Hey, everyone! How are you doing on this cool day of Wednesday, February 3, 2021? I'm doing well, as I've been working hard at my new job and my three classes, and I'm reading Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi: Abyss. I'm already about a third of the way done with it. Oh, I will likely have Chapter 26 published by tomorrow night. As a result, I figured I'd work on Chapter 27 in the meantime, and I've already got a lot done from previous drafts of future chapters. I hope you're ready, as I have a lot of ideas to unfold, and I want to make it at least 10k words long this time. So that means it'll take a bit longer to write than usual. But before I do, I wanted to let you know that I found out that the Mass Effect Trilogy: Legendary Edition will be released on May 14, 2021, and I'm gonna buy it up when it comes. That means I had better get back to playing some video games in the next few months, but I will need to balance my time accordingly. Well, I'd better get started, as I have a long way to go in this chapter, and so little time to do it in. Wish me luck, and God be with us all in these difficult times.
(Saturday, February 6, 2021 Addendum) Hey, everyone! I hope you're all doing well on this dreary and rainy evening. I'm doing all right, as I read a bit of Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi: Abyss, volunteered today, and wrote a big chunk of this chapter as well. But I have to let you know a few things. First off, I'm going to be busy tomorrow and next week with work and schoolwork, so I won't have much time to write. And second, as of now, I have decided to break up this saga into either 6 or 9 stories, like a book series in order to force me to better focus and condense my work, as well as force me to not take so many detours in subplots. I already plan to make the war against the Freedom's Riches and their Sith overseers a trilogy, and I hope to do the same with the other two arcs. So, I guess I'd better get back to writing for a bit before I hit the hay. Or maybe I'll play a bit of The Witcher III: Wild Hunt: Complete Edition instead. It's so hard to choose these days. Wish me luck, and God be with us all in these difficult times.
Meanwhile, On Falleen
Within the Parazen Mountains
Inside Sector Three
Within Gunnery Chamber Four
"You ready for this, Edaan? This won't be like any of your other missions for the Jedi. It'll be a full-scale war with countless enemies gunning for you." Akku warned his friend as the young Jedi Knight helped him and his crew finalize the controls for a varied assortment of turbolasers within the bunker.
All across the gunnery chamber, all of Edaan's crew was finalizing their preparations for holding off the Sith's impending armies. That was, except for K'Kruhk and Jarael, who were aboard the Rude Awakening with the critically wounded as they were prepared for the next wave of evacuees.
"This won't be the first siege I've been in, Akku." Edaan shrugged, checking over his hybrid combat armor one last time before he entered battle. Thanks to his connections with Akku and his Mandalorian armorers, he was able to acquire a customized set of Jedi combat armor, reminiscent of the Order from the Great Galactic War, but with microfibers of Beskar iron laced in as extra protection.
Wiping away several beads of sweat from across his brow, he reminded the captain, "I did fight on Kesh against a planet's worth of Sith, after all. Though it will be my first from the defensive end as live bait, I'll admit."
"It's not all it's cracked up to be." Kix wistfully interjected while he helped move the last several portable generators for the sector's shield generator as a part of makeshift repairs. The previous ion bombs had dealt significant damage to the base's fighting capabilities.
To rectify this gaping hole in their fortress's defensive network, the Resistance and their off-world allies were making whatever quick repairs they could for the imminent siege. Any small factor could be enough to save their cause from utter annihilation when the Sith broke through the second layer of defenses.
"Try fighting on Dathomir against an army of Nightsisters and rancors obsessed with preserving a matriarchal society. Then add Vestara and her Nightsister spy dupe sabotaging us from within. I'm sure it's just as bad as many of your Clone War battles." Ben nostalgically challenged the Clone Trooper.
"You ever gonna stop bringing up Vestara's long list of sins? They're a real downer on the boss's attitude." Robonino reprimanded him as the bounty hunter helped a group of technicians finish repairing two salvaged Colicoid Creation Nest's Droidekas that would help with defending the sector.
"He won't, because, while he may be young physically, he's still a bitter old fool in his soul." Adari joked while checking the two blaster pistols and vibro-knife, and a customized pair of bracers that made up her assortment of modern weapons.
The playful banter earned a few laughs from everyone, and even a few chuckles from Ben.
"Don't worry about me, Robo." Edaan assured him. "I know how to compartmentalize. Besides, Master Skywalker didn't mean anything by it."
"Just call me Ben for now, Edaan. You won't have enough time to call me for help by my title if you're in a tight spot."
"Fine by me." Checking his holoclock, he sighed. "It's time, everyone."
"Good luck, Edaan." Atai nodded before he, Vua, Lona and Kix departed to provide backup for Wraith Squadron for their own mission.
Adari, finishing her examination, walked over to Edaan and pecked his lips before quietly warning him, "You'd better make it out of this. If I lose you after the Sith and Abeloth took my family, I don't know what I'll do."
Nodding in complete seriousness, Edaan wrapped his arms around her in a fierce hug, one she gently reciprocated after overcoming her surprise. He immediately vowed, "I will, I promise. Don't forget, I've lost my family because of those maniacs too. And now, with you by my side, I've got too much to live for to lose it all now."
Before he let go of her, he decided to surprise her yet again by fiercely kissing her with all the love and passion he could muster, a kiss she eagerly reciprocated with an emphatic sigh, ignoring the onlookers and their understanding smirks.
Letting the kiss last for at least ten seconds, they separated with an embarrassed gasp of breath, and laughed at the silliness of it all.
Coughing to get their attention, the couple saw Ben playfully shaking his head. "Edaan, if you and Adari are done with your little 'I-love-you' talk, we'd best get moving."
"Right." Reluctantly getting out of the embrace, he nodded to Adari, "You don't have to worry about me. We Jedi have a knack for getting out of overwhelming odds like these."
"I know. That's why I'm coming with you to ensure that." Adari factually stated while the two Jedi walked away.
That stopped Edaan and Ben right in their tracks, allowing her to continue, "I can do much more for the cause out in the field than stuck on guard duty. Besides, you'll need another able fighter and leader when the plan goes awry."
Opening his mouth to object, Adari beat Edaan to it by proposing, "If you want to challenge that, we can always reenact how we first met on Kesh. But we don't have time for me to give you such a brutal beatdown."
Shutting his mouth, he turned to Ben for support, who only smirked. "Don't look at me. She's your girlfriend."
"You're not at all worried she'll try to betray us?" Edaan suspiciously questioned, knowing he'd get a good beating for that off-hand remark when they escaped the mountains.
"After helping liberate Kesh from the Lost Tribe, I'm more than willing to give her the benefit of the doubt." He shrugged. "Besides, knowing our luck, we'll need all the help we can get when the Sith try to turn the tables on us."
Meanwhile, Within the Shogun System
Aboard the Pre Viszla
Within Parja and Bralo's Quarters
"Ugh. What happened?" Parja groggily groaned before she saw her mother and Kitai.
"Hey, Buir, I could've sworn I just had the strangest dream. I dreamt that…" She trailed off as she saw her brother. Everything he said and did to her came right back to her, and she immediately leapt to tackle him.
"Parja, let him go! Now!" Mirta ordered her as she tried to get Parja off and keep her from strangling Bralo.
"You don't know the kind of osik he was spouting, Buir! He lied and said you two wanted us to speak with Ghes Orade, and that we'd defect to Fett's side!" Parja argued.
After Kitai helped her friend hold back Parja, Bralo coughed to regain his breath. After a few deep breaths, he clarified, "I didn't say that last part! All I said was that it'd be a good chance to learn more about the Protectors and get to know our father. She's just being overdramatic as usual."
"Say that again, you di'kut!"
"Oh, you're certainly one to talk, dar'manda!"
"Both of you, stop arguing this instant!" Mirta fiercely ordered. They immediately shut up, and when Mirta was certain they wouldn't get at each other's throats again, she added, "Now, sit down. Both of you."
Complying with their mother's edicts, Mirta told Parja, "I need you to listen very carefully, daughter. And no interruptions. Bralo might have mishandled his wording with you, but he was telling the truth about us putting you both in contact with your father. But it was the only way he would agree to help Kitai figure out what Edaan Palpatine did to her back on Kesh."
That caught the girl's full attention, "What do you mean, what Palpatine did to her? Did he do some kind of mind trick on her?"
"If only it was that simple." Kitai lamented. "I don't know exactly what he did to me, but what I do know is that he implanted memories or visions inside me in some crazy gambit to 'save me.' I told your mother and brother, and they agreed to help me, if I agreed to let you and Bralo set up a secure network to speak with your father."
"Why would you even want to agree to that, Buir? I thought you hated him after he left you."
"I don't hate your father, Parja. I just… it's complicated."
"Do you still love him?"
Not hesitating over the heartache for her estranged husband, she truthfully confessed, "Yes. In spite of all that happened between us, I do. And I always will."
"But this isn't about us right now. Kitai needs our help to discover how to undo what Edaan did to her. And we need a certain set of items to help her with a Sith ritual."
"What kind of ritual?"
"A highly advanced and forbidden kind." Kitai worriedly answered. "But that's beside the point. Your mother and I tasked Bralo with telling you the truth, but I suppose his honest and inquisitive nature was the wrong way to go."
"Ya think?"
"But that's not the real reason I wanted you to meet your father. It's because I don't want you to grow up to be like me or Kitai." Mirta admitted, surprising everyone.
"You know how hard my life was because of the hate I inherited from my mother, and what I nearly did to your grandfather. And Kitai lost both her parents and friends to Abeloth, so we both know what it's like to lose everything that truly matters."
To her children's credit, they both kept quiet on any snide remarks about Kitai leaving Ben for the One Sith. It was a gesture both women greatly appreciated.
"But now, you have a chance to mend some of the wounds I wrought. And you're good, you might learn a few things about fighting from your father. I even picked up a few tricks from him back in the day."
"He's that good?" Parja skeptically asked.
"Better." Mirta promised.
Sighing, the young girl agreed, "Well, I don't like lying to my friends. But if you all are really gonna go through with this, I might as well help you see it through. I'm not going to abandon my family when the going gets tough."
"Good. We can always use another trusted ally in getting us all the needed materials." Mirta smirked before she pulled out her comlink. "Gev here. What is it?"
"Apologies, Commander. Lady Dician is requesting you and Lady Kitai for an immediate reassignment. She wouldn't give me any specifics, but it seems there's a new flashpoint erupting that needs your expertise."
Glancing at Kitai, she acknowledged, "Very well. We'll be at the bridge in fifteen minutes."
"Try to hurry. I can't keep that perfectionist stalled for much longer."
"Reassignment? What's that all about?" Bralo suspiciously asked Kitai.
"Sorry, but I'm just as much in the dark as you." She admitted before they left the children to the awkward task of apologizing to each other.
Four Minutes Later
Within the Borosk System
In Orbit Above Borosk
Aboard the Bloodfin
As the battle above Daala's makeshift capital world continued to rage, several scarred hulks and piles of debris began spreading over Borosk as another makeshift asteroid field. The newly combined Imperial force had suffered several losses, ranging from frigates and even two Destroyers, to the ambush from the Sith's Unknown Regions proxies.
Unfortunately, the eight raiders had suffered far fewer casualties. Especially since they had five new capital ships arriving to reinforce their growing flotilla.
But that was not Armitage's immediate concern, as the countdown for Melusar's private laboratory was about to reach its end. And the research within could not get into the Sith's hands.
"General, we're picking up another two-dozen signatures about to exit hyperspace in Sector Twelve."
"Can you ID them?" Armitage asked the officer as the Star Destroyer shook from the droid starfighters swarming over it.
"No, sir. I can't- wait. They're initiating contact with us in binary code. They claim to be advance allies of Lando Calrissian and Edaan Palpatine in their pursuit of knowledge." A comm officer alerted him.
How did they get here days ahead of schedule? The general was momentarily rendered speechless. That shock immediately wore off when he ordered the sensor officer, "Put a visual on this new fleet. Let's see what exactly we have to work with."
Pulling up a tactical screen of the sector, he observed as two dozen corvette sized spherical droids reverted to realspace.
Right away, the tactical monitor began to repeatedly flicker in and out, and several large sparks emitted from the screen. One officer urgently reported, "Sir, someone's hacking into our comm system. They're- they're broadcasting to all of our ships, even Remal's."
"Greetings, Fel Loyalists." A deep male voice jovially spoke. "I am Vuffi Raa, and I apologize for the early entrance. Unfortunately, or perhaps the opposite in your case, many dozens of my fellow Silentium were eager to see the greater galaxy. And I could hardly let them barrel through the galaxy alone in such a dangerous time."
So, that's Calrissian's old droid friend. Armitage reflected before he explained, "Your timely arrival is most appreciated. We have a multitude of critical situations in the system, and many prisoners and forces trapped on the planet."
"I am aware of the grave situation, General Jaeger. We've intercepted countless communications throughout the system, so my brethren are prepared to assist with your evacuation."
"Thank you. We'll need a few ships to help extract the thousands of prisoners Daala entombed in her estate. As for the rest of your force, we'll need you to assist us with keeping the enemy fleet at bay."
"Of course. Then let us dispense with all these orders and teach these ruffians a lesson in honorable warfare."
Meanwhile, Within the Kalee/Abbaji Minor System
In Orbital Yard Two
Aboard the Resurgent-class Star Destroyer Intrepid
"Give it to me straight, Commander. What do we have left?" Porrak asked his garrison commander as his two Star Destroyers docked with the shipyard. The rogue Moff's fleet had utterly been turned against him thanks to that spineless schutta Lecerscen and his Sith overlords. As he heard the reports from his second-in-command, he knew that his meager remains of a fleet were no match for the combined galactic coalition coming towards the Empire.
Thanks to his one time friend, he was left with no more than five destroyers and their escort craft to protect his covert shipyard for Daala. And it would be crushed behind the might the sanctimonious Jedi and their dupes were bringing.
That was why he was prepared to propose to Daala a new strategy. One that would not give them success against their enemies, despite his yearnings for just that. Instead, this new strategy would take a page from the Rebel Alliance and ensure that the next generations would have a chance to make the Empire the only force of order in the galaxy.
"Sir, there's unusual readings coming from the dark side of Kalee's moon. I can't make out its origins, but I think it's a coded transmission of some kind." A comm officer reported, making Porrak's blood run cold.
"Can you trace it?"
"I'm trying, Sir. But it's unlike any signature I've ever seen. It adapts to every decrypting technique I make and is blocking all attempts to trace it. It's almost as if it has a mind of its own."
Quickly running through the possibilities in his mind, he could only come up with a handful of scenarios, and none of them bode well for his fleet's well-being.
Before he could give any orders, alarms began blazing throughout the bridge, and the ship began to rock from a growing force he knew all too well: an artificial gravity well.
Did Drikl follow us here? Or is it an advance force for another enemy? Porrak speculated.
"Sir, we're detecting-"
"I know what this is, Ensign! Tell me something I can use to save us!"
"Sir, long-range communications are being jammed! And we have at least thirty ships reverting to realspace outside Kalee."
"Well, they're certainly not any of ours. Prepare for battle." Porrak grimly said, just as the ships began appearing. To Porrak's surprise, while fourteen were of Chiss/Imperial design, ranging from four 900-meter needle-like Chiss Star Destroyers and their four missile boats and six sleek silver like attack cruisers, the remaining sixteen ships were of a design he had not seen since his days at the Prefsbelt IV Naval Academy.
So, that infernal Jedi did recruit those Silentium to fight us. Porrak cursed. "Ensign, give me your best estimate on how far the interdiction field spreads, and its epicenter."
"I can't make that with absolute certainty, but I believe it has a maximum range of five thousand kilometers. I'll have more data if we can spare a recon ship to get a closer look at it."
"You'll have one chance and a squad of gunboats to destroy it. Don't blow it." He warned the ensign.
"Order all captains to rally around us. Defense formation Echo-Aught. We need to buy time to begin immediate evacuations for the shipyard."
Ten Minutes Later
Aboard the Dragon Queen II
Thirty-Five Hours From the Galactic Empire's Borders
"I guess your gambit is paying off." Trista noted as Vuffi's transmission revealed the last remnants of Moff Vansyn's fleet. "You did instruct your brethren and the Empire of the Hand's fleet to capture Vansyn and his senior commanders for us, right?"
"Of course, I told them, Commander Zel. I was less likely to forget than you, after all. But whether or not we can capture all of these tenacious foes is another matter entirely."
"Then we will put our faith in your skills, Sir Raa." Tenel nodded. "What of Moffs Quillian and Flennic?"
"My scouts have intercepted several transmissions. They indicate that the two Moffs are indeed trapped in interdiction fields in the outskirts of the Ord Sedra and Entralla Systems."
"But that may be the least of your concerns." Vuffi replaced his hologram with a tactical projection of the Borosk System, "Raiders from the Unknown Regions have been sighted attacking Admiral Daala's makeshift capital of Borosk and other worlds. They have been attacking many of her fleets, including those that wish to defect back to Head of State Fel's side."
"So what? Let Daala's fleets and these Sith raiders tear each other apart. It'll make our job that much easier." Taryn casually piped up.
"Your Majesty, I find myself hard-pressed to say this, but we have to help repel these raiders." Zekk warned Tenel. "Having the Empire tear itself apart won't help us stop the Sith, especially if they can succeed in creating a puppet state with Lecerscen and his allies in their stead."
"I agree, Friend Zekk." Tenel concurred. "We will contact Head of State Fel and his commanders right away. They can assist us in determining which flashpoints would be best suited for our fleets' talents."
Meanwhile, Within the Shogun System
Aboard the Pre Viszla's Command Bridge
"Are you serious?" Kitai asked Dician after she was given her new orders.
"Do I look like I am kidding, Kitai?" The older Sith Lady's hologram shook her head.
"You want Commander Gev and I to team up with our few remaining Zygerrians in helping Phasma with the hunt for Edaan and the Falleen Resistance? The same Zygerrians who disobeyed our instructions to avoid the Jedi, and cost them their world and a major proxy of ours? It firmly set more than two dozen worlds against us and gave the Jedi even more strength against us." Kitai reminded her superior.
"It sounds like you have covered everything of importance. That does not explain your reluctance to journey to Falleen. I would have thought you would love to even the score against Edaan and capture him and Ben Skywalker when you inevitably face them again."
Ben is still there? That question was on the tip of Kitai's lips before she bit the words back. Half of her heart wanted to see Ben again, now more than ever, and just talk with him like when they were teenagers before she broke his heart and joined the One Sith. And the other half, even stronger because of Edaan's meddling, wanted to have him all to herself, no matter what it took or cost her, even if it meant betraying the Sith and leaving them behind.
Mirta noticed her friend's turmoil, and boldly spoke on her behalf, "Respectfully, my Lady, that may not be the wisest course of action for us. We still have to finish dealing with my grandfather's army of Protectors. Taking us away from the front and giving them a chance to regroup could very well tip the balance of power back to them."
Staring into the Mandalorian's eyes in an attempt to intimidate her, Dician found herself impressed at the resolute resolve of the soldier, "That is true indeed, Commander. However, that is why I am having Lanvorak and his latest batch of assets placed under Lords Oculus and Sedriss's command until your return. They will arrive to take over in your absence within the next two hours."
"You want Lecerscen and his stooges to ally with us?! You do realize that strategy could very well tear our movement apart from the inside out! Most of my people still remember how the Imperials helped Caedus devastate our capital world with their nanovirus, and-"
"And it matters not." Dician authoritatively cut her off. "Remember, you are not loyal to Mandalore first anymore, but to Lord Krayt and the One Sith. And, as you so pointed out, your people need the reinforcements to tip the scales our way. I am confident that you can persuade them to accept this decision."
"And since the Imperials are the only reinforcements that we have available, they will interdict the sector and help starve your enemies into submission. That will allow your people to engage the enemy in a war of attrition, one where they will utterly lose in a matter of months. Especially with the intelligence your batch of prisoners will provide for us once they crack."
"These matters will not be up for debate. All of these wars must be won quickly and decisively if we are to succeed in fulfilling Lord Krayt's Grand Design. And to do so, it will require sacrifices from all of us in some form."
"You are to leave with your personal battle group in exactly twenty-four hours for the Falleen System. May the Dark Side be with you and your forces in the battles to come." Dician ended the communication, leaving the two steaming women to reflect on their new assignment.
"Well, looks like you get to see your ex sooner than you thought." Mirta ruefully chuckled.
"Not in the mood, Mirta." Kitai murmured, her heartbeat and adrenaline increasing to dangerously high levels from the prospect of facing her past demons earlier than she expected.
Placing a hand on her friend's shoulder, the Mandalorian promised her, "Don't worry. I'll be by your side every step of the way, and so will my kids. Besides, don't forget I've got my own demons to confront soon enough."
Grasping the hand and squeezing it in gratitude, Kitai thanked her, "No matter what anyone says, I couldn't have asked for a better friend in you, Commander Gev."
"The feeling's mutual." Mirta reassured her trusted friend. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'd better go tell my kids they'll have to be accompanying us on their first long-term mission."
"Good luck breaking the news to Bralo. For obvious security reasons, you'll have to convince him to keep quiet on the mission."
"Don't remind me." Mirta irritably groaned, earning an uncharacteristic giggle from the younger woman.
"Oh, you just wait until you get to have kids of your own, Kitai. Then we'll see who's laughing by the end." Mirta swore before she departed for her kids' cabin.
As soon as she entered the turbolift, she heard her datapad go off, and she pulled it out to read a set of instructions from Dician:
I am concerned that Kitai may be emotionally compromised by her lingering attachment to Ben Skywalker, and her defeat by Edaan Palpatine. I want you to keep an eye on her and send me daily reports to ensure that she remains loyal to the One Sith. Tell no one of this assignment.
You think I'm going to betray a friend and risk her getting turned into one of you fanatics? Fat chance of that happening.Mirta hatefully spat before she dismissed the message and pulled out her comlink to warn Kitai.
"We've got a problem."
Meanwhile, On Borosk
Within the Planetary Headquarters
Inside the Command Center
"That's it." Natasi wondrously whispered while bearing through yet another briefing from her staff on deterioration of the planet's security. "I have the answer."
"Pardon me, Ma'am?" Her XO confusingly questioned.
"I know how to send a clear message to the Force Users and sow the seeds of a galactic revolution. It may finally well kill me, but it will ensure that our cause lives on." She chuckled by the end.
She immediately ordered her staff, "Get me into contact with whatever fleet commanders you can reach. Have them prepare their forces to initiate Plan: Ba'slan shev'la. If we can't win the Empire back, then we'll just have to pave the way for those who can."
Meanwhile, On Korriban
Within the Tombs' Catacombs
Inside the One Sith's Citadel
"Is it done?" Wyyrlok demanded Darth Snoke.
"That desperate idiot is about to set our contingency plan in motion. And she is none the wiser of my influence on her, or the ripe chaos she'll sow within the Empire for us." The balding human Sith smirked.
"Then your proclivity for influencing people's minds will bear fruit at last." Wyyrlok approvingly noted. Then turning to address his daughter, "And what of Lady Kitai? Has she been given her new orders?
"Yes, Father. They will depart tomorrow, and they will arrive at Falleen in no more than five days. And our teams are ready to replenish their departure in the Mandalore Sector."
"Excellent. Have your agent keep us informed on all of those developments, Sorzus." He nodded. Satisfied with today's developments, he prepared to inform Lord Krayt of their progress.
But he knew better than to wait until he received word on the end result of Phasma's assault. There was no sense in letting any loose ends trouble the Dread Lord, not with the fear gnawing in his heart and impeding his judgement.
That infernal Edaan Palpatine was influencing all of his decisions, and he very well could challenge him if he escaped Falleen. That was why he and his subordinates were taking countermeasures to turn him the One Sith. And if a few of their wavering allies and acolytes proved to be disloyal, then it would only make them stronger for culling such weakness from their ranks. If their spies were able to do their job effectively.
Meanwhile, In Hyperspace
Aboard the Millennium Falcon
Sixty-Five Hours From the Honoghr System
"Let's hope the Noghri are in a listening mood, or we're going all this way for nothing." Han crankily noted to Leia, Allana, Wynn, and Desha.
"They'll listen, Grandpa Han." Allana assured him. "They just have to."
"Considering that the fate of the galaxy may very well rest in this bit of diplomacy, I'm afraid they might not have a choice." Desha added.
"Well, we'll find out soon enough. Especially since we're going to have a bit of a welcoming committee to attend to when we arrive." Leia noted. She vividly remembered how the Noghri were wary of most outsiders, and in Leia's case, worshipped her on the verge of godhood.
Allana took the time to warn the two Dorvans, "When you and your escorts arrive, you all had better stay in your ships until they're cleared to depart. The last thing we need is to get your bodyguards interned or massacred by them."
"Yes, that'd likely be the wisest course of action. I still remember their lethality and fierce sense of duty when they were your grandmother's bodyguards." Wynn agreed.
"May the Force be with you all." Desha bade the Solos farewell before ending the transmission.
"You sure you want to come out here with us, Allana? They're a bit hard to get along with, let alone get used to." Han offered his granddaughter a final chance out.
"I told you I'd stick by you to the end, Grandpa." Allana earnestly reminded him, before playfully adding, "Besides, I'm a Jedi Knight now, so I technically outrank you, Captain Solo. And these negotiations will go better with me present as a Jedi Knight and relative of great-grandpa Anakin."
"All right. We can't keep the Maitrakh waiting forever. It'd be best if we contact her so we can finalize the meeting." Leia broke off any further attempts of banter as she rose from her copilot's seat.
"Should we bring Threepio with us when we depart? He can help us understand their language in case this group of Noghri don't speak Basic?" Allana suggested.
"Of course, we're going to do that. Why do you think we brought him along with us? He hasn't had a good diplomatic function in years, and this is just the kind of mission he was programmed for. And may very well prevent any misunderstandings between the Alliance and Noghri." Leia agreed.
After a couple of minutes and calling Threepio to meet them in the lounge, Leia warned both Solos, "Remember, be careful of what you say to them, and do not say anything to question their sense of honor. And try to let me do the talking unless they speak directly to you."
As the holotable came online, the four individuals carefully observed the twelve Noghri clan leaders come into focus.
The lead maitrakh bowed at Leia's sight, and she reverently said, "I am honored to see you again, Lady Vader. We have not heard from you in many years. Not since you returned to inform us of the deaths of Cakhmaim and Meewalh, and your declaration that the debt my people had to you and your family was repaid in full."
Blinking her eyes in the only form of surprise, Leia instantly recalled the woman's name, and respectfully nodded her head, "I am glad to see you again as well, Maitrakh Rakhark. It has been a long time, and much has changed in the years since we parted ways."
"Then why are you returning now? And why are you bringing your mate and granddaughter with you when our world has been under siege by the Zygerrians and their Sith masters?"
"I apologize for the abruptness of this call, but the Jedi Order and Galactic Alliance are both in dire need of your help. This is a matter that may very well determine the fate of both your world and the entire galaxy."
"That is why the both of us have dispatched ambassadors to request your aid. We need your help to root out the Sith-backed corruption that's taken over most of the Galactic Senate."
"I see." Rakhark simply noted. "Who are these ambassadors of yours?"
"Wynn Dorvan, the previous Chief of State, and his wife and lead ambassador, Desha Lorn Dorvan. You might remember them from the long overdue aid they gave you ten years ago?"
"Yes. I remember him. The small but honorable human with an adorable pet. I believe he called it a chitlik. He got along very well with many of our young ones and elders. What is his wife like?"
"She's a strong, independent, and compassionate Twi'lek woman who has empathy towards everyone. Honestly, even I didn't think she was cut out for this harsh world of galactic politics, but she gladly proved me wrong." Leia ruefully remembered the timid young woman when she first became Wynn's assistant.
"Then we shall hear you out at once. It is the least we can do after all the good you have done us."
"Right away?" Leia repeated. "Forgive me, Maitrakh, but should we not wait until we arrive to discuss the specifics? It might be best to allow your clans a few days to prepare for such a meeting?"
"Suffice it to say that our plight is very grave, and we cannot afford any delays on anyone's part, be it ours or yours. We have lost tens of thousands of our people to the Sith, and we will not let this insult go unanswered." Rakhark simply explained.
"Very well. I will inform our allies at once." Leia nodded before she contacted the Dorvans and informed them of the new orders.
Meanwhile, Within the Kessel Sector
Deep Within the Maw Cluster
Aboard the Gladiator-class Star Destroyer Miraj Scintel
"And you just waited until now to contact us on your government's promise to the Noghri?! They already have a diplomatic team and a couple of Jedi on their way to ensure their protection!" The Zygerrian's fleet commander and king-in-exile, De'Nal Scintel, snarled at Jenna.
"Don't use that tone of voice with me, your majesty." Jenna mocked the Zygerrian. "We were lucky to get that intel at all with how closely Yimmon and his agents were guarding it."
"And you would do well to remember this; for it's because of me and our mutual masters that you've been able to accelerate the rebuilding of your empire by staying one step ahead of the Jedi and Alliance."
"But that is beside the point. Lady Dician and her masters have ordered you to prepare to transfer the priority slaves to their main stronghold. We cannot afford to risk losing the master's latest batch of acolytes to the Jedi."
"And what of the Solos and Dorvans?" De'nal eagerly pressed. "If we move quickly enough, we can strike them down. And then we can make one last raid on the Noghri before we have to withdraw from the Kessel Sector. It would wound our two greatest enemies in one fell stroke."
"Yes, and, in the process, you'll bring the entire galaxy down on us, and risk every operation we're involved in! Don't let your desire for vengeance cloud what little sensibilities you have. Try to show some restraint and cunning." The turncoat senator scolded the ex-slaver.
"The master has another mission involved for you. He has ordered you to journey to Falleen to reinforce Lady Phasma and the royal family. They are having difficulty with capturing Edaan Palpatine and his allies, and your fleet will ensure that no loose ends are at risk."
That last remark caught the Zygerrian's full attention, and he hoarsely whispered, "Palpatine is there?"
"Yes. He is waging war against the Freedom's Riches cult, and our master desires him alive, and intact for his own power. He feels your drive to deliver justice for your people would persuade you of this task." Jenna emphasized.
"I will keep my word and send a team to deliver Krayt his acolytes, and the rest of my fleet and I will help Lady Dician in this mission." De'Nal agreed. "A chance to deliver retribution against the Jedi for their Prodigy Knight's crimes against my people is too good to pass up. And no one, not even the entire free galaxy, will stop us this time!" He swore before he remembered one crucial detail Jenna was overlooking.
"Senator, you must realize that if the Jedi and Alliance reach an accord with the Noghri, then your operations will be in greater peril. Something must be done to dismantle their efforts."
"Worry not, King De'Nal. Our masters have already devised a contingency in place to eliminate the Solos and Dorvans in a quieter manner. One that will keep our alliance quiet for a while longer." Jenna assured the exiled monarch.
Knowing better than to ask such dangerous questions, De'Nal acknowledged her with a nod before disconnecting the transmission.
He then immediately ordered his bridge officers, "Prepare the fleet for departure within the next twelve hours. I want to be underway to Falleen soon after our slave transports are on their way to Korriban. We will soon deliver the first wave of vengeance against the Jedi for driving us from our homeworld and forcing us into a life as mere raiders!"
"Yes, your highness."
One Hour Later
0030 Hours, Elona 14th
On Falleen
Within the Parazen Mountains
Aboard the Bounty's Plunder
Inside Phasma's Meditation Chamber
Even though her skill in Sith Meditation paled in comparison to her brother and the rest of the One Sith, Phasma still felt the course of the battle shifting towards them.
The Resistance gradually gave away crucial aerial space, and the Royal Family's fleet was quick to gobble it right up and begin bombardment of the fortress's remaining gun emplacements. But those were proving to be far more difficult to eradicate than their navy. Under the mix of several ships being turned against each other through the One Sith's computer virus, superior numbers, and the occasional nudge from Phasma on a weaker-minded ship captain or squad leader, the Resistance's fleet had already lost another tenth of its naval capabilities.
It certainly helped how her chambers were imbued with Sith spells and Dark Side energies to compensate for her struggle with giving herself wholly over to the tsunami of battle. If it was on a personal level, Phasma would have no problem with letting the battle overtake her. It was something she had done many times over back on Parnassos against the rival clans and cities.
But something inside her rebelled at taking over the minds of others just to direct the course of battle. Whether it was weakness, her unique sense of honor, or her trust in her subordinates to see the job done, she refused to dominate another person's mind.
Her reflections were interrupted by a chime in her comlink, "Phasma, here. This better be good."
Her mole in Aurra's squad reported, "Aurra and your Deshade hunters just homed in on Palpatine and Skywalker. I'm transmitting the coordinates now to you and Admiral Remus as we speak. You'll be able to track them from there."
"Excellent. And what of Prince Haxim?"
"What stray communications we've intercepted have us believe he's joining his men in preparing to confront the royal family's armies in the main garrison. And then they'll join the Jedi in their last stand on the front lines. But I don't have to tell you that all of this is very suspect." Meeka answered.
"Of course, it is." Phasma allowed herself a tiny smirk at her ally's forward and cunning nature. "They're trying to bait us into a trap and send a message of hope for their supporters. But we will turn the tables on them and send a message the whole galaxy will take. And remember, we need them all alive if our masters are to crush the planet's resistance and ensure the Jedi Order's destruction. So, that means nothing can go wrong on this mission."
"Even when most of the troops and civilians are disappearing from inside the base? You don't think they mastered teleportation, do you?"
"This is no time for ill-placed jokes." Phasma groaned. "They obviously have a hidden underground network of hover trains and other transportation. That is how they are moving the bulk of their assets away to safe houses."
"Just trying to diffuse the tension." Clearing her throat, the Farghul warned Phasma, "You know they'll try to destroy their base the moment their last forces escape. This fortress is too valuable for them to let fall into your hands."
"I do indeed, for it is what I would do in their place." She nodded. "That is why we will help them destroy it, but not before we get what we need for our masters. And that means as much information as we can from their main computers, just in case we fail in capturing even one of our quarries."
"You're more like Dician than I thought with all of your contingencies. Though, at least you've got a better personality than her." Meeka noted.
"Just get back to your station before you're missed." She amusingly ordered her. "I have a siege to prepare to lead."
Meanwhile, In Subsector Two
Within the Underground Network
Aboard the Rude Awakening
"All systems check out, and Doctor Chantique reports that the passengers and data are secured aboard, Colonel. We're ready for take-off on your order." K'Kruhk informed Colonel Agron from his station.
"Very good, Master Jedi. In that case, inform everyone physically able to hold onto something secured. We'll have to push this ship at full throttle if we'll make it to the Xoma Plains and back in time." Agron warned him as he activated
Meanwhile, on Honoghr
Within the Village of Nystao
In the Grand Dukha
"And that, honored clan leaders, is why Desha and I have come here alongside Master Organa Solo and her family on behalf of Chief Yimmon; to beg for your help in rooting out those who would abuse their power within the Galactic Alliance for their own selfish ends." Wynn concluded his piece just before he and his wife bowed their head before the assembled Noghri.
"Raise your heads, Ambassadors." Rakhark kindly told the duo. "There is no need for formalities among you two, and especially not for Lady Vader and her kin. Not after all the good you and your people have done for the Noghri race as a whole."
"Besides, if your leader is sincere in his promises for us, then it will be easy to convince the rest of the clans to assist you in your fight. A chance to end the Sith's raids on our clans and train off-worlders in our art of hunting would be quite a resilient way to preserve many of our traditions."
"Are things really that bad for your people that you'd just accept such an offer and share your secret techniques with outsiders?" Allana worriedly asked, earning a scolding glance from her grandparents.
Observing the young Jedi Knight, Rakhark approvingly noted to the elder Solos, "You have such an inquisitive and spirited granddaughter. She has your brilliant and keen mind, and your husband's blunt and honest tongue. I believe that she honors your legacy very well."
"Yeah, she does. But I guess she picked up a bit more of my bravado than I thought." Han ruefully admitted.
"Sitting right here, you know, so you don't have to talk like I'm not here." Allana interjected.
"But she is correct." Rakhark noted. "The raiders have kidnapped many of our people for their Sith masters, and all of our attempts to infiltrate and liberate them have ended in complete failure. None of our hunters have survived to report back, and we cannot hold out much longer. That is why we are in such a desperate ordeal."
"Do you have any idea who the raiders might be?" Leia answered. "Any information you have could help us in giving you aid in ending these raiders."
"One of our hunters was able to report back a few pieces of information. She said that they were looking for slaves and a chance to rebuild their wealth and empire. After the 'infernal Jedi Palpatine and the traitorous governor drove us from our home.'"
"The Zygerrians." Han realized. "Figures those horn heads would want to relive their glory days after Edaan and Atai expelled them from their homeworld. Never thought they'd go after the Noghri, though."
"Then you know just how dangerous they are. Then it will only be a boon to help us have the help we need. I will contact the rest of the clans and inform them of your offer. But I have two conditions before we agree to this summit."
"Name them." Leia nodded.
"First, we will need an immediate audience with your leaders, Chief Yimmon and Jedi Grand Master Katarn, in order to prove to the clans the truth of your claims. Can you summon them through your hologram technologies?"
"It should take us no more than a handful of hours to make contact with them. But it may require more time for Chief Yimmon to respond, as this was a clandestine mission."
"That will be acceptable." Rakhark agreed, before moving onto her second condition, "Afterwards, if you can convince Chief Yimmon and Grand Master Katarn to spare a significant number of your people, we will likely need at least a dozen Jedi and a strong force of Alliance soldiers to ward off any further raids."
Both teams of diplomats shared a glance before Desha spoke up, "We will do our best to meet your terms. But even so, you need to know that there are other crises erupting all over the galaxy, and as we understand, the Alliance and Jedi are stretched quite thin as it is. We will have to proceed very carefully in this matter to avoid tipping our hand to the Sith and their raiders."
"But I may know of a very experienced and noble Jedi Master and her top agents who might be able to help your people in your anti-slavery efforts." Leia suddenly interjected. "Her name is Barratk'l, a Yuzzem Jedi Master who, fifteen years ago, led our efforts to inspire many enslaved Outer Rim worlds to liberate themselves from their cruel masters."
Appraising the two women, Rakhark nodded to everyone, "Then reach out to your leaders at once. We can use such skilled and great leaders and soldiers in our defense. But I implore you all to hurry, for there is no telling when the next attack will come."
"We'll do our best." Allana promised.
Thirty Minutes Later
Inside Sector Three
Within Gunnery Chamber Four
"You're really enjoying yourself, aren't you, Robo?!" Akku shouted as he helped the bounty hunter finish off a damaged Loronar Strike-class Medium Cruiser with a well-placed shot from his light turbolaser.
"Hey, in this mess of poodoo, I might as well take some enjoyment out of the day!" The diminutive bounty hunter retorted.
Though the explosion was the latest in the ever-increasing casualties to dot the sky, the Royal Family continued to throw their navy at the Resistance. And even as the Resistance and Jedi were nobly defending the fortress from the invaders, the war of attrition was taking its toll on them. For every five enemy ships they shot down, another ten to fifteen of their emplacements were destroyed. Meanwhile, dozens, or perhaps even hundreds, of gunships were preparing to land just outside the fortress.
"So, Cap, how much longer do you think we have to stall them before we can make like a hyperdrive and fire out of here?" Shara asked while she finished off the last of a squad of ChaseX fighters that had swarmed over the Nantz.
"As much time that we can give the Prince and the others. Now everyone, stop babbling, and keep blasting!" Akku scolded as he took aim at an approaching Arquitens-class command cruiser.
Meanwhile, Within the Shogun System
Aboard the Pre Vizsla
Within the Main Hangar
"So, Krayt and the others are finally taking notice of my behavior." Kitai lamented. "At least now we know how to keep them at bay until we can sort this out."
"But how long can we fool them?" Mirta quietly warned her friend as the Gallofree Yards Inc. Taylander shuttle finished debarking, and its boarding ramp opened up. "If even one wrong person finds out, then we're in head-deep osik."
"Then we'll just have to accelerate our efforts and get these memories exorcised ASAP. And your kids will have to be more careful in who they befriend." Kitai firmly ended the conversation. As the shuttle's passengers entered the Victory I-class Star Destroyer, they walked to greet the approaching Iktotchi and human Sith Inquisitors.
"Oculus. Sariss. You're early." Kitai simply noted.
"Nice to see you too, Kitai." Sariss sarcastically noted. "I see you're still concealing your tattoos from your men with synthskin. What, you think that you're above showing some Sith pride? Or, are you afraid of alienating your followers, or even, ashamed of what you've become since you left Skywalker's brat of a son?"
Forcing down the rising anger at the accusations and the insults to her and Ben, Kitai carefully rebutted, "I would prefer to get right down to business instead of bickering with a child. I know why you are here, and I want you to know that I do not approve of this change in strategy. I gave my word to Jaing and his followers that I would treat them with dignity, and I have my own plan to extract information from them."
"Yes. Your plan. It is a clever and cunning stratagem, worthy of a Sith indeed. But you would know that far better than the both of us." The former Jedi Apprentice once known as Ferren Barr cordially and approvingly noted.
"Unfortunately, Lord Krayt, feels the need to accelerate your efforts to take the Mandalore Sector. And to help in that regard, we need all the intelligence and knowledge we can acquire on Fett and his forces. So, as regrettable as it might be, certain promises and minds will have to be broken if we are to succeed in the Grand Design."
Sighing, knowing that she wouldn't get anywhere with them now, Kitai acknowledged, "Very well. But I might have a few ideas in mind to gain more intelligence, without breaking the Mandalorians' minds."
"Why? You know they'll just be disposed of anyway the moment we're done with them." The young woman who once called herself Verla shook her head, while Oculus favorably smiled at the elder Sith Lady's resourceful mind.
"Because a tool that still has value should not be discarded, even one that is damaged. And there is still a vital use for them as bait to draw out any potential spies in your ranks, so we will follow your advice. But even so, we will need a few days to prepare our serums and calibrate the devices for the interrogations."
"Very well. I will accept that." Kitai nodded before she and Mirta excused themselves to the main turbolift.
"You handled that well." Mirta noted after the turbolift closed.
"That was just the first battle, Mirta. We're just lucky that Oculus is more reasonable than his lover." Kitai clarified, earning a repulsed look from her friend.
"They're lovers?! Guess they're even more shabla than I thought."
"In that regard, you won't get any argument from me." Kitai nodded.
Twenty Minutes Later
0030 Hours, On Coruscant
Within the Galactic Alliance Navy Command Complex
Inside Chief Loran's Office
"I will give you my word as leader of the Galactic Alliance, honored Maitrakhs." Kajin vowed to the assembled clan leaders. "If you decide to make the formal offer to the Senate, then we will send a fleet and garrison to help guard your world until the Sith's raiders have been dispatched, and the Void Jumpers training facility has been constructed. Even if the flotilla has to be sent in secret, I will make sure my word is kept."
"Is your senate truly riddled with Sith sympathizers and other treacherous forces as you fear to use such covert methods?" A clan leader earnestly questioned.
"Let me be blunt; right now, I can only put my trust in a few dozen people, maybe a hundred, if I am lucky. I will not let this opportunity to catch these enemies in their treachery slip by for simply playing by the rules." Kajin grimly explained.
"I am asking for your help because you are a very honorable and selfless people, who have helped the free galaxy in many dire times over the last five decades. If you assist us one last time, then the entire Senate will be in your debt. And I will be able to finally get you the complete assistance you need and have long-since deserved since the Yuuzhan Vong War."
"That is most generous, Chief Yimmon. And you, Master Barratk'l?" Rahkhar turned to the Jedi Council member. "Will you and your followers be able to assist us in protecting our world and liberating our enslaved brethren from the Sith?"
"Of course I will help you and your people. I know what it is like to lose loved because slavery, and we cannot let these heinous crimes stand. I will assemble a team of the order's best hunters and pilots, and we will depart for Honoghr by the day's end."
"Then we would be in your debt as well, Master Jedi. Travel safely and swiftly, both of you." Rahkhar bade the assembled leaders farewell before ending the communication.
That left Kajin to turn to his fellow members of Club Bwua'tu and simply ask Nek and Garik. "How long will you need?"
"At least a week, unfortunately." Nek answered. "Most of our fleets are tied up in operations all across our territories, and we will have to tread carefully to avoid the enemy catching on to this plan."
"If they haven't already." Garik bitterly muttered.
"I know, Garik." Kajin sighed. "While that possibility is indeed high, it is a necessary risk we must take to unravel this web of corruption. And speaking of terrible risks, what about the Gyndine naval yards and the Neo Death Watch incursion?"
"The enemy retreated from the system not even an hour ago, just after the Rendili reinforcements were deployed. We're keeping our fleets on high alert until we can determine the enemy's gone for good." Nek answered.
"At least that's one situation we managed to positively be resolved." Kajin breathed a sigh of relief. "Do we have any idea on just how the rogue Mandalorians attacked the naval yards just when Vice Admiral Nevil was about to depart for Chiss Space? Never mind why they fled so suddenly?"
"I think we all know the answer to that, sir." Garik answered. "All the more reason to recruit the Noghri and find out just how strong the Sith's hold inside the Alliance truly is."
"Perhaps we can use the vice admiral's diverted force and its closer proximity to Honoghr to our advantage." Kajin mused. "Who is commanding its three destroyers?"
Quickly pulling up the data, Nek answered, "Commander Devon Wral, the Mon Mothma's CO. He's the one who rallied the Kuat and Belasco fleets and held the Neo Death Watch at bay until they retreated."
"I see. Then it's best that we contact him right away. I want to give him his new assignment personally, before another 'sudden crisis' pops up. And perhaps we can see if General Farlander and his detachment can assist them. I recall he was on patrol out on the borders of Hutt Space. Was he not?" Kajin ordered his two of his most trusted subordinates.
"Excellent idea. I'll connect you to him right away."
Meanwhile, On Falleen
Within the Parazen Mountains
Inside Hangar Five
"Here they come! Everyone, prepare to remind this batch of scum that they chose the wrong side in this war!" Haxim warned his men as the shuttles and gunships landed beside the debris of previous transports that tried to land.
Turning to his three Jedi bodyguards and their Keshiri resistance leader, he noticed the anxiety and grim determination in their eyes. "I take it Phasma and her hunters are coming?"
"Not coming, Your Highness. This one can sense most of them already here." Saba clarified.
"We'll draw Phasma and what hunters we can away from you. Just rally your men and ready for Phase Three when everything's prepared." Ben added, seeing the lead gunship open its hatch, and they tensed as the first figure arrived.
From a distance, it appeared to be a female TIE Fighter pilot's flight suit, but with a silver-colored paint job. But upon focusing their sight, they saw that it was merely a template for some kind of experimental chromium armor. And attached to her hip were two lightsabers made from Yuuzhan Vong Yorik coral, and a blaster pistol on her left thigh.
"So, this is Phasma. I'm sure this battle won't be easy." Adari simply stated.
"Understatement of the year, dear. I think we're in for the fight of their lives with her." Edaan agreed as he felt a current of fear course through him, and it was one that was stronger than any he ever felt before. Aside from Vestara, he could feel that this Sith Lady was stronger than any Force User he had ever faced before. And that truly terrified him, for this woman would not be as easily defeated as the last one.
Sensing Edaan's fear, Saba stood in front of him and ordered him, "This one and Master Skywalker will deal with Phasma. You and Adari will support the Prince and his men."
"You sure?"
"Very. This one can sense that this will be a good hunt." Saba licked her lips, eager for a worthy challenge again after the war for Kesh.
Well, I must say that this chapter was certainly a long one, but worth it. So many plot threads are moving along, and I love each of them! I can't wait to get these plot threads underway, as I think this story may be over halfway done now, since I decided to break this saga up a bit. So, they'll carry over into the next stories, and new ones will rise to take their place when they're done. So, how are you all doing on this warm night of Sunday, February 7, 2021? I'm doing all right, as I went to church this morning, wrote a bit, did some homework, and played a good chunk of The Witcher III: Wild Hunt: Complete Edition. I got a few achievements from the Blood and Wine DLC, and I got over 100 Gamerscore points from it. I can't wait to get a bunch more over the next week or two. But I have work from tomorrow through Thursday, so I'll have to budget my time accordingly. And I hope to finish Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi: Abyss soon and get started on Backlash afterwards. So, I'd better get this chapter to my friends, and hopefully get this chapter out in a few days. Of course, if I find a beta reader for my story soon, it may be longer. But it'll be worth it to keep improving my story. Well, I hope you all have a blessed night, and I hope you stay safe in these troubling times. May the Lord be with you all, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!
