Hyperdimension Neptunia - Across the Multiverse
A HyperDimension Neptunia Fanfiction by Dumbrarere1
Chapter 12 - The Maelstrom Prison
Back on Tython, the group returned to the council chambers. "We've brought the sensor logs, Master Satele." Asmund said as they walked in.
"I'm sure you all have many questions. Master Braga will answer any that you may have." Master Satele said.
"It's good to finally meet you in person. They say you're the greatest Jedi the order has seen in many generations, Asmund. I believe the Force has guided you to me. Together we'll defeat the Empire." Master Braga declared.
"Restoring peace to the galaxy is the reason why I became a Jedi." Asmund said.
"I'm organizing a top secret strike team of our best and brightest. Jedi who don't know the meaning of failure." Master Braga said. "Twice, you saved the Jedi Order from destruction. Bengel Morr and Darth Angral were formidable opponents. Now I ask you - CPUs of Gamindustri and Jedi Heroes of Tython - to confront the ultimate evil and help me capture the Sith Emperor." Master Braga declared.
"You don't dream small, do you Master Braga?" Asriel asked.
"Asriel has a point. If such a mission were to fail, it could have disastrous consequences. As someone once told us in our journey, careful council must be taken before battle is blindly joined." Andrew interjected.
"So, what sort of mission are we talking about?" Asmund asked.
"There's an ancient fortress orbiting the Imperial homeworld Dromund Kaas. It's hidden by a powerful cloaking device." Master Braga said.
"The Emperor rules his people from this cloaked fortress. Not even the highest-ranking Sith can find him." Master Satele said.
"But we're going to locate that fortress, get inside it and seize the Emperor." Master Braga said." Master Braga said.
"If there's a way to achieve these goals, we must find it." Asmund said. Andrew looked at him, shocked that he's going along with it.
"We've already made great strides towards our objective." Master Braga said.
"The man you all saved on Tatooine scouted the Dromund Kaas system. His sensor logs will help us plan this assault." Master Kaeden said.
"We'll plot a hyperspace route right through the enemy's defenses, slip right past them." Master Satele said.
"Other members of my strike team are uncovering ways to pierce the cloaking device and defeat the security around the Emperor's fortress. If we're to figure out the Emperor's strengths and weaknesses, someone knowledgeable of him must be brought before the Jedi." Master Braga said.
"Who?" Andrew asked.
"An informant from the Force has gotten in contact with Master Oteg with information on one particular prisoner. Contact him on your holoterminal, and meet up with him. May the Force be with you." Master Satele said, adjourning the meeting.
"Master Oteg, this is Jedi Knight Asmund aboard the Endeavor. We were told to speak with you." Asmund said.
"Ah, the Heroes of Tython. I am Oteg, Jedi Master and Admiral of the Republic's First Expeditionary Fleet. I'd like for you to meet with me on my flagship." Master Oteg said.
"I didn't know you could be a fleet admiral and Jedi Master at the same time." Asmund remarked.
"I've had many titles in my lifetime. I prefer 'Oteg'. It's shorter." Master Oteg said.
"We were told that an informant of the Force brought forth valuable information." Andrew said.
"Of course, but I'd rather we discuss it in person. Sending my coordinates now." Master Oteg said.
"Coordinates received, we're on our way. See you soon." Andrew said, before he ended the call. "Well, if anything, this'll be interesting." Andrew said, before the Endeavor entered hyperspace.
The Endeavor slowly made its approach to the flagship of the Republic's First Expeditionary Fleet, landing in the starboard hangar bay. The crew got out and met with Master Oteg.
"Ah, good, you're here. I've received intelligence that the Empire has a secret prison inside the Maelstrom Nebula. It's a dangerous region, impossible to navigate. My informant is, shall we say, unconventional. As a Jedi, Asmund, you are already attuned to the Force. But you must deepen your connection to see as I do." Master Oteg explained.
"I think I already know where this is going…" Andrew said.
"What do you think it is?" Asmund asked.
"A Force Entity, similar to Master Orgus." Andrew suspected.
"Ah, a very good observation, my CPU friend. Come, Asmund. Concentrate with me. Focus your mind. Feel the Force around us. Hear its echoes…" Master Oteg said, before he, Asmund and Kira entered a deep meditation. "Yes… the Force is with us…" Master Oteg said. Everyone in the room stared in awe as a Force Ghost appeared before them. "She is here… A Jedi without physical form. Her body is long dead, but her wisdom - her essence - lives on." he said.
"Who was she?" Andrew asked.
"A survivor of the Great Jedi Purge that happened five years after the Jedi Civil War. She was instrumental in ending the Sith Triumvirate and rebuilding the Jedi Order." Master Oteg said.
"The darkness will consume all it touches. Stars will burn black, raining on lifeless worlds. Everything ends. The prisoner holds the darkness at bay, lost inside it for three hundred years. His strength will fail. Then, he will become the darkness." the Force entity spoke.
"Three hundred years? How's that even possible?" Asriel asked as scratched his head in confusion. The Force entity understood the boy's confusion, but could not speak further.
"The bond weakens, my friend. I'll take things from here." Master Oteg said, before cutting the connection. "She's told me many things, including how to safely navigate the Maelstrom Nebula and reach the prison within." he explained.
"Lay it on us, Oteg." Andrew beckoned.
"The only way to navigate the Maelstrom is using a Gree computer hidden at an Imperial fortress. We need that computer to free the Jedi prisoner." Master Oteg said.
"Um… What's a Gree? And why is their computer so special?" Asriel asked. Andrew, Asmund and Neptune were just as confounded by the mention of the Gree as the young prince.
"Gree are an ancient civilization with incredibly advanced technology, even by modern standards. The species is rarely, if ever, seen before. How the Empire obtained their technology is a mystery." Master Oteg said.
"Oteg. Talking to ghosts again?" a familiar voice asked.
"Ironfist?" Andrew asked.
"Good to see you again, CPU. Once again, I must thank you for the offer you gave me, back on the Esseles. Life's been fairly interesting since I joined Republic Special Forces. Assigned as leader of a fireteam made up of Mandalorian Commandos from Clan Ordo." Ironfist said happily.
"Republic Special Forces Fireteam Kedable has agreed to join us on this mission, and General Garza greenlit an operation to storm the Maelstrom Prison. The fortress containing the Gree Computer we need is located on Taral V. Imperial territory, protected by warships under the command of Grand Moff Kilran, too many to fight. But we have a captured Imperial shuttle that can sneak past the sentries. It's waiting for you in the hangar." Master Oteg said.
"You can fill us in on the rest while we travel, there's no time to waste." Asmund said, determined to complete the mission and return to the council.
"My men are waiting in the hangar by the shuttle. I'll lead you there now." Ironfist explained.
"Our fleet will hide at the system's edge so I can monitor your mission and guide you. If something goes wrong, we'll come running. May the Force be with you." Master Oteg said. Ironfist led the group to the shuttle, where Fireteam Kedalbe lay waiting. They boarded and were off.
Grand Moff Kilran was alerted to a disturbance in the Force that Denzion and Malgus both picked up a day or so after the Eclipse was launched from above the Endor Moon, and was sent to investigate. Troubles with the hyperdrive have put them behind schedule, unfortunately, much to the infuriation of himself and his superiors.
"How much longer until the hyperdrive is repaired?" Kilran asked impatiently.
"Engineers report further difficulties in repairs, but say that we should be underway again within the hour." his chief engineer reported.
"Tell them I want us underway within the next ten minutes, or I'll present their heads to Lord Denzion and Lord Malgus myself." Kilran said, growing angry.
"Aye, sir. We are trying." the chief engineer said, trying to reassure him that they'll be away soon. "I might like to add that one of my men have reported signs of sabotage." he added.
"Run a security sweep, tell them we may have a Republic saboteur on board." Kilran ordered, looking at his security chief. The security chief nods, ordering all soldiers and officers to run the security sweep. The minutes passed before the hyperdrive was finally fixed, and they were away. The security sweep, unfortunately, did not find any trace of the saboteur, or anything that would suggest one was ever on board.
The shuttle began its approach to Taral V, before it was hailed by one of the Harrower Star Destroyers in orbit.
"Incoming vessel, this is Commander Ilyan Regus on the Star Destroyer Vindicator. Please transmit your ID." Commander Regus ordered.
"This is the shuttle Tydirium, we're on our way to the fortress on Taral V with fresh supplies. Transmitting ID signature to you now." Asmund said, transmitting the ID to the Vindicator.
"ID received, Tydirium. Proceed on your present course." Commander Regus replied, before closing the comm channel.
"That was interesting." Andrew remarked.
"All part of the plan." Asmund replied, bringing the shuttle in for a landing in a clearing close to the fortress. The Mandalorian Commandos of Fireteam Kedalbe fanned out, looking for any threats to the landing zone, before forming up and following Asmund, Kira and the CPUs to the fortress. They approached and silenced a few guards, before finding themselves at the mercy of an Imperial captain and some kind of war beast. The mercenaries opened fire, while the Jedi and CPUs ran in and attacked. The creature, then the Imperial captain, fell without much trouble. After disabling the security, Master Oteg contacted them.
"Outstanding. You've given us access to the Empire's communications. Are you there, my friends?" Master Oteg asked.
"We're reading you five-by-five, Oteg." Andrew replied.
"The time for subtlety is over. Make your way inside the fortress. Strike fast and strike hard." Master Oteg said.
"There is no pleasant way to make a frontal assault on an Imperial fortress…" Asmund said.
"Normally, I'd advise you to minimize the casualties, but our objective is too important." Master Oteg said.
"Not to worry. Fireteam Kedalbe is willing to execute the mission as planned." Ironfist declared.
"So, once we secure the computer, how do we go about bringing it back?" Asriel asked.
"The Gree computer is amazingly compact. You'll have no trouble carrying it out." Master Oteg said. "Another Imperial warship has just entered the system. I'll keep quiet from here on, unless it's an emergency. Oteg out." he said, ending the holocall. The group made their way inside the fortress, where they were greeted by Grand Moff Kilran, who was contacting them via holo.
"You. On my doorstep. Fortune always has favored me." Kilran said.
"Kilran… Fancy seeing you again, especially after your failure to stop us on the Esseles." Andrew mused.
"Ah, the CPUs are here as well. You've been busy since our last meeting. Saved Coruscant… Tython… Tatooine… even managed to change Lord Praven's allegiance. Pity about Uphrades, but you can't win them all. Sadly, your victories end here. My bombers are about to make their runs on your position, and my fleet is charging up its turbolasers." Kilran said.
"This place is designed to take a lot of firepower." Asmund warned. Kilran merely chuckled in response.
"You're forgetting, I have learned from the last time. The fortress shields have been deactivated. You're standing in a tomb, and I'm burying you in it. It's been a pleasure catching up. But you won't escape this time." Kilran declared, before raising a hand to his commlink. "Bombers are clear for runs, make them count." he said. The entire building shook as Imperial bombers began their runs, dropping proton bombs and other ordinance on the facility. The blast doors shut tight as a result.
"This is Oteg. Do you read me? I monitored that transmission. My fleet is moving to intercept the bombardment and clear the fighters, but you've got to move. Find that Gree computer and get out of there!" Oteg said in a brief transmission. The group, along with Fireteam Kedalbe, ran towards their objective as fast as they could, taking out Imperials in their path along the way. Finally, they have the research team cornered.
"Republic butchers! You invaded a sovereign Imperial world! You slaughtered dozens of innocents, and for what?! To steal our research?!" Doctor Narem hissed.
"Grand Moff Kilran is bombarding this fortress with bombers and is threatening to kill every single one of us, and you have the nerve to call us butchers?!" Ironfist snarled.
"This facility is on a mission of peace! We're charting the Maelstrom Nebula for the good of all!" Doctor Narem snapped back.
"You have Star Destroyers in orbit and battalions on the surface. If this is your idea of a peaceful mission... you're doing it wrong." Asmund countered.
"We knew once you'd discovered our research, you'd attempt to steal it. And here you are! When the rest of the galaxy hears of this unprovoked assault, the Republic's evil will finally be exposed!" Doctor Naren yelled.
"For the record, we didn't even know about the research being done here. And you might want to save the "you're evil" comment for the Imperial Grand Moff bombing your peaceful endeavor to dust." Andrew countered.
"Spare me your platitudes! I see you for what you really are: murderers. You're condemning hundreds of civilian science vessels exploring the Maelstrom Nebula. Electromagnetic radiation alters the safe navigation routes every moment. Without the precise and timely coordinates from the Gree computer, thousands of good people - innocent scientists - will be trapped there forever!" Doctor Naren complained.
"The Republic doesn't leave civilians to die. Transmit fresh coordinates to your science vessels and order them home. Then the computer is ours." Asmund said.
"But our research! All that dangerous exploration will have been for nothing without a complete map!" Doctor Naren complained once more.
"The longer we stand here arguing, the more Grand Moff Kilran will bury us alive." Andrew warned
"Oh, fine, you win… Transmitting the coordinates now. The computer is yours… I hope it breaks the first time you use it…" Doctor Narem grumbled.
"Run to safety while you can, sir. This place won't survive Kilran's bombardment for much longer." Andrew said. Doctor Naren ran for the exit, and the strike team ran for the exit as well. They returned to the Imperial shuttle and landed back on Master Oteg's flagship. The fleet was lucky enough to suffer minimal losses, before they jumped to hyperspace towards the Maelstrom Nebula.
"The Jedi and the CPUs escaped?!" Denzion snapped.
"Not quite, milord. My engineers planted a tracking beacon on their shuttle, which recently docked at the enemy flagship. I'm tracking them now, and they appear to be heading towards the the Maelstrom Nebula." Kilran replied.
"They're after the Jedi prisoner the Emperor has locked up there. I will have your head if you fail this." Denzion said.
"I understand, Milord. I will see to it that I stop the Jedi and the CPUs personally." Kilran said.
"Engaging our enemy personally? You're bolder than you realize, perhaps even foolish." Denzion remarked.
"Not to worry. I will succeed in this or die trying." Kilran said, before ending the call. He went and ordered the Emperor's Glory and its fleet to plot a course to the Maelstrom Nebula and enter hyperspace.
Asmund and the CPUs, along with Fireteam Kedalbe, boarded a Republic shuttle and plotted a course through the nebula, eventually landing in one of Maelstrom Prison's hangar bays. The Mandalorian Commandos secured the hangar, before one of them sliced the console to get into locked down sections, as well as pull up a holographic map of the facility and pinpoint where the Jedi prisoner was being located. They looked at it closely, finding the quickest route, before they made their advance through the station.
"Intruders! Sound the alarm!" one of the guards exclaimed, before opening fire.
"For Clan Ordo!" Ironfist exclaimed as he and the rest of the team retaliated quickly, returning fire or attacking with swords and lightsabers. They didn't stop the alarm being raised, and they would find themselves facing a wave of Imperial Riot Troopers as reinforcements. Rather than deal with their cortosis-weave shields and stun batons, Asmund opted to use the Force. He'd disarm them, before leaving the riot troopers to the mercy of Ironfist and his Mandalorian Commandos. The moment the enemy fell was when the holoterminal beside them flickered to life.
"Your persistence is impressive. Most of my foes have the decency to die quickly." Kilran said.
"And your persistence is getting on my nerves, Kilran." Ironfist snapped.
"Amusing, coming from a former ally of mine. Mercenaries have no class." Kilran mused with a smirk.
"How are you able to contact us? Did you… get here first?" Asriel asked.
"Yes… I arrived before you. Bided my time in the nebula. My fleet have spread Oteg's forces too thin. It will cost him his life… and yours… Darth Malgus and Lord Denzion will be pleased." Kilran said snidely, a devilish smirk on his face.
"Wipe that pathetic smirk off your face, worm. We both know how this must end." Ironfist said.
"Indeed, we do. Scurry about our prison. After I destroy your fleet, I'll find you." Kilran said, before ending the holocall. That was when Master Oteg contacted them.
"This is Oteg. We've sliced the enemy's comm frequency. Kilran's got us pinched between his fleet and the prison's autocannons. The Jedi prisoner must be freed, even if it means we lose the fleet. As long as we're between you and Kilran, you're protected." Oteg said.
"If you stay here, you and a lot of good people will lose their lives. Fall back. Kilran can't stop this rescue." Asmund ordered.
"Not while we're still breathing, he can't." a Mandalorian Commando interjected.
"We will run into him, regardless of the outcome. I have a score to settle with my old friend." Ironfist added.
"Understood. We'll make a tactical retreat, draw out their warships, and divide their forces. I'll keep the comm channel open. Good luck." Master Oteg said before closing the holochannel.
The group continued to weave their way through the Maelstrom Prison, defeating Imperial soldiers, shock troopers, riot troopers, and even Sith along the way. They haven't taken any losses thus far, a testament to their skills. Eventually, they ran into Kilran himself, with a pair of elite guard.
"So much trouble from two Jedi, a couple CPUs, and a turncoat Mandalorian. It almost strains credulity." Kilran taunted, before turning to a holoterminal projecting an image of Denzion. "Milord, I promised to rid you of this nuisance personally. This embarrassing farce ends here." he declared.
"Securing the Emperor's prisoner is your priority. Kurome says that the CPUs cannot be killed by normal means, so do what you can to at least drive them off the station." Denzion ordered.
"You've put everything on the line to keep that man. Why? Who is he?" Asmund asked.
"You don't even know why you're here. Fascinating." Kilran mused.
"You are a true patriot. I admire that, but better you die ignorant." Denzion said, before turning back to Kilran. "The Empire salutes you, Grand Moff Kilran. I shall watch as you reclaim your honor in my eyes." he declared.
"Glory to the Empire!" Kilran shouted.
"He's got a sniper rifle! Watch out!" a Mandalorian Commando shouted, before scurrying for cover. One commando got unlucky and took a shot to the head. They ran from cover to cover, taking out Imperial Shock Troopers loyal to Kilran along the way, before Asmund, Kira and the CPUs had him surrounded. He used a flash grenade to get away, which only dazed him a short while.
"You underestimate my resources!" Kilran declared. Across the gap, an Imperial transport gunship lifted off from the landing pad to intercept the group's assault. Fireteam Kedalbe made a run for it, narrowly escaping a rocket attack that destroyed the walkway behind them. As the gunship prepared its autocannon for a strafing run, Asmund reached out through the Force and grabbed it. The pilot tried desperately to get out of Asmund's grasp, only to find himself powerless as he and the gunship were flung back into the landing platform, cutting off Kilran's chance of escape.
"Asmund, now's our chance!" Kira called out, and they both went to work on Kilran. It was Ironfist who got the killing blow on his former friend and boss.
"Interesting… Now I understand why Darth Angral met his end. You are difficult to kill, Jedi." Denzion mused, addressing the group.
"You're Denzion, aren't you? Malgus' apprentice." Andrew asked.
"Very intuitive, for someone who's still new to this galaxy. Yes, I am Denzion." Denzion said.
"I take it this isn't some courtesy call?" Asmund asked.
"I intended to watch Grand Moff Kilran end your legacy, Jedi. But your skill and aggressiveness in combat are of great interest to me and my Master. I can forgive Kilran's failure for giving me a chance to observe the legendary "Heroes of Tython" in battle." Denzion said with a smirk. "Until we meet again." he added, before ending the holocall.
The group continued onward until they were faced with the Jedi prisoner, a bald man with a goatee. Fireteam Kedalbe's slicer worked his way through the system, before managing to get in, and freed the prisoner. The man fell to the ground as the restraining system deactivated, before he got to his feet.
"Well, this is quite a surprise. If I'd known I was expecting guests, I'd have asked the Warden to trim my goatee." the man said.
"Wait… I recognize you from the Jedi Archives… Revan?" Asmund asked.
"Most know me by that name, yes. A few know me by a different name, however: Logan Starr." Revan said, shaking dizziness out of his head. "It was I who escaped Taris with Carth and Bastila, and defeated Malak on the Star Forge so long ago. Unfortunately, I was unlucky enough to remember Dromund Kaas… to remember the Emperor…" he continued, explaining everything, before looking at the mask he's had as Darth Revan.
"So you're the one Grand Master Satele sent us to Oteg for…" Andrew said. Revan looked to him, then Neptune, then finally Asriel.
"Hmm… I feel a unique power radiating from the three of you… but it's not the Force… Who are you?" Revan asked curiously.
"We're CPUs of Gamindustri. I'm Andrew Hawker. This is my wife, Neptune, and our protege, Asriel Dreemurr." Andrew introduced.
"CPUs… I'd had a dream of Extradimensional deities clashing with the Emperor, but… to think they were visions that would come true…" Revan mused. He then sighed. "But what good are visions now, knowing I can no longer restrain him?" he asked.
"Your strength fails. You must be free, or all is lost." the Force Entity echoed.
"Meetra? Why are you not at peace?" Revan asked.
"No peace while you suffer. The Emperor drowns you in black waters." the entity now known as Meetra warned.
"He wants me to be Darth Revan again. To serve him as I did centuries ago." Revan said.
"The records in the Jedi Archives say that you were dead." Asmund said
"I was, but… reborn… countless times. Meetra and I went to face the Emperor… but we were betrayed from within. The Emperor imprisoned me, kept me alive with Sith Alchemy… Used me…" Revan said.
"What use are you locked up in here?" Asriel asked.
"I've been two different people, known both sides of the Force - light and dark. Malak once referred to me before he fell at my hand… Savior… Conqueror… Hero… Villain… I am all things, and yet I am nothing. The Emperor used me as a conduit to the light side of the Force. From there, he received visions." Revan explained.
"Logan-... I mean Revan… the Jedi Council on Tython needs you back. A Grand Master who happens to be of your bloodline needs you back." Andrew said.
"I can't go back… knowing the things I've done… After Malak fell, Bastila and I made a choice… to forge our own destiny, and carve our own path. I pledged to continue down that path in between." Revan said.
"The Jedi and the Republic need you. The Emperor makes his final war. Help the Jedi and the CPUs stop him. Flee this place to Tython while you can." Meetra said, before her spirit vanished.
"Thank you, old friend. I will listen to your wisdom." Revan said, before turning to the Mandalorian Commandos. They gave him a salute in return. That was when a Sharicite appeared.
"This crystal… I've never seen it before… It appears fractured and broken, but at the same time, whole. What is it?" Revan asked.
"It's a Sharicite Fragment. We've been collecting these across different dimensions, and different planets in the galaxy, to save our friends and stop a potential catastrophe from hitting Gamindustri." Andrew explained, before he and Neptune collected it.
"So this galaxy isn't the only thing that's under threat right now… No wonder my return to the Republic and the Jedi is required." Revan said, shaking his head in disbelief.
"We have a shuttle to Master Oteg's flagship. From there, we can take our ship, the Endeavor, to the Jedi Temple on Tython." Andrew explained.
"An oddly fitting name for a Republic vessel. I'll follow you." Revan said.
Back on Master Oteg's flagship, Fireteam Kedalbe broke off from the group, while Asmund and the others regrouped in a cantina aboard the vessel. Off duty personnel were there as well. The music playing was… different.
"Three hundred years, and they still can't come up with better music…" Revan spat, annoyed by what was playing over the speakers. Neptune had a hearty laugh at his expense.
"I mean, it could be worse. We could be listening to utter, incoherent garbage right now." Andrew said, trying to lighten the mood.
"This IS utter garbage." Revan countered.
"Hate to say it, but Revan's right. This music is giving me somewhat of a headache." Asriel said. That was when the music ended and something better started playing.
"That's more like it…" Revan said with a sigh, before ordering a drink. The bartender slid over a shot of Juma, and Revan downed it real quickly.
"So… what's it like? Being immortal, I mean?" Asmund asked.
"Different. No more worrying about starving to death… the only thing I have to worry about is a stray shot killing me." Revan replied.
"Compare that to us CPUs, we cannot be killed by normal means. The only thing that can kill us is a weapon infused with Negative Energy." Andrew explained. That was when Master Oteg contacted Asmund.
"The Endeavor is fueled and ready for its trip to Tython." he said.
"Just in time, too. A renewed war with the Empire is imminent. We need every advantage we can get." Andrew said.
"This is where we go our separate ways, friends. We've finally obtained a method to achieve final victory against the Empire. I wish you all well. May the Force be with you." Master Oteg said, before ending the holocall one last time.
"We'd best be going. No telling how long we'll be in hyperspace for." Asmund said.
"Amen to that. Some quiet could help with meditation." Revan said, his voice showing delight. The group paid the bartender for his time, before heading to the hangar where the Endeavor is currently docked. "Hmm… cozy…" he said.
"Well, this is the Defender-class Light Corvette that was given to us. Spacious, yet compact." Andrew said. Asriel yawned, exhausted from all the action.
"Tired?" Neptune asked.
"Yeah, I'm exhausted. I'm going to have a power nap. Wake me when we get there." Asriel replied, heading to the crew cabin.
"Alrightio." Neptune said. Andrew went to the holoterminal with Asmund and Revan, contacting Master Satele.
"Master Satele, we've recovered the Jedi prisoner, and we're on our way back to Tython. You might be surprised to find out he's one of your ancestors." Andrew said.
"Honestly, I'm not all that surprised. It's a pleasure to meet you, Revan." Master Satele said.
"Master Satele, right? It's good to hear from someone of mine and Bastila's bloodline." Revan said.
"Being of the bloodline of a Jedi is not something I usually focus on… I'd had a son of my own, before my husb-... before Commander Malcom and I split." Master Satele said.
"Wait, you had a secret relationship?" Asmund asked.
"Yes… but the man I was with had developed a thirst for Imperial blood and, and a lust for vengeance against the Empire… I tried to dissuade him from these selfish wants, but he wouldn't have any of it. They continue to lead him down the dark path to this very day." Master Satele admitted shamefully.
"Understandable. Carth's mentor, Saul Karath, suffered from the same thing during the Mandalorian Wars. It ultimately led to him joining the Sith under Darth Malak's wing." Revan said.
"Perhaps it's best not to push the subject of her personal life, especially while more is at stake." Andrew interjected.
"Thank you, Andrew. Regardless, it's good to have you back with the Jedi, Revan. I assume you have lots of information of the Emperor?" Master Satele asked, looking at Revan.
"I do. Having been his prisoner for three centuries, I learned a lot about him, and what he seeks to do." Revan replied.
"Good to hear. We need every advantage we can get against the Empire. I'll see you soon on Tython. Master Satele out." Master Satele said, before the holocall ended. T7 brought the Endeavor on a course for Tython, before activating the hyperdrive, and they were away.
"They've escaped?!" Darth Malgus lashed out. He was on the bridge of his Harrower Star Destroyer with Denzion.
"It was Kilran's failure, Master. A failure I'd forgiven, as it provided keen insight into how the so-called "Heroes of Tython" fou-" Denzion tried to explain.
"The failure is yours!" Malgus boomed. "With Revan freed, there will be untold consequences for the Empire. Kilran's failure is your failure." he continued, quite infuriated.
"You misunderstand, Master. Now that I have a good idea on how they fight, I intend to use my resources to track them. I will have them in my grasp." Denzion countered.
"I hope you do, for your sake. See to it that you don't fail me again." Malgus said.
"Of course, Master." Denzion said, before departing the bridge. He'd return to the Eclipse, before ordering his resources in Imperial Intelligence to track the Jedi and his CPU allies.
The Endeavor once again made its approach to the Jedi Temple, and the group returned to the Council Chambers with Revan in tow.
"Ah, you've returned." Master Bakarn said.
"Master Bakarn, everyone, this is the Jedi Revan. He was imprisoned by the Emperor for three centuries, and learned a lot about him in that time." Master Satele announced.
"Glad to be back amongst the Jedi." Revan said semi-truthfully.
"There is much to discuss. Asmund, Kira, CPUs… while we're discussing this and giving Revan a chance to recover his strength, you're needed on Hoth. Reports indicate that an Imperial Terror-class battleship that crashed there during First Great Galactic War was carrying the prototype cloaking device and other vital pieces of intel needed for our strike on the Emperor's Fortress." Master Fane said.
"Doctor Archiban Kimble of the Republic Medical Corps and Sergeant Fideltin Rusk of Special Forces Fireteam Crossbow have agreed to wait for you on the surface, alongside Leeha Narezz." Master Braga said
"We've placed great responsibility on you all. But I know you won't fail us. May the Force be with you." Master Satele said, before allowing the group to depart. In the background, Master Satele and Master Braga discussed with Revan about his knowledge of the Emperor. Asmund led everyone back to the Endeavor, and they were away, entering hyperspace on course for Hoth.
In the streets of Solitude, in Northwestern Skyrim, Gonnaer was discussing trade deals with the merchant at Bits and Pieces. He was selling off some flawless gemstones he found in his travels.
"I'm sure we can go lower. Fifteen thousand, six hundred septims?" the woman asked.
"Fifteen thousand, seven hundred fifty, and we'll call it even." Gonnaer countered.
"A bit more than I was expecting, but I can work with that. I'll make a decent profit from these pieces, no doubt about it. Maybe from Radiant Rainment, if their jeweler is in today." the woman responded, taking the gemstones and handing the appropriate gold. Gonnaer thanked her and wished her well, before departing. He was then approached by General Tullius and Captain Aldis.
"Hail, Dragonborn." General Tullius said in greeting.
"General Tullius. What can I help you with on this fine afternoon?" Gonnaer asked.
"Best you see for yourself." Captain Aldis said, before he and General Tullius led Gonnaer to the Solitude jail, where a gruff-looking man sat on the floor of his cell.
"This man… I think it's a man? He fell through a hole in midair, right in the middle of my office during a meeting with the Emperor. Gods be damned if I knew how he got here." General Tullius said.
"A hole in midair? He's not one of the CPUs, I'll say that much…" Gonnaer said, moderately disturbed by the information. He turned to the individual. "What is your name?" he questioned.
"I'm Geralt of Rivia, A Witcher and monster hunter. That's all I'll say." the man named Geralt said.
"There's no Rivia in Tamriel…" General Tullius said, not believing the man.
"That's the thing. There IS no Rivia in Tamriel. This is all very disturbing, indeed." Gonnaer interjected.
"Disturbing?" Captain Aldis asked.
"Given mine and the Greybeards' knowledge of the Multiverse, I'd say that Geralt wasn't sent here on his own accord. Which leads me to believe that some kind of disaster had befallen his home dimension." Gonnaer said, looking to Geralt.
"Greybeards? Multiverse?" Geralt asked, confused.
"The Greybeards are a group of monks who live in High Hrothgar. They and the dragon Paarthurnax are vastly knowledgeable in the Way of the Voice and the complex workings of the Multiverse, they can tell you more." Gonnaer explained.
"Perhaps they can tell me what happened to my friends and my world… and why I ended up here." Geralt said, standing to his feet.
"My thoughts exactly." Gonnaer said.
"If the CPUs were from another dimension, I can believe the story. I'll release him and prepare him for travel at once." Captain Aldis said, unlocking the cell and letting Geralt out. After being given back his swords and his clothes, Geralt followed General Tullius and Gonnaer to High Hrothgar, where the Greybeards were talking with a magic projection of Histoire they use to communicate with Gamindustri.
"How many Sharicites have been found?" Arngier asked.
"Ten so far, Arngier. The fallen CPUs and CPU Candidates have awoken and are beginning to recover their strength, but all the Sharicite Fragments have to be found before all of their Shares can be recovered." Histoire said.
"Arngier, we have a problem." Gonnaer interjected, bringing fourth Geralt.
"Dovahkiin. What sort of problem do we have? And who is this man?" Argnier asked, looking to the Witcher.
"This man is Geralt of Rivia. Apparently he was forced out of his home dimension by some unknown means." Gonnaer said.
"The timing of this news is disturbing, indeed. Histoire has told us of a troubling development, regarding the source of the attacks on the fallen CPUs." Arngier said, looking to Geralt. "Tell us, how did you find yourself in Tamriel?" he asked.
"I was with Yennifer and Ciri out in Skellige, when the sky suddenly looked purple and… cracked. We noticed a black void rapidly growing. It was enveloping everything in sight. We tried to help people escape the void before it consumed them, but it was a vain attempt... Yennifer, Ciri and I… we fell in, with everyone and everything inside the town we were in, along with the town itself… I felt like I was adrift for ages, before I fell through some hole in midair, right in this man's office while he talked with a man of obviously great importance." Geralt explained.
"It was me and the Emperor that witnessed the hole open up in my Office." General Tullius admitted.
"It would seem that Geralt's world was completely destroyed… he might be the only survivor…" Arngier said. The tone of his voice was worrying.
"Only survivor? What of Yennifer and Ciri? What will happen to them?" Geralt asked.
"I'm sorry, my friend. Nothing can be done about them…" Arngier replied. Geralt looked like he'd just lost everything.
"I… I promised I'd protect them… I promised I'd protect the world… How could this have happened...?" the Witcher wept. He was completely shocked, confused, and sickened at the thought of having failed Yennefer and Ciri.
"A young woman by the name of Kurome Ankokuboshi has been traveling between worlds with the intent to destroy them completely in order to resurrect the evil True Goddess. As an agent of the True Goddess, she has agents of her own to perpetuate and progress the destruction of several worlds." Histoire explained. Geralt's guilt quickly turned into rage after hearing that
"Tell me who this Kurome is… I will end her myself…" he declared in a thirst for vengeance.
"That is not advised, Geralt. As a rogue CPU, she's capable of a lot of harm and cannot be killed by normal means. We doubt even that a silver sword or daedric sword could be of much use. There will be a time of her reckoning, when the CPUs of Gamindustri come together to vanquish her and her master. But now is not that time." Arngier advised.
"You expect me to let her get away with it?!" Geralt lashed out.
"I know how it feels to lose a loved one in wartime. But CPUs are god-like beings. You'd be no match against one, even a rogue one and a dead one. Besides, Yennifer and Ciri wouldn't want you to get yourself killed chasing revenge." General Tullius said. Geralt, hearing this, calmed himself down.
"What would you have me do?" Geralt asked.
"While there is nothing that can theoretically be done until the CPUs stand against Kurome, there is room for you in the Imperial Legion as an officer. We're gathering all the people we can, as the White Gold Concordat that's keeping the peace between the Empire and the Aldmeri Dominion is failing. Isolated skirmishes between the Thalmor and the Legion are becoming frequent, and it seems renewed hostilities aren't far behind." General Tullius explained. Geralt thought long and hard about his predicament. If he chose against it, he'd have only himself to rely on against the dangers of Tamriel. With no valid currency and only his weapons and his wits, he realized he wouldn't last a fortnight.
"Alright. I accept." Geralt relented.
The Endeavor left hyperspace above the planet Hoth, and Andrew and Neptune saw what looked to be a complete ice ball.
"Oh boy… It's going to be a repeat of Snowdin Forest and Lowee again, isn't it" Neptune asked.
"Hoth's an ice ball, far from its parent star. We're going to be in for harsh temperatures well below freezing, brisk winds, and savage predators. Getting caught in a snowstorm or a Wampa's grasp would be a death sentence." Kira warned.
"So the answer is, it's worse than Lowee or Snowdin…" Neptune said with a light sigh.
"Will we have the opportunity to stock up on winter gear while we're on the Republic Starbase?" Andrew asked.
"Theoretically, they'd just hand those out to priority individuals, including Jedi, so we should be okay." Kira replied. That was when the holocomputer beeped, indicating an incoming call. Asmund patched it through.
"This is Jedi Knight Leeha Narezz. Please identify." a feminine voice called on the comms.
"This is Jedi Knight Asmund, aboard the Defender-class light corvette Endeavor. We're receiving your signal. Master Tol Braga sent us to help you." Asmund replied.
"I've heard of yours and the CPUs' exploits. It's good to have you here." Leeha said.
"What's the situation on the ground?" Andrew asked.
"As if Hoth wasn't hostile enough, I have to contend with the Empire and White Maw pirates, of all things." Leeha said.
"I understand the Imperials, considering what we're after, but pirates?" Andrew asked.
"Hoth's home to one of the biggest starship graveyards in the galaxy. During the war, there was a massive battle in orbit. Dozens of vessels crashed to the surface. Because of the freezing cold, they've remained well preserved. Some are almost intact." Leeha said.
"Our objective is in a crashed Imperial Terror-class battleship. This ship is lying in that graveyard, isn't it?" Asmund asked.
"Recon said that the battleship in question, the Emperor's Vengeance, contains a prototype cloaking device, technical schematics and other vital information on the Emperor's fortress. Unfortunately, that recon team has gone dark since then." Leeha said.
"A map of the bad guy's house. Nice." Kira quipped.
"Your job is to clear the way once I know where I'm going. That cloaking device prototype and the information in the ship's archives are critical to infiltrating the Emperor's fortress. We will not fail." Leeha declared.
"T7 = polished + charged + ready." T7 said.
"Sorry, buddy, you're going to have to remain with the ship. The cold temperatures and frost will play havoc on your motivators." Asmund said. T7 made a low whine, as though he were a little kid denied ice cream.
"It's for the best, Teeseven. Besides, the Empire also wants what we're after, if only to keep it out of our hands. We need you to remain on the ship in case things go south." Andrew said. T7 bobbed his head in what would be a curiously accurate nod from an astromech droid.
"I'm headed for the main Republic base with Doc and Sergeant Rusk. Take a shuttle to the surface and meet me there. Leeha Narezz out." Leeha said, finally ending the call. With that over with, Asmund guided the Endeavor into the hangar of the Republic Starbase above Hoth. Once out, the group left. They'd continue to walk towards the shuttle bay, where a man stood by to hand out winter gear.
"Going to Hoth, Master Jedi?" the man asked.
"Of course. The CPUs and I were sent here on an important mission from the Jedi Council. We've already made contact with a fellow Jedi Knight on the surface." Asmund replied.
"Got it. There's a bit of a delay, but you should savor every minute of it. Every moment you're not freezing to death is a good one." the man said.
"Why the delays?" Andrew asked.
"The icing conditions on the planet below froze the port stabilizer and landing strut. We were able to get them working again once the ice sublimated, but they're still checking for damage." the man said, before handing out winter gear. "Before I forget, suit up in these. Once you're on the ground, it's going to be hell frozen ten times over." he added. The group took the winter gear and got suited up, before returning to the hangar. The man told them that the emergency preflight was complete, and that they were clear to head to the surface.
Denzion was still highly infuriated, not only in how Darth Malgus blamed him for Kilran's failure, but also in Watcher Two's inability to find the Jedi and the CPUs. Ever since the disappearance of Watcher One, Imperial Intelligence became a wasteful, disorganized mess. He felt like killing somebody, just to ease the temper. That was when his comms officer alerted him to an incoming transmission from Watcher Two.
"Watcher Two. Have you found any good news? Or are you just wasting my time?" Denzion asked impatiently.
"I've got plenty of good news, milord. The Jedi and his CPU companions have been spotted by my agents on the Republic Starbase above Hoth. They're headed to the planet below." Watcher Two reported. Denzion, finally happy that his targets were finally in his grasp, smirked.
"Thanks, Watcher Two. There's just one little detail." he said.
"What's that, milord?" Watcher two asked, her eyes blinking in confusion and subtle fear.
"Fix your attitude and performance, and that of your agents. The Empire does not tolerate incompetence." Denzion said as he choked Watcher Two through the Force. He'd release her soon after.
"Y-Yes, milord. I will reorganize Imperial Intelligence at once." Watcher Two said, closing the transmission. Denzion went to his viewport, ordering the navigator to plot a course for Hoth, and the comms officer to wire a message to Kurome to meet him there. Soon, the massive Eclipse went into hyperspace.
Asmund and his group were wandering through the Republic base looking for Leeha. They couldn't find her, but the base was a mess. Someone walked over to meet the group in her stead.
"Are you Asmund, Kira and the CPUs?" the man asked.
"Of course. Who might you be?" Asmund asked in return.
"I'm Doctor Kimble, but… Call me 'Doc'. We were left here on this ice ball waiting for you, when Imperials attacked. Leeha and Sergeant Rusk split off and went to engage, but it sounds pretty bad." Doc said.
"How bad are we talking about?" Kira asked.
"Leeha's got her section under control, but Rusk is in danger of being overrun. Since I have the coordinates, I'm coming too, in case there's casualties." Doc said.
"You can leave it to us, Doc. Just hang back and let us do our thing." Andrew said.
"I'll hold that to you." Doc said. He'd look to Neptune. "Hello, pretty CPU." he said.
"Are- Are you flirting with my wife?!" Andrew scoffed.
"Oh- m-my bad…" Doc stammered, his face flushed.
"Great. Doctor Kimble is little more than a scoundrel…" Kira muttered with a sigh.
"We're wasting time, let's go." Asriel said.
"Yeah, you're right." Doc said, leading the group to the area where Rusk was.
The group of now six people arrived at the coordinates to find the area the site of a near massacre. Multiple injured, and many more dead. Those that were otherwise mortally wounded found themselves lucky they were freezing to death, as it bought them precious time for medical assistance.
"Sergeant Rusk, Leeha Narezz sent us. Looks like we got here in the nick of time." Andrew said.
"No worries, CPU. I was prepared to hold this position indefinitely." Sergeant Rusk said. "Sergeant Fideltin Rusk. Special Forces Fireteam Crossbow. My squad's at your service." he introduced.
"Well… what's left of your squad." A man groaned.
"Doc, try to patch these people up. We'll provide cover." Asmund said.
"Of course, Jedi." Doc said, going to patch up the men.
"Leeha wasn't entirely truthful when she said that the recon team went dark, in order to keep the mission secret. My squad was the recon team, and the objective has been successfully completed." Sergeant Rusk admitted. "Imperial counter-attack pursued us here. Squad fatalities: Sixty-six point four percent. Enemy fatalities: one hundred percent." he reported.
"Hang on. I'm picking up a fresh wave of probe droids outside. They're headed this way!" a soldier shouted. Asmund and Kira ignited their lightsabers, while Andrew and Neptune summoned their weapons. Asriel stood ready with magic.
"Private, take cover. We've got this." Andrew said.
"No loafing. You see a shot, take it." Sergeant Rusk ordered.
"Yes, sir! Here they come!" the soldier said, taking cover behind some crates with his blaster rifle at the ready. That was when the probe droids entered. The CPUs took out the largest numbers, while Asmund and Kira took out what was left, and the battle was over in almost an instant.
"Enemy fatalities: one hundred percent. You can come out now, Private." Sergeant Rusk ordered.
"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir." the private said.
"Well, I've done the best I could, but they'll need a medical facility for kolto immersion." Doc interjected,
"Much appreciated, Doc. I'll call for medical extraction." Sergeant Rusk said, before turning to Asmund. "These are the Imperial survey maps of the Starship Graveyard. Leeha Narezz wants to see them" he added.
"We'll get them to her, Sergeant. I hope your men make it." Andrew said genuinely.
"A pleasure. As soon as I've reconstituted my squad, I'll meet you at her coordinates. Stay sharp out there." Sergeant Rusk said, before the group split off to meet with Leeha.
"Leeha Narezz. We have the Imperial survey maps on the Starship Graveyard." Asmund said as he handed Leeha the data.
"I understand Sergeant Rusk's squad took heavy casualties. From what I heard, not all of them will make it." Leeha said grimly. She turned around and looked at a floating droid that looks to have been modified for inclement weather. "Meedee-1, please analyze the maps. Find any profile that matches a Terror-class battleship." she instructed. The droid began beeping excitedly.
"What'd it say?" Asriel asked.
"The Meedees are pleased to meet you all. They're great fans of yours." Leeha said.
"Hello there, little friends." Asmund said in return.
"Ever since I built the Meedees, I've been teaching them Jedi history, philosophy, everything. Someday, the Meedees will prove that even droids can use the Force." Leeha said.
"A bit of a controversial idea to put forward, but after what I've seen, not entirely far fetched." Andrew said.
"The council doesn't believe me, but I think it's already happened more than once. Throughout history, certain droids have performed beyond their design and programming limitations. I believe the Force is the answer. Droids who go long enough without memory wipes develop personalities. Couldn't they develop more than that?" Leeha asked.
"I think we get the picture…" Neptune said, Leeha's rant tiring her out. That was when MD-1 discovered something, beeping in response.
"You found something? Let me see… Hmm… the Empire found the crash site of the Emperor's Vengeance, alright. Imperial forces are excavating a potential way in, at an ice cavern nearby. We need to move fast, and we need reinforcements." Leeha said.
"Contact Sergeant Rusk, tell him to get his new squad to meet us at the coordinates." Andrew said.
"Alright. I'll inform him now. Meanwhile, we'll hit the enemy from two directions. I'll enter the cavern at these coordinates. You guys go in at this entrance. We'll meet in the middle." Leeha said.
"Good luck, Leeha Narezz. May the Force be with you." Asmund said, and they were off. They took speeders to their separate cave entrances, and they then fought their way in. When they met again, Leeha was lightly wounded.
"Impatience got the better of me. I blundered in here like a padawan. Those heavy turrets were an unpleasant surprise." she said.
"All those turrets, just for us? I'm touched." Kira said. That was when Leeha's holo beeped. She answered the transmission, and they were surprised to see an Imperial Guardsman on the holo.
"You were surrendering, Jedi, I suggest you keep that promise." the guardsman, Lassicar, said. That was when Imperial Commandos entered the cave, weapons pointed in their direction.
"Give us a moment, please. I need to explain the situation to my friends." Leeha said, ending the holo temporarily. "Turns out, the guardsman on the holo is more interested in capturing than killing us. Keep him talking, trust me." she said, before raising the man again.
"My patience is at an end. Lay down your weapons or my men will destroy you." Lassicar said.
"Those uniforms… You're not standard Imperial military." Asmund said.
"I am a member of the Emperor's personal guard, as are the men under my command. The soldiers you face were specially trained to kill Jedi, and they outnumber you." Lassicar explained. That was when the whole cave shook with an explosion, and Sergeant Rusk and Fireteam Crossbow entered the cave from above.
"Not anymore, Imperial scum." Sergeant Rusk declared.
"Great timing, Sergeant." Andrew said.
"They tricked us, kill everyone!" Lassicar ordered, before the commandos of the Imperial Guard opened fire. Fireteam Crossbow returned fire, and the Jedi and CPUs joined the battle. Despite the commandos' training, they were no match for the CPUs, and began to fall one after the other, before the battle finally ended.
"Got here as soon as we could. Had to engage some Imperial patrols in our way, but nothing serious." Sergeant Rusk replied.
"Nothing serious?! Privates Vanth and Edder don't know what day it is! We're lucky to all be alive!" Private Dromol said.
"Shut it down, Private. I don't tolerate insubordination." Sergeant Rusk said.
"All of you, please listen. I know you've been through a lot. I understand your frustration. But a good Jedi - A good soldier, puts their emotions aside to do what's necessary. To say the fate of the galaxy depends on us is no exaggeration. We must hold together." Asmund said.
"Keep that up, the Republic might make you a general." Kira joked.
"Let's honor this Jedi and give it our all." Sergeant Rusk said.
"This is the Emperor's Vengeance, alright, but this excavation appears to be a dead end. But look what I found hiding behind a dead Imperial officer." Leeha said. A worn out Imperial tech knelt into the snow and ice.
"The rest of your unit is dead, Imperial. Start talking, or you'll join them." Sergeant Rusk ordered.
"Please! I don't know anything! I'm just a computer tech!" the Imperial whimpered.
"We won't hurt you. But the more you help us, the more we'll help you." Asriel said, showing mercy.
"When I said I didn't know anything, that wasn't completely true… My job was to slice the ship's mainframe, but the White Maw attacked the excavation and buried any chance of finding a potential opening. My fellow techs left to find alternate openings, and left me here to freeze to death." the tech said.
"Your fellow squad members left you to die?" Leeha asked.
"Y-yes. But they forgot the decryption file. They can't read the mainframe without this." The tech said, handing a data spike to Leeha.
"I'll be taking that." Leeha said.
"The only way to the upper half of the wrecked battleship is through the Starship Graveyard itself. White Maw pirates and Imperials have it completely locked down. It's going to take a coordinated, clandestine operation to get to the inside of that warship." Sergeant Rusk said.
"Understood. We'll handle things from here." Andrew said.
The group, along with Leeha, made the effort to try to sneak in, getting past White Maw and Imperial guards. Sergeant Rusk and Doc were with them as well, as was the rest of Fireteam Crossbow. After skirting the outer perimeter and getting inside through an unguarded hull breach, they began to fight their way to the coordinates provided by the survey data. Despite the White Maw and Imperials being at odds with each other, they made fairly decent allies. They ran in to Lassicar, talking with Denzion via holo.
"Milord, you do realize how many resources need to go into such an assault!" Lassicar shouted.
"I have resources enough for this, Guardsman Lassicar. Unless you do not have as much faith in the Empire as you claim." Denzion countered.
"My first and only duty is to the Emperor. I answer to him." Lassicar snarled.
"Perhaps your opportunity to test that dedication has come at last." Denzion said, pointing to the group.
"Ah. I'd hoped you would come. Our prior meeting terminated unsatisfactorily. Surrender, and you will be treated well." Lassicar began.
"Funny you're saying that, when we have you outnumbered and surrounded." Andrew said.
"A minor inconvenience, at best. I suppose there's no choice. Men, kill them." Lassicar ordered. The group went in for the attack, and had the Imperial Commandos neutralized in a matter of seconds. Lassicar fell next. Rather than surrender, he used what strength he had to try and stab Asmund, only to be shot in the head by Doc in the process.
"Glad that's over…" Andrew said. Sergeant Rusk ordered his slicer to secure the vital data while he called a Republic Assault Gunship for extraction of the group and the prototype cloaking device.
The group finally returned to the base and discussed things.
"We couldn't have done this without you and your men, Sergeant Rusk. Neither without you, Doc." Asmund admitted.
"Your services were exemplary. You and Fireteam Crossbow brought the Republic a great victory." Leeha said.
"The Heroes of Tython. I finally get to meet you in person." General Grayne said as he walked in.
"General Grayne. Been a while." Sergeant Rusk said.
"Hard to believe you and I started in the same squad. Still a ground-pounder, eh?" General Grayne asked.
"Wouldn't have it any other way. It's honest work, sir." Sergeant Rusk replied.
"I didn't realize you two were comrades." Asriel said.
"We've had some short-lived adventures during the war." General Grayne said.
"You can hardly tell that left leg isn't real, sir. The medtechs did good work." Sergeant Rusk said.
"General Garza ordered Fireteam Crossbow to return to Coruscant. But, I figure you and Doc would be more effective working with the Jedi and CPUs. She's greenlit a request to transfer you both to him." General Grayne said.
"Nothing would honor me more than to continue to fight under the Jedi and the CPUs." Sergeant Rusk said.
"Well, this is interesting. Never thought I'd leave this giant snowball…" Doc muttered. The Sharicite Fragment appeared, and Andrew and Neptune collected it as usual. That was when a soldier ran in, carrying latest intel.
"General Grayne! Master Jedi! The Empire is making a full assault on Aurek Base! Scouts and forward bases report five assault transport walkers, twelve scout walkers, and a lot of infantry." the soldier said.
"I'll be damned if I knew why they decided to attack us so soon after a clandestine operation. What'd you Jedi and CPUs do to make them so mad?" General Grayne asked.
"We captured technical data, schematics and the prototype cloaking device for the Emperor's Fortress above Dromund Kaas. It looks like the Empire wants them back." Andrew said.
"Sithspit… no wonder they decided to come knocking. I'm organizing the defense effort and a full evacuation, but I need you all at the front lines." General Grayne said. The ground began to shudder as the Imperial Assault Transport Walkers began their approach.
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
Apologies this took so long. Streaming is taking up a lot of my time, and it's difficult to do multiple things at once at times, with the schedule.
Logan Starr is the version of Revan seen in Kevin Smets' Loganverse KotOR trilogy. I have added him in with Kevin's permission, and he was genuinely thrilled about his character being used in a Hyperdimension Neptunia fanfic of this scope. This won't be the last we see of Logan, though. He will return later in the story.
As the chapter was already getting too long, I have left it at another cliffhanger, leading into an homage of The Empire Strikes Back. As you might've guessed, Balmorra and Quesh were omitted from the story to make room for this part. Balmorra was already referenced in the previous chapter, and I don't intend to leave Quesh out of the loop either. In order to keep Doc in the story, he was moved to Hoth alongside Sergeant Rusk.
Looks like that's all. Cya later.