Memory of the Apprentice

by NoFear Phantom

The clone wars and Time travel. Guess who? It Galen, the Sith assassin. He has only the barest of memory and has awoken on the planet of Christophsis. Should he really care about the war? No. Should he care about the memories he has lost? Yes. (Starts episode 216, goes into the movie, then into the series)

8. The Crystal Mine: Fault

I don't own Star wars, it belongs to lucasarts, George lucas and Disney

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Author's note: I haven't quit. I have further notes below.

My writing still isn't perfect, I've made mistakes but I think I have improved.

Also, I still don't have a beta. And I'll probably re-upload and update to correct mistakes I've made.

Enjoy!

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Chapter 8: The Crystal Mines: Fault

General Whorm Loathsom

Weeks Ago. Chaleydonia Capital City, Christophsis.

Humiliation. Ever since that arrogant, boy of a Jedi Starkiller had appeared from thin air. Air so thin he may as well have slipped from hyperspace. He had been humiliated, made a joke off in front of the planet, its people and his enemies. They weren't even near the quality or quantity of his forces yet had undermined him to the point of challenging his rule. Without the Republic's forces! Where had this thorn stabbing into his side come from? Although thinking about it, the origins of the rogue Jedi sabotaging and undermining his efforts was near pointless because he was here and only killing him would change that.

No one on Christophsis knew who he was and he had simply been assumed to be one of nameless Jedi fighting in the clone wars. Or the assumption being that he was a Jedi that had refused to fight and just so happen to get caught up in it. It was wide spread enough for some people (connected to the republic) to know some Jedi refused to partake in the war.

The masses, the public, the people, the ignorant sheep that dammed Jedi if the they took part in the clone war and damned Jedi if they did not partake. All the talk about Jedi regardless of whether it was positive or negative.

Jedi.

Loathsom shook his head in disgust.

The mere concept was...horrifically trivial to the universe...to him...when it should be horrifically terrifying.

It was like people had said the word so many times that it had lost all meaning and respect. Hell he had heard it once before the clone wars and forgotten about it all the same. As any race living in the outer rims.

Say it once and some knew they were that religious fanatics known to sway the republic through parlour tricks, promises of salvation and as it so happens, elite, combat trained monks that protect, serve and enforce their belief. Which somehow tied to the Republic or ruling class citizens. Some "respectful" peacekeepers controlling so much. Same as any religion worshipping a non-existent god or otherworldly being. Of course the public pissed and shit on the mental-fragility and brainwashing cult as being such nonsense for the weak to cling to and the powerful to use. The public were smarter than that. There were no mysteries of the universe that couldn't be explained or measured or reasoned or understood or comprehended!

Even the unknown regions were just that. Unknown but not supernatural. Fear drives one to paranoia, which drives to rage, which when calmed drives to reason, which drives to understanding which drives to clarity. And intern...stability. Rinse and repeat and it became trivial, as it were.

There was nothing to note or fear of these Jedi. They believed in nonsense. As if some universal power connecting all things could be divided into 2 categories. Good and evil, dark and light, a real hatchling, newborn comprehension of the world. Childish.

Growing up in the universe, everything was more complex than that. A shade of grey that made sense stabled the populous.

At least that was what Loathsome thought before meeting Dooku? Dooku for all his mind games always assured Loathsom that despite the fact Jedi were skilled, they weren't perfect, weren't immortal and weren't capable of miracles. Loathsom believed him, when it came to politics or business based hard decisions Dooku never preached his teachings as Jedi. Perhaps rarely mentioning it but never brought up as a topic during those moments. His force magic only became apparent when the clone wars started too. But even knowing it himself, many separatists didn't believe it. Loathsom didn't even believe it was happening.

So he assumed like the masses, the public, the people, the ignorant sheep, that the Jedi were just religious nuts worming their way into a political war for some pathetic gain. Actually protecting the people? As if Loathsom would believe such nonsense. They were normal people on a pedestal with more power than anyone else, same as any leader or system of control.

Why else would he have no knowledge of Jedi capabilities assuming that they are just elite soldiers?

Why else would he fight a war without this knowledge?

Why else would he agree with Dooku to fight?

Why would he if he thought that Dooku's choking trick was some technology or trick he was unaware of. Rather that believing that his flesh was actually being constrained cutting off air through mystical energies?

Why else would he lock Galen Starkiller with thick, heavy, NORMAL, chains that even Wookies and Trandoshans couldn't break?

But then why, when he watched Galen's escape on the security footage was lightning arcing of his body? How was he dodging the blaster fire as if knowing where they were going? How could he overwhelm droids, made of metal, with bare flesh?

He had nothing on him when brought in, he had nothing in his body during the scanning procedure. No weapons, no tools. Just himself. Oh, a few interesting cybernetic that he was still looking into but that wasn't uncommon.

It couldn't be real. But it was so blatantly...wait, it was blatantly obvious. Blatantly obvious that Jedi belief was...real. It is real? That they could influence the universe with thoughts and feelings manifested into reality through this...force? Mystic energy? Connected to everything? Influencing and guiding the universe?

It wasn't just Starkiller, or even Senator Organa that he and Trench were fighting. The force was an ACTUAL player and piece on the board.

Why? Why? Why? Why?

WHY?

Why didn't he consider it real? Why didn't he...until now?

A claustrophobic, chill added with a cold sweat overcame Loathsom thinking about it. He, he wasn't blind, couldn't be...he was a General. Competent. Responsible. Leader. He was...missing something?

Gravely missing something? It had been slow but since Starkillers arrival. Whatever hold this "force" had on him and everything had become clear. When it should have been clear to begin with.

As if his mind was...clouded...the fog was...clearing...and Jedi they...but?...But!...Dooku?...could he hav-?

Loathsom took a sip of tea trying to calm his nerves. Paranoia now would drive him to desperation and anger, and he couldn't afford such luxuries. A bigger game was being played.

In front Loathsom was the data sources collected and presented to CIS by Dooku as a means of countering Jedi forces. He had passably read small details in the past and was aware that less than 15% of the Separatist had read the information source. Alot of it was laughed off by the Separatist and treated as nonsense, even by the peace loving separatists like Mina Bonteri. Added to fact that the Jedi had attacked Genosis with 200 Jedi and less than 50 had survived made them seem even less threatening.

But reading through what was in the data, knowing that this could not be the full limits of the Jedi, Loathsom could assume that there would be extreme cases of these listed abilities.

He needed to be ready. He needed to survive it. Because he knew, despite all his actions, he wouldn't make it. Not against something so, unknown. He needed weapons, tools of specific, discriminate and overwhelming mechanics to fight against this enemy but he needed to lie low too. For reading as much as he could about the Jedi, rarely had they acted so aggressively in the past 1000 years. Guessing why though, Loathsom could only assume that there was an equal threat, something in the background, no doubt Dooku was aware and the majority of the Separatist were not.

Loathsom needed time, he needed to collect and consult his forces, resources and allies. He needed to plan, reach out to others, take aggressive actions and complete his desires else it would spell his doom. He had hidden forces, new allies, experimental augmentation and willing subjects that needed to be brought to light else he would fail before getting anywhere. He would not wait as the Separatist ordered. That was a counter-active move no doubt shedding light as to how little they cared or were aware of the threat against Loathsom and themselves. Regardless as to how evident it was, he was very much on the outside of the separatists and alone to face the republic.

First, he had to plan Galen Starkiller's death. Nothing short of a very, very coordinated, manipulated and violently executed attack would work. Else he would fall before even being considered a piece of this unknown game.

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Galen Starkiller

Crystal Mining Excavation Site 27. Phictamemor Village Mine District, Christophsis

It was always dark in these mines, even with the artificial lights that littered the large enclosed, crystal space. It was not the easiest to defend location either because of that reason too. The area way just large enough that it could hid and coordinate attacks from the blind spots and shadowed areas from the ever, stationary folding bends, faulted cliffs of the landscapes and climbing, titanic crystal stalagmites. Add the mining machinery, stockpiles of crystal dust, and industrial-military grade integrated buildings / bunkers any enemies would have plenty of cover. If they were intelligent and could think out an attack pattern or form with these in mind.

Luckily they could assume that the enemy was unaware of their presence anyway meaning they weren't going to come looking and because they were droids they weren't going to do anything overly intelligent or think of a strategy. If they did know by some chance they were there, they wouldn't attack anyway. This location was a bunker full of the hostages that they were guarding. What cover there was could be implemented by the droids whenever necessary, but their definition of necessary was only after an aggressive attack was already underway.

Miners and machine operators that had tried to escape and had been working for the excavation crews deeper in the mine were what made up the majority of hostages. But the recent CMPs prisoners that arrived from the Semditen shipyards were an annoyance to the droid already stretched thin.

Their annoyance did really make sense. Never the less the B1 droid didn't question it. One however did wonder though as it turned to its partner, both of them on watch duty.

"Hey."

"Yer."

"You ever wonder—AH!"

"Enem-"

The B1 droids never stood a chance their heads were blown off as the excavated underground mine erupted in blaster fire. The B1s had a small force ranging from about 30 to 40 which was appropriate for the task at hand. If their defense had been planned to defend against clones, and only clones.

Galen after watching Heart and Quickstep nail those sniper shots, wasted no time tightening the rifle given to him by Reload onto to his back by its strap and dashing in a distorted blurr. He didn't bother with the first few droids as he sped past them, engaging the droids in the centre and rear.

"ene-AH!"

"We're breached! Open f-".

Ignoring the pleas of the artificials, his clone troopers fired from their hidden positions as Galen wasted no time. The curved, black and white hilt on Galen's hip flew to his palm as if possessed and ignited in a white light glowing and very distinctive red that crawled across Galen's frame in the deep dark blue crystal surfaces.

While Galen had no issues wielding the weapon with enough competence to defect and slash the B1 droids he could feel a significant difference. He had realised it before but thought nothing of it. And now he had nasty burn between his hip and stomach for assuming as much. Thankfully his urban explore suit had taken the brunt of the blast and quick bacta patch helped. But it had still gotten through.

Fighting even now he could feel the soft flesh, squeezing on itself, bleeding him through his partially heal wounds. Thank the force for mobile bacta pads, bacta needles, bacta spray and bacta bombs. They made any bandage look pointless. Only side effect was if the flesh was push to move to quickly after then blood, pus and other bodily fluid would leak through the thin membrane of healed skin, minimally of course. So little so that it felt more like an annoyance than a threat.

Never the less, it was a wound he had yet to sustain AND should not have sustained. Asajj's saber hilt was just that different if he couldn't judge how to block and deflect properly.

Comparatively, his lightsaber and her's showed very little similarity in specifications.

His was aged but well looked after. The leather handle inter-wrapping across it for great grip and strength was wore down but still in good shape. Added that its structural integrity under his reverse grip and heavy impact slashes complemented it purpose being designed for forms 1 and 3. Perfect for his styles of heavy, strength offense, heavy force manipulation support and near stationary defense.

Asajj's on the other hand was very, very well looked after practically shining when he got it. The black and white sinking patterns across the handle worked for grip but the curved hook completely changed the style he was used to. Holding it normally resulted in a blade that bent and folded away from the verticality of the grip. Given Galen holding the laser sword in reverse grip was difficult as most times he would have to grip it from outside the curve rather than the inside as designed or hold the hilts end closest to the emitting energy.

Using reverse grip was never a problem until now.

It was a dueling blade, made for 1v1 duels and quick, swift motions that could get in quick to finish an enemy with light counters and very quick strike movement. Added that it is a 1 of 2 piece set and being of smaller design it was a blade for speed over strength. Therefore it was not for fighting numbers, not for defecting blasters, not for large swings, not for complimenting force incorporated forms and not frontline battles. It held an air of nobility, class and most importantly, mastery of the saber and although Asajj was far from a master level force manipulator, her master Dooku and teacher was renowned for it. And taught her well.

It wasn't impossible but the design explained Asajj's nature, as despite holding a charm of nobility, Asajj's nature as an assassin complemented her skills. Avoiding the cluster, group based battles and focusing on only 1 opponent as an assassin would.

At least he could assume she wasn't one to charge head first towards her enemies. Given her history too, Galen would not expect her to lead the droids on the frontline as he did with clones. Not unless she desperate or excited to fight.

If Galen wanted to wield it effectively he should just grip it with 2 hands. However, he preferred having one hand free of force manipulation as it was his greater strength.

Never the less he wasn't in a position to complain about using someone else's weapons, like a child without their toy forced to make do. He needed to teach himself and wasn't going to get use to it without practice. Unfortunately for the B1s, they were incompetently made, both in terms of programming and mobility, and were perfect fodder to practice on.

The building to integrated into one of the mighty, stalagmite crystal pillars. Complete enclosed, easy to defend but vastly undermanned and vastly unco-ordinated. Blaster fire went of frantically until quiet quickly the droids brought out their big gun growing desperate from the surrounding forces.

Quickstep paled under his helmet, a few hundred meters away on cliff top staring down at the complex. "Oh no. Oh Karabas. They got a AAT. A Tank!" The clone panicked.

"Relax." Captain Heart said laying prone with Quickstep and Jam, sniping from the Eastside cliff. "Private Seagate! Relocate from the Northside, hit it hard while its focused on us. Immediately after find cover." Heart's orders were received as Seagate followed by Livid, Argo and Opy appeared from the North flanking the AAT. Wasting no time while running for cover Opy begun spraying the AAT with rapid rounds from his chain blaster with Seatgate, Argo and Livid following suit.

The AAT stopped moving for Captain Heart's Squad to the eastside cliff and instead started turning the main cannon to Seagate's squad north. Said Northern squad had already quickly rushed for cover as ordered. Heart wasted no time with reacting to the change. "Galen, south side team to flank the Eastside force's AAT once their facing northeast." Heart coordinated now that all weapons on the AAT were focused in the northern direction.

It was open from behind. While an AAT could easily kill all of them with 1 shot from the main Cannon, they had it out maneuvered. The droids were never quick to adapt, particularly the B1s, meaning that they had a few good solid seconds. More than enough time for Galen's squad to ambush it and slice it open.

At least that was the plan. "I read you. A bit preoccupied." Galen responded getting frustrated with this fencing saber that couldn't maneuver to block crap if the droids were aiming at blasted the things red pole. Having enough, Galen opted for simply blasting a large, heavy impact force push from his palm, completely throwing the B1s into a pile of rag dolls as if smashed by a moving brick wall. "Mason, take everyone and take down that AAT!" Galen barked before raising both hands and raining force lightning in an impressive array across the downed B1s that blocked out much of the view beyond Galen.

Delayed. Only by a few seconds. But seconds felt like eternities in such situations. Why could it never be that easy? "Westside team. How many enemy forces inside?" Heart continued hopefully but realistically knowing they weren't coming to help. They were infiltrating from the quietest location on the westside. They had already broken in from the communications

"Not many. But they rigged corridor turrents on the corners. We're pinned." Hardie respond the sounds of blaster fire evident in the back ground.

Seagate grimanced as he shot at the AAT with twin pistols only to see it fade long before hitting the surface or bounce of the barely visible deflector shield. The next second he divided as far behind cover with his squad as the abandoned crates covering them was blasted into fragments with a red blaze.

"Its deflector shields are holdings." Seagate muttered scrambling on the ground to reposition, familiar with rarely seen AAT with particle-type deflector shields. High velocity shots and standard energy projectiles weren't going to get through any time soon and they by no means had the numbers or blasters to simply overwhelm it. Standard projectiles were unless too due the metal plated surface designed for blaster shots. Meaning this AAT was in fact an assault-vehicle with double type shielding, both deflector shields and armour-plated surface shields. Thankfully, Opy had a high velocity, energy projectile type rocket and not a sharpen projectile type launcher meaning in the energy shield would be stressed by the-

BBBOOOOOMMMMHH!

Before any other order could be given, in a flash, a very quick fraction of second that could almost not be distinguished, a pure thick cascading, blue energy beam slammed into the figure of the AAT. To a clone it could only be compare to the "Falchion" ion composite-beam turbolaser. A composite-beam that was greater and had a larger span than the composite-beam of a "Laaties" single manned turret. The girth, the velocity and the pulling, shredding nature of the beam could drag and obliterate them to meaty mulch if so much as a hand go caught in it.

When it came to mobile projectile composite-beam laser types used by the clones, 3 stood out for overall destructive capability and inability to survive. And they could definitely compare it to the second strongest of the projectiles fired by the "Falchion" assault vehicle. Thankfully, they didn't need to compare it to the number one mobile projectile composite-beam laser type. If a "SHPA" had been fired from such a proximity, the whole AAT, the building behind it and all the hostages, droids and clones in the area would have been disintegrated from resulting erupt of fire and induced electrolysed-plasma vapour. They need at least another 100 metre distance not to be affected by the blast.

But the beam in front of them was not a small thing either way as a shockwave of deafening wind, heat and light made everyone jump back in hesitation as the site of the explosion emitted blue flames before the site went black with scorch. Given the size of the impacting energy force that they felt, they were sure it would obliterate a flesh and blood body or a metal body just as easily. Leaving everyone to assume that it had annihilated the hovering machine. For that fraction of a second before the deafening shockwave revealed the truth.

The fraction before, the clones and Galen could swear the shield had become completely visible in a crystal, transparent blueish green that was bending and folding from the impacting light. Next, the beam erupted losing to the AAT defenses as the shield held the incineration off but fizzled out after causing a major recoil in the shielding points of emission. Crystal ground under all these events flared a scorching blue before turning black and the AAT was blasted from it originally positioned, sailing at an incomprehensible angle given the size of the AAT and unseen by the major majority of clones. Sailing straight into the side of the facility, crashing, shattering, bending from the impacts before laughably falling, smashing into the ground and somehow returning to hovering of the ground.

"What the heck is happening?!" The yellow painted droid captain shouted shaken as he and his crew were near thrown about inside the AAT. Said AAT that crushed itself onto one of droid passengers and had visible cracks large enough to see through.

Having arrived only a second before to witness the explosion Galen swiftly turned his focus on Kristallin effortlessly floating on the spot, humanoid in shape with even long hair sitting unnaturally still on her head, but clearly a transparent shiver in the air like a ghost. She held both hands together in place, palms facing the AAT and clearly the origin point of the beam. No follow up came though.

"Finish it off!" She shouted making no further action.

"Okey Doky." Opy answered already stand with the launcher on his shoulder as it shot of leaving a quickly disappearing trail of blue hazed energy.

The rocket didn't explode on contact instead smash through its already fragile surface remaining. The AAT integrity was long gone as the rocket pierced the metal like an arrow to flesh and erupted from the inside.

SSSCHBANGG!

The explosions of the ruined AAT was unable to seal and contain the wrecked ammunition, fuels and circuits as it ripped itself apart more violently than anyone had intended looking more like a blooming flower made of metal.

But the attacking force wasted no time focusing back on taking the deep mining operations office facility. The second-last large facility they planned to hit occupied by droids. Although, this battle could hardly be called such.

Against armed, co-ordinated, experienced clones troopers backed with a small tempered, force oriented Jedi and a living blaster laser that could fire continuous composite-beams from any point of its body, they never had any hope. The few shouts of confusion and panic that erupted to raise the alarm was brief giving the droids inside the underground facility only a moment to prepare. Now that the AAT was gone all hope was lost on the droids.

The small infiltration team was already inside and had started eliminating B1 droids slowly but silently.

As the droid's defense fell and the firing stopped all that was left was the singed and scorched burns and craters exhaling smoke across the battle field. "Is that all of them?" Nart asked looking around hoping none were hiding. They weren't exactly equipped with sensory tools each because it wasn't standard item for infantry. Regardless they only had one efficient sensory tool for mobile use to begin with and couldn't function with crystals around both absorbing and reflecting its signals. The only useful equipment was the way point function that could be activated from their rifles to helmets which was good but only for knowing where to go. Not to search for enemies.

"Looks like it." Argo confirm kicking a B1 looking for a response.

"I almost feel sorry for them." Nart noted. "Considering how easy that was. Having a jedi and deity was overkill." He laughed to himself. Being part of their squad, he saw the slaughter himself.

"Not a deity. Just a unique species Nart." Galen threw in not about to go through the discussion of the Christophsian worshipping these light beings again. It was already conflicting with those present, let alone introducing Kristallin to the population.

"I still beg to differ. And so did that Tank!" Argo slid in knowing he wasn't going to forget that. The metal flower still smoking in the background.

"I also agree." Kristallin muttered with an all too human and feminine voice. "I'm 4000 years your senior, focus photons to produce high temperature lasers and can travel between planets. What can you do?" Kristallin smugly asked getting skeptic look from Galen wondering if she really did believe she was a deity. Not that he wanted to stress test it.

Nart shrugged unfazed and removed his helmet. Next second he held a familiar flask up to Kristallin. "I can enjoy a buzz. Or an intoxication if we get out of here." He answered taking a swig to the annoyance of Kristallin and Galen.

"Cellular Organisms...Think they know a good time...I'll show you a deity's wrath..." Kristallin mumbled not at all jealous of the water bag enjoying the drink.

Mentally suppressing the ghost like entity's mumbling, Galen dialled in with the others. "Heart. How'd you do?"

"All clear on the northside, no casualties. Jam and Quickstep are good." Heart picked himself of the ground, packing the site up.

"Seagate. Are you clear your clear?"

"Eastside is clear. No casualties. Opy and Livid are good." The gruff clone spurned his pistols into his pocket as his squad checked a few more droids.

"Hardie? Infiltration team?"

"...We're clear." It wasn't Hardie that respond. It was Pell, a rather quiet clone. "No casualties. Cred and Phic are good. Hardie took a shot to the arm though."

"Pell? Will Hardie be able to continue?"

"Not sure." Hardie responded this time. "Armour plating in my forearms shattered and I can still move my fingers. Burned and in pain though." His right arm was scorched and the armour was barely holding together. It was evident the armour had taken the brunt though.

Good. Very good. Very fortunate. They had won with no casualties which was rare but not unwelcomed. Galen was pleased although couldn't take credit. Kristallin had informed them of the location while Captain Heart had coordinated the troops.

Galen was good working on his own but working with others was difficult. Considering the capability gap between Galen and the clones, Galen was often left to defend them. But the clones knew how to coordinate and act as a team that made up for Galen's lack of experience in teamwork as well as their inability to keep up with him.

Looking to Kristallin the same applied. The light being could hold her own against these droids without the clones or the civilians or potential soldiers imprisoned in this facility.

And if the lightbulb was right though, Galen and his team would get a tremendous boost in forces with freed CMPs, taking in mind that there weren't many of clones here to begin with. If combined they could potentially launch a full out attack to secure the kyberr crystal or organize an escape force large enough to ensure they escaped.

Again though it brought the question of why this facility needed to be attacked. Given the short work Kristallin had made of the AAT, what could she sense down there that was so dangerous that she sought help?

She had yet to explain that detail. And truth be told, Galen was sure it was because she didn't trust him or the clones and wanted proof of their conviction. Meaning they would have to destroy the droids if given the chance to prove their intentions.

Really it was killing 3 birds with one stone, that just so happened to benefit both parties. No hostages, additional troops, assurances for Kristallin and Galen's platoon.

Galen turned to the only other leader figures there. "Heart, Mason, can I trust you guys to see to the team and hostages?"

Heart hesitated, his helmet slightly moving to face Kristallin floating above. "Are you and the lightbulb going to talk?" He asked with uncertainty directed at the creature that was a threat.

"I'm standing right here." Kristallin huffed in softer annoyance crossing her transparent arms and holding her faceless head back.

"We know." Mason chimed in hiding his concerns far better than Hearts, not even turning to her.

"Yes. I want to talk personally." Galen said certain that Kristallin would be willing to divulge more information about the force with only him present. Galen's reasoning being that he was genuinely lost to his understanding of it, hopefully appealing to Kristallin's better nature could help. And given her disposition already witnessed, Galen liked his odds.

The clones and Mason however, would push for allegiances first. A predetermined moved for those looking to add to their numbers in war. Galen could definitely sense as much from Heart but Mason was slightly harder to read given his force sensitivity. But could sense both a desire to serve Bail and seek unknown knowledge from Kristallin for his prince's use.

...but Galen needed to deny that to both of them.

"Bring any leaders amongst the hostages. If they are CMPs as Kristallin described there's sure to be a ranked soldiers." Galen ordered positive he could trust such a task to the 2 leaders given the importance of finding out what they would have to work with. Plus it would distract them away from Galen and Kristallin's conversation.

The clone sharpshooter and the Alderran Royal Guard hesitated a moment but complied with a quick yes and a nod.

Despite not having eyes, everyone could sense Kristallin watch the two walk away. "They don't like it when you don't give them a chance to refuse." Kristallin noted as they walked out of ear shot. "But besides individual quarrels, they respect you. And you take to leadership well, despite your uncertainty in the role." Kristallin continued noting having been observing Galen as much as he had her.

"Unwillingness." Galen corrected. "I don't really want to get involved with this war, but all points are dragging me into it. Kind of accepted it at this point." He spoke slowly pulling a frown watching as Kristallin's hologram like matter shifted shape. Smaller and smaller and smaller. And smaller still?

"You changing forms?" Galen stated as a question unsure as to why she was doing so. Now her form was that of a lightbulb, a flickering, speck of blue light that could fit in Galen's palm.

"If there is a natural form I can take, it's this. Not much good for offense or defense but I can move fast enough to disappear. Not that I couldn't do that by manipulating the light around me before but it is significantly easier." She pointed out proudly before pausing and continuing. "Watching you fight, I don't think you're fighting just because you're being dragged into it. I think you can't help but fight. That you feel comfortable fighting more than anything else."

...Ok. She wasn't just observing but examining, breaking down and reasoning the thought process of Galen. Probably the others too. Despite realizing so though, Galen didn't really care or worry knowing he would have to address such topics with someone eventually. He had never found anyone he thought would understand his situation though.

Bail was one but Bail wasn't one to talk about the force and Galen's situation. Hence why he kept referring Galen to see the Jedi Order and council.

Asajj was another potential, even if it was only for a second. But that wasn't going to happen. Again. No way.

But Kristallin? She was knowledgeable, approachable, sensible and trustworthy. Plus, she seemed genuinely concerned and was disconnected from all the fighting. He wouldn't find someone so much like himself anytime soon.

"You're not wrong." Galen again confirmed feeling a little better talking about it. "Regardless once this is done you can help me figure out why I'm here and what woke you up. In order to reach that, this fight wasn't purely to reinforce ourselves but necessary for you to trust us."

It was all a means to multiple ends. Selfish? Yes. Malicious? Yet to be determined. Harming? Droids. They loss little in terms of ethical or moral sacrifice against droids.

And Kristallin knew that. "They are as I promised. With this we can proceed as planned." She starting getting back to the major topic, her trust for the group having grown exponential. "For whatever reason, the dark presence I sensed amongst them below has not left. I could wait and more than likely it will fade before the end of the day. But the large Kyber crystal will be long gone." Kristallin stated.

"If it is fading in and out, and isn't with you..." Galen pointed out looking at Kristallin with accusing eyes only to get a feeling of annoyance from the force. Biologically not female, or any gender, but clearly distinguishable by her personally and choice of appearance. "You're certain it is a transmission that has not ended? You said you tracked its presence distribution but are certain that you'll be discovered before finding and destroying it. But even saying that, it doesn't make sense to remain connected over a long period as a hologram. No one really stays on those things for more than a few minutes. Not a few hours." Galen justified. It made no sense but if true held weight in the intention.

"Whatever is transmitting, whether it be from another planet or a buried holocron, it must be heavily influenced with the workings going on here." Kristallin noted examining Galen on her second concern upon awakening. "Perhaps it has to do with whatever has awoken me and influenced you. A precaution perhaps in facing the unknown." It wasn't like force-sensitives whether they be a living thing or an artifact or location weren't known to react to outside influences. Partially darkside items and location, they were always in wait for something to trigger them.

But Krillalin was certain it wasn't a darkside item. She would have identified it long before the events now transpiring.

When it came to the living force though, if something unnatural was occurred surrounding the force sooner or later someone would notice. And if they didn't know what it was, all they could was obverse and wait. The other extreme was confront the unknown, much Asajj did.

Although Galen was certain Asajj was on the other side of the planet. And that it was unlikely that it was her transmitting to the mine. Possible but Galen didn't sense her intention was to chase him. Not yet. Meaning her little act had probably caught the attention of another, a force-sensitive involved in the war too and most likely tied to Loathsom somehow. Had to be if Loathsom's forces remained underground without harm.

"None of it makes sense but with these hostages secured it should be easier. Loathsom has a knack for collecting prisoners as tools and we probably wouldn't have found them if you hadn't pointed them out. Worse case he would have used them against us when we confront him. Never the less, I feel we are walking towards a waiting enemy." Galen concluded.

The flicker of light bounced as if nodding. "I sense that too. But we cannot let them take the crystal. The hostages would have been an issue for you, right?" she questioned.

Galen frowned. "Of course." He answered as Kristallin went silent. "What?"

"I'm sorry. It's just, appearance wise I didn't think you would care."

"What's that suppose to mean?" Galen snapped looking down at himself. He felt insulted wondering what brought that comment on.

Bobbing as if shrugging, the flicker answered. "You tend to frown alot. Like you're always thinking deeply but don't want to be disturbed. Or spoken to. Or like people in general."

"I've got alot on my mind. I told you my circumstances." Galen quickly answered.

"Memory loss. Far more common in the force then many realise. Never a good sign either." She answered cryptically.

"That's comforting." He mumbled and took a breath before relaxing in defeat. "You spoke about a Jedi named Revan, said that Jedi had forcefully blocked his memory. But there are no Jedi here. In fact, no one knows me."

"No one can come from nowhere. There has to be some evidence to your origins. Unfortunately, it isn't that hard to slip away and hide with the force." Kristallin admitted.

"And you'll help me?" The question was fair but the answer was obvious.

"Your memory loss and my awakening aren't coincidences." She confirmed. "The force surged unnaturally, signalling something had happened. Something big that could be a threat to my position. I must attend to it and ensure it has not compromised my efforts here."

Whatever "attend to" meant, Galen wasn't sure he wanted to be involved. Sure it could help his memory or drag him into another conflict. But now there was feeling of another unknown that Kristallin was withholding. Things seemed to avalanching at this rate if Galen's suspension were true.

He'd weight his options when they got out of the mines.

"Any idea to pinpoint it out?" Galen asked at least curious for a destination of this surge.

"Yes, actually. When it initially happened, figuring out the origin or location was a very small window of opportunity. It happened very quickly, ending before many could sense it." She started basically saying she did have an idea of a location.

"But you have a general location?"

"It was called Tophen to my memory." She answered slowly. "The planet didn't look that different upon my examination but I was only briefly above ground. Multiple mines across the lower regions of the plant have those droids lurking about while miners continue digging. Low grade crystals have their worth as energy fuel." The export of energy crystal types being a major trade for the planet of Christophsis. That and their suppose pilots and flight academies.

"And which direction is that?" Galen asked

"Tophen or the mines?"

...some detity...

"Tophen of course." Galen said frustrated. He hated dragging out information. This was why he let Bail and the council talk amongst themselves. He asked stuff and sometimes he would get an answer. While other times it would get dragged along until Galen snapped or gave up.

"West." Kristallin confirmed immediately sensing as much from Galen.

"West? The western region is under droid control. Great." The west and eastern regions were all untouched territory for the republic forces to handle, not Bail and his resistance. They didn't have the weapons or numbers unless they had time to gather a force which could. But Galen was sure Trench and Loathsom weren't about to let that happen.

There was a pause. "I'll take a guess that you will just fight your way through." She guessed sure that was his answer.

He shrugged unintimidated. "If that's what it takes."

Kristallin dimmed, the light dulling in thought. "You're a strange individual. I can't tell if you enjoy violence or not."

Again, Galen shrugged. "They're droids. Not like I'm killing living flesh."

"I'm not living fresh. But I'm alive." Kristallin noted in a curious tone.

"But you weren't made. You were born." Galen pointed out getting impression that the dot in front of him thought he took pleasure from decimating, those near useless droi...ok it wasn't hard to enjoy it a little.

"Made and born still mean brought into the world unintentionally. Or unwillingly."

Now that was a weird way at looking at the droids. The sentience of these droids was so abysmally low that he could hardly take their existence seriously. Galen cocked an eyebrow. "And you weren't exactly going easy on them."

She wouldn't deny it. "True. But they are an enemy to the Kyber crystal. Pawns or not, I must defend it."

"Exactly." That was the point of destroying the droids so ferociously. "They are the enemy. We can't show mercy to an enemy." Given want Galen had seen, droids were rarely merciful killing all that stood in there path. If their masters wanted enemies alive, then the droids might be able to process enough code to attempt capture. Never ended well though.

"If you could spare a droid, would you?"

A weird way to look at droids indeed.

"You are very interested in the droids aren't you? If you must know there would have to be a really good reason to spare them. So yes." Galen answered although not entirely sure what the light was trying to drag out of him.

All of her question revolved around his thoughts of violence against the droids. She sounded sympathetic to them which made no sense to Galen. But her interest in his own intentions and malice was a relevant topic.

"I don't think your soldiers in white would." She quick summed up.

"No, I don't think so either." Galen agreed certain of that nature of the clones. Why wouldn't they hate droids during a war like this. They were complete enemies in the this war, both having no ties to each other and the probability of either sparing one another was a big zero, with a high chance of abusing the remains of the defeated.

Galen eyes focused on Kristallin's flicking spec form thinking of the moral question he was being subjected to. "You're trying to determine if I'm a Jedi or a Sith." He questioned.

"Yes."

So, it was his nature she was asking about.

"Would it make a difference?" It was an honest question on his part. Sure, Asajj was an untrustworthy witch but he didn't really know if she represented the Sith. He didn't really know what represents the Jedi either.

But it was clear that Kristallin knew something. And all he could do was take in her answer.

"It would make every difference." Her time sounded final and strict, as if the line between both was very clear.

"Jedi are arrogant and controlling yes, but I know they only wish for the best. Working with a Jedi is safer." She explained being the first to describe the Jedi in a negative light compared to everyone. And "safer" wasn't a term used by anyone either, not that they didn't imply it. But it also suggested something else with the term.

"And Sith?" Galen questioned truly curious.

There was a pause. "...They care for themselves leaving a path of destruction and deceit, eventually and always. I wouldn't consider myself safe interacting with one."

"Why?" Galen asked. What was so different between the Jedi and Sith that this a creature that had lived this long was certain of.

"The dark side of the force is a corrupting thing." She started stating the obvious to Galen, but wasn't going to stop there. She needed to explain how it corrupts. "The dark is a perversion of intelligence and reasoning upon life. Eventually, they'd come to some justified and outlandish excuse to betray or kill for power in all forms." She explained only furthering Galen's curiosity.

"How can you tell?" Galen asked roughly. "When someone is using it?" Galen continued. He could sense what he would describe as dark presences but he wasn't certain for a number of reasons.

"Understand this, very rarely is the dark side used Galen." She started confusingly. "More often it uses the individual without them knowing." She stated. "If someone seems possessed, driven with no individual dreams. They are being pulled by the darkside."

All Galen could do is frown. "You make it sound like its alive." He said but thinking back, a living thing would naturally try to blend in with its surroundings. Similar to Kristallin's description. "But I think your right. For all my abilities, I couldn't distinguish between light and dark or at least remember how to distinguish between the 2 until I met an Assassin." Asajj had made her position clear.

"As with many things, alive is a matter of perspective from a certain point of view. But that is not the word that should be used to describe the force." Kristallin stated cryptically.

Galen just frowned and shook his head. "How is it a matter of perspective? You're either dead or not." He growled.

Kristallin just bounced as if nodding. "Big picture Galen. Even a corpse retains living cells, and once devoured continues as energy in life. And I do perceive energy differently then you. I can see the minute sparks of energy flowing through your mind and the breakdown to flow to defuse of energy generated from your stomach and lungs pumping through your body. I see the latent, spectral and kinetic energy release of temperature humming and dispersing off your body. Even the highly compressed and corrupted red energy of the lightsaber crystal on your belt is mine to view." She stated. The specter of colors and matter she could see far out numbering that of young flesh in front of her.

"You can see through my flesh and materials? You can see that in the droids too?" Galen pondered. She really did have biology completely different to his.

"Yes. However droids are nowhere near as complex as you or any other form of life. In some ways they are simpler and more efficient. Other ways, they reflect their glaring weakness, faulty logic and expendability all to easily."

Off topic but interesting never the less. "Fascinating. Very fascinating actually. It would make for a useful technique." Galen wondered, he wasn't even sure of the full extent his force abilities could go. He hadn't even considered improving or advancing them.

Another bouncing shrug. "Through the force it would not be impossible. I could give you some tips if I was inclined or if I trusted you."

"At this point I'll take any help I can get. You've given me a side quest to look into." He noted with a small grin. "Given so many unknowns I could use some training and refinement. Can you see the force too?" He wondering if the force gave of an energy that could be seen.

"See isn't the word but the force is like energy. But in some ways isn't it. Even my people's study of it left many questions unanswered and more questions from researching it." She admitted.

Deeper the rabbit hole went. "What exactly did they study?" Galen asked.

She was hesitant to answer but was relaxed with her answer. "...not much. My people focused only a small and specific fraction of the force."

"Which was?"

"Sensory of the mind. As impressive as our natural sensory is it has a small range of 1km, and an even smaller range for precision sensory and identification of 500m."

"That is not small." Galen mumbled disgusted at the difference in perspective between him and her. Different culture, races and species could create a large gap of comprehension.

"We explored solar systems in days. And I can increase my projection 10 fold. I am merely a projection of light, or photon waves after all." She noted catching Galen making him wonder what she meant about being a projection.

But Galen could not deny his obsession to know more about this species and its relation with the force. "So why increase only sensory?" He asked.

Kristillen's destructive capabilities were near greater than his but she never once enforced or strengthened it with the force.

She answered honestly, hoping to drive her own message into Galen. "That is a deeper question revolving around my people's early desires to comprehend what was called "the soul". I don't know much of what they found but they trained us in basic manipulation of empathy and apathy to control emotions of ourselves and others. More advanced users of the force used telepathy on a very small scale believing that the mind was the key the soul."

"That's how you found us and could sense the dark side below." Galen concluded considering he had sensed her watching long before revealing herself.

"In its purest form energy is energy, there is no emotion. Not clearly anyway. We could not read or understand others well. What governed energy fluctuations via the energy signals of you call "the brain" was lost on us given what we are." A cryptic line that noted again but did not act on. "However through our studies we learnt the darkside can be hard to identify but arose faster in those wishing to impact physically matter. Due to this we made it a specialty to identify amongst my people. Results were grand as we excelled in discovering treason, traitors and those with ill intent."

"Why not go further?"

"Because they did and all they confirmed was that it is outside our wishes to control, and we are now forbidden from learning anymore. And I agree." She stated but still receiving the same look from Galen.

"Why?"

For the first time Kristellen showed frustration and caution. Galen almost though she'd blast him with concentrated photo light, a second too quick to dodge. She didn't. "The darkside. It is DANGEROUS. It CANNOT be TAMED. Only suppressed, forgotten, untutored or...embraced. If any could tame it, the universe would have ended by now." She dared say all but actually admitted the enormity of power and fear it put into her.

She was testing him. Every question to understand his intention. Every answer to understand his thought. She wasn't talking because she wanted to help him. She wanted to know whether she should kill him or not. She needed to know if Galen was compromise to the darkside. "That's why your so cautious around me? Am I dangerous?"

She paused again greatly content plating whether to speak or not. Galen considered dropping it but before he could she spoke. "I am not here by coincidence and neither is the Kyberr crystals. It my duty, by our creed, to kill people that have fallen to the dark, or imprison them here forever. Here on this planet. Only when those prisons are compromised should I awaken." She explained coming clean and in way stating that she did sense a threat that could compromise her role. A role that if true meant that their were certain beings imprisoned on this planet that needed to be kept in check. She had watched uncertain about Galen, wondering if he was indeed the reason she had awoken.

'I should just kill him? But he clearly was affected by that surge. I must know what has happened here. And he could be useful.' Kristellen thought to herself.

"Thanks for telling me this, however it does not comfort me knowing that you, a force wielder with incredible abilities is here to as a prison guard." Galen answered wondering just what was imprisoned here, or who.

"I would not be too concerned. There is only one prisoner left on this planet that I need to watch. All others have perished through natural causes." Kristallin said having already done a check to see who was still present. Time or starvation had taken those prisoners that had die, as cruel as that was. But she had confirmed one prisoner that was still alive. Very weakened but alive.

"Good to know but you didn't answer my question." Galen snapped back happy to know more but wanting an immediate answer to his previous question. "Am I dangerous?"

The ball of light bounced again like a nod. "Yes. You are. But you are clearly what some may call a gray jedi. Jedi who refuse the orders teachings, usual under the failure of sentience. But Gray Jedi never change. They either return to being a jedi, become a Sith or become nothing."

"Become nothing?"

"Meaning you do nothing. You save no one and do not serve yourself. You liv-?" She stopped as a clone approached. Nart, if both of them were sensing him correctly.

"Sir, umm...my Lady?" Nart hesitated staring at the floating speck of light but quickly reading the bobbing at him as a nod. "We've sorted through the hostages. There are CMPs present, a long with a Commander of the Southern Sector and 30 soldiers."

"Very good." Galen noted lightly pleased. His sights turned back to Kristillan.

"We can continue later." She answered before Galen could ask. "I'll keep watch for enemies." She said before flickering away like the light of bulb disappearing from view.

It was a neat disappearing trick that had Nart's attention and was curious to Galen. The wonders of the universe were expansive and while he didn't have time to stare at them, he couldn't help but marvel. He couldn't wasting any further time though as Galen made way to meet with these new allies, Nart following hot on his tail trying to catch up.

"One last thing General. The hostages are refusing to release one of the hostages." He said as they walked.

"What? What do you mean?" Galen asked surprised and trying to draw some conclusions.

"I mean she was locked up away from everyone else and they don't want to free here. She's a traitor of some sort." Nart explained.

"I'm gonna need more then that Nart." Galen said curiously.

"She must have done something bad if the other prisons want her to stay locked up here. Must have hurt the people." Nart said as they quickly approached the groups inside the facility. "But their leader wants your opinion before processing. You know, since your the General."

Galen processed the statement a moment before sighing. "Great..." He growled sarcastically, reluctantly accepting the task.

The inside of the facility wasn't much mostly compromised of decks, chairs and computer stations. Lacking much color, these offices seemed dull , gray and isolating to Galen. But it was very well let up though with bright artificial lights. Never the less, how any could anyone enjoyed spending days underground uploading data or operating on mining fronts was discomforting to Galen. Too constrictive and yet, he felt somewhat at home. Perhaps he had spent more time cooped up than his memories was willing to reveal.

He could imagine Sinect in here though. The verpine seemed to enjoy the hive like environment, also explaining the verpine hostages here today amongst the crowd.

The crowd of people, former hostages was composed again with many different specie as was the norm on Christophsis. But Galen could not deny the clear group of Christophian soldiers grouping together. Much like Dov and Cooper, they wore near skin tight clothing showing either how built they were or thin they were with the blue and black.

Approaching the group Galen could quickly identify the leader. Very short, trimmed, prickly, white hair but a distinguishable white scar traces across the dark skinned man face. No doubt extending across his body. And we was jacked, built like a body builder with muscles that could hardly be contained.

What surprised Galen were his blue eyes. All the Christophsians he had meet, including Dov and Cooper, had red eyes. Looking at Christophsian here they all had blue eye instead of red. 'Are there eye colors genetic-regional based?' Galen wondered curiously as the blue wasn't nearly as piercing as the red eyes of Dov and Cooper.

"Ah, you must be General Starkiller. Afraid I haven't heard of you but thanks for your help." The Christophsian leader complemented offering a hand to shake, skin still covered in old white scars. "Commander Novak Narrowmine of the Southern Sector." Novak introduce shaking Galen's hand roughly before gesturing to the others. "These are my troops and we will gladly help with any operations you have in mind." He finished with a confident grin.

Galen nodded still feeling the hand shake. Thinking back there weren't many people on this planet that had shook his hand. Not many trying to impress him with physical strength either. The respectful gesture was a little off-putting to Galen in a good way. But he knew it would be rude not to. Galen looked to civilian hostages in thought. He wanted to get to meat of their concerns. "You speak for the civilians too?" Galen asked wondering how close they were. The clear memory of slaves established on Christophsis flashing alarms.

"Oh yes sir. There said they were happy for me to speak as long as it got them out of here." Novak said continuing his confident smirk. "We were dragged down here a week ago. Not sure why, but Loathsom wanted to keep us close."

"You weren't at the prison?" Galen questioned wondering where these CMP had been kept.

Novak frown bewildered. "Prison?" He repeated curiously.

"In the West Sector?" Galen questioned confirming there was a second base of operations that the separatist were working from.

The muscly, meat grinder shook his head. "Nooo, sir. We have been imprisoned here in the south sector, Semditen city shipyards." Novak explained. "It was a major point of interest for travel off world that the enemy needed to secure early on. Our intent was to defend it but a traitorous Vice Captain named Broome Teleoz sold us out." He growled thinking about the traitor.

Galen had heard but had not been involved with the Christophsian traitors. Cooper would organise the manhunts for those individuals with a merciless fashion. "We'd heard word of traitors in the south and west sectors. Good to have a name. She here?"

"Not sure. No one saw her here." Novak confirmed.

Then she was probably back at... "Semditen". Galen muttered thinking that was the case.

"We assume so sir. She'd be the only one capable of controlling Semditen for the Seps." Novak noted adding a possible additional enemy keeping Galen on this rock. General Whorm Loathsom, Admiral Trench, Asajj Ventruess, Loathsom's Caucus Captains, who knows how many Tactical T-series droids and a traitorous Christophsian leader named Broome Teleoz.

The only silver lining was Galen knowing who he had to take down to get off this rock. And they it was getting longer.

"Get your troops to collect what blasters the droids have." Galen wasted no time. He needed to mobilize and secure the suppose Kyber crystal, or at least tag it with his remaining trackers given to him by Bail.

Novak nodded smirking. "You got it boss. You heard the man! Head out there and get their weapons. Keep an eye out for droids though."

Galen flinched as they went to move outside. He forgot the third party that had been bugging and assisting him. "And!" He shouted getting there attention. "Don't shoot Kristallin..."

"Who?" Novak questioned frowning.

"What?" A random said as the crowd of troops muttered amongst each other.

Galen sighed not prepared to open this can of worms. Again. "The humanoid light being floating outside..." The blank looks from the troops was off-putting. Again. So much so that they even looked angry and concerned. Again. He had actually received that same went discussing Slavery with the inhabitants of the planet. "...she has been-oh, never mind. Just don't blast her or anything that isn't droid unless told too!" He shouted hoping some idiot didn't shoot and piss her off. Given there blank looks he kept it direct, to the point and did mix a minor mind trick into it.

Confused but accepting, Novak nodded. "We'll get to it!" He shouted turning to the confused troops. "Well get a move on! We got no luxury butler to serve you lot, get those blasters yourselves and move it!"

The quick shuffling of troops moving vibrated across the room as Galen hoped these soldiers could help. Given the numbers they had combined with them, they should be able to help regardless.

Novak made a face as the last of his troops went outside. "Humanoid light being?"

Galen pulled his own face. "Don't ask. I'll explain later but all you need to know is she's on our side." Again it was a can worms he didn't want to open. Best to explain after the fighting. And best to hope that the Christophsians wouldn't push the subject and then drag Galen deeper into it. Bail would have a field day with it.

In response to Galen words, the young jedi did note there was a hint of distrust from Novak. But he relented easily enough making Galen wonder where the distrust had come from. "I hope so because I'm as confused as rest of them after that statement." He rambled pacing a few steps.

"Don't worry about her. What's this about a traitor? Take me to him." Galen said ready to move along. Dealing with traitors wasn't his thing. Much of the decision maker, political decisions or verdicts of crime were left to personal of the Planet. Please with experience in those fields and people who knew what they were doing unlike Galen. He was fighter not a talker. And everyone knew that for a fact.

Novak chuckled. "Her, you mean. Ohrana." Novak chuckled further before his teeth and lips where ridged. "Seems we've got few troubling women on the planet. But this one! She sold us out from the beginning." Novak spat gesturing Galen to follow. "This way."

Galen couldn't fault it, not that there were many. But Asajj, Krisllatin, Broome, and now this Ohrana? And none were the Blonde Galen was looking for. Still for the response that Novak was giving, he had to have previous knowledge and encounters with the women. Ones that probably did not go down well with him, and most the same with her.

"Who is she?" Galen asked. Given her title as a traitor she must have done wrong against Christophsis, and would have had to have happened recently.

"A outspoken minor council member of the Christophsis Merchant Oligarch." Novak started surprising Galen that Ohrana was one of the former leaders. "She spoke highly about Christophsis major issues such as remove of the slavery system, incorporation of green domes, and, mostly, independence from the republic." Novak explained.

Independence, huh? A Separatist representative in the Leadership of Christophsis. "If she sided with the separatists, why was she a prisoner by them?" Galen asked. It made no sense why the separatist imprisoned her if she had the same beliefs and had sold the planet out to them.

Novak just frowned going stoic. "I don't think she thought things would turn out as they did. She's became part of an insurgents group. They started peaceful enough but slowly started to take extreme measures. No terrorism, but an annoyance for smaller company businesses, trade and corporate allies. We tolerated it as she wasn't doing anything that we couldn't work around but then she got the separatist involved." He explained further as they stopped at a closed room. Looked like a large meeting room with open windows around the corner of Galen's eyes. A CMP guard and a clone. Quickstep, considering the clone was fidgeting.

"She's all your General." Quickstep noted opening the door.

They entered and were met with a white ray shield dividing the room. Large enough to allow the prisoner to take 10 steps around the imprisonment but not touching any of the walls. A small bed and chair sat inside as well as some other basic needs. It was a larger room then Galen thought it would be.

She wasn't sitting down. She was standing staring at them with blue eyes. She wasn't overly tall, but did have flawless dark skin with long white hair straighten over her shoulders and down her back. She was wearing a red and black CMP uniform opposite to to the blue and black Dov wore. Military uniform but one that Galen had not seen before. Sensing her, Galen could tell she was stubborn and a strong will matching the described actions she had taken in the past.

"You're Ohrana?" Galen asked curious how she would respond.

"Ohrana Ashes. Who are you?" She snapped back crossing her arms.

"Galen. I'm a Jedi." He told her. How she acted to this would ultimately decide whether he would let her go.

She hummed aggressively, closing her eyes disgusted. "So you hypocrites have finally gotten to Christophsis. You going to kidnap some babies?" She asked throwing a sharp, curve ball at Galen who had never heard of this.

"What?" Galen frowned.

"Or turn a blind eye to the slavery?" Orhana smirked before frowning. "Either or all, you're not here to help us."

Galen stepped closer to the ray shield. "I just led the rescue of you and everyone else here." He answered pointing at her then Novak behind him.

Ohrana stepped up slamming her hands on the ray shield. "Not because it was the right thing! But because you were ordered by the republic to do it!" She snapped glaring at Galen as she pushed of the ray shield. "Dog on a leash, hurry up and kill me." She lowly growled accepting her fate.

Again, Galen was thrown for loop at this women's attitude. Kill her? Just what did she believe he was? What did she believe Jedi were? "I'm not going to kill you. Try to believe me, but I didn't do this because of some orders from the republic." He growled back accepting he was losing his temper. Quickly. Sure, he hadn't been met with the kindest of introductions on this planet. Multiple imprisonments, beatings and verbal abuse. But none this aggressive.

"That's poddo. Bantha poddo!" She spat pouting at Galen accusingly. "Liar. You're a enforcer of the republic. Someone steps out of line, you silence them and take control, before handing it to some loyalist to the republic." She continued starting to pace, staring at Galen.

"Trust me, the agenda of the Jedi or republic isn't my concern." Galen said speaking more for himself. Most if not all the entities that were in control of the planet weren't organisations that Galen had chosen to interact with. "Separatist made themselves my enemy. I'll deal with them for it my way." He continued growling.

Ohrana glared at him shaking her head. "Jedi don't feel rage. They don't seek revenge. Liar. You're as much the hypocrite as the rest of your kind, as I knew it." She spat. Whether she thought Galen was lying about revenge or the Jedi lying about being emotionless, was anyone's guess.

It didn't matter. Not to Galen as he hadn't identified truthfully as either a Jedi or a republic supporter. "I don't know what your thoughts of the jedi are women. But I don't care. But I'm not in this for the republic or Jedi."

"Then why." She quickly asked.

"1st, A friend asked me to help." It wasn't a lie. Galen considered Bail a friend and Bail had asked him to help. "2nd, the Separatist Admiral and General tortured me and 3rd, the sooner the blockade ends the sooner I can leave this planet." Galen admitted getting a strange look from Novak who had entered with him. He remained silent though.

She pouted. "Hmp, you want to abandon us? Your terrible. But then again Jedi never remain on a planet long according to my research. Cause some destruction, order people around, take a baby or 2, then leave. Same as anywhere the republic decides to send your lot...or when deciding who's needs to be destroyed. Believe what you want but you and your beliefs will never have authority over me!" She ranted more enraged than Galen thought she would be.

Novak stepped up. "Enough out you insurgent." He mumbled.

Galen paused but responded. "I'm not about to take over and-"

Novak cut him off with gesture and then followed with a gesture to follow him aside confusing Galen. Once far enough away from Ohrana he spoke. "This is pointless." He whispered. "I don't see any point in releasing her."

"So we leave her imprisoned?" Galen questioned already aware that Loathsom would try to use her as political figure. Willingly or not. Just like Sinect and Osseus.

"Perhaps." Novak whispered.

Galen glanced at her as she silently watched them. "Not one second talking to her, and I already want to kill her." He admitted shaking his head at his lack of control. Maybe Kristillan was right to be wary of him. But still her outburst seemed to come out of nowhere and attacked him for actions he was unaware of. He had been caught flat-footed, particularly since he was trying to avoid conversation that would arise suspicion on him. It was defensive but had no other knowledge to protect himself with.

Novak paused thinking about Galen words. "...will you?" He threw out with a whisper.

Galen glared at Novak in abhorrence. "Don't be silly. I'm not actually going to." Galen answered whispering himself. Again the Christophsian on this side of the planet kept throwing him for a loop, surprising him with what they suggested and knew.

Novak didn't let the idea go though. "It would stop her from turning back to the enemy." He whispered back insistently.

Galen already knew what he was talking about. "Because she knows alot about Christophsis? And you think because she may be a prisoner the Seps will force that information out." Galen explained making Novak nod.

"Yes. Besides, you see how much she hates the republic, how much she hates jedi. How much she hate you." He continued whispering. "Surely you can tell how unstable she is, given the chance she'll blast you in back and leave you for dead." He pointed out.

Galen couldn't sense such a malicious intent but he couldn't deny the negative thoughts that swirled in the woman's mind. The idea of killing her made sense and would cover their asses if something did go wrong. But Galen couldn't following through with the idea. It didn't feel right killing an unarmed women. She was annoying yes but she hadn't really done anything to him. Her opinion was of little concern. "I don't kill people senselessly. If she could compromise us as a prisoner, we'll let her go with the other hostages." Galen concluded.

Novak wasn't having it though. "Sir, if I could be Frank, that will not keep her from joining the Seps."

"And I don't think there's any info that she could provide that they wouldn't be aware of already." Galen countered given that she was here and not with them. Considering this Broome person was already in position, they had already secure someone to Christophsis in case of an emergency. "If we give her the choice, she might respect us more and learn that I don't care. I just want the Seps that imprisoned her gone." He explained. It was probably the only common ground they had.

Novak looked like he understood, but didn't like it. "Trust me sir, she's not one for appreciation."

Galen could agree to that but he was sure that Novak had the past experience, maybe even one of his scars, to prove it. "Not on the outside. She's to proud for that." He confirmed with his own smirk walking back over to Ohrana. Of course, she wouldn't appreciate help. She was to stubborn and pride of her position, knowledge and probably a few other things that Galen was uncertain of. He had only just met her.

She glared back at Galen looking impatient but clearly going nowhere. "Whatever fake trick you're going to try isn't going to work Jedi." She said confident.

Galen didn't respond to the jest. "Why did you sell out Christophsis to the separatist?" He asked upfront wanting to keep things on topic. No opinions, no guesses. Only facts. "Actually how did you sell out Christophsis?" Galen continued as that was another curious question to ask.

For the first time she hesitated before answering. "What do my reasons matter to you?" She mumbled looking away from Galen. "The separatist proved they're no better. Just a bunch of corporate nemindian parasites scurrying for money. Or bloated Senator Hutts throwing their weight around. No one cares or believes in the people." She commented continuing to look away from Galen.

He could see it. He getting a little bit more control. "Novak tells me you've been an annoyance to the Oligarchy of Christophsis. Nothing serious enough to act on though. I don't know much about it or care, I'm not here to tell you how to run your planet or even begin to wonder why you thought people like Loathsom and Trench would be better. What I'm curious about what you offered them. What you could offer that could bring them here?" Galen asked. If she sold Christophsis out, what she had been offering had to be good enough for an invasion. Loathsom wasn't exactly liberating anyone given the public opinion.

"I didn't offer anything." She very lowly snapped looking away. "Everyone knows that Christophsis is one of the planets resting on the line between Republic and Separatist forces. It was only a matter of time before Separatists tried to take it." She answered abrasive.

"So your saying it was inevitable. That you had to choose a side?" Galen asked forcefully.

She turned to Galen glaring. "I made my choice. Republic wasn't going to help and the Merchant Oligarchs of Christophsis cared little about the people and culture. They would have buried it, ruined it and sold it to the highest bidder anyway." She justified.

'Anyway?' Galen wonder what she meant. "And Separatist haven't?!" He push the question further than he needed but wanted confirmation from her. From the separatist of Christophsis.

She went silent. A first. Now wasn't the time for her to be silent. Galen had other matters to attend too.

"Answer me!" Galen growled wanting to move on, his temper and impatience becoming apparent.

"No! They're all the same. Christophsis is doomed, the universe is doomed. The people…." She ranted before silencing again.

He had her attention now. Facts over opinion seemed to be working. So Galen continued, going back to an easier tone. "What will you do if I release you?" He asked staring at her.

She stared back thinking. She did make any comments, only answering. "Smart thing would be hide and wait until the republic wins, then try my "insurgence" again as the nerf herder said." She said pointing at Novak who's face flinched at the insult. "Separstist win and I'll spend the last of my days hidden in the Crystal forests. Shame being smart and doing what I want aren't the same. Before any of that is decided, I'll probably go find the highest authority with the republic. If your it, then I'll tell you what I want. I want freedom. I want Christophsis to make decisions for itself. Not decisions made by republic governments or corporations suckling as much money as they can. I want decisions by the people. Not a planet of slaves." She answered honestly and almost desperately.

Galen could sense no ill intent from her words. And he had to admit her ideas weren't that wrong. He wasn't really aware of how the Republic functioned as it wasn't a priority to him. But talking to Ohrana he wondered for a second if Loathsom was the same. If he had actually thought he was doing right in his actions.

He was silent for while digesting the point. "Fine."

Novak blinked. Ohrana blinked. "You're letting me go?"

"We have no transports on the surface. But republic outposts are on the northern sector of the planet." Galen explained. "Speak to Bail Organa. I don't want a reason to stay, but there are next to no official authorities left. Those who are left were scorned by your rulers and now have had to step up. You will have your opportunity and so will Novak here." Galen explained, pointing a thumb behind himself at Novak as both of them would have to step up to the state of the planet.

Ohrana instantly broke back to character. spying Novak. "He's a brute!" She shouted pointing at Novak. "He'll destroy anything for results!"

Novak seemed to break too. "She's a narcissist!" He shouted looking at Galen. "She'll never be happy until everything bows to her." He insisted.

"I don't care!" Galen answered both of them before turning to Novak first. Their personal opinions were annoying the short tempered Jedi. He was done with reason and just wanted them to follow orders. Orders that would keep them out of Galen's way. "Novak, you're come with us to confront Loathsom. We believe he is here in this mine." Galen said turned back to Ohrana. "Ohrana, you'll leave with the hostages. There's sure to be some type of transport lying around that you can take to head to the north sector." He turned back to Novak. "Novak, they're your people. Address them and inform them to be careful leaving the mining district."

"Just like that?" Ohrana questioned

"Just like that." Galen confirmed.

"We'll never make it." She cried. "If the Seps catch us we're dead. Not to mention the mercenaries or Kyaddak which will also kill us." She explained pointing at Galen. "You need to come with us. The crystal down there is a lost cause." She finished frowning.

Galen was about continued before Novak cut him off. "Crystal? What Crystal?"

"The Kyber—wait." Galen paused. He hadn't explained to CMPs why they were going deeper into the mine yet. He had thought one of the clones had explained it. But Novak didn't know.

Ohrana knew though. "How do you know about Kyber Crystal?" Galen asked dangerously.

Ohrana was at a loss of words. "I-I? It? You see?" She stuttered.

"You told them?" Galen accused frowning. "They're here because you sold them energy rich resources." Galen guessed, certain he was corrected.

"No! I didn't give them the crystal!" Ohrana shouted back looking back and forth between Galen and Novak. The prospect of being freed slowly leaving her. "Besides, what does it matter? Baring our merchant trade dealings, the only thing our leaders ever cared about were those stupid sacred sites! Instead of telling us the truth, a truth that they could put our planet ahead of those republic pigs, they hid it because of some "superstitious evil". Same as you jedi and your elitist superstition!" She ranted.

The people could have benefit so much converting the Kyber Crystal energies. Enough so that the bare, dry surfaces of a planet could be properly colonized and farmed. Energy problems would disappear and slaves would become a non-necessity. A planet of that description that was Christophsis.

What Ohrana didn't know was that a floating, ball of light was guarding that crystal so that it could not be abused. But Galen did. And he had a lot more respect for the strange and honest creature, knowledgeable on the force, wiser and insightful than most and that was helping him find out who he was. "You don't have any respect for authority do you?" Galen whispered half not believing he had said it himself.

Ohrana looked absolutely furious. "When we endorse slaves as a necessary evil over fictitious beliefs?! YES!" She cried in frustration.

She was completely ignorant to the force. Completed at odds against a higher power that existed. If she had known so much about the Jedi, how could she brush aside their connection to force and abilities, powers and risks that it held. At least some rumours had to have surfaced. "And what if they AREN'T?!" Galen shouted back abhorred she would ignore such a thing that he used regularly.

She didn't miss a beat snapping back. "Of course they are!"

Galen was taking this personally. Far too personally. At this point, the force was all that he had and she disregard it? This a challenge to Galen that made no sense but existed never the less. The next instant he held his hand out and as if possessed by a supernatural entity, a one of the chairs in the room levitated as if it had become as light as a feather carried by the wind. Between them all, Novak was the most shocked as he took a few steps back, drawing his blaster to point at the chair. Galen ignored it though staring at Ohrana. "Explain this then?"

She stared at it, completely unimpressed. "Really?" She jestered shrugging. "Please, even a junker rodia can get a tractor beam and lift several tonnes of metal effortlessly." She commented as tractor beams were a common tool used on Christophsis to lift crystals, rock, machinery and junk. Mobile, hand-held tractor-beam weren't that hard to get. No doubt he had one on him somewhere.

Galen's frown deepened. The next second arcs of lightning channelled from his out-held hand and struck the chair burning it and leaving it scorched.

"Karabas! What the!?" Novak shouted confused.

"And this?" Galen asked the chair still smouldering in the air lightly rotating.

Again though Ohrana was unimpressed. "Electrical arc shooter are viable weapons. In fact, I hear some of your slave troopers wield blasters that can fire electrical bolts." She pointed out, familiar with some of the weapons being used by the republic. Considering they were fighting droids, electrical based weapons would be a go to

"With nothing but my hand?!" Galen shouted frustrated that she was suggesting that what he was doing was a trick. False and fake because tools and weapons could do the same. It was very insulting to person that regularly relied on the force.

She paused a seconded thinking but smirked coming to an answer. "Holographic surface projections." She suggested shrugging. "Bounty hunters and assassins use them. Guess the republic can afford them though, considering how rare they are." It was true portable, holographic generators that hide weapons were extremely rare. She only heard rumours of it before.

Galen grimaced and lowered his hand causing the chair to collapse in heavy thud. He closed his eyes and held-hand up to Ohrana. If reality wasn't convince her, then he would just have to go with mind tricks. Not something he was particular good at or focused on but he would convince her.

"Oh come on? That parlor trick?" She shouted. Galen's eyes opened broken from his concentration. He could sense she was very strong willed. He was sure she could be influenced and he could try and force. Speaking for himself, if there was any area Galen found himself lack in, it was mind tricks. He wasn't going to convince her anytime soon, without causing some sort of severe damage to her mind or brain. A fate that Galen wasn't willing to risk or bring about on anyone.

"What? You going to say you're a brain-sucking Anztai next?" She threw out not believing in the fantasy vampiric creatures she's heard of. "Or maybe an Angel of Iego? Or a Witch of Dathomir? Pick your fantasy Galen, because I'M NOT BUYING IT!" She shouted defiant having heard all the gossip and talk from servers and smugglers. 'Nonsense in an ever shrinking universe.' She thought having seen nothing that could not be achieved through technology.

"Enough of this!" Novak shouted still a bit shaken from Galen's earlier display and having enough of her pointless denials. "She's no use to us. I'll make it quick." Novak said gesturing his blaster up to her. He was in no mode to waste time and he knew this women would just get in the way if freed.

Galen glared deeply turning to Novak, his hand facing the already wary CMP. "I said NO!" Galen growled fully ready to disable Novak if he tried to pull anything over him.

"Why? She has no respect for anything when even it is facing right in front of her. Not only his her belief of denial, but their is also the fact that she betrayed us, and the planet paid the price." Novak growled back aggressively making Galen think he was going to act over him.

"Haha! That's funny." Ohrana laughed smirking at Novak. "You almost sound like your masters have been effected?" She commented wondering which of those idiots of the Oligarchy had ordered Novak around. The Oligarchy had the military in their pocket and said military was a joke that pirates, smugglers and mercenaries barely took any notice or care in avoiding. She had worked with the underworld and seen how much of a joke the republic system and Christophsis systems were given how easily the planet and its people were easily abused and used.

"The leaders of Christophsis are gone girl." Novak growled still holding his blaster and pointing it at her. "Whoever's left here are in charge."

She stared at the weapon before thinking the words over. "...the leaders are...even Perentine?" She asked confused and concern on her face.

"Vice President Perentine left during the early warnings. To plead for help from the Republic." Novak explained. None of which was registering to Galen. Internal Christophsis affairs were something he stayed out of else Cooper would start throwing a fit. The dreadlock headed commander already stated his distrust of republic forces. Focusing on Ohrana, Galen couldn't help but think that Cooper and Ohrana would actually get along well.

Ohrana chuckled"Hmph...soft man...but still." Ohrana muttered to herself curiously before focusing on Novak. "What about the others?" She asked.

Novak shrugged. "Don't know,but they ain't coming back anytime soon." He muttered back just as darkly before eyeing Galen. "As I said Jedi, we shouldn't let her go. We should just kill her. Save us the trouble and head if she turns on us." He said focusing back on Galen and still not giving up his position. Foolish really since Galen had already said no and could slash Novak to ribbons in seconds.

Galen stood his ground, slowly reaching for his lightsabre and held it clearly for Novak to see. If Novak wanted to push it, fine. He'd demonstrate what happens if you crossed him. "We're not killing an unarmed girl." Galen growled again hoping this fool stopped and didn't moved to suddenly for Galen to cut limb of accidentally.

"Women." Ohrana corrected annoyingly making Galen look raise an eyebrow wonder why she insisted in continuing to fight his actions. He was trying to protect her.

"Girl." Novak corrected back just as annoyingly in Galen's eyes, smirking. "You look old but aren't even as old as...Galen how old are you?" Novak asked assuming that the Jedi was old considering his built, attitude and the overall wear and tear that his body exhibited. While Galen was developed in muscle and strength, no one could deny the years of stress and combat that reflected of his thin, dull colored skin. Like an old mechanic that had been worked to death.

"19."

"WHAT?" Ohrana shouted now staring confused and completely bewildered at Galen's appearance.

"Really!?" Novak commented just as confused and completely breaking what tension there was. Not so thankfully to Galen though, who was confused that they were taking it to heart so much. "You look at least in your late yearly 30s. I mean Ohrana's very young for her position but...is that one of your jedi tricks?" Novak asked curious. If Jedi tricks and magic were as diverse as he had heard, could a form of eternal youth be possible?

"Jedi tric—no. Why would there be such a trick?" Galen growled annoyed. He didn't think he looked that old. If anything he got a lot of comments of people thinking he was very young for his position. Although thinking on that, it could mean that a number of Jedi were far older than him too. It would explain some the respect that clone troopers and civilian also gave him if they thought he was older. It was unlikely but possible.

"Jedi life must age people terribly. You have my pity." Ohrana mumbled smirking at her own entertainment of the situation finally pushing Galen's limits of anger over the top.

"Stop talking. Both of you!" Galen shouted and unconsciously as he couldn't stand this back hand comments and stubborn idiots. He shout cause a small shaking the room that last less than a second but was noticed by both. Both Christophsian looked around surprised he could do that through an outburst of rage and frustration.

The door slide open and a clone helmet popped around the edge, pecking inside curiously to see what was happening to make Galen shake the room. And said clone did assume it was Galen. "Umm, is everything alright in here?" Quickstep questioned wary.

"We're—ack!" Ohrana stopped talking mid way through, grabbing at her throat confused. What happened? She couldn't get her words out due to a pressure on her throat, but there was nothing there? She could barely breath and it scared her.

Holding his hand in Ohrana's direction but looking toward Quickstep, Galen nodded towards the shiny clone. "We're good Quickstep." He said shooing him off as Quickstep shut the door without question. Galen quickly lowered his hand feeling he may have gone to far that time. He hadn't been applying that much force to Ohrana so she could still breath but talking become harder. Never the less he must have looked scary in how quickly and dismissively he had brushed the act aside. Ohrana looked terrified and even had water that had began to build in her eyes.

Ohrana though took a deep breath before straightening herself to look more dignified but now sporting a hateful glare. "...ok. I don't know how you did that. But I'm going to figure it out." She claimed for the first time uncertain how he had done that. Maybe a parlour trick or subliminal messaging. A change in the air pressure adjusted the energy of the ray shield? She'd find out and correct that humiliation.

"Give it rest Ohrana." Galen growling deciding only action was going to end this. He drew the blaster rifle that Reload gave him, stunning Orhana and Novak before he aim up and blasted the projector point of the ray shield on the ceiling. He was to annoyed to go for his lightsabre and swing or jump to hit the thing. The next second he made gesture with his hand and the door opened behind him. "Get out. Leave with the other prisoners. Find Bail or Cooper and argue to your hearts content with him." Galen suggested overall annoyed that he had just experienced this conversation. One that near the polar opposite to the one he just had with Kristallin.

"Sir!?" Novak growled.

Ohrana looked stunned at the quick, rash actions Galen just took. "Really?"

"Yes." Galen answered without missing a beat. "You annoy me, and I pity you and your ignorance. But I don't want to kill you and leaving you here could go wrong too. Leave." He said point out the door having had enough.

Ohrana didn't move though staring at Galen. "You pity me? What, you think your better than me?" She snapped back again.

...

Galen shook his head. 'Stupid girl wants a fight. Alright. Another demonstration then.' With complete and laughable ease, Galen held his hand towards Ohrana and quickly pulled her out of her position and threw her out the door with the force.

"HEY!" Ohrana shouted assuming it was him and confused as to what was happening.

"Quickstep. Escort Ohrana Ashes to the other hostages to leave. Force her if you have to." Galen finished without missing a beat or even looking at the women that denied the force.

Quickstep quickly responded following the order much to Ohrana's displeasure. Galen heard her shout that "this wasn't over" as Quickstep did so, but completely ignored it. Seemed those Christophsians that had remained on Christophsis were the black sheep and survivors of the world. They all seemed to be strong willed and planted in what they believed. It said something about the potential of this Broome women abilities with Loathsom. But regardless with that one issue out of the way, Galen could focus back on organising his troops, the new CMPs, and Kristallin into fighting the forces awaiting them below.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Anakin Skywalk and Obi-wan Kenboi

Neogius City. Christophsis.

Originally, the plan was to return to Obi-wan's ship after completing the mercy mission. But that was before they had been discovered. Before the planet defence grid was switched back on. Before Trench's commanding ship had retreated. And definitely before finding out that Asajj was alive.

"Hello everyone, I'm sure alot of you know who I am..."

Most disturbing was Asajj's current presence in the force. It had changed, and not in an easy to describe way. He would have to confront her to see the depths of the change. Why it was different was anyone's guess. Could be training, could be force experimentation, could be an unknown entity?

"...I am a Jedi and I came here to fight..."

Anakin would doubted it was an unknown entity, both because it was very unlikely and because unknown or third parties were something he was well versed with. In his experience it usually was a species specialized in a specific area of the force or a governing party with large funds, armies and network of intelligence.

"...Fighting on the same battlefield as equals..."

For force sensitive species more often then not they would show signs in defensive or supportive areas, not focused in the offensive areas of force. Usually revolving around clairvoyance, low level telepathy, empathic manipulation, illusions or very low level projections.

"...didn't like the idea of an outsider fighting for your pride..."

As for the governing party, the CMPs (Christophsian Military Personnel) were in tatters and the rulers were long gone leaving a skeleton leadership. A skeleton that was fragmented and separated across the planet.

"...allow me to join you in fighting for your world..."

Anakin WOULD have doubted an unknown entity if not for this recorded speech. Aimed to rally the remaining resistance forces to the separatist invaders but also ripping open a deep pit of uncertainty in Anakin's gut. He tapped the hologram to rewind the playback to a certain point, stopping on it.

"I am Galen Starkiller."

Anakin tapped the hologram again, pausing it. He stared at the person talking in a unnerving trance trying to rationalise his feelings.

Galen Starkiller. A Jedi he had never heard of, already fighting a battlefront for his forces and apparently close enough to Senator Bail Organa to trust. A complete unknown entity. And one that sparked and flickered dark, biting thoughts in his head and heart.

He was the cause or at least part of the cause of Anakin's hesitation and concerns ever since he saw the planet. He assumed it was Asajj, as for all intents and purposes she was the logical choice of disruption. Added the fact that she felt different, improved and confident in the force, and he could only think this biting could be no one else. He doubted something else was off on the planet and that Galen was a sickening source and Asajj a symptom. But there was something more. The force had warned him something was off, misplaced and hidden under a thin surface. He could not doubt it upon seeing that face but why he felt this, he didn't know. He'd never seen or met the man in the images, but just looking at it filled him with bitter uncertainty, disgust, unease, caution, concern and for whatever reason...even ha-

"A interesting speech. Though obviously scripted in some areas. Well, most areas." Obi-wan muttered stroking his beard as he watched the recording next to Anakin, breaking the former students thought for that second. The master could quickly see something was off with Anakin's thought on the entity currently and apparently on their side.

Obi-wan had joined him following the blockade break and Asajj's stunt. They had to talk and gather information. They knew the only place to get it was right here, together. And Asajj was a significant point of topic too. But not before meeting with Republican resistance fighters. They were waiting for Senator Organa while he debriefed the returning CMP soldiers Anakin had spoken to over the comms. Someone named Dov and a clone named Reload.

In the meantime, they got to meet what remained of Christophsis's leadership, most of which were here.

"I told them it was too long, but our dear general had no issue agreeing to it. He really wanted to impress Bail." Cooper grunted with his rough voice. First appearances on Cooper were mixed given his thinner form with thin, tight clothing if not for the plated bits of armor in his chest, shoulders, forearms and shins. The white, well-kept dread locks with red ropes intertwining and running only to his shoulders did act in catching Obi-wan's attention. Given they were a bit more smaller and tamed in comparison to Vos, his fellow Jedi Master and friend.

"I can imagine, but this Galen is not a General." Obi-wan answered holding nothing back. "Nor is he a Jedi we've heard of."

"We do recognize he isn't a general." Cooper confirmed roughly. "But his capabilities do suggest he is a Jedi. Running a few successful missions as a Captain so far with ease and the whole stunt at Loathsom's headquarters with witnesses suggested he is too." Cooper was reluctant to admit such, easily read by everyone there, but he was honest enough to admit Galen's effort were rewarding.

"We'll have to talk to some of these witnesses." Obi-wan elaborated smoothly.

"Then Captain Dov and Reload are your go to." Cooper crocked with a ruff voice. It was well established that those 2 were Galen's left and right hands making Cooper wonder how well Galen would operate without them. "Those 2 have run alot of missions with Galen." The Captain Commander eyes sought the brain of Galen's operations. "Unless you want to chime in Sinect."

The verpine shrugged causing a set of cracks and popping sounds from his exoskeleton. "I think anything I know can wait. Dov and Reload's report takes priority. Then they will be joining our aerial defense squadron, Diamond Squadron, immediately." Sinect tapped a few buttons revealing a hologram of 4 V-Formation droid fighters, dogfighting Vulture droids guarding bomber class fighters. "We don't have much time until Trench's aerial bombers arrive."

"Where did he come from?"

It was a low, husky growling grunt emitted from Anakin's mouth. Intimating and threatening enough for everyone to forget about the quick rising assault force and priorities the Jedi General's under distressed desire.

They paused not expecting such a reaction. But Obi-wan quickly sighed and muttered his former padawan's name under his breath, bringing everyone back.

"The short story is he was a prisoner of General Loathsom." Athen answered surprising everyone that the kerdiodain doctor was the first to speak and actually the most intimidated by Anakin's low outburst. "According to him and Bail, he was a former Jedi that left your order at a young age. But apparently the war had enough impact to drag him back into the fold. Not sure of the exact reasons, that was never explained."

Sinect cursed internally for his comrades secrets being so quickly revealed. Galen had earned a seat of respect in the verpine's mind and he wasn't exactly lying when they had more important matters to discuss with the coming bombers. But it did make for a quick cover to divert the conversation. Galen had shared a disinterest in interacting with the Jedi order anytime soon and Sinect didn't want to leave his allies out to dry. Even if he didn't know why he was helping Galen completely. Just this hive like instincts to be loyal he thought.

With all that doctor had spilled so quickly, the room was quickly going to turn against Galen.

"Deserter of the Jedi order?" Obi-wan pondered aloud. "That does not build trust in me given I've never heard of him".

"Nor me." Anakin growled. "We've had enough jedi turned to Dooku's forces. He sounds like a spy." Anakin concluded having experienced enough traitors and force-sensitives siding with Dooku. And given the near primal instinct of distrust he was feeling for Galen, he would trust his instincts as Obi-wan and Quin-Gon had taught him.

Cooper nodded. "Was my thoughts until Bail decided he was trustworthy." He noted raspily.

"He is trustworthy." Bail's commanding voice interrupted with some distaste behind it. His steps were heavy and loud carrying his royal blood as he approached flanked by Dov on his right and Reload on his left. "He's saved alot of lives and secured alot of resources that have helped us." He explained as escaping the prison, defending the Neogius shelter and turning the planetary defenses against Loathsom were his note worthy acts. In between those events he had been running smaller mission with much success.

"And destroyed a historic building worth more than any of his deeds." Cooper countered his own distrust and distaste surfacing. "That building was built upon hundreds of years of work, the land under it, itself, is consider sacred to old ways."

'Old ways. HA!' Dov internally laughed knowing of his people worship of the first lights, deities that had been long forgotten and if they did exist, had forsaken them years ago. 'The force that Galen wields though...that's real!'

"I got no problem with it." Dov sneered back knowing where his faith was. "The governance tower was a joke. I hated that old thing, along with those legends of sacred temples under it." He finished having lived on Cgristophsis long enough to know the old stories.

"Your opinion matters little Dov." Cooper growled back as if needing water for his throat. "That tower was a symbol for over a thousand years. You were never one for respect or formalities anyway." Cooper stepped up to Dov getting closer to his subordinate.

Dov grinned stepping forward himself getting a few raises eyebrows. "If it's worth it, I'll give my respects Captain Commander." He slightly answered confident in his belief and words.

They started at one another for a good second that ending surprisingly quick.

SLAP!

"Owe, damn it Reload!" Dov shouted at Reload who had swiftly slapped him up the head.

Reload with his helmet off under his shoulder, picked his ear with little concern, not looking at Dov. "Next time I'll kick your knee from behind and hit you with the bunt of my blaster. Galen's words, not mine."

'What a strange lot' went through everyone's mind. Getting curiosity from some and anger from others.

"These are the Captains you assigned to this Galen?" Cody snapped aloud surprising himself and everyone else. He couldn't stand such casual insubordination and disrespect that the Kaminoians had breed into them.

"Easy Cody, he's no clone." Rex assured Cody putting his hand Cody's shoulder. Whether it was to calm the clone or hold him back was anyone's guess.

"Damn right I'm not. 100 percent all natural Christophsian meat here." Dov sneered bowing all too proudly.

'Vulgar idiot.' Reload thought before noting one of the Generals approach the 2 of them.

"...I'm sorry Captain Dov but we seem to be distracting ourselves. You are not what we were expecting." Obi-wan grinned innocently as Cooper made a low remark that there were better soldiers than Dov. "I suppose a proper introduction should be given. I am General Obi-wan Kenobi of 212th Attack Battalion and 7th Sky Corps. It is pleasure." Obi-wan making a slight bow and nod to the 2 of them.

"Neat, you seem like the respectable type." Dov shrugged liking where this was going. "I'll listen to you. And you're a Jedi master right? So- *BANG* -Owe, really?" Dov put as Reload kicked one of his knees from behind nearly making Dov collapse.

"I warned you. Now be quiet. You're interrupting the Generals introductions." Reload explained suddenly standing very still.

Dov was slow on the up take but noted Bail's disapproving glare and flinched before nodded acceptingly. He turned back to Obi-wan. "Sorry General. Continue."

Obi-wan was impressed, not by these soldiers but by Bail's command for respect over them. He nodded back before gesturing to those in the room. "This is Commander Cody of the same Battalion and Corps."

"Marshal Commander to be clear." Cody edged in just for the 2 of them to remember.

"Next to him is Captain Rex of the 501st legion." Obi-wan continued as Rex nodded to acknowledge them with a smile.

Then a older individual approached wearing a Navy uniform that was well known to all. "Admiral Yularen of the Republic Navy and Captain of the Resolute." Yularen nodded although in same frame of mind as Cody. He had little time for soldiers that were disrespectful and outspoken. "And next to me is General Anakin Skywalker of the 501st legion." Yularen finished as he gestured to Anakin. Anakin though was silent, barely acknowledging them and was clearly focused on something else.

'This is getting out of hand. I need to speak to him.' Obi-wan thought to himself briefly smiling. "Don't worry about him for now. He's always sulking or thinking deeply, he takes his job very seriously." He added with sarcasm that briefly made Anakin look at him, smile, then return to thinking about Galen Starkiller.

Reload read the moment correctly and introduced himself. "I'm CT-16-3576, Captain Reload of the 103rd relief team. Former co-pilot of the 407th Solar Squadron and Platoon leader 4 of the Defense Cannon Infiltration Team."

"That explains the armour." Rex muttered under his breath eyeing the yellow pilot armour.

"103rd?" Yularen muttered himself vaguely recalling the relief team.

Reload looked to Dov who read his lead. "Oh right. I'm Captain Dov Rench of the Christophsis Military Personnel. Former Sergeant of the 6th Northern Sector Forces and Platoon leader 3 of the Defense Cannon Infiltration Team."

Obi-wan nodded. "To be clear, both of you were promoted recently?"

"Yes sir, we were lacking leaders in our forces and order needed to be restored else we were doomed." Reload explained hoping the details of their situation would turn their first impression around.

"Don't sweat it Reload. Galen is going to get us out of it." Dov noted with a grin and thumbs up.

"What makes you so sure?" Obi-wan questioned curiously noticing the Anakin's eyes come into focus. He wasn't as cautious as Anakin and was not about to let his emotions affect him. "Do either of you really know who he is?"

Dov frowned not liking the tone coming from Obi-wan. "He's the guy that freed us from prison. He saved my life. If he wasn't here, I'd be dead. That's all I need to know." The christophsian soldier praised.

Obi-wan cocked an eyebrow. "So it's a life debt?" If this was anything like what happened with Qui-Gon and Jar Jar, Obi-wan wouldn't be sure if it was a good thing, bad thing, or stupid thing. It could go any direction multiple times with just Jar Jar. Given this soldier's lack of discipline it could go the same way. Although, Obi-wan could internally hope that it would turn out more like a Wookiees life debt. That were friendly enough even if they didn't had a life debt to you. And if you didn't piss them off.

"No, not a life debt." Dov answered softly aware of the concept and getting more than one sigh of relief around him. "More respectful and illuminating I think is the words for me. Still trying to figure it out myself." He finished with grin.

"Illuminating?" Anakin grunted under his breath wondering what that meant. His eyes wondered around the room, curious if those that had interact with this Starkiller were in consensus too. Given the choice of words, it could only mean they had positive feelings for that...that...he needed to find this man.

"Strange choice of words." Obi-wan's eyes darted to Reload. "And you soldier?"

"Similar sir, but I was suspicious at first. Much of what he said made little sense. But he demonstrated his selflessly to save myself and our troops. Multiple times. I can't really doubt him anymore."

Obi-wan wasn't sure what to make of it. All he knew for certain was that Anakin was becoming greatly disturbed hearing this as it was not what he wanted to hear. So much so that others were noticing his anxiety. "Do you know he is not a recognized General or Jedi?" Obi-wan asked directing the question to Reload only.

"Yes sir."

"Yes sir."

They both answered?

Obi-wan made small grin stroking his beard. "Seems our new friend inspires others quite well." He complimented sensing no deception.

Anakin was near certain of it, but before he could comment Cooper spoke. "Or it could be a mind trick. Force wielders are capable off such right? And our experience speaks to it." He suggested being one to not trust Galen and also being one of the ones to noted Anakin's anxiety. Cooper himself didn't want Galen's identity to be brushed under the rug.

"I wouldn't worry about that." Dov brushed aside. "He's not one for magic like that?"

"Magic?" Obi-wan laughed. Sure, why not, given how little the universe actually knew or was willing to accept about the force it could be viewed as magic and sorcery with Jedi being the witches and wizards using it. Although, Obi-wan also knew there were actual witches and wizards that practised mystic, ancient magic that could be or possibly not be the force. Not that Obi-wan really spent much time looking at the study of possible unknown omnipotent, metaphysical systems. Despite Jedi teachings no one really looked in to the study. In fact, he could think of only one Jedi that actively did. Others that did study the topic magic went into the category of near omnipotent dimensional systems like Hyperspace.

But that was off topic.

"What do you mean by that?" Anakin questioned as Dov was insinuating that Galen didn't have a preference for mind trick but more than likely, other aspects of the force.

Dov froze sweating. "Um, well, I mean I haven't—"

"Mind tricks aren't a useful tool in a war against droids General." Bail muttered. "Plus, I think we would know if a mind trick was being used on us." He gestured to his personal guard watching them closely in the background.

Both Jedi present eyed the guard that had silently entered but was not unnoticed by them. 'Force-sensitive? Right, Alderaan people are raised in the belief and study of the force. But higher teachings are left to the Jedi order'. Anakin thought to himself knowing that Alderran was one of the few world that activity sought to and give their force sensitive born to the Jedi. Those born on Alderann that developed force sensitivity later in life would either be recommended to the Jedi order or be placed as palace guards to the royals and high class. The guard standing silently was one of them.

"Your guards?" Obi-wan noted getting a few concerned looks at the obvious persons. The Jedi mastered shrugged. "Never the less, I would not underestimate the force like that. Tell us though, what have you seen him do with the force that suggest otherwise?" He went right back to the topic just as curious as his former apprentice.

"A large variety of techniques...General Kenobi, General Skywalker." Raith nodded to the Generals as he entered the followed by a tall, at least 6'7ft tall, ragged looking man. The follower was human, tanned but not dark skinned, recently trimmed yet retaining length blond hair, and green eyes. Broad and built like a tank he looked like he could hurt someone with a swing of his enormous arms.

Raith grinned entering the conversation he probably had no need to be in. "I see the republic has spared no expense, dispatching the 2 of you here." Raith continued pleased with their presence.

Obi-wan mind was blank and questioning. "Sorry. You look familiar but..."

"General." Admiral Yularen stepped forward all to familiar with the engineer. "This is Raith Sienar the CEO of Sienar technologies."

It clicked in Obi-wan's mind, as did Anakin's. "Ah. Yes. I thought you were stationed on Coruscant. You have a penthouse there last I heard."

"I thought you were imprisoned as a traitor." Rex growled too as he and the rest of clones clicked a second after the Generals.

Yularen frowned. "Captain Rex, that is no way to treat a supplier of our fighters and ships." The Admiral snapped.

Raith raised his hands in peace. "It is quite alright admiral. I understand my stance after being forced to sell weapons to the Separatist. Trust me, my company wanted no part in."

"Regardless of that, why are you here on Christophsis?" Obi-wan questioned seriously as he did not expect another political figure to appear. Bail of the Republic, Cooper of Christophsis and Raith of a corporation each had their own agendas that conflict and would probably result in political squabbles of power, money and leadership. All they needed was a Separatist and this room would erupt into either a yelling contest or sly remarks all aimed to threaten or damage the reputation of the other.

Raith continued to smile as that was exactly what he wanted. "Well General Kenobi, Christophsis has strong ties to the Republic navy and I have been stationed here to test some new prototype star fighters." He explained his eyes smoothly sailing to Yularen. "Admiral Yularen, if I may, I think you would be the model pilot to test my newest starfighter, long in demand by the republic." He enticed.

Yularen couldn't refuse. "I would be more than honored to test it with you."

"Very good."

Obi-wan could see the strong alliance between them as could everyone else. They really were all on the same side, but the cracks were ever present. The blond man's demanding present was a testament to that too. And he couldn't be a nobody considering he was standing at the table still, wanting for his chance to talk. "And this, tall, young man?" Obi-wan questioned.

"Leapold. Leapold Spares. I'm the new leader of Christophsis Volunteers, we've named ourselves -"

"No." Cooper interrupted turning to Bail, no one but the soldiers surprised as to what was about to happen. Obi-wan had thought already. "I told you Bail—"

"That we would not be allowed to fight unless it was under the CMPs rule!" Leapold snapped back glaring at Cooper.

Obi-wan internally sighed. '*sigh* People all day today and now politics. Great.'

"Nothing in your messages asked to fight under the CMPs, we only fight for our world." Leapold explained snapping Obi-wan back to first bit of information upon walking in the room.

'Senator Organa and Starkillers messages worked? People actually came forward to help?'

"You're not a Christophsian." Cooper pointed out.

Leapold sneered. "Of course not, but I'm stuck here anyway."

"Senator Organa, what is going here? I'm afraid I-we some context." Obi-wan pleaded truly not wanting to go in this direction of all things. Go back to talking about Galen, go back to talking about the war. Just anything but politics.

Bail nodded. "As per the messages you've all seen, we were recruiting volunteers to help in defeating the Separatist. Over the last 2 weeks we've seen a flood of volunteers from the planet. At least 5000."

Cooper growled. "We're not using civilians."

"Most of us AREN'T!" Leapold shouted back taking few threatening steps forward making most of the room go for their weapons. Leapold froze noticing so.

"Easy big guy." Rex growled himself. Whatever issue they were talking about didn't change that Cooper was a ranked officer that needed to be treated with respect.

Leapold backed off frowning. "Apologies." He growled lowly.

Anakin straightened, leaving his hovering position over the holoplayer and walked to Leapold. "What do you mean most aren't?" Anakin snarled having a bad feeling from Cooper's dismissive nature towards Leapold. He wasn't certain, but the familiar clothing, behaviour and even smell coming off of Leapold told Anakin the truth.

Leapold started intently at Anakin staring as intently back. He sensed a familiar kinship too. "I'm a slave, as many of them are."

Anakin breathed deep but rather than responding, walked away staring into the air. He couldn't stand the emotions he was feeling right now. And he was really applying all his knowledge on Jedi suppression of emotion but he couldn't. That face of Starkiller had unhinged the force surrounding Anakin, leaving the jedi knight unstable and open to outside stimulation. He needed to physically move away from them and they were all wise enough to not follow.

Obi-wan could feel the force unraveling from Anakin, his emotion and intent up in the air. He needed to move this on and address Anakin's worries. Support him and advise immediately after this meeting. But he was also shocked. "A slave? I'm sorry, I wasn't aware slavery operated on Christophsis." Obi-wan made sure to add a bit of distaste in his words, mouth and face.

"They are treated better than most worlds." Cooper responded followed but a paused. Many were staring him because of the stupid comment wondering if Cooper was going to realise his pride was not worth more than BOTH of the Jedi Generals opinions.

Leapold snarled. "But no less a slave, particularly with the explosives in our necks."

It paused again. This time Anakin was glaring near murderously at Cooper who glared back before taking a pleasing face.

"They can't-"

"They will." Anakin silenced Cooper.

Leapold didn't smile, only confirmed it. "Senator Organa has already agreed to remove the explosives."

"What?" Cooper whispered.

"Slavery is illegal in the republic." Bail followed suit. "I don't know how Christophsis got away with it for so long, but an inquiry will be made once the separatist have been arrested or eliminated from the planet."

Yularen scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Given that the planets leaders have abandoned the planet, the republic will have to take control for security and safety reasons regardless. Implementation of anti-slavery laws can be applied during this time."

Cooper paled. "What?" Behind him Sinect and Ossuess rose from their seats. Concern on their faces but not because of the removal of slavery though. But because of the lack of faith or trust for those left in charge.

"A reasonable decision." Raith snuck in with a small smile towards Yularen. "Cooper hasn't informed us of his plans after the separatist are removed." He continued before eyeing the non-humans present. "And I don't believe you wish to rule by yourself with the Verpine, Given and Kerdiodians."

Sinect snapped, very much unlike himself. "We would be sufficient in ruling. Do not underestimate our capabilities." He could see what was happening. They were going to use anti-slavery as means of justifying their control of Christophsis over theirs. If they argued it, they'd be labelled slavers as a result, trapping them.

"But would you be able to defend yourselves?" Yularen noted. "I won't lie and say the republic's intentions are without reason. Energy resources and naval training facilities are Christophsis's worth and both sides are aware of it."

"And you just so happen to side with the Republic." Osseuss added.

Politics were not Obi-wan's strong suit given how deceitful and deceptive it was, given his status as a Jedi it added to his disinterest in talking but he had to try. "We do not seek submission or dominance over your world. It is the last thing we wish."

"Then we will rule without your assistance." Cooper reasoned knowing he had to take control back into Christophsian hands. "Implementation of anti-slavery laws is fine, I even welcome it. But it has to come through the rulership of Christophsis. Not the other way around." He finished seeing a few accepting faces, a few disapproving and yet most respecting.

"That is fair." Bail answered quickly wanting to settle the argument with this outcome before someone else answered.

Obi-wan realised this too. "Agreed."

"I wouldn't be so sure." Yularen answered lightly shaking his head while staring down Cooper. "Can we trust your loyalty to the Republic? Given that so many have sided with the Separatists?" Admiral Yularen asked uncertain and aware that he needed to secure a better allegiance with Cooper, if not someone else entirely. He was a soldier, an unofficial Captain Commander voted from the pool of soldiers left. He was not a politician, a senator or leader of significance that could control Christophsis in the republic's name.

No, that belonged to the Verpine and Given leaders standing just off from them. Both recognised and both historically significance in recent years to Christophsis. Yularen had done his homework, as he did in the Naval Academy.

Both species were known concerns to the Republic, Given with their alliance to the Separatist and naturally cold and calculated behaviours. Verpine to their seclusive ways like the Hutts and hive like servitude to their fellow insectiods. Both species had butted heads with the republic. Throw in the Christophsians, 1 third of which abandoned their plant and other third sided with the separatist for whatever reason. Whatever independence or integrity Cooper was trying to sustain for the planet was crippled and a foot in the ground.

Cooper could practically read Yualen's concerns. "If it's the traitors you're worried about they will die. We can't trust them after selling us out." Cooper explained.

Obi-wan sighed scratching his beard. "Distinguishing loyal troops from theirs will be difficult. Even with myself and General Skywalker it will be difficult." Obi-wan noted as anyone of the traitors could say that were acting against their own will if confronted.

"Because of the Jedi magic, right?" Dov innocently slipped in pointing at obi-wan and Anakin all to happy to talk about force magic being brought up.

Obi-wan deadpanned. "The force is no magic trick."

Dov smiled. "Right, it's a religious, worshipping thing, right?"

Reload elbowed him before whispering. "Lying on the floor, out cold...please don't make me!" He mumbled as lowly as possible.

'Completely clueless. And yet he has a clear fascination of the force.' Obi-wan thought as this Dov seemed to take fascination to extremes of interrupting military meetings. 'Perhaps we should be teaching the public...on second thought better not to. Clueless fools like this Dov could be corrupted faster than a hacked droid.'

'Idiot! Can he not see how fragile the situation is! But sure, make us look ignorant and untrustworthy while discussing loyalties.' Cooper growled in his head.

'Should I dismiss him and Reload? A bit pointless now, but it might make Cooper feel better.' Bail thought.

'Oh, this is too good! Make an opening any wider and I'll be ruling the planet before the end of the rotation.' Raith wondered with glee not going let this broken ice go to waste.

"Right, If I may General Kenobi." Raith started quickly. "While it is correct that I have assisted the separatist in the past, I rather enjoy my interactions and security the Republic offers. Although, I am not an official representative I could act as a representative of the republic for the Christophsis's leadership."

Obi-wan thought it over, hating how he was being put in the spotlight. Anakin would normally jump on such opportunities for him given how he enjoyed participating political discussion that concerned the Republic. But then again Obi-wan knew he wasn't called "the negotiator" for nothing. He's charm really did attract everyone to him. But all he could do now was advice honestly. "Regardless, that would require official recognition from Senate representatives and a dismal of your previous actions. Yularen, what are your thoughts?" Obi-wan asked as he did Yularen perspective and thoughts.

"The other admirals have spoken highly of Raith's attitude and professionalism. However, such actions can be discussed later." Yularen answered knowing now was not the time.

"Agreed, so let's move on." Obi-wan summed up moving back to topic at hand. "Captain commander Cooper, a question if you would regarding the initial attack that occurred. 50,000 droids I believe. They were marching in single platoon formation through the city centre weren't they?"

"Yes."

Rex laughed shaking his head. "Good for smashing front line defenses on an open plain and intimidating civilians. But stupid in a city warzone."

"There programming is simple, predictable. If they were advanced, we'd have reason to be concerned." Yularen noted.

Cody made a suggestion coming to his own conclusion. "Who's ever is in charge must not be used to commanding droids."

"I wouldn't say that. Their tactics with the droidekas, the heavy vehicles and jet suicide bombers were calculated." Cooper hummed before pausing. "Back tracking a moment, a quick personal note, is my ship ready for deployment Raith?"

Raith gave a surprised look that Cooper was bringing this up now. "Your V-wing is fully operational Captain Commander."

"Thank you Sienar. That will help cut off the Jet LR suicide bombers early. Now, all we got to worry about are the hyena class bombers in the sky." Cooper noted eyeing the holograms of the bombers.

"Which will commence anytime." Bail noted nodding and before turning to the pilot crew that had returned at his request. "Dov, Reload, Diamond Squadron awaits you two too." He commanded, not actually telling them to leave but the command was there all the same.

Dov grinned all too happily. "Finally, we get to put that ARC-Wing into the air. I'm driving." He quickly said to Reload turning away to leave the room.

Reload shook his head. "Of course you are, you can't aim." He mumbled silently unheard by Dov yet heard by everyone else in the room.

"We're not done here." Anakin lowly muttered with a deep tone stopping the two followers of Galen. "What is this Galen capable of? And no more changing the topics." He growled looking at everyone else when he said it. They had continually been shifting the conversation away from the rogue Jedi, thinking that the subject would simply drop. Anakin wasn't having it, not with the sense of dread and danger he was getting.

The Jedi General took a breath before continuing. "It's important. If he is a threat to the jedi order, then he is a threat to the republic." Anakin said wanting them to turn there focus on Galen as he was for all intents and purposes an unknown.

"He is an excellent soldier and knows he way around a lightsaber and the force. As any Jedi." Bail quickly answered overall uncertain as to how the council would react to Galen's presence. Sure, he had recommended to Galen that he go to the council and met them. But something seemed off with Anakin's behaviour, more focused, obsessive. Did he know something? Had he met Galen before?

'Or did I judge Galen incorrectly?' Bail wondered. The possibilities were countless.

"Oh, you are giving Galen too little credit Senator." Raith purred but not lacking any praise or respect for Bail or Galen. "Some of you might have noticed the unnaturally large tower which is collapsed in the centre of our city?" Raith pointed out getting a confused pause that took a long time to process.

But Obi-wan came to the conclusion that those involved had gone silent about. "Are you saying this Galen Starkiller brought it down?" It was an outlandish thought but not impossible. Very far from impossible given what some Jedi had managed to pull off during this war and even before the clone wars. In particular, his former apprentice standing next to him.

"Only after we set explosives at the base of the tower." Reload added as he had based much of his believe on the event on the lose of the structural integrity of building's base.

"And that was enough?" Obi-wan asked very curious, even somewhat concerned. He was good with the force no doubt but even he would struggle with such a feat. There were other members of the council that would also struggle with doing so. But at the same time Obi-wan was aware of at least 10 living individuals that could match the achievement.

"Enough for him to push it over. The droids had suffered a large loss of numbers due to their formation before the tower fell, but once it did more than half of what remained was crushed and any that weren't were cut off and separated from each other and their command. We are still receiving a few small readings of droid survivors under the tower, but give it a few more weeks and they'll be silent." Reload explained having discussed the calculation with other clones and personnel after the event.

"That is still an achievement. Even by our standards." Obi-wan pondered wondering if he could pull that off. He was actually trying to think back to some of his own feats. He couldn't say he had taken such drastic action nor could picture taking such actions.

Anakin swallowed the lump it his throat. "Perhaps...perhaps not." He had never moved such a large object but he was certain he could and even Obi-wan could. He had thrown conqueror-class Dreadnoughts, basically an orbital fortresses, completely out of their original positions without assistance. He had brought down multi-story buildings too and had even lifted multiple ones before throwing them.

Galen was a step ahead, but only a small step. Especially if what Anakin had heard about Yoda's capabilities.

"It was a reckless, destructive move." Cooper growled hating the looks of worry or awe coming across the General's faces. "We're lucky the shelter didn't collapse on itself." Cooper noted as pushing it had in fact created a fissure across the city, forcing buildings and roads to elevate metres above the original ground level. If it had struck any harder, most of the city would have sunk into the crater like fissure surrounding the fallen tower. If it were a normal city, not constructed for meteor bombardment.

"But that move saved our lives. The shelter was made for heavier impacts then that and was probably the reason the city was still standing." Sinect noted as the foundation under the city itself was fabricated and created, and a strong testament to Christophsis's excavation operations. Creating underground shelters and mining caverns that would not cave in.

"We cannot fault that Chief Sinect." Raith continued to with glee. "Nor Galen capably with electricity."

Alarm bells went off. "Electricity? You mean lightning?" Anakin asked remembering the energy projectiles that Dooku used against him. He had nerve damage following that encounter that still pinched and twitched every now and then. He could not deny the power and intimidation the Dooku held while using that force ability.

"Yes. He quite renown for it." Raith continued happy to tell them what he knew. They were going to find out anyway. "He's combat type seems to implement it alot." Raith finished noticing the many looks he was getting. The one face that spoke excitement was very good to see.

"And its amazing!" Dov cheered all too excited to talk about it. Okay, Bail and Reload had told him not too, but he had to talk about. The miraculous feats that Galen, and Dov assumed other Jedi could use, were out of this world. He hadn't ever dreamt that such things were possible until Galen broke them out of the prison.

"He downed that bald assassin easily with it. But then she got away." Dov finished reflecting on how Asajj had escaped.

Obi-wan was taken aback by these claims. "Senator Organa, how exactly do you know this man?" Obi-wan asked as such a force-sensitive should have been picked up by someone by now. Since the Jedi weren't aware of him, the Jedi Master had to assume that he was connected to the Sith or at least a darkside force user of some type. Much like Maul on Naboo all those years ago, completely unknown until he was upon them.

"That is the question isn't it." Raith questioned speaking see that he was getting his way egging the Jedi General on. "We were going to have a meeting just to discuss-!"

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

Away from the group of people, seated at one of the radar and communication stations a CMP solider quickly turned to them. "Enemy bombers inbound! ETA 30 minutes!" He quickly shouted before wordlessly sending a broadcast to all the troops and civilians that were within hearing distance of the headquarters.

"Saved by the bell. " Reload mumbled eyeing the ceiling at the emergency siren before turning to the enthusiastic Dov Rench. "No time for talk, let's move Dov." Reload noted as all around them everyone switched back on to the fact that they were in a war zone. The switch back was instant.

"For later then. Squadrons let's move!" Cooper called having already prepared for Admiral Trenches forces. He and Raith had been calibrating and charging multiple ships and ground to air projectile cannons for such an attack. They would not be caught of guard like with the earlier invasion that Galen scarred the city with.

"Cody." Obi-wan snapped.

"On it sir!" The orange marked clone answered moving immediately.

Rex turned to his Jedi General still thinking about the rogue Jedi, Galen. "Alright, let's go. General?" The dark blue marked clone questioned ready to move.

Whatever concerns Anakin had fell as he would deal with Starkiller after the annoyance of Admiral Trench's attack. "...fine, lets blow these tiniest out of the sky."

They all made a move to there directives but stopped in their tracks at the shouts of another of the CMPs troops also stationed at the radar and communication stations. "Generals? You're going to want to look at this. It is the blockade; they've transmitting a signal. It's too large and wide spread for us to scramble."

Questions came quickly but the answer came first to Anakin as he was the only one who had faced the transmission and been able to do something about it. There was no time though and signal was refracting off of multiple transmitters in the blockade. But now they had something else to look forward too.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Count Dooku

House of Dooku Palace. Serenno

Being the centre pieces of the clone wars, more specifically the Separatist alliance, would be considered a daunting role given that you know full well that everybody knows who you are, will research you down to your favourite and least favourite meals, and will make sure the world was aware of who you were just to kill you. On the other side of that argument was that if people knew who he was, they were going to rally to him as well.

Noting the flashing green communicator signal on the console of his desk was just another minor reminder of his position. He had been waiting at his desk for some hours and to pass the time had reviewed the strategic points of the clone wars. As leader in his position should take the time to schedule and revise the information he had.

Leadership was a trait Dooku had inherited from his nobility, to his Jedi tutelage, to his businesses, and to his Sith learnings. But with that came the time consumption of planning, managing, adapting and executing these grand plans. Which he currently had.

His current thoughts went back and forth on his plans to control the borders of the south eastern mid rim and outer rim territories following directions from his master and the advisers of the Separatist. The most knowledgeable being the first.

Christophsis, Geonosis, Ryloth, Tatioone, Naboo, Rodia, Hypori, Malastare, Ryndellia and Utapau. Planets that made up the borders of republic and separatist territories and the prime locations of fighting and frontline headquarters on both sides. At least in the south-eastern regions of the outer rim.

Things were going smoothly enough for their forces in these regions. Looking over the holomap on his desk the multiple planets he had been going over shined labelling themselves as they changed focus from large to big. First was red rock which had recently turned around.

Geonosis had been taken back by the Arch Duke and Hive Queen with ease, combine with Wat Tambors near complete victory over Ryloth and Grevious's conquest of Hypori, the death wind corridor was open to Rishi, the doorway to Kamino. While said hyperspace lane was officially under the rule of the Hutts, that would soon change following their next actions on Tatioone. Then all they would have to worry about was the Rishi Moons.

The planets of Malastare, Utapau, Ryndellia would fall to anyone right now. All planets had interactions with republic and separatist factions. Although Malastare was already a conflicting planet with divide between the native Dugs and colonists Grans. Said conflict was settled by the republic's intervention resulting in the colonists Gran victory over the native owners of the planet years before Dooku's time. Adding insult to injury, the Gran being so pompous and arrogant made themselves senator representatives in the republic leaving the Dug species without any real representation in the republic. Instead they were represented as thugs, smugglers, bounty hunters and racers within the Hutts space and underground regions. There blight while unfair and unjust was evidence to his personal belief of the republic's clear corruption and abused systems. Not that he cared about the Dugs though, they were little more than another tool to Dooku's expense. Evidence and allies, nothing more as to ensure the rise of his new empire but never the less, the Dugs would make for good labour forces.

Peace had never really been established on Malastare meaning the Dugs would jump for independence either for revenge against the Gran or the Republic.

Utapau on the other hand was more of a mining planet that also functioned as a touristy party world. Balanced on both sides of the economic scale, government and corporations functioned together quite well on the planet leaving no real angle to work with.

On the surface basic mining took place as their major export while underground races, casinos, love dens, ship dealerships and legalised drugs, toxins and substances abuse made its ways as a party scene to take in rich families, Hutts, CEOs and politicians of every fraction and government to enjoying themselves. That planet had a strong unity between peoples.

An official invasion was pointless. Infiltration and access would be relatively easy though considering they took anyone with the credits. Sneaking an army would be laughable easy and hiding one easier still.

But in the end Malastare and Christophsis were the divided ones that they had to conquer first.

Ryndellia wasn't an issue except for one thing. It was a class 10 planet. Completely uninhabitable with a highly acidic atmosphere that could eat away at all most any metals or organics. If there were natives neither side cared to try and meet them. As advanced as technology was the threat of Ryndellia was still out lasting anyone trying to enter and claim it's near indestructible soils. But to Dooku, an orbiting fleet was all that could remain to control the space.

From Ryndellia they could establish a frontline on their biggest obstacles in this region. The biggest issue being securing Rodia and Naboo.

Rodia followed a long line of grand protectors, established simply by who was decided as strongest, smartest and had no physical defects to past on to the next generation. A backward, primitive rule not that different from Wookies and Trandoshans that had in the end ruined the Rodian species for hundreds of years. So many slaves, so many third rate bounty hunters and smugglers but this prideful independent system strives forward. Yet it was accepted by republic rule so long as they remained loyal and understanding to who was in charge. In Dooku's honest opinion the species itself and republic had completely dropped the ball on well fair of Rodians across the universe. Although Senator Farr was a rising star having more control over the planet than the grand protector in all but name and was loyal to the republic.

A republic that just so happened to ignore the failure of the grand protectors and had supplied no military aid to the planet despite its plead for help long before the clone wars. While again unofficial, the Hutts had Rodia in the palm of their hands, most likely for hundreds of years. The only and profitable benefit for the Hutts being the large spread of Rodians breeding across the universe for abuse.

Senator Farr had his work cut out for him and would met with Nute Gunray, leader of the separatist political council or separatist committee. Protection via mass battle droids would be the selling point as true independence was an unconfirmed desire of the Rodian people. Never the less the "public" second-in-command of the whole separatist movement would see to it himself.

Grevious would be considered the real second-in-command though, no matter what Gunray thought. Regardless Nute Gunray, the coward he is, is good at his job beings the silver tongued, slug ball he was. Of course following that reasoning, Gunray wanted more for his success. Mainly being that in exchange for successfully turning Rodia, Gunray would be awarded a seat on Dooku's personal council.

A counterproductive award that Dooku hated. Wat Tambor, and Poggle had earned their spots commanding their forces to victory and frankly Dooku didn't want anymore politicians on his council. Money driven, silver tongue fools wouldn't survive those with actually desires and dreams with the will to follow them through.

A shame the council had lost such persons but Dooku again wouldn't let their desires matter to him.

Despite all the actions being taken for Rodia's allegiance, losing Rodia was within acceptable bounds. But Naboo would be the crown jewel to conquer. They were loyal to the republic bar non and the republic had assured its protection over it. There was only 1 problem though in Naboo.

Half of the separatist allegiance joined via inspiration of the Naboo Queen's actions taking an independent defense of Naboo against the trade federation WITHOUT the republic's assistance. While honourable for Naboo's reputation, it was humiliating to the republic's Senate.

Naboo would be the toughest nut to crack but Grevious had already established multiple spies on the planet. Not ready to move, but deep enough to strike at the right moment. It was a win for Grevious on his part as Dooku had doubts he could make friends, or allies as they were. That was why he would trust the Ryndellia "Malevolence" experiment and Rishi stealth mission to Grevious soon enough.

"Count."

Dooku's eye adjusted to the communicator. Loathsom had re-establish contact. Dooku had muted communicator awaiting a respond.

Loathsom waited patiently as he too was aware that at no point had Dooku ended the transmission. It disturbed the already cautious General as no one waited on a transmission for multiple hours! Had Loathsom missed something? Was Dooku aware of his caution, intent and actions. Possibly but it didn't explain why Dooku had not ended the transmission. But the answer was clear thinking about it. Dooku had a hunch something was going to happen and wanted to witness or interact with it somehow.

There was a flash of blue light, an image transmitted over light years of space near instantaneously, the large hologram of Dooku appeared, projected of the 4-legged mobile droid on the ground. Said droids possessed crab like legs and limbs that crawled on single claws with a dark brown amour plated surface.

"Yes General?" Dooku questioned staring up at Loathsom sitting in the cockpit of his AATs main canon watching everything happen around him. To Loathsom's right, an intrinsic facility of pipes, grids and funnels wrapped and suffocated a cliff side that had been cut into the mine, growing across a quarter of the space of the enclosed mining area like metallic vines or fungus.

Ahead and out of sight from Loathom and most his forces was a hole, digging deep into the crystal revealing an excavation site with what looked like ruins of some long and forgotten race. Hidden and probably preserved by titanic stalagmites, now enforced with industrial surfaces.

And behind Loathsom was a large lift, interconnecting to a set of underground and completely industrialised transport stations, more accurately known as Mining Entrance 33. The headquarters if you would of the south mining sector in which all the mines would eventually connect. And that was the beauty of the underground mining being conduct and ultimately designed and maintained by the industrious underground species of Verpine. Just as they did with their entire planet and culture. And it was resourceful excavation method sought by the Galaxy. It was part of the reason verpine were so common on Christophsis.

They had the Kyberr crystal, larger than any sample he had seen on the planet stationed and being examined near the left and were making preparation to send it to the surface now that it had been tested, stabilised and measurements taken. It green glow still hung it Loathsom's mind as if he had uncovered some holy relic. Evidently it was held to a similar standard if his Leader and former religion fanatic was waiting patiently for hour on end.

"You're really still here?" Loathsom mumbled surprised and curious that the Count was patient enough to remain.

"I told you I wished remain in communication while this operation is finalized." Dooku said in his most polite tone yet. It confirmed though that something could happen if Loathsom wasn't careful. More than likely it would involve that blasted blue shadow following him.

"It is unnatural for you, or anyone to remain on a transmitter for so many hours. A testament to your patience and will, yes, but is very unsettling." Loathsom growled speaking honestly but not with ill-intent.

Dooku didn't flinch knowing full well his action was very questionable. "I will be honest with you Loathsom. Something is happening on Christophsis that is concerning me and I don't know anything about it." Dooku confirmed his memory of Asajj burning.

Loathsom glared back. "You're referring to Starkiller." It wasn't a question. It was a statement.

Dooku remained stoic. "There are no coincidences General. But why and where they leading are what concerns me. The removal and transportation of the crystal will only take a few hours. I can oversee and observe for abnormalities in the force while the hologram is not projecting myself and I have a few hours to work away on documentation and communications across the separatist movements." Dooku said. He did have many times he had to remain still and focus on his plans, so really it was a perfect standby and wait situation to act on.

Loathsom dug his claws into the metal surrounding him. "You believe starkiller will appear here." Again it wasn't a question.

"Starkiller more than likely, but something is going to happen." Dooku stressed. "Even you can sense this. Why else would you have Tripods, AATs, Persuader Class tanks, and your personal Lieutenants and Captains all in a deep underground mine before I explained my expectations?" Dooku noted, listing of the extreme measures Loathsom had taken. Uncharacteristically too, as the Count himself.

It was true. Loathsom had spared no expense. If he marched with this army against Bail now, not even a tower collapsing could stop Loathsom's victory. They had that many numbers, that much fire power and above all this, advanced military strategy. Not that platoon formation march crap that droids were programmed to do. Real, flesh and blood, self-preserving leaders.

And although they were deep underground, the cavern they current occupied was large enough to encircle 3 republic star-destoryers. It was an open field filled with assault vehicles that could maneuverer to their leisure and so many droids that they covered the dark crystal ground like grass.

Galen was the toughest opponent Loathsom had faced. Assault vehicle weren't any issue for him. 5 assault vehicles at once weren't an issue for him. But 100 all in same location would over power him. At this point, the army Loathsom had brought would be like a Separatist Cruiser 50m away facing every heavy turbo cannons at one enemy. Such fire power could level a city in minutes.

The droids would be nothing but cannon fodder to Galen. But now? They acted as literal, overgrown grass to massively slow Galen's approach down.

It was called the "thick reeds" operation and it would be very useful in such a situation.

But that wasn't all. Protocol Unity, Operation "Rain Eruption" and the new and improve Caucus Captains and Elites were ready to end this Jedi.

Oh, and given Galen's track record. He would come charging in like he always did, playing to Loathsom's plan.

Loathsom frown determined this would work. The cavern was structurally sound, the titanic, behemoth sized crystal fissures and pikes crawling in mountainous, connecting stalagmites and stalactites reinforced with artificial mining infrastructure and surface plating help was intimidating, the Christophians had applied their meteor shelter technology to prevent a collapse to the mine for good measure.

Loathsom started in thought having calculated so much just for this one special enemy. "If it is what you said, and following my failures, I didn't want to risk anything." Loathsom stated.

Dooku pondered for a moment but dismissed the thoughts. "Why did you wish to speak? Has it been confirmed and examined?"

"Yes and it was as described." The Christophians had been hesitant to touch the sealed tomb given that it was not of their design and was akin to the old temples of worship that use to the litter the planet. Their once great worship of beings of light that guided and protected them from the darkness. Whatever non-sense it was had been forgotten and disregarded long ago by the populace. Never the less there was still a small community that argued it not be touched due to tradition and belief that the light gods did not want it disturbed. Luckily for the separatist they had received a contact that didn't believe that non-sense and was willing to co-ordinate with them to secure it and distribute the power source detected within to the populace.

They weren't going to do that.

Still, Loathsom was cautious. The description of these light beings was unnatural but the power they possessed did hold details similar to that of the Jedi. The Force that they worshiped. "The temple was sealed tight, not a technology we were familiar with but old and easy enough to carve through." Loathsom growled lowly because of the appearance of the force in his war again. More and more its presence was becoming visible when previously it had not. That realisation was probably another symptom to Dooku's concerns.

"So, our informant was correct." Dooku noted remembering the Christophsian women that messaged them.

Loathsom relaxed turning to Dooku. "She was. Although she has been quite vocal about our treatment of her world. A shame really. Finding good allies can be hard, but not impossible." Think about it.

Dooku nodded in agreement, thinking. "If Ohrana was right about the Phictamemor mining facility and the sacred temple buried here. Then the other locations should be fruitful." Dooku mused.

"Neogious City in the Northern sector of the planet is occupied by republic forces. But given the destruction of the governance tower digging up the city should go unnoticed if we take it. But Patoz Forest in the eastern sector is not. In fact, we have a few operatives working there." Loathsom answered for the Count. Patoz Forest was only place they could hit, only problem was that it is a lawless area. Many in fact had relocated there following the invasion of the planet leaving a small rebel force disassociated from Bail's forces as they themselves occupying Patoz were smugglers, outlaws and mercenaries.

But he wasn't going to tell Dooku that. It wasn't important enough to bring up.

"Very good general. Have the Crystals transported immediately." Dooku concluded.

"Usual process?" Loathsom asked.

"Yes. Have them sent to Ryloth. It should be a seamless operation." Dooku elaborated.

"Lieutenant Pity!"

Dooku didn't turn the hologram off as the form of the Lieutenant appearance. A bulking Kerdodian the same as Loathsome, however was fashioned in dark armour plating, sprayed with dark blue and dark green markings of the Kerdiodian people. But most surprising was the armor and weapons designed and integrated into the surface of the plates, not seamless and making it easy for Dooku to distinguish what they were.

"Yes General?" Lieutenant Pity responded sounding rough and more gargled than Loathsom. It was to be expected, most Kerdoidian's did not speak basic and the Kerdoidian language more liking to the Wookiee's growls and roars.

"You are to escort the crystal off planet. Take 6 captains with you." Loathsom emphasised.

It was a surprise to Pity. "6? Only 6?" He questioned. Surely the mission would require more than that, especially if it was Dooku's direct orders. New armours or not!

"Given our circumstances, I need soldiers. Or accurately leaders." Loathsom explained looking to the Lieutenant educated, cautious but leaving no room for argument. "We'll provide fighter support and 3 flagships. The ship with be supplied with energy Crystal's and fuel to be delivered to the Techno Union as official supplies, labelled as neutral resources being traded. Same as usual. Keep the large crystal off record."

It was a typical strategy for transporting illegal goodies and soldiers that always seemed to work. Exclaim trade neutrality to any republic ships or officials that get too nosy. Test if they are part of the bribery circles established years ago. If they aren't part of the bribery circles justify actions and trade with forged documents, stating some truths but not all truths. If they have a problem with droid guards, exclaim the free market of trade federation droid production and distribution, show the legal documents for the droids uses. And should they continue to push too, obliterate them once inviting them onboard. Of course though, try to ensure no signals are sent out by the officials either.

Pity had done this multiple times before for the last decade. The corruption of not just the republic but people in general had become all the more rampant in the last 3 decades. Even within Hutt space, but they were less merciful and didn't apply legal tenure if you tried to screw those slugs over.

Loathsom made a thought. "I'll need a stand in for you Sleet. Name someone." He commanded looking down from the AAT main cannon seat at Pity standing next to the hologram.

"Captain Mocks has been doing well. I would suggest him."

"Captain Gravel Mocks. Done. Get to organising it." Loathsom ordered the with no hesitation. Was familiar with his own elites and captains, he trusted their judgement. Pity's more than anyone else as if anything were to happen to Loathsom. He was confident that Pity would be able to address and perform in the role.

Dooku was barely paying any attention to the conversation the entire time examining them armour that Pity wore with interest. As the Lueitenant finally left to complete his duties he jumped onto Loathsom. "What is that armour your lieutenant was wearing? That's not standard Caucus uniform."

'Of course he noticed straight away. It was enviable.' Loathsome pondered. He had no plan on telling Dooku any of these details unless asked. Dooku didn't directly manage Loathsom's army or the Caucus Retail.

"No. It isn't." There was only one reason why he would take a curiosity with the armour. And that was if he thought it was dangerous. If he thought it could be used against him. And if he did think that, then there would be only one logical path he would go down.

"That is the techno union's experimental armour plating. Armour plating that is not supposed to be implemented until after the clone wars. Why are you trying to deceive me?" Dooku questioned about ready to order that the armour be removed and destroyed.

It was as Laothsom suspected and feared greatly as his past thoughts were starting to make terrifying sense. But he could not admit to it. If Dooku wanted to answers he would have to force it out of him. "The separatist schemes for after the war mean little to me. I need to secure the Christophsis now."

It was not a lie. It was the truth. Just not the whole truth. Dooku knew it straight away. But was curious. Very curious.

"So you steal from us?" Dooky growled not at all letting his curiosity flesh itself out. He was the authority of the CIS and had to make sure that Loathsom saw that.

"Steal, definitely not." Loathsom answered again without any lie. "We are on the same side. Hiding potential war weapons during a war is counterproductive. Although I never intended on using these armours until after I secured Christophsis, much like the original intention." Loathsom admitted.

But Dooku pushed the point. "So that your thieving could go unnoticed." He growled dangerously.

Yet very surprisingly to Dooku, the Kerdoidian General did not faulter. "I stole nothing!" The military leader of the Retail Caucus snapped, and it very much was the military leader of the Retail Caucus speaking. Dooku could sense the shift, it wasn't Whorm Loathsom he was speaking to. It was a haggard mercenary that had easily killed hundreds in his past and had grasped his way into becoming one of only a hand-full aristocratic Kerdoidians. Loathsom knew this and he had clear goal to fulfil.

"Your disapproval means nothing to me Count! I have a WAR to WIN! And things are not going in my favour." General Loathsom barked having enough of being held back but the leader he was sure was manipulating him.

Loathsom knew what he had said, and Dooku knew what actually meant under the facts and influences plaguing Loathsom currently. "So you do not trust me?" It wasn't so much a question as it was confirmation that had slowly built and formulated itself through the conversation.

"I would be fool to put all my faith in you." Loathsom answered regardless as to how Dooku felt. "Unlike you Jedi, blind and devoted faith will leave you open to the wolves." Loathsom noted with thin glare through his eyes showing the distrust.

'Blind and devoted faith? In the force?' Dooku thought. Whorm Loathsom knew nothing of the force. He had been ignorant and disinterested the in topic ever since they had first met. So why bring it up now?

Loathom didn't notice the clarity of thought going through Dooku head, although it was more of a testament to Dooku abilities than Loathsom's abilities to read people. But Loathsom had already gone this far, it would be unwise to stop now and leave questions for the Count to ponder over. "But you are rather angry considering I'm securing a planet for your agenda. Do my actions for success only matter when it follows your design?" Loathsom questioned as Dooku's features darkened.

Now that was going out of line. "You are stepping out of place Loathsom. You will follow orders and you will be punished for your thievery." Well, there was no way Dooku wasn't going to punish thievery.

But Loathsom was confident and wanted to make an example of himself to the Count. To the authority in the shadows. "You decide nothing here Count. It is not your life that is on the line right now. I will survive this ordeal! An ordeal you have not been seeing to protect. And you wonder why I don't trust you. In fact, you're only interest are these Crystals. I assume once they are secured by you, that my actions for Christophsis will mean nothing to you. So leave me to my devices or fight your enemies yourself."

Loathsom actually had to catch himself at the end. He presented a formidable argument to Dooku and near screwed it up but calling him a coward, to his face no less, in that last sentence.

Dooku was stunned silent, for only a second. "...you have had alot to consider following your defeats." Dooku had to admit, underneath all that brutish Kerdoidian instinct was an ambitious and insightful leader. Made him even consider the blue alien more human.

General Loathsom laugh lightly seeing that he despite all odds had actually gotten through to the force-sensitive master. "Ha. If that's a jab at my competence it was poor. I have to learn from failures or I am doomed to repeat it...and most times there is no repeat. Just the first time." Loathsom reflect remember for a moment the many people he knew that were dead now.

Dooku was impressed and he did not have any expectations of Loathsom being able to produce such a sound argument. He wasn't a coward, and he wasn't ignorant either. Not completely ignorant anyway. If he had been acting like this anytime during the last 6 years Dooku may have even considered him for his personal council. However, words were only as strong as the actions that follow.

"I may have underestimated you Loathsom, but until you prove your medal, I and the separatist cannot trust you."

It was a challenge from the Count that Loathsom needed to accept and win.

"Again Count, a fool relies on faith and trust. I aimed to secure myself long before the clone wars started and without Separatist assistance. As for trust from you? I imagine I have to do something far more dark, twisted and profitable for your respect. You haven't helped though, you set us up for failure being interested only in your gain. Your trust is not worth that much."

Again, where was this justifiable courage and speech coming from? Dooku wasn't sure but something had snapped in Kerdoidian. No, it was much more than. Dooku could recall Loathsom being aggressive yes but complete diligence and determination was new. Much like Asajj currently, hiding her present and refusing to answer his communicator.

'What sickness is this Galen Starkiller bringing to Christophsis?' Dooku didn't know why but he wanted to play along. He'd find out more about Loathsom's plan for example and if he was as he described "dark, twisted and profitable" enough to benefit Dooku and his master's plans.

Dooku gave a small smirk surprising and putting Loathsom on edge further. "How daring, although you are surprising me quite a bit right now. Perhaps it is I who needs you Loathsom. Secure Christophsis and I'll give you an official seat in the Confederacy of Independence Systems Council. You will be Senator Loathsom." Dooku declared. It was a stepping stone into Dooku's plans, a challenge so to speak.

Loathsom was impressed himself. He had not imagined the title being given to him. Unfortunately, that was because he didn't want it. "That is quite the title. But I have 2 renown jedi generals, a renown senator and an unknown rogue, freak on my battle field. At this rate I will be dead by their hands within the next rotation. Official council seating is an acceptable loss if I choose to pack up this army and leave."

It was playful powerplay, uncommon to Dooku as he was known for using force and the literal force to persuade people. Dreamers were to be respected but are in the end competition. "What is it you wish for?" Dooku asked again curious and ignoring his base instincts in the darkside. A potential testament to his master's teachings and Dooku's will-power.

"I want Plagen and the Klatooinian Trade Guild. The Caucus Retail Guild will also be given a trade alliance with the Techno Union. I guess you've already concluded my dealings with them."

Loathsom's dealings with the Techno Union was a forgone conclusion that rested in the back of Dooku's mind. If Loathsom wasn't completely telling the truth, as he 100% confirmed and sensed through the force. Then someone had supplied the materials and weapons to Loathsom in a business venture. Wat Tambor was a very dangerous man for a non-combatant, damn methane breather. A big dreamer too and one that Dooku had to respect too. It wasn't uncommon for the methane breather and the Techno Union to make deals behind Dooku's back. Very rarely would they impact him but he would use it against Tambor if he didn't remember his place.

But a planet and a notortious Guild. Not to mention one that the Retail Caucus had already tried to conquer Plagen and failed. It was so badly managed that the Kerdoidian commanding had been betrayed and brutally murdered by the tactical droid working with him. The tactical droid in question led a victory that was almost a problem for the CIS. The Klatooinian Trade Guild wasn't so much a mercenary guild as it was military division of the Hutts. The Klatoonian themselves weren't Wookiees or Trandosans but they were still a physically strong species that the Hutts relied on.

The only thing that hadn't turned the Hutts against the CIS following the invasion was the fact that Plagen was located in on the edge of the unknown regions, on the otherside of the galaxy when compared to Hutt space. It was a lost to the Guild yes, but as far as the slugs were concerned Plagen was a minor lost and not completely unexpected. Many planets near the unknown regions had been abandoned following the break out of clone wars as they weren't hard to take but weren't worth controlling.

Never the less he Klatooinian Trade Guild was a powerful group and military within the Hutts that could actually compete with Wookiee and Trandosan warriors. Clones would struggle against them, and while droids could be quickly replaced and numbers gathered, they weren't strategic, experienced and efficient war soldiers.

'Loatshom's Kerdoidian elites are example of effective and experienced soilders, beasts in their own right. No doubt, Tambor wants more flesh-based soldiers that can think and have the instincts to survive the battles. Not many droids could actively think through their actions or learn from them. Looking for reinforcements aren't you Tambor.' Dooku thought knowing the conclusion. "Perhaps even progress their cyborg technology in conjunction with the Banking clans."

"A conclusion I venture you and Tambor were going to suggest after your victory here." Dooku confirmed, not denying that he had already come to that conclusion. Dooku could see it coming together nicely but at the same time didn't want things to escalate too quickly. He still had to consider his master's plan. "These agreements warrant further discuss. Let's see how far you get first. Tell me, general, what are your current thoughts?"

The talks were actually going in his favour? "Concerning what Count?" General Loathsom started before taking a guess. "Kenobi and Skywalker have smashed our blockade defense and made contact with Bail Organa and the resistance that he has assembled. All thanks to Starkiller freely wreaking havoc on my forces and turning the defense grid against us. You understand why I had to incorporate the experimental armour and why I ask for so much. Simply put, I am being HUMILIATED!" The monstrous General bellowed as all his plans would mean nothing at the rate the battle was going.

Dooku smirked ever so slightly. "Correct this humiliation, and the rewards will come. But I was referring to this place, this buried, sacred temple." Dooku asked gesturing to the structures around the army.

Loathsom wasn't sure why Dooku was bring them up, it may have had to do with his reasoning to dig up the crystal but he didn't question the question. "It is tied to some light god legend that Christophsian's use to believe in. Evidently, time has grown wisdom and forgotten these indifferent gods." Loathsom explained. He didn't believe in gods or higher powers (which he realised was his mistake as of recent), but his home planet had always believed in something called the greater instinct that fuelled the strength and survival of his people.

'Barbaric beasts.' Loathsom thought sick of the barbarism of his people that led them to ruin.

Despite Loathsom's thoughts, Dooku was quite fascinated at the suggestion of light Gods being worshipped on Christophsis. The force itself was a focus of light and dark, and it was very much the nature of the force. Any idiot that suggested otherwise was a fool, or so his master had educated him. With some excessive force that Dooku remembered angrily.

He brushed his memories aside. "And Asajj?" He questioned.

"Failed, again!" Loathsom snapped hating to even bring up the women. "Starkiller got past her and even when discovered she was useless to stop-." Dooku turned away from Loathsom, his head facing in a random direction with droids, stockpiles of crusher dust, mining machinery and storage boxes litter and filing the view. "What is it? You have a guest on your end?" Loathsom questioned thinking that someone had entered in the room Dooku was occupying.

"No. You have a guest Loathsom." Dooku mumbled all-knowing as his whole body shifted and straightened in the directing Dooku had been spying. "I know you are there. Whoever you are, please step out from the shadows. They cannot hide you." Dooku confidently proclaimed, the air of darkest ever presence in his voice.

Dooku reacted before the being did, his eyes moving up in anticipation.

FLASH

Jagged line-like streaks of lights converge in on themselves, only comparable to the shutter and flickers of a hologram assembling in the air. The light built a few feet higher than Loathsom's seat in the AAT main cannon seat but not standing over any of the Tripod Droids standing around them. The droids were stunned for a moment and even Loathsom had to cover his eyes during the flash of light.

Dooku didn't flinch or hesitate in the slightest to the foreign, unnatural light. While interesting, he truly wondered if the act needed to be so flashy and attention drawing.

"How dare you take a core crystal." A female voice echo first before the form of the being appeared. The light was bending a curving the shape of smooth, human female but creating only the surface with no distinguishable features of textures. Hollow and ghost like, glowing eyes appear from the edgeless figure's head staring down at the Count and General. "You will doom yourself to its power and unleash havoc upon Christophsis."

Dooku glared but not in anger, maybe a little frustration, but he was more so intrigued. What was this thing? Why was it here? What brought it here? He was certain it wasn't the army just as he was certain that most of his hair had gone white with his aging body. The crystal, more than likely. There were no coincidences.

Asajj, his pathetic assassin had been on a nauseating power high that he was sure would lead to some chaos. The unknown rogue Jedi Starkiller was wrecking havoc to Loathsom's forces having arrived from what most would think is thin air. And Loathsom, a non-force sensitive, had clearly broken what hold the darkside had over him and the rest of the galaxy which he, his master and 1000 years' worth of dark lords of the sith had been creating to blind the Jedi. What was happen on this rock that was causing this?

Loathsom growled in annoyance as he listened and looked up at the hologram-like creature. "Rhhh. What other surprise has now crawled into my war? Creature! Who are you and why shouldn't I have you annihilated?" Loathsom demanded as every blaster, adding up to over 500,000 individual barrels pointed at the being.

She was about to speak but was silenced by Dooku. "She is a Lumos." He proclaimed with an educated smirk causing Krillistan to flinch. Dooku continued. "An ancient species supposedly made of pure light. A walking blaster and light gods originating from this temple."

The colour weaving across the surface of the Kristallin flickered to a green slightly before returning to the normal blue. "Floating." She clarified. "Do not compare me to your weapons and do not mock me by bringing up the past. Never the less, I can do far more damage than any common blaster." She said dangerously as her palms glowed and begun to built a dangerous amount of energy that would make any sensors or radars jump and fluctuate suddenly.

Dooku continued smirking his eyes darkening further. "I'm sure you can. Get comfortable General." Dooku stared as for the first time since they started talking, Dooku's cap broke away from the base of his body, slice open as if it had been a single piece of cloth revealing his arms. "I'll take it from here. Take it as a pity support, considering the odds just stacked against you."

'More so than you could possibly handle alone.' Dooku though to himself as in his mind, there were no coincidences.

"Mmmrah." Loathsom growled taking what help he could as he was starting to think things would get out of control soon.

"How do you know my kind? Christophsis has forgotten at our command." Kristallin asked having a thought but wanting to confirm.

"The Jedi archives on Coruscant. I educated myself well during my studies of the universe. Of course, governance, law, belief, religion, biology and taxonomy were a topic of interest to me."

"A fascination of authority and knowledge?" Kristallin mused thinking aloud. "Hmph, a genius, prodigy Jedi turned Sith. Not an original story." She noted further as it wasn't an uncommon story.

Dooku wasn't insulted, he knew who he was and what he had done. "To come to such a conclusion so quickly. You must have witnessed much in your immortality." Dooku countered having guessed the possibility considering the information of the archive at the Jedi Temple.

"More than you know." Kristallin continued.

"But not beyond my comprehension." Dooku sneered back.

Kristallin paused at the confidence and knowledge this boy had. "...You're intelligent. Jedi and Sith of the past weren't known for such. A few rare cases but most would blindly wander to the directions of their desires. Or battle. But you sadly do not compare in power, creativity and menace they did. I can sense that much."

Dooku smirked unconcerned by the past knowledge brought up. "They are of a different time. Both their ideas and beliefs led to their undoing and the generation of new laws."

"Do not believe me ignorant." Kristallin snapped back continuing the discussion. "The rule of 2 and the taboo of connection. Both laws fixed the flaws of old jedi and sith."

Dooku shook his head. "And have created new ones. Flaws that must be eradicated." Dooku whispered darkly.

A flicker shimmered across Kristallin's form. "...that is your intent? Or at least one of them. You disillusioned fool. Very, very rarely would anything be perfect. The crystal will fix nothing." Her hand raised glowing intimidatingly. "Leave it or they die."

"You will kill them?" The sith asked.

"Yes."

There was no hesitation in the light being's conviction. "Impressive. Truly. But unfortunately for you pointless." Dooku answer barely lifting his right hand from his waist.

Dooku's palm clenched subtly and barely noticeable but a heavy force was within the sith's grip. Kristallin's entire form flickered in and out of existence, the light fading and the clear curved surface became fuzzed and undistinguishable.

The eyes of light began to twist and widen in shock as the light dulled. "Ruh! What?" He shouldn't be able to sense her, or even grasp her in such a way. He couldn't possibly-

"I told you already." Dooku muttered as if his form had been completely forgotten. A small distance a way Loathsom's eyes widedand watched in fear and fascination. He had felt that wrath all before but to see it again on someone else was new to him. "I have all the information I need to know about your species to defeat you." Dooku finished staring quite bored at the light wielder.

Kristallin struggled, the light brightening and a breeze of heat emitted from her projected body. "No, rha! You can't." She denied but could not.

The force was beyond any power the Lumos people could conjure themselves. And even with her experience with the force empowering that nature power Lumos people had, she couldn't force her way free from this sith.

"A supposed living blaster. But it has a core." Dooku lecture stretching his senses out and feeling exactly what he was grasping tightly. "A crystal core, no smaller than baby's finger nail and with the structural integrity of mica fragments. Sitting right in the centre of your humanoid, light generated chest."

It wasn't visible, the light surrounding it bended, reflected and refracted make it invisible. Added with the power of the force it was near impossible to sense.

"Damn, AAHh!" Kristallin screamed as Dooku tightened his grip slowly.

"Don't be disappointed in yourself." Dooku lectured his arm still resting on his waist. "I would not have noticed if I were not educated on your species. Confirmation that your species are in fact real and are force wielders is enlightening. You hide your core through both mental stealth based force manipulation and your species physiology in manipulating light to hide it physically. Altering the light, atmosphere and reflectively of matter and subtle manipulation of the senses, even of the force itself. The force of myself couldn't comprehend it at first either, it was that subtle. No doubt a testament and signature action of the Lumos race, small scale subtle manipulation to match your facade as deities and gods." Dooku finished quite pleased with himself.

Kristallin cringe on the inside, her defenses and abilities completely exposed. "Our existence is no facade. If you—"

"Why did you expose yourself?" Dooku interrupted questioning Kristallin. "It doesn't make sense. As old as you are, you have the mind and spirit of a youth. Regardless of your nativity, I don't think you actually thought there was a chance we were going to let the crystal go. And your intentions were to take the crystal back."

"..." She didn't answer back. She had no answer to counter.

"I've thought it about ever since I sensed you, not right now but hours ago. Considering what you are and evidence to contrary, you could have obliterate the general and his forces the moment you arrived. But you did not. So why speak? Simple, you make for a very, dazzling, captivating distraction my goddess who is not alone." Dooku concluded, Kristallin and Loathsom flinching at the words. They weren't the only ones to flinch as a small smirk appeared and then disappeared from the corner of Dooku lips

'Damn it. No helping it.' Galen growled internally having snuck this far into enemy territory watching the discuss between Kristallin, Dooku and Loathsom. Heart, Mason and Novak hadn't confirmed the location of the crystal or the transmitter Dooku was streaming his image from. He wasn't even so sure how close they were to enter the facility. They hadn't thought that Dooku, through a damn hologram, would turn things around so quickly with a twitch of his fingers. They hadn't even managed to infiltrate the facility properly.

But that was also why he was hiding so close to help Kristallin if things went south.

That was why Heart along with Qucikstep, Pell, Jam and 5 CMPs were position to cover from the north-west cliff edge to cover him.

That was why Mason along with Nart, Agro, Hardie and 7 CMPs were position within the mine's large processing plant, hiding within the pipes, grids, and metal surface to further cover him from the North.

That was why Novak along with Seagate, Opy, Cred, Phic and 7 CMPs were comfortably awaiting a chance to find the crystal and the transmitter on the ground floor hiding at the Lift station north east.

All three points (the cliff edge, the processing plant and the lift station) were connected by the northern cliff.

But Galen had no time to spare, Krisallin was their distraction and he had to keep them focused. He leaped out from his hiding spot. "HHHHAAAAA!" He quickly and viciously threw his hand out targeting the walking hologram projector that Dooku was being appearing on. If they could destroy the droid quickly enough Dooku wouldn't be any threat.

But Dooku could already sense the intent before Galen even moved, his eyes became focused watching the force blast that was barrelling for him. Unexpectedly, the force blast was strong, very strong and would have been dangerous to take a direct hit from. What was truly interesting about it though was the blue ripples and waves that actualized themselves from blast.

"Hmph! RREH!" Dooku's left hand rose, flat palm facing the incoming blast as the blast struck an invisible wall that was equal if not larger than the blast. His hand shook feeling the impact, even light-years away the feedback from the aggressive action was clear. A vicious breeze began to stir around the gathering of CIS forces but completely un-effected the droid projector.

Droids reacted immediately rushing for Galen blasting randomly and without formation as he went into action. Watching the youth who had been at the centre of the chaos on Christophisis the sith was about to examine the boy but his eyes twitched sensing something else. Another threat.

Heart grinned, spying Loathsom in the scope of the sniper rifle blaster. He had a good position with Quickstep and the other from the cliff side carved into the surface for mining purposes. He had a shot on a Separatist General and his programming demanded elimination. "Die Loathsom!"

Dooku's left hand twitch and gestured to Loathsom's as the lid of the AAT flipped and Loastom suddenly dropped into the tank his seat lowering on its own, shocking and actually scaring the Kerdoidian General. He didn't even realise the blast bolt that had just missed him as he was sealed safe inside the tank.

"Damn!" Heart growled confused as to what had happened.

"I knew it." Dooku growled lowly as Loathsom was still a useful resource at this time. One he could not lose. Although he was back in the tank, Loathsom had an audio communicator that Dooku could speak and had been speaking to him through.

Dooku wasted little time his eyes examining area that wasn't even on his hologram. The landscape didn't need to be in his sight though, he was presence there through the hologram and through force. Nothing could hide from him. "General. You have enemies on the cliff face, in the processing facility and main lift entrance." Dooku could sense them and admittedly better than he thought he could. "See to-

"RAAHH!" The roar and force repulse Galen used shook the ground as droids that had rushed to attack were blown back. Without wasting time though, Galen ignited the red blade from Dooku's assassin and charged once more. If he could just reach the hologram droid or even Loathsom, he could turn this around.

"Stop!" Dooku commanded his right hand lifting to bring his already captured enemy closer to him. Kristallin's form moved with her crystal core and floated in front of Dooku and in Galen's path. "Or she DIES!" Dooku bellowed louder than he would ever normally shout or yell. It was unbecoming of him but this Galen looked like the type that would rush in first without paying attention.

"NO don't!" Kristallin shouted.

But Galen did as his charge slowed significantly enough for the droids to take a second to aim and start firing all over again. The red blade went about deflect the blaster bolts and Galen was surrounded with very little opinions left. But just quickly as he slowed the droids stopped firing.

"Now. That's better." Dooku purred cause Galen once more turn and focus on him instead seeing he had raised his other hand a gesture that the droids realised somehow before even looking at him. More than likely a pre-programed gesture to cease fire but how it was transmitted was unknown to Galen.

Dooku stared never taking his eyes off of Galen. Even when he addressed Loathsom. "General. The clones if you would." He commanded softly as he unlike the rest of his body remaining arm aggressive shifting into a force grip that broke what force defences Galen had and jerked Galen into the air towards him.

Droids, their tanks and Tripods were already moving towards the 3 positions as a reaction but Loathsom had quickly began ordering further action. "Pity. Mocks. The cliff, the processing plant and the lift. High droid numbers. Captains where you see fit. Organize it now. I wish to focus my attention on Starkiller." Loathsom ordered as he watched from the display in the AAT.

"Right away sir." Pity answered a string of aggressive growls and orders were issued by the armoured Keridiodan.

Dooku's hand shook and twitched unable to become steady as he held Galen in place. Although he ad been about to break the youths defences quickly enough, Galen was quickly, and once more aggressively, trying to break and restore them. "You-hm, are strong. I admit, it is taking alot just to hold you still." Dooku muttered as he was certain most Jedi Masters wouldn't be able to resist as much this Galen was.

"You're Dooku! The dark side user." Galen spat out glaring at one of the leaders than had brought about the clones wars. While Galen didn't have a personal grudge, he had been working his ass of fighting the separatist droids and was still sore about the imprisonment.

"Yes but do not let that affect your judgment." Dooku answered with respect for this young lad that by all definition would make a grand darkside user himself. "It is good finally met you Galen Starkiller. You are every bit as fascinating as Asaji said. And please do not be confused by my association with the darkside. It is merely another aspect of the force, and is an aspect you are evidently familiar with."

"No." Galen burst out. "I can sense the difference between you, me and Asajj. Your intentions, your manipulation." Once more memory surged that from a familiar feeling caused by Dooku. It was similar to the dark hooded figure glazed in purple lightning. An association with this figure could only mean corruption and abusive control. "Whatever you want, I won't help you." Galen growled.

"Let's be reasonable Galen. And honest." Dooku lecture as if he wasn't holding Galen and Kristallin stagnant in the air above him. "Loathsom has informed me of your amnesia and Asajj has confirmed it. Asajj was not as adept with reading the force as I am. I can see the forces hand in your lose of self." Dooku conintued using only reason. Reason that if position correctly could manipulate.

"So you can use me? And here you were asking to be reasonable." Galen snapped back feeling no trust for this very human, human infront of him.

"Darksider!" Kristallin screamed trying to break out herself to no success. "Your weakness for power is all too apparent. I can-ack!" She flinched her voice sounding like static to the grip of the sith grasping her core.

"I'll talk to you when I wish too. Your taunts are meaningless creature."

Dooku focused back to Galen. "I'm offering you, assistance Galen Starkiller." Dooku pleaded.

"Why would you do—" BOOM

Galen silenced to the eruption that occurred on the cliff edge. Despite the conversation being taken around the sound of blaster fire had long since begun. The clones and CMPs had no way of helping them from their position as droids march like a nest of ants to the 3 locations. The last eruption though was of a tripod droid that had fired one of its missiles upon Heart's team's position. "NO, leave my troops be!"

Dooku stared the excitement of the introductory gone as he examined Galen. "...General, halt the attack." Dooku muttered.

Loathsom hesitated by complied. "...Pity, Mocks. Halt the attack."

The droid projector took its own steps forward at the will of the Sith lord, so that said lord could examine the youth closer. "My, you are selfless. Not what I was expecting. Clones know their duty to die but you won't let them. A Jedi weakness that has left you in my palm." Dooku continued as he held his hand up for literal truth of hold Galen in his palm. Dooku wasn't about torture at this point though. No, what he wanted was reason. "Do you know what is it you want? Do you care about the Separatist rule over Christophsis?" Dooku questioned.

"Your dogs locked me up, beat me, and even when I escape I find the whole planet is an imprisoned." Galen answered.

If Dooku wasn't holding two beings in the air at this time, he would have stroked him beard. "You want to leave the planet believing the only way to do some is with violence. Specifically, the death of the General currently with us." Dooku concluded heard by the General.

Feeling safe to do so, Loathsom opened the AAT hatch and look upon the thorn that had been in his side for his time on Christophsis. "As if I'm going to roll over and die for you Starkiller. Count, let me kill him. You have him secured and I have dozens of heavily armed vehicles that can obliterate him." Loathsom asked with the mercy of an executioner. And but all logically reasoning of war, they should had killed the trapped rebel.

But the war was beyond Dooku's concern. What concerned him more than the war, was matters of the force. An one as unknown as Galen would be useful. "Settle General. I merely wish to know more about this 3rd party, and 4th party that I'm sure is related to the 3rd. Simply consider the timing of your occupation as wrong in conjunction to them." Dooku answered.

"But yours is perfect." Kristallin muttered as sheer possibly of been trapped by an waiting, off-world, sith hologram. "Jedi and Sith, guided by the force are typically in the right place, at the right opportune time. Either that you foresaw this." Kristallin concluded as it did make no sense for her to sense him waiting for them for so long.

Dooku could admit to that definitely. "It was small unlikely gap that I would be here to prevent an enemy counter to our excavations. Very unlikely and unlike myself to act as such. Yet the force guided me, pleaded with me to remain. I can sense it pulling in hundreds of direction, warning me of dangers. All came down to was a decision." Dooku said, even as unreasonable as waiting hours on a hologram was.

"Asajj." Galen muttered. "When she let her senses out, you sensed it and it concerned you to the point of staking out on a hologram for hours." Galen concluded hardly believe it himself.

"More than sensed. I could see her, hear her, smell her. All so clearly, she may as well have been standing right in front me. Smiling with glee, happy with herself. Nothing felt out of place in the force, and Asajj's outburst was most likely only a minor warning at best to what was actually happening." Dooku mumble with underlining darkest and anger. "Never the less, that minor warning was a devastating alarm that something is wrong. You are part of something that has, very evidently shaken the planet's core Galen Starkiller. Something I want to know about."

Galen couldn't stand this anymore. "I've told you all I don't know ANYTHING!" He roared to which Dooky grasp tighter on them.

"Something IS locked in your mind." Dooku argued back defiant. "One way or the other we-"

The hologram flickered out of existence and before flickering back in. The alarm on Dooku's face was clear as was Loathsom's. Time accelerated at the apparent weakness in Dooku's presence as the hologram faded in and our of existence. The transmission had been interrupted. Some had happened once more. Words erupted, the exact meaning disrupted as each party had only seconds to comprehend what was happening.

"What?"

"Huh?"

"Now! Fight! EscaAAAAHHHH!..."

"-NO!"

"Wait! Sto-?!"

"..."

"Droidekas, droids, anything! Kill the Jedi. Blast HIM!"

"Gen-al-bri-me-..."

"You! You-"

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

3 Days Later. Neogius Command Post 17, Neogius City.

Command post management. Basic requirement when out stretching an armies war battlefront. A collection of dots on a map starting from one point and connect through to next closest then to the battlefront. A network of control and holding points.

They weren't anywhere near the front but given their position of the command post they were close enough to see it in the distance. Just out of sniper view range.

"Neogius Post 28 report in."

...

"Neogius Post 28 report in."

...

Neogius Post 28 report in. Cleveage Motorway Entry post, report in. Please respond Command post 17.

...

"CT-11-0978, report in. Hey Dellinger! Report in brother."

....

"Dellinger, you there." Vent asked worried as this wasn't a good sign. Dellinger was never late to answer comms. He's programming prevented it. If he didn't answer soon Vent would have to call it in.

"No answer?

Vent turned to Sargent Charlie. "Nothing Sargent Charlie. They've missed their report time. You think the enemy?" He asked.

Charlie shook his head. Regardless to whether it was an enemy attack or something trival like a communication malfunction they couldn't risk. "Report it in and-"

"Hello. Negeious post 28, sorry for the delay. Communicators been malfunctioning, should be fixed now." Dellinger finally replied making the trooper and Sargent breath again.

"Karabas, you scared us for a moment Dellinger. Caller code 311429." Vent stirred, anxiety in his throat.

"Apologies Vent, checking in code 252623. No movement from enemy's line. Scanners record no signals. Weapons and ammunition set. Advise, ready to mobilize across the country with troops from command posts 24, 29, 30, 32. Advanced reconnaissance ready. Command post 17, do you have reinforcement for our command post?"

"We do have reinforcemernts, they'll take control of command post 28. We'll be advancing behind you to take the Cleveage Motorway Entry Command Post 29."

"Very good Vent, hope they look after The Governance Roof Top. That command post 28 is a good spot." Dellinger said with mirth having enjoyed the view up there.

"Can't wait Dellinger. Thanks. End code 251211." Vent finished hoping to see his friend again.

"********"

No end code? "Signals gone again?" Vent growled ready to pull apart this communication himself.

Behind him Sargent Charile's shifted before he swiftly pulled his pistol out. On instinct Vent dived to the side quickly pulling his rifle out followed by the other 3 clone troopers present doing the same. "HEY! Who are you?! This is a restricted area!" Charlie shout as a hooded figure seemed to appear from nowhere, standing still and yet amused.

"Oh, me? I'm discovering myself to be honest. But you all? You don't need to worry about me. " She purred as her vibrated across all the clones as her image blurred and the world become faded and dark.

Charlie stared at the women as the words rippled through his core and he felt like falling over, the feeling of a strong, light-headedness. Those words she said. That he did not have to worry. She was right. She wasn't a threat to them. "We don't need to worry about you." He repeated.

She smirked and looked to Vent. "I am your ally."

"You are our ally." Vent repeated seeing no issue with believing so.

She smirked again looking at another. "You serve me."

"We will serve you." The clone said, not realise what he had said was far more significant that he would ever realise. Because he didn't say "I", he said "we". As in they were all together and they would serve her. That was what he believe, what he's brother believed and what she believed and knew.

She smirked further wickedly. "Your leaders betray you."

"Our leaders betray us." The clones copied, a hit of believed fury in their voices.

"Your brother's at the base plan to kill you." She whispered so slow and lowly that the clones didn't actually hear the words. But they sensed the intent. They sensed it. They sensed her words as she smothered them with her spell of strings written in the force.

"Our brother's plan to kill us!" They snapped in a rage. How could their brother's do this? They trusted them and they were planning to kill them? No, they couldn't accept that.

"The other command posts are with you." She didn't say it? Not aloud this time. But they heard it all the same.

"The other command posts are with us." Good they had allies, friends, brother that were with them. They were not going to stand by and be killed by those that would kill them.

"Prepare to march back into the city."

"Prepare to march back into the city."

"We must kill all the republic allies."

"We must kill all the republic allies!"

Asajj could hardly believe how effective that simple mind trick had become. It was a small misdirection that she rarely implemented on the clones, good for stealth and evasion. But never implemented to this level. Yes, she had them. Had them in her control. So many under her control, over a vast span and remaining under her control for days or weeks if she so choose. The mind trick was new in scale and would last sometime if her assumptions were correct, following her little test with the Rodian. "Good. Very Good. Continue your roles in silence. The republic force must not know what we are planning."

"Yes, Mistress Asajj." They responded.

They didn't copy that time. No she had implanted so many suggestions, long last suggestions and connections with a potency that she never had before. Such basic implementation of the force, never once brought to higher or highest levels. Well, she was certain the two Sith Lords she served could implement this. More than likely in a different fashion, but with the same if not better results. Actually, she would assume that the Sith Master could and has been implement it to a terrifying level. Her assumption stemming from the hazed connection that she had recently sensed on herself.

She would worry about that later. She had time despite her new found connection being found out. With this ground secured that made 17 different groups of clones under her control. Nothing large enough to actually outright defeat the republic forces, but enough to cause complete discourse and chaos. She would get to see and test her power and connect with the force. Oh, they would be her puppets, her servants.

"What will you do Mistress?" Charlie asked, his personality forced down deep until she left him with the sub-conscious orders.

"I will give the signal for the attack once I have drawn them to me. I will fight in the frontlines and pierces their defence. I am going to test myself and see just what I'm capable of." She declared. Not so much to the clone, but herself. Yes, she would bring the basic abilities she had and maximise them to an extreme. She could feel it. And she would not die. No, not here. But her desire was clear.

It was a test yes. But at the same time. She really wanted to fight Skywalker and Kenobi. And show them just how much she had changed.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Author's notes:

"2 YEARS! Far out! So much as happened. Wasn't even so sure if I would return. Still not sure. But nearly 200 follows, so many of you want to see more of this story. Never thought it would happen as writing is just a hobby for me, but it has! Thank you so much!

Full-time work is exhausting. Not much free time anymore. But given the state of the world who knows. I might have more time come the end of 2020. We will see.

Clone wars final season. YES, well there could have been more, but YES. That final between Maul and Ashoka ,and I have to really appreciate the scene with Maul using metal wall surfaces as shields. Reminded me of what I did with Galen in the prison escape. Same concept.

On top of that, the return of Bleach for those who know my other story.

I don't know when I will update again but I have been thinking about how to continue the story considering everything that has been happening in my life. But I've still got my ideas.

The next chapter though - Asajj vs Anakin and Obi. Can't wait!

Review, comment, criticises and endorse. I'm always looking for feedback.