Chapter 12 - Invasion
In an instant, the entire world grew silent. Every form of communication, from telephones to CB radios to the Internet, cut off. Cities were engulfed in darkness as major power plants shut down. Radio and television stations found their signals hijacked by unknown sources. Aircraft in the air found their navigational equipment malfunctioning. It was only a matter of moments before panic ensued.
Alarms began to blare at every major military instillation across the nation. Satellite and computer systems had been compromised. Runners were put through extraordinary workouts as they literally ran to relay messages between confused offices.
Minutes later, the news came that all vehicles had been disabled by strong electro magnetic pulses emitted from an unknown source. Inboard computers in military aircraft were fried. GPS systems were obsolete. Even ground vehicles no longer functioned.
Soon reports came that heavily armed vehicles were entering the installations, taking out all who resisted them. The masked assailants used weapons of unknown technology and withstood any assault by guns and rockets. It was almost as if an invisible shield was protecting them.
Any military aircraft unlucky enough to have already been in flight when the disturbance began found themselves being engaged by unidentified flying aircraft. It wasn't long before all aircraft had been shot down.
In the capital, secret service agents frantically scrambled to move the President to a secure location until the source of the crisis could be determined. Unknown assailants attacked them while in route out of the Whitehouse. There were no survivors. The status of the President was currently unknown, as was the status of the Vice President.
Marcus attempted to navigate through a dark city street with the rest of the panicking traffic. Intersections, now without functioning traffic lights, were death traps as motorist failed to give each other the right-of-way. As traffic came to a halt, he pulled over and shut his engine off.
"What do you think's going on?" Another stranded motorist asked as he got out of his car. "I can't get any stations in on my satellite radio. My cell phone doesn't work, and neither does my kid's laptop. Do you think this is going on all over?"
Marcus could only shrug. In his gut he knew what was going on. Even as he'd listened to Ben's claim that an intergalactic dictator was trying to occupy the Earth, it wasn't until now that he fully realized that he'd never really believed him.
"Well, I've never seen anything like this," the man said.
Marcus looked at him and shook his head. "Yeah, me neither," he admitted before muttering to himself more than anyone else, "I have a bad feeling about this."
Sidious monitored the progress from the command center. A smile graced his lips as reports came that the President was in custody. All military and police instillations were being occupied, as were any government facilities in the greater D.C. area.
An officer entered the command center, his face a look of panic. It was all he could do to give his Emperor the proper respect as he dropped to one knee.
"Yes Captain."
"My Emperor. I have bad news," the young officer said, not daring to look up.
"What?" Sidious spit out with an impatient air.
"I'm afraid that the Jedi is gone. He.. he managed to subdue Lord Quietus a.. a.. and steal his lightsaber."
"Subdue?" Sidious' voice betrayed a hint of concern.
"Yes my Emperor. The Jedi tied him up and placed the Force suppressing collar on his neck."
Palpatine snorted in disgust. "The fool. What was he doing in there I wonder... Is there any sign of the Jedi?"
"We're searching the area, but with our forces thinned from the invasion we've been unable to find him. Chances are good that he's left the area."
"No Captain, he's here and he means to confront me. Tell Lord Quietus to spare no expense in finding him. I cannot be bothered with this now."
"Yes my Emperor." The captain quickly stood and excited the room.
Quietus was fuming. Not only had the Jedi bested him, but now he was supposed to find him without a lightsaber to defend himself.
Impatiently he watched as the troopers searched every space and crevice.
"Kenobi! I know you're here! Show yourself you coward!" He screamed through the warehouse. His voice echoed off of empty crates and reverberated through the rafters.
He waited for a reply, growing angrier when none came. Huffing, he grabbed the nearest trooper by the arm and forced his face inches from his own. "Get my son!"
"Yes sir!"
He glared around the empty warehouse, searching with the Force. The Jedi was good, no doubts about that.
Quietus turned to the trooper as he brought Mark, still bound and collared.
"Okay Jedi! This is your last chance! Show yourself or the boy dies!"
"Dad?" Mark looked as if he'd been slapped. "What are you doing? You're going to kill me?"
He ignored his son as he waited for Obi-Wan to show himself. An alarm blared in his head as his 'spider sense' tingled through the Force. He turned in time to receive a kick to the face. Stumbling back, he collided with a pair of stunned troopers.
The warehouse was alight with blaster fire as every available man came to intercept the Jedi. Obi-Wan ignited the crimson bladed weapon, easily deflecting the shots. Almost without thinking, he cut Marks binds.
"Find a place to hide," he commanded as he repelled the onslaught of blaster fire.
Mark hesitated before sprinting off.
Obi-Wan jumped into the air, landing amidst a group of nearby troopers. Within a moment they were cut down.
Quietus took advantage of the Jedi's distraction, cautiously circling around him from a distance. As Kenobi proceeded to bring down another group of troopers he charged.
Obi-Wan sensed Quietus a moment too late. The Sith tackled him from behind, throwing them to the ground hard, knocking the lightsaber from his grip.
Quietus smiled as he placed a knee in the Jedi's back, seized a handful of hair and slammed Obi-Wan's face into the hard concrete. Blood oozed from Kenobi's broken nose.
Struggling to concentrate, Obi-Wan called a large crate to him, slamming it into the unsuspecting Sith. Free, he got to his feet and called the lightsaber back to his hand. Rushing forward he prepared to cut Quietus down.
"No!"
Mark ran to intercept, using the Force to enhance his speed. As Obi-Wan reached the Sith, so did the boy. Throwing himself on his father, he prevented the Jedi from breaking his promise. Quietus groaned but didn't move.
"Mark, you must move! He will kill us both if he gets the chance," he warned.
"I don't care! He's my dad!" The boy cried.
Obi-Wan grimaced as he saw Anakin in Mark's eyes.
"Mark, I'm sorry. I know this is hard for you to understand, but once a man follows the dark path, forever does it dominate his destiny. I once thought as you did, that redemption could be found after falling to the darkside; but the truth is, your father is already dead."
"No! I don't believe you! He's a good man! I know it!"
Obi-Wan jumped back as the Sith sprung up, throwing Mark into a pile of crates. A powerful stream of lighting emitted from Quietus' outstretched hands. Intense heat could be felt as the lightsaber absorbed the onslaught.
"Ahh!" The Sith screamed as he poured out his hate through the Force.
Gritting his teeth, Obi-Wan pushed his blade forward. Quietus let out a shriek as he was momentarily engulfed with his own lighting. Falling back in a smoldering heap, he moaned but didn't move.
Mark lay motionless. Not giving the Sith time to recover, Obi-Wan seized the boy and disappeared into the jungle of crates.
Brian could feel the pod leave Dagobah's atmosphere and entered the cold vastness of space. The ship had been programmed to send out a distress beacon. Almost instantly the holo-receiver began to beep as someone answered the distress call.
Pressing the button, a humanoid of a strange alien species appeared on the screen.
"Theesa is the Antoys IIV. Yoosa signal has been received and meesa immediately will be there to pick yoosa up."
"Thank you," he replied.
Five minuets later he could see the approach of a ship. The pod began to shake as the tractor beam took hold.
After the pod attached to the ship, he exited the small craft and waited for the crew to meet him. He could see the humanoid he'd spoken to approach.
"Emperor Palpatine?" His rescuer asked, dropping to a knee.
"Yes, you're correct in your assumption," Brian replied in his best Sidious impression. "You may rise."
The baffled humanoid stood.
Brian waved a hand and spoke the lines Yoda had made him rehearse, praying this would work. "You will take me to Coruscant. You will erase all records that your ship ever came to this system. Once we are underway, you will not remember ever coming here. If you are asked, you found me in Corellia."
The humanoid remained silent for a second, his eyes completely blank, then nodded. "Meesa found yoosa in Corellia."
Palpatine exited the command center to find Lord Quietus unconscious among a group of dead storm troopers. Kicking the Sith in the ribs he scowled.
"Get up!"
Quietus moaned as he came to, looking as if he had no clue where he was.
"Get off your useless rear and prepare for our broadcast message to the people of Earth. The President has arrived."
"Kenobi got away," he said in the gravelly voice of a person who just woke up.
"He will be dealt with soon enough."
The troopers entered the warehouse with their prisoners in tow. Sidious greeted them with a smile of delight.
"Ah, I see you have brought our distinguished guest."
"What's going on here?" The President demanded.
"You will bow in respect when you address your Emperor!" A trooper demanded, butting the President in the gut with a rifle.
Coughing, she doubled over. "You won't get away with this."
"But Madam President, I already have!" Sidious laughed. "Your pathetic nation, along with the rest of this planet, are now a part of my Galactic Empire. As such, you are now my subject."
"Americans will never bow to you or anyone else! We never have and we never will!" She attempted to stand but was violently shoved back down.
"As of this moment, America does not exist."
"What do you want with me?"
"I am presenting you with a unique opportunity. As the President of the Untied States, you were looked up too and respected. I am giving you the chance to govern this planet as a representative of the Empire."
"I'll never serve your Empire."
"Then you will die," he shrugged. "If you care about your people, than you will take this opportunity to continue leading them. It's your choice, but I haven't much time to wait for an answer. So what will it be? Yes or no."
With a sigh of regret she nodded. "Okay."
"Good! Now it's time to introduce the people of this planet to their new Emperor."
Marcus gazed up at the stars, amazed at how clearly they could be seen when the city ceased its constant glow of artificial light. Henry, the man he'd talked to earlier, was sitting in his car, playing with his radio.
In an instant the lights came on, muting the starry sky above.
"Marcus! Get over here! The radio's on but you won't believe it!"
"I bet I will," he muttered. He approached Henry's driver side window and leaned over. He could hear a message being broadcasted.
"Your planet is now under my control. The United States has already fallen and soon your other nations will follow. I do not want to shed any more blood than necessary. Your great world has the unique privilege of joining a great Galactic Empire, a union that already enlists the allegiances of hundreds of thousands of worlds.
"Under my Empire, you will have access to thousands of years of knowledge and technological advances beyond your wildest imaginings. You will find peace as one body governs all nations, uniting all your people, putting all petty differences aside for the greater good.
"It is up to you how you take this privilege. You can either embrace it, or you can fight it. I can assure you, if you should choose to resist, the consequences will be great. I do not want to shed blood, but I will not hesitate to take any action necessary to ensure a smooth transition into my Empire.
"The President of the United States is in my custody. After speaking with her, she has agreed to be Earth's governing representative. She will work directly under Darth Quietus, who is also of this planet. Together, the three of us will do what is necessary to establish peace.
"In order the ensure a smooth transition, I'm afraid some rules must be enforced. Firstly, marshal law must be declared. Citizens are urged to return to their homes and wait further instructions. Any who resist will be shot on sight. This may sound harsh but I assure you it is necessary.
"Secondly, all militaries must disarm immediately. It is useless to resist, as your weapons are antiquated and ineffective against my armies. It is up to you how this will take place. I urge all nations to voluntarily give up your arms now. The United States fell within a matter of hours. Your other nations will not take as long.
"Again, I assure you, my Empire offers your planet a unique opportunity to become a great and peaceful society.
"All nations have one hour to comply to my orders." The radio grew silent as the broadcast ended.
Henry looked as if her were going to be sick.
"Can you believe this?" He asked. "I mean, this can't really be happening, can it? Intergalactic invaders?"
Marcus could only shake his head.
'What's going on Ben? I thought you were going to stop this?'
He gazed back at the stars, a chill running through his spine as his worst fears were confirmed.
Sarah Hunter looked at the television screen in shock. The broadcast had ended and only static met her gaze, but she didn't see it. He mind continued to focus on the face that had been broadcasted to the world. It was a face she knew too well; one that she had not seen for months. It was the face that had looked so distant and strange when she'd last seen it, as if it didn't belong to the person who wore it. It was the face of the man who'd attacked her and Dr. Cromwell so maliciously. It was a face that belonged to the man she thought she loved, or at least could love. It was the face of Brian Hughes.
Obi-Wan sent the healing currents of the Force into the unconscious boy before him. Mark moaned but didn't stir. The Jedi watched with a strange mixture of patience and urgency. He could feel Quietus nearby and regretted not killing him when he'd had the chance. As much as he knew the boy loved him, he also knew that many people would suffer at the Sith's hands if he were aloud to live. Sometimes a person must die for the greater good.
"Kenobi! I'm coming to find you and this time you will not get away!"
He frowned at the taunting voice echoing through the large building. He would never be able to do what must be done as long as the boy was still there. He needed to get Mark to a safe place, but how?
"I will find you Jedi! There's no use in hiding!"
With a sigh he took the boy into his arms and made his way for the exit.
The traffic slowly began to move. Panic influenced the drivers, causing accidents that backed up the already crowded intersections. Things continued to get worse as vehicles ignored traffic signals and stop signs. Trucks and SUV's began swerving around slower vehicles as they took to medians and sidewalks. Motorcycles swerved in and out of stopped cars causing many angry drivers to blare their horns and flash obscene jesters. Marcus grimaced as he witnessed one truck swerve into oncoming traffic and plow a smaller car out of its path. No one stopped to assist the now useless car's occupants. Police and emergency vehicles were nowhere to be found.
The radio remained silent as he maneuvered his car as best he could. It soon became apparent that he would not be able to make it. Pulling into a crowded parking lot he shut off his engine and abandoned his car. He lived five miles away and didn't mind walking.
He soon began to regret his decision, however, as looters began ransacking every store in sight. People carried televisions and DVD players, their pockets full of jewelry and cash. Gunfire could be heard in the distance.
"Hey! You! Give me your wallet!"
Marcus turned to the voice and found a gun in his face. With a sigh he tossed his wallet to the young punk, no more than sixteen years old.
"Your watch too," he demanded.
He took off his watch and tossed it to his mugger. "Anything else?" He sarcastically asked.
"Yeah, how about your shoes?"
Anger and frustration that had been building over the last hour began to erupt as Marcus looked at the punk.
"No! I gave you my watch and I gave you my wallet, that should be enough!"
The punk's eyes grew wide as he took a step back. His hand began to shake as he puffed out his chest. "What did you say to me?"
"You heard me! What are you going to do? Kill me? What the hell do you think you're going to do with all this stuff? Didn't you listen to the broadcast or is your brain to damaged from snorting your mamma's oven cleaner to comprehend that anything we value is now useless? What are you going to buy? Our entire planet has been occupied by the army of an evil intergalactic dictator who doesn't give a damn about you or anything you own!"
The punk's gun hand shook so bad that Marcus feared the weapon would discharge on accident. Without another word the teen took off, dropping the wallet and watch in the process. Marcus silently retrieved his things and continued on his way.
Trevor squinted as his dark cell flooded with light. Moaning, he sat up, rubbing his head.
"Rise and shine! It's time to get out of here," a familiar voice spoke; it's heavy tone contrasting sharply with the cheery words.
"Red?" His eyes began to focus as he gazed at her blurred visage. "I thought you were dead."
"Broken, but not dead; not yet."
He looked her up and down with a slight frown. Her face was bruised. Her posture was anything but the proud, straight appearance in which she normally carried herself. She took short, raspy breaths that threatened to erupt in a series of coughs.
"You look terrible," he said, slowly rising to his feet. His leg still flared in pain from the blaster shot.
"You don't look so hot yourself," she replied. "Let's go."
"Where?" He scoffed. "Aren't there like a thousand of those guys posted around here, not to mention Vader?"
"Yeah, and?"
He shook his head in resignation. "You know Red? Sometimes I think you're actually crazier than I am. Okay, lead the way."
They walked into the empty corridor. After a few meters she stopped and looked up. He followed her gaze.
"Oh no, I don't think so. There's no way either one of us can get up there."
"We don't have much of a choice, do we?" She said. "Now give me a boost."
He looked at the ventilation shaft and frowned. "Then how do I get up there?"
She mimicked the lopsided grin that he gave her so often. "Use the Force."
"My Emperor."
Sidious looked at the kneeling Captain with irritation. "Yes?"
"The President has been safely escorted to her White House. She has begun making diplomatic calls to the leaders of the other nations as you requested. So far there has been little resistance to your orders to disarm."
"Excellent. What of the citizens? Have they cooperated as well?"
"The ships have been making stops around the nation. Examples are being made as we speak. Every major city should be visited within an hours time."
"Good. In an hour, send half our fleet for more reinforcements. Check on the status of the other twenty ships Tarkin is preparing. Send those troops to the major European and Asian nations. Begin with the most heavily armed and populated regions."
"What of the international space station?"
"Leave it. We want to convey the message that we are not unnecessarily hostile. It represents no major threat to us."
"Yes my Lord."
Mark stirred awake as they emerged into the cool night air. He looked at Obi-Wan with confusion.
"What happened?"
"You took quite a spill but you'll be all right. I needed to get you away from there before your father killed you."
"Where is he?" Mark began to panic. "You didn't hurt him did you?"
"Relax. I haven't engaged him since you last intervened. He is looking for us though. I will have no choice but to fight him if he finds me."
"You have to kill him, don't you?"
"Yes," was all the Jedi could think to reply. The boy looked at him with wounded pride. "I'm truly sorry Mark."
"I know," the boy sighed. Tears began to brim in his eyes. Obi-Wan set him down.
"I want you to go as far from here as you can. Beware of your thoughts. Shield them well."
"Should I wait for you?"
"If I can, but I can't make any promises. After I complete my mission I must return home. You must get as far away from Washington D.C. as you can. Even after the Emperor has been expelled from Brian's body he will still be able to return here through other means. If your Father survives they will stop at nothing to find you."
"So where should I go?"
Obi-Wan thought for a moment before speaking. "Have you ever been to a place called Florida?"
Marcus found himself at the intersection of a busy shopping center. As with every other street he'd been on, the traffic was at a stand still.
Screams began to fill the air. Looking towards the direction of the screams he could see people pointing towards the sky. A strange ship was hovering overhead. Soon a piercing sound began to emit from it, causing the crowd to clasp their ears in pain. Looters from the shopping center dropped their booty as they too attempted to block out the noise.
The sound stopped and the world grew silent.
"Citizens! You are in violation of the marshal law given to you by your Emperor! In accordance with this violation you will be terminated!"
Marcus gasped as bright laser shots impacted the crowded intersection, causing the vehicles to explode. People began to run in all directions as the ship continued to fire on any person in its path. Gunfire erupted from some as they uselessly tried to stop the rampaging craft.
Without a second though he was in motion. His legs and lungs began to burn as he sprinted away from the intersection in the direction he'd already come. Screams and explosions continued to fill the air behind him.
People were running around him like herded cattle. He needed to get away from them before the ship caught up. Veering off the street he headed towards an abandoned gas station. The doors and windows were boarded up with the exception of a rear door. Stepping inside he stopped at the sight of other panicked citizens.
"There's no room in here for anyone else," a large man stated as he stood up.
"Please, I just need to stay here long enough for the ship to pass."
"Sorry, you're going to have to go somewhere else." The man raised a rifle to emphasize his point.
"I see," he said before exiting the station. A dumpster sat nearby. Quickly he moved to it and lifted its lid. Luckily it was nearly empty. Jumping in he shut the lid overhead. A moment later he could hear explosions as the ship approached. Risking a peak he lifted the lid. The ship barreled down the street blasting cars among the herding crowd. Explosions tore through them, killing many and wounding others.
The lid slammed shut as he collapsed into the dumpster. Stunned by all the death and destruction around him he began to cry. He'd never felt so helpless in his life.
The large receptacle violently shook, throwing him hard against its inner wall. His ears rung from a nearby explosion that was fierce enough to rip the lid of the dumpster. In a moment of confusion he stood. The building in which he'd attempted to hide was a heap of flaming rubble.
Obi-Wan reentered the warehouse, making no effort to hide. Boldly walking into the main section, he ignited the lightsaber and waited. He didn't have long to wait. Quietus strolled out with a smirk on his face. He was now in possession of a lightsaber of his own.
"This time we do this right," he said as he ignited the weapon.
"Because your son cares so greatly for you, I am giving you this one chance to stand down. My business is not with you. Your master will soon be gone but you needn't follow him. You were once a good man and can still chose that path."
Quietus laughed. "Typical Jedi propaganda. You're so confident that your way is the correct way. I believe it wasn't so long ago that you were struggling with your own angry emotions. What gives you the right to assume that you're any better than I am?"
"You were ready to sacrifice your son! You've handed your own planet over to the Empire!"
"My son is my apprentice and none of your business! And as far as the Earth is concerned, the Empire will save this planet from destroying itself. Or haven't you noticed in your travels how the people on this rock have a total disregard for others. They are selfish, stupid and violent. They needlessly kill each other for petty reasons. Even now they are so panic induced that they are only endangering themselves. Violence and looting are rampant. The wounded and helpless are ignored and left to die. The governments here have no control. The Empire will bring peace and order."
"I'm afraid that Earth's problems are only beginning. The Empire is oppressive. They take and do not give. The people do not benefit from its existence, only its leaders."
"Enough! I do not care for anymore of your lies!"
Obi-Wan set his body in a defensive posture as Quietus charged. The Jedi was surprised by the Sith's considerable strength. His method, though sloppy, was quite effective. Quietus began to wear him down with a series of powerful chops.
Obi-Wan backed away after each swing, struggling to defend the massive blows. He needed to turn this fight's momentum soon.
He waited for Quietus to swing again. Bringing his own weapon up, he threw his strength into forcing the Sith's saber away. A moment later he kicked his foot into the man's unguarded gut.
Quietus stumbled back a step and put his saber back in motion. The sword cut through nothing as the Jedi leapt over his head, landing behind him. Turning, he was put on the defensive as Obi-Wan began a series of quick and seemingly erratic strokes. It soon became apparent that the Jedi was far more skilled than he was.
Panic began to rise as Quietus struggled to meat the Jedi's swings. He could feel his alarm interfering with his concentration. The Jedi took advantage of the momentary laps and severed off the Sith's right arm. The arm, along with the weapon it held, met the ground with a soft thud.
"Please, don't kill me!" He begged as the Jedi prepared to strike him down.
Obi-Wan hesitated before replying. "Leave," he commanded. As much as he knew it was a mistake, he couldn't bring himself to kill an injured man.
He watched as the Sith ran for the exit. Laughter and clapping brought his attention back to the warehouse's interior. Sidious stood with a look of amusement on his face.
"I see you are still weak, unlike your former apprentice. He didn't hesitate to strike down Lord Tyranus after he'd been unarmed."
"It's time for you to leave Sidious. There's someone who wants his body back and I'm here to assist him."
"Oh?" The amused smile grew wider. "And what of the man whose body you high jacked? Of course that doesn't matter as he is now in Lord Vader's custody."
Obi-Wan frowned. "You're lies and threats won't stop me Sidious. It's time to end this. Now."
"Oh, you will try my friend. You will try."
Sidious ignited a saber of his own.
The small ship traveled through hyperspace with silent grace. Its two occupants remained silent, keeping to themselves. The pilot, a confused and somewhat frightened Gungan, monitored the ships progress with unease. The passenger, a quiet and docile Jedi, knelt in meditation, listening to the Force's beckon call.
Brian reached out and touched the bond he shared with one of the most feared and powerful individuals in the universe. In his contemplation he felt tension as the polar being coiled from his touch. This being's mind seemed to be divided as it struggled with two tasks; one was to keep Brian out of his own body; the other was to defeat the Jedi with whom he fought.
A smile graced his lips as realization came. It was time.
Sonia squinted through the ventilation opening in the southwest quadrant of the Tal Shennar Imperial facility. The room below was empty save for a small computer terminal and an exit door.
"It looks clear," she said to the man behind her. "We'd better get moving before they find us. I'm sure they've figured out our method of escape by now."
"Take all the time you want Red. I'm enjoying the view from here just fine."
She kicked out hard behind her, causing Trevor to gasp in pain. She could just envision the smug smile on his face as he'd spoken to her.
"Sorry," he gasped.
"Whatever. Just get ready to move."
She sat down slowly, minding her broken ribs. Planting her feet firmly in front of her she kicked at the vent. It buckled but didn't move. She kicked again, successfully knocking it loose. The vent swung lazily from one corner, allowing her to climb out. Sonia hit the ground in a crumbled heap, grabbing her side in pain. A moment, later Trevor landed beside her, collapsing as his leg gave out.
"We're quite a pair, aren't we?" he joked as he held his leg.
Ignoring him, she got up. Walking to the computer she began searching for a facility map. The display lit up with a layout of the building.
"Here," she said, pointing to the display. "The hanger is here and we are… here. If we're careful, and lucky, we should be off this rock in a matter of minutes."
Trevor nodded. "Do you think they'll be guarding the hanger?"
She looked at him and smiled. "Of course."
The crimson blades clashed with deafening fury. Obi-Wan sank deep into the Force as Sidious immediately put him on the offensive. The Sith Lord moved the saber with masterful speed and precision, nearly succeeding in piercing the hapless Jedi's heart.
Laughter filled the warehouse as again and again the blade narrowly missed Obi-Wan, growing closer and closer with each well-timed thrust. Singe marks and burn holes began to decorate the Jedi's wardrobe.
Sweat threatened to blind him as he danced around the dark man's attacks. His muscles ached and his breath grew heavy as the affects of fighting two battles so close together began to take its toll.
Understanding came as he faced Sidious. A part of him reflected on Yoda's warning the first time he'd wanted to face the Sith Lord in combat. The wizened Jedi's counsel that he was not strong enough rang through his head.
"What's the matter Master Kenobi? You seem a little winded," Sidious darkly observed with a snarling grin.
He was, in fact, too winded to reply. The body he inhabited was not trained for such a strenuous workout.
Marcus watched the ship disappear into the night sky before exiting the dumpster. The world was bathed in the amber glow of flames, giving off harsh shadows and contrasts on the debris littered landscape. People were crying and begging for help. Bodies of the wounded mingled with bodies of the dead.
"Hey! You! Are you okay?"
Marcus looked around with bloodshot eyes. A bald man was waving in the street. He began to nod but could not as of yet speak.
"Good. Come here. I need you help."
The world seemed to focus with surreal clarity as he approached the man. He was kneeling by a woman who appeared to be hurt.
"I'm a doctor. This woman is going to die if we don't stop her bleeding. Put your hand here." The man's hand was in her inner thigh, above a nasty gash.
"Her femoral artery has been severed. I need you to apply pressure while I tie a tourniquet."
Marcus applied the pressure without replying.
"What's your name?" The doctor asked.
It took a moment for the question to sink in. "Marcus."
"Marcus," the man nodded. He placed a towel around the leg and tied it tight. "It's good to meet you. I can't say I wouldn't have preferred better circumstances to meet." He took a six-inch metal pipe, placed it in the towel and began to twist it tightly. "My name's Phil, by the way. I know, I know… Dr. Phil. Please, I beg, don't call me that."
Marcus failed to find humor in the name.
"I know you're in shock," Phil continued, "but I need you to stay focused for me, okay? There are a lot of hurt people here and by the looks of things I'm the only medical attention they're going to see for a while. I need your help."
Marcus looked at him for a moment before nodding.
"Good. I've got this woman taken care of for now. She's lost a lot of blood but there's little more I can do. I need you to look around and find anybody who is still conscious. Talk to them; keep them focused until I can examine them. I won't lie to you; as with this woman, I can only do so much. Many of these people are going to die; you may be the last comfort they have. I need you to stay strong and focused. Can you do that?"
Conflicting emotions ran through him as he listened to Phil. How was he supposed to do this? He wasn't cut out for this sort of thing. He felt as if the world were falling apart around him and there was nothing he could do about it.
"Hey." Phil put a reassuring hand on Marcus' shoulder. "I know this is hard and I know that you never expected to be in this situation, but you are. These are the types of moments that define us. I know you can do it. I know you can."
"Okay," Marcus said with a nod.
"Good," Phil said with a warm smile. "If you see anyone that can help us, wave them down. I'll keep an eye out too. But for now, it's just us."
Darth Vader rampaged through the detention center. Storm troopers and guards respectfully stepped out of his way as he charged past them towards the holding cells. One unfortunate officer, formally in charge of the detention center, lay in a crumbled heap on the floor.
A moment later Vader reappeared. "They used the ventilation shaft. They couldn't have gotten far. Shut off all possible exits. I want them found!"
Obi-Wan thrust his blade up to answer the Sith's attack only to find his opponent's blade already in motion for his legs. He brought his blade down only managing to graze the blade as it was pulled back in and thrust out straight for his gut. Twisting his body and stepping back he attempted to push the blade away only to find it swinging for his head.
Collapsing his legs he rolled away, his rival viciously chopping at the ground as he went. Springing to his feet he was knocked off balance by a powerful Force push into a nearby support beam.
Kenobi hit the ground in a muddled heap, his weapon rolling uselessly out of his hand.
Laughter echoed through the warehouse as the Sith Lord approached.
"I'm disappointed in you. That was a pretty pathetic display, even for a Jedi. I should know. I've killed thousands of them."
Obi-Wan looked up with dazed eyes, blood trickling down his forehead.
Brian's focus was unshakable. His mind was completely immersed in the task at hand. A large barrier had been erected in Sidious' mind but he was not deterred. Slowly it began to deteriorate as he chipped and hacked its frame with his will.
He could feel the Sith Lord struggling with his attempts. He could also feel the ensuing battle in which he fought. Things were looking bad for Obi-Wan. He knew he could break down the wall; he just needed a little more time. Hopefully the Jedi could provide it.
Pain pierced his head as it came into focus. Only a few seconds had passed since he'd hit the beam but that was more than enough time for the Sith to finish him off.
Sidious was hesitating. Why?
A snarl grew on the dark lord's face as he momentarily loss his concentration.
'Brian,' Obi-Wan thought with a smile. Recognizing the window for a second chance was rapidly closing, he recalled the lightsaber to his hands and leapt to his feet.
Their blades were back in action in an instant. Focusing on the Sith's offense, Kenobi did what he did best; he waited. Defending the blows, he knew he wouldn't find a weakness in Sidious' attack but he didn't have to. He just needed to give Brian enough time to reclaim his body.
A look of desperation flashed on the Sith Lord's face for the briefest instant but Obi-Wan caught it.
"What's the matter Sidious? You don't seem to be giving this your all," he taunted.
"You are one to speak," he hissed in reply. "You could easily defeat me if you'd only give into the power of the darkside."
"And take the risk of losing my good looks in exchange for your charming demeanor? I'd rather not, thank you. Besides, I don't need to defeat you."
Sidious laughed in return. "Do you think your friend really stands a chance in expelling me? I'm more powerful than the both of you."
"You know," Obi-Wan smirked, "you should really mind your surroundings."
Sidious gave him a confused look as a crate slammed into the back of his head.
The wall was down. Or at least it was deteriorated enough for him to get through. Brian wasn't sure what Obi-Wan had done but he was grateful.
Two storm troopers were lying prostrate on the hallway floor, relieved of their blasters and their lives. Beyond them, two fugitives cautiously approached the hanger entrance.
Sonia, walking slightly ahead of Trevor, silently raised her hand, singling him to stop.
"I'm going to see what we're up against. Stay here and watch my back."
He nodded silently, his weapon at the ready.
She quietly continued towards the opening, her alert eyes taking everything in.
The hanger was empty save for a single ship – an Imperial Lambda-class shuttle. Vader's ship.
A lopsided grin began to grow as she thought of relieving the dark lord of his personal transport.
A small group of troopers were standing nearby, appearing bored and disinterested in their current task.
She returned to Trevor and smiled. "You ready to go?"
"Sure," he said, returning the smile. "What's so funny?"
"There's a small group of very bored storm troopers in there. I thought we'd give them something to do."
Trevor nodded, "Sounds good to me."
"I thought you'd agree," she said.
He followed her to the entrance where she motioned him to one side. She stood opposite from him and nodded. Simultaneously, they entered the hanger, taking out two very surprised storm troopers in the process. The other troopers were quick to respond, but not quickly enough. Within a minute they were all dead.
"That was easy," Trevor observed.
"I know," she replied with a frown, "Almost too easy."
She approached the ship and stopped. Two troopers emerged down the ramp.
"Freeze!" One commanded.
She would have shot him were it not for the echo of footsteps approaching from all angles. Within seconds they were surrounded.
"Bushwhacked," Trevor spat.
Sonia wasn't familiar with the term but she knew what he meant.
Obi-Wan watched cautiously as Sidious collapsed to the ground. Summoning the fallen Sith's weapon to his hand, he waited. If he was smart he would strike him down. The problem was, he wasn't sure that would work. Sidious could reclaim his body and Brian would end up the sacrifice.
A moan emitted from the Emperor as he slowly came to. Lifting his head, he glared at Kenobi with fierce hatred. In a flash he was on his feet. With a hiss, lightning began to pour from his hands, the likes of which Obi-Wan had never seen. One of the lightsabers was knocked from his grasp. It was all he could do to hold on to the other with both hands. Fierce heat began to consume the handle. Slowly the weapon was driven back towards his face, the heat of the blade warming his skin.
"It is time for you to die!" Sidious growled.
Obi-Wan grit his teeth as he took a step back, fighting to maintain control. The powerful onslaught was too much for him to handle.
A moment later, the attack ceased; or at least that's how it felt. Kenobi stumbled forward as the lightning's power weakened tremendously. The Sith Lord began to sweat, his eyes losing their focus.
"No," Sidious gasped as he tried to renew his power. "No!"
The lightning stopped completely as he collapsed to his knees.
Brian found the shadow and tackled it. A dark power threatened to consume him with a paralyzing ferocity. The shadow grew and spread until it engulfed him completely. With a cry he pulled inside himself; fear, despair and grief greeting him.
"Concentrate. Let the Force flow through you. Guide your actions it dose, but also follows your promptings. Find your light and use it. Save you it can…"
Yoda's words echoed through him, reverberating his head with mind numbing strength. Taking a moment to calm himself, he reached for the Force.
"You're too weak," Sidious taunted. "You'll never be strong enough."
Slowly light began to emit from his begin, warming him in its embrace.
Laughter echoed around him. "Pathetic."
The light began to grow brighter and hotter. The shadow began to recede.
"It's time to end this boy!"
The shadow attacked in a powerful wake only to be singed by the light. The darkness began to dissipate like fog in the sun.
"No," the Sith gasped. "No!"
"Get out of my body!" Brian yelled, his powerful command disturbing the dark mist.
"Never!"
The shadow tried to regroup.
"Brian, I'm here."
"Obi-Wan?"
"Yes. Keep concentrating. I will assist you."
He watched as the light intensified. The shadow began to shrink and tear. A howling cry, like a demon from hell, shrieked with ear splitting force, creating a powerful vortex that pulled at everything in sight. Light and shadow alike were pulled and tugged.
"I will find you! You'll never be safe! You and your planet will suffer at my hands!"
"LEAVE!" Brian commanded.
Silence…
Marcus knelt over the small boy. Tears filled his eyes as he watched him struggle for air. Holding his tiny hand, Marcus tried to reassure the boy that everything would be okay.
"Where's my mom?"
"I don't know sport. I'm sure she's okay."
The boy began to cough, blood mixed with saliva running down his chin. "Why did the aliens do this? My mommy said that they were here to make things better."
Marcus could only shake his head. "I don't know. I guess they thought we were doing something wrong."
"We were just going home like they asked. Our car got stuck though."
"Yeah, mine did too. A lot of cars did."
Marcus looked around. Three other people had joined in their efforts to help. Phil was currently working to stop the bleeding of an elderly man.
"I'm cold," the boy said.
Marcus took off his jacket and laid it over the boy. "Just try to stay awake for me sport. Okay? Help should be here soon."
In the distance he could hear sirens but knew there was no way for the vehicles to reach the area. The boy began to drift out of consciousness. Marcus refocused his efforts in keeping the boy alert.
"What's your name?"
"Joey," the boy said.
"Joey, my name is Marcus. It's good to meet you."
The boy smiled and nodded, coughing again. "I like you Marcus. You're nice."
Marcus returned the smile. "Christmas is coming. Have you been a good boy this year?"
Joey nodded. "Yeah, I think I have."
Marcus laughed. "You think you have, huh? I'm sure your mom would say you are. So what do you want Santa to bring you?"
Joey looked thoughtful. "Well, what I really want is a baby brother. I have a sister and she's no fun. She likes to play with dolls."
Marcus laughed again. "Well I don't think that's exactly up to Santa."
"Why not?" They boy asked.
"Well, because that's not his department. Toys are his specialty."
Joey nodded in agreement. "Yeah, that's what I was afraid of."
The sound of a helicopter could be heard in the distance. Looking up, Marcus was relieved to see a pair heading their way.
Joey began to cough again, more violently.
"Hold on buddy. Just a little while longer. Help is coming."
The boy began to convulse.
"Phil!" Marcus shouted in panic.
The doctor came running over.
"He's in shock," Phil said. "Try keeping him still. Keep talking to him. I'll go get some help."
The helicopters hovered overhead, lowering in an empty parking lot. Phil went to greet them.
"Hold on Joey," Marcus begged. The boy continued to convulse, his eyes rolling back, a moment later Phil arrived with two medics.
"Marcus, move."
He stood as he watched the medics attend to the boy. A minute later they stopped.
"He's gone," they said.
Marcus collapsed in shock. Phil knelt by him.
"You tried your best, that's all you could do."
"If they'd only arrived sooner. If there weren't so many damn cars in the roads the ambulances-"
"Marcus," Phil interrupted in a stern voice. "Listen to me. There was nothing anyone could have done. He was bleeding internally."
Marcus shook his head, refusing to accept it.
"I need your help. We have some supplies now. They are going to take the most critical people away in the life flight first and return as soon as they can. In the mean time I still need you to assist me in helping people."
"Okay," Marcus said. "Let's go."
Obi-Wan stood back as the body before him began to stir. The eyes fluttered open and the lungs deeply inhaled. Sitting up, he looked around. Settling on the Jedi he stared in silence.
"Brian?"
"Obi-Wan," he replied with a smile. "Where are we?"
The Jedi laughed as he pulled the man to his feet. "Washington D.C., Imperial headquarters to be exact."
"Earth's lost, isn't it?"
Obi-Wan nodded with a frown. "I've failed. I'm… I'm sorry Brian."
"You are only one man. I'm grateful for all you've done."
"We really should get out of here. Follow me. There's someone I want you to meet."
Ten minutes later they entered a small abandoned house.
"Mark?" Obi-Wan called out. A moment later the boy emerged from the shadows.
Mark looked at Brian carefully. "He's really gone," he finally commented.
"Yes, he is," Obi-Wan replied. "Mark, this is Brian."
"You're a Jedi too, aren't you?" Mark asked.
"Yes he is," Obi-Wan confirmed. "He will train you. You will be his padawan learner, and he, your master."
"It's good to meet you Mark."
"You too Master," he said, shaking his new mentor's hand. He then turned to Obi-Wan with a frown. "Where's my father?"
"I don't know," Obi-Wan said. "He's alive but injured."
Mark nodded. "Good. I'm glad you kept your promise. That means there's still a chance to save him."
"Yes, I suppose there's always a chance," Obi-Wan nodded. "Brian is going to take you to Florida, but first he's got to stop in…" He gave Brian a questioning look.
"New York," Brian finished for him. "There's someone there I need to check on."
Mark nodded. "What about you?" He asked the Jedi. "Are you leaving?"
"Yes, very soon."
"What should we do about the guy you switched with? I didn't get to spend much time with him but he was quite a handful," Brian asked.
Obi-Wan frowned. "I'm not sure. I sense he's changed quite a bit in the last few months. I'm not sure how much but I do know he has no love for the Empire. He could be a useful ally if he can be trusted."
Brian shook his head. "That's a big gamble. How do we know for sure?"
"Give him the option to join you. If he accepts the offer, take him with you. If not, let him go. Both the Earth and Imperial authorities will be searching for him. Sooner or later they'll find him.
"In the mean time." Obi-Wan offered two lightsabers to Brian and one to Mark. "I'm afraid they carry the traditional Sith color but they'll have to do."
Brian nodded. "Thank you Master Kenobi. Give Master Yoda my best."
Obi-Wan placed his hand on Brian's shoulder. "I will. May the Force be with you both."
Darth Sidious opened his eyes and looked around. He immediately felt the effects of returning to his older body as aches and pains engulfed his fragile frame. He frowned as he examined the ship. Clearly he was no longer in the presence of Master Yoda. Getting to his feat he left the small room in search for the ship's pilot, and some answers.
The ship was small and old and the pilot was easy to find. He grunted in disgust as he discovered the Gungan.
"Yes my Emperor?" The pathetic creature said as he entered the small cockpit.
"You will tell me how I came to be on this ship," he commanded.
"Meesa found yoosa in Corellia," he replied.
"You lying, insolent worm! Tell me the truth or I will make sure you die a most painful death!"
"I swear meesa telling yoosa the truth!"
Sidious growled in frustration. "Where are you taking me?"
"Coruscant, my Emperor."
He scowled in disgust. There was no point in killing the Gungan just yet. That could wait until he was home.
Sonia slowly lowered her weapon. She looked at Trevor who seemed unusually optimistic. She wanted to ask what he was so happy about but knew it was best to keep her mouth shut.
"Lord Vader has been looking for you," one of the troopers said as he relieved them of their weapons. Another stepped forward to bind their wrists. He approached Trevor and stopped.
"Give me your hands."
Trevor's smile widened.
As Trevor raised his hands the trooper flew back, colliding with the other the troopers directly behind him. A moment later, invisible hands knocked the rest of the troopers down.
Sonia didn't need an invitation to get moving. She shot up the ramp and began prepping the engines. Trevor was close behind, closing the ramp behind him. The stunned troopers began shooting at the ship, their blasts harmlessly deflecting off the ship's heavy armor.
"I was wondering what you were smiling about," Sonia said as she piloted the ship out of the hanger.
He merely shrugged in reply.
She gave him a curious glance.
"Hang on. We're about to have company."
They watched as Star Destroyers came into focus.
"Haven't we been through this before?" He asked.
She looked at him with a slight frown. "Obi-Wan?"
"Hello Sonia," he smiled.
"Where the hell have you been?" She spat as she tried not to smile.
"I knew you'd missed me," he replied.
Darth Vader stood in the hanger sizzling with anger. The trooper trembled before him, waiting for a reply.
The Dark Lord was tempted to relieve the pathetic man of his life but dismissed it. There was no point. His anger would not dissipate and the ship would not return. He left the hapless trooper and exited the hanger.
Marcus walked home in painful disarray. His house stood quietly in the same spot it always had, unchanged by all the commotion and suffering. He realized just how jealous he was of the house. It remained unchanged while he was no longer the same person he'd been twenty-four hours before. There was no going back. He would never be the same no matter how much time went by.
He entered the home only to find that it too had been affected by the storm. While its outside looked perfect, the inside told a much different story. It told of looters and vandals who'd violated its holy sanctuary, leaving it scarred and disheveled.
Anger overtook him as he thought of everything he'd been through. The house seemed unimportant in comparison.
He vowed to himself, as he stood in the remains of his once unscathed home, that he would not let the world go into the hands of a mad man without a fight. He didn't know how and he didn't know when, but somehow, he was going to help the Earth win back its freedom.
The shuttle settled in the sandy outskirts of the Dune Sea. As the ramp opened, a weary and disheartened Jedi stepped into the familiar sands of his home.
Sonia stood behind him, hesitant to speak.
"I'm going to miss you Jedi," she said with a smile.
"Perhaps we will meet again. One never knows where the will of the Force will lead us."
"I don't know about all that. What I do know is that I will never, and I mean never, give you another ride anywhere."
Obi-Wan laughed.
"Oh? You think that's funny do you?" She asked. "Do you know what I've been through since I agreed to fly you off this rock?"
The Jedi smiled warmly. "Sonia my dear, I am truly sorry about your ship."
"Oh, don't worry. Jabba will be interested in this baby," she said, patting the hull with her hand.
"I'm sure he will! Vader's personal vessel should catch you a handsome price indeed."
Sonia nodded before replying. "Are you sure you wouldn't rather stay on Dagobah with Master Yoda? He seemed so pleased when you returned."
"Oh I'm sure. It's too risky for us to stay in the same place. Besides, there is something important I must do here."
She nodded. "Take care of yourself Jedi."
"May the Force be with you Sonia, where ever your journeys may take you."
"May the Force be with you," she replied with all seriousness. She fought back the tears brimming in her eyes.
Obi-Wan waved one last time before turning. She watched him walk away before going inside, the ramp closing behind her.
The Earth slowly returned to its normal routine as the shock of invasion melted away. The Empire's troops continued to arrive on a daily basis, tightening its grip on all corners of the globe. Rights and privileges were given back to the citizens as they returned to work and school under the Empire's watchful eye. Governments were reorganized and militaries were dissolved. Communication through newspapers, television and radio were returned, but telephone and Internet use was still suspended until better control of what was communicated could be had. Over all, Earth was adjusting quite well.
Rumors came that the Emperor himself would soon return in his true form. People wondered what that meant but didn't dare ask. There were reports that the man who'd claimed to be the Emperor had been spotted in New York and then the southern states - most recently Florida.
The President - now dubbed the governing Imperial representative - under the supervision of Darth Quietus, struggled to make the Earth's integration into the Empire as smooth and painless as possible. It was soon apparent, however, that she held no true power.
The main question that stayed on everyone's mind was 'what did the future hold?' No one could answer. The people could only guess and speculate. One thing, however, was clear; the Earth was no longer theirs.
Epilogue coming soon…