Chapter 25 - Vignettes
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I do not own Harry Potter or Star Wars, and I make no profit from this work of fanfiction. I am in the debt of its true owners as they have been the creators of worlds of fiction that millions have enjoyed. All Hail to JKR and GL!
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HoloNet News
Reordering of the Imperial Senate
The speaker of the Imperial Senate, Mas Amedda made a rare statement to reporters. "The Imperial Senate is set for a long overdue shake-up. It will continue to operate as a political body, but there will be new procedural rules. These will put an end to the incessant obstructionism that plagued its previous incarnation."
This statement came as rumours persist of illegal activities and warrants being issued for a growing list of Senators.
Read more here
Proposed Legislation paves way for Military Governors
Emperor Palpatine has suggested that he will be proposing new legislation to elevate Military Governors. It is proposed that their responsibilities will include not only the security of their assigned sectors but also a swathe of political responsibilities.
Read more here
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Deep Space
Sev'rance stared at the shuttle's controls for nearly an hour after the spirit of Vectivus had departed. She was trying to centre herself as her thoughts raced. Frustrated she found herself caught in past memories.
His words around making a choice were resonating as the truth. She had always prided herself on her strength, and lately her ability to use the Force. As a child of a ruling family, her path had been set. Her education had been the best the Chiss could offer. Her training in the Chiss military had consisted of success after success. Yet she had never felt that it was enough. Then her family had been exposed for corruption and exiled. She had left Chiss space with her new lover Vandalor and eventually met Dooku. He was to be her path to true power.
Yet less than a year later Vandalor was dead, Dooku and then Sidious had betrayed her.
She had been trained by Dooku; First as a Jedi, and then finally as a Dark Acolyte. Now but she now knew that she had been nothing but a tool to 'her masters'.
Vectivus had spoken to her of her dreams of a return to the Chiss Ascendancy. It had re-awoken her dream of becoming a powerful Force user with a strong male at her side. Once more her thought turned to rebuilding her shattered family with Force strong children. Was such a thing still possible?
Mere hours ago the memory of Sirius thrusting into her as she arched her back in ecstasy left her feeling confused. Now it focused her.
The past was gone, what did she want her future to be?
Vectivus implied Sirius was what sought and he was right, in part. She needed a goal of her own to focus on, to strive for.
She was a warrior, a General. It was time to find her cause.
The Force Adepts were elusive and if Sirius was indeed counted among their number he would be difficult to find. Nothing, however, was beyond the Force.
Sev'rance smiled as she set to work reconfiguring her communications. She would find him after all the Force was with her.
oOoOo
Concordia Moon - Mandalore System
"Well that went well," said Obi-Wan as the Mandalorian Medic put a Bacta patch on one of his cuts.
"It could have been worse," said Bo-Katan. "I could have had to carry you."
Satine hid a smile at the conversation between her estranged sister and Obi-Wan. The Jedi Master had been somewhat embarrassed to be rescued. Her eyes went to where the Force Adepts stood beneath their ship talking quietly as they seemingly ignored the Mandalorian guards surrounding them. The two leaders, Harry and Luna, looked far too young to be more than Padawans.
"They are quite the enigma," said Obi-Wan as he stood and readjusted his clothes.
Bo-Katan glanced over at the small group, "They're good fighters. The Sith damn near took my head off, but the boy took him down then got us out of there. That teleport trick of his would have been handy in a few fights."
"Who are they Obi-Wan?" asked Satine.
"An interesting question, they are known to the Jedi as Force Adepts. A former Jedi, Talia trained Harry and Luna. Since then they have been gathering any Force-sensitives they could to join their sect. With a great deal of success," explained Kenobi.
"Can they be trusted?" asked Satine.
Kenobi stroked his beard as he tried to phrase an answer, "They have not recognised the Jedi Council, although they have helped us on several occasions; enough that Yoda and the council considered them friendly. Personally I trust them to help but I have no idea they want in the long run."
"They look young," said Satine.
"They are young, but they are also rather skilled," Kenobi reassured her.
"They talking about us?" asked Harry.
"I'd guess so," replied Luna. "So what do we do now?"
"Well, we wanted to know what was happening on Mandalore. We might as well find out," said Harry as he walked over to Kenobi.
Satine studied Harry as he walked over toward her. His grey tunic still bore a darkened patch on his shoulder. A blaster burn, she realized with a frown. Even a near miss would require medical treatment. Why hadn't a medic seen to it?
"Obi-Wan, we have to stop meeting like this," said Harry with a grin.
Kenobi sighed theatrically before smiling, "It is good to see you, Harry, although rather unexpected."
"We wanted to check out Mandalore after we heard Palpatine was moving forces into position. It looks like we were right to think it was being targeted," explained Harry.
"Targeted?" asked Bo-Katan.
"We think that he wants control of the Mandalorians. Probably so he can rebuild his forces. Clones are good front line troops, but they take time to produce and train," replied Harry.
"We fear you may be right," said Satine.
Harry studied Satine for a second before offering a bow, "Duchess Satine?"
Satine inclined her head in acknowledgement, "I was, but now I serve as Mand'alor. What are your plans now that you know our plight?"
Harry studied the woman for a long moment before replying, "We are not an army Mand'alore Satine, but we shall lend what aid we can. We have access to resources that may help your people."
Satine gestured toward Kenobi, "Obi-Wan and my…Bo-Katan has brought word that there are others that would seek to assist us. What would you be offering that was different?"
"Perhaps Mand'alore if I were to have a better understanding of the situation I would be able to answer that," countered Harry.
"Mand'alore there are clones approaching the outer pickets," called out a Mandalorian in full armor. "We have less than thirty minutes."
"Is your ship ready to fly?" asked Kenobi.
"She should be close to it," replied Harry.
"Our ship was hit; I need to get word back to Bel Iblis about the situation here," explained Kenobi. "If Palpatine is going to step up the invasion we will need to get more supplies here as soon as possible."
"And if they now know the location of our base we will need to finish our relocation to our next position," added Satine.
"How many of your people did you bring here?" asked Harry.
"Twenty, the rest are already on the way to our new base," replied Satine.
"Right we can fit that many aboard the Lily," Harry Turned and waved to Luna. "Change of plans we need to get everyone aboard. Check with Velath to see if we are ready to fly."
"On it," replied Luna as she hurried up the Lily's ramp.
"As soon as we take off they may well be tracking us on sensors," warned Bo-Katan as she studied the Lily.
"Let's hope that there is enough traffic to disguise us," replied Harry.
oOoOo
Harry strapped himself into the pilot's seat and began prepping the Lily for flight operations as Luna began talking to Velath and Sahdra in engineering.
"We are right to go, Harry, main power is back at one hundred percent," reported Luna.
"Right-o, check everyone is aboard and let everyone know that they will need to strap in," replied Harry as he began powering up the ship.
"On it Harry," said Ret as he hurried aft.
"Obi-Wan make yourself useful and take Bo-Katan to man the turbo-lasers," suggested Luna as she concentrated on the co-pilots instruments.
"How are we going to avoid being spotted?" asked Obi-Wan.
"Don't worry," Harry said with a grin. "I have a plan."
oOoOo
Satine winced as the ship rolled unexpectedly. The gravity generators compensated but not enough. The wave of disorientation passed slowly as she considered just how badly her leadership would be affected if she threw up all over herself.
"We are nearly there," said Harry cheerfully.
Satine tried to answer as the ship began to corkscrew before levelling out. Instead, she concentrated on her rebelling stomach.
When she calmed her nausea, she risked looking out the window to see a large natural cavern beneath a cliff face. Somehow she had survived the journey to the new base.
"Everyone okay back there?" asked Harry as he landed the Lily in the mouth of the cavern.
"You…you idiot!" screeched Satine. "How…why did you do that?"
"We got here, nobody detected us," said Harry.
"You were barely above the trees…I saw a damn Strill, in a tree, ABOVE US," yelled Satine.
"Well that was exhilarating," said Obi-Wan as he re-entered the bridge.
oOoOo
"So what will you do now?" asked Obi-Wan.
Harry shrugged, "We continue doing what we can to help. The Adepts don't have an army, so I'm not sure what we can do to help the Mand'alore other than supply equipment and supplies. We could assist with their defences, but I'll not force them to let us help."
Obi-Wan scratched at his beard, "What do you mean about helping with the defences?"
"We can set up wards and other Force protections that should help keep their base hidden," said Luna as she walked up followed by Velath and Bo-Katan. "I was about to set up a demonstration for Satine."
"Would it be possible for me to watch?" asked Obi-Wan
"Of course, as long as Satine doesn't mind," Luna said with a shrug.
Luna's demonstration was pretty convincing as her spells hid the Lily from sight. Then she did the same the cave entrance.
"How…how did you do that?" asked Satine. "Is it a hologram?"
"Go and try and find the ship," suggested Luna with a grin.
Obi-Wan walked toward where the ship had been and paused before looking around in confusion. He walked back to Luna with a puzzled expression, "Alright what was that?"
"Obi-Wan?" prompted Satine.
"When I approached the ship I forgot what I was doing and remembered that I needed to speak to you. It was only after I moved away that I could remember what I had been doing," explained Obi-Wan.
Luna grinned, "Aversion charm and a couple of disillusionment spells. It makes you think you have forgotten something, or you have to do something, somewhere else. When you tie it to a disillusioned object you have a pretty good way of hiding things."
"This is Force based?" asked Obi-Wan as his mind raced. This was a Force application he had never encountered.
"Sure is," replied Luna. "Best thing is that I can create exceptions when I cast it. So you could specify that everyone inside at the time will remember, but only them. Everyone else would be affected. I might need to tweak it a bit."
Satine shook her head in wonder, "That is brilliant Luna. How long would it last and would it fool electronics?"
"It could be made permanent if that is the intent of the caster," replied Luna. "We know it fools electronics as we use it to protect our home."
"If it was permanent, what would it take to break the protections?" asked Satine.
"Technically you could cut the Force connection but to do that you would have to understand how it works," explained Luna.
"It would certainly help hide your base, but it's not like a shield," added Harry. "There is no protection from damage, so if they fired weapons at the Lily, it would still hit the ship and still do damage."
Satine turned away from the hidden cave and ship, "Still, it would be a useful addition to our defences."
Luna gave Satine a bright smile, "Don't forget that we can also help with your food and medical supplies although probably not until the blockade is lifted."
Satine smiled and nodded, "That would be appreciated."
"Not that I don't appreciate you helping Satine's people, but may I ask why?" asked Obi-Wan. The Adepts' had helped the Jedi and the Republic in the past, but he still had some lingering doubts as to their motivations.
Harry grinned, "Besides helping the Mandalorians and annoying Palpatine?
Obi-Wan just raised an eyebrow.
Harry sighed, rather theatrically, "Fine, you would think that helping bail out your lot would earn us some trust. We are, as we have said before, seeking out Force sensitives to join or ally with our people. We are also looking to stop or at least hamper Palpatine and his little evil empire. This seemed like an excellent opportunity to do so."
Obi-Wan looked like he was going to speak again when Satine laid a hand on his arm, "Enough Obi-Wan. I thank you for any help you can offer. We Mandalorians are a proud people. I had once hoped that we may be able to move from war to peace, but that choice was taken from us. We, I would be a fool to deny you."
"How bad is it?" asked Harry as Bo-Katan joined the small group.
Satine gestured toward Mandalore, which dominated the sky of Concordia, "Pre Vizsla forced me to choose between civil war and my resignation. My political allies were caught unawares and so I refused and was imprisoned. While I was in prison Pre Vizsla was killed."
"By two Sith called Maul and Oppress," added Bo-Katan. "That was when I took the Night Owl's and any Death Watch who would not follow the Sith and got off Mandalore. I am a Mandalorian not a tool of the Sith. Once I have sufficient troops, I'll take back Mandalore." As she finished her hand dropped to the Dark Sabre on her belt.
Satine studied Bo-Katan for a moment before returning her attention to Harry and Luna. "Almec, the imprisoned former Prime Minister was running the government for the Sith. He is still in charge as far as I know, but the original Sith are dead."
"What …how?" demanded Bo-Katan.
"Another Sith, I now suspect it was Palpatine, killed them both. I only barely escaped the clones that came to kill me. Afterwards I gathered what people I could and we began the campaign to win back our world," replied Satine.
"Can you win?" asked Luna.
Satine straightened and her hand fell to her blaster, "With things as they stand? I doubt it, still we won't give up. If we want peace, we are going to have to fight for it."
Bo-Katan smiled, "And the Night Owl's will help. It would be a pleasure to serve you Mand'alore."
"No," replied Satine with a shake of her head. "I want you and your people off world. They'll need your experience and you need to build up our forces." Seeing Bo-Katan's frown, she quickly tried to explain. "I'll be fighting a guerrilla war; we will force them to tie up resources here until you return to liberate us…sister."
Bo-Katan looked like she was going to argue before simply saluting.
"Are you sure Satine?" asked Oni-Wan. This was a side of Satine he had never seen. She had fought for the peaceful path at every turn. To see her talking of fighting a guerrilla war was somewhat confronting.
"I must lead my people," replied Satine.
"Then we will help in any way we can," added Luna.
"I do have a…well, a situation that you might be able to help with," said Satine. "I'm not sure if this is something you will want to hear Obi-Wan."
"Well if you will excuse me, I will use the communications systems on your ship to let Bel Iblis know what is happening," said Obi-Wan with a smile. Given the enemy in orbit he probably wouldn't be able to get through with much more than an encoded data burst, but it was worth a try.
Once Obi-Wan had left, Satine spoke into her radio asking for their guests to be sent from the base, "They should be here shortly."
Harry exchanged a look with Luna as both wondered who the guests were that Satine didn't want Obi-Wan to see.
A few minutes later a figure in Mandalorian armour approached along with a short woman in civilian clothes. The young woman had long brown hair, freckled skin and was quite thin save for a rather pronounced baby bump.
She also had quite a powerful force presence.
Harry's eyes flicked down to see the lightsabre on the woman's belt. So she was likely a Jedi and the reason Satine was being cautious.
Satine gestured to the two newcomers, "Harry, Luna this is Darman and Etain of Clan Skirata. Don't worry my friends they are apparently trustworthy."
"We certainly are, how many weeks are you?" asked Luna with a smile.
"Twenty-four," replied Etain.
Satine cleared her throat, "I need to arrange transport for them."
"I'll stay, my clan is here," stated Darman.
"Bo-Katan will need help bringing our people together Darman," countered Satine. "You can help with that while you take care of Etain. She needs you, my friend."
Darman turned to Etain, "My love?"
Etain turned to study Luna and Harry before turning back to Darman, "They can be trusted. Our clan is safe for now, but Kal and the rest of our brothers are still out there, waiting to be liberated."
"Liberated?" asked Harry as he studied Darman's Force presence. Etain was like a beacon, but Darman was also familiar. "You are a clone?"
Darman tensed but before he could act Luna jumped in.
"Wow, so you've broken your programming? That's great."
Darman reached up and removed his helmet, "I...my squad and I were trained by a Mandalorian. I don't know if that was what made us different, but we had already decided to leave the Republic before Order sixty-six went out. Kal, my trainer and now my adopted father brought us here to Mandalore."
Etain offered a wan smile, "Unfortunately the Empire was right on our heels. Dar and I got married and now," she laid a hand on her stomach. "Well, I doubt I'm welcome back among the Jedi."
"Where ever they've run to," muttered Darman.
Harry laughed but quickly sobered as Darman tensed, "I'm not laughing at your situation it's just that you are the second pregnant Jedi I've been in a position to help. We can certainly transport you."
"Who was the other?" asked Etain curiously. She had been fairly busy with missions and hadn't heard any gossip at all.
"A former Padawan named Keisha," explained Luna. "She joined us rather than be expelled from the order."
Etain studied Luna for a minute before nodding, "We should both go Dar. At least until I have the baby."
Darman looked torn as Satine stepped forward, "Darman, you accepted me as Mand'alore and swore to my service. Please go with Etain. Have your child and help build an army to free Mandalore."
Darman saluted, "Yes Mand'alore."
Bo-Katan walked over to Darman and looked the taller clone in the eyes. "Clan Skirata is a clan of warriors. Honourable warriors, I would welcome your aid."
Harry shrugged and turned to talk to Luna, "This is going to be a bit awkward if we are taking Obi-Wan as well."
"I am not ashamed of my marriage or my pregnancy," said Etain.
"And there is no reason why you should be," Luna reassured Etain. "I think Obi-Wan may surprise you anyway."
oOoOo
The preparations to leave were pretty straight forward. The Lily was ready to depart and drop Obi-Wan & Bo-Katan back to Bel Iblis and his fleet. Etain and Darman were still undecided as to where they should go given the circumstances. Harry was fairly certain Luna would make the offer for them to live on Haven pretty much straight away.
Turning his attention to the scanners he frowned. The system was still relatively active and nearly all those craft were not going to be friendly. The Lily was pretty much top shelf as far as commercial vessels. Fast and well-armed but she was not a warship and would not stand up to concentrated fire from the ships in the system.
Harry closed his eyes and focused on the tactical situation. As he relaxed, he let his mind turn over the facts as the Force swirled around him.
There…his eyes flew open as he looked over the scanners. Yes, there was a gap in the blockade he could exploit. A direct course toward Mandalore and then a rapid course change, yes it was doable.
Flicking the intercom on he let everyone know.
oOoOo
Meanwhile on Abushu IV
Sirius Black cursed his wretched luck as he considered his situation.
He had volunteered to scout out a location that had been a possible location for a Force sensitive. The locals called him the mad sage and although they feared him, they still went to him for aid with the brigands and thieves that frequented this backwater colony.
Sirius had watched the older man chopping wood for nearly an hour before he approached. He only got a far as 'hello'.
Which is the 'how' of why he ended up in a muddy ditch, what had he done to deserve this?
He had tried to reason with the man, but that was hard as he was kept avoiding numerous projectiles being launched at him by the madly cackling man.
Holding his wand, he prepared himself. A quick stunner should do the trick. He stood and spun.
"Stu…"
oOoOo
"Back with me are you?" asked an accented voice.
Sirius opened his eyes to see the 'Mad Sage' sitting on a wooden chair. The man had a quite impressive smirk.
Sirius tried to shift position but found that, annoyingly he was tied to a chair.
Sirius raised an eyebrow, "Is there a non-sexual reason why I am tied up? I really hope there is."
"Ha, funny," the Mad Sage smiled, "What is your name funny Jedi?"
"Sirius Black and I am not a Jedi."
"Really, Sith then?" asked the older man in a voice that had suddenly grown much colder.
"Nope, Force Adept ," explained Sirius.
"That's a new one. So what do you want?"
"To try and talk for one thing," replied Sirius.
"Can't say that I am all that interested in talking but let's say I am. What do you want?"
"We are looking for Force sensitives to join our organisation," explained Sirius. "There is a war coming that will make this war look like two neighbours disagreeing over a fence. They want the Force stamped out. Our friend Palpatine is the first step down that road."
"Say I believe you, I'm not sure I do, why can't I just stay out of sight, stay off their sensors?"
"Palpatine wants it all," said Sirius.
"Frak, fine," the man gestured and the ropes slithered to the ground. "I can always tell when I'm being lied to, and you're not. I can't just up and leave, I've got relatives that need to be warned. If they can find me, they can find them."
Sirius rubbed his wrists, "I can give you a way to contact us. If you need to or if things go bad."
"Fair enough, let's talk."
Sirius smiled and began to explain.
oOoOo
Djinn Altis watched a nearby moon from an observation port as Remus approached him from behind.
"Djinn, Ashoka has the encryption set up," said Remus as he stopped to stand beside Altis, "An impressive view."
"It is indeed, ah well back to work," replied Altis.
"What do you think they will want?" asked Remus.
Altis shrugged, "Given their current situation, I'd suspect a call for some form of alliance. I very much doubt that they fully trust us but what choice do they have?"
oOoOo
Ashoka Tano almost rolled her eyes in frustration as Jedi Masters Sian Jeisel and Moris Tel-Thall went over their instructions, again.
'"Are you clear Padawan?" asked Tel-Thall.
"Yes Master," replied Tano. "I understand, but I am unsure why we don't just ask Master Altis. After all, his people saved your lives."
Jeisel sighed, "I trust Master Altis, but these Adepts are still an unknown factor. And before you say it, Ashoka, I know they have helped the order. I am not asking you to do anything immoral; I simply want to take the opportunity to understand what their role is in these affairs. Master Yoda wants to open a dialogue with them anyway."
"Again we could just ask, upfront about sending an envoy," argued Ashoka.
Ashoka activated her comm and called Master Altis.
oOoOo
"It is good to see you again Djinn," said Jeisel as she studied the older man.
"It has been quite a while Sian Jeisel," replied Altis with a warm smile. "I don't believe that you have formally met Remus."
Remus smiled, "Remus Lupin, Master Jeisel."
Jeisel studied the human, taking in his facial scars before offering him a polite nod, "A pleasure to meet you, Remus."
"Thank you for accepting Master Yoda's request for talks," said Jeisel.
Altis nodded, "I would normally bring more of our advisory council onboard but for now it's just Remus and me."
Jeisel began working the Holo-comm, "I was intrigued to hear that you had joined in an alliance with these Adepts. No offence Remus, but I had always understood that you still considered yourself Jedi."
"I still am a Jedi Sian. The Adepts make no distinction between Force users. We accept any who can use the Force," explained Altis.
"Even Sith?" asked Jeisel.
"We have no Sith members, but we do have some Force users whose skills may be considered dark. Each one must abide by our charter or leave."
Jeisel frowned as her eyes narrowed, "Truly you would embrace Dark Siders?"
Altis sighed, "Sian you are adopting a narrow view. I said whose skills may be considered dark from a Jedi viewpoint. We have former Jedi, Dathomiri, Followers of Palawa and we are seeking out others. Our mantra is balance."
"It is a dangerous line to walk old friend," warned Jeisel.
"We have a growing, harmonious community where knowledge is shared. So far the worst we've had to deal with has been a few minor cultural issues," added Remus. "We are preservers of knowledge in the hope that it will not be lost."
Jeisel considered before nodding, "A worthy enough goal."
A holographic image of Yoda appeared above the workstation, "Ah, good it is to see you all."
"Master Yoda," acknowledged Jeisel.
"Hello old friend," said Altis.
"My thanks you have for listening you have Djinn," said Yoda. "Expected Harry Potter I had."
"He is away from Haven at the moment," explained Altis. "I am able to represent the Adepts."
"Acceptable that is," replied Yoda. "Request I have. A great help your Adepts have been. Closer ties I would form."
Altis nodded, "That makes sense Yoda."
Yoda's image paused as a frown creased his face, "Distrust your motives, some among the Jedi still do. Agree I do not, so persuade them I must."
"What do you propose?" asked Altis.
"Accept an envoy will you?" asked Yoda.
Altis raised an eyebrow, "I must say I didn't expect that. May I ask why?"
"Trust we must build," explained Yoda.
"I agree, but I will need to talk to some of our people," Altis was thinking quickly through his options and some of his concern must have shown as Yoda's image leaned forward.
"Ask this lightly, I do not. Dark days ahead there are if work together we do not," explained Yoda.
"If I may Djinn?" injected Remus.
Altis nodded and Remus stepped forward, "I believe that, in part our hesitation is in regards to our ideological differences. We embrace a broader view of the Force than that espoused by the Jedi Council. We will not tolerate a disruptive influence berating the beliefs of others."
Yoda frowned, "Fear this is our aim you do?"
Remus shook his head, "Not really but would your envoy do if confronted with a Dathomiri Force user, or a Vahla? What would happen if your envoy wandered our archives and found ancient records of practices your order felt were dark?"
Yoda leaned on his stick looking thoughtful, "Understand I do, tolerance you seek?"
Remus nodded, "We don't need saving Master Jedi. There is also the matter of our home. At this stage, we believe that it remains hidden from Palpatine."
"Respect that we will," agreed Yoda.
"If you will give us a moment?" requested Remus before turning to Altis. The two Adepts walked a few paces away from the others. "This is an opportunity to get access to the information the Jedi have spent millennia hoarding away."
Altis hesitated before answering, "Remus, I fear that I'm far from unbiased in this. I left the order because I thought the no attachment rule was foolish. I never thought that one day I would be looking at them as the opposition. The question we have to answer is, do we trust them to keep our secrets?"
"We both have accepted that there must be balance. That doesn't mean that we can't work with them," argued Remus.
Altis gave Remus a wry smile, "You get to explain it to Harry and Luna."
Remus grinned, "Hey we can always obliviate them."
They returned to the workstation and Altis stepped forward, "I can offer a provisional agreement Master Yoda; subject to our council's approval."
Yoda actually looked relieved, "Good that is, Master Luminara Unduli perhaps, hmmm?"
"Master Unduli would be suitable," agreed Altis.
"Contact me when decided you have," said Yoda as his image flickered. "May the Force be with you."
"Well Djinn it looks like you are back in the fold, in a way," said Jeisel.
Altis shot Jeisel a look, "Hardly Sian, I parted ways with the council for a reason. Regardless of my status with the Council I am still a Jedi. Both I and my people have allied with the Adepts. I can accept a better, closer relationship with the Jedi Council, but my loyalty is to the Adepts."
Jeisel looked puzzled, "You know I didn't mean it like that."
"Then what did you mean Sian?" asked Altis.
"Simply that you disappeared off the grid. We occasionally caught sight of you or your people, but you avoided any official relationship. Damn it Djinn your wisdom has been missed on the council. If we had more dissenting voices, we might have avoided being drawn into years of pointless conflict."
Altis studied Jeisel for a moment before nodding, "My apologies then for nearly taking your head off. I…what I have learned from the Adepts, well frankly it is astounding. The Jedi have been blind to our real potential. And no, I'm not talking about the Sith but rather just how we could have been using the Force."
"Now I'm intrigued," replied Jeisel.
"Come on I'll tell you a bit as we walk," said Altis.
oOoOo
Mandalorian System
Harry pushed the sub-light engines well beyond the red line as he brought the Lily around in a sharp turn.
"We've got warning lights on the power converter," warned Luna.
Harry didn't acknowledge the warning as he let the Force guide his hands.
The Lily weaved through the incoming fighters and around the curve of a cruisers hull before bursting free of the blockade.
"Jumping to hyperspace," called out Luna as she activated the hyperspace engines.
The Lily leapt forward as stars began streaking past the cockpit window.
Harry let go of the manual controls and leaned back in his chair, "That was a lot closer than I had hoped."
"Well done love," said Luna with a smile. "We are safely away. We've got about four hours till we arrive in the Kidron System. Then we need to check in and decide on our course. I guess we need to drop Obi-Wan and Bo-Katan off somewhere."
"Impressive flying," complemented Kenobi as he climbed down from the weapons turret.
"We made it, that's a win. So Obi-Wan, where are we going to be dropping you off?" asked Luna.
"I will need to contact Garm Bel Iblis to get co-ordinates. If there is a cabin I would like to get some sleep. It's been a long few days," said Kenobi.
"Third door on the right," replied Harry.
"We will wake you up when we are out of hyperspace," added Luna.
The next hour passed quickly as Harry and Luna quietly worked through a detailed check on the Lily's systems.
"Do you two want a break?" asked Ret as he appeared in the doorway with a cup of tea.
"It's not a bad idea Harry," said Luna as she stretched. "I really want to meditate and see if I can determine where we are needed but I think cuddles and sleep is a better option."
Harry stood and gestured for Ret to take his seat, "All yours. What's happening with the others?"
"Salara is getting something to eat and then she's going to stand this watch with me. I think the others were going to try and get some sleep," replied Ret with a rare smile. "Velath and Sahdra are bunking down in the Med Bay. They were almost asleep in the galley."
oOoOo
Med Bay
Velath's nose twitched in her sleep as a stray lock of blue hair fell across her face. Neither did she stir when an arm snaked around her waist and a warm weight settled in behind her.
oOoOo
Luna snuggled back into Harry as she felt his arms wrap around her waist. Usually, she preferred slow, sensual lovemaking but neither of them had held back this time. Her lips curled into a wry smile as she realised that she might need to spend a little time in a healing trance if she didn't want to be walking funny in a few hours time. As she relaxed her senses extended, as they always did.
As a child, the random events she saw had sometimes frightened her. Talia's training had helped with that and now she had the mental ability to filter what she saw. As her mind wandered she unconsciously let the Force guide her and show what was needed.
On a planet, hidden away from sight figures in ornate armour trained…Lightsabers clashed as a woman looked on, occasionally correcting her students footing. It was a familiar scene that reminded her of Talia. Luna felt a pang of loss as the vision faded.
Another place and a human limped across a barren plain. Dirty and clearly injured he nevertheless continued on not looking back to where a column of black smoke rose into the air.
A blue-skinned Chiss tossed and turned in her bed as her hand crept down, beneath her sheets. As she touched herself, a name was on her lips, "Sirius."
As she continued to drift Luna's mind slowly moved from vision to sleep she snuggled back into Harry's warm chest.
oOoOo
Having gained permission to contact Bel-Iblis, Obi-Wan quickly entered the codes and waited for the system to accept. Even with top It took several seconds for the encrypted channel to synchronize and open.
"We were beginning to get worried Master Kenobi," said the image of Bel Iblis.
"We did run into some trouble," Kenobi went on to give a concise account of the mission.
Bel Iblis frowned, "Where are you now?"
"We are in the Kidron System," replied Kenobi.
"Very well we are gathering our fleet in the Trulalis system. Once we have the old CIS elements tied in we will relocate. We should be able to rendezvous with you in a few days," Bel Iblis looked at someone not visible to Kenobi. "…Very well, Kenobi I'll have to cut this short. The next wave of CIS ships just arrived. You and Bo-Katan stay safe and once we have them, we'll send you the coordinates. Skywalker wants to talk to you."
Bel Iblis was replaced by Anakin.
"It sounds like you had an eventful mission Obi-Wan," said Anakin with a raised eyebrow.
"I think you would have enjoyed it," replied Kenobi. "Truthfully I am worried about the Sith Satine reported. We have always believed that there were only two, a master and an apprentice. The others, like Ventress, were little more than Dark Jedi. Now I am not so sure. I think the Council needs to find out what Palpatine has been doing. If he has been training Sith on mass…"
"Then we are potentially in big trouble," finished Anakin. "Dooku did enough damage."
"I'm going to see what Harry and Luna think. They have shown that they have good intelligence, maybe one of their sources knows more."
"Maybe, I better go Obi-Wan there is a meeting with Wat Tambor and San Hill in a few minutes," explained Anakin.
Once Obi-Wan had terminated the call he sat back in his chair. 'How large was the Sith presence? Surely the Council would have found out if the Sith were growing in number.'
His thoughts broke off as he sensed someone behind him.
"Master Kenobi, do you have a minute?"
Kenobi turned to see a face he had not seen for some years, Etain Tur-Mukan. "Knight Etain, I was worried you were avoiding me after I saw you come aboard."
Etain frowned and closed the hatch, "It is Etain of Clan Skirata now." As she spoke, her hand went down to her belly.
Kenobi didn't miss the meaning. Keeping his expression neutral he simply nodded, "I see."
"I'm not ashamed and I love Darman, but I felt I owed the council a formal explanation as to why I am leaving."
"I can pass on your message Etain," Kenobi assured her.
"Thank you, oh and Obi-Wan if you see Master Arligan, please let him know that I am well," said Etain. Turning to leave she stopped as Kenobi gently laid a hand on her shoulder.
"You have nothing to be ashamed of Etain. I…I am beginning to realise that the Jedi, that my worldview may have been far too narrow." Seeing her confusion he gave her a reassuring smile. "Please do not feel you need hide from me while I am on board."
"Thank you Ma…thank you Obi-Wan."
As the hatch closed, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi was left to consider what exactly he was going to report to the Council.
oOoOo
Haven
Hermione Granger resisted the urge to throttle her lover by the barest of margins.
"Ron, where did you put the wooden box with all the books I was adding to the inventory?"
Ron Weasley may not have been the most perceptive of men, but he did detect the tone of the question as opposed to the content. "They are over with the other boxes. I know which one it is and I only moved the box itself. I needed the bench to get dinner ready."
"Hmphh," mumbled Hermione as she went off in search of the box.
Ron grinned at his narrow escape and started peeling vegetables.
"Is it the one on top?" called Hermione from the next room.
"No, it's near the door," replied Ron.
A few moments later Hermione appeared with the box and set it on the floor. Sitting next to it she began looking through the dusty books, scrolls and loose pages.
"Anything interesting?" asked Ron as he placed the vegetables to the steamer.
"It is all a jumble. Next time I see Vectivus I'm going to find a way to give him such a slap!"
Ron grinned as he checked the chicken…okay, he knew it wasn't chicken, but it tasted like it, especially if you grilled it. Despite her complaints, Hermione was in her element putting the old records into some kind of order.
The door chime sounded and Ron didn't even bother asking he simply went and answered it himself.
"Hi Ron," said Keisha as she gave him a broad smile.
"Who has got bub?" asked Ron.
"I've got two of Djinn's Padawans looking after her," Keisha sniffed the air catching the scent of cooking. 'Hmm, that smells nice."
Keisha truly enjoyed these dinners with her friends. Admittedly a bit of time not being a parent was just as welcome.
"We're just waiting on the vegetables. Come in and I see if I can pry Moine away from her work," Ron led Keisha into the main room.
Hermione was studying a small wooden box. Seeing her guests she put it down and stood to give Keisha a hug, "Oh, I'm sorry I lost track of things. Let me pack this away."
"What is it?" asked Keisha.
Hermione held the box up, "It clearly opens but I can't find the latch or any sort of release mechanism."
Keisha studied it and shrugged, "It looks ancient."
"It was with some works that are so old that I had to use some magical means to preserve them," replied Hermione.
"Have you tried magic," asked Ron.
Hermione shot him a look that went from annoyed to sheepish, "Actually that is a good idea."
She pulled out her wand and cast an unlocking spell.
The box swung open to reveal a silvery ball. Using her wand, Hermione levitated the object onto the table. "Nobody touches it until I've worked out what it does."
Hermione studied the ball, noting that it looked seamless and smooth with no scratches or other damage. Normally she would start casting diagnostic charms but perhaps this was a good time to try out her Force senses. After all she had been working on it with the Altisian Jedi.
Focusing on the object she tried to extend her senses only to feel a…there was no word for it. Without realising it, she physically stepped backwards.
"Hermione!"
Hermione let her Force awareness end as she turned to Ron and Keisha.
"Are you alright?" asked Keisha.
"A bit startled it had a, well a malignant presence in the Force," explained Hermione. "I'm not sure what it does, but it is not benign. I didn't want to interact with it so I pulled back when you called out."
Ron and Keisha shared a concerned look, "Hermione you were standing there staring at it for nearly an hour," explained Ron.
Hermione shook her head, "No, it was only a few seconds."
Keisha gasped and pulled out a communicator, "I think we had better get a healer down here."
"No, I feel fine, maybe a bit tired," complained Hermione.
Ron was looking at Hermione with a worried, almost fearful expression, "Your eyes Mione, they turned black."
oOoOo
Bo-Katan slept for a few hours and then used the rather decadent, personal refresher in her cabin. She would never admit it, but the hot water flowing over her back was relaxing in a way no sonic shower ever managed to match. The soap and shampoo were very welcome as was the range of other toiletries.
The Lily was a rather odd ship. It had six passenger cabins, which was more than was normal in a freighter but not that strange. However, to have refreshers in each was usually an expense Traders avoided. As a member of Death Watch, she had been used to communal showers and far more military and thus utilitarian facilities.
With a towel wrapped around her waist, she considered her dirty clothes with distaste. Actually hadn't there been a cupboard?
A small closet beside the door held several pairs of grey coveralls that looked like they might fit. It would do until she could find the laundry facilities. Pulling on the coverall revealed that it was a reasonably good fit and not too uncomfortable to wear without underwear.
Sitting on her bunk she quickly checked her armour and weapons. Satisfied they were in working order she strapped on her blaster and combat knife and went to find the other necessity, food.
The mess area was empty save for the Dathomiri woman Salara.
Bo-Katan gave her a nod of recognition. After all she had fought and fought well on Concordia.
"Are you hungry?" asked Salara.
Bo-Katan nodded and Salara gestured toward the cold storage. "There is plenty of food and there is hot tea in the urn. I've got to take this to Ret."
Bo-Katan watched Salara leave before pulling out a plate from the cupboard. As she opened the storage unit expecting, the usual supplies you would find on a freighter she was surprised to find a virtual smorgasbord.
Cold meat, fruit, vegetables and a selection of other products filled the shelves. With a smile, she began filling her plate. Decadent or not any soldier appreciated good, fresh food.
"It looks good," said a male voice.
Bo-Katan turned holding her full plate to see the Former Clone soldier Darman looking over her shoulder. The Clone was dressed in a grey coverall and like her he was barefoot.
"It is a fairly impressive range," admitted Bo-Katan.
"It's a pretty impressive ship, not what I expected," admitted Darman.
She sat and began eating as Darman began filling his plate. The Clone grabbed utensils and went to sit at another table.
"Join me," offered Bo-Katan.
Darman nodded and slid into the seat opposite her, "Thanks."
"How long had you been with the Mand'alore?" asked Bo-Katan.
"A few weeks, once I found out Etain was pregnant…my adopted father made it clear family and clan come first. I love her but well, being what I am…" Darman trailed off as Bo-Katan glared at him.
"Your father, Clan Skirata, that would mean Kal Skirata is your father. I've met him; he's a good, reliable soldier. If he adopted you, that makes you a Mandalorian. What you were before is immaterial, it doesn't matter, but your wife and child do."
Darman straightened in his chair with his eyes locked on Bo-Katan.
"The Mand'alore assigned you and I a task," Bo-Katan continued. "So my first order is that you get Etain to safety. Then you are welcome to join your brothers and sisters as we plan to retake Mandalore."
"Thank you," said Darman.
Bo-Katan smiled, "Every soldier needs a slap upside the head occasionally, physical recalibration."
Darman laughed as he stared at the smaller woman, "Yes Ma'am."
"So what do you think of these Adepts?"
Darman shrugged, "All I heard was that they can fight."
"Oh yes, they can fight. They may be young, but they can certainly fight. I saw them in action, very impressive," Bo-Katan reassured him.
Darman nodded and asked her about the Death Watch.
When Etain wandered into the mess, she found Darman and Bo-Katan deep in a discussion about ground assault tactics.
oOoOo
Planet Serenno – Serenno System
A figure in a dark grey hooded cloak moved silently through the darkened passage. Eventually, it reached a steel bulkhead that blocked the way forward. There were no controls of any sort. With a gesture, the figure raised its gloved hand and the solid steel slowly rose up, disappearing into the ceiling.
Walking briskly forward the figure entered a large ornate room. Lightning from the storm lit up the enormous stained glass window before plunging the room back to near darkness.
With a curse, the figure paused and spun to see another figure standing in the shadows near a statue.
"You are looking well for a dead man," commented Sev'rance Tann as she activated hovering light droid.
In the new light, the figure threw back the hood on its cloak to reveal a haggard looking Count Dooku.
"But not entirely unscathed I see," added Sev'rance.
Dooku looked down at the chrome of his artificial arm before returning his attention to the Chiss, "A temporary replacement my dear Sev'rance. It will serve until I can have a decent replacement made."
Sev'rance didn't take her eyes off Dooku, "I want information Dooku."
"We have been betrayed my apprentice," said Dooku in an even tone.
Sev'rance raised an eyebrow in surprise, "Apprentice…to you?" Her expression became scornful. "I don't think so."
Dooku hesitated before continuing, "Darth Sidious or Emperor Palpatine I suppose he styles himself now. He was at the heart of our, of your betrayal."
"Was he? Perhaps, but you master betrayed me first. You failed to teach me what I needed to know. You used me with no intention of ever making me your true apprentice." Sev'rance's voice had risen to a near shout before returning to normal. "It is fortunate for you that I want information far more than I want your head."
Dooku stiffened, "Have a care how you speak to me apprentice." As he spoke, he made a fist preparing to use the Force against the Chiss woman.
Sev'rance laughed scornfully, "Really that is all you can muster?"
Dooku had to get to his private armoury hidden near his office. There he could get his hand on his spare lightsaber. It had been a mistake to assume that his former home would be empty. With a thrusting gesture, he attempted to shove Sev'rance back into the stone walls.
Sev'rance leapt high into the air and landed much closer to Dooku.
"I have tried to be reasonable Sev'rance but it appears you are determined to die, so be it." Dooku sent a stream of Force lightning at his opponent as his face twisted into a contemptuous smile.
Sev'rance didn't even shift position as her lightsaber came up and deflected the attack.
Dooku cut off the attack and stared at the Chiss. He suddenly realised that he couldn't sense her at all. Seeing her advancing he sent another burst of Force lightning at her.
Again Sev'rance blocked and deflected the attack.
"You are growing weaker Dooku," taunted Sev'rance.
Dooku cut off the pointless attack and stared at his former dark acolyte, "What do you want?"
"What do you know of the Force Adepts?" asked Sev'rance.
"Why can't I sense you?" hissed Dooku as he glared at his opponent trying to determine if she was lying.
Sev'rance shrugged, "No idea." She advanced a few more steps. "Tell me what you know and you don't have to die."
"Oh yes he does," said a third voice as a shadow dropped from the shadows near the ceiling.
Assajj Ventress smiled at Dooku's look of frustrated hatred, but her smile faded as she took in the determination on the face of Sev'rance.
"Ventress, he is mine," said Sev'rance.
"He has betrayed us both sister. You want information I want him dead. We can have both," said Ventress.
"Yes, yes whoever wins shall become my true apprentice," intoned Dooku.
Ventress and Sev'rance both looked at him in disbelief.
Ventress lowered her lightsaber as she moved closer to Dooku, "Your apprentice?"
Dooku felt hope return as he turned his attention to Ventress, "Pass this final test my apprentice."
Sev'rance advanced slowly her lightsaber held loosely in her hand as Ventress moved in front of Dooku.
Dooku felt a wave of satisfaction. He may not have been able to fight as he once did, partially crippled and without a lightsaber, but he could still control those weaker willed than himself. Once Sev'rance was occupied with Ventress, he would get what…burning pain lanced through his chest as Ventress reverse thrust her lightsaber through his heart.
"It looks like I passed the test master," hissed Ventress as Dooku fell backwards off her lightsaber.
"Why?" demanded Sev'rance.
Ventress smiled, "Because he betrayed and abandoned me one too many times. Now I am free."
Sev'rance cursed but slowly lowered her lightsaber, "Sith spit, I needed information from him."
"About?" prompted Ventress.
"About the Force Adepts and where they are located. I thought he or Sidious may have known. To be honest, I came here to ransack the place because I thought he was dead. I hadn't expected him to turn up."
Ventress laughed, "Oh this is rich."
"What?" demanded Sev'rance as her eyes narrowed.
Ventress reached into the pouch on her belt and pulled out a small data recorder. Without hesitation, she tossed it to Sev'rance, "I was holding this information in case I needed it but since Dooku is dead," she shrugged. "It's the co-ordinates for where I was captured. I believe that the Adepts are based nearby. Even if they are not, it's a starting point."
"Why give it to me?" asked Sev'rance, suspicion clear in her voice.
Ventress smiled, "As I said, Sister, I'm done."
"I owe you," said Sev'rance.
"Maybe one day I'll collect. Actually, here this is for you." Ventress tossed her a silver stone set in a necklace. It's called a void stone. It blocks certain Force abilities for a couple of dozen metres. I've got another." Ventress gave Sev'rance a nod as she walked out of the room without another backward glance.
Sev'rance looked around Dooku's palatial room and smiled in satisfaction. Ventress had been right about one thing. She too was free of Dooku and Sidious.
"I'm coming for you, Sirius."
oOoOo
Okay, there is another chapter for you!
It was, as stated a bit of a short 'interludes' chapter, but these stories do all tie together (wait and see).
I can already hear some faithful reviewers cursing the new characters BUT please remember Harry and Luna are out and about recruiting!
That being said, we are coming to the end of the 'recruitment arc' and the next should be shifting to a more action orientated story.