The Rebel Twins

by GradGirl2010

For 15 years I was alone. Fixing spacecrafts to numb the pain. The Clones' betrayal of the Jedi stole my brother from me. At the time, it seemed as if it would be forever. Reunited through this war of Imps and Rebels, Caleb...huh...Kanan wants me by his side again. The problem is...the idea of fighting again terrifies me. The screams...they won't stop.

6. Establishing a Base

Establishing a Base

Hey guys! Sorry for being gone for so long! I'm glad you guys are enjoying this fic.

Here's another chapter.

xxx

The last couple of weeks flew by in a blur. The Empire launching several wanton attacks against Chandrila, . Storm Troopers executing their rampage, and leaving irreparable scars upon their victims. Agent Kallus, the Elite Commander of the Imperial Security Bureau himself, leading the charge to reconcile for the humiliations he has suffered. Rabid turmoil of a ridiculous war returning again to Chandrila. All in search of rebels who constantly elude them. The bow for this package of unwarranted excitement: The Rebel Crew aboard the Ghost earned themselves a mechanic, a fighter, and a friend and family member. The rational parts of the mind are reluctant to find them true. In spite of Katerina living every single explosive and gun filled moment of it.

Hera and Kanan agreed it was time to return to Lothal for rest and recuperation. There is also the matter of their supplies running low. They managed to scrounge a few credit up from the sofa cushion. They'd need to spend it wisely. It will be the last of their money until they accept and complete high paying jobs. The openness of Lothal overwhelmed Katerina. The feeling of the fresh wind filling her lungs. Farmlands so quaint that they were charming. The hard work of their keepers was inspiring. Small towns leading to bigger ones stretched on and on, seeming to sprout from nowhere in the most random of places. Being surrounded by a glistening metropolis most of her life, the rampant growls of overpriced vehicles gave Katerina the impression she was of the aristocracy. The Rebels offered a change of scenery as part of her recruitment. A tiny part. It was starting to look like 52 percent of the cut. She may like being a rebel. Broadening her horizons, meeting new people - the works. The fighting, however...unless she absolutely has to...she would prefer it if Kanan and the others handle that. She...she's not ready. Regardless of what she has done beforehand, Katerina will not be drawn to fight. She can't.

The Empire became half of one whole problem. Naturally, bounties for the Ghost Crew were posted across the rim. An insurmountable amount of credits for anyone who brings forth ONE of the Rebels. Dead or Alive. Because of their high presence on Chandrila, Stormtroopers scoured near the Mothma Garage - Ken Mothma's pride and joy, and last remnant of his legacy. A search perimeter was spanned from there. Anyone associated with the Garage was under the most tense of scrutiny. Warrants for the arrest of the employees were issued. Rumor has it a handful have been captured. Nothing was said about their current state.

Communications within or outside the planet were closely monitored. Making it difficult for Katerina to check on her friends. The last couple of weeks may have passed swiftly to others. But for her, not knowing if Grim and Dave were safe or alive brought the universe to a halt. Kanan aside, they were the last bit of family she had left. If she loses them...she'll never forgive herself. Her woes were quelled one day when the Ghost Crew returned to Lothal. They sensibly hid the ship way out in the vast meadows far from the town. Troops rarely venture out that far unless they are in pursuit of someone. Unless everyone in town is a rebel, none tried to rouse that much trouble.

But digressing to the previous remark, the masked signal reached The Ghost. It was coming from Chandrila. It didn't say who it was from though. Hera had Chopper set up a one way transmission. That way they'll be able to see who is calling, but the other end won't see them. Then Kanan answered the call. A Nautolan and Astro Mech appeared on the hologram.

"Grim! Dave! You're okay!" Katerina cheered.

"KATTY?! Is that you?!" Grim responded, trembling with relief. Chopper lowered the cloak, allowing Grim and Dave to see her on their side. "KATERINA! The fates smile on you!" He would kiss her if she wasn't a collection of pixels. "Do you know how scared we were for you?!"

"YOU were scared?" Does he think she's been having a picnic the last couple of weeks. "I've been worried sick for days! I thought Kallus got ahold of you guys!"

"Please! Stormtroopers aren't smart enough to catch colds!" Grim scoffed boastfully. "Did you really think they could catch us? We out ran them in ten minutes tops."

"What about the others?"

"Safe and sound. Don't believe all the rumors you've heard." Grim reassured her. Katerina was disappointed in herself. Thinking the Empire would catch them so easily. She must have grown weak from running for two weeks. "What about you, Katty?" Grim cast smiles to the friendly faces sitting around her. "How are doing?"

"I'm...well…" Katerina blushed, rubbing the back of her neck. "I'm letting things cool down a bit. I'll be home soon. "

"Getting into trouble as usual."

"Nothing I can't handle!" She shrugged. Kanan chuckled under his breath, shaking her shoulder proudly. Hera leaned on her head, saluting in salutation to Grim.

Grim chuckled when he got the gist. "Rebel Katerina." Has a nice ring when it rolls off the tongue. "Never thought I'd see the day."

"You're not mad?" Katerina was surprised by his reaction.

"Not in the least. Ken always knew the old life would spirit you away some day." The old life. The life she had when the Jedi were many. Even while she was with Kendril, Katerina had a knack for traveling in the pursuit to helping those who couldn't help themselves. It all stopped suddenly a few years back. "I'm glad it was by your brother."

"I'm glad too." Kanan voiced his relief. He found himself wondering at times what would have been had they not coasted by Chandrila. How many more years would pass before he and Katerina reunited? He shudders to think. "We plan to keep her for awhile, if that's alright."

"Not a problem. But I'm warning you, Kanan!" Grim's ominous tone caught him off guard. "Take good care of our girl."

Kanan lovingly ruffled her hair, "Won't let her get a scratch!"

Katerina shoved his hand away. He's developed an annoying habit of treating her like a kid. "By the way, I got the fruit for that wax you love so much. I sent it be delivered to our mutual friend." Quote on quote. He's not much of a friend.

"YES!" A bit of good news in the sea of bad. "We'll be at the second location if you need us."

"Be careful. Kallus threatened to find you guys and hurt you." She forewarned him. He may not act on it now, but something told Katerina he isn't one to let grudges go.

"Wouldn't be true mechanics if we buckled at every death threat." No they would not. Kendril lost track of the death threats accumulated during his ownership. They didn't stop when Grim and Katerina took charge. "See you soon, Katty."

"You too." The call ended. Katerina was finally able to relax. Everyone was safe. Those captured had no relation. Though it perturbed her to know they were rounding up normal people. Hopefully they aren't smart enough to tie her to Kendril Mothma. Those are dominoes she'll hate to see fall.

"Mutual friend?" Ezra didn't like the sound of that.

"Someone of unsavory character with two pockets." She rolled her eyes. "He intercepts and makes deliveries for us, and anyone else with enough credits." Zeb knew the sort. Usually ends with someone selling someone out. "My friends aside," She rubbernecked for Sabine and Zeb, "They get lost in town?" Ezra and Sabine volunteered to run to the market and gather supplies. That was over an hour ago.

"Some of the supplies I listed are hard to come by." Hera answered disconcerted. "And have a tendency to draw unwanted attention."

"And you sent Zeb to help get them?!" Ezra scoffed. "Even Chopper would be more discreet! And he's as subtle as a tank!" Chopper beeped angrily, slamming into his knee. "OW! WHY YOU LITTLE-"

"Calm down! Both of you!" Hera darted between them. "Point is, the second they get back, we pick up and leave!" She shoved them to opposite corners. The ship was just fixed. She wasn't letting them tear it apart. "We're too exposed out here. The longer we linger, the greater our chances of being spotted."

"That's something I've been meaning to ask you." Katerina crossed her arms and legs. She's debated on how best to word her inquiry without creating a sense of insecurities. "Lothal is your planet of choice to rest, regroup, and launch new counterstrikes against the Empire, correct?"

"Yeah. So?" Kanan bounced his shoulders.

"Do you always do so out in the open?" She gestured to the less than conspicuous hideaway. "Don't you have a base of operations where you can hide The Ghost for a while?"

"It's not that simple." Kanan liked what she was proposing, but had to voice the hitch in her idea. "Until recently, Lothal's the one planet living in fear of invoking the Empire's wrath." As are many planets that are more rural than urban. The lack of man and munitions power labeled such planets as easy marks for their tyranny. "We've made a name for ourselves by helping those in need. But…"

"They haven't gained the courage to help you in return." New planet, same story. Doing acts of kindness without acquiring promises of compensation. A noble sacrifice, but one that works against you in the long run. Helping rebels will put them in the spotlight for retaliation. No one can blame them for their reluctance. "Hmm…"

"What are you thinking?" Ezra leaned in, intrigued by her hum.

"Call me spoiled if you want, but I need a workspace to efficiently fix up The Ghost." Katerina moved a sly smirk to Hera. "And possibly earn extra credits fixing other crafts as well." She crooned bouncing her brow.

"I like it." Hera wagged a finger, catching her drift. "But it would need to be a place low profile, but also noticeable." A place that will bring in regular clientele and not rouse suspicions from troops.

"Like what?" Kanan missed it. "What's going on?"

"The art of hiding in plain sight." Hera elucidated adamantly. "We need credits, and a better means of regrouping when we're here on Lothal." She gestured to Katerina. "Riina can help us get both."

"I get it!" Ezra jumped to his feet. Now Kanan was feeling clueless. Ezra laid down the basics. "Riina opens a garage here, attracts business, we hide The Ghost when resting, and the Empire remains clueless of us!"

"Oh yeah! I get it now!" About time too. Oh well. Cities weren't built in a day. "Question is: where do we get the money? And where do we find this place?"

"Kendril can help us there." Katerina raised her hand. "He has a banker to whom he entrusted his life insurance policy to." A sizeable amount considering Katerina was bringing it up. "The banker was told that Grim and I may have access to it ONLY if its of benefit to the business, or extending it." This would be one of those times. She made it clear the money wasn't her's to squander or abuse. "He's reachable by any Vendor Droid."

"We should find a spot first before you make that call." Kanan advised. No sense asking for the money now.

"Agreed." Hera nodded. "Ezra, this is your home planet. Would you know where we could set up shop?"

"Maybe…" Ezra's explored every inch of the city. He knows more of the small places for hiding than the large ones. Though...there may be one place. "Not sure if it's still there, but there was this old storage facility that was shut down. It's in the Industrial District. Might not fit The Ghost, but the Phantom will."

"Good enough for me." Katerina accepted. Part of a ship is better than nothing. They'd be able to hide The Ghost somewhere far, and rely on The Phantom.

Industry is high in business and profit. That's as good a place to start as any. "Take us there." Kanan permitted, rising to his feet. "Hera, stay here with Chopper. Ezra, Riina, and I will-"

"Kanan, you should probably stay here." Katerina gently inclined, setting him back in his seat.

"What?! Why?!" He remarked confused.

"No offense, but you have the most recognizable face of all of us." Katerina cringed to say out loud. Kanan was offended to hear her say so.

"Riina's right, Kanan." Hera backed her. "Of all of us, the people know you." Kanan can't believe it was two against one. He was about to rebuttal when Hera beat him to it, "Ezra's new to the cause and knows the area. Riina's never been to the planet, and I'm rarely seen." Three people who are not only invisible, but will rouse the least suspicions. "This job requires a certain tact your presence would threaten."

Kanan glanced to Ezra for back up. He was pretending to be interested in Chopper's wiring. The odds stacked against him. Kanan was ready to take the route of kicking and screaming to be allowed to go. "Before you start kicking and screaming," Katerina called him on his impulsive twitching, "Please remember that Chopper needs someone with your skills to keep an eye on him while he tunes up the ship." She pat him on the head. Chopper shocked her hand, bleeping profanely before rolling away. "Seriously! Does Chopper hate me?" She's starting to feel hated.

"Nah! He's just jealous you do a better job." Ezra snickered. An empty can bounced off his head. "OW! HEY!" He snarled. Chopper trilled and spun victoriously, closing the doors behind him. "I think we'll be back to one mechanic soon!" Ezra vowed vengefully.

"Are you guys sure you don't need me to come?" Kanan pressed. A hint that he wanted them to change their minds. He hates waiting around. He insists that he goes with them. "You could get into trouble."

"We'll be fine, Kanan." Katerina reassured him, strutting to the door. "We can survive a couple of hours without you." She went 15 years without him, after all. She survived. "We'll be back soon." Kanan stammered to stop her. Hera, Ezra, and Katerina already mounted two speeders. Katerina held on by Hera's waist as the trio took off into the field.

Kanan watched discontented as they left him behind with Chopper. He disagrees that he would have jeopardized the mission. He would have been able to keep Katerina-ALL OF THEM-safe! "Ugh…" He threw his hands up. He'll drown his sorrows in the kitchen.

xxx

Entering the less than extravagant town via the straightaway roads, Hera and Ezra used the scenic routes to avoid Troopers Patrols. Trooper presence increased since their last visit a few weeks back. Hera and Ezra nearly ran over a couple trying to be discrete. Likely due to the explosive grab and snatch of food and supplies. The spark that lead to Ezra joining the rebels in the first place. Funny how things work out sometimes. While their faces aren't as known as Kanan's, it isn't a long shot one or two troops will identify them. And with Ezra being known as the second Jedi of the rebels, he was in the most danger.

The streets became less crowded as Hera and Ezra drove from the marketplace and into the central city. Katerina was thrown for a loop. Crossing under a simple bridge was like passing through a gateway. Tiny shacks of buildings evolving to marvels of architecture. Compared to Chandrila, it was primitive. To Katerina, it was charmingly rustic. Though the pollution in the air was dank and musty. She tasted it on the passing air. Ezra and Hera found it ironic and funny a grease monkey was choking on fumes. Everyone has a quirk.

The storage facility Ezra mentioned wasn't far. But vehicles weren't permitted past the blockades surrounding the entire industrial district. A scare about constant gas leaks has put a ban on vehicles near the district for an aggravating length of time. The speeders were left near a tavern run by a good friend of Hera's. He won't let anyone so much as breathe on them without the threat of losing the esophagus. Hera, Ezra, and Katerina would have preferred entering from the rooftops. However, discretion and subtlety with be their ally whilst they are shopping. They mustered their courage, kept their strides natural, and were able to waltz through the blockades with no complications. Though they're sure people from miles around heard the adrenaline pumping their hearts. First touch of excitement. Boy were they becoming hypochondriacs.

"Thanks for coming with me…" Katerina started idle conversation. They'll look less suspicious walking to their target. "I needed to get off that ship."

"No problem!" Ezra pat her back. "I was going stir crazy too." Katerina snickered. Ezra's an impetuous boy. He goes crazy wherever there isn't action. "By the way, why didn't you really want Kanan to come?"

"Excuse me?" Katerina replied, taken aback by the out of the blue inquiry.

"It's just…" Ezra trailed off, thinking how best to put it, "You seemed like you didn't want him to come with us."

Katerina was stunned to silence. Ezra's far more perceptive than he lets on. Katerina wasn't even aware she revealed anything. By Hera's reaction, she noticed the same dislike for Kanan to come. "Wow…" She laughed embarrassed at herself, "Guess my poker face isn't as good with friends as it is strangers."

"So you didn't want him to come." Ezra reiterated accusingly.

"It's not that I didn't want him to come!" She animatedly argued. Far from it, actually. She loves traveling with Kanan. "I just can't shake the feeling he's hovering around me." Ezra and Hera aren't too sure what she meant. "Did you know, after Kallus's ambush, he grilled me for two hours straight wondering what he did to me and Sabine?"

"Two hours?" Hera's eyes widened. That is a long time to question someone. "I'll admit its excessive. But that doesn't mean he's hovering." Thorough maybe. Hovering? "Maybe what you think is hovering is just him making sure you aren't traumatized by what happened."

"I guess so…" Sounded plausible enough. Definitely doesn't make Kanan out to be a worrywart. "Yeah. I guess you're right." Katerina laughed at herself. She was being ridiculous. And, yeah, maybe she can grant Kanan a bit of hovering room. Two weeks out of 15 years they been together. She'd be more uncomfortable if he wasn't lingering around.

The industrial district was large compared to what part of the town was passed. Not too dense with populace either. That might work against what Katerina had planned. A strong assurance that civilian waves would flow through those daunting desolate streets if a dame of trooper didn't agitate the way. That is a trouble for another time. Ezra recognized the area. The storage facility should be close by. The three rounded to another street would most likely take them straight to it.

"WHOA! HOLD IT!" Hera and Katerina bumped into Ezra's spread arms. Two officers within a group of Stormtroopers rooted Ezra, coaxing him to edge his friends back the way they came. One of them was a stick of a man. Whether or not that ghoulish face of his was naturally emaciated made him unnerving in the shadowed streets. Beside him was a rotund man with fresh yogun juice spilling down his chins. Amazing was he managed to keep his uniform clean. Remarks on how the uniform can possibly fit him would be breathed from petty people. "Back the way we came! Right now!" He whispered urgently. Katerina and Hera tiptoed backwards. Then Ezra grabbed them by the wrist and dragged them a different way. The officers in question heard a commotion form their direction. When they saw nothing, they returned to their conversation.

"Who are those two?" Hera sternly asked, prying Ezra's hand from hers. He has an amazing grip for a kid.

"Commandant Cumberlayne Aresko and Taskmaster Miles Grint!" Ezra paused in the narrow passage to calm down. He'd forgotten those two like to lurk in Lothal's Capital City. "Agent Kallus isn't the only jerk who likes to push people around!" The disdain in his voice was new to Hera and Katerina. He's rarely so passionate about people he dislikes. "Those two will kick you while you're down, and charge you with treason if you kick back!"

"Oh, really?" Katerina remarked disinterested. Anyone with a cold streak will be given a title nowadays. She's sure she saw the same men as Ezra. Agent Kallus was by the far the worst of the worst. "They don't look like they can tie their own shoes."

"They aren't the smartest, but they make up for that in numbers."

"Understood." Katerina knows the type. They are the ones that disgust her the most. The silver lining, they remind her to stay on her toes and to not be brash.

Ezra had to take them the long way around. He's sure Aresko and Grint don't know his face. However, he isn't going to risk it. Finding a base was too important. The long way, luckily, wasn't too long. Well, if one considers having to climb a roof, jump a few gaps, and slide down a ladder for two blocks not long. Enclosed alleyways paved open to a wider area. Factories in the distance overlooking other industries housing workers, storing varieties of devices, equipments, and supplies. Ezra is a creative young man when it comes to escape routes. Katerina sees one of surely many reason Kanan took a liking to him.

"Here it is!" Ezra exuberantly alerted, racing from a corner. Katerina and Hera leisurely followed him, finding themselves at a loss for words at what they found. "Not as big as I remember, but do you think you can make it work?" Ezra prodded a thumb to the building. Katerina sucked pensively on her teeth. Truthfully, she isn't sure. Hera and Ezra let Katerina make the judgement call. This is her better area of expertise.

When compared to Ken's Garage back on Chandrila, the storage facility was significantly smaller. From the outside, the building was wide in its rectangular shape. A bird's eye view will be required later on. In height, however, at first blush it left much to be desired. Katerina's standards for her wants and needs showed as she studied the outside. Not that she wanted anything auspicious in appearance. The less extravagant the better. But if it isn't large enough for her purposes, they might as well turn around and search elsewhere.

A grand aspect was how spaciously parted surrounding structures were. Practically a mile! Not really. Just an exaggeration. But it was good maneuvering space. Breathing room from neighbors, easy on traffic. A fine prospect. The surprises didn't end with the space. Hera spotted a second structure near the end. An attachment or last minute install for a number of different activities and reasons. It had potential. Nothing was going to be decided, however, until a thorough sweep was conducted. Thus far, Katerina was on the wire.

The doors were rusted closed. The panel popped them open an arm's width. Aged air flooded their lungs. The trio nearly turned tail and ran. Hera and Ezra wriggled between the doors, pressed a foot and pushed. The doors ground shrilly. Caked on rust sprinkled on their heads. Katerina was cautious entering. Not telling what could fall on their heads. The way was marginally clear. Save for the questionable grate walkways swaying unnervingly loose above them. The trio coughed on the thick cloud of dust lingering in the air. No surprise. The area was stuffy hot. The was no air flow. The large window panes lining up high on the walls needed to be cracked before someone passes out. On one brightside, the inside was larger than expected. Past the windows on the other end, Hera was able to see a door leading to an elevator. From there was a walkway to the second half the building.

Ezra and Katerina showed a greater interest in the floor and ceiling. Several different doors for entry. Two led to disposal areas. Possibly pit furnaces. A midway was established by support pillars, bringing a tad of character to the place. A control room nested to the side. An office space right above it. One or two varieties of forklifts and pallet jacks were left lying around. On the other bright side, there was a slit in the ceiling. Light was passing through it. Following it to hinges that stopped at the midway, Katerina chuckled at the prospect of the skylight hatches.

"Final call…?" Ezra parted his arms, wanting Katerina to hit him with her worst.

"Needs a touch of paint," Katerina smashed a palm to his hair, "But it'll work. Nice call, Ezra!" Ezra cackled impishly. He does his best. "We just need to check the way across and get to work."

"I'm on it." Hera volunteered.

"YOU THERE! HALT!" Hera, Katerina, and Ezra cringed. Their blood turned to ice. The roar rooted them like cattle-deer in headlights. Shakily turning around, the three paled by the sight of Commandant Aresko and Taskmaster Grint. On their heels were armed Stormtroopers. "This area is off limits by Imperial Law! Explain yourself!" Aresko demanded.

Another precarious situation. Katerina was starting to spy a theme with her brother's crew. What can she do? She's the moron who agreed. Of all the people to spot them, it had to be the Commandant and Taskmaster a few blocks back. Serves them right for not being more observant of their surroundings. Being spotted in an off limits area isn't much of problem. Being questioned WHY one is in an off limits area marked by Imperials causes sweat to start beading down the brow. Catching cottonmouth only worsened their situation. Normally, Hera, Ezra, and Katerina are th silver tongues of the crew. Just their luck they'd draw blanks.

"Either explain yourselves now, or we arrest you for questioning!" Grint threatened. And the situations escalates before their eyes. Thankfully, none of them seemed to notice the weapons holstered. "Why are you in an off limits area?!"

Ezra and Hera were fast on instinct to fight their way out. Their eyes darting for a fast escape route, or a means to bring the ceiling down on the Troopers. Katerina motioned a hand for them to relax. No sense causing trouble. "I'm sure Imperial Law has a loophole for when an area is up for buy." Katerina casually approached with her hands open. She meant no harm, but her statement raised questions. From both the troops and her friends.

"Pardon?!" Aresko scoffed.

Katerina folded her hands behind her back, smirking complacently. "I am interested in this building, and seek to purchase it."

"You?!" Aresko hooted. Grint elbowed the troops, sharing mocking laughter at her claim. "Someone of your lowly stature could not possibly afford-"

Katerina threw a hand in his face, "Your opinions of my stature based on my plain and humble appearance are meritless, and irrelevant, Commandant!" She doubted the veracity of the fancy label. Anyone can be stuck with a fancy title these days. The Commandant was equally offended by her rude tone. "Fact is, I am in the processes of finalizing my permit to own this structure, and your strong arm tactics won't discourage me."

"Is that so?" Aresko towered over her, squinting hard for the slightest contradiction in her body language or expression.

"Yeah! That's SO!" Katerina matched his glare and inched closer, crossing her arms. The Empire has never scared her, and she won't like some stick in a uniform scare her now. He wants to try and twist her arm, she'll pop his out of its socket.

The troopers aired on the side of caution, wrapping fingers to the trigger should she decide to lash out. Ezra and Hera watched in breathless silence as the pair stared each other down. It was like watching a sequel to Katerina and Kallus. Ezra wanted to grab some snacks and watch. "What is your name?" Aresko demanded.

Hera, Ezra, and Katerina suspected that question would rise. Considering none of them have been arrested, Agent Kallus hasn't issued warrants quite yet. Or made their identities known. For a time, it will work to their advantage.

"Anastasia Stark!" Katerina barked.

"Well, Miss Stark," He emphasised the pretense in her fast retort. He flapped a palm, "Show me this permit of yours, and we will allow this matter to slide!" He smirked smugly, already sure she has no such permits. Hera and Ezra swallowed large lumps. Katerina just trapped herself in a corner.

"Apparently you are hard of hearing!" Katerina pinched his palm, moving it away from her. The Troopers and Grint twitched to strike, but stayed themselves. She put her hands on either side of her mouth, "The permit is in the PROCESS of being completed!" Aresko weaved back, insulted by her boldness. And slightly wounded in his hearing. "I, and my friends here, are here ensuring all is still right before I put down the final payment!"

"That's right!" Aresko purred, stroking his chin with a sense of triumph. Katerina arched a curious brow. Aresko sounded like a man who's about to win a chess match. "Not only is a permit of ownership required…" He crept a hand to a pillar, pervertedly caressing it, "This building must pass all forms of safety, health, and structural inspections. Should you fail a SINGLE ONE, the building becomes condemned." Katerina felt her corner at her back. She gave the immediate room a quick glance. Flies wouldn't bother entering there. "In the meantime, I think we'll look into you, Miss Stark."

"By all means." She slowly stepped away with her hands in the air. The growing gap between her and Aresko lessened the tension, but not the binding bitterness. "I have nothing to hide." A dare if Aresko ever heard one. One her intends to uptake. He snickered menacingly. He waved a hand, and spun about face on exit. Grint spat on the the floor, snorting as he left with Aresko and the Troopers. Katerina waited for the door to close before her courage melted to her boots, "At least I wouldn't if I did have a permit in progress!"

"Kanan failed to mention you like having your foot in your mouth!" Hera scolded. No permit, a fake name, not to mention she probably lumped as the Empire's Most Wanted. Katerina's combative tongue just landed her with a noose around her neck.

"Right now it is somewhere less comfortable!" She folded her hands behind her back. "And since Anastasia Stark is the name of an asylum patient on Chandrila, that foot will eventually find its way to my mouth." She can taste every last bug and scrap of soiled dirt her foot has touched.

"And I'm guessing she looks nothing like you." Ezra added another grim notion. Katerina threw herself to a pillar, sinking miserably. "Perfect! And if we give up on this place, Aresko will assume we're hiding something and send troops hunting us! We're stuck!" Katerina's foot is climbing higher and higher.

"Then we'll need to work fast…" Hera decreed. She paced left to right, muttering under her breath. She tapped her chin pensively. There are numerous ways to go about fixing this mess. None of them fast. Proper channels, the right people, and those willing to look the other way for credits would take too much time to muster up on such short notice. Aresko will have Katerina and them figured out in no less than a few hours. Then a brilliant, if not grievous, idea came to mind. It will be patchwork in place of a real repair, but it will hold. "There is someone we can go to. Not sure you'll like him though."

"Pretty sure I'll like him more than those two when they see through my lie." Katerina reassured her.

"Alright…" Hera cringed. She warned her.

xxx

Kanan waited in distant thought outside The Ghost. Eyes closed, the tender hands of the force carrying his senses, he listened to the gentle whistles of the flowing breeze. The whispers of the grains of wheat as they rippled. The pitter patter of the wild life scuttling surreptitiously in the fields. Serenity and bliss massaged Kanan's mind, body, and soul. Worries, stresses, fears, and frustrations caught on the wind and drifted away. In that one solitary moment, Kanan felt a security he thought long out of his reach. What brought it on, he wondered. Why does he feel safe when the Empire desire's his head and the heads of his friends on pikes? Perhaps it's not security that has him feeling serene. But...gratitude. Gratitude in finding another who is strong with the force, and reuniting with a loved one once believed lost. When he thinks about it, it's been a good month. He wished it would continue. But all good things reach their conclusion eventually.

Speeders approaching on the horizon interrupted Kanan's train of thought. The motors purred lowly as they slowed. He rushed to see who it was stopping near the ship. Zeb and Sabine cut the engines, and began working decoupling the crates of supplies. Kanan felt relief it was them. In spite of the serenity he achieved, he allowed his guard to slip. He was luck friends found him in place of foes.

"How'd you make out?" Kanan greeted, refraining from beaming at the four crates.

"Better than we hoped, but could have done better." Sabine grimly replied, removing her helmet. Her thighs and hind were killing her from riding for so long. "We scrounged enough food for another month. Two at the most." That's if they ration and eat sparingly. "The ammunition needed for The Ghost is of low quality," Lower than what they normally use, "But will do in a pinch. One the bright side," She showed him small sized generator in a crate, "This portable generator can be hooked up to our shield generator and give it a nice boost."

"Great!" Kanan liberated the booster from the crate. It was of good looking condition. Their shields were in need of a boost. "I'll ask Riina to instal it when she gets back."

"^WHAT'D YOU JUST SAY?!^" Chopper came barreling into the backs of Kanan's legs. He yelped being tripped off his feet. The generator dropped on his stomach. Sabine and Zeb blinked aghast. "^You're going to rely on that she-devil to what I can easily accomplish in minutes?^" He won't hear of it. He hooked the portable generator with a grapple, and dragged away, chirping heatedly in outrage.

"I take that to mean he doesn't approve." Zeb snarkily remarked, snorting under his breath. "Guess the rust bucket doesn't like the competition!" Kanan heaved dryly, leaning up on his elbows. The generator might have broken a few ribs. And maybe a kidney. "And what'd you mean when the Monkey Wrench got back?"

"Ezra took...Hera and Riina to find a...makeshift base of operations for us." Kanan explained, choking on his own spit. The generator is heavier on the stomach than in the hands. "She wanted a place to hide The Ghost and work on it when we come back here."

"Not a bad idea." Sabine approved.

"Hold on!" Zeb nipped Sabine's zeal in the bud. "Do we have the credits for a base?!"

"Ken left Grim and Riina money for the garage on Chandrila, or to establish another one elsewhere." Kanan emphasised, gesturing to the perfect elsewhere that they've chosen to live on. Zeb bobbed his head. Sounded plausible, and reasonable. If not risky if anyone finds out who owns another garage.

"Though I doubt there's anywhere that can hide The Ghost." Sabine threw in her ray of sunshine. Not exactly the smallest ship around. Anywhere that can hold it is either under watch or owned. And no one would be willing to hide something sought after by Imperials.

"As long as it can hide The Phantom." Kanan settled. That was Ezra's original reach. "They left a while ago, though. Think something happened?"

"Or it's just taking longer than expected." Sabine shrugged. "Finding a base is like choosing the right explosive." She tossed two grenades in her hands. "You gotta go with what feels right, and what you can work with?"

"What if something feels right but doesn't work?" Zeb, smirking smugly, chose to throw a smart alec remark into the mix. "Or vice versa?!"

"Please shove one of these down your throat!" Sabine warned, thrusting it to his mouth. Zeb sniggered pushing her grenades back. "But seriously, if they run into trouble, they'll tell us." She winced with a silent hopefully on the end of a statement. Trouble has a bad habit of coming out of nowhere.

xxx

Dully erected granite spires grouped in a type of enclosure literally near the middle of nowhere. Then again, anywhere that isn't Capitol City or Tarkin Town is considered the middle of nowhere. Therefore, often ignored unless circumstances make them noticeable. Rustic, slanted wooden awnings circled within the enclosed spires, shielding delivered cargo from being spoiled by the bearing down sunlight. IG-RM bodyguard droids were inspecting the stacks of cargo. Searching for sullied goods, items that would place him on anyone's radar, and the occasional bomb or two used to take out surrounding competition. Not much of a contest if the supplier is constantly on top in his gains.

A green skinned Devaronian man was drooling over a rare crystal. He obsessively stroked his one whole horn, while using the broken one to itch his palms. They were growing sweaty from fondling his new prize. A blue white crystal tinted by emerald, said to be only found in the caves on the moons of Morduu. He's never seen one himself. But he's heard the stories. They don't do the genuine article justice.

He was about to kiss the rock when approaching engines disturbed his fawning. He growled rabidly, rolling his eyes, and set the stone inside it's box. He crossed his arms, thumping a foot impatiently. He set his droids to defense if the visitors proved unfriendly. His frown flipped to pleased. The lovely Hera, her new boy whose name escaped him, and another female he's yet to meet drove into his humble corner of Lothal. The Devaronian chuckled in a low tone, strutting charismatically to greet his friends.

"When you said the middle of nowhere…" Katerina remarked, cautiously climbing from the speeder, "I didn't think it'd be so literal." She's never felt so secluded. She could scream and no one would here her. Or her voice would carry for miles with barely an echo.

"While most consider it nowhere," The Devaronian welcomed her statement with open arms, and a twisted smirk, "I call it The Land for Profitable Entrepreneurs. Such as myself." He bowed gracefully, sweeping a hand across his stomach. Profitable Entrepreneurs. Katerina wasn't the only one to roll her eyes. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Cikatro Vizago. And you are…" He sneaked her hand in his, bringing it close to his lips.

"Not interested," Katerina snatched her hand before the lips had a chance to brush them, "But charmed all the same." She replied slyly.

"AH-HA! I like her!" Vizago hooted, wagging a finger. Hera and Ezra figured he would. "So, what brings you to me?" He purred, rubbing his fingers together. The distinctive sign that they better not have come empty handed. He surmised they needed his help. And help from Vizago doesn't come cheap.

"There's a building in the Industrial District of Capitol City we mean to utilize." Hera gave him the cliff notes. Reveal too much and he'll strong arm them for all they're worth. "Unfortunately, without the right permits, we won't be in business for long." No need to mention that the Empire is involved. They have no doubts Vizago will turn tail and run if he hears they got wrapped up in the mix.

"And you believe I will know how to acquire these...permits?" He pretended to be ignorant of the word.

"And know a thing or two about creating new identities." Ezra tossed in. Vizago licking his lips confirmed he's liking the challenge their requests are presenting. The patting on his pocket meant he planned to strike it rich.

"Permits and identities - ooh…" He shivered anxiously. "Tall orders…" Vizago mumbled the varieties of permits buildings in the Industrial Sector required. Counted on his fingers the level of difficulties, and different resources involved in acquiring them. He then drawled on and on about his time and the expenses required to accomplish such a task. Meanwhile, Katerina was idly browsing his goods to distract herself from his pontificating. She knows haggling when she hears it. She'll need to haggle back. "I may have an associate or two who can get what you ask." Vizago greedily fluttered his fingers. "When would you need them?"

"Today - in the next few hours." Hera corrected herself.

Vizago grinned hungrily at her urgent tone. "A VERY tall order! One I'm not sure I have the - cough, cough - FUNDS to complete." He bounced an open palm to them. "I'll need a down payment before I attempt to fulfill this request."

"And how much is this down payment?" Ezra's nose wrinkled.

"How badly do you need this base?" He complacently countered. In other words, Vizago wanted what he knows they don't have.

"Well how do you like this?!" Katerina boistered flamboyantly. Vizago lost color in his sleek skin. Katerina's snooping brought her to Vizago's prized gem. "This here is a Morduulan Crystal, is it not?"

"Uh-no! I mean, it could be!" Vizago tripped on his tongue, and pulled at his stuffy collar. "No one's ever-HEY!" Katerina blatantly picked it up from the box, showing intrigue in the stone. "DON'T-" Vizao lunged.

Katerina effortlessly stepped to the side, and stuck her foot out. "This is a fine specimen…" Vizago lost his footing, getting a face full of dirt in reply. "10...no...15 in purity. The light tint of emerald discerns the age - yet to be ripened." Vizago spat the dirt angrily. Katerina knelt to him, "And do you see the specks there…" Vizago focused on the bronze flakes within the stone. With the light reflecting, they were easy to see. "Those specks are actually known a Amberine. It's said it's the most conductive resource." Vizago's eyes glistened. Those tiny specks...conductive? "From staffs to possibly mimicking a Jedi lightsaber," Sparks lit in Vizago, "To powering a marginally large building. Amberine is a universal resource." Katerina rose, luring Vizago like a hungry dog to his feet. "And possibly the rarest of them all." She tossed the stone between hands.

"Universal and rarest, you say?!" Vizago adored the sound of that. Hera and Ezra lifted incredulous brows. Katerina winked towards them. They couldn't' help rolling their eyes. She was at it again. "Ooh...imagine the credits that will bring me!" Visago was drooling, wiggling his fingers around the precious stone, "The weapons I could create, the generators I could power-" Katerina tossed it to Ezra, who fumbled on the catch. Katerina clicked her tongue, wagging a finger. "Just what do you think you're doing?!" Vizago towered, losing patience for this child.

"You've heard of the golden rule, haven't you?" Katerina brought his nose to his. "Whoever holds the GOLD makes the rules? And I happen to be holding something better than gold. That, incidentally," She flipped her pistol, aiming for the stone, "Melts like ice in Hell under extreme heats or traumas!" Ezra yelped, setting it to a rock and running behind Hera. "Wonder how hot my laser bolts fire."

"You rotten little-" Vizago crushed a fist. He wanted to pound her smug grin right off her face.

"Before you press your luck, you should know that these only form once every decade or so. Two if the conditions aren't right." Vizago froze. He glanced between her and the stone, weighing the impossible options. Take the leap or lose his merchandise. "Someone in your line of work can ill afford to wait another 10 to 20 years for an easy money scheme like this." Vizago grounded his teeth, but quelled his murderous impulses. Katerina handed the stone to Hera for safe keeping. "Now, about my permits…"

xxx

Night was falling on Capitol City. Curfew was initiated, and enforced by squads of Troopers patrolling the streets. Those not inside hid in the tightest crevices they could fit in. Troopers were known to arrest anyone outside after curfew. Charging them with any allegation they could pull from their book, or making them up as they went along. People, so in fear of chains, flinched at the tiniest light touching their skin.

Troopers escorting a beaming glowering Aresko, and blissfully eating Grint, kept their guns on kill if anyone so much as dropped in their way. While Grint watched the streets during their march, Aresko reviewed a file he finally managed to dig from the dark sites on his quarry. To his disappointment, Anastasia Stark was a real person. Surprising still, she had a record to speak of, and matched the face of who he saw. So much for flogging the little loudmouth.

"Anastasia Stark…" He uttered the name repulsively, "Age 30...born on Coruscant…" Aresko was taken aback by her age. The girl looks older than she is, but she doesn't appear 30. Must be in good shape. "And a resume filled to the brim with mechanic work." He scoffed and folded the tablet under his arm. "Typical low-born filth! There is no plausible means by which she can secure funds for that building!" He declared. She's nothing but hot air.

"Smuggler? Dealer? Or both?" Grint proposed.

"Or a solicitor of far more heinous crimes." He licked his lips. He can't wait to string her up by her own lies. However, he promised to come back when she has her paperwork in order. "Let us humor her nonetheless. Give her a chance to defend herself." He and Grint snorted.

"EXCUSE US!"

"PARDON US!"

"ONE SIDE!"

Pairs of people barreled past them, cropping schematics and small tools in their rush. Grint, Aresko, and the Troopers exchanged bewildered stares. It's not uncommon for their to be employees running about at night. But to be in such a rush. They were heading in the same direction as they were too. As they rounded a corner, the small company was stopped in their tracks. Mouths agape and eyes being rubbed in disbelief.

"What in blazes?" Aresko gasped. Scores of people were racing in and out of the abandoned storage facility. An army of a cleaning crew, licensed contractors, and other civil employees were suspended by harnesses, working tirelessly on the fortifying and remodeling the outside. Wiring running through the building was being tested for faults. The surrounding grounds were being inspected for weakness in the foundation. "How is this possible?!" Aresko stormed for the building. Grint ordered the Troops to stay outside.

Aresko burst inside the facility. He and Grint shook their heads at what they were seeing. Piles of trash, and years of dust swept in piles well out of the way. Employees running about the beams, replacing each one and welding new ones securely. Others were greasing the hinges of the skylight doors. Those in the control room worked on fixing the control panel, and hoped to increase the speed of the doors. The forklifts and tools were being fixed up as well. In short, the whole structure was receiving a full body makeover right before Aresko and Grint's eyes.

"What manner of devilry is this?!" Aresko frothed.

"AH! Commandant Aresko! Taskmaster Grint!" Katerina bungeed from the ceiling, hanging upside down with a menacing smirk. "I was worried you'd forgotten about little ol' me!" She fanned a series of tablets before them. "Here's your permit, the inspections passed," Aresko fumed at the two tablets, and then went red faced by the third, "And a coupon for one free tune up on any vehicle you or Taskmaster Grint desire."

"What trickery is this?!" Aresko shoved the tablets to Grint. He grunted at the force.

"No tricks. No sorcery. No contingencies or double crosses." Katerina unhooked herself. Another retracted the bungee back up to them. "Everything here is legitimate. And the Empire is welcome to civil servant discounts should they so desire." She graciously offered, in spite of them not deserving it.

"Ooh! Discounts!" Grint rubbed his palms together, "I like the sounds of-"

Aresko elbowed him, silencing his idiocy. He glared disdainfully at the girl. These workers, the permits, the whole lot of it stunk of fowl play. He moved in, lowering his voice to a dull growl, "I don't know what you're playing at here, Girl! But rest assured, I will find the thread of lies, and unweave them!"

"I welcome you to try." Katerina furrowed her brow. "Better than you have." Aresko allowed her this round. But he wasn't done by a long shot. He rounded up his men, and left before the filth of the rabble tarnished his uniform.

Katerina savored her victory. It was a close one, but thanks to everyone else it pulled through without a hitch. She meandered to the small office, closing the door behind her, and tinting the window for added privacy. Applauding hands rankled her mildly. Especially since Vizago was doing so out of sarcasm.

"So very nicely played." He crooned sardonically. "Anyone ever tell you you have a knack for business?" He rumbled heatedly.

Katerina laughed lightly, sensing his frustration towards her. "Sorry to twist your arm so far. You wouldn't have helped me otherwise." She explained gently.

"Or if I found out you were lying about this stone!" Vizago slammed it to the desk. Katerina wasn't surprised. "Turns out it is a fool's gem! Pretty in color, but worth as much as glass!" Vizago growled, towering close to her face. She can see the fury in his eyes. "Dandy little paperweight!"

"Really?! Weird." Katerina backed away, laughing n raising her hands, "And here I thought my spun yarn was on target."

Vizago punched the wall by her head, making her flinch. "You swindled me!" Vizago roared.

"A swindler swindling another swindler - imagine that." She rolled her eyes. Vizago is finding his appreciation for her smug brains dwindling by the second. "The difference being I don't trick others unless I have to. YOU," She jabbed a finger in his chest, giving herself a bit of space, "My not so good man, do it for sport! And you hate it when people play back!"

Vizago bit on his lower lip. He drummed fingers on his arms, wanting so badly to run his horns into her stomach. "You'd make a difficult companion to put up with. You know that?!" He snarled.

"I've been told." She shrugged. "It's one of my many charms, you see." Vizago chuckled at her boldness. Their business was concluded. And Katerina was long overdue to check in with Kanan and the others. Hera and Ezra returned earlier to assuage him. Though, if she knows her brother, he's likely planning to come looking for her. "Thanks for your help today. And here…" She handed him credits. Vizago counted the money, surprised by how much she handed him. "For your help and for tricking you into helping me. Till next time." She patted him on the back, excusing herself.

Vizago threw his head back, laughing loudly. "Finally!" He bounced the money in his palm. He wiggled a brow. "Someone who knows how to have a bit of fun!"

xxx

Hera waited outside with Kanan. Both grew unnerved when the sun vanished on the horizon and Katerina wasn't back yet. Kanan was informed Aresko and Grint vowed to return to intimidate Katerina some more. The pair worried Vizago didn't come through. Kanan can't believe Katerina verbally sparred with him. Meeting Vizago would have happened sooner or later, but he preferred later. He wanted her to be a Rebel Mechanic for a while. Not a haggler amongst smugglers. He almost had a tear in his eye as to how much she's grown, and how reckless she chooses to be.

A speeder on the approach brought the pair to their feet. Katerina waved warmly coming to a halt. She walked the speeder into the bay area. "Miss me?" She teased the relieved two.

"How'd it go?" Kanan asked anxiously. Ezra appeared in the bay, leaning on the railing above.

"Smooth as can be expected." Katerina shrugged. "The storage facility is being done over as we speak. With a little more time, it'll be open for multitudes of business."

"And Vizago was happy to help?" Kanan questioned, knowing full well of her treachery towards him.

"Turnabout's fair play, Big Brother, and you know how much I love turnabout." She flicked a finger up his chin. "But to be on the safe side, I paid him what was owed and hopefully earned some good graces."

"And Riina just earned herself a boyfriend." Ezra announced obnoxiously.

"Boyfriend?!" Kanan choked.

"I did not!" She pointed for Ezra to go away. He laughed heading for his room. "Your Devaronian friend is pushy, but not my type." She promised him. "I'd prefer someone whose love isn't changed by how many credits are in his hand."

"That has to be the best news I've heard all day!" Kanan threw his head back. "So how do you plan to run this garage of yours?" Obviously she can't travel and monitor it at the same time.

"I have a friend in mind who would be perfect for the job. She and her crew can run the place while we're doing our business."

"Sounds like a plan." Kanan pat her on the back. "Good work." He climbed up the ladder, heading for the bridge.

Katerina turned on her heels to head for her room. Hers and Hera's. A mutually agreed rooming. Hera put a hand on her shoulder, motioning a thumb for the outside. "Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Sure." Katerina followed her outside to the side of the ship. Hera huffed impatiently along the way. "Is something wrong?"

"Not really, but it needs to be addressed." Her furrowed brow unnerved Katerina. "While I admired your silvertongue and ability to think on your feet, discretion is the better part of any valor." Katerina wasn't sure where she was going. She did get the sense she did something wrong, however. "Today you were lucky that Vizago came through. Any other time, red flags would have been raised and the targets on our backs would have gotten larger!" Hera moved in close, jabbing a finger in Katerina's chest, "We could have been put in danger and lost ground on Lothal. All because you don't know when to back down."

"I…" Katerina was at a loss for words. Normally this is where she uses her clever words to dig herself out. There's no getting around Hera being right. "I didn't think about that. I didn't consider that at all." Katerina hadn't realized it. She laid land mines at her feet and at Aresko's. Any one of them could have stepped on one and set the whole city ablaze. And put her friends in danger. The whole plan would have turned to ash at their feet. "I'm sorry, Hera. I just...hate being bent over by those in power. I...lost my head for a second." She isn't too proud to not admit she was in the wrong. She just hates feeling like a scolded child.

"It's alright. As long as you be mindful in the future."

"I will. And thank you."

Hera was glad to hear it. She left Katerina with her thoughts. Even with a garage of employees, Katerina would do as she pleased. If someone angered her, she'd twist their tongues into so many knots they leave on their own. That was with common folk. The Empire are anything BUT common. Crossing them is like crossing wild animals. They can kill at any given moment, and for any reason. Given her actions sparked Kallus's retaliation back on Chandrila, one would think she'd be more mindful of how she steps on an Imperial's foot. Apparently she hadn't learned, and was oblivious of her actions until Hera called her for it.

"Hera…" Katerina sighed, smiling warmly, "No wonder Caleb's head has stayed on straight."

xxx

Finally. He thought he'd never be cleared for active duty again. Pushing up from the floor on the count of 79, and clapping his palms twice at the peak of a small jump, Agent Kallus dripped in sweat, burning life back into his atrophic body. In his Quarters aboard the Dreadnaught Delchaer, the stench of his rigorous rehabilitating exercises was ripe in the air. He was transferred from care on the Naughtilus as it was due to intercept an enemy fleet. At the time, he was not deemed fit for duty. But today, that changed. The Doctors ran extensive tests. Rating his recovery, testing his vitality, and searching for long term damage. By the very definition, Agent Kallus was the peak of good health. Arms bending at 90 degrees, chest touching the cold - moistened - floor, he reached push up 90, and strove for 100. From there he will do 100 situps and 100 squats. One way or another, he will bring his body back to its physical zenith, and beyond. And then, once his armor and weapons are returned to him, the rebel scum who put him in this humiliating position will be made to pay.

The door whisking open projected a ridiculously blinding light in his face. He threw a hand up to shield it, falling on his tender ribs in the process. A figure stood in the door, casually entering and chuckling at Kallus's current state. The door closing allowed his vision to return. Kallus began to consider turning on some semblance of lighting. Not that he needed light to see the pale grey skin and piercing golden eyes of his visitor.

"Agent Kallus, word reached me you made a full recovery." The visitor mocked. "I am pleased to see the rumors are true. Albeit exaggerated." He extended a hand. Obviously a falsehood of concern.

"Inquisitor…!" Kallus hissed, lunging to his feet, ignoring the blatantly ingenuine hand. He felt sort of foolish in his grey slacks and shirt. Naked before the eyes of a fell officer. He held himself tall nonetheless, stifling his bashfulness. "To what do I owe this pleasure?" A term he used ever so lightly.

The last time The Inquisitor visited, he held an incapacitated Kallus at the mercy of his saber, demanding gory detail on his encounter with The Rebel Cell from Kessel. The two Jedi of interest, a third reportedly skilled like a Jedi, a Mandalorian girl, and a Lasat. It is assumed there are others in their rabble. Another who is likely the pilot of the ship. But no sightings have been confirmed. In the grand scheme of intelligence gathering, much intelligence was replaced with idiotic common knowledge. Where they are based, to whom they report, the true numbers of their ranks, and where they will strike next. These are the mysteries that need to be solved. Being off duty for the past couple of weeks has put Kallus behind. And the higher ups are undoubtedly growing impatient. Why else would the Inquisitor be lingering?

"I am afraid ill news prompts my visit this morning." Kallus tensed, bracing himself for a lash of punishment or worse. Conversations beginning with bad news meant two things in the Empire. A death sentence or a forced resignation. Either way, Kallus saw the end of his career personified in the Inquisitor. "The Rebels you encountered on the Mines of Kessel, and on Chandrila have eluded our sights. They have gone into hiding, and have yet to rise."

Kallus's dropping shoulders of relief hadn't gone unnoticed. The twinkling in his eyes expressed gratitude he was not being relieved of his station. Swiftly did he change his expression in tandem to the grave news. Chandrila was the closest they'd come to apprehending The Rebels. So close were they to crushing The Rebels and strangling them in their grasp. They slipped through their fingers. Like eels in oil.

"Do we know of their last location?" Kallus proceeded, hoping to learn of their route.

"Our scouts say they passed Shambrila, but lost them in a dust storm." An odd phenomena that is beyond bizarre but not rare. Clusters of debris floating throughout space dragging by the orbital pulls of planets, thrown into furls similar to hurricanes or blizzards. Often times shambles of ships, and meteors are amongst the dust. "They caught wind of their trail near Balboa Run, maintained chase, and then lost them all over again." The Inquisitor's menacingly twisted grin at the pattern rankled Kallus.

"Our Rebels are quite skilled when it comes to hiding." To that end there was no one better. Kallus strode to his closet, adorning his bare form with an armored uniform. "No matter. They will emerge soon enough! One reason or another! For fuel, repairs, to save the helpless…" He trailed off, forcing his legs into the armored leggings. His stiff muscles made slipping in trying.

"The helpless, you say?" The Inquisitor arched an intrigued brow.

"Of particular interest…" Kallus breath and polished a splotch on his chest plate, "My last couple of encounters with The Rebels revealed a profound weakness in their character." Weaknesses. Treats for the Empire to suckle upon as they concoct inhumane ways of using them to bring their enemies to their knees. "Those in need lure them like moths to flames. No regard for their own health when rescuing the Wookies!" He connected the arms, fastened his gloves And I'm certain they evacuated the auto shop before engaging with me."

"How interesting…" The Inquisitor stroked his hungry lips. A malicious grin stretching ear to ear. Rebels with a hero complex. How noble. Admirable. Foolish. Kallus sighed refreshed being back in his armor. He folded his helmet under his arm, ready to take whatever's thrown at him. "Tell me more about the individuals themselves." The Inquisitor gestured to the door. Kallus bowed and exited into the corridor. "What you can from your brief collisions with them."

"Thus far I have confirmed five members."

One - The Elder Jedi whose name escapes him. A young man with a good sense of combat who Kallus isn't shy about naming as the leader of the rabble. At first blush his Jedi skills seem unparalleled. Though the transparency of his rashness and inexperience is that of crystal. He is in possession of a firearm, and shows a mild accuracy in his aim. Regardless, he is not to be underestimated. His mere presence, and that of his lightsaber, make the troops root themselves, as some have never seen a Jedi in their lives. He also inspires hope in those that see him, bringing forth ideas of uprising and resistance. He is the head of the snake. He maintains a certain order when leading his team, and doesn't overlook those surrounding him. That concern and compassion seem to afflict him with tunnel vision, and he can be overpowered.

Two - The younger Jedi who calls himself Jabba. No older than a child. Hell, he is a child. But child with promise. He's sly, crafty, sneaky, and the epitome of thinking on one's feet. He doesn't possess a lightsaber of his own. Only a small slingshot affixe to the wrist. No real threat, but can slow a Trooper down if hit properly. The boy is slippery when he is not under constant guard. When backed into a corner, he pulls amazing feats to escape. An agile, and seemingly fearless boy. He has thrown veteran troopers for a loop once before. Regardless of his guile, he is still a child. Without his master, or his team to watch over him, he is lost.

Three - The deceptive, sharp tongued Mechanic. She calls herself Katty. A nickname or a made up one like Jabba. Her rapport lies in mechanics, and she is the owner of the Mothma Garage on Chandrila. However, one shouldn't be fooled. She is skilled with both a Lance Staff and a Wrench. Her aim with pistols is nothing to sneeze at either. The girl is she strikes fiercely, near accurately, but with a note of hesitation. Like the elder Jedi, the girl shows amazing promise. To underestimate her is to be rendered unconscious. Her tongue is twice as sharp. She is clever in her word play, and steadfast in her convictions. Yet, for all he ferocity, she dreads causing the death of others.

The Inquisitor joined Kallus in the briefing room. Cups of hot, soothing tea were exchanged. A stronger concoction was desired, but tea was better for rejuvenating the body. And was by far more relaxing. "The Lasat and Mandalorian girl? My encounters with them aren't as personal as they've been with the other three." Kallus shamefully admitted. "What I know of them is they have a fetish for destruction. The Lasat bombards his way in battle just like the rest of his filthy people did! The Mandalorian adds an artistic flare when demolishing things."

"Chin up, Agent Kallus. There is plenty of time to study up on the pair." The Inquisitor's faith was most overwhelming. Kallus grunted, taking a small sip of his tea. The Inquisitor inhaled the aromatic steam, exhaling with bliss. "As for your aforementioned trio, Jedi or no, I hold doubts as to the veracity of their opposition."

"Why is that?" Kallus asked with sincere curiosity.

"The boy with no lightsaber. He is clearly of youngling status, or has barely been made aware of what he is. Therefore, he is only threatening in his sneaking and lurking." Kallus nodded his head, accepting the sense. The boy was no better than a rat carrying a slingshot on his wrist. "The elder Jedi utilizes a firearm in place of his lightsaber. Clearly he has abandoned his teachings, or is minimizing them to stay in hiding." As do the few remaining Jedi who have eluded The Empire in the past. Unless a lightsaber is revealed, Jedi pass off as normal people. "As for the mechanic, she is no soldier. Nor is she a Jedi. She is just a fast acting, violent individual. No real threats exist in this rabble. That does not mean they should not be dealt with."

"What do you propose then?" Kallus bobbed a smirk. The glint in The Inquisitor's eye made him shiver with anticipation.

"For now, we wait." A dull idea for what was assumed to be a grand scheme. "It is as you said, Agent Kallus, these Rebels cannot help themselves when others need aid." The Inquisitor remarked, sensing his colleague's disappointment. "Today, tomorrow, or in the next week, someone somewhere will need help. It is simply a matter of time."

"Do we have that sort of time?" Kallus quizzed.

"A fair question, My Dear Agent." The Inquisitor purred. He peered into his cup, immersing himself in his rippling golden orbs. "A fair question indeed."

xxx

Kanan awoke from a nap with a shudder. Katerina and Ezra broke away from their chess game. Kanan's eyes were wide with terror. He rested a hand to his sweat drenched face, breathing shakily as he tried to steady himself. What was that?! He screamed in his mind. Those eyes...that voice...He squeezed his eyes closed, pinching the bridge of his nose. WHO was that?

"Kanan?" Ezra leaned sideways, slowly standing, "You okay?"

"FINE!" He cleared his cracking throat. "I'm...fine...Ezra, thank you!"

"You sure?" Katerina doubted. "You're sweating bullets." She went to him, putting a hand to his forehead. "You don't have a fever. You sure you're alright?"

"Yeah, just…" He closed fingers to her hand, subconsciously squeezing it tight, "Got a weird feeling is all." He gazed to the ceiling, able to see the vast abyss of space passing by. He wasn't imagining it. It's nothing as simple as an overactive mind creating fantasies. He had a vision. Or at least part of one. Deep within that blackness, nesting on the opposite side, there is...something. No, SOMEONE. Some dark...evil...and powerful. But who?

To be continued