Star Wars: Odyssey of the Infinity

by IX404

During a routine safety test, the Slipstream Space Drive of the Infinity malfunctions, catapulting them into unknown space. Little do Lasky and the members of the Infinity know is that they will soon change the fate of a far away galaxy.

24. Meetings, Recruitment & Developments

Hello again, everyone, and welcome back to my Halo/Star Wars crossover redux.

It's come to my attention that some of you are concerned that my story might be getting too cluttered up with ideas and other things. To be fair, I've noticed a similar situation as well, and my beta-readers have told me much the same. As such, I'll do what I can to streamline the story, though it is going to seem idea-intense for quite some time. However, I have heard your concerns and I will act accordingly.

Either way, I deeply appreciate y'all's feedback and support. Your feedback helps me improve this story and each chapter in it. As such, I thank you for such feedback, and I hope you'll continue to provide that feedback as time goes on.

As always, leave a reivew, and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own the Halo or Star Wars franchises. They are the respective properties and trademarks of Microsoft Studios, 343 Industries, Bungie, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Fox, Disney Films, etc. Any material original to the franchises belongs to their respective develiopers, producers and publishers. Any material not original to the franchises is of my own invention. I do not own any music listed in each chapter. Any music listed belongs to its original composers and/or artists.

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UNSC Infinity

Geosynchronous Orbit, Pantora

August 12th, 0BBY, 0455 Hrs (March 24th, 2559, 0455 Hrs)

Lasky rubbed the bridge of his nose. It's been a really crazy few months, he thought. First, we end up in a brave new galaxy, then we sack a criminal city, and now I'm stuck to a Force Ghost, courtesy of a Sith Holocron. He shook his head. Life's dandy, ain't it.

"What was that?" Revan asked. "Did you say something?"

Not talking to you, Lasky said.

"Ah, I see. My pardon."

The brief exchange made Lasky shake his head again. You know better than to listen in on my thoughts.

"He's right, you know," Bastila said.

"To be fair, it's a situation that none of us predicted would ever happen," Revan added. "Being stuck to a Force Ghost thanks to the use of a Sith Holocron? No one could see that one coming… not even me. On top of that, you two are part of a Dyad now, which means that things are gonna get even hairier than ever. Good thing I'm not part of it.."

"Revan," Bastila growled. To his credit, Revan remained silent.

Lasky sighed. Well, if you two have any questions you want to ask, now's the time. Before we do, I'd like to ask you a question. Why weren't you two pestering me until this morning?"

"Mostly out of respect," Revan said. "Your thoughts are your own, and it would be rude of me, and Bastila, to intrude upon them. However, given that you two are a Dyad, privacy is going to be quite difficult to achieve."

"It already is," Bastila said. "In all of my years, Lasky, I've never encountered someone like you."

How so? Lasky asked.

"You are a man that has survived a war even the Sith would be hard pressed to survive. Destroying an enemy that would've attempted to exterminate even the Empire if they gained knowledge of our galaxy? That is no mean feat at all."

Small comfort to all the people that died, Lasky grumbled.

"A fact I am fully aware of. I sensed those memories; what happened to those people was horrible. However, you can take comfort in the fact that all of those people that died are now one with the Force. It's a small comfort, but a comfort nonetheless."

Indeed, Lasky admitted. Speaking of which, how are you doing? You seemed pretty torn up a few days ago.

"Torn up doesn't even describe how I'm feeling. First, I learn that the Republic that I know of is now dead and gone, replaced by the creation of a Sith that fancies himself an Emperor. Then I learn that even death is not enough to give me peace, as Vitiate trapped me inside of that Holocron, and now I'm bonded to a man that went through a war that makes the so-called 'Clone Wars' look like a playground scat, while Palpatine, the 'Emperor' of the Galactic Empire, has turned the Jedi Temple at Coruscant into his personal palace. If that isn't the definition of torn up, then I don't know what is."

Lasky winced. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories again.

"No need to apologize to me, Lasky. You, like me, are the victim of Vitiate's schemes and plots. Until you'd opened up that thing, you didn't even know that I was in there." She huffed. "Still, we have to make do with what we have. As one of your sayings goes, 'when life hands you lemons, make lemonade.'"

Isn't that right, Lasky thought. Well, I'll have to get fired up for the day. If you have any insights on anyone that I need to know about, feel free to tell me. It's not like I can keep you out anyways.

"Thank you," Bastila said. "It's good to hear that from someone that understands. Before you go, though, there's… something I should tell you."

And that would be?

Lasky sensed waves of embarrassment coming from Bastila. "I… sensed your… attraction to me, Lasky. I… I was too embarrassed to bring it up earlier, though."

To be fair, I never expected to develop a crush for you, Bastila. Life, in a way, has a really odd way of pulling jokes on one. Leave enough open, and some strange jokes are going to come about. His mind drifted back to Corbulo Academy once more.

"I'm not sure this could be counted as a joke," Revan said hesitantly, interrupting his train of thought.

I know, but I'm grasping at straws here. As you yourself have said, this is a really, really strange situation. Besides, in my crush, I wanted to be with Bastila, and now I'm with her… just not in the way I expected. It's also embarrassing that I'm stuck to someone older than me by several thousand years.

"It's not that bad," Bastila said. "It would be embarrassing if it was the other way around. Beisdes, Lasky, you had no idea of how old I really was. You don't have to be embarassed in any way about that."

"Too true," Revan agreed. "That being said, I was wondering how you knew her."

"Me too," Bastila said.

I saw an image of you, Bastila, from a memory drive we found in a busted up droid, Lasky said. According to the engineers, the designation -

"T3-M4!" Revan said.

Pardon?

"T3-M4", Revan said. "He was a protocol droid that always accompanied us. Poor guy got practically annihilated by Vitiate when we ran into him."

"I believe it is best that we give Lasky some privacy," Bastila suggested hastily. "Even if it'll be practically impossible to do."

Much appreciated, Lasky said. Once he felt their presences pull away, he rubbed his face with his hands. Even when they're not married, they argue like a married couple. Pressing a small button, he said, "Chef, is my food ready?"

"Coming up, my good sir!" came Phillipe's voice. "It's exactly as you've ordered. Pan grilled mushrooms, onions and garlic with butter served alongside pan cooked bacon deglazed with apple moonshine, pan-seared biscuits and scrambled eggs with salt, butter and chili peppers."

Lasky nodded. "Sounds nummy to me."

"That it is. Part of me wishes I could eat this food too, and I ain't even the man cooking it."

"Greez is?" Lasky asked.

"Of course!" came Greez's voice. "And I'm having a wonderful time doing so. Whoever thought that your homeworld could have so many unique ingredients and foods?! Venison, pork, chicken?! I've never even heard of the stuff before, and I'm enjoying it!"

"Something tells me that it makes up for you getting up early this morning," Lasky mused.

"Of course it does! Makes me feel like I'm back at my cantina at Koboh!"

"I'm glad it does," Lasky said. Really glad I had him vetted properly. He's turning out to be a good cook, even if he's getting old. "So, when's the food gonna be ready?"

"It's already done," Greez said. "We're bringing it over now."

"All right. I'll be waiting here." Getting up from his bunk, Lasky quickly dressed himself. Stepping to the mirror, he looked into it. There we go, he thought.

"Hhmmm… not bad," Revan said. "Not bad at all, Lasky. That looks good."

What about it? Lasky asked. The uniform, or myself?

"Why not both?" Revan asked. "The best way I can describe your uniform is… minimalist. There's nothing on there that detracts from what it's supposed to represent, and anything that's somewhat artistic is there for a specific reason. Certainly makes the officers from my day look like giant peacocks."

"The Republic did desire some artistic flare for its troops," Bastila observed. "I must admit, though, I find myself appreciating the minimalist style your government chose."

We typically don't like looking flashy, Lasky admitted. Everything on the uniform is there for a reason. If there's no purpose in it being there, we don't add it on. He could sense a measure of approval from both Force Ghosts.

He was just in time to reach the table when the door opened, permitting Greez and Phillipe inside. "Here you go, monsieur. All of the food I mentioned before, cooked to perfection."

"Thank you," Lasky said. Once the two left, he quickly began to eat.

"Damnit! That's unfair!" Revan grumbled. "I can smell that food! Why can't I have a taste of it?!" The bell-like laughter Lasky could hear in his head clearly told him what Bastila thought of the situation.

Well, if you hadn't ended up dead, you'd be able to enjoy it too, he thought. Still, that's what happens when you pull that kind of shit.

"Don't you start telling me what I ought to have done!" Revan grumbled, though there was little malice in his voice. "There's this thing called becoming one with the Force, boyo! I dare you to find a different way around the things I had to deal with!"

"He'd probably find them pretty quickly," Bastila said, needling Revan. "After all, Lasky's got a sharper mind than you do in some ways." Revan grumbled, but wisely said nothing.

Lasky smiled. How very ironic, that I'm smarter in some ways than one of the most legendary Jedi that ever existed. Smirking slightly, he stuffed a piece of bacon into his mouth and chewed it for some time.

Revan's wry amusement and irritation rippled through the Force. "Oh, sure. Let's go ahead and taunt the dead dunce of a Jedi by making faces while chewing. Real mature of you, Lasky."

"It's more mature than what you did to me," Bastila grumbled. "You still owe me for all the decades that you abandoned me. Consider this some payback for that."

"No need to be that petty," Revan grumbled as Lasky finished up his meal.

Getting up, he proceeded through the door towards the bridge. So, if you want to ask any questions, you're free to do so, and I mean it for both of you.

"Well, that's nice," Bastila said. "For starters, does that minimalist style follow suit for your ships as well?"

It does, Lasky thought as he saluted a pair of Marines. However, for ships and architecture, it's generally referred to as Functionalism. Basically, the function of a structure or a ship takes priority over how it looks. Engineers say that if it's ugly, but it works perfectly, then it's not ugly. If it's the other way around, then it is ugly.

"That does make a certain amount of sense," Bastila admitted. "Though, I do believe this ship could use a little artistic flair."

You'd have to talk to Admiral Sark about that, though I doubt she'll remain calm if she sees a ghost in the same room she is.

Bastila shrugged. "Fair point."

"Mind if I ask a question?" Revan asked.

Sure, so long as it doesn't involve too much classified information.

"You do realize that, since we're dead, we can't share any secrets," Revan remarked. "After all, the best kind of secret is the kind kept between three people, provided that two of them are dead. We're literally in that kind of situation."

All right. That's fair. What do you want to know?

"What were those… things in your memories? Some new alien threat? Some kind of infestation?" Even as a Force Ghost, his revulsion of the Flood was clear.

That was the Flood, Lasky said. I've never seen them personally, but I've read the briefings on them. The Flood are, or were, a parasitic transcendental organism that the Forerunners fought against. They wanted to consume all life and add it to their own biomass.

If Revan could've thrown up, he would've done so already. "How disgusting! If these Flood came around during the Galactic War, the Jedi would've seen it as their personal duty to purge the galaxy of them!"

"I agree," Bastila said. "The Flood were a menace that needed to be stopped. Still, if the Forerunners had trouble dealing with the Flood, then could our galaxy, split by the war, have been able to stop them? You know how hard it is for the Sith to realize when they need help."

"I do. Still… I'm glad we never had to encounter them. If the Sith Emperor got his hands on them…" He shivered at the prospect.

Then things would've been FUBAR for sure, Lasky finished. The doors before him opened, permitting him into the bridge of the Infinity.

"Admiral on deck!" Conners shouted.

"At ease," Lasky said. "Conners, Sit-Rep?"

"Looking good so far," Conners said. "All ships have reported in, and we don't have any pirate ships incoming. All in all, it's a quiet day so far."

"So far," Lasky agreed. "If I know our luck, it won't be quiet for long."

"Tell me about it," Conners said. "Well… if you don't need anything else, sir, I'll head for my bunk. See you at the shift change."

"You too," Lasky said.

"Hhmm…" Bastila said. "He seems to be quite a nice person."

He is. Conners is a good XO, and he's just one of two that I have. Marcus is my other XO, and he'll be coming along shortly. Looking around, he asked, So, anything you find interesting?

"I like the architecture of the ship," Bastila said. "Everything is right where you need it to be. Even the Holo-Table is sensibly placed, which is more than I can say for the rest of the ships in the Empire, or the Republic for that matter."

"Tell me about it," Revan said. "I'm shocked by the poor design of the Imperial-I Star Destroyer's bridge. Any ship captain worth his salt would target that area first. Even with the deflector shield generators providing extra power to the bridge deflector shields, it would be the first part of the ship to be destroyed. UNSC ships are much more sensible in that regard."

"Close but not quite, Revan. If you ask me, I'd say the ideal ship design would have the bridge in the center of the ship, rather than at the bow. That way, even if there's a strike that destroys the bow of the ship, the Captain and the command crew are unharmed. Still, you are correct in that UNSC ships are better than Imperial ones."

Nice to see that you approve of UNSC ship design, Lasky interjected.

"I give credit where credit is due, Lasky. If I say a ship design is sensible, then you can trust my word." Her words had an air of pride.

I'll take that as a compliment, Lasky thought. So, any other thoughts from the two of you.

"I wanted to discuss one of the darker periods in your governments history, before the Covenant-UNSC War that is," Revan said. "What can you tell me about the Insurrection? You'd think that a government like yours would be quite popular."

Lasky sighed. That's a sensitive topic, he said. However, since you asked nicely, I'll tell you all about it. The Insurrection started as a grassroots movement, mostly due to the fact that everyone was pissed at the Colonial Authority Administration. They were tired of being told how many kids they need to have, what jobs to take, and so on so forth. It didn't help that the UNSC saw increasing military action as the means of maintaining control in the Outer Colonies.

"It sounds like your government nearly went down the same path the Empire did," Bastila observed.

We nearly did. Eventually, it all came to a head when the Outer Isles rebelled, with the rebels successfully throwing the UNSC forces on the planet off. An impulsive military officer, seeing it as the first stage in the rebellion, attempted to quash it. He did so in the worst way possible: he nuked the rebels.

A flash of anger came from both Bastila and Revan. "That was unacceptable!" Revan snarled, rightful fury reverberating through the Force. "Nuking members of the populace that had a disagreement with the government! That's the kind of thing a Sith does!"

To be fair, I thought it was the worst possible move too. Unfortunately, I was a mere cadet at the time, so anything I had to say wouldn't have had any weight. Personally speaking, I don't agree with the Insurrectionist's methods, but I do understand why they would rebel. The Inner Colonies had become disconnected from the hardships and realities of life out in the Outer Colonies, as had Earth.

Thus began the Insurrection. Things eventually started going downhill for them as they resorted to more extremist methods over time. Eventually, however, it stopped when the Covenant-UNSC War occurred. Everyone realized it was better to pitch in for the sake of mutual survival rather than continue fighting a civil war. Now that the war's ended, some, like the United Rebel Front, have resumed Insurrectionist activity, though given Charet's reforms, the Outer Colonies, or what's left of them, have been increasingly better represented in the UEG Senate.

Bastila sighed. "How pointless and tragic. Having seen the memories that you had when you read all of that, I believe it would've been wiser for the UEG to give the Outer Colonies what they wanted: more freedoms and more self-governance. Had they listened to the voice of the people, the Insurrection might never have happened."

I agree. However, in a way, the Insurrection did prepare us for a war against the Covenant. The Insurrection gave us Titanium-A armor, soft-seal technology, MAC cannons and more. The Covenant would've sunken us a lot quicker than they nearly did if we didn't have any of that. So, as tragic as it was, the Insurrection prepared us for the Covenant-UNSC War. It's even the reason why we have the Spartan-IIs in the first damn place.

"Quite true," Revan said. "Still… there are far better ways to achieve those technologies than simply attempting to crush a rebellion. They could simply have created an arms program that would've enabled them to keep up with the times and to produce more advanced armor and weapons. In fact, part of me is baffled as to why they didn't do any of that in the first place."

"Perhaps the UNSC became complacent," Bastila suggested. "I recall from your memories, Lasky, that the UNSC had a nearly two hundred year long peace. Correct?"

That's correct, Lasky said. Why do you ask?

"Because it's quite easy for a government to become lax and complacent when there are long periods of uninterrupted peace. IF you want a good example, look no further than the Republic after the Russan Reformations. They became so complacent that they did away with their military, a mistake that led to the current state of the galaxy today. As such, I'm not surprised that your government didn't fare very well against the Covenant when war came. That war served as a wake-up call to yours to change or die."

Lasky prepared a retort, then thought better of it. She's right, you know, a part of his mind said. The UNSC and UEG did so poorly in the war because you got complacent. If the UNSC had continued its arms program all the way up to the Covenant-UNSC War, then things wouldn't have been nearly as bad as they were.

He sighed. That… is a pretty good assessment, Bastila. We did become complacent, and that bit us in the ass. Small wonder that Misriah Armory and dozens of other defense contractors are getting so much money now: we're scared, and we don't want to be weak anymore.

"Precisely," Bastila said smugly. "In a way, it's good that the war destroyed whatever sense of complacency your government had. I just wish it hadn't caused so much death and destruction."

Me too, Lasky thought. Me too.

He was silent for a while, observing the crew of his ship working, when an idea occurred to him. Say, Bastila. Do you have any knowledge on any systems in the galaxy that aren't on any star charts we have?

"I do," Bastila said. "I'd need access to one of your starmaps of this galaxy, but I know of a number of locations that you might be interested in. Why do you ask?"

Because I have a feeling that we're going to be needing any information we can find on those worlds. Plus, the Garons told me of the Star Forge, and the information they shared had some. I was thinking we -

"You know of the Garons?" Revan asked suddenly.

"Revan!" Bastila nearly shouted.

"I know, I know. I'm sorry, but I need to know if I heard that correctly."

It's all right, Bastila, Lasky said. To answer your question, Revan, you heard me correctly. I know of the Garons. I met a few of them a couple days ago. They wanted to share information on the Jedi Civil War in exchange for a Kandosii-class Dreadnought and the plans for them. Why do you ask?

"They were a Mandalorian Clan that I deeply respected," Revan said. "In fact, they were the only ones that called me out on the 'bullshit' that happened during the Jedi Civil War. Despite that, they were some of my most ardent supporters and many of them were Force Sensitive. Still, the fact that they still follow my philosophy, mostly, is quite interesting. However, from what your memories of that information shows, they don't really know the whole story between myself and Bastila."

"That's an understatement," Bastila harrumphed. "They thought that you and I were a good couple that didn't abandon each other for any reason. If only they knew the truth."

Well, when we meet with them again, I'll be certain to invite you two along, Lasky said. That being said, let's get back to the topic of discussion. If you could tell me more about the locations of those worlds, I'll be able to send a specially formed strike team to those worlds to find and recover more information. Hell, we could get our hands on some Rakatan technology.

"You do realize you were drawing on my memories there, Lasky?" Revan asked.

Lasky's cheeks flushed slightly. Did I say that?

"Yep," Revan said.

Oops… Sorry.

Revan sent him a dismissive pulse. "That's all right, Lasky. You're new to the Force, so it's bound to happen. Still, you are right in that acquiring some Rakatan technology would be useful for the UNSC. I must warn you, however, that the Rakatans dabbled heavily into the Dark Side of the Force. If you find any Rakatan technology, check it over thoroughly. I don't want you to become corrupted by the Dark Side. That would be bad."

Lasky nodded slightly. That would be bad. That being said, can you two share that info with me when you can?

"Sure," Bastila said. "Since we're effectively one in the Force, what's mine is yours. Revan?"

Revan sighed. "All right. I can do the same for you too. I do admit, I did travel to my fair share of planets in the galaxy."

Any in particular stand out to you?

"Yes," Revan said. "Korriban. It was the location of a Sith Academy, one of their foremost academies if I recall correctly. Still, you might want to send Spartans there. According to Meetra Surik, the Jedi Exile, she encountered Hssiss there."

I'll keep that in mind. I'll also speak with Jyn on that mattter. Maybe she can -

Any other thoughts Lasky would've had were interrupted when Marcus stepped aboard the ship. "Captain Marcus, reporting for duty," he said, his voice deep and gritty.

"At ease," Lasky said. "So, anything that we need to be prepared for today?

"Yep. We just got a message over the SLIPCOM, for your eyes only."

Lasky frowned. That isn't good, if our luck is any indicator. "All right. I'll head to my office immediately. Also, have Jyn swing by my office when she can. I'd like to have a word with her."

"Understood."

"Good. You have the bridge." Marcus resumed Conner's post, while Lasky made his way to his office…

Inside, Lasky heard his laptop chiming quietly. Sitting down, he opened it and navigated the inbox. His eyes widened as he poured over the details. Well, shit… he grumbled.

"What is it?" Bastila asked. "What's going on?"

We're about to have some company, Lasky explained. HIGHCOM is coming here, along with Ruth Charet.

"Who's she?" Revan asked. "Is she your leader?"

Yep. She's the UEG President, the Commander-in-Chief, the head honcho, the big noise, whatever you call bosses. She and HIGHCOM are coming here today, which means that I'll be entertaining them for a time.

"Wonderful," Revan snarked. "Politicians… can't live with them… can't live without them."

"It's not that bad," Bastila said. "I've looked at Lasky's memories in that regard. Ruth Charet seems like a very sensible leader. She'd make all the other Chancellors look like blind and arrogant fools."

That she would, Lasky agreed. I'll get a team ready to go for her reception today. For now, I've got other matters to tend to. Pushing the two out of thought, he keyed his COM. "Captain Marcus, are you there?"

"Affirmative, sir," Marcus said. "What do you need?"

"Roland, Gabriela and Cortana are busy with other affairs right now. Can you send Jyn to my office please, along with Captain Mileus?"

"Yes sir. They'll be on their way ASAP," Marcus said.

"Good." Closing the COM channel, he switched frequencies. "Dr. Halsey, are you there?"

"I'm here," Halsey said. "What do you require, Lasky?"

"I'm setting up a task force to investigate any planets that might have potential technologies and information from the Jedi Civil War the UNSC will be interested in. I would like you to be the first person to assess whatever they bring back, along with the other relevant experts."

Halsey considered the offer. "I see. I don't see any harm in that. It'll allow us to avoid any annoying incidents, such as that one time the Infinity was tethered to Requiem by that Forerunner Artifact. Consider your offer accepted."

"Very good. I'll send you the relevant details. Before I go, is Cal there, or Merrin for that matter?"

"Not right now, no," Halsey said. "RADM-117 requested their presence at the Spartan Deck, something about a training exercise involving Force users."

Lasky smiled. "I see. Inform him that, when he's done with the two, I would like to speak to them about my recent… condition. I would also like you to come to my office as well. I have something to tell you and the others."

"I'll see what I can do," Halsey said reassuringly. "Dr. Halsey over and out."

Well, that's one bit of trouble taken care of, Lasky said. You two still there?

"Yep," Revan said. "I sensed feelings of regret and guilt from Dr. Halsey. The Dark Side seems to have tainted her in some way, though the fact she hasn't succumbed to it is a good sign. Do you know why?"

She was involved in the creation of the Spartan-II Program. Having read the details myself, I can tell you that it involved the abduction of children around the age of six. Apparently, the augmentations used in the ORION Program, even after their refinement, were only suitable at that age. Halsey wanted the augs further refined, but ONI shoehorned her into going through with the Spartan-II Program.

"So she didn't want to experiment on children, but was forced to," Revan surmised.

Precisely. Hell, according to the records I've got access to, she was a mother herself. It's no surprise, as such, that she feels guilty for her work.

"Perhaps that's for the best," Bastila said coldly. "Even if she didn't wish to do it, she had a moral obligation not to do so."

"It's not like she had a choice, as far as I can tell," Revan countered. "For all we know, if Halsey refused, ONI would've conducted even more extreme experiments. By acting as she did, Halsey likely spared them further suffering at the hands of an unfeeling intelligence organization thinking itself to be a god."

He's right, Lasky said. I got a sneak peak of Halsey's journal when she got it back. ONI was planning to do far worse to her candidates if she refused to work with them. She was literally presented with a Morton's Fork: two choices that both end in an undesirable outcome. Either way, she was screwed.

Bastila sighed. "I understand. If I were in her position, I'd have done the same. I still don't think she should've done what she did, though."

Very true.

. . .

The War Games Simulator on Spartan Deck was abuzz with activity. Twirling to his left, Cal avoided being hit by a series of TTR rounds by the narrowest of margins. Pulling out his blaster, he shot a few low powered rounds at the Spartan-IV that had exchanged gunfire with him, nailing the man a few times. The Spartan's shields flared, forcing him into cover. "Merrin!" he asked.

"I'll trap him!" Merrin shouted. Disappearing in a green flash, she reappeared behind the Spartan-IV. Concentrating, she conjured up long, chain-like tendrils that wrapped around the Spartan IV's limbs, trapping him in place. With a roar, the man tore free, just in time for Cal to tap him on the side of his helmet.

"Damnit!" Spartan Møller shouted. "I was this close to getting you that time. What kind of bullshit did you pull to get past me and my buddies?!"

"Not bullshit, it's skill," Cal said. "I will admit, you did nearly catch me a few times. As for why you keep missing me, it's because you are overconfident in your own abilities and too dismissive of my capabilities. You must believe the enemy is two steps ahead of you in order to win."

Møller opened his mouth to retort, thought better of it. "For helvete!" he grumbled. "You got me fair and square that time. Next time, I plan to do better!"

"That's good news," Cal said…

Up above, in one of the observation booths, Chief silently assessed Møller's actions. He's doing good, but Cal is right. He noted. He needs to think less often that he's got this covered and anticipate what the enemy might do.

"Not bad," Linda said, "but I've seen better."

"To be fair, Møller is one of the Spartan-IVs that does need some work still," Fred butted in. "Osiris, Crimson and a few others are just about where they need to be."

"Agreed," Kelly said. "Maybe what they need is an example to measure themselves against. That way, they can see how Spartan-IIs approach eliminating a Force Sensitive."

Chief thought the idea over in his mind. That's a good idea, he decided. Sometimes the best way to teach a recruit is to lead by example. "Cortana?"

"I've already gone through the scenario now," Cortana said. "I think that Kelly might be onto something. The other Spartans performance might improve if they have an example to build off of."

"Then that's what we'll do." Keying his COM, Chief said, "Cal, Merrin, get ready for another spar."

"Who will we be fighting against next?" Cal asked.

"Blue Team and myself."

Cal thought it over, then said, "All right. If you want to test yourself against me, then that's fine. Merrin?"

"I find the idea of sparring with a Spartan-II to be quite interesting," Merrin said. "I accept."

"Good," Chief said. "Blue Team, armor up."

"Yes sir!" the others said…

The doors to the Spartan's Disembarkation area opened, permitting Blue Team inside. Ahead of them was a long room that held numerous gyroscopic harnesses. Each one was tended to by a team of technicians. "Ready to armor up, sir?" one of them asked.

Dressed in his bodysuit, Chief nodded. "Yes."

"All righty then! What armor do ya want?"

"Mark VI," Chief said.

"Ah, the classic MJÖLNIR Armor! Nothin' beats the classics! Just step right in, and we'll get 'er slapped on 'fer you know it!"

A ghost of a smile crossed Chief's face. The man's casual attitude would've been grating to some. Chief, however, had seen the man's qualifications. So long as he does his job, then he can be casual if he wants. Stepping into the gyroscopic harness, he slipped his feet and hands into the armored gauntlets and boots.

Robotic arms swiveled and moved, each one holding a piece of of the MJÖLNIR Powered Armor. Hermetic seals and mechanical pins hissed and whirred as each armor piece was attached over the body suit, then firmly secured. Before long, Chief watched as the helmet was smoothly fitted over his head. The armor ran through a diagnostic, then the familiar HUD winked to life.

"There ya go!" the technician said. "Armor diagnostics are green. You may step out of the harness at anytime, sir."

"Thank you," Chief said. Stepping forwards, he saw the other members of Blue Team doing the same. "Ready to get to work?"

"Yep," Fred said. "Time to show the Spartan-IVs how it's done."

"Then move out…"

In the simulation deck, Cal and Merrin were patiently waiting for the Spartan-IIs to arrive. "They could learn a thing or two about being punctual," Merrin said. "From what I can tell, they seem to be slow at most other times other than combat."

"I wouldn't know," Cal said. "They seem plenty fast enough, certainly faster than anything we've faced before."

"True, though I wonder how they were able to survive for so long without the Force. The abilities you possess would have been highly useful to them in the Covenant-UNSC War."

True, Cal silently admitted. I doubt that it would've made a significant difference, though. They were outnumbered 5-1 in that war, and the Covenant had superior technology. The more he thought about it, the more he realized that the UNSC's survival was more than a product of mere chance.

As the minutes began to tick by, Cal wondered where the Spartans were. As he did, the Force began to whisper to him. A strong feeling of foreboding, like something was about to happen, scraped at the edge of his senses. "Merrin, do you feel that?"

"I do," Merrin said. "Something is not right. The Spartans were supposed to be here just now, yet they're late. What are they up to."

Cal would've answered, were it not for the Force screaming a warning to him. Rolling forwards, Cal flew into cover with preternatural speed. Bullets impacted the ground where he had been standing, splattering the thick, red TTR paint that the UNSC used in their exercises.

His gaze snapped upwards, where he saw an assault rifle sticking out of the holographic stone ceiling like a cartoon prop. He reached for his blaster, only to be forced to duck yet again when more gunfire whizzed past his head. Reaching for his lightsaber, Cal swung it up just in time to intercept a blow from the Master Chief, who seemed to melt out of thin air.

The two blades crashed into each other, with the low powered lightsaber bolt barely stopping the plasma knife Chief was using. Cal winced as Chief pushed; while N'tho was strong, Chief was even stronger. Using the Force, he pushed Chief away, then leaped onto a hard-light column disguised as a stalagmite. "Merrin!" he shouted.

Merrin moved to act, only for a blotch of right red TTR paint to splatter her across the chest. The former Nightsister crumpled to the ground like a sack of potatoes, her eyes struggling to remain open before closing. A muted CRACK echoed in the simulation room.

Cal's breathing intensified. Focus, he heard Cere's voice say. Let the Force flow through you. Let it guide your actions. Concentrating, he quickly sensed the presences of all four Spartans. The moment he received a warning pulse in the Force, he moved.

In a split second, Cal leaped from his perch and propelled himself forwards with the Force. The same tactic that had worked against Merrin failed, with the 14mm training round zipping through the spot he had just occupied. Rolling as he hit the ground, he fired his blaster a few times, forcing Chief, who had now recovered, into cover.

Harsh thumping sounds drew his attention to Kelly, who was charging him with shotgun in hand. Reacting with reflexes granted to him by the Force, Cal dodged the incoming attack, before lashing out with his lightsaber. The attacker rolled backwards, before tossing a few rocks at Cal. Shoving them aside with the Force, Cal picked up a particularly large one and threw it at Kelly.

The rock smashed into her, before dissolving into motes of light. Kelly stumbled, her armored knee impacting the ground. Pulling out her sidearm, she fired a few times, forcing Cal to dodge the attacks. Using the Force, he tore the Magnum from her grip, before sending her tumbling back with a shove.

That, however, spelled his doom. Before Cal could react, he felt something cool and sharp on the nape of his neck. A pool of water nearby allowed him to see Fred-104, who was holding a knife to his neck. "Not bad, Cal," Fred said as he removed the knife from Cal's neck. "Not bad at all. You certainly gave us a run for our money."

Cal sighed. "Well… looks like you beat me on this one. How'd you managed to sneak around me and Merrin?"

"It wasn't easy. That Force ability that you have nearly triggered a few times when we entered. Fortunately, Spartan-IIs are well trained in stealth. You don't here us coming unless you want us to, and if you do, there's a chance that you're already dead. Plus, it looks like that Jedi training certainly helped. They taught you well."

Cal shivered. So, that explains why I was feeling that sense of foreboding. The Force was warning me, and it was only because I heeded it that I lasted as long as I did. While his ego was hurt by the fact that he'd been beaten by non-Force Sensitives, the logical part of his mind told him that it was to be expected. "That they did," he said. "Say, is Merrin all right?"

"She's coming around now," Kelly said. "Still, nice toss with that large rock and all. Took down my shields."

Nearby, Merrin was struggling to her knees as she recovered from the effects of the TTR. She swayed, just as a hand caught her. "Stand up," came Chief's strong voice. She felt a slight jab in her neck, then the drowsiness that threatened to claim her faded instantly. Her darkening vision suddenly flashed back to normal. Glancing at Chief, she said, "You tricked me, and Cal."

"Of course," Chief said. "Misdirection is useful when used properly."

"I see… I'll remember that."

Chief was about to continue when his helmet COM pinged. "Chief, are you there?" Cortana asked.

"Yes," Chief said. "What is it?"

"Lasky's wanting to speak with Cal and Merrin. Apparently, he wishes to discuss with them his newfound Force Sensitivity and what to do about it."

Chief nodded. "Understood." Closing the COM, he said, "Cal, Merrin, the RADM requests your presence."

"We'll be there shortly," Cal said. "Merrin?"

"I just have to change into some spare clothes," Merrin said. "I'll be all right."

"OK. Once you've done that, we'll head out."

Merrin nodded. "OK…"

Inside his office, Lasky's fingers tapped an arpeggio on his desk. Looking at a classified video, he smiled. Chief and Blue Team certainly gave Merrin and Cal a workout, he thought. I guess that's one way to counter a Sith or a Jedi: have a team of Spartan-IIs or well trained Spartan-IVs on hand.

"Now that's scary," Bastila said. "I've heard of Echani duelists, but the Spartans have come the closest to matching them as far as I can tell. They seemed to know exactly what Cal and Merrin were planning on doing."

"I agree," Revan said. "I've fought Echani trained individuals before. Believe me, they are not easy foes to fight. Still, when we get a chance, we need to show ourselves to Cal and Merrin. They're both good Force users, but they could use a little more refining if you ask me."

I don't suppose that's a bad idea, Lasky remarked. You can never go wrong with learning something new.

"That much we can agree on," Bastila said. "Still, I can sense something odd about RADM-117. He's no Force Sensitive, but there something… strange about him."

Halsey did say that, out of all the Spartan-II candidates, he was the luckiest, Lasky admitted. Either he's just really, really lucky, or maybe the Force has something to do with it. I don't really know.

"It could very well be the latter of the two," Revan said. "I, for one, don't believe in coincidence or chance. When the Force is involved, especially when it comes to living beings, there's always more to the tale than simple luck."

"And with that, Cal and Merrin are about to arrive," Bastila said.

Thanks for warning me, Lasky said. The door hissed open, permitting the two Force Sensitives into the room. Following on their heels was Jyn and Mileus, as well as Halsey and Olivia. "Thank you all for coming by today," Lasky said. "I'm certain that all of you know why I've called you here."

"Possibly," Cal said. "Something tells me that you're wanting to know how to control your Force capabilities."

Lasky nodded. "That's part of the reason. I would like to learn more about the Force and how to use it. However, that's where the trouble comes in." He stood from his desk. "You see, as a RADM, much of my time is occupied with the day-to-day affairs of the fleet here at Pantora. That's why I've called you two here. We need to find a way to work my training as a Force user into my schedule."

Both Cal and Merrin glanced at each other. I had a feeling this wasn't going to be easy, Cal thought. Given how much I know of how busy a commander can be, I know for certain how difficult it is to fold training into the schedule.

It was Mileus that spoke up first. "You sure that's a good idea, sir?"

"Well, if you've got any ideas, I'm all ears," Lasky said. "No... then we'll keep going."

"My thoughts exactly," Merrin said. "We're going to have to minimize any disruption we make to your regular working schedule. When do you usually go off shift?"

Lasky checked his computer. "Around 1800 hours local time. Why?"

"We could train you until half an hour before your bedtime. That'll give you some time to learn how to use your abilities in the Force, while being non-disruptive to your schedule."

"Sounds like a good plan to me," Cal said. "Besides, we try it any earlier, and things are going to get thrown all out of wack. Training in the middle of a battle is also out of the question, for obvious reasons. We'll also need to find a way to tell your superiors as to what has happened."

"I'll handle that," Lasky said. "If Hood or the rest of HIGHCOM hears that I'm Force Sensitive from someone other than me, either they'll think that its a joke, or they'll take it as a threat. Better to let me handle it in a way that everyone will benefit from. Sound good?"

"Yes," Cal said. "We will leave you to your business." With that, Cal and Merrin walked out of the room.

"That's good and all, but why else have you called us here?" Halsey asked. "There's more to this tale than you're telling us."

"I felt the same," Mileus added.

"You'd be correct," Lasky said. "A couple days ago, I discovered another side effect of what happened to me." Clearing his throat, he took a deep breath. "I don't know how to break this to y'all without appearing to be a lunatic. Somehow, I ended up being bonded to two Force beings."

Halsey and Olivia looked at each other. "Are you sure? You're telling us that, when you opened that Sith Holocron, you ended up becoming interconnected to two beings that live within the Force? Forgive me if I sound skeptical, Lasky, but that seems a tad far fetched."

"I agree,:" Jyn said. "This is the first time I've heard of this. We'd need Cal in here to determine if that's the case."

"You know you've got an expert on hand here," a disembodied voice said. "Hell, given that I'm one with the Force, I'm the expert for this sort of thing, and I can tell you for certain that you've, more or less, gotten it right."

Jyn jumped with such intensity she bumped her knee on Lasky's desk, knocking a few items off. Halsey gasped and looked around, with Olivia copying her, while Mileus pulled out a concealed Magnum. "What the hell was that?!" Halsey asked.

"You're telling me!" Mileus said.

"Cortana?" Lasky asked.

"I'm reading two energy signatures in the room," Cortana said. "No idea what's generating it, but if I had to guess, I'd say that your office might be haunted."

Lasky chuckled ruefully. "In a sense, my office is haunted. Bastila? Revan?"

Right on cue, two beings faded into existence. The first was a man in his mid thirties in a long robe, with long brown hair, a well kept beard and kind eyes. The second was a woman that also wore robes and had long hair as well. Her features, however, were much more motherly, and her eyes were kind.

Practically everyone in the room had their gaze affixed on the two entities. "So that's what you two look like," he mumbled. "Not half bad. You look good, Bastila?"

"That I do," Bastila said. "For a woman that was dead for four thousand years, I must admit, I look good."

"And I'm as handsome as ever," Revan said.

"Incredible!" Halsey gasped. "I've heard of ghost stories before, but to see it with my own eyes...!"

"What's going on here?" Jyn asked. "Did they get stuck to you Lasky? What's going on here?!"

"I'm wondering the same thing," Olivia said.

"Fuck me!" Mileus gasped. "I've heard of ghost stories, but this is something else."

"Now that's a surprise," Cortana said. "That being said, can you tell us more about what's going on here, Lasky?"

Lasky nodded. "Sure. From the looks of it, when I opened that Sith Holocron, I become bonded to a pair of Force Ghosts. Halsey, this is Bastila and Revan. Bastila, Revan, this is Dr. Halsey, Jyn Erso and Olivia."

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Bastila said to the trio.

"Likewise," Halsey said. "Have you told anyone else of this?"

"You're the first ones to know," Lasky said.

"I see. Well, I suppose that it's an honor to meet a Force ghost. They certainly seem to be doing well."

"Thank you." Revan's gaze turned to Jyn. "Now, who's this fine lady here? Jyn, was it?"

"Yes," Jyn said warily. "What's it to you?"

"I wanted to tell you that I deeply feel for you. What that... that... fiend did to you was unforgivable. Personally, if I had any say in the matter, I'd have electrocuted him, choked him, then drained his life force, all in that order."

"I would've done worse," Bastila said. "I would've crushed him like an egg."

"What I'm trying to say, Jyn, is that what happened to you was unforgivable and unfair," Revan continued. "You have my fullest sympathies and condolences."

Jyn was taken aback. "I... er... thank you."

"Don't mention it. It's the least we could do."

"Now for you," Bastila said, turning her gaze to Halsey. "Let me make this clear, Halsey. I don't like you, I don't like the things that you did to preserve the UNSC. However, I can say that you didn't want to go as far as you did. That, and the fact that you feel guilt and remorse for your actions, and the fact that the Spartan-IIs were the only ones able to save Humanity and win the war, is the only reason I'm talking to you. Am I clear?"

"Perfectly," Halsey said. "So long as we keep it professional, I can work with you. Is there anything else you need from me, Lasky?"

"Not at this moment, no," Lasky said. "You can go now."

"Thank you." With that, Halsey and Olivia left.

"What about me, sir?" Mileus asked. "Why are you showing this to me?"

"Because I don't want my command staff scared shitless if they see these two or see me use the Force," Lasky said. "I've seen what that kind of fear can do to people, and its not pretty. That is why I'm ordering you to tell the rest of my flag staff, but to have them keep it secret from everyone else. I don't want the rumor mill to catch wind of this."

Mileus' expression hardened. "I'll make sure no one outside of your command staff knows. You can count on that."

"Good," Lasky said. "You may go now." Mileus left, leaving Jyn in the room with Lasky. "Jyn, take a seat. How are you feeling?"

"Aside from seeing two Force ghosts in the same room, I'm quite fine," Jyn said.

Lasky sensed an underlying tension and concern. "Are you sure?"

She sighed. "No… but thanks for asking. I've been thinking over the fact that I'm pregnant, and I've reached a decision." Sitting up resolutely, she said, "I'm going through with it."

Lasky cocked an eyebrow. "Are you sure?" he asked. "You don't have to, if you don't want to. I'm not forcing your hand, and I'd think that you'd want to get rid of any trace of the crime lord that did this to you."

"Could I explain why I'm keeping the baby?" Jyn asked.

"Sure."

"It's because the child's innocent," Jyn said. "The baby inside of me hasn't done anything to warrant an abortion. It hasn't attempted to hurt me, or cause me trouble; it's plainly innocent. Besides, I'll make sure the child, whether its a boy or a girl, is rased to be a better person than Geotor ever was. What better way to spit an act of defiance into his face than by raising the child he tried to use to make me his property as my own child, and not his?"

Lasky's eyebrows raised. Damn… he whistled. "That's… a pretty good reason to continue a pregnancy. You do realize that, in five months time, I'll have to put you on maternity leave. We can't send someone that is pregnant into the field of battle, but we can have you work a desk job here at Pantora. You understand, yes?"

Jyn nodded. "I understand. Thw question I have, though, is who do I trust with the baby? It's not like there's a daycare ward on the Infinity."

"We'll figure that problem out in due time. Now, would you like to hear why I called you here, Jyn?"

"Of course," Jyn said.

"Good." Lasky took a breath in, then let it out. "Recently, I sent a team to an abandoned world called Ziost in order to recover more information on the time period known as the Jedi Civil War. In a databank they recovered there, they found the locations of various worlds that were visited by the Jedi and Sith. As such, it's been determined that those worlds may have information or technology from that time period that could be useful."

"The point being?" Jyn asked.

"The point of me telling you that is that, in light of this discovery, I am putting together a task force that will travel to these other systems in the galaxy in order to find and retrieve information and technology. I would like you to be one of the handlers for that task force. You'll be away from the front lines, but you'll be making a major contribution to the UNSC as a whole. Do you understand?"

Jyn nodded. "I do. To be fair, Lasky… given what's happened to me recently, I think some time away from the front line might do me some good. I'll accept your offer."

"Good," Lasky said. "I'll have this task force set up by the end of the day. However, due to your newfound position, I'm going to give you a promotion, as well as provisional TS/SCI clearance for the information retrieved by the task force. Other areas requiring TS/SCI clearance will be closed off to you until you reach the minimum rank required. So, with that in mind, congratulations, Ensign Jyn."

Jyn nodded. "Thank you… Lasky. It's an honor."

"Indeed," Lasky said. "However, that comes with a stipulation that I was just informed of."

"And that would be?"

"The Armed Services Committee would like to speak to you at 1300 hours local time today. My guess is that they want to grill you as to why the UNSC got involved with what happened at Genarius while rescuing you. My advice is that you keep calm when you answer their questions. In addition, a few other committees will likely want to speak with you as well. Understood?"

Jyn frowned, then nodded. "Yes."

"Good," Lasky said. "Now, to be fair, I did make it clear to them that I felt it was too early to be asking you questions. However, they did insist, and there's not much I can do about it now. Just show them you don't intend to back down, and they'll get the message."

"Understood," Jyn said. "And Lasky… thank you again."

"Don't mention it. It's the least I could do. I also want you to send me any star maps that you can. We're going to be looking for worlds stuffed with forgotten information and tech. Undrestood?"

"Yes, sir," Jyn said.

"Good. You may go now." Getting up, Jyn left the room.

"That went well," Bastila said honestly.

"That it did," Lasky said. "What did you think of Jyn?"

"She's a very strong willed young woman," Bastila said. "For her to go through what she did and remain unbroken is no mean feat. Lesser people would've been destroyed by what happened to her."

"You know what she went through?" Lasky asked.

"Well, since we're bonded so closely that we can share memories, yes. What that crime lord, no… what that fiend did to her was monstrous. He tried to strip her of any dignity and then forced her to carry a child within her."

If Bastila's anger was fiery, Revan's anger at Geotor's crime was ice cold. "If I were still around," he said, his voice low and rough, "I would have shown him the true meaning of fear. As I said earlier, I would have electrocuted him, choked him and drained him of some of his life force, in that order. However, I would never have stooped to the same level that he did."

"Definitely nasty stuff," Lasky said.

"Indeed. Still, for scum like Geotor, that would not even be harsh enough. Whatever you plan to do to him, I hope it shows him that your organization will not tolerate that kind of wayward behavior."

"Me too," Bastila said.

"We'll show him," Lasky agreed. "We'll show him all right. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to be ready for when President Charet and HIGHCOM arrive. According to the message I got earlier, they'll be arriving here at 1250 hours."

"Before you go, LAsky, I'll make it clear that Revan and I are also going to be teaching you how to use your powers. Between Revan and myself, we have decades, if not centuries, of experience in using the Force. There's a lot of techniques that the Jedi in your time have forgotten that we can share with you."

"Yeah, such as Emerald Lightning," Revan said.

"Emerald Lightning?" Lasky asked.

"A variation of Force Lightning. Force Lightning is generally associated with the Sith, but it turns out, there's a variation that comes from the Light Side. Known formally as Force Judgment, it allows one to deliver non-lethal shocks to a living being, though if needed it can deliver lethal blows. It's also much easier to recover from."

"That's... interesting. Perhaps you can teach me that."

"I can," Revan said. "However, it won't be solely me that'll be teaching you."

"He's right," Bastila said. "I'll also be sharing my knowledge of the Force with you and Cal and Merrin. They've got a good grasp of the Force, but it could be made better and stronger. Since you and I are a Dyad in the Force, Lasky, I can also teach you lightsaber techniques that have been long since forgotten. However, doing so will mean that I'll… well…"

"Come on," Lasky said. "Go ahead and tell me."

"It'll involve taking control of your body for a limited time."

Instantly, Lasky understood Bastila's hesitation. Is that why you sounded so… hesitant?

"Yes," Bastila said. "I don't want to control you, nor do I wish to force myself onto you. I respect your free will, Lasky, and I respect your desire to keep your body. If you don't want me to, then its your choice."

"I see," Lasky said. "I can understand your hesitance then. However, if I don't allow you to, I'll lose out on techniques that could really save my life. With that in mind, I would like to give you a proposal. From time to time, you'll take control of me and show me these techniques and, until I'm fully trained, should I go up against a Force Sensitive, you'll take command for a time and fend off the threat long enough for help to arrive. Sound good?"

Bastila considered the offer. "That's… actually quite reasonable. Revan, your thoughts?"

"It should work out," Revan said. "As part of a Force Dyad, the two of you have such a strong bond that the Force considers you to be one being. As long as Lasky gives you his consent, then I don't see why you shouldn't do so."

"Then it's settled. I accept your offer Lasky, but let me make this clear. I do not intend to take away your free will, nor do I plan to control your body without your consent."

"Agreed," Lasky said. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go now."

"Then we won't delay you any further," Bastila said. "May the Force be with you, Lasky."

"Likewise." Both Force Ghosts shimmered out of existence. "Well, wasn't that interesting?"

"It was," Cortana said. "First time I've ever seen a Force ghost. Definitely creepy. I wouldn't want one to be angry at me. Imagine the carnage that would result."

"Me neither," Lasky said. "Also, remind me to tell Admiral Sark about the unit I'm setting up. I'm certain we'll find ship designs that she'll love."

"Will do."

. . .

Cassian drummed his fingers on the table, eyes shifting between the guard at the door and the door itself. It's been a couple hours since my arrival, he mused. The UNSC certainly knows when to take this sort of thing seriously. I just hope that I can get close to Jyn again. It wasn't easy defecting from the New Republic to the UNSC.

The door into the room opened, permitting a man and his guards into the room. Sitting down at the table, he said, "You've certainly gotten our attention, Mr. Cassian. It's not every day that a former member of Rebel Intelligence wishes to join the UNSC."

"Not many have as great of a disagreement with the New Republic as I do," Cassian said.

The man shrugged. "Fair point. However, I would like to ask you a few questions concerning you in this regard, so without further ado, we shall begin." Clearing his throat, he pulled out a datapad. "It says here that, according to your most recent questioning that you've left the New Republic due to the internal reforms that were conducted. Is this true?"

"Not exactly. I left because I couldn't stand how incompetent Rebel Intelligence was. I brought my concerns up with General Davits and made it clear what I thought of his organization after Jyn left. He said I could leave if I wished to do so, which I chose to do."

The man looked intently at him. "So you left because you disagreed with the Rebel Alliance's decisions in terms of its intelligence branch."

"Partially. There's another reason that I left."

"And that would be?" the man asked.

"I was trying to reunite with Jyn. She and I have something of a friendship, one that was strained somewhat by the events following Scarif. As such, I wished to make it up to her as to what happened between the two of us, and try to work with her again."

The man cocked an eyebrow. "So you also left out of a desire to be with her, yes?"

Cassian nodded. "Yes."

"I see," the man said. "Well… when it comes to wishing to work for ONI, I don't see why not. Your record as a member of Rebel Intelligence is nothing short of exemplary, and you've shown that you've got the skills to become a member of ONI. However, when it comes to Jyn, I'll have to disappoint you there. You won't be able to get in contact with her."

Cassian frowned. "Why is that, Mr…"

"Ned Rich is the name, and you will address me as Vice Admiral, son. As for why you can't speak with her, Jyn is on Lasky's flag staff, and given what happened last time, I believe she might not be willing to speak with you. As such, I'll arrange it to where one of my men requests a meeting with her."

Cassian sighed. "I suppose that'll do."

"That it will," Rich said. Standing up, he extended a hand. "Welcome to ONI, Cassian Andor. I expect that you'll do great things for us. When you can, we'll get you better trained and you'll report to Vice Admiral Townley. He's the new head of ONI Section One, which is primarily focused on intelligence gathering. Either way, welcome."

"Thank you," Cassian said. "You won't regret this."

"I hope so, Cassian. Otherwise this is going to be one hell of a rocky relationship…"

Jyn looked around the inside of her new office. When Lasky said I would have an office to myself, he wasn't kidding, she thought. It was rather plain, with only a bookshelf, a small cabinet holding a coffee machine and a single desk in the room.

She riffled through the desk, opening drawers when she heard a sound from the top. Looking up, she found that the HoloCOM communicator was chiming. Pressing it, she asked, "Yes? Who is this?"

The holographic image of an ONI officer appeared over the projector. "Ensign Jyn, is it? Could I have a word with you?"

Jyn's brow furrowed. "Yes, I'm Jyn. What do you need?"

"My superiors and I were wishing to discuss with you the chance to work with ONI Section One," the officer said. "One of your former colleagues, Cassian Andor, informed us of his previous relationship to you. As such, we decided to pursue the possibility of recruiting you along with him. You can refuse if you like, but I will make it clear that we are definitely interested in working with you."

Jyn frowned. "I'll have to think about it before I decide."

"Totally understandable. Contact us when you've made your decision."

"Understood," Jyn said. When the hologram faded out, she facepalmed herself. Just wonderful, she grumbled. Now ONI is trying to snag me. I don't know whether or not I should join. Perhaps Lasky was contacted too. She keyed the HoloCOM communicator.

Lasky's holographic image appeared. "Jyn? Need something from me?"

"Could I ask you something?"

"Sure," Lasky said.

"I was just contacted by an ONI officer and given an offer to be recruited by ONI. I wasn't sure if I should join or not, given their reputation, so I decided to contact you. Did they speak to you first in this regard?"

Lasky frowned. "They didn't contact me. Are you sure they extended a recruiting offer to you?"

"They were pretty insistent," Jyn said. "They said Cassian mentioned me, which leads me to think that they might try to use him to persuade me."

"I see." Lasky rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Damnit… I had a feeling this would happen. Given their recent actions, Jyn, I would stay the hell away from ONI. While Section One is known to be one of the better divisions of ONI, ONI as a whole has a reputation for doing things behind HIGHCOM's back. As such, I wouldn't take them up on their offer if I were you."

Jyn sighed. "Thank you for the advice. I wasn't sure if I should accept or not. Given their rep, I won't."

"Good," Lasky said. "I'll see to it that their breach in protocol is noted and rectified. Lasky over and out."

Good thing I talked to him first, Jyn thought…

In his office, Lasky facepalmed himself."Motherfuckers!" he growled. "First they attempt to kill me, then they attempt to take a Star Destroyer and now they've tried to recruit a member of my flag staff without contacting me first! They've overstepped their bounds this time! Once HIGHCOM's ship arrives, Parangosky, Hood and I are going to have a nice, long chat."

. . .

The hiss of the cryopod opening was the first thing that greeted Hood's ears. Rather than immediately begin moving, he remained in his slightly inclined position for a minute. Cryosleep is for youngsters, he thought as pins and needles shot through his hands and feet. Still, if it means going with the President, then I'll gladly do so.

He blinked a few times, willing his vision to clear. Once it had, he pulled himself out of the cryopod. Reaching over and down towards a drawer, he opened it, revealing his dress uniform. Coughing up the surfactants in his lungs, he quickly got dressed.

He was just about to leave when the rest of the cryopods began to open. "Ugh," Hogan grumbled, before tumbling to the floor. "I hate cryosleep."

"Get in line," Dellert said. "Still, as far as cryosleep journeys go, that wasn't so bad. I've legitimately had much worse."

"I don't know," Strauss said, his expression perky and bright. "It seemed pretty fine to me."

Hood smiled. Out of all the officers in HIGHCOM, Strauss was the only one that seemed to enjoy cryosleep. A part of him suspected that the Major General would've spent his entire life as a narcoleptic if permitted.

Parangosky, on the other hand, didn't share this sentiment. "I'm getting too old for cryosleep," she grumbled. Hood knew from experience that her rheumatism, while treated, meant that her bones would ache every time she entered and exited a cryopod. The same thing happens to me. He winced as a familiar pain reasserted itself. Whelp… there it is.

"Well, since we're all here, safe and sound, we should probably head up to the flight deck when we get a chance," Dellert said. "Something tells me the Captain of the ship is going to want to inform us if we've arrived."

"A sound plan," Parangosky said. "Hood, if you would be so willing?"

"We'll head there, but first, we check on the President and her entourage," Hood said…

It wasn't long before they found the cryobay that held the UEG President and her entourage. When they arrived, they found Charet sitting on one of the room's benches, her face pale. "And I thought all those meetings was bad for my health," she said. "Cryosleep is worse." Seeing Hood, she said, "Gentlemen, I trust that all was well."

"It was," Hood said. "We were coming to check on you."

"I'm fine," Charet said. "Aside from the fact that I feel like death. How do you people stand cryosleep?"

"You don't. You eventually get acclimated to it."

"Well, I could use some of that acclimation, 'cause I feel like shit." The lighthearted comment elicited a chuckle from those gathered. "That being said, I do believe that Fleet Admiral Carter is waiting for us. Shall we go to the bridge?"

"That would be nice," Parangosky said…

The bridge of the Era, the Epoch-class ship they were on, was a moderately large room shaped like the bridge on the Halcyon-class Light Cruisers. Separated from the rest of the bridge crew by a pair of partitions was the holotable. Standing nearby was a tall, thin man with graying hair and blue-gray eyes. "Gentlemen, welcome," he said. "I trust the journey went well for you?"

"For the most part, yes," Charet said. "So, when are we due to arrive? I know we only exit when we're near our destination."

"We'll be exiting Slipspace in roughly thirty five minutes," Carter said. "I've been in contact with Fleet Admiral Harper and Fleetmistress 'Juran. Both of them are expecting your arrival. RADM Lasky has been informed, and he's ready to welcome all of you onboard the Infinity."

"Good," Hood said. "That means that I can speak to him before we leave for Coruscant. I have a special job for him."

Carter half-winced, half-smiled. "I take it he's going to become the Acting Chairman of the UNSC?"

"Good guess, Carter. We'll be speaking with Palpatine once we arrive at Coruscant. I can bet UEG Credits to Imperial Credits, however, that this 'threat' that he speaks of is going to require more than just a cursory glance. We'll need to investigate this thoroughly, and that'll take time."

Carter nodded. "Agreed. That being said, I would advice that all of you get some food when you can. I don't want to appear to be an ungracious host, and my chef would be embarrassed if his food went uneaten."

"Then we'll oblige him," Hogan said…

Thirty five minutes later, everyone was gathered on the bridge. "We are approaching our exfill point," Archimedes said. "Shall I advise the crew of the ship to prepare for Slipspace Exit?"

"Yes," Carter said.

The PA crackled to life. "All hands, prepare for Slipspace Exit."

"You might want to sit down or hold onto something, ladies and gentlemen. Slipspace exits can be a bit jarring to some people."

"This isn't my first rodeo, nor is it anyone's first rodeo," Hood said. "We'll be fine."

The deck shuddered as the Slipspace Drive fired up. Outside, the nothingness of Slipspace was broken as a blue-white portal formed. Within seconds, the massive ship had left the stygian realm of Slipspace and entered realspace. The black void was replaced by twinkling stars and a mud-brown planet before them.

"Well, there they are," Dellert said. "The entire UNSC fleet stationed at Pantora."

Hood glanced outside the viewport. Sure enough, the entirety of the UNSC forces within the Andromeda Galaxy hovered in orbit around Pantora. They've gotten some Moncton-type ODPs up and running too, he noted when he spotted a faint speck orbiting the planet."

A crackle interrupted his thoughts. "UNSC Era, this is Fleet Admiral Harper of the UNSC Epoch. Please send identification codes."

"Vice Admiral Carter to Fleet Admiral Harper, understood.," Carter said. "Transmitting codes now." At a gesture, one of the officers sent a series of codes.

"UNSC Epoch to UNSC Era, codes received and verified. Good to see you, Carter. Is HIGHCOM aboard?"

"Yes sir," Carter said. "We're en route to the UNSC Infinity.

"Understood," Harper said. "We'll be meeting with you onboard the Infinity. RADM Lasky has informed us that he is ready to receive you."

"Understood. Carter out." Closing the COM, he said, "Time to head to the shuttle bays. Ma'am, if you could allow my men to escort you?"

"Of course," Charet said.

"Got another Slipspace rupture," another officier said, interrupting the others. "Looks like the Shadow of Intent."

Outside, the ship in question appeared, it's massive hulk moving out of the portal. "Well, looks like they've arrived," Hogan said. "Wonder what took them so long."

"They just finished destroying the Storm Covenant forces at Sangheilios," Charet said. "Given that the Storm Covenant has been effectively broken, they're no longer a major threat. That means that the Arbiter can now tend to the other side of his profession."

Hogan nodded. "That explians a lot."

"HoloCOM transmission coming in," the COM Officer said.

"Send it through," Carter said.

The holographich projector in the room came to life. The image of a muscular Sangheili dressed in gold armor plating from head to toe appeared. The moment Charet saw the familiar orange eyes and gold armor, she knew who it was. "Aribter, I'm glad to see that you had a safe journey,"

The Arbiter, Thel 'Vadam, nodded. "And I am happy to see that your journey was uneventful. We shall be landing onboard the Infinity shortly. Shall we accompany you?"

Charet smiled. "Why not?"

. . .

Onboard the Infinity, Lasky stood in the hangar bay, fully dressed in his dress uniform. Nearby, RDML-117 stood to attention, along with Blue Team and Fireteam Crimson. "Here we go," Roland said into his earpiece. "The Pelicans with HIGHCOM, the UEG delegation and their entourage are on their way."

"Understood," Lasky said. "All right, people, you heard Roland. The UEG President is about to step aboard the ship, along with the Arbiter of the Swords of Sangheilios. I want everyone to be on their best behavior, understood?"

"Yes sir," the others said.

"Good."

A trio of Pelicans and Phantoms flew into view, engines flaring when they passed through the magcon field. They rotated around, coming to a stop with their rears pointed towards the gathered individuals. Muted thumping sounds signaled their landing gear touching the flight deck ground. The Phantoms, for their part, simply hovered and activated their gravity lifts.

When the doors on the Pelicans opened, a squad of ODSTs and Spartan-IVs stepped out, weapons down but loaded. Nearby, several Sangheili dressed in purple armor plating were gracefully lowered to the deck, with the Arbiter in the middle.. Lasky snapped off a crisp salute as Hood, Charet, and the other members of both parties approached. "Welcome aboard the UNSC Infinity, ladies and gentlemen!" he said.

"At ease," Hood said. Extending a hand, he said, "Good to see that you're still intact, despite all that's happened."

Lasky shook the hand, and the hands of the other members of the entourage. "You're welcome sir. We had a few rough moments here and there, but for the most part, all is well." He glanced towards the Arbiter. "Arbiter 'Vadam. Glad to see you here."

"As am I, Lasky," Thel said. "I must admit, it is impressive that you have become a Fleetmaster so quickly. Few in our kind advance that fast."

Lasky shrugged. "Thank you, sir. Interesting times and all that."

Thel nodded. Seeing the Master Chief, he advanced, then placed a fist on his left breastplate. "Demon, it is good to see you again."

"Arbiter," Chief said curtly.

Lasky turned towards Hood. "Would you mind if I escorted you and the Arbiter to the meeting room, sir?"

"Gladly. Charet?"

"I and my entourage will be coming as well," Charet said. "It is high time that we inform Lasky as to why we are here."

"Very well. Lead the way, Rear Admiral."

"Yes, sir," Lasky said…

Before long, all of them were in the meeting room, their guards standing by at the doors. Taking his hat off, Lasky said, "It's an honor to have you onboard the Infinity, Madam President."

"And this ship is honored to have such a gentleman onboard," Charet said. "You never did tell me that Lasky was so polite, Hood."

Hood shrugged. "The thought had occurred to me."

"Indeed," Russel said. "Now, shall we explain to Lasky why we are here? I'd rather get to it before dinner time rolls around."

"Fair enough," Charet said. "As you are well aware, Lasky, we've come here to the Andromeda Galaxy to see for ourselves what kind of situation you've found yourself in. The other reason, which we haven't discussed until now, is because I and the Arbiter are going to Coruscant to speak with the Emperor."

Lasky gazed at her and frowned. "Why is that? You two are the last people I'd expect to wish to see the Emperor. Is there something I need to be made aware of?"

"Yes, Lasky. You see, around ten days or so ago, I was contacted by Emperor Palpatine following the Battle of Genarius. From what I can gather, he was impressed by our efforts to punish the criminals and pirates at Genarius for attempting to kidnap one of our own. He was so impressed, in fact, that he wanted to inform us of a threat his nascent Empire might face in the future."

"What threat did he say it was?" Lasky asked.

"Palpatine was… reluctant to divulge the details over HoloCOM, and with good reason. I also believe that he wishes to see the leader of the UEG in person."

"He might have a negative opinion just from seeing you," Patricia said. "From what I recall, dictators place a great deal of importance on appearances. The visage of a woman in her golden years might not give him a high opinion of you."

"Maybe," Charet admitted. "However, I do not intend to look like a coward, or an upstart brat by refusing an invitation. If we do that, the war that we are all preparing for might begin before we are ready for it; better to appear as an accepting, if cautious leader now than stoke his wrath before we can adequately protect ourselves. Besides, I wish to see this 'Palpatine' for myself. I want to know if the myths surrounding him are true, or are fabrications."

Lasky nodded at her words. She wants to present a strong, if optimistic, front to Palpatine. He could respect that strength of will. "What about the Arbiter?"

"I have come to see if this 'Emperor Palpatine' is as great of a leader as everyone claims him to be," Thel said. "However, I believe that he will be just like the Hierarchs: a distrustful and deceptive worm that believes himself to be the ruler of all, when he is but a small insect in the grand scheme of things. However, as Charet here has said, I will not refuse an invitation. To do so would be the hieght of presumption; better to show yourself to your opponent, and show that you are a strong leader."

Hood had much the same thoughts himself. "Present a strong front to him, while making it clear that you're open minded on some matters. Sounds like a sensible plan."

"That it does," Alphonse said. "I don't know if this is really such a good idea. For all we know, someone might attempt to assassinate you, Charet. Worse still, they might try to do the same to the Arbiter, or even try to pin the death on him in an attempt to restart the war."

"And should we turn down the invitation out of fear?" Charet asked. It was a rhetorical question, one that she provided the answer to shortly enough. "If we were to do so, it would make the UEG and Swords of Sangheilios look weak. I'm well aware of the dangers of assassination, Alphonse. I place my safety into Lasky and his forces capable hands to keep myself and the Arbiter safe. No terrorist would be so dumb as to attack us while they are around."

Alphonse shrugged. "That's… very true."

"Spoken with courage, as it should be for a strong leader," Thel agreed.

"Indeed," Charet said. "As such, I and the Arbiter are going to Coruscant, period, end of chain. Now, if you'll excuse me, we must get settled in on the Infinity. Something tells me we'll be aboard her for quite some time. Lasky, if you could?"

"One of my men will escort you and your entourage to the Presidential Suite in the ship's quarters, and we will do the same for the Arbiter," Lasky said. "However, I would like a private meeting with Hood and Parangosky, if you don't mind. My intelligence officer, Osman, as well as Vice Admiral Ned Rich, will also be here as well."

"I don't see the harm in it," Charet said. "Very well. We shall leave you to your business." She and her entourage stood and left the room.

"We'll leave you to your business," Hogan said. "Dellert, Strauss and I better get settled in as well." They quickly followed the president out.

Thel walked over to Lasky, rested a four fingered hand on his shoulder. "When I heard of what happened, I feared the worse, Lasky. Now that I see that you have done well, you have my respect. Should you need anything, I shall do what I can."

Lasky smiled. "I... thank you, sir. It's an honor to be known by the Arbiter, and to have you by our side."

Thel's mandibles parted slightly, the Sangheili equivalent of a smile. That smile remined on his face, even as he left the room.

"So, what do you need to speak to us about, Lasky," Parangosky asked.

"We'll begin once Osman is here," Lasky said.

The door hissed open, permitting Osman inside. "My apologies," she said. "I was busy organizing some information when I got the call."

"So, what's this all about?" Ned Rich asked. "I take it that this has to do with something I did earlier in the day?"

"I would like to know why ONI attempted to recruit one of my flag staff for Section One," Lasky said, his voice taking on a low, dangerous growl. "Now before you start flinging denials my way, I know because the officer in question, Ensign Jyn, informed me that she was contacted by an ONI Officer, who extended a recruiting invitation to her. This is in violation of protocol, which states that the CO of the officer in question is to be contacted first."

He folded his hands. "As such, it has fallen to me to correct this oversight in protocol. So, Osman, Ned Rich, Parangosky, would you care as to enlighten me as to why you overstepped your bounds?"

Hood's face darkened dangerously. "Margaret?"

"I didn't know of this," Parangosky said. "Osman?"

"Me neither," Osman said. Her expression darkened. "However, I know I recruited Jyn to my intelligence staff, which is why I'm wondering who would be stupid enough to do it again."

Ned sighed. "Damnit..." he mumbled. "The fault is mine. May I explain why?"

"Go on," Lasky said.

"Shortly before HIGHCOM's arrival, I was informed that a former Rebel Intelligence agent by the name of Cassian Andor wished to join ONI Section One. During one of my sessions with him, he mentioned a 'Jyn.' I assumed he meant Jyn Erso, so I informed him that he was on Lasky's flag staff. However, it occurred to me that, given her activities, it would be wise if I gave her an offer to become a prospective Section One agent."

"And you decided to go over Lasky's authority as a result," Parangosky said.

"Given my rank, I thought it was prudent to do so," Rich admitted.

Osman facepalmed. "Rich, I'm going to say it plainly. You're an idiot."

"Indeed," Parangosky agreed. "We will discuss your liberal interpretation of protocol later. However, we must resolve this issue here and now."

"That we do," Hood said. "Lasky, any requests you need to make?"

"Yes," Lasky said. "I want ONI to stop trying to recruit my flag staff without my explicit permission. If this keeps up, I'll start taking some of your personnel without your permission. Need I remind you that this is my ship and that ONI is a subsection of NAVCOM. If I wanted, I could have you, Parangosky, and Osman executed without so much as a word, and I'm pretty sure Hood would support that decision. Is that correct, Hood?"

Hood nodded. "I would, especially after all the trouble ONI has caused."

"Exactly. So, what will it be, Parangosky?"

Parangosky and Osman frowned. Lasky had them dead to rights, and they knew it. "I will see to it that it does not happen again," Parangosky said. "Hence my planned discussion with Rich here."

"Good," Lasky said. "However, as compensation for this incident, I would like to have Michael Sullivan transferred here."

"For what reason?"

"Personal and strategic ones," was Lasky's cryptic response.

"Playing the role of smartass, eh? All right… I'll play along."

"Good," Lasky said.

"This is all well and all, but I have to be going now," Hood said.

"May I have one more minute with you?" Lasky asked.

"I would love to talk more, but I can't," Hood said. "We'll be leaving within the hour, Lasky. As such, I'm ordering you to inform the Infinity's crew that we are disembarking for Coruscant at 1500 hours local time. Understood?"

Lasky sighed. "I understand, sir." Hood nodded, then walked out of the room. "There is one more thing I'd like to ask you and Osman."

"And that would be," Parangosky asked.

"I would like you two to look into something that's been egging at me as of late. I would like you to gather Senator Bail Organa's DNA, along with his wife's DNA, and compare them with Leia's DNA."

Osman looked at Lasky strangely. "Why do you ask?"

"Because I suspect that Bail hasn't been completely honest with us. He claims that Leia is his daughter, but if either of you two have seen her and Bail together, then you'll know that the two look nothing alike. If Leia was his daughter, there would be a very distinct family resemblance. As it stands, there's none of that present, so I want to see if he's really telling the truth. Understand?"

"Clearly," Osman said. "We'll get it done."

"I'll see to it myself," Parangosky said. "You may go now, Lasky. Ned, a moment of your time please?"

Ned groaned. "Well... shit." Lasky smiled, then left the room.

"I will say this once," Parangosky said. "You do not, under any circumstances, circumvent protocol again, Vice Admiral Rich. Your actions have likely started an interservice recruiting war, which is not what we need at this time. The only reason I will not demote you is because of the fact that I need you right now. Screw up again, and you will regret it. Am I understood?"

Ned nodded. He was no fool; he knew he had screwed up badly, and there was only one way to fix it. "Yes, ma'am," he said.

"Good. Now, is Cassian Andor with you?"

"No," Rich said. "Would you like to speak with him later?"

"I will. You are dismissed."

. . .

While Parangosky was finished speaking wtih Rich, Jyn was stuck in the unenviable position of being the subject of the Armed Services Committee's discussion. Looking through a record, Del Rio said, "According to Lasky's records, as well as information that we were given access to, you had a previous encounter with the slaver known as Geotor. Is this true?"

Even though they're calling via HoloCOM, it feels like they're grilling me right here, Jyn thought. "Yes," she said. "About a year and a half ago, I was hired by a group of slavers that wanted me to forge documents for them so that they could continue their business unimpeded. I never approved of slavery, so when I saw the conditions that the slaves were in... it made me sick to my stomach."

"And what conditions were those?"

Jyn frowned. "Utterly sickening. The slaves had ulcers an-and wounds on their bodies. Mothers were forced to keep their children with them, even in cages that were absolutely filthy. The pirates would use their electric prods and batons to torture them into compliance. The smell was so foul, I thought I would die of it."

"How did you escape?"

"I made a large meal for the slavers in the hopes that they would think I was finally settling down," Jyn said, the memories flashing before her mind. "Before they could eat, I knocked them out, then dragged their bodies into the cargo bay. After that, I liberated the slaves and told them that a meal was waiting for them. I also allowed one of the mothers the power of life and death over the four slavers on the ship."

"And what did she do?"

"She spaced them as punishment for their crimes," Jyn said.

Dell Rio nodded. "I see. Would you care to explain why you didn't inform Lasky of this?"

"I had assumed that Dr. Halsey would inform him of that, whereupon he would speak to me. You must also understand that, as an Ensign, I don't really have that much knowledge on how to do things. I'm bascially a raw recruit."

"So you say," Del Rio said. "Your actions, as good-intentioned as they were, still led to the UNSC having to clean up after your own mess at Genarius. Are you aware of how many people died there as a result of your inaction?"

Jyn sharply looked at him, her eyes full of anger. "I am fully aware, Del Rio. In fact, let me ask you a question: are you aware of what I went through at Geotor's hands!? I was literally stuck inside of a cage, beaten with batons and whips and left to rot in my own poodoo and urine! Roland, can you send them images of where I was found?"

"Yes," Roland said.

Within seconds, the members of the Committee were looking through the information, as well as records of Jyn's physical heatlh. Del Rio paled, while the others became stony faced. Closing his datapad, Gordon said, "That... now I see why Lasky said he felt you weren't ready to be questioned."

"Exactly," Jyn said. "On top of that, I was told that the UNSC, if they had discovered Genarius any earlier, would've attacked anyways. Now do you see why Lasky went after me?"

"Yes," Del Rio said hesitantly. "I apologize for my earlier statements. In fact, I would go so far as to say that I'm shocked that she's even being questioned here."

"My thoughts exactly," Gordon said. "We will reconvene at a later time. In addition, the Human Rights Committee and a few others will want to speak to you at the earliet convenience. This meeting is adjourned."

. . .

One Day Later

"Slipspace exit in T-Minus five minutes, sir," Roland said.

"Very good," Lasky said. "Inform HIGHCOM and the UEG entourage that we are about to arrive at Coruscant. Does the Arbiter know?"

"Yes. He's informed us that the Shadow of Intent will be dropping out shortly.

"Very good," Lasky said. "Maintain present course and heading."

"Understood."

So far, so good, Lasky said. At least we're going to Coruscant on a proper diplomatic mission this time. He then recalled his other guests. Revan, Bastila, are you there?

"We're here," Revan said. "So, this is the form of FTL travel that you use? I must admit, it's quite interesting, well, as interesting as a simple void that is. I thought I'd see something akin to Hyperspace. I suppose I was wrong to think that."

"To be fair, it is a completely different system," Bastila said. "I remember having a spirited conversation with Halsey on the subject. The mere existence of a parallel universe involving eleven spatial dimensions and one temporal dimension is enough to make my head spin."

"Tell me about it," Revan said. "You told me what you knew, and it was deeply confusing. Still, I'd love the chance to study this Slipspace. Imagine what we could learn just from studying it."

Indeed, Lasky thought. What did you two think of Thel 'Vadam?

"The Arbiter?" Bastila asked.

Yeah.

Bastila frowned. "He resonates strongly in both the Light and Dark Side of the Force. I sensed a great deal of pain and remorse inside of him, as well as a resolve to do better. Is he...?"

Yes, Lasky said. "He was responsible for most of the deaths in the war against the Covenant. However, I will remind you that the Hierarchs lied to him, blinded him to the truth using his zeal and faith. When he found out the truth, he immediately rebelled against them. Since then, he's been giving penance for his actions by ensuring a lasting peace between his people and ours.

"I sensed that as well," Revan added. "The road to attonement is a long and hard one. I know that better than anyone here. Thel is a good man, Lasky. In fact... strangely enough, he seems like a Sangheili version of myself, only without being Force Sensitive."

Indeed. We'll have to cut this short. We've got company. The door behind him opened, permitting HIGHCOM and the UEG delegation onto the bridge. "Commanding Officers on deck!" Conners shouted.

"At ease," Hood said. "I take it we're about to leave Slipspace, correct?"

"Yes," Lasky said. "Roland estimates that we've got two minutes before the exit."

"Good. Feels like its taking an eternity to get there."

"It always does," Russel said. "I'm starting to wonder if we ever are going to arrive. I much prefer the ground to Slipspace."

Lasky was about to reply when Roland said. "Slipspace exit in T-Minus five… four… three… two… one… now!"

The nothingness of Slipspace rippled, then a portal into realspace was opened by the Slipspace Drive. Within seconds, the entire bulk of the Infinity had left the empty void and had entered the star-speckled void of normal space-time. Before them, the ecumenopolis that was Coruscant loomed ahead. Nearby, the Shadow of Intent dropped out of Slipspace.

Behind the group, Thel made a rumbling sound. "Very impressive. Tihs entire city reminds me of High Charity, but on a planetary scale."

Hogan whistled. "Damn! Now that's impressive."

"Impressive my ass," Hood said. "The Arbiter's right! That entire planet's one enormous city!"

The members of the UEG delegate were silent, save for Charet. "And I thought I'd seen everything," she said. "Now I can say that I've seen a planet spanning city. You weren't kidding about that, Lasky."

"I never kid about that sort of thing," Lasky said.

"Sir, HoloCOM call coming from the nearby Star Destroyer!" Jespersen shouted.

"Put it through," Lasky ordered.

"This is Captain Jorgus of the ISD Imperator to the UNSC Infinity. State your intentions for being here." The holographic image of the Imperator's Captain appeared over the holo-table.

"This is RADM Lasky of the UNSC Infinity. We're here on a diplomatic visit. We have a VIP onboard the ship, and we are requesting a meeting with the Emperor."

Jorgen frowned. "Copy that, Infinity. Standby."

"You think he's been informed of our reason for visiting?" Patricia asked.

"We're going to find out soon," Charet said.

"That we are," Lasky said. "Roland, make sure the Slipspace Drive is spooled up in case we need to make a quick exit."

"You got it, sir," Roland said.

A couple minutes later, Jorgen's hologram reappeared. "Captain Jorgento RADM Lasky, we apologize for delaying you. We have confirmed that the Emperor wishes to speak with you. You have permission to send a shuttle down to the surface of the planet with you dignitaries. A flight of TIE Fighters will escort you to the surface."

"Understood," Lasky said, "and it's no bother. You're doing your job. We'll be heading to the surface shortly. RADM Lasky over and out."

"Understood. Captain Jorgen over and out."

"He seemed to be quite civil," Hogan said.

"Indeed," Thel said.

"We'll see if that changes anytime soon," Lasky said. "Roland, inform the flight crew of Hangar 21-Delta that we are on our way. Inform Chief and Blue Team that they'll be traveling down to the surface with us and Fireteam Crimson. Inform Leia and her delegation that we are disembarking shortly."

"Understood," Roland said…

Down on the surface of the planet, Vader watched the trio of Pelicans coast down to the surface alongside their TIE Fighter escorts. He also noticed a pair of sleeek, purple ships that neared the landing pad. How very strange, he thought to himself. I can sense a vergence in the Force on one of the Pelicans. I wonder why that is…

He shook the thoughts away. No matter. I have more pressing matters to concern myself with now. I must remain focused. Taking a breath, he focused on the Pelicans and Phantoms. Spinning around, the hextuple of VTOLs landed on the landing pad, before deploying their loading ramps. Two squads of Spartans stepped out, weapons aimed and at the ready, while a group of large, lumbering aliens dropped down from the other three.

Then the delegates themselves stepped out. Vader instantly recognized Lasky, but all of the other people were different. One was an old man dressed in a white dress uniform, while the others were a mix of men and women of varying ages and ethnicity. The one in the lead, a short woman with white hair and blue eyes, was surrounded by all the others. She must be their leader, he surmised. Beyond that, he quickly recognized Leia and her entourage. The individuals from the other were harder to recognize. Out of all the purple armored aliens, one of them wore ornate gold armor. He must be the leader of the Sangheili, he surmised.

On the other side, Charet was carefully examining the cloaked and armored figure before them. That must be Darth Vader, she thought. Hhmm… there's something off about him. I'd best keep a close eye on him. Nearby, the Arbiter eyed Vader warily, like he was a threat more than a worthy warrior.

Walking forwards, Lasky said, "Greetings, Vader. I presume the Emperor sent you to greet us?"

"You presume correctly, Lasky," Vader said. "May I ask whom you are with?"

"Certainly," Lasky said. "With me are Fleet Admiral Terrence Hood, the Chairman of the UNSC, Joint Chiefs and the UNSC Navy, General Hogan of the UNSC Marines, General Dellert of the UNSC Air Force, Admiral Margaret Parangosky of the Office of Naval Intelligence and General Nicholas Strauss of the UNSC Army. Serving as our guards are RLDM-117, Blue Team and Fireteam Crimson.

"With us also are President Ruth Charet of the United Earth Government, Secretary of Defense Paul Russel, Secretary of State Lester Alphonse, Secretary of Information Patricia Steeds and Minister of the Colonies Akuyo Oduya, who is also the head of the Colonial Administration Authority. Arbiter Thel 'Vadam of the Swords of Sangheilios is also with me."

Ruth Charet advanced forwards, a pair of Spartan-IVs and Secret Service Agents flanking her. She extended a hand "It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Vader."

Vader grasped her hand carefully and shook it as well. "It is good to meet you as well. I must admit, I was expecting someone… taller."

"Surprised I didn't meet your expectations?"

"Pleasantly so," Vader said. In truth, he wasn't terribly surprised. Padmé was a Queen after all, a distant part of his mind reminded him.

The Arbiter bowed slightly, "Greetings, Darth Vader. It is an honor to be making your acquaintance."

Vader nodded slightly. "The same to you as well. Would you all follow me to the Pinnacle Room in the Imperial Palace?"

"Of course," Charet said. "Lasky, you and your men will lead the way."

"Understood," Lasky said. "Chief?"

"Blue Team, Fireteam Crimson, move out!" Chief ordered. The members of both teams spread out, taking up formation around Charet and the others. The ODSTs inside each Pelican remained at the vehicles as the delegation moved inside.

"So, how did you fare on your journey, Ambassador?" Vader asked.

"Fine," Leia said. "Earth is much more beautiful than most people would think. Were it not for your duties, I would invite you to come see for yourself."

"Perhaps I might."

Near the back, Lasky sensed Revan and Bastila peering through his eyes at the temple. "Such a terrible tragedy," Bastila said. "I can feel the stench of death on this place. I… I can hear the screams of younglings killed when some monster cut them down. The Jedi Temple is no more. Instead, it has been replaced by something strong in the Dark Side of the Force."

"All of that knowledge, all of that progress… all for naught," Revan said, his voice sad and somber. "From the looks of things, the Emperor led the Jedi around in circles, letting them believe what they wanted before destroying them utterly. What he did is a crime that is unforgivable."

I know, Lasky said. I can feel the Dark Side here too.

"You can feel it?" Revan asked.

Lasky nodded. The moment I stepped into the Imperial Palace, it felt like someone had dumped sewage down my throat, sewage mixed with ice and nails. However, and I don't know if this is just me, but I can sense a faint echo of the Light in here.

"You're not imaging it," Revan said. "I can feel it too. It seems that, despite his efforts to do so, Palpatine wasn't able to remove all traces of the Light Side. This building used to be a center of knowledge and peace. It can be again once Palpatine and the Empire are long dead and gone."

Lasky nodded. Focusing his attention again, he found that they had reached the lift to the Pinnacle Room. Stepping inside, the delegation quickly reached the top. At the top, they all stepped into the Piinnacle Room.

Charet hated the place the moment she stepped inside. The shadows in the room, combined with the presence of the guards, gave the room a foreboding aura. When her gaze fell onto the Emperor, she fought to mask a frown. If he looked decrepit in his HoloCOM calls, then he looks even more decrepit in person, she thought. I need to watch him. All my instincts are screaming at me not to trust him.

How very strange, Thel thought to himself. Palpatine clearly looks ancient and decayed, but that is just a facade. This Human is a warrior, one that even I might struggle to defeat.

Unbeknownst to the two, Bastila and Revan were much the same opinion. "Ugh," Bastila groaned. "If I thought Palpatine was ugly before, I can say he looks positively horrid now."

"That we can agree on," Revan said, disgust roiling from him. "Looks like he had a little too much Force Lightning from the looks of it." Lasky nodded imperceptibly.

Once they stepped inside, Palpatine smiled. "Greetings, President Ruth Charet. We meet at last. It is an honor to speak with you in person."

"The honor is all mine," Charet said. "I must admit, I'm surprised that one as old as you have guided the Empire as well as you have to this point. No offense intended."

"None taken. Many people do not look past the surface of what they see. I am content to allow people to believe me to be what I appear to be and, in truth, that is what I am. A victim of the Jedi's machinations and a man dedicated to his Empire."

Like anyone here believes that, Charet thought. "I would also like to introduce you to Arbiter Thel 'Vadam, the leader of the Swords of Sangheilios."

Thel bowed, more out of courtesy than respect. "Greetings, Emperor Palpatine," he said. "It is an honor to meet the individual with a galaxy at his fingertips."

"The honor is all mine," Palpatine said. "It is also an honor to meet the Sangheili that repented of his crimes in the Covenant-UNSC War and showed his people the right path."

"Indeed," Charet said. "You said that you had something to share with me and the others. Given that we are staying here, at Coruscant for a time, would you be so kind as to enlighten me as to what it is?"

"Of course," Palpatine said. Motioning to his guards and to his advisors, he said, "You may leave now." The guards nodded, turning around and leaving the room. "Now that we are alone, I shall inform you as to why I have asked you to come here. Thrawn, if you would?"

"Yes, my lord," Thrawn said. Stepping forwards, he cleared his throat. "Now that we are all gathered here, I would like to inform you as to the threat that faces our nascent Empire. It is a threat that my people, the Chiss, have been forced to deal with on a regular basis." Stepping forwards, he pulled out a data disk and inserted it into the room's holographic projector.

A map of the galaxy appeared, before the projector zoomed in on the area known as the Unknown Regions. "Shortly before my arrival here, my people's government, the Chiss Ascendancy, were accosted by a threat that we have labeled the 'Far Outsiders.' They are beings that have come from outside the galaxy for the purposes of colonization of worlds, and the molestation of my people."

The members of HIGHCOM began whispering to each other. "What is your people like?" Lasky asked.

"We inhabit a small region that we have extensively colonized," Thrawn said. "Much of our society, however, runs on political favors, as well as military supremacy."

"I take it these 'Far Outsiders' have forced your civilization to be that way?"

"That they have," Thrawn said, "in addition to all the other dangers of the Unknown Regions. Perhaps when he have some time, I can share with you some of my people's culture."

"That would be nice."

Hood held up a hand. "Let's get back on topic. What do these 'Far Outsiders' look like?"

"I shall show you," Thrawn said. Pressing something on a datapad in his hands, he changed the image.

The image that presented itself was that of a humanoid being. The being in the hologram wore armor that had a chitinous sheen, with various spikes and protrusions sticking off the armor at regular intervals. It's face was covered in pale gray skin, it's ears were pointed, and its eyes were jet black, with nary a hint of white. It wielded a staff that had a passing resemblance to a viper from Earth's zoos.

Hogan whistled. "Now that is one ugly motherfucker. Is that what a Far Outsider looks like?"

"That it is," Thrawn said. "Their technology is completely organic in nature, from the very armor they wear, to the ships that they use."

The hologram changed to show one of the ships the Far Outsiders used. "It looks like a Shuriken," Hood observed.

"It does have a resemblance to the throwing blades the country known as Japan once used in their feudal ages," Thrawn agreed. "It is my belief, and the belief of my people, that the ships the Far Outsiders use are enormous ships whose interiors are designed to emulate the biosphere of their homeworld. The ones we have seen so far are small, with the largest being around twenty kilometers."

"How very ominous," Thel said.

"I know that ship," Revan said.

Pardon? Lasky asked. You've seen one of these before?

"Not exactly," Revan said. "One of my friends, Canderous Ordo, saw one of these ships. I forget the Mandalorian name for them, but it roughly translates to 'world ship' if memory serves.

How appropriate, Lasky said.

Hood frowned. "That's the size of a CSO-class Supercarrier! Don't tell me these things can get larger, can they?"

"I do not know," Thrawn said, " though there are theories among my people that they might be able to build larger ships. Far Outsiders that we have found and questioned say that they have ships as large as the Death Star itself."

"Shit!" Dellert hissed. "No wonder you guys wanted to warn us of this development."

"Indeed."

"Any idea of what their society is like?" Parangosky asked.

"What little information we have suggests that they are a caste society," Thrawn said. "Those that we have encountered thus far are of their Warrior caste. What is more telling, however, is their religion. They believe that their gods sacrificed their bodies to create their home galaxy, and that, in order to come closer to their deities, they must inflict pain on themselves. Each of them seems to take pleasure in any pain inflicted, and it was only through the use of narcotics that we gained any real information from them."

"Just like the Hierarchs," Thel growled. "Such beings should be purged from the Universe forevermore."

"So we're dealing with a threat that is composed of alien masochists," Strauss said. "Just wonderful. What else are we going to face?"

If Thrawn had noted the sarcasm, he didn't show it. "That is the threat we face," he said, ignoring the rhetorical question. "It is my belief that what we are seeing are merely scouting elements of a much larger invasion force. If so, we are facing an invasion the likes of which we have never seen."

"All but one," Hood said. "The only conflict I can think of that I can draw parallels to is the Covenant-UNSC War. They did the same thing with us, and they nearly destroyed us as a result." He looked at Thel. "No offense intended, Arbiter."

"None taken," Thel said, "and I agree with your assessment. That war is the only parallel I can draw here."

Leia, who'd been silent until now, frowned. No wonder Palpatine is mobilizing a vast military: he's preparing for their invasion! "My Emperor, I must apologize for my criticism of your militarization program. Now that I'm aware of why that is the case, I must retract my former statement."

Palpatine smiled. "There is nothing to apologize for, Ambassador. You were not aware of the reasons why I've been building up the Imperial military. Now you know."

"I do," Leia said. I'll have to speak with the Rebel Alliance on this. It is high time that I make it clear that we can't disarm our military after the war, not with threats like these… Far Outsiders on our doorstep.

"Agreed," Charet said. "Now, given that you have shared information on a potential threat with us, I would like to share information on a potential threat with you, Palpatine."

"And that would be?" Palpatine asked.

"Chief?"

Chief stepped forwards, then pulled a small chip from his head. The holographic image of a woman appeared over it. "Greetings," she said.

"And who might you be?" Palptaine asked. His eyes glittered with curiosity.

"I am CTN 0452-9, also known as 'Cortana.' I am a UNSC Smart AI."

Palpatine's curiosity grew. "You're a droid?"

"I do not believe so," Vader said. "Droids generally do not have well expressed personalities."

"Cortana isn't a droid," Hood said. "A Smart AI is generated from the neural pathways of a deceased individual. Cortana is one such AI."

"Thank you," Cortana said. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll send some information to your holo-projector. Give me a minute."

At a motion from Palpatine, Vader leaned in. "Most intriguing," Palpatine said. "She is clearly a machine, but she has the personality of a living being."

"Indeed," Vader said.

"I find it intriguing as well," Thrawn said. "I've seen their use of Smart AI on their homeworld. It is involved in every part of their society, much in the same way droids pervade every part of our society." His solid red eyes seemed to fairly sparkle with curiosity and interest.

The hologram before them flickered, then it displayed an image. The image was that of some horrid monstrosity. It resembled a large, snake-like being, with a lipless mouth filled with teeth. Tendrils and tentacles sprouted from it at seemingly random locations, and its skin was a pale-yellow color.

The moment he saw it, Vader felt a wave of revulsion pulse from both himself and Palpatine. "What is this… thing?" Palpatine asked.

"It is the Parasite," Thel said.

Palpatine looked confused. "The... Parasite?

"An alternate name for the Flood," Hood explained. "During our war with the Covenant, we encountered this alien race during an investigation of the Covenant's religion. From what we can tell, they were once another species that used advanced genetic engineering to turn themselves into what you see.

"That's not the worst part, though. During the war, we discovered that they desired to consume all life in the galaxy and convert it into more of their own biomass, making them the greatest threat to Humanity we ever faced. We only barely managed to defeat them when the Master Chief here destroyed their homeworld with a weapon we developed. However, we're not sure if they're present in any other galaxies at this time."

"I see," Palpatine said. "Is that all the Flood is composed of?"

"No," Cortana said. "The Flood parasitizes other species via a member of its kind known as an 'Infection Form.' These Infection Forms then seek out other hosts and infect them, converting them into Combat Forms. There are also Pure Forms, which are composed purely of Flood Biomass and Carrier Forms, which are Combat Forms converted into creatures that house Infection Forms inside of them. If enough of them are around, they fuse into a 'Gravemind', whereupon they become exponentially more dangerous."

"Is that so?"

"Yes," Cortana said. "Graveminds have an intelligence equaling, if not exceeding, that of Smart AIs. They have access to the memories of all that the Flood have infected, and they are single-minded in their efforts to consume all biomass and biodiversity in the galaxy. The threat is so dangerous that, as a friend of ours once put it, 'One single Flood spore can wipe out an entire species.'"

"One of my friends, R'tas 'Vadum spoke those words," Thel said. "As for myself, I personally faced down a Gravemind myself. It... is not an experience I would wish upon my foulest enemy."

Leia's eyes remained fixed onto the image, her heart beating in terror. Now I know for certain that we need to keep our military. If we don't... we'll all die, or be assimilated by those... things. She took a breath to calm her frayed nerves.

Palpatine looked at the image again, more disgust roiling from him. Even the very Dark Side of the Force seemed to view the monstrosities with utter repulsion and disgust. "If we encounter them, what do you suggest?"

"My advice? Orbital bombardment combined with a planetary quarantine," Hood said. "The Flood are that dangerous. If even a single Flood Infection Form or spore survives, you'll be facing a outbreak on a galactic scale. If it goes that far…" He fell silent at the implications.

"I see," Palpatine said. "It would appear that the Flood is a threat that none of us can ignore, if they are still around. I commend you for informing as to the nature of the threat we face should the Flood come around. For now, I must return to my duties of running the Empire. I invite you to stay at Coruscant for the duration of your visit. There are many places that you will find most interesting."

"We'll definitely consider it," Charet said. "Mind if we speak more tomorrow? I would also like to visit Genarius to see what the battle was like."

"Of course," Palpatine said. "You may visit Genarius at your leisure."

"Actually, I've got an idea," Hood said.

"Go on."

"Given the threat these Far Outsiders pose, I think it would be best if a representative of the UNSC saw for themselves what they are. That way, we can begin devising strategies and tactics that can beat them."

"I was just about to propose that," Thrawn said, a smile creasing his face. "With your permission, my Emperor, I would like to assemble a joint task force with the UNSC aimed at showing them this threat in person."

"I can lend assistance in this matter," Thel said. "The Fleetmaster I mentioned earlier, R'tas 'Vadum, is onboard the Shadow of Intent. If all parties consent, I would send him on this journey with you."

"You never told us R'tas was onboard the Shadow of Intent," Lasky said.

"He was busy with other matters," Thel said. "I do not disturb my men when they are busy handling important matters."

"Fair point."

"Sounds like an excellent idea," Thrawn said. "My lord?"

"You have my blessing to do so," Palpatine said. "We will discuss the details at a later time. I'm sure that Charet and her entourage are quite exhausted from their journey here. You all have my leave to go."

"Could I stay for a moment longer?" Leia asked once the others left.

"Of course."

Leia sighed. "I would like to apologize for opposing your militarization of the Empire. I was opposed for philosophical and ideological reasons, but now that I've seen the threat of the Far Outsiders and the Flood, I realize that such a stance was deeply flawed. As such, I apologize for opposing you."

Palpatine smiled. "Your apology is accepted, Ambassador."

"Thank you. I would also like to announce my new stance in public, and tell my friends of the Far Outsiders and Flood."

"No," Palpatine said. "You cannot tell your friends. Should you do so, one of them may leak this information to the public, and the last thing we need is a riot caused by panic. However, you can announce your new stance. You can even use the podium where I typically stand when I address the Imperial Senate as you are an Ambassador and not a Senator."

"I see," Leia said. "Thank you for your time."

"You are welcome. You may go now."

Once Leia left, Palpatine turned his gaze towards Thrawn. "Tell me, Thrawn, what did you learn of them during their stay?"

"Quite a fair amount," Thrawn said. "However, as you have said, I will not take up your time. I will send you a report when you are ready. I will share my thoughts on the Flood, however."

"And those would be?"

"That they are a threat that might be greater than the Far Outsiders, if they still exist," Thrawn said.

"I see. You have my leave to go now." Palpatine turned to Vader. "Did you sense what I did?"

"Yes," Vader said. "That vergence in the Force. I believe Lasky was at the center of it, which is quite strange. He was not Force Sensitive the last time I met with him. Something has changed."

"Indeed. We will discuss that at a later time as well. For now, I must tend to my duties."

. . .

Onboard the Infinity, Lasky and Cole walked to one of the meeting rooms. "Any idea why Hood called you onto the ship before we left?" Lasky asked. "It seems a bit… impulsive on his part."

"It does," Cole said. "However, I'm certain that Hood has a good reason for it."

"Maybe," Lasky said.

The doors opened, allowing the two inside the meeting room. Inside, Hood was leaning against the table, eyes focused on the two. "Cortana, can you secure the room?" he asked.

"Yes," Cortana said. The doors locked, and a slight hum pervaded the room.

Standing upright, Hood advanced to Cole. "Cole, it's been a while. How are you feeling?"

"Fine," Cole said. "You, though, look like hammered shit."

"That I do. Stress has a way of making you look older than you really are." He sighed. "Ever since you went missing, Cole, I've regretted some of my words and actions towards you. It forced me to reassess my opinion of you."

"I had a feeling it might," Cole said. "You've changed a lot from the young, hot blooded young man I knew. Now, you've gotten cooler, wiser, sadder even."

"Yes," Hood said. "However, I've been a blind fool, as you have no doubt seen from ONI's shenanigans. However, I didn't come here to bemoan my past decisions, as foolish as some of them have been. I'm here because I wish to correct a grave error in judgment that I made."

"That being?"

"After you went missing, and after I was given the position of Chairman of the UNSC, I was focused on keeping the Human species alive in our galaxy, which meant that many things, such as ONI's actions, went unnoticed by me. One of those things was that I forgot to promote you posthumously for your valiant deeds throughout the war. Now that we know you are alive and well, I intend to correct that failing."

Reaching to the desk, he held a single box in his hands. "As such, Preston J. Cole, it has been decided by the Armed Services Committee, and the UNSC Security Council, that you are to be promoted to the rank of Fleet Admiral. For too long, Humanity's greatest tactician has languished at the rank of Vice Admiral. No longer is that the case. You are now in command of all UNSC Naval forces within the Andromeda Galaxy. Congratulations."

Cole saluted while Hood removed his old stars and replaced them with the new ones. "Thank you sir," Cole said. "However, isn't it the responsibility of Lasky to command all naval forces in this galaxy? It seems like a conflict of interests."

"It would be that way, except for a very special circumstance." Turning to Lasky, he said, "Lasky, many of your actions have been in the highest keeping of naval tradition. You are an example to us all, which makes what I am to ask of you much, much more difficult. As you are well aware, Thrawn is putting together a task force to show us the Far Outsider threat, and I've been sent along as Charet and the rest of HIGHCOM trust my ambassadorial skills to adequately handle any First Contact scenarios.

"As a result of this, it has been decided by HIGHCOM and the UEG President that I will be the UNSC representative going with Thrawn. As a result, I am provisionally promoting you to four positions: Fleet Admiral, Chairman of the UNSC Security Council, Chief of Naval Operations and Joint Chiefs."

Lasky's eyes widened. "D-Did I hear you correctly? Y-You're making me a temporary Fleet Admiral, as well as provisionally promoting me to those positions?"

"That I am," Hood said.

Lasky stared down at his feet. "I… I'm not ready, sir. I can manage fleets, lead troops into battle, but I can't lead the entire UNSC! Not on my own at least. I don't have the experience, the expertise, the-"

Hood silenced him with a gesture. "I know," he said, "but I do think you are ready for the time being. According to records, Cole has taught you what you need to know as a high ranking officer in the UNSC. In addition, you will not be running the UNSC on your own. The other members of the UNSC Security Council will be assisting you in that regard. You also need the experience for when you officially replace me in that position."

Lasky opened his mouth to protest, thought better of it. "I see…" he said. "Well… if that's what you think is best… then I'll do it."

Hood smiled. "Cheer up, Lasky," he said, patting the young man on his shoulder. "There are dozens of Fleet Admirals that would kill to have the honor you are having now. It'll be difficult, but given your popularity, I know that you'll do just fine. And with that, I must leave now, to go into the Unknown Regions."

"Before you go," Lasky said, "can I speak to you about something?"

Hood shook his head. "No, Lasky. I must go now to prepare. When I return, however, I will listen to your request. Goodbye for now." With a salute to Lasky, he stepped out of the room.

The newly promoted Cole stepped forwards and patted Lasky on the shoulders. "Congratulations, Lasky. Not many people get to have a taste of what it means to be Chairman of the UNSC, Navy and Joint Chiefs. Still, it's rather odd that Hood decided to leave without answering your question."

"To be fair, he is very busy," Lasky said. "That being said, are you aware of what happened a couple days ago?"

"About what?" Cole asked.

"I'll explain. A few days ago, I was exposed to a Sith Holocron that Blue Team recovered from a planet called Ziost. You know what a Holocron is, yes?"

"I do," Cole said. "It's a data storage device that the Sith and Jedi used. Why do you ask?"

"Well, when I opened it up, and this is where the crazy part comes in, two things happened to me. The first is that I became Force Sensitive. The second is that I was bonded to a Force ghost that was trapped inside of the Holocron. That Force Ghost was also bonded to another Force ghost, resulting in me becoming connected to two Force Ghosts."

Cole cocked an eyebrow. "Do you have proof?"

"Well, here we are for all to see," a voice said. To his credit, Cole barely reacted as Revan and Bastila faded into visibility. "Is that evidence enough for you?"

Cole examined the two, then looked at Lasky. "You weren't kidding about this, Lasky. Do they have access to TS/SCI information?"

"Yep," Lasky said. "Mostly because Bastila, the woman right there, is so tightly bonded to me that, in the eyes of the Force, we're literally one and the same. We're part of what's known as a Force Dyad. As for Revan here, he got yanked along for the ride."

"I see," Cole said. "Well, they're both dead, so that's no worry. Still, it seems as though you intentionally look for the largest brush pile out there, then jump into it, regardless of whether there are snakes in it or not. Still, it seems to have done you some good. Hood's going to have one hell of a rude awakening."

"That he is," Bastila said. "For a man as old and experienced as he is, Hood is little more than a blind fool."

"Harsh, but fair. Either way, I have to be going now. It's time for me to take command."

"That it is," Lasky said. "The Infinity is yours, sir."

"Thank you," Cole said. "That being said, you'll be my XO once Hood comes back. You're a good officer, and I'd hate to see that wasted. Permission to be dismissed?"

"Granted," Lasky said. As Cole left, he keyed his COM. "Parangosky, are you there?"

"Is there something you need, Lasky?" Parangosky asked.

"I would like to speak to you immediately."

"You do realize I am a rank above you," Parangosky said, "or rather several ranks."

"Not at this moment, no," Lasky said. "If you would be so kind as to come, I would explain to you what's happened."

"Of course. I'm on my way." Closing his COM, Lasky waited for her arrival.

The doors hissed open a few minutes later. Walking inside, Parangosky said, "What do you need?"

"I would like to inform you of something Hood has informed me," Lasky said. "As of now, he has made me the provisional Chairman of the UNSC, NAVCOM and the Joint Chiefs. As such, since he is preparing for ab expedition into the Unknown Regions, I am, effectively, in command of all UNSC forces, including ONI."

Parangosky's gaze was riveted to Lasky. "I see," she said. "In that case, until Hood returns, I will be your eyes, ears and hands in the dark." This might be an excellent opportunity, she thought. I'm eager to see how well Lasky does compared to that blind fool Hood.

"Very good," Lasky said. "There is one other matter, Parangosky."

"Yes," Parangosky said. "Roland, is Cassian here?"

"He is," Roland said.

"Good. Send him in." The doors opened, permitting Cassian inside How very handsome, Parangosky thought. I will have to disappoint him.

Cassian hesitated. "Rear Admiral," he said, breaking into a salute.

"At ease," Lasky said, "and technically, Cassian, I'm a Fleet Admiral right now. Due to Hood being gone, I'm now the Chairman of the UNSC Security Council, Chief of Naval Operations and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. However, I appreciate your adherence to tradition and protocol. Now, I take it that you requested to be on an assignment with Jyn, yes?"

"Yes," Cassian said. "Is there something wrong?"

"Yes," Parangosky said. "Normally, we would accede to your request; in this circumstance, however, your request has started a recruiting war. Your request, as innocent as it was, also nearly led to me being executed by Lasky here."

Cassian paled. "I... I didn't mean -"

"We know," Lasky said. "You just wanted to be with Jyn, which is understandable. War has a way of forging strong relationships. For that reason, we're pardoning you, given that it was Vice Admiral Rich that started it."

Parangosky frowned. "Because of that, however, you will not be assigned to Lasky's flag staff, nor will you be near her. As Lasky here has already guessed, I want to avoid another incident like this. Therefore, I am having you shipped back to Earth for training as an ONI Agent. Is that understood?"

Cassian gulped. Crap! he thought. I just shot myself in the foot! Now I won't be able to see Jyn for years! "Yes, ma'am," he said.

"Good. Now gather your belongings. You will need them for when you go to Earth."

"That he will," Lasky agreed. "Once you are finished with sending him off, Parangosky, I expect you to brief me on the latest intelligence events at 1900 hours local time. Both of you are dismissed."

. . .

In the Milky Way Galaxy, at Sydney, Captain Orwell Thames whistled a merry tune as he walked to the ship he was assigned to. Damn does it feel good to begin exploring again! he thought. He smiled. "Yo ho! Yo ho! A pirates life for me!" he mockingly sang.

A harsh bark of laughter came from nearby. "Thames!" a dark skinned man said. "Good to see you! I heard the UNSC's Cartographer Corps cleared you for exploratory work again!"

"Indeed, Danik. I might not be able to fight again, but my eyes haven't gone to shit yet! So, what ship are we cleared to use?"

"The Huygens," Danik said. "The namesake of the Huygens-class of exploratory ships. From what I hear, she's recently undergone a full refit to bring her up to modern standards."

"That she has. I've always liked to explore. I'm the kind of guy that wonders to himself, 'now what's on the other side of that there hill?' Now I get the chance to find out."

"Agreed," Danik said. "Let's go take a look."

It wasn't long before they found the ship in question. Even from this distance, Thames could see fresh paint and welds that pockmarked sections of the ship. A younger man came up to them. "Lieutenant Patterson reporting for duty!" he said. "I'm your navigator."

"At ease," Thames said. "We're a civilian outfit, not a military one. What's the state of the Thames, kid?"

"Green," Patterson said. "According to Sydney STC, we're cleared to take off when ready."

"Very good," Thames said. "Before we go, what's our mission?"

"We're going to be surveying a sector of space roughly two thousand light years from our position, Captain. I asked why, but they told me that it was classified. If I had to guess, it must be ONI setting up some bases there."

"Why would they go to the ass-end of the galaxy to set up a few measly bases," Danik asked.

"Beats me," Thames said. "I learned not to question our orders a long time ago. Now, shall we get to exploring, or are we going to be flapping our gums all day?" The others nodded, then moved to the ship.

The cockpit of the ship was small, barely large enough to house everyone in the command crew. Once his belongings were stowed away, Thames sat down in the command seat. "All right, let's get this party going. Columbus?"

"Yes?" the ship's AI asked.

"Are all systems go?"

"Affirmative, sir. I finished all of the pre-flight checks."

"Then let's get to it," Thames said. "Patterson, take 'er away. Once we're in Slipspace, we'll head to the cryobay."

"Understood, sir," Patterson said. "Who knows what we'll find. Maybe it'll be just another milk run."

Danik slapped him lightly upside the head. "Don't say that! The next thing you know, the Universe is going to say, 'Really? How about this?', and throw something our way! All of that has happened before, and it sure as hell is going to happen again! Idiot!"

"Settle down," Thames said. "Patterson?"

"Yes, sir." Keying his COM, he said, "Sydney STC, we are go for take-off. Over."

"Solid copy," Sydney STC said. "Follow your present flight plan out of the atmosphere. Once you've left atmosphere, you are cleared to engage Slipspace Drives."

"Roger that. Following flight plan."

Outside, the engines on the Huygens fired to life. With a tremendous roar, the ship lifted up into the air, before darting forwards. Rapidly gaining speed, the ship rapidly exited atmosphere. "Engaging Slipspace Drive," Patterson said. "Slipspace entry in three… two… one… now!"

Before them, a portal into Slipspace appeared. In a split second, the ship entered it, then the portal closed. "Slipspace entry successful," Patterson said. "Columbus, you have command of the ship. Our lives are in your hands now."

"Understood, sir."

. . .

On another part of the Infinity in the Andromeda Galaxy, Captain Harrison frowned as he looked at the video feeds from his station in the Prowler. Having learned that Lasky was now the Provisional Chairman of the UNSC Security Council, Chief of Naval Operations and the Joint Chiefs, his blood was boiling with rage. Damn you and your friends, Lasky, he growled. If it wasn't for you, we'd already be causing the Empire trouble. We'd even have gotten rid of the Death Star by this point.

He sighed explosively. You also killed a good friend of mine. When the time comes, I'll make certain you pay for what you did!

"Perhaps I can be of assistance in that regard," a voice said.

Harrison whirled around, Magnum in hand. "Who the hell's there!? Show yourself!"

"As you wish." A reddish fog formed out of thin air, before coalescing into the form of a man in ornate armor. His hair was white, and his eyes were a bright yellow color. His body was shrouded in red mist that shifted to purple, then purple-red.

Harrison frowned. "Who the hell are you?" he asked.

The man smiled. "I am Valkorion, the Emperor of the Sith. I also know who you are, Captain Harrison. An agent of ONI, who has a serious grudge against the commanding officer of this ship."

Harrison's frown deepened. "And why are you speaking to me?"

"Because I have sensed your desire for revenge against Thomas Lasky. In your present state, all you would accomplish in attempting revenge would be your own death, which would be a waste. If you accept my offer, you will have power beyond your imagination."

Harrison frowned, then lowered his weapon. "I'm listening…"

"Good. My offer to you is this: that you give your body to me, so that I may explore the ship you call the Infinity. I have been away from this galaxy for over four thousand years, and much has changed. In return, I will begin teaching you the secrets of the Sith, and I will make you Force Sensitive. Once you are strong enough, you will be able to defeat Lasky and take this ship for yourself. No one will dare stand against you, not even the Empire."

Harrison frowned. The offer seemed too good to be true, yet, in some way, he desired it. Perhaps this is my chance, he thought. "I see…" he said. "Very well. I accept."

"Good," Valkorion said. "Steel yourself. This will be most painful." A moment later, he vanished.

Harrison snarled and roared, his body twisting and contorting as he fell to the ground, his face a rictus of pain. Before long, he stood up again, his eyes yellow, while dark fire seemed to burn at his hands. "Ah," Valkorion said, his voice replacing Harrison's. "It has been far too long since I walked the mortal realm. Harrison was such a fool to listen to my honeyed words. Now, I can use his knowledge to research the UNSC to my heart's content." He chuckled; then the chuckle turned into a menacing roar of laughter.