AN: I hate having AN's at the top of a fic, it is anoying to me, but I have to have this one here for reasons. I Recived a PM from one of my lovely reviewers saying that they were sad that they got a notification about it updating, but nothing updated. Now, I've already cleared this up for them, but for the rest of you: The fic has updated, there is an Author's Note at the bottom of Chapter 1 that tells you what happened. Basically, I rewrote this fic, fixing up some of the problems you guys had... I also tortured Louise a bit more, but that's in the later chapters. You don't have to read through them all again, but you will miss out on the small changes earlier and the bigger changes that smacked my other readers in the face. I also thought, that because I was gone so long, it would be a catch up session as you guy's read it to catch up on the events that you had forgotten about.
Now on with the show, a new chapter who had joined to group of chapters that tripled in lenght since the last time you read it! (seriously, 4K then, 12K now)
Chapter 13 – Welcome to Dromund Kaas
The landing ramp hissed open, extending into a walkway for the trio of Force-users to descend onto the station. The flight to the Korriban Space Station was uneventful besides Khem's constant shifting as he tried to find a comfortable seat, or Louise trying to appear as if she was one-hundred percent used to space travel. Zash had broken from her glower to give the two a mildly amused look.
Once off the ship and down the ramp, the trio headed off towards an elevator leading to the main body of the station. Luckily, Louise already had experience with moving platforms. When the doors of the elevator swung open, signifying their arrival at their chosen floor, Zash immediately spoke up, "Follow me, apprentice. There is someone I wish you to meet."
With that, Louise and Khem were lead to a large ashen grey man. Though, the most peculiar thing about him, were the pieces of machinery that covered his jaw, cheeks and some of his right eye, distinguishing the man as a cyborg. When Louise first heard of cybernetics, she felt a bit sick; the idea of replacing body parts with technology unsettled her and felt wrong. Of course, she did not mind if it was to replace a missing limb or something like that, but to purposefully replace working body parts did not sit well with her. She was just happy that the cybernetics were miniscule compared to others she had seen.
The cyborg wore grey robes that blended with his complexion, with a red sash around his waist being the only thing that really popped out, besides the cybernetics. A lightsaber at his hip signified his rank as a Sith. Before Louise had a chance to speak up, Zash introduced the man, "Apprentice, this is Lord Krillis."
"Lord Zash." he nodded respectfully, before turning to Louise enthusiastically, "It is my utmost pleasure to meet you at long last, apprentice. May you soon gain the honours you so well deserve."
"It is a pleasure to meet you as well, Lord Krillis." Louise greeted in return, though with nowhere near the same levels of enthusiasm.
"Yes, Lord Krillis here, is to help you with help train you. He will continue to train you in the ways of the Force and even the blade when I am unavailable, however, this doesn't mean I will not be there to train you myself."
"Thank you, master." Louise said, before turning back to Krillis, "I am ready to learn whatever it is you have to teach."
"Lord Zash did say you were a good student and a fast learner," He praised before turning his attention back to Zash, "I am ready to leave whenever you are."
"Then let's get going." Zash said, gesturing for them to follow her, "I have arranged a transport to take us to Dromund Kaas." The trio plus one then set off towards the hanger that led them to the transport, though a more round about route was taken at Louise's request. Walking along the outside of the station, the quartet passed several view ports along the way to the transport, before stopping dead at one of them.
Just outside the massive window, floating in the immense nothingness of space was the planet Korriban and some of the seven moons. A common sight for the Empire and even a few other factions, and one that seemed to lose its novelty the more time one spent in space, but for Louise, it was different. She continued to stare at the massive sphere that was Korriban, the band of dead red and brown capped by two white ice caps, with white clouds drifting with the wind. She could feel the intoxicating presence of the Dark Side practically gush from the planet's surface, wrapping its comforting tendrils around everything in the vicinity. However, the biggest thing she felt, was an overwhelming sense of awe and humility. It's beautiful…
"You look like you haven't seen a planet before" Zash noted, watching the pinkette with a critical eye.
"I haven't," Louise replied softly, a feeling of melancholy seeping into her. A part of her mind did not want to believe that she had spent any length of time living on that planet, battling both monsters and Man alike. A part of her did not believe that she was actually here; that she, Louise the Zero, was able to graduate the Sith Academy. That she had passed where others had failed, that she had lived while others had perished.
Louise guessed that there was a small part of her that believed what the likes of Zerbst, Gramont and Montmorency had said. How she was a Zero and would not amount to anything. The simple fact that she was now one of the few people to graduate the Sith Academy -intact no less- brought pride and joy to her heart.
"You… haven't?" Krillis questioned.
"No," Was all she said.
With that sobering scene out the way, the small group of Force-users restarted their journey to the transport.
...
After meeting an alien which looked like a hunched Chiss with a bloated head -A Duros. her mind supplied- the four-some were escorted aboard the transport that would be taking them to the Dromund System. The transport itself was docked to the space station, so no shuttle was needed. Something Louise was pleased with. Upon exiting the airlock and stepping onto the ship, the group found their path blocked by a few Imperials.
Upon nearing the conversing Imperials, Louise could make out what they were saying, "… the Captain that I'll be back on the bridge as soon as I've done his errand." Ordered a woman who's most striking characteristic where pale skin and dark eyeshadow. Her hair was put up into a neat bun that matched the strict look of her officer uniform which proudly displayed her rank: Lieutenant.
"Yes, sir." Replied a large bald man she was talking to before walking off to do whatever it was his superior ordered.
The Lieutenant then turned to fully face the Dark Siders, putting on a pleasant smile before greeting them, "Good to have you aboard. I'm Lieutenant Sylas, second-in-command of the Black Talon; we're your ride to Dromund Kaas."
"I'm sure this ship will do wonderfully," Zash replied in an equally present way, "How long until we reach the planet?"
"Shouldn't be more than a day." The Imperial informed, "The Black Talon makes this run on a regular basis without trouble. We're primarily a transport."
"Oh, that's marvellous news."
Sylas smiled, "I won't keep you any further. When we arrive in the Dromund system, I'll have you informed. In the meantime, your droid's in the conference room."
"That's intriguing, I don't think I have a droid." Lord Zash replied.
"Oh? The machine asked for you," Sylas explained, "so I assumed you were the owner. My mistake. In any case, it seems someone wants to get in touch. The conference room is down the hall; I'll be on the bridge." And with that, the Imperial officer left to go order around her subordinates, leaving a group of four confused beings behind.
"Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to go see who wishes to talk to me so badly," Zash said eventually.
"It would seem so," Krillis added. Khem and Louise had nothing to contribute, so they stayed quiet and followed the two Sith Lords, not that the Pinkette and Assassin were not curious.
Just as the officer had said, the conference room was just down a hall and indeed there was a droid waiting for them. It was one of the more humanoid looking droids that the petite Pinkette had seen occasionally walking the halls of the Academy. A protocol droid, if she remembered correctly.
Clad full body in grey metals with fully articulated limbs and two glowing orange eyes, Louise had always thought they were slightly creepy in appearance. Upon entering the room, a holographic interface lit up on the droid's arm, unreadable data swirling on it, "Identity confirmed. Good day, I am advanced protocol unit NR-02." The droid greeted in a masculine synthesised voice, "My functions are diplomacy, translation, manslaughter and communications."
Louise, for her part, only widened her eyes marginally when it listed its third functions. Really, what did I expect from an Imperial droid? She scoffed. I'm surprised our mouse droids don't have built-in explosive… they don't… right?
While Zash's apprentice was busy trying to figure out if mouse droids were mini-explosives, the NR-02 had continued speaking, "I have an urgent message for you from my master. Please stand by for delivery." As he said this, it began fiddling with its hologram arm, "This is unit NR-02 to Grand Moff Kilran. You are now in contact with Black Talon"
Suddenly a nearby terminal flared to life, tearing the attention of everyone in the room, a life-sized hologram of a man sprouted from its projector. The man had a bad scar across his face, as if someone had raked hot coals across it, not that it seemed to faze the man. He was dressed in an officer's uniform, but his rank pin showed that he was more than a simple officer. The hologram was of the Grand Moff Kilrand, or the Butcher of Coruscant in some circles. Louise felt a bit humbled and star struck in his presence; a mastermind of warfare and someone who did not hide his disfiguring scar.
"Well- so I am." The blue hologram said to the droid, "And it seems you've brought me just the group I've been looking for."
"Grand Moff Kilran, what a pleasure to finally meet you." Lord Zash greeted cheerily, "However, I must express confusion over what is going on."
"It's apparent I need another pair of hands." He clarified, "So I asked NR-02 to check the ship's passenger manifest. Six hours ago, the Republic engaged in an illegal border skirmish on the edges of Imperial territory. One enemy warship escaped. That warship, the Brentaal Star, is carrying a passenger of vital strategic importance. Yours is the only vessel placed to intercept."
The Republic. Louise mused silently. She had read up on them quite a bit, as did every single other acolyte. To say the least, she was not impressed. Supposedly, the Republic was run by a leader voted in by a senate of thousands of different worlds and cultures. Each leader would have a set length of time which they would rule, only to get replaced by a different leader. A chaotic and alien government that the Pinkette could not wrap her head around. Despite the good words of Sir Dorjis had given her, she felt that the Sith were right about the Republic and all the corruption that it spawned.
"This passenger the Brentaal Star is carrying, who is it?" Zash inquired.
"The warship's passenger is code-named 'the General.'" He answered, "We don't know his identity, but the Republic believes he possesses military secrets. Our military secrets. I trust the reports: The General must be captured or killed. Captain Orzik, the man commanding your transport, doesn't agree with my enthusiasm. He's disobeyed my orders to attack. Feel free to show him what the Empire does to cowards. Then commandeer his ship, find the Brentaal Star and deal with the general."
The blonde Sith appeared to be in thought for a moment, before a smirk grew on her face, "Grand Moff, while I might not be able to help you at this time, my wonderful apprentice would be a wonderful replacement."
Louise, who had, up to this point, been following the conversation with a slight curiosity, quickly snapped to attention the moment she was referenced, "Wait, what am I doing?" she asked. Though her protest seemed to fall on deaf ears.
"If you can trust your apprentice to finish this mission, that is good enough for me." The Butcher of Coruscant agreed, "Kilran, out." And with that, the hologram faded from existence.
"So… what am I doing?" The Pinkette repeated.
The other three Dark Siders gave he a look, "Weren't you listening, apprentice?" Her Master asked.
"No…well yes I was, I know what he said, but why am I doing this?" Louise replied.
Instead of answering her directly, the blonde Sith turned to the other Lord in the room, "Lord Krillis, wouldn't you agree it would be a great help to give her a taste of life as an apprentice?"
"Yes, it would." Came the approving reply of the cyborg.
"So, it's settled, then." Zash said clapping her hands together, "While Krillis and I get set up for the day's journey, you go deal with this however you want."
"Aren't you two the least bit worried about putting a transport up against a warship?" Louise voiced.
"Well, he isn't called the 'Butcher of Coruscant' for nothing." Piped Krillis.
"I can't argue with that." It was true, Louise had watched a holo of the Sacking of Coruscant at the Academy, and to say she was impressed was an understatement, especially when she remembered where he got those scars from. Any officer who can hold off a boarding party of Jedi is deserving of respect. She mused before sighing internally, "I'll do it."
"Good. Now, if you get in trouble, take this holocommunicator" Zash said, pulling out a disk-shaped machine which Louise took in hand." I have already set it up so you can contact me instantly, so you don't have to worry about that. As for your belongings, I will take them to our rooms."
With that, Louise passed her duffle bag to Lord Zash, before the droid spoke up, "I will lead the way to the bridge. Once Captain Orzik is deposed and our hijacking is complete, we may proceed to the Brentaal Star."
Let's get this over with…
...
Guided by the murderous droid, Louise and her companion started on the path to the bridge of the ship, but before they could even get a quarter way there, they found their way barred by a group of Imperials and a force shield. Leading the blockade was a familiar face, not that the Pinkette actually knew who the man was. It was the same bald man who had been ordered to do something by Lieutenant Sylas.
"Halt!" He commanded gesturing for the two to stop, "My lord, this is a restricted area -Captain Orzik's command. You'll have to leave immediately."
At least I know I'm going the right way, but… Louise let out a low sigh. Of course, something had to happen to make this trip difficult, "I need to see Captain Orzik, Lieutenant." She asked, noticing his ranking on his pin.
"Nobody is allowed passed until we reach our destination."
Again, she felt like sighing, "If you don't recall, there are two Sith Lords on this ship, I am one of their apprentices and I was ordered to meet with your captain." Louise explained tiredly, "To disobey me is to disobey my master, and to disobey her is to disobey the Empire. You willstand aside." And with that she waved her hand, reaching out with the Force as she tried to substitute his will with hers.
The officer's eyes glazed over slightly as he said, "I will st-" Suddenly, his eyes cleared, his hand reaching down to his blaster pistol, "not stand aside. Our orders were to treat any approaches as an attack." He and his men all drew their blasters, aiming it at the duo. Khem, as fast as ever, had reached to his blade, but Louise gestured for him to stop.
With her hand on her saber, the Pinkette narrowed her eyes and asked rhetorically, "Even if this brands you a traitor to the Empire?" The Pinkette had a feeling that if she failed to convince the man, blood would be spilt, and she would make sure it was not hers. "Contact your superiors."
Luckily, the man seemed to have some sense in him, as he lowered his blaster -not that his men did- and pulled out a holocommunicator, a short beam of blue light burst from the top, solidifying into a grainy image of a bust of Lieutenant Sylas, "Apologies for the disturbance, but the Sith Lords are requesting a meeting with the Captain. I tried telling them to wait until we arrived, but they're threatening us with treason."
Sylas made to say something but paused as she heard someone else chatting on the other side of the hologram. The raven-haired officer nodded at something out of view, and turned to the bald Lieutenant, "Send them up."
Louise released a breath she did not know she was holding in as the Imperial ended the holocall, and turned to her, "Apologies for the hold up, my lord. Go on through." He pointed to one of the armoured guards behind him, "You there, escort her to the bridge!"
"Yes, sir!" The Imperial soldier exclaimed, standing straighter, turning to the Pinkette, "If you will follow me, my lord."
The walk to the bridge, while short, was filed with lamination. Louise had felt anxious during the talk and especially after it, the thought of how close she was to a fight unnerved her, especially as she walked through the halls of the ship, noticing all the soldiers would have had to fight.
"I apologies, but where is Lord Zash and Krillis?" The Lieutenant the Pinkette had seen upon entering the Talon asked, greeting Louise as she walked up to the front of the bridge, "I was under the assumption they would be joining you."
The bridge was a wide-open room split in two, with a raised dias for the captain and his men, and a lower half for the other Imperials controlling the ship. On the lower half, there were various terminals and holographic interfaces that shared data with the officers with a large open table close by that functioned as a map. At the very front of the bridge, was a massive window that gave a wide view of the expansive inky blackness of space.
The bridge was less populated than she had anticipated, but it was not devoid of life at all. A few Imperials were working away at the terminals, and on the dais, she could see five other officers, one being Sylas and the other three being unknown.
"They sent me to deal with this," The Pinkette replied, "Now, which one of you is the captain"
"I'm Captain Revinal Orzik;" Greeted a crisp looking blond man dressed fully in Imperial officer regalia, including the fancy hat, "I assume you are here because of Grand Moff Kilran?" He asked grimly.
"Yes, Captain." The Apprentice confirmed, "He told my master, who in turn told me, to hijack this ship and attack the Brentaal Star. I don't want to waste imperial lives, so please make this easy on me."
"The Black Talon will be destroyed if we go chasing that battleship." He pressed, "I fought in the war before, and I'll fight again, but I don't do suicide missions."
"It doesn't need to be a suicide mission." She argued, "We just need to get in, get the General and leave. If all else fails, we have two Sith Lords on board."
"I'd admit that they would be useful, but even then, I might be able to get us close, but then you'd have to board it, fight an army of Republic soldiers and somehow find the general. It's unacceptable." He said resolutely.
"We don't have a choice!" She cried exasperatedly. "Grand Moff Kilran gave us his orders, and I'd prefer not angering my master, nor do I think you would enjoy what the 'Butcher' would do to you for disobeying."
Despite not showing it, she knew that the man did not think lightly of what the Butcher of Coruscant would do to a traitor, "…Alright. I'm not ready to be branded a traitor just yet. We'll get the General. I'm not sure how, but we'll get him." He said, looking not the least bit enthusiastic.
"We'll take care of the General, you keep the ship together." Replied Louise, hiding her apprehension she felt over this mission, "And thank you… for not forcing my hand."
"You're welcome, I'll do my best to remember that."
"Downloading new orders to all bridge consoles." The droid cut in, "Priority one intercept the Brentaal Star."
"You heard the droid, everyone. Prepare to jump to hyperspace."
Louise could barely make out an 'oh, no,' before the ship lurched forwards uncomfortably as the stars seemed to become streaking lights in the black aether. She was informed that the Black Talon would arrive in an hour or so, which confused the Pinkette for a moment, as she wondered why a Republic Warship would be so far in Imperial space. Louise spent the hour she was given, to go back and inform Zash of what had transpired, as well as making sure she was ready for whatever was to come. Her master seemed pleased with her work so far.
Once she returned, she did not have to wait long until they exited hyperspace. The star lines dissipated, and the ship came to a halt a distance from a large Republic warship shaped vaguely like a hammer.
"Emerging from hyperspace now. One Thranta-class warship on the scanners. Powering up-" As one of the officers on the dais spoke -an Ensign- as hundreds of red bolts of plasma coming from the Republic warship, came hurtling towards the transport.
Louise did not have time to vomit or anything else as it was in this moment, the full extent of what she had been ordered to do by her master hit her. I'm fighting a war.
The Cold War, and war in general, had always been something of a distant thing for Louise. Sure, she had heard of somethings about the current war the Empire was in, even meeting her Jedi friend was the fault of the Cold War, but she had never actively participated in it. So, finding herself on a ship being fired upon by the Republic was quite the jarring experience for the little Sith.
She could hear the Captain barking orders to his men as they, in turn, kept him informed of the battle, but she could not move, just stare up at the massive ship floating in the view ports, firing down on them. It was only when one piece of dialogue managed to pierce her ears that she was pulled from her paralysis. "Sir, three shuttles on an intercept course!" The female ensign shouted.
"An assault party." The Captain concluded, "We don't have sufficient defensive to keep them from landing."
"My Lord, we need your assistance," Sylas said.
Nodding numbly, she replied, "I'll deal with the borders."
"This course of action is deemed advisable." Advised the droid.
The Captain seemed to agree, "Security will meet you at the entrance to the shuttle bay. Defend the ship at all costs, and we'll get you to the Brentaal Star."
Gravely, Louise turned around and marched out of the room, stopping only to ask a guard to escort her to the shuttle bay. Their impromptu guide led them to an elevator, which would supposedly lead them directly to the bay.
The elevator ride down was filled with anticipation, almost all of it from the Dashade Assassin beside her, his blade already in hand ready to strike. Louise, on the other hand, felt anxious as she fingered her lightsaber and blaster cautiously. Yes, she had fought against multiple armed opponents before, but murdering the soldiers maddened by the Tomb of Marka Ragnos was not very boast-worthy. This was her first true battle in a war, not even a day after she graduated.
Eventually, the elevator stopped, a ding heralded their arrival, and soon the doors slid open, revealing a firefight in the hallway. Imperials were pinned down, most of their men killed by the boarding party, but they were holding strong.
The second the Republic soldiers noticed the newcomer on the scene shouts and curses filled the air as almost all their blasters were focused on her and her companion. It was only quick thinking and the Force that saved her skin as she quickly dived out the way, activating her saber, and parried their bolts back at them.
Khem, being the juggernaut he was, parried some of the attacks, but otherwise smashed into the enemy line with a ferocity she never saw before. Five of the soldiers were dead within the first few seconds of Khem's appearance.
Louise, though, was not content to just let her companion do all the work, and with a flourish of her lightsaber, set to work thinning the numbers of the Republic's men, whether with her blade or the Force. The Imperials, invigorated by the appearance of the two Force-sensitives, joined the fray fiercely.
The two Dark Siders, leading a small, yet ever-growing army of Imperial soldiers, began to push back the surprisingly large number of boarders, until they reached the massive shuttle bay. Upon entering the bay, she found the three Republic shuttles along with the ship's four Imperial shuttles. One was already destroyed while the others seemed intact. A large gathering of Republic troopers were scattered around the room, some taking up cover behind creates or debris from the recently destroyed shuttle.
More shouts and jeers filled the air as the Republic soldiers noticed their visitors, and then the fire fight began. Khem bellowed out a taunt she could not hear over the sound of blaster fire, swinging his blood-stained sword and charged in, swinging his blade masterfully as he decapitated, bisected and otherwise dismembered anyone who stood in his way. She could feel his enjoyment festering as the battle waged on. And just like an infestation, the blood knight's delight spread amongst the other Imperials, and even Louise herself.
The Pinkette leapt across the battlefields, her saber making quick work of anyone who dared get close, but for those who were too far, she sent bolts of agonising lightning at them. One even tried to block her beam of hate incarnate, only to realise that electricity and vibroswords don't mix and promptly lost his hands in the resulting explosion.
Humans and Aliens alike fought defiantly against the Empire who cut swaths through their men, but ultimately, it proved fruitless. Soon, their numbers were down to ten, then five, then none. The Black Talon was not without casualties either. The final assault on the shuttle bay ended with at least seven Imperial deaths, but that was only the final battle. Many more Imperials had lost their lives, and Louise's heart went out to them, but she could not stay to help the Imperials, as a voice called out on the intercom, "This is the Captain. If you can hear this. We need you on the bridge."
It was at a brisk pace that the two Dark Siders returned to the bridge, still running off the battle high. The Ensign from before seemed to be giving a damage report to the Captain when they reached ear shot, "Damage reports from all decks. We're holding together, sir. But I don't know for how long."
"Make it last, Ensign." Ordered Captain Orzik, "Don't let us down."
Upon reaching the front of the bridge, the duo were heralded in by NR-02, "Please stand alert. Grand Moff Kilran's representative has returned."
The Captain smiled upon seeing her and her companion, "I see you took care of the Republic assault. Welcome back to the bridge."
"Thank you, Captain. Let's hope we can get through this quickly." She replied.
"Yes. We've survived the first wave of attacks from the Brentaal Star. Things will be calm until we enter fighter range; another minute, maybe two."
Suddenly, another Ensign spoke up, exclaiming, "Transmission coming in! Long range… it's a message, but it's not from the Brentaal Star."
A frown set itself on Orzik's face, "Patch it through."
To the right of the bridge, a bulky cylindrical contraption hummed for a moment before a blue light shone from the top, forming a holographic image of a human woman dressed in clothing that differed from any Imperial or Sith outfit she had seen; a green sleeveless tunic made from something that reminded Louise of leather, and elbow length gloves with similar tough material on the arms. Long armoured boots that reached up to her midthigh covered black tights, and a lightsaber could be seen at her hip. Her short black hair was styled in three braids, the largest hanging at the back of her head, and the other two framing her face, similar but different from Louise's own hairstyle.
She would have thought she was a Sith Lord just because of the Lightsaber, but that conclusion did not sit well with her at all. But, she need not wait long for the identity of the woman to be revealed, "This is Jedi Grand Master Satele Shan hailing unidentified Imperial vessel."
Louise's reaction was not obvious to anyone not paying attention to her, but her eyes blatantly said what she was thinking. Putain de merde! She was quite pleased that reading minds was a difficult ability to learn and that nobody else spoke her native language. Had she said that in the presence of a queen or princess, a scandal could break out.
Oblivious to the Pinkette's shock, the Jedi continued, "I'm en-route to your location with sixteen Republic vessels. I'm asking you to retreat before more lives are lost."
There was a pause in the conversation before Louise realised that the Grand Master was talking to her, specifically. This is just kriffing wonderful! She mentally seethed. What's next? My monthly blood comes early? For a second, she felt like a fish floundering on land, before she cleared her voice to address the Jedi with what she hoped was a tone of respect and confidence, "We are not looking for a fight, Master Shan, the General is our only concern."
"The General has a part to play with the Republic. Incidents like this are happing across the galaxy, but only because we let them." The Jedi lectured, "I just crippled three imperial dreadnoughts. I don't wish to destroy you. The peace between the Republic and the Empire is fragile enough already. Leave the Brentaal Star to me. If you don't, then may the Force be with you, because the men and women aboard that ship can hold you off until we arrive. And you will be defeated."
Louise felt the Jedi's words shake her to the core, but kept it from showing in her appearance. She did not have anything to say to that, and the Jedi looked ready to end the conversation, but before she could, something popped into the Pinkette's mind, "Before you go. I would like to make a request."
The Grand Master's eyebrows raised curiously, "A request?"
"Yes. There's a Jedi Knight by the name of Quorian Dorjis. Tell him, Louise wishes him well." She asked, before quickly barking at the Ensign, "End transmission." With that, the hologram died.
That conversation itself was more tiering then any of the battles she fought in today, but it seemed the galaxy did not wish to give Louise a seconds peace, as one of the Ensigns shouted, "Captain! We've entered fighter range. The Brentaal Star is launching its first squadron."
"It's time for us to do the same. I assume you'll lead the boarding party to go after the general?" Captain Orzik asked.
The Pinkette nodded, "Whatever's necessary to end this quickly."
"I promised you my help. So, I've ordered one of my men to lead the attack, they will inform you of where you need to go." He explained, "There's one other thing, I brought you some supplies from the cargo bay. Someone on Dromund Kaas may be disappointed when they don't receive their delivery, but I thought our situation took precedence."
Looking over her shoulder, she saw two soldiers lugging a large container towards them. Thankful and a little curious as to what she was being given, the Pinkette walked over and inspected the container before gesturing it to be opened. Upon opening the crate, Louise could not stop her lips from twitching. Inside the box was some pieces of armour and weapons that looked very promising, and then… her eyes fell upon what looked like a Heavy Repeating Assault Blaster; a large weapon that usually took two hands to wield with any efficiency as it was quite difficult to keep such a weapon steady as you are unleashing an unholy barrage of plasma at your enemies.
She had to physically stop herself from reaching out and grabbing it. She knew that she could use it, even two at the same time, quite effectively no less. The sight of her boarding the Star with an assault blaster in both hands, mowing down numbers countless with a maniac grin on her face was a fantasy that not many people could live, but she could and the desire to do so was strong. Nevertheless, she stayed her hand. A small part of her feared that it would prove a distraction and she would end up with her flesh flash burned.
So, Louise only took what she needed; that being a pair of Imperial vambraces, boots, grenades and some blaster ammo. "Thank you, Captain." She said, clamping the vambraces onto her arm, and adjusting the size to fit her slender hands. The grenades were clipped to her belt, along with the ammo and the boots would be put on when she got to the shuttle.
"We're all doing our best here." He replied.
"I advise that you proceed to the shuttle bay." Recommended the droid, "The flight to the Brentaal Star may be hazardous, but Grand Moff Kilran has complete faith in your abilities."
...
Louise and her companion once again headed down to the shuttle bay, where they saw that the Imperials were still recovering from the bloody battle. Quite a few times the Pinkette had to adjust her footing for fear of slipping on blood or limb.
Such a mess, Khem. She scolded mentally, it would not due to actually voice her annoyance to the death machine still covered in flecks of blood. He looked to be admiring his work, and Louise would have joined him, had she not needed to wade through it all.
Eventually, they arrived at the one intact Imperial vessel. A gathering of able-bodied Imperials stood ready and waiting for the duo. Leading the team was the bald Lieutenant she had seen when she first arrived, and who had accosted her when she tried to speak with the Captain. I should probably learn is name…
However, now was not the time to get friendly with the men. When her presence was noticed by the Lieutenant, he ordered everyone to board the ship.
Once aboard the ship, Louise got to work replacing her boots with the armoured boots she was given. While a bit big, she adjusted them to fit snuggly. Her old boots were put away for safe keeping. As she did this, the Lieutenant went on to describe the plan of action, "Listen up men," He barked, demanding the attention of all on the shuttle that shook as they flew towards their target, "We're heading aboard the Brentaal Star in search of a man known as the General. We are to help apprentice Louise with apprehending this man for the good of the Empire. However, our main goal is to make sure she and the General can get back to the Talon…"
Louise eventually tuned the man out, only barely listening to get the gist of what was being said, she was less worried about what the Imperials were doing than getting this mission finished quickly. Worry filled her as she recalled what the Grand Master had said. She really did not want to fight the legendary Satele Shan, and she feared facing a Jedi of unknown calibre. But as any good Sith did, she used that fear to try and make her stronger. Nervous fidgeting was calmed as she started to delve into the Dark Side of the Force, her breath slowed and deepened. Though, she was not blind to how her meditation was effecting her men with her, as they were effected in vastly different ways. Some calmed, others twitched. It was a fascinating display to the Pinkette. And soon enough, they arrived at the Star.
The hull rocked and shuddered as blaster fire hit the ship as it came into land, but the small weapons fire did very little damage to the actual ship. The landing ramp swung down and the entry door opened, allowing the boarding soldiers to file out of the ship, throwing covering fire at the Republic defenders. Once Louise and Khem exited the ship, they got to work defending the rest of the men.
Volleys of blaster fire came flying to and fro, as men on either end died, though it was obvious that the Republic had the short hand of the stick as the Pinkette and her Dashade deflected bolts back at their enemies. Louise, paranoid about taking too long, soon leapt at her foes, dodging and deflecting plasma, and sending lethal lances of lightning at her foes.
Khem, not one to miss out on the fun, soon joined but took on a more aggressive stance as he began to paint the floor red with his blade.
The Republic's men were decimated in the attack, allowing the Empire to strengthen their footing in the shuttle. Soon the only remaining Republic troopers were dead on the floor or injured. It was about this time that an odd beeping started emanating from Louise's belt. A quick look and she found that it was her holocommunicator.
Curious as to why her master was calling, she activated the little device, but instead of a bust of Lord Zash appearing as a hologram, it was a bust of NR-02, "This is protocol unit NR-02. I hope you're receiving this message clearly, and that your flight was free of incident."
Louise did not show her surprise at the droid contacting her on her holocommunicator; it was a droid, it was possible he sliced her contact address. So, she got to the point, "What's the issue?"
"I have been scanning the Brentaal Stars communications and security forces appear to be moving to protect the escape pods" The droid informed, "It's extremely likely that the crew is attempting to evacuate the General. You must retrieve or eliminate him before he escapes."
She nodded, "Will do."
"Excellent news. I'll be in contact if the situation changes. Proceed to assault all defence points between you and the target."
Once the hologram died away, she turned to the gathered group of imperials, "I need one of you who knows the layout of these ships to guide me to the escape pods." She asked, making a mental note to learn the layouts of the ships herself. She hated needing a guide.
"That would be me, my lord." A female soldier spoke up, decked out in full Imperial armour with a blaster rifle in hand, "I've studied the Republic ships inside and out. Unless this is a new model, we should have no problems."
"Good. Let's go."
...
Room after room, the Pinkette, her Dashade companion and their guide were met by Republic resistance, but it was quickly beaten back as the two tore through their enemies and their guide picked off the stragglers at a distance. Every room they passed was soon occupied by a small group of Imperials, one that only grew with reinforcements from the Talon, flying in on the remaining Imperial shuttle.
Their guide informed them that they were one room away from the escape pods, but before they could open the door cutting them off from their path, the sound of metal screaming pierced the air as the door malformed. Worry filled the Pinkette's heart as she tried to open the door, but it would not budge. Something or someone had damaged that part of the door. Their path was barred unless they could get through the door.
But luckily, their guide and the other Imperials had an idea, "If we create a big enough explosion at a weak point of the door, we could blast a big enough hole in it."
So, they got to work. Louise used her saber to create a weak point in the door, as the Imperials gathered all the grenades and explosives they had on hand. Once they were satisfied with their works, they hid behind cover as one of them activated the detonators.
Five seconds seemed a lot longer as she waited for the explosion to go off, but when it did, it was a force to be reckoned with. Once the dust settled, the results showed themselves. A gaping hole in the corner of the blast door, big enough for two Khem's to fit through.
Together, they entered the last room, expecting resistance, but instead found majority of the Republic troopers hiding far at the back, near the escape pod. The only thing stopping their way was a green Twi'lek dressed in a long brown robe. The most nerve racking thing about said Twi'lek, however, was the glowing emerald lightsaber, held carelessly in hand. A Jedi…
"Halt where you are." The Jedi commanded, "I am Yadira Ban, Padawan of the Jedi Order. I was sent to protect the General and you shall not pass."
Louise felt a small part of herself elate at the news of the Jedi's rank. She honestly thought she might fight a Knight or Master, but instead, she was going up against a Padawan learner, "I am only here for the General." She said in the least threatening way possible, "Hand him over, this does not need to end in blood."
"I cannot accept that. A Jedi does not surrender the innocent into the hands of evil." Louise flinched back at the venom the Jedi had used, and the words themselves. She had been called quite a few things in her life, but never evil. It was new and unheard of. She did not know how to properly feel about being called such. Sure, she had been called a monster by Ffon when she was torturing him, but she honestly did not care what he said, as long as he screamed. But being called evil by someone she did not even know was an unexpected blow.
"But I intend to draw you back, meter by meter if need be." The Jedi continued, "Just as the Republic pushed the Sith Empire into the dark of the galaxy."
The Sith apprentice's eyes narrowed dangerously. Louise did not want to kill the Jedi, not because she cared or anything, but for her Jedi friend. However, the Twi'lek was making it difficult. She might not have been born to Sith history or culture, but she felt it was all the same, "I have had a bad day, and you're only making it worse. If you do not surrender the General, I will use force, and you will not enjoy it."
"I hope one day you'll see beyond your selfish desires. But I cannot be the one to teach you."
"Khem, eat her." She ordered before anyone could attack.
"With pleasure, pink Sith." And with that, her monstrous companion charged at the Jedi, his sword ready to bisect the poor Padawan. Unfortunately, the Jedi had training and could parry and block quite a few of the Dashade's attacks.
Then chaos broke out. The Republic troops came out from their little corner firing their bolts of plasma at them, and the Imperials returned in kind. While this was happening, Louise began slicing through the republics, deflecting enemy fire back at them and diverting friendly fire towards the Republic.
Soon, however, Louise saw her chance, and with a quick dash to her target, she impaled them through their back, using her off hand to rip the lightsaber from the dying Jedi's hand, before leaping back at the diminishing Republic's numbers.
Soon, the sound of blaster fire died down… along with the rest of the Republic soldiers. However, noise still revolved around the room, mainly the shouting of Imperial soldiers as they pointed their blasters at a severely injured man. His attire was not Republic, but closer to that of an Imperial, and part of his face was covered in machinery, signifying in cyborg statues, "You can put aside your weapons, I won't try to run." He said, proudly despite his injuries and the men surrounding him, "Besides, I doubt I'd make it to an escape pod without my intestines spilling out."
"You're the General?" She asked, walking towards the man surrounded by Imperial men, "You've been a pain to both me and Grand Moff Kilran."
"Kilran? Of course, he would have the gall to send a transport to take on a warship… and succeed." The General coughed, a quantity of blood pouring out, "I was a general in the Imperial military service. Did they tell you that when they sent you here? Did they even know?"
The revelation was new to Louise, but it did not help her opinion of the man, "So, you're a defector. A traitor."
"If you knew what I know, you'd understand." He lamented, "If you'd heard what both sides are plotting, you wouldn't be eager to restart the wa-"
"I'm not eager to do anything of the sort, General." Louise hissed venomously, her patient completely spent, "I was hoping for a relaxing time on a transport to Dromund Kaas. I have had a terrible day, and I wouldn't mind if it could just end! I have no ambitions of restarting a war. I am rather fond of the cease-fire we are currently in. Now, come with me, I am taking you to the ship and don't bleed out."
...
The walk- no, it was less of a walk, and more of a scurry back to the ship was quite stressful on the tired Pinkette. She wanted to keep up the appearance of a Sith Lords apprentice, but she also wanted to get off the warship as fast as humanly possible. At the same time, she had to deal with the limping General who's measured steps grated on her nerves. She understood that he was injured, but at the same time she wanted Khem to carry the man back to the ship.
Luckily, whether for Khem, her or the Generals sake, one of the Imperial soldiers seemed incensed by the Generals pace and roughly pushed the man forwards, ordering him to walk faster. Had it been proper, Louise would have thanked the man right then and there, but instead she continued to push forwards. Soon, they arrived at the shuttle and quickly boarded it and set off back to the Black Talon. There an odd event happened as Khem went on to complain about her stealing his kill. After the ship had landed, the soldiers Immediately took the General off to Force knew where, and she headed off to the bridge, feeling the ship lurch halfway through her journey as it entered hyperspace.
Once Louise reached the bridge, she heaved a sigh of relief. She had never thought that the streaks of light that were common place with hyperspace travel would be as comforting as they were now. The Pinkette had no idea what she would have done if the Grand Master had shown up. As much as Louise had faith in her, Khem's and the two other Lords' prowess, she did not think they would have been able to survive the Grand Master and whatever army of Jedi she could scrounge up. The stories she had read about the respected Satele Shan were more than enough deterrent for the diminutive Apprentice.
Rubbing her eyes, she straightened her posture like she had been drilled to do in her youth, and headed up to the front of the bridge. Her steps were heavy from exhaustion, but otherwise, she tried to keep it from showing anywhere else.
"Well, the hero of the day returns." The captain greeted, smiling exuberantly. Louise could not help it, and her lips quirked into a smaller more tired smile. The rest of the crew also greeted her with praises which served to lighten her mood, "My men have taken the general to the medical bay where he will be patched up, then straight to the brig," he continued, "Congratulations, I never expected the mission to go off this cleanly."
Louise was about to answer, but another voice beat her to the punch, "Yes, my apprentice is quite wonderful, isn't she?" Lord Zash praised, walking towards the front of the bridge with Kahn in toe.
"Master." The apprentice replied, inclining her head in a small bow. Now you show up. She thought, mentally rolling her eyes.
"Ah, Lord Zash. Welcome to the bridge."
"Excuse me, captain, but Grand Moff Kilran is eagerly awaiting her report." The male Ensign interjected, "Shall I put him through?"
Before the captain could give the order, Zash cut in, "Yes, I wouldn't mind hearing this report as well." She said, "Put the Grand Moff through."
The Ensign nodded, "Opening channel now."
The next second a hologram of Moff Kilran flashed to life above the holoprojector, "Well, how fortunate that I could reach my friends aboard the Black Talon." He hailed, "The droid's been keeping me apprised of your work, but I very much wanted to hear from you?"
"Only a few problems cropped up;" Louise said, "the boarding party, the Padawan aboard the ship, and Grand Master Satele Shan hailing us. But other than that, we finished the mission without losing too many men."
"Excellent, I'll let Korriban and Imperial Intelligence fight over him. You should be proud." He commended. Somehow, Louise felt that giving the General over to the Sith was possibly worse for him then straight up killing him. Oh well. "The General was one of the greatest weapons the Republic had -a defector!- and you've snatched him from enemy hands. I'll remember this, and I'll make sure you're rewarded, but my words hardly matter. Soon, you'll be joining us on the homeworld and you can see for yourself what you've been fighting for. It should be inspiring. Enjoy the rest of your journey. Kilran, out." And with that, the hologram died.
...
Soon after the conversation with Kilran, the group of Force-sensitives were told that the estimated time of arrival to the Dromund System was more or less a twelve-hour period, something the Pinkette was immensely grateful for. With that, a few more congratulations were given and the Sith were bid good-day by the captain.
Louise was about ready to sprint to her temporary quarters for some much-wanted shut eye, but it was not meant to be. Lord Krillis all but dragged her off to his own quarters to discuss her further training. With reluctant resignation, Louise followed, as did her Dashade assassin.
Once inside the cyborgs quarters, Krillis got to business. "Normally," he began, "I would test your skills in the different parts of both the Force and Lightsaber combat, however, as you look ready to drop, I will make this quick. As you undoubtedly know, there are several castes of Sith; Warriors and Inquisitors, each with their own sub-castes, Marauder and Juggernaut for Warriors, and Assassins and Sorcerers for Inquisitors." As Krillis said this, she nodded along, having known about this early into her training, "You were trained under the Inquisitor, mostly by choice of the Sith who found you, and from there you progressed, but now you must make a choice. Will you follow the path of the Assassin or the Sorcerer?"
Briefly, she looked over to Khem Val, who was seated over in a corner in a brooding manner. Louise already knew which of her options she was going to choose, but any more information could not hurt. So, she asked, "What can you tell me of the two castes?"
"The Sorcerer follows the path of the more mystical parts of the Dark Side, learning things like Sith Sorcery and Alchemy," Krillis lectured, "whereas the Assassin is more combat orientated. Both still use the Force, but in different ways, for example, an Assassin might conceal their presence to attack an unsuspecting target, while the Sorcerer would prefer to destroy their enemies with pure Dark Side energy. In most cases, the master has watched the apprentice for long enough to know which caste would benefit them, but you are an odd case according to Lord Zash; from what she tells me, you wield a lightsaber like a Warrior, but also bends the Force like an Inquisitor. She noted your use of pyrokinesis, an unusual power that isn't practiced by most Sith or Jedi alike."
The pinkette fell silent as she processed what he had said, "Only one?" she asked.
"It is Lord Zash's wish that you choose." Explained the Sith, "Your choice will help decided whether or not it will be I, or another who will teach you."
Louise nodded once again, and answered with, "I wish to be a Sith Sorcerer."
"Wise choice." He replied.
The Pinkette could not help but give him a questioning look, "Why is that?"
"There's a reason I am an instructor instead of something else." Said the Sith Lord, "I have a knack for reading my students and knowing which path they should take, and you chose the right one." He paused, "Well, enough of that. I think it best for you to go get some rest. We'll begin your training on the homeworld. You're bunking with your Master, are you not?"
"Eh, yes. Thank you, Lord Krillis." With that, she got up and walked out the door, stifling out a yawn. Khem, as always, was following closely behind. Thankfully, her room was only down the hall, so the trip was not overly long.
Upon entering the room, she found Zash reclined on one of the two beds in the spacious room, still dressed in her robes but without her boots. She looked to be on her datapad, doing something, but ultimately, Louise ignored her, casting a longing look at what she assumed was her own bed. Doing away with her boots, weapons and utilities, she was about to collapse on her bed, but something stopped her.
An exasperated sigh escaped her lips. With education on the mind, she felt compelled to bring up the subject, "Master?"
"Is there any reason as to why you are disturbing my study of the map?" The Sith Lord asked, dipping her datapad.
"I… wanted to talk about my continued education."
"I am assuming that Lord Krillis is unable to assist you?" At Louise's nod, she continued, "Anything, in particular, you want to ask?" Zash asked, shifting into a more formal sitting position.
"I wish to learn Sith alchemy." Louise requested formally, "There are a few things that interest me."
"Sith Alchemy? Not my main specialisation, but I have dabbled in the art… what parts interest you?" The Sith asked.
"I wanted to create a Sith Familiar." The diminutive acolyte said, her tone slipping into nostalgia, "The creation had interested me since the beginning of my training at the Academy."
"I am… hmm, not familiar with that?" The Sith said, slightly disgusted by the pun she was forced to make.
"It is a creature created by Sith alchemy. It acts like a catalyst for the alchemist's Force powers and is bound to its creator through the Force." Louise explained, "The only problem is that I haven't practised or trained in Alchemy, it is difficult and costly to create. So, if allowed, I would like to start learning Alchemy."
"Hmm… while I could teach you, I see it in your best intentions to learn from another." Said the blonde Sith, soon pausing in thought, "When we arrive at Dromund Kaas, I will send you the details for a Darth who would be delighted to learn from someone like you."
"Thank you, master."
"Think nothing of it. Though if you don't mind, I wish to get back to my studies…" The Sith Lord said, picking up her datapad for emphasis.
The Pinkette nodded mutely again, turning back to her bed before she collapsed onto her bed. The second her head hit the bed, she fell asleep.
When she awoke, nearly a full nine hours later, she found her room devoid of life… well, besides the ever present Khem who looked to be brooding off in the corner with datapad in hand. She scrambled around with the blanket that she did not remember ever covering herself with, she pulled herself from her bed. Despite how tired she felt, her sleep was not a comfortable one, she tried recalling her dreams, or nightmares, but could not recall a thing.
Pushing those thoughts from her mind, she looked around and found her duffle bag sitting right next to her bed. After a quick stretch, she slung the bag over her shoulder and began walking out the door to find somewhere she could get changed, "Wait here, I'm going to get changed." She ordered just in case the Dashade decided to follow her into the washroom or something.
The Assassin did not even lift his head when he responded, "Yes, pink Sith."
Once out of the room, she asked a nearby guard to show her to the washrooms, which to her caring, was at the other end of the ship. At least it's not on another floor. Passing the sliding doors leading to the bathroom, she set her bag down and quickly went to answer nature's call. After that, she got changed out of her outfit into her other pair of robes, brushed her teeth and cleaned up her bed head.
Pleased with her work, she walked back to her room, finding that Khem had not moved from his seat. Deciding that she wanted a break from anything apprentice related, she sat on her bed and began staring at the Dashade intently. It was a few minutes later before she decided to say something, "Khem, what're you doing?"
"Researching," Came his gravely reply.
"Things must have changed since you were put in stasis." She noted.
Khem grunted, "The glorious Sith Empire has fallen since Tulak Hord ruled."
"I managed to uncover one of his holocrons for my trial." Louise said, "He hid it in what would be Marka Ragnos' tomb, and for a thousand years nobody could open it."
"You think too highly of yourself, pink Sith."
Louise pouted in response, "I'm just trying to make conversation."
"You should not have brought me here, pink Sith." He groused, turning around and putting the datapad down.
"To Dromund Kaas?"
"No. You should have left me alone on Korriban," Explained the Dashade, "You may have bound my will, but such bonds can be broken, and make no mistake; I will devour you."
Her pout twisted to a scowl, "It's not my fault! You attacked me of your own free will! None of this would have happened if you chose to help me on my trial; you would have been free to do whatever you wanted, then. But no, you just had to attack me for no good reason! Anyway," she continued, "if we're unlucky, Darth Skotia will try to kill us again. You can devour anyone who stands in my way."
"Am I interrupting something?" The amused voice of her master called out from the doorway.
Louise felt her spirit rise as she did not startle at the sudden voice and appearance. A quick glance between the Assassin and her Master and she replied quietly, "No, master."
"Oh, good." Zash said in her usual cheerful mood, "Now, the Black Talon will be arriving in a few hours, so get ready."
Once the Sith Lord left, Louise turned towards the Dashade "Anything else?"
"I will continue to serve you faithfully… until the bond is broken."
Louise let out a low groan. While she never claimed to have the power of prophecy, Louise just knew that the Khem was going to be a handful in the future. The rest of the time on the Talon passed by as the Pinkette tried to do something productive with her time, most notably, her usual workout and playing around with the Force as she examined the three lightsabers she now owned, one orange, one red and one green. It was then that the Pinkette realised she might start a collection; the spare parts would be useful if they got damage anyway.
Soon, the transport exited hyperspace, a sensation the pink haired girl was gladly getting used to. Slinging her bang onto her shoulder, she and her Dashade left their room to meet up with Lord Zash and Krillis in the hanger bay. From there, they took a shuttle down to the jungle planet of Dromund Kaas below. It was only when she was halfway down to the planet, did a stray thought wiggle into her mind. I left my boots on the Talon.
Her fear of embarrassment kept her from saying a word, but her cheeks did flush suspiciously.
...
Upon arrival at the spaceport near Kaas City, they immediately disembarked the shuttle and began the process of checking in at the arrival stations. Whilst Zash and Krillis checked in, Louise and Khem looked around and took in the massive room that was the spaceport. They both watched as someone being accosted by two Imperial Guards, donned in what appeared to be an advanced version of the armour she had seen around the slave compound. The second thing they noticed was surprising, to say the least.
Marching towards their general direction, with his head raised arrogantly high was a Sith Lord, flanked by two trandoshan bodyguards. Louise had never seen a real trandoshan before, only in holograms or pictures, so seeing one up close was an odd scenario, especially considering that they were basically humanoid lizards with scaly yellow skin and large reptilian eyes. She felt uncomfortable in their presence.
The Sith Lord, on the other hand, looked as if someone tried to meld a protocol droid with a human then dressed them in red and grey armour. Either the man was in a terrible accident that had destroyed most of his organic parts, or he really liked cybernetics. The latter made her feel sick.
The enhancements seemed to cover him from head to toe, with pieces of machinery showing up randomly on his body. Even one of his eyes was replaced by cybernetic enhancements. Suddenly, one of his bodyguards started hissing in its native tongue, pointing a clawed finger towards Zash, then Louise. "My master! Isn't that the golden-haired lord, and her toy, the pink-haired apprentice!"
"Quiet bodyguard. Save your hissing for your own kind." The Sith demanded, glowering at both Louise and Zash, "If it isn't Zash and her pet; you made a mockery of Darth Skotia's apprentice, slave. Darth Skotia is not amused."
Louise wanted to be anywhere but here as she watched her Master join the group and glare at the Sith Lord with equal force, "I assume you would be 'unamused'." Zash sneered, "Tell me, what happened to poor Ortosin?"
"That is no business of yours," He spat, "Darth Skotia knows what you are doing, and you will not continue. Darth Skotia has his eye on you, and Darth Skotia knows. Darth Skotia knows what you are trying to do here. You and your little slave have gotten this far, but it ends here. Darth Skotia alone has the key, and you will only get it over Darth Skotia's rusting dead body. Now get out of Darth Skotia's way." And with that, the hulking man-machine shoved passed Zash and Louise, off to wherever he was going, ignoring the hate filled glare burning into the back of his head, courtesy of the blonde Sith Lord.
Louise, confused as to what just happened, asked the more important question, "Who was that?"
"Darth Skotia," Zash spat the name with a ferocity the Pinkette never knew the blonde Sith had.
He talks in the third person? She though briefly, chuckling, before recognition struck, causing Louise to ask, "Wasn't he the on-"
But before she could finish her question, Zash silenced her with a raised hand, "Let's go, Apprentice."
Louise, not wanting to earn the ire of her new master and die a horrible death, silently followed the Sith out of the spaceport where they then took a speeder to Kaas City. Not even Krillis said a word.
...
As they hovered over the jungle landscape of Dromund Kaas, the Pinkette could not keep her eyes on one thing. Constantly, her eyes jumped to one thing to another as she absorbed the landscape she found herself in. It was a stark contrast to Korriban's desert-like plains, with large dark trees that dotted the landscape, gloomy storm clouds above and a vast array of terrifying fauna. Looking up at the overcast skies Dromund Kaas was known for, the petite Pinkette silently hoped for rainfall. It had been a year since she had last seen rain, and she missed the smell that came with the rain.
The speeder soon arrived at the main entrance to the capital of the Empire, and grand it was. Kilran was right, this is inspiring. Behind the massive walls that split the wilds and the city, were skyscrapers which littered the area with many walkways on both ground level and above. Louise knew that nowhere in Halkeginia could even come close to the intricate designs of Imperial architecture.
However, she could not properly soak up the atmosphere as the speeder passed by much of the scenery and off to their destination, the Citadel. A large spire-like complex donned with a massive banner with the Empires sigil. The building, especially against the backdrop of eternal storms, looked more menacing than any other building Louise had seen during her yearlong stay with the Empire. The building was said to be home to the Emperor; just from the sheer dark presence she felt from the building, the pinkette was under the assumption that it was true.
Once the speeded had landed on one of the few landing pads set up just outside the building, the four Dark Siders hopped out of the craft and headed into the building. Lord Krillis, knowing it would be unwise to continue sticking around, gave the Pinkette his contact details and headed off to another part of the complex, leaving Louise to follow a seething Zash to the latter's office. An office that looked much the same to the one on Korriban, minus the massive Sith banner behind the main desk.
"Damn Skotia!" The Sith Lord spat upon entering the safety of her own chambers, "He dares threaten us in broad daylight! Trying to intimidate us, no doubt. The wrenched monster. More machine than man, and dangerously powerful. Ever since I arrived on Dromund Kaas as an apprentice, he's made every effort to stand in my way."
"He is flesh," Said Khem, "He can be killed."
"Well, not really…" Louise retorted, trying to lighten the mood, "He looked more like a droid than anything else. An ugly one at that."
Lord Zash's lips quirked, "Off topic…" she said, though it was clear that she found humour in what had been said, "Ultimately, we cannot even begin to search for Tulak Hord's ancient power with Skotia's rattling breath down our neck."
"Uh… what ancient power?" Louise asked, thinking that she might have missed some important information somewhere in the conversation.
"Oh, yes, I apologise, Apprentice." Said Zash, seemingly realising something she had forgotten, "I am getting ahead of myself. Do you remember the star map you brought me?"
"Yes."
"Well, according to the map, there is an ancient power Tulak Hord hid away." She explained, "I don't know exactly what it is, but from what I read, it will be a great boon to us both. We will be the ones to find it, not that we could with Skotia." The Master ended bitterly.
"So, we can't find this power..." The Pinkette trailed off, waiting for the 'but'.
"Not necessarily, my young apprentice." Zash said smirking devilishly, "I already have a plan for what we… or rather you, can do. You are going to kill Darth Skotia."
Louise tilted her head in confusion, an artificial smile plastered on her face to hide her confusion and shock, "I'm sorry, but my hearing must be going," She said, "I thought you said that I will be killing Darth Skotia."
"I did." Her master replied with barely contained glee.
Louise opened then closed her mouth multiple times, doing a great impression of a fish. "What…"
"You're not a Mon Calamari stop acting like one." Chided the blonde Sith.
"You. Want me. To kill. Skotia." Louise said slowly.
Zash sighed, "I thought we already went over this."
"B-but… but… he's a… he's a Darth!" The petite Sith sputtered, "I couldn't possibly kill him!"
"Exactly!" Zash said as if it explained everything, "That simple fact is the genius of my plan. Brazen power plays make the Dark Council nervous, but nobody will believe that a mere apprentice could defeat, no less kill, a Darth. It's impossible, and that's why it will work!"
Louise scrutinised her Master's face, searching for any sign that, what had just been discussed, was a joke. But no, her master was serious about sending her up against someone with similar ranking to a duke or archduke. That was when it became alarmingly obvious that she could not, in fact, back out of it. She was forced to obey her master under penalty of death… or torture. I miss the simplicity of being an acolyte. She whined internally before sighing in resignation, "I am trusting you to not get me killed."
"Oh, stop being so melodramatic." Came the Sith Lords amused rebuke, "if there was a high chance of your death, I wouldn't even be considering this -I didn't wait a year just to kill my apprentice on a pipe dream. You don't have to worry, the plan won't go into effect immediately, we're waiting on a few things to fall into place. Until that time, Krillis and I can train you." She explained.
Louise nodded sullenly not happy with her second mission as an apprentice, "That's a bit better."
"Good. Now, there are two more things I wish to tell you." Lord Zash continued, "The first is simple; I have acquired you an apartment nearby for you. The building is often used by apprentices, so it does have some facilities that cater to training. I will be sending you the location to it and the codes to enter your room. Finally, I managed to pry myself away from my books long enough to look into a suitable teacher for your Alchemy studies. There's a Darth that I am in good graces with who would be pleased to teach an aspiring alchemist. I will also send you some information about that as well."
Despite the previous topic, Louise beamed, "Thank you, my Master." With a bow, she left her master to plot the down fall of her superior. Only to stop just outside the room once she realised what she had just thought. What even is my life anymore? She whined, before shaking her head and heading to the landing pads.
Upon boarding a skycar, her datapad beeped, signifying a message. Quickly checking it, she found all of what Zash had promised; one document supplying the location and codes for her apartment, and another for information on her alchemy teacher. However, instead of opening any of them, she was overcome with a feeling to explore. So, she quickly ordered a flight to a close by district.
During their flight, Khem, who had been quite besides his comment inside Zash's chambers, spoke up, "The witch reeks of death. Just give me the order and I will devour her."
"Who?" was Louise's only reply. She really had no clue to who he was referring to.
"The blonde Sith, your Master. She reeks of death. I will devour her if you order it."
"W-what? No, please don't kill my master!"
"I don't trust her." He groused.
"She has been nice to me."
Khem Val did not respond right away, only doing what she assumed was a sigh and hanging his head in his hands, "You are no Tulak Hord, naïve pink Sith." He grumbled, "It is an act."
Louise paused in thought, "Do you think she is a danger to me?"
"Yes."
Louise baulked at the blunt confirmation but nevertheless filed away what her companion had said, making a mental note to go over it in the relative safety of her new apartment. Then another question came to mind, "What of Skotia? Do you think we could really take him on?"
Khem's reply did not give her any confidence, "It is strong; stronger than you."
"Do you think you could eat him?" She asked seriously.
"As the Witch had said, it is more machine than man. Bad for digestion." He answered, his mouth twitching slightly. Louise, however, did not notice as she was too shocked by the fact that Khem 'I will eat you eventually' Val, had just made an attempt at humour. She just could not take it; the entire thing was so absurd that she just began chuckling uncontrollably. While she did this, the Dashade just looked on, worry evident in his eyes, but the Pinkette did not care; she needed the laugh. And it was in that moment, Louise resolved to somehow win Khem over.
Soon, the skycar descended, allowing the duo to leave the confines of the machine and out into the large city of Kaas. The stroll through the city was a pleasant experience for her, as she could now soak up the ambiance. The architecture and people were so different, yet similar to what she had experienced in the Valley of the Dark Lords and her homeworld. The Capital of Tristain had boasted wides streets, but could not compare to Kass City. Years before, she would have criticised the dark and foreboding atmosphere, but now, when she could feel the Dark Side radiating from the very air, she was of a different opinion.
As Louise continued walking, she soon found herself in what looked like a market place. Several stalls were set up selling their bits and bobs, though from the looks of the people, they were either old, disabled, aliens or non-Imperials. Curious, but not willing to buy anything until she had settled in, she began meandering around, occasionally looking at some interesting pieces. Suddenly, a familiar presence pulled the ex-mage from her window shopping.
Frantically, she began looking around for the source of the presence, only to freeze upon finding her. There, across the way, was Lyira. Her old roommate seemed to be looking at some of the wares presented by a female Chiss. Her former roommate wore a dark, tight dress made from a silk like fabric that complimented her crimson skin and her hair seemed to have grown down to her shoulders. Other than that, she looked much the same as she remembered, but Louise could not deny that she looked much more attractive since the last time she saw her. But then the memory of the last time they had seen each other came to mind
Filled with the emotional turmoil that she felt on that day, she ordered Khem to stay put before marching, as silently as ever, up to the oblivious raven-haired woman. Once she got within two feet of the Sith, she stopped and waited for Lyira to turn around. Fortunately, she did not have to wait long, as Lyira quickly realised that someone was behind her. As she turned around to confront whoever it was, Louise's palm struck her across the face.
It was at this moment, Louise regretted her choice of action -not the slapping part, no, but the part where she forgot to take into account the bone protrusions that some Sith were born with. So, while Lyira nearly toppled over with the force of the slap, the Louise curled up, holding her bleeding hand as she cursed like a sailor from the White Iles.
"Louise!?" Lyira yelled in shock, "Why!?"
"That's my line!" Louise shouted back, blinking back the tears that were most defiantly from the injury and not anything else at all.