A/N: I do not own the characters of either the Harry Potter or Star Wars universes.
Chapter 7
Ron Weasley circled his Echani mentor, Raskta Liu. His mentor held 2 vibroblades, one perpendicular to his chest, the other on a slight angle, cutting across his neck. His bright silver eyes were focused on Ron's blue. Under normal circumstances, Ron knew he would have an advantage because of his magic and the Force. But one thing his Echani tutors made very plain from the moment his training began: he was not allowed to use them in trainings unless permitted to do so. For the Echani, the body must be honed to perfection, the ultimate weapon. The Force and most weapons inhibited the body and held back perfection.
The 2 combatants were dueling not far from the temple in the northern territory of Ryshan on a cliff overlooking a vast gorge. Master Windu would typically take Ron here to meditate. Now though Ron was focused on his foe. Though he absorbed his Echani teachings, in melee combat, he tended to favor his Jedi teachings. As such, while Liu was favoring a defensive posture, Ron dropped into his ready position: dominant foot held back and with his blade held in a vertical parry position on his dominant side.
During his lightsaber training with Master Windu, Ron was learning the different lightsaber forms. His natural predisposition was for Ataru, an aggressive form that was most effective against one melee opponent. Since he knew Liu would not give him an opening, Ron moved swiftly, raining quick cuts and slashes, forcing Liu to block and parry his strikes. Mace called this technique a "Saber Swarm" because it consisted of multiple short strikes to disrupt a defensive opponent.
Liu matched Ron's speed and ferocity, his blades moving in a flash to intercept Ron's as sparks flew among them. After the opening assault, Ron managed to catch both Liu's blades vertical as he slashed for his throat. Groaning under the strength of his mentor, Ron forced his dominant arm to the side, his muscles glistening in sun as he strained to throw his mentor off his footing. When Liu dipped to the right, Ron struck with a left cross.
In response, Liu dropped and tried to sweep off his feet. But when the young Jedi leapt over the attack, Liu quickly rose and hit Ron with a roundhouse kick, sending him spiraling to the ground. Ron quickly recovered as Liu attacked, catching one blade with his own and the other with the wrist guards he fashioned. Holding his mentor at bay, Ron lashed out and kicked Liu's left ankle, sending him to his knee and giving Ron a chance to recover.
The duel proceeded for several minutes, neither combatant getting the best of the other. Both men were spectacular physical specimens. After 2 years of rigorous training in the egogi, Ron had a developed his hard and lean muscles on the mold of an Olympian. He was only 7 pounds heavier than before but he was far more in shape than he had ever been. Each man had several cuts across their bodies as well, some shallow and some deep. Neither paid them the slightest bit of attention.
Deciding to abandon his original plan, Ron fell back into the Shii-Cho form. This was the first form he learned from Cin Drallig. Master Windu said it was one of the most effective as well. The only natural impulse Ron needed to restrain was falling into the Force and violating the terms of the training.
Liu noticed his change in tactics and altered his own, moving to an aggressive offense to keep Ron on edge. After defending the initial wave of attacks, Ron managed to disarm one of Liu's blades, throwing it to the side and out of the way. Despite losing a blade, Liu doubled his attack. Ron parried a quick jab at his solar plexis and cut a deep bite into Liu's thigh. His mentor staggered but regained his composure quickly.
Before the duel could continue, an Echani guard called out for Liu. "What is it," he demanded, not taking his eyes off Ron. That was one of the first lessons Ron learned. No matter the circumstances, never take your eye of your foe.
"Forgive me sir but Mace requested you bring Ron back to the temple as soon as possible. He is in a meeting but he would like to speak with Ron as soon as it is completed."
Liu nodded and sheathed his sword, his eyes still never leaving Ron. "We'll return soon. If Mace is done with his meeting before we arrive, tell him I'm sorry." The other Echani nodded and left. Liu dipped his head to Ron. "Excellent job today young one. I am very impressed with your progression."
Ron sheathed his sword and smiled. "Thank you sir. I still need to learn how to read your movements better."
Liu chuckled and put his arm around Ron's shoulders. He was one of the few men Ron met who was taller than him. "Remember where you were when you arrived. You've mastered the fundamentals of Tier 1 and I have no doubts you'll master the essentials of Tier 2 before you leave. You still have much to learn and experience will be your greatest tutor. I must say you're doing much better than I expected when I consented to Mace bringing you here to learn."
That was a considerable understatement. Liu did not understand all the technicalities of Ron's upbringing but what he did know was Ron never experienced the world without his magic and then the Force. When he arrived on Eshan, he knew nothing besides that. He also had no comprehension of physical combat. He was behind even an Echani child at the start of their development. Liu had low expectations for his new charge.
Over the 2 years, Ron immersed himself in his training and studies. He was now a remarkably skilled hacker and demolitions expert. He was becoming quite proficient in mechanical repairs and stealth techniques as well. And when it came to physical combat…when it came to physical combat Ron had come further than Liu dared imagine.
The 2 men walked back to the temple in companionable silence. When they arrived, they were told Master Windu was still in the council meeting but wanted to meet with Ron as soon as he was out.
"Have a good night young one. I'll see you in the morning."
Mace Windu sat silently, listening intently to Depa Billaba's report of a sudden and unexpected attack on a Jedi enclave on Had Abbadon. The planet was located in the Deep Core and was sparsely populated. Incidentally, it was also long rumored to be the site of the first Jedi council. Roughly 8 standard days ago, the High Council received a distress signal: a large attachment of Trade Federation droids was attacking. Master Billaba was sent to investigate with several other knights. When they arrived at the Jedi enclave, several dozen battle droids and destroyers were battling the Jedi still alive.
"When we moved to engage, 2 Dark Jedi intercepted us. I recognized one immediately." She cast a sorrowful look at Yoda. "I am very sorry to say this but it appears Count Dooku has gone over to the Dark Side."
The holographic image of Yoda sighed. "Sensed I have this defection some time ago. Gone Count Dooku is. Rumored Darth Tyranus his new moniker is. Interesting that 2 Dark Jedi there were. Recognize the other did you?"
Billaba shook her head. "Unfortunately I did not. He was a young man, maybe 17 or 18, though he looked much older. I sensed terrible trauma to his body, almost as if he body had been broken several times and put back together. I cannot fathom how he managed to function with such serious injuries. But he did more than function. His abilities are still raw but rage and hatred, coupled with an indomitable will, drove him." She shuddered. "I've never seen anything like it in all my days."
Mace grimaced. "There is more Depa is there not?"
She nodded, still clearly disturbed. "The young man suffered what should have been several serious injuries. But nothing seemed to faze him for long. It was almost as if the injuries fueled his connection with the Dark Side and made him more powerful. That is the only way I can see him dueling 3 skilled Jedi Knights and slaying them all despite the fact he was manifestly losing the duel."
"What happened to the Sith Lords," Mace asked.
"After the young one killed his foes, Count Dooku ordered a full retreat with the battle droids providing cover for them to escape. Dooku called the young man Darth Krayt. Only 5 other knights stood with me at that point. Once all the droids focused on us, we couldn't prevent the 2 Sith from escaping."
No one spoke for several minutes. Mace could hardly make sense of this chain of events. Why would the Sith risk attacking a Jedi enclave on a remote planet? Were they trying to send a message? If so, what could possibly be gained by such a surprise attack, besides killing a handful of Jedi?
"Random attack this was not," Yoda asserted. "Suspect I do that preparing his apprentices the true Sith master was. Part of their training this attack was, and perhaps part of something much worse."
"What benefit would the Sith expect to gain from such an attack," asked Master T'un. "If they sought to hurt us, with respect to our comrades who lost their lives, there are many other targets better worth their efforts."
"I am also curious why you believe one the former Count is not the Sith master, Master Yoda," added Master Saesee Tiin. "The Sith philosophy for the past millennium has been centered on only 2 Lords: 1 master and 1 apprentice. It appears you're suspecting them of growing their ranks."
Mace did not respond but he was interested in Yoda's response. He too though Yoda was alluding to a change in the Sith hierarchy. If that was truly the case, that could represent a seismic shift in the nature of the Sith threat.
The elder master closed his eyes in reflection. "True objective of such an attack, predict I cannot for certain. Wager I would that it would prepare the apprentices as I said. Been under control of the Sith for long neither has. Why both are apprentices I believe is quite simple. Left the Order just over 2 years ago did Dooku. Incredibly skilled he is but not long enough exposed to the Dark Side he has been to be the Sith master. Resurrecting something much older the Sith master is I fear."
"Since died Darth Plagueis, suspected I have that the new master is different. The shroud of the Dark Side, much greater it has been the past 15 years. Very little I know of Darth Maul, but terrible pain Master Qui-Gon felt in the young Sith. Similar accounts he provides, though Maul was much more experienced in the Jedi arts. Fear I do that the Sith master is building a new Sith Triumvirate. Much darker it will be though than what succeeded Darth Revan."
"What possible benefit would come from expanding the Sith hierarchy," asked Tiin. "Betrayal is the lifeline of the Sith but Darth Bane seemed to usher in a mindset that to preserve the power of the Sith, there needs to be as few masters as possible."
Yoda nodded. "True that is, so far as we can tell. The difference is suspect I do that pursuing immortality the current master is. Also, teaching everything he knows to his apprentices, unlikely he is. A dangerous game he is playing if I am correct. But if wins he does, in danger the entire galaxy will be."
"Forgive me Master Yoda but this is largely conjecture. More to the point, I believe it is dangerous conjecture," said Master Mundi. "We must deal with facts. And right now we have 2 Sith Lords that have attacked and murdered nearly 2 dozen Jedi, backed by a division worth of battle droids. We must discover their true motives."
Mace scowled at Mundi's hologram. "It is vitally important we learn as much about the Sith threat as possible. We cannot take such a simplistic view of the situation. Twice now in the past 2 years, the Trade Federation has been involved in attacks on Republic planets. Twice now the Sith have been working with them. We must unravel the mysteries of their plot."
"Masters, there is one last thing we discovered. When we investigated the ruins of the capital, we found the Republic flag smoldering on the ground. Next to it was a navy blue flag with a white circle in the upper half. Inside the white circle was a navy blue hexagon outline connected in the edges to a smaller navy hexagon in the middle." Billaba pulled the flag out of her robes and held it up before them.
Master T'un inspected the flag and shook his head. "I will take the flag to the archivist. I do not recognize it as belonging to any planet or system I am familiar with but perhaps we can discover its origins."
Mace looked at Yoda who looked to be meditating. "I believe the Force is moving towards a confrontation. When and how it will be brought upon us I cannot say but it is coming. We must do everything we can to track down the Sith apprentices and discover the identity of the Sith master. That is the only way we can prevent the destruction of the Republic and save our civilization."
After the meeting was adjourned, Mace remained in his room, pacing back and forth. He wasn't sure if he entirely agreed with Yoda's hypothesis but he couldn't doubt that he was correct about discovering as much about the Sith threat as possible. And while it wasn't discussed at the meeting, Mace suspected the young Darth Krayt was A'Sharad Hett. The poor boy has been lost since Dooku kidnapped him during the Sand People Wars and it was too much of a coincidence that he was at Dooku's side during this raid.
"May the Force watch over him."
Absently, Mace remembered he left Ron waiting, assuming Liu had returned. But as he entered the wing where Ron's room was, he felt his padawan's presence. In fact, he noticed Ron was working on mechanics exercises, which was one of his toughest skills to master.
"Hello Master," he said when he felt Mace's presence. He set down the tools and powered down the protocol droid he was repairing. "How was the council meeting?"
Mace wondered how much to say to his padawan. "Master Billaba intercepted an attack on a Jedi enclave Had Abbadon, a planet in the Deep Core. Two Dark Jedi were leading the attack." He could tell immediately his padawan was trying to figure out the whys and wherefores of the attack. Ron had a keen eye for strategy and after a few years of experience leading campaigns, Mace would not want to coordinate an opposing army against his padawan.
"The Sith weren't alone. They couldn't have been to mount an attack on a Jedi temple and hope to survive, which it sounds like they did."
Mace half smiled. "I shouldn't be surprised you know how to see through vague generalities. You are correct. In addition to the dark Jedi, there was a division of Trade Federation battle droids in the attack."
"How will the council respond? The Trade Federation can't get away with these attacks."
"Don't worry about what we will do my young padawan." He sensed Ron was ready to go on the attack, which was understandable but needed to be tempered. "Yoda, myself, and several other masters understand the importance of investigating the Sith. Master Billaba confirmed the identity of one Sith Lord and we have suspicions of another."
"Will these be tasks I can assist with when I complete my training? I've been reading about the Jedi Shadow and the Council of First Knowledge. If that is what you intend of me, I would like to be ready."
"You will my young padawan. The Force is moving towards a conflict, possibly one of the worst in several hundred years. The Order will need to be prepared. But for now, you need to focus on your Echani lessons. We only have another year, approximately, before we begin the next phase of your training. At the rate you're progressing, you'll soon be a Jedi Knight."
2 Standard Years Later
Mace sat patiently outside a secluded office in the west spire of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. He requested a meeting with Master Astaal Vilbum, Caretaker of First Knowledge and leader of the Council of First Knowledge, several weeks ago but only yesterday received a note agreeing to a meeting today.
The Council of First Knowledge was 1 of 4 councils in the Jedi Order that managed Jedi across the galaxy. Ostensibly, they were charged with the protection of Jedi knowledge (including the Holocron Chamber), developing the curriculum for younglings, and seeking out new holocrons and ancient histories to help the Jedi Order understand the Force. And indeed they did manage these affairs. But this was only a small portion of their duties and were the only duties known to the public.
The Council of First Knowledge served a much more important role. It was the most enigmatic council in the Jedi Order. For as long as the Republic has existed, the Council of First Knowledge has served as the secret arm of the Jedi to protect it. Not even the high council was privy of all the activities of the Council of First Knowledge. Under the Caretaker and 4 masters (voted by their peers on the Council for a life term), several dozen elite Jedi knights, all sentinels, served as Jedi Shadow, agents tasked with hunting down and destroying anything and everything connected with the Sith and their followers. The reason why the Council sought sentinels was simple: they were masters of adapting and living without the Force, blending into the fabric of different societies and planets without arousing suspicion, and accomplishing their missions using any means necessary, with and without the Force.
It was into this fraternity that Mace hoped to guide Ron. That was why he had him spend 3 years with the Echani, learning the ways of the Force and also mastering non-Force skills. The Jedi Shadow would undoubtedly play an integral part in uncovering the secrets of the Sith order and preparing for the coming conflict. Ron's skillset would be best suited for that task as well.
"Good afternoon Master Windu. Please come in," beckoned Master Vilbum, jarring Mace from his thought. The Baragwin Jedi Master was an imposing figure, over 2.3 meters tall and 170 kg, with a deep, raspy voice. His skin was gray and leathery, similar in texture to a rancor and his vivid blue eyes shone brightly with the Force. While Mace had only interacted with Vilbum a few times before, he knew how powerful and intelligent he was. If Ron was to become a Jedi Shadow and resurrect the Order of the Shadow, he would need to pass Vilbum's tests, not only the Jedi trials.
"Thank you for seeing me Astaal."
"No need to thank me my friend. I understand you'd like to set up a meeting between your padawan and I, correct?"
Mace nodded. "I do. I trust you've read my report on Ron's training on Eshan and his backstory." The other master nodded. "Very good. I would like you to meet with Ron and see if you believe he is up to snuff to become a Jedi Shadow. His not only is powerful in the Force, and growing stronger, but his own brand of magic is quite formidable as well."
Master Vilbum looked through Mace. The younger master felt his mind racing and the Force swirled around him even during simple contemplation, very much like how it did around Yoda. After a few minutes, Vilbum walked over to a large durasteel cabinet. Mace felt the Force moving around the cabinet protectively.
Vilbum pulled out a Sith holocron, easily identifiable by the blood red core shining brightly. "This is a holocron my predecessors have long sought. It belonged to Volfe Karkko. Are you familiar with him Mace?"
Mace wasn't quite sure what this had to do with Ron but his interest was piqued. "I am. He was a powerful Jedi master who eventually fell to the Dark Side. After he was defeated, the Jedi Council locked him away on Kiffex, keeping him stasis. Why have you sought that holocron?"
"Karkko was already 800 years old when he was inducted into the Order. He has lived over a thousand years more since he was imprisoned. When he fell, he splintered from the main Sith Order under Darth Kaan, preferring the mysticism of Sith magic." Vilbum looked over the holocron. His eyes blazed with righteous distaste. "I've poured over the knowledge herein. My predecessors thought there would be knowledge of how he achieved perceived immortality. He isn't immortal though. He is a parasite, a wound in the Force. He absorbs the essence of his victims, a perverse soul cannibal if you will."
"There seems to be something else bothering you."
"There is," he confirmed with a frown. "One of my agents learned several days ago that Karkko has broken free of the shackles imprisoning him. He corrupted a padawan and lured her to his lair. We are not sure if she is dead. I don't believe she is personally. According to the reports we've received from the Kiffex government, there is a Jedi leading Karkko's army of soulless Azanti abominations. I've ordered several agents to guard the system and make sure he cannot escape. I also leaned on Oppo and Adi. They convinced the Senate to send a Republic task force to the system as well to make sure he cannot escape."
While Mace was still outwardly calm, he felt the Force boiling within him. "Volfe Karkko must not be allowed to escape Kiffex. No matter what the cost."
"I agree but unfortunately the Republic Army isn't quick to mobilize. Sheyf Tinté Vos, the ruler of Kiffex, said Karkko has an army of soulless Azanti he lured to his domain and ate when he was imprisoned. As I said, the poor Jedi who freed him is leading them, or at least that is my suspicion. Chancellor Palpatine has vowed further Republic reinforcements but the army is dispersed across the galaxy, and even then it isn't very strong. The Republic Navy will mobilize quicker and be of better service but I am hesitant to use too many Jedi. Karkko is a dangerous opponent."
"I don't care Astaal. We must suppress him before he can join hands with the Sith. My padawan and I will join the attack and I'll speak with Yoda to gather a task force. Can you move any more of your agents to the area?"
"I've already issued the orders. Are you sure your padawan can handle this kind of threat?"
Mace smiled carnivorously, now understanding that Astaal was using this as a test for his padawan. "You let me know what you think when we return."
Cin Drallig stepped into the center of the dueling chamber, looking over the younglings, padawans, and knights assembled. He then looked at the two combatants for the next practice duel. "Our next duel will be between padawan Harry Potter and padawan Ron Weasley. Gentlemen, are you ready." Both nodded, not taking their eyes off one another. Drallig smiled. "Begin!"
Harry smiled in anticipation, relishing the chance to spar with his friend. After returning from his 3-year excursion on Eshan, they both saw each other more often in the academy as they continued their training. He briefly reflected on their old relationship before coming to this galaxy. It was amazing to think how different they were today. Gone were the days when they relied on Hermione for nearly everything, almost like they were her younger brothers. Both walked different paths too, which was surprising to Harry when they used to be two peas in a pod.
While both Harry and Ron knew the fundamentals of all 7 lightsaber forms (8 if you include Jar'Kai), Harry naturally favored Jar'Kai given his preference for wielding his 2 lightsabers and specially designed saberstaff. As a guardian, he also favored aggressive swordsmanship in a duel versus using the Force and his magic.
Ron, though equally aggressive, mastered Ataru, which was designed for single combat with a single lightsaber. Ron proved far more resourceful though. During his final year on Eshan, he designed 2 lightsabers that had never been seen in the Order. With the flick of his wrist, Ron could collapse one or both of his lightsabers, turning them in blasters. Unlike a traditional blaster, Ron discovered a way to adapt the crystal into a nearly limitless source of ammunition. Stronger than traditional blaster bolts, enough could shoot through permacrete and individual bolts couldn't be deflected by a lightsaber. He also tended to incorporate both Force and non-Force techniques into his duels, making him a dangerous foe.
Harry initiated the duel, mixing a flurry of quick cuts and medium strength slashes. To the casual observer, he looked to be a bit amateurish but more experienced swordsmen could recognize the skill behind his tactics. He was trying to keep Ron in motion and keep him from using his other gadgets. His physical strength was also such that he could block attacks with one hand, a general weakness of Jar'Kai.
Ron kept his saber movements brisk but not hurried. He also kept pushing towards Harry, shortening the distance between them to minimize Harry's ability to put his full strength behind his strikes. When he saw an opening, he whipped out his 2nd saber and used it as a blaster. Harry was sufficiently quick to move around and away from the attacks but he had to respond to Ron, which gave the redhead the advantage.
Harry caught a lunge from Ron with both his sabers and pushed him back with all his strength. He conjured a bright ball of blue energy that sent Ron tumbling back. As Harry jumped in for a killing stroke, Ron curled his legs into his chest and tried to shoot into Harry's chest. But Harry twirled in the air and disappeared, soliciting gasps from the younglings and looks of admiration from the other Jedi. Except for seeing Harry, Ron, and Hermione use the technique, they knew nothing of apparition and marveled at the skill.
Harry reappeared next to Ron and lashed out with a roundhouse kick that Ron blocked with his durasteel gauntlets. He used a Force Push to send Harry back and fired a dozen bolts at Harry, several of which singed his robes but nothing did too much harm. He connected his 2 sabers and was about to engage Ron again when Cin Drallig stepped between them.
"Forgive me padawans. I've received a summons to the Jedi Council. We'll resume this duel when I return." He turned to address the crowd. "Please return to your studies. Vash and Lor'kor, please escort the younglings to the simulation chamber. Jocasta Nu will take care of them from there."
"Master, I sense your disquiet. What has happened?"
Drallig shook his head. "Do not concern yourself Turon."
After Drallig was gone, Harry and Ron sat down at one of the tables overlooking the Senate building off in the distance. "Do you feel anything," Harry asked. "It's times like this I wish we could pick up events in the Force the way our masters can."
Ron shrugged his shoulders. "Honestly mate, I don't think that is something that will happen for some time. And no, I can't pick up on anything. But Zeno Turon was right. Something bothered Master Drallig." Ron shook his head. "I know you've been traveling with Yoda much longer than I have since I had my Echani training. But even what I've seen is enough to know some of these Sith and Dark Jedi can give Voldemort a run for his money when it comes to dark magic."
"You're right. Darkness here is something far worse than it was back home. Maybe it's because this is an entire galaxy versus just our planet. Whatever is happening, I hope our masters will include us. I only wish Hermione could be here with us."
Ron chuckled. "Yeah, you're a guardian mate. Can't say I'm surprised. I wouldn't want to square off with you in a temper."
"Don't sell yourself short. Some of those things you learned with the Echani are special. And I know you're holding back too."
They sat in companionable silence after that, reflecting in the Force. Harry tried to connect with his master but Yoda was not opening himself to Harry. That told him more than anything else that whatever was happening was serious. He hoped Yoda would tell him what was happening soon. And he wasn't lying before; if there was a Jedi attack somewhere, he wanted to be involved.
"Understand I do your enthusiasm Master Windu. Believe I do that Padawan Potter and Weasely can handle the danger. But prudence, required it is. Wait for the entire Republic Army, I will not. But more Jedi, need we do before attacking."
Mace shook his head. "Forgive me Master Yoda but I respectfully disagree. Volfe Karkko needs to be suppressed. Astaal did not tell me all of his fears but I sensed a disturbance in the Force similar to what he described. The current Sith master, whether it is Dooku or someone else, would be foolish not to pursue Karkko, if they haven't already. His technique of 'eating' the essence of sentient beings undoubtedly contributed to his extended life and increase in strength of several hundred years. If he can teach that technique to another, your prediction of an immortal Sith Lord could happen."
Yoda's ears drooped. "Fear I do that Karkko's secrets, gone to the Sith master they are already. Like Darth Nihilus before him, the Lord of Hunger believe the current Sith master is and the secret to immortality, learned he has."
Mace sighed, trying to center himself in the Force. He really didn't want to get into this discussion right now. "Master, we have 3 dozen Jedi knights here in the temple we can use in an initial assault, not counting the masters we would bring. Astaal has already issued orders to his Jedi Shadow that can leave their current assignments and go to Kiffex as soon as possible. If we can strike at him now, we could end this without waiting for the rest of the Republic army."
"Say what do you Master Drallig?"
"I have to agree with Mace Master Yoda. Jocasta can have the schematics of the prison pulled within an hour and we can prepare platoon-strength Jedi assault team for deployment within 90 minutes. I sense Chancellor Palpatine is sincere but I don't believe he understands the general weakness of his military. The navy is respectable enough and I trust they will mobilize quickly but the army is another story. We should strike now and end this as soon as possible if we can."
Yoda closed his eyes. "Very well. Master Drallig, organize the Jedi knights you will do with Master Windu. Speak with our padawans I will."
As Yoda hovered on his platform, he meditated on the situation on Kiffex. He could not be sure who the poor Jedi Karkko corrupted was but he had his suspicions. Aayla Secura, a young Twi'lek Jedi padawan, was feared by her master to be hungry for revenge against the person who murdered her parents. Unfortunately, the killer was entombed on Kiffex as well. Karkko would undoubtedly try to call out to her, sensing her weakness and also because she could be the instrument of his liberation. Yoda did not believe Secura fell to the Dark Side. Rather, her mind was corrupted. She could be saved.
Yoda found his padawan with Ron in the Jedi Archives. They weren't meditating but they were deep in the Force. "Forgive my intrusion I hope you both will. Much to tell you both I have."
Harry bowed his head. "I tried to reach out to you master." He sounded disappointed his couldn't. "What has happened?"
Yoda grunted. "Speak now we shouldn't. Into a study chamber we should go for privacy." He floated towards the nearest office with the two young men in tow. When they were in, Yoda was pleased when Harry cast a number of his protection charms. Yoda would also use the Force to protect their conversation but Harry's magic, still so foreign to most Jedi, would be a formidable barrier.
"Received intelligence the Council has that a dangerous Sith sorcerer, Volfe Karkko, free from his stasis he is. Organize an offensive Masters Windu and Drallig are." Yoda looked thoughtfully at Ron. "To meet Master Vilbum, Master Windu would like for you. As I understand, in that meeting Master Vilbum revealed the escape of Karkko. Involved in the offensive Master Windu would like you to be. And you my young padawan," he said, addressing Harry, "will join the offensive as well."
Harry's eyes lit at the prospect, though Yoda felt him in control and his mind clear. If he performed well—if both he and Ron performed well—they would become knights. Obi-Wan Kenobi did not face the trials, being knighted after he defeated Darth Maul. Harry and Ron would likely follow the same path if they performed admirably.
That would wait though. "Involved Master Windu and I will be. Coordinate the attack from space, Master Drallig will. Follow every order you receive I expect you both to do," he stressed, eyeing them both severely, his green eyes blazing with righteousness. "Time there will be for you both to move freely there will be but we must first surround the compound Karkko is using as his temple."
"Master, before we go, what is a Sith sorcerer?"
"Sith sorcerers are rare breed. Have a natural affinity for the dark side itself they do; delve into the depths of the Force they can to summon arcane energies. Not always Sith lords they become, or even apprentices. Powerful nonetheless they are because they're approach, so different it is. Interesting it will be to see you both face a Sith sorcerer. As close to what you call a dark lord in this galaxy I believe it is. Have any questions do you?"
"Very good. Organizing in the south bay the Jedi force is. Join it quickly we should."
Darth Tyranus paced impatiently. "My master, I cannot understand why you're allowing the Jedi to kill Karkko. He could be a powerful ally for us."
Darth Sidious sat facing the transparent durasteel window in the Chancellor's office, looking over the beautiful chaos of Coruscant. The planet was alive in the Force, a nearly limitless source of power to feed his hunger. While he didn't look or sound angry, he was aware of the coldness emanating from his body.
"How fortunate I am Count to have an apprentice at once so interested in and ignorant of my plans that he feels it necessary to question them," he whispered.
Count Dooku went to his knee and bowed his head. Sidious could feel his fear and relished it. "Forgive me, my master. I would never presume to question your methods. I only wondered why Karkko must die."
"He must die for the same reason Darth Maul needed to die. He is a danger to the revenge of the Sith. It is not the Republic we face my apprentice. I control the government and the courts. Soon I will command an army greater than any the Republic has ever seen. If I simply wanted to rule the Republic, I would reveal myself now and unleash the power of the Dark Side on the galaxy."
"But what would that accomplish? The galaxy would be thrown into a bloody revolution that we would not control. Instead of consolidating the power of the Sith at the heart of the galaxy, I would be fighting a war for the mastery of the galaxy against the Jedi. And whom do you believe the rabble of the Republic would support in such a war? Answer me Tyranus!"
Dooku shivered. "The masses of the Republic would support the Jedi my master. I understand now."
Sidious cackled. "I very much doubt that. But it is not your business to understand my plans my apprentice, not yet. Soon you will be ready to wield the infinite power of the Dark Side and unravel the great mysteries of the Force. You have done well so far. I am quite pleased with how you well you've done with Darth Krayt. He is progressing marvelously, a true embodiment of pain." He smiled darkly as his apprentice preened at his praise. Yes, Sidious understood how to use Dooku's arrogance to his advantage.
"Thank you master. Are you certain Karkko will die?"
"He will die. That pitiful fool Vilbum believes he discovered Karkko's holocron for the first time. I have already plundered the knowledge therein. And when I retrieved it from Kiffex, I took steps to ensure that Karkko will not be able to leave his prison. No matter how many souls he consumes, it will not be enough. There is magic he does not understand and powers of the Dark Side he cannot circumvent."
Sidious paused. While he was confidant Karkko would die, he feared there would be a cost to pay. Potter and Weasley were joining the attack. He was confidant they would outperform most of the Jedi filth they were accompanying. When that happened, they would be elevated to Jedi Knights and become true threats to the Sith.
That said he did not personally fear the new quartet of Jedi padawans. However, he could not deny they were all exceptionally powerful, particularly Skywalker and Potter. When he finally managed to break into the mind of that young woman, Granger, several years ago, he learned much about Potter, even if she eventually fought him back. Potter would never betray his friends, which meant he would never betray the Jedi.
Skywalker though…
Sidious smiled carnivorously. Yes, Skywalker could be turned in time. Even if Sidious did not now have a position within the Sith hierarchy for him, he could not afford to let such potential escape him. Perhaps he could turn Weasley and/or Granger too but Potter would have to die first, which would not happen any time soon. Even in his relative novice state, Potter was more than a match for Krayt, who was even younger than Potter. He and his friends would likely defeat Tyranus right now too. Tyranus was far more advanced in the Jedi arts but he could not yet command the Dark Side well enough to stand against such foreign magic that those 3 would throw at him. And while he was ignorant of their magic, Potter (and Granger and Weasley) was adept enough in the Jedi arts that the combination of their magic and Jedi training would eventually overwhelm Tyranus.
Plans to turn Weasley or Granger would not need to be exercised for some time, if at all. He would focus on Skywalker and slowly move that boy towards the Dark Side. But first he would need a new father figure, one not at all associated with the Jedi.
One day soon, Chancellor Palpatine would need to pay a visit to the young Jedi.
Kiffex was about 10 standard days from Coruscant. Located in the Inner Rim, it was primarily an agrarian planet, one of the principle granaries for region. However, on a large continent of the planet in the southern hemisphere, there were nearly a dozen separate prison complexes.
Cin Drallig stood before a large hologram of the prison continent on Kiffex. "According to Jedi already in the system, Karkko and his army are in complete control of his complex and an area of perhaps 8 kilometers surrounding it. The Kiffu Guardians have secured the rest of the area. We are going attack the complex with a pincer attack. Master Yoda will lead a smaller contingent of Jedi and the Republic forces here on the east side of the complex while Master Windu will lead the rest of the Jedi platoon on the northwest side near the entrance."
He pointed towards the northwest side, which was close to chasm. "Based on Kiffu intelligence, there are fewer Azanti…soldiers I suppose we'll call them for now. Aayla Secura is in this area however so you must proceed with caution."
Mace stood. "Aayla Secura is not to be killed, unless there is absolutely nothing you can do to prevent it. She is not the enemy here. Karkko is a masterful magician and actor. He will have broken her will and placed him under her control. Master Quinlan Vos will join our front. Our hope is he can help us break the hold Karkko has on her."
Quinlan Vos sat alone, meditating. Harry sensed he felt responsible for his padawan escaping. He knew how deeply Yoda would feel if something happened to Harry, so he understood why Quinlan felt the way he did.
One of the Jedi knights, Ghrikk Drayen, raised his hand. "Masters, do we have a blueprint of the compound?"
Cin pressed a couple keys and a blueprint, presumably of the compound, came up. "This is the only file we have in the Jedi archives. Since no one has visited the compound except for the poor Azanti Karkko has turned into demons, it is safe to assume this is stull accurate. The group Mace will lead will enter the compound closest to the chamber where Karkko was entombed. We are still unsure why he has not personally left the compound yet but his slaves have attacked Kiffu Guardians and won several skirmishes but still Karkko does not leave. Perhaps he hasn't consumed enough souls to leave."
Harry and several knights looked over the compound, which was fairly simplistic. It was only one floor aboveground with a basement underneath approximately half the size of the central chamber. There were a couple rooms spread throughout but not many. Ron and a handful of others took turns downloading the blueprint, Ron downloading it directly to his right wrist gauntlet.
"Are there any other questions," Drallig asked. He motioned to Yoda and Mace. "I'll leave it to Masters Windu and Yoda to discuss their particular plans. Know that the Republic armada and Jedi starships will be stationed over the continent to ensure Karkko cannot escape to space. May the Force be with you all."
After 15 minutes, the Jedi were divided into their groups. Harry was pleased to see he was with Ron but he did want to make sure it was acceptable to Yoda. His master waved his hand. "Foolish it is to use you where the fighting is sure to be less. In time, learn to coordinate with Republic forces you will need to do. Now though, your place where the fighting is hottest it should be."
Harry bowed his head deferentially. "Thank you Master Yoda."
"Be safe my young padawan."
Volfe Karkko stared out the glass dome of his ritual chamber. He was a remarkably youthful looking man, considering he was over 1800 years old. At just under 2 meters tall, he towered over his new apprentice. "The Jedi are coming my dear. You must be ready."
Aayla knelt submissively. "All is ready my lord. I will not fail you as did against the Kiffu soldiers."
Volfe leaned down and gently stroked her cheeks, pulling her to her feet. "You did not fail me my dear. It was my will that you would not succeed. I do not want to lose you. I only wanted the sniveling cowards to call for the Jedi. I will drink the essence of these Jedi and then we will escape this tomb of a planet…and I will make you my queen."
"Thank you my lord."
Volfe smiled. He did indeed care for this young Jedi, though not as a lover. Her weakness allowed him to corrupt her and she did in fact fail him during the last raid on pathetic Kiffu Guardians. But she could not be blamed too much. She was but a padawan, largely ignorant to even the pitiful teachings of the Jedi.
No, the reason why he cared for her was because her essence was such that he could absorb enough to at last free himself but she still retained the ability to live and retain her soul. She was not the most powerful Jedi but the Force had granted her a soul stronger than most. She was special and he did not want to lose her.
After she departed, he returned to his throne. Though he did not speak of this with his apprentice, there was some magic keeping him from truly departing. His powers were returned and his grasp of Sith magic was greater than it had ever been. He recalled another presence in the Force on the planet before his apprentice arrived. He knew it was a powerful Sith Lord, a darkness that was unlike anything he felt before, though it also felt eerily similar to his own aura. To the ignorant or fearful, the Sith Lord would be called a wound in the Force. Karkko had been called such foolish nonsense before as well.
The Sith Lord was a living black hole, which he shared in common with Karkko. But where Karkko needed to consume the essence of his victims in small doses, the Sith Lord naturally fed on the essence of others. It was frightening to say the least. The man possessed enormous power in his own right but his natural abilities to feed made him much more powerful.
In the end, Karkko did not let that sway him from his conviction to kill this Sith Lord. When he fell to the Dark Side, Karkko stood against the might Darth Kaan and then Darth Bane. While they were not as powerful as this new Lord, they had powerful military forces unlike anything this fool could call upon. In time, Karkko could amass a formidable army to defeat the Sith Lord.
But first he would need to escape. He sensed the Jedi moving in the system. Several dozen recently arrived so the show would be starting soon.
Harry sat quietly, his hands resting on his lap as he meditated. It wasn't his strong suit but before a fight, he felt calmer if he took a few minutes to just relax. When they reached the system, he felt the man they were hunting. Yoda described what a wound in the Force about a year ago after they visited Malachor. Harry realized that nearly every major planet they visited that was strong in the Dark Side was at one point a wound in the Force. The feeling was surreal, almost as if he was sinking into an endlessly swirling vacuum of darkness. While it was rare for people to actually become wounds in the Force, it was possible if they caused enough death. Karkko apparently was a monster in all kinds of ways.
As the shuttle entered the atmosphere, Harry took deep calming breaths, waiting for the signal to engage the enemy. Everything seemed normal but then suddenly Harry felt a disturbance in the Force. Just as he was about to shout to Mace, the Jedi Master ordered the shuttle to dip and dive at random. A massive explosion of Force Lightening erupted out of the dome, tracing the sky as the shuttle neared the northwest entrance. Karkko apparently pegged this force as the bigger threat.
Harry caught Ron's eye and they both nodded at one another. This was the first major engagement either had together since the assault on Azkaban. Though neither would admit it out loud, they were fond of the thrill of battle.
"Queue up outside the bay doors," Mace ordered. "When we touch down, assault teams blue and green will drive for the perimeter and push the Azanti back. Assault team purple will follow me into the compound. Do not waste time fighting the demons. Push past them as quickly as possible. I don't want to give that bastard a chance to escape."
The shuttle stopped maneuvering and Harry heard the thrum of the engines as more power was put into the shields. The pilot shouted that he wouldn't be able to touch down and they would have to jump out to spare the shuttle. Mace nodded and gave the orders and the dozen Jedi jumped out. They were only about 10 meters from the ground. Karkko continued to shoot lightening, trying to pick off Jedi.
Once he landed, Harry raced for the building. Several Azanti attacked him. He had worked with Azanti in the past. Their tentacles were a bit disturbing, especially since they used them to feed on other sentients. But on the whole, they were not a terrible people.
The monsters Harry faced now reminded him nothing of the Azanti he knew. Their skin was a deep gray and their eyes nearly black. Harry sensed Karkko had given them magical protections as well since lightsaber attacks generally did not harm them. He was able to push most of them away, past the perimeter the other Jedi assault teams were setting up. More seemed to pour from the building though. Harry was afraid they wouldn't be able to actually get into the building without suffering massive causalities.
As Harry fended off 2 more demons, one of the shuttles above blew up and started falling towards them. The Jedi ran back, careful to avoid falling debris. The demons though were fleeing the fire in terror. Harry sent a ball of fire near a group of demons, which sent them scurrying like ants.
"Master Windu," Harry shouted, looking for the trademark purple lightsaber. "Master Windu. I have a way to shift the demons."
Mace used the Force to throw several down the cliffs. "I saw your fireball. Do you have a way of conjuring more?"
"I do. We need to gather everyone, including the other assault teams, over there." Harry pointed to a spot roughly 25 meters away from the entrance. "I won't be able to sustain this for long. It is going to take a fair bit of magic. But this will give you all a chance to get into the facility. I'll bring up the rear."
"Very well. Help me spread the word and we'll gather the Jedi."
"Do you have a plan mate," Ron asked. Since he was already using fire, he was one of the closest to the entrance. Harry explained what he wanted to try. "Wicked. Give me a couple minutes and I can set something up to help you out."
"What?" But Ron didn't wait to explain. He rushed towards the entrance and set up a marker on each side of the door. "What was that?"
Ron showed him the marker, which looked like a modified lightsaber crystal. "When I was on Eshan, I tinkered with lightsaber crystals. They have many extraordinary properties and can be adapted to do different things. These little beauties are designed to absorb the Force or magic and create a barrier using whatever passes through them. This last will be straight in front of the door. If your fire passes through them all, they will form a perimeter of fire when you're done, keeping the area safe."
"What were you both doing," Mace demanded. He looked angry until he heard his padawan's plan. "Outstanding work my young padawan!"
Ron blushed as he set down the final marker. "Thank you Master Windu."
Once the Jedi were behind him, Harry took out his wand and began to wave it is a wide circle, chanting incendio in his mind. A beam of fire shot out of his wand and surrounded them all as he waved his wand. He put as much power behind it as he could and when he was ready, he thrust his arm forward. A towering wall of fire shot forward. When he felt it reach the compound, he threw his arms apart, creating a passageway for the Jedi.
"You shall not pass," shouted someone from the doorway. Harry ripped off a piece of fire and blasted Aayla Secura back into the facility. He was quite a bit drained as he let his arms fall and he stepped through the perimeter Ron's crystals created. He took a few deep breaths and raced after his friends.
"Good work Harry. Aayla wasn't affected by your fireball but it cleared away enough of the demons. Sheev, take your assault team down to the basement and set your charges. Don't dither. Once you're done, get back up here and help seal off Karkko's chamber." The other Jedi and barked out orders to 3 other knights.
"Mace, I sense dark magic throughout these halls. Karkko has the place booby-trapped."
"I feel it as well Quinlan. I also sense Aayla is not in the central chamber. Take Key'no's assault team, Harry, and Ron with you to retrieve her. I'll take the others to Karkko…"
"No foolish Jedi," boomed the very walls of the hall. "I want Master Vos," he stretched the title scornfully "for myself. After I destroy my queen's master, her loyalty will be assured."
"This is not a time for negotiations Karkko," Mace called back. "Do not mistake the situation. You are not in charge."
Karkko cackled. Harry raised his lightsabers as the walls rippled with energy. "You exist only to feed my power Jedi. And unless you wish to see the halls of this compound painted with the blood of the pitiful Republic forces you tried to subdue me with, you will send Master Vos to my chamber. Then you will send your padawans to my queen. Only those 2 padawans. If you follow my instructions, I will not slaughter the Republic forces trapped with your Jedi beneath us."
"You're lying. You have not captured my Jedi."
"I am many things Jedi but a liar I am not. I will give you a moment to reach out to Sheev and you will see the truth."
Harry tried to reach out to the other Jedi in the Force but found he couldn't. Mace could and Harry saw Karkko spoke the truth. How did this maniac manage to do all of this without leaving his chamber?
"Do you see the truth now foolish Jedi. I will say again, one last time: send Quinlan Vos to my chamber and send your 2 padawans to Aayla. Do this and no harm will befall you all."
Mace scowled. "Until you feed on Quinlan and Aayla kills my padawans."
Karkko cackled again. "Such confidence you have in your fellows Jedi. But yes, in time I will kill you all. But you and the Jedi are not the threat to me now. If you and the other Jedi leave the planet while I deal with your 3 comrades, you will live…for now. If you do not, once they are dead, I will slaughter you all."
Mace didn't answer. Instead, he led them to the entrance of the main chamber. A ward kept them all from entering. Mace tried to cut through it but his lightsaber didn't do anything. He also couldn't take it down through the Force. "This is beyond me," he said in disgust. "Can either of you take it down?"
Harry and Ron both tried but they were no more successful. "This magic feels similar to an old protection from our world," Ron said. "If it is like the Fidelius Charm, no one can enter except those Karkko allows."
"Damn it. I'm sorry Quinlan."
Quinlan Vos shook his head. "Don't be my friend. I would wish it no other way. This man will not take Aayla away from me." He turned to Harry and Ron. "Please do not hurt her. She is…very precious to me."
"We won't master," Harry and Ron said together.
"May the Force be with you Quinlan."
The other Jedi watched him step into the chamber except for Mace, Ron, and Harry. "You 2 need to be careful. I brought you here to show your skill but I never expected something like this. This man wants you both dead so he can feed on your souls."
Harry and Ron nodded and left, not sure what to say. The second chamber, according to the blueprints, wasn't far. Like the ward protecting the central chamber, it was transparent. Aayla Secura stood facing them, her blue lightsaber lit and held by her side. Her eyes blazed with power but it wasn't all her own.
"Hello Harry. Hello Ron. You shouldn't have come."
"Hello Aayla. Master Vos is here to rescue you." He spoke hesitantly and Ron walked away from him. When she engaged, they didn't want to make it easier on her. "Please come with us. We don't want to fight."
Aayla threw back her head and laughed like a loon. "You are just as weak as my lord showed me. Is this the resolve of the Light?"
"It isn't weakness," Ron replied. "We're Jedi, just like you. You're our family and we don't want to hurt you."
"Don't speak of family," she snarled. "My lord killed the man responsible for my uncle's death. The Jedi took me from him when I was a child. What kind of people take children from their family? The Jedi Council is a group of tyrants and despots. They take children because it is easier to turn them into puppets. I will never be a Jedi pawn again!"
She leapt forward, slashing at Harry as the wall to behind him sent a blast of Force Lightening to attack from behind. Ron threw his lightsaber to deflect it and apparated away as he felt a 2nd blast coming to hit him from behind.
Harry caught the blow and pushed her back. "Don't do this Aayla. We do not have to fight you."
"If you will not fight, then you will die."
As she jumped between the 2 of them, fighting wildly, the sudden blasts of Force Lightening from the walls kept them from concentrating on her. Karkko clearly realized they had a different kind of magic skill they could call on and was doing everything he could to keep them from using it against Aayla. As the lightening attacks multiplied, they took turns, one fighting her and the other fighting the lightening.
"We can't keep this up Ron." Harry parried a blow from Aayla and pushed her back as Ron deflected 2 blasts of lightening with a shield. It wasn't strong enough. A bolt crackled past and hit him in the side.
Ron cursed but caught himself before he fell to his knee. "Do you have any ideas?"
He had no idea but the only thing he could think of was blow holes into the walls. Some type of ward was allowing Karkko to shoot lightening at them but if there weren't any protecting them from being destroyed.
"Wonderful," Ron said sarcastically. "If it doesn't work, we have dozens of chunks of stone strewn throughout the room that'll shoot lightening at us."
"Do you have any other ideas?" Ron shook his head, diving to the side as Aayla recovered and threw her lightsaber at him.
After Ron banished Aayla again, they both danced around the lightening and cast as many demolition spells as they could, blowing holes in the walls all around. For a fleeting moment, Harry thought Mace and the others would be able to enter the chamber but he saw they were still blocked off. The lightening assaults slowed though and eventually stopped altogether.
Aayla looked around the room and screamed in frustration. "You Jedi fools! I'll kill you both."
Without the lightening to help her, Harry and Ron were able to quickly overpower their fellow padawan. After Harry parried a lunge, Ron cast incarcerous. Before they could celebrate, a massive explosion sent them flying into the opposite wall.
Karkko stepped through the destroyed wall, his lightsaber held loosely at his side. He reminded Harry of a tall Genghis Khan. His eyes though…Harry didn't think he would ever forget those putrid yellow orbs. In a way, they were worse than Voldemort's.
Without warning, the Sith magician burned them with another wave of lightening. The feeling was not unlike the cruciatus curse but worse with the electricity. "A little pain for you both," he hissed. "You are insignificant specks, like all Jedi." He threw a broken lightsaber at them. "Master Quinlan Vos fell to my sword. And now it is time for you both to join him."
A pair of horrible tentacles unfolded from his face and inched closer, wiggling dangerously. Harry and Ron struggled against some sort of bonds, their nerves still on fire from the lightening. Harry closed his eyes, not wanting to see the tentacles touch him. Karkko goaded them both for weakness, not wishing to see their death.
A sudden flash of blue light and a painful scream caused Harry to open his eyes. Karkko was flailing in pain, clutching his face. Harry twisted and felt the bonds weaken. Karkko's severed tentacles wiggled uselessly, like a worm cut in half. Harry crushed it under his foot as he staggered up, looking for their savior. Standing in the opening, Quinlan Vos radiated power in the Force, his eyes locked on Karkko as he caught Aayla's lightsaber. With his free hand, he cast a Force Lightening at Karkko, bringing the magician to his knees.
Karkko watched as Harry, Ron, and Master Vos surrounded him. "Force lightning! Only one who has allied with the dark side supposedly can call on it. Have you crossed that line, pitiful Jedi? You are a novice with it. I am a master." He held his hand up, trying to blast them all. Harry and Ron conjured a shield over him as he raised his hand, trapping him with his lightening. "Master Vos, you have one chance to end this when we lift the shield."
Master Vos looked sorrowfully at his apprentice. "I am ready." Just as the shield fell, Quinlan sliced upward, decapitating Karkko before he could recover. He stepped over the severed head and gently picked up Aayla. She passed out after Karkko's hold died with him. "Thank you both for not hurting her."
Three standard days after defeating Karkko, Ron sat under the gaze of Master Astaal Vilbum. Outwardly calm, inside his heart was racing. He never had an older mentor so interested in his future, not even among his brothers though he knew they loved him and wanted him to succeed. Mace Windu was different and had been different. Ron didn't want to let him down.
"Master Windu has been very vocal in his desire to see you become a Jedi Shadow, Knight Weasely."
"I know he has. I was just thinking about that in fact. I don't want to disappoint him."
"That is a good feeling for you to have, and a good motivation. Mace is an old friend of mine. He does not commonly take padawans. But when he does, he will spare no effort to help them achieve their potential. And I sense great potential in you. Very few masters, let alone padawans, would've performed as admirably against Karkko as you and Harry did. I must say I am rather impressed by your ingenuity with those crystals also. And of course there are your unique lightsabers."
Vilbum turned around and grabbed a sheaf of papers. "The Council of First Knowledge is a laborious title for our department. I've always preferred calling us what we are: spies. The Dark Side is alive in the galaxy and the Force is moving towards a confrontation. Jedi Shadow are the agents of Light in a dangerous galaxy, ferreting out the darkness wherever we can. These assignments can, and often do, take weeks or months of preparations to complete. During much of that time, you may not be able to contact anyone in the Jedi Order, not even myself and the other Council members. It is not for the faint of heart."
"I understand master. I don't know what else I can say that my history has not. I cannot turn down this opportunity. If you don't want to have me, I will prepare and come back. I will not let Master Windu down."
Vilbum stared at him for several uncomfortable minutes before sliding the papers towards him. "Very well."
Ron grabbed at the sheaf and flipped through them. His face broke into a wide grin. "Thank you Master!"
"Good luck Knight Weasley."