Chapter 8
"What did you say?"
Vince glanced around the room looking at the shocked expressions upon the Alliance leader's faces. He wasn't surprised they would take this news well. He, like the rest of the Alliance, had never heard of an Inquisitor before. So this piece of information was new to all in the room.
When the Lapis returned to Mon Calamari the Jedi had immediately been summoned to High Command to give the details of what occurred on Teth. The message said it was a trap but he hadn't gone into full detail. Which he was told to do for this meeting.
"What exactly is an Inquisitor?" Luke asked.
"There obviously Jedi hunters, Kid." Han answered a grim look on his face. "And Vince here is a Jedi there hunting for. They must've figured it out on Dantooine. Probably witness or security cameras. Either way with this new treat, the Alliance is in big trouble now. Vader was a mess to deal with. Who knew there'd be more like him within the Empire?"
General Rieekan addressed the smuggler with his own grim expression. "If we're just now learning about these Inquisitors, Captain Solo. I have no doubt the Emperor didn't need them for this war. At least no until you showed up, General Silverton. Now the Emperor will send this and possible others after you and Skywalker. Both of you must be careful when going out on missions for us."
"If there are more Force users like Vader then I have to continue my training." Luke said jumping to his feet.
"Not so far, boy. In case you forgot, we are fighting a war and must help the Rebellion."
"He's right, Luke. As important as your training is. The Alliance is just as important. You're a hero to us after destroying the Death Star and there are still many battles we must fight if we're to win the war.
"I agree with the Princess, both you have inspired many to join the Rebellion in the recent months after Yavin and I have no doubt many more will join."
"And we must let Vince continue his debriefing of his situation on Teth." Interjected Mon Mothma politely. "This topic can continue once Vince finishes."
The old Jedi sighed running a hand through his hair. "Like I said; I was lured into a clever trap and fought Zenobia. I escaped into the jungles and after that it was avoiding the Empire best I could while trying to get to Inner Teth to get a ship off planet. It was thankful I stole that TIE and sent that message out. I don't know how much longer I'd have liked to stay on that world. Rouge Squad and the crew of the Lapis did their job well. Speaking of which, I was told the shipyard attack was ruse."
Vince glanced at Ackbar for answers.
"Originally we planned to send a fleet to rescue you." The Mon Calamari admiral said from his seat. "The plan changed however, when one of our scouts stumbled upon the shipyard via a miscalculated hyperspace jump. With this new discovery it presented us with the opportunity to destroy the shipyard while luring the blockade away and allow a rescue party to evacuate you. We got your message while we were planning the attack. We attacked the shipyard, destroying it and many warships under construction. You already know what happened at Teth."
"That I was. However, I fear Zenobia will double her search for me since I have escaped. Nevertheless, I will still do my duty as a Jedi to restore peace and freedom to the galaxy. Now that this has been finished. Now if you'll excuses me, I will retire."
Vince rose from his seat, bowed to the Alliance leaders, and departed to his quarters.
Vince stirred and steadily opened his eyes. He was first greeted by a grey ceiling. What the hell happened? Last he remember…
"Thank the Force your awake."
The Jedi looked to his left and saw his apprentice sitting at a table with three other Rebels. A tall bald dark skinned man, an Ishi Tib and Weequay.
The old Jedi blinked as he sat up and looked around. It was obvious they were in a room. But of what? Where were they exactly and how had they gotten there? All he remember was escaping the ship and-ah yes…smacking his head against the escape pod and loosing conscious.
A week had passed since the escape from Teth and the Rebel's continued deep space assaults on the Empire. Damaging as it was the hit and run tactics were doing little to hurt the Empire. Sure the Death Star was a major victory, however conveys and outposts were a minor loss. They needed to hit something big. The question was what exactly?
A few high ranking officers urged high command to attack bigger targets. Targets such as the Kuat shipyards or the academy on Carida. Everyone knew those targets would be suicide missions. Indeed they had to hit bigger targets but what could they do with such small forces? The shipyards at Mon Calamari had been producing more and more warships, giving them an edge over the Imperial Navy.
The army however was just a band of infantry and lightly armored vehicles. There was no way they'd go toe to toe with the Imperial army. They'd get slaughtered. If they ever had to face the Empire head on in surface battles they would need air support and a lot of heavy weapons. Many within the Alliance hoped if that should ever occur they'd be ready.
Eventually they had chosen a system try and liberate. That just so happen to be Mandalore.
Yes, Mandalore. The Outer Rim plant home to the greatest warriors in the Galaxy. Mandalorians.
Why had the Alliance chosen this planet? Because word reached them that Mandalore had been turned into a strip mine for a major project the Empire planned to commence. The creation of lightsaber resistant armor out of Mandalorian Iron. They all knew what those would do if they were put on the frontline. High Command acted fast by assemble a strike force of 50 commando's lead by Vince and Luke to sabotage the mines.
What the Alliance hadn't anticipated was the blockade around the planet. Intel said there was no blockade around the planet. Of course Intel was wrong, again. The CR-90 Corvette was greeted by Star Destroyers and was thus easy prey for them. They had no time to turn around and escape. Tractor beams had been locked onto them forcing the Jedi and the Rebel's to abandoned ship.
Now here Vince was with Luke and three others in a room he didn't know about. Questions had to be answered for him. He tried to stand but felt it difficult.
"Easy there, General. You took quite the pounding during our landing. I know you have many questions so I will answers them but try to relax for now. I'm Captain Tapper I was with you and Commander Skywalker in the escape pod." Said the dark skinned Rebel. "Firstly, were in an abandon apartment. You lost conscious when we landed and Commander Skywalker was able to carry you away from our crash site in all the confusion, and we stumbled upon this abandoned apartment. By the time the Imperials arrived on the scene we were long go. While you were out Baylor and I did some scouting around and discovered there is Mandalorian resistant fighting against the Empire and slavery is being used for mining."
Vince's eyes widened at hearing about slavery. It seemed Intel was limited on its info again. Nevertheless, with this new info they had to double their efforts in freeing Mandalore. Of course they'd need to find a way to call for the Alliance for heavy support. Before that they'd have to find the Mandalorian resistant and hopefully forge an alliance with them.
Vince rose to his feet again and this time was able to stand. "Boys, since were all that's left of our task force will have to be as stealthy as we can. If attract Imperial attention were dead. We've already lost the ship and rest of our task force. Let's go find the Mandalorian resistant."
The citizens of Cassus Town went about their daily lives hating there Imperial conquerors. Once they were great conquerors of old with many warriors leading the way such as Cassus Fett, which the city was named after, and Canderous Ordo, the great Mandalore who restored there culture after a devastating war against the Jedi. If they were once the mighty warriors of old they'd have crush the Empire and cast them out of there system. Then the Empire would think twice of invading them. Yet that wasn't how it went down. The Empire came down like a swarm of bees crushing any and all resistance. Their villages burnt, people enslaved, and plants turned into strip mines.
Many wished to rise up and fight back but what could they do? The Empire was limitless. There deadly power reaching to the farthest reach of the galaxy. Of course some did resist, for a while thought, and like all those who resisted in the galaxy they did little to hurt the Empire's power. However, a single Rebel organization, a Rebel Alliance, was fighting back. They were showing the galaxy that the Empire wasn't all powerful as everyone thought. They had destroyed there weapon the Death Star and not just that but there were rumors going on about a Jetii fighting with them.
A Jetii in this era? That was almost impossible! Those who lived in the Clone Wars knew what a Jedi could do. Could a single Jedi help turn the tides of this war? Yes. Jedi were the symbol of hope and justice. They were the champions of the Republic, defenders of the galaxy, and the greatest opponent to fight against. Would they come and save them? Would the Jedi save their people? Pray to Mandalore he or she would.
Weaving their way through the crowd were not one, but two of these Jedi Knights. Their heads low and bodies relaxed to avoid attention. The older of the two reached out with the Force sensing were Imperials were stationed to avoid them.
The younger one however watched passing people. He sensed the fear and dread fill the people's hearts at the harsh conditions. Families were huddled together with friends gossiped about their hatred for the Empire, and store sellers calling out there items for sale. One thing they all did was glare hatefully at the Imperial patrols. The people of Mandalore had changed. Once great warriors now reduced to common folk living in fear. It sickened the young Jedi, he wished to help them. He wanted to help the suffering. Vince said Jedi were the keepers of peace and helped whoever was in need. This whole planet was in need. The Jedi had to be rebuild to help protect the galaxy.
"Luke," Vince whispered. "I know you wanna help but now is not the time."
Suddenly the sound of approaching speeders caught their attention. Stormtroopers started ordering people to the town entrance. They stop and shared a glance with one another. Following the crowd they stayed out of sight. Vince led Luke to a rooftop were they were given an overview of the situation. There they saw many scout troopers dismounting their speeder bikes with larger transports stationed behind. There boarding ramps lowered each deploying a squad of troops.
Both Jedi had a bad feeling about this.
Second later stormtroopers started grabbing civilians and hauling them over to the transports. Men, woman, children, old, young, and weak. Some tried to resist but were swiftly knocked down and force onto the speeders.
"This is horrible." Luke gasped his hands shaking. Anger building inside him. He wanted to do something right now! He didn't care if he had to disobey Vince. He was a Jedi. He had to save them!
"This isn't the only planet the Empire dose this on, Luke." Vince said sadly. "I have a hunch what they're doing…slavery." He rose to his feet brow furrowed. "We can't act now."
"Those people need our help. We can't sit here and watch helplessly!"
"Luke, I understand you're angry but even you alone cannot handle that many stormtroopers by yourself. For now we have to stay low and…Luke stop!" The old Jedi couldn't stop him. He watched Luke leap from his position saber igniting as he somersaulted through the air. The blue blade came down upon an unexpected trooper. His body falling in two like a log being chopped by an axe. Vince swore and gave chase after his young apprentice. If they survived this he was gonna have a serious talk with him.
The old Jedi ignited his green blade in a graceful swing that beheaded two stormtroopers aiming for Luke's back. Tucking and rolling forward onto his feet he put himself back to back with Luke. A frown on his face. "Careful there are civilians here. We don't wanna hit them."
"That's Silverton and Skywalker! Get them and watch your aim! There wanted alive." The officer yelled.
Taken alive huh? Good, this would prove to be an advantage for the duo. Still they had to be careful less any deflected blaster fire hit any civilians. His green eyes flickered all around. Storm and scout troopers were aiming there weapons at them. Worry began to fill his mind. Not for himself or Luke. But for the people gathered here. The Empire could use them has hostages.
Luke was becoming impatient. This standoff with the Empire was getting them nowhere. He had to act now and defend these civilians. He glanced to the crowd of frightened people. He saw a child clutching to her father's arms. Fear filled her eyes. Anger steadily began to fill him. He wouldn't let that child or any other child from his town lose their father like he did. His grip tightened around his father's weapon.
"Lay down your arms!" Demanded an officer his pistol drawn ready for combat. He knew these Jedi would be a trouble form them but maybe... "Or will kill the civilians!" He turned his weapon to the crowd who gasped in terror at this action.
That did it! Anger burst forth from the young Jedi. He threw his hand out sending a power blast of the Force at the officer who yelled the threat. The Imperial and those beside him flew off their feet and smash into the transports. With the Force aid Luke sped forward slicing another trooper in half and sending two more flying into an officer. He threw his lightsaber toward another while drawing his blaster and firing at more. The blue blade returned to his hand after beheading a scout trooper who tried to get to his speeder.
Vince in the meanwhile was gracefully deflecting shots back at their shooters with Form III. He was not pleased with the way Luke was dealing with the Imperials. He could sense the anger and hate flowing off him like a volcano erupting. Thought he had killed a number of them the way it was done was brutal and savage…just like his father. He sent another bolt back at its shooter then launched a blast of Force energy at a scout trooper. He twirled on his heels deflecting another shot fired at him. One by one Imperials fell to the skillful warriors. They were no match for the Jedi.
"Go for help go!"
Vince spun around spotting scout troopers trying to get to their speeders. Vince drew his DL-19 and aimed at the Imperial soldiers. His shots hit directly into their helmet's ending their lives. He watch the remaining stormtroopers rush aboard the transports, which thankfully had been emptied of civilians during the chaos. He relaxed his body and disengaged from the Empire. There was no point killing them all. The Empire would know about this encounter.
Luke however continued his slaughter of the retreating Imperials. The young Rebel continue cutting down and shooting Imperials. Anger still flowed off him. He wanted to make them pay. He wanted to teach the Empire what happened if they enslave children. As he struck down the last Imperial with his saber he watched the transports zoom away. He wouldn't let that happen. He raised his blaster and firing at the scout troopers till they were out of range. Holstering his pistol he ran for an untouched speeder intending to chase them down.
"That's enough, Luke!" Vince grabbed the young Jedi by his shoulders and held him back. "Cease this madness. It's over!"
"No! We can still catch them! There are speeders we can-"
SMACK!
Luke stared to at the side his face was smack too. He…he didn't expect Vince to do that. Slowly he turned back to the old Jedi and stared at his narrowed eyes. Anger and disappointment showed on his face. "Brash fool! I taught you not rely on your anger! You gave away our position and embrace your anger! I told you to not let your anger control you. How do you think Obi-Wan or Anakin would feel if they saw you relying on your anger?"
That question had snapped the Jedi from his anger. What would his father think if he heard about this? That his son had embrace his anger? "They were going to-"
"I know, Luke. I'm not happy about this either but I won't let my anger get the better of me. Go back to the hideout, meditate, and think about your actions. Now." Vince watched Luke turn and walk back to the abandon hideout and sighed heavily. He was like a father scolding his child for disobeying his orders. Putting away his weapons he turned to the crowd seeing them stare at him in awe and surprise.
"So it's true. Our prayers have been answered by our ancestors." An old man said within the crowd.
"He saved us didn't he mommy?" Squeaked a girl holding her mom's hand.
"Thank you so much, Jedi. You have no idea how long we've waited for you to come save us." Said a tall man who stepped forward a Mandalorian symbol tattooed on the left of his face. "I am Kata, chief of Cassus Town. We truly are in your debt."
Vince straightened up and bowed to Kata. "I am Vince Silverton, the young man with me was Luke Skywalker my apprentice. Jedi of the Rebel Alliance."
"I know. My people told me these saw you leaving the escape pod. Your symbol is known far and wide through the galaxy. Even here on Mandalore."
"So was it you know provided us the abandoned apartment?"
"No. However, we can provide you with supplies. I suggest making contact with the Mandalorian Protectors."
"Mandalorian Protectors?"
"They are those who defy the Empire and fight regain our freedom. They've been engaged with the Empire in guerrilla warfare against the Empire freeing many of us from working in the mines and sabotaging there operations slowing production. If the Empire obtains our precious iron I fear what they will do with it."
"Lightsaber resistant armor. That is what they will make if they obtain it. The Alliance must know about this and send reinforcements to help your Protectors liberate your system. Where can we find them?"
"I unfortunately have no idea. Their base is very well hidden. However, I can provide you with supplies to aid you on your journey to search for them."
Luke sat cross legged meditating on his actions. Vince told him to rely on his emotions but not anger. That was what drove Vader to the dark side. But he disobeyed that. He embraced his anger. But was it wrong to be angry? The Empire were using children for slaves. Children! That alone would set off anyone's anger. Especially a parents. He was no parent but just thinking about those poor children never seeing their family again...it tore him apart. It angered him. He had lost so much, his father, his aunt and uncle, his best friend. They were all gone. He wouldn't let anyone else suffer what he did. If he had to use his anger to defeat the Empire he would.
"What would Obi-Wan and Anakin think if they saw you tap into your anger!?"
The words Vince said echoed in his head. It hurt to hear them but they were true. What would they think? Obi-Wan had been the one to begin his training as a Jedi. It was cuz of his help that Luke destroy the Death Star. What would have Obi-Wan done in Vince place? Would he have hit him to snap him out of his anger? What about his father? What would have Anakin done?
"Commander Skywalker."
Luke opened his eyes ending his meditation and looked to who addressed him. The Ishi Tib, Baylor.
"Were being given supplies by the town folk. We're pulling out of the city to find the Mandalorian Protectors."
Luke simply nodded and returned back to meditating. He needed to clear his mind of the anger that still lingered within.
"I saw him, my lord. Both of them!"
Zenobia stared at the holoimage of the Imperial officer who was clutching the wound on his side. He was lying. He had to be. Yet…they were true. The Force told her it was true. They were there. Both Jedi were there on Mandalore! The Force had truly shown its aid today! She would not only get to kill Silverton, but also Skywalker as well! She would not make the same mistake as before. She would hunt them down and slay both Jedi and be rewarded by her Emperor. "General Mortem, call back all patrols and set your course for the Mandalore System. I have some Jedi to kill."
It took an hour for the four to obtain what they needed but at last Vince, Luke, Tapper, Baylor, and Tau made their way through the thick jungle with sacks filled with supplies over their backs. Kata said slave conveys usually have to pass through the jungles. This make them easy targets for the Mandalorian Protectors to assault. So all they had to do was fine a convoy and see if any Protectors were attacking it. That wasn't so hard, right?
It actually was.
For starters, they had no idea where a slave convoys were nor what route they took. They had dealt with the one at Cassus Town. Second, neither Jedi sensed anyone near their location. They could probably search all of Mandalore and not find them.
Baylor wasn't happy one bit. He wasn't happy to discover Luke had given away their location or that the Imperials were allowed to get away. Now with their presence known, they'd be report and have to face countless waves of Imperials and possibly Vader. He shuttered to think what would happen if they did have to face the Sith Lord. Just thinking about it made him swallow the lump in his throat and body shake in fear.
The Ishi Tib glared angrily at the young Jedi's back. Wishing to teach him a lesson for giving away their presence. That brought up another thought. Did the Empire already know of their presence here? They had escaped the corvette. Did they track its positon to Cassus Town and instead sent those troops to look for them? No that couldn't be. Vince said they were hauling civilians into the speeders. So they couldn't have known any survivors. If Luke hadn't done what he did, they could have gone unnoticed by the Empire till they found the Mandalorian Protectors. The alien shook his head and clicked his beak. Complaining about the past wouldn't get them anywhere. They had to focus on the here and now. And right now they were in search of the Mandalorians.
"General, you think will find these Mandalorians?" He asked his eyes scanning all around for any unusually activity.
"We will. The best way to find them is to find a slavery convey. We find that then the Protectors will be there." Answered the Jedi. "Of course they weren't at Cassus Town but, like us, they can be everywhere. Slavers have to go through the jungles so it's likely will encounter there here or other jungles."
On and on the four Rebel's went. Not seeing any sign of life for miles. Were there any roads within this jungle? Would they really find the Mandalorians? They had to if they were to free Mandalore and gain another ally in the war.
Vince sensed the doubt filling Tapper, Baylor and Tau. He, unlike them, wouldn't give up on the search. The Protectors were here. They had to be somewhere on the planet. He looked to the orange sky. The sun was setting and night would fall upon them soon. They had to cover as much ground as they could until the sun fully set.
After more walking the Rebel's arrived at a river and the darkness had fallen upon them. They were out of time.
"Gentleman, will set up camp here. We can't keep going unless we wanna run out of energy. Tapper, Tau, Baylor rest up. Skywalker and I will take first watch. Will switch watches each three hours."
Obeying the order the three Rebel Commando's dropped their bags beside them and did what they could to fall asleep.
Vince looked to the sky watched the starry night. Seeing the Imperial warships guarding the space above Mandalore. Would they be able to free the planet? In the current situation no they wouldn't. Not unless they call for an alliance with the Mandalorians and call the Rebellion for assistant.
Morning came swiftly for the Jedi. His eyes opening the moment the sun hit his face. He hadn't gotten enough sleep. Watching for any activity through the whole night. Refusing to let anyone else take the watch. They needed the stamina more than he did. Rising from his position he stretched his old bones hearing many crack. He was getting too old for this sort of thing. But he had his responsibilities as a Jedi. Suddenly he stopped and looked to the sky. A disturbance from the Force. Sure enough a Star Destroyer came plunging through the atmosphere launching Tie's and transports. His dangers senses spiked. He recognized one signature aboard the Lambda-shuttle leading the drop ships.
Zenobia.
"Get up! Everyone get up! It's the Empire!" He ordered shaking them away.
Tapper jumped to his feet snatching is A280 blaster rifle beside him and looked to the sky as well. He swore loudly but it was drowned out by the hundred ion engines of the TIE's. "We have to get moving, general."
Vince didn't reply. Instead shaking Luke away. When his student had awoken his eyes widened at the sight of so many Imperials above them. "There searching for us. We gota go!" Vince ordered hauling Luke to his feet. "Down the river! Let's go!"
"There they are!"
Vince whirled around spotting a squad rushing at them there blasters trained on them. "Run!" He ordered taking off along the riverside his fellow Rebel's following closely with stormtroopers firing at them. The Jedi trailed behind his companions, saber ignited, to block blaster fire.
"Now you've done it Skywalker!" Tau roared in anger. "Because of you the Empire has brought the hammer down on us!"
"Stow it, solider!" Tapper ordered glaring at the alien. "How did they find us!?" He ducked under a shot that nearly took his head off.
"It's because of the Inquisitor. I sense she's leading them!" Vince answered his eyes flickering to the sky. Watching a squad of TIEs zoom overhead following behind a Sentinel-shuttle awaiting to land and deploy its infantry. "Keep moving! Find a shallow area to cross over to the other side and don't stop. We have to escape these Imperials."
Obeying without question the three Rebel Commando's rushed ahead with Rouge Leader following behind. Taking pot shots at the Empire.
Vince send a blast of the Force at his opponents, sending them flying off their feet. His eyes flickered to the sky once more. His mouth forming a deep frown starting at the approaching Lambda shuttle. She was aboard that one. He sensed it. "So she was going to take part in the hunt huh?" He questioned aloud. "Well let's see how fast she can keep up!" He turned once more to catch up to his Rebel companions.
After some running along the river bank, the Rebels had managed to river to the other side. Yet still the Empire continued chasing intending to capture or kill if needed. With each encounter more Imperials were added to the dead. The jungles were thicker than those on Teth. This would possibly make it easier to lose the Imperials, if they lose them.
"This is madness! Will never out run them!" Baylor cried stopping for a second to firing off pot shots at perusing stormtroopers.
"We have too! Sooner or later will-" Tapper stopped mid-sentence and his running. The man stared wide eyed in terror at the TX130 tank hovering before them its weapons trained on them "Sith spit…"
"Surrender Rebel scum!" Demanded the officer who popped out the top hatch. He glanced behind seeing the perusing soldiers catch up and aim at them. "This is your only warning." Today was a glorious day. The Rebels were trapped and both Jedi were now within their hands! They couldn't escaped now!
Tapper glared at the tankman wishing to shoot his head off right then and there! But he knew he couldn't…he couldn't escape this situation. Even with their Jedi leaders with them couldn't get out of this one. Suddenly out of the corner of his eye he saw a rocket come soaring out of nowhere right to the tank!
The side of the war machine rocked violently. The officer dove back into his rank. The vehicle swerved to where the rocket came from ready to face whoever fired it. However, it was greeted by two more rockets. The drivers screamed in fear, shielding their faces. The front of the tank burst open its cockpit in flames, smoke billowing out into the sky.
"It's the Mandalorians! The Mandalorian terrorist!"
That cry of surprised was answered by a barrage blaster fire from within the jungle. The Imperials tried to locate the enemy but were cut down all around. It had happened so fast the fight had been over before within seconds.
The Alliance members however looked on at the slaughter of the Imperials who had them trapped minutes before. They shared glances with one another. Looks like they found the Mandalorians. As the last Imperial fell, the Mandalorian's came out of hiding. There armor glistering within the sun's rays between the treetops.
The Rebel's studies the Mandalorian's. Many, though not all, were dressed in their infamous armor. It was exactly how it had been years before the Clone Wars. The familiar T shaped visor on their helmets, the jetpacks, the shoulder cape, and lastly, there symbol upon there armor's left shoulder guard. There weapons varied between pistols to rifles, to even rocket launchers. Most were stolen Imperials. The three commando's glanced to their Jedi leaders. Of course they'd do the talking. They knew how to handle things peacefully.
The two factions stared each other silently the only sound being those of the animals and the burning wreckage of the tank.
"Well, well, well, this is a surprise," Said a Mandalorian in red armor. "Rebel soldiers captured by the Empire." He stepped forward his grip tightening on his weapon. "Care to explain why yer here?"
"Enough, Voin. They know there outnumber and I will not allow more bloodshed. Our enemy is the Empire." Ordered another warrior, this one clayed in green armor. "However, I do wish to know what you're doing on Mandalore."
Vince stepped forward ignoring the jab sent toward them. "We were sent here on a mission to sabotage the Imperial's mining operation to forge lightsaber resistant armor with your Mandalorian Iron and stop the slavery.
"Operations to forge lightsaber resistant armor?" Repeated the green armored Mandalorian in shock. Under his helmet his eyes narrowed. If that came to pass… "The Empire digs within our soil to claim our iron and use my people to save labor to obtain it. I will not allow this! Where is the rest of your Rebels?"
"We are all that is left of the task force." Vince answered gesturing to the others. "Our ship was destroyed. We had hoped to search for you and form an alliance to free your people, to free your system, from the Empire."
At that moment the Mandalorians began speaking to each other within their native language, Mando'a. The Rebel's knew nothing of what they were talking about but they were sure it had to do with them. They all hoped they could get there assistant. Not just to free the system but to get back to the Rebellion. Speaking of the Alliance they would need to call for reinforcements.
"Listen. You guys no doubt aren't strong enough to free the whole system. You need our help as much as we need yours." Luke said not like he couldn't understand them.
"What he means," Vince said shooting the young man a look not liking how he spoke. "Is that we work together we can both complete our goals; defeat the Empire and free your people." Luke needed to learn more about the Jedi ways. Not simply fighting but negotiating and techniques of the Force. If they got out of this he would make sure he taught him those.
"How can you be sure you won't betray us!?" Growled the red armored Mandalorian.
"Peace, Voin. The Rebel Alliance seeks peace and freedom. Not law and order." The green armored Mandalorian countered again with a wave of his hand. Before he could go on he was cut off by the sound of TIE engines roaring overhead. His helmeted head looking to the treetops then motions for his warriors to move out. "Follow us." He ordered the Rebels and slipped away into the thick jungle overgrowth.
Obeying the warriors words the two Jedi and commando's followed suite knowing they knew the jungle better than they did. As proven by their assault on the Imperials. So far things were going good. All they had to do was help them to gain there trust. After that they could focus on trying to liberate Mandalore.
The trek through the jungle was quiet. The Imperials were still all around hunting for them but the quite wits of the Mandalorian's and their knowledge of their home planet led the Rebel's safely out of harm's way.
Soon enough their journey ended at a massive waterfall. Or so the Vince and his allies thought. They soon discovered that behind the waterfall was a cave. A cave used by the Mandalorian Protectors.
"This is one of our few bases we have set up across the planet. It isn't much but it's helped us greatly," Said the green armored Mandalorian. "We only have an armory, radio equipment, and a barracks but they are suitable for us. Now that we are all safe and sound it's time we talk…."
"Vince Silverton." Replied the old man. "This is my student, Luke Skywalker. We are Jedi of the Rebel Alliance."
Many of the Mandalorian's gasp at the word. They had heard stories of the legendary warriors of old but never before had they seen one before.
"Jedi huh? And here I thought you're kind were eradicated by the Empire. I am Fenn Shysa, leader of the Mandalorians."
Vince eyes widened for a brief second. "Yours the new Mandalore? Do the rest of your people know?"
"Few do yes." Replied Fenn looking around at his Mandalorian Protectors. "But most do not. We haven't had a Mandalore in ages. Not since the years before the Clone Wars. I knew the Empire would do something like this. I formed the Mandalorian Protectors as a way to resist them. We've been ambushing there convoys, freeing slaves, and sabotaging mining operations. Our knowledge of our planet gives us the advantage against them. That blockade in orbit was established after sabotaging the construction of a mine and freeing of more slaves. But no matter how much damage we do we cannot rid the Empire from our system. When I became Mandalore, I vowed to ride my system of the Imperial scum and free my people but have done little damage to them. I had feared that assassinating the governor was the only way to free Mandalore."
"However, after our unexpected arrival and our offer to forge an alliance we can free your people and defeat the Empire. We were unaware of the slavery but together we can put an end to that. However, how big the system is you'll need the full support of the Rebellion." Said Vince hoping to talks would be quick.
"So you wanna find a way to contact your Rebel friends and hope they arrive in time to save you and free my system?" Mandalore questioned.
Vince furrowed his brow. "Well, yes. We don't want the Empire to forge that armor and you clearly want the Empire out of your system. We are few in numbers and the Empire is vast but together we can achieve victory." He stretched his hand out. "What do you say?"
Fenn looked to the Jedi's hand for a long while. He had fought against his kind in the Clone Wars but with how times were now. He, like the Jedi, had a common enemy and should the iron of Mandalore be used to create lightsaber resistant armor that would give the Empire a major advantage against anyone wielding a lightsaber. His eyes shifted back up to the Jedi's face seeing the hope that he would agree but…"As much as I like the sound of that I cannot take up your offer right off the bat, Jedi." Mandalore said. "I believe you will help us, that I do. However, words along cannot gain my trust. You must prove that through combat. If you wish to ally with us then I request that you aid us in assaulting a mine. We were on our way to do so but your arrival changed that plan."
"Liberating a mine won't do anything for your people. What they need is something more. Something that shows them the Empire can be defeated." Replied the old Jedi.
"And exactly do you mean by that?"
"We steal a star destroyer and use it against the Empire." Vince answered.
"That sounds like a horrible idea." Fenn said. "We don't have enough men to crew a ship that size. Even if we did that would make us a bigger target for the Empire. Sorry Jedi but stealing a Star Destroyer is a no go.
"Why not destroy it?" Fenn questioned.
"What do you mean?" Vince asked curiously.
"Well, you need to contact the Rebellion for help don't you? Why not board the ship, send a transmission out to your friends, and destroy it. The destruction of a warship that size will show the people the Empire isn't invincible."
Vince brow furrowed. He knew the plan would work. However a ship with that much firepower could be a great use to the Rebellion if not the Mandalorians. But the people of Mandalore needed the fires of hope to ignite there warrior spirits once more to fight back and regain their freedom. As much as he wanted to capture the ship Mandalore was corrected. "Very well. But since you're the one who suggested it. We work together on the mission. Only problem is how exactly do you intend to board it?"
"Well we have stolen an Imperial landing craft recently. The codes are old but the Empire never changed them. The mission itself however falls to you."
"With the battle's I've fought in I think I know exactly how to execute this mission."
"Sir, a shuttle is approaching."
The Captain of the Star Destroyer looked to the communication officer. That's strange they had no orders of any ships arriving. "Have there been any transmissions from them?"
"Yes sir. Just transferring a new squad from the planet to us. Nothing serious. They've transmitted there codes too. Everything checks out."
The Imperial Captain peaked over the officer's shoulder checking the screen for anything off. He had a funny feeling something wasn't right. Yet the Sentinel landing craft scans checked out all clear and the clearance codes were corrected. However…naw he was probably just being overcautious. "Very well give them the all clearance to land."
The Dark Horse hanger was empty and quite for a warship. With so many ships and troops searching the planet for the Mando's and Rebel's it wasn't a surprise for a single Sentinel shuttle to land within its hanger. However, the Imperials were unaware that departing the approaching shuttle were a group of Mandalorian's and within the belly of the landing craft were more, as well as the Rebels and Jedi.
Vince plan was simple. He'd have three teams board the ship. Squad One, whose mission started already, was to depart the ship before it entered the hanger and land on the outside of the warship and cut Imperial transmissions to prevent any calls for help. Squad Two, was to make their way to the bridge to send a transmission to the Rebellion. Squad Three, was to go to the reactor sabotage it once the transmission was sent. All this had to be done exactly as Vince ordered. Sabotage of the transmission, send a message to the Rebels for help, and then destroy the reactor.
While Squad Two began work on cutting Imperial transmissions, the stolen Imperial landing craft touched down in the hanger and silently out crept Squads One and Three both going in opposite directions to where there destinations would be. For now they had to be silent until transmissions were cut by Squad two.
Swift and silent Vince, and the Rebel's went. Avoiding any and all patrols best they could.
"This is Second squad, transmissions are cut. You have the green light to go loud whenever you wish. We're making out way to meet with Squad Three at the reactor." Said Squad Two's leader over the commlink.
Tapper and the other Rebel's wished to engage the enemy but Vince refused to let it happen. Stealth was a wise choice at the time being. They were few and the Empire had thousands aboard the warship. They needed to make their way to the bridge undetected.
After avoiding more patrols, with some being very close calls, the little squad reached the doors leading to the bridge.
"What the hell!?" Said a voice in surprise.
Everyone turned and saw to their surprise two officers standing there dumbstruck at the boarding party. They stared at one another for a long minute. Before anyone could react a voice called out in a relaxed tone.
"There's nothing here. You're supposed to be on the next level."
"There's nothing here. We're supposed to be on the next level."
"You better get going."
"We better get going." And two officer turned on their feet and walked off as if they hadn't seen a thing.
Luke sighed in relief. That was too close. Had he not done that mind trick they'd have had the entire Imperial force on them. He glanced to Vince who shot him an amused smile obviously impressed at his performance.
Vince turned back to the door's he waved his hand and they opened. In they walked there weapon drawn. The old Jedi peaked around the corner leading to the command center of the ship. He saw the officers doing their duties, the captain himself was looking over a console. All were unaware of the Rebel's presence. Giving the single Vince and his allies rushed out of hiding shouting wildly.
"Nobody move!" Cried Vince. "We are taking over this ship!"
Voin looked around his eyes falling to the captain his hands shooting up into the air! Many other officers doing the same. Hoping to be spared. One however, within the left pit was glaring daggers at them his hand slowly moving toward…"He's reaching for his blaster!" He yelled turning his EE-3 on the officer and pulling the trigger.
"No Stop!" Luke protested. However, his cries fell on deaf ears. He and the Rebel's watched the Mandalorian's gun down every Imperial aboard the bridge. Luke was speechless at the actions performed by the warriors. He had seen the officer two but that man hadn't been reaching for blaster. No. He was reaching, for the sky. He was going to surrender. To Voin however, it appeared he was going for his weapon. Nevertheless, what was done was done. The unarmed Imperials were murdered in cold blood by the Mando's and now they had command of the bridge and could send a message to the Rebellion.
Suddenly a second after securing the bridge the ships alarms started blaring. It was soon followed by a blaster shot and the falling of a body.
An officer had survived the carnage and managed to hit the alarm!
Great. Just great.
Now everyone would be baring down on them! At least on the ship that was. With communications cut that would at least give the Rebel's an advantage.
"Squad Two and Three! Go loud! Repeat go loud! Alarms are triggers get to that reactor as fast as you can!" Voin ordered to his Mando's over the loud alarms. Then he turned to the Jedi. "Well so much for stealth! Warriors prepare yourself for battle!"
With their presence now known, Vince had to act fast! He rushed over to a console and pressed different buttons. Trying to figure out which ones would get him an open channel to the Rebellion.
Blaster fire started erupting from behind indicating Imperials had come to try and retake the bridge. They're discovery of Mando's onboard proved it wouldn't be an easy fight.
So focused on it the console was Vince, he didn't feel himself being shoved aside by Tapper who was swiftly going through different buttons and switches. He seemed to know more about a Star Destroyer than he did. Did he work on one of this ships once? Or did he have experience in board operations like this before? That though was brushed aside as soon as the holoimage of a Rebel appeared.
"What the!? An Imperial signal!?"
Regaining his thoughts Vince stepped forward gaining access once more. "Calm yourself solider! It is I, General Silverton. I must speak with High Command at once! I have little time!" Vince ordered with authority sensing Imperials approaching the capture capital ship.
"Yes sir, right away sir! Will make contact as soon as possible! Stand by!"
A dying scream filled was heard in the firefight.
"Baylor's down!"
Indeed, Baylor was down. The Ishi Tib's body was motionless and didn't respond to answers. Scotch marks were found on his armor but did little damage. It was his face that showed he was dead. What was once green skin now blackened and burned by blasters shots. One had blasted off his left eye, with another hitting him square in the nose. There was no way anyone would survive a direct hit like that.
"Damn you Imperial dogs!" Roared Tau, the Weequay's eyes burned with rage his repeater blaster unloading volley and volley at the Imperials mowing down many while others took cover.
"If the Empire wants the ship back they'll have to fight for it! No Imperial shall set foot upon the bridge anymore!" Boomed Tapper turning his back to the Jedi and rushing head long into the shootout determined to aid his fellow surviving Rebel and protect the general while the transmission was commencing.
Vince stayed beside the console waiting, praying, High Command would be contacted it. Minutes passed and soon enough he heard blaster fire erupt down the hall. More reinforcements arrived and were trying to recapture the bridge. There efforts were in vain and they'd-
"General Silverton, I'm glad to see you are alive."
He was brought out of his thoughts by the voice of Leia. This was good. Now that he was in contact with Leia he could tell her everything but he'd need to make it short. "Leia, Alliance Intel was wrong. There's an Imperial blockade surrounding the planet and it has destroyed the strike team. Luke, myself, and few others are all that remain and what's worse the Empire have enslaved the people here and using them to mine for the iron to forge the armor. You have to deploy an army here to Mandalore! You must send a full liberation force!"
Leia was at a loss of words at the information given to her. She knew Intel tried their best at gaining whatever knowledge they could but she never expected to hear a blockade was surrounding Mandalore or that slavery was being used for mining operations. Vince was right they had to commence a full scale assault to liberate the planet. After taking in the information she found her voice and answered the Jedi. "I agree. I will inform Mon Mothma of this new information and-" But the transmission was cut off. A stray shot hit the console ending communications. Vince swore and turned to the battle occurring. He at least was able to tell Leia of the new information. Now he hoped the Alliance would come to their aid and help Mandalore. "Transmission is away!" He shouted to Tapper. "Now let's-wait a minute where's Luke?" Only now did he realize Luke was not among them. He had been too focused on Leia to notice the young Jedi leaving.
"He ran off somewhere, Jetii." Voin answered taking cover from a hail of blaster fire. "He said he "felt a disturbance in the Force". What the hell does he mean by that?"
Luke Skywalker, the Rebel hero who destroyed the Death Star had sensed danger approaching swiftly. So he, doing what he could went off to confront it. He had to investigate it and stop this threat before it reached the bridge. He had also sensed an evil essence within the Force coming along with the threat. Going down many halls, he at last discovered the threat; a fully armed squad of Imperials.
However, these weren't the normal trooper in the army. No, these were the elite storm commandos! These elite troopers were encountered by Luke on Dantooine were he rescued the Imperial defector, Tycho Celchu. Back then the encounter was a quick skirmish and now it was full blown confrontation against a whole squad, what he hadn't expected was who leading them.
In front of the Commando's was a woman. She wore black armor, had long black hair, blood red eyes, and skin as pale as snow. His eyes spotted a lightsaber upon her hip. Realization came over him as he recolonized who this was!
The one Vince encountered on Teth. The Inquisitor Zenobia!
The commando's had immediately taken firing positions behind the Inquisitor ready to confront the Jedi.
"Well, well, well." She said in her eerie voice staring down the Jedi. "We meet at last, young Skywalker." She gaze upon the Jedi with delighted. She had sensed a disturbance in the Force prior to the Dark Horse infiltration. Knowing right away it had to Silverton. She gathered up Storm Commandos and flew to the Star Destroyer, masking her presence within the Force. Once aboard she proceeded to make her way to the bridge undetected. That was ceased when the path was blocked by the famous Luke Skywalker, destroyer of the Death Star. To be honest, she was excepting Silverton to sense her, not Skywalker. For him to sense her while being masked by the dark side proved just how powerful he was. The boy had to be dealt with immediately!
Luke stared her down with hardened eyes. So this was the Inquisitor Vince told him about. Her appearance alone was enough to send fear into the weak. He sensed the darkness flowing around her like a snake coiling itself around its prey. She was dangerous! He was going to die and…no, he wouldn't die here! He was a Jedi, like his father before him! He could defeat her! He would defeat her! Yes! He could do it! He'd kill the witch, kill the commandos, escape, and-
"I sense the fear within you, Skywalker." The witch cut off the boy's train of thought. "I sense your fear of dying. Of never seeing your friends ever again. Oh but don't worry, they will join you…after you watch them die!"
Anger flared through Luke. His grip upon his weapon tightened and he rushed toward the Inquisitor, his face twisted in hatred for the woman! He wouldn't allow that to happen! Not if he had anything to say about it! Closing the gap between them he swung hard! The blue blade cut through the air heading straight to the darksider!
SLIZZ!
His attack was halted by a lazy block of Zenobia's red blade. A board look on her face as if insulting him. "How pathetic." She mocked a frown upon her face. "Your skills are insignificance compared to Silverton. You're no match for me, nor Lord Vader." She pushed his blade away and lunged forward.
Luke backed away batting away her jab and countering with another swing, this time aiming for her body. Yet like before his attack was blocked.
"Continue onward to the bridge. I'll deal with the boy." She ordered the commandos who rushed passed the two Force wielders to continue their mission. "I'm truly grateful I found you before Vader did. Because you won't escape." A flick of her wrist and door behind the Jedi was sealed shut. She pushed him away with her blade, making a small gap between them. "The old man proved a more capable fighter than you do, boy. I told you already. You can't defeat me."
"Shut up!" Retorted the blonde, his anger building.
"Make me."
"Argh!"
Luke swung again, his attack easily blocked like before. He tried again. Blocked. Another overhead strike! Parried! No matter how much anger he poured into his attacks he couldn't touch her. He couldn't land a hit on here. She was too skill and he was growing tired. He had to defeat her or at least stay alive till help arrived. He thrusted his weapon at the witch. The tip of his blade parried to the side were it dug itself into the wall. The steel melted from the hot energy produced by the blade. His opponents parry was followed by a counter attack, by swinging her blade at his face intending to end this now. Luke felt panic course through him! He threw his head back as far as he could his eyes watching the red blade sore pass him feeling the tip of the blade lightly graze his left cheek! The pain he felt wasn't excruciating, but it still hurt. Like a shot given by a doctor. He immediately stepped back trying to regain himself to attack once more. His widening of the gap was a mistake on his part.
Zenobia lunged forward assaulting the Jedi with fast powerful strikes intending to cut him down. To hell with Vader's orders to capture the boy. He was a Jedi, an enemy of the dark side, and if he wasn't killed now he would grow stronger and become a dangerous threat to the Empire. She would kill him. She would sever his head and deliver it, and the lightsaber, to her majesty.
Another slash at Luke again the attack being blocked. She had to admit the boy was skilled. Fear had replaced anger within his emotions but he was holding strong against her. He blocked her attacks perfectly. He was no doubt trained in Form III and was very aggressive with his attacks. So that meant he always used From V. Very impressive for him. Yet he was a Skywalker. She, like many, heard about his father, the Chosen One; Anakin Skywalker. He was a hero of the Republic but, like all the Jedi, a traitor to the Republic. He was than hero, he was a cunning warrior. She heard of his skills by many veterans of the Clone Wars who witnessed his incredible skills. With the skills he had, Anakin's son would gain those very same skills if he escaped. She would end this now. She launched another swing at the Jedi. Like all her attacks from before it was blocked. However, after this attack she threw her hand out, sending a Force push at him sending the Jedi smashing into the sealed door. A sinister smile crept onto her face watching Luke slide to the ground growing in pain and weapon lying beside him. He was now hers to kill. She would kill the son of Skywalker and-She suddenly stopped her approach, eyes flicking to the door hearing the heavy steel groining like it was being forced open.
Force opened…
Her smile dropped and brow furrowed. She raised her saber as the doors were force opened. Her face scrunched up more as she stared down the one man she hoped wouldn't arrive. Her red eyes stared into the man's green. Her voice was like a hissing of steam as she spoke his name. "Silverton."
Vince Silverton didn't reply only stared back at her his own brow furrowed. Thank the Force he arrived in time. Stretching out with his feelings, Vince pinpoint Luke's location, as well as the approaching Commandos. Voin and the others would take care of them. The bridge was no longer necessary to keep control over. It was time to go.
From his glance to Luke he saw the young man was exhausted from fighting and sensed the fear within him. Stupid boy. Foolish boy! He would have been killed had he not saved him. He stepped passed him ignoring his words and drawing his lightsaber preparing to fight the Inquisitor once more. "You will not harm him. You will not harm him ever again." Then he charged forward enhancing his movements with the Force. He swung hard, his blade crashing against Zenobia's! His mind focused on the battle with the Nightsister. Another swing was aimed to her and it was parried. He twisted his wrist swiftly blocking the counter attack.
Luke rose to his feet watching in awe at the incredible skills performed by the two duelist. So this was how a real lightsaber fight was. How warriors who skills were beyond his fought. This must have been how his father fought against dark siders in the Clone Wars. The duel continued on and on. Neither fighter gaining the advantage. They were evenly matched. As the two sabers clashed once more, there was a sudden, violent shake, as if a volcano was erupting! The lights flickered leaving the three in darkness for second with the only sore of light being the lightsabers! What the Force had that been!? Next thing he knew all the ships alarms were ringing!
"WARNING: DAMAGE SUSTAINED TO MAIN REACTOR CORE! SYSTEMS FAILING! ENGINES DAMAGED! SHIELDS OFFLINE! WEAPON SYSTEMS OFFLINE! CRITICAL HULL DAMAGE, 100%!"
"Jetii we have a problem!" Voin yelled over the commlink. "Imperial forces tried preventing the sabotaging of the reactor. One of the chargers already set was hit and detonated prematurely! The explosion set off the other chargers planted! With the reactor critically damaged this ship won't last long! We have to get out of here!"
Vince heart skipped a beat at the words. That wasn't good! They had to get off this ship now! Now he had to end this duel now! Otherwise they would all be killed!
Speaking of the duel, the destruction of the reactor core occurring in the middle of it gave Vince the opening he need. Disengaging the saber lock with the witch and weaved his blade around to jab at her. It was seconds too late for the Nightsister to react and his blade grazed along her armored shoulder causing a grunt to escape from Zenobia. He swiftly brought his blade down to cut her right leg. Before he could deliver a serious blow he was blasted him away with the Force skidding across the floor.
"I will not allow either of you to escape!" Zenobia yelled rage filling her eyes. She threw her hands out releasing a stream of lighting at the two Jedi!
Luke stared in shock at the power displayed by Nightsister! Fear filled him once again. He was going to die! He would never complete his training and become a Jedi like his father. He would never see his friends again! He would- He was suddenly pushed to the side with a strange sound following suit. Looking up he saw Vince standing tall, his green blade blocking (or was it absorbing?) the lighting! So the weapon of a Jedi could perform another feat he wasn't aware about till now. Truly the lightsaber was something to not underestimate. Watching the scene before him was something he would never forget. It was like something out of a beautiful painting.
"What are you doing, Luke!? Don't stand there! Get out of here! Run for it!" Vince ordered the Rebel hero, his struggler against the deadly force lighting unwavering.
But Luke did not run. He stayed were he stood watching the battle unfold before him. He wanted to run but it felt as if something was holding his feet down with heavy weights. He wanted to help his master, his friend, defeat the witch so they could escape together. He had the perfect opening to attack the witch and kill her. Before he could act however another loud explosion echoed through the ship with another shake. A loud groaning followed suite.
"CRITICAL DAMAGE TO HULL! DECK 10 LOST! LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS FAILING! HULL DAMANGE 70%" The emergency voice called.
"Run Luke! Run!"
Luke flinched, remembering the ghostly voice of Obi-Wan said the same thing after seeing him get struck down by Vader. He wouldn't let it happen again! "I'm with you, master!" He shouted eyes narrowed as he prepared to charge the Inquisitor! Before he could ever join the duel he was felt himself get launched off his feet down the hall! He slid across the floor watching hopelessly as Vince waved his outstretched hand and sealed the doors.
"No!" Luke jumped to feet rushing to the door trying to get it open. He remembered seeing Vince cut through another door with his lightsaber prepared to do the same thing! That was ceased however when Vince's voice rang through his head.
"Don't disobey me, boy! Do as you're told! Get off this ship now! That's an order!"
Luke never heard Vince shout at him like that before. Hanging his head in defeat the young man turned his back and ran to the hanger. He doubled his pace hoping his allies hadn't ditched them. Upon reaching the hanger to find an intense firefight going on between the Mando's and Imperial's. The young Jedi answered the call to battle and flung forward his lightsaber igniting to cut down more Imperials. Fire blazing within his eyes. He blasted a group of stormtroopers setting up an E-web cannon flying. This action followed by the troopers screams alerted the rest of the Jedi's presence. Many turned their weapons on the young Jedi trying to eliminate him. But the Jedi was too quick. Another blast of the Force and many swings of his father's lightsaber added more corpses to the dead. Slaying the last Imperial he rushed aboard the ship.
"Where's Silverton?" Asked Captain Tapper his eyes scanning the gathers men seeing no sign of the Jedi Knight.
"He told me to go without him. He said he'd arrive soon." Luke answered sparing a glance to the hanger. He hoped his master and friend would make it in time.
"HULL DAMAGE 42%! BACKUP SYSTEMS FAILING! ENGINES OFFLINE!"
"We gotta go!" Voin yelled preparing to tell the pilot to take off.
"No, there's still time!" Luke protested sensing Vince energy. Where he was however he didn't know.
"WARNING: MULTIPLE HULL BREACHES DETECTED! LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS OFFLINE!"
"We are leaving!" Voin yelled to the pilot.
"No we can't we-"
"HULL DAMANGE 35%"
"We can't stay any longer, Jetii! We have to go!"
"Hold the ship!" Yelled the Jedi but his words weren't heard. The loading ramps to the shuttle started closing. Panic griped at Luke's heart and tried to rush to the cockpit to keep the ship from leaving but was held back to Tapper and Tau.
"Commander Skywalker, it's too late! General Silverton will have to find his own way off!"
"NO! WE CAN'T LEAVE WE CAN'T!" screamed the boy in protest. He didn't wanna loose another teacher. He was just about to break free but felt something hit him hard in the stomach knocking the fight out of him. He glanced to see Baylor standing before him a remorseful look on his alien face.
"Commander, there's nothing we can do. The ships gonna blow. I'm sorry."
Luke felt tears well within his eyes. He had lost so many precious people to him. His aunt and uncle, Ben, his best friend Biggs, his alliance comrades, now Vince. How many more would he lose in this war? Would he ever become a Jedi Knight like his father? Would the Jedi Order ever be rebuild like Vince promised? If Luke was the last Jedi then he would need to train himself as hard as he could to defeat Vader and his dark side minions.
On Mandalore, Fenn stared at the night sky watching the even unfold. The large tringle shaped warship slowly fell toward Mandalore, her tip entering the atmosphere like a sword stabbing its victim. Pieces of the hull were ripped off, cracks started appearing, and more holes opened up all over with each second. Then the reactor, already damaged by the detonators, started heated up from the intense heat from the atmospheric entry, and went critical! The Imperial warship's stern first exploded like an erupting volcano! A second afterwards, the whole vessel exploded! Debris of all shapes and sizes flew everywhere, the shockwave emanated by the blast rocked the pods and ships that were lucky enough to get out of range, those who were closet to the explosion were caught in it.
"Oya! Parjai!" Cheered the Mandalorian's who accompanied him.
"Ke nu jurkad sha Mando'ade!" Yelled another.
More yells were cried by the Mandalorian's there joy at seeing that Imperial warships showed the Empire wasn't invincible. They could beat them. They could free Mandalore!
All that was left to do now was wait for the strike team to return and hope the Jedi got word out to his Rebel Alliance for help. Minutes later a lone sentinel landing craft approached the clearing were they stood in. Upon landing its ramps opened and out came the boarding party. However, something was wrong.
"Where is Silverton?" Mandalore asked when he saw the old Jedi wasn't among them.
"He…didn't make it, Mandalore." Luke said stepping forward his eyes were red from crying. "He couldn't make it back to the ship. I'm not sure whether he escaped or not."
Nobody spoke. Nobody said a word. All was silent in the clearing. They hadn't expected to hear a Jedi would die in this mission. Yet he was old and some doubted he could even fight against the Empire.
"He fought like a true Mandalorian." Voin said removing his head. The moon's light shining off his bald head and brown eyes looking around. "He was able to get that message out. The Rebel Alliance will come. When however we don't know."
Fenn nodded. "We shall honor him and those who died on this mission. They will not be forgotten for their valid actions tonight." He stepped forward toward Luke. "I've been getting reports all over Mandalore that my people are rise up and fighting back. That Star Destroyers destruction has caused a planet wide rebellion. Your master's actions in destroying that warship and calling for the Rebellion has earned my trust. So as promised, I will accept your assistant in freeing my people."
"Thanks…" Luke muttered.
Suddenly Tapper stepped forward, the dark skinned commando chose it was time for him to take charge for the time being since Luke was still hurt by Vince loss. "I'm glad to hear that. It will take time to liberate every planet but will nevertheless aid you till the Empire is completely driven out of your sector. For the time being however, sabotaging the mines and ceasing the slavery must come first. That will slow down production plans for the Empire's project."
"And with the rebellion occurring, Mandalore will be liberated within days if not weeks."
"We shall see." Tapper agreed looking to the stars hoping the Alliance would arrive sooner than later.
END.
ReadXReview.
26 pages. A very long chapter indeed. It took be a long long time to get this one done. Writers block, retyping, work, and preparation for college. I'm sure it could have been better but this is what I came up with. Don't worry this won't be the end for the Mandalorian's. They'll come back...
Till then, May the Force be with you all.
