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.

10. Chapter 10

©2018

Lindream was awaken by the sound of running water in her home. She threw on a house coat, and found Krillgan in the kitchen, waiting for the water to boil. He took spools of what looked like thick thread out of a bag, and placed it on the table. When she asked? He told her that it is Webweaver's Silk. When she asked about her mother? Krillgan told her that she is on her way to where there are a lot of Devaronians. He has friends that will embrace her. Many of them also lost their husbands to pirates. Lindream assumed that he did not say where exactly, to protect her.

After they shared a cup of tea, Krillgan left the planet. He made sure that there was a lot of mass between him and Deysum III, before sending a message to Yitabo.

Richard disconnected from the school, when he saw that a message came in, and went to find his mother. When Ludia realized that Krillgan was in the Deysum System, she called him back through Kenny's system. Krillgan told her that he was on his way, he just had to stop and visit with Dreamarra. He promised that he would tell her all about it when he arrived. She responded, that now that she knows he is this close, she will prepare for departure, and will be gone before he arrives. She let him know that she was leaving Ta'Yanna behind. She would rather go with her to play with all the children. But she thinks it is better for both the children to stay together. She did not want to say that she thought Richard could get depressed, and slip up on his schooling. It was hard for him to play dumb, while connected to the Ministry's Instructor. Then show his true self when working with the tutors. Having his sister around helped him, even though they did not have very much time each day, to play together.

He told her that his story would have to wait, until they can talk face to face. Ludia knew that if Krillgan was being cautious, what he had to say was important. She just told him that she understood, but it cannot be helped. Krillgan told her that he was also hoping to tell them face-to-face, that Grimm died a hero on Ryloth. But that will also have to wait. Ludia acknowledge what he said. Then they both broke contact, so that Richard could reconnect with school.

Ludia knew that Kran and Elibet will be very sorry they could not stay to hear about Grimm's death. But it should also emphasize how important it was for Ludia, that she get to where she feels confident, to have her pregnancy properly monitored.

Before leaving Yitabo, Ludia searched the sky for the Imperial satellite. Kenny had pointed it out to her, when they were doing the construction around the ranch house. She had trouble believing that what she thought was a star, was really an Imperial satellite in geosynchronous orbit. Specifically placed there by the Imperials, to spy on them and the ranch. Kenny brought out a telescope just to prove to her, that what he told her is true. So after Krillgan sent the message from Ryloth, saying he was on his way, and approximately how long it would take him. She would come outside, and reach out every night using the force. Just to see if she could touch it. One day she did, and gave it a little tug. Kenny told her that a little tug would knock it out of its orbit. One of two things could then happen, it could stabilise into a lower orbit. The chances of that happening were better, if the Ministry noticed the change in orbit, and corrected it. Or it could keep descending into a lower orbit, until it finally entered the atmosphere and burnt up.

Ludia had noticed that the time between satellite sightings was slightly longer each time, which to Kenny meant that it was not stable. Ludia wanted to leave when the satellite was not overhead. So they would not be seen departing the planet. According to a site Kenny found on the holonet. They were able to compute when exactly the satellite would enter the atmosphere, and be destroyed. This fascinated Richard. It showed him how math and science can be combined to predict things. This was a great encouragement to his studies, because he knew that he wasn't at a level to do that, and wanted to be. He realized that math was more than a manipulation of numbers, and a way to keep track of how many Nerfs were on the ranch. The site predicted that the satellite would burn up a few days before Krillgan arrived, so he will not have to worry about it.

When the Imperials surrendered Dreamarra's home back to Lindream. She called for a two day clan meeting at the apartment. The first day would be to weave and dye the Webweaver Silk. The second day would be to replace all the baby clothes that was destroyed, and maybe add some. She had already started weaving some of the silk, so that when they meet, some of the ladies could start dying the fabric right away. It would also give them the opportunity to clean the place up, and take inventory of what was still there. It was also the only way that they as a clan, could say goodbye to Dreamarra. She was expecting that some of the ladies will want some of Dreamarra's knickknacks as keepsakes, to remember her. They will also be having the children sleep over. So that they can also say goodbye to everyone's Grandmother.

When they found that they could not remove the bloodstains, just diminish it. They decided to use it as part of the story they would tell the children. They decided that they would tell them that a mean person entered Grandmother Dreamarra's house. Since they could not get their way, because they were behaving like a spoiled child. They sprayed the red sauce, which the children like to put on fried potatoes, in the kitchen, then in the workshop. A special friend of Grandmother's had to rescue her, and take her to another planet, to be safe. They reminded the children about the special friends that visited Grandmother recently. That they even had special soldiers in colourful uniforms with them. The children remembered the colourful uniforms. They also remembered that they had special foods that were hard to get, because they were there. So many of the believed that it was the colourful soldiers that took Grandmother Dreamara away. When an undercover Military Intelligence Officer, questioned them individually at school. That is the story that many of them gave her. Because there was enough variations in the story, the Officer concluded that the Clan made the story up, to satisfy the healthy curiosity of the children, as well as not to upset them, needlessly.

Ta'Yanna did not like that she could not go with Mommy on their spaceship. She believed that she must be going somewhere to help Papa. So when Papa showed up, and Mommy was not with him, she was upset and wanted to cry. Papa had to calm her down, by reminding her that Mommy has a baby growing in side of her. That she went were people can help her look after the baby. She wants to be safe, because the bad people that hurt her on Devaron, hurt her inside, and it might also affect the baby. He promised that when Richards finishes with school this year, they will go to where Mommy is. Then they will find out if she has a little brother or sister. He told her that Aunty Rasha also has a little baby growing inside of her. She was going to go to Lianna, to be with their Togruta friends, when it is time for her. Because they helped her with Timrune. Ta'Yanna told Papa that she hopes Mommy has a brother for her like Timrune, because she enjoyed playing with him. At least Ta'Yanna started feeling better.

Krillgan talked to Kenny, asking him how he could identify a Barseg Nobleman, who was at a special celebration in the Royal Palace on Lianna. He wanted to know if they needed to hire anyone special. He ended up telling him about rescuing his grandmother Dreamarra, on Deysum III, and the information he obtained from the Military Commander, before killing him. Kenny could only imagine the turmoil in the Military on Deysum III. But to Krillgan it was just something he needed to do.

Kenny told Krillgan he did not need to hire anyone. That information is easily obtained. Richard watched Kenny and Papa use the holonet. Kenny first connected with Lianna. He then connected with the Palace's site, and found a video copy of the signing ceremony. They watched it, and identified the Barseg delegation. The King was easy to identify. Krillgan pointed out that the man who quietly made his way to Lady Brelmy, must be her father, Lord Brelmy. They saw that the rest of the delegation had maneuvered close enough that they could overhear the conversation between the Lord, and his daughter. So any of the men could be the Lord that has connections with The Exchange. Kenny then went to another section of the Palace's site. He was able to find a list of the people that attended the ceremony. Krillgan copied down all the names of the Barseg delegation. Now they need to place faces next to the names. Kenny then disengaged with Lianna, and connected to Barseg. He then connected with their Royal Palace site. He told Krillgan that people like to do two things, they like to gossip, and they like to brag. On the Palace's site they were able to enter each name that Krillgan copied, and find a complete dossier on each Nobleman, which was copied to the computer. So that Krillgan can study them later, at his leisure. Kenny told Krillgan, with Richard listening, that there is a lot of information out there, which can accessed by anyone. All they need to do, is use their brain to find it. Krillgan was very thankful that Kenny was one of the people that knew how to use his brain.

When Dreamarra arrived on Devaron, she did not tell anyone that she is Krillgan's grandmother. She just said that she has worked very closely with Krillgan on a number of projects. One of which attracted the attention of The Exchange. Krillgan had to rescue her, and sent her to Devaron, for protection. The Widows Clan welcomed her with their whole heart. Lindream took her into her own home, not realizing how this would dramatically change her life, and that of her Clan. As well as Clans on other planets. She did introduce herself as a retired Master Seamstress and Dress Designer, with some business and trade experience. She also refrained from telling them that she was the head of a Clan. She did encourage them to ship their product off planet. Because of what Ludia asked, they knew how long their product lasted, after they canned it in their jars. They also knew how long it lasted after they were opened. Because it lasted a long time before opening, they knew that they could ship it to other planets, and not compromise on its nutrition or taste. Dreamarra convinced them to take their product to planets without their own agriculture. Like the city worlds of Corusant and Humbarine. Because she had experience with offworld trade. Dreamarra became their Marketing Director. She took Lindream as her assistant, and they went and visited these worlds. It was Lindreams daughter Arrinda, who turned out to be their top salesperson. When they had meetings with representatives of the different Devaronian Clans on these worlds. Arrinda would usually say she was hungry, and Lindream without thinking, would open a jar taken out of their sample bag, and give it to her. That was enough of a sales pitch, for the people to know it was a good product, so sales agreements were reached. On Devaron, they had to reach out to the agricultural industry, to help them get high amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables that they used to make their product. But the demand on the City Worlds kept increasing. The heads of the company had to go to agricultural worlds, and team up with Devaronian Clans on those worlds, both to grow what they needed. Then to process it according to their recipes. These worlds then became the major supplier for the City Worlds. While they maintained their original contracts on Devaron.

The only world Dreamarra went to, that did not have a Devaronian Clan to handle sales and distribution, was Manaan. She went there to reward the top members of their company, and because she knew that this was an important world to Krillgan and Ludia. She let Talmi and the Selkith elder know that she is Krillgan's grandmother, so that they would release the Phoenix's suit to them. But no one else was told. They were all impressed that Dreamarra had enough pull to get them such a fabulous suite. Even more so when they checked out, and were told that the cost of the suite was covered by the Co-Captains of the Pirate Killer. They were able to sign a contract with the owner of the Smuggler's Cantina. Who was acting as the Receiver and Distributor for the employees' daycares at the different resorts. Though they were importing extravagant amounts of fresh food for their resorts. The restaurants were geared for catering to the older customers. Preparing food for their little people was done when they had some spare time. Now the restaurant staff no longer had to feel guilty that they were neglecting their children. The bonus was that when families came to the resort, the restaurants could raid the daycares, for meals for their infants.

Richard was very proud to show his father that he decided not to learn one instrument, but two instruments. He wanted to learn the instrument that the musician from Deysum III was playing. Because it was an instrument, that you could sing with. The music teacher was able to teach him enough of the basics, so that he could play Ta'Yanna's song, and they could sing the funny verses together. He also wanted to learn the Ballad of Ludia and Smasher Djo, so he could sing it for Mamma. The other instrument you blow into. It had a haunting sound that Richard liked. He thought that it was something that he would want to play, when he wanted to be by himself. Krillgan told him that he made two good choices, for two good reasons. He told him that he was very proud of him.

Ta'Yanna found that Papa was just as good as Mommy in looking after the garden. Only he added some plants that Mommy did not have. She got to ride with Papa, when he went to the Wookiees, and asked them if he could take some of their plants, to grow in the ranch's garden. He also asked if he could do some hunting whenever he was there, because he preferred the taste of wild meat. Papa also knew how to make a nice salad from the garden, which the female tutors appreciated as much as Ta'Yanna. She also found out from Papa that the plants he brought back from the Wookiees are healing plants. He taught her, and Richard, what each plant was good for by itself. He also taught them the different combinations that are also a benefit. He used them in the special ointment that he made for Uncle Kenny.

Someone who was surprised that Krillgan, and not Ludia, was there, was the First Minister. He was subtly trying to inquire about where Krillgan was. As the Moff suspected that he was behind the mayhem on Deysum III. As the military was never able to figure out what happened. The only working explanations were that someone was either projected over the perimeter fence. Quite possibly, all the way to the Overall Commander's residence. Or that they had excited a fighter/bomber at high altitude, and remained undetected as they parachuted all the way down to the Overall Commander's residence. Krillgan told the First Minister that Ludia had to leave for family reasons. Krillgan did not elaborate. So the First Minister assumed that someone on Ludia's side of the family passed away. When the Moff was told, he then suspected that it was Ludia that caused the mayhem on Deysum III. After all, she is the hero of Yitabo in the ballad.

Ludia would be checked once a week, by Yma and the healers. Each time they checked her, they told her she was fine. They detected no abnormality. To be safe Grandfather Chitrah and Grandmother Andriel would do the modified exercises with her every day. To help her stay in shape. They also had to find things for her to do, to help her keep her mind off the pregnancy, and off of the baby. Aliyanna would get her to help her practise doing different stitch patterns, even though she was already as good as her mother. Then they would go ride their Rancor together. The Rancor said that they needed the exercise. When it was really something else that they could get Ludia to do. The Rancor did not mind it, because they are bonded to their rider. It just meant that they could not go running after game. Because they did not want to shake Ludia up.

The saddest day for Krillgan, Richard, and Ta'Yanna occurred when Uncle Kenny did not wake up. It was a good thing they had cereal in the kitchen. Because that is what everyone had at the ranch house for breakfast that morning. Then Krillgan called the First Minister. Telling him that Kenny passed away. The First Minister called the Instructor, and told her that class was cancelled for that day. Then Krillgan contacted the Wookiees at the settlement using Kenny's system to let them know. The Ranch foreman contacted his parents, then he contacted the Mayor. He let them contact everyone else on the planet. He wanted to help Krillgan prepare Kenny's body. The florist came out, but not with huge bouquets of flowers. He brought some white flowers, which were traditional for funerals on the planet, and he also brought some nice smelling green plants, to place around the body.

Blackie sensed that something was wrong, when Ta'Yanna did not want to play, and appeared sad. When Krillgan and the foreman carried Kenny's body out of his bedroom, on the bed sheet, Blackie smelt death, and started to howl. Ta'Yanna knelt down to comfort him, but instead burst into tears. It was Richard that ended up comforting both of them. Then after Krillgan and the foreman placed Kenny's body on the farm skid. He came over and knelt down, and cried with the family. He told them it was okay to cry. Kenny was very good to them, and they loved him.

When they started feeling better, Krillgan told them to dress for the dance that would be after the burning. He also asked Richard if he could bring his wind instrument. Uncle Kenny liked the sound, and it would be nice if he could play it for the burning. Richard's music teacher told him that she would accompany him on her instrument. She also called a few farmers, so that they could bring their instruments, to also accompany Richard.

Krillgan let Ta'Yanna know that Blackie can accompany them in the ranch limo. He also let her know, that she was now responsible for looking after Blackie. Kenny wasn't there to feed him anymore. Just like he wasn't there to make meals for them anymore. Ta'Yanna nodded her head like she understood. Before leaving, Krillgan and the foreman had a discussion. They were trying to decide whether or not to leave anyone behind, to look after things while they were gone. In the end, they decided just to lock everything up. Since everyone wanted to say their goodbyes to Kenny.

Krillgan was happy that everyone from the planet wanted to be there. Even all of the Senior Ministers at the Ministry were there. There was only a skeleton crew at the spaceport, as most of them knew Kenny, as the face of the Radcliff Ranch. He was there making sure that anything the Ranch ordered, made its way through customs, without any problems. The Traffic Controllers knew that he was the first one they notify, if there was anything unusual going on in their system. Even though official protocol, stated that they were first to call the Military Base Commander. They only called the Base Commander, if Kenny gave his permission.

When the Mayor notified Krillgan, Krillgan asked the foreman to be with the family, as they placed the torch to light the funeral Pyre. Then Krillgan let Richard know that it was time. Richard started playing the few simple songs he had learnt. Then his music instructor started playing with him, then the other farmers that were called also came forward. Richard liked that they were taking the tune, and adding to it. He told his father, that it was just like him drawing a picture for Ta'Yanna. He would draw the outline, but she would colour it. In the music, he played the outline, and the other musicians coloured it. That allowed him to play the same tune over and over again, and hear them colour it differently each time. What he also liked, is that the flames of the fire seemed to also change relative to the music. What he did not know, was that his father was doing it, using the Force.

To all the people watching and listening, it was a beautiful experience. It seemed that it was very fitting way to say goodbye to Kenny. After the fire was burnt down, they started setting up for the barbecue and the dance that was going to take place next, so that they could celebrate Kenny's life. Ta'Yanna went around to the different food venders, and was able to get a platter of food for Blackie to eat, she took what Papa told her that morning, to heart. Blackie is her responsibility, and she wanted to do what she could to look after him.

The day had finally arrived. Ludia's water has broke. She was in what was once Krillgan's bedroom in Grandmother Andriel's home. Yma and a healer were acting like midwives, with Grandmother Andriel sitting in. Mother Amblin Elu was there to support her daughter. Helping her as she helped Grandmother Andriel, with her two younger children, and helping Ludia with the birth of her first three children. When the baby's head started to appeal, the healer started to panic. The top of the head appeared, and it was pale blue. Usually the sign of a blood circulation problem. Yma had to remind her to use the force to check the baby. Andriel decided to reach out and touch the baby's head. She told Yma that this baby has fur. But it is not the red fur of Devaronians, and the baby is too pale to have Devaronian blood. When the baby had finally emerged. It gave a good healthy cry. Ludia was apprehensive when she saw her new son. But when she took the baby, she said the he felt like Krillgan. Grandmother Andriel looked at her new grandson very closely. She told Ludia that the fur is white, like you would expect to see in an Albino. But the baby's skin is blue, like Grandfather Chitrah's. Yma and the healer both confirmed that the baby has only one liver. They also confirmed that physically it appears normal in every way. The family was allowed into the bedroom, to see the new addition to the family. The first question everyone asked, is if the baby is all right. The second question, is what is his name? Andriel and Chitrah both reminded Ludia that it will be more than a month before school is finished for the year. Then who knows how long it will take for them to get there. Since Krillgan is bound to go on a detour or two. So she should not wait for Krillgan to come name him. Ludia asked her mother if she could use Papa's name. Amblin Elu surprised everyone by saying no. She said that her grandson deserves a better name. This put Ludia in a fix, and she asked for any suggestions for her son's name. Grandfather Chitrah suggested that Jundrah is a good Chagrian name. Since most people in the galaxy, might believe him to be Chagrian, it would be a good name for him. Chitrah went on to say that the name means a fast warrior. If he has the Chagrian legs, then he will be fast. With his father training him in martial arts, he will definitely be a warrior. Ludia liked the name, and looked at her mother. Amblin Elu told her that it sounds like a good name to her. Then she said, "Hello Jundrah", as she placed her hand on her grandson's head. It did not take long for word to travel through the Clan. That the Clan Mother's daughter gave birth to a blue son. The healers assured everyone that the baby is healthy. That the color should be considered normal, considering who the father is.

Krillgan left a message for the Phoenix, letting them know, when he would like them to come and pick them up. Tamrack responded, that this would not be a good time. Rasha was expecting at around that time. Krillgan sent another message, telling them to drop Rasha off on Lianna. He reminded Tamrack that he was not the one giving birth. He also reminded them that Ludia should be giving birth soon. They were all very anxious to meet the newest member of their family. Tamrack, reluctantly agreed to drop Rasha and Timrune off on Lianna. Then make straight to Yitabo. He wants them ready to leave as soon as he arrives. Then he wants them to drop him off on Lianna. He doesn't care how long it takes for them to get the Phoenix back to them. Krillgan replied that they agreed.

Krillgan let the children speculate, on whether they have a brother or sister, and what their mother will call the baby. The children had fun thinking of boy's names, and girl's names. Then guessing which ones their mother would prefer. The children were using names that they heard on Yitabo. Krillgan did not have the heart to tell them that these are not names that Ludia would be comfortable with. Since they had no meaning or connection to her.

Before the Phoenix arrived in the system, Krillgan was asked to go to the Wookiee's settlement. When he arrived, they told him that they had received word from Kashyyyk, about the information he asked for. Because it was so sensitive, it was given to him as a hard copy in an envelope. No one in the settlement had set eyes on it. This information was not in any Wookiee computer, even on Kashyyyk, because all computers could be hacked. Krillgan thanked them, and returned to the ranch house. Arriving just in time to give the Fenelar Phoenix permission to land right next to the ranch house. Since the Traffic Controller did not believe that Richard had authority to do so. Krillgan asked the foreman to straighten out the Traffic Controllers. This is Richard's Ranch. What he says, goes! Krillgan did not have time to deal with it, as he wanted to be sure that everything was packed. He also gave the foreman some medi-packs, in case they were ever needed.

The Traffic Controllers were surprised that the Phoenix asked for permission to take off, just after they landed. They were just told that the family was in a hurry.

Krillgan retired to his cabin, to read everything that the Wookiees found for him. They gave him a detailed account on how they first traced the source of the address without letting the person knowing. The person who set the address up had used every trap possible, either to hide the physical location, or to send a warning signal. The address was located on the same planet, as they used that company to make it look like Amblin Elu's school was there. What surprised the people looking, was that the address was not one of these companies, but a private residence. Afterwards they realised, that if it had been one of these companies, they never would have had permission to set up all those traps. Then they had to watch the residence, to see if they were the final stop. Or were they the middleman for someone else. It took a while, but the Wookiee's people were able to determine, that the man they were looking for, is a very powerful man on the planet. He was known in their political circles, as the King Maker. No one was allowed to hold a political office, without his permission. They also found that he had a number of these middle men, reporting to him. So the middle men only were familiar with only the information they received and transmitted. They only knew about a small slice of a pie. It was only the King Maker, who saw the whole pie. The Wookiees thought it was not worth the risk of discovery, to identify all the middle men. They were satisfied that they had found the right guy, and knew enough about what he was doing, to know he is the one in charge. They gave Krillgan his name and picture. They listed all his assets, which they had uncovered. Then they gave Krillgan a description of where his residence is. When Krillgan looked at the picture, he remembered that he had seen this person before. He wondered if he owned the communications company they dealt with. When he thought about it. He realized that he could use that company to mine information. There are a lot of companies exchanging proprietary information through the communications centers. Information that a member of The Exchange could take advantage of.

When they entered the Lianna System, an encrypted message appeared. After deciphering, it was found to be for Krillgan, from the Voss. They need his help as a healer, to help their healers.

Tamrack told them to dock with the spaceport. He told them that it was faster to take a shuttle down to the surface, than to shuttle hop between shuttle terminals. Krillgan asked him if he was able to get some updated id. Considering the hassle he had after Timrune was born. Tamrack showed them the id he obtained from the Selkath. Because that suite in the resort, is considered permanently theirs, and the Selkath consider that as their residence. So he qualified for their id. Krillgan thought that this id would be perfect for Ta'Yanna. He will have to ask Ludia about it. The First Minister on Yitabo, had already given them id for their Richard Radcliff.

From the Lianna System, it was only a simple hop to Voss, in hyperspace. It was a Voss Healer, who was standing beside the Voss Mystic. They told him that a Sith Lord had visited their planet. Called Fulminiss. They did not know he was a cunning deceiver. They also believe that the Emperor interfered with their sight, so that they did not know who he was, until it was too late. They found out later that the Emperor sent him to trap the Sel-Makor. So that the Emperor could drain his energy. Instead of heading straight to the Nightmare Lands, he asked permission to go to the Shrine of Healing. He claimed that he had come to study their Healing Ritual. As they heal using the force, by combining their abilities with the healers that have passed on before them. He complimented and flattered the healers. Gaining their trust. Then he asked to converse with the healers that have gone on before, and learn its secrets. The healers foolishly let him. While in communion with the healers that have passed on. He somehow corrupted the ritual. Now when they perform the healing ritual, the ritual somehow drives the person they are trying to heal, insane. They know that he is a powerful healer, and not just because he has Kolto inside of him. They know his healing comes from his heart. They would like him to go to the Shrine of Healing with them. Maybe there is something he can do about healing their minds. They would also like his help talking to those who have passed on before them, to see if somehow the Healing Ritual can be restored? Krillgan told them that he does not have much experience with the illnesses of the mind. His specialty is in healing the body. They reminded him about healing his brother Erin. That was more than a healing of the body. They also reminded him about the Devaronian men he healed, by first ministering to their minds. Then they reminded him about how he healed his own mind, with Grimm's help. So now he knows how to mourn, and even helped his children to do so. They told Krillgan not to worry about his children or crew. They have commandos assigned to look after the children. They have others assigned to take Stoneman and Rudy hunting. They have acolytes assigned to looking after the others. Even though they doubt that they will leave the ship. Except to partake of meals with them.

They did mention that the Sith Lord, Fulminiss, was not that good, and was killed in the Nightmare Lands. One of their Mystics, joined forces with a Jedi, and confronted the Sel-Makor in the Dark Heart. There she sacrificed her life, to destroy the Sel-Makor. Claiming she knew it was her destiny, from when she first knew that she had command over the Force.

The Shrine of Healing was not in Voss-Ka or even on a mountain top. It was situated in the foothills, on top of a hill. That did not mean that it was an easy trek to get there from Voss-Ka. It was a trek that one who believed they were called to be a healer, made on their own. It was believed that if they were not supposed to be a healer, they would never make it.

While Papa was away, Richard and Ta'Yanna liked to follow Stoneman and Rudy, while they hunted. Trying to keep back far enough, so they did not interfere, yet close enough to watch what they were doing. Stoneman and Rudy were also nice enough to share their prey, so they always had a nice dinner in the evening. The rest of the crew was content to share dinner with them. Dranna, Wa'lu, and Ya'rrun, spent their spare time, installing the system Dranna purchased on Cerea. To extend the ship's computer's control to the exterior of the Phoenix. Dranna was surprised to get advice from the acolytes, so that it would even be hard for them to break-in.

The healer that escorted Krillgan to the Shrine of Healing, found that it was better to talk with Krillgan, just after he was with a patient, rather than during. Because it can break up his concentration, making it even harder for him. They would take breaks, walking around the country side. Where Krillgan would point out plants, and describe the healing properties of similar plants, on other planets. He did caution them, that because it was similar, it did not mean that it would have the same properties. He also mentioned that the Voss and Gomak, might react differently to plants he was used to using. Just because their physiology was different. He gave the Healers instruction on how to test the different plants, before they use them on patients. Then he mentioned that some plants that are poison to a healthy person, may be just what a patient needs, because it is a strong poison against what is making them sick. To the healer, it was just like she was learning her craft all over again. When Krillgan asked her about the ceremony he would have to undertake, to speak with the healers that had passed on. He saw that it was very similar to what they did on Yitabo, with the help of the Wookiee elders. He did not like that he would have to get naked again. She would as well, because she needs to introduce him to the elders. But the healers that will surround them, with their chanting, will keep their robes on.

One technique that Krillgan used in healing patients. Was to surround them, the other healer, and himself, in an air shield. It helped disrupt a faint connection he noticed in the Force. Between the patient and someone else. This helped them to get much better as they ministered to them, while in the air shield. But not recover entirely. As they did have brain damage. If Rudy had been with him, he would have used him to help him see if the patients had been connected to someone, or something else on the planet. Maybe there was still a remnant of the Sel-Makor out there, feeding on them.

The Clan Mothers were meeting together on Dathomir, when they all felt impressed to help Krillgan. It was the Clan Mother of the Misty Fall's Clan that first brought it up, and shared what she felt. The other Clan Mother's shared what they felt, and soon they all realised that they need to all contact their ancestors on Krillgan's behalf. The Clan Mother of the Singing Mountain Clan, admitted that like them, she did not know why. But from what her daughter shared with her, he should be on his way to them. He knew when she was expected to give birth. She also knew when their oldest son has completed his commitment to their training methods, and could leave for a few months, before renewing the commitment again. The Clan Mothers also realized that they would have to get naked in front of one another. Something that the Clan Mothers had not done for generations. What would be different about this ceremony, is that the Rancor they are each bonded to, would have to be present. All of them, except the Clan Mother of the Misty Fall's Clan. She will become an elder, later this year, so the Rancor she was bonded to, has long passed away. The Sister she has chosen to replace her, will also need to participate in the ceremony, along with her Rancor. The Mothers knew that they have a few days to prepare for the ceremony, as they are impressed that they all need to lay on their personal Rancor armour for the ceremony. So they each had to dispatch one of the Sisters acting as their Honour Guard, to retrieve the armor, and come back with two elders. The Mothers also needed to talk with their Rancor, and introduce their Rancor to each other, so that there would not be any fighting during the ceremony. Each Mother also wanted to take a bath with fragrant flowers in the bath water, the night before the ceremony. So that their bodies would smell nice, when they removed their robes.

It was decided that they would conduct the ceremony in the Singing Mountain Clan's compound, as theirs is the largest, and they needed the room for the ceremony, since their Rancor would not all fit in their meeting room. Any Rancor from the Singing Mountain Clan would have to wait outside the palisade until the ceremony is over, so that they do not interfere. Before undressing, they each lay their Rancor armour on the ground, right next to each other, because they need to all be holding their hands, after taking the potion. They also need to touch their Rancor. When all the Clan Mothers indicated they were ready, the designated elder from each clan gave her Mother the potion to drink, while the Sisters and the other elders started chanting.

The Clan Mothers found themselves wearing their armour, and riding their Rancor. The Rancor from the Misty Fall's was carrying two riders. They found themselves at the town site, before the town was first built. When it was a beautiful field of wild flowers. Clan Mothers representing all the Clans, rode up on their Rancor, asking why they are there. The current Clan Mothers said that they were there to ask that they help Krillgan Djo of the Singing Mountain Clan. Known in the Galaxy, as the Devaronian Krillgan. The ancestors asked them, if they are in agreement? The current Clan Mother's told them that on this matter, they all speak with the same voice. The ancestors told them, that the dead agreed to help him. They also told the Clan Mothers that it is best that the living not be with them. It can give them away to the dead Sith Emperor. He still does not know that they trained Krillgan, and they will keep it that way. The current Clan Mothers were disappointed, but they listened to their ancestors. Suddenly they found themselves waking up in the Singing Mountain Clan's compound. Before they spoke, their Rancor told them that they were able to speak with their own ancestors. They will also be helping, as they all recognize that Krillgan is a worthy healer, and warrior.

After the Clan Mothers all dressed, they went back to their meeting room, were the Clan Mother of the Singing Mountain Clan, shared with the other Mothers, everything that Krillgan has been doing, under the guidance of the Voss, to prevent the dead Emperor of the Sith, from forming a human body out of the Force, which he could possess. She also had to explain who the Voss are, and drew a picture the best she could, of what she could remember of Richard's drawing. Remembering to describe their eyes as being special.

The meeting lasted a few days longer than anyone expected. But nobody minded, because they all were able to hear some fantastic stories. It was news to all of them that the Rakata, had built a temple on their planet, hoping to use it to find a way to use all the Kwa temples. Amblin Elu even sent a Sister, to ask Ludia if she could bring the Songbird to the Town, so that they could show the Clan Mothers and their Honour Guards, the Rakata Island. Having that large observatory on the front of the ship, would allow them all to see it, without the need for any of them getting off of the ship.

On the day of the ceremony at the Shrine of Healing. Stoneman and Rudy were out hunting, with Richard and Ta'Yanna tagging along behind. Two Q Carriers landed not that far away, and one hundred Imperial Troopers, with six speeder bikes, got off the Transports. Richard was pretty sure that they were there for them. He had the one commando ask Stoneman, if Ta'Yanna can ride on his back. That will be the safest place for her. Richard decided that the best place for him was up a tree. The trees on Voss are not like other trees. The trees grow up from the ground line. So the lowest branches in the trees around them, were at least 25 meters straight up. Not easy trees to climb. The commandos had to form a human ladder up the trunk of the tree. So that Richard, then his protectors could climb up into the tree. The commandos that made up the top quarter of the ladder, also climbed up into the tree, while the rest went with Ta'Yanna and Rudy, who were on Stoneman's back.

The speeder bikes had two riders each. Which the commandos, who were with Ta'Yanna, managed to ambush. Richard pointed out to the commandos, who were with him, that it appears that at least 1/3rd of the Imperial Troopers, are made up of Gomak soldiers. They watched as the Troopers ran underneath were they were hiding, without even one looking up into the tree. The Troopers could see that the Rancor with a little girl on its back, was a few ridges over. They knew that they had lost contact with their scouts, and wanted to make sure that their prey did not get away. When suddenly they came under fire from the ridgeline in front of them.

Richard and the commandos with him. Saw that there were only twelve Voss commandos firing. They were also smart enough to take a couple of shots, then move to a new position on the ridge. To keep the Imperial Troopers from actually targeting them. The commandos goal was to keep the Troopers pinned down, until help arrived.

The Voss in Voss-Ka had seen the two transports come down out of the sky. They knew that they did not respond to either the Voss Traffic Controller, or the Gomak Traffic Controller. So four acolytes, who had been practicing with the force swords, were dispatched to find out what was going on, and to make sure that Krillgan's children are safe. A commando unit was dispatched to follow them. The acolytes knew not to wait for them. They saw the Rancor running to Voss-Ka. From the Rancor they found out that Ta'Yanna is on his back, as is Rudy. He will be dropping them off at the Phoenix, than he will be going back to help them. So the acolytes knew that their commandos have the Imperial Troopers pinned down. One of them ran back with Stoneman, to strengthen him. So that he could return and help them.

It was a terrifying site to see four Voss with Force Swords, and an angry Rancor crest the ridgeline. Stoneman cared about the children. They are part of his herd, and their parents have only been good to him. Now these bad people wanted to hurt them. They will find out that he knows how to protect his own.

When the Commandos in the tree saw the acolytes with the swords, they told Richard to stay in the tree. They formed a partial ladder by hugging the trunk as best as they could. Even though they could not reach all the way around it. This way they climbed down each other, and reached the ground. They came up behind the Imperial Troopers. To take out their anti-tank laser cannons, which were brought to eliminate the Rancor, which the Troopers were told, would be with the children.

The acolytes were able to use their swords to protect Stoneman from the laser cannons, as they charged down the hill to the Troopers. Because all the Troopers were focused on the Rancor, the commandos had no problem sneaking up on the Troopers manning the laser cannons, and eliminate them. Before any of the other Imperial Troopers noticed them. Then they backed up and left. They climbed up the tree trunk the way they came down, and spent the rest of the battle sitting around Richard, and watching.

When Stoneman reached the Troopers, he started swinging his arms, with his talons fully extended. Sending shredded Troopers flying. The four acolytes did their best to keep up with him. Deflecting blaster bolt fire, and beheading any Imperial Trooper around them. After the battle, the four of them ran to the Troop Transports, to seize them, and kill any crewmembers that resisted them. While they did that, the commandos on the ground, formed a human ladder at the tree trunk, with the commandos in the tree. So that Richard could climb down.

Krillgan was totally unaware of the battle that was happening for his two children. He sat naked on his leather outfit, and drank the potion that they gave him. He then took the hand of the female healer and lay down. He had his sword on the ground next to him. So that if he needed to, he could extend his fingers and touch it.

Krillgan found himself outside the Shrine of Healing, with the female healer. She was covered in a dirt garment, while Krillgan had his leather outfit on. They went to enter the Shrine, but it disappeared. Instead they found some healers sitting in a circle on the ground, chanting. Only they were not chanting the same chant, as what he heard before coming to this place. The healer was very angry, and walked up to them. She demanded to know, why were they trying to block them from coming to them? She also wanted to know, why were they driving the people insane? Krillgan came up to her and grabbed her arm. He gently pulled her away from them. He asked her if she can feel that these healers and the ground they are sitting on, has been tainted with dark force energy. He is not sure that they even know what they are doing. The Sith Emperor suddenly appeared. He told Krillgan that he is very observant. He then drew a sword, and rushed to attack Krillgan.

One of the healers in the Shrine of Healing, felt that Krillgan needed his sword. So he pushed it with the force, so that it was underneath Krillgan's fingers.

Krillgan suddenly found a blue glowing sword in his hand, and blue glowing armour covering his body. He rushed to meet the Emperor's attack. The Emperor swore because of the interference. He called his people to him. Suddenly a group of Sith Lords appeared behind the Emperor. Krillgan recognised one of them. He was the one he killed for trying to rebuild the Sith Freight Company, and restarting the experiments. When they showed up, the Emperor became larger.

While the Emperor swung his sword at Krillgan, a Titan Voss suddenly appeared, and blocked the Emperor's sword with his own. The Voss demanded to know, why was he trespassing? He told Lord Vitiate, that this was Voss territory, and this is a Voss matter. The Devaron Krillgan was invited, because he is an exceptional healer. Lord Vitiate returned to normal size not liking that the Voss Titan did not refer to him as the Sith Emperor, or simply The Emperor. He told the Voss that he has a right to be there, as he was protecting his own interest. The Voss healers are feeding him, and he was there to prevent the Devaronian Krillgan from cutting him off completely. As he has already interfered with his meddling. The Voss Titan told Lord Vitiate that he knows the rules. If he brings others to support him, then the Devaronian Krillgan can also seek support. Lord Vitiate told the Voss Titan that he has even more support than just the Sith Lords. He called his people to him, and a vast army of followers appeared behind the Sith Lords. Lord Vitiate looked very smug.

Suddenly a large contingent of women riding Rancor, and men on foot with bone clubs, showed up. Behind them was what looked like a vast herd of Rancor. Krillgan recognised Smasher among them, which brought tears to his eyes. Some of the women looked like they are related to Ludia. Then Krillgan recognised Ludia's grandmother. She spoke to the Voss Titan. She told him that they are there to support the Devaronian Krillgan, and that others are coming. She reminded the Voss Titan that he knows the connection. The Voss Titan smiled, and said that he did.

Lord Vitiate did not like this interference, he was considering protesting their being there. Even though they looked primitive to the Emperor, all the people that showed up are force users. Though his minions out number them. They would have no trouble plowing through all of them. Not to mention the devastation that all those Rancor could do. He wanted to protest even more, when another group showed up. They were mainly Togruta, but they had some humans with them.

Krillgan did not recognize the Togruta, but he saw Bacgruta, Kenny, a woman that he assumed was Kenny's first wife. Then he saw Captain Richard standing with them.

Lord Vitiate decided that rather than protest, it was time to call his allies. A whole hoard of Rakata showed up. Krillgan could not see where this group ended. When they showed up multitudes of Kwa, Kwi, and Gree showed up to support the Devaronian Krillgan. Then a multitude of Devaronians showed up. The ones in front stated that they are also Krillgan. Then Jedi started showing up, as well as the race of gentle Giants that are now extinct. With the one Giant waving at Krillgan. Lord Vitiate noticed that Ashla and Bogan Jedi were standing together in support of the Krillgan. He complained to the Voss Titan, that the Bogan Jedi should be supporting him. The Voss let the Bogan Jedi speak for themselves. They told Lord Vitiate, that though they dabbled in the dark side of the Force, they never gave themselves over to it. They have since been reconciled to their brethren, and find in the Krillgan a kindred spirit. They then pointed to a group that was approaching. They told Lord Vitiate, that these are the Bogan Jedi that gave themselves to the dark side of the Force. These Jedi told Lord Vitiate that what their brothers said is true, but they are not there to support anyone. If they had to choose, they would choose the Krillgan, because they do not want Lord Vitiate ruling over them. They prefer to rule themselves. This goaded the Sith Emperor. He knew that the majority of Sith Lords, and the armies of the Sith, did not follow him, as they kept fighting among themselves. But would come together against him, whenever he tried to force a group into servitude.

Lord Vitiate did not recognize the next multitude of Sith that approached. He hoped that this meant that the other Sith were starting to come around to him. The Sith Lords leading them, told the Voss Titan that they are from Nathema. They are not there to support the former Sith Emperor, or the Devaronian Krillgan. They are there to reclaim some of what was stolen from them. Then they launched a collective attack against the Sith Emperor. It was the equivalent of Life Drain. But Krillgan did not know what it was called when the dead used it against each other. The Voss Titan yelled for them to "Stop!" He knew that they had just taken a lot of energy from Lord Vitiate. He told the group that they were not allowed to attack Lord Vitiate like that, unless he first attacked the Devaronian Krillgan. They told him that he had attacked the Devaronian Krillgan, so they had a right. The Voss Titan told them that this is why he did not block their initial attack. But now it is up to Lord Vitiate, if he wants to continue, or if he wants to retreat to his place.

The Sith Emperor knew that he had greatly underestimated the support this Krillgan has from the dead. He could see other groups approaching. Including the Hutts and their allies. None of these groups were coming to support him. He told the Voss Titan that he was withdrawing. Then he told Krillgan, that when his Force using son has matured. He will come and take his body away, and use it as his own. Then he and his minions vanished.

After they vanished, the other groups did as well. The Voss Titan shrunk down to the size of a regular Voss Mystic. He spoke to the healer telling her that the Healing Ritual is no more. They will need to figure out another way to use the Force to heal. In the meantime, they need to use the techniques that the Krillgan was kind enough to share with them. He suggested that they build an enclosed garden next to the Shrine of Healing. They can grow in there all the plants that the Krillgan has pointed out as having potential for healing, as well as other plants that they will discover. The healers need to keep the garden saturated with light force energy. So that anyone entering will be at peace. This will also sever any connection Lord Vitiate may have established with his victims. He told the healer that the Mystics will deal with the tainted healers, and the ground were they sit. It was time for them to return to the living.

Krillgan sat straight upright, when he awoke. He was glad to see his fingers resting on his sword, and the small marks on the ground, indicating that someone had pushed it there. As he had no control of his body, when he was in the realm of the ancients. He let the healer share what she experienced, and what the Mystic told her, while he dressed. When she was finished sharing, it will be his turn.

Some Mystics arrived from Voss-Ka to escort him back. They shared with him and the healers about the attack on the Krillgan's children, and how Richard came up with the initial strategy that stalled and confused them, until they could rally and destroy them with Stoneman's help. After what the healers shared, the Mystics believed that the Sith Emperor wanted to hold the children as hostages, to force him to leave, before he tried attacking him. They all agreed that the children's death would have been the outcome, if he would have forced the Krillgan to withdraw. As he would no longer have needed them. What they did not like, was that the Gomak king was in liege with the Emperor, for this attack. They had been hoping that with the Sel-Makor, no longer an issue on Voss. That the king's heart would start to heal. They will have to keep a closer eye on the king, in case he decides to further escalate the war. This would mean that his heart has been permanently damaged by the Sel-Makor. Krillgan warned them, that it could mean that the Sith Emperor is strengthening himself off of him. They may need to bathe him in light force energy first, before considering that his heart has been permanently damaged. The Voss Mystics agreed. The other thing the Voss Mystics agreed on, was that the Sith Emperor was weaken to the point that he could no longer hide what he was doing from them. They believe that it will be a number of generations before he will be strong enough to hide what he is doing from them again.

The children were all excited when Papa returned, and they wanted to share with him all their adventures. They had a great feast before leaving Voss, with all the meat courtesy of Stoneman and Rudy. Krillgan made sure to give Stoneman a hug using the force. To show him that he appreciated what he did for the children. Stoneman just told him that they are part of his herd, and his herd was attacked. Rudy agreed with Stoneman, that they just did their duty. Because he does not know how to climb trees, it was his job to climb onto Stoneman's back to protect Ta'Yanna.

Krillgan flew the Phoenix to Livien next. He wanted to talk with Uncle. On the way there, Krillgan told the children that they have a little brother. On Livien, Krillgan asked Uncle if he could have a large piece of land. He wants it as a game preserve. With the recent upgrade to the Phoenix's security system. Stoneman and Rudy have become redundant. So he wants a place where he can live with them. He told Uncle that he does not need any utilities. He prefers a primitive lifestyle. The only electricity he would need, would be for the communication equipment, and the sunlight will provide all he needs. He assured Uncle that he can afford it. He also reminded Uncle that he will be gone more than he will be there. So Stoneman and Rudy will be on their own. It would be dangerous for anyone approaching the land, as Stoneman and Rudy would not hesitate to kill them. What Krillgan did not tell him, was the real reason he wants this land. The dead Emperor indicated that his son will be a force user. He knew that it was very unlikely that he will be a healer. Which means the Sisters on Dathomir will refuse to train him. That means that Krillgan will have to train him himself, if he is to be able to stand up to the Sith Emperor when his time comes. Krillgan will not let the Emperor use his son for his own purposes.

Uncle let Krillgan know, that the next time he comes to Livien, he will have a sizable parcel of land set aside for him. He will tell him the price, and the deed to the land will be free and clear. Uncle wanted to talk to his wife before giving any land to Krillgan. He believes that they can act as a security buffer for one side of one of their projects. Only a fool would try to cross a parcel of land claimed by a Rancor.

After taking off, Krillgan knew that he will have to talk with Ludia about where they want Ta'Yanna educated. He does not believe that Ta'Yanna is strong enough to do what Richard is doing on Yitabo. He also does not believe that she would learn everything she needs to know on Dathomir. Even though he was sure that his parents would do their best to educate her. Krillgan was thinking of asking Dreamarra to move to Manaan. To be Ta'Yanna's guardian, while she attends school there. He will of course try to stop in as often as possible, especially in the first few years. But once their son starts showing signs of using the force, he will retreat to Livien with him, and will only stop on Manaan if passing through.

Krillgan decided to stop at the neutral planet on the way to Kindell's world. He wanted to deal with this member of The Exchange, before they try anything else, in trying to find where Rimohtad Spider Silk comes from. He also wants to confirm which Barseg Nobleman has connections to The Exchange. From the dossiers Kenny was able to obtain for him. He believes that it is the Barseg Nobleman, who has been married four times. Each time he married, he increased his personnel wealth. Going from an insignificant Nobleman, to one with connections in the palace. He also claims to be a direct descendant of a previous King. So should have the title of Prince of Barseg, rather than just being a Lord. The other thing that caught Krillgan's attention, was that all four wives died in accidents, before their first year anniversary. So it seems that this Nobleman, does not know how to live with women. Or he is afraid that his wife might tell her family, what type of person he really is. The Barseg Palace claims that this Nobleman is actively trying to woo the widow friend of Lady Brelmy, who is acting Guardian to her son's estate. So far the widow has indicated that she is not interested. Krillgan believes that by this Nobleman declaring he is interested in the widow, it will chase weaker suitors away. Giving her the options of him, or no one else.

Krillgan had the Phoenix land in long term parking, because he did not know how long he would be. He went to the communications company, and renewed the contract, with Amblin Elu's school for gifted children. The company was surprised, as they were expecting that it would just be a onetime contract. While there, Krillgan inquired into the owners of the company. He was wondering if the member of the Exchange was the owner. He wasn't the owner of this company. But when Krillgan mentioned his name, they told him that he was the owner of the two largest communications companies on the planet, even though his name does not appear officially on the documents. He owns them through holding companies, just as he does everything else. Krillgan went back to the Phoenix. He had to use his voice to get the computer to open the ramp. Then he asked if one of the crew could do a search on the local net. Wu'la decided she would do it. Since Ya'rrun was helping Dranna dismantle a component. Krillgan had to ask Dranna not to dismantle the ship. Because as soon as he was finished, they were leaving right away.

Krillgan had Wu'la search the local net, on the owners of the communication's company. To see if they are as squeaky clean as the member of The Exchange. Or are they real people.

Krillgan then walked by the compound where the member of The Exchange lived. It did not take long for Krillgan to realise that this property had more sensors, and better sensors, that what the Sith deployed at their military base. The compound was surrounded by a stone wall, which came up to chest height. Above the stone wall, was a two meter high jungle fence. With notices on the stone wall, that the fence can amputate an appendage, if touched. This compound is going to be much harder to access than the Sith Base was. Because of the number and types of sensors, Krillgan knew that he would need more than the Force to analyse the different sensors. Krillgan hated to admit it, but he was going to need the bounty hunter's helmet, to take advantage of its sensors. To help in analyzing the compound. To find a way in. Of course he cannot simply walk around the city wearing only the bounty hunter's helmet. He will also need to wear the armour. Having a bounty hunter on the planet, could spook the member of The Exchange, into beefing up his security. Making it even harder to get onto the compound. So Krillgan was going to have to sneak off the Phoenix at night, then find a perch, where he can study the compound.

It took Krillgan a couple of days to get used to looking at what the helmet was showing him. As well as looking through the Force at the same time. He found that he could look with greater detail once he had mastered it. During this time, he had Wu'la research jungle fences, after she finished with her other project. Krillgan was hoping that she would find this fence's weaknesses. During this time Krillgan also noticed a number of things, about the compound. He noticed that the ground had various sensors, right up to the buildings, so there were no dead zones. He also noticed that only the two Nexu and their handlers were on regular patrol. The mercenary guards were escorted by a Nexu and its handler, to and from their posts, at shift change. That meant that the Nexu and handler had something on their person that neutralised the sensors, so alarms did not go off while they walked around. Krillgan could not see what and where they had the component. To see if he could purchase the item, and have it match the signal output. If he needed to have it custom made, he would have to buy some very expensive equipment, just to scan the signal. Then he would probably have to go to another planet to have it made. Right now the Wookiees are the only ones he would trust to make it. But that would mean another big delay, if he had to head back to Kashyyyk.

It was after sunset, and there were a lot of dark side roads through the city. Krillgan decided to stretch his legs, as he thought about how to lure the Nexu to the wall of the compound. Then he could have an indication of what they were wearing, and its diameter of influence. Since he would have to bring the equipment within that diameter, to capture the signal. Krillgan automatically made himself appear small, when he detected human life nearby. He detected a human female turn off of one of the well-lit city streets, onto a dark side road. Krillgan knew that this was a dangerous move on her part. Because he has seen some of the men that use these side streets. They did not seem like the friendly type. He followed her. The first man she encountered, warned her that she should not be there. He saw her heart rate jump, when he spoke to her. But she gave him a wide birth, and he left her alone. She picked up the pace after that. Krillgan detected another man on a side street that would intersect the one they are on, ahead of the female. This man seemed to be unsteady on his feet, as he could not walk in a straight line. When he came to their street, he made straight for the woman. He was surprisingly fast when he had a purpose for his actions. The woman tried to run away, but she did not react quickly enough. She screamed when he grabbed her. So he covered her mouth with his hand. It seems that no one who lived in the area responded to the scream. The man dragged her back to the street he came out of, then he dragged her into an alley. He took his hand off of her mouth, and told her that she can now scream as much as she wants to. No one will hear her. If they do, they are used to blocking out the screams. So the woman started crying, while the man started tearing at her clothes. Krillgan had seen enough, and came up and put a choke hold on the man. He told the woman that the first man warned her. Yet she continued going in a direction where she could not protect herself. Why was she behaving as a fool? The woman between sobs, told the stranger, who was just a shadow to her, she was just trying to get home. Krillgan told her that at the least, she should carry a stunner. Her self-protection was more important than the laws of this place. If she wasn't a fool, then she should also learn self-defence. In order to protect herself, when she had to take the dark side streets. He also recommended that she also have a friend with her. It will discourage the predators from attacking her. She told him that her friend is sick, which is why she was alone. Krillgan also told her, that she cannot tell the authorities about this attack. They cannot know that he is on the planet. He did promise to follow her until he believed she was safe.

While he did, a plan started to form in his head. He decided that the drunk rapist had just volunteered his body for Krillgan's research. Krillgan went back and found the rapist, and put him in a choke hold on him, again. Then he made his way back to the compound. He knew from what Wu'la found out, that any organic matter, or anything with carbon in it, will burn when it makes contact with one of the filaments. Metallic objects will act like conductors, and electrocute anyone holding it. It is only ceramic objects, like glass that can touch the filament, without damage. But even then, depending on what minerals are in the glass or ceramic, they can heat up were they make contact, with the glass melting, and the ceramic vaporising. Krillgan saw a large wedge shaped rock, which had broken away from the stone wall. He placed it on top of the wall, and pushed it forward, using the Force. The bottom filament slid up the wedge face, until there was a large enough gap, that a body could squeeze under. He placed the rapist, so that his body was resting on the stone wall. Then Krillgan went across the road, and went up to his perch on the roof of the house. He was hoping that he would have a clear view of what would be happening. When the rapist started stirring, Krillgan pulled on the stone, so it stopped supporting the filament, then it fell on the ground. The rapist first yelled out in pain, when the filament made contact with his skin. Then stopped as it had cut deep enough to kill him. First the one Nexu with their handler came running, than the other. They came from different directions. Krillgan was happy to see the diameter of influence, their sensor nullifiers were making. He saw two overlapping circles. What surprised Killgan at first, was the need for each of them to have a sensor. The area of influence was large enough, that both Nexu and handler could safely stand in the nullifier's radius, without triggering the sensors. Both handlers used communication devices to talk to someone. Probably the Security Command Center. One of the handlers directed their Nexu away, while the other one continued approaching the body. The handler kept approaching. Talking as he did. Probably describing everything they saw. It was not long before Planetary Defence showed up with a vehicle to haul the body away.

Krillgan saw that the nullifier hung from the collar around the Nexu's neck, and was hanging from the waist of the handler. Krillgan reached out, and tugged on the device around the Nexu's neck. It was attached to the collar too securely to be removed. Krillgan then tugged at the device hanging from the handler's waist. He was surprised that it broke off. He pulled it until it was were the ground and stone wall joined, and held it there.

A PD Officer held up the big rock at the base of the stone wall. He showed the handler were the wedge face was scratched. The handler then relayed this information through his communicator. The PD Officer then pointed out were it had broken off of the wall. He said that this is a crime of opportunity. The other handler came back with two mercenaries carrying equipment. Krillgan saw that they walked behind the handler. They walked right on the edge of the Nexu's nullifier diameter, but well within the diameter of the handler's nullifier. The two mercenaries did not like walking between the two Nexu to get to the wall. They placed their equipment on the wall, then jacked up the bottom filament, until the PD Officers were able to drag the body off. They had no problem identifying the body. This person was well known to them. They could all smell the alcohol, so rightly assumed he was drunk. The Officers told the mercenaries that this guy liked taking advantage of opportunities. Which is how they have caught him in the past. Only this time it must have backfired.

After they all left. Krillgan dragged the nullifier up the stone wall, than across the top of the wall. Then he carried it to where he was perched. Placing it in the medi-kit with the wooden case holding the needle with the serum in it. He decided to take advantage of what the force has given him, and enter the property tonight. But first he would observe the compound for a while. To see if they would alter what they did, because of that incident. The only difference that he saw, was the one Nexu and its handler would come up to the stone wall, while on his patrol. The handler knew that he has lost his nullifier, and was looking for it, while on patrol. Probably hoping to find it before the next shift change. Which means that he hasn't reported it, yet.

Krillgan jumped down from his observation place, and waited. A vehicle was driving by the compound with no life force inside. Krillgan ran up to the vehicle and jumped up on it, and used it like a springboard. He somersaulted over the fence and landed safely inside the wall. The droid driver stopped its vehicle, thinking it had hit something. But when it climbed out and walked around, it did not notice anything. It wasn't until it returned to its garage, that it noticed the dent in the roof. It did not hit something, something hit it. Now it was stuck repairing the vehicle before it was needed for the next shift.

Krillgan approached the main building. Then he jumped to the thin ledge around the building, where the windows from the top floor were set. Krillgan used his dagger to cut around the edge of the glass. He was not surprised to find it was optical glass. Just not as thick as what is used in modern gun turrets. It was thick enough that a sniper blaster rifle could not penetrate the window. Krillgan moved the glass using the Force. Then climbed into the room after it. After he was in, he but the glass back, then he used the same compound Dranna uses, if a meteor chips the glass on a gun turret. He squirted some compound in each of the four corners. Believing that this was enough to keep the glass in place. The first thing Krillgan noticed, was that each room had sensors. Only these were not connected to alarms. They were connected to recording devices. Krillgan had disable all the sensors, and recording devices, in each room that he entered. He would worry about recovering the memory storage of the recordings later. Krillgan assumed that this was in case something happened to this member of The Exchange. This would allow another member of The Exchange, to access it. So they could determine who the assailant was, and make any precautions that were needed to protect themselves. In case the assailant went after them.

Krillgan found the member of the Exchange asleep on his bed. He used the Force to gently pick him up, and place him on a chair in his room. The member woke up, will Krillgan was securing, his hands and feet, to the chair. He tried screaming, but gaging him, was the first thing Krillgan did. So only Krillgan heard him. After his limbs were secure, Krillgan pulled the wooden box out of his medi-kit, and opened it. He showed it to his hostage, and asked him if he recognised it? The person's eyes went really wide. Krillgan told him that it used to belong to someone called the Persuader. Now Krillgan adjusted the helmet, so that his voice would have a metallic twang when he spoke. In case he missed a sensor, and this was being recorded. Krillgan then proceeded to inject the serum into the arm of his hostage. Just like the Wookiee doctors instructed him. Then he waited the specified time, before removing the gag. Now he will answer all his questions. While Krillgan had been waiting, he used the time to set up his own recording device, and adjusting the light. So he would have time to analyze all his facial expressions, later. Just to make sure that he was not preconditioned to give answers to certain questions. The member wanted to know, why was he doing this? Krillgan told him that he made the mistake of looking for something that should not be found. He went too far, and started hurting people that should not have been hurt. Now he must pay. The guy tried to make a deal with Krillgan, first offering him credits. Krillgan told him that he feels insulted. The credits he offered, are much less than what he makes in an average year. He thought his life would be worth more than that. The man upped the credit amount, then started talking about treasure. Krillgan told him that he has more treasure than he knows what to do with, after killing a Sith Lord. The Sith Lord believed that he was going to be promoted to the Dark Council. He had amassed a huge treasure, thinking that he would be furnishing a palace. Most of it is now sitting safely in a cave, until he can find a purpose for it. The man then tried tempting him with the latest in weapon systems, surveillance equipment, and anything else he could think of. Krillgan held up a dagger, and made it glow. He told the man that he did not want to be weighed down with a lot of heavy equipment. When his simple dagger could do more than a lot of weapons he was offering. Krillgan did confess that he was ignorant of the abilities of the electronic equipment he was offering. But what he currently has was good enough for him to get into the building undetected, and he would leave the way he came in, undetected.

Krillgan was disappointed that he did not know the other members of The Exchange. He just knew their code names, and how to get a hold of them. Krillgan thought that they were leaving themselves vulnerable, for someone with enough connections to start making the claim that they are a member of The Exchange. If they are smart enough, they can take The Exchange away from them. Their only recourse is to attempt to assassinate them. But by then, they themselves will be killed. The member asked, if this was his plan? Krillgan said it might be, if The Exchange does not stop looking for spider silk. The man gave up all the accounts that he knows. All his passwords. Everything about the Exchange he was responsible for, and minute details of his organization. Including all his assets, which included his agents, and their specialties. A complete list of mercenary groups they employ, how to contact them, and their strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, Krillgan asked him about the Barseg Nobleman. Krillgan was right in his guess. What he did not know was the extent the Nobleman had already gone to. In preparation to overthrow the king, and take his place on the throne. Getting involved in the silk trade would provide the last amount of income he needed, to set his plan in motion.

The last bit of information Krillgan needed was to erase the last bit of electronic evidence that he was in the premises. Krillgan then slowed the man's heart beat right down, until it stopped. He unfastened his body, and laid him back on his bed the way he found him. Anyone checking on him, will think he is sleeping. It will only be when they touch him, that they will know that he is dead.

Krillgan than went to the surveillance control room, and did what the man told him. None of this man's people had access to this control room. It was only other members of The Exchange that knew where it was, and how to access it. Before leaving, Krillgan set up a recording device, which seemed to be connected to a remote location. It would only activate when someone entered the room. There was also a time delay, so it should not become active, until after Krillgan left the room. Krillgan did this so that anyone entering the room would start looking over their shoulder, once they located the device. Believing that now their identity is known.

Krillgan went back out the window he came in by. But this time he put a small amount of the compound Dranna gave him, all the way around the window to seal it in place, rather than just at the corners. That way they will not discover how he came into the building, until someone suspects that the man was killed, rather than just dying in his sleep.

Krillgan saw nothing he could use as a springboard to help him jump over the fence. So he used the Force to hold up the bottom filaments, and left the compound that way. He removed the nullifier and threw it on the grass. He waited on his perch for the Nexu and handler to come around on their patrol, and approach the fence. When they did, Krillgan touched the nullifier with the Force, causing it to wiggle. This movement attracted the attention of the Nexu who came over and sniffed it, recognising an unfamiliar scent, and growled. This attracted the attention of the handler, who was happy to find his nullifier, and praised the Nexu. He pocketed the nullifier because he did not have time to reattach it. At least now he won't be in trouble at the end of his shift, when he has to turn it in.

Krillgan returned to the Phoenix for a nap, and made sure that the computer knew when to wake him up. He wanted to know the status of the Phoenix. When it will be fit for departure. Dranna was having breakfast when Krillgan was woken up by the computer. She told Krillgan that she had found at this spaceport the special lubricant they need for the mechanical components of the ship. For when it transforms to battlemode. She bought up all their stock, and has been applying it at the designated locations these past few days. All she has left, are where she needs to access the components from the exterior of the ship. She estimated that she should be done by lunch time. Krillgan decided to help her and Ya'rrun, to finish the job. He will order lunch from a local cantina, then after they eat they can take off. Ya'rrun accused Krillgan of showing off. Because he would grab what Dranna asked for using the Force, when no one was around. Krillgan just told Ya'rrun that he is just jealous, because he can be lazy without looking lazy. Which made Dranna and Ya'rrun laugh.

Around midmorning, two PD Officers in their immaculate uniforms, came up to the Phoenix, and pressed the ramp open button. They were surprised to hear the female voice of the ship's computer, asking, how it may help them? They told the computer that they want access to the ship. The computer told them that they are not authorized personnel, so access was denied. Dranna, Krillgan, and Ya'rrun had watched this. Krillgan decided to have a little fun. He first reached out and touched Stoneman, telling him to get to the top of the ramp. He then picked up a rag, wiping his hands as if they were dirty, and approached the Officers, asking, if he can help them? The Officers then noticed the three of them working on the ship. They asked Krillgan, if he has seen any suspicious looking characters at the spaceport? He told them that they need to define their parameters. Everyone at the spaceport looks suspicious. Even them, in their pristine uniforms, masquerading as PD Officers. This caused the two Officers to go red in their cheeks. They then asked Krillgan, if they can speak to the Captain of the ship? They would like permission to search it. Krillgan told them that he is the Captain, but does not have the authorization to permit just anyone on their ship. They have to get that from Stoneman, who is in charge of internal ship's security.

Krillgan then asked the ship to lower the ramp. He pointed to the top of the ramp, and told the PD Officers that this is Stoneman. Krillgan asked out loud, if these two Officers could come aboard? Through the Force, he asked Stoneman to roar. The whole spaceport heard that roar. Stoneman even managed to get some spittle on the front of the two Officers. Krillgan told the computer to close the ramp. Then he turned to the two Officers and told them that Stoneman said, "No!" The two Officers looked like someone had rubbed white makeup on their faces.

One Officer removed a handkerchief from a breast pocket, and wiped his face. Then he handed it to his fellow Officer, who did the same, then handed it back. The first Officer told Krillgan that he believes that there is no reason to search his ship. They are satisfied that their security would have kept unknown people from boarding their ship. Then they walked away.

Krillgan walked back to Dranna and Ya'rrun with a big smile on his face. Dranna and Ya'rrun could not hold it back anymore, and burst out laughing. Which made Krillgan laugh. Then he told Dranna that this will be something the ship's security will lack, when Stoneman and Rudy retire. Ya'rrun agreed. Dranna started to agree, then stopped. She asked Krillgan if she could install the top of the line projection system at the top of the ramp. Like what is on the bridge of luxury liners, so the ship's computer can generate life like images, of what the bridge crew needs. Not a blue holographic image. If they had that system, and scanned the image of Stoneman, as well of the image of him roaring. Then to anyone standing at the base of the ramp, it would appear that Stoneman was standing there, than roaring at them. Ya'rrun asked her, "What about the spittle? That is also part of the roar." Dranna told him that the roar will have to be enough. Krillgan agreed. Dranna became excited. She had another project. Dranna loved this ship, and all the work she is doing on it. It was too bad she could not share all of it with her daughters. At least she was able to share enough, so that they knew her life was not completely boring.

Aboard the Phoenix, everyone ran for the top of the ramp when they heard Stoneman roar. They all wondered what that was about, since the ramp was supposed to be up. They were too late to see what was outside the ship. They just saw the top of the ramp slide through the bulkhead, until it was sealed. The only one who could communicate with Stoneman, is Rudy. Stoneman told him that Master Krillgan wanted him to scare a couple of people in identical clothing. Rudy was disappointed that he did not get a chance to scare them. He can bark really loud. Stoneman went back to his den, and everyone followed him. Stoneman threw Smasher's ball to Richard, with one bounce off the floor. Richard then bounced it off the floor when he threw it to Wu'la. Wu'la threw it back to Stoneman, with one bounce. The game of keep away was established. Ta'Yanna saw Richard as the weak link, and would try to tickle him whenever he had the ball. Rudy would just run around barking. Trying to hit any part of the ball with his body. So that the one it was thrown to, could not catch it. Wu'la liked that everyone was happy and had fun. She really liked working on this ship.

When the two PD Officers went through the spaceport's administration building. The Customs Officers told them, that if they had asked, they would have warned them about the Rancor being aboard the Phoenix. Than they had a good laugh. They were also glad that their introduction to the Rancor, was nowhere near as bad as what the two PD Officers just had.

After clearing the atmosphere, Krillgan had Dranna send an encoded message to Lianna, with an attachment. He told them that he questioned a member of The Exchange. He suggested that they let the King of Barseg see what the man had to say about one of his Noblemen. After that was sent, Krillgan had Dranna do a rough calculation, on how long before they reach Kindell's World, and send a message, to let them know they are coming.

Santhe Corporation Communications received the message from the Phoenix, but could not decode it. Because the Cereans kept the encoding algorithm. Both the Head of Security, and Madam Santhe were told about the encoded message. They both agreed that it must be something very sensitive, for it to be encoded. Madam Santhe asked the Cereans if they could decrypt the message, without looking at it. She also wanted the decrypted message on a separate computer, because of its sensitive nature. Madam Santhe did promise them, that if she thought it was safe for them to read it, she would let them see it. They were surprised when instead of letting them see it, Madam Santhe asked them to completely erase the encrypted message from the Company's computer. The contents were that sensitive.

Lady Brelmy and Lord Sienar were invited to Santhe Corporation for a special meeting. Lady Brelmy was also asked to contact her father, and have him come to Lianna. No explanation given. When Lady Brelmy saw the message and attachment, she understood why no reason was given. Lord Sienar knew that he was only allowed to see this message, because of all the hard work he did in securing a contract with the Sith Empire, than securing a contract with the Mandalorians. Both contracts being very good for Lianna's economy. He appreciated seeing it, because of the contract his company has with this Barseg Nobleman.

Lord Brelmy was surprised that his yacht was given permission to land on Santhe Corporation's private spaceport. All the previous times he had visited Lianna, he has had to dock with the orbital spaceport. His yacht was immediately surrounded by Santhe Security personnel, in a double ring. One ring made sure everyone stayed on the ship. The other ring was to make sure that no one unauthorised, approached the ship.

The head of Santhe Security boarded the ship, and handed Lord Brelmy a cheap computer tablet. He was told that this was a gift from Princess Anthila, to his King. Lord Brelmy played the contents, and went pale. He now knew why the cheap tablet. It was to be destroyed after the King saw it. No copies can be made, or stored anywhere. Lord Brelmy thanked the Head of Santhe Security on behalf of his King.

When Lord Brelmy reached the Baseg System, he made an unusual request. He asked that a message be sent to the King. That he has a gift from Princess Anthila, but just for him. He was standing by for instructions. The message passed back, was for him to land at his freight spaceport, next to his factory complex. The King's Messenger will be there to greet him. He will recognize him when he sees him. When Lord Brelmy's yacht landed, it was immediately surrounded by the Palace Guard. The person dressed as the King's Messenger, was the King himself.

The King looked at everything on the tablet. He asked Lord Brelmy, if he has seen it? Lord Brelmy admitted that he had. He described his reception on Lianna, and the unusual measures they went to, to make sure everything was secure. So the King knew that Princess Anthila believed this information to be genuine. The King asked Lord Brelmy, what did he suggest? Lord Brelmy told him that there was only one thing he must do. He must eliminate this Lord, before he implements any of his plans. The King pretended to be a Messenger again, and went with Lord Brelmy into his factory complex, surrounded by the Palace Guard. The King went to where there was molten metal, and threw the tablet into the metal. He thanked Lord Brelmy for his service, and left. Lord Brelmy had not known what to expect. At least his part was over. He went back to his yacht, and had his crew fly it to their normal spot.

The King of Barseg contacted an Anzat Assassination Guild. He told them who their target was, and where to dump the body when they were done with it. He told them there was no time limit, once they had him. The King wanted the body dumped in the poorest section of the capital. He wanted it to look like the Nobleman had gone there to negotiate a contraband contract. Only he had not made enough precautions, and was killed.

After the body was discovered, the King ordered a representative from every family that had given this Nobleman a bride, to present themselves at the Palace. He suggested that because this Nobleman had no heir, and his factories are in the beginning stages of a good contract. That the man's estate not be parceled up. It should be incorporated, with each one of them holding a 20% stake in the company, including the King. The King also mentioned the Nobleman that should be placed in charge of this company. They recognised the man as being a descendant of a previous King. Because of that, this man had no assets. He lived off of a pension from the King. With him running the company, the King would stop paying him a pension. He would live off of a salary from the company, which the five of them would agree to. They would have a board meeting six months before the current contract expired. There the Nobleman would present what he expected the company to do next. If the five of them agreed, he would stay on. With the ability to renegotiate his salary. If they did not like what he was proposing, they could fire him, and hire someone else. Or after the contract expired, they could parcel up the company. All the families agreed. They were not expecting any of this Nobleman's estate. The King could have legally seized it all. So they were thankful that he recognised that they all contributed to this Nobleman's wealth. They also agreed to let the King's relative live in the house, as part of the salary.

When the widow heard the obnoxious Nobleman was dead, she had a serious meeting with her son. She believed him mature enough to understand what she wanted to talk with him about. He just was not old enough to legally claim his inheritance. His mother told him that she did want to enter into a relationship with a man again. Only she would not consider marrying someone, until after he was in full control of his inheritance. Or his stepfather could try cheating him out of his inheritance. This way any Nobleman that approached her, would recognize that they could only have an affair to begin with. Which means that she has no assets or dowry to bring with her into a relationship. This way the only noblemen that would approach her, would only be the ones interested in her. She did ask her son, that if she was able to get pregnant again, that he help his half-brother, or half-sister. For the half-brother, it would mean he was willing to offer him a position at some future date. For a half-sister, it would mean that he would be willing to help with a dowry. So that there would be a better selection of Noblemen sons that would consider her as eligible. She reminded her son, that the advisors she has now, will become his advisors when he inherits what is his. She also mentioned that if he continues to be a nice man. Lady Brelmy will continue to be his friend. The young man told his mother, that he wants her to be happy. He also wants to continue being Lady Brelmy's friend. Her friendship has both protected them, and helped his assets grow. He would be a fool to lose that.

The widow ended up in a relationship with the Nobleman that was placed in charge of the company created from the dead Nobleman's Estate. Besides being compatible, and enjoying each other's company. She also brought with her, her relationships with some very good business advisors. Because of her help, he was able to solidify his position as Head of the Company, and guide it for many years. This helped him to accumulate his own assets, and pass them on to their children, when the time came. Including the outright ownership of the luxurious house he was living in.

It was early in the morning when Krillgan landed the Fenelar Phoenix in the clearing. He was not surprised that no one was there to greet them, as they were still having their breakfast. Neither Krillgan nor the children wanted to wait. So Richard climbed up on Papa's shoulders, and Krillgan carried Ta'Yanna in his arms. They passed Alliyana and Strongman coming the other way on a Rancor cart. Richard waved, and yelled hello to his aunt and Strongman. Alliyanna waved back. She could understand them being in a hurry. Krillgan slowed down when he reached the village, so he did not accidently run over anyone. Mother Amblin Elu saw them, and called to Krillgan that they need a word. Krillgan stopped and let the children down, telling them that it was okay for them to run ahead. Amblin Elu told Krillgan about the Council of Mothers meeting. That they interrupted in, because they all thought that he needed their help. She told him about the special preparations they made, and how disappointed they all felt, that it just seemed that they passed on a message. Krillgan confirmed when this happened. He told her that it was more than a simple message. They expressed unity in helping him, and not just them, but their Rancor with them. It allowed the ancestors to react in a special way. Amblin Elu told him to stop sharing any more. She was going to send runners to the other Clan Mothers. It would be best if he shared it with all of them at the same time. Krillgan agreed. He told Mother, that he just thought it would be a good thing if his family walked to town. It will be something they can do as a family. He was hoping that Ludia agrees, and is up to it? Amblin Elu assured him that the birth of their child went very well. She was careful not to reveal anything about his son. She told him that Grandfather and Grandmother helped her get back into shape. So the walk should not be a hardship to her.

The children burst into Grandmother's house, and asked their half-awake Grandmother, where their mother and brother are? She told them that she is probably in her bedroom nursing their brother. She heard him crying like he was hungry, which is what woke her up this morning. Grandfather Chitrah came into the house with a washbasin full of cold water. He put it down on a stand, and gave his two grandchildren a hug. Their cousins thought it was safe for them to come out and greet them as well. Grandmother Andriel realized that she did not greet them properly, and knelt down and hugged them as well. Telling each of them how much they had grown. She told Grandfather not to bother warming up the water, she needs to wakeup quickly this morning.

Ludia heard everything in the main room, and wondered how the children knew they had a brother. She lay Jundrah on the bed, after he finished nursing him. Then she went into the main room, and greeted Richard and Ta'Yanna. She brought them into the bedroom, and introduced them to Jundrah. She was pleasantly surprised that Jundrah was not asleep yet, and looked at the faces of his two siblings, then smiled. Ludia picked him up and let them hold him. First Ta'Yanna, then Richard. She asked them, how they knew they had a brother? They just told her that Papa told them.

Jundrah had reached for Ta'Yanna's face while she was holding him. He brushed his hand under her nose, which almost made her sneeze. She asked her mother, if Jundrah has fur like Papa? Ludia told her that he does, only his fur is white, but Papa's is red. Richard asked her, why his skin is pale blue? Ludia told him that Jundrah skin is the same colour as Grandfather Chitrah, only the white fur makes it look lighter. Ta'Yanna asked, if her brother is going to have hair, because she sees no hair on his head, like Papa and Grandfather? Ludia told her that she does not know. She was wondering the same thing. She just knows that Jundrah will show them who he is, as he gets older. That is part of the nice thing of having a new member in their family.

Krillgan entered the bedroom while Richard was holding his son. He kissed Ludia, and took his son from Richard. He asked her, how she was doing? She told him that she is hungry. So they all got out of the bedroom, and started heading to the dining hall, so that everyone can have breakfast. Chitrah told his son, what his son's name means. Krillgan told him that it is a good thing both his parents can use the Force to keep up with him.

In the dining hall, Kran and Elibet were having breakfast with Wu'la, Ya'rrun and Dranna. Krillgan decided that it was best to get all the bad news out of the way first. Since everyone was there. He told them that Grimm died, while helping him on a mission on Ryloth. He wanted to tell them when he reached Yitabo, but someone was in a hurry to leave, so he did not have a chance. He also told them about Kenny passing away, so there is not a good cook on Yitabo. The children said that Mamma's a good cook. He asked them, how his cooking was? They told him that it was okay. Blackie never complained. Which made all the adults laugh. The children just smiled, because they knew that Papa thinks he is a good cook. Then they confessed that everything he cooks on the grill tastes really good, except the liver. The way Mamma cooks it, is much better.

Kran and Elibet wanted to know, how did Grimm die? So Krillgan had to tell them about the Ryloth mission. But first he told them what Grimm told him on Manaan, that he was going to die helping him. He does not want him being upset, because he will be very proud to tell his ancestors, that he died helping the Devaronian Krillgan, that they saw in their visions. A lot of the Clan, after finishing their breakfast stood around behind him, because they wanted to hear a story.

Krillgan told them of the unexpected help they received, so that they could start planning the mission, before leaving Manaan. That he let Hm'Basha take the lead in their martial arts training, aboard the Fenelar Phoenix. Only embellishing on some moves for the Twi'Lek body guard, who was going to pretend to be a Lethan Twi'Lek. Krillgan had to explain to everyone that Lethan Twi'Leks are the same colour as Grandmother Andriel. Only it is a very rare skin color for them. So some men do stupid things because of it. Krillgan told them of the precautions he made, including the suits he forced them to wear. So that none of them would accidently become spice addicts. Then he mentioned all the help that was waiting for them when they landed. Finally, he shared what Grimm's assignment was, and why he had to go on his own. It looked like Grimm completed everything he had to do. It was just unfortunate that the Gutkurr were there to attack him, before he could get away. Then he had to explain what a Gutkurr looked like. That it was an insect that stood 1.4 meters tall, running around on its hind limbs. That it only had hind limbs and forelimbs, and a round tough body. He made a quick sketch on the table top, after someone handed him a piece of charcoal. One of the Kitchen staff asked him if he was volunteering to wash the table tops, because only children draw on the tables. Krillgan turned dark and promised to clean it up afterwards. When it came time to describe the Lyleks, Krillgan pulled a bug out of his pocket, and put it on the table top. He told everyone to imagine this bug being two meters tall. One of the kitchen staff screamed when she saw the bug, then smashed it with the ladle she was holding in her hand. It was not a clean ladle so she made quite the mess. She apologised and told everyone she hates bugs. Krillgan told everyone that he was not cleaning up this mess. The lady promised that she would do it. Ta'Yanna told her that she will need a much bigger ladle if she came across the bug that was two meters tall. She told Ta'Yanna that she has no intention of going to a planet where the bugs are so big. She just hoped that her father did not bring one with him. Krillgan told her that he left it in the kitchen to clean up the mess she made there. She then threatened Krillgan with the ladle, if he left a two meter tall insect on the kitchen. This had everyone laugh. They stopped laughing when he explained how long it took the insect to die after chopping off its head. He told them that if they found it in their home, and chopped off its head. Then came to the kitchen to see if someone wanted to cook it. When they returned back to their home, it would still be alive enough to attack them. The lady from the kitchen told everyone, that this is why you have to kill them when they are still small, so they do not grow up into big monsters.

Lydna was disappointed that she arrived in the dining hall when Papa was finishing his story. Grandmother had sent a Sister to find her, after her short talk with him. She was running through the trees at the bottom of the escarpment, with her friend Grimshee. Playing Moog and Rancor. She did great him, and her brother Richard, and sister Ta'Yanna. Richard wanted her to know that she and Papa were not the only ones to go on adventures. He told her about the Imperial Transports that had landed on Voss to capture him and Ta'Yanna. While Papa was away helping some healers. He told the Voss Commandos that were with them, to protect them, what they should do. They were able to turn the table on them, and pin them down. Until Stoneman could take Ta'Yanna to a safe place. When he came back he was really upset at the Imperial Troopers that wanted to hurt them, and started tearing them apart. The Commandos that were with him had to climb back down to the ground to kill the Troopers that had weapons that were like what killed Smasher. So that Stoneman would not be killed. He was really proud with how brave Stoneman was.

Krillgan suggested that Lydna take Richard to share with the Herd Mother what Stoneman did. He also suggested that Richard tell her how Stoneman scared those two PD Officers, while they were on their way here. He told her that they will be back at Grandmother's home, talking about taking a family trip.

These stories were all new to Ludia. She asked him when they were going to talk about this trip, and about putting their children in danger. Krillgan told her that this is why they are going back to Grandmother's. Because they don't need everyone's help discussing it. Krillgan did ask Kran if he could take the Phoenix back to Lianna. Rasha should have given birth to her baby. They might even be starting to be getting anxious, about getting the Phoenix back. Kran said that he will leave first thing in the morning. Elibet told him that she is also coming.

When there was only family around, Krillgan told Ludia about talking to her mother that morning, and what she shared. He told her that he thought it would be nice for the family to retrace the steps he took when they first landed on this planet as a child, and decided to walk to the Singing Mountain Clan. Grandfather Chitrah, and Grandmother Andriel asked, if they could come? It sounded like something they would like to do. Krillgan told them that only if Aliyanna and Strongman brought them on the Rancor cart, because he was hoping that this trip would be a faster trip. Since he needs to talk with all the Clan Mothers when they reach the town, and he wanted Ludia to be there when he did. Aliyanna told him that she would like her whole family to go on this trip. She thinks it will be good for them as well. Lynda mentioned that if they are going on a trip, she is coming with them. Grimshee asked, if she was allowed to come? Since she and Lydna do everything together. Ludia said yes. While Aliyanna left to see about arrangements for taking a small caravan to town, and all the porridge cakes they would need for all the people as well as the Rancor, since it is a handy breakfast for everyone. As well as a nice snack when they are hungry.

It was a full family outing that left for the town, the following morning. My Friend wanted to come along, because Ludia was going, even though Ludia said she would not ride her. She needed to be close to Jundrah, and riding a Rancor was not conducive to nursing a baby. She would let Krillgan ride her before they would stop for the night, so that they could go hunting. Krillgan sensed were all the animals were in the area, so they were able to provide enough meat for the Rancor. Rudy also came along to hunt smaller game for smaller creatures. Lynda and Grimshee came along to help carry all the animals they killed for dinner. Krillgan told everyone that the only disappointing part of the trip was that it was not berry season. As berries made up a good part of what they ate on the walk. Mind you, they did not know how to hunt on their walk, so they did not have game meat. They were more concerned about not being on some predator's menu, when they were walking. When they stopped at the Rancor pool for everyone to have a drink. Grandfather Chitrah described the water fight they had there. Since Krillgan was too small to reach the trickle of water that was falling into the pool, he jumped in the pool with both feet to splash his parents. Since he did not like it that he was not part of the fun. The Rancor caravan that came by later had to wait for the pool to fill up, so that all their Rancor could have a drink, before they could continue. Krillgan never did admit to them that it was his fault that they were delayed.

Krillgan had time to talk with his parents and Ludia about Ta'Yanna's education. Since they were riding with Aliyanna, and Richard and Ta'Yanna were in the second cart. He told them about having Ta'Yanna attend school on Manaan, and asking Dreamarra to move there to look after her. Because he does not think that she can do what Richard is doing, in fooling the Ministry as to how smart he is, while still getting a great education. Chitrah made a suggestion. He reminded Krillgan that the tutors they are employing on Yitabo are top notch educators. He should check with Manaan if they will release their curriculum, so that Ta'Yanna can be taught by the tutors on Yitabo, but still be considered a student on Manaan. The tutors will probably need to contact them through the holonet on a regular basis so that they can keep track of Ta'Yanna's progress. Ta'Yanna will probably have to be examined on Manaan once a year, to confirm that she is being educated by their curriculum. But this way she stays with the family, and the Ministry will not touch her, as she is enrolled in school on a neutral planet. Krillgan liked that idea, and so did Ludia. She did not like the idea of her family being torn apart. It was decided that when Ludia takes Richard back to Yitabo. Krillgan would have the Phoenix take him and Ta'Yanna to Manaan. To enroll her in school, and see if their tutors could educate her. If they can, than the Phoenix would take her to Yitabo. For Krillgan, his father's advice was just like a weight being lifted off of his back.

Another nice thing that happened every night, is that Richard led everyone in a singsong. He did not have his stringed instrument, so he just used his voice. He started with a simple song. He told everyone it is Ta'Yanna's song, and Ta'Yanna helped him sing it. Aliyanna's children also liked the song, and liked that they could keep the beat like Ta'Yanna did. Richard sang all the funny versus, and made up a couple new ones about their trip, and the grandparents water fight. Everyone liked that it sounded like the water fight happened on this trip. What surprised everyone, was when a few nights later, Richard sang the ballad of Ludia and Smasher Djo. Ludia and Krillgan held hands and hugged while Richard sang. Richard could also see the tears on their faces. They both gave him a kiss, while everyone else clapped. Lynda tried her best to tell all the Rancor the words of the song while Richard sang. So they knew that this song was about their Ludia, and their Smasher. My Friend asked Lydna if Richard would sing the song for the herd. They have never heard a story sung before. She thinks that the whole herd will like it. The other Rancor also agreed, so Lydna promised to ask Richard in the morning. Secretly, Lynda was very proud of her brother, and even more impressed when Ta'Yanna told her that he was learning two instruments. One he could sing with when he played. The other one is very peaceful to listen to.

The Clan Mothers were all waiting for Krillgan to show up and tell them his story. They were also happy that Ludia came along, and they got to play with a little furry blue bundle of joy. Krillgan told them about being contacted by the Voss, but this time the problem was with them and their healers. He told them about the Healing Ritual they discovered at their Shrine of Healing, how the living healers were able to connect with their ancestors using the force, and used that connection to heal people. Unfortunately a Sith Lord had found out about the ritual. He used the healers to have him commune with their ancestors. In the process he corrupted the ancestors, and corrupted the ritual. So everyone they tried healing after that, became insane. They asked him for his help as a healer. To heal the bodies and minds of the people, and to help restore the ritual. He told the Mothers that he was only able to restore a partial healing on their minds. As their minds had become damaged during the ritual. Then he told them about the ceremony for entering the realm of their ancestors. That it was almost the same as theirs, only the people that were chanting kept their clothes on. Just like the Sisters who were chanting when he entered Soul Eater. He told them about having to hold the hand of the healer, who was acting as his guide, to bring him to her ancestors. He told them that while this ceremony was going on, the Sith Emperor's followers launched an attack on Voss, to try and capture Richard and Ta'Yanna, so the Sith Emperor could force him to leave that realm. It turned out that what the Sith Lord did, by disrupting the Healing Ritual, benefited the Emperor, as he was feeding off of the infirm, as well as the ancestors of the healers. Because the attack against the children failed. The Emperor was forced to attack him directly. It seems that there is also a similarity to how combat is conducted in that realm, just as how it was conducted in Soul Eater. The more people you have supporting you, the larger and stronger in stature you grow. When the Emperor launched his initial attack, he had a group of Sith Lords supporting him. So he was a giant compared to Krillgan. A Voss Titan bigger than both of them, blocked the attack, and demanded to know on what authority he had, to entered their realm, to attack one who was invited to be there. The Sith Emperor felt insulted by this Voss, because he called him Lord Vitiate, instead of Sith Emperor. Since Lord Vitiate was his name as a Sith Lord. That is when it was revealed that he was benefitting directly from the corrupted Healing Ritual. So he had a right to defend it. The Voss Titan also told him that he is not allowed to engage in combat until all the supporters have arrived. Lord Vitiate complained that he has an army of supporters, where the Krillgan has none. That was when the ancestors of all the Dathomirite Clans, and Herd Rancor showed up. He told the Mothers that Ludia's Grandmother acted as their spokesman, stating that they were there to support the Krillgan, and the Voss Titan knew how they are connected. Krillgan told them that he saw Smasher in the herd, the Rancor he was bonded to. He died defending members of his family, on another world. Krillgan told them that his son knows the story as a ballad, if they would like to hear it after the meeting. Smasher waved to him and he waved back. He told the Mothers that others started coming, also claiming a connection to him. He believes that the ancestors of the Sisters, sent runners to all the realms that they knew of, that were somehow connected to him. Some he knew the connection. Others he did not. When the Sith Emperor called his allies in the dark side of the force, the Rakata. The Kwa, Kwi, and Gree felt that they could also show up and support him. The Devaronians also showed up, with the ones leading them, all claimed to be Krillgan. Then a group showed up, that were not there to support him or the Emperor. It turns out that he stole their lives long ago, when he ruled a planet. Because of what he stole from them, he thought he would live forever. They came to get back some of what he stole, and preformed something similar to a life drain on the Sith Emperor, weakening him considerably. The Voss Titan had to intercede and stopped them. Telling them that they cannot attack a combatant until after the battle was joined. They complained that he had already attacked the Devaronian Krillgan, so they have a right to attack him. The Voss Titan agreed, telling them that this is why he did not block their initial attack. He told them that they can only attack again, if the Sith Lord wants to continue with the combat. Well the Lord Vitiate saw that he was greatly outnumbered, and that many supporting Krillgan were force users, which would make him even more powerful. The Sith Emperor decided to cut his losses and retreat. But before he left, he told Krillgan that he would take the body of his force using son, and use it as his own.

Krillgan told the Mothers that if they had not done the ceremony they did, he would be dead. Because none of the ancestors who came, would have known that they need to support him.

This was quite an interesting story to the Clan Mothers. They asked Amblin Elu if they can tell them about the Soul Eater Sword. Amblin Elu gave permission to Krillgan to share what he remembers, since she did not bring the Clan's book of Knowledge and Wisdom. So the Clan Mothers asked him about that as well, as well as asking Ludia about her part. They were there for quite a while asking questions of the couple, and did not seem to notice, when Ludia nursed Jundrah.

It was late when they finished. So they asked Krillgan if his son can sing for them in the morning. Krillgan promised to ask him, but he did not think he would say no. After the meeting, Krillgan told Ludia, that it was because of the Emperor's comments, that he knew he has a son. He also does not believe the Emperor can see colour when he looks into the future, or he would have seen that he would classify his son as subhuman. Not the type of body the Emperor would want. Still he believes that in the future the Emperor will attack their son. That is why he will start training him, when he starts demonstrating that he is a force using child. He told Ludia that the wildlife reserve on Livien, is not just for Stoneman and Rudy. With Stoneman's help, he will build an enclosed compound with enough room to park his starfighter, Songbird, and the Fenelar Phoenix. That is where he will train Jundrah to use the force wisely, and responsibly. He wants to train him to be a Devaronian Krillgan. He suspects that there son will not have a natural inclination for healing. But he will teach him healing anyway. He told Ludia that her mother is the model for their son. She was born and trained a warrior, but when she became Clan Mother, she asked to be trained as a healer as well. Even though she is considered the Clan's strongest warrior, she rarely trains warriors. She is too busy training healers, because she is considered the best instructor for healers. Krillgan told her that he knows that once he starts training Jundrah, he will not be able to return to Dathomir, without being disciplined. Since he will be training a male force user without permission. One who will never be part of the Clan's Sisters. Ludia asked him, how they will know? Krillgan told her that it is her responsibility to tell them. He does not want her to ever be separated from her Sisters and Clan. He is part of another Clan, and he knows that they will accept Jundrah as being one of theirs.