Chapter 11: Reversed Roles Part 1
Days after the Destruction of Scepter Six...
Palades: S.R.E Headquarter - Neyx's Throne Room
Parity Crusaders and Sovereign Soldiers all bowed before Neyx. Two people wearing black robes arrived. A man and a woman.
Neyx introduced them: "People of the Sovereign Republic Empire. I present to you... Maxun Draay and Kirus Arteem! From today untll the end of this war. They will be appointed the new Supreme Commanders of the Sovereign Republic Empire's Military Forces."
A lot of people were surprised. Some asked regarding Shana and Jace.
Neyx answered calmly: "The two are on contract and leadership is temporarily. Supreme Commander Jace and Shana will be reinstated after the war ends."
A Parity Crusader asked wondering: "What about High Minister Satele, Leader Neyx?"
A woman in a white robe walked into the room. A powerful Golden aura surrounding her body. She stood an inch from the three thrones. The woman kneeled before Neyx.
The woman asked: "May I introduce myself Leader Neyx?"
Neyx replied: "Go ahead."
The woman rise, turned around and stated bluntly: "So Satele finally lost her spine! That is so sad! I guess I would replace her now!"
A Parity Crusader were disturbed and stated: "Who exactly do you think you are?!"
The woman walked toward the man. She lifted her right hand and the Parity Crusader were hit with an intense pressure and fell to his knees.
He cried: "Argh! This is...!"
Neyx called out calmly: "Cassidy."
The woman stopped. The Parity Crusader breathe heavily.
A Parity Crusader asked: "Who are you miss?"
Cassidy walked back and turned around. She pulled up her hood revealing a golden and natural eye, white hair and pale skin.
Cassidy stated bluntly: "Who am I? Hahah! I am the teacher of High Minister Satele! I grinded the strength into her fragile body! I am Cassidy! CASSIDY SUNRIDER!"
The woman began laughing hysterically as the Parity Crusaders were surprised by the revelation.
Weeks later...
Alliance Warship: Bridge
Galtlitia fell to her knees. She were wounded, beaten and exhausted. Roal pulled out his energy blade from Asenna's dead corpse. Neyx's face were on a monitor. Galtlitia's eyes glowed as Roal approached her. He stared with a deadly and cold gaze toward her.
Roal said coldly: "You will regret betraying the Sovereign Republic Empire."
Galtlitia's stated with a smile: "The Alliance will be victorious!"
Neyx ordered calmly: "Kill her."
Roal instantly beheaded Galtlitia.
Gravestone: Bridge
Altlitia screamed as she crumble down in tears: "Sister GAL!"
T7 also clenched his fists.
Lana calmly stated: "Galtlitia succeed. We have taken back our lost power. Let us move."
Koth replied: "Understood."
The Outlander and Theron nodded, as they stared at the many destroyed Alliance and Zakuul Vessels outside.
Palades System:
Many Scepter Six Dreadnoughts began jumping to hyperspace and left the system. The Alliance disappeared immediately after.
Alliance Warship: Bridge
Roal reported to Neyx kneeled: "I am sorry Leader Neyx. I didn't predict she would still possess that kind of control."
Neyx replied calmly: "Saen managed to destroy the Eternal Fleet. Eliminating Galtlitia and the slave of Fate was worth it. We still have the Monarchs."
Roal were silent.
Neyx stated and ordered: "This doesn't change anything. Return back to Palades for further instructions."
Roal replied: "As you wish Leader Neyx."
Zakuul: Eternal Throne Room
The Outlander stood in front of the Eternal Throne alone. Images of his fallen allies appeared in his mind.
The Outlander called out while his voice broke: "Bey'wan, Aric... and everyone...! Damn it!"
The Outlander stamped the ground.
The Outlander contemplated: "So much loss... so many deaths...!"
The Outlander clenched his fists and bite his lips.
The Outlander asked sadden: "Was all of this really worth it...? I am the emperor of Zakuul. But I don't feel like one. The only thing I see in the mirror is a broken man with thousands of lives on his unconscious."
Time stopped as Messias appeared and spoke: "Speaking to yourself now? I guess the stress finally got you."
The Outlander's eyes turned away from the throne and towards Messias.
He asked depressed: "What do you want?"
Messias replied satisfied: "You have quite the interesting history. I have broken another seal."
As Messias said that the Outlander began emitting a more powerful aura. His eyes glowed. He experienced a vision.
Vision
The Outlander saw a vibrant world, a never ending rain, himself wearing a Jedi Hood dueling Saen, as the two parry blows, as their powers collided. In the distance Hivus and Neyx dueled. Lana and Theron were separated and getting overwhelmed by the Void Clan.
The Outlander heard multiple voices saying: "The key to victory is... Self-Sacrifice."
The Vision ended.
Zakuul: Eternal Throne Room
Messias still there commented wondering: "Looks like you saw something exciting. The Force is calling you. Will you follow it?"
The Outlander asked wondering: "Why are you so supportive or kind to me?"
Messias commented with her arms crossed: "Because I see potential in you. I am also curious to see the full extent of your power, once it is unleashed."
Messias disappeared before the Outlander could say or ask more. T7 came into the throne room.
The Outlander gave a small smile and said: "It is good to see you back to your original body my friend."
T7 asked worried: "Commander ok?
The Outlander gave a sad smile and replied: "I should be asking you that. I am sorry for what happened with Galtlitia."
T7 hung his head but said: "T7 understands. T7 will miss her. T7 continue fight for her."
The Outlander commented: "That is very admirable my friend. By the way. Can you cover for me?"
T7 asked curiously: "Commander go away?"
The Outlander replied: "Only temporary."
Days later...
Zakuul: Eternal Throne Room
As the Nexus Knights, Zakuul Leaders and Alliance members stepped into the room the Outlander were gone.
Lana asked worried: "Have anyone seen the Commander?"
Hivus replied: "I don't sense his presence on Zakuul."
Arcann commented: "The Commander looked quite exhausted after all that's happened."
Theron replied: "Can't blame him for wanting a break. So many of us fell during Saen's assault on Odessen."
Lusitania stated: "Thanks to Lady Vaylin it is still standing. But all the technology and majority of our forces are gone."
Vaylin replied looking down: "I am sorry. I did not expect the last attack. He dismantled his giant ship and crashed the parts down on us."
Koth added: "What will happen now? Since the Commander has disappeared who is gonna lead Zakuul?"
The question kinda took everyone by surprise.
Hivus instantly injected seriously: "No one."
Thexan asked: "Commander?"
Hivus suggested: "The Outlander will still be the ruler and leader of the Eternal Alliance. But until he returns Altlitia is the only one who can use the throne's full potential similar to the one called Scorpio."
Senya asked wondering: What about our forces?"
Hivus stated: "Simple. We will split the work between us and focus on efficiency. Anyone with a solid plan can lead the charge."
Indo commented: "That sounds reasonable. No status, no familiarity and no favoritism."
Koth stated satisfied: "I guess that is our plan until the Commander returns."
Everyone nodded.
Alliance Corvette: Bridge
The Outlander sat in the pilot seat. He could feel the Force. He used meditation to guide him.
Messias manifested and asked: "So... the Force is calling you back home?"
The Outlander replied nostalgic: "It appears so. The destination is *Reastat* my homeworld."
Palades: S.R.E Headquarter - Neyx's War Room
Neyx stood with his back turned. Roal stood behind.
Neyx asked: "How is it going with our forces?"
Roal answered: "The new Supreme Commanders are quite powerful. The Parity Crusaders and Sovereign Troops also like them."
Neyx replied: "I see. That is good to know."
Neyx asked wondering: "How is the situation in the former Republic and Imperial Worlds?"
Roal answered: "The situation is stable. Black and White seems to follow your orders to the letter. They have build up a new senate made up of the common people. The Parity Crusaders stationed have manage to maintain the peace both by diplomacy and Force."
Neyx replied and asked: "That is great. How is the situation with our Main forces?"
Roal answered: "Our enemies in the Unknown Regions are resisting heavily. Especially the many different Force Orders. But our Timeless Monarchs and Hybrid Technology guarantees our victory."
Neyx replied: "I understand. What about the situation with our people?"
Roal were bit hesitant but answered: "The destruction of Scepter Six left many dissatisfied. Leo, Schezaran and Majust are at a breaking point. But as long as you are in power then none of them would dare attempting anything."
Neyx stated: "The Alliance Wars. Our current timeline. Many events will happen after which will leave it's marks on history."
Roal said calmly: "The Sith Empire's Fall, the Nexus Devastation and Grand Republic's Conquest."
Neyx replied: "You remembered well."
Roal asked: "Shouldn't you inform Acina of this Leader Neyx?"
Neyx replied: "I prefer to wait until after the war is over or until Acina have grown older."
Roal asked: "Is their destruction inevitable?"
Neyx answered: "When the times comes the Empire will face two choices. Merge into the Republic or be destroyed during the *March of Lights*"
Reastat: Holy Temple - Entrance
The Outlander stared at the giant entrance.
The Outlander commented: "I sense a powerful Dark Force. I don't remember ever seeing this place."
Messias replied: "Millions of secrets exists on one planet. Don't think for a moment you will ever now everything. Humanity and most mortals don't have the luxury of time."
The Outlander remarked: "True. All beings eventually dies."
The Outlander stepped forward and went into the Holy Temple.
Reastat: Holy Temple - Hallway
As the Outlander entered he were met by Zealots. The Outlander walked forward and before the zealots could react he cut them all down systematically with few decisive swings. He made spins, backflips and sweeps.
The Outlander commented: "I am not impressed. I kinda expected more."
Messias replied: "I think you will meet more resistance deeper inside."
The Outlander walked further in.
Reastat: Holy Temple - Open Field
The Outlander saw a man in Black cloak.
The Outlander asked: "Are you the guardian?"
The cloaked man draw a silver colored lightsaber.
He asked calmly: "Do you believe in fate?"
The Outlander answered: "After everything that has happened, everything I had seen and been through. I won't deny it."
The Outlander draw his lightsaber.
The cloaked man said cryptically: "You have lost many, more will likely die. Despite that. Will you continue moving ahead?"
The Outlander answered: I will(Light)/I don't know(Neutral)/Beyond!(Dark)
The Outlander said: "I will continue. My life isn't only mine anymore. I won't abandoned the ones who have followed me on my path."
The cloaked man replied: "Very well."
The man stabbed his lightsaber in the ground and powerful torrents of Wind flew toward the Outlander. The Outlander unleashed his aura. He felt a tremendous pressure from the torrents. But he continued moving forward. The Outlander managed to reach the man. Images of himself right before killing Vaylin appeared in mind. The Outlander turned off his lightsaber. He clapped his hands together and all the Force energy instantly disappeared. The cloaked man ran forward exploiting the Outlander's apparent opening. He swung his lightsaber toward the Outlander's head. But he simply stood his ground and with his mind instantly turned off the cloaked man's lightsaber.
The Outlander stated: "The weapon doesn't make all of your strength."
The Outlander ran forward, leapt and kicked the cloaked man sending him flying back. But instead of hitting the ground or the wall. The cloaked man turned into a spirit and disappeared.
Messias commented: "Handling these things have become too easy for you."
The Outlander replied: "If you say so."
The Outlander continued moving forward.
Zakuul: Central Tower - Balcony
Vaylin stood leaning forward, as she stared at the stars in the sky. Hivus approached her and hugged her from behind.
Hivus asked worried: "You ok? I am here if you wish to talk."
Vaylin gave a little smile as she turned around and leaned into him.
Vaylin replied depressed: "I appreciate it. I regret not being able to save them."
Hivus pulled her a bit away and they kissed and he said: "You saved as many as you could. Had you not being there they all would be dead."
Vaylin replied happily: "For a long time I feel... happy. Meeting you... it feels like I am in a dream... it is so... perfect."
Hivus smiled and embraced her: "I will protect you and your future. No matter what."
Vaylin looked down and her happy expression changed into worry.
Hivus noticed and asked: "I am here for you. What is it?"
Vaylin looked Hivus in eyes and answered a bit nervous and breaking voice: "Hivus I am..."
Zakuul: Alliance Apartment - Lana and Theron's Private Room
Lana and Theron embraced and kissed. They both stared each other in the eyes.
Lana commented calmly with a smile: "Everything feels... different. But not in a bad way."
Theron kissed Lana again and replied: "We have been through a lot together. Even before the Commander went missing. I think I have always held these feelings for you. I have just... been afraid to be distracted, forgetting where my loyalties lied and all that."
Lana answered calmly: "Likewise. I began searching for talented and experienced individuals. You were on top. I considered you a close friend after the incident with the Revanites. But when I think back... there might had been more."
The two let go. They both sat down. Theron on chair and Lana on the bed.
Theron commented calmly and satisfied: "Both our parents managed to make it through this. There have been a lot of losses. But we both were right in placing our faith in the Commander. He wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you."
Lana replied: "It was a big gamble at first. But through everything good and bad. I don't regret it. Although living as a Sith Lord was pretty turbulent. The only thing left is memories."
Theron gave a little smile.
Lana asked: "Do you think we will ever be able to return to our homes?"
Theron answered: "Not likely. But it might not be so bad."
Lana asked wondering: "What do you mean?"
Theron rise and walked over to Lana. He kneeled before her. Which surprised Lana. Theron searched through his pockets nervously.
He said: "As long as we are alive we can always find a new home or create our own."
Tears began falling from Lana's eyes. Theron took out a small ring case.
She commented surprise: "Oh my... Theron are you..."
He opened it revealing diamond.
Theron cleared his throat and spoke: "I love you Lana Beniko. Until death separate us. Will you marry me?"
Lana began blushing. She rise and Theron did the same. Lana embraced and kissed him passionately.
Theron asked with smile: "Can I take that as a yes?"
Lana answered ecstatic: "Yes damn!"
The two kissed.
Short While Later...
Zakuul: Alliance Apartment - Lana and Theron's Private Room
Lana and Theron lied in their bed covered by the sheets.
Lana spoke: "I have something to tell you."
Theron answered smiling: "What is it...?"
Lana said a bit nervous: "Theron I am..."
Gravestone: Bridge
Tora and Koth made out on the Gravestone. The two kissed and touched each other passionately.
As they separated Koth spoke: "It has been some busy weeks. Never got the chance to see you properly after our reunion."
Tora had her hands around Koth as she replied playful: "Yeah being separated makes you miss those intimate moments."
Koth continued: "To be honest I sensed something wasn't right when the two of us parted at Odessen. When I heard of the attack I feared the worst."
Tora replied surprised: "Yeah it was a close call. Believe it our not, but Kaliyo of all people was the one who saved me."
Koth smiled and said: "Doesn't matter who. You are here with me. That is all I can ask for."
The two kissed again.
Tora spoke after their lips separated: "I have some news for you."
Koth asked curious: "What is it?"
Tora hesitated a bit before speaking.
Zakuul: Eternal Throne Room
Thexan stood before the throne. He simply stared at it. Arcann entered the room.
Arcann said: "It still feels unreal. You standing here alive and well. Not even father was capable of such power."
Thexan replied: "Hivus changed my life. As I stand before this throne which I used to serve. Before I felt a sense of longing. Now... nothing."
Arcann stood next to Thexan and stated: "I committed many atrocities while sitting on that throne. I will never forget those lives I sacrificed while consumed with rage and hatred."
Thexan said: "You were too focused on the wrong things and the wrong people. Had you simply focused on our bond instead of father... many things would have changed."
Arcann replied: "True. But even then I realized I was never worthy of the throne. You should had been the one to survive. You possessed so many qualities which I lacked."
Thexan stated: "That is in the past. Life moves on and so have I."
As Thexan said that. Lusitania entered the room.
Arcann turned as he stared at Lusitania and commented: "You are right. It does."
Thexan put a hand on his brother's shoulder and said: "Many people are with you now. You were never alone. I hope you know that now."
Thexan lifted his hand. He went over to Lusitania as the two kissed. They held hands as they left the throne room. Arcann turned his gaze back at the throne.
Images flashed in his mind of Senya healing him, him fighting by the Alliance's side and the Alliance celebrating after the uprisings' end. Arcann closed his eyes.
The door behind him opened and Senya appeared.
Senya said: "Come Arcann. It time for dinner."
Arcann turned around and replied with a smile: "Understood, mother."
He walked toward her.
Reastat: Holy Temple - Sanctuary
As he walked to the center a bright light shined.
The Outlander called out: "This is...!"
As the light dispersed a big howl were heard. In front of the Outlander appeared a Lupus(Three-eyed white Force Wolf.) The Outlander draw his lightsaber. The wolf let out a roar and a shockwave blasted the Outlander in the stomach and turned off his lightsaber.
The Outlander fell to ground screaming: "AAAAHHH!"
The Outlander rise. He felt something changing in him. He attempted to unleash his aura but nothing.
The Outlander said: "My Force..."
Messias stated: "It has been sealed. I guess your overconfidence came back at you. Good luck defeating one of those. I spent many years hunting those beasts down. They persist to be one of the most dangerous beings against Force Users."
The Outlander said: "My old masters told me of those Lupus. I seriously need a weapon."
The Outlander looked around and saw a vibrosword nearby. The Outlander slowly moved toward the vibrosword while not letting his eyes off the beast. But the beast simply waited. As the Outlander grabbed the vibrosword the beast ran forward with intense speed and rammed into him.
The Outlander felt intense pain and his breath knocked out of him as he cried: "Agh!"
The Outlander fell back. But he rebounded further away. The Wolf continued toward him. The Outlander evaded the Wolf's attempt at ramming him again. The Outlander breathed heavily trying to regain his disrupted composure.
The Outlander commented: "I should have seen this coming! I have always relied too heavily on the Force."
The Outlander holding the vibrosword ready himself. The Wolf ran forward and howled sending a giant shockwave toward him. The Outlander swung his vibrosword canceling the wave by coincidence. The Wolf howled multiple times sending multiple shockwaves toward the Outlander. He listened carefully as he began canceling out the Wolf's attacks. The Outlander moved closer and closer. He swung his vibrosword and hit the wolf across the face. The wolf cried out in pain and began growling and roared.
The Wolf suddenly leapt with fury and rage and bite into the Outlander's shoulder with it's fangs.
The Outlander screamed in pain, as he slowly fell to the ground: "AAAARGHHH!"
The Outlander felt his blood boiling, as he lied down writhing in pain, as the wolf's fangs drilled into him. The Outlander began breathing erratically. His vision became blurry. Images of his meditation training flashed into his mind. He still had his right hand on the vibrosword. He lifted it with his last ounce of strength and stabbed the wolf in the belly. The wolf let go and jumped back. The Outlander rise up. He sweated heavily and blood fell from his shoulder.
Messias spoke: "Looks like you are in a pinch. Do you need my help?"
The Outlander answered confident: "No. I won't take the easy way out."
Messias remarked: "Suit yourself. Just don't die. It will inconvenient me if you do."
The Outlander grabbed his vibrosword with both his hands and entered a quick draw stance. The Wolf also adjusted it's body. It's fangs filled with blood. The two stared at each other. In an instant the two ran toward each other. The Outlander swung his vibrosword and the Wolf bite with it's fangs. Sounds of teared flesh were heard. The Outlander and the Wolf ended up on opposite side of each other. The Outlander fell to his knees with a flesh wound to the left side of his stomach.
The Outlander grunted in pain: "Argh!"
The Wolf didn't move.
The Outlander breathe heavily but a smile formed across his face.
Messias commented: "Looks like you have won."
The Wolf suddenly fell to the ground revealing a giant flesh wound close to the heart. The Outlander staggered toward the Wolf who lied down in the newly formed blood pool.
The Outlander stood over the Wolf who couldn't move. The Outlander stared the Wolf in the eyes. What he saw in them were fear. The Wolf whined.
The Outlander's vision were blurry and he felt weak.
The Outlander spoke: "You didn't mentioned these creatures possess poisoned fangs!"
Messias replied: "I didn't think it was important. You have won. Follow the laws of nature and kill it."
The Wolf continued whining unable to move.
The Outlander decided: Touch the Wolf(Light)/Die Beast!(Dark)
The Outlander put down his vibrosword and spoke: "I don't kill defenseless creatures."
The Outlander patted the Wolf's head. It closed it's eyes and dissipated into small particles of light. The Wolf left a bottle with some glowing liquid inside. The Outlander grabbed the bottle and immediately drank everything. The Outlander's wounds slowly healed and the poison were cleansed. A moment later a hidden passage revealed itself near the sanctuary. Stairs leading underground.
Messias asked: "You always chose the light side. Aren't you curious of what would happen when you make a more darker choice?"
The Outlander replied: "Darker choices often comes with severe consequences. I would rather not suffer those."
The Outlander continued down the stairs.
Zakuul: Alliance Apartment - Living Room
Hivus, Theron, Koth and Thexan sat on couches around a table. Silence and awkwardness were felt across the room. Hivus puzzled with something in his head. Koth scratched his head and smiled. Thexan crossed his arms and simple stared out.
Theron sighed and decided to say something: "Okay. This silence is killing me. We have all been here for over fifteen minutes. Someone say something."
Hivus replied: "I don't know. I kinda have a hunch we all wanna say the same thing, but neither have the courage to just be blunt about it."
Koth stated: "I don't really have anything to hide. It is just... I am not sure how to put it forward. Tora kinda told me something unexpected."
Thexan replied: "It was the same with Lusitania her news took me by surprise."
Theron scratched his head and added: "I can kinda see where this is going."
Hivus clapped his hands together and said cheerfully: "Instead of keeping it secret why don't we all reveal what our lovers/wives told us?"
They all nodded.
Hivus counted down from three and they all said:
Theron: Lana is pregnant !
Thexan: Lusitania will give birth soon!
Hivus: Life is growing in Vaylin!
Koth: I am gonna be a father!
In an instant everyone paused. They all began changing the awkward silence into cheerful laughter.
Zakuul: Alliance Apartment - Hallway
Tora glimpsed into the living before returning to the other women.
Lana asked curious: "So how is it?"
Tora replied: "Nothing to worry about. The men are laughing cheerfully like idiots."
Lusitania commented: "Is this fate? All four of us pregnant around the same time."
Vaylin replied: "Possibly. I did sense a lot of happiness from Hivus when I told him. But I also sense something else. Like... fear and worry."
Lana said concerned: "It is understandable. Our battles aren't over yet. In a peaceful times our pregnancy might be a gift. But in the midst of war..."
Lusitania replied: "I get where you are going, but we can't change anything about it. Hopefully we end this conflict before our water breaks."
Tora said: "You said it sister! We..."
Tora suddenly felt sick. She put her hands in front of her mouth and rushed to the bathroom. Sounds of her vomiting was heard.
Vaylin scratched her head and spoke: "Well we will see with time."
Lusitania and Lana smiled a bit cheerfully.
Reastat: Holy Temple - Catacombs
The Outlander found a holocron, Jedi clothing and a crystal.
Messias spoke: "Seems like someone have left a gift for you."
The Outlander replied: "I wonder..."
The Outlander changed his clothes and he put on Jedi Clothing. He looked into the nearby mirror. He lifted up his hood and he were surprised. He wore this outfit in his battle against Saen in his vision.
The Outlander left the Holy Temple.
Reastat: Holy Temple - Entrance
As the Outlander stepped outside he were surrounded by armored and masked troops.
A soldier yelled: "Hold it right there! Hands where I can see them!"
The Outlander lifted up his hands. Many lights were shinning on him. A man stepped forward having seeing the Outlander's face.
He asked with curiosity and surprise: "Hero? Is that you?"
The Outlander stepped forward and to his surprise saw a familiar face.
The Outlander recognized him and called out happy: "Archiban! You are alive!"
The two moved forward and instantly hugged each other.
Archiban replied: "Man! It has been forever! And call me Doc. I swear ever since the ceremony you and Kira have teased me with that name."
The men lowered their weapons.
Doc said: "Why don't you return with us to camp?"
The Outlander answered calm and kindly: "Sure."
The Outlander left the temple with Doc and the armed troops.
Reastat: Doctors Beyond Borders - Camp
The Outlander and Doc spoke a lot.
Doc said: "I see so you are *the Outlander* I guess I should have figured. You have also fought a war and overthrown the Eternal Empire. Sounds like you have seen quite a lot of action after all these years."
The Outlander answered and asked curiously: "Yeah. But what about you Doc? What did you do after our team disbanded? You always spoke of fame, fortune and becoming part of medical history."
Doc replied a bit down: "Yeah. It all kinda ended the moment the Republic surrendered and our resources were stripped from us. Your apparent *death* did not help either."
The Outlander asked a bit disappointed: "My guess you never knew of what happened to Kira after our team split?"
Doc replied: "Sorry. Last I heard she travelled to the swamps on Zakuul to continue fighting. But well..."
Doc began speaking and something he said surprised and shocked the Outlander. The two continued reminisce of the past. Doc told the Outlander of his medical practices and his on journey. The Outlander told him of the formation of the Alliance and all their adventures.
The Outlander spoke: "It is good to see you again my friend. Maybe it was good I didn't found you before. Rusk and Scourge died after meeting up with me."
Doc said and asked: "It wasn't your fault. Maybe me and my troops could help the Alliance?"
The Outlander smiled said: "I appreciate it. But I am technically the ruler of Zakuul. Won't helping the former oppressors be wrong?"
Doc smiled and replied: "If you are the new Leader then I don't see anything wrong with it."
Doc reached out his hand. The Outlander grabbed it and the two shake hands.
Zakuul: Eternal Throne Room
Everyone had gathered. Lana stood ready to brief everyone.
Lana proclaimed: "Everyone. It is time for us to prepare for the final battle against Saen! We have located his position. Now is the best opportunity to launch a decisive attack."
Juvard asked: "What about the Commander?"
Hivus replied: "We must have faith that the Commander will join us when the time is ready."
Koth stated: "After what happened on Odessen. We should all grab this opportunity to avenge our fallen comrades."
Many agreed.
Vaylin added confident: "We shall rid the Galaxy of a dangerous threat."
Lana pushed on a few buttons on the Eternal Throne and a Galactic Map appeared. A point was flashing.
Thexan asked: "What is that place? It is deep within the Unknown Regions."
Theron replied: "Apparently it is a planet where the rain never ends. It is called *Streiss*."
Arcann stated: "Out from our recon of the area Saen is in the middle of assembling his forces."
Senya said: "It is the perfect time to strike."
Lana replied: "We have already made a plan. Theron and I will command two flagships each with a small part of the Scepter Six Dreadnoughts. We will attack his battlecruiser on two sides."
Theron continued: "Next will be the final battle on the ground."
Hivus added: "The Hailing Judgment will join you as backup in case any unforeseen events occur. We can also instantly return to Zakuul if Neyx or Saen decides to send a hidden strike force that way."
Tora asked wondering: "What about the Gravestone? Will we stay behind or join you?"
Lana said: "For insurance we should have the Gravestone orbiting around Zakuul."
Theron asked curious: "Anyone have anymore to add?"
No one answered.
Lana stated: "Then it is decided. Once we are done with preparations we will take off immediately."
Zakuul: Prison Area
June, Shana, Jace and Satele were locked in prison cells. A few Alliance Guards appeared.
They spoke: "Time to go. You will be placed on ships and transported offworld for further questioning."
June stated annoyed: "It was about time. Staying coped any longer I would have died of boredom."
Alliance Guard pushed June and said: "Move it."
June walked first followed by the rest.
Palades: S.R.E Headquarter - Neyx's Throne Room
Neyx's spoke in holo with Saen.
Saen demanded: "The Alliance will close in on me soon. I expect your cooperation."
Neyx replied: "Your fate is entirely up to you. Wheither you live through this is on you. I expect that the Alliance will hit you hard for what happened on Odessen."
Saen stated: "I don't fear them or the Outlander. Just make sure you will be there."
Saen closed the holo. Acina and Cassidy sat and waited patiently. Neyx throw the holo at the ground and stepped on it.
Neyx stated angrily: "He will die before the day on Streiss is over!"
Acina commented: "I honestly don't get your cooperation with him."
Neyx replied: "I intend to use him to weaken the Nexus Knights and in turn the threat Hivus represents against Palades and the Sovereign Republic Empire."
Kirus asked while bowing: "What shall we do now Leader Neyx?"
Neyx answered: "You and Maxun will accompany me with a small part of our forces. We shall travel to Streiss. The rest hold down the fort."
Acina and Cassidy both bowed and said: "Understood Leader Neyx."
Neyx left the throne room.
Acina asked curiously: "What do you think Cassidy?"
Cassidy answered: "You worried that Neyx will be rusty? Have some faith. One of the reasons all of us follow Neyx is pretty simple. He is more powerful than anyone."
Cassidy began sweating cold sweat. She felt Neyx's strength spike during the moment he trashed the holo.
Zakuul: Docking Bay
Theron and Lana held hands. The two kissed.
Theron embraced Lana and said worried: "Be careful. If you are in over your head simply run. No foolish heroics."
Lana smiled and replied: "Say that to yourself. Take care. I don't like the idea of being a widow."
Lana hugged Theron again. The two separated as they entered their own flagships.
The Alliance all had finished major preparations and were ready for take off.
Reastat Orbit:
The Fleet left orbit and jumped to hyperspace.
Streiss Orbit:
The Alliance Fleet spearheaded by the Hailing Judgment appeared close to orbit. They began firing without warning on Saen's Oblivion and nearby Warships.
Saen's Oblivion: Bridge
Saen demanded: "Tell me! How many of our warships are still standing?!"
A Void Clan member answered: "We only have two left Guardian Saen."
Saen called out: "Neyx... are you gonna stab me in the back?"
Streiss Orbit:
As the Alliance Fleet closed in and were ready to end the battle. Neyx's Death Bringer appeared out from hyperspace. It fired a powerful blast destroying a part the Hailing Judgment.
Hailing Judgment: Bridge
Alarms sounded. The Hailing Judgment shook violently.
Lusitania reported: "Commander! The right engine has stopped responding! The hyperdrive has also been damaged!"
Hivus clenched his fists.
He said: "Before this warship falls... Unleash everything on Neyx's Forces! Fire God's Light!"
Thexan and Lusitania answered: "Yes sir!"
The two pushed on many buttons.
Streiss Orbit:
The Hailing Judgment had begun charging it's super weapon. The Chaos Bringer did the same and within an instant the two Warships' super weapons clashed, resulting in a massive explosion. The Blast send a shockwave a across the whole area. Saen took the liberty and send multiple corvettes filled with Void Clan Warriors flying toward the temporarily paralyzed Alliance Fleet.
Theron's Flagship: Hangar
Multiple Corvettes crashed into Theron's Flagship. The Void Clan members, Zealots and Black Zakuul Knights invaded the warship engaging crew in battle.
Theron's Flagship: Bridge
Theron saw the enemy troops on his monitor.
He clenched his fists, grabbed his blaster and spoke: "They are here. I better go prep myself."
Theron ran out of the bridge.
Theron's Flagship: Prison Cells
Satele and Jace were in holding cells next to each other.
Satele said: "I sense danger approaching. We need to go find Theron!"
Jace replied: "I trust your judgment."
Satele used the Force and opened the door. She freed herself and Jace. The two left the prison area.
Theron's Flagship: Central Area
Theron stood ready as the enemy troops entered. Theron wore armor, artificial Force equipment and two special modified Force Blasters.
Theron pointed both the blasters at the Void Clan members and yelled: "You think you leave this section alive?!"
A dark Zakuul Knight yelled: "For the Guardian!"
All troops rushed toward Theron who pulled the triggers sending powerful Force Blasts toward them. He effectively gunned down many enemy troops. But the Void Clan unrelenting continue swinging their dark lightsabers, dissipating some of the blasts as they moved closer and closer. Theron slowly stepped back.
His thoughts were someplace else: "Lana... are you ok...?"
Lana's Flagship: Bridge
Lana saw the enemy troops on her monitor.
She ordered: "We have unwanted visitors! Send the troops down to intercept!"
A crew member answered: "Miss Beniko! We have gotten reports of multiple casualties among our forces! The enemy is overwhelming us!"
Lana clenched her fists. She put a hand on her stomach. She breathe in and out slowly.
Lana spoke: "I will intercept them with out remaining troops! Call every fighter still alive to the central area!"
A crew member replied: "Understood Miss Beniko."
Lana left the bridge.
Lana's Flagship: Prison Cells
Shana meditated. She got a vision.
Vision
Lana killed many enemy troops. But her forces were slaughtered and she were the last one remaining. She was injured with a hit from the lightsaber to the right shoulder. She staggered back. She fell to her knees as three enemy warriors stood before her.
Lana's Flagship: Prison Cells
The Vision ended. Shana hesitated.
Shana clenched her fists and asked: "Shall I go? She may be my daughter, but she is no longer a child."
Shana were conflicted. But images flew into her mind. A young Lana looking up with green eyes full of life at her mother. Shana shook her head. She used the Force and destroyed the lock to the her cell.
Hailing Judgment: Hangar
Hivus and Vaylin embraced as the Hailing Judgment's interior were caught in flames. Hivus held Vaylin a bit back and the two kissed.
Hivus said supportive: "Until we meet again my love. Take care of yourself and *our* future."
Vaylin looked a bit worried but replied nonetheless: "We all will live through this! I promise!"
Vaylin ran into a shuttle. Thexan and Lusitania stood by the door.
Hivus ordered with a serious expression: "Live through this. I expect to see you two again."
Thexan and Lusitania replied: "Understood Commander Hivus!"
Hivus looked at the other Nexus Knights as he wore his helmet.
Hivus yelled: "Let us do this!"
All the Knights roared.
Streiss Orbit:
The Shuttle carrying, Vaylin, Arcann, Senya, Thexan, Lusitania and surviving Knights of Zakuul descended to Streiss Airspace. But as the shuttle had traveled some distance down. The Chaos Bringer flew with intense speed. It's shields were activated as it rammed into the Hailing Judgment.
Hailing Judgment: Hangar
The Hailing Judgments shake violently.
A Nexus Knight asked: "What in the world?!"
Hivus instantly felt an gigantic surge of energy. As he stared at the giant black Warship which had involuntarily crashed into his Hailing Judgment. Hivus unleashed his aura. He used Force Push in an attempt to push the black Warship away. He fell the oxygen in the room thinning and leaving the warship. The other Nexus Knights also unleashed their aura. They coated the Warship in the Force.
Streiss Orbit:
The Force of the Nexus Knights covered the whole Hailing Judgment.
Chaos Bringer: Bridge
Neyx ordered: "Activate all engines! Full-speed toward the surface! Descend, as we take apart the enemy's warship!"
A crew member answered: "Understood Leader Neyx."
Maxun and Kirus stood silently and observed Neyx's next move.
Streiss Orbit:
The Chaos Bringer pushed the Hailing Judgment from Orbit into the Airspace.
Streiss Airspace:
The rain fell on both warships as they rushed down toward the surface.
Saen's Oblivion: Bridge
Saen ordered: "Take us into Streiss atmosphere! We shall finish this!"
A Void Clan member answered: "Understood Guardian Saen."
Saen's Darkstaff glowed in a powerful purple light.
Streiss Orbit:
The Oblivion disappeared.
Streiss Airspace:
Saen's Oblivion appeared in Streiss rainy and thunderous airspace. A short distance away were the Hailing Judgment's shuttle.
Hailing Judgment Shuttle: Rooftop
Vaylin stood on the roof. The rain soaked her clothing. She unleashed her aura.
Vaylin spoke: "Rise from the flames of hell! Phoenix!"
Vayling materialized her aura into a gigantic bird of light. She send it toward the Oblivion.
Saen's Oblivion: Bridge
Saen ordered: "Get ready to descend!"
But before the Void Clan members could continue. The whole Battlecruiser began shaking.
Saen asked demanding: "What is going on?!"
Saen instantly sensed an incredible powerful aura.
He yelled: "Vaylin!"
Streiss Airspace:
The gigantic bird tore though Saen's warship.
Saen's Oblivion: Interior
The bird destroyed every department before reaching the bridge.
Saen's Oblivion: Bridge
Saen saw the glowing bird roaring as it destroyed the bridge.
Saen remarked shocked: "Damn it!"
Saen swung his Darkstaff as the bird imploded in a gigantic bright light.
Streiss Airspace:
Saen's Warship blew up as debris and wreckage fell toward the ground.
Hailing Judgment Shuttle: Rooftop
Vaylin turned off her aura and asked: "Is it over?"
Hailing Judgment Shuttle: Interior
Thexan spoke: "I don't sense father's aura anymore."
Arcann asked: "Did we do it?"
Senya stated happily: "We did it!"
The Zakuul Knights began cheering. But suddenly a small portal opened inside the shuttle. Out from it emerged Saen to the shock of everyone. Saen hit the Darkstaff down on the ground and black spiked roots emerged and pierced all the Zakuul Knights through their chests. Saen rise. Thexan and Arcann ran forward with their lightsabers drawn. They attempted to cut Saen. But he hit the Darkstaff on the ground again and the dark roots destroyed the warship's control panel. Saen destroyed the back of the shuttle and jumped out.
Arcann yelled: "Father!"
Streiss Airspace:
Saen watched as Vaylin lost her balance and lied down and clung to the shuttle who were crashing down. Saen used the Darkstaff. A portal opened and a hydra appeared. Saen landed on it.
Saen commented seriously: "This won't be enough to deal with them. But I left something for them on the surface."
Saen began descended as his Darkstaff shined.
Hailing Judgment Shuttle: Crash Site
The Hailing Judgment's Shuttle blew up upon landing. Vaylin had used her aura shielding her family, Lusitania and a few surviving troops.
Vaylin asked a bit tired: "Everyone okay?"
Senya replied: "We will make it. Thank you."
Thexan and Arcann both gave a thumbs up. But a portal suddenly opened near them.
Lusitania yelled: "Everyone prepare for battle!"
Out from the portal emerged dozens of Dashades. They were all covered by the black Force.
A Dashade stated: "We await your orders Prime Commander Khem Val!"
Khem replied: "Tear them apart! Kill those Force beings and devour them!"
The Dashades ran forward. Vaylin and Lusitania hit their hands together creating a powerful light beam with their Force, incinerating a group of Dashades. But more approached. Thexan and Arcann ran past Vaylin and Lusitania, cutting down multiple approaching the Dashades. Before the portal closed the Dashade numbers had reached the hundreds. Senya and the remaining Zakuul Knights charged forward and engaged the Dashades. Khem notice Vaylin and Lusitania. He charged forward ripping a part multiple Zakuul Knights with his old Sith Warblade. Vaylin and Lusitania draw their lightsaber pikes blocking Khem's attack.
Khem yelled: "I will devourer you whole!"
Lusitania and Vaylin replied in synch: "Not a chance!"
They swung their pikes sending Khem flying back.
Lusitania said: "Let us finish this and meet up with the Commander!"
Vaylin answered: "Understood!"
The two ran forward, joining Senya and the fewer surviving Zakuul Knights.
Hailing Judgment: Hangar
Hivus still attempted to push away the Chaos Bringer to no avail.
Hivus commented: "It won't budge."
Hivus charged up his aura ready to unleash a deadly blast. But suddenly Chaos Bringer opened it's gate. Neyx arrived accompanied by Maxun, Kirus and his twelve subordinates.
Neyx's stated: "Looks like it is finally time to meet face to face."
Hivus looked up and commented: "I see... so you decided to assist Saen..."
Neyx clenched his right fists and replied: "Once your forces have been reduced, he will be the next one who falls!"
Neyx lifted his right hand and signaled for his subordinates to attack. They all immediately leapt over to the Hailing Judgment. Maxun and Kirus followed. The subordinates attacked the four Nexus Knights and the two Supreme Commanders attacked Hivus. Neyx observed the battle. Hivus defended against Kirus and Mxun's strikes using his lightsaber resistant gauntlets. He lifted one hand up to block each attack. The Nexus Knights fought on per with Neyx's subordinates.
Hivus commented and asked: "Empty shells of their former self. How can you live with yourself doing something like that to them?"
Neyx answered: "You don't know what I have been through. Besides look at yourself. You couldn't let go of the woman you loved or your own twisted plan."
Hivus' aura spiked and he continued parry Maxun and Kirus' hits. Hivus charged his energy and unleashed a materialized dragon(like Vaylin's) toward the two. The attack pushed them back and into the Chaos Bringer.
Maxun and Kirus screamed in pain: "Argh!"
Neyx commented and asked curiously: "Saen devastated your forces and killed your generals. You must have felt their last moments right?"
Hivus stared at Neyx seriously: "What are you implying?"
Neyx said: "You are at your breaking point. I know of the weakness of Eternal Lights."
Hivus were hesitant to reply. Neyx used his power and concentrated his Force into a single point. A Black Javelin appeared in his right hand. Neyx saw a Nexus Knight who had let his guards down. Hivus instantly realized what Neyx had planned.
He yelled out: "Noooo! Stop Neyx!"
Neyx threw the Javelin. It passed his subordinate and pierced directly through the knight. Every knight stopped in shock. The knight fell to his knees. He vomited blood, as he slowly placed his shaking hands near the gigantic wound. He began sweating and with a shocked expression he stared at Hivus, who were equally if not more shocked. The knight fell to the ground and his bleeding wound, turned into a giant blood pool. His eyes were still opened, as all signs of will and life left them. Hivus fell to his knees with intense pain.
He screamed with agony: "AAAARGHHH!"
Hivus felt like a grenade had been detonated near his chest, and someone pierced thousands of needles into his brain without anesthetics.
Hivus stared at Neyx with a pained expression and yelled: "You monster!"
Neyx replied mockingly: "It hurts doesn't it? That was a mere fraction how I felt when you destroyed Scepter Six and killed thousands of innocents!"
Neyx signal to his supports to stop their assault. They complied. Neyx instantly warped and appeared in front of a female Nexus Knight. Neyx draw and ignited his Black Lightsaber. He swung it and with a clean sweep cut the woman in half.
Hivus screamed again: "ARGHHH!"
Hivus pleaded: "Stop...! Please...!"
Neyx looked at Hivus. He were sweating, his will was weakened and he breathe erratically. The remaining two knights forced themselves up despite the pain. They ran forward unleashing everything they had. The two succumbed to the Dark side. Neyx turned off his lightsaber and put it back in his hilt.
Neyx replied: "Falling to the Darkside? Big mistake!"
Neyx lifted both his hands and he absorbed the Knights energy based attacks. Neyx saw the Darkside emitting from their auras. He fired multiple threads of his aura into them. Neyx drained/siphoned their Darkside powers. Neyx pulled back his aura. He lifted his hands. He clenched his right hand and one knight exploded. His organs, brain matter, skeleton and flesh spread everywhere and some covered the other knight who stared in horror at Neyx.
Hivus felt anguish, despair and helplessness as he struggled to rise.
Hivus mumbled and then yelled: "Bas... tard... Bastar... Bastard! You will pay!"
Hivus instantly with intense fury and madness made a quickstep. He grabbed Neyx by the throat to his shock. Hivus' eyes and expression screamed madness. He put pressure on and his grip tighten.
Neyx's felt choked: "Urgh!"
Neyx clenched his other hand and the other Knight's heart exploded, as she fell lifeless to the ground. Hivus' felt intense pain, but his fury and anger dispersed it. The light spiked to unnatural degrees from him. Hivus channeled his aura into the hand grabbing Neyx. He made a sudden movement and slammed Neyx down on the ground. A gigantic explosions of light covered the whole hangar.
Flash of light:
Within a minute the bright light dispersed.
Hailing Judgment: Hangar
Maxun and Kirus were unconscious. Hivus let go of Neyx's throat. Hivus channeled his aura into his left hand. He clenched it into and fist and strike Neyx in the chest.
Hivus yelled while tears fell from his eyes: "AAAAAARGHHHH!"
His fist struck Neyx in the chest. Sounds of broken bones were heard and the squirmy sound of vomiting blood. Hivus were tired. He gathered his remaining strength into his right hand. But before Hivus could strike Neyx's down with the finishing blow...
Streiss Surface:
The two warships crashed into the ground and the Hailing Judgment exploded.
Hailing Judgment Shuttle: Crash Site
Vaylin, Thexan and Lusitania felt the deaths of their comrades and Hivus' energy soaring. The three were down on their knees. Senya and Arcann fought Khem. All the Zakuul Knights and other Dashades had been slain.
Tears fell from Vaylin as she exclaimed: "No...! Hivus...! Everyone...!"
Thexan and Lusitania also closed their eyes, bite their lips and clenched their fists, as their bodies were shivering. The whole family and Lusitania were tired, exhausted, wounded and now sad and confused. Arcann and Senya struggled, but they decided to continue fighting alone. Khem kicked Arcann in the stomach. Thexan returned to his senses. He interfered blocking Khem's slash.
Arcann exclaimed: "Brother..."
Senya leapt and hit Khem's weapon blasting him back with raw power and destroying it.
Khem cried: "Argh!"
He felt his right hand being burned. Vaylin and Lusitania both made and quickstep, and in an instant they appeared in front of Khem and made a cross cut each, slashing him across the chest and shoulder. Khem fell to the ground and died. Vaylin, Lusitania and Thexan fell to their knees due to mental fatigue.
Lusitania exclaimed: "Commander...! Are you...?"
Thexan ran over and lended her his shoulder. Arcann and Senya helped Vaylin up.
To Be Continued...