Squadrons of TIE interceptors flew in front of the bridge, their four-pointed solar panels cutting the void. Regular TIE fighters could not match the formation, left behind as the interceptors glided forward.

"181st Fighter Wing, the command authorise fire on the opposing force", The controller voiced into the comlink on Firmus's sign.

"This is Luitenet Soontir Fel of the 181st Fighter Wing. Transmission received, open fire on the targets". The voice responded.

Green flashed the dark, sleek panels of the new interceptors, six laser cannons on each craft blasting on the practice droids. Only some landed a hit, the green bolt of plasma melting open their thin armour, shattering them into ashes of spitfires. The debris left blue pebbles as they collided with the hull shield of the Executor.

Firmus shook his head in dashed hopes. Lord Vader was adamant in developing a faster starfighter, but he did not seem to know most were not as gifted as the Jedi. Even investing most of the capacity in advanced targeting computers, only a few could target the enemy at such a speed.

The formation of the practice droids circled to take the rear of the interceptors. They never made it. The interceptors made a far turn, and as the droids made another turn to hunt the interceptors, to Firmus's surprise, the Regular TIE squadrons that lagged behind thrust the void through, now poised to flank the targets. The droid programming seemed not sure whether to keep chasing the flight of interceptors or to engage the new targets flanking them.

Green flashed again, then again. The crossfire ravaged the formation of the targets until they broke, the droids falling like meteors catching fire. The flights broke into squadrons, diving into their prey like ravenous predators.

"This is 181st Squadron, completed simulation. Returning to hanger", the transmitter mumbled.

"It seems the target computers are finally worth it, captain", lieutenant Sheckil said behind him, standing with a gloated look on his face.

"The success of this demonstration only owes the brilliant tactics of lieutenant Fel", Firmus answered flatly. "I see Regular TIE squadrons recording more hits than the interceptors".

"You still think a shielding system is worth the speed, Captain Piett"? The younger lieutenant asked. "I see this manoeuvre today owes the speed of the interceptors".

"Yes, lieutenant Fel used the interceptors as bait and struck with regular TIE fighters. They were exposed in the line of fire more than once". Firmus snapped. "If it was a real battle, our losses far higher than you expect".

"I do not wish to stand against you, captain, but to be honest, sir, I can't understand why you are so adamant in preserving the life of your unworthy pilots". The lieutenant said. "A competent one would survive an engagement without shields or protection".

"That is what the Academy taught you", Firmus bitterly replied before he turned to the young man. "A real battle is none like this. The enemy will not be cruising on their course as we manoeuvre. Our pilots would panic, and formations will break after minutes. When a dogfight occurs, an ace would be killed as simply as a raw recruit. When our men know the craft they are fighting in could stand an unfortunate hit, they will operate more bravely. They will be far more competent over time if they do not die from the battlefield so much. We will worry less about losing most of our starfighters in a single battle during a long campaign".

"That is nonsense", Ozzel interrupted. "I do not rely on old tactics depending on frivolous starfighters on a battle. I will destroy the enemy directly with turbolasers and ion cannons, just as a true Imperial man should". Despite his rumbling voice, Firmus found his speech so immature that it was amusing.

"I understand, Admiral Ozzel, but I believe we do need to invest in starfighters to intercept enemy bombers. There are reports the Rebels acquired hundreds of Y-wings and B-wings". Firmus said as if he was an instructor speaking to cadets.

"With this Super Star Destroyer under my command, I am the ultimate power in the universe. Let those pathetic Rebels piss in the sight of my fleet. None will dare challenge me".

"Lord Vader has insisted on the significance of starfighter superiority. He personally approved and supervised this project. I see it unwise to speak against him". Firmus sighed. Ozzel indeed possessed the ability to make others talk like imbeciles as he was. Now he glared at Firmus with an irritating look. "I am merely warning you to be careful, Admiral Ozzel. There are many ears to hear".

"Ha", the Admiral groaned on his remark. "You have become a real politician, Piett". He continued to bark. "You are not in a position to counsel me. You are as ignorant as the worthless planet you came upon, and I don't regard from your sort".

Firmus swallowed a gulp, his eyes narrowing. Ozzel's insult was not a novelty, but it never failed in enraging him. He always wondered why Lord Vader has kept him as the commander of the Executor. There were other competent Admirals, Blitzer Harrsk, Amaise Griff, or even some amongst the captains, far able and eager to prove himself to the Emperor Regent. He even dreamed he would fit the place better than most ...

He sighed again, this time swallowing it. This thought was not productive. Firmus requesting to leave by way of excuse that he had to report to Lord Vader. Retreating to his office, he felt sympathy as Sheckil had to continue listening to Ozzel's babbling.

A familiar face greeted him. Gherant, his aide officer, was on the seat in front of a cold, grey desk mounted by datapads, all regarding the security details of the Super Star Destroyer. Then he noticed a man obese, thinning hair on his bulging jaw and huge double chins. His thick lips were made to a generous smile, the eyes burrowed in his smized face.

"Captain Piett, you have a visitor. Colonel Evir Derricote of the 181st squadron requested a meeting". Gherant stated.

"Lord Piett", the fat man offered his hand. "Lieutenant Gherant had been a good company of mine during your absence". When Piett glared at him with a dazed face, he continued. "I heard you are an esteemed young officer. It will be an honour if I have the opportunity to invite you to my little greenhouse down there on the Imperial Centre".

"Colonel Derricote", Firmus snapped to attention and saluted. "You praise me too much, sir. I am a mere captain serving the Empire, no lord of any kind".

The Colonel let out a hearty laugh, so loud to distract Gherant from his jobs for a moment. Piett gazed at him in a query, his hand still on his brows.

"I am sure you will be a Lord soon, Captain Piett. It is no secret you have connections to the hierarchy. You have made quite a reputation serving Lord Vader".

"May I ask you the purpose of your visit, sir"? Firmus asked. He never liked flattering, useless words.

"Oh, always to the point, aren't you"? Derricote laughed again. "Then so be it. I ask you not to report today's drill to Lord Vader".

Firmus's face turned to a frown immediately, his wondering burning to anger. This was the man of a sort like Ozzel, who he could not despise more.

"I do not understand, Colonel, you will also be rewarded by the improvement of your Wing. The tactical genius your subordinates have shown on the drill was fascinating. I am sure Lord Vader would be pleased". Firmus said as indifferently as he could, not trying to grit his teeth as he spoke.

"I do not want Soontir to dedicate everything he has to official matters. After all, he is a young and able man".

"Lord Vader wouldn't be gratified to hear a capable officer being wasted. He wishes to grant fair opportunities for all". Firmus snapped.

"If you report this drill, his lordship will keep an eye on Soontir, as you said. To be honest, he does not have a bright mind or a strong nerve like you. He is just a common flyboy eager to fly around".

"Is it so, Colonel Derricote"? Firmus asked, his voice low, bringing his lips to a strict line, glaring at his eyes, but the Colonel seemed not to be intimidated.

"He will not endure all the quarrels and disputes, or whatever is going on down there", he gestured towards the surface of the great ecumenopolis. "You will know that better yourself".

"I believe it is his choice to meddle in political theatres or not". Firmus said defiantly.

"I do envy the talent of young officers like him or you. Brave, unfearing, and gallant. I am merely an ageing man in my little garden. When someone bribes me, I fear what they would do to me if I reject them. I know you won't be persuaded by credits or compromise with fear". He muttered before he turned to leave. "If you don't believe in my intentions, You can go visit Soontir yourself and speak him of this. I bid you a good evening, Piett".

Piett snorted at his gall as he left. A sly man indeed. He must have threatened lieutenant Fel in advance, and it was clever for him not to bring the lieutenant with him, managing to trick Firmus into falsely believe that he would speak of his free will. Firmus thanked himself that he was hardened enough to see through his lies.

The surprise visit was not a welcome one, indeed. 'Fools', Hatred was swirling inside, for Derricote, for Ozzel, and for all the smug nerf-herders holding onto their ranks so dearly.

"What will you do, sir"? Gherant asked. His voice was alarmed, probably by the teeth clenching out of Firmus's tightly clenched lips.

"I am reporting this to Lord Vader". Piett answered. "Not only the drill on today but also this conversation we had. I do not keep secrets from his Lordship".

"Don't you think you should see lieutenant Fel first to understand this ... situation, sir"? Gherant suggested a worried look on his face.

"If it is necessary, Lord Vader would see Fel himself and judge matters himself". Firmus replied after a moment of musing. "It is not my place to judge information would benefit him or not. Inform his lordship I will report to him directly as soon as possible". He certainly wished to see Colonel Derricote be punished for his deceit, rushing out of his chamber.

—✥—

On the tower overlooking the Imperial district, the heart of Coruscant, a large round table of glowing marble has been built and covered with a golden cloth. Lord Vader was on the highest seat in his heavy crimson and dark garments.

Firmus was left in the gates as the assistant left with the guards. He did not expect to attend the cabinet meeting rather than to be ordered to wait outside.

Vader's right was occupied by rows of Ministers, bureaucrats and retainers owing him, facing the rows of the Emperor's former advisors in their bizarre garments and tall hats.

General Tagge, the High Commander of the Imperial Army, only jeered Firmus with his eyes. On his left were Pitina Mar-Mas Voor, the Minister of Propaganda. Voor has been Minister by Emperor Palpatine, but apparently, she now served Lord Vader. Her lips stained dark rose was made to a straight line, but whenever her keen eyes see an opportunity, they would part to chant zealous songs praising Lord Vader or flattering, appealing sentences. Her husband passed away only weeks ago, found hanging with his own cummerbund. Firmus didn't know much of him, but the rumours of his imminent betrayal against Lord Vader were widespread, with condiments suggesting Lord Starkiller would personally oversee his interrogation. No doubt he committed suicide. Firmus would contemplate the choice when on the same fate.

Voor's garments were as loud as ever, her silver hair made to a bun, a large, sumptuous golden headpiece holding them together. She never wore the funeral black to mourn the dead, but the Chancellor did. She was always clad in black from head to foot, without a single speck of colour about her anywhere. The only colour she had were the list of her dress, finished with heavy gold cloth, matching her blazing eyes in the same colour, the eyes that made Firmus shiver. He could still recall the same eyes glaring on Dantooine, the face riddled with blood.

He never heard of her before, but soon he heard of her everywhere. Lord Vader became a hero to rescue the beautiful ex-Senator of Naboo, as the holonet liked to depict. The two guards flanking her in long, dark blue capes were present, armed with force pikes, an ever-reminder of the prestige she held.

Firmus stood on the doorways, abashed and daunted. He was never a man of politics or governance, while all the other here was. The report of his petty dispute did not seem to match the weight in the council.

"What news of the war"? Lord Vader asked.

"The last known location of the Rebel fleet was between Ord Trasi and Morak. Our ground troops have reclaimed Mygeeto. Lord Starkiller believes the Rebels are now routing. He has sent reports he is planning to chase them down, my lord". Director Yularen answered.

"What news of war"? Lord Vader asked again, and silence lingered. He did not raise his voice, yet Firmus could see the anger in the gold of his eyes.

"The Imperial Security Bureau has millions of agents across the Galaxy. Do you mean to tell me that none of you has any notion of where their base or their fleet is"? He snapped.

"We are trying, my lord", Yularen said, and "Try harder", Was what answer he got.

"What other matters require my attention"? Lord Vader said.

Ardus Kaine leaned forward at his command. He was portly and balding, with a close-cropped grey whisker that followed the line of his cramped jaw. As the Minister of Commerce, he owned a reputation as a capable bureaucrat. "Lord Vader, now that the Rebels have been driven out of the Albarrio sector, the first order of business is to restore commercial security between the systems. Our fleets must be realigned to defensive assignments, guard trade routes and systems".

"Major junctions on trade routes are already heavily guarded than ever", Admiral Motti hissed. "More than a thousand Star Destroyers are spent in securing no more than the Perlemian Trade Route on your request, Kaine. Star Destroyers that could be made into a larger fleet to match the Rebels".

"We have already crushed the Rebels with only a few dozen ships, Admiral. It is unnecessary to mobilise hundreds of Star Destroyers to repress a rebellion". Kaine glowered Tarkin with suspicion.

"I see it hard to believe", Tagge grumbled. "Lord Starkiller has vastly underestimated the cohesion of the Rebel forces. This is no common insurgence. This is a well organised and trained rebellion, poised to overthrow us". Though holding a reputation of always foreseeing the worst, Firmus could not disagree with him this time. The Rebel fortress on Dantooine was not a simple hideout but a fortified military base for permanent use.

"No Star Destroyers will last if we fail to secure trade routes. Tibana gases and durasteel prices are already inflating", Kaine said, now turning to Lord Vader. "My Lord, a star destroyer could pin any raiding fleet before reinforcements could arrive. We must reform our forces and spend more Star Destroyers on defensive operations".

Lord Vader seemed to dismiss Kaine's plea, only asking abruptly, "Are there inflations of war supplies"?

"Yes, apparently, my lord", Kaine muttered. "Senator Vaspar has inspected the situations and instructed me of the anomaly. I have agreed in sparing him more time to oversee the investigations".

"The news has not arrived in my office", Lord Vader said, his eyes studying the Minister of Commerce.

"Maybe the investigations require more time", Kaine said. "I will inform Senator Vaspar to work in haste".

"No, inform him to attend me by tomorrow morning", Lord Vader declined.

"Lord Vader, is it necessary ..."? Kaine began to ask, but Voor dismissed his concerns before Lord Vader could.

"Is it true about the rumours of Senators supporting the rebellion"? Her hefty glares turned to the Chancellor. "I heard the entire Calamari system has rebelled against us".

"There are words Ackbar is currently leading the Calamari fleet". Yularen said. "There are also words he returned to his home planet to take his former position as a royal guard". He did not mutter a word about the Senators.

"It is a shame you lost that slave of yours, Tarkin". Motti said. Firmus could not tell if it was a word of flattery or a mockery.

"That one was useless". Tarkin replied, ever so calmly. "If he did not defect, I would have made him flayed for an example of impudence. Since he fled, he will be punished accordingly, eventually. How are we going to find him out is on the hands of Vader". His shimmering grey eyes turned. "Are there any wise schemes of yours, Vader"?

"There is". Vader commanded. "Send an emissary to the Calamari King. Ensure him the segregation laws will be abolished, and his planet would be guaranteed autonomy. Their system will even be granted a seat on the Senate".

"Lord Vader, rewarding defiance with mercy will lessen our authority", Sate Pestage muttered, astounded. "It contradicts the Tarkin Doctrine". The words were a little less than impudence as his crude face beneath a flat velvet hat looked between the Emperor Regent and the Grand Moff.

"With Calamari fleet and generals gone, the Rebels lack a force to battle us. If one abandons their cause, distrust and disorientation will crumble them without a fight". The Emperor Regent replied calmly. "If you can not comply with my orders, there is a more suitable one to execute it". Pestage parched in Vader's sight as the cold blue eyes lanced through him.

"I will deliver the detailed terms for an armistice within an hour". Lord Vader ordered, this time looking at the Chancellor. "Select a suitable person for an ambassador by then".

When he got a nod of approval, he dismissed the cabinet with a single word, "leave".

Ever the soul of obedience, everyone rose to depart, and Firmus stood in the corner, parting the way for the cabinet. The Chancellor enclosed by her guards swept past Firmus, a sweet, exotic scent assailing his nose.

When she stepped out of the gates, Tarkin stood firmly from his seat, marching to the Emperor Regent. The floors checked gold and white rang clear as his boots stepped on it. He did not relent until their frames as stern as refined durasteel were mere inches away, Lord Vader still in his place with Tarkin glaring down on him. Minister Voor turned at the gates, her keen, sharp eyes passing Firmus to the Grand Moff.

"Fear is the way to ensure security in the Galaxy, and the only way the Emperor approved, Vader". Tarkin's voice was slow and low, the drab shimmers lacing on the Emperor Regent. Vader abruptly stood to meet them. And when they did, Tarkin's grey eyes turned to a frown so familiar to Firmus.

In the Imperial academy, many whispered Tarkin had affairs with the young cadet, Daala. Some foolish than most jested that Daala took the lead, only seventeen that time. Their screams were soon broadcasted over the academy, sealed in an environmental suit and ejected into orbit over a planet, the bodies burning to ash. It was when Tarkin's frown turned to a faint smile as all the cadets turned pale in the assembly. Firmus could never forget that glimpse of smugness and satisfaction on his brows that day. Once, Firmus thought he has been ruthless and cold-hearted enough to endure anything, but not after that day.

"We are ruling through the fear of arms rather than through arms itself. We should use our limited strengths wisely to cow tens of thousands of worlds. When we show softness, that is when we would fall".

"We must think in long terms, Governor Tarkin", Voor interrupted. "An oppressive and inequitable society only invites a rebellion. Even if we do quell down one, the other will rise until we fall. We should make the economy prosper, readopt welfare systems. When the people content, we would not have to enforce our rules, but they would embrace them. Our fleets and arms will be regarded as their saviours and protectors, not as their oppressors. We must show our people that we are striving to protect them and their properties against the risks looming in the galaxy".

Tarkin stood still as Voor finished her speech, not taking a glimpse at her for once. "An astronomical symbol of power will eventually ensure order in the Galaxy".

"The project Stardust failed". Lord Vader said. "Trillions of credits were wasted on the project. Credits that could be spent otherwise".

The sense of smugness flashed on Tarkin's face for an instant on his word. Vader seemed oblivious of the fact, pleased by his dismissal as the old man stepped out of the chamber, a victorious thin smile on his sly, dry face.

When he left, Vader dismissed Voor with a sway of his hand, walking to the gates before abruptly halting in front of him.

"What is it"? Lord Vader finally said. His exhausted gaze still gave a shiver down his spine.

"My Lord, there was a demonstration of flight tactics on the Executor". Firmus said with a gulp. "Lieutenant Fel of the 181st has proved himself as a brilliant tactician and an able pilot, sir". Words gushed out of his mouth.

"Is it so"? He replied. "You could have included in the official records for me to see".

"Colonel Derricote did not wish it to be reported to you, my Lord. I deem an oral report will be far ... secure, sir".

"Were the demonstrations a success"? Lord Vader only asked.

"Yes, sir". Firmus said. "I have ordered to preserve the footage and records. I will make sure it will be transferred to your office".

Firmus was not sure whether to leave or not, but he turned to the door when the lordship did not answer. Then Lord Vader said on his back. "Those matters do not require your attention anymore".

His words struck like lightning. Firmus held his breath in disbelief and fraught, thousands of thoughts riddling in his head. It was as if when he ran out of TIE fighters during an engagement with pirates, Ion torpedoes bashing the unprotected hulls. Was the clout Colonel Dericotte had exceeded his thought? He was forced to admit it was a blunder to underestimate the confidence and gall he had.

A grin passed on the Lord's lips, more of an amusement than a delight, as the cold blue eyes studied him. "You will escort and safeguard the ambassador to Mon Calamari". Lord Vader commanded. He seemed to enjoy the confusion, relief and apprehension flying inside the lieutenant's head if he was able to enjoy anything.

"You are also responsible for the navigation and security of the vessel. Take the Perelemian Trade route and depart from Quermia to take the lane towards the Calamari system". Lord Vader ordered plainly as if the map of the Galaxy was in front of them. "A hyperspace route unknown to most is installed on the starship as a reserve".

Firmus frowned. Why would they need a hyperspace route for reserve? "When this mission goes wrong, there must be means to evacuate". It was not the first time Lord Vader seemed to read through his thoughts, and every time Firmus felt abashed as if he was stripped bare in his mind.

"It is not all. A simple pilot is worth that task. You will examine and report whatever military asset, shipyards, planet defences you see. If possible, you will spy on their campaign plans, fund states, and supply routes. This should not be uncovered by anyone. You will have to deceive the ambassador or other personnel if need be. You will report me within two standard hours in hangar one of tower seventy-eight".

Lord Vader then moved forward, leaving Firmus in the large, vacant hall.

"One last thing", he said at the door. "You will bring your nephew on this assignment. See that he is ready to serve the Empire".

Firmus stood alone in the chamber for a long while after his lordship was gone.

His nephew named Sarkli was his only surviving family from the dreadful siege of Axxila and their refugee life on Halmad. Though Firmus did the best he could offer for him by arranging him to be a cadet in the Imperial Academy, there was little affection left between him and his stubborn yet simple nephew. Maybe if he wasn't one of his family, he was the type of people he will resent. Firmus never enjoyed thinking of him, let alone thinking of taking him to an assignment that will break or make his career.

—✥—

The hanger was cold with Coruscant brisk. Lord Vader was already there, his face covered with thick hoods and capes. Rows of stormtroopers worth a platoon were behind him, with two pilots in grey Imperial uniforms. Firmus wasn't sure the cold bothered Lord Vader. His flesh seemed to be made of hard durasteel and heart of phrik.

His nephew was there in his uniform, maybe as tall as Lord Vader and certainly far brawny. Firmus snapped to attention, standing as he was supposed to, and the stormtroopers and pilots replied the same in return. His nephew did not. In annoyance assured by a glimpse of concern, he looked at Lord Vader, but he was not looking at them, waving his hand to dismiss their perfunctory, seemingly subconsciously.

Lord Vader's gaze was on a flock of guards in blue, their pikes like thorns on bushes, approached them. As they parted to make way, the Chancellor stood with the Vice-Chair in a tidy dress and headpiece, and Firmus knew who the ambassador was. Beyond her was two creatures in grey and brown cloaks.

Firmus tensed as he slipped to his place, only now realising the weight this task was bearing. He was to escort the second of the Senate while performing a secret assignment for Lord Vader. When he snapped to attention again, he saw the Chancellor's hard eyes turning to a frown. Lord Vader's eyes flecked gold in the dark. The air was now shivering cold, and he could feel retched nausea arousing from within his guts.

"Perhaps I should have told you I will not approve sending a Jedi as my representative". He said in a voice full of threat. The cloaks flapped whenever the wind gusted, and there shined their lightsabers.

"They are no representative of yours. You have been informed Sache is appointed as the ambassador. They are guards to ensure the safety of the Vice-Chair heading to hostile space".

Vader was hardly listening, his eyes looking between the two Jedi and the Chancellor's guards. The cold was unbearable, but instead of being dazzled like his simple nephew, Firmus quietly brought his hand to his blaster beneath the jacket. He backed up as the familiar grain of cold metal met his hands when he saw one of the Jedi, the taller one's paw, was on his lightsaber, clipped to his belt.

He took more steps back. There was no one in the hangar beside them, and he could feel the malice in the eyes of the Jedi. He knew Jedi could be fast. Would he draw his blaster before he met the lightsaber? Would Lord Vader be able to take the two of them? Should he aim for the Chancellor's guards instead? When should he order the men to open fire? Beads of sweat dampened the short hair underneath the cap.

But then, 'No', He thought. The Chancellor and their Vice-Chair would not be here if they were to commit treason. He flashed a look on the Emperor Regent. Lord Vader was unarmed, but there was no fear in him in the slightest as he stood his ground. One of Lord Vader's hands, both fully covered with dark leather gloves, slowly stretched straight in front of him.

Gherant has once told Firmus the reason Lord Vader did not carry a lightsaber. He did not need it to duel. Some said he could choke the air out of his foes, and some said he could make lightning out of thin air. Firmus did not find it intriguing to be a witness of all the rumours.

Nothing happened.

The hand was caught by another, seized so hard the veins swelled out of its thin, pale skin. "I have not brought them to kill you", A hoarse voice whispered. "Lady Tur-Mukan has been my faithful friend for years. I trust she will not commit rash actions".

Vader seemed as startled as Firmus himself. None dared to touch the Emperor Regent, and he never thought who was unwise enough to attempt it would ever live.

"Etain, we should not forget courtesies", she said, shaking Lord Vader's hand out of her grip.

One of the Jedi, the smaller one, stepped forward, pulling her cloak down. Her stubborn face was made to a cautious frown, her hair shining oddly with streaks of light brown, gold and red. When she closed in, he saw her eyes swelled red as if they were in tears. Vader glanced at the young woman with a faint huff.

"Lord ... Vader", She said with a quivering sound, so worming it felt piteous. "It is - honoured to meet you. I am under service of her excellency ... and the Empire", she babbled.

A glimpse of amusement spread on the lips of Lord Vader as the young Jedi shrivelled, daunted. Then his eyes laid on the tall Iktotchi Jedi with red-brown skin. Two large, curved horns were protruding down from his head. The right one broke in half in the curve gave space to his fiery eyes to glare on everyone. He did not bend. Lord Vader gazed at him for a long time before he turned as if he knew what was necessary before he turned to the soldiers.

"The fate of the Empire will be decided in the next few months". Vader said. "Your task is paramount in preserving the Empire, the order in the Galaxy. When you fail, and when the Rebels triumph, everything you strived for will fall. Piracy, slavery, corruption and disorder will rampage the Galaxy once again. Make it does not happen". The Chancellor only embraced the Vice-Chair lightly to wish a success.

"All of you will be temporarily under the direct command of Captain Piett". Lord Vader continued before he commanded, "Depart".

The stormtroopers all snapped to attention, then marched into the vessel in rows behind the ambassador. When Piett saluted to the lordship, he answered with a simple nod.