Empire doesn't know where we are at the moment; no doubt they're searching for the location of the Governor, but for now we have the advantage" He brought them over to a small hut. Two middle-aged Togrutas were inside the hut. "Stay here while I go talk to the Governor; this is Mathren and his wife Arlas, they'll attend to your every needs" He left the hut.
"Greetings, General Kota" said Mathren (the male Togruta) "It is an honor to meet you"
"We were glad to hear of your presence here" said Arlas (the female Togruta) "For ages we had thought that the Empire had killed all the Jedi. We heard rumors of surviving ones for some time, but we haven't seen any until today"
"We are fewer than we used to be" said Kota "Only a handful of the old Order remains; but we'll make it through this. It isn't the first time the Jedi have been brought to the brink of extinction" Kota began to examine their expressions. "I'm not the first Jedi you've met, aren't I?"
"Actually no, you're right" said Mathren "We met one a few decades ago. I believe he was a Kel Dor, although I'm not quite sure of his name"
"If I may cut in, why are we waiting?" asked Kota.
"There are a lot of things that the Governor is dealing with at the moment" replied Arlas "For the time being, he must take things slowly"
"Now that we're here, I'm sure the pace will quicken" said Kota.
Meanwhile
K'Kruhk's ship came out of hyperspace in the Vahaba asteroid belt. A shuttle flew out of its hanger and into the Executor's hanger. The loading ramp opened. K'Kruhk and Danielle got out and examined the area for any signs of Imperial security.
"Place is clear, for now" said Danielle "No doubt this place is crawling with Imperials, not to mention the worst of the worst"
"Then we'll make this as quick as possible" said K'Kruhk "In and out" They exited the hanger and into the hallways.
"We should start at the detention area" said Danielle "If they are indeed trapped on this ship, they should be there"
"Agreed" said K'Kruhk.
Meanwhile
Luke, Ahsoka, and R2 were still walking across the plains.
"One problem about following vehicle tracks…they tend to get to places faster than you do…" panted Ahsoka.
"Definitely…agree..." panted Luke. They reached a hill and instantly sat down at its bottom. "Leaving us out here in the middle of nowhere without any communications or assistants…is some kind of cruel joke that that Nightsister pulled on us?"
"She mentioned that it was to test her teleporting abilities" said Ahsoka "I guess she decided to test it on us"
"At least the Empire doesn't know we're here" said Luke "That's always an advantage" Ahsoka sighed and stretched her legs. It was then that she felt her foot touch something. She looked up and saw something poking out of the ground. She crawled over to it. It appeared to be made of metal and it was a point of some sort. She looked back at Luke.
"Hey; do you think you have the strength to help me pull something out of the ground?" asked Ahsoka. Luke sat up and crawled over to where she was to look at the point.
"We'll see" said Luke. They both stood up and stood on either sides of the point. "Together now; one…two…three" They both force-gripped the point and attempted to pull it up. However, it was very heavy, even for the both of them. It took several attempts before they were able to successfully pull it out. They stopped to catch their breath for a moment before going over to the object to examine it. It was a metal chest that appeared to be very old. R2 beeped at the sight of it.
"What do you think is inside?" asked Ahsoka.
"One way to find out" said Luke. He got out his lightsaber and ignited it. He carefully slid it across the lid so as to not damage what may be inside. He opened it up and picked up what was inside. He blew off the dust. It appeared to be a mask of some sort. It was long with a black visor across the top. It was mainly colored grey but also had some red markings.
"What do you suppose that is?" asked Ahsoka.
"I don't know" said Luke "Something…ancient" He then noticed that Ahsoka wore a satchel across her waist. "Where did you get that satchel from?"
"I had it with me when Carth'la sent us here" replied Ahsoka "Why do you ask?"
"We could use something to carry this with" said Luke. Ahsoka handed him the satchel and he placed the helmet into it.
"Not sure what we'd need an old mask for, but I suppose we could take it with us" said Ahsoka It was then that a zooming noise was heard. Ahsoka grabbed Luke by the shoulder and pulled him to the top of the hill. They peaked out. An Imperial party was marching across the plains. "Well; this certainly isn't good" Ahsoka looked off in the distance and saw what appeared to be a village. "Looks like they're heading to that village"
"That can't be good" said Luke "We have to help them"
"We'll have to stay stealthy" said Ahsoka "Looks like they outnumber us" They followed the Imperial party quietly.
Meanwhile
Two Imperial riot troopers stood guard outside the detention area. K'Kruhk and Danielle peaked out from a corner.
"There's the detention area" said Danielle "Doesn't look like much on the outside but there's probably countless Imperials inside who'd pull the alarm at the slightest sign of trouble"
"We must be cautious" said K'Kruhk.
"Perhaps if we used shock and awe" said Danielle. She got two grenades ready (a thermal detonator and a smoke grenade). She first threw the thermal detonator at the door, which blew it down along with the riot troopers. She then threw the smoke grenade which created a cloud to which they could enter without being seen properly. Of course, the stormtroopers still shot at them, but their aim was even worse when they couldn't see anything properly.
Meanwhile
"What was that?" said a stormtrooper in Hom Ferm's cell.
"Never mind that" said Piett "Continue with the interrogation"
Meanwhile
Juno sat in her cell. Suddenly, the door opened and K'Kruhk and Danielle entered.
"Master K'Kruhk, Lance Corporal Sanders" said Juno.
"Captain Eclipse, we're glad to find you" said Danielle "Do you know where Master Hom Ferm is?"
"I saw him being taken further down the detention area" replied Juno.
"We move cautiously" said K'Kruhk "It won't be long until Vader knows we're here"
Meanwhile
"Like it or not, you cannot hold out forever" said Piett "Eventually you'll either have to give up or die. Your choice, of course" Hom Ferm looked up.
"It is all a waste of your time" said Hom Ferm "As I've told you before; I do not fear death, neither will you break my will" A loud scuffling noise was heard outside. One of the stormtroopers looked up at the door.
"Focus on the task at hand, trooper" said Piett. The stormtrooper looked away from the door. It was then that the door to the cell opened up. K'Kruhk, Danielle, and Juno stepped in. K'Kruhk stepped forward and force-pushed Piett into the wall which knocked him unconscious. The stormtroopers in the cell pointed their blasters at them and starting shooting. However, they were either shot down by Juno or Danielle or had their blast deflected at them by K'Kruhk's lightsaber. After the fight, they walked up to Hom Ferm who lifted his head up and laughed heartily.
"I knew I could get through to you, old friend" said Hom Ferm. Danielle deactivated the containment field causing Hom Ferm to drop down and land on his feet. "We haven't much time. No doubt Darth Vader will learn about this soon enough"
"We should hurry" said Juno. They headed out of the cell. Piett regained consciousness and crawled himself over to the control panel. He pressed the communicator button.
"Lord Vader…there were Rebel intruders in the detention area" huffed Piett "They freed the Jedi…they're escaping"
Meanwhile
"Best guess is that they're on their way to the hanger to escape" said Piett out of the bridge's communicator.
"I will handle this myself" said Vader. He pressed the bridge's intercom. "To all troopers aboard this vessel, Rebel intruders have infiltrated us and freed the Jedi prisoner. If you see any of them, shoot on sight. If you cannot kill them, at the very least attempt to slow them down and prevent them from reaching the hanger"
Meanwhile
Luke, Ahsoka, and R2 walked quietly behind the vehicles until they had reached the village. They snuck into the village and stayed out of sight of the Imperials. They could see the stormtroopers gathering all the Togrutas of their homes and leading them off somewhere.
"This can't be good" said Ahsoka quietly.
"R2, stay here" said Luke. R2 beeped in response. They quietly followed them until they reached the center of the village where there were many Imperial troops and vehicles. They hid behind a small hut. The Togruta who appeared to be the leader of the village was brought out by a stormtrooper commander.
"We found their leader" said the stormtrooper commander. It was then that Boba Fett stepped out.
"Fett!" said Luke quietly.
"What do you want from us?" said the Togruta scared before getting whacked across the face by Fett's blaster rifle.
"Shut it!" snapped Fett "I'll make this quick. Are you familiar with the Rebel Alliance; they're on this planet and fighting the Empire. Now; I'm not into taking sides with this war, but the Empire has a good supply of credits that they'll reward to hired guns, like myself. Well; intel tells us that some of the villages on this world have been siding with the Alliance. So; when the Alliance hits, the Empire hires me to hit harder"
"What do you mean?" asked the Togruta.
"Isn't it obvious?" said Fett "We're taking down each and every village that the Empire hasn't conquered to show the Rebels what happens when they ally with you natives"
"What!?" exclaimed the Togruta "No; please, you can't do this! Have mercy!" Fett pointed his blaster rifle at his face.
"I don't get paid to be merciful" said Fett. Luke instantly extended his arm forward and force-summoned Fett's blaster to him which he threw to the side. This of course caught Fett's attention and he immediately noticed that they were there. "Well; guess who showed up"
"Leave these people, Fett" said Luke.
"Or what?" said Fett "You are vastly outnumbered; even if you survive a battle, these Togruta will not. And if there's one thing that I know about Jedi, you don't have the stomach to accept such losses" He briefly looked back at the Togrutas. "You know; we weren't planning on any casualties, just to leave everything in ruins and take prisoners, but now that you're here, we'll make an exception. Incinerators, burn this place to the ground whilst I deal with the Jedi" Incinerator stormtroopers stepped forward and started shooting flames from their flamethrowers. Luke and Ahsoka ignited their lightsabers.
"Give it up" said Ahsoka "You're not armed"
"I don't think so" said Fett. He activated his flamethrower and started firing flames at them but they rolled to the side. Ahsoka saw a large rock behind him. She slowly force-lifted it and threw it at him but he quickly looked behind and dodged it. It was then that he caught sight of his rifle so he shot a rocket at them (which they dodged) and made a lunge for his rifle. As soon as he grabbed it, he pointed it at Luke and started firing, but Luke deflected the shots. Fett activated his jetpack and became airborne, firing more shots at Luke which were deflected.
"Ahsoka, get the villagers out of harm's way whilst I deal with Fett" said Luke.
"On it" said Ahsoka. She ran off to help the villagers. At that moment, Fett fired his fibercord whip at Luke and it wrapped around his ankles. Fett started pulling him across the village but Luke was eventually able to steady himself enough to cut the whip off.
"You're not getting off that easy" said Fett whilst aiming his rifle at Luke. At that moment, a large about of laser fire heading his way. One of them hit him briefly, causing him to fall down and land on the ground. Luke looked in the direction it came from. A group of Rebel vehicles and Rebel troopers had arrived and were taking out the Imperial party along with the fires. Fett looked up and saw this as well. "Next time" He lifted off into the air and flew off. Luke slowly walked over to the Rebel vehicles where he met Ahsoka.
"Well; this was fortunate" said Luke. It was then that they noticed Captain Hushin talking to some Rebel troopers with R2 by his side.
"Captain Hushin!" said Ahsoka. Hushin's attention immediately turned to them.
"Commander Skywalker, Commander Tano; an unexpected surprise" said Hushin.
"How did you get here" said Luke.
"My men and I were on our way to rendezvous with Kota's group when we saw the smoke so we decided to investigate and came across this Imperial party" said Hushin "Fortunately, this was only a small party and we were able to overwhelm them and put out the fires easily. So what are you two doing out here?"
"It's a long story I'm afraid" said Luke "To cut it short, we got separated from our ship but we found Rebel vehicle footprints and decided to follow them; but we encountered the Imperials and got into a fight with a bounty hunter who seemed to be leading them. Now that you're here, would you mind if we took a lift?"
"Feel free to join us" said Hushin.
"But what about the villagers; the Imperials torched the place" said Ahsoka "They're not safe here"
"Well; the place we're going to is a Togruta stronghold" said Hushin "They can come with us"
Meanwhile
Hom Ferm, K'Kruhk, Juno, and Danielle battled their way through various stormtroopers.
"We're getting closer to the hanger" said Danielle. It was then that they reached a door in the hallway. "Shouldn't be long now" At that moment, the door opened. Darth Vader stepped through, lightsaber ignited, and ready for battle.
"Darth Vader!" said Juno. Danielle aimed her blaster at Vader and started shooting; however, Vader used his lightsaber to deflect the shots before summoning the blaster to himself and crushing it with his hand.
"Consider yourself fortunate that you were able to contact anyone at all" said Vader "However; I assure you that this is as far as you get. Attempt any means of escape and you will fall before me. No one leaves without my permission"
"We weren't asking for it!" said K'Kruhk. He ignited his lightsaber and started clashing with Vader.
"Get to the ship!" said Hom Ferm "If we're not back in a few minutes, leave without us" Danielle stepped forward to help but Juno placed her hand on her shoulder and shook her head. The two then ran towards the hanger doors.
"Smart move" said Vader "Keeping the non-Jedi away from this battle. It's a pity it will only prolong the inevitable" He gave K'Kruhk a head-butt which threw him back.
"We can't stop him" said K'Kruhk.
"We don't have to" said Hom Ferm "We just need to slow him down. Distract him, then follow my lead" K'Kruhk leapt forward and started dueling Vader again before abruptly stepping back and force-pushing him into the wall with the help of Hom Ferm. They then ran towards the door to the hanger whilst Vader slowly got himself up. Once they entered the hanger, Juno and Danielle waited for them outside their shuttle.
"You took long enough" smirked Danielle "We found that they planted a bomb aboard the shuttle but we found it easily, you know stormtroopers"
"Our fleet shouldn't be too far away" said K'Kruhk "We should get moving"
"Leaving so soon" said a voice from behind them. Vader stepped forward. "And without a goodbye?" K'Kruhk ignited his lightsaber again.
"Get aboard the ship and start it up" said K'Kruhk. Juno and Danielle boarded the ship. Vader leapt forward and dueled with K'Kruhk. Hom Ferm force-lifted a small crate and threw it at Vader. It knocked Vader back a bit but not enough to knock him off his feet. Suddenly, Vader force-lifted K'Kruhk and slammed him against the top of the entrance to the shuttle. He then turned to Hom Ferm.
"We both know that you wouldn't dare to kill me" said Hom Ferm "If you do, you might lose one your opportunity to find what you're looking for"
"The outcome is inevitable" said Vader "This is merely a detour" He force-pushed Hom Ferm into a large crate and stepped forward to slam down his lightsaber upon him. However, Hom Ferm was able to grab hold of Vader's hand and prevent him from doing so. At that moment, K'Kruhk lifted himself up.
"Start the ship" said K'Kruhk. Vader heard this and turned his head towards the shuttle. He reached out with one of his hands and force-gripped the shuttle.
"We can't take off" said Danielle. K'Kruhk attempted to leap at Vader but Vader closed the ramp up enough to keep him from getting out.
"I will not allow your friends to leave here alive" said Vader "But if you attempt to rescue them, you may risk your very own life" Hom Ferm gave him a stern look before quickly force-blasting him into a group of crates. He then dashed towards the shuttle. K'Kruhk had gotten the ramp down.
"Quickly; you can still make it!" said K'Kruhk. Hom Ferm leapt up towards the ramp, ready to land aboard. Suddenly, a red blade pierced through his chest. Vader had gotten himself up and stabbed Hom Ferm in the back. He pulled the blade away, letting Hom Ferm's body drop to the floor. The shuttle flew out of the hanger. Vader looked down at Hom Ferm's body.
"Either way, it was going to end like this" said Vader "You knew it would" The dying Hom Ferm looked up at Vader.
"You…you will not always be…under Sidious' protection...you are just a part...in his game…he will…betray you, as the Sith always do" gasped Hom Ferm before giving his last breath and dying. It was then that Piett entered.
"Lord Vader…" said Piett, pausing when he saw Hom Ferm's body "…the shuttle is returning to a rebel fleet. They are in our sights; should we open fire?"
"No" replied Vader "We've done enough. Besides; it would only result in another senseless battle" He turned and left the hanger.
Meanwhile
Luke and Captain Hushin's group arrived at the rainforest. Marc and the rest of Kota's group stood outside.
"Good to see that you arrived, Captain Hushin" said Marc.
"Likewise, Marc" said Hushin "I'd like to see General Kota"
"I'm afraid he's not here" said Marc "He went into the forest with a squad to find the Togruta stronghold and left me to take care of the vehicles. However, he recently informed me that he made it to the stronghold and is awaiting an audience with the Governor. Just walk down into the forest; you should find the stronghold from there. I'll inform them of your arrival. Good luck" Luke, Ahsoka, R2, and Captain Hushin entered the forest with some rebel troopers, leaving the vehicles behind.
Meanwhile
The Togruta re-entered the hut.
"Governor Kando wishes to see you now" said the Togruta "As soon as I told him of your arrival, he dropped everything he was dealing with. Believe me, he's had a lot on his hands recently; food, supplies; the more refugees we take in, the less space we have left" Kota stood up.
"Take me to him" said Kota.
A few minutes later
The Togruta brought Kota to a spiral stairway that went up a tower.
"We're almost there" said the Togruta.
"Captain Orvanta, I found these rebel troopers in the forest" said a Togruta who walked up to them. Kota noticed Luke and Ahsoka amongst the group.
"Commander Skywalker, Commander Tano" said Kota.
"Master Kota" said Ahsoka.
"I wasn't expecting your group to arrive with Captain Hushin's group" said Kota.
"We hadn't plan to either" said Luke "We were separated from our craft and they can't reach us"
"I'll have to hear the full story later; I'm afraid" said Kota "Right now I have a meeting to attend" He walked up the stairway.
"Take them to Mathren and Arlas" said Orvanta (the lead Togruta) "They'll take care of them" He walked up the stairway.
"Follow me" said the second Togruta. They walked off, except for R2 who
Meanwhile
Kota entered the room at the top of the tower, followed by Orvanta. Governor Kando (a male Togruta) and his wife stood up from the chairs they were sitting at and walked over to him.
"General Kota, it is an honor to meet you" said Governor Kando.
"It is a pleasure to meet you too, Governor Kando" said Kota.
"This is my wife—Torrien" said Governor Kando.
"Greetings, General Kota" said Torrien "We've heard a lot about you"
"I believe you've already met our esteemed captain of the guard—Imor Orvanta" said Governor Kando "Now; let us talk, we have urgent matters" They sat down at the table in the middle of the room. Orvanta stood by the door, which was open by a tiny crack, which R2 was looking through.
Meanwhile
The Togruta brought Luke and Ahsoka over to Mathren and Arlas' hut. The Togruta couple stepped out of the hut and approached them.
"More Rebels have arrived" said the Togruta "Captain Orvanta has decided to hand these two over to you. Take good care of them" He then turned around and walked off.
"Come in" said Mathren. They walked inside and sat down at the table. Arlas walked over with a kettle and filled the cups that had been laid out in front of them.
"Thank you" said Luke. He picked up the glass and took a small sip. "So; do you know much about…well, what's happening between Master Kota and the Governor?"
"There's no doubt that we're forming an alliance" said Mathren "All they have to do now is create out a strategy to take out the Empire" Arlas sat down at the table with them.
"But who we have is who we have" said Luke "I mean; I heard that the Empire's placed a barrier and vehicles and weapons around a perimeter—"
"Yes; that is true, I'm afraid" said Mathren "None of us can get in or out. That's why the strategy needs to be as well thought out as possible"
"Don't worry, Master Kota is a brilliant strategist" said Luke "Long before the Alliance was formed, he fought the Empire with his own militia and he was still able to stay out of the Empire's sight for years"
"We had a daughter who went to off to join the Jedi" said Arlas. Ahsoka was intrigued by the sound of this.
"Really?" said Ahsoka intrigued "Excuse me for asking; but what happened to her?"
"We do not know" said Arlas "We never heard anything of her after she was taken to the Jedi Temple"
"After we heard about the rise of the Empire and the Jedi being wiped out, we feared the worst" said Mathren.
"I know how she must have felt" said Ahsoka "The Jedi took me in when I was just a child as well; I can't remember my parents, I'm not sure if I'll ever see them again" Arlas started looking closer at her and started examining her.
"You know, I hope you don't mind me saying this, but you remind me a lot of her" said Arlas "I mean, it has been a long time since we last saw her, but…there's just this feeling. What happened still saddens me; what I would give for us to see out little Ahsoka again" Both Ahsoka and Luke were instantly stunned by the sound of this.
"What?!" exclaimed Ahsoka "What did you say her name was?"
"Her name was Ahsoka" said Arlas "Ahsoka Tano" Ahsoka was even more stunned than before.
"But—But that's not possible" said Ahsoka "That's my name"
"How is this possible?" said Mathren "It was over three decades ago, you don't look old enough"
"Well; it's a long story" said Ahsoka "I was trapped in a stasis pod for years. I understand why you must find it difficult to accept—"
"Mathren, she is Ahsoka" said Arlas who had grabbed what appeared to be a painting of Ahsoka as a child and comparing it with her.
"I can't believe it" said Mathren "After all these years, our daughter is alive!" He and Arlas embraced Ahsoka in a hug.
"You're my parents" said Ahsoka "All I've ever wanted was to know you!" Whilst they hugged, Luke looked on with a look of concern.
Meanwhile
"We have an army, perhaps not enough to break through the Empire's defenses, but an army nonetheless" said Orvanta.
"Without a perfect strategy, any attempt we make would be pointless" said Kota.
"The sooner we get the Empire off our world, the better" said Orvanta "We've suffered enough because of them"
"Enough!" said Governor Kando "We are getting nowhere at this pace. We need a strategy and we need it now" It was then that R2 burst through the door beeping excitedly.
"What is this droid doing here?" said Orvanta "Is it yours?"
"No" replied Kota "It actually belongs to Commander Skywalker; I'm not sure why it followed us here" R2 beeped again.
"Do you think he's trying to tell us something?" asked Torrien. R2 projected a hologram of Theed.
"Looks like this droid is proposing a strategy" said Orvanta.
A few hours later
It was now night time. Luke sat on a bench looking up at the sky.
"Mind if I join you?" asked a voice. Ahsoka walked up to him and sat down next to him. "Can you believe it; after all this time I finally found my family. I mean; I admit that I tried to manage my expectations for what I may find when I arrived, but that just makes meeting them feel all the more…warm and…" She then noticed that Luke was looking at the ground. "Something wrong?"
"Oh; nothing" said Luke "Trust me; I'm glad that you found your parents, I really am. I was really hoping you would, but…"
"But what?" asked Ahsoka.
"It just reminds me of something" said Luke "Both my parents are dead, Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru are dead; I've got no family left"
"I'm sorry" said Ahsoka "I didn't mean to—"
"It's fine, trust me" said Luke "I just felt like there were some things I had to clear out of my head" Ahsoka sighed. She felt like she should help Luke somehow. Suddenly, it hit her.
"I've got an idea" said Ahsoka. She grabbed Luke's hand and pulled him up. "How about a walk?"
"A walk?" said Luke "What do you mean a walk?"
"I mean a walk" said Ahsoka "Just something to clear both our heads"
"Okay" said Luke. They walked off down the streets.
Meanwhile
Mas Amedda stood before a hologram of Maral Hatana.
"General Kota has vanished from our sights" said Amedda "But he couldn't have gotten outside the boundaries that we set"
"Do not underestimate him" said Hatana "He's survived much worse in the past. He is a military genius, he never even needed clones to win his battles; let him slip through your fingers again, and you'll find his lightsaber at your throat"
"You had better show some respect, assassin" said Amedda "Need I remind you that I was there at the beginning, before you were even born. I was there when Chancellor Palpatine was elected into office and I was there during the declaration of the Empire. I have seen much more than you ever will"
"Then I trust you will not disappoint" said Hatana. The hologram turned off.
"Commander, prepare the city's defenses" said Amedda "If Kota is as good as his reputation upholds, then expect a strategic strike"
Meanwhile
Luke and Ahsoka walked through the streets.
"…and then, once we finally got all of them to safety, the Governor agreed to join the Republic" said Ahsoka.
"Wow; you and Anakin really got up to some adventures back then" said Luke.
"Yeah; I mean, some of them were real misadventures, but we had good times" said Ahsoka "Not that I'm prejudice or anything, but afterwards I always found it hard to be around Zygerrians. I know, you shouldn't judge an individual by their species, but I don't think I ever met anyone as despicable as Prime Minister Molec; well, aside from the Emperor of course" She also thought the same about Barriss Offee but felt uneasy talking about it, especially considering that she hadn't told Luke about what happened on Rharlium. "So what about you, who's the most despicable person you've ever met?" Luke's thoughts went back to his meeting with General Cronos, but he felt uneasy talking about it here and now, especially since he had chosen not to tell it to her when he had the chance.
"Well; that would have to be Vader and Krenin" said Luke. It was then that that reached a watchtower that stood next to the wall. There was something about it that made Ahsoka compelled to walk up to it. "Wait a second…" She looked up to the top. "…I know this place" She entered the entrance to the tower and walked up the steps until she reached the doorway at the top. She entered the room, closed her eyes, and cleared her mind.
Ahsoka's flashback, 33 BBY
A young Ahsoka stood in the middle of the room surrounded by other Togrutas. It was then that a figure appeared in the doorway. A Kel Dor dressed in maroon Jedi garb entered, kneeled down to her, and extended his hand out. A small seed lay on the palm of his hand. She reached out and grabbed the seed and look at it. She then extended her hand out into the palm of his. They then slowly walked out of the room together.
Back to reality
Ahsoka opened her eyes and took a deep breath.
"You alright?" said a voice. Ahsoka turned to see Luke standing in the doorway. He walked up to her.
"Do you remember that I told you that Master Plo Koon found me?" asked Ahsoka.
"Of course" said Luke.
"Well; this is where it happened" said Ahsoka "I was only three when he arrived and took me in. I still can't believe how long it's been"
The next morning
Luke and Ahsoka lay asleep in the watchtower as the sun came up. It was then that they were pushed by something and heard a beeping noise. They woke up to find R2 in there.
"What is it, R2?" asked Luke. R2 beeped and sped off. "Wait!" He looked at Ahsoka still sleeping beside him. He shook her to wake her up. "Ahsoka, wake up"
"Huh, what?" said Ahsoka as she woke up.
"I think R2 wants us for something" said Luke. They stood up and followed R2 out. He led them to the edge of the city where the Rebel troopers and Togrutas were marching out. They saw Kota standing by the gate with R2 next to him. They walked up to him. "Master Kota, what's happening?"
"Commander Skywalker, Commander Tano; we were wondering where you had gone" said Kota "I'm afraid that you missed the briefing; we're heading out now so we'll have to catch you up. R2 show them" R2 beeped and projected a hologram of Corvala. "Our main forces will arrive at the front of the city and issue a challenge. This will draw their attention and send their forces out. While they're distracted, I will lead a small strike team and take force Mas Amedda into surrender"
"What if he doesn't?" asked Luke.
"I can be quite persuasive" replied Kota.
"Still; how are we supposed to get in?" asked Ahsoka.
"Many many years ago, the Togrutas built a secret passageway under the city" said Kota "This is how the Governor escaped the Empire upon arrival and they since used it to smuggle food and civilians out"
"That's actually quite a good plan" said Ahsoka "How did you think of it?"
"I didn't" replied Kota "Your droid did" R2 beeped boastfully as he turned the hologram off. "He held this plan amongst his files. Whilst I was not present for it, I recognize this as the strategy for the Battle of Naboo"
"What if the Empire recognizes it?" asked Luke.
"The Battle of Naboo was more than three decades ago, before the Empire's time" said Kota "Amedda may have been around that time, but he wasn't involved in the conflict; and I doubt that any of the Imperial officers were involved with it"
"Not to question the strategy, but I don't think we have enough forces to hold the army out for long" said Orvanta approaching them.
"General Madine's forces are on their way" said Kota "If we haven't retaken Corvala by then, his arrival will help us overrun them"
Later
"Grand Vizier…" said Crowshan as he entered the room.
"Speak, commander" replied Amedda.
"Our scouts have spotted an army of Rebels and Togrutas approaching the city, but there is still no sign of General Kota" said Crowshan.
"I suggest sending our army forth but keeping the city's interior defenses" said Octeren "General Kota may be attempting to take us down from within whilst using the battle as a smokescreen"
"Very well" said Amedda "If Kota wishes to throw his life his life away, then he's my guest"
Meanwhile
The Rebel and Togruta forces marched towards Corvala until finally stopping. Marc got out his electrobinoculars and looked at the gate to the city.
"We're in position, Kota" said Marc into his comlink "But they haven't come out yet"
"Don't make a move until they show themselves" said Kota out of his comlink "Remember to call in Wedge and the other fliers when they show themselves"
"Got it" said Marc into his comlink. It was then that the gates opened. Imperial forces moved out." Well; here they come" He noticed that all the stormtroopers were hidden behind dark troopers. Marc smirked. "Smart; keep the stormtroopers behind protection because otherwise they'll die first. Alright, Wedge; time to start"
"Got it" said Wedge's voice. In a matter of seconds, a group of T-47 airspeeders sped over the hills and started shooting down the Imperial forces. Wedge was leading them along with his gunner Wes Janson. "Let's get 'em, boys!" A lot of the dark troopers at the front got full blast of it, exposing the stormtroopers behind them.
"Looks like we're breaking their lines" said Marc "Time to do this!"
Meanwhile
Orvanta led Kota, Luke, Ahsoka, Dawn, and various other Rebel troopers and Togrutas through the tunnels which led to the city.
"Not long now" said Orvanta "We're almost there" Ahsoka walked up to Luke.
"Luke, there's something I should tell you" said Ahsoka.
"What is it?" asked Luke.
"I meant to tell you last night; my parents have…ask me if I can stay with them" said Ahsoka.
"Excuse me?" said Luke.
"I know, I know; it sounds abrupt since we only just met, but perhaps that's the reason why it sounds so…tempting"
"You're talking about turning your back on the Jedi Order" said Luke "Don't you remember when we first met you told me that you would complete your training"
"I know, I know" said Ahsoka "But having finally met my parents…there's so much I want to do with them, so much I want to know"
"You can't do that" said Luke "There's a war going on. We need as many people as we can get to help us; if we just turn away from it, we're only allowing the Empire to win"
"Luke, I understand that" said Ahsoka "I understand all of it; but they're my parents. I feel bad enough that they had to go through life without watching their daughter grow up, I just don't want to leave them again. Besides; when all this is over, my parents and the rest of my people will have to rebuild everything and they need all the hands they can get"
"Quiet!" said Orvanta "We're here" They had reached a single ladder which reached up to the top. "I'll go first" He climbed up the ladder and peeked out through the disguised trapdoor. No Imperials. "All clear" One by one they climbed up. They came out at the roots of a large tree on the outskirts of the city.
"There's the Governor's tower" said Kota "In order to catch Mas Amedda of guard we must make sure that no one sees us. Let's go"
Meanwhile
The battle on the field raged on heavily. Marc shot down several stormtroopers in his path. At that moment, an AT-ST walked up to him and started shooting repeatedly. He sprinted out of the way just before it was shot down by a Rebel AAT. He just managed to get out of the way as the AT-ST remains almost landed on top of him. A dark trooper stood over him and pointed its blaster at him. Suddenly, he was shot in the back of the head and fell over dead. Captain Hushin arrived and helped him up.
"Word of advice: if you wanna' survive the battle, try to stay on your feet" said Hushin.
"Thanks for the advice" said Marc sarcastically. They then stood back-to-back and started shooting down every stormtrooper or dark trooper that approached them.
"Man; this is gonna' be one heck of a story I'm gonna' tell the wife and kids" said Hushin.
"Didn't know you were married" said Marc.
"I guess I'll tell you another time" said Hushin "Preferably when we're not getting shot at" Wedge's airspeeder flew down close to the battlefield.
"Ready?" said Wedge.
"On it!" said Janson. They started shooting down all Imperial vehicles in their path before swinging upwards.
"That got 'em" said Wedge. Suddenly, an AT-AA shot at their airspeeder and they crashed to the ground. Wedge got himself up as did Janson. He grabbed two blasters from his cockpit and chucked one of them to Janson. "Here; if we're going across the battlefield we'll need armament"
Meanwhile
Kota and the rest of the team snuck through the streets quietly. They got closer to the tower.
"We're almost there" said Orvanta quietly.
"Watch out!" said Dawn. She pulled Orvanta back into the shadows as a 2-M Hover Tank passed them through the streets. When the coast was clear, they ran up to the courtyard at the front of the tower.
"Odd; I was expecting guards" said Ahsoka.
"They're saving all their security for the inside" said Kota. He looked all the way up at the tower. "One thing is certain; we're not going to take the front door"
"That is why we'll take the secret entrance" said Orvanta "This way" It was then that they heard a jet-like sound approaching them. They all turned around to find Boba Fett flying towards them. He started firing his wrist laser at them.
"Watch out!" exclaimed Ahsoka. As Fett flew at them, he swung up to a building arch, grabbed onto it from below, and swung up on top of it.
"Sith's spit!" said Kota "Bounty hunter; just what we needed!"
"Ahsoka and I have handled with him before" said Luke "We'll take care of this" He and Ahsoka ignited their lightsabers. Fett stepped himself off the arch, using his jetpack to lighten his landing.
"This way!" said Orvanta. He led Kota and the others out of the courtyard.
"Stay out of this, Fett" said Luke "You've done enough"
"No disrespect; but do me a favor and die!" said Fett. He pointed his flamethrower at them and spouted flames at an alarming rate.
Meanwhile
Orvanta brought the rest of the group to a wall at the side of the palace.
"Now for how we escaped from the palace itself" said Orvanta. He pushed the bricks on the wall in a sequence and a doorway opened up. They walked through into a passageway. Some of the rebel troopers turned lamps on to see through the passages. Kota used his lightsaber to light the way. They reached a dead end. "Everyone, stay quiet" He looked through a periscope-like viewing device in the wall. "Clear" He pressed a certain brick on the wall which triggered a staircase to be formed that led them up into the Governor's bedroom. The bed itself had moved upwards to form the entrance.
"We're in" said Kota "From this point we'll have to keep radio silence" The entire group turned off their comlinks. "Let's make our way to the office"
Meanwhile
Fett started shooting multiple shots at Luke and Ahsoka before becoming airborne again. He fired a rocket at them from his wrist which they both only just avoided.
"Give up, Fett" said Luke "We defeated you once, we can do it again"
"Don't count on it, mister!" said Fett. He shot out his fibercord whip at Ahsoka's wrist and used it to pull her up. She quickly used her lightsaber to cut it off.
"Seriously; you're using the same sort of tactics you used the last times we encountered" said Ahsoka.
"Really?" said Fett. He got out a trigger and pressed its button. Suddenly, countless mines beneath them went off, releasing a cloud of smoke which made things difficult to see. Fett landed silently so as to not reveal himself. Luke and Ahsoka stayed close to each other.
"Okay; this makes things difficult" said Luke.
"We'll have to clear the smoke" said Ahsoka. Suddenly, something came in behind Luke and punched him at the back of the head, knocking him to the ground. "Luke!" Suddenly, something punched her at the back of the head and knocked her to the ground. She quickly grabbed Luke and rolled to the side before a blaster shot almost hit them. They quickly got themselves up.
"Something tells me he was prepared for this" said Luke. Ahsoka pushed the smoke away using the Force. There was so much smoke that only a small area around them could be cleared.
Meanwhile
Kota's group moved silently through the hallways.
"We should be getting close to the office now" said Kota quietly. Suddenly, a ray shield came down over them. In a matter of seconds, they were surrounded by stormtroopers. The ones in the front parted to make way for Amedda, Crowshan, and Octeren.
"Welcome, General Kota" said Amedda "We've been expecting you"
"You had this planned all along!" snapped Kota.
"Indeed, general" replied Amedda "Boba Fett was kind enough to take up the job of reconnaissance and spying, for an increase in payment of course, and he sure proved himself above any scout trooper. He told us everything he found out, including the battle on the field being a mere diversion…Which is why I made sure that the troops at the perimeter will move in on your men"
Meanwhile
The battle on the field grew even more hectic. Hushin finished shooting down a group of stormtroopers before grabbing out a thermal detonator from his belt and threw at an Imperial AT-MP, causing it to blow up.
"They should've finished it by now" said Marc "What's taking them?"
"They'll get their job done whilst we carry on with ours" said Hushin. Marc started looking around himself and he started to realize something—for some reason, they were being surrounded by Imperial forces, even from behind.
"What a second…the Imps had this planned all along!" said Marc "Look; they've surrounded us" Hushin looked around
"Wait; how were they able to hide that many vehicles and troopers from us on our way here?" said Hushin.
"The perimeter!" exclaimed Marc "They're closing in around us!"
"I've got a bad feeling about this" said Wedge. The stormtrooper commander in black armor stepped forward and pointed his blaster at them.
"Vizier Amedda, we have them surrounded" said the stormtrooper commander into his comlink.
Meanwhile
"Excellent work, commander" said Amedda into a comlink held in his hands "Stand your ground until further notice. As you can see, we hold all the cards. Now; perhaps we can discuss this surrender like professionals, General Kota. General Kota?" Kota was examining the generator of the ray shield.
"Interesting" said Kota "This ray shield generator seems to have been simply grafted to the roof. You must have only recently attached it there"
"And why does that matter?" asked Amedda. Kota noticed that Crowshan held a remote on his belt.
"Because you should have left the generator's remote back in the office" said Kota. He force-gripped the remote and crushed it, causing the ray shield to go offline. Kota ignited his lightsaber and pointed it at Amedda. All the stormtroopers pointed their blasters at him in response.
"I wouldn't if I were you" said Amedda "I still hold all the cards. All I need is to signal the commander and he'll finish every last one of your men at will; and after that, he has orders to gather his forces together and burn every last forest to the ground until he reaches the secret Togruta stronghold. Tell me, general, is it a risk you're willing to take?" After a moment of complete tension, Kota let out a defeated breath and turned his lightsaber off.
"Stand down" said Kota. Amedda smiled evilly.
"I thought not" said Amedda "Now; shall we discuss the fate of this planet? This way" He led the rest of them down the hallway.
"You were just threatening them about killing the civilians, right?" said Crowshan "I mean; soldiers I understand, but we're talking about women, children, whole families. That seems…just too far"
"Didn't teach you at the academy, commander?" said Amedda "First rule of war; there are always casualties, and they can be used to your advantage if you are the willing side. Perhaps that's why they sent me to counsel you"
Meanwhile
Luke and Ahsoka made their way through the smoke. They were careful not to talk in hopes that Fett wouldn't notice them. Little did they know however was that he had other methods.
Boba Fett vision
Fett's visor had been set to infrared so he could see them easily through the smoke. He readied his blaster, pointed it steadily at both Luke and Ahsoka, and shot.
Back to normal
It was at that moment that Luke pushed Ahsoka over to the ground.
"Get down!" exclaimed Luke. Ahsoka looked up at Luke who had her inadvertently pinned to the ground.
"Wow…you're getting really good at this" said Ahsoka. The two shared an awkward moment before Luke got himself and her up.
Meanwhile
Kota and the rest of his group were led into the Governor's office. Amedda sat himself down at the desk. Octeren pulled out a chair and placed it at the front of the desk.
"Please; take a seat, general" said Amedda. Kota sat himself down. "You should consider it an honor to end this battle without more bloodshed" Kota didn't reply. "Do not worry; no harm will come to your men as long as you agree to our terms"
"What is there to talk about?" asked Kota.
"Simple; tell us the location of the Togruta stronghold and we will spare all of you, including the Togruta civilians" said Amedda.
"You would locate the stronghold yourselves anyway" said Kota.
"Yes" replied Amedda "But if it's taken willingly or not is your decision" Kota thought for a moment.
"May I speak with my group?" asked Kota.
"And why should I let you?" said Amedda.
"I would like to discuss the decision with them" replied Kota "After all; it is their fate we are talking about"
"Very well" said Amedda reluctantly "If you must" Kota stood up and walked over to a corner with the rest of the group and started talking.
Meanwhile
"Can't they just make up their minds and be done with it?" said Hushin "It's the waiting I can't stand"
"Yeah; worst part's definitely being at the mercy of these bucket-heads" said Wedge.
"Quiet; both of you!" said the stormtrooper commander "You do realize that I am merely waiting for orders. As soon as they come in, your survival is in our hands" Hushin looked up at the sky.
"Wouldn't count on that" said Hushin.
"What makes you so sure?" asked the stormtrooper commander.
"I believe the term is "the cavalry"" replied Hushin. The stormtrooper commander looked up at the sky and sure enough Rebel ships were coming down from the sky. Many of them started shooting down the Imperial forces.
"Aim for those ships!" snapped the stormtrooper commander. The Imperial vehicles shot back, but they started to become overwhelmed, especially since a portion of the vehicles had been destroyed in the battle. A Rebel gunship flew down and Crix Madine walked out of it.
"General Madine…took you long enough" smirked Hushin.
"I don't get it" said Marc "How did you guys get in here; I know that the vehicle and soldiers at the perimeter came here, but at the very least they would've kept the autoturrets in place"
"They did" replied Madine "But without the support of the vehicles, they weren't much to handle. Come aboard" Marc, Hushin, Wedge, and Janson entered the gunship.
Meanwhile
Kota sat back down in his chair.
"I believe you have made your decision" said Amedda.
"I have" replied Kota.
"And?" said Amedda. Kota was about to reply when the stormtrooper commander's voice came in on Amedda's comlink.
"Vizier Amedda, a Rebel unit has entered the atmosphere" said the stormtrooper commander "We are overrun"
"I guess it doesn't matter now" said Kota. He stood up and ignited his lightsaber, pointing it at Amedda.
"How dare you!" snapped Amedda "You can't do this; you just surrendered to me!"
"I never surrendered" said Kota.
"Shoot them!" snapped Amedda. The stormtroopers pointed their blasters towards Kota and the others, but Kota quickly struck at several of them, causing the rest of the stormtroopers to become more disorganized. Octeren grabbed a blaster and pointed it at Kota, but Kota simply force-pushed him out of a window. A stormtrooper crept up behind him and pointed his blaster at him but Kota swung around in the blink of an eye and cut his head off before he could even shoot.
"That's the last of 'em" said Dawn. Kota turned to Amedda and pointed his lightsaber him.
"Looks like the tide has turned" said Kota "I believe a surrender is in order"
"Surrender?" said Amedda "To you? You Rebel filth are a disease and you Jedi are enemies of the Empire. I would sooner face eternity in the Maw then bow to y—" At that moment, Crowshan had snuck up behind him and knocked him out with his own staff.
"That was unexpected" said Orvanta.
"Whatever; just lock me up somewhere away from these psychopaths" said Crowshan "Anything is better than this"
Meanwhile
Luke and Ahsoka waited carefully for any sign of Fett; but he was nowhere to be seen.
"He could be anywhere" whispered Ahsoka "His helmet must help him see through the smoke"
"He really planned this out" whispered Luke "He must have spent ages planting those bombs" However, it was then that he remembered the words of Obi-Wan.
"Your eyes can deceive you, don't trust them"
Luke closed his eyes and started walking forward.
"Luke, what are you doing?" said Ahsoka quietly. It was then that a blaster bolt shot forward, which Luke immediately deflected with his lightsaber which he ignited in a flash.
"Ahhh!" exclaimed Fett's voice.
"Woah!" said Ahsoka "What did you just do?"
"I'm not so sure myself" said Luke. They walked forward in the direction the blaster bolt had been deflected until they reached the outskirts of the smoke where the smoke was really starting to clear. Fett lay on the ground with no sign of movement.
"Do you think he's…" said Ahsoka. Luke kneeled down to get a closer look at Fett. Suddenly, Fett's head turned towards Luke and in what seemed like an instant he head-locked Luke with his legs and slammed his head to the ground, knocking him unconscious. He then swiftly grabbed Ahsoka by one of her lekku and pulled her towards him so he could punch her in the face, knocking her unconscious as well. He then stood up and pointed his blaster rifle towards them.
"Easy prey!" said Fett.
"Freeze!" said a voice. He looked up to find himself cornered by rebel troopers, led by Madine.
"You have nowhere to go, bounty hunter" said Madine "Drop the weapon and put your hands up" Fett dropped his blaster rifle and slowly put his hands up. Suddenly, he pointed his wrist at them and fired his flamethrower at them.
"Look out!" exclaimed a rebel trooper. They backed away to avoid the flames. Fett grabbed his blaster rifle and activated his jetpack, flying off. The rebel troopers fired at him, but he shot back as he flew away out of sight.
"Lost him!" said Madine. Some of the rebel troopers helped Luke and Ahsoka get up. "Are you two alright?"
"We're fine" said Luke "Just a little beat up" At that moment, Slave I arose and flew off.
"Looks like your bounty hunter got away though" said Madine.
"We'll get him next time" said Luke. It was then that Kota, Dawn, Orvanta, and the rest of the group came out of the tower via the front entrance.
"The Empire has surrendered" said Kota "This battle is won"
Later
A hologram of Kota, Rachi Sitra, and K'Kruhk stood in Mon Mothma's office around a hologram of Hom Ferm.
"With Master Ferm's death, the Jedi have lost yet another" said Sitra "The Clone Wars and Order 66 wiped out most of our numbers as well as the subsequent Great Jedi Purge; as far as we know, we're all that is left. But we will honor his memory by continuing to live on and ensuring that the Order survives in some way or form. Although we have no body to perform proper funeral arrangements, we will show our respect to him as a Jedi nonetheless" The three of them ignited their lightsabers and held them up.
"For the Jedi!" said the three of them simultaneously.
Later
The streets of Corvala were filled with countless Togrutas and rebel troopers. Ahsoka sat on the steps of the courtyard to the governor's tower. Luke walked up to her and sat down next to her. There was an uncomfortable silence between them for almost a minute before Luke decided to break it.
"Well; we did it" said Luke "We freed your people" Ahsoka didn't reply. Luke gently put a hand on her shoulder. "Listen; I know what you're thinking about. I understand that it's a hard decision to make; but no matter what, I'll be fine with it" Ahsoka looked up to him and sighed.
"But you were right; we're talking about leaving the Jedi Order, leaving behind all of you guys…I just can't do it" said Ahsoka "I was crazy for thinking it would"
"You weren't" said Luke "Whatever your decision, nobody will think less of you"
"It's not about what people think of me that I'm worrying about" said Ahsoka "We need everyone we can get to succeed in this war, and I can't just turn my back on that"
"Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru were the only family I ever knew, and they're gone" said Luke "I lost the opportunity to truly know my family long ago. You…you have that opportunity" They could see Ahsoka's parents in the crowd. "Go on; go to them" Ahsoka took a deep breath, stood up, and walked over to her parents. R2 rolled up to Luke and beeped. "I had to do it, R2; I don't think I could've lived with myself if I didn't at least try" Ahsoka walked up to her parents nervously.
"Mum…Dad" said Ahsoka nervously. They turned around.
"Honey, so glad to see you're safe" said Arlas whilst hugging Ahsoka.
"When we didn't find you amongst the crowd we feared the worst" said Mathren. Ahsoka felt butterflies in her stomach.
"I've been thinking about the proposition you gave me" said Ahsoka "About me staying here with you"
"And have you made your decision?" asked Mathren.
"I would love to stay with you" said Ahsoka "But I can't. There's a war going on and I have to see it through. The galaxy needs the Jedi more than ever now and I just can't turn my back on it and live with it. I just want you to know that I'm sorry about this; you must be extremely upset about this"
"We could never be upset with you" said Arlas.
"We could never be more proud of you" said Mathren.
"You have grown into a beautiful young woman and are a hero working for a better galaxy" said Arlas "If it's your choice to stay with the Rebellion, we understand that" Ahsoka managed a smile. The three of them hugged.
"Don't worry, I'll stay in touch whenever I can" said Ahsoka. Afterwards, she walked back over to Luke.
"So…I guess this is goodbye" said Luke "After the celebration, we're heading off. Listen; for what it's worth, you've been a very good friend and I hope we can meet again sometime in the future"
"I'm staying with the Alliance" said Ahsoka. Luke looked surprised.
"I don't understand" said Luke "I thought you always wanted to meet your parents"
"I do" said Ahsoka "But I made a promise, and I intend to fulfill it. Besides…" She grabbed hold of Luke's hand. "They're not the only family I've got"
Author's note: Just to let people know; the main stormtrooper commander in this chapter who wore the black armor was Commander Cody. His armor is designed to help his aging body move fluently and gives him additional strength. The design was based off a stormtrooper design I found on the internet.