Chapter 26
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Last Time
"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
Independent HoloNews
The question being asked by many worried sentients is 'when will the fighting end?'
The best answer we can give is no time soon. Months ago accusations that the Republic was becoming a dictatorship were dismissed as CIS propaganda. Now our reliable political sources tell us that the entire separatist conflict was engineered to destabilise the Republic.
Log in to secure news server to read more
oOoOo
Emperor's Private Rooms – Imperial Central Coruscant
Darth Sidious considered his situation with growing frustration. He had amassed vast power over decades of careful manoeuvring, manipulation and discrete use of fear and violence. He had literally been on the cusp of victory when it was ripped away from him. Order 66 had been his ultimate weapon and a crucial linchpin in his plan. It turned his armies of clones into tools of betrayal that should have shredded the Jedi order leaving the survivors to be hunted down.
The situation now was almost the polar opposite. He was fighting a war on multiple fronts.
His largest threat, the Jedi had disappeared so completely that even with his resources he could find no hint of their hiding place. The few that hadn't disappeared were on their guard and unlikely to be easily caught.
The next problem was the powerful systems that were now opposing him. Under Corellian leadership, they had begun building a powerful set of alliances that included almost a third of the now defunct Republic. While they could not match his forces, they were strong enough to tie him down to a long war.
Lastly were the Adepts, a group of Force users that seemed to be building a third side in the ongoing war for Force supremacy. Normally he would have crushed the movement like an insect, but they had somehow avoided his boot. Their presence had also brought him in to contact with a potentially far more dangerous 'ally', the Mah Vey.
What the apparently extra-galactic aliens wanted besides the Force Adepts destroyed was not clear, but they were very powerful and just as clearly not to be trusted in the slightest. They had promised to aid him, and yet that aid had been worse than useless.
"My Lord?"
Sidious didn't bother to turn; he knew who it was that knelt before him, "Report Dravian."
"It appears that some high-ranking members of the former CIS have allied themselves with Bel Iblis."
Sidious scowled, not that Dravian could see it, "Then I wish the former Senator good luck dealing with the cowardly idiots. Still their treachery must not go unpunished. Put a price on their heads. Fighting off bounty hunters should keep them occupied."
"Yes my Lord."
Sidious paused before turning his command chair to face his minion, "You are hiding something Dravian."
Dravian cleared his throat, "My Lord there are confirmed reports coming from Serenno that Count Dooku's body was found in his former command post."
Sidious frowned as he considered the news that Dooku was now dead. He had suspected that his apprentice had survived and fled, "Hmm well the good Count had many enemies, the Jedi in particular."
"Yes My Lord," Dravian received the message to spin Dooku's death in to a Jedi Assassination.
As Dravian left, Sidious sat back in his chair. So Dooku was truly dead, unsurprising given his many failures. It was a pity that he had not had the personal pleasure of ending his traitorous apprentice.
Sidious found his gaze shifting to look at the ancient Sith statues that stood against his office wall. They were a testament to the Sith Order at its zenith. His own dear master has taught him the rule of two, and he had paid it lip service while he was an apprentice. Now he knew just how foolishly limiting it truly was. His brethren had crippled their potential with their adherence to such a flawed doctrine. It was a mistake he had no intention of repeating.
His would be apprentice was leading the search for the Jedi, secure in his misconception that he was his master's favourite. Sidious smiled cruelly as his thoughts turned to his newest initiates. Yes, there were some among them that held great promise, living weapons that could be used to hunt down the Adepts.
oOoOo
The Holocron of Jedi Master Kolu Thes shut down as Harry opened his eyes. When Talia had given them, the two Jedi Holocrons both he and Luna had studied them. Initially, he had assumed that he had understood the Jedi Masters teachings but as his understanding of the Force grew so did the meaning of the long dead Jedi masters teaching. It had been surprising at first, but now he simply acknowledged the value of the lessons.
His musing was interrupted by the chime announcing a visitor outside his cabin. He carefully slipped the Holocron back into its case before rising from his knees. Harry gestured, and the door slid open to reveal Ob-Wan Kenobi.
"I hope I haven't interrupted anything Harry?"
Harry shook his head as he slid the box into a drawer, "No, I had just finished meditating. How can I help you Master Kenobi?"
"I was wondering if we could talk. I've had a few questions I had been…saving up for when we next crossed paths."
Harry grinned as he gestured for Obi-Wan to enter, "I have to relieve Luna in about an hour, so I think I have time for some questions. Not that I promise to answer all of them. Take a seat."
Obi-Wan sat, waiting patiently as Harry got comfortable on the largish bed.
"I would like to thank you for your help. The situation was…difficult and your presence no doubt saved lives."
Harry nodded, "The attack on the Mandalorians was not something we could ignore. Palpatine knows he needs troops and equipment if he's going to stand against those systems that haven't stood by him. I don't have an army, but luckily we didn't need one."
"If I may ask, how did you know?"
"Believe it or not, we saw it on the Holonews and thought we had better see what we could do to help," replied Harry.
Obi-Wan looked stunned for a moment before he schooled his expression, "Really on the Holonews?"
Harry nodded as another grin formed.
"What will you do now?" asked Obi-Wan.
"Our mission stays the same Master Kenobi. Talia had a vision of what may come, and we are working to prevent it. There are thousands of Force-sensitives out there that your order never found, or dismissed. We will not be making the same error. We will save what we can from disappearing or being destroyed by people like Palpatine."
"And the current conflicts?" asked Obi-Wan.
Harry's expression grew serious as he considered what Obi-Wan was asking, "I am not going to sign us up as allies without consulting the other leaders. For what it's worth I am not against working with your people when necessary."
"And Palpatine's plans?"
"I think Palpatine is in trouble, but he won't go down easily, or quickly."
Obi-Wan nodded sadly, it was likely that Harry was right.
"Do you know when will rendezvous with your people?" asked Harry.
"In a few days was the best I could get. Things are apparently pretty fluid right now. Will that be a problem?" asked Obi-Wan.
"Not unless you have a problem with being on board," replied Harry.
"No, not at all, your ship is quite luxurious.'
Harry laughed, "Well it was the best we could afford. The Lily is our home for long periods of time, so a few home comforts don't go astray."
OOoOo
Etain enjoyed the fresh food and creature comforts on the Lily, but the one thing she knew she would miss was the blends of tea.
Holding her steaming mug up to her face she inhaled and closed her eyes as she let out an involuntary appreciative sound that was almost a moan.
"Enjoying that Etain?" asked Darman.
Etain smiled, "It smells so much like Vema fruit, it's remarkable."
Darman poured himself a cup of juice and sat down beside his wife, "How are you feeling?"
"Fat," complained Etain.
Darman laughed and leaned forward to kiss her cheek, "You look serene."
"Flatterer," countered Etain with her own laugh.
"I hope I am not interrupting?" said Salara as she walked into the galley.
"No, not at all," replied Etain with a warm smile.
Salara turned to the cooler and pulled out a tray of fruit. Selecting several pieces she dropped them into her bowl. She then poured a tea and walked over to Etain and Darman. "Would you mind?"
"Please," said Etain as Darman nodded.
"Thank you," replied Salara as she sat.
"You are a Dathomiri I believe," said Etain.
Salara nodded as she used her knife to slice up her fruit.
"And an adept?" asked Darman.
"I have that honour," replied Salara.
"What is it like?" asked Etain.
Salara ate a piece of fruit before answering, "Our home is a growing community. My clan settled there, and we haven't regretted it for a moment. There are all sorts of Force-sensitives living among us and all of us share our knowledge freely."
"Jedi are taught that freely sharing information can be dangerous," said Etain with a thoughtful look on her face. "Not that I'm throwing stones. Now I've resigned from the order Dar and I are looking at our options," her hand dropped to her belly.
Salara nodded understanding the sentiment even if she had not been a mother herself, "You should consider Haven. Both you and your husband would be welcome among the families."
Darman studied his wife for a moment before speaking, "Etain and I are members of Clan Skirata and we have commitments to both our clan and Mandalore."
Salara gave Darman a respectful nod, "There are many living at Haven with similar demands. Such ties would not mean you are not welcome."
"I should contact my adoptive father and report the situation if that is acceptable?" asked Darman.
Salara shrugged, "That would be fine just let Luna know, she's on duty at the moment."
Bo-Katan had paused at the doorway letting the conversation flow without interfering. After all, she was rather interested in the Force adepts and the doings of Clan Skirata. As Salara told Darman to seek out Luna she walked in, going straight to the urn of tea.
"Morning," she offered in greeting as she began pouring.
oOoOo
Mandalore – Kyrimorut (Home of Clan Skirata)
Kal Skirata frowned as he looked at the unknown caller designation. His caution wasn't exactly paranoia, especially if you took into account that he had been encouraging clones to desert the Grand Army of the Republic since before the order 66 fiasco. The recent attack by the newly formed Empire had only added to his daily precautions.
Finally, he answered the message only to raise an eyebrow at the code required to connect. Apparently one of his boys was calling in. A moment later a slightly fuzzy image (thanks to the Holo-receivers destroyed by the Imperials) of Darman appeared.
"Kal, I'm glad I caught you."
"Dar where are you?" asked Kal as he looked down at the signal strength. It wasn't anywhere too close.
"Kidron System, Etain and I have been given orders from the Mand'alore. She wants Etain and I to have the baby while we liaise with our new allies."
"New allies?" asked Kal with a frown.
"Bo-Katan, the leader of the Death Watch, arrived at our base with Obi-Wan Kenobi and a shipment of supplies from the Corellians. It seems our plight has been noticed."
Kal reviewed what he knew of Bo-Katan and the Death Watch. Bo-Katan had, at one time been a subordinate of Pre Vizsla. If she was in charge of the Death Watch Vizsla was likely dead as his reports had suggested. With that particular zealot dead, they might be trustworthy enough to work with.
"And the Jedi?" Kal asked Darman. "Are they back?"
Darman's image shook his head, "Not yet, as far as I know Kenobi is working with the Corellians. Kal, there were some other Force users with Kenobi. They call themselves Force adepts."
"What happened?"
"They hit us pretty hard. The Adepts jumped in and killed the Sith leading them. Once we'd cleared the base, the Mand'alore gave us our orders."
Kal frowned as he took in Darman's report. With the Imperials quickly taking control of Mandalore his clan was threatened. He had hoped to sit out the newest conflict while he worked on a cure for the former clone troopers and their accelerated ageing process.
"Are these Adepts willing to ally with the Mand'alore?"
"I believe they are," replied Darman.
"And what does Etain think?" asked Kal.
"She trusts them…she believes that they are telling the truth."
Kal considered that piece of information carefully. Etain was difficult to deceive.
"Let me know what you think is relevant," ordered Kal.
"Yes father," replied Darman. "Once I've got a clean terminal I'll send you the latest."
Kal nodded to his adopted son as his image flickered and disappeared. He then turned his attention back to the most recent results on the genetic testing of his former clones.
oOoOo
Coruscant – Imperial Intelligence
Armand Isard hesitated before scrolling back through the data his people had recovered from the Jedi Temple. He had seen a reference to a set of spatial coordinates that looked familiar.
It took him nearly twenty minuted to find the reference he sought but when he did his lips twisted into a satisfied smirk. He finally had something solid to pursue. These 'Force Adepts' were rather skilled at disappearing into the darkness once they completed their 'missions'. They did, however, leave some clues behind.
One of their ships had been spotted on Coruscant during the fall of the Republic. A similar ship that was again linked to the Adepts identified in the same region of space as a Jedi aboard a Republic military vessel. It had logged the same ship as part of a rescue of a civilian convoy…and the capture of Ventress had occurred in that same sector?
"How very interesting," Isard said to himself as he opened a coded communications channel directly to Emperor Palpatine.
"What have you to report?" asked Palpatine.
"I believe that I may have a location for the Adepts. There have been numerous sightings in the same region of space," explained Isard.
"Good, good send an adequate force to deal with them….and Director I want captives."
"Yes My Lord," replied Isard.
"We shall have to delay some fleet operations….but no matter. The traitors can wait."
oOoOo
The good thing about the Lily was the fact that its flight operations were largely automated. After coming on duty Luna did a thorough check that all was well and then, as she always did, closed her eyes, using the Force to look for direction.
As her sense of awareness expanded outward, she felt those on board the Lily. The easiest to identify was, of course, Harry. Their bond was strong and well developed like a golden chain. The others were like coloured points of light, some with larger auras indicating a stronger connection to the Force but all of them bright and healthy. She let herself go further, questing outward.
There was a planet covered in pinpricks of light…a ship…another planet…soon she began to lose the individual lights, there was simply too much to comprehend as her awareness was surrounded by an intricate web of light. With practised ease she let the Force flow around her connecting her to the universe. The Force would show her what was needed.
…Haven…the familiar Force presences of those that lived there…Hermione looking at a console with concern.
The asteroids that marked the MZX33291 star system being scanned by Imperial warships seeking out Haven.
An Imperial officer with a white streak in his brown hair, "We cannot detect anything My Lord, but if these Adepts are using some sort of cloaking technology, then scanning may not be enough. Destroying the field completely should flush them out…"
Divisions of Clone troopers preparing for an assault
An image of Talia appeared, a memory of a past lesson. "Remember beloved, attack is not always the best option….misdirection can show your enemy what he thinks he knows."
Luna's eyes snapped open.
oOoOo
Harry, Luna, Salara, Ret, Sahdra and Velath all in Harry and Luna's cabin made for a tight fit but given the nature of their discussion, a room that could be warded without bringing undue attention was more important.
"Won't the protections hide Haven?" asked Salara.
"From detection by sensors or a Force sensitive. They are not designed to defend Haven from massed weapons fire on the asteroid field," replied Harry. "If they destroy the whole field they wouldn't need to find Haven itself."
"Then we need to warn them to evacuate," said Sahdra.
"We could do that, but it would take time to do properly," warned Ret.
"We need Palpatine looking elsewhere. We need him focused on dealing with us," replied Harry.
"How?" asked Salara.
"We take the fight to him while the others find a way to protect Haven," concluded Luna. "If we are seen somewhere far from Haven we can hopefully redirect his attention."
"Would that work?" asked Ret.
"Hopefully, I don't think Palpatine has any idea of our numbers," replied Harry.
oOoOo
Anakin Skywalker hadn't worked with Green Jedi before so he hadn't known what to expect from the Corellian Jedi. He'd been pleasantly surprised to find that they were rather easy to work with.
"Anakin?"
He turned to see Master Hull, the senior of the Green Jedi contingent holding a cup of hot caff, "I thought you might need this. It's been a long day already and dealing with this lot has been challenging."
Anakin accepted the drink gratefully, "Thanks, Force or not I need the pick me up."
Hull laughed, "Truly they are far too fond of their own voices. Although neither Hill nor Tambor are idiots. They know they need this alliance now the CIS is breaking up."
Anakin took a sip of the caff enjoying its bitter taste, "I faced off against Tambor a few times. He's a realist, and he knows he's been played just like the Republic."
"And the Jedi," added Hull. Seeing Anakin's expression grow cold he quickly continued. "I mean no offence, we were just as taken in as the council was. Palpatine manipulated us all masterfully. In the end, we were luckier than we had any right to be that his plan didn't wipe us out."
"I used to admire him," admitted Anakin with a shudder. "I thought he was a good man. Obi-Wan fears that he was grooming me to be his apprentice."
Hull could sense the disgust in the younger Jedi's words, "But you avoided that fate my young friend. It probably doesn't help but remember, you are not the only one he deceived."
Anakin nodded accepting the older Jedi's words if not quite believing them.
"Can we still expect Master Kenobi to re-join us at the rendezvous?" asked Hull.
"He's still aboard the Adepts ship so until he contacts us I assume so," replied Anakin.
"You've encountered these Adepts before?"
Anakin nodded, "A few times."
"What are they like? Master Yoda sent us a briefing on them, but there wasn't a lot in it."
Anakin explained what he knew, sticking to the facts as Hull listened intently.
"So they were trained by a Jedi…that's a positive sign although I must say I share the Council's concern that they could easily be influenced by the Dark Side. We've had encounters with grey Jedi in the past. Trying to walk such a line can be very dangerous."
Anakin could understand that argument, in fact, he had made that argument, but he had to acknowledge that the Adepts had helped the order a great deal. "I admit that it's a concern but, despite the nature of their order, they have done nothing but help the Order despite their reservations concerning us."
"Reservations?" prompted Hull.
"I get the impression that they think the Jedi are rather limited and closed minded," admitted Anakin.
Anakin raised an eyebrow as Hull unexpectedly laughed, "They wouldn't be the first to say that."
oOoOo
The Lily
"So you will still deliver us to the rendezvous?" asked Obi-Wan.
"Of course," replied Harry.
"Is the change of plans something we can help with?" asked Obi-Wan.
Harry considered the question before shrugging, "Palpatine looks like he may be trying to find our base of operations. It is protected, but there is some concern that he might find it. For now, we are still working out a course of action."
Obi-Wan could understand and given the fact that the Adepts had helped thwart Palpatine. They would be a target now. "If there is any way I can help let me know."
Harry nodded as he turned to leave. Bo-Katan was next on his list.
The Mandalorian was in her quarters along with Etain and Darman. She and Daran were doing sit ups. They took the updated arrival time in their stride. Bo-Katan shrugged and then nodded, "Very well. I'm a soldier, so good food and a comfortable bed are no hardship."
Darman laughed, "Too right."
As Harry turned, Luna's voice came over the loudspeaker.
"We have just received coordinates for our rendezvous. Harry would you come to the bridge."
oOoOo
In the end, their arrival in the Meridian sector was moments after the growing coalition fleet led by Bel Iblis.
After identifying themselves, Harry flew the Lily in to dock with the Corellian flagship, the Cintar.
By the time they had landed in the hanger deck, a small welcoming committee had formed up to greet them. Harry almost grimaced at the sight of the Jedi surrounding Skywalker and Ashoka.
"Looks like Obi-Wan's a popular man."
Luna giggled as she shut down the ship's systems, "No weapons being drawn is a good start."
"True, although I vote we let him do the meet and greet," said Harry.
Luna frowned as she looked down at her casual clothes, "I think we need to get changed if we are going to be meeting people."
oOoOo
Anakin smiled as Obi-Wan walked down the ramp of the adept's ship. His former Master and friend looked uninjured and Anakin relaxed slightly in relief.
"It's good to see you Anakin," said Obi-Wan with a slight smile and an upraised eyebrow.
"It sounds like you got a bit more excitement than we had anticipated," said Jedi Master Hull.
Obi-Wan shrugged and glanced back at the ship before returning his attention to Hull, "You might say that. I think we all need to hear my report. Things are slightly more complicated than we had expected."
"I'll organise it," promised Hull as he nodded to Bo-Katan as she walked down the ramp to stand beside Kenobi,
Bo-Katan nodded in return, "I need to speak to my officers as well."
"Do you have injured aboard?" asked Hull.
"No, the Adepts took care of that, their ship is remarkably well equipped," replied Obi-Wan.
Hull looked like he was going to say something when a group appeared at the top of the ramp. To the Green Jedi, it was obvious all six were part of a unit. Each wore variants of black and grey. As he opened himself to the Force, he realised that all six were Force-sensitives…indeed, several openly wore a lightsaber on their utility belts. 'So these must be the mysterious Adepts,' he mused as he stepped forward.
"Welcome aboard the Cintar, I am Jedi Master Hull."
To his surprise, it was one of the youngsters that stepped forward to offer a polite nod, "Harry Potter and this is my partner Luna and my fellow adepts, Ret, Salara, Velath and Sahdra."
Hull smiled and offered a slight bow, "A pleasure to meet you."
oOoOo
"What do you make of them?" asked Bel Iblis as he talked quietly with Hull. The meeting was set to start in minutes and he wanted a feel for these 'adepts'.
"They are all Force sensitives, relatively strong as such things are measured. They seem non-hostile and according to Kenobi, they are the reason he and Bo-Katan are not captured or dead."
"So, potential allies perhaps?"
Hull shrugged, "I suspect that they have their own agenda. Which is not a bad thing per say but without more intelligence about their 'order' I don't know what to tell you."
"Kenobi hinted that Harry and Luna, despite their age are the leaders," added Bel Iblis.
"They are allied with the Altisian Jedi, a splinter group of Jedi. Who have been established for decades. Altis and his people did a great deal of good work. My initial thoughts were that they were a loose coalition of small groups working together…I'm beginning to question that now. Harry and Luna have quite a Force presence regardless of the fact that they are the age of Padawans."
"Do we have a guess at their numbers?"
Hull shrugged, "Skywalker hinted that the Council were worried that they might be far more numerous than they were comfortable with. But, again we lack concrete data and my guesses would be just that, guesses."
"But they can fight?"
"It would appear so; remember they captured a slaver fleet so they clearly have resources to go along with their more martial skills."
"Nothing more?"
"Nothing solid, but remember if Altis and his group have allied with them there will be a reason."
oOoOo
Harry fought the urge to turn and look at the Jedi standing in the corner. The Jedi Master Hull had been nothing but polite in the 'debriefing' they attended but his constant attention was somewhat annoying. Having someone focus the Force perception on you was like having a constant whispering in your ear.
Bel Iblis had been something of a revelation. A competent politician and apparently, a reasonable strategist. It was clear that he wanted as many alliances as possible to fight the Imperials. Harry really couldn't fault his thinking there. If his alliance was going to survive it needed competent allies not to mention resources, intelligence and support from those familiar with the Force. He already had the backing of the Corellian Jedi but was, if Harry was reading matters correctly, receiving a less than encouraging response from the Jedi Council.
Yes, Bel Iblis and Hull's interest were understandable.
Harry sensed two familiar Force signatures and turned to see Altis and Remus approaching him.
"It's good to see you, Harry," said Djinn Altis.
"Nice uniform Harry," added Remus with a grin.
"What are you two doing here?" asked Harry after he had given both men a hug.
"Yoda's asking for a liaison," said Altis quietly.
"Really?" asked Harry.
Remus nodded, "He wants to mend fences I think."
"Who?' asked Harry.
Altis answered, "Master Luminara Unduli."
"Is she suitable?' asked Harry. The last thing they needed was a Jedi zealot on Haven.
Altis nodded after a subtle hesitation, "I've met her several times. She is a Mirialan Jedi master and a very skilled diplomat and negotiator."
"Good enough to take Haven in her stride?" asked Harry.
Altis shrugged, "She's unlikely to do anything to betray our trust for anything but what she believes are the right reasons."
"Damn, so the first hint of what she suspects is 'dark' and we'll be in trouble," muttered Harry.
"Maybe not," corrected Altis. "I believe that Yoda wants to improve our relationship. Luminara is no zealot, nor is she a fool. I sense that this is a genuine attempt."
Remus cleared his throat, "Not all Jedi would see it that way. Your old friend Jeisel automatically joked that Djinn was back in the fold."
"I don't think she meant it like that Remus," argued Altis.
"Maybe not but if we go ahead with this I will not hesitate to obliviate her and send her back to Yoda if she is a problem," warned Harry.
Altis grinned, "I knew you would say something like that, and I don't disagree. Haven is far too important."
"What are you and the others going to do now?" asked Remus.
Harry frowned and glanced over at Hull before speaking, "Luna had a vision. We need to go somewhere that we can talk without being overheard."
"The Lily?" suggested Remus.
"Let me grab Luna," added Harry.
oOoOo
"I think it is a good idea, I don't think we can ignore the Jedi order for an extended period," said Luna with a frown. "I'm just not happy with the timing more than anything else. My vision didn't give a timeline but I sensed that we don't have long to combat it."
Remus shrugged, "For what it's worth I think we would be foolish to not exploit the connection. Remember the Order now knows the location of Earth. We have a responsibility to protect Earth since we contributed to it being part of events."
"So we agree to it?" asked a frowning Harry.
"I'll keep a close eye on her but I think we need to at least give this a chance to work," said Altis.
"Fine, problem solved. Now how do we draw Palpatine's attention away from Haven?' asked Harry.
"I think your idea to be openly active, far from Haven will work. Especially if we make big enough waves," said Remus.
"It's a potentially dangerous move, provoking Palpatine but it should draw his attention from Haven," agreed Altis. "If the Wookie Gunner is also seen on a few rim worlds it should help."
"As long as we don't abandon our mission," added Luna.
oOoOo
Sev'rance smiled as she came out of her Force trance. While she had again failed to determine a location she had felt a brief moment of connection to a familiar Force presence. Sirius Black had been excited and hopeful as he had talked to an older human.
Even that brief moment of connection had been like a balm to her doubts. Sirius was out there, alive and well. She would find him and through him find her destiny.
A loud beeping interrupted her thoughts as she turned to look at the flight controls. She had reached the coordinates.
oOoOo
Haven
Hermione gestured and a droid walked over to her, "Ceesix send an alert to all our damage control teams to be prepared to act."
"The sensors say it is a small shuttle," reported Soran Thell.
"The Force and Magical based protections are still operating so they shouldn't be able to detect us" replied Ron.
"Still, we might want to consider taking precautions," suggested Hermione. "Luna's warning has me wanting to be a bit more vigilant."
"The ship is sending out a low powered transmission," reported Hanna Balest, one of the Altisian Jedi on duty in the control room.
"Play it," ordered Hermione.
An image of a blue skinned woman appeared. She had obviously recorded her message sitting at the controls of a ship.
"…no hostile intentions. I am seeking one of your people, Sirius Black. I have no hostile intentions."
Hermione frowned, 'Hadn't Remus mentioned a woman Sirius had boasted about in his last holo-message being blue skinned?' She was getting an odd feeling about the situation. Not dangerous but somehow important.
"Open a channel," ordered Hermione.
"Won't that give away our position?" asked Hanna.
"No, the wards still block that, but it will confirm that we are in the area somewhere," replied Ron with a curious glance at Hermione.
Hermione considered her order for a moment before nodding, "Open a channel."
"This is Hermione of the Adepts, I'll need more information than that I'm afraid."
The image flickered and disappeared before another replaced it. The same woman, a Chiss, Hermione realised.
"I seek Sirius Black and by extension your people Hermione."
Hermione frowned, "Why?" she asked bluntly.
"I wish to join your order," replied the Chiss.
"And Sirius?" prompted Hermione.
The Chiss smirked, "That's a more personal matter. I wish to…reconnect with Sirius."
"And will he want to reconnect with you?" asked Hermione as she ignored Ron's barely concealed laughter behind her.
"He saved my life," the Chiss looked smugly at the camera and raised an eyebrow, "So I should hope so. I am also undoubtedly the best sex he has ever had."
Hermione let her thoughts wander for a moment as she considered ways to kill Sirius, or neuter him. "I see, we will send a ship to rendezvous with you. Maintain your current position."
The Chiss nodded and closed the channel.
"Sirius Black, ladies' man," said Ron with a laugh.
"Ron," warned Hermione as she turned to Soran Thell, "I'll need a ship prepped."
'I'll come with you," said Ron.
"Why Hermione?" asked Soran Thell.
"Something tells me she's important. Besides, if she is a spy or something we can always wipe her memory. And that is a lot easier to do if she is standing next to me," explained Hermione. "Oh, and someone see if they can get a hold of Sirius I would really like to talk to him, soon."
oOoOo
The Cintar – Conference Room
"We need to resupply the Mandalorians or we risk losing the entire resistance. They've got the people but they severely lack material resources," explained Kenobi.
"The last resupply mission failed," stated one of the newly arrived civilian advisors in the room. Selip Nor was representing one of the coalitions well-known politicians Mon Mothma.
"Bad timing and bad luck," answered Bo-Katan. "Now that the Mand'alore has a more secure base resupply will be easier."
"The Empire has committed a large force to Mandalorian space," added a Corellian military officer. "Even with an active resistance we can't hope to take back the system without unacceptable casualties."
Fellin Harlon, the representative of Her Royal Highness, Queen Apailana of Naboo, cleared his throat loudly, "The Mandalorians are a militaristic people surely they can hold until we gather the forces needed."
Bo-Katan clenched her fist and went to speak but paused as a hand touched her shoulder. Turning she saw Darman shake his head. Relaxing slightly, she turned her attention to Bel Iblis.
"We need plans people. With the Droids and ships we inherited from the former CIS forces, we have more operational strike power but without more planetary bases we are going to have to hit and run…for now. That doesn't mean we abandon potential allies."
The planning meeting dragged on for some time but when it ended, Darman and a quietly fuming Bo-Katan left.
"Cowards," hissed Bo-Katan before Darman pulled her into a quiet corridor.
"Alor, you need to think calmly," warned Darman.
Bo-Katan paused; the use of Alor meant that Darman was calling her a leader.
"Yes they may be cowards but they are not Mandalorian. The Mand'alore needs help and we must get it for her. We have to work with these people."
Bo-Katan nodded, "You are right, thank you. It was just hearing them debating our future."
"You wish to be with the Mand'alore, fighting," said Darman.
Bo-Katan smiled, "I would prefer it."
Darman smiled, "So would I but we have other duties."
Bo-Katan took a deep breath, "Let's go speak to my second and then I want to find Harry and Luna."
oOoOo
Harry frowned as he considered the grim-faced Bo-Katan, "Do you really think they would let Mandalore fall?"
"For a long time, the Republic would have loved for us to disappear. But right now I am worried that they won't be the allies the Mand'alore needs."
"We are not able to supply troops since we don't have any but given the situation the Mand'alore is in we should be able to help," said Luna.
"I am sure the Mand'alore appreciates the logistical support…" began Bo-Katan.
Harry smiled, albeit without any trace of humour, "You misunderstand, we will be supplying you but we will also be lending more direct aid as well."
As Harry spoke his hand fell to rest on the hilt of his lightsaber.
oOoOo
There was little Obi-Wan Kenobi could do to influence the leaders of the fleet as they debated the merits of various plans. It seemed that the consensus was leaning toward spreading the fleet over several outer rim systems to deny the Empire a target. The invasion of the Mandalorian system was, it seemed a rather low priority. Supplies would be sent but for now, the coalition was not committed to liberating Mandalore anytime soon.
Looking over at Bel Iblis he could sense that the Corellian wasn't happy with the rest of the coalitions politicians as he sat stony-faced next to the Corellian Jedi. He looked over to where Bo-Katan and Darman usually sat and noted that the space was empty.
Kenobi then looked around and frowned. The Adepts were nowhere to be seen. Standing, he walked over to a relatively clear area and called Anakin on his communicator.
"Anakin check to see if the Adepts are still onboard."
Anakin sounded puzzled as he replied, "Master Altis and Remus left an hour ago. I haven't seen Potter or his people."
Kenobi sighed, "The politicians are stalling regarding Mandalore and I think Bo-Katan has gone to the Adepts for help."
"What do we do now?" asked Anakin.
"Check out if the Lily is still docked," suggested Kenobi.
"And if it isn't?"
"Then we hope they know what they are doing," replied Kenobi. It had been so much easier to consider Satine a politician and thus someone to be wary of. But her bravery in making the stand to remain neutral in the war and her later decision to lead her people when the war came to them kept his esteem for her well and truly alive. This situation would be a lot easier without his emotional attachment to her but right now he wasn't sure he could put it aside.
oOoOo
The Lily
"When Etain and Darman left with Altis and Remus for Haven I expected you to be onboard," repeated Harry.
Sahdra shook her head sending her blue hair flying, "No, I need to stay with Velath and besides you'll need me."
Harry studied the Zeltron for a second before replying, "Master Altis might not approve of us taking you into a war zone."
Sahdra frowned, "I know how to fight, and I'm nearly ready for my trials!"
Harry opened his mouth to reply but Luna's hand on his shoulder stopped him.
"We'll discuss it Sahdra, now why don't you and practice your forms with Velath," said Luna.
Once the Zeltron had left Harry turned to Luna with an enquiring look.
Luna smiled brightly, "She really is quite competent and she's helping Velath get up to speed with her lightsaber drills. Besides, she's in love."
Harry shrugged, "I know, it's her age I'm worried about."
"She's not much younger than us love," countered Luna with a grin.
"True I suppose. We should probably get some training in as well. With everything that's happened I haven't taken the time as I would like to work on my own skills," admitted Harry.
"Well we have and hour or two now and I was thinking about one of the Force techniques Vectivus showed us."
oOoOo
Velath mirrored Sahdra's moves as the Zeltron demonstrated a block and strike technique. On the other side of the cargo hold, Salara and Ret watched on as the two young women worked together.
"I wonder when Velath will realise that she is being hunted?" asked Ret quietly.
Salara grinned and then shrugged, "She grew up among women, in close quarters. I don't think she's realised yet."
"Ah, oh well I'm sure it will be a surprise then. Do you feel like a spar?" asked Ret.
Salara nodded, "Lets."
oOoOo
Outer Rim
The Wookie Gunner gently drifted almost powered down as the crew gathered in the cockpit.
"Can you sense it?" asked Sirius.
Amelia Sto-Lat wrinkled her nose as she stood, eyes closed trying to sense what Sirius was talking about. "There is something…unpleasant almost like a bad smell."
Alyssa nodded, "That's a good description. There's something there alright."
"Good, I'm not going mad then."
Callista looked down at the controls, "We are pretty far from anywhere here. No populated systems in this sector."
"I don't like this," muttered Alyssa.
"There is nothing on sensors," reported Callista.
"I can't sense anything other than a feeling of….darkness but it's pretty faint," reported Alyssa. "I've felt something like this once before. It was an artefact that was made by the Sith."
Sirius shrugged, "Fine, mark down the coordinates and let's make the next jump."
The Wookie Gunner leapt into hyperspace.
Sirius yawned and scratched himself before straightening and stretched his arms overhead.
"You look tired," said Amelia.
"I am…I haven't been sleeping well," replied Sirius.
"Oh, are you unwell?"
"No…it's just something," Sirius trailed off before turning to look at the Vahla. "It's like I'm missing something."
"Would this something involve little Sirius?" asked Amelia with a smirk and a pointed downward look.
Sirius stared open mouthed at Amelia.
"Oh don't give me that look Sirius. You are not my type or gender but I know that look. The Galaxy can be a remarkably small place so who knows, you might run into her again."
Sirius smiled and Amelia rolled her eyes, "Dear Goddess go and have a cold shower or watch a dirty holo or something."
Sirius looked thoughtful, "Good advice," he replied with a faux-serious expression as he walked off toward his quarters.
Amelia grinned at the human's antics before pouring herself a cup of tea. She had been worried about this mission given her people's issues with other Force users but so far it had been entertaining, even if she lacked suitable female company to occupy herself. With a wry smile, she sat in the mess area and sipped her tea.
Alyssa walked into the mess area and saw that the tea jug was still half full. With a nod toward Amelia, she poured herself a cup and sat at the table with the smiling Vahla.
"Mind if I join you?" asked Alyssa.
Amelia gestured toward the seat.
Alyssa shot her a smile as she sat, "I've been meaning to ask you about your training. I know you practice Teräs Käsi and I was wondering if you would like to spar?"
Amelia raised an eyebrow, "You know martial arts?"
"I've studied Echani martial arts," replied Alyssa.
"Then yes, I would be happy to," replied Amelia.
"Great, I…."
"Can everyone report to the flight deck, we've got an incoming holo from Harry."
oOoOo
"…so we are on our way to Mandalorian space," reported Harry.
"Need our help pup?" asked Sirius.
"I suspect the Mandalorians need supplies. Bo-Katan and Kenobi lost most of their relief supplies when the Mandalorians were hit. They could definitely use more."
"The Wookie can't carry all that much but we could do some good on the ground and that would only help us draw Palpatine's attention away from Haven," added Callista.
"Good, then we will see you when you get here. Sirius, I wanted to ask, would a disillusionment charm work or a ship?"
Sirius grinned, "Visually? Yes, Remus and Hermione didn't think it would work for sensors. You would need the Fidelius for that."
"Then I'd suggest that you disillusion the Wookie. Landing on Concordia probably won't please the Imperials."
oOoOo
The Lily, invisible to the naked eye, streaked through the clouds before descending to fly just above the tree line. Even though the Imperial blockade continued, there were far fewer ships. A rather worrying fact if you considered their fears that Palpatine might be searching for Haven.
The Mandalorian base was still safely hidden under its illusion as Harry carefully piloted the Lily into the protected landing area.
There was, of course, a large and heavily armed squad waiting.
Harry started shutting down systems leaving the greetings to Bo-Katan.
"Harry love, it looks like the Mand'alore is here," Luna warned.
Harry looked up to see the Mand'alore outside the cockpit window embracing Bo-Katan. "Well, maybe we should get everyone together and head out."
The Mand'alore reached up and removed her helmet as she spotted the Adepts leaving the Lily.
"Greetings my friends, Bo-Katan tells me you have come to help."
Harry bowed and the rest quickly followed suit, "Mand'alore my people stand ready to assist you as best we can."
Satine smiled, "Then let's go and consider our options. Bo-Katan you come as well."
oOoOo
Satine pointed at the holographic map and ran her finger along the mountain range to the south, "These are the P'Vel Mountains. Probably the most inhospitable land on Concordia and it's where we have established a hidden hanger. We have ten Kom'rk class fighter transports as well as several shuttles hidden there. These are what allow us to strike at Imperial forces on Mandalore itself. If they manage to find and destroy the base, we will have our ability to strike significantly diminished."
"Do they know where they are?' asked Ret.
"We don't believe so, although our spies on Mandalore tell us that they are looking for our bases," replied Satine.
"Would you like us to help ward…um protect the base?" asked Luna.
"Ideally yes, but I have another more concerning problem. One of the agents is missing and I fear she may have been compromised. Another agent is convinced she is under around the clock surveillance. If the senior agent has been captured or forced to flee, we have no way of finding her."
"We may be able to locate her," offered Harry.
Satine looked relieved, "Mirria was my aide before I was forced out of office. I asked her to stay and keep her head down. Unfortunately, she came across some information that was of great importance to my cause and that of one of my new allies."
Harry nodded in understanding. Satine felt responsible for the danger her friend was in as much as she needed the intelligence, "I understand Mand'alore , we will do our best."
"We might need to split into two teams," added Luna. "My team can ward the mountain base and your team can find Mirria."
"Hiding the base can wait. If the worst happens, we can defend it long enough for our people to escape."
"Do we know where Mirria was last located?" asked Luna.
"We do," Satine assured them.
"I think…" Harry was cut off by a soldier calling for the Mand'alore.
"Mand'alore a second ship, a Vee nineteen Torrent Starfighter just landed outside the base."
"Just one?' asked Satine.
"Yes, Mand'alore."
"I assume we are jamming its comms?" Seeing his nod she put her helmet back on. "Good capture the pilot and bring him here."
A few moments later a familiar face was led in by three heavily armed Mandalorians.
"Well this is a surprise, seeing you here," said Obi-Wan Kenobi.
oOoOo
"…and so I simply made my way here," explained Obi-Wan.
"So you didn't track us?" asked Harry.
"Not in so many words, no," replied Obi-Wan.
Ret looked like he was about to say something but Harry beat him to it.
"Alright, well nice seeing you again Master Kenobi."
The Adepts followed Harry out leaving Obi-Wan alone with Satine.
"Why are you here Obi?"
"To help, as much as I am able," replied Obi-Wan.
"Even if I don't want you to?" replied Satine coldly.
"I don't understand Highness."
"Where were you when the Sith came?" asked Satine.
"Your Highness…Satine, I came when I could."
Satine studied his face looking for insight before turning away, "I needed you here by my side Obi-Wan. People….good people died."
"I am sorry Satine. My duties were elsewhere I would have been here to help if I had known."
Satine turned back to look at him. Her eyes were moist but her expression was cold. "I loved you Obi-Wan and I know you knew it. Just as I knew it was hopeless," she held up a hand gesturing to forestall his reply. "Now I've been forced to give up my principles to save my people. Now I am the Mand'alore and I can't let myself love you. So I'll ask again why are you here?"
"Oh Satine," whispered Obi-Wan as he stepped forward pulling her into an embrace. "I may not be able to be what you want me to be but I am truly your friend. Where else should I be when you need help?"
Satine relaxed into his embrace for a moment before pushing him away, "Then General Kenobi I have a mission for you."
Obi-Wan took a calming breath and nodded, "How can I assist you?"
"I need the secret to the Clone troopers accelerated aging."
"Aging?" asked Obi-Wan.
"An ally had discovered that the Clones were created with accelerated aging. It's clear now that they were never meant to survive the combat service but if they did their lifespan would be less than a quarter of a normal human. We've discovered that they were also fitted with inhibitor chips but we know how to remove those. We still need to know how to fix the accelerated aging but we think we have found a source. A renegade Kaminoan scientist is now hiding on Mandalore, an agent sent a message to me."
"And this scientist has the information you need?" asked Obi-Wan.
"Yes, Obi-Wan you can't do this alone so I've organised a team to go with you."
oOoOo
"This is a larger team than I expected," said Obi-Wan as the civilian freighter Satine had supplied approached Sundari, the domed capital city of Mandalore.
Harry shrugged not commenting on Kenobi's small talk, "We are approaching their space dock."
"I'm sending our ID through now," added Luna. "Okay, we have our berth, Fifty-Six West."
Kenobi pointed to the left, "It's right on the perimeter of the berths."
"I'm bringing her in now," advised Harry.
Luna flipped on the internal comms system, "Places everyone."
Harry bought the freighter down smoothly and cut the engines, "We need to check in with the dock master and while everyone unloads the three of us will go to Mirria's address. We've got six hours till our scheduled departure time."
"Then we had best get moving," said Obi-Wan.
Luna pulled out her wand, "But first, let's be sure no one recognises you general."
Obi-Wan felt a strange twist in the Force and looked down at his suddenly pale skin. Turning her looked at himself in the cockpit glass and was shocked to see a much younger man. Red haired, with a smattering of freckles across his face.
"Well that will come in handy," he whispered as he reached up to touch his new face.
The three of them left the ship just as Ret began talking with the two dock workers approaching the ship. Following the signs they made their way toward the administrative building before turning off and making their way out of the Space Dock.
"All good so far," said Harry with a grin. "Okay, Ben you had better show us the way to your sister's place."
Obi-Wan barely hesitated before hailing transport.
As they travelled through the outer areas of Sundari, it was increasingly obvious just how much of a presence the Empire was maintaining on the ground. There were clone troopers everywhere. The capital ships may have left but no one was fooled into thinking the Empire had abandoned Mandalore.
Harry was memorising landmarks as they travelled. With all the enemy troops on the ground any 'fighting retreat' would be dangerous. He smiled for a moment and fingered his wand. If need be, they could apparate back to the freighter.
The transport deposited them nearly two full blocks from the multi-storey dwelling Mirria had been living in. As they casually made their way along the raised walkway, Luna extended her senses trying to feel out the dangers with the Force.
"Here it is," said Harry quietly.
"Keep walking," said Luna. "People are watching."
They continued to stroll down the street passing a group of four Clones standing on guard outside what looked like a warehouse. Continuing on, they walked into a shopping complex and found a quiet corner.
"Did you feel it?" asked Luna.
Both Harry and Obi-wan nodded.
"There is a Force presence in there, a dark one," added Kenobi.
"Anyone want to guess as to why a darksider is so close to our missing friend's apartment?" asked Harry.
Luna faced the wall and pulled out her wand. Focusing her mind on the picture Satine had shown her, she focused her senses on Mirria, "Point me Mirria."
Her wand spun to point but, more importantly, Luna got a sense of Mirria's location. One of the benefits of combining spells with her Force abilities. "She is in the warehouse and she is not alone but I can't sense much else."
Harry considered for a moment before looking over at Obi-Wan, "Do you trust me Obi-Wan?"
Obi-Wan smiled, "Why do I suddenly think I should be concerned?"
Harry grinned and gestured toward a shadowed alcove.
oOoOo
Agent Probic of Imperial Intelligence stepped away from the prisoner as she slumped into unconsciousness, "Revive her."
A Clone stepped forward and injected the battered woman with a stimulant.
As the Mandalorian opened her eyes, Probic grabbed her by the hair and forced her to look at him, "You will break traitor."
Mirria shuddered at the cold menace in the agent's voice. She had already been subjected to a brutal interrogation and in her few brief moments of respite, her interrogator had made it clear that worse awaited.
Probic felt a wave of what was almost pleasure as he watched the fear grow in her eyes. She was close to breaking. Very, very close. Another round of beatings and perhaps letting a few clones use her and she would be begging to cooperate.
As he stepped forward raising his hand, he felt the Force being manipulated…very close by. Turning he studied the empty warehouse, "Check the perimeter and notify Ulyen that we may have a Jedi nearby."
His Clone assistant nodded and opened a secure comm channel.
Probic could sense the presence approaching. Stepping back into the shadows near the wall he used the Force to blur and distort his outline while he hid his own Force signature. He had been a Jedi before he found where true power came from and he knew their strengths and their weaknesses.
A few moments later the door opened and then closed.
Probic could feel the other…no the others. There were three Force presences in the room now.
The Clone seemed to realise something was amiss and raised its blaster only to slump to the ground in a flash of red light.
Help was on the way, Ulyen and his Sith Acolytes were moments away but it didn't feel like he was in control. The Force was sending Probic a distinct sense of danger.
As he watched, there was a shimmering in the air and three figures appeared. One older man and two youngsters, obviously Padawans not an easy fight but he could hold until help arrived.
oOoOo
The disillusioned trio had quickly and quietly dealt with the Clone Trooper guards and an unlocking spell had gained them access to the warehouse. The sole Clone hadn't even had a chance to fire.
Obi-Wan Kenobi cringed as he took in the battered form of Mirria. He felt a touch on his arm and then an odd wave of the Force passed over him. Seeing Harry and Luna he realised that he was once again visible.
Harry was tense as he looked around the room before focusing on one corner, "We have someone in the corner. They've hidden their Force presence but he's there."
"…Who?" muttered Mirria.
Obi-Wan gestured and the bindings holding her down fell open, "We are here to save you Mirria."
Luna swung around looking at the door, "We have more coming, all Darksiders."
"Get her out of here Obi-Wan," ordered Harry.
"Too late," said Luna as the doors were blasted halfway across the room.
Four figures all armed with red bladed lightsabers leapt into the room as the doors hit the floor.
Probic smirked as he stepped out of the shadows, "I am Agent Probic and you will surrender."
Harry smiled, "I wouldn't count on it."
"We have you now Jedi. You can't beat us all and as we speak my troops are surrounding this building."
Harry looked over to Luna, who nodded. With a negligent toss, he threw a coin from his belt pouch to Obi-Wan. "Pick her up and go. Just say the Lily. We'll get the other one."
Obi-Wan looked confused but did as he was told before disappearing from the warehouse with Mirria.
"You can't hide from me Jedi," hissed Probic although the other Jedi had seemingly vanished.
Harry smiled as he activated his lightsaber. While Luna gestured and sent Force lightning toward Probic. Who only just managed to block the attack even as he was thrown backward.
"Sorry but we are not Jedi," added Harry. "We need to hold them, Luna."
The four Sith acolytes attacked Harry as Probic snarled out orders.
Harry swung his lightsaber blocking the closest as he snapped a stunning spell at the second.
Luna simply Force pushed Probic sending him staggering backward. As he fell back, Luna leapt into the air somersaulting to land next to Harry. As she landed, she struck out forcing the two Sith backwards.
For a moment the Sith hesitated then, as one, they charged.
Harry struck out with a fast thrust against his opponent who simply danced aside and countered with a slashing blow that forced Harry to block and take a step backwards. Using the back step Harry spun and lashed out at one of the Sith attacking Luna only for his attack to be blocked by the firsts lightsaber.
Luna was forced to block attacks from both Sith as they charged forward coordinating their attacks and nearly succeeding in trapping her between them.
As Luna blocked Harry felt rather than saw something speeding toward his head. Spinning he blocked with his lightsaber destroying a large metal bar. As the bar flew away, in two pieces, the two Sith attacked again.
Luna gestured and shadowy figures leapt from the walls engaging the two Sith attacking her. As they were distracted by the illusionary figures Luna struck running the first through. Spinning she prepared to attack the second when she was forced to block a fast moving attack from Probic.
Harry kicked out catching his opponent in the knee and sending him stumbling backward. Unfortunately, it cost him as Luna's opponent managed to catch him with a slash that caught him in his thigh. Burning pain caused him to stumble and he barely managed to block an attack from Probic that would have taken his head off.
"Separate, they are crowding us," ordered Luna as she used the Force to leap over two of the Sith.
Harry ignored the pain in his leg and gestured with his wand hand sending Force lightning at his opponent who was blasted backwards. Even as the Force lightning connected he parried a powerful overhead blow from the second Sith.
Luna blocked a blindingly fast attack from one of the Sith as Probic began his own series of lighting fast attacks against her.
Luna and Harry were holding their own, barely against five fighters who had been trained to fight Jedi. As Luna fended off the leader, Harry decided to change tactics. He cast a blasting curse at the feet of the Sith, who were again readying to attack him. Both were sent flying backwards amidst a cloud of debris.
Luna smiled at the two remaining Sith as she cast her own blasting curse. Probic somehow avoided the worst of the curse but he was still sent stumbling away.
Harry sent a stream of fire at the only Sith who had regained his footing but the figure rolled away.
Probic snarled and sent Harry and Luna a look of hate as he strode forward, his red-bladed lightsaber swing back and forth. He launched a lightning fast attack toward Luna and kicked out at Harry forcing him backward.
Luna deflected his attack and countered but she was slightly too slow and out of position and he caught her across the face with his elbow as she deflected his lightsaber. As she staggered back, he reversed his blow and attempted to run her through only to have Harry's lightsaber deflect his blade away.
The move, however, cost Harry.
Overbalanced, as he extended to protect Luna Harry, left himself open to a powerful blow from Probic, which he only barely managed to block.
With an almost feral look in his eyes, Probic kicked out catching Harry right on his injured thigh.
Harry was forced to drop to one knee as pain momentarily overrode his ability to suppress it.
Luna blinked away tears as she blocked an attack and responded with an aggressive Form VII attack that seemingly caught the Sith by surprise as his head toppled to the floor.
Still on his knees, Harry blocked a thrust and sent a stunning spell, at almost point blank range, at Probic.
Somehow the Sith blocked the spell but he couldn't have foreseen the blast of Force Lightning that struck him in the back and made him stumble forward in pain.
Harry didn't hesitate and drove his lightsaber into the Sith's chest. As he slumped forward, Harry pushed off on his good leg and let Probic hit the ground.
"We need to get out of here," said Luna. "Are you alright?"
Harry cast a healing spell and flexed his leg, "Good enough to get out of here."
"We need to…" began Luna.
Harry threw up a shield as blaster fire came lancing out of the darkness.
"You know I'm kind of thinking we need to get the hell out of here," muttered Harry as the tempo of the blaster fire picked up as more Clones arrived.
With a nod, Luna apparated away followed almost instantly by Harry.
oOoOo
The Lily
Obi-Wan hovered over Mirria as the Medical Droid did its work.
"She is stabilised but will need either immersion in Bacta or treatment by a Force healer. Given we have several Force healers listed as crew, I would suggest that solution."
Obi-Wan looked over at Salara, "You have Force healers?"
Salara nodded and looked over to where Velath and Sahdra stood waiting, "Sahdra how is your healing?"
Sahdra smiled, proud to have been called on, "I've studied with Hermione…well a few classes anyway. I can certainly help but I think we'll need Luna and Harry."
Velath shot Kenobi an unhappy look, "When they get back, they will help her."
Kenobi hid a sigh. The former Nightsister was almost fanatically loyal to Luna and had been incredibly unhappy to find that she and Harry had been left behind.
"I'm sure…" Kenobi flinched as the Force rippled to reveal a battered looking Harry and Luna.
Velath surged forward almost pushing Harry out of the way, "Mistress are you alright?"
Luna smiled reassuringly, "I'm fine or I will be in short order. Harry let me have a look at your leg."
Kenobi cleared his throat, "Mirria needs help as well."
Luna looked over to Mirria and the medical droid who quickly reported.
"Right then Mirria then Harry," said Luna as she pulled out her wand. "Velath, Sahdra come and watch this."
Luna walked the two young women (and the others) through casting diagnostic and healing spells. Kenobi was somewhat curious as to what exactly he would be seeing and his guess that it was a form of Force healing did not prepare him for the ease in which Luna healed the Mandalorian.
Less than ten minutes later Mirria awoke. She was tired and rather stiff but out of danger.
"You must help me get to Lih May, she is hidden away in a safe house but if they are on to me, they may have worked out where she is."
They soon had the location of the safe house but is was dangerously close to the site of their last battle.
"Even with disguises, it will be risky if there are any more Sith trained guards. The last lot were bad enough but that Probic was a damn good fighter."
Kenobi frowned, "I know that name, not the face but the name. He may have once been a Jedi."
"Great," muttered Harry. "Well, at least, he won't be bothering anyone else."
"There are entirely too many Sith for my liking. I think we can safely say that Palpatine has broken the rule of two," said Kenobi.
"Or he's being very fast and loose with its requirements," added Harry. "Maybe he does have just the one formal apprentice but these Dark Jedi and half trained Sith warriors are no less a problem regardless of their supposed ranking."
"Talking about it might have to be put off until later," Luna reminded them. "The Imperials know we are here now it won't take them long to find us here."
"Then we need to move fast, Luna can you do my leg?" asked Harry before turning to look at Kenobi. "Feeling up to another go?"
oOoOo
Imperial Command Centre - Mandalore
Governor Fresk glared at the Senior Clone trooper, "They what?"
"Disappeared sir…we think it might be some kind of personal cloak."
Fresk ran a hand through his thinning hair, "Or they were Jedi. Send in the troops while I inform central command."
"Right away Sir," acknowledged the Clone officer.
oOoOo
Clone Officer B-46353 (Ransom) was an experienced soldier who had faithfully served a number of Jedi commanders before order 66. So he knew full well just how dangerous even a single Jedi could be. He also had seen Jedi die, they were dangerous but not unstoppable.
"Sir, there is something up ahead…it looks like a forward patrol was ambushed."
"Send a full…" the junior clone flinched as his officer slumped to the ground to expose a figure in the shadows wielding a lightsaber.
Ransom cursed and opened fire along with the rest of his patrol. He then ducked behind a wall to avoid the inevitable return fire courtesy of the Jedi's deflections. Sure enough, blasts exploded around him when the stopped he spun back into position. He was already firing as he saw the figure deflecting shots from the surviving Clones.
Then there was a burning pain in his neck and his world went black. Moments later the firing died out.
oOoOo
Harry grimaced as he touched the burnt spot on his jacket. These Clones had been good and had developed at least some tactics for dealing with Jedi.
"How far is it Obi-Wan?" asked Luna.
"Up ahead the building with the yellow door," replied Obi-Wan. Mirria had given very clear directions.
"I don't see any Clones," said Luna.
Harry closed his eyes and extended his senses. There were people around in and near their location but he couldn't sense any Clones or Sith nearby.
"I can't sense anything," offered Kenobi.
"Then we had better move it before anymore Clones arrive," added Harry.
Gaining entry to the building was relatively simple thanks to an unlocking spell. The scientist, Lih May was where Mirria had left her.
"It is a relief to see you Master Jedi," said Lih May. She shuddered as she looked around the bare room. "I have been waiting for Clones to break the door down."
Harry looked at his time piece, "Five minutes," he warned.
"According to Mirria, there are stairs to the roof. We should get moving," said Kenobi.
Luna pulled out a communicator, "Ret we are heading to the roof now."
oOoOo
Ret and Salara began preparing the Freighter for lift off the moment the others had left. Sahdra and Velath continued to organise their cargo containers at the base of the loading lamp to give anyone who may be watching something to look at.
Ret kept a watch on the entry to the docking bays and almost immediately noticed the arriving clones. He immediately keyed the mic and warned the others.
Sahdra and Velath immediately boarded and closed the hatch
"We are on board."
"Then it is time to leave," said Ret as he took off and headed toward the city.
Almost straight away the started receiving warnings and orders from flight control. Which they ignored as Ret concentrated on reaching the safe house.
"Looks like they have some speeders following us," warned Salara.
Ret nodded as he pushed the freighter as hard as he could, "Keep an eye out for fighters."
"Ret we are heading to the roof now," warned Luna over the open channel.
"Good timing," replied Salara as she studied the scanners. "We have some Clones following us."
"Have the ramp down and we'll be as quick as we can," replied Luna.
oOoOo
Imperial CR-20 Troop Transport
Probic hadn't answered, and his fellow Imperial Intelligence Agent Malorum could only surmise that he was dead or at best incapacitated. It had been a camera that had discovered their targets. Obi-Wan Kenobi and two younger Jedi, probably Padawans; he would have to make sure he identified the promptly.
"Commander prepare your men for action."
"Sir we have reports that a Freighter has broken the flight prohibition and is heading into the city," reported the Navigator.
Malorum smiled coldly, "If I am correct that will be our targets transportation. Follow it in Pilot and prepare to destroy it once we confirm our targets are actually onboard."
As the CR-20 banked heavily, Malorum was lamenting the fact that the majority of the fleet's fighters had been redeployed. A few wings of fighters would have made short work of a freighter.
oOoOo
Harry and Luna led the way while Obi-Wan helped Lih May. Thankfully there did not seem to be any Clones on the upper floors and they soon reached the roof. At the access door, Harry and Luna both paused.
Something felt wrong…dangerous. Harry glanced over at Luna, who looked concerned.
"I think we might have some unwelcome visitors approaching," said Harry.
Luna raised her comm again, "How far off are you?"
"Two minutes," replied Salara.
"Well we can't stay here," remarked Obi-Wan.
"Here let me," Harry disillusioned Kenobi and Lih May as Luna did herself and then Harry.
"We walk out and straight for the Freighter get on board Obi-Wan and we'll follow," ordered Harry.
Harry went to the door and pushed it open, slowly.
The freighter appeared and lowered to hover above the building.
"Hurry it up, we have Imperials are less than a minute out," warned Ret.
All four were quickly aboard and Ret turned and went to full power in the direction of the exit.
oOoOo
Malorum frowned as the freighter suddenly sped up without having picked anyone up. They must have realised that there was no chance of making their pickup and bugged out. The ship would be tracked, but the real prize was still in the building.
"Commander land and search the building while the land based units secure any exits. We have them trapped."
As the CR-20 landed, Malorum was already composing his message to Director Isard.
oOoOo
Haven
Sev'rance's eyes widened in surprise as the docking bay doors opened and she got her first look at Haven.
The sheer number of Force presences was almost overwhelming…everywhere she looked she sensed the Force at play. It was like finding another Jedi Temple!
"This way please," said the human…Hermione.
Sev'rance followed the young woman toward what looked to be some sort of command centre. Eventually, she led her into a large library. To Sev'rance, the whole room almost sang with the Force.
Hermione smiled politely, "You might want to turn the Force perception down a bit or you will get a headache. Most things in this room have been touched by the Force."
Sev'rance nodded and did as Hermione suggested. Slowly the sense of being overpowered faded.
"What is this place?" asked Sev'rance.
Hermione gestured to a chair, "Please sit and then I'll try and answer your questions."
Sev'rance sank into the chair but kept her attention focused on her host.
Hermione gestured around the room, "This is our archive, our library where we preserve what we fear may be lost otherwise."
Sev'rance raised an eyebrow, "These works are all about the Force."
Hermione nodded slowly, "In a manner of speaking, although some might argue that definition."
"Why do this, to what purpose?" asked Sev'rance.
"To preserve the knowledge and the unique perspectives it offers. To teach other paths to those that have been told only light and dark have validity."
Sev'rance didn't know what to say to that statement. Oh, she sensed that Hermione was telling the truth as she knew it but the truth didn't make sense to her.
"You found your way Sev'rance."
Sev'rance turned her head to see Darth Vectivus stand in the shadows of the room.
"You," muttered Sev'rance.
The Force ghost gave Hermione a nod, "Hermione, Sev'rance needs to see to believe. I will lead her to the caverns and show her what is to come."
"Is she ready to see it?" asked Hermione.
Vectivus smiled coldly, "She will be."
oOoOo
Sev'rance knelt on the floor as her legs refused to hold her weight.
"That was real?" she whispered.
Vectivus shrugged, "A look at what will come if the Adepts fail in their tasks."
"By the old gods I…I helped bring this into being!"
"And for that you have paid," replied Vectivus.
"Were you lying, about Sirius about the future?"
Vectivus smiled, "You know the answer to that. You chose your own path from this point. What I showed you could be, if that is truly what you desire."
Sev'rance slowly raised her head, "I will serve."
"And through that service you shall be rewarded," replied Vectivus.