Decisions Part 4 Force Ghosts and Demons

by Jules Cesar

A continuation of the Decisions series. Krillgan is having trouble mourning Smasher's death. He also blames himself for not being there in time to prevent Grandmother Emily from dying. While on Devaron, researching how to be recognised as a Krillgan, the Voss contact him. They need his help preventing the dead Sith Emperor from taking on corporeal form and ruling the Empire, again.

6. Chapter 6

©2018

Andriel and Chitrah were very curious about the message sent by the Phoenix. When the Phoenix was spotted, Kreen and Tannath-Elu came by to give them strength to run to the landing site. They had an honor guard of Sisters on Rancor running with them, because everyone thought that this must be important. They were followed by a train of Rancor carts, with Strongman, and Allyanna in the lead. She knew that her parents and her niece and nephew will be returning with her.

After the Phoenix settled, everyone knew that it was safe to approach the ship. No one was surprised by who was the first to come down the ramp. Andriel and Chitrah started moving forward to welcome Krillgan and his family back to Dathomir. But first Andriel stopped before reaching them. She put her hands to her mouth, and tears came to her eyes. She ran right past her surprised grandchildren, who were expecting a hug and a kiss from each of their grandparents. So they turned around to see who their grandmother and grandfather had run to. They saw grandmother and grandfather hugging the three oldest Togruta. All five of them were balling, and hugging, and kissing, and crying some more. The three youngest Togruta were embarrassed, because they did not know these people at all. At least they entwined headtails with their mothers, and each other. As they could feel the deep emotions their mothers were each experiencing.

The Sisters just sat on their Rancor and smiled. This is a good day for Mother Andriel, and Father Chitrah.

Aliyanna came up to her brother and hugged him and kissed him. Than asked him what is going on? He asked her if she remembers the story about mother opening a dress shop with a friend. Aliyanna nodded her had yes. Krillgan told her that this is the friend and her companions. The three younger Togruta are their daughters. They are also seamstresses. Aliyanna then greeted Ludia, and the children. Richard and Ta'Yanna asked her if she knew why their grandparents are crying. She told them that these are friends that their grandparents had not seen for a very long time. Even before she was born. It was Krillgan that was the only child to know them, and he was probably Ta'Yanna's age or even younger when the grandparents last saw their friends. The two children told their aunt that that was a very long time ago, because both their parents are old. That comment made Krillgan and Ludia laugh.

No one bothered the five people as they hugged, kissed and cried. This gave Dranna a long time to look around. Not only did she see all the ladies on the Rancor, but she saw some Rancor harnessed to carts. The one young lady that was in the lead cart jumped out and came up and greeted the two Captains and their children. Dranna saw three more Rancor harnessed to carts two of them had male drivers, and the last one had a female driver. She was curious as to why she saw no men on the Rancor. Rudy came down the ramp, and greeted the young lady that greeted the Captains. He then went up to the women who were on foot, and received a greeting from each of them. It was obvious that Rudy has been on this world before. He even went up to the different Rancor, it was like they all knew him. Then he went running off, down what looks like a forest path. Probably seeing if he could find someone to mooch some food from. Like he does with the children.

Andriel, Chitrah, Shaak, Shaas, and Bandaa, finally regained their composure. The Togruta mother's introduced their daughters to Andriel and Chitrah, who gave them each a hug. The daughters were in shock, when they accepted hugs from this elderly couple, now that they knew who they are. This is the Andriel and Chitrah that their Mothers, and all older Togruta in their clan know and love, and that they had heard stories of all their lives. Now they were meeting the very first true Master Seamstress and Dress Designer of Lianna. Ta'Yanna went up to her grandmother and tugged on the leg of her pant suit. When Andriel looked down, she asked her grandmother, when will she get her hug? Andriel went all dark in her face. She picked Ta'Yanna up and hugged her, and kissed her. She apologized to her, because she is very important in her life. Then she went up to Richard and bent down to hug him. Krillgan took Ta'Yanna out of his mother's arm, so she could hug her grandson with both her arms. Chitrah came up and took Ta'Yanna out of Krillgan's arms, so he could hug and kiss her. Then he handed her back so that he could hug Richard as well. Krillgan than introduced Dranna to his parents. Telling them that Grimm decided to retire, so Dranna was being trained to take his place. Krillgan then asked his father if he brought his computer. Chitrah told him that he did not know he was supposed to. Krillgan asked if it was where he always left it. Chitrah said it was. So Krillgan handed Ta'Yanna off to Ludia, and starts running. Dranna had never seen someone move so fast, except in sporting events. She will have to ask her Captain how he stays in shape, when he is spending so much time on a ship. Ludia distracted Dranna, by telling her that everyone in the clan they are visiting call mother, Mother Andriel. They call father, Father Chitrah. She has been calling them mother and father all her life, because that is what they mean to her. The First Officer came down the ramp and told Dranna that they are mother and father to her as well. Getting a hug a kiss from both of them, as well as being questioned as to when she is expecting. Rasha told them when Krillgan said that he first noticed she was pregnant. So mother and father quickly computed how far along in the pregnancy she is. Then they greeted Tamrack and the rest of the crew.

Chitrah asked Grimm, if he was really retiring? Grimm just said yes. Chitrah asked Grimm, why Krillgan ran to get his computer? Grimm told him that there is a message that they received, that they need to talk with him about. Both Krillgan and Ludia thought it was more important to come here, than it was to take the Togruta home. Even though they knew it was a big risk to bring them here. For Chitrah this was not good news.

A Sister was appointed to guard the Phoenix, and keep Stoneman company. Arrangements were made to transport everyone else to the main village. Everyone was expecting to hear some nice stories. Ludia quietly passed along to the Sisters, that Dranna does not yet know that they are force users, so they might want to tone it down, when they are around her. The Sisters quickly understood, that this was not going to be one of their usual visits.

In the meantime, Krillgan had returned with his father's computer. Grimm copied the message and attachment to Chitrah's computer. Then got on one of the Rancor carts. Krillgan told his father that he has already talked to Amblin-Elu. They were going to get together after dinner, to discuss the message and attachments. Chitrah sat in his daughter's cart, and started reading what Krillgan had downloaded into his computer. He saw right away why his son came to talk with them. They have to demonstrate that the school Lydna is in, is not in the Republic. They can also expect a Sith to come visit it. How do they bring a Sith to Dathomir without them knowing they are on Dathomir. Then how do they keep the Sith from discovering that Lydna and all the people training with her, are force users.

It was only Rasha and Tamrack that were willing to tell stories. It was only when Ludia saw her friend Diennu that she remembered that she had a sword for her. She interrupted her dinner to run back to the Phoenix to grab two of the three swords Bill'dit made for her. She showed the Sister guarding the Phoenix that these two swords glowed purple. Before running back to the village.

Diennu in the meantime went and found Shmi. She had been out on patrol, and quickly hurried back to the main village. Ludia was waiting for them at the main gate, and handed each of them their sword. They of course, touched them right away, than stopped, asking if there was something wrong. Ludia told them that Krillgan reacted the same way. But when challenged by the blacksmith, admitted that he did not detect any dark force energy. It is just the natural elements that were used in making this batch of swords, which produces some redness with the blue, to give it a purple colour. The ladies touched their swords with the force again, and told Ludia that they do look beautiful. Ludia left them, while she went back to finish her dinner. They both promised to tell her what they were going to name them. As Ludia was heading back to the dining hall, she realised that they have forgotten to name their new sword. She will have to talk about it with Krillgan tonight.

Rasha and Tamrack shared with the Sisters some of what they experienced since they were there last. Amblin-Elu asked the Sisters to listen to the stories outside in the Rancor area, and asked one of the Sisters to share the stories with the Rancors, since they have not been getting any good stories since Smasher has passed away.

The idea of battling ghosts had everyone's attention. When talking about the space battle in the Vorn System they had to tell everyone to imagine Krillgan's small ship. Then imagine that there are just as many of the small ships as there are Rancor on the entire planet. That was how many were on the dead Emperor's side. The Hutts had about one and a half times more of the small ships. They were flying and shooting everywhere. Everyone was at their firing stations, in case someone noticed they were there. Since they did not have permission to be there, and both sides would be their enemy. One of the Sisters mentioned that it would be the same as if one shearmite nest raided another. Everyone listening could imagine that happening, and could not imagine being there and having to be perfectly still, so that none of the shearmites would notice them. They all liked this story. Then Rasha told them about what Krillgan told them happened on the surface. How Krillgan found himself facing the same amount of Imperial Troopers, as if he was facing all the Sisters from all the Clans at once. Fortunately the Hutts had their small ships shooting at the Imperial Troopers, so they were not all shooting at him at once. This time the ghosts poured out of the building behind him. Instead of attacking him, when they took on solid form, they attacked the Imperials. Leaving him to take on the Sith Lord one-on-one. With only the occasional stray shot from a blaster rifle to worry about.

Then she told them how nice all the Hutts were to them, when they realized that Krillgan had gone to their planet to rescue the ghost of a special hero to them.

Dranna sat with Grimm, Kran, and Elibet, during dinner. The locals, who sat near them, she found out later, were all craftsmen. The locals were nice, and the food was very good. Dranna saw that there was more than enough for everyone. So no one went home hungry. Kran asked the cobblers if they could make him another pair of Father Chitrah's deck shoes. His were starting to wear thin on the bottom. They told him to bring them by the shop, if the top is still good, they will only have to replace the bottom, rather than sewing him a whole new set. Dranna asked Grimm, how much did a pair of deck shoes cost? Since she noticed that everyone on the crew wore them, when they were not planning on leaving the ship. Grimm told Dranna that they do not have any form of currency on this planet. Everything is done by trade. Since they brought them large quantities of tea this trip, and in the past have brought them fish. The tradespeople consider that enough, so that they do not negotiate individual deals. He then suggested to her, that she also get a good pair of boots, along with some deck shoes. She will find that the level of craftsmanship is on pare with what she will find on most planets. Better than what she would find on the rest. The craftsmen like hearing that. He just rated their skills as being equal to other skilled craftsmen. Dranna decided that she needs to take advantage of that, while they are here.

After dinner, Grimm showed Dranna the water wheel Father Chitrah designed, and all the trades people helped him build, with power being transmitted to most of the craftsmen to make their work easier. Dranna found it fascinating, that they could do so much without any electricity. She asked Grimm, how they tell time? He told her that during the day they use the sun. At night they use the position of their four moons and the stars. Dranna asked him how they know when to get up in the morning? Grimm told her that the sunlight on their faces, and their tummies asking for food, is what wakes most people in the morning. For the kitchen staff, it is the people standing watch on the palisade at night, that will go wake a couple of them up, then they will wake the others. Dranna had to ask, why did people have to stand watch during the night? Grimm told her that pirates and slavers have attacked them in the past. But the locals found out that Rancor skin is immune to blaster fire. It just gets the Rancor upset. So they use them as shields, while they eliminate them with bows and arrows. Then when they are real close, they attack them with swords. For Dranna this explained the relationship that she observed between humans and Rancor. She asked Grimm, what do the Rancor get out of this relationship? Grimm reminded her that they feed Stoneman porridge cakes for breakfast. It is a recipe they obtained from the locals. The Rancor get a good breakfast in the morning, so their hunters are healthier and stronger. Humans also hunt with them, so they bring back enough to make everyone happy. It is a win-win all the way around.

They went to the guest house where they will be spending the night. Grimm explained where the latrines are, and that they have a male side, and a female side. He told her about the washbasin. If she is the first one up, then she needs to go to the pool at the base of the waterwheel to get the water. He did warn her that the water is ice cold, so it will wake her up right away, as soon as it hits her face. This guest house had four bedrooms. He told her how to indicate that her bedroom is occupied, so if Rasha and Tamrack come there to spend the night, they will know which bedrooms are taken.

After dinner, Shaak and Andriel looked at the designs that Shaak had on her computer. Including the latest posting on the Elegant You's local site. Andriel told the daughters that she sees that they are all good dancers.

The local seamstresses came as close as they dare, to see what was on the machine that the lady had, which was similar to Father Chitrah's. They were delighted when Mother Andriel and this new lady talked about designing wedding dresses for the three young ladies. It was not hard to figure out that both women had worked together before.

Ta'Yanna had her own mission that she wanted to accomplish. She liked all the children that played with her the last time she was there. So she wanted them to enjoy something special. She got them to all come over to the Togruta women, and all start sucking on their headtails. The mothers of the children were all very embarrassed, until Mother Andriel told them it was all right for the children to do so. So all the Togruta women had two children each, sit on their lap, while they talked about dress designs. The mothers only took the children away, after they all fell asleep.

Diennu and Butashe, were both told that they were required to attend the meeting with the elders after dinner. Because they are both in line to succeed Amblin-Elu as Clan Mother, if something happened to her. Diennu did not know that she was first in line. She always assumed that Ludia was going to succeed her mother. It was only Butashe and Ludia that knew this of all the Sisters. They agreed with the elders that there was no rush in telling Diennu of her status.

Both Diennu and Butashe did not like that they were going to miss the story telling.

The meeting started by Father Chitrah projecting a copy of the message the Phoenix received, then opened the attachment so that they could read the proposed law. One of the elders asked if the Moff could be trusted. Both Krillgan and Ludia believed that he could. They reminded them about his help in eliminating the Sith Lord. If the Dark Council knew about his help, he would be killed. He also gave them the secret treasure of the Sith Lord, rather than trying to hide it somewhere for himself. They believe that this Moff looks on them as a secret asset he can call upon, if things look like they can get out of control, and he needs to restore order quickly. So he wants them to be comfortable living on Yitabo. Chitrah told the elder that this is how he reads this situation as well. He reminded her that the law has not been enacted yet. He is giving them time to prepare, so it will not look like they did anything special, after the law came into effect.

Amblin-Elu came right out and said that she was not going to invite some Sith to her village, to see everything they are doing. Everyone agreed that that would never happen. Father Chitrah told her that it was not important for the Sith to see everything that they do. They should only be allowed to see what they want them to see. The elders encouraged him to keep sharing. Father Chitrah told them that they have a Rakata ruin on this planet. They can pretend like they recently discovered it, and moved part of the school there to study it, as part of the school's curriculum. Diennu asked, what should the school be called? They cannot call it the Singing Mountain Clan's school for Sisters. Krillgan thought it should be called Amblin-Elu's school for gifted children. He also wanted to hear more about his father's idea. Father Chitrah told them that a good school would use their students to design the camp, and any creature comforts they wanted, as part of the students' education. It would also look good if they could rebuild part of the Rakata building. At least enough that they can use it as a classroom, and also have some storage. Amblin-Elu told him that this would depend on how much of the structure was not completely destroyed. She understood that the Sisters did a very good job in placing the explosives were Rasha told them. So if it is all rubble, it would not be worth rebuilding. But if they found enough large slabs, it would be something to consider. It was decided by the group, that Krillgan should fly his starfighter over the entire island. Amblin-Elu and Father Chitrah should go with him. This way they can both see it with their own eyes. Father Chitrah could also connect his computer to Krillgan's instruments, so he can capture a video of the island, which they could all look at, the following evening. This way they could all see if it was feasible to use the island as the school's annex.

On the way back to Andriel's home, Chitrah asked his son if he could set up an office on one of the neutral planets on the edge of Mandalorian Space. The Sith will want to contact the school to arrange a tour. It would be alright if they could not get through to Amblin-Elu directly. As long as she was able to return their call. Krillgan told his father that Ludia eliminated some pirates preying on freighters that left a neutral planet, to head into Mandalorian Space. He was sure this planet would co-operate with them, in setting something like that up.

The next morning, Father Chitrah woke up Krillgan and Amblin-Elu, to make sure they could get going right away. The children around Richard's age were already in the kitchen having breakfast. They took advantage of the three adults to make sure that the tea was not too hot, and to ask the kitchen for things they were too afraid to ask themselves, like extra syrup. Krillgan decided to go wake Richard up right away, so that he could go play with the children after breakfast, rather than asking everyone where the children are, when he wakes up with his sleepyhead father. He found the Togruta already up and meditating on the rooftop patio. They loved it there. Enjoying the feel of all the life around them. So Krillgan made a couple of extra trips to the pool, for some nice cold water, so everyone could wash up. Shaak promised Krillgan that she would wake his mother up. She remembered that Andriel was a late riser.

Dranna liked washing with cold water first thing in the morning. She found it very invigorating, and would mention it to the two daughters as a nice way to wake up, and get both brains and hearts working. She waited for Grimm, Kran, and Elibet to get up, before going to the dining hall for breakfast. She smiled when she saw all the little children sitting on the Togruta's laps, with their mothers hovering nearby.

After breakfast, Grimm took Dranna to the cobblers to have her feet measured, and to describe what type of footwear would be appropriate for her. He told them that he did not expect her to see any fighting, but it would not hurt her to have a couple of knife slots in her boots. At least they knew what type of leather to use.

Dranna asked Grimm about that comment, about not seeing any fighting. Grimm told her that when Krillgan is going into what might be a dangerous situation, he will take Ludia, Rasha, and Tamrack, as back up. Rasha is in charge of the ship's armoury and has some interesting weapons built for her, by their armourer. Dranna corrected him, saying it is Captain Ludia, First Officer Rasha, and First Officer's Assistant Tamrack. Grimm sighed. He reminded her that though the ship is a military designed ship, they all consider it a freighter. They are an informal group, everyone considers everyone as family. So they do not use their rank when talking to them or about them. She asked why Captain Krillgan, first introduced everyone with their rank? Grimm reminded her that she needs to know everyone's rank, so that when she is working on something, she knows who best to call for help. If she is working on a gun turret, Kran or Elibet is best. If she is working on a Laser Battery or an Ion Cannon, then a First Officer or Captain should be called for assistance. Dranna saluted Grimm, and said, "Aye, aye, Engineer Grimm," then they both started laughing. Grimm realised that that was actually the first time that she has called him Engineer Grimm. Which means that she is comfortable working with him.

Dranna wanted to go back to the Phoenix to retrieve all the engineers' notes. They have nice big tables in the dining room. It would be easier and more efficient to work on a maintenance schedule for the ship there, then continue using Grimm's cabin, where she only has Grimm's bed to work on. Kran and Elibet also wanted to return to the ship, to retrieve their deck shoes for the cobblers to work on. So Grimm found Aliyanna, and asked her if she could take them.

When they first set out, they saw Krillgan's starfighter fly overhead. Dranna asked Grimm, if he knew why their Captain is flying his starfighter? Grimm told her that he did not know. Sometimes Krillgan will fly to town, and talk to the person at the trading post about arranging a trade. But he never heard anything about that. Aliyanna told them that she heard that they were going to look at an island that had an old Rakata ruin. The island was destroyed by fire, and they want to see how bad the damage is.

Andriel had forgotten that she was scheduled to teach on her traditions after breakfast, so all the women from the village were in the dining room. Instead of learning the traditions, they watched Mother Andriel and her friend working on her friend's special box, to come up with wedding dress designs. It is when the children started falling asleep, that Ludia whispered in mother's ear, that they need to put the children down for their morning nap. While the mothers were collecting their children. Including Ludia who retrieved a sleepy Ta'Yanna from Shaak's lap. Andriel went up to some Sisters, and asked if they can take her friends hunting. She told them that on their home world they hunt much smaller prey than they do on Dathomir. The size Rudy likes to hunt. She also told them that Togruta like to drink the blood of a fresh kill, so she asked that they not take offense if they do. The Sisters told her that they will look after her friends, and will not be offended. They will even see if Rudy wants to join them.

When they arrived at the clearing, and climbed out of the Rancor cart, Dranna noticed Stoneman sitting at the top of the ramp. She asked Grimm, why he was guarding the ship? When the locals had a young lady standing guard. Grimm told her that Stoneman was not guarding the ship. He was just taking in all the smells of this world. He reminded Dranna that Stoneman is not from this planet. Dranna knew from what Grimm had told her that Stoneman was a racing Rancor on Nal Hutta, that had been retired to the gladiator arenas on Sleheyron. Which is where Captain Krillgan purchased him. Dranna asked him to explain further. Grimm told her that all the Rancor that she has seen so far, are from one herd, and Rancor are territorial. If Stoneman left the ship without the Herd Mother's permission, the other Rancor would not think twice about killing him. There is only one Rancor in this herd that Stoneman knows that when she shows up, it is safe for him to leave the ship. She will take him running, because she knows he is out of shape sitting in the ship all the time. After a few days of running, when he is in better shape, she might take him hunting.

As if it was planned, Dranna saw one of the largest Rancor run up to the ship and grunt. In no time Stoneman was down the ramp, and running after her. Dranna asked Grimm, if female Rancor are normally larger than male Rancor? Grimm told her that Krillgan told him that they are different subspecies. He said that the Rancor in this territory are the largest on the planet, and are called Upland Rancor. Stoneman looks like he is descended from the smallest species of Rancor. He would be considered a large Swamp Rancor. Swamp Rancor are the only Rancor that do not live in herds, even though Krillgan believes they would all like to.

When they flew over the Rakata ruin, they could see that most of the slabs that made up the roof of the temple were still intact. They also saw enough slabs that were the outer walls of the temple. Blown away from the temple because of the explosion, but still intact. Amblin-Elu told them that there are enough intact pieces that they can rebuild a portion of it. Enough for what Father Chitrah suggested.

When they overflew the island, they saw streams flowing, but no vegetation. They saw what could only be the remains of the Whuffa Worm. They also saw the bone piles of all the tainted creatures that were killed. Chitrah pointed out that the ash everywhere was pitted. So the island is still receiving regular rainfall. He said that it would be very easy to reseed the island, so that it would at least have a layer of grass. It they drop seeds from trees near the streams, they should take root. They would be accelerating what they would expect would happen over time. It would make it harder for the Sith to determine a time, for when all this happened. Amblin-Elu saw the wisdom in what Father Chitrah suggested. When Father Chitrah told them he recorded enough, they headed back to Singing Mountain Clan territory.

After landing, Amblin-Elu rounded up some Sisters to go collect wild grass seeds. They can mix them with the domesticated grass seeds they grow as grain, when scattering them over the island. Grass seeds would probably be the first seeds blown there in a storm. So would be the first to start reclaiming the island. Amblin-Elu then went up to each Sister that was on the island fighting the beasts, and every Sister that was on the Phoenix in support. She wanted to see if they could remember what type of vegetation grew where. It would be helpful if they could remember the specific species. The Sisters that cut down the trees around the clearing for the funeral pyres did remember the different types of trees they cut down, and gave their Clan Mother a list.

Diennu and Shmi remembered more about the layout of the island, having traversed it a number of times. They were able to describe the different trees and bushes they encountered in a number of areas. They also said that there is a section that had plants that were typical of their eastern swamp. They believe that one of their supper tides does get up and soak that area, bringing plants it stripped from another land mass. They were expecting a supper tide in another couple of months. So they decided to leave the lowest areas of the island for the supper tide to replant.

That evening, Father Chitrah projected what they saw on the island, for everyone in the group to see. He was also able to manipulate the image. So he was able to get in closer to the ruins, so the elders could see if different rock slabs looked sound, or were they in fact cracked. They agreed with Amblin-Elu's assessment, that they could rebuild part of the temple. They discussed if that is what they wanted, or did they want it to look like something else. Because the obvious question if they do rebuild it. Is why did the Rakata build a copy of the Kwa Temple there, when everyone knew that they did not know how the Temple worked. Father Chitrah thought it was a very valid point. It would be better if they could mimic another building, that the Rakata were known to build.

The elders told Amblin-Elu that they did not want anyone on the ground on the island, until the grass had taken hold. There are no footprints anywhere on the island. If they only have footprints around the temple, then the Sith will not know that they have been all over the island. So Krillgan's job over the next few days was to fly people over to the island, to spread the grass seeds from his little ship. He could also drop seeds for trees in the areas that Amblin-Elu will suggest.

Father Chitrah told everyone what he asked his son after yesterday's meeting. Amblin-Elu did not like that she would have to leave the planet to communicate with a Sith. Even if it was supposed to be for a short time. There was also the question about how to bring the Sith to Dathomir without them knowing where they are. It should not be done using the Fenelar Phoenix. That would imply too much hands on involvement, by the parents. Which could trigger warning flags. Krillgan told them that they have a large pirate ship in their maintenance compound. They did use parts from it, to make sure that the ship they gave to Erin and Shmi, worked properly. The ship was originally a Luxury Yacht. He was sure that Grimm with Dranna's help could make it operational again. A ship like that could be seen as belonging to a private school, if it had the right color scheme. They could arrange to meet up with the Sith, at a spaceport the Sith would be comfortable with. Then transport them to the Annex sight. Because they are working at a Rakata site. They want to keep the location secret. At least until they have finished analysing the sight. To keep other institutes, and treasure hunters away. Yma said, that with Krillgan's help, they can put a mind control on the Sith, forcing them to go into a meditative state. So they cannot tell the passage of time while in that state. They will hallucinate while in that state, not being able to tell what is real or not. So what they see visually, will affect their hallucinations. Once they enter that state, it will be easy for others to maintain it, while she and Krillgan recover.

By the end of the meeting everyone was happy that they had the makings of a good plan. There are still a lot of details they need to work out. But that can be worked out, as the time to implement them, draws closer. At least they were all on the same page, and could start with the long range plans. The biggest drawback was that they could only work on the island while the Phoenix was on Dathomir. So it was agreed that the Phoenix would have to return more frequently over the next year. At least until after the Sith came for their visit.

The next day, Krillgan started flying various people to the island. He started with Richard and a couple of his friends. He flew low over the water, so that his passage over the water, blew up a plume of water into the air behind them. The children liked seeing that. When he opened the canopy. He warned them all to be careful. He did not want anyone to fall out of the ship, then have to explain to their parents why their head is now flat. Because they landed head first on the ground. Which made the children giggle. He always checked to see which way the wind was blowing. He wanted to fly crosswind with the canopy open. So any seeds the children threw into the air, would be carried by the wind, away from the ship.

Krillgan's next trip to the island, he took his daughter Lydna, and her good friend Grimshee. This time he flew much slower over the water, to let the two girls reach out and feel all the life in the ocean. He was pleased when Lydna warned him that a large creature was racing towards them in the water. Krillgan was pleased that she noticed. When the creature jumped out of the water, to try and swallow them. Krillgan put his Starfighter in a tight spiral upward. This allowed both girls to look out the side of the starfighter, right into the mouth of the creature. For Krillgan this creature looked like a cross between the eels with scales from the cold water lake, and the frozen fish they buy from Manaan. It was large enough that it could have swallowed his starfighter. It was definitely large enough to swallow a Rancor. The girls were in awe with how high up it was able to jump out of the water. They both trusted Krillgan, so did not even once think that they would be eaten. They did like how close it came to the ship, and the view they had of the mouth and throat. When it started turning to head back towards the water. Krillgan pointed the nose on his starfighter down, and fired a laser canon on a wing tip, at its side. He did not think that the laser would do much damage to the scales. It would be like punching it in the side. Just to let the creature know that it was not defenceless. When they returned after scattering the grass seeds. All they could talk about was this big fish that tried swallowing them. How they were able to look down into its big mouth.

The mothers of the children Richard's age, suddenly became reluctant to let their children ride in this machine, which a fish tried to swallow. Their children, on the other hand were even more hopeful they would get a chance to fly to the island. So became very upset when their mothers tried to stop them. The mothers complained to Amblin-Elu about the situation. Amblin-Elu told them that she was disappointed that a fish did not try to jump up and swallow the machine, when Krillgan gave her a ride in his machine. She reminded the ladies that Krillgan is very competent in flying his machine. He has even used it to battle pirates. So knows how to fly it in dangerous situations, and come out unharmed. She was also sure that he would be very upset, if a fish did manage to put a mark on his machine. From the way he looks after it. She was sure that their children had a greater chance to be run over by a Rancor cart, than being hurt, when inside Krillgan's machine. The mothers knew that the Rancor were always careful when pulling a cart, if children were running around. Krillgan also defended his flying with the mothers. Letting them know he flew two different ways, depending on who was in the starfighter with him. That when his son Richard was with him, he flew very fast, which is why the plume of water sprayed up behind them. No fish could come close to swimming that fast in the water. With Lydna and Grimshee, he purposely flew slowly, to let them feel all the life in the water, using the force. He was very proud that they detected the creature moving towards them that wanted to swallow them. He purposely let them stare into the mouth of a fish that would foolishly swallow a Rancor. Since they recently read the story of the Sister whose Rancor slipped off of the cliff edge into the ocean, and the Sister having to dive into the water to save it. Krillgan told Lydna and Grimshee that Richard and his friends do not know that story, so they should gather all the children after dinner and tell them. He suggested that they tell them in the Rancor den area, so they can practice talking to the Rancor at the same time. Since they also like this story.

The mothers reluctantly let Krillgan continue to take the children to scatter seeds. Even after all the seeds that were collected in Singing Mountain clan territory was scattered. Krillgan still made a few more trips, so all children, and most Sisters got to experience one ride.

After five days, Krillgan and Chitrah decided that they could not accomplish anything more this trip. So Krillgan warned everyone that they were leaving the next day.

Mother Andriel and Shaak were able to put the finishing touches to the three wedding dress designs. All the women of the village enjoyed seeing the dress designs come together. They were only sorry that they will not be able to see the finished product. Dranna was able to get most of a maintenance manual ready. The next step was to start loading it into the computer's memory from the Engineer's consul on the bridge. So if something happened to the written manual, they still have a copy in the computer.

It was a sad group of children that said goodbye to the Togruta ladies, they enjoyed sucking on their headtails. The Singing Mountain Clan loaded a couple of casks of New Ale, and a cask of Fruit Wine on the Phoenix, for the wedding. Mother and father did not cry until after the Phoenix took off. Because they wanted their friends to know that they really enjoyed their visit. Shaak, Shaas, and Bandaa, did the same for their friends. Going into Cargo Bay 2 for a good cry after Ludia took-off. With their daughters trying to comfort them, while crying themselves, because they finally met Andriel, and loved her as much as their mothers.

When the Phoenix landed next to the town, they were not expecting anything to be ready for them, since they had not been there that long ago. But the man handling the trading post had a full load of casks ready for them. So they took it all. Thankful that they had enough tea to trade for it.

From Kindell's world, they headed to Myrkr. So that Grimm and Dranna could have a good look at the pirate gunship they still had parked there.

When they first jumped to hyperspace, Krillgan and Ludia went to Cargo Bay 2. To remind their Togruta friends that they have to be very careful about keeping what they saw and experienced a secret. He reminded them about the bounty that is still on his parents' heads. That the Sith would keep sending invasion fleets. One after another, to try and capture them. If they knew where they were. He also told them about the risk to them, if a bounty hunter suspected that they might know something about their whereabouts. The Togruta all wanted to hug the two of them, and thank them for letting them experience what they did. They also told Krillgan and Ludia that Kindell's world is a Togruta trap. There is so much life present, that a Togruta would want to wander everywhere to experience it. But they need their Sisters to protect them. Because there are things more dangerous than an akul, that can kill them. They all felt like little children, needing the adults (Sisters) to protect them, from the dangers they could not see. No Togruta could live on that planet. Everyone that tried, would die.

Dranna did ask Grimm if he noticed how strong all the women seemed to be on that planet? She said that the men were no slouches either. She wondered if it was because of their diet of good healthy foods, fresh air, and not having the weakening benefits of electricity. She herself felt like she put on some weight, but as muscle, not fat. Grimm just smiled at her questions and comments. He suspected that she was slightly malnourished when she first came aboard the Phoenix. When he talked to Shaak about her, she agreed. So she purposely made her jumpsuits slightly big, and now they fit her just right.

While approaching Myrkr, Krillgan warned everyone that it was going to be a very short stay. As soon as Grimm and Dranna figure out what they need, to get the other ship on Myrkr up and running. They were leaving for Lianna.

Stoneman and Rudy asked if they would have time to go hunting. Krillgan thought that they might have one day, maybe a day and a half. But that would be it. He told them that he suspected that the Togruta would want to go with them. So he would check with Ludia to see which one of them would also go with them.

Krillgan ended up going, because Ludia wanted to stick around the base, to watch over Ta'Yanna and Richard. Rasha also wants her to come with her when she visits with Dreshy. Tamrack also went with Krillgan and the Togruta. They ended up staying overnight in a cave that Krillgan knew about.

Vorn was happy that Krillgan first asked permission, for everyone to go through his territory. He was happy to see another Rancor on the ship, and had his pack talk to Stoneman, so they knew he was a friend to their pack, even though he smelt like Rudy's pack.

Dranna identified the pirate gunship as being originally a Luxury 1000 Yacht, built by SoroSuub Industries when they were first braking into the Luxury Yacht business. So it is a very well made ship. It has a small upper deck, with two positions on the bridge. Instead of being side-by-side, like on most freighters. It was front and back, closer to the Phoenix's bridge. There was the Pilot/Captain's Station in the front, and the Engineer/Captain Station behind it. This was so the Captain could sit at either position. Behind the bridge was a small crew lounge, with two crew cabins coming off of it. The crew lounge had ladder access coming up from the main deck. The pirates had also mounted a dual laser cannon gun turret on top of the crew lounge. At the front of the main deck was the passenger lounge, which was also an observatory, so the passengers could look out into space, when they were not doing something else. The pirates had glued armour plating over all the glass. Believing it was a weak point, when it came to combat. Behind the passenger lounge were four large cabins for the passengers. Behind that were the four small cabins, designated as servant's quarters. Between the four large cabins and the four small cabins, was a small gap. On starboard side of the ship, was the ladder to climb to the bridge deck. On the port side of the ship was the meal storage facility. Behind the small cabins were two storage lockers. One on each side of the ship. At the stern of the ship, the bulkhead opened down, and became the boarding ramp for the ship. From the stern you could see all the way down the hall, all the way to the passenger lounge. Where the liqueur island forced you to stop and go around it, to get into the lounge. The hyperspace drive and intersystem drives were all connected behind the bridge level. The pirates had attached a dual laser cannon gun turret at the front of the passenger lounge, they had also installed a dual laser cannon gun turret on either side of the ship, with access from the two forward small cabins.

Dranna drew sketches of all the sides of the pirate gunship. She was hoping that they would let her redesign the ship, so it was aesthetically more pleasing. Becoming an armed Luxury Yacht.

Before going over the gunship, Grimm went over the compound with Dranna. Showing her all the tools and equipment for maintaining and repairing the Fenelar Phoenix drive systems, and all external components of the ship. They had more things move on the exterior of their ship, than a conventional freighter, so they had to be more careful with its maintenance.

They had the hyperspace drive from the pirate ship on a workbench, since they used parts from it for Erin and Shmi's ship. They also had the two intersystem drives on trolleys, for the same reason. So they had to spend very little time on top of the pirate ship, other than verify that they still had all the right connections, and mounts.

They checked everything on the bridge, to make sure it was all operational. Any module that was not functioning properly they pulled. If they could repair it while flying to Lianna, they would. If not it would either have to be repaired or replaced when they reached Lianna. They also recorded every module that was on the bridge. So they could check for possible upgrades or complete replacements. In order to bring the bridge up to present technology levels. Something they would need permission from the Captains to do.

Then they went over every drive. Making a list of every component they would need to get it fully operational. They would also need to talk to the Captains about possibly replacing the drive systems. They are a few generations old. With what is out their right now, they could make the ship a lot faster.

Krillgan, Tamrack, the Togruta, Stoneman, and Rudy, returned to the compound with quite a haul of game meat, considering, they only had one day of hunting. The Togruta promised that they would look after processing all the hides. Krillgan and Tamrack got the fire pit in the compound going. They were going to have one good feast before departing the planet. Ludia and Rasha went out to gather some wild vegetables that Dreshy had told them about. They would go well with roasted meat. Captain Krillgan broke down and retrieved all the bottles of New Ale he had in his cabin's cooler, to have with the feast. He also raided his children's juice supply, to make Nice Surprise for the children, and anyone else that wanted to try it. Most people did. It made the New Ale last longer. It was also something new for Dranna. As she had only drank tea and New Ale. She knew the Captains liked this drink, so decided to try it for herself. Rasha stuck to tea and juice, healer's orders.

Because of all the juice consumed at the roast, they were forced to make one more stop than was originally planned. To stock up on juice and fresh fruit. Since fruit was also disappearing quickly.

They also made a quick stop at the neutral planet. They were surprised that the authorities were holding credits for them, from the pirate freighter that they captured, the last time they passed through there. The authorities told them that they have a number of companies acting as communications middlemen. Facilitating communications between planets and companies that are technically at war, but still interdependent on each other. They gave Krillgan and Ludia a list of companies they might want to consider. Krillgan and Ludia settled on a smaller company. Hoping it translated into more personal service. They also had a nice communications booth, were they could connect to the Mandelorian, Republic, or Sith Empire. With the call showing that it originated from that office. They gave the company the name of the school they are representing. A list of things they were allowed to say, which the company converted into a script for their employees. They were also warned that it might be a Sith Lord that may try to contact them. The company told them that it would be no problem. They have had some Sith contact them before, about other companies.

They were able to land at Santhe Corporation spaceport. They were surprised that Madam Santhe wanted to talk with Shaak before the Togruta left the spaceport. Of course they all went to Madam Santhe's outer office, with only Shaak being allowed inside her office. Madam Santhe told her that she wanted to meet her in person. She has seen her dance, she has admired her work in the dress designs for her Lady-in-Waiting, and her mother. Since she is so close, she wanted to see her in person. She asked about where she went. Wanting to know why she by-passed Sith Security on the orbital spaceport. Shaak was honest. She told her that it was decided that she, her companions, and their daughters, go to Shili. She had heard how rude the Imperial Troopers are on the spaceport. She thought that there was a high probability that they would kill a Trooper for inappropriately touching one of them. Which would mean a lot of paperwork, and her niece, the Queen, would probably have to get involved. They did not want to be a bother to them. Madam Santhe surprised her by saying that she wished that they had gone through the orbital spaceport and killed a Trooper. She has also heard how rude they are. This would have been the excuse they needed to kick them out of passenger screening, and reinstate Lianna Planetary Defence in control of the spaceport and all passenger screening.

Shaak was clearly embarrassed. She apologized, she did not know. She did tell Madam Santhe that a number of Togruta were coming to their planet. Since they returned to start preparing for a wedding. Their three daughters became engaged, but her daughter is not yet old enough to marry. Or the three grooms and their families would have come with them. So they will be arriving when her daughter is old enough to marry. She expects that it will be in about three or four months' time. After the wedding, the families of the grooms will be returning to Shili. They can make sure that they go through the orbital spaceport. Madam Santhe told her that it will not work. They are Republic Citizens. They would have to incarcerate them on the planet, and hope the Sith forget about them. So they can smuggle them back to Shili.

Shaak then suggested that she and her companions travel to Mandalore, if she thought it would help. But they will not be bringing their daughters with them. Madam Santhe said she understood. She asked if there were some older companions then her daughter that were married that could go with her. Because the Imperial Troopers tend to grab the younger females. Shaak told her that there was no one in her clan. But there was some Nautolan females in that age group that they could escort, as if they were their daughters. Madam Santhe thought that what she suggested would work. She gave permission for Shaak to talk with the Nautolan. She asked her to notify her Head of Security, to let him know when they were ready to depart. So all the right precautions can be made. They do not want an Imperial Trooper shooting one of them in retaliation.

Then Madam Santhe talked with Shaak about her trip to Shili. Surprised that they did not go, intending for their daughters to become engaged. But rather they went as matchmaker on behalf of a friend of Krillgan's. Shaak had to go out of the office to get her computer from her daughter, to show Madam Santhe the images of the Starpleasures Ambassadors. Her companions and daughters were happy to see her come out, and surprised that she asked for the computer and went back in. At least they knew that Shaak was not in any trouble.

Madam Santhe told Shaak that Krillgan and Ludia told her that her name is also listed as being on their suite. She would like to talk with her husband, to see if he would like to take a break and go visit the Ambassadors. It will be interesting to see what the Selkath have accomplished, now that they are building Manaan up out of the ashes.

When Shaak showed her the dress designs for the wedding. Madam Santhe asked her, who she collaborated with on the designs? Shaak was surprised, and embarrassed. She told Madam that she is not allowed to say. Madam Santhe smiled, and asked her how Andriel and Chitrah are doing? Shaak was even more embarrassed. She admitted that they are in excellent health. Surrounded by people who love them. That their daughter works with her mother in the seamstress shop, but has multiple commitments. So cannot dedicate the time to become a Master Seamstress herself. But her husband works with Chitrah in his cobbler shop. Chitrah believes that he will make a fine Master Cobbler someday. Madam Santhe thanked her for sharing. She promised not to ask her any more questions, so that Krillgan and Ludia will not become upset with her. Shaak thanked her for understanding. Not sure of what else she should say.

After leaving Madam Santhe's office. The companions asked Shaak what she talked about with Madam Santhe. But she would not answer them one word. The companions did not ask again, which confused the daughters. Instead they hurried everyone to get everything ready to return to their Enclave. No one spoke on the shuttle, with the daughters allowed to have the window seats.

At the Enclave they went straight to their compound, with Shaas and Bandaa rounding up all the elders, telling them that this is very important. The surprised elders thought that they would want to make a presentation in front of the whole community, concerning their trip. Not have an elders meeting. When all the elders were present. Shaak started to share everything she talked with Madam Santhe about. The elders were surprised that Madam Santhe did want them to force the issue on the orbital spaceport. In order to force the Imperial Troopers into only a support roll. They knew that the Royal Family could not force them off the spaceport completely. But what was the most surprising, was that Madam Santhe was able to discern that Shaak had met with Andriel and Chitrah, by taking one look at some dress designs. Now the companions and their daughters knew why Shaak did not say anything, until they were in a safe place.

The elders assured Shaak that she did not have the fact that she met Andriel and Chitrah written all over her. Or they would have detected it before she told them. They just reminded her that the women of the Royal Family are extremely familiar with Andriel and Chitrah. Especially Andriel's work in dress designs. They asked her, if anyone else she knew would recognize her work? Shaak told them that every dress designer she trained, would recognize the wedding dresses as being their collaboration. She told the daughters that they cannot make the dresses. The elders told her that to not make them was not right. Not to her, not to her companions, not to the daughters, and especially not to Andriel. Shaak asked the elders, what is she supposed to say when the other dress designers asks her about them? The elders told her that she is going to say that Andriel did help in their design. They reminded her that when she returned from Shili the first time. Andriel was not in any condition to help her with the design of her wedding dress, and the designs for her companions. She did help some. But there was not time to do a proper job. So after the wedding, she and Andriel imagined the type of wedding dresses they would have liked to have worn, if they had more time to prepare. So now their daughters are going to benefit from what they came up with. Everyone thought it was a very good story. They all agreed that this is what they will say if someone asks. Not only that, but they get to honour Andriel.

The two groups of Companions were now able to come out and tell the Clan of their adventures. Just omitting the part dealing with Kindell's world. The daughters were proudly able to show off the akul jewelry they were wearing, and how they can be called the Companions of an Akul Killer. That they are all engaged to be married because of their adventures. Shaak proudly showed off the dress designs they are going to make for their daughters. Admitting that Andriel helped in the designs.

When they told them about their hunting experience on Myrkr. Some members of the clan asked them, if Togruta could live on that planet? They described how Rudy hunts. Using his tail to stun his prey. They mentioned how Vornskrs are territorial. So Togruta could expect to be challenged by a pack of Rudies. Competing for the same hunting territories. They have no defense against the tail. So unless they had a force user like Krillgan or Ludia to negotiate a hunting territory for them. The Vornskr would either force them off their planet, or kill them. So no, the Togruta could not live there. Unless they behaved like pirates and slavers, and used blaster rifles, to hunt Vornskrs down to kill them. That idea was very abhorrent to the Togruta. That was another planet that seems nice, but there was no place for the Togruta to fit in.

Krillgan and Ludia asked Madam Santhe if her Cerean researchers could do another project for them. When they described what they wanted, Madam Santhe turned them down. She told them that SoroSuub is their biggest competitor in the area of spacecraft they are interested in. But the model they are dealing with is old. They know everything about it. There would not be anything there to grab the attention of her researchers. It would be a boring project for them. She then asked them, why they want this work done, when they have a good ship in the Phoenix? They told her that they were warned about a new inheritance law the Dark Council wants to enact. Madam Santhe told them that their Moff talked to them about it. They told him point blank that this law will not apply to Lianna. They suggested that the entire Tion Cluster be exempt. Just like they are exempt from the conscription law. She did suggest some planets in Republic space that have shipyards that could do the work they were looking for. She did mention that the Givin can do the best job, but you pay for the quality of work. She also asked that Grimm give the list of parts to her secretary, they can at least help them find the parts they need, just to get it operational.

She did tell them about how schooling is done on Livien. She expects that it would be similar on Yitabo. The school is a room in the Interior Ministry, connected with the Communications Department. The only students in the classroom, are all children of the people who work for the Ministry. All the farms have their children at home. Since they cannot afford to pay for food and accommodation for their children, nor can they afford to have their children away from home. They need them to do their chores, so the parents can work on everything else. So the children attend a virtual school room through the farm's communicator. Only they get kicked out every time their computer needs to communicate with the Ministry's computer. They are required to log a certain amount of time in the virtual school every day. She thinks that it is only one or two hours. Most of their schooling is reading over the material that has been transmitted to them. So they are really self-schooled. They are required to come in once a month, to write some tests. Just to make sure they are keeping up with the work.

Krillgan and Ludia wanted to know, what are written tests? They only know about the tests that Grimm runs using his equipment. Madam Santhe asked them, if they have ever written a test? They both said that they don't know. Since they don't know what a written test is.

Madam Santhe asked them, how they were taught the things they need to know? Krillgan and Ludia just looked at each other. Krillgan told her that they just repeated doing things until the person teaching them is satisfied that they understand what they are doing. Madam Santhe asked, if they ever had to write anything down? They told her that of course they did. They had to practice writing basic, and the Kwa symbols. Krillgan admitted that Ludia is a better writer than he is.

Madam Santhe asked them, how they knew how well they are doing? Krillgan and Ludia just looked at each other again. Krillgan told her that the person instructing them, told them whether or not they were doing well.

Madam Santhe was having trouble explaining a written test. She called up some of the practice tests the Royal Tutor had loaded for her niece and nephew. She had them printed, than handed them to Krillgan and Ludia. She asked them if they could answer the questions on the paper. Ludia told Krillgan that this looks like what father taught him. Krillgan told Madam Santhe that he can tell her the answers. But what was the point. There was nothing to indicate a practical application.

Madam Santhe smiled and told them that this was a practice written test. The practical application was for the instructor to understand how well they know the material. Krillgan told her that he was taught so that he would understand how things worked. If they did not work, they he had to use what he knew to find out why not.

Madam Santhe told her that it was a tool used by the instructor. So that an instructor could see were the student is weak in their understanding. It was also used as a tool to separate students. Those who understood what they are being taught, from those that do not understand what they are being taught.

Neither Krillgan nor Ludia could understand what the point was. The instructor should know their students. If they did not understand what they were being taught. Then they either needed a different instructor, or they need to be taught something else. No one can know everything. It is better if the students are taught things they are good at, for the benefit of the clan.

Madam Santhe could not argue with the logic. But when you have more students than a teacher can handle on a personal basis, than you need tools like written tests to help a teacher know her students. In the case were the students come to the school once a month to be tested. Than the person in charge of the course needs this tool to adjust the things that the student needs to learn at home.

Krillgan and Ludia understood that Richard's schooling will be different than what they experienced. They definitely need to talk with Kenny.

Madam Santhe then asked a favour of Krillgan and Ludia. She told them what she asked of Shaak. She was hoping that they would stick around until after Shaak and her companions went through the screening to get into the area that permits a passenger to go to Mandalore. She told them that she was going to have one of their freighters on the Mandalore wing of the spaceport. She will arrange for them to be able to dock the Phoenix next to the area where people go through the screening. So that they can monitor the situation. To make sure the Imperial Troopers do not overreact. There is a very real probability that Shaak and her companions, as well as the Nautolans they will be accompanying, can be killed. They want them to be close to make sure that it does not happen. First because they are force users that know how to use their gifts, without others being aware of what they are doing. Second because Krillgan is an exceptional healer, that has pulled people back from the brink of death.

Krillgan asked Madam Santhe, why she asked Shaak and her companions to do this? Madam Santhe told him that it did not have to be Shaak and her companions. It could have been any group of female Togruta companions. She told them that most human females will not react negatively to something bad that is being done to them, at the time. But they will complain loudly afterwards. Where the Togruta women will react right away, if someone violates them. It is much easier to complain to the Sith, when they are caught right in the act.

Krillgan and Ludia both wanted to go up to the spaceport, to see where the Phoenix will be docked. As well as having a look at what is in the area. Before they commit themselves as observers. They both really wanted to help Shaak and her companions. But they also wanted to remain under the Sith Radar. It was one thing to kill a Sith Lord, when no one could really see them. Instead they were focused on what they were wearing. Like Sith robes, or shackles. It was another thing entirely to do something that focuses attention on them in a way that others notice them. Which is something Krillgan had to do, as the Devaronian Krillgan.

Before they left, Madam Santhe asked them the story about the Cerean they have working on their crew. Krillgan told her that Grimm seems to get glimpses of the future. It seems to have been triggered by the traumatic experience of seeing his Captain killed, than forced to be a slave. Rasha noticed that Kran and Elibet also changed from their experience. When they received the communication warning about the change in the law. Grimm seems to believe that he and Ludia will be spending less and less time on the Phoenix, with Rasha becoming Captain, and Tamrack First Officer. So he announced that he was going to resign, after he finished training his replacement. Dranna is that replacement. She was an honour wife that loved her husband. Unfortunately, the bond wife has the personality of a Nightsister. So after the husband died, the family collapsed. The honour wives are doing what they can, to pool their resources, and raise the two daughters. Madam Santhe told them that there is not something right here. She thought that the children are automatically the inheritors of the father's estate. It is only if there are no children that the bond wife is the inheritor. Krillgan asked her who administers the inheritance, if the children are too young to speak for themselves. Madam Santhe had to think for a bit. She frowned and told them that it is probably the bond wife.

She told them that because of her Cerean family, she has access to people in their government. She will make discreet enquiries about their Engineer's case. If she finds out anything that can help her, she will let them know.

As they were heading back to the Phoenix, Ludia asked Krillgan, when he was heading back to Voss? Krillgan told her that it will depend on what Shaak has to say. They should try to be around to help Shaak and her companions if they can. Ludia agreed. At the Phoenix, they found Rasha and Tamrack packing. They told the Captains that Shaak has invited them to live in the Togruta Enclave until after Rasha has given birth. They think that this is the best thing to do for the baby. Krillgan told them that he agrees. If they don't leave the ship. Ludia would have to be the midwife, with him coaching her. With the baby being born while they are dropping out of hyperspace, because babies don't know when the best time to come out would be. Rasha said, that Grimm told them that he pictured the exact same thing.

Krillgan told Grimm that Madam Santhe asked that he give the list of parts to her secretary, so that they can help find them. That she also refused to have the Cerean family do the work, that it would be too boring for them. Dranna told Grimm that she told him. Krillgan told them of the planets that she suggested that they do the work. Dranna suggested a world that was close to Myrkr. Their work is satisfactory. At least they know that the ship will be sound when they finish. If they still want to use the ship after. She can come up with a design that the Givin can produce. Krillgan told her that they have not made any plans for after. For right now, they want a ship that looks like it would be used by a private school. Dranna told him that she has a design for that as well.

Krillgan and Ludia asked Rasha and Tamrack if they can take Richard and Ta'Yanna to the Togruta Enclave with them. They have a detour to make, and will meet them there. Rasha just said yes, even though she wanted to know about the detour.

At the shuttle terminal, Ta'Yanna did not want to board the shuttle without Mama. Mama told her that she has to catch a different shuttle, but will meet them there. She reminded Ta'Yanna that she was going to the Togruta. That she will be with Shaak, and get to suck on her headtail. Ta'Yanna was torn, until Rasha took her by the hand, and told her that she gets to sit beside the window. Tamrack took Richard's hand, and followed them onto the shuttle.

When they reached the spaceport, Krillgan gave Ludia a tour. He showed her the family washroom, were they hid while the female Caamasi bought them tickets. Then she came into the washroom, to help them change into their disguises. When they came to the wing where ships going to Mandalore were docked. Krillgan told Ludia that there were only two Planetary Defence Officers guarding it. When he walked through holding his mother's hand. Father was already inside, waiting for them. It would be much harder to do that today with all the Imperial Troopers checking everyone. They both saw Troopers touching women where they had no reason to. They just laughed if the woman showed she was embarrassed. They both knew that they had to help stop this.

Krillgan noticed that Lianna PD Officers were not checked by the Troopers, not even the females. Krillgan told Ludia that he knows how to be invisible. So they caught the next shuttle that was going to land near the Togruta Enclave.

All the Togruta were delighted that they came. Being forewarned by their children. They asked Ta'Yanna if she could sit with another lady, they needed to talk with Aunty Shaak and her companions. Shaak called her daughter over, and asked her to look after Ta'Yanna. Ludia told the three companions that Madam Santhe told them what she asked them to do. She also asked if the two of them could help keep them safe. The three companions told them that they would feel more comfortable if they knew that they would be around. Ludia asked Shaak when they were going to go through with it. Shaak told them that they would be ready in three days. She also told them that there is a Nautolan Elder in the Enclave that is hoping to speak with them. It seems that there is a Nautolan young man that is hoping to become crewmember of a freighter. He was hoping that they could take him to talk to the right people. Krillgan asked Shaak if the Elder knows that they are an independent freighter. They do not have many connections with the freight companies in this sector. Shaak told him that she explained this to the Elder. The Elder said he understood. He is just trying to be helpful. So Krillgan and Ludia were told where to find the elder. Ludia was happy that it wasn't the same elder that spoke to her last time she was on Lianna.

The Elder was happy to meet them. He told them that the young man is very self-conscious of talking to them. In a way he worships them. Having heard so many stories about them, from the Togruta that come visit them. Krillgan told the Elder that it is not good for someone to worship mere mortals. The Elder became embarrassed. He told them that he may have used the wrong word to describe how the young man looks up to them. Krillgan asked the Elder when they can talk to the man. So that they can determine their own opinion of him. The Elder told them that he is in the Togruta Enclave. His wife is one of the women that volunteered to go with Shaak and her companions, for this trip to Mandalore. The women have been training with the Togruta women since they first arrived. They only stopped training when their First Officer arrived. So they could take her to the apartment they prepared for her. Krillgan asked the Elder to lead them to the man.

They were introduced to a young man that blushed when he saw them. He may be shy, but he wasn't, hide behind the skirt, shy. He shook hands with Ludia first. When Krillgan shook his hand he felt a flow of Kolto. Krillgan withdrew his hand and asked him how he was injured? The man with wide eyes said that he was banged up, since his wife has been using him as a practice dummy.

The Elder was leaving, believing his job was done. Krillgan called out to him, and asked that the other husbands be brought to him, so that he can heal them as well. Krillgan took the young man's hand and finished healing him. They then asked him, what type of work was he looking for? He told them that he is not sure. He wants to be able to wander the stars, and visit different planets. It would be nice to be paid while doing it. They asked him about his qualifications. He told them that he has always been a hard worker. He told them what level of Education he completed in Lianna's educational system. Which meant nothing to Krillgan and Ludia. He told them that he was now qualified to attend an institute of higher learning. But chose to work. Because going for a degree is expensive, and there was not one area that he was considered strong in, or that caught his interest. It was only recently that this desire to go to space has come over him. Both Krillgan and Ludia wondered, if others besides Devaronians can get wanderlust? They asked him, what does his wife think about him going to space? He told them that she does not like the idea of living like a widow, while he is gone. She would like to go with him. She said that she can pull her own weight. But they heard that the Sith will take workers off of freighters, if they think there are too many workers. So he is afraid that if she joins him, one of them will be taken by the Sith. They told him to go get his wife, while Krillgan heals the husbands that have been used as practise dummies.

When the wife came, they asked her, why she volunteered to help Shaak and her companions? She told them that the Togruta rarely ask for help. They are a very capable people, and a good friend to the Nautolan people. So when the Akul Killer asked for help, it was not right to say no. Krillgan asked, if she understood that she could be killed by helping the Togruta? She said that she understood. She also understood that there is a chance that nothing happens, and they will just hear the stories of the Akul Killer and her companions. Either way she will be proud to say that she helped the Togruta when they asked? They asked her, if her husband is equally as brave as her? She told them that she does not know. One time the Elders were told about an older lady being robbed by a drug addict. They asked her husband and a friend to retrieve the stolen property, and make sure that he does not come back to their area again. Her husband told her that the addict pulled a vibro-blade knife on them. He was able to block the arm of the attacker's thrust at him, and land solid blows to his face with his fists. His friend was able to grab the attacker's wrist and tear the knife out of his hand, while the attacker's face was being pummelled. They retrieved what he stole from the older lady. Then they questioned him about other items he stole, since he was an addict. He did not want to cooperate at first. But they convinced him. He took them to the place where he slept when he was high. They saw that he liked stealing shiny things when he was high. They found some rope, and trusted him up. Then left him in front of where he slept, with the door open. Then they called the PD, so that they would find him. They stayed hidden as they watched the response from the PD Officers. Fortunately, they entered through the open door, and found all the stolen items. They called other Officers. Some took the addict away. Others started checking the area outside where the addict lived. Her husband and his friend were satisfied, they fulfilled the Elders request. Her husband told her that if the PD Officers had not arrested the addict, and taken him away. Then they would have been forced to kill him, and dispose of the body. Since that is the only way to keep an addict from coming back into your area. Beatings alone, will not keep him away.

Krillgan and Ludia asked the couple if they will be dancing with the Togruta after dinner. The young man told them that he will now. Now that he is no longer sore because of what his wife did to him today.

Before dinner, Krillgan and Ludia were taken to the apartment where Rasha and Tamrack will be staying. Krillgan recognises it right away. Which pleased Shaak and her companions. He told Ludia, Rasha, and Tamrack, that this is the apartment he knew as a child. His parents told him that he was born in this apartment. He told them that the opening between apartments was inside a closet when he was here. Now the closet could fit into the opening. Rasha asked him, if this is the same bed? Krillgan told her that the bed looks familiar, only the sheets are all different. Rasha was glad the sheets are different. She felt more comfortable being there, now that she knew that this was where Krillgan was born. She told them that the Togruta called a midwife. She will be coming by to examine her tomorrow. Shaak told Krillgan that it is not the same midwife that delivered him. She retired a number of years back.

That evening, Krillgan and Ludia talked about the Nautolan couple. They both felt that they would be a good fit for the Phoenix. In replacing Kran and Elibet. Rasha and Tamrack should have final say. It would all depend on how well everything went on the spaceport.

The next morning Ludia and Krillgan talked to Rasha and Tamrack about the Nautolan couple. That the Nautolan Elder introduced the young man as someone wanting to work on a freighter. They found out that his wife would prefer to be with him. Rather than be a temporary widow on the planet. They told them that they will get a chance to know them over the next two days. If they think they are a good fit for the Phoenix, then they need to hire them. The decision is theirs. They left their children in their care, letting Richard and Ta'Yanna know that they have to return to the Phoenix to work. They told them that they will be back in a few days.

When they spoke with Madam Santhe they told her that it would be better if they dressed like Medics connected to Lianna Planetary Defence. PD Officers are invisible to Imperial Troopers. But they do look closely at all crewmembers standing next to the access to their freighters. This way they can also rush over to assist any injured civilians. Which is what everyone would expect from them. Madam Santhe liked the idea, and asked the Head of Santhe Corporation Security Forces to come to her office. She asked them, if Shaak gave any indication on when they will be ready? They told her that when they asked her last night, she said they will be ready in three days. This caught Madam Santhe by surprise. She did not think they would be ready so soon. She told them that in four days they have an exercise planned for Lianna PD on the spaceport. Which means that they will have more Officers on the spaceport than normal, and Imperial Troopers are expecting them. If Shaak can delay her departure to that day, it would be even better.

When the Head of Santhe Security arrived at Madam's Office. She told him to have Lianna PD issue them Medic uniforms, then have them train with the new recruits, so they don't stand out during the exercises on the spaceport. She also asked him to send one of his undercover people to the Togruta Enclave. To let Shaak know to depart for Mandalore, on the day they run the exercises on the spaceport.

Krillgan and Ludia were taken to Lianna PD Recruitment and Training Center. They were issued standard PD Medic Uniforms. They were also issued a set of training outfits. Both Ludia and Krillgan returned the boots they were issued. Telling them that they preferred to wear their own. The Officer pointed out that they were both wearing brown boots, where the uniform calla for black boots. Krillgan and Ludia promised that they will wear black boots with the uniform. They were not expecting to wear the uniform right away. The PD Officer pointed out that they will still be out of uniform. The Head of Santhe Security told the Officer that for these two recruits, their own boots will be allowed. They will only be participating in the exercises on the spaceport. He reminded the Officer that the Royal Family has requested PD's cooperation on this. The Officer caved-in, and told them were the change rooms and lockers are. He wants them in their training outfits, and ready to be trained in subduing criminals.

Krillgan and Ludia quickly changed, and went out and knelt with the other recruits, in the training room. The Officer thought that because the Royal family sent them, they will be soft. He wanted to put the two in their place. So they knew that being a PD Officer is not easy. He told Ludia to stand up. He held a stick with dye on it. He told Ludia to pretend it is a vibro-blade knife, and asked her to subdue him. Ludia objected. She told him that she might injure him. The Officer told her not to worry about him. He has been teaching this training program for years. Ludia noticed that the Officer was standing with his feet apart. But did not have one slightly forward and the other slightly back. Like in the martial arts, ready stance. She ran at the Officer. At the last moment she fell to her knees, and slide under him. Taking out both his legs at the same time. She also grabbed his legs to stop herself from sliding further. This forced the Officer to fall even faster towards the training room floor. Putting both hands out to break his fall. Only Ludia was already on his back, and knocked both hands out from blocking his fall. So he landed on his face. She had also hooked one of his legs so it was bent at the knee, and pinned under Ludia's body. She grabbed the wrist of the arm holding the stick, and twisted it behind his back. Forcing him to drop the stick.

Ludia asked the Officer, if this was what he wanted her to do? The Officer complained that she broke his nose, and now it is bleeding. Ludia told him that it is a good thing that he has two medics here that can help him. They had him sit up. Krillgan used the force to look at his nose. It was not broken. It was just bleeding. He did tell Ludia to stick two fingers in his nostrils to stabilize the nose. The Officer did not like that, but put up with it. Krillgan then touched his nose. The Officer asked him, what was he doing? He told the Officer that he happens to have an old Kolto medipac. He was just applying some of the ointment using his fingers. The Officer told him that those pacs are expensive. He doesn't have the authorization to use them. Krillgan told him that it is from his own personal supply so he doesn't need authorization. Krillgan told him to let him know when the tingling stops. A short time later the Officer said that it stopped. So Krillgan told Ludia to take her fingers out of his nostrils. The Officer touched his nose. It wasn't bleeding, and it wasn't sore.

Krillgan told the Officer, that he told Ludia not to be concerned about injuring him. Yet the stance he took opened him up to be injured in many ways. Why did he do that?

The Officer did not answer, instead he told them that it is obvious to him that they have previous training. He just wants them to observe everyone else in this class. If someone is injured, they know who to call to set things right.

The Head of Security could hardly wait to report to Madam Santhe, how Ludia bested her PD Training Officer.

On the day of the exercise, the Training Officer had Krillgan and Ludia stand before him in their full uniforms. Except for their boots not being standard issue, he could not find any fault with the way they were dressed. So he assigned them to a unit going to the spaceport.

Today's exercise is the simulation of the aftermath of a Revanite's suicide bomb attack of the Spaceport. PD Medics were to pretend to treat the people pretending to be injured in the attack. Krillgan and Ludia were working on the injured, right next to where the screening for passengers heading to Mandalore Space, was taking place. They were to order the regular PD Officers, in the best way to assist them. The purpose of the exercise was to get PD Officers comfortable working with medics. Krillgan was surprised that a couple of people really were injured, and had to ask them about their real injuries, before working on the fake injuries. Most of the injuries were scrapes and carpet burns. From the victims trying to get in their places, before the PD Officers arrived on the spaceport. One person had a twisted ankle, and one lady was embarrassed to whisper that she had menstrual cramps. Krillgan just told them not to worry. They will deal with the real injuries, before they handle the fake ones.

Shaak saw Krillgan, as he was the only purple alien. But she did not see Ludia, as she truly blended in. They alternated Togruta, Nautolan, as they went through the screening.

What the Imperial Troopers had set up, was that they had four Troopers in full armour, backing up four Troopers in dress uniform, which handled the screening. They were only supposed to check their id, against their id when they boarded the spaceport. So they could determine if they arrived by shuttle to the spaceport, or by freighter. If they arrived by shuttle, then they were only supposed to check that they had a purchased ticket in their name, and let them through. No reason for any touching. If they arrived by freighter. Then they would check for their home planet. If they are from a planet in the Tion Cluster. No further checking was necessary. If they were from outside the Tion Cluster. Then the Troopers had to check the conscription list of that planet. First to verify that they registered for conscription. If they did not register they would be arrested, and sent back to their home planet. It would be up to the area Moff, whether they were volunteered for military service, or just fined and registered. If they were registered, then their name was checked against the list of names drawn for conscription. If their name was there. They were immediately arrested, and everything they had with them seized. They would be taken to a holding cell, to await transport to a Military Training Center. If their name was not on the list. They were required to post a bond, which would be returned to them, when they return to the spaceport. If they could not post a bond, then they were refused entry into the Mandalorian wing. Again there was no reason for any physical contact.

The one Trooper in dress uniform did not hide it from the others that he was reaching to grab one of Shaak's mountains. They though that because she was so elegantly dressed, she would do nothing. But they had never encountered a Togruta before. Shaak grabbed his hand with one of hers. She did a forearm smash on his arm. Breaking a bone, and making him scream. She then gave him a side kick, and was surprised that he went flying like he did. Knocking down both of the Troopers behind him dressed in armour.

At the same time one of the uniforms reached out to grab the Nautolan behind Shaak. She grabbed his hand forcing it to bend down and back at the wrist. Spraining the wrist. She next held his arm with both of her hands, and kicked him in his armpit. Dislocating his shoulder. She then spun around and hit him in the chest with her foot, sending him flying. She was also surprised how hard she kicked him. Because he went flying into the other two armoured Troopers. Knocking them over.

Krillgan, Ludia, and the Unit of PD Officers that were with them, immediately surrounded the woman. Because the two remaining Troopers in uniform, had drawn their blaster pistols. Other PD Officers surrounded the Imperial Troopers and leveled their blaster rifles at the Troopers. Shaak and the Nautolan demanded that the Troopers that tried groping them, be arrested for their actions. Because the two women that complained are Lianna Citizens, and the spaceport is considered part of Lianna, the Lianna PD Officers were forced to comply. Only they did not restrain the two Troopers' wrists in shackles. Because the one had a broken arm, and the other had a sprained wrist and dislocated shoulder. They were both in considerable pain. One of the PD Officers asked Krillgan and Ludia to look at them, and at least give them something for the pain? Krillgan told him that his medikit is as fake as the injuries he is treating. The only thing he can do for pain, is to kick them in the head to knock them out. Krillgan did tell them that they have real kits in the Detention Center. Krillgan suggested that they contact the Center so that they can have some Medics ready to look after them, when they arrive. In the meantime, they were escorting the women to an interview room. So that they can take a copy of their statements.

When Madam Santhe was informed of what happened on the spaceport, she immediately contacted her niece, the Queen, at the palace. Queen Krinta, immediately informed the Palace Secretary to call the Moff, and order him to appear before her.

The Moff had only heard about passengers attacking Imperial Troopers at a check point, and Lianna PD Officers immediately surrounded all Imperial Troopers on the spaceport. They had the people to do it, because they were running that scheduled exercise. It was only when he arrived at the Palace, that he saw the visual evidence that it was his men that instigated the situation. He was also shown the evidence that this was not an isolated incident. He did not like seeing that it was a large number of his Troopers that behaved in this way. It appears to be a regular form of entertainment for the Troopers. The Queen demanded that all Imperial Troopers be removed from her spaceport. The Moff had to grovel before her. Just to keep a token number of Imperial Troopers on the spaceport. In support capacity for Lianna PD, as they are part of the Sith Empire. The Queen countered that both they and the Republic have broken the Treaty of Corusant. Which made them part of the Empire to begin with. She is under considerable pressure from Lianna's nobility, to kick the Sith off of her planet, and declare them neutral. The nobility believes that the Republic would provide a fleet to help them enforce their neutrality, just as the Republic has helped keep Voss neutral. The Moff reminded her of the financial benefits her planet has, by building the Blade Class Sith Starfighters. The Queen responded that they force them to sell the starfighters to them at below the price of an open market. If they were neutral, they could still produce the starfighters for them, but at close to double the cost for a single starfighter. To maintain their neutrality, they would also produce Talon Starfighters for the Republic. The have also heard that the Mandalorians are having trouble producing enough of their starfighters for the Hutts. They have the means to produce their starfighters as well. As they have in the past. The Moff could only grovel, and promise to speak to the Dark Council about further concessions for Lianna. Including what they pay them for every starfighter they make.

When the Moff left the palace, he cursed the Dark Council for placing him in this predicament. He warned them not to increase the number of Imperial Troopers on Lianna's spaceport. To let Lianna PD Officers continue with the screening of all passengers, with Imperial Troopers watching over their shoulders to make sure they do it right. But they insisted that Imperial Troopers do the screening, like they do on all of their spaceports. The Moff could not point out to them that on all their spaceports, the only ones passengers can complain to, are Imperial Troopers. The ones who are abusing them.

The Moff knows that he will also need to follow up on this female Togruta's claim that she was going to Mandalore to check on their fabric supply situation. She heard that a seamstress on one of their planets has excess inventory that she wanted to get rid of.

After Shaak, her companions, and the Nautolans gave their statements. Krillgan told Ludia he was going to Voss. So she would be the only one accompanying the women to the Togruta Enclave.

On the trip down, Shaak asked Ludia if she and Krillgan helped them. Ludia smiled. She told Shaak that Krillgan gave a force push to her assailant, just after she kicked him. To make sure that the two armoured Troopers would go down. Since they looked like they were getting ready to open fire. She gave a force push to the Nautolan's assailant after she kicked him, for the same reason. It turned out that one of the Troopers did discharge his blaster rifle when he was knocked down. But the blaster bolt harmlessly impacted the spaceport's bulkhead.

Krillgan told Grimm, Kran, Elibet, and Dranna, that he was taking his starfighter to Voss. He wanted them to take the Phoenix out to the edge of the system and convert to battlemode. Dranna thought that this was a waste of ship's resources, when he could just as easily depart the planet in the starfighter. Krillgan ignored her. He told Grimm to get a hold of Reighla. "Ask her to send a bolt of nice fabric to the Elegant You Dress Shop on Lianna, attention Shaak Chi. It should be a really nice bolt of fabric, preferably, shimmer silk. Let her know that we are planning on replacing the fabric. Then contact Ulianna at the Andriel and Dreamarra Unity Dress Shop on Eriadu. Grimm will probably need to contact her through the holonet. Ask her to purchase some fabric from the Luptoom mills, and have it shipped to Bill'dit. He will pay for everything. It must all be top end fabric, including some silk. Then contact Bill'dit, so he knows what's coming his way, and approximately how much he will have to fork out. He will be reimbursed, plus a handling fee. When the Phoenix picks it up."

The crew wanted to know what was behind this movement of fabric. Krillgan told them what just happened on the spaceport, and Shaak's reason for going to Mandalore. He wants to be sure that when the Dark Council asks the Mandalorians to investigate. They will find evidence backing what Shaak said. Or it will look like the Lianna Royal family set the whole thing up. Just to get their way.

Dranna was all red in the face for speaking out too soon. She is still learning that Krillgan is not an ordinary Freighter Captain.

Krillgan found the Voss mystic, and group of acolytes expecting him. They served him dinner while they talked. They told him about a Rakata lab on Kashyyyk's surface. It is the mutated creatures that they created that inhabit the surface and lowest levels of the Wroshr Trees on the planet. Which is a big reason why it is so dangerous to go down there. He was told, that even with his Chagrian vision, he will have trouble seeing in the surface darkness. Now there is a Rakata ghost there that is in league with the Emperor. There is no reason for the ghost to be there, except that it wants to be there. There is also a contingent of Imperial Troopers there. Specially trained for capturing Jedi. They reminded him that he is already familiar with their equipment. They believe, that to get the ghost to move on. He must destroy its home. That will also break the alliance it has with the Emperor. The best way for him to do that, is to recruit some of his Wookiee friends on Yitabo. They in turn will help him get on Kashyyyk without the Imperial's knowing. They will also help him organize his own army of Wookiee mercenaries, that will go down to the Rakata lab, and destroy it.

They talked about the Sith ghosts in the valley of the Dark Lords. The Voss believe that it is better to leave them alone. They may be unwitting allies. None of them individually, can stand up to the Sith Emperor. But they have been fighting amongst themselves for millennia. They all know each other's strengths and weaknesses. They will not want the Emperor to upset this balance, or give an opponent and advantage. So they will unite to stand against him. Weakening him in the process. Trying to steal as much power from him as possible, in the process.

Then they talked about the would-be Dark Lord. He built a tomb for himself on Vjun. When he created the Sith Hounds to guard it, they considered him weak, and killed him. The Emperor has a contingent of Imperial Troopers loyal to him guarding that tomb as well. Until he can get out of him, all that he can. That is another place that just needs to be blown up. It has no value to anyone. Not even the Sith. Because he was a wannabe, and the tomb was never completed.

The last place they talked about, was the desert planet Tatooine. The inhabitants, Jawa, and Tusken. There have been a few attempts to colonise it by different factions. All of which failed. Smugglers have tried setting up bases. But whenever they returned, the Jawa had dismantled them, and tried selling back to them the scrap pieces they didn't want, in trade. The biggest trade item for the Jawa, is water. There have been many space battles fought in that system. Because it is near where the Corellien Run intersects the Triellus Trade Route. Whoever controls that system, controls smuggling. As a consequence many ships have crashed on the planet. But the one ship that the Jawa are afraid to approach, and the Tusken ignore. Is an old Sith prisoner transport ship. The people who died inside, are believed to be some of the early experiments that the Sith tried, with real humanoid beings, and the dark force energy. This was long before there was a Sith Emperor. It is believed that the ship really had no destination. It just happened to enter the system, when two pirate factions were fighting. The ship was damaged, and the crew was killed when it crashed. The prisoners died, because the transport became an oven in the sunlight. The Voss do not know what it will take to get the ghosts to leave, and stop flirting with the Emperor. The Emperor tried getting a small fleet of ships to control the system. But the Hutts sent a fleet and destroyed it, because they were afraid it would interfere with their smuggling operations. The Emperor tried setting up a contingent to guard the ship. But each time he did, the Tusken killed them for sport, and the Jawa dismantled the base. Trading what they could, to smugglers.

Krillgan decided that the Tatooine situation will be the last place to look at. As the Voss said, there was no rush. As they have already effectively stopped the Emperor for now. Everything else was to further weaken him. To try and prevent him from getting what he wants in the near future. There is always the chance that in another thousand years, things in the galaxy can change, and the Emperor can get what he wants. The one Krillgan will look at first, is Kashyyyk. That was only because it had an intact Rakata building. It could give them an idea about what to build at the Rakata ruins on Dathomir.

Krillgan did not spend very much time on Voss. Having a nice dinner, some conversation. Then returning to Lianna.

Grimm told Krillgan when he returned, that Reighla had only one bolt of shimmer silk left. She was expecting him to pay her back in a big way. She also said that the clan's leader said that they need the Devaronian Krillgan, but he needs to come as a bounty hunter. Krillgan asked Grimm, if he has all the parts? Grimm told him that he is expecting the last box of parts to arrive in two days. He did say that Madam Santhe's secretary was much better than he was, in tracking them down. Then getting them for a good price. Grimm had Kran introduce Krillgan to the newest members of Phoenix's crew. The Nautolan couple, Wu'la and Ya'rrun. Rasha hired them, and Kran and Elibet have already started training them. Krillgan asked Grimm, if they can get a hold of some target droids for the Nautolans to practice on, until they get a feel for handling the gun turrets. Grimm told him that the cheapest place to get them is in Mandalore Space. They can get them as they pass through.

Krillgan knew that he had a day and a half to spend with his family in the Togruta enclave. He rushed to catch a shuttle, because he did not want to waste any time.

It was Rasha that rushed up to him, and told him all about the midwife's examination. She said that both she and the baby are in good health, and did not foresee any complications. She already scheduled the next visit. Ludia and the children were also happy to see him. Richard told him that he really likes watching the weavers work their looms, and the intricate patterns they produce. One of them is making a cloak for him. He got to draw out the design, and Ta'Yanna colored it. Krillgan asked if it will be ready by tomorrow. They will be leaving right after breakfast on the following day. Richard ran over and talked to a weaver. When he came back, he said that the weaver said that it would be ready. Krillgan was not sure what to think about the material on the weaver's loom. From what he saw, it looked very bright. Just what he expected his little girl to colour. He was just not sure that Richard should be wearing it. Tamrack pulled him aside, and told him that he was bored. He would feel much better being on the ship, but did not want to leave Rasha to be by herself. Krillgan asked him, if he asked Shaak to teach him in Andriel's self-defence techniques? It will be like an advanced course on some of the basic martial arts training he received as a mercenary. Krillgan asked him this, because he knew that he would not be allowed to learn the Togruta style of fighting. Tamrack seemed to cheer up. He told Krillgan that he will ask her right away. Krillgan stopped him, and asked him to ask the elders if he can go hunting with their crews? He told Tamrack that the Togruta are the best rat exterminators on the planet. They get paid for capturing and killing rats. They used the hunting techniques taught on Shili to do so. They might let him come and watch, if he stays out of their way. Tamrack knew that if they are hunting rats, they should be using some of the stealth techniques he learnt as a young mercenary. This might be interesting living here after all.

Shaak started Tamrack's training while they were preparing dinner. It was the pre-dinner entertainment for everyone in the enclave. Even the weavers. Rasha was happy, because she knew that her husband was bored. She thanked Krillgan for the two suggestions. Krillgan told her it was either that, or having Tamrack show all the children how to dismantle a blaster rifle, then reassemble it. Then having him time the children, to see how fast they could do it. Rasha laughed, because she could see her husband doing something like that. Turning all the children into little mercenaries.

After the workout, Shaak told Tamrack, that by the time his baby is born, he will be good enough to join Richard's martial arts class. Richard told him that he would be nice to him the first few classes, until he knew that he was toughened up. Tamrack grabbed Richard and started tickling him. Richard was laughing while he told Tamrack that he was lucky father taught him not to show off. Krillgan told Tamrack that he was really lucky that Richard liked being tickled.

When it was time for Tamrack to practice with Shaak the next day. Richard and Ta'Yanna showed off their new cloaks to Papa. The brightly colored material that Krillgan saw the other day, was for Ta'Yanna's cloak. Richard's was darker. It was a collection of dark greens, blues and purples. It was an intricate pattern. It could also make him invisible in many environments. Krillgan told them that they both looked wonderful. He asked his daughter about the colours in Richard's cloak? Ta'Yanna said that she wanted Richard to be able to hide from the bad people, if they tried coming after him again. He then asked her about her cloak? She just said that they made her feel good. Then she stood beside Richard, and he put his cloak around both of them. Krillgan went down on his knees and hugged them. He told them that he has some very nice, and very smart children.

The next morning the children were proud to wear their cloaks as they walked to the shuttle terminal. Shaak, Shaas, Bandaa, and their daughters walked with them, as they were going to the dress shop. There was a porter droid waiting with a delivery for Shaak at the dress shop. After Shaak signed for it, she said that it was from a dress shop on one of the Mandalore worlds. Krillgan asked her if it was the dress shop she was planning on visiting, before she was assaulted by that Imperial Trooper on the spaceport? Shaak looked at him, then started laughing. She asked him, who he knew over there? Krillgan told her that she is his cousin. His mother's sister's daughter. She also had a chance to study Andriel and Grandmother Emily's designs on Yitabo. She would probably like to see the designs Andriel came up with on Lianna. Shaak took the hint. She will call her and thank her for the material. Then they can see about exchanging designs.

Before departing Lianna, Krillgan made sure that everyone knew their assignments. Kran would be helping Grimm and Dranna make the pirate ship operational. Then they will fly it to a shipyard to get a proper makeover. Everyone was in agreement that the gun turret on the front of the ship had to go. The glass observatory should be restored, and the ship needs to be painted so that it looked like a ship that a school would use. Since Krillgan would be getting off at the next system they stopped in. That left Ludia as both the Captain and pilot of the Phoenix. Elibet will be the acting Engineer, while training Wu'la and Ya'rrun. After dropping Dranna, Grimm, and Kran, off on Myrkr. She was to head to Bill'dit's world and pick up the fabric. From there, she would return to the world where Krillgan will be acting as a bounty hunter.

After jumping to hyperspace, Krillgan asked Dranna for a sketch of the pirate ship, without the front gun turret. He gave it to Richard and Ta'Yanna, to come up with a color pattern for the ship. Reminding them that it is for Grandmother Amblin-Elu's school, where their sister Lydna is a student. He was curious as to what they would come up with. Since they did such a wonderful job on their cloaks. They returned with the sketch coloured. It had a berry blue for the top and front part of the ship. Berry purple for the back and bottom part of the ship. The two colours were separated by a bright red ribbon. The ribbon started up top. Behind the top gun turret. Then swept down towards the forward landing gear compartment. Everyone on the ship loved it, and wanted to know how they came up with it? They told the adults, that grandmother showed them the beautiful robe that she wears for special ceremonies. So they took the berry blue and berry purple from the colours of the robe. Then they imagined what it would look like with a sash. Ta'Yanna thought that a red sash would look nicer than a white sash. So they coloured it red. Krillgan handed the sketch to Grimm, letting him know that this will be the paint scheme for the ship.

It has been a long time since Krillgan wore the bounty hunter's armour as Death Hand. Kran helped him make the adjustments. Then made Krillgan promise not to get a scratch on it. Krillgan only promised that he will do what he can. Krillgan left his other suit and sword in the back section of his Starfighter. He also took Rasha's blaster rifle, with the missile launcher. As well as a backpack with some backup missiles. Kran had to explain the different missiles to him. So he did not blow something up, when all he wanted to do was generate smoke. He had his modified blaster pistol on his hip. He hid a lightsaber in a compartment in the suit, just in case. He also had the Dathomirite daggers in his boots. As a bounty hunter in Mandalore space. He did not look impressive. Not having the obvious custom equipment that other experienced bounty hunters had. Even though in the rest of the galaxy, he would be easily recognised as a bounty hunter.

When he landed on the planet, everyone knew that he was not flying a Davaab Starfighter. But a custom starfighter made to look like a Davaab Starfighter. Even though they were not impressed with his armour. They were very intrigued by his ship. Even more so, when he mentioned that he had a prototype astrometric droid, to input the figures for his hyperspace drive. As he left his starfighter, people at the spaceport started stacking packing crates near his ship. So that they could climb up high enough to look inside his cockpit.

When he went to register his ship and himself, he did not present any id. He just told them that he is Death Hand. He is here because of a contract with the Devaronian community. They told him his parking fee. He paid and left. The leader of the Devaronian community was waiting for him just outside.

She has met Krillgan in person, when he is wearing his leather outfit. But she was not sure this was him, until she heard his voice mention her name, Brammena. Brammena had a vehicle waiting for them. It was a delivery truck. They both climbed into the cab, and the droid driver was told where to take them. She then proceeded to describe the situation, of living on a Mandalorian planet. Every planet is under martial law. It is policed by the troops in the garrison. The Garrison Commander, is also the planet's governor. The only one who has more authority, is a bounty hunter under contract. But anyone's position can be challenged. The Garrison Commander of this planet has a right hand man, his Lieutenant. He keeps everyone in line for him. Before you can challenge the Garrison Commander you first have to beat his lieutenant. If the Governor does not like a bounty hunter, he can expect a challenge from this lieutenant.

Brammena explained this to Krillgan so that he could understand where he fit in. Why he had to come as a bounty hunter. Rather than a Devaronian Krillgan. She told him that as a force user, no one would cooperate with him. He would expect the Mandalorians' best, to come after him with disruptors, to take him down.

Then Brammena told him why she wanted him to come. Prostitutes have been raped and murdered. Women from other communities have gone missing. So far the Devaronian community has not lost anyone. But all the women on the planet are scared. There are also rumours that the investigation is being interfered with. Evidence has gone missing or been destroyed. She gave him the names of the senior troops assigned to this case, as investigators. She told him where the prostitutes hang out. She also told him the names of contacts in the communities where women have gone missing.

Krillgan asked her, if anyone keeps any canine creatures on this planet? Krillgan wished he had Rudy to help him.

Brammena told him that some businessmen from other communities keep canine creatures to guard their warehouses at night. They claim they are better than security droids. Only more expensive to maintain, since they need to be fed every day.

Krillgan asked her, if there is a time of day, when the women go missing? Brammena told him that it all happens after sunset. Krillgan guessed that the sun should be setting in just over an hour. He told her that he will need a quick bite to eat, then he will be going out. He will also needs to know where he can crash when he comes back.

Brammena had a guest bedroom in her home. Her business was in a different section of the city, then her home. Hers was the top floor apartment in a five story building. All the families in the building are Devaronian, and the building itself is owned by the clan. Krillgan checked the apartment over very carefully. To see if he could enter or leave undetected. The building was too high for him to be able to jump to the roof, and none of the apartments had balconies. Krillgan asked, what are they supposed to do if there is a fire? She led him to the end of the hall where there is a door marked Fire Exit. She told him that when you open the door a slide inflates, and you slide to the ground. Krillgan decided that for now, he will enter and leave the building like everyone else.

The Garrison Commander left the file open on his computer, so that his Lieutenant could see all the information he has on the bounty hunter that arrived earlier that day. His handle is Death Hand. They know he did some work in Sith Space, where he bullied a Base Commander into getting his way. He is said to have special equipment for his assignments. He sponsored a new Bounty Hunter on Mandalore, who has done well in the arena. They have also received some good contracts, and have a decent following. They were also able to get a hanger and warehouse at the spaceport. Something that only seasoned bounty hunters are able to arrange. No one was impressed with his outfit. But everyone at the spaceport is talking about his starfighter. It is custom built, which means he has credits. The retrofitted Davaab Starfighters have two laser cannons. His has four, making it the equivalent of a gunship. His starfighter also has a new version of a hyperspace drive. He also has an astrometric droid in his back seat. People have also spotted more equipment behind the back seat. But no one can figure out what type of equipment he has there. But he has the room to carry a lot.

The Lieutenant asked the Governor, what should he do? The Governor told him that for starters, he should curb his appetite. They don't know why the Devaronians hired him. They know nothing about him as a fighter. He just has a feeling in his gut. That he is here to hunt him down. The Lieutenant told the Governor that he is not afraid of a bounty hunter. He has already killed a couple. The Governor reminded him that they were only upstart bounty hunters. What they have here is one with experience. Someone who has not needed to prove themselves in the arena. Which means that he has proven himself somewhere else. Possibly as a mercenary, or a special-forces operative.

After dinner, Krillgan went out to get a feel for this city. Fortunately for him, most of the buildings were only one or two stories high, so he would have no trouble getting around. It was only apartment buildings that were built higher. It wasn't long before he noticed that there were two sides to the city. A day side, and a night side. The businesses that were on the day side were all locked up securely. You would need some heavy duty equipment to force your way in. Or a good force sword. He went to the warehouse district and saw that there were a number of businesses with canine protection. As soon as they detected his scent, they started barking. There were only a few that were enclosed with either a fence or a wall, making them a compound. The canine species that were in a compound, were outside the warehouse. Krillgan tried connecting with every canine that he saw. Seeing if he could make a force connection with them, and communicate. Only one canine stopped barking and looked at him. It did not talk with him, but it did study him. Krillgan wondered if it could not talk. Just like some people were born deaf or dumb. Krillgan made note of the compound. As long as the canine could hear him, he will try to use him. One thing he was sure of, was a murderer would not bring their victim through the warehouse district. Too many noisy canines. A murderer will stick to areas, where he would not be easily detected.

On the night side of the city, were cantinas and dance clubs, all around fight venues. It seems that men could vent their energy, or try to empress a young lady, by challenging someone else to a bare fisted fight. When that happened most people would storm out of the cantinas and dance clubs, to watch the fight. People would place bets with each other. There were no obvious organised gambling venues. It turned out that the gambling was another source of fights. As some people did not honour their bets. When a fight broke out, the people around them would force them into the arena, so that everyone could watch. After the fight was over, everyone went back to what they were doing before, until the next fight broke out.

Krillgan found the prostitutes, and studied them for a while. Some of them where smoking deathsticks. So he knew that this was their addiction. The person guarding them was a Besalisk. Krillgan noticed that the young ladies were extremely nervous when someone would approach them. They made sure that a couple of other girls had a good look at the customer's face, before they went off with them. The other girls showed even more nervous energy, until their friend came back. Then they all seemed to relax. Apparently there were regulars, because none of the girls reacted in a bad way when they showed up, and they had no second thoughts when leaving with them.

Krillgan made no attempt to ease their nervousness when he approached them, to talk with them. He made himself appear small. So from their point of view, he suddenly appeared in their midst, in full armour. Most of the girls jumped. Some screamed, which caused the Besalisk to come running. Krillgan told the Besalisk to return to his post. He will talk to him later. Krillgan pointed to two of the prostitutes to come with him. He told them were they would stand and talk. It was a lit area, were the other girls could see them. But it was far enough away, that they would not be overheard. Krillgan spoke to two of them at a time, so that they would draw strength from one another, and hopefully open up to him.

Some of the girls would ask him, how sensitive are the sensors on his helmet? He told them that if they are wondering if they are pregnant, they are not. He found out that before the murders, they were more spread out. The place where they are standing and talking was one of the places that they used to stand. But now they are all afraid, so they stand closer together. They admitted that some of their clients would hurt them when they had sex. But the Besalisk would never hurt them. If they thought that a customer was too rough. They would let the Besalisk know. So that he would talk to them the next time they approached. There are a couple he has turned away, and pointed them out to the Troopers. If they want to hurt someone, they should do it in the arenas. Krillgan asked them, if there was anyone in particular that liked to hurt them? None of the girls answered, some were afraid. So Krillgan knew that there was at least one. Krillgan felt that for his first night of investigation, he did not have to push them. He was sure that eventually they would tell him.

When Krillgan talked to the Besalisk. He told Krillgan that when the girls complained, he let the Troops on patrol know. So that they made sure that this person either challenged someone to a fight that night, or was himself challenged. Even if one of the Troops felt they had to do it. Krillgan asked if there was someone the Troops would not challenge. Someone the Troops knew they would lose to, if challenged. The Besalisk did not answer. Krillgan just told him that he will be back, and he will tell him everything.

Krillgan then went hunting for a couple of garrison Troops on patrol. He wanted to talk to them, next. When he found them, he made note of where they were going, and ran ahead of them, over the rooftops. He jumped down into an alley, then stood at the mouth of the alley, leaning against one wall, and waited. When they walked by, he called out to them, saying that he wanted to talk with them. Both Troops jumped and spun around. They told him not to sneak up on them like that. Krillgan told him that he did not sneak up on them. He waited for them to come up to him. But when they did not acknowledge him, he spoke up. They apologised that they did not see him. Krillgan told them that it is all right. Being a bounty hunter, he should take it as a compliment. Because quite often, one does not want to be seen. The two Troops felt better after that. Since they are on patrol, they are supposed to be alert to what is around them.

Krillgan asked the Troops, if they can explain the whole garrison thing to him? He was not born or raised on a Mandalore planet. So is not aware as to how it works. They told him that to get ahead you have to fight for the position that you want. Krillgan asked them, why they did not become bounty hunters if you have to fight anyway? They told him that good armour, and any type of ship, costs money. They do not come from families that have that type of wealth. So the best that they can do, once they have started advancing through the garrison, is to get permission to start competing in the gladiator arenas. Hopefully someone will notice them, and agree to sponsor them. Or maybe a bounty hunter that is starting to move up in the rankings might decide that they do not want to fly solo, and take them on. They told Krillgan about this bounty hunter who is relatively new, but has two assistants decked out in full armour, for when he takes on a contract. Other bounty hunters have noticed, because he does quite well in the arena, as well.

Krillgan asked, if the people who investigate crimes, also have to fight to get to that position? They told him that they do. But they also have to prove that they have the brains for the job. So the guy they just defeated, also becomes their instructor and examiner. If he tells the Garrison Commander that he does not have the head for the position. Then he goes back to what he was before. But now he can no longer challenge for that position. If he wants to challenge in the garrison. He has to challenge for something else.

Krillgan asks them what happens if the guy he beat was a jerk, and just said that, to get back at the guy. The Troops told him that this is something very serious. If the Troop thinks that the guy lied about his abilities, then that can result in a death challenge. The only way to prevent a death challenge, is if someone else in the office backs him up. So it becomes two against one. Or if the Garrison Commander has his Lieutenant take the investigator's place.

Krillgan asked them about the Lieutenant. Does he have the brains to be an investigator? The Troops told him that the Lieutenant is not all there, in his head. He is only there, because he protects the Garrison Commander's position. No one in the garrison wants to cross him. Because he likes to hurt people. The last few fights he has been in, the Garrison Commander has had to step in and stop them, or he would have killed the person he was fighting.

Krillgan asked them, why the Lieutenant doesn't challenge for Garrison Commander? They told him that their Lieutenant does whatever the Commander asks of him. He is very loyal. If he did challenge for Garrison Commander, he would have to go to Mandalore, to have his position ratified. As soon as they saw that he has a weak mind, he would be killed, and they would send someone else to take over the garrison. Krillgan told them that he understands that the relationship between Lieutenant and Garrison Commander is unusual? They told him that it is. Usually the Lieutenant is supposed to train to replace the Commander. So if he challenges for a position in the government on Mandalor. The Lieutenant can take over, after being ratified. So it seems that their Garrison Commander, and their Lieutenant, prefer to stay where they are. It slows down everyone's chances for promotion. Unless someone can become a bounty hunter.

Krillgan then asked them what they thought of the two investigators assigned to the murder investigations. The Troops both said that they are both good investigators. Everyone is surprised by how long they have been together. A lot of people in the garrison thought they should already have been split up, so that others could challenge for investigator.

Krillgan thought he had collected enough data for his first night. He was expecting the sun to come up in a few hours. So he went back to Brammena's apartment building and used the card and code to get in. At her apartment, he only had to use the card to open her door. If he had tried to go in someone else's apartment. Then the apartment's computer would have reset. Requiring both card and code to open the door.

Krillgan slept until noon, before waking up. Brammena was already at her business establishment. So he had a quick bite to eat, and went and found the two investigators. He asked them how their investigation was going. They told him that it wasn't going anywhere. They have no solid clues. Krillgan told them that he heard that the murdered women were raped before they were killed. So there should be fluid from the murderer in the victims. They can just send it away to be analysed. They told him that they tried. But the Garrison Commander told them that they don't have the funds in the budget for that. The leaders from the different communities offered to pool their resources to pay for it. But when they went to the evidence storage room. They found that someone had stored it improperly, and now it is contaminated. Everyone with access to the evidence room, denies tampering with the murder evidence.

Krillgan asked them, how the victims died? They told him that they were both beaten to death. Krillgan then asked them, how many women are still missing. They told him who was still missing, and the communities they are from. Krillgan asked them, if they find another body, will they have the tests done? They told him that if the body is in good condition, and there is a good sample, they do not need the Garrison Commander's permission to send it to Mandalore for analysis.

Krillgan then went to the community where the latest woman is missing from. He asked them about the young lady? They told him that she was supposed to meet up with some friends at the dance club, but never showed up. She loves dancing, so when she came home from work she hardly had a bite to eat before getting ready to go out. The parents showed him their daughter's bedroom. Krillgan saw that the daughter's work clothes were where she threw them. The parents both said that they have not touched her room, because they are hoping that she will show up. Krillgan told them that he will be back shortly. Not to touch anything.

It was a good thing that there were few people on the street. The ones that were, paid him no attention. As he ran to the warehouse complex where the canine stopped barking, when he touched it. He asked the guy in charge if he could borrow one of his canines. The guy was afraid to tell him that you cannot say no to a bounty hunter. Krillgan pointed out the canine he was interested in. When the man brought it out. Krillgan slipped him a couple of credits. The man was surprised, but took them. He started to like this Bounty Hunter the Deveron community hired. He was also surprised that the canine looked at the Bounty Hunter as its master. He wonders if the Bounty Hunter might also be a beastmaster. He did not pay attention that the two of them ran off faster than what was considered normal.

Krillgan told the canine to stay. Even gesturing with his hand. He was happy when it sat down and looked at him. Krillgan went into the apartment, and picked up the woman's work clothes and came out. He told the canine, to find. The canine took a whiff of the clothes, and went off running. Krillgan went running after the canine, and the lady's father went running after the bounty hunter. They started approaching the area where the night's entertainment takes place, when the canine stopped at the mouth of an alley, and growled. It did not like the other scent it picked up. The canine then ran into the alley. Krillgan and the father followed the canine through the maze. Not once did it falter. It did stop at one dead end, and growled again. It sniffed around in a circle, then proceeded to follow the scent again. They came to the edge of the city, and the canine started digging in the dirt. It was not long before the front paws hit fabric. Krillgan told the canine to stop and wait. The canine just sat and looked at him. The father fell down on his knees, and started pushing dirt away from the fabric. Showing that there was a body. Krillgan put his hand on the father's shoulder, and told him that he was going to get the investigators. Krillgan again instructed the canine to stay, and ran off. He happened to run past a butcher shop, and stopped. He knew that he needed to reward the canine. So he went inside and asked if they had any internal organs, like liver, heart, or kidneys? The butcher told him that hardly anyone buys kidneys, so he gave him a good deal on a pair. Krillgan found the investigators, and told them that he has found a body. The investigators jumped up to follow him, and called a couple of Troops to come with them. Krillgan had to keep reminding himself to slow down. They cannot run as fast as he can. By the time they reached the body. The father had pushed the dirt away from part of the torso, having worked his way to the face. He was just kneeling there crying, with one hand on the woman's face. He told them when they approached, that this is his daughter. Even though her face was disfigured. He thanked the Bounty Hunter for finding her. One of the investigators was about to ask him how he did it? When he saw the Bounty Hunter step away and put a package on the ground. Then call the canine over. The canine devoured the two kidneys in no time, than looked up at Krillgan. Krillgan told the canine it is a good boy, than scratched it behind the ears as he did Rudy. The canine responded by wagging its tail, and looking up at him. The investigator decided it wasn't worth correcting the Bounty Hunter, by pointing out that it is a female. He did ask, where did he find the canine? Krillgan told him that he borrowed it from one of the warehouse complexes. The investigator told him that those canines are not trained for anything, but to attack strangers. Krillgan told the investigator that this one responded to him. So he felt it was worth the risk. The investigator asked if she can find another body. There are still a couple of hours of daylight left. Krillgan quickly looked between the hind legs. It was a good thing he had a helmet on, and they could not see how embarrassed he felt. He handed the lady's work clothes to the father. Then followed the investigator to the closest community, with a woman missing.

This time it was a young mother. She had just laid the child down for the night. Her teenage sister had come over to babysit. She was going to meet her husband at the dance club, when she went missing. The husband handed the Bounty Hunter a piece of his wife's unwashed clothing. The Bounty Hunter took it outside so that the canine could sniff it. Then the canine ran off.

Again they headed for the entertainment section of the city. But before they reached it the canine growled at the same mouth of the alley and ran in. They ran to the same dead end alley. Krillgan told the investigator that this is where he believes the murders actually took place. Again the canine had to require the scent. Tracking it to another alley at the edge of the city. Not that far away from the other body, the canine started digging, and unearthed some fabric. The investigator went to use his wrist communicator to call for more Troops, but Krillgan stopped him. He told him not to use his communication equipment. The wrong person might hear. The investigator nodded, and ran to where the other body was found, and sent one of the Troops back to get more help, and to let the doctor know, they are bringing in two bodies. When he returned. Krillgan told him that he should return the canine for her nightshift, and he and the canine ran off.

Krillgan did take it back to the butcher shop. Getting there just as they were closing. The butcher did go back in and sliced off a piece of liver. He threw it towards the canine because he assumed that this was who it was for. The canine jumped up and grabbed it in the air with her mouth, and gobbled it down. He tried to wave the Bounty Hunter off from paying him. But the Bounty Hunter insisted. So he took some credits and waved as they ran off. His only thought. What a strange Bounty Hunter.

The man in charge of the warehouse was surprised when the Bounty Hunter and his canine returned. Krillgan told the man what he fed the canine to thank her for her help. He also told him that if he needs her again, he'll be back. The man had to call the owner back. To let him know that Bounty Hunter returned the canine, and had even fed it. So he does not have to look for a replacement.

When Krillgan entered Brammena's apartment, she had just sat down to dinner. She got up and set a place for Krillgan. She apologised, telling him that she did not know if he would be returning for dinner. Krillgan changed out of his armour to give it a chance to air out. He told Brammena that he was helping the investigators today. They found the buried bodies of two of the missing women. Brammena did not want to talk about that as dinner conversation. So she told Krillgan that Reighla received his mother's dress designs, while she was living on Lianna. She really likes his mother's work. It helps inspire her. Krillgan told her that it is important that she tell the clan, not to use his mother's name. Or to even hint that they are related to her. "There is still a huge bounty on her head, and many bounty hunters dream of collecting it." Krillgan told her about the trouble that the women of the One Clan had on Eriadu. When a couple of bounty hunters tried to kidnap them. They were only able to escape them because of their self-defence training. Then they reported the incident to the local Base Commander, who drove the bounty hunters off the planet. Promising them, that if they do ever return, he will have them charged for kidnapping, then executed. Krillgan reminded her that they have nothing to protect them from bounty hunters. He then asked her about their self-defence training. She showed him the move all Devaronian women are taught. Krillgan told her that this is not enough. He suggested that one of them go to Lianna, where his Togruta friends can train them. He reminded her that it has to be someone clan born. Not one of the women from Deysum III. Someone who can come back and instruct them all in self-defence.

Brammena told him that she will call a clan meeting for the following night. So that everyone is aware of the situation.

Krillgan told her that he will be out late again that evening, so will probably not see her again until dinner time. Krillgan wanted to keep an eye on the garrison. He wanted to follow the Lieutenant if he came out of the garrison. When a light rain started falling in the middle of the night. He knew that it was safe to head to the apartment. The rain will force the prey inside, so the predator will also stay in its den.

When Krillgan woke up at noon, he went to find the investigators. The rain was coming down even harder than last night. But it did not bother Krillgan, because his armour was sealed. The garrison Troops were not as fortunate. They wore duraplast armour just like Imperial Troopers did. Only the garrison armour was grey, not black. So the rain could still hit them in the face. If they also moved their heads the wrong way, they could get a stream of cold rainwater, streaming down their backs. So they did not like doing their patrols in this weather.

Krillgan asked the investigators about their findings concerning the two bodies. The investigators told Krillgan that only one of the women was raped. But they were both beaten to death. So sex is not the primary driving force. The one investigator told them that the doctor found a good, uncompromised, semen sample in the woman that was raped. He personally delivered it to their courier pilot, along with the funds for the tests. He marked that the results need to be sent to Death Hand, c/o the Devaronian Clan. He thought that this would be the best way to safeguard the results.

Krillgan found the prostitutes trying to take what shelter they could from the rain. Yet still trying to make themselves available on the street, in case a customer came around. They were not doing a good job of keeping dry, and they were all shivering. So he went out and found an old tarp, and brought it out to them. This way they could all huddle together under the tarp. The Besalisk found a way to fasten the four corners so that the back of the tarp was slightly below the front. They were still visible to anyone coming by, but they were together and able to keep each other warm from their shared body heat. The Besalisk also stood with them. Because it was better than the doorway he was using.

While the Lieutenant was eating dinner with the Garrison Commander. He saw that his brother was very angry. He asked his brother, what was wrong? His brother told him that the Investigators found two of the women he had buried. One of them had a good semen sample inside. The Lieutenant told his brother not to worry. In the middle of the night, he will sneak into the evidence room and contaminate the sample. Just like he did with the other samples. The Commander told his brother that it will not work this time. One of the investigators took the sample, along with some credits, to the government courier at the spaceport. The Lieutenant told his brother that when the report on the tests returns from Mandalore, he will make it disappear. The Commander told him that the report will not be coming to the garrison. One of his people overheard the investigator tell the courier, that the report is to go to the Bounty Hunter that the Devaronians hired. The one called Death Hand. The Lieutenant stood up, and the Commander asked him where he was going? The Lieutenant told him that he was going to kill the two investigators, for disrespecting him, and not following the chain of command. The Commander told his brother to sit down. If he kills the investigators. That is all the excuse the Bounty Hunter needs to kill him. He would not even need to utter a challenge.

The Lieutenant sat down and tried thinking. Something that does not come naturally to him. He asked his brother if he could send another courier and order that the test be cancelled, or that all the results should be sent to him? The Commander told him that it is not that simple. On this planet he is a god. Everyone is supposed to serve him and obey him. On Mandalore he is nothing. His word does not mean anything. All that it will do is attract the attention of people in the government. Quite possibly causing the Auditor General to come to their planet. Neither one of them is good enough to challenge the Auditor General. They would both be killed.

The other problem that they will have to deal with, is that this report will identify him as the one who beat that woman to death. Because he is a garrison member, a copy of the report will be sent to the government on Mandalore. They will have to send someone to investigate. Hopefully someone not as powerful as the Auditor General.

The Lieutenant mumbled, if he is god, then why didn't the people obey him? Why can't he go and punish them? The Commander heard him. He told his brother that the Devaronians summoned a more powerful god. That all his unbelievers have flocked to, and now serve. The good thing is that now he knows better, who the true believers are. The first thing they need to do, is to get rid of this other god. Then they can round up all those that served him. They will have to hide them in a place that is away from the garrison. That way when he gets his urges, he can beat one to death from time-to-time. They will also need to take some women hostages, from all the communities. Especially the Devaronian community. They can keep them in the garrison dungeons for them to enjoy whenever they want. Then when the investigator from Mandalore comes, he will find a smaller garrison, full of loyal Troops. They can claim that the semen sample did not come from a dead woman. But a living prostitute. That the Bounty Hunter teamed up with the investigators to try and move him out of the way. Since no one in the garrison is strong enough to challenge him. The Commander warned his brother not to do anything. Especially not to give in to his urges, until he has everything in place. Because if he does, he can ruin everything. Everything takes timing. He told his brother that after dinner they need to check everything in the armoury. They especially need to check how many disruptors they have, and to make sure they are all in operating order.

After dinner, Krillgan followed Brammena at a discrete distance, as she went to their community hall for the meeting. Krillgan wanted to make sure that no none Devaronian were present. Also if they had questions that Brammena could not answer. He would have to answer them for her. What was good, was that many of the Devaronian women did not know who he was. They just saw a Bounty Hunter. So they crowded closer to Brammena. One of them did ask her, if they should be discussing this in front of a Bounty Hunter? She told everyone that the person dressed like a Bounty Hunter is the Devaronian Krillgan they have recently heard about. It was decided that it was best if he came to them disguised as a Bounty Hunter. So that he would get the cooperation from the garrison he needs. So he can help them.

It turned out that Krillgan was not needed after all. So he left right after the meeting. There was still a light drizzle. So no one went out. Not even the Lieutenant. He returned to the apartment earlier than on previous nights. Just after all the rain stopped.

It was still almost noon when Krillgan woke up. When he met with the investigators, they secretly warned him that the Commander knows. Both he and the Lieutenant spent the evening doing an inventory of the armoury. Someone also said that disruptors were fired in the weapons test room, in the early hours of the morning. So the Commander is up to something. They also asked him, if he can do that thing with the canine, and find the last three bodies? Krillgan told them that he believes that the rain washed the scent away. So the canine could not track the bodies down. Because of how disappointed they looked. He told them that he can try.

Krillgan went back to the warehouse compound. What was unusual, was instead of barking, all the canines whined with excitement. Hoping that he would choose one of them. He picked the same one he used last time. Leaving a few credits with the man in charge. They ran to the community where the investigators were waiting for him. Krillgan went into the missing woman's apartment, and found a garment she had worn recently. When the canine sniffed it, it started looking for a scent trail right away. Going in circles, and figure eights. She came back and sniffed the clothing once again, then started going in larger circles. The only place it found the scent was in the entrance way to the apartment. Krillgan had to keep telling her, not in there. Finally she came to Krillgan with her tail between her legs. She could not find anything.

The investigators commented that it looked like the rain got rid of all the evidence. They will never find the three bodies now. Krillgan told them that they have to use what the rain has revealed to them. They asked him to explain. He told them that when you disturb dirt, like when you bury something. The disturbed dirt is not as compacted as the dirt around it. So when it rains the dirt becomes more compacted. Leaving a slight hollow, or depression. They need to examine the ground around where the first murder victims were found, and the two bodies were discovered. If they find a depression, they need to mark it, and have someone from the garrison guard it. Until they can come back and dig there, to see if anything was buried. They will need volunteers to help them search. All the people from the community that had come out to watch the canine run around, said that they will help search. The investigators took his word about the dirt settling, since they were all city boys. They suspected that the bounty hunter is a country boy.

Krillgan told them he was returning the canine, but would meet them there. He took the canine to the butcher shop. She became excited, because she knew this place. Krillgan went and got a good size bone from the butcher. The butcher did not charge him for it. Because he claimed that he would just throw it away. Krillgan believed that it was from the front leg of the animal the butcher had cut up. The canine took the bone in her mouth, and followed Krillgan back to the warehouse complex. Anyone following them, would have seen some drool drip out of the canine's mouth from time to time, as they made their way back.

Before entering the common kennel. She growled at the other canines, forcing them back from the entrance way. She let them know that she was not sharing. In the kennel, she settled in a corner with the bone between her front paws, while she started chewing on one end. Before leaving, Krillgan heard the crunch of the bone breaking. She definitely has good jaws. Now she can taste the marrow that she was after.

By midafternoon they found five depressions. Three of a similar size. One slightly smaller, then one smaller than that. They started excavating one of the largest, as well as the mid-sized one. The found a body in the largest, which had everyone excited. The Bounty Hunter's advice was paying off. They had to dig deeper in the mid-sized depression, than they did in the other depression. When they hit cloth, they thought maybe they found another body. But it turned out to be a sack. When they pulled it out and opened it, it looked like they had found treasure. One of the Troops was sent to go get the robbery investigators. This looked like something they need to look at.

The other two large depressions contained the bodies of the last two missing women. The small depression contained children's toys. The robbery investigators found a few more sacks in the mid-sized depression. The investigators thought that the thief or thieves, were trying to arrange to get the stolen items off the planet. Since no one on the planet would touch them, with the investigators breathing down their neck. They did ask the volunteers if they could check the area for more depressions. What they have recovered so far, did not cover all the items they have listed in their records.

Krillgan left the people, while they helped the robbery investigators. He was there about the murders. It was also getting later in the day. He did not want to be late for dinner again.

All he told Brammena was that all the missing women have been recovered. What she wanted to hear about, was the canine that he has been seen running around the city with. Krillgan told her, that when he arrived, he checked out the warehouse district because she had told him that some businessmen use canines to help protect their warehouses. Some had the canines in their warehouses. He could hear them barking, but could not see if he connected with them, like he can with the Quarra. The places where they have warehouse complexes. They let their canines run around outside the warehouses in their enclosure. He found one canine that stopped barking when he touched it with the force. It looked at him, like it was studying him. He felt confident that the canine would not attack him, but would obey him. So he borrowed it, and had it track down the first two bodies. He told Brammena that he made sure to reward it, every time it did what it was told to do. It was one of the investigators that pointed out it was female, when he called it a good boy. Brammena asked him, if he can communicate with the creatures on the Phoenix? She heard stories about how terrified the women were, when they first boarded the Phoenix, to have him smuggle them off of Deysum III. But then they saw his children playing with them. In no time all the children were playing with them, so they relaxed some, until they saw them again. Krillgan laughed, and told her that he can communicate with them. It is easier than communicating with the Quarra. He then told her how a Vornskr puppy capture the heart of a crusty Zabrack, by hitting him in the ankle with his tail, when he did not give the puppy the attention it thought it deserved. They always knew there was a run-in, when the Zabrack would be seen limping around the ship. Brammena laughed, and told him that she wishes she could have experienced some of the things he has. Krillgan told her that he wishes they were all good memories. Like what he just shared. He has also experienced his share of sorrow.

Krillgan went out again that evening. That evening, like the next few evenings, the Lieutenant stayed inside the garrison. Krillgan found out from the investigators that only one of the three women had been raped. All three had been beaten to death.

Krillgan decided that it was time to talk with the Besalisk. He came out and asked if the person he is afraid of, is the Lieutenant. The Besalisk said yes. Krillgan pushed him, and asked about his meeting with the Garrison Commander. The Besalisk looked at Krillgan with amazement. Krillgan told him that he can tell that he cares about the girls. So when they complained to him about how the Lieutenant treated them. He knew that he could not talk to the Lieutenant, so he must have talked to the Garrison Commander. The Besalisk admitted that he did. He reminded the Commander, that his boss runs similar operations on all the Mandalore worlds. So he is well connected. When he hears about how the Lieutenant is abusing his property, he will not hesitate to hire a bounty hunter, and have him taken out. The Garrison Commander promised him that he will look after it. Krillgan asked him, if this was before or after the murders started? The Besalisk told him that it was before. Krillgan told him that the Lieutenant probably decided to punish him and the girls. When the girl told the Lieutenant that she would not keep quiet about what he did to her. He probably became angry and beat her to death. Leaving the body where it was discovered. He found out that he really enjoyed the experience. So he took one of the other girls, and did the same thing to her. Only this time he wanted to kill her after having sex. When the Garrison Commander found out about what he had done, he probably tore a strip off of him with his tongue. This is why he went after the other women, instead of continuing to go after his girls. Only now he buried the bodies to cover up what he has done.

The Besalisk asked the bounty hunter, if he was going to go after the Lieutenant? Krillgan told him that all he has so far is speculation. He has no proof. As soon as the proof arrives, the Lieutenant is dead. The Besalisk told the bounty hunter that he will call him if the Lieutenant hurts one of his girls again. He was sure that his boss would pay him a small bounty.

Krillgan felt the need to bleed off some Kolto. He bought a glass jar at the market. He asked Brammena if this clan has the tradition of giving a small vial of Kolto to a bride for her wedding night. Brammena told him that they had stopped doing that for years. When it became impossible to get their hands on Kolto, after the stupid Sith bombed Manaan. Krillgan told her to go get about a dozen of the small empty vials, and bring them to him. Brammena did as she was told, out of curiosity. She was surprised when Krillgan produced a glass jar, then proceeded to fill the vials, and gave them back to her. He told her that he thinks it is a good custom. Brammena refused to take them. She told him that there must be at least three thousand credits worth of Kolto in the vials. The clan has done nothing to earn them. Krillgan suggested that she go talk to Reighla. She will enlighten her as to what this Kolto cost him.

Brammena went straight to Reighla's apartment, and told her that her cousin just tried giving her three thousand credits worth of Kolto. Reighla told her that her grandmother told her that the Kolto is inside Krillgan. That is why he is an exceptional healer. But sometimes he has too much of it in him, and has to get it out. Somehow he can force it out of the tips of his fingers. He filled up grandmother's vial that way. Then he filled up his mother's vial. Her mother let her have it for her wedding night. She gave it back to her empty. But after the next time Krillgan visited them again. Her mother showed her that it is full. Grandmother told her that it does not cost anything to Krillgan to give it. So he asks for nothing in return. He is not violating any Devaronian understanding, of payment for service or product. From his perspective it is a waste product that he must get rid of. If others benefit from it, he is not opposed. Then she asked Brammena, if she received a small vial for her wedding night? Brammena blushed and said yes. Reighla asked her, if she paid anything for it? Brammena told her that she did not. It was a gift from her mother. Reighla told her that what Krillgan is giving her, is a gift from him for the clan.

Brammena returned and thanked Krillgan for the vials. She told him that she is not often schooled by a younger lady. But today she was. Krillgan told her that she needs to now buy six larger vials. The type used in medi-packs. He also gave her a list of herbs and plants he wants her to buy from the market. The vials will contain a kolto solution that can be used for healing injuries. Brammena told him that she is familiar with medi-packs. It is one thing they are taught in school. So that they are ready to help, if a war breaks out. She asked Krillgan, why he was doing this? Krillgan told her that he needs to. It is a sign that he is being well fed.

Krillgan was expecting the report from Mandalor to arrive any day. So far the Lieutenant has stayed inside the garrison at night. But tonight he has come out, and is making his way to the entertainment section of the city. Just as he reaches the section. Krillgan hears a woman scream. He goes racing over the rooftops to investigate. As he does, he hears the scream again. Krillgan has to jump down from the rooftop, into a dark alley. Because he can sense that others are converging on the source of the screams. He finds that the screams are coming from a sweets and drink shop. The type of place that couples like to go to, after they have been dancing. It is the server who has been screaming. There does not appear to be any couples in the shop. Just a man dressed in hospital garb, making obscene gestures at the lady, and laughing. Krillgan told him to stop that, and apologise to the lady. The man seem quite contrite, and apologised. Then he asked when he will get his puppy? By this time a couple of patrols of garrison troops showed up. They knew from his garb, that he must be from the psychiatric wing of the hospital. They asked him, how he got out? He told them that a man let him out. He also promised him that if he makes a woman scream. He will get a puppy. She was the first woman that he found without a man guarding her. So he made her scream. Now he wants a puppy. Krillgan let the troops handle this. This was obviously a diversion. He made his way back to the rooftops, and starts searching for the Lieutenant's life signs. He searches all of the entertainment section, but cannot find him. He then searches the maze of back alleys. Where he took his victims, then raped and murdered them. Going all the way to the edge of the city. But he wasn't there. Then he went back towards the garrison and waited, because he could not think about where else to go. It was late when he spotted the Lieutenant returning. The direction he was returning from, was what Krillgan would expect, if he was skirting around the warehouse district, so that the canines did not detect him. The Lieutenant had covered a lot of ground this evening. When you consider the last place he saw him. Krillgan did not consider himself a good enough tracker, to backtrack in the dark, where the Lieutenant had been this evening. He will try to do it in the daylight. But first he will talk to the investigators.

When Krillgan showed up to talk to the investigators, they were waiting for him. They told him that a couple went missing last night. They were waiting for him to see if he could get that canine to track them down. They told him where the couple's apartment is. They told him that the couple have two young children that they left with a babysitter. It was the babysitter that called them, because she does not know what to do.

Krillgan ran to the warehouse complex. The man was expecting him. He told them that the investigators called him that morning. But he does not know how to get any of his canines to track someone down. He brought out the canine that Krillgan used before. He told the bounty hunter that he did not want any credits. He just wants the person responsible for killing the people, to get what they deserve.

The investigators were waiting for him. They led him into the apartment. The couple's work clothes were still lying on their bed. This time when Krillgan let the canine sniff the clothes, she went off running. Krillgan had no trouble keeping up with her. But the investigators, and the people following them, had trouble keeping up. They went all the way into the entertainment section of the city. The canine entered a cantina, and sniffed around a table. Apparently, the couple had dinner in the cantina last night. The canine then went out of the cantina and sniffed around. Then she started heading towards a dance club. But stopped at an alley mouth and growled. Krillgan pointed out, that there is blood on the ground, but did not stop. He kept running after the canine. This was a different maze than the one he was used to. They ended up in a different dead end alley, and more blood, as well as drag marks. The canine left that alley, and started heading towards the edge of the city, and beyond. Krillgan yelled back to the investigators, and asked them what was making that smell? They yelled out that they are approaching the city's human waste processing plant. Anything that is flushed, ends up in this plant. Krillgan suspected that the Lieutenant thought that the smell would kill the scent. Making it impossible for the canine to find the bodies. But she kept going. Finally she stopped and started digging at a place where even the investigators could see that the dirt was disturbed. They all got down on their knees, and started pushing the loose dirt aside with their hands. The canine dug much deeper down then she did before, before encountering fabric. Krillgan made her stop and just sit there. He told the investigators that he was running back into the city to purchase her a treat. She deserves it. They asked Krillgan if he could swing by the garrison, they need a couple of troops. They would also like a couple to guard the alley were there was blood on the ground. Krillgan told them that he would see to it. When he ran off, both investigators commented on how much energy the bounty hunter has. No wonder he is a bounty hunter.

Krillgan ran to the butcher shop. The butcher did not even ask what he wanted. He wrapped up some items and gave it to him. He told him that he heard about the couple that was missing. He asked if the canine helped him find them. Krillgan told him that she did. The butcher told him that she deserves what he prepared for her. Krillgan then ran to the garrison. He told two Troops that the investigators needed their help. They will be transporting two bodies. He told them where they will find the two investigators. He then had two of the other Troops follow him. They will be guarding the site where it is suspected the murders took place.

He made it back to the investigators, about the same time that the two Troops with stretchers did. When the canine saw him, she got up from sitting, and her body started shaking, with her tail wagging back and forth. He opened the package and placed it on the ground before her. It looked like a kidney, a chunk of liver, a section of the heart, and the creature's tongue. She dug right in, wolfing it down, looking around from time to time to make sure no one was sneaking up on her, to steal anything away. After she swallowed the last chunk of meat, she licked the inside of the package, to make sure that she got all the juice.

Krillgan told the investigators that he was taking the canine back. They told him to go ahead, they can handle everything there. They told him that they will see him tomorrow.

The Garrison Commander ordered his Lieutenant to his office, when he heard news that the bodies of the missing couple were found. He locked the door and started yelling at his brother. The Lieutenant did not like that his brother was calling him the same names that the children called him, when he was young. The reason he always ended up in fights, and the reason his brother fought with him, to protect his back.

The Garrison Commander told his brother that if he had waited just one day, and told him what he was up to. Then they would have been rid of the pesky bounty hunter and all his followers. But because he did what he did without telling him, they just blew their chance to kill the bounty hunter. The Lieutenant told his brother he was smart this time. He used that guy as a decoy, so if anyone was following him, they would go to where the woman was screaming. No one saw him force that couple into the alley. Then he buried the bodies where it was really stinky, so that they could not find it like they did before. The Commander told him that he received word that they just found the bodies. Now they cannot use them to lead the bounty hunter where they need to. The Lieutenant got up, he told his brother that he will fix it. He will get him a body to put wherever he wants. It was time he did his job. It was time he purged this planet of everyone who opposes his brother. Starting with the Devaronian lady that brought the bounty hunter to this planet.

After taking the canine back to the warehouse complex. Krillgan decided to return to Brammena's apartment, and use her communicator. He put a call through to Mandalore. He wanted to talk with Tamrack's men. Before he put the call through, he placed the brightest of Brammena's lamps behind him. So his face would appear like a silhouette. He suspected the Garison Commander could monitor calls. He would especially want to monitor any calls to Mandalore. When they answered, they recognised the silhouette. They told him that they were expecting him to call them. Their contact in the Mandalorian Government, sent them a copy of the DNA report, as soon as the government received their copy. The contact knows that Death Hand is a major sponsor of theirs, so assumed they are also associates. They confirmed that the Lieutenant is a direct match. They also found that the Garrison Commander was also a close match, which means that the Commander is the Lieutenant's brother. Krillgan told them that Death Hand suspected that the Garrison Commander was involved in covering up the crime. This also means that he put the wellbeing of his brother, above that of everyone else on the planet. So he broke his oath as Governor. Krillgan told them that Death Hand will only deal with the Lieutenant, as he has other commitments. He would like them to come over and follow through on what he has done.

The trio guessed that Krillgan wanted them to kill the Garrison Commander. Rather than doing it himself. He knows a government representative will have to go follow up on the DNA results, and who it implicated. So whoever killed the Garrison Commander, would have to meet with the representative. They would have to meet face to face, out of respect. So the Mandalorian Government would finally know who Death Hand is, if he killed the Commander. If they kill the Garrison Commander, there is no reason for Krillgan to stay. He can continue to be an enigma to them. They also knew that by killing the Garrison Commander, then suggesting a replacement. It will put them in the Mandalorian Government's good books. Making them eligible to be awarded government contracts.

They told Krillgan that they will let the crew know that Death Hand has asked them to complete a contract for him. Since he has other commitments. That should boost their morale. They will leave right after. They told him that he should be getting his copy of the report on the DNA results on the following day. They should arrive the day after that.

After breaking the call, Krillgan's stomach grumbled. Because of the time, he decided to go to Brammena's shop, and convince her to close early. The sooner she comes home, the sooner dinner will be ready. The only time Krillgan has carried Rasha's blaster rifle, with the missile launcher, was the first day he came. He did not feel comfortable running around with a weapon that could do a lot of collateral damage. He felt that his blaster pistol, and his two Dathomirite daggers was enough weapons for him.

The Garrison Commander thought that the person calling Mandalore was Death Hand. But it sounded like he was Death Hand's representative. Only he had no indication that he had arrived on the planet. But then Death Hand's starfighter was long enough, and wide enough, that he could have smuggled him onto the planet. He doesn't know what he is doing here. But this Death Hand has a lot of tricks up his sleeve. Not only that, but in two days he will have enough firepower on the planet, that any of the Commander's schemes to ambush him, and kill him, will be redundant, because the other bounty hunter, and his companions, will finish him off. So he needs his brother to procure him another body right away. Someone sufficiently important that Death Hand will try to find them tonight. Or no fancy talking will get them out of this mess.

When Krillgan arrived at Brammena's shop. He saw that there was some sort of commotion inside. Customers seemed to be blocking the entrance way. Trying to prevent someone from leaving. They were even grabbing items off of the shelf, and throwing them at someone. When he looked through the entrance, he saw the Lieutenant holding Brammena, and waving his blaster pistol. Threatening to shoot anyone that does not get out of his way. Krillgan stepped in, and told all the customers to get outside, and get behind cover. The Lieutenant told the bounty hunter to get outside. Or he will shoot the Devaronian. Krillgan told him that he really does not want to do that. Beating someone to death with his bare hands is more his style. Besides once he kills her there will only be the two of them. Nothing to stop him from killing the Lieutenant.

The Lieutenant said that he is not afraid of him. He has killed bounty hunters before. So once he kills him, his brother can do what he usually does, and make everything right again.

Krillgan told him that he is wrong. He has also signed his brother's death warrant, because of his perverted desire to beat people to death.

The Lieutenant told him that he is only saying that to confuse him. But his brother is in charge of this planet, and he has beaten everyone who has stood in his brother's way. He will be no different.

Krillgan asked him, if he is really that good, why is he hiding behind the skirt of a female?

The Lieutenant became angry. He threw Brammena out of the way, then fired his blaster pistol at the bounty hunter. Cursing himself, for not bringing a disruptor.

Krillgan fired his blaster pistol as soon as the Lieutenant pushed Brammena aside. He also used the shielding on his pistol to reflect the blaster bolt fired by the Lieutenant right back at him. At the same time he closed the distance between them. Drew a dagger out of his boot, and stabbed the Lieutenant in the gut. Since his Dathomirite dagger has no trouble going through duraplast armour. Krillgan then started smashing the Lieutenant in the face with his armoured fist. He was so angry that this man put his sick personal pleasure, above the lives and families of his victims. He only stopped when someone whispered stop. He did not know if it was the Lieutenant, or Brammena. He took his dagger out of the Lieutenant's gut. It was not glowing now. He pushed it through the shattered chest piece, into the Lieutenant's heart. Then slowed his heart right down, until it stopped. He then took the Lieutenant's body and threw it out onto the street. Right in the way of some garrison Troops running to the shop, because some frantic people were telling them that the Lieutenant grabbed the shop owner.

Krillgan told the Troops, that he just received word. The Lieutenant is guilty of rape. The report will be arriving tomorrow. He then went back into the shop, took his right gauntlet off, and extended his hand to Brammena, who was still on the floor. Brammena wanted to jump into his arms, right when she stood up. But Krillgan blocked her with his forearm. He told her that his armour has blood on it. It is also not comfortable hugging, as it has no give. So she just thanked him, with tears in her eyes.

Krillgan asked her if she wanted help cleaning up, before going home. Brammena told him that it is usually quite in the morning. She will have time to clean up then. Then she heard Krillgan's stomach growl. "Besides, I have a hungry man to feed." It was a good thing Krillgan had a helmet on, so no one could see how dark his face was getting.

Krillgan put his gauntlet back on, before exiting out of the shop. He helped Brammena put the barrier in place, after locking the shop. The Troops asked Brammena, if she could talk with them? Krillgan told them that he did not think it was necessary. There are a lot of witnesses right there, who can tell them everything. The people all agreed. Eager to tell the Troops everything they saw.

Krillgan thought that the easiest way to clean the blood off of the armour, was to take a shower with the armour on. It seemed to work, as he spotted no blood, when he took it off, and spread it out in his bedroom to dry. When he went into the kitchen, Brammena stopped what she was doing. She hugged Krillgan, and cried on his shoulder. Krillgan just hugged her back. He was hungry enough to eat anything. Even if it was burnt. When she went back to cooking, she told him that he was right. It was better to hug him when he is not wearing armour. She also told him that she forgot to tell him that his wife left a message a few days back. She counted on her fingers, than told Krillgan that they will probably arrive sometime within the next five to seven days. Krillgan told her that he will be leaving in two days. Just after his buddies from Mandalore show up. He has asked them to deal with the Garrison Commander, because he does not like politics. Brammena asked if it would be okay for her daughter, Ellinda, to go to Lianna with the Phoenix. The clan thinks she is the best person to be trained by his Togruta friends. She is a good student, and she is also a good teacher. Brammena admitted that the punch had no effect on the Lieutenant, because of his armour.

Krillgan waited at the spaceport, for the courier to arrive. He identified himself as Death Hand, and showed the papers he had from Chalacta, showing that he is an agent for their Judiciary. That was enough for the courier, to confirm that he was turning the documents over to the right person.

Krillgan went straight to show the report to the investigators. He also enquired about the Lieutenant's body. They told him that they had the butcher cut it up. Then they threw it in the human waste management system. Where it will be dissolved. Krillgan thought that if the Lieutenant had done that. The bodies would never have been discovered. It would have been much harder to solve this case.

After going over everything, they asked him, when was he going to challenge the Garrison Commander? So he will be held accountable for his crimes. Krillgan told them that he will let his associates deal with the Commander. He has to start preparing for his next assignment. Because they were staring at him, he told them that he was expecting them to arrive tomorrow. He told them to avoid the Garrison Commander at all costs. Who knows what his frame of mind is, right now. He might decide to take out everyone in the garrison before he dies. That prompted all the investigators to go put their body armour on, as they were all listening.

The Garrison Commander received a full report on the death of his Lieutenant. He did not like that he was dismembered, and tossed in the waste system, like a piece of refuse. He thought his brother deserved a better ending than that. He could not believe how easily his brother was defeated by this Death Hand. Maybe he could have eluded the trap he had prepared for him. The trap where he needed his brother's help to trigger it. Now he does not have his brother to help him. He was thinking of rigging the garrison's armoury to explode. But the bounty hunter left before he even knew he was there. Now he is told that Death Hand is leaving. It will be that bounty hunter from Mandalore that he will have to contend with. The one who spoke to Death Hand's representative.

The Commander rebuked himself. With his brother watching his back, he had not kept up his training. He had allowed himself to become soft. It was time to renew his training. He sent word to the garrison kitchen about the different meals he wanted sent to his office, and when he wanted them delivered. He had a workout room connected directly to his office. One of the perks of a Garrison Commander. So a potential challenger could not watch him workout, and spot any weakness in his training regime. Which could indicate a weakness in his fighting style. The kitchen knew from what the Commander sent them, he was planning on doing some serious training. They leaked the note to the garrison, so everyone could relax. The Commander did not appear suicidal.

Krillgan met Tamrack's men at the spaceport. He introduced them to Brammena who was waiting with him. She also knew to leave after the introduction. Krillgan was holding his blaster rifle, and wearing his missile backpack, as soon as he finished talking with these men, he was leaving.

Krillgan told them the names of all the investigators. The strengths and weaknesses that he observed when he was with them. He also told them the two that he was recommending for Commander and Lieutenant. The bounty hunters decided that they would let the two decide, top man, the Mandalorian way. This would be more acceptable to the Government representative when they arrived. They did ask, why did he choose those two? Krillgan told him that these two investigators showed him that they were better at administration than the others. They took over the handling of all the stolen items the robbery investigators found. They identified which item belonged to which case. Because they knew which items were in which sack, and which sack was found at which site. They helped the robbery investigators bundle their cases that way. The robbery investigators noticed new leads that they would have missed if the cases were left alone. They re-interviewed the victims. Questioned than arrested some suspects. Then they had the Garrison Commander sign the arrest warrant for the pirates and their ships involved in smuggling the stolen items off planet, to be sold at other markets.

Tamrack's men knew that when the arrest warrants reached the Mandalore Government. They would hire bounty hunters to track the pirates down, kill them, and seize their ships. These are the type of contracts they were hoping to now get.

After the briefing, Krillgan climbed into his starfighter, and flew to the edge of the system. He parked it on a small asteroid and waited. He was planning on meditating until the Fenelar Phoenix entered the system. He was hoping that the force would give him some insight in how to handle the Rakata lab on Kashyyyk. He would also go over all the preparations they have done so far, for the pending examination by the Sith, of Lydna's schooling. He will be in a half asleep, half awake, state, and had programmed the droid how to wake him, when the Phoenix enters the system.

On the planet's surface, the three went to the garrison. It was time to confront the Garrison Commander. When they entered the training and practice yard, they sent one of the troops to tell the Commander of the challenge. Then the one who handled all their arena matches, removed his bounty hunter armour, and stripped down to his waist. He made sure everyone knew which weapons would be available in this challenge.

The Garrison Commander had worked hard the last few days. He felt good about how he felt. He believed that he had a good chance against the bounty hunter. So was happy when he was told about the challenge. As he approached the training yard, he saw the practise weapons used in the traditional battle for position. He almost laughed with relief, they only wanted to give him a slap on his wrist. Maybe they did not know if they could take him. But the troops blocked his way as he headed to that weapon's rack. They pointed to the weapon's rack that he would need to choose his weapon from. His heart skipped a beat. These are the razor sharp, edged weapons. This match would be to the death. There was not wrist slap here. There were variations on Morning Stars. A ball of metal with razor sharp spikes on it. Either directly attached to a strong handle, or attached to a short chain, that was attached to a handle. There was also a version with a number of small spiked balls attached to chains, all attached to one handle. There was a whip with metal barbs in the end, and a blade sticking out of the handle. For when it was time to close with the opponent, and finish them off. There were different size battle axes, different sizes meant different weights. There were also different sizes of stabbing spears. There were also a number of swords. Some only had one edge, some were double edged. The Commander picked a sword that was closest to the one he practised with. There were also multiple shields. Each having their own strengths and weakness. One shield had three upward protrusions at its top. With the middle one being a blade. There was also a net that could be used as a shield. It was also used to entangle the opponent, while the combatant gave them the death blow, to dispatch them. The Commander chose the rectangular shield, because it covered more of the body. This one also had slots in the back for throwing weapons. He chose the four bladed weapons, also called throwing stars. He signalled that he was ready. He saw that his opponent had a stabbing spear, and the round shield that most novice fighters take into the arena. The Commander thought that his chances just improved. When he stepped into the training yard, he felt the sunlight on his body, and felt invigorated. Something he had not felt in a long time. He spread his arms, tilted his head back and roared. He was still the god of this planet. The roar ended with a spear thrust into his throat. He had forgotten the number one rule of combat. Never take your eyes off of your opponent. As soon as he had signalled that he was ready, the fight started for him.

The Bounty Hunter was not disappointed that the Commander made it easy for him. He saw that he had selected some throwing weapons. So the combat could have gotten bloody for both of them, before the Commander was killed. When asked what should be done with the body? He reminded them that he did reach the position of Garrison Commander, so they should show it some respect. They decided to burn the body, then mix the ashes with the sludge that the waste management system produced. The treated sludge that was ready to be spread on fields, before plowing and seeding.

Everyone was surprised by who the Bounty Hunter picked to challenge for Garrison Commander. The winner would become the Commander. The loser, his Lieutenant. The Bounty Hunter told them that this was Death Hand's choices for the position. The garrison was impressed with Death Hand. He had been watching them much closer than they suspected. No wonder he is respected as a bounty hunter.

It was a drowsy sounding Krillgan that answered Elibet, when she called him after they entered the system. Because no one was around, Ludia ordered the ship to battle mode, so that Krillgan could bring his starfighter aboard. Krillgan received warm greetings from everyone, including the two Nautolans. After the greetings, he borrowed Richards colouring sticks, and some papers, with Richard's permission. Richard and Ta'Yanna were curious to see what Papa wanted to draw. Papa drew a warrior, from the front, side, and back. Ludia recognised it as a Morgukai. Krillgan asked Elibet if images could be sent over the pirate satellite system. Elibet did not know, and asked the computer? They computer told her that only word transmissions could be sent on that system. But images could be sent over the other system.

Krillgan had Elibet send a message that Grimm would receive, when they finished assembling the pirate ship, and Kran flew it to the shipyard for the preliminary upgrades and repairs. He told Grimm to ask the school's Head Master to ask the artisans to carve four statues out of wood, then paint them with red lacquer. He then transmitted the images of the Morgukai warrior to the shipyard, to give to Engineer Grimm. Krillgan was hoping that Grimm would understand the message as coming in two parts. Kran was also scheduled to fly the luxury yacht to Kindell's world, as soon as it was ready, with its new paint job. They should get there long before the Phoenix, and he wanted the artisans to get started right away.

After the messages were sent, they started approaching the planet. They then reported to Krillgan, everything that happened since he left the Phoenix. They told him that Grimm would not let them depart Myrkr, until he verified with Dranna that they had everything they needed. That nothing was missing. Bill'dit did not mind being used as a middle man, and graciously accepted the fee. Elibet told him that Wu'la and Ya'rrun were getting better at using the gun turrets to destroy the target droids. She felt that they need more practice, only they have already used up all the ones Grimm bought them. Ya'rrun was prone like Kran first was, to just leave the freight anywhere in Cargo Bay 2. Until Wa'lu pointed out that if he did that, they could not practise martial arts with Richard. So now he knows to mark everything and stack it.

Krillgan let them know that they will be picking up a passenger, to take with them to Lianna. Her name is Ellinda. She will be staying in the First Officer's Cabin. Richard and Ta'Yanna were disappointed to hear that, because that is where they have been sleeping. Since Mama will not let them sleep with her anymore. (It wasn't that Ludia did not want them with her. It was that she felt they needed to get used to sleeping by themselves. She allowed the compromise of them sleeping together in Rasha's cabin.) Ludia suggested that if they were nice to the lady, she might let one of them, or maybe even both of them sleep with her. If not, they know their assigned cabin. Richard gets the top bunk, because he can climb in and out by himself.

Krillgan gave Elibet permission to buy more targeting droids, when she goes to buy fresh fruits and vegetables.

Brammena was surprised when it was Krillgan that came off the Phoenix, to escort the fabric he brought for the dress shop, through customs. Krillgan did not hide that all the fabric he brought came from Luptoom. He told the custom inspectors, that Luptoom only recently became a Republic planet. There are no markings on the fabric indicating a date that the production run was made. So there was a good chance that the planet was still a Sith planet when the fabric was made. So should be assessed as coming from a Sith planet.

The Mandalorian Government representative arrived in a Mantas 5, dressed like a Bounty Hunter. He saw all the fabric in customs, and decided that he wanted to see what is going on. He knew the Dark Council was interested in the dress shop on this planet, because they had sent some fabric to a dress shop on Lianna. He did not know what the Dark Council's interest is, because they see shadows and conspiracy everywhere. He told the Bounty Hunter and his two assistances to follow him. Taking a detour to get to the garrison might not be an inconvenience.

The representative had a look at the material that they were trying to bring in. He saw the blue/black silk material used to make the suits that are preferred by everyone at government dinner functions. The type he needs made, but his tailor said he cannot get, since the Sith lost Luptoom. He asked the Devaronian ladies, which one of them is the seamstress? The one lady said she is. He asked her, why she ordered material for men's suits? She told him that they are for women's suits. But if he has a tailor that wants to purchase some material. She could sell him some. Of course the cost will depend on the duties that they pay for the material. The custom officials told the representative that the freighter's Captain claims that the fabric was all produced on Luptoom while it was still a Sith planet. So the proper duty should be applied accordingly. The representative asked if they have any proof to contradict the captain's claim. They said that they did not. Nor do they have any proof to support it. The representative told the customs officials, that this time they should take the captain's word for it. But if he tries it again. It is from a Republic planet, with double the duty. He then told the seamstress to expect a call from his tailor, when he returns to Mandalore.

What he reported to the Government, which was later forwarded to the Sith. Was that the dress shop was getting rid of old stock, because they were expecting a large shipment of new fabric. They needed the room and the credits. The shipment arrived, while he was on the planet.

The Dark Council did not like the report they received from the Mandalore Government. If they could have proven that the Togruta seamstress on Lianna was being used by the Royal Family, they would have had the excuse to have their Imperial Troopers round up all Togruta on the planet, and force them into one of their slave labour camps. As it is, it looks like her excuse was legitimate. Now they have to deal with the Queen and her threats of declaring neutrality.

The area Moff did not help by pointing out that Lianna, like many of their manufacturing planets, were not getting any breaks on the price they paid for raw materials, from Deysum III, and other mining planets. So they would not be paying any more for their raw materials, but would have access to more suppliers, so there was little risk of shortages. Something they did have to deal with, when that Sith Lord tried to control the freight industry in that one section of the Empire. The Dark Council considered the Moff dangerously close to insulting them with that remark. But to eliminate him, then to replace him, might be all the Tion Cluster needed to rebel. When the Sith Empire needed there production capability now, more than they ever did before. They could also not afford to show weakness, by having a non-force using Queen, force them into paying more for the starfighters they are producing for them.

They authorised the area's Moff to start negotiations with their Queen, about producing the F-T2 Quell, both the Strikefighter, and the Fighter/Bomber versions. As well as the FT-3C Imperium, which is an upgraded Strikefighter design, based on the F-T2 Quell. By negotiating everything from the price Lianna pays for their raw materials, to the price the Sith Empire will pay for the finished product, it will not look like the Queen forced their hand to pay more. They can always claim that the Blade-Type Starfighter had reached the end of its production run. It was time for the Starfighters originally designed and built on Dromund Kalakar to take over.

As far as building Mandalorian Starfighters, it would not hurt the relations between the two Empires, to let Lianna inquire about building them. As long as Lianna did not fall behind in their commitment to the Sith Empire. So the Dark Council told the Moff that Lianna had permission to make enquiries. But all contracts would need approval of the Dark Council.