Author's Note: Well, I really hope y'all like this one! Had an absolute blast writing this and sorting everything out, now I hope you do too!
By the way, if you're still interested in joining the lil' Discord server I set up, there's plenty of room for more of y'all to come on over and join the party! Invite is in the previous chapter.
Alright, without further ado, enjoy Onderon... Part 1!
-Chapter 130: Boots on the Ground-
Location: Onderon
"Small sparks can start big fires."
Onderon had been a Separatist planet since the outbreak of the war, represented by the renown Mina Bonteri in the Confederate Senate and Parliament. But after her death and the return of her son Lux to the public limelight, his claims that the Separatist super-soldier Wraith had murdered her and attempt to murder him on orders from Count Dooku for trying to broker peace with the Republic stirred up mixed sentiments and tensions across the planet.
Seeing the potential volatility of the situation, the Confederacy moved in with force.
The droid army quickly took control of the capitol city of Iziz, forcing the planet to fully secede to the Spearatists under the rule of a puppet king: Sanjay Rash. While the population was subjugated, some resisted and a band of rebels led by Lux Bonteri himself escaped the iron grip of the Confederacy by hiding out in the thick jungles. Few in number but stout in spirit, they were determined to continue their war for freedom at any cost... and sought aid from the one organization they knew they could count upon: the Jedi Order.
Late one night on Coruscant, the Jedi Council took the transmission from Lux Bonteri, along with fellow rebel leaders Saw and Steela Gerrera, as the rebels hid out in a long-abandoned outpost. Most of the Council was present, including Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano.
"Unfortunately, the only way to reclaim Onderon will be through armed struggle." The teen senator told them. "But we lack sufficient hardware and supplies."
"Onderon is in your king's rule and at the outbreak of the Clone War he chose to align it with the Separatists." Obi-Wan cut in.
"Our true king has been silenced!" Saw responded. "The one you recognize is a traitor and a Separatist minion. We need your help to survive this." He implored them, glancing from one Jedi to the next.
"Find a way we shall." Yoda replied in confirmation.
"We await your answer." Lux replied with a bow, casting a brief glance at Ahsoka as he rose. The communications cut moments later and Anakin stepped forward with a plan in mind.
"There are pockets of rebels on many of these planets that just need guidance. With training and resources, they could attack soft targets while the Republic continues to engage them on the battlefield." He suggested. Obi-Wan, however, was not on board.
"That sounds like terrorism, Anakin." He countered in a grave tone.
"Well, I think of it as an insurgency," the Knight replied, "to help realign these planets with the Republic.
"We can divide the Separatist forces and press them on two fronts." Mace Windu concurred.
"A means to an end, fear cannot be." Yoda stated. "Stop those who spread terror, the Jedi must."
"Indeed." Obi-Wan agreed before turning back to Anakin. "What you're suggesting would open up dangerous possibilities. And we must not train terrorists."
"Uh, rebels." Anakin corrected him.
"How we conduct war is what distinguishes us from others. The Separatists unleash super-soldiers engineered to tear our troops to pieces, they use terror. Funding rebels to overthrow a legitimate government puts innocent lives at risk." Obi-Wan said.
"We can minimize collateral damage by using arms that mainly affect droids." Anakin suggested, the back and forth between him and Obi-Wan playing out in a drawn out fashion, something Ahsoka noticed as her gaze shifted back and forth between them.
"The least we can do is help them defend themselves, test the tactic while we're at it." Mace offered. Yoda grew thoughtful for a moment, pondering these conflicting opinions.
"This could be a great new weapon for us." Anakin mused with a chuckle, somewhat pleased at the notions this could provide. Ahsoka, while on board with helping people in need, did not like the implications of turning people into nothing more than tools.
And neither did someone else.
"An awful shallow view fo' a postah boy." Someone drawled, drawing the Jedi's attention to the single access door to the Council's chambers. Corsair waltzed into the room, appraising all the Jedi present with a smug and somewhat condescending look as he puffed on a glowing cigarra. "'Ello Jedi! Long time no see, not like tha's a bad thing." He mused in greeting, crossing his arms as he stood before them.
"And what are you doing here?" Anakin demanded with a frown. "These are private proceedings." Corsair did not respond immediately and calmly blew a cloud of smoke.
"Sounds like you an' I are workin' tahgethah again, Skywalkah." He informed them.
"How do you mean?" Obi-Wan inquired.
"That Bonteri kid sent me a message, askin' fo' mo' manpowah ta fuel 'is lil' rebellion. Sounds like they're desperate, if they're askin' fo' yor help too." Corsair responded.
"Since when do you help rebellions?" Anakin asked.
"Since anyone can pay." Corsair simply told him. Anakin huffed, his opinion of the mercenary as low as ever.
"While we're at it, where've you been? Slacking off?" He sneered.
"Been busy, Skywalkah. Namely tyin' up a few loose ends." The Titan leader responded. Footsteps sounded as the chamber door opened again a figure entering the room and stepping up beside him, wearing the matching black armor consistent with all the Titans. She was none other than a figure from the Council's past, those who had been present during that time sharing mixed looks of surprise and unease at her return. Mace made to speak first.
"Meline Udia. It's... been a long time." Hearing the name, Ahsoka looked to the older woman with wide eyes. So this was Dynnal's mother! The red-head turned to Mace, a dull look in her green eyes.
"It's Meline Karn." She tersely replied. "And yes, it has been a long time... no thanks to you." Her words were spoken evenly, but her roaming gaze shifting across the room indicated she had not forgiven any of them. Both Anakin and Ahsoka had no idea what she was talking about, while Obi-Wan had some inkling despite having not been a member of the Council at that time. Mace cleared his throat and tried to continue,
"We were doing what we thought-"
"Oh, I know what you thought." Meline cut him off, crossing her arms.
"Ya shor' made that pretty damn clear." Corsair agreed, sliding an arm around his wife. "But 's my op, my rules. And my wife's part a' my team, so stuff yor questions and accyasations back down yer robes, 'cause we ain't int'rested in 'em." His declaration seem to silence the Jedi, neither Mace nor any of the Council members making to speak any further. Anakin was the only one to continue.
"Well... nice to see this is going to be a family affair." He quipped. Corsair shot him a grin.
"Yor damn right 'bout that, Skywalkah." He agreed. "In addition to my lovely wife, I'll be takin' my pilot, my second-in-command an' a new hire too, just ta round out our contrahbution."
"A new hire, eh?" Anakin mused. "Who might that be?" He dully wondered, not actually all the curious. But Ahsoka's eyes brightened again as possibilities filled her mind. Corsair looked to Anakin with his usual smug grin.
"I'm glad ya asked, Skywalkah." He replied. Tilting his head towards the access door, he whistled sharply. "Oi! Boyo! In 'ere!" He called out and the door slid open to reveal darkness seconds later. "Good kid. Shahp as a whip an' a damn fine shot. Figahed I'd introduce y'all now an' save me tha trouble a' you boardin' my ship ta find 'im out." He remarked to the Jedi as the newest member of the Titans emerged into the light. All eyes were drawn to him and Ahsoka could feel her heart racing as his face was revealed. She stifled a gasp but her eyes remained totally transfixed upon him.
The man who entered was tall and broad-shouldered, clad in a brown synthleather jacket over the customary black armor of the Titans. His new wardrobe was something, but Ahsoka's fleeting gaze passed it over in favor of looking squarely at his new appearance...
He had a full head of short auburn hair, the formerly shaven portion filled in. His scars had been completely healed with no evidence of them existing in the first place, resulting in a clean, symmetrical face. He was also pretty tanned, the passing light revealing a darkened skintone. Stubble lined his jaw, a dark outline of what could one day be a beard completing his makeover. Ahsoka stopped and just stared, her gaze riveted to him and her heart fluttering as she took in his new and admittedly very handsome appearance, his features seemingly even more flawless. Perhaps this was how he was supposed to look, how destiny intended him to be had the Separatists not gotten their hands on him. It was a far cry from Wraith's colder, more sinister appearance, and it seemed to belay his warm and lighter nature.
Suffice to say, Ahsoka was very much enamoured with Dynnal's new look. If not for her composure and control, she might've started drooling.
He smiled nervously, offering a quick wave as his eyes glanced around the Council chamber, taking in each Jedi where they stood.
"Heh... Hello all." He quietly greeted, his expression somewhere between nervous and star-struck.
"And what might your name be?" Obi-Wan politely inquired. Dynnal's gaze darted to him and after a long silence where he seemingly stood in awe, he found his tongue.
"Oh! It's, uh, Dynnal, sir, er-... Master, no, um-... G-General." He stammered in reply, sounding flustered. "I-It's one of those three, right?" He wondered, Corsair rolling his eyes. "Sorry, bit nervous. N-Never met so many famous Jedi before. Big fan, by the way!" Dynnal quickly excused with a smile.
"Try not ta' embarrass yorself too 'ard, boyo." Corsair stated. "You'll pardon 'is yammerin'. He likes tha Jedi... for some bloody reason." He told the Council.
"Only because they're awesome!" Dynnal quickly responded. "You know how many lives they've saved? The Republic would be dead in the water if not for them!" He stated.
"'S dead in tha watah anyways." Corsair grumbled, taking a drag from his cigarra.
"That's some awfully high praise... from a mercenary." Anakin mused. The young man turned to him and audibly gasped.
"Y-Your Anakin Skywalker! The Hero With No Fear!" Dynnal exclaimed, quickly stepping over to grab his hand and vigorously shake it. "Big fan! Huge fan, actually!"
"I can tell." Anakin remarked with a slight grin. "Gotta admit, it'll be a nice change to have a Titan with decent manners around." He mused, shooting a smug glance at Corsair.
"If ya weren't a Jedi ya'd be a damn celebrity, Skywalkah. One a' the annoyin' ones." The Titan leader retorted. "An' quit shakin' 'is damn arm off, boy! Yor makin' a fool outta yorself!"
"Uh, r-right. Sorry." Dynnal sheepishly apologized, backing off. But then he caught sight of Ahsoka and his eyes widened again. "A-And you're Ahsoka Tano... you invented the Marg Sabl maneuver during the Battle of Ryloth!" He realized. Ahsoka giggled, she kind of liked this little routine of his.
"Wow, someone's a historian." She mused, taking in his handsome features now that he was closer.
"J-Just a fan... m'lady." Dynnal humbly replied, bowing a little. He turned to Corsair. "Please tell me we're working with them."
"Unfortunately." Corsair replied with a sigh. Dynnal said nothing but pumped his fist in excitement. The Councillors watching warmed quickly to his youthful enthusiasm, the son of Corsair and Meline having successfully convinced them he was nothing more than a rookie Titan and a Jedi fanboy... and not a former super-soldier. "Like I said, shahp as a whip... when he ain't stahstruck." Corsair replied. "'E's comin' with ta get some experience undah 'is belt."
"Well, I certainly don't have an issue with him." Anakin remarked. "So long as he doesn't try to turn these rebels into mercenaries along with you."
"I would never, General sir!" Dynnal quickly promised, a hand over his heart.
"If anything, I think maybe we should go so Corsair doesn't fill Lux's head with the wrong ideas." Ahsoka offered the room. "From what I've seen, he's kinda... gullible." She added, casting a glimpse at Corsair and remembering what had precipitated the nightmare that was Carlac. Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, Yoda finally reached a conclusion.
"Train and observe. Send advisors we will." He stated.
"I'll assemble a team, one to... compliment everyone Corsair's bringing along." Anakin responded, loosely using the term.
"I'm going with you." Obi-Wan stated, rising from his chair.
"What, you don't trust me?" Anakin wondered with a smirk.
"I wouldn't." Corsair snidely remarked.
"Too much." Obi-Wan said, placing an arm on his friend's shoulder. "That's what worries me."
Sometime later...
Streaking through hyperspace, a Republic shuttle coupled with the Titans' own Horizon's Edge made their way to Onderon as per the travel agreement. Within the mercenary craft, Seraj Liner piloted as she always did, intent on getting Corsair, Theris, Meline and Dynnal to the rebel world in one piece.
"Well, I'm pretty sure they bought it." Dynnal mused, leaning back in his seat. "I probed them all with the Force, not a single hint of doubt or curiosity. Not even from Yoda."
"A good staht, now ya gotta keep it up." Corsair replied. "Ya gotta act like this all tha time, even 'round tha rebels. 'Specially Bonteri. He catches one whiff a' you actin' like Wraith used ta an' ya've had it." He cautioned.
"Should be easy." Dynnal agreed with shrug. "I mean, I pulled this off with the Jedi Council. And there was a lot riding on it, you have no idea how stressed I was."
"I think my arrival helped to stem their reactions somewhat, Dynnal." Meline added. "They were more focused on escaping the awkwardness I introduced then on really checking you out. Be on your guard, son."
"You know I'll give it my all, Mom." He replied. up ahead, Seraj and Theris communed with Corsair over logistical details.
"A bit strange bringing the family into this, boss. I thought there was a rule about keeping our personal lives out of work?" The Corellian pilot wondered. "Or do you get to bend the rules since your the boss?"
"They both wanted in, an' I didn't see a problem." Corsair explained.
"Funny how you managed to find both your long-lost wife and son almost simultaneously." Theris mused. Corsair had told her the truth about Dynnal, but not Seraj, so she made to keep up the charade.
"Le's jus' say my belief in tha Force is a lil' strongah now." Corsair mused, giving her a wink their pilot failed to notice.
On the opposite ship, Anakin and Obi-Wan were joined by Ahsoka and Captain Rex, who had ditched his Clone armor for a pathfinder's gear. With the ship moving steadily onwards, Anakin felt secure in relaxing a little.
"Here's hoping Corsair doesn't find some way to botch this one." He said aloud.
"I doubt he'd want to ruin his chances of getting paid." Obi-Wan remarked. "Then again, this is Corsair we're talking about."
"He's bound to pull off an unpleasant surprise at some point." Anakin scoffed. "Kinda like earlier with Meline. Wonder what the deal is with her? She didn't seem too happy to see us, especially Master Windu." Anakin noted. Her reaction to the Jedi was far from pleasant, and the brief exchange indicated at an unfavourable moment from the past that had unfolded between them. While neither Anakin or Ahsoka had any idea what might've transpired, Obi-Wan did.
"That event comes from a time before you and I met, Anakin." He said at length. His friend turned to him with a surprised and intrigued expression on his face.
"Really? Do tell." He pried, Ahsoka also leaning forward to pay attention while Rex passively listened in as Obi-Wan began.
"Well, from what I know, Meline used to be the apprentice of Pong Krell. The two of them were sent to Tiems to help the local government sort out a problem it was having with gangs and high criminal activities, which they suspected originated off-world. When they got there, they were told to seek out a former gang member..."
"Corsair." Anakin realized.
"Indeed. Over the course of several weeks, he slowly warmed to them and helped them with their cause. Apparently it was during this time that Meline... fell in love with him." Kenobi explained.
"With Corsair?!" Anakin exclaimed, an incredulous look on his face. "That seems a little far-fetched."
"Given her responses today, I should think not." Obi-Wan responded. "Anyway, Master Krell found out about the affair between them and was furious. He brought Meline back to Coruscant for disciplinary action. It was during this time we found out she had gotten pregnant." He said, the reveal causing Ahsoka's eyes to widen. She was the sole person on this shuttle who knew the truth about Corsair, Meline and their son. To know that these were the circumstances precipitating Dynnal's birth was rather... intriguing. "The High Council of the time stripped her of her Padawan status and sent her to the AgriCorps to spend the remainder of her days. But Corsair apparently found her and stole her away, Pong Krell choosing to lead a small group to track her down. It was nearly half a year later that they were found living together on Foundry and Meline was taken to the Citadel to be imprisoned as a rogue Jedi. Corsair and their child were never seen or heard from afterwards." Obi-Wan concluded, leaving Ahsoka dumbstruck, Rex thoughtful and Anakin bemused.
"Until now." The Knight said. "So, we've got the father, the mother, wonder where the kid's at?" He queried, mentally ticking off the family members.
"For all we know, Corsair may be keeping their child safe and away from everything. Even now." Obi-Wan theorized.
"Wonder if we'll get introduced to them at some point." Anakin wondered off-hand.
"If I may, General, seeing as Corsair's just found Meline now, it's likely their kid was raised by him and him alone... meaning they're bound to take after their father." Rex suggested.
"Now there's an unpleasant thought." Anakin huffed, but Ahsoka felt differently. "Corsair's enough as it is, the last thing we need is someone just like him." Her master continued. Left to her thoughts, Ahsoka compared the truth to the conjectures of her allies. They couldn't be farther from the truth... which was likely a good thing for Dynnal. "You've been awful quiet, Ahsoka." Anakin suddenly observed and the Togruta jerked her head up to see him looking directly at her.
"Just... thinking, Master." She quietly replied, clearing her throat before continuing. "I've never heard about Meline before." She added.
"It is something of a cautionary tale. A Jedi's focus cannot be divided between two causes. You'll either prefer one over the other, or despise one and love the other. Serving the Force must be paramount in a Jedi's life, which is why attachments are forbidden." Obi-Wan lectured. So that was how they viewed it. In her mind, Corsair and Meline's story had resulted in something wonderful: Dynnal. But the way Anakin and Obi-Wan discussed things, it was like they were some sort of criminals for what they did. It was a stark reminder of her reality and the harshness looming over her secrets...
Another reminder that her relationship with Dynnal was forbidden on every level.
If they were found out, would she be stripped of her titles? Would she be shipped off to an agriworld and forced into the AgriCorps for the rest of her days? Would she be considered a disgrace? The very thought unsettled her. It didn't seem fair to lose so much and she thought about how joyful Dynnal had been when reunited with his mother. Family bonds were precious, she knew that from her own species. How could the Jedi think it was so right to just tear them apart like that?
But it suddenly occurred to her that, in spite of all she'd done to prove herself, it would mean nothing in the heat of the moment.
A notification beeped its necessity from the nav-computer and the Clone pilot keyed up the communications.
"Horizon's Edge, this is Valkyrie Twenty-Nine Twenty-Nine. We're coming up on our destination, landing coordinates check out. Just follow us in." He instructed.
"Roger that, Valkyrie." Seraj responded.
The two ships dropped out of hyperspace a few moments later and were soon winging their way down to the surface of Onderon. The coordinates they received were for the middle of the Onderon jungle, under cover of darkness. The sole illumination in the entire area were the matching glows from the ships' thrusters as they flew low over the jungle canopy.
"This is Valkyrie Twenty-Nine Twenty-Nine, we're coming up on the drop zone." The Clone pilot announced as the shuttle's pace slowed. Soon the two ships were hovering in place, Horizon's Edge much closer to the treetops than the Republic ship. Given that the mercenaries were under far more lenient service terms than the Republic, Corsair had a far different plan in mind. As he, Meline, Theris and Dynnal suited up, he double-checked the plan with their pilot.
"Right Linah, ya know tha drill: fly high, camp out, we'll let ya know when yor safe ta land." Corsair told her as he shouldered his Roba.
"You got it, boss." The Corellian called from the cockpit as the ship's bay door slid open. Meline, garbed in common mercenary attire with a single blaster pistol on her hip, looked just like the other Titans, as did Dynnal, including the NT-242 'tankbuster' longblaster sitting across his back while he tucked a pair of S-5 hand cannons into the shoulder holsters under his jacket.
"Ya know tha drill, boyo. Ready?" Corsair wondered, clapping his son on the shoulder.
"Ready when you are." Dynnal replied, tightening the straps on his new fingerless gloves. Corsair nodded and moved to the front.
"Well, no'mally I'd say 'ladies first'. But allow me ta break yor fall." He mused with a grin, winking at Meline before he hopped out of the shuttle and dropped straight down to the ground below, rolling to his feet.
"Ever the gentleman." His wife mused with a slight smile. Dynnal was next to follow, Meline and Theris following right behind him as they joined Corsair on the ground. From the other shuttle, a robed Anakin, Ahsoka and Obi-Wan joined them followed by Rex using a jetpack to slow his descent from the much higher Republic shuttle. As one, both ships took off once their passengers had disembarked, not wanting to be spotted by Separatist air patrols.
The two groups convened, numbering eight in total.
"So, Bonteri tell ya where ta meet?" Corsair asked Anakin.
"Around here... somewhere." Anakin replied as he flipped up his hood.
"Ah, playin' hide n' seek, are we?" Corsair mused, adjusting a device on his arm.
"Unless you have a better idea." Anakin retorted.
"Jus' maybe." The mercenary responded with a grin, the tool on his arm revealed to be a micro-sensor that began to point the way. "Titans, on me." He ordered, jogging into the jungle with Meline, Theris and Dynnal hot on his heels. The Republicans soon followed, the Jedi nimbly scaling the trees with Force-empowered leaps to keep tabs on their surroundings from a higher vantage. Rex stuck close to the Titans, the group of five remaining grounded behind Corsair as he led the way.
A little thrill pulsed through Dynnal as he jogged, to be in the field again but fighting for the good guys this time! Sure, he couldn't act like his normal self, but at least he was moving and active again. Now he could do some change, do some good... of course, the lingering thought of helping Lux raised some bad memories from Carlac. The argument Wraith and Ahsoka had was not a pretty one by any means and he was partly nervous about seeing the Onderonian senator again. Doubts settled in his mind, what if Lux recognized him? No, that's stupid. Wraith was in full armor. But.. my voice... oh kriff... I might have to take my pitch up a little. He worriedly thought. With his mind as focused as everyone else's, none of them noticed a camouflaged being watching them from the trees.
It was Anakin who encountered them first, darting into a clearing and suddenly meeting a rearing dalgo, one of the planet's native equestrian fauna.
"Stay where you are!" Its feminine rider commanded him. A second burst from the trees to Anakin's left, indicating there were likely more about. "Identify yourselves." Anakin lowered his hood to reveal his moonlit face in a gesture of goodwill.
"It's alright. We're friends." He stated. The woman recognized his face immediately.
"Jedi." She breathed. At that moment, Obi-Wan dropped down beside him, followed closely by Ahsoka as Rex and the Titans emerged from the trees. Corsair approached her and powered down his sensor.
"Quite tha welcomin' comittee, Steela." He greeted.
"We cannot be too careful, mercenary." She responded. "But I see you've come with more than just your Titans."
"Outta necessity." Corsair remarked in response. Steela's gaze lingered on each of them, appraising the women Titans but especially the tall and muscular Dynnal, who she could tell was quite handsome even in the moonlight. Obi-Wan and Ahsoka lowered their hoods.
"We're here to help you take back your planet." Ahsoka promised. Steela affirmed with a nod.
"Come, I'll guide you to our secret base." She stated, turning her mount around as the crew followed her deeper into Onderon's jungle.
Dawn broke by the time they approached the outskirts of the rebel camp. Steel had dismounted and led the way, the jungle slowly giving way to a clearing marked by ancient toppled ruins. It was a small hub of activity, namely the reptavian rupings flying about, mounted by some of the rebels. One of which perched over the stone archway, ridden by a person the Jedi and mercenaries recognized to be Saw Gerrera; co-founder of the rebel movement. Within, rebels stopped what they were doing and stared as their newfound allies arrived, many of them amazed by the mixed presence of Jedi and Titans. They'd all seen them in the news, but to see them in person was something else altogether.
"A bit rough around the edges, wouldn't you say?" Kenobi thoughtfully mused, observing the rebels.
"That's why I brought Rex here." Anakin replied.
"They're not exactly what I'd call shinies, sir. But... I could work with them." The Clone responded.
"A lil' charactah nevah hurt no one, Jedi." Corsair remarked. "I kinda like it 'ere."
"You always did enjoy a dusty job, boss." Theris added.
"Ya know me, I like ta get my hands dirty." The Titan leader said with a smirk. The crew continued walking until Saw's ruling alighted in the centre of the ruins, allowing the dark-skinned young man to dismount and greet them.
"General Skywalker. Corsair."
"At your service." Anakin replied.
"Nice ta meetcha in person, Saw." Corsair added, crossing his arms.
"This is General Kenobi, Commander Tano, and Captain Rex." Anakin introduced.
"Wit' me is Theris, Meline an' Dynnal." Corsair said, jerking his thumb at the Titans behind him.
"We're looking forward to taking the fight to those scrappin' droids." Saw enthusiastically responded. "We're truly grateful you all were willing to come."
"Yes. All in good time." Obi-Wan said, reserved as always.
"Yor as eagah ta roll as I am." Corsair mused with a grin. "I like that."
"My brother fashions himself as our leader... though no one elected him." Steela explained, swatting Saw's shoulder.
"Well, for now, we're in charge." Anakin replied. "And there is much to learn."
"Now how d'ya figah we split command eight ways, Skywalkah?" Corsair asked.
"I said 'we'. Not 'you'." Anakin repeated, insinuating the Jedi would be in command. Corsair caught on and rolled his eyes.
"Fine. We'll do it yor way... fo' now." He responded.
The Republic quickly assembled the ragtag rebels together and prepared to cover their strategy, Anakin taking point as 'senior designated instructor' with Corsair and his Titans on standby, the Titan leader ready to interject at a moment's notice.
"The Separatists have strength in numbers, but we're gonna show you how to target and destroy them." The Knight told the assembled group.
"Now, to be clear, we are not here to fight your war, rather, to show you how to conduct it in the most efficient and successful way possible." Obi-Wan quickly added, establishing the baseline that needed to be known. The other rebels nodded in understanding, Steela and Saw joined by Lux at the front of the group.
"We'll chip in wit' some tactics and knowhow of our own. And if ya want some highad guns fo' a bit, we'll chip in a lil' mor' if ya got tha creds." Corsair chimed in, glancing at Lux. It was the Senator who had reached out to him in the first place, and if anyone could afford to cover the Titans' bill, it would be him.
"Captain Rex, the floor is yours." Anakin offered, stepping back and letting the Clone take the floor.
"I'll show you how the five-hundred-and-first destroy clankers." He stated. "First, I need volunteers to carry supplies from our entry point a halfklick west."
"Shouldn't be a problem." Saw confirmed.
"Excellent." Rex was already on the move when Corsair turned to Dynnal and tasked him to go with. The Titan was soon joined by Ahsoka who sent a brief wave through their bond.
I'm not gonna lie, I'm pretty excited. She told him.
Are you now? He mused, doing his best to not physically answer.
You, me, working together. It's a dream come true.
Couldn't agree more, babe. Dynnal replied, smiling a little. But I do have a cover to maintain if this is gonna work.
I know. And I gotta admit, you being all dorky is pretty cute. Ahsoka giggled.
"Ahsoka!" The two turned at the sight of Lux Bonteri moving to intercept them.
Oh look, a ghost from the recent past... joy of joys. Dynnal sardonically mused across their bond.
You will try to get along with him, right? Ahsoka pressed, hoping for a more positive outcome then the last time Lux had been on the scene.
Of course. But, uh, the name 'Carlac' makes me sick to my stomach. He responded. Ahsoka wanted nothing more to offer some assurance but had to stop due to Lux's proximity.
"Lux... it's, uh, good to see you again." Ahsoka calmly and politely greeted.
"It's good to see you too, Ahsoka." The young senator warmly replied. Dynnal internally raised an eyebrow at his soft expression and the tone of his voice. Wraith's training still existed for him, enough for him to pick up on verbal and visual cues. He was thankful when Steela arrived to add to the conversation.
"I'm guessing this is your 'other way' of doing things." Ahsoka continued, recalling their last conversation months ago. "Have you considered joining the Republic Senate?"
"Even if we do take back Onderon it won't change how I feel." Lux responded. "I'm not fighting for the Republic."
"Well, what matters now is you need our help and we need to work together." Ahsoka surmised.
"Yes. Just like on Carlac." Lux agreed. Steela raised an eyebrow.
"Carlac? What happened on Carlac?" She asked.
"A disaster, right?" Dynnal queried, feigning ignorance.
"Oh, you know," Ahsoka mused, turning to him with a smile, "what happened on Carlac stays on Carlac." She remarked, both of them trying to suppress several bad memories in the process.
Lux, however, wasn't about to play along.
"Ahsoka is the reason I'm here and not with Death Watch." He explained to Steela, Dynnal cringing internally.
"Really...?" Steela mused, casting a glance towards Ahsoka.
"Uh..." Ahsoka stammered, trying to recover this... again. "W-What he means is-"
"She saved me from making a huge mistake." Lux stated with a glowing smile.
Both Dynnal and Ahsoka inwardly facepalmed.
Lux moved on, Ahsoka feeling awkward under Steela's glaring gaze. The dark-sinned woman approached her,
"Lux obviously thinks highly of you." She noted.
"I... guess so." Ahsoka quietly replied.
"Let's hope that respect is well-founded. He's been through a lot and the last thing he needs is some aloof Jedi steering him wrong." Steela remarked, getting somewhat in the Togruta's face before walking off. Ahsoka watched her leave, attempting to process everything. Steela was right, Lux did seem to think highly of her... but how high remained to be seen.
She'd hate to have to fend off another kiss.
"Ugh." She grumbled with a sigh. "What do you make of that?" She asked Dynnal.
"Well, they're all patriots. Maybe passions are running high." He suggested, voice switching back to its high and dorky tone. But maybe Steela's got a thing for him. Dunno, I can't use the Force with Anakin and Obi-Wan so close by. He added through their bond.
"Maybe." Ahsoka concurred with both options. Why do I feel like the unwanted third party in a love triangle? She questioned. She doesn't want me involved and I don't wanna be involved.
Add me and we'll make it a love square. Dynnal joked, lightening her mood a little.
The trip out to the supply drop was a quick one, literally a steady walk back the way the Jedi and Titans had come to their original drop site. The Republic shuttle had dropped off a mountain of necessary equipment and supplies to help get the rebels up and running, and all of it needed to be moved back to the hideaway. Fortunately, the rebels had brought more than one dalgo to help carry the load and they soon formed lines carting supplies from the drop site back to their pack animals.
Dynnal had mounted the piles as was moving stuff from the top down, his impressive strength able to maneuver the variously sized crates with ease as he dropped them down for waiting rebels to haul off. As he did, he reached out with the Force to test the emotions of those around him, gauging the rebels a getting a feel for their overall attitude. They seemed hopeful and eager, believing the Jedi and Titans would offer them a fighting chance to beat back the Separatists. But they were also afraid; afraid for their homes, their lives, the lives of others, the fate of this movement. They needed something to pick up their spirits and Dynnal believed this training would take them a ways... but they might not all embrace that until after their first victory.
"You a sharpshooter?" A feminine voice inquired. Glancing up, Dynnal turned to find the woman they first met, Steela, looking up at him. He realized he still had his longblaster across his back and determined she'd seen it.
"Hm? Oh yeah! Yeah. I do my best work behind the scenes." He replied.
"Really now?" Steela mused, giving him a good once over. "Don't fancy yourself an upfront guy?" She asked, thinking his tall stature and broad size would make him the perfect frontline fighter.
"I guess I could be." Dynnal mused with a shrug. "You think I should be?" He wondered.
"You're lifting crates that normally take two people. You probably don't shoot droids, just tear them apart." Steela remarked with a smirk. Knowing his previous penchant for doing something similar, Dynnal couldn't help but chuckle.
"I might have to give that a whirl sometime." He replied. "But, to be honest, I prefer to be on top of things, if you catch my drift." He added. There may have been an unintended double-entendres with his words that Steela noted with a growing grin.
"I think I can relate." She replied, a gleam in her eyes. Dynnal dropped down from his crates, standing well over a foot taller than her. Steela seemed to be about Ahsoka's height, given how she rose only as high as his chest.
"Steela, right? Dynnal." He introduced, and he had to stop himself from including 'Karn' as well. "Keen on being a sniper, are you?" He wondered, hands on his hips.
"There's a reason I cart this around." Steela replied, gesturing to the rifle she had positioned over her shoulder. "Maybe a merc like you could offer me a few tips? I'd bet you have plenty of experience in being 'on top of things'." She suggested, using his own words.
"As part of training you all, I'd be happy to." Dynnal affirmed. From a distance, Ahsoka carefully observed their interactions as her boyfriend conversed with Steela. He was still acting like a Titan rookie, which she supposed was good for his cover and Steela didn't seem to notice anything unusual or familiar about him. Their conversation was friendly and good natured, and that would've been just fine... if not for the sense of fondness surrounding Steela the longer she looked at him. Ahsoka caught on to her emotions quickly and couldn't help raise a brow marking as she wondered why the gears were turning in her head.
Using an abandoned AAT tank, the Republic set about their first round of training. Ahsoka and Rex took point as instructors.
"The pilot in the front hatch controls the tank, the shells, and the short range blasters." The Togruta described. She, like many Republic combatants, had learned the ins and outs of Separatist combat vehicles to help disable them swiftly. "The commander in the top hatch controls the turret and the main cannon. You have to take out both chambers, otherwise the tank will remain operational." She told the rebels. Offering Rex a nod, the Clone quickly climbed up on the tank and dropped an electro-disruptor charge into the hatch, using the turret to then hoist himself up and sprint to the commander's hatch where he left a second one behind. The move came naturally, the Clone captain having taken out dozens of tanks over the years. As Rex hopped off, a burst of electricity enveloped the tank and shut it down immediately, rendering it immobile and inoperable. The rebels were impressed, but someone else wanted a say...
"All said an' good, Commandah," Corsair applauded as he approached the front, "but le's say yor outta them droid poppahs. Whaddya do then?" He asked. No one could answer him, the Jedi watching with mixed emotions as to what Corsair might offer them. "Dynnal. Demonstrate." He tasked. The young man who was his son stepped forward, clearing his throat as he removed the longblaster from across his back.
"The NT two-four-two longblaster. Better known as 'the tankbuster'." He described, holding the weapon up for all to see. "Its basic rounds are already powerful enough to punch through a tank's armor..." Turning on heel, Dynnal pressed the rifle into his shoulder and gazed down the scope, squeezing the trigger and firing four thunderous shots in rapid succession. Each one pierced the tank's armor and blew clean through it, reducing whatever droid might've been in the front hatch to pieces. The fascinated rebels watched as Dynnal lowered his weapon and then retrieved an attachment from within his jacket, "but it can also be equipped with a disruptor shot to take most vehicles head on." He described, screwing the add-on into the barrel. Aligning the top hatch with his crosshairs, Dynnal fired a single round that electrified the entire area, effectively destroying the commanding droid at the waist. Turning back to the assembly, he wasn't expecting any praise but a subtle wink from Ahsoka made his heart swell. "Not to discount Commander Tano's strategy, but not everyone can be on site to climb a tank. If any of you are set to carry longblasters, make sure you have disruptor shots in your inventory. Sometimes less is more, and in your case you may have to make a little go a long way." He told them in a confident voice.
"Yor not an ahmy, yor a rahsistance force. Y'all can su'prise tha Seppies by gainin' ground in ways they won't expect. They think yor a bunch a' hopeless idealists." Corsair chimed in. "Are ya?" He loudly asked. The rebels quickly answered with a resounding "No!" that made Corsair grin. "Didn' think so."
"Target practice comes later." Anakin declared, stepping back in to take control. "Everyone, divide up into teams of two and we'll practice an assault on both hatches." He instructed. The rebels quickly did so, Lux and Saw at the front.
"I'll take the top." The senator offered.
"Let's see what you're made of, Bonteri." Saw jeered, smacking him in the shoulder. Rex tossed them both a disruptor charge and Saw shoved past to get to the tank, immediately sprinting up to drop his charge into the first hatch. Lux had a difficult time attempting to scale the turret and wound up dropping onto Saw when the main gun suddenly drooped. The two clattered to the ground in a heap as their attempt definitely failed, the rebels wincing while Corsair snickered.
"If at first ya don't succeed an' all!" He called out as Lux picked himself up.
"Sorry about that." He apologized to Saw, offering him a hand up. But he slapped it away with a growl.
"You're a terrible soldier, Bonteri." He snapped. Seeing the rather explosive interaction, Obi-Wan pulled Anakin aside.
"I'm not sure if they're more interested in fighting the droids or each other." He mused.
"They'll learn." Anakin promised as Rex ordered the next two to try a run. "We just need time to train them properly." Obi-Wan nodded.
"Keep your eyes on the quick learners." He suggested. "In this fight time is not on our side." Anakin couldn't agree more, but believed they would succeed as Rex channeled his inner drill sergeant.
"Come on! Hustle! Go, go, go, go, go!"
Outside the city of Iziz, a single droid commander stood next to a trio of B2 model super battle droids as he surveyed the cities defences. Multiple tanks were already in position and several MTT's were moving new troops into the city, behind its walls. Three probe droids emerged from the city and floated over to him, awaiting orders.
"A pair of unscheduled ships entered the atmosphere in sector S-Eleven and failed to register. The rebels may be operating in that area. Check it out." It instructed them in a synthesized, monotone voice. The probe droids went on their way, floating into the thick jungles of Onderon in search of the rebel movement...
Rex ran the rebels through drill after assault drill and each time they got quicker at dismantling the AAT. But that didn't mean he went easy on them. "Come on! Move it like a soldier! Like a real soldier!" He ordered. Standing with the Jedi and Titans on the sidelines, Saw echoed his commands.
"Come on, Dono! Pick it up, Hutch! You can do better than that!" He called out, urging his fellow rebels to do better and reach farther with each attempt. And just as he was thinking of people who could be doing better, he turned to see his sister fawning over Lux. Saw had always taken issue with the politics behind the war and Onderon's forced secession, seeing Lux as nothing more than a pretty boy trying to do the job of a soldier, something reserved for a true, honest, hardworking man like himself. He approached the pair as Steela finished cleaning Lux's face. "You sure you're up for this?" He sneered.
"Saw." Steela snapped.
"It was an accident." Lux excused.
"If that were a real combat situation, you would've had us both killed." Saw stated, jabbing his finger into Lux's chest. The senator stood, getting into Saw's face and standing his ground. The two probably would've come to blows if not for Steela coming between them.
"Just stop it!" She snapped, shoving them apart. Her outburst drew Ahsoka's attention and through the Force she sensed to brewing conflict and roiling emotions coming from the men.
"Sit down, boy. This isn't the Senate." Saw remarked, shoving Bonteri back. "You've got no talent for this. You can't even stand up without help."
"Can you take down one of their super-soldiers by yourself? It's going to take a lot more than muscle to defeat the Separatists." Lux countered.
"Politics have failed us. We have no choice." Saw shot back, turning his back on Lux.
"We always have a choice." Lux pressed, but Saw wouldn't hear it.
"Then make yours." He growled, turning back around. "You gonna be useful? Or get in my way?"
"Look, if we're going to succeed you'll need to be exceptional with words and action." Steela told them, still trying to break things up. There were some days where she could curse her brother's headstrong nature. "There will be time for both." She determined, hands on both shoulders.
"Trouble in the ranks?" Meline mused as she approached Ahsoka.
"Looks like it." The Togruta agreed.
"Good thing we're here to straighten things out. With those two squabbling like Kowakian monkey lizards, this rebellion would accomplish nothing." The ginger said, crossing her arms.
"If only you could tell them that." Ahsoka remarked.
"Boys know nothing and heed nothing. It's only later that they become reasonable men." Meline told her, her green eyes catching Ahsoka's blue gaze. She could certainly see where Dynnal inherited some of his mother's traits. "But I believe you know that well enough." She added in a low voice with a small smile that Ahsoka caught on to. The Padawan offered a breathy laugh and a slight blush to her cheeks as she rubbed her rear headtail bashfully... so this is what it was like to encounter her boyfriend's mother. Using the Force, Meline reached for Ahsoka's mind and offered a few brief telepathic words. I look forward to getting to talk without hinderance, Ahsoka. Already I can see why my son likes you.
A beaming Ahsoka liked that idea very much.
Rex wrapped up the anti-tank training course and moved them on to the next phase of training: anti-droideka training.
"Destroyers are quick, pack twin blasters and come with their own shield generators." Anakin described, walking before three remote-controlled models the Republic had shipped over. "Nothing short of a cannon will pierce it."
"They're a do or die situation," Theris added, "if you want to survive an encounter with one, your moves have to be purposeful and deliberate."
"They do have two weaknesses and you will need to work together to exploit them." Anakin continued. Nodding to Rex, the Clone triggered the remote on his arm and the front droideka sprung to life, shield coming online as it maneuvered into a ready position on its three legs. The startled rebels took in the imposing droid as Anakin went on, "The shields deflect high velocity attacks, blasters and slugthrowers will not work against them." Rex demonstrated by firing his DeeCee twice, both bolts bouncing off with ease. Corsair then fired a slug round from his scatterblaster, the round ricocheting off the shield and disappearing into the jungle. The droid maneuvered to face them, blasters charging menacingly. "What the shields don't stop are slow or stationary objects. They're designed to absorb any incoming strikes so nothing hinders their movement." He explained. As he did, Ahsoka primed a droid popper and sent it in a slow, gentle roll across the ground behind the destroyer, breaching the shield and coming to a rest directly beneath the droideka. A split second later, the device detonated and the droideka was engulfed by an electric shock before shutting down and reverting to its ball mode.
"Destroyers are blind from behind. A distraction combined with a rear assault will give you a kill. The trick is to get the right speed on the droid popper." She instructed. Lux watched her with wide affectionate eyes, something Dynnal caught and briefly thought about putting a blaster bolt between... then he shook his head and cleared his thoughts.
That was something only Wraith would think about doing.
Rex readied all three of the droidekas and withdrew his own popper from his pack.
"These are unarmed. Just concentrate on getting it past the shield." He stated, tossing the device to Saw. Catching the device, the elder Gerrera stepped to the forefront.
"Watch and learn," he said, his gaze specifically on Lux. Winding up, he sent his device rolling across the ground, straight for the droideka... only to have it bounce off the shield.
"Quite brilliant." Lux remarked as Saw regarded his failure with wide eyes. Ahsoka tossed one to him and the senator got a quick feel for the weight and heft of the device before sending it rolling across the ground, his aim true and strength just enough to get the device under the shield, well past where Saw's had been stopped.
"Nice touch." Ahsoka passively praised.
"Thanks." Lux replied with a smile and nod, his eyes gleaming favourably towards her. Steela caught his reaction and the look he was sending Ahsoka's way, contrasting it with a frown and a glare of her own.
"Not bad." She remarked, punching him on the shoulder as her expression shifted. Stepping up, she beckoned Ahsoka for another device and took her turn at a practice run. Hers, just like Saw's, moved too quickly and promptly bounced off the droid's shield. "Ugh!" She grumbled in defeat.
"Be mindful of your frustration. It'll only hold you back." Obi-Wan offered. Saw stepped up beside his sister.
"Maybe another demonstration might help?" He wondered. In response, Ahsoka pulled two more poppers from her belt and looked to the Titans.
"Theris, Dynnal, show us how it's done." She asked, tossing them both over. Her boyfriend and the Titans' 2IC caught both devices, both of them acutely aware of what needed to be done.
"Easy enough." Theris replied, sending hers in a graceful roll that positioned the device directly under nether a droideka. "Just like that kids game, 'rounders'." She mused in comparison. Dynnal's eyes lit up at the mention, understanding her reference.
"Oh yeah, totally!" He agreed, working his shoulder a little as the rules and practices came to mind.
"How do you make it look so easy?" Steela asked.
"It's all in the arm." Theris replied. That gave Dynnal an idea.
"Here, allow me," he offered, steeping forward and shrugging off his jacket. Revealed underneath was black armor covering his chest and torso, but his arms were quite visible thanks to the t-shirt he wore. As he stepped forward to demonstrate, the rebels watched... although Steela and several of the female rebels were more drawn to his large, toned bisceps more than anything. Some of the men were even jealous of how muscular he was. "Use your shoulder, let your arm swing and keep your eyes on the target. You want your shoulder facing the destroyer by the time you let go." He instructed, running through several swinging motions in demonstration.
Ahsoka herself was quite drawn to Dynnal's muscular arms, even though she knew their form and feel well enough. But through the Force she could sense Steela's rapt fascination and... desire? That couldn't be right. She tested her senses again and this time she felt it even more strongly, Steela's gaze no longer on Dynnal's motions but on his muscles... and she apparently liked what she saw.
She was attempting to hone in on Ahsoka's man. And while the Togruta did her best to keep her emotions under wraps, her frowning glare was inescapable.
Dynnal eventually sent his popper rolling across the ground and successfully breached the shield. "Okay, let's get back to work!" Rex ordered. "Everyone pair up, we'll practice in groups." The rebels moved to obey, Dynnal leaving them to it and failing to notice Steela's lingering glances as he walked off.
"Hey, Titan!" Saw called after him. "Think you could help me practice?" He wondered.
"Yeah, for sure." Dynnal agreed, collecting his jacket and joining the Gerrera twin as Ahsoka made to join them with her last two poppers in hand.
Little did any of them realize that their training was being observed...by a Separatist probe droid.
Its scanners quickly highlighted Ahsoka and Dynnal's appearances in addition to Saw, beaming back its data to the waiting droid commander.
Back outside Iziz, the yellow-painted droid signalled the green-painted tank commander. "We've located the rebels. Proceed to sector S-Twenty-Nine. Shoot to kill." It ordered. The tank moved to obey, followed closely by a company of mixed B2 and B1 battle droids as they marched into the jungle...
Multiple droid poppers lay scattered around the edge of a droideka's shield, all of Saw's current attempts proving ineffective against the dummy droid. His latest throw merely bounced off the shield like all the others had.
"I can't get the distance or the speed right." Saw grumbled with a sigh.
"Don't give up. Learning this could save your life and those around you." Ahsoka encouraged.
"You almost had it a few times. You've almost got it, Saw." Dynnal added, tossing Saw a fresh device. "Just a few more goes. Once you get it, you'll never forget it."
"I hope so." He muttered, rolling the popper around in his hand. "Why can't we just get closer?" He wondered.
"Well, not only would those turbolasers shred you to bits, but if you got too close to the shield generator you'd contract radiation poisoning." Dynnal replied, knowing the multiple deadly truths behind the droidekas very well. That seemed to convince Saw.
"Fair enough." He mused and got ready to try again.
"A little tip? Try putting some backspin on it, should slow it down somewhat." The Titan suggested. Ahsoka, meanwhile, spotted Lux assisting Steela... awful closely. One hand on her shoulder and the other on her wrist, he tried to guide her attempts. That little dose of information piqued Ahsoka's curiosity and she filed it away, turning back just in time to see Saw slip a popper under the droid's shield.
"You got one!" She congratulated.
"Yes! Finally!" Saw whooped, pumping his fist in celebration.
"Atta boy, soldier!" Dynnal applauded, along with the rest of the rebels with them.
"For a Jedi and a merc, you're good teachers." Saw responded. Dynnal and Ahsoka shared looks of accomplishment... something that wasn't happening over in the next training range.
"Ugh! Just forget it! I'll never learn this." Steela bemoaned, shrugging out of Lux's hold and walking away.
"Steela, you can't just give up." The senator implored.
"I'm not giving up. I just know what I'm good at." She replied, shouldering her sniper rifle. Leaving the training behind, Steela walked past Corsair to take out her frustrations on fine tuning her sniper rifle; the one weapon she was very good with.
"Oi! Dynnal!" The merc called, motioning him over with a wave of his arm.
"Keep practicing. I'll see what the boss wants." He told Saw, working his way over to Corsair. "What's up?"
"Need yor help wit' tha next trainin' course." Corsair explained, quickly leading Dynnal to a relatively quiet portion of the rebels' encampment. "Skywalkah's givin' us free reign wit' this next bit."
"Oh yeah? Which lesson is that?" Dynnal asked.
"Supah-soldiers." Corsair replied. Putting two and two together, Dynnal understood his role perfectly. "Imma introduce ya as my research expert, a'ight? Ya've been studyin' up on 'em fo' evah, know all tha ins an' outs, got it?" His father quietly explained, Dynnal knowing it was time for him to live up to his 'dorky' role.
"Got it." He quietly agreed. They set to work, father and son knowing they'd go off of one another as the lesson progressed.
"Say, one thing I forgot ta covah on tha trip ovah: no sneakin' off wit' yor girlie." Corsair suddenly told him. It took Dynnal a moment to clue in.
"Huh?"
"You heard me. None a' you sneakin' off wit' Ahsoka fo' a quickie or whatevah. We got work ta do." Corsair pointedly told him, giving him a very straight and serious look.
"Yeah, I get you. Besides, it's not like I'm gonna take her deep into the jungle and find a waterfall to-... hey, there's an idea." He mused, trailing off as the idea continued to form. But Corsair cuffing him on the arm snapped him out of his daze.
"Dammit, Dynnal! I'm bein' serious!" He said sternly.
"And I was just kidding!" Dynnal defensively responded. "I'd never do something like that, not when there's so many people around to notice. They'd catch on in a heartbeat." He said, emphasizing with a snap of his fingers. "I get it, we've got work to do."
"Jus' so ya do." Corsair replied, wagging a finger as he did. They continued working to get their demonstration up and running, Dynnal removing his jacket and body armor while agreeing to play the role of a taller, superior super-soldier for the training... which he technically was. Their combined knowledge of the super-soldiers would hopefully provide the rebels an edge, but in reality they both knew that their best option was to escape. These rebels were not Jedi or hardened mercenaries with special perks, they were just average people.
And superior beat average every single time.
It seemed like a near fruitless endeavour. But at least they could prepare them for the worst of the worst.
Giving Anakin a signal that they were ready, the Jedi rounded up the rebels and moved them over to Corsair and Dynnal, the two ready for their demo. "A'ight soldiahs!" Corsair called out, rubbing his hands together and noticing the grin on Saw's face. "O's ready fo' some combat trainin'?" Multiple rebels put their arms up or whooped and cheered eagerly. "Good. 'Cause we're gonna tech ya about supah-soldiahs." Corsair added, the very term suddenly silencing the crowd. Triggering a holoprojector on the ground, a render of The Wraith clad in full armor appeared before them. "I'm shor' y'all know 'o this kriffah is." There were some angry shouts and some murmuring amongst the rebels.
"He's the reason the Separatists are here!" Steela spat.
"He murdered my mother." Lux declared. "And he tried to kill me too." Lowering his collar, the electromechanical brace fixed to his neck was revealed to them all.
"Bring 'im on! I can take him!" Saw said eagerly, pounding his fists together. Dynnal took note of all their agitated looks and subtly swallowed nervously. Corsair fixed the eager Saw with a gleam in his eye.
"Could ya now?" He wondered. "Ya think yor capable of takin' on this...?" He asked, triggering the projector to display a recording of Wraith in action. The rebels were silenced as they watched Wraith butcher his way through Clones with his bare hands, delivering punches and kicks so hard they shattered armor into fragments. Some of which he deployed his arm blades against and tore deep into their body before ripping them to pieces, showering his armor with blood. Blaster rounds ricocheted off him, the super-soldier unphased as his bloody assault continued to unfurl.
Dynnal swore he could remember that moment.
"Ya really think yor capable of takin' 'im 'ead on?" Corsair asked again, Saw's enthusiasm lost in the face of Wraith's true capabilities.
"Well... how are you even supposed to fight that?" He wondered.
"Where there's a will, there's a way." Corsair replied. "Ya see, we Titans 'ave been huntin' supah-soldiahs fo' nearly a year now, an' we've picked up a few things on how ta beat 'em." Nodding to Dynnal, his son took over.
"Now, the Separatists have somewhere between seven and eight active super-soldiers." He explained. "We do know that General Skywalker has killed one... nice job by the way!" He called out, Anakin flashing him a quick thumbs-up. "And that The Wraith has seemingly dropped off the radar altogether. But that's not important. What is, is that you all understand who the Seppies might send after you if they deem your rebellion a credible threat." At that, Corsair triggered the projector to reveal an image of Banshee, taken from the battlefield.
"This 'ere schutta they call 'Banshee', a tough lil' she-devil who'll deafen ya with 'er sonic emittah befor' runnin' ya through with 'er lightsabah gauntlet." He described. Toggling the image again, revealed was a towering render of Reaper. "An' this big ol' sod goes by 'Reapah', nearly seven feet tall, known fo' dual-wieldin' assault rifles an' carryin' a mighty fine arsenal a' blades. These two might seem all big an' imposin', but my lil' intel guru has some facts fo' ya." Corsair added. "Take 'er away, boyo."
"Thanks boss." Dynnal replied as he stepped up to the plate. "Now these two may wear armor, but they are both organic underneath. Meaning that they share the same vulnerabilities as you and me." He described. "We also know that their armor is weakest around the joints; elbows, back of the knees, places like that. So if you can get a shot or a knife into one of those, don't hesitate to do so."
"When it comes ta supah-soldiahs, ya can't lollygag aroun' an' be nice. Ya gotta be deliberately ruthless... fo' they'll be equally ruthless right back atcha." Corsair added. "Ya might think ya've landed a good hit, only fo' 'em ta shrug it off an' keep fightin'."
"Therefore it's important that you make your hits count. One and done." Dynnal continued. "Boss, got some moves in mind for the boys and girls?" He asked Corsair.
"I reckon I do." The merc said with a grin as he stepped forward, the eyes of all the rebels on him. "So, ya got a big tall supah-soldiah comin' yor way. Whaddya do?" He wondered, Dynnal acting to come charging towards him. "First, ya've got momentum on yor side. Nothin' like a good ovah tha shouldah armbah twist ta set 'em straight." As Dynnal walked right into Corsair, the Titan leader grabbed his arm and yanked him over his shoulder, sending the much bigger Dynnal flying through the air until he landed flat on his back.
"Oof!" He gasped, the air rushing from his lungs.
"Then ya give 'er a twist!" Corsair continued, reefing Dynnal's arm in a position it definitely wasn't supposed to go, making some of the rebels cringe... Ahsoka included.
"Ow ow ow ow ow!" He lurched, trying to move with the twist to keep his arm from breaking.
"Ain't no armah gonna fend that off!" Corsair told the rebels with a grin. "Then ya can get in close an' sink a knife into 'em."
"Uncle! Uncle!" Dynnal cried, tapping Corsair's wrist multiple times. His father released him and Dynnal sank to the ground. "Ow..." he grumbled, wringing out his arm. Then he looked to the rebels, "See? If that can work so easily against someone without armor, then a super-soldier will be just as vulnerable." He explained, picking himself up.
"Now fo' tha two-pronged approach." Corsair continued. "Theris an' I'll show ya how ta take 'im down in double time." The Mando joined them in the open space as her boss planned out the next move. "With all that armah an' gear up top, a supah-soldiah is real top-heavy. If ya take out 'is legs, then they turn turtle an' are all yors." He described.
"Working in pairs will help accomplish this. First, you have to distract them, maybe shoot a few rounds at their head to get their attention." Theris suggested.
"While they're doin' that, yor partnah is goin' fo' their legs." Corsair continued, crouching low by Dynnal. "Ya can either hit 'em in tha back a' tha knee or trap their legs wit' yors; like this." Dropping even lower, Corsair threaded one leg between Dynnal's, hooking his knee around his left boot.
"The one standing can then deliver a hard blow to knock them over. You can do this with either a shoulder charge or a full-on tackle." Theris continued, demonstrating by charging into Dynnal and leaping on him, knocking him flat on his back once more. "Regardless of which one you do, someone has to go for the neck. The neck is crucially important. Their armor is weakest there and is guaranteed to net you a fatal blow. Always always go for it." Theris told them all, drawing her knife and letting it hover above Dynnal's neck. "Knives or blasters will do." With the demo complete, Corsair and Theris stood before helping Dynnal to his feet.
"Now, pair up inta groups a' two. Yor gonna take turns tryin ta down our 'supah-soldiah'." Corsair ordered them, patting Dynnal on the shoulder.
"And I'll be fighting back and showing resistance, you'll have to work to down me." He added. "Remember, my armor can tank blasterfire, so you'll have to get in close." Saw and Steela were up front and the sister whispered an idea to her brother. Saw smiled and nodded in agreement, marching forward to meet Dynnal first.
"Alright Seppie! You've met your match! Come and get some!" He called out, acting like Dynnal was an actual super-soldier. Pumping his arms, Dynnal put up his fists with a grin and fixed his gaze on Saw... only for Steela to dart out from behind her brother and circle Dynnal. He immediately turned towards her, deeming her a more credible threat. But it was then that Saw made his move and dropped down, wrapping his legs around Dynnal's feet. Caught off guard, Dynnal was stunned and immobilized, making a prime target for Steela as she leaped ahead and pounced on him, knocking Dynnal to the ground with some stability help from her brother. The other rebels whooped and cheered, impressed by the takedown. Shaking his head, Dynnal registered the female Gerrera above him, perched on top of him almost like a cat would.
"Looks like you're down for the count." She mused with a grin.
"And you're to thank for it. Well done, you two." Dynnal praised them both. As the spoke, Steela managed to run her hands along his muscled chest, appreciating just how fit and firm he truly was. Ahsoka caught sight of the motion, as well as the way Steela had purposefully positioned herself in Dynnal's lap, and let out a soft growl as she glared daggers at the Gerrera twin.
Now she really didn't like her.
Steela eventually got up with help from Saw, but certainly seemed to be taking her time being so close to Dynnal. The Titan noticed and slowly pieced together her intentions, knowing he'd have to find a way to disappoint her sooner or later. Picking himself up and noticing Lux casting a sideways glance in Steela's direction, readied himself for another round. "Next up!"
"Try not to muck this one up, Bonteri." Saw sneered as Lux took off alongside another rebel. The Senator pounced on Dynnal first, attempting to push him over so the other rebel could finish the job, but Dynnal quickly rebuffed him and knocked Lux flat on his back. The other rebel was helpless and defenceless as Dynnal grabbed him by the collar and tossed him into the ground beside Lux.
"Good effort, but you were both uncoordinated... and are now dead." He flatly told them. "You've got to think before you act, you can't rush a super-soldier blindly." He explained so everyone could hear. "Alright, next group!" As the rounds continued, Corsair moseyed over to the Jedi and Obi-Wan approached him first.
"This is very thorough, Corsair. My congratulations on a proper instructional." He applauded.
"Ta be honest, Kenobi, I ain't got much 'ope fo' this lot. A supah-soldiah shows up, their best bet's ta turn an' run. Just one a' 'em'll make mincemeat outta tha whole lot." The merc dourly told him. "They ain't got special weapons or armah, jus' spirit. But that ain't enough ta down one a' those freaks."
"Perhaps. But this is at least a head start for them." Obi-Wan replied. "It's more training than what some Clones have."
"You sure this Dynnal kid is up for all this punishment?" Anakin wondered, Corsair taking a moment to be inwardly pleased the Jedi still had no clue about Dynnal's true identity.
"'Course he is. He may seem like a dork, but he's a good kid. Got it where it counts." Corsair replied.
"His intelligence when it comes to super-soldiers is very appreciated. He must be a very valuable asset to your team." Obi-Wan mused.
"Ya know, I'll always say 'is head an' body are disconnected somewhere. He's jacked as all hell, but prahfers readin' an' learnin'." Corsair remarked. "Nothin' wrong wit' that, I like havin' a designated Titan info-hound. But 'e's wastin' all that muscle." He commented.
"Not with the way some of the women have been looking at him." Anakin said with a snicker. Using the Force, he was very well aware of how several of the rebel ladies had been fixated on Dynnal's muscles more than they had his words... Steela and Ahsoka among them.
And yet, Anakin couldn't ignore the feeling there was something... familiar about him.
The rebels ran try after try on Dynnal, some were successful while others were less so. But regardless of success or failure, it was a learning experience for all as they keenly noted what would and would not work. Eventually, the groups had run enough drills for them all to get a method or two memorized and Dynnal was down to the last few.
"Alright, anyone else?" He asked, checking to see if any rebel wanted some more practice. To his and everyone's surprise, an unexpected party spoke up.
"I'd like a go." Ahsoka said, stepping into the open space. Now all eyes were on them, including the Jedi and the Titans.
"Oh! Uh, s-sure." Dynnal agreed, but then tapped into their bond. What's going on, babe? What're you doing?
Just play along. She told him. Take a fall, make it look easy for me.
Yeah... okay. He agreed, but still had some reservations, most of them wrought from curious uncertainty. "No lightsabers, alright?" He asked hesitantly.
"I won't need them." She replied with a smile. Suddenly moving with a burst of Force energy, Ahsoka lept over Dynnal and grabbed his shoulders, using them to turn herself around and propel her momentum down and under his arm, spring in back up as she applied her full weight to his upper body. Stunned, Dynnal backpeddled, only for Ahsoka to press her advanatge with the Force and knock him to the ground, pinning him with her body in record time.
The astonished rebels couldn't help but applaud the fast and rapid attack, Ahsoka proving more skillful than all of them put together. Dynnal, on the other hand, while very impressed also realized Ahsoka had positioned herself so they were nose to nose... and unlike Steela, who had merely sat in his lap, she was pretty much lying atop him. Her hands were on his wrists, keeping them pinned above his head, while her body was pressed tightly against him, so much so that Dynnal could feel the motions of her breasts as she breathed a little harder from exertion. It was a position both of them knew very well.
"Damn." He muttered with a breathless grin. "Looks like you win, Commander." Ahsoka shot him a rather smug grin, part of her wanting to give his nose a quick peck while she knew she couldn't show any signs of affection while in public.
"I guess I have." She mused. Just remember this the next time Steela makes a move. She added through their bond.
Ah, that. Listen, you know we have to act like we're not a couple. But you don't have to worry. He proffered in response. Ahsoka said nothing more but did offer a head tilt before she picked herself up, pausing long enough to let her fingers trail down his chest and encircle his heart. Giving him a wink only he caught, she strutted back to the sidelines as Dynnal lay still for a moment.
"Y'alright boyo?" Corsair wondered as he loomed into his vision.
"Are you kidding? I just got tackled by THE Ahsoka Tano. This is the best day of my life!" Dynnal replied, acting like a starstruck fan totally laid waste by his wildest fantasy.
"Yeah yeah, keep yor droolin' to a minimum." Corsair remarked with a roll of his eyes as he helped him up.
Later...
The single droid head, marked with a red 'X', flew off the stone surface as it was struck by a blaster bolt, leaving four more where they sat. The barrel of his NT-242 smoking, Dynnal stood and shifted his weapon over his shoulder.
"Nice and easy." He mused, pleased with his handiwork.
"Not bad." Steela concurred, stepping up beside him with her own sniper rifle in hand. The rebels had now moved on to target practice and the masterful Titans each took a turn displaying the unique and valuable properties of various weapons. Dynnal's display of a powerful weapon similar to her own had certainly piqued Steela's interest. 'Handsome and with a similar skillset' she thought keenly to herself. "Any tips you could offer a fellow sharpshooter?" She asked.
"Show me what you've got and we'll see." Dynnal responded, stepping aside to let Steela set herself up. Within moments she was ready to go... with her arms purposefully in awkward positions. "Uh, real quick," Dynnal interrupted, clearing his throat, "tuck your trigger arm back, gives the stock more support so you have steady aim." He said, gently pushing her elbow back. "Crook your arm just a little more... there." He added, ensuring Steela's other arm had her rifle in the perfect grip. "Now, back straight, shoulders square..." Steela did as told, leaning up against Dynnal and purposefully feeling up his body with hers. She noted how pleasantly warm he was, in addition to being so muscular.
Ahsoka also noticed the move with arms crossed, her jealously encouraging her frown to deepen as her eyes briefly flashed from blue to yellow and back.
Once in the 'proper' position, Steela fired a single shot that took out a droid head, hitting it right on the painted red X. In quick succession, Steela took out another one, displaying her prowess.
"Impressive. Most impressive." Anakin praised.
"Fixed targets are one thing." Ahsoka cut in. "How about this?" Stretching out her hand, the Togruta used the Force to turn the head into a floating, moving target. Her hope was that Steela would miss and everyone's pride in her would take a hit, just payback for encroaching on her man. But instead, Steela lined up the head in her sights and struck it three times in quick succession, knocking it out of the air. "Nice job." Ahsoka begrudgingly complimented under her breath as Lux and the other rebels moved in on Steela to praise her efforts.
"You have clearly mastered your ability to focus." Obi-Wan complimented. Glowering all by herself, Ahsoka's mood was suddenly interrupted by Anakin's presence.
"Snips... are you losing focus?" He wondered, having caught on to her mood. Immediately abandoning her prior, darker thoughts, Ahsoka straightened up and shook them off.
"N-No, Master." She quickly replied. That seemed to suit Anakin just fine.
"Good." He simply responded, shooting her a grin as the rebels went back to training.
You alright, 'Soka? Dynnal telepathically asked.
Yeah... I will be. She answered with a sigh as Rex started speaking.
"A headshot is the only decisive way to disable a droid. They don't need arms, legs, or even bodies to pass intel to central command." He told the rebels. "All right, shoot at will." Steela lined up to take another shot... but as her scope aligned further down the range, she noticed something moving in the trees.
"Wait a minute... what is that?" She wondered aloud. Her question was soon answered when the foliage broke apart to reveal an entire line of active B1 model droids, armed with E-5 blasters and advancing on the rebels, accompanied by B2 model super droids right behind them.
"The Seppies've found us!" Dynnal cried in warning as he raised his rifle. Before he could get. off a shot, a B2 morphed its arm into a rocket launcher configuration and fired a single salvo.
"Take cover!" Rex shouted, the rebels darting away in every direction as the explosive round detonated in the midst of the encampment. The Jedi quickly ignited their lightsabers as the droids unleashed a hail of blasterfire, Obi-Wan, Anakin and Ahsoka deflecting rounds back at the incoming forces as row after row of battle droids emerged from the jungle underbrush. Corsair was quick to draw his Roba, but not before he pulled an item from his vest.
"Oi, luv! I think you'll do bettah wit' this!" He called to Meline, tossing her the hilt of the lightsaber he kept. Meline recognized the design but pushed past the memories as she brandished the orange blade and went to work defending the rebels along with the rest of the Jedi. "Titans! Scrap 'em all!" Corsair roared, unleashing his ion repeater cannon with devastating effect. He mowed down droid after droid with ease as Dynnal and Theris stood with him, gunning down even more as the rebels returned fire using weapons scavenged from prior Separatist incursions.
"It appears the training is over!" Obi-Wan quipped as Steela gunned down three droids with precise headshots. More and more droids appeared from the jungle, pushing deep into the encampment.
"I'll take the left flank if you take the right." Anakin suggested to his friend.
"No, Anakin. We can only protect them." Obi-Wan countered. "We cannot fight this war for them." The Knight let out a grumbling sigh as he remember the constrictive mission parameters.
"Maybe you can't, but we're not bound by such restrictions." Meline remarked, moving forward to join her family. "Titans, split up and take a flank! We'll pinch them in." She stated.
"Grand idea, luv!" Corsair agreed with a grin, quickly moving left with his wife while Dynnal and Theris cut right to divide the droid's focus.
"Even with the Titans, there are too many!" Obi-Wan realized, turning to Steela as she fixed more droids within her scope. "Anakin, Ahsoka and I can hold them off while you get your people out of here." He told her.
"You didn't teach us to run!" Steela retorted, more than ready to take a stand in the name of her home. Raising her wrist comm, she connected to her brother, "Saw, use your disruptors to take out the droids."
"I'm on it." Her brother affirmed across the way. He turned to his fellow rebels, "Ready disruptors, on my mark." He ordered. They withdrew improvised explosives and primed each one in turn, as did Saw. "Now!" Three of them were lobbed into the midst of the droids, landing neatly at their feet.
"What is that?" A clueless droid wondered.
"It looks like an explosive." One worriedly said.
"How can you tell-" Large explosions ripped through the droids as the devices went off, wiping out most of the mechanized legions in the area and leaving nothing but burning husks behind.
"Not bad." Anakin remarked.
"That is only the first wave." Obi-Wan grimly stated as an AAT emerged from the trees and trained its main gun on the rebel camp. The rebels' eyes widened in fright as single shells decimated their cover on both sides. Dynnal looked up from behind his rifle as he realized the tank was now aiming at the same cover Ahsoka, Saw and Lux were behind.
"Oh no you don't!" He cried, springing forward without a second thought as his gut instincts compelled him to protect his lover. From her position, Ahsoka spied his seemingly-suicidal move and gasped.
"Dynnal!" The Titan quickly scampered up the tank, using the main barrel to swing himself up and then relying on his brute strength to forcibly shove the barrel away from the rebel defences, the shell blasting the pathway where no one could be harmed. He gripped it again and with a roar forced it to aim high, the next shell exploding from the barrel and missing the rebel camp by miles. Drawing the combat knife tucked in his belt, Dynnal jammed the blade into the gear mechanisms at the base, locking up the internal components and keeping the turret commander from taking aim.
His move bought the Titans more time to gun down more droids, Corsair sweeping left and right with his Roba as droid after droid fell prey to his devastating ion repeater. Seeing their renewed opportunity, Saw pulled an active droid poppers from his belt.
"Hey, Bonteri, you ready to try again?" He wondered. Lux caught on to his plan and drew his own active popper, the two men racing around their protective barricade and making a beeline for the AAT tank, spying Dynnal working to keep the turret immobilized as the droid commander poked its head up.
"Hey! Whaddya think your doing? I have a job to do!" It whined.
"Save it, you bucket of bolts!" Dynnal growled. Saw quickly pounced on the lower hatch and whipped his explosive inside before the pilot droid could even react. Lux claimed higher, using natural grips built into the side of the tank to toss his device into the hands of the surprised droid commander.
"Surrender rebel, uh..." it exclaimed in befuddlement, "you two will answer for your crimes against the Separatist Alliance." Dynnal cared little for the droid's speech and promptly slammed the hatch back down on it. The three hopped off the tank and started running, their poppers detonating seconds later and causing the tank to explode in a massive fireball that wiped out the remaining droids. All three were pitched to the ground, but Dynnal recovered just in time to see the destroyed turret arcing through the air and destined to crash into Saw.
But, using his enhanced strength, managed to catch the massive piece of flaming debris and toss it aside, keeping the Gerrera twin safe from harm. Saw accepted his hand up as the rest of the Titans, Jedi and rebels convened on their location, Steela arriving first.
"That was a pretty bold move." She complimented Dynnal
"Oh, well, I, uh..." he stammered, rubbing the back of his head in feigned embarrassment, "i-it was nothing. Just... doing what needed to be done."
"No. It was something." Steela said with a smile. Ahsoka arrived on the scene shortly after, and was none too happy about Steela getting to Dynnal first. "You may be just a merc, but you're a pretty decent guy." Dynnal lightly chuckled at her words.
"Heh, yeah... My girlfriend says the same thing." He nonchalantly replied. Steela was dumbstruck, her eyes wide as she suddenly realized she'd been barking up the wrong tree. Ahsoka, on the other hand, could not resist the catlike grin that crept over her face.
"G... Girlfriend." Steela repeated, finding her tongue.
"Yeah. Back home." Dynnal continued, a fond look of remembrance coming over him.
"I... I-I see." Steela stuttered, swallowing as she suddenly felt very awkward. "Excuse me." She left him alone and made to help Lux as Ahsoka took her place.
"Girlfriend, huh?" She wondered with a raised brow, still grinning at him.
"Yeah. Beautiful, smart, the most amazing woman I'll ever meet." Dynnal described, sending strong vibes of affirming affection through their bond. Warmed by his advances, Ahsoka felt much more at ease knowing things between them had not changed. They turned their attention to the Gerrera siblings helping Lux to his feet.
"We, uh, need to clean you up." Steela remarked, seeing Lux's face covered with soot and dirt.
"I like it." Saw chuckled. "Now you look more like a solider than a politician."
"Well, maybe a good politician needs to get dirty now and then." Steela suggested, Dynnal and Ahsoka sharing a look as they questioned if her words had a double-meaning behind them or not. Anakin and Obi-Wan joined the group as the rebels celebrated their first success over the Separatists.
"Take confidence from this victory. But rest assured, there will be more droids coming now that they know your position." Obi-Wan gravely told them.
"Aw, let 'em come! These lads are ready, aren't ya Saw?" Corsair wondered.
"Hell yeah, we are." Saw responded with a grin.
"Corsair's right. You're ready now." Anakin concurred. "We are going to take the fight to the droids. You don't have to hide in the jungle any longer."
"The droids were a bit dim, moreso than I imagined." Saw noted.
"They make up for it in numbers." Ahsoka told him. "They're designed to overwhelm."
"But they're not designed to deal with our approach." Anakin added, boosting Saw's confidence.
"We hit them where they least expect it." Lux strategize. "And before they realize what happened-"
"We fade in with the rest of the population." Steela concluded.
"Yup. They've got this." Dynnal mused earning an affirming nod from Corsair.
"We need a plan to get inside the city, there you can start disabling the Separatists from within." Ahsoka continued.
"I... have an idea." Lux suddenly piped up, eyes bright with thoughts racing around in his mind.
As it turned out, Lux's plan was to use the guise of hunters returning from a seasonal collection trip to sneak the rebels past the droids guarding the gates of Iziz. Once inside, they began to spread the word about their movement, collecting new recruits along the way as the rebellion began to gain momentum.
The combined efforts of Lux, Saw, Steela and the other rebels proved to be a thorn in the side of the Separatists, shutting down checkpoints and destroying patrols as the trio of Jedi oversaw their work. Word of the rebellion began to spread in full... and soon caught the attention of King Rash.
From the royal palace, the ornately robed king walked side by side with a Bivall aide as he listened to reports about the recent actions of the 'terrorists'. "They've attacked a checkpoint near the canal and two droid patrols. One in Malgan Market."
"If they think destroying a few droids is going to effect change, they've run a fools errand." Sanjay dismissively replied.
"One more thing, my lord," the aide went on, "the royal carriage was ambushed soon after it left the residence." That caused the king to turn and regard the Bivall with a knowing gaze.
"An attempt on my life." He mused.
"It appears that way." His aide agreed. Sanjay sat on his throne, thinking long and hard about the matter, realizing that these rebels were bold and willing to attack him whenever the opportunity arose.
"Get my predecessor in here." He ordered. The aide left to do so and, in moments, an old man clad in tarnished white robes was ushered in by a pair of armed BX commando droids and escorted to the foot of what was once his throne. "You surprise me Dendup, engaging with extremists is beneath you." Sanjay accused. "Do you really want your crown back that badly?" He scoffed, taking a bite of fruit.
"I only want freedom for my people." Ramsis, the former king of Onderon, replied in his aging voice.
"Your supporters are responsible for terrorist acts against the kingdom and our allies." Rash stated.
"I didn't know that." Ramsis meekly replied. "You've made it quite impossible to stay informed of anything outside my prison chamber."
"Call off the attacks." Rash simply growled in reply.
"I cannot call off what I did not dictate." Ramsis told him. "What you are up against is simply the will of the people. It's up to the king to embrace, bend, or break it. And I am no longer the king."
"Stop the attacks or you will atone with your life!" Rash threatened.
"It is you that must end the attacks by ending the droid occupation." Ramsis retorted. Rash had nothing more to say, fixing the former king with a look of scorn.
Sneaking unnoticed through the streets, the hooded Jedi accompanied by Rex, the Gerreras and Lux passed several inconspicuous passer-bys in the streets, some of which were actually rebels. Taking a side road, they disappeared into a building where the rest of the rebel had congregated alongside the Titans.
"Havin' fun?" Corsair wondered as the door sealed behind the arrivals.
"Tons." Saw replied as he and his compatriots took a seat in the centre of the room. "You should've seen the way that spider droid exploded."
"I prahfer a straight fight myself. Sneakin' around ain't my idea a' fun." The mercenary responded.
"Now is not necessarily the time for such things, Corsair." Obi-Wan chided.
"Our strategy is working, and your successes will not go unnoticed." Anakin chipped in, the rebels cheering and clinking drinks in a celebratory mood.
"I agree. But we need to be mindful of public perception." Obi-Wan quickly cut in, calming them down. He turned to Ahsoka, "What were your observations, Padawan?"
"The people were fearful, Master." She gravely answered. That quieted the room in a hurry.
"It's a fine line between being a rebel and being a terrorist." Meline thoughtfully mused.
"Indeed." Obi-Wan agreed. "Judging from the reactions I saw today, I'm afraid they will mistake your intentions."
"We need to do more damage!" Saw retorted. "A few dozen broken-down droids will do little to free Onderon."
"And a broken-down reputation will gain you nothing at all, Captain Tryhard." Dynnal remarked.
"The people need to believe we can succeed." Steela added. "Without their support, our efforts are meaningless."
"If they're afraid, they won't support us." Lux continued, having learned more than a few things from his mother about people's actions and emotions. "We need to assure them of our intentions."
"Shor'... but don't throw up a billboard, whatevah ya do. Tha's jus' tacky." Corsair joked.
"I don't understand. Why are they afraid?" Saw asked.
"They're afraid we're not strong enough to win." Steela explained. "We need to earn their trust."
"You'll have plenty of time to earn their trust." Anakin promised. "All of you are going to be very busy. Titans included." He said with a smirk.
"Today was only a taste." Rex continued. "You'll get your chance."
"In the meantime, make the most of your victories. Welcome and learn from them." Obi-Wan pressed. But the rebels were already planning their next move.
"Perhaps if we hit something big, a show of strength, they will overcome their fear and join us." Lux suggested, standing up to address the room.
"Now yor talkin'!" Corsair agreed with a toothy smile.
"Do you have something in mind?" Ahsoka wondered. Lux nodded.
"I know the perfect target." He answered.
As the rebels planned, the Jedi and Rex stepped outside along with Corsair, Meline and Dynnal. "I think they're ready to give the five-oh-one some competition, Rex." Anakin mused as he donned his hood.
"Let's not carried away, General," Rex huffed, "though these rebels have impressed me." He admitted.
"They're quick learners. That will go a long way." Theris agreed. "Though they still need coaching in some areas. Their eagerness can be their biggest weakness."
"We'll leave that up to you." Obi-Wan told her. "We, on the other hand, will share the developments with the Jedi Council. Ahsoka will remain here as an advisor."
"Guess that means yor in chahge, girlie." Corsair mused.
"Wouldn't be the first time." The Togruta remarked.
"Monitor them and report back with their progress." Obi-Wan instructed her and Ahsoka nodded in agreement.
"Are you up for it, Snips?" Anakin asked with a hand on her shoulder. "Or would you like to return to Coruscant?" There was a somewhat knowing tone in his voice, but Ahsoka herself knew that after Dynnal had successfully rebuffed Steela's advances, she wouldn't have any more issues from here on.
"No, Master. I want to stay." She confidently answered.
"Good. We should continue to provide supplies and credits, but they must learn to operate on their own." Obi-Wan instructed her. "Their survival depends on it."
"We'll make sure Ahsoka's orders are followed to the letter, Kenobi." Meline told him.
"Thank you. I have nothing more, and will let Titan matters be resolved by Titans." Obi-Wan responded as he and Anakin made to leave.
"Remember your purpose." Anakin told his Padawan before he too turned to leave.
"Best of luck, Commander." Rex offered Ahsoka with a quick salute. "Show them all who's boss."
"I will, Rexster." Ahsoka affirmed with a smile. The trio departed without another word, leaving Ahsoka alone with the Titans. Once they had disappeared around the distant corner, she turned back to them and smiled. "Well? You think we can all be a little more normal now?"
"Since when have things ever been normal?" Dynnal remarked with a grin. Ahsoka returned it, only to remember Theris was still with them.
"Wait, is she...?" She hesitantly wondered, glancing at the Mando beside her boyfriend.
"I know all about your secret." Theris answered. "And it's one helluva secret." She added, glancing at Dynnal.
"No argument there." He agreed with a sigh. "If Lux ever found out he's working this close with the guy who killed his mother and forced him to wear a permanent support brace, he'd flip his lid."
"But that was Wraith. Not you, Danny." Ahsoka reassured him.
"Yeah, I... wait, Danny?" Dynnal repeated, taken aback by the sudden new name. Ahsoka realized what she'd let slip and lightly chuckled.
"It's... my new nickname for you." She gradually explained. "It kinda just... came to mind one day."
"Along the lines of 'Skyguy' and 'Rexster' I assume?" Dynnal queried, knowing her penchant for nicknaming those closest to her. She nodded in confirmation. "'Danny'... I think I could get used to it." He mused, mulling it over.
"Jus' not in public. Like Theris said, yor packin' one helluva secret an' ya can't let nobody figah it out." Corsair interjected. "Ya still gotta act like a dorky bookworm in front a' the othahs."
"I haven't forgotten. Although, with no Jedi here I think I can flex a few of my capabilities a little more freely." Dynnal replied.
"Maybe, but not too freely." Meline suggested. "You can't go all super-soldier whenever you want to, son. People will recognize it." Dynnal sombrely nodded.
"I know, Mom." He quietly replied. How he could ever function with such massive secrets to keep was starting to get beyond him. Deciding to dwell on that later, he made for a happier topic. "Anyway, proper introductions. Ahsoka, this is Meline, my mother. Mom, this is Ahsoka, my girlfriend." The two woman exchanged smiles.
"It's very nice to meet you in person, Ahsoka. Seldom is it Dynnal doesn't speak of you in glowing terms." Meline told her. Blushing a little, Ahsoka giggled nervously.
"Well, it's nice to finally meet you too. I... um... have never ever done this before." She confessed. "But there's no one else I'd rather do it with." She added, looking fondly to Dynnal.
"If you ever need any advice, I once went through something markedly similar with my husband." Meline offered.
"Yours is a story the Jedi don't tell with fond memories." Ahsoka commented.
"My version of the tale is far more... relatable." Meline replied with a chuckle.
"Ya can tell 'er all ya want when this is ovah, Hun." Corsair interrupted. "Right now, we prolly oughtta get inside an' see what's cookin' in Lux's 'ead... befor' Saw blows somethin' else up." He remarked.
Following up on Lux's idea, the core rebels acted on his plan. Contained within one of the capitol's many districts, a massive power station crackled with electric energy as blue bolts arced from the central generator to smaller transformers scattered around it. From a distant rooftop, Saw, Steela, Lux, Ahsoka and Dynnal watched as a company of six droids emerged from on of the heavily guarded doors surrounding the complex.
"This power generator feeds substations across the city." Lux described. "We hit that, the entire grid falls."
"How does that help us?" Steela wondered. "Battle droids are no longer linked to central control. They operate individually."
"Yes, but they still need power to recharge. If we take out this facility, it will knock out the power grid and then it will only be a matter fo time until the droid army is brought to a standstill." Lux explained. "Literally." The Gerreras liked that plan. Dynnal, with his vast intel on the workings of Separatist fortifications gleaned from Wraith, took note of the defences.
"Those doors are reinforced bulkheads, the IF fifteen models." He commented. "It'll take at least two tank salvos to blow them open, no way you're getting in during daylight hours."
"If you carry out the plan by nightfall, you'll maximize your strike capability. Plus, it's doubtful the droids will be looking to the rooftops under cover of darkness." Ahsoka suggested.
"More than likely." Dynnal agreed.
"Okay, so we just need to figure out how to destroy the power station." Steela concluded.
"We need to do more surveillance." Lux realized. After a moment, Saw had an answer.
"Those droids should have all the intel we need store up in those tin cans of theirs, right?" He asked, pointing to the departing company below.
"They should." Ahsoka slowly responded, casting a quick glance at Dynnal for confirmation. He nodded.
"Then I'll get us one." Saw determined, sliding down the roof and making his way to street level. The foursome waited to see if he would succeed.
"I'd be ready on that rifle, just in case." Dynnal told Steela as he drew an S-5 from its holster and flicked the scope into a ready position.
Fortunately for them all, Saw merely ripped a droid's head off, instead of creating plenty of ruckus to give away his position.
Back on the rooftop, Dynnal withdrew a portable data driver from his back and plugged the droid in. With a few keystrokes, a blueprint was revealed to them all via the device's built-in holoprojector.
"Sentries at every access point, inside and out." Saw mused as he looked over the plans.
"Classic Seppie set up. They're covering all their bases." Dynnal hummed as he gave the map a once over for himself.
"We can't sustain combat against their numbers." Lux glumly noted.
"But our size makes us perfect for mobility and surprise." Steela realized with a gasp. "We need something with heavy firepower if we are to blow up this facility." She quickly suggested.
"If we give them enough trouble, they'll call for reinforcements." Lux determined.
"Which means tanks." Dynnal said. "Perfect. I was gonna say, I don't think there's enough explosives in all of Iziz to make a proper dent in this thing."
"We'll need cover while we hijack it." Lux added.
"And then we use their own weapon against them." Steela concluded with a grin.
"And we bring the droid army to its knees." Saw finished, unplugging the droid head. Dynnal leaned back, putting himself next to Ahsoka.
"Yeah, they know what they're doing." He mused.
"Now to just keep them out of trouble." His girlfriend remarked.
Later that evening...
The column of battle droids on patrol were not expecting anything unusual to happen. Even as the B2s pushed an abandoned airspeeder out of the way, they expected no resistance from the citizenry as they rounded a street corner and kept marching.
So it came as a total surprise when an EMP hidden in the speeder detonated, taking out half the patrol in a single electrical blast.
Then the shooting started, humans burst out of alleyways with blasters in hand, gunning down surprised droids before they could get a shot off. The patrol quickly opened fire, downing at least one before even more sprang from their hiding places and overwhelmed them with blasterfire and more electro grenades. The patrol commander quickly radioed base,
"Patrol One-One-Eight to central, we've been ambushed by terrorists and need reinforcements." The simple message was broadcasted loud and clear before a sniper round took its head off. As the droid collapsed, Ahsoka and Steela emerged from the ally to join Saw, Lux and the other rebels.
"Let's hope they send a tank." The Togruta muttered, only to slow as the sound of mechanical whirring caught her attention. She paused in the middle of the street, a curious Steela beside her. "Hear that?" She wondered. She'd been in enough combat scenarios to know what it meant. "They've sent destroyers, move!" Sure enough, a pair of droidekas rolled around from the other end of the street, morphing into their bipedal form and opening fire as their shields deployed. Their twin turbolasers unleashed a withering storm of firepower upon the rebels, civilians fleeing the streets as a full-on battle began to brew. Ahsoka joined the ranks of the rebels and brandished her lightsabers, blocking and deflecting incoming salvos. The other rebels also opened fire, only to find their shots ricocheting off the protective energy fields surrounding their destroyers.
"Unless we can hit them from behind, we're outgunned!" Steela shouted over the din. Ahsoka agreed and put out a brief call.
Alright Danny, time to come calling. She telepathically told her boyfriend. Two destroyers to the east of us. She reported, green and yellow blades spinning and humming around as she deflected every shot that came her way.
Dropping down from a rooftop at the far end of the street, Dynnal bolted down the paved path with a droid popper in each hand. Sending them rolling ahead of him, they bounced and came to a slow stop directly under the destroyers, erupting seconds later with a burst of electric energy that fried their shield generators. Dynnal promptly finished them both off with a twin blast from his S-5 pistols, the green bolts boring clean through the droidekas' lightly-armored heads. Spinning his weapons around in his hands, they were tucked back into his jacket moments later. He and the rest of the rebels met in the middle.
"Smooth moves, Titan." Saw applauded.
"Being a merc affords plenty of practice." Dynnal replied, he and Ahsoka sharing a brief knowing look. Their brevity was halted by the rumble of a repulsorlift engine and they all turned with weapons drawn to see an AAT lumbering down the other end of the street, flanked by four B2 droids.
"There's our tank!" Saw called out as the main gun swiveled towards them.
"You all get to the sides, draw its fire. I'll take out the pilots." Dynnal instructed, drawing his longblaster from behind. The rebels moved to obey, Dynnal sprinting forward and narrowly missing an incoming shell. Blasterfire lit up all around him, red bolts from the droids echoed by blue rounds from the rebels' guns. Dynnal knelt and took aim at the forward hatch, emptying four rounds clean through its forward armor. When the tank came to a lurching halt, he knew the first pilot was down for the count. Reaching into his jacket, he rose and sprinted for the nearby abandoned airspeeder, screwing on his disruptor adapter as he did. The droids before him fell quickly, gunned down by the rebels. Armed and in position, Dynnal took aim and blasted the top hatch, a burst of electrical energy stopping the tank dead as he knew the commanding droid had been taken out in the process.
The rest of the rebels finished dismantling the B2 escort and conveyed in front of the tank with Dynnal.
"Good work. Now let's get this thing up and running again." Saw declared, genuinely smiling as everything went according to plan.
"Corsair and the Titans are by the power station. They'll be our cover fire if things get rough." Dynnal told them as he shouldered his rifle.
"The more the merrier." Steela remarked as they started fishing the offlined droids out of the tank. Saw hopped into turret and immediately had trouble getting things going.
"Do you know what you're doing?" Lux teased as Saw continued to fiddle with the instrument panel.
"Yeah, I know what I'm doing!" Saw bit back, slamming a few more buttons.
"You boys having a problem?" Steela asked as she scrapped up to the top hatch.
"No. No problem. Why?" An irritated Saw asked as he continued to hammer on the console to no avail.
"Well, come on then! We need to get moving!" Steela impatiently urged.
"Third button on the right, that'll switch on the engine. Then give the starter throttle a jerk to the right." Dynnal called up from below, trying to be helpful.
Speaking from experience? Ahsoka queried through their bond.
I do know how to drive every mainline vehicle in the Separatist army. He replied. Following his instructions, Saw got the tank to rumble to life and began to hover off the ground.
"Yes! See? Told you I wouldn't have a problem." He said smugly to Lux and Steela.
"You're welcome!" Dynnal called as he and Ahsoka hopped onto the lower flanks of the tank. Shifting the vehicle into gear, Saw propelled the tank forward and drove the vehicle straight to the front gate of the power station, a mere few blocks away. The scattered remains of B1 and B2 droids lay all around the bulkhead gate, evidence of the Titans' activity. Once there, Dynnal cued his comms. "Corsair, how we looking?"
"Jus' vaped a few droid patrols, keepin' 'em busy on the othah side. Ya best get ta work now befor' they figah us out." His father responded.
"Copy that. We've got the tank and are in position." Dynnal reported. "I'll cover you lot, be wary of any droids on the other side of those doors." He told the rebels, hopping off the tank.
"I'm coming with you." Ahsoka said, quickly joining him as they sprinted to a nearby statue in the middle of the square. Saw lined up the tank to fire off a shot, charging the main gun. The first shell blew the doors wide open and a second shattered the second door on the other side, prompting a sudden outpouring of several BX commando droids. Lux and Steela opened fire, only to find the commando droids infinitely smarter and more nimble than their clunky counterparts. Several were downed, but many more merely somersaulted out of the way, displaying impressive levels of agility.
"Fire the gun!" Steela urged her brother.
"The gun is recharging!" Saw retorted, unable to fire again. From his position behind them, Dynnal fired off several shots from his longblaster, downing several droids in quick succession. Ahsoka heard the clatter of metal feet behind her and turned to find a company of battle droids charging them.
"We've got company." She told her lover.
"Keep them off me, that tank has to survive long enough to fire another salvo." Dynnal replied. Without another word, Ahsoka deployed her lightsabers and quickly deflected incoming blaster bolts back at the droids.
Three of the commandos proved resilient enough to reach the tank, one of which had its blaster shot away by Lux, only for it to start beating him with its metal fists, slamming him into the tank and landing several solid blows to his face. Steela quickly vaped another commando with a headshot and then helped him out by blasting his attacker with her pistol. Lux returned the favor by grabbing his blaster and vaping another droid attempting to lunge for her.
"Saw! Any time now!" She called.
"I'm ready!" Saw replied, hitting the triggers and firing two shells directly into the main generator. The first wave of disruptive power spewed forth and shut down the transformers, quickly resulting in an overload as channeled power had nowhere to go. Saw closed the hatch to seal himself away, Steela and Lux ducking behind the tank for cover from the impending explosion. Dynnal quickly ducked away as well.
"Corsair, we've breached! Brace for impact!" He shouted into his comms as he crouched and used his body to shield Ahsoka behind the statue.
The massive blue explosion that followed vaporized the entire generator system, launching a city-wide blackout as all power was lost.
Confident the wave had passed, Dynnal and Ahsoka donned a pair of night goggles each and spied the rebels making a break away from the tank and the inferno that had been the power station.
"Looks like all that training is paying off." Ahsoka mused.
"Sure does, babe." Dynnal agreed, standing and breaking into a run alongside her.
From the royal palace, the massive cloud of electrified smoke could be seen plain as day, as could the out of control fire raging beneath it.
"My lord, without power the droids will be massacred." His aide noted.
"This loss... will work for us." The King mused, turning and leaving for the throne room. He had an important call to make...
Using the darkness to their advanatge, the rebels launched surprise attacks across the city, dismantling droids left and right as they destroyed entire companies and patrols in one fell swoop after another. Much to their delight, people everywhere were beginning to support the rebel movement, cheers and cries for a free Onderon echoing across the city in the dark of night.
Within their safehouse in the thick of the city, the rebels partied in the dark in celebration of their most impactful and successful mission yet, Ahsoka standing with holograms of Anakin, Obi-Wan and Rex while the Titans gathered beside them.
"Y'all oughtta be damn proud a' yorselves aftah tonight." Corsair remarked.
"You bet we are, Corsair!" Saw joyously agreed with a drink in hand. His sister meanwhile, had other pursuits in mind.
"Come here, you handsome senator." She told Lux, pulling him into a hug. Her words did not go unheard as Dynnal and Ahsoka shared a confirming glance.
Well, now we know what's up. I can guess I can stuff my self-esteem issues now. He remarked.
You? Self-esteem? Ahsoka repeated in surprise.
Everytime Lux threw you a happy glance I remembered Carlac and got worried. Dynnal admitted with a sigh.
Oh, Danny. I'm... I'm so sorry about all that. Ahsoka apologized in a pained voice. Sure, Lux has some admirable qualities, but he's not you. I love you, not him. Seeing as visible sight was nearly impossible in the dark, Ahsoka felt fairly safe in reaching out and holding his hand. After this, you and I are gonna find a nice quiet rooftop to be alone on. She promised.
I'd... like that. Very much. Her lover responded, sounding a little cheered up. The sounds of celebrating dwindled as Rex made to speak.
"Steela is a born leader."
"And quite courageous, I hear." Obi-Wan added. "But this latest development will surely get Count Dooku's attention. He will respond harshly." He gravely informed the rebels, their celebration now halted by his grim overtones. "They will stop at nothing to find you. You must adapt and continue to confront them in order to liberate Onderon."
"We will." Saw vowed.
"And we shall win." Steela echoed.
"Damn right ya will. I don't think ya even need us around any longah." Corsair mused.
"At least let Dynnal stay. His intel is always spot on." Steela added, pointing in his son's direction. "Your girlfriend is one lucky woman." She added. Dynnal chuckled.
Yes. Yes she is. Ahsoka mused telepathically, giving his hand a squeeze.
"Now you must rally the people. You will need their support." Anakin tasked them. "Your ability to influence them will also determine your capacity to represent them, not only on the battlefield but off of it against your enemies, even within your own ranks." He explained. "Your commitment will inspire others. Your conviction will lead to victory."
"Hell yeah it will!" Dynnal cheered, which the rebels echoed.
"After tonight's efforts the people will be ready to follow." Obi-Wan continued. "You will need a leader for them to publically rally behind." The leading triumvirate of brother, sister and senator nodded in agreement. Then, one of the rebels stood.
"All in favor of Steela as our leader, raise your hand." She tasked, being the first. One by one, every single member of the rebellion raised their drinks in agreement. Even the Titans did so.
"I second that motion." Lux said, raising his arm. Looking around, the vote was completely unanimous.
"Okay. Looks like it's been decided." Saw mused, setting a hand on his sister's shoulder. "You're the leader." Despite his acceptance, Steela could tell her brother was disappointed somewhat.
"Saw, I know you wanted this." She quietly replied.
"But out there, taking the tank, you've scrapped more droids than I have. You were able to keep us focused and together." Saw responded. "You've earned this, sister." With that he raised his drink in salute to her. Looking around at her friends, her family, and her allies, Steela was weighed down by the sudden burden of leadership. But like all the tasks set before her, she immediately rose to the challenge.
"Then... tomorrow, we get back to work. We stop the Separatists in their tracks, we recruit others, and assure the people of our intentions." She declared. "Onderon is ours. We will remind everyone and keep reminding them until we get it back." The rebels raised a mighty shout of agreement, championing the new leader of their movement.
"Onderon forever!"
As the Jedi's hologram disappeared, a bare handful of rebels noted Ahsoka and Dynnal had slipped out, but didn't think much of it.
Outside, on the rooftop, Ahsoka emerged first from the attic window followed closely by Dynnal. The city was completely dark, safe for a few sporadic fires caused by burning MTT's and the towering inferno that used to be a power station. Dynnal sat beside the window as Ahsoka turned to him. He dropped his guise as the dorky Titan bookworm and used his deep, natural, manly voice for the first time in a long time.
"Hey." It sent a shiver up Ahsoka's spine and she positioned herself in his lap.
"Hey." She replied with a smile, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him, an embrace he happily reciprocated. Framed only by starlight, their entwined shadows were easily mistaken for rooftop decor by those on the ground. They were slightly out of breath when they parted, yet remained close as Dynnal stroked Ahsoka's cheek.
"I've been wanting to do that for some time now." He confessed.
"Think we should make up for lost time?" She wondered.
"Sounds like a good idea." Dynnal keenly agreed, Ahsoka offering a breathy laugh as he pulled her into another kiss.
Tomorrow was another day in the battle for Onderon. But tonight was theirs.
Within the walls of the royal palace, yet another conversation was unfolding.
"They are waging a very public war. Every trespass is an embarrassment." Rash complained to the projected image as he sat on his throne.
"Your forces cannot manage a small band of terrrorists?" Dooku inquired with a raised brow.
"My lord, your droids have become ineffective against the mounting rebel attacks!" The king protested.
"I thought I could trust you to rule Onderon. I found this report most disappointing." Dooku responded gravely. His stern look and tone only embittered Rash as he pressed his request again.
"It seems... that the rebels are far more organized than they were in the past. The attack against the power generators proves that." Sanjay slowly replied after a moment of thought. "Perhaps it's time you send me better reinforcements than the droids I currently have." Dooku's gaze was unflinching and for a moment Sanjay believed he had pushed his luck too far. But then, to his relief, Dooku continued.
"The fact that mere rebels grow more organized and strategic overnight does suggest Republic interference. Word has come to me about this and I have dispatched agents to investigate further." The Sith told him. "I will grant you this request, King Rash. And not only send you better droids... but a better General." As he spoke, the holocom flickered as the imposing form of a green-plated super tactical droid appeared beside Dooku, his triple photoreceptors a sinister sight to behold. "This is Kalani. I assure you he will succeed where you have failed." Dooku promised with a slight growl. The communication promptly ended and Rash was left alone in the quiet of his palace. His Bivall aid looked to him, wondering what his next order would be. But instead of an order, Rash merely wondered to the silence,
"What agents?"
"He means us." The deep, synthetic voice from behind caused both the king and his aide to nearly jump out of their skins as they virtually tumbled down the steps of the throne in fright, whirling around to face the intruders. Emerging from behind the throne, their armor dark and blending in with the ill-lit room, the glowing red optics from a pair of super-soldiers were enough to terrify Rash even further, his aide gulping in fright.
"If the Republic has indeed been involved, they will pay by watching their little pet project suffer a slow demise." Banshee vowed.
"These rebels will be dealt with in due course. For their crimes against the Separatist Alliance... every last one of them will die." Reaper promised with a growl.
