The End of the Beginning
Welcome to chapter 3. Where the ball should get rolling
Fair warning there maybe some spelling and grammar errors along with possible inconsistencies
"Yo dudes. The Empire is pretty chill. You should like, join it or something" – Darth Vader
Unto thine stowy
Kane heard the serpent's voice in his head prompting him to look around to wonder if he's gone crazy or not. He closes his eyes one last time before opening them to see his eyes were normal
He looks at a sleeping Stan and Frank before sitting back down. He wasn't even sure if he even wanted to sleep as he then grabbed his stormtrooper plush and held onto it tightly before curling up in the corner of the bed
Upon remembering those words that he heard from the serpent. He did say fun. So surely that would mean crushing every enemy in his way. Surely he dies feel a bit different. But not the "powerful" kind of different like he was hoping. But then again the serpent said he will only intervene in certain situations
After a while of trying to be awake. He eventually relented to his tiredness and began to fall asleep
The next day
Play: Cube Creator 3D OST – Moonlit
*Beep*
*Beep*
"Gah!" said Stan ripping awake from his sleep to rub his eyes before rolling "Can't a guy get s-WHOAH!" …off his bunk bed. He then gets up and hits the clock several times until it stopped as Kane quickly got up with Frank following suit
However. Frank was still very tired he could barely speak right now
"Another day Kane *sigh* another day closer to becoming badasses yadda yadda yadda.. ugh…" said Stan rubbing his eyes even more as they then heard the door open to reveal a stormtrooper entering
"Good morning boys. Time to get ready for your announcements" said the stormtrooper as he gestures for the three of them to leave. Kane our down his plush before exiting the room. Kane then felt a little excited as maybe he will try to get weapons
He notices all the other kids leave their dorms and all began to leave the area. Kane turned around to see Stan and Frank exiting their dorm with the stormtrooper as they then enter the announcement room. They see Admiral Pines with who appears to be a doctor and another man who is wearing a soldier helmet covering both his eyes
Everyone began to take a seat a started muttering until they heard the sound of Officer Hutch's bell making most of the kids quiet down and divert their attention to Admiral Pines
"Good morning children. I've got two guests that you will all be seeing fir the next few weeks. Meet Dr Brom. One by one you'll be seeing him" said Admiral Pines "As for the other. This is Barrister Doe. He is a war hero who fought against the rebel alliance"
Upon hearing that. Kane glued his eyes on Barrister Doe. Despite having somewhat if an intimidating appearance. He also seed like a very nice guy. Kane couldn't help but wonder what of fighting Barrister Doe has been through
"I want you all outside as soon as you finish your breakfast" said Barrister Doe
"You think he'll be nice enough to give us breaks?" said Stan as Kane shrugged as he then looked at a sleeping Frank. He quickly elbowed him awake
"You are all dismissed. Make the Empire proud" said Admiral Pines as he along with Dr. Brom leave as all the kids began getting up and leaving towards the cafeteria
Kane quickly followed behind Stan as they made their way to get their food. Upon sitting down. Kane felt a little more excited. He imagined himself being in that Deathtrooper armor under Barrister Doe's command
"Imagining something awesome?" said Stan as Kane nodded "Cool. Frankly I can't stop thinking about this stuff either" as they both began to eat their waffles while Frank catches up to them "Whoah man you look super tired"
"I haven't really been used to waking up early too much. *Sigh* I can't wait for dinner and bed" said Frank taking a sip of his juice box.
Meanwhile
"Putting on your shore trooper armor?" said a stormtrooper
"Yup" said Donovan as he removed all of his stormtrooper armor and began putting on his new one "I got a list of new assignments and I know this will help a lot more" before lighting a cigarette for a puff of smoke before tossing it aside and putting on his helmet
They both then looked at an imperial juggernaut drive in and started to unload equipment as many workers run toward it to start building what appears to be an obstacle course
"You think these new 'deathtroopers' will be able to handle all of this?" said the stormtrooper
"Honestly I think some will and some won't" said Donovan as they both noticed a dropship fly in as well and out came more stormtroopers and imperial equipment
Back to Kane
Kane, Stan, and Frank finish their food as they suddenly Officer Hutch came in and rang his Bell making all the kids quickly quiet down
"look alive children. We are about to start your training" said Officer Hutch
"Pff. I hope well kick some serious ass" said Stan as Kane nods in agreement
"Please come outside to the courtyard" said Officer "We have everything ready" as he then left the cafeteria as while many of the kids began to get up and began to go outside. Kane wondered what this training is. Hopefully it won't be too hard
He sees everyone go in front of Barrister Doe
"Alright little soldiers. If fighting is sure to result in victory then you must fight!" said Barrister "Since who said that!" as he then looks at the many kids before walking up to one random kid "And he knows a little more about fighting than you do pal" bending over making the kid take a step back
"You don't think he's crazy do you?" whispered Stan as Kane shrugged. Sure what he said is a bit straightforward and the latter being a bit strange. But Kane wanted to see what else Barrister had to say
"That's because he invented it. And he perfected it so no living man or woman can best him in the ring of honor!" said Barrister Doe standing up straight and walking back a bit "And he used his fight money to buy two of every animal on the planet Yarno and herded them all on the boat and beat the crap out of every single one"
"Holy shit . Isn't Yarno that desert planet with deadly monsters?" whispered Stan
"…full of degenerates too" whispered Kane making Stan slightly snicker
"*chuckles* and from that day forward when a bunch of animals are together it's called a zoo!. Unless it's a farm!" said Barrister Doe "Any questions?"
A few kids then raised their hands
"Alright then… You" said Barrister pointing to one kid "Tell me your name and your question"
"Drew. Uh.. who was the man that did all that?" said the kid
"He was unnamed. But I do know he was a Mandalorian who eventually joined the Empire in his later years" said Barrister Doe
"…Stan?" said Kane gaining his attention "What's a Mandalorian?"
"They are a group of people. Most are enemies of the Empire. You can tell them by their helmets with a 'T' shape" said Stan as Kane thought of them in interest
"Alright. Next!" said Barrister pointing to another kid
"Sting. How long will we endure this training?" said the second kid who Kane recognized as one of the more prominent kids once again
"Until you are a ready" said Barrister Doe as the last kid lowered his hand "Any more?... Good. Now then. We will all start with this obstacle" as he points to this typical military obstacle course. All the kids stood there for a moment. Making him realize he hadn't told them when. "NOW!" this made most of the kids flinch a little as they all scurried their way
Kane made sure to stay close to Stan as all kids began running through the tires and onto the wooden wall. Some of the kids such as the prominent 4 managed to get to the top and jump down while others did not
Kane climbed with Stan until Kane's hand slipped
"S-S-Stan!" said Kane as Stan quickly reaches for him. Only to miss as Kane then fell onto another kid and they both fell onto the soft mats
"Ow… watch where you going kid" said the kid as he and Kane both rubbed their heads and looked at each other for a moment before attempting to climb
"Kane!" said Stan as he drops down and runs to Kane to help him up "You alright buddy?"
"y-yeah… I-I'm fine" said Kane as puts his hand on his head and looks to the other kid. He had a black hair just like him though his eyes were pitch black. They both look at each other for a moment
Meanwhile
"Sir. I hope you don't mind me asking but. How is this whole… 'modificatin' going so far? . " Said Donovan as he stood with DT-000 as while the briefcase man sits down with Admiral Pines
"We want them to train with none of that for three weeks. To get them a little used to it." Said Admiral Pines "And then we get a new trainer for after their enhancements…"
"*sharp inhale* That is.. the plan. But as for their training *adjusts tie* You must handle this with.. much care. As this is very… experimental *sharp gasp* DT-000 is the miracle. And we are simply… 'copying' hm? I'm sure you'll understand in the meantime." Said the briefcase man adjusting his tie once again with a smirk
Donovan sounded very interested but at the same time a bit worried as he then sits down to take off his helmet and pulls out a lighter
"May I?" said Donovan as Admiral Pines presses a button that activated air conditioning. He then makes a 'yes' gesture. Donovan then puts a cigarette in his mouth and lights it "So then *puffs smoke* who are you thinking of being the second trainer?"
Upon hearing that question. DT-000 looked in immediate interest
"Well. There are two trainers in mind. we will definitely decide next week." Said Admiral Pines "They are very ruthless and known for their successes"
"DT-000, ST-572, Are you by chance aware of the Reconnaissance Corps and the Galactic Marines?" said Admiral Pines
DT-000 and Donovan widen their eyes upon hearing those names
"I assume you both have. DT-000 I hope you are satisfied with our two main choices" said Admiral Pines as DT-000 nods "Very good. Now then. You are dismissed" Donovan takes another puff of smoke as DT-000 then left the room to watch all of the kids
He then leaves the building to see all the kids trying to climb over the wall. And he noticed Kane trying to climb once again recognizing him
To Kane
Kane was about to climb with Stan and the other kid as he then felt the urge to turn around. When he did. He sees DT-000 watching over him and everyone else. He thought for a moment as he stares at him
"Kane are you coming?" said Stan breaking him out if his train of thought as he catches up to him and they both started climbing. Albeit a bit slower than earlier. They managed to reach the top as they both climbed down. Only to see another wall "Ah fuck. I don't think I can do another" as they both felt drained from the first climb. Hell they saw the same kid they bumped into earlier fall
*Whistle blows*
"What are you three num nuts doing? You are supposed to reach the point!" said Barrister Doe as Stan makes a dead pan look and walks to the side to see two more walls. He so saw that a lot of other kids couldn't make it past them
And the kids that did make it. Happened to be the four prominent kid's from earlier. He watched them celebrate their victory. Making him grimace before walking back
"Sir with all due respect. WE CANT FUCKING GO –" said Stan stopping himself taking a breath "…over the next three"
Barrister Doe was not amused as he angrily stared at Stan
"This is why you kids will never last in the navy" said Barrister Doe as he looks at the four kids that actually made it "Well then. You'll be doing this for a while. So I hope youll end up like them. Or better." He said sternly
Stan thought this was bs as he helped Kane up while the other kid slowly gets up
"Sir.. how often have you done this?" said Kane curiously
"Me? Every day from the start of my training till the end of my stormtrooper days. This exercise will help you in the long run. I know it." Said Barrister Doe as he walks over to the side to see all the other kids that didn't make it as he facepalms. "ALRIGHT MAGGOTS. We'll do something else"
"Lets hope so" muttered the other kid as Kane immediately looked at him "…what?"
A little later
"Keep running kids! I want you all to have Iron legs when you've completed your training!" said Barrister Doe jogging in a big circle followed by the kids
"At this point I feel like he's trying to kill us. Even if it's not been a full day" said Stan as he ran with Kane
"*pant* well I'm sure it will help us. He is a veteran after all" said Kane as he catches up with Stan. But he also had DT-000 and Barrister on his mind. Imagining that they must have done this everyday in their lives
"Yeah but there are other fucking ways than all this" said Stan as Kane gave him an annoyed look as they continued jogging "Alright alright.."
DT-000 continued watching with interest as they all continued their training. He honestly imagined how different it would be with a different trainer
Barrister continued leading everyone on laps until he felt they had enough and stopped. He looks behind him to see all the tired and panting kids "Alright soldiers. We are done for the day" as all the kids began to relax and sit down while some began to walk back to building
Upon happening. Kane decided to make his way towards Barrister who was super close to pulling out a cigar.
"..Mr Barrister?" said Kane gaining his attention
"Yes?" said Barrister as he quickly hid his cigar behind his back
"What kind of Empire soldier were you?" said Kane curiously
"Well little kid. I started out as a mudtrooper. And worked my way you until I became a stormtrooper" said Soldier "It took years, courage, Charisma! And my lucky nickel hehehe until I hit a jackpot of a promotion. Heh.. I bet that's how the Emperor must feel like all the time.. er. Get back to your friends or something. I got a call to take"
"Yes sir" said Kane as he quickly runs over to Stan. Seeing that no kid is there to watch him now. Barrister lights his cigar and began to smoke as he then is approached by Donovan and DT-000
"So. Smoking those without me? Now I'm hurt" said Donovan as he and Barrister chuckled to themselves for a moment "DT. What did you think of his training?"
"…" said DT-000 as he looked at Barrister and then back at Donovan as he then forgot he isn't likely to speak
"Ok then. Nevermind" said Donovan
To Kane
Play: Joji - Thom
Kane sat down with Stan picking at his food. A moment passes by as Stan gives him a slight elbow
"Go on and eat buddy. It gives ya strength to do more of the crap they'll definitely send us our way" said Stan
…"Heh. It was funny to watch the entire thing"….
Kane's spine shivered as he froze for a moment before proceeding to eat a little fast
"You alright there?" said Stan as Kane stops for a moment
"..I'd say so" said Kane as he began to resume eating. Thought Stan felt a bit wary of him. In his mind maybe something just got to his head again as he proceeded to pat his head. A moment of peaceful eating goes by as Frank then comes over
"Hey guys. How is everything?" said Frank before taking a sip from his soda
"What do you think? It's not like we break our backs" said Stan passive aggressively
"Calm down, sheesh I was just asking" said Frank as he then sat down across from them
"…give him time. He is in bad mood" spoke up Kane in his usual hushed tone as Frank looks at him and Stan. He debated if they really 'aren't' siblings seeing how close they are while Stan rolls his eyes giving a slight smile
"I think that will keep you from being mute" thought Frank taking another sip as he looks at the time as everyone else seems to be finishing up their food and started to head back to their dorms. "You guys coming?" he said as Kane slowly gets up and followed by Stan make their way back to their dorm
Stan couldn't wait as he jumped onto his bed as fast as he could to get under those covers. Frank already went fast asleep as soon as he plopped down. Kane found himself to be sitting on the side of his bed holding onto his stormtrooper plush
…. "Is there something wrong? Little one?"…
Kane shook his head as he held it tighter
…"Don't lie to me. I am in your head. You cannot hide"…
…"But. Let's talk. I understand you are concerned about certain things. But now. just go to sleep."…
Kane then reluctantly laid down and tried squeezing his eyes shut as he awaited for the dream train to take him away
First person dreamscape
I find myself sitting on a tree stump. I look around to see that this place is the snowy forest again. But the thing is. That was all I see. The frozen lake and the broken bridge is gone. The burnt down town is still nowhere to be scene
But then I noticed Something slithering through the snow. At first I was startled. But then remembered that it's the serpent. He raises his head to meet my eye level meeting his icy cold blue eyes
"Hi little child. I see you are stressed out…" as he then slithers up my arm to then get a closer look at my face "Why don't you tell me? Or do I need to prod you?"
"Its just that's I still don't know much about you… I can hear you in my thoughts.." I said as I felt a little nervous as the serpent grins in amusement as he could tell what I'm feeling
"Well know. Is that it? *Dark chuckle* I know it isn't" the serpent said ominously "This is not a threat. I promise. But I'll humor your excuse" as he got closer to my right ear "I…am Vit Orm. And I… am from a race that likes to keep their eyes close if you know what I mean…"
"But…. You're a spirit right?..." I said
"Spirit? Ha! Don't make me laugh." Said Vit Orm "I'm just gifted per say" he chuckles slightly. Now I don't know what to think he could be
"Mr. Orm…. How come this place looks different?" I said as noticed this place is gone a lot more…. Eerier?
"Hehehe. Child. This place. Is your soul" said Vit Orm as he slithers off my arm and onto the snow "It changes depending on how you've changed as a person. Not sure what symbolistic mumbo jumbo this extends to. But that's how it works."
"I… I don't understand.." I said
"Of course you don't I doubt many others will" said Vit Orm slithering around "Hmmm…. You know. I like you…. And since you agreed. I will share some insight depending on what you ask…"
I then ponder on what I should ask… But ultimately I cannot think of something clever. But then again. I remember he said he suffered before
"Umm… how exactly did the rebel alliance screw you over?" I said curiously
"Hehehe. I'm glad you asked. My previous client couldn't care less" said Vit Orm as he rode up from the snow "They fucked over my home. Because launching a full scale attack just because the place is suspected to be in cahoots with imperials"
I didn't know what to say now. I now have an idea why chose me….. at least I think I do. Then again I wasn't the first person. How the fuck am I supposed to know!?
"Does that satisfy you?..." said Vit Orm as I nodded "*chuckles* good…" he then looks around the snowy forest or… what he says to be my soul as he then stares at him with his piercing blue eyes "You know. Don't think I don't know your stresses. I only ask for your trust"
The figure of the Deathtrooper flashes in my eyes for a moment making me a bit startled
I feel a bit tense at his intimidating vibes. But Vit Orm then could tell that he scared me a little as he then lowers before slithering up a tree
"Sorry about that boy… I trust you'll get used to it…." Said Vit Orm "….See you soon.. heh…" I then see everyone begin to fade a bright white light fills my vision but I hear a familiar voice
Buddy? You there?
Wake up… uh… There's pancakes or something…
First person dreamscape end
Kane wakes up on his bed to see he Stan at his side. Who has a bit of a worried look at me
"Stan?" said Kane rubbing his eye whole pulling his stormtrooper plush closer to him "...Something wrong?" as he then sat up
"You were stirring in your sleep" said Stan as he sits next to him "Im sorry if it's too much. But Kane. If it helps. You can talk to me.
Don't you fucking dare
"…It's alright. Stan. Thanks for being here for me" said Kane as he then received a slightly worried look
"You sure?" said Stan as Kane nods to him "Alright" as they both got up and went over outside as the one kid that Kane fell on was seemingly waiting to see them
"Hello? You Ken and Shan?" said the boy with an accent that they don't recognize (Korean)
"Its Stan" said Stan feeling something familiar as Kane looked at him curiously
"oh 죄송합니다 please for give me. Galactic basic isn't my first language" said the boy as it suddenly hits Stan
"….Wait.. your from Seoli region right?" said Stan making the boy's face brighten up
"Ye! Ye! I'm glad you noticed " said the boy as he remembers "I have been assigned with you guys. My name's Hyun Woo. Or if you want you can call me Arthur"
"…Hyun Woo?..." said Kane as the boy named Hyun Woo nodded. Though upon closer inspection of body language. Kane reminded him of someone
"…alright then?" said Stan as the three of them Make their way to the cafeteria as they then sat down before getting joined by Frank. He and Hyun Woo enjoyed some small talk as the four of them got their pancakes
When they started eating their food. The four prominent kid's were being loud as usual going on about they will take down "The enemy". Kane liked the thought but wish they weren't too obnoxious. This continued on as Kane zoned them out while eating his food
"Kane?" said Stan tapping him for a moment
"!" said Kane breaking his zone before looking at Stan "Y-yeah?"
"There's a Shoretrooper here" said Stan as he points to another side of the room. Kane shoots his attention where he pointed and saw a Shoretrooper sitting down He had never seen one in person before. He then debated on going over. Until Kane gets up then walks over to him
"Mr. Shoretrooper?" said Kane as the Shoretrooper looked at him. Who recognized him
"Hey little Kane. How you doing?" said the Shoretrooper surprising that he knew his name "Relax. Its me Donovan" as he took off his helmet
"Donovan? I-I thought you were a stormtrooper" said Kane making him chuckle in response
"That's because I've decided to wear my real armor" said Donovan ruffling his hair before starting to eat his food. But before he left. Kane gave him a quick hug before going back to his friends
Kane started to finish his breakfast until they heard the announcement that it's time for training as he along with Stan and Hyun Woo with Frank lagging behind. They go out to see a different obstacle course this time it seems to be a track with Barrister Doe standing at the beginning
"Alright you my soldiers. I want you all to continue your iron legs!" Yelled Barrister Doe as quickly a the gets got into formation
But Kane accidentally bumps into the leader of those 4 prominent kid's
"Hey! You better watch it" said the kid startling Kane to step back as Stan then went into the front of him
"Don't threaten my friend" said Stan as they then but heads as Hyun Woo quickly runs up to try to pull him back
"Billy! Leave them be. We don't need to bother with them" said the other boy of the 4 prominent kids as he puts his hand on Billy's shoulder pulling him back
"But-" said Billy before the boy shook his head "Grr fine. But you better not get in our way" pointing at Stan as he and Hyun Woo glared at Billy who returned the glare while Kane his behind Stan
Both the girls then caught up to them to bring the other two away
"What an asshole" said Stan as Hyun Woo nods in agreement
"They better not fuck with us again" said Hyun Woo "You alright Kane?"
"I-I… I guess" said Kane as Stan then wrapped an arm around him
"It's alright bud. We'll make sure they won't bother us" said Stan
"…" said Kane looking at the ground
Meanwhile
"It sees there's been a schedule change" said Admiral Pines reading some data files gaining DT-000 attention
"Really now? I thought the original plan was to train them over the course of a few weeks" said Officer Hutch taking off his hat to dust it off
"Mhm. Both the new trainers will be arriving sooner than I thought" said Admiral Pines as he turned off the data as they both watch DT-000 leave the room
"Hey where you going?" said Officer Hutch
"Hutch. Let him do his thing" said Admiral Pines as they both DT-000 left the room to look over at the children. He then notices that Kane spots him. To him Kane looked super familiar. He then see all the kids begin their iron leg jog with Barrister Doe
He watched in interest as he pondered how far these kids are willing to go to be just like him. He then walks up to a stormtrooper who is slightly startled by his appearance
"Man I keep forgetting that we have a scary titan on our side" said the stormtrooper "Any of those kids look like potential?" as DT-000 nods in response. Then as the kids jog by. Kane of all the kids spots him directly meeting eye contact. He widens his eyes upon realizing who he is
To Kane
"Kane don't get too distract. We need good score" said Hyun Woo
"Im sorry Arthur" said Kane as he pays more attention to where he is. He almost trips only for Stan to grab him by his short to regain his balance "Thank you Stan"
"No prob" said Stan as Barrister Doe then comes to a stop making them and all the other kids come to a screeching halt
"Hmm…It seems our running is done for today" said Barrister Doe as he turns around to see many of the kids catching their breath "Very well. Enough running for today." He then sees a random officer running over to him and began whispering in his ear "What? That early? Aw…" as the officer then runs off
All the kids look at him curiously in anticipation for an announcement "There has been a change of schedule. I'm afraid you all need to head back to the announcement room" Barrister said making all the kids look at each other in confusion as one by one they all started heading to the announcement room
Kane wondered what this meant as he takes a seat with Stan, Hyun Woo, and Frank at his sides
"You think we get the armors early?" whispered Hyun Woo making Kane imagine himself in the Deathtrooper armor once again
"…hope so" whispered Kane as Officer Hutch then rings his bell again reducing most of the kids to quiet murmurs as Admiral Pines pokes the mic to make sure it works
"*ahem* alright children we have new plans for you all. So what will be happening is that a bunch of you will be chosen at a time to receive your… 'modifications' where you shall continue your training with Barrister Doe until your new instructors arrive" said Admiral Pines as the briefcase man then whispered in his ear "Alright then. You will all be given medicine to make you better"
Stan felt a bit uneasy upon hearing it while. Kane and Hyun Woo imagine what the medicine does. Imagining that they get special powers of something while Frank wasn't paying attention at all
"You are all dismissed. Continue on with your day" said Admiral Pines as he and Officer Hutch then leave. Pines then check his data chart to see that both instructors are nearly here. He honestly wasn't sure what to do now that the higher ups wanted an earlier release of Deathtroopers because the longer it takes the more quality it makes in his mind
"Something on your mind sir?" said Officer Hutch
"Yes. It's just that. Was it wise of the higher ups to give us an earlier deadline?" said Admiral Pines as Officer Hutch turns slightly lake "Yup. We just lost a few weeks of potential training"
All the kids then leave the room except for Kane and his friends as they were the last to leave. Kane then notices Barrister Doe seemingly looked down as he walks in his office. He could then hear him move multiple things before he could hear faint music
Play: Joe Bille – The Man's Mother
Kane decided to get closer a look as his friends wondered what he was doing
"Hey Kane. What you doing?" said Hyun Woo as he and Stan go over to catch up while Frank goes elsewhere to head back to his room as Kane opens the office door and three of them could better hear the jazzy/swing sound to see that Barrister has a vinyl record player on
Kane enters the room and looks around until he sees Barrister on his desk. He then looks up to see Kane in front of his desk looking up to see Kane looking at him curious as he is then joined by Stan and Hyun Woo
"How may I help you three soldiers today?" said Barrister as he stops writing on a paper and standing up to see the three of them
"…We were curious to what else you have done throughout your career" said Kane as Hyun Woo realized what will happen next while Stan reluctantly decided to roll with it
"Well then boys" said Barrister checking the time "Take your seats and listen real closely. Because Some of this will be useful for combat and survival" the three of them then sit down. Kane was attentive. Hyun Woo braced himself while Stan tried to keep from falling asleep "Now then I grew up in a very dangerous…"
Meanwhile
Donovan was smoking a cigarette while sitting on top of one of the base building as to his surprise. DT-000 came over and sat down right next to him
"…do you ever take that helmet off?" said Donovan curiously as DT-000 said nothing in response "…Sorry" as he takes another puff of smoke as DT-000 turns his head towards him
"…..watch the sky" said DT-000 surprising Donovan
"*cough* *cough* *cough* Ho-*cough* fuck man." Said Donovan as they see a dot in the sky getting bigger and bigger until they noticed it is an imperial ship finally about to land. When it did. A bunch of people came out
"Is that….. the doctors and the new trainers?" said Donovan as DT-000 nodded as he gets up and leaves leaving Donovan to wonder what he's up to.
DT-000 walks over to the landing ship. And watched it open as many imperial personnel started exiting. But then. Two more came out in the end. DT-000 recognized who they both were as walked closer to greet them
Back to Kane
"And that's his I got this metal, was able to move up. And live a somewhat comfortable life. Until I was tasked coming here" said Barrister Doe
Hyun Woo was trying to keep himself from sleeping, Stan didn't care that much, while Kane listened to almost every word he said
"Mr. Barrister. What do you plan on doing soon?"
"Well boys. I plan on returning to my home until I am called for training duties again" said Barrister "Now then boys. If you want. You can all pick a vinyl records I don't want anymore"
"…Vinyls?" said Hyun Woo as Barrister gets a box of vinyls records and puts it in front of them. Kane then looks through
"Ooo-이게 뭐야?" said Hyun Woo grabbing a few "Hey they got Francis Artanis" making Kane's head whip over to him as Hyun Woo handed it over
Kane examined it before deciding to take it before looking through more of the vinyl records
"Why don't you want these anymore?" said Stan
"Those ones are all burned and synced in my stuff. I prefer my favorite music on vinyl while those take up space" said Barrister taking a sip from his bottle of alcohol "So take as much as you want."
Kane then looks through the rest to grab a few more of some of his favorites along with the other two.
"Damn. I didn't expect for you to like some of this stuff" said Stan as Hyun Woo nods
"tch. I like a lot of those stuff. Now get going boys. I need my alone time" said Barrister as he grabs a cigar
The three of them leave his office and go back to their dorms and put their vinyl records away as Hyun Woo then gets an idea
"…guys. You want to check the hole?" said Hyun Woo
"….hole?" said Kane
"Yeah. There is a hole leading down underground" said Hyun Woo as Stan facepalms
"Uh…. No.." said Kane making Hyun Woo roll his eyes as he left the room
"….should we follow him?" said Kane
"To keep him out of trouble? Yeah" said Stan as the two of them followed him outside. All the other kids, stormtroopers and other staff just seem to be scattered around the entire area. Over by one of the sniper towers they watched Hyun Woo jump into a bush he pokes his head out and signals for them to come
Meanwhile
"That one kid found his way in again *sigh* Donovan go get them before he can cause too much trouble" said a security guy looking at Hyun Woo
"Which one?" said Donovan before looking at the camera "*sigh* better get him before he finds him"
Back to the trio
Hyun Woo and Kane look through what appeared to be a very dusty metal hallway. They then come across many large metal boxes with one facing down
Hyun Woo felt so curious to what's inside while Kane shook his head having a bad feeling. But Hyun Woo managed to open the box enough to get a look inside
"Whoah… check it out" said Hyun Woo as Kane and Stan reluctantly catch up and look what's inside. To see. A full set of Deathtrooper armor
"Whoah…" said Stan as Hyun Woo and Kane stare at each other with stars in their eyes before Hyun Woo closed the box
"They're making more suits! Oh man I just hope there's one for me" said Hyun Woo as Kane nodded in agreement
"-Huh!? Who goes there!?" said an unfamiliar alien voice making the three of them whip their heads at the door. The quickly scrambled under a table
"Hehehe. This should be interesting…"
"why are you like that?" thought Kane
"Because it's amusing"
This made Kane frown as a big figure walks in
"Oh no the armor!" said the alien who is seen to be a bit more of a rock monster kind as he then checked the boxes "Oh good everything is still here…. Hmm…"
He then began to check a closet
Hyun Woo being impulsive gets out from under the table as he tip toed to the way he got in
"No!" whispered yelled Kane as he quietly ran after him to try to get him back under then table. Stan tried grabbing Kane only to miss
"?" said the rock monster turning around to see Kane and Hyun Woo and gasped
Hyun Woo and Kane froze still thinking they are done for as the rock alien turns around. He then got a good look at them. He then had stars in his eyes
"BABY HUMANS!" said the aliens as he dashed over to grab them bother
"!" said both Hyun Woo and Kane felt him wrap his arms around them both
"Hey let them go!" said Stan running out trying to pull on the aliens arm to release Kame to no avail
"Aww! I just want to keep you three as my own and squeeze and hug you forever! I always wanted a baby pet human!" said the alien
"DERRICK!" yelled a voice that Kane recognized as Donovan's as he along with a few stormtroopers come in making the alien named Derrick quiet for a moment "Let them both to"
"But they are so cute.." said Derrick as he could then feel Donovan's
"Why is everything fuzzy?" said Kane weakly
"아빠 is that you?" said Hyun Woo trying to reach the air
Derrick sighed as he lets go of them. Stan then kicks his leg. To which didn't hurt him at all as he then helped Kane up as Hyun Woo
"What the hell are you?" said Hyun Woo looking at Derrick's rock creature appearance
"That's just Derrick. He is here just to work with the armors" said Donovan as the trio step away from Derrick and behind Donovan "Alright now that the main deal is spoiled.. no wait you already saw them.. just don't go telling others about this. Alright?"
"..yes sir" said Kane as the Stormtroopers began to help Derrick set up a lot more of the armors for further polishes while Donovan leads the trio out
"I better not catch you three here again unless you are permitted here." Said Donovan "Im looking at you kid" pointing to Hyun Woo who rubbed his arm in response
Later
The three of them were sitting on at a table eating dinner along with many other kids and staff as the thoughts the armor is on his mind non-stop
"…. Where's Frank?" said Kane as the three of them scanned around the area to see that Frank is sitting with a couple other kids talking with them
"Guess he make new bud" said Hyun Woo as he takes a bite out of his meatball
"Guess he did" said Stan as slightly shakes Kane "Cmon bud eat up. You don't need to be starving" this made Kane start eating his spaghetti
This went on until Officer Hutch rings his bell making all the kids quiet down as most of them have him their attention
"Alright kids. Meet your new trainers. Bacara and Neyo" said Officer Hutch as then two familiar former clone troopers come into view. Kane was shocked when he saw them
"Whats with the look buddy?" said Stan
"…The.. the one on the left.. he was the leader of the Galactic Marines.. and the other the leader of the Renaissance Corps" said Kane with shock
"You know there names?" Hyun Woo
"Bacara and Neyo" said Kane making Hyun Woo look curiously
"I don't want any nonsense from now on!" said Officer Hutch "Admiral Pines had to jump through many hoops to get them here. So don't let it go to waste!" as he then looks at both Bacara and Neyo looking at every kid in the cafeteria
"…" said Bacara before whispering in Neyo's ear as they then leave the cafeteria
"Alright then. *Ahem* you will all receive the modifications soon as it's ready though you'll go group by group before your all split in half to be trained by either one of those two. With maybe some switching here and there" said Officer Hutch "Continue on now."
I see you are excited yet anxious for those two Kane. Heh. I suggest don't slack
Kane felt a bit nervous before looking at his food before starting to eat the rest of it. This did not go unnoticed by Hyun Woo
Later that night
Stan and Frank were asleep on their beds while Kane just sat on the edge just staring at the ground
"Kane?" said Hyun Woo from his bed gaining his attention "..Is there something your scared of?"
"…" said Kane
"…if you don't tell me.. or someone.. You'll only become more afraid. And you'll start to lose your sense of self." Said Hyun Woo to him looking down from the top bunk bed
"I…. Don't know…" said Kane as he holds his stormtrooper plush closer to him
"…would telling you something I fear would help you?" said Hyun Woo only to get a slight sound from Kane "….alright then"
First person flashback (Hyun Woo)
I was running for my life with a younger smaller boy as I lead him through a ruined town of what used to be my home.
"Little footsteps…. Little sounds….."
I widened my eyes when I found out that it was near. I then run into a building where I found a bunch of people where hiding
"Come out come out wherever you are….."
"Stay quiet or it will find us" whispered a man. I looked at the boy and put my hand over his mouth as his eyes got watery. I held him close to me to comfort him. I didn't want to let go…. My….. friend. I look around to see there a lot of people hiding as well
We could hear the entity move the debris around trying to find us all… I couldn't think what to do if it were to find me or my friend..
I know that many people have escaped thankfully. But we were among the unlucky. Then. The lights went out…
"There you are…"
"AAAH!" yelled a man as we watched him get pulled by his leg into the outside making me panic. I pick up my brother and run into another room. I could hear one by one more survivors being grabbed by it
"I don't want North Wind to get us…" said my brother as I hold onto to h and leave the building. Running for our lives. I then. Noticed a man on a speeder stopping by. I ran over as fast as I could
"Gotcha"
I could hear another scream from another survivor
The man in the speeder bike was about to speed off until I ran to him. I saw that I if he was nice enough to take us. One of us will be left behind. Its hard but I knew what I had to do. For his safety
"Take him and go! Quick!" I said putting my younger friend in. The man was about to protest until he saw the big monster snatch up another person. To which he speeded away. I could see my friend trying to reach out for me as I watch him go away
I didn't know what to do now so I continued to run to where I believed shelter could be found. But I could feel that North Wind has spotted me.
"Why do you insist on running? You clearly are making it harder on yourself"
I hid in a little shack but I can feel that windy being march over closer and closer. I could tell it clearly knew I was there
"GO AWAY! LEAVE ME BE!" I yelled as I then could feel him rip away the shack leaving me exposed
"Such a brave one.. I'll give you that…."
I then see a big windy hand trying to reach for me I squeeze my eyes shut waiting to taken... But before it could touch me. It just didn't. I open my eyes to see that is was still there but it was looking around
"…..It seems the Empire is here…..
It then growled as I could see it decide whether to kill me or not. But decided not to as I see many search lights on it
"There it is!"
"Terminate it!"
But more and more searchlights began to shine upon it making it realize the situation as it growled and flew away while it was being shot at
First person flashback end
"But…. I would not be here now… if it weren't for them.." said Hyun Woo "But that's how I learned the Empire can bring fear…"
"…what happened to your friend?" said Kane
"…. I know not… that was the last I ever saw of him…" said Hyun Woo "But I am happy that that I am here. So please. Tell me what you fear"
"…I'm sorry Arthur.." said Kane feeling sorry for him "For me… I'm scared of something similar yet different…" Hyun Woo listened intently "I'm scared of losing everything again. To them… the Rebel Alliance…" Kane then looked at the plush in his hands
"And…. I won't be good enough to return the favor…." Said Kane as he imagined DT-000 looking down on him disappointedly. He would never want to have that. Hyun Woo then looks at Kane's shadow. And for moment he thought he saw a smirking snake
Hyun Woo rubbed his eyes and looked again to see
"…is there something wrong?" said Kane
"No.. . I don't think so" said Hyun Woo
Meanwhile
DT-000 escorts the briefcase man into the planning room with Donovan, Officer Hutch, and Admiral Pines
Donovan was about to smoke a cigarette before DT-000 elbowed him causing him to drop it
"Mr. Donovan.. now is not the time…" said the briefcase man as he adjusts his tie. Donovan quickly hid his lighter as the door opens making everyone straighten up
"Welcome Commanders Neyo and Bacara" said Admiral Pines "We sincerely hope that you will enjoy your stay"
"Thank you for inviting us Admiral Pines" said Bacara
"…" said Neyo
"If there is anything you want. Let me know" said Admiral Pines "After all I have great respect for veterans if the clone wars. And jedi slayers." Bacara and Neyo look at each other before listening with interest
"You see. This generation of kids will be the elite soldiers of the Empire. All meant to copy the success of DT-000 here" said Admiral Pines gesturing to DT-000 walks up and looks down upon the both of them. Neyo examined DT from head to toe
"…And what kind of soldiers will these kids grow up to be?" said Bacara
"Deathtroopers…. These ones are incredibly expensive and experimental. We want them to be just like you two. To learn from the best." Said Admiral Pines
"…We are honored for this opportunity" said Neyo as he and Bacara imagined
"I know you won't be used to teaching non clones. But we made sure to cherry pick all of our positives. Therefore these kids are 90%-100% obedience and effectiveness" said Officer Hutch "The next best thing"
"Hehe… truly the next best thing..*sharp inhale* but currently we need the preparations to be… completed first.. after all.. it won't take long.." said the briefcase man as he made a slight chuckle
"Damn. Do we even have the medical stuff ready?" said Donovan
"Almost done. Derrick just needs to move them, and Dr. Brom should be able to everything started" said Admiral Pines
"Very well…" said Admiral Pines
Back to Kane…. The next day
"Wake up Kane…. The day is starting…"
"WAKE UP"
"!" Said Kane as he tightly holds his plush "Why so abrupt Mr. Orm?"
"Because it's for your own good"
"*sigh* fine" aid Kane as he crawls up the ladder to see a sleeping Stan. He proceeded to poke him to get him awake
"zzz-huh?" said Stan "Oh Hey Kane.." as he gets up and stretches to avoid a more aggressive way to wake up. Be looked at the other meds and debated on who to wake up first. Before deciding. He holds out his hand "Pass me the flashlight"
After Kane handed it too him he then climbs over to Hyun Woo's bed and flashed it. Making his face scrunch up
"AH MY눈!" said Hyun Woo rubbing his eyes as Frank wakes up and bumps his head
"Ow…" said Frank running his head "Remind me to get new roommates" he muttered. A they then got ready and left their dorms to get their breakfast
Much later
"alright you kids. Today is the day your start your modifications" said Officer Hutch making the kids both uneasy and excited "Now now. I can tell that many of your are skeptical of this procedure. But like I said earlier. It won't hurt"
"But you said 'for a bit' when you did" said a random kid as Officer Hutch rings the bell again making everyone quiet down
"Relax kids. It won't be too much of a problem. Do we have any volunteers?" said Officer Hutch. Then from the front. The four prominent kids ride from their seats. But Kane didn't like the sight of them. Particularly Billy
"We'll do it" said Billy proudly making Officer Hutch smile in approval as a stormtrooper leads the four of them out
"They're crazy" whispered Frank
"Yeah? I hope they don't be worse" said Hyun Woo
"Alright now wait a short while everyone. And we hope the results will boost your confidence" said Officer Hutch "Now then. Carry on until then" and then one kid raises hand "Yes?"
"How long is that going to take them?"
"Less than half an hour. So carry on until they come back. And we hope there are more volunteers. Otherwise we'll have to start assigning." Said Officer Hutch
Kane wondered what those four kids are going through. Knowing he'll have too as well. He low key hopes there won't be any needles
"Kane.. it's going to be alright. If it isn't safe for us. They wouldn't have us do it" said Stan. This made Kane relax a little as he looked at Hyun Woo who seemingly was staring at something. He then gestures over
Kane noticed the briefcase man in the corner scanning over many of the kids before turning around and leaving
Later
All the kids were still in the cafeteria as then the four prominent kid's came back they looked a bit physically.. different. A bit more sore looking. But they didn't seem too bothered by it. While Officer Hutch
Kane could hear a few kids come to them asking them what they've been through. Kane tried listening but heard one of the kids mention something about needles. He still felt uneasy about it. As he imagined himself his body getting punctured full of needles.
He then looked at another group of volunteers began to go. But to his surprise. Frank was among them
"…Kane. Do you want to go now?" said Hyun Woo
"…I" said Kane "…I don't know"
"Cmon… just look at those losers over there. They're fine" said Hyun Woo "Plus Frank is already getting his surgical stuff done right now"
"Hyun Woo. Don't encourage him if he doesn't want to" said Stan as Kane decided he needed to get it over with
"…no Stan.. its fine" said Kane as he gets up. Hyun Woo quickly follows him
"Kane are you sure you want to do this now?" said Stan as he caught up and where escorted outside the cafeteria with some other kids
"…yes.." said Kane "But it can't be that bad…"
"That's the spirit dear friend" said Hyun Woo approvingly. The stormtrooper leads the group into one of the neighboring buildings where they went down an elevator leading up to a lab
Kane could see Derrick sweeping the floor as he then notices them again. He could tell Derrick wanted to come over but the stormtroopers gestured him not too making him sad before walking further down and helping the other scientists set up the beds and tech
Kane was about to ask about Derrick until he disappeared from his eyesight. Presumably to return to his renovation duties
The stormtroopers lead the kids to pick the bed they want. Kane purposely picked one where Stan and Hyun Woo would be on both his sides
When they got their beds. A couple surgeons come in. Not to mention the briefcase man came in as well overseeing this operation
The surgeons first came over with a shavers. They all gave the boys buzz cuts while the girls got bob cuts. Kane low-key didn't like getting his haircut. But he isn't too bothered since hair grows back. Kane then reaches his hand over to Stan
Stan smiled as he took his hand for a moment before letting go as the surgeon returned with some scary looking tools. He slightly inches away. The surgeon could tell he was scared
"Sir are you sure we should be doing this while they are this young?" said one of the surgeons
"Its fine… These kids will live as the previous ones are a success" said the briefcase in his creepy demeanor as he adjusted his tie
Kane felt a little pale upon seeing those tools. He looked at Hyun Woo as he saw him flinch slightly when his surgeon poked his arm with a needle. Hyun Woo gives Kane a reassuring thumbs up before given a breathing mask to put on. Kane then looks at Stan
"Don't worry Kane it's not too bad" said Stan after the needle was pulled from his arm and puts on his mask
Kane then inches back to surgeon and closed his eyes hard as he felt a sharp pain on his arm for a few moments. He heavily restrained himself from letting out a slight yelp as the pain just became smaller and smaller
Until he opened his eyes and the needle wasn't there. The surgeon puts a mask on him as his vision then gets foggy
He began to feel very weird like something foreign was being put inside his arms, his legs, and his head
First Person Dreamscape
This time the snowy forest was getting darker and darker. Every part of the light was fading away. I felt scared as I ran to a tree stump. as that was the last source of light left. He then sees someone moving in the snow getting closer and closer
"Hello Kane. It's me…." Said Vit Orm as he raises out of the snow. This time being a much larger serpent
"Wh-What's going on!?" I said
"Hehe… you need to relax boy. You remember what I told you about souls? Well. You are changing. It will briefly affect your soul for a little while.. after all. It will return to how it was when I last saw you soon." Said Vit Orm
I looked around with fear as I could see a pair of green eyes and a tall stature walk into view to see a tall dark figure…
"Hmm… interesting… so you finally admit it. Those guys were on your mind non-stop. You just want to be one so bad now do you?" said Vit Orm ominously as he slithered around Kane as he darkly chuckled while I shivered
The figure got closer and closer to examine Kane and Vit Orm before vanishing
"You are afraid…. I can tell" said Vit Orm getting closer to my face "Just hold on a while longer… unless you want to tell me other problems you have"
"Just.. how did you find me?"
"*Chuckles* Well now. I was stranded on this planet with no vessel. Since my previous one is dead." My spine felt a chill when I heard that "But that from an attack from the rebel alliance. Over 15 years ago. So I am naturally a very picky snake. I looked far and wide as I was able to roam. For someone as close to my views as possible. Until I found you…"
"B-But why me?" I said
"You were like my previous client. Only he'd been through my worse than you.. I won't tell you right now but. That man has lived a life full of backstabs from where he's from" said Vit Orm "But don't let that discourage you.
"…." I said
"When I first saw you. I couldn't help but see the pain in your eyes. A pain that I faced before. And I thought broken people can stick together. Hehehehe….." said Vit Orm "Now rest easy my boy. We've got a busy week ahead"
I could see Vit Orm chuckling as my vision turns completely black and all I could see are his icy blue eyes until they eventually faded away
Dreamscape over
Kane felt himself waking up to the surgeon putting away all of his medical supplies as some kids had already left, some surgeons were still finishing up, and Stan and Hyun Woo were waiting for him to be done
Kane took off his mask and looked at the both of them before looking at himself. He felt super weird but nothing too bad. He then unsteadily gets up
"Enjoy your new life boys" said the surgeon as he then leaves the room. Hyun Woo and Stan help Have up and let a stormtrooper escort them out. Leaving whoever kid was still getting the surgery
"I wish they didn't cut our hair" said Hyun Woo as Kane nodded to him as they
To be continued…
Trivia
1: most of Hyun Woo's broken English is intentional. As I intend for him to improve it each chapter.
2: Kane's physical appearance as a child is partly based off the Runaway Kid from Little Nightmares
3: That kid Hyun Woo ran with in his partial backstory was originally going to be a brother. But honesty I decided to scrap that idea and have him be more of a much younger friend
4: the thing about the old man. That Kane saw in his soul. Was originally supposed to be his grandfather. But I feel that may distract from my current vision too much. Meh.
5: Darth Vader was meant to be referenced a lot more (especially regarding Stan and Hyun Woo) but I felt that would be too much.
6: Nothing but Frank Sinatra was what I was listening to for the vast majority of this chapter
Next Up: Fly High Little Guy