Author's Note: Dearest readers, thank you for all of your kindness and support of this story. Please stay tuned after today's chapter for a creative question. Your feedback is always appreciated! This being said, I hope you enjoy today's chapter!

~ Michael

Chapter: 71 Atonement

"Brokenness and susceptibility form the foundations of cultism."

A devastating battle! On the planet Eshan, Jedi Knights Anna and Elsa Dellian took part in a valiant defense against savage Sanyassans. While victory was achieved, Echani and Republic forces sustained heavy casualties. Having stepped down from leading the 213th, Elsa is now enroute to Coruscant with Anna still in recovery. Meanwhile, tensions arise on the Outer Rim planet of Lothal. Its people demand to know the whereabouts of one of their own, Dr. Nila Morzetti. While the Republic struggles to find the kidnapped weapons specialist, they must also quell the people of her homeworld...

Word from the Battle of Eshan had traveled quickly back to the Jedi Temple's communications center. As various Jedi listened in to Master Plo Koon's briefing, they could practically sense the amount of devastation caused by the invading Sanyassans. Amidst all of those present at the meeting, none were more concerned than Masters Yelena and Mattias. They exchanged worried glances as Master Plo detailed the battle. Victory was hardly a reassuring fact given all which had been sacrificed for it. After hearing about so many overwhelming casualties, it was a miracle to learn that anyone had survived the battle. Being the Force Empath that she was, Master Meliz Sumar could feel the anxiety consuming her friends. Her Padawan, Tori, nervously twitched her leg and leaned in as Plo continued.

"Eshan has chosen to remain neutral," the Kel Dor stated. "But should the Republic seek information regarding Separatist movements in their system, Echani Command says they will dutifully oblige. As for our own involved in the battle, the Knights Dellian are enroute to Coruscant as we speak." Plo projected a hologram of a heavily-forested and fungal planet. "In other news, preparations are underway for a campaign to reclaim Felucia. The council will provide more information as we work closely with Chancellor Palpatine." Plo Koon bowed his head to those around him. "That is all," he declared.

Jedi stood up as the meeting came to a close and the overhead lights switched on. Plo had finished powering down the holotable projections when Yelena and Mattias approached him. "Masters?" the Kel Dor inquired.

"Master Plo," Mattias began. "Normally I'd contact my former Padawan or a member of her squad, but I've been unable to get in touch with any of them."

"Elsa isn't answering her comms either," Yelena added. "We were wondering if you could tell us the details behind their return."

While Plo's masked face was mostly expressionless, the few furrows in his wrinkly skin displayed his somberness. "Anna and her squad are...stable," he said and Mattias' eyes grew wide. He was about to blurt something, but Yelena calmed him down so Plo could finish. "I was told that their injuries in battle were severe and that they needed to be placed in bacta hibernation."

Mattias shook his head in grief while Yelena asked, "And Elsa? How is she?"

"The eldest Dellian has reportedly taken a self-induced, meditative retreat aboard the returning vessel." Plo said. "Admiral Shang reported that she was heard pleading for an...Evara. Does this name mean anything to you?"

While Mattias remained bewildered, Yelena concealed her knowledge about the Force Wraith. Still, another point about Plo's statement had Yelena raising a brow. "Wait," she considered. "Admiral Shang, you said? But Elsa flies under Admiral Taka. Why isn't she aboard the Deliverance?"

Plo sighed and said, "Admiral Shang also stated that Elsa Dellian has stepped down as active leader of the 213th."

"What?" Yelena gasped. "Why?"

"I'm sorry, but this is merely what was reported to me," Plo responded. "When Elsa returns, I'm sure she can provide an explanation."

"Yes," Yelena huffed. "Of course. Thank you for your time."

As she departed with Mattias, the duo met up with Tori and Meliz. "I knew they'd be out contributing to the war effort-" Mattias began. "-I just never imagined how difficult this would be. The constant worrying. The rising fears. Sleepless nights where I just hope she's okay. Does it ever get easier?"

"No," Meliz answered earnestly. "But make no mistake. Such care is not a sign of weakness, nor is the attachment our Order fears so much. Your connection is the mark of a good mentor." She looked to Mattias and Yelena. "Both of you have been exceptional mentors. It'd be rather cold and unfeeling if you weren't fearing for their lives every time they embarked on a mission. When I lost my Padawan, Kor, I was beyond devastated. I spent many a sleepless night tossing and turning, questioning everything." Meliz put an arm around Tori and faintly smiled. "As Jedi, having a Padawan is the closest any of us will ever come to having children. They're worth every action we take and every feeling we have to give."

Mattias nodded in agreement as they exited the communications center. While they did so, a towering...familiar Besalisk stomped over. Upon seeing Master Pong Krell, Meliz tightened her grip on Tori's shoulder. She defensively held her student close and glared at Krell until he left their sight.

"Wh-where's he going?" Tori asked.

"Pay no mind to him, Padawan." Meliz intoned. "Don't waste your words nor energy on someone who deserves neither."

As Meliz and Tori bid the others farewell, Mattias activated his comlink. "Who are you calling?" Yelena asked.

"Knight Westgard," he replied. "I know that he and Anna have had a bit of a falling out, but he deserves to know what condition she's in."


Hans Westgards' comlink chimed atop a dark and dusty nightstand. The knight's tired hand had to slink between an assortment of empty bottles in order to reach it. The malodorous stench of alcohol still spewed from his smacking lips as he retrieved the comlink. He sat up in bed as the flashing lights of the Uscru District painted distorted patterns across his bare chest. "Talk to me," Hans grumbled into the device.

"Knight Westgard," Mattias said. "It's about Anna."

Hans' weary brows furrowed as he sunk into his pillow. He could barely see straight as he uttered, "Wh-...what about her?"

"She's been critically injured in battle and has been placed in bacta hibernation," Mattias huffed. "I know you two have had your ups and downs, but I figured you should know what's going on. She...cares about you." Hans nearly choked at Mattias' final statement. His reddened eyes observed his surroundings and he looked as though he wanted to scream. "Westgard?" Mattias beckoned when he didn't answer. "Are you alright?"

"Um...yeah," Hans mumbled. "Just...a lot of info to take in, ya know? But thanks for telling me."

"She's coming back to recover at the temple if you'd like to see her," Mattias replied.

"Got it," Hans said and ended the transmission. With a grievous huff, Hans plummeted onto his pillow again. As he did so, a pale hand slithered up to him. Hans shut his guilt-ridden eyes as a Twi'lek seductively traced circles on his chest. He felt her lekku rest against him as she snuggled closer.

"Who was that?" she asked.

"No one, Celenia." Hans murmured, unable to even look her in the eye.

"What's the matter, Jedi?" Celenia asked and caressed his face. "Stressed again? I've got some time before work. Wanna go for round two?"

Hans turned away from her touch. He thought about the final words he'd said to Anna during his tirade in the dojo. How he'd blamed her for his failure and then told her to leave him alone. Images of a bruised Anna floating in a bacta tank flashed through his mind. While she was likely to recover, Hans wondered if anything had changed. He contemplated how Anna had felt about him since he'd so harshly dismissed her. What if he'd permanently ruined things? Even if her feelings hadn't changed, Hans had done nothing to improve their situation.

"She cares about you."

Mattias' words returned to haunt him as he observed the consequences of his actions. But the fear of feeling and enduring those consequences kept Hans frozen. The pleasures of temptation were his escape, regardless of how temporary and shameful they were. Whether he admitted it to any other soul or not, Hans was weak. He believed himself to be the bumbling duelist that so many saw him as. When it came to breaking the code and engaging in a forbidden attachment, he couldn't even remain loyal to Anna. For deep down...Hans was afraid. Hans feared facing every ounce of his true pain and embraced temptation's wiles with open arms. And as guilt consumed his mind with each ensuing crash, all he'd do is find another high.

"I know just what you need, baby." Celenia said. She shifted out of bed and popped open one of her drawers. Hans' bloodshot eyes saw double of her bare back as she rummaged through her belongings. "Aha," Celenia rejoiced and flashed an eager grin. She retrieved a vial of dried, multi-colored granules and poured them onto her nightstand. "Got these off a new dealer. Death sticks straight from Gardulla the Hutt's personal supply." She proceeded to crush the granules and said, "I know where to get the good stuff."

"Celenia," Hans mumbled.

"I can tell you're in pain, honey," the Twi'lek said and held up the powdered substance. "And this...this'll make it all go away."

"But for how long?" Hans asked.

Celenia boldly snorted her portion of the death sticks and briefly grunted. "Let's find out together," she said. "And when the pain comes back...we'll find another escape."

Hans glared at the drugs before him. Celenia's hand was already swaying in his eyes as the amount of consumed alcohol ravaged his system. He winced as thoughts of betraying Anna while she was suspended in a bacta tank returned. Unwilling to endure those feelings any longer, Hans leaned into Celenia's hand...and snorted.


Plo Koon was about to close the doors to the communications center when Pong Krell entered. "Master Krell?" Plo inquired. "You missed the briefing."

"I'm well aware, Master Plo," Krell said. "I'm also aware of the incoming campaign to reclaim Felucia and I want in."

"The council must confer with Chancellor Palpatine," Plo retorted.

"Come now," Krell griped. "Since when does the great Jedi Order hang on the Supreme Chancellor's commands? Are we not his trusted defenders? The ones who keep the Republic standing and him in power? Enough tiptoeing around the obvious. Surely we can be adults here aside from these humans dictating what we do next."

Plo tilted his head with intrigue. "Just what are you proposing, Krell?" he asked.

The hulking Besalisk smirked. "I know you and several others disagree with my methods," he said. "But I am willing to do what needs to be done. No matter the sacrifices in the name of such victory. This war must be ended as swiftly as possible. Our initial campaign only failed because the Republic believed one Jedi was enough to turn the tide." Krell raised all four of his fists and gritted his teeth. "We'll need multiple Jedi Generals on the ground in order to secure Felucia."

"And I suppose you want to be one of them," Plo said.

"But of course," Krell affirmed. "However, I'll need a new clone unit. One superior to the novices which I received on Devaron." The Besalisk scowled amidst Plo Koon's silence. "Loathe or laud me, you cannot deny my earlier successes."

"You had your share of victories," Plo said. "But at what cost?"

"No victory is without casualties," Krell defended. "You know this as a general yourself. Now I tire of the council's hypocrisy amid the decadence of war. I'm no longer asking. If you want Felucia back under Republic control, it is imperative that you include me in the campaign. I only need the proper unit to command at my side."

Plo murmured to himself before addressing Krell directly. "While your tenacity is appreciated, I'll still need to confer with the rest of the council."

"I know they'll side with me," Krell bellowed. "In these trying times, they can't afford not to."

"Should the council approve you as you believe they shall-" Plo continued. "-then I do know of a certain clone division in need of a new general."

A subtle smirk crept across Krell's wide lips. "Excellent," he decreed.

High atop their exalted spire, the Jedi Council conferred amongst one another regarding the next campaigns. "Master Krell believes himself to be ready for such an undertaking," Plo explained. "I think it'd be dangerous to send him alone."

"Undoubtedly," Master Adi Gallia concurred. "Plus, the casualties sustained by his previous clone units hardly gratify any of his victories."

"Yet they are victories nonetheless," Ki-Adi-Mundi retorted. "Forgive me, but the clones are fulfilling their duty to the Republic just as we are. Krell has proven himself to be a formidable combatant on the battlefield. He could be vital in the Felucia campaign."

"But who to send with him?" Depa Billaba queried. "If we are to send multiple Jedi to lead the attack, they must possess powerful attributes."

"Needed, strong warriors are." Master Yoda concurred. "But cleverness...present, this must be as well."

"I propose that we send Master Gaston," Mundi said. "He and Krell could form a mighty duo."

"Proven to be arrogant, Gaston has." Yoda murmured. "Under close observation he must be kept."

"Then let us act on this cleverness you speak of," Mundi added. "For while an effective rancor must be leashed, it remains effective nonetheless."

Yoda grumbled to himself and shut his elderly eyes. He only opened them when Master Mace Windu spoke up. "Let us send a master and apprentice to accompany these...rancors." Windu's gaze listed to Mundi as he uttered the final word. "A blend of youthful methods mixed with the teachings of old could prove effective."

"On this we are agreed," Yoda concurred. "Send Master Unduli and her apprentice we shall."

As the council nodded, a needle-shaped pedestal ascended from the center of the room. All eyes turned to it while a tiny sphere spun from its apex. "A transmission," Kit Fisto declared while Windu activated it with the Force. The sphere split open and projected a hologram of a woman's familiar visage. Her gentle and hopeful gaze fell upon the council as she bowed her head respectfully.

"Good morning," she said.

"Senator Amidala," Yoda greeted. "Assist you, how can we?"

"Members of the Jedi Council," Padmé began. "I speak to you on behalf of Naboo, Alderaan, and Manaan. As tensions rise in the Galactic Senate... Senator Organa, Romi, and I have arranged a summit to meet with the Governor of Lothal. The planet's people want answers to the kidnapping of one of one of their own, Nila Morzetti, so the most we can do is try and reassure them. It would greatly help to have the Jedi Order present for such a meeting. Perhaps Knight Skywalker and Master Kenobi." As Yoda and Mace exchanged a pensive glance, Padmé grew unsure. "Perhaps Knight Skywalker and Master Kenobi?" she worriedly reiterated.

"Unfortunately, neither can be spared at the moment," Windu answered. "They and Ahsoka are currently on assignment."

As Padmé hung her head in disappointment, Yoda was quick to reassure her. "But despair not, Senator Amidala," he said. "For in your company, the Order shall be. Assign other Jedi to join you, we will." Padmé simpered. While she was grateful for the council's assistance, she contemplated over who would be sent in Anakin and Obi-wan's stead.


"So let me get this right," Tori blurted, excitedly out of breath. "We get to escort members of the Galactic Senate all the way to Lothal?" Meliz nodded as they approached a polished and gleaming platform. "And one of them is actually Padmé Amidala?"

"That's right," the Naboo senator answered from the ramp above them. While Meliz stood tall, Tori gasped with giddy excitement. "It's an honor to meet you both."

"The honor is ours," Meliz insisted and playfully nudged her Padawan. "Especially hers. I am Master Meliz Sumar. This is my apprentice, Tori Vica."

"Vica," Padmé realized. "Curiosity often gets the best of me, but do you have any connections to the Vica Foundation?"

"Hoff and Datya are my parents," Tori explained before spewing her own inner giddiness. "I'm sorry, Senator Amidala...But I just have to tell you-" Padmé raised a brow and flashed a wobbly grin. "You are such a role model to so many young people here on Coruscant. I for one appreciate the steps you and your associates have taken to secure equal treatment for all races here in Galactic City."

"Thank you," Padmé answered and placed a hand on Tori's shoulder. "Senator Organa and I do what we can to improve life in the Republic. We can only hope our influences will be listened to." As Padmé guided them to the transport, Tori leaned towards her master.

The Pantoran was beaming with excitement as she whispered, "She actually touched me. I'm never washing this shoulder ever again."

Upon entering the senatorial vessel, the Jedi observed several new faces. A duo of armed, uniformed men were led in by their eyepatched superior. Padmé had them assemble in the hold to make proper introductions while others entered. "Master Sumar...Padawan Vica," the senator began. "This Captain Typho of my security force. Our friendship dates back to the occupation of our world. Adorned in a cobalt tunic and onyx-hued belt, Bail Organa appeared as regal as he did on Holonet broadcasts. "Senator Organa," Padmé said as he arrived. "These are the Jedi who will be joining us on our journey."

Bail smiled and bowed to them. "I will always appreciate the Order's company," he said. "Thank you both for coming."

"We need all the help we can get!" an elderly voice guffawed. Bail simpered as a Selkath hobbled forward. "I don't suppose Lothal has any oceans, does it? I could use a good swim after this stressful meeting we're heading to."

"It'll be alright, Senator Romi." Bail assured. "The people of Lothal must understand that the Republic is doing everything it can to locate one of their own."

"Easier said than done," Romi muttered while pensively stroking his cephalic lobes. "But then again, politics is all about making promises you don't intend to keep, right?"

His remark spawned a heavy and awkward silence throughout the hold. It was only broken when a blue and white astromech chimed from the corridor. Tori grinned at the droid and asked, "Who's this little guy?"

"That's R2-D2," Padmé replied. "One of the bravest droids you'll ever meet."

Tori's golden eyes widened. "Wait...the R2-D2? Who aided Republic troops at the Battle of Christophsis? Who contacted the temple for assistance all by himself in order to rescue Knight Skywalker and Master Windu?"

Padmé rejoiced over Tori's excitement. "The very same," she told the Pantoran.

Tori reached out a hand to R2-D2 but suddenly hesitated. "I'm sorry," she told Padmé. "But...may I-"

"Sure," Padmé chuckled alongside Meliz as Tori approached R2.

"Hey there," the Pantoran said while petting his domed head. "It's nice to meet-" R2 emitted a series of unique beeps while peering up at her. "So cool," she told Meliz. As she did so, her master's smile suddenly faded.

Unbeknownst to Tori, Meliz had heard something...or someone else entirely when she spoke. And as the memories returned in waves thought to be long suppressed, Meliz staggered back. She averted her gaze from Tori and said, "I'm sorry. I just need a moment."

While Meliz set off on her own, Captain Typho approached Padmé and the other senators. "I'll inform the crew that we're ready for takeoff," he said as they exchanged nods. As Tori bid farewell to R2, she dared to pursue her troubled master. Meliz had delved into the transport's quiet storage room. There she sat atop a crate, shutting her eyes and focusing on the rumbling ship's ascension. Despite her best efforts to break free of her ruminations, even the ship's engines were taking her back to that fateful day.

The rumbling ceased as their vessel exited Coruscant's atmosphere. The brief, yet thunderous clamor of them rocketing into hyperspace had Meliz breathing deeply. "Master?" Tori worried. "Are you alright?"

"I-" Meliz bit her lip. Rather than fake a smile, she looked to her apprentice and said, "I will be." She patted the empty space next to her and beckoned Tori to take a seat. Meliz continued as the Pantoran obliged. "You know, you remind me of Kor sometimes. He used to get this curious, fascinated look in his eyes whenever he saw droids. Or anything new for that matter." Meliz chuckled to herself. "He'd always say 'That's so cool' even if it really wasn't. That boy was always yearning to learn and discover more."

"I'm so sorry, master." Tori said. "I couldn't imagine losing a student like that."

Meliz slouched and dug her fingers into her afro. "I shouldn't burden you with this," she mumbled.

"Nonsense," Tori insisted. "Master, you've done so much for me and deserve the same amount of care. We have to look after each other."

Meliz faintly smiled at her student and confessed, "Perhaps things would've been easier if I'd at least gotten to say goodbye to Kor. But everything was so sudden. In mere moments, he was already falling into the void of space. I had to pilot the ship to secure supplies, otherwise his sacrifice would've been in vain. I tell myself that I'm over it, but that's just another lie. The same way I tell myself that-" Meliz's reddened eyes grew glassy as she choked on her words. Her rapid blinks ushered a steady flow of tears. "The same way I lie to myself and say that whatever end Kor met was quick. But the reality of death in space is...horrific. It's desolate and unforgiving."

Tori sighed heavily and leaned in closer to Meliz. "I never knew Kor," she said. "But if you were his master, I have to believe that he was an outstanding young man." Meliz nodded sympathetically at Tori's words. "If I had been the one to make that sacrifice, I would've found peace in those moments. Seeing life alongside you and my parents has shown me that all we do is about committing to a greater good. That was what Kor did...and that was what you did. I know it's easier said than done, master. I know it's easy to imagine a thousand different ways for something to go. Believe me, I still think about that with Master Krell and I. But each day, I'm learning that all we can do is the best we can with the time we have. I can't take away your pain, Master Sumar. But I can help you bear it."

Moved by Tori's words, Meliz pulled the Pantoran close and held her in a nurturing embrace. "I'm glad I have you," Meliz whispered while squeezing her tight. She glanced down at the comet keychain dangling from her Padawan's saber hilt. "Tori Vica...goddess' gift." Tori gently rubbed Meliz's back as they parted from one another. "Well then!" Meliz declared, trying her best to truly smile again. "Shall we go check on the senators?"

Tori nodded and they made for the vessel's lounge. While on their way, the transport abruptly lurched forward. The motion was sudden enough for Tori and Meliz to nearly lose their balance. "What the?" Tori blurted as Meliz clutched the nearest set of railing.

The master watched the vortex of lightspeed fade from their viewport as a void of stars took its place. "We've been pulled out of hyperspace," Meliz realized.

"How's that even possible?" Tori asked until the overhead lights flickered.

Meliz squinted pensively and hummed in deep thought. "The hyperdrive could've malfunctioned," she considered. "It shouldn't be far from the storage unit we were in."

"Ever the fixer," Tori teased.

Meliz and Tori approached the hyperdrive containment unit just as a uniformed man stumbled out. He kept his scruffy head hung downward and his hands stuffed in a set of bulky pockets. "Worker," Meliz beckoned. "What happened to the hyperdrive?" The man's hazel, steely gaze darted across the floor as he quickened his pace. Sweat trickled down the edge of his brow while Meliz sensed his anxiety. "Worker?"

While she wasn't as attuned to the Force as her master was, Tori could feel a rising disturbance. "Something's not right," the Pantoran uttered.

"You there," Meliz commanded. "Stop!" The worker came to a halt. His heels squeaked eerily against the ship's metallic plating. "Take your hands out of your pockets," Meliz ordered. As he did so, the shuffling of boots could be heard from across the adjacent corridor. Captain Typho and his men arrived just in time to observe the standstill. The alleged worker scowled at all of his adversaries. Without taking her eyes off of him, Meliz started lowering her hand. She ever so slightly inched it further towards her utility belt. As she started unclipping her lightsaber, the worker finally spoke up.

"All shall be atoned," the worker uttered. His eyes twitched while his scruffy cheeks rose with a sneer. In that instant, the man threw both of his hands up. As he did so, he revealed a set of cords winding through his sleeves and into his jacket. Several flashes emanated through his clothing while he clutched a detonator and roared, "Deliver us from Jedi evil!"

"Bomb!" Meliz hastily warned. Acting on instinct, she Force-pushed Typho and his guards down their corresponding hallway. As she tackled Tori back into the storage room, the so-called worker shut his eyes tightly. He gritted his teeth until they ached and pressed down on the trigger. A sharp chime sounded before an ear-splitting explosion took over. The man's body...along with the entire chamber, became engulfed in flames. Emergency airlocks sealed as fiery heaps of metal spiraled into the blackness of space. The initial blast caused a combustive chain reaction to flare throughout the ship, severing it in multiple areas. While Meliz had managed to save those within the bomb's proximity, she was unable to keep the transport from breaking apart. All she could do was hold on to Tori as the storage room's airlock sealed beside them. "Brace!" she yelled over the ceaseless clamor.

Crates toppled from their shelves while light fixtures shattered overhead. Their sharp, fragmented contents pelted the tiles as Tori and Meliz rolled beneath a vacant shelf. Using the Force, they pulled a crate in front of them to create a makeshift shelter. Debris bombarded its durasteel structure as they held it in place. "Hold it!" Meliz grunted as her arms strained under pressure.

"I'm...trying!" Tori winced. Dizziness took hold as the room spun chaotically. While the duo held on for dear life, they felt their environment start to level out. Their bodily equilibriums stabilized and they collapsed betwixt the silence. Sweat drenched their foreheads as they looked to one another. "Who...was that guy?" Tori panted.

Meliz shrugged and shook her head. She Force-pushed the crate away so they could observe the ravaged room. Culinary rations were strewn across the tiles. Dented and battered crates lay mashed together in metallic heaps. "By the Force," she murmured and activated her comlink. "Senator Amidala. Do you copy? Captain Typho?" Meliz pursed her lips as only static responded. "Senator Organa? Senator Romi? Anyone?" She scoffed and turned to her apprentice. "Communications are down."

"I think I know why," Tori lamented and gestured towards a narrow slit of a viewport. Meliz's eyes widened as she came over to observe as well. The rest of the ship was floating in a completely different direction. While the Jedi had escaped the bomb with their lives, they were now stranded in the jettisoned storage room without any means of propulsion.

"There has to be a way to get over there," Meliz considered and started rummaging through crates. "Look for some kind of gear. Anything that can help us!"

"We'd better do so quickly," Tori worried and Meliz looked up. The master followed her Padawan's finger across the viewport as a bizarre ship soared in. The ship attached itself to the remainder of the senatorial vessel and started drilling into its hull. "I don't think that bomber was alone."


Padmé coughed profusely and fanned away the excess smoke with her hand. A bright searchlight flashed across her face and briefly blinded her. She found solace in a set of beeps as R2-D2 wheeled up to her. He removed the light from Padmé's face and let her use his head to stand up. "Thanks, R2," she said. "Is everyone alright?" she hollered into the darkness. A series of coughs had her and R2 rushing over to help.

Bail's hand came up alongside a mauve-cloaked handmaiden. "We're okay," he said. "Teckla and I dropped just in time."

"My lady," Teckla worried and observed a bruise on Padmé's cheek.

"I'm fine," the senator assured. "Really I am."

"Ugh!" Romi grumbled from beneath a toppled chair. "By the Progenitor!" the Selkath swore while stretching out his back. "What just happened?"

Before anyone could offer a theory, a raucous drilling echoed throughout the ship. "A better question would be-" Bail proposed. "-what is happening?"

"My lady!" Typho called while dashing in with his men.

"Captain?" Padmé worried. "What's going on?"

"We've been bombed," he panted. "The Jedi saved us but it looks like they were separated when the ship broke apart." Typho's head snapped down the hall as metal clanged. "We're being boarded," he warned and reached for his blaster pistol.

"Separatists?" Bail asked.

"No idea, senator." Typho confessed. "My men and I will buy you some time. Everyone else, get to the cockpit and see if you can get a distress signal out."

"That's if we can restore power," Romi added while observing the dark chamber.

"Just go!" Typho warned as footsteps sounded from down the hall.

"R2," Padmé said. "Light the way." The astromech chimed in acknowledgement and wheeled across the opposite corridor. His searchlight acted as a beacon for his companions.

"Contact!" one of Typho's men yelled as an intruder rounded the corner. Typho and the other guards opened fire, sending green bolts of plasma zipping across the darkness. The first masked invader fell, his body sizzled from multiple blaster holes. Other intruders took cover and were cautious not to walk out in the open like the first. The guards maintained a steady rate of suppressive fire, hoping to buy Padmé and the others enough time.

As R2 entered the cockpit, the whir of his wheels initially startled the flight crew. The ship's pilot gasped and leapt from her dashboard. "Oh," she sighed as the others arrived behind him. "It's just you."

"Captain Seren," Padmé said. "We're under attack and need to send a distress signal."

Seren huffed. "That's all I've been trying to do, but I can't get the power back online."

"Perhaps R2 can reboot the system," Bail proposed.

"Much like my ship-" Seren quipped. "-that plan won't fly. The power generator was connected to the hyperdrive chamber." Seren gestured to the mounds of scorched debris floating outside the viewport. "Which was destroyed with the rest of my ship."

Seren's co-pilot pointed down an adjacent hall. "I could grab our enviro-suits from the maintenance room," she proposed. "If it's still attached, we-"

"Floating out into space to search for a 'what-if' would cost time, Yofi." Seren scolded. "Time we don't have." Seren frustratedly rubbed her temples as the sounds of blasterfire echoed from the shadows.

"Keep them back!" Typho yelled and fired again. As he did so, a metallic orb came clanging across the grates.

"Grenade!" one of his guards shouted as their line faltered. Rather than explode, the orb spun and spewed smoke to screen the intruders' movements. As Typho and his men tried to feel their way through the ensuing mist, each was met with a blue-ringed stun blast.

Silence filled the ship's darkened halls. Padme looked to Bail and the others as a set of unique stomps approached the cockpit. Typho's limp, unconscious body was the first to emerge through the doorframe. Teckla gasped as he and the other guards were thrown to the floor. The masked insurgents rushed in and took aim with their varying rifles.

"Nak no frano kipoma shee," one of the gunmen babbled. When no one obliged, he angrily shook his rifle and reiterated the command in a louder tone. "Nak no frano kipoma shee!"

Understanding Rodese, Padmé cautiously translated. "He wants us to put our hands up," she said.

A slow set of claps rang out from behind the gunmen. All eyes turned to a single figure as they cleared a path for him. "Not a bad translation," a gritty voice said. "You almost got it." As one of the insurgents set up a power cell for light, the device illuminated their leader's face. A square-jawed Pantoran slowly approached his hostages. "Still, I'll admit that it's impressive...for a sinner." The Pantoran's golden glare was unblinking. Insidious and gruesome burn scars lined his face over the exact places where his yellow facial markings used to be. He toted a devilish smirk and spread his arms to the group. "But don't worry. Don't be afraid. Today's the day you will all reach atonement."

"Atonement for what?" Bail dared to ask.

The Pantoran chuckled. "The fact that you even have to ask shows just how ignorant you are, senator." He strutted up to Bail and stared him down, even as the Alderaanian towered over him. "You and your Republic are so disgustingly blinded by corruption...by greed...that you cannot see beyond any of it. But we, the Revenant, shall make you all see."

"Who do you think you are, boy?" Romi jeered. The Selkath glared as the Pantoran looked to him next. "The Republic doesn't negotiate with terrorists, let alone play their little games."

"Senator," the zealot smiled. "Thanks for volunteering."

While other gunmen kept the hostages back, a pair of them dragged Romi over. The Selkath writhed until he was dropped to his knees before the Pantoran. "I, Gedvan." he began as if taking an oath. "Hereby begin the process of atonement for this corrupted soul. Senator of Manaan, you stand accused of betraying your people."

"How?" Romi hissed from below. "All I've done is represent them in the Senate!"

"As a politician under the Republic's influence," Gedvan snarled. "You betrayed your peaceful people in exchange for a warring Republic. You do not serve the people. You are a hypocrite, just as the Jedi demons are. Do you repent for your sins?"

"You're insane!" Romi shrieked. "I have nothing to repent for in serving my people!"

Gedvan sighed and ignored the rest of the Selkath's statement. "Then by the power of the Revenant, I deem your will to weak to salvage. I claim your soul as saved." Gedvan rose with a blank and horrific stare as he withdrew a pistol.

"Wait," Romi gasped as the blaster was pressed to his head. "No! Stop!"

Padmé looked away and shuddered as Gedvan pulled the trigger. She and Bail couldn't even bear to look at Romi's full body as he collapsed in front of them. His limp, webbed hand was enough to wrench their hearts while Gedvan rejoiced. "He has been saved!" the Pantoran cheered with a disturbingly wide grin.

"He has been saved!" his fellow insurgents chanted.

"Glory and power to the Pale One!" Gedvan declared.

"To the Pale One!" they reiterated.

"We need an escape plan," Bail whispered to Padmé while the zealots chanted.

"I'm working on it," Padmé responded and subtly nodded to R2. As the astromech tilted towards her, she decided to speak up. "You monsters!" she shouted. "Cruel monsters!"

"I see we have another volunteer," Gedvan remarked and gestured to his people. "Bring her for atonement."

"No!" Teckla pleaded until Padmé mouthed the words 'trust me' to her.

When a gunman closed in on her, R2 suddenly interposed himself between them. While screaming like a mechanical maniac, the astromech unleashed all of his available components. Everything from a fire extinguisher to a flailing buzz saw extended from his body. Amidst the distraction, Padmé tried to pull the others to her. She didn't anticipate how quickly the Revenant would charge in, and was forced to bolt for the door. R2 spun until the area was blanketed in smoke and then took off after her.

"Get her!" Gedvan roared while securing the other hostages. "Bring that sinner back!"

Several insurgents split off after her and scoured the hall. Comprised of various species, the zealots were united through the language of Huttese. Unsure over where she'd escaped to, they began kicking over crates and rampaging through rooms. Meanwhile, Padmé had narrowly escaped into a ventilation shaft with R2. The astromech finished discreetly tucking his rocket boosters in as Padmé caught her breath.

"Thank you," she whispered while R2 suppressed his beeps. Padmé revealed a concealed, silver pistol and held it close. "We need to act quickly if we're going to save the others, but I can't take all of these attackers on myself. We need the Jedi," she realized and clutched R2's sturdy limbs. "I can only pull this off with your help." R2 listened attentively as she continued. "Much of it is up to chance-" Padmé sighed. "-but you've spent enough time around Ani to be used to that. Typho said the Jedi were separated in the blast, so they could be somewhere out in what's left of the ship. The co-pilot also mentioned enviro-suits in the maintenance room. R2-" Padmé swallowed hard. "I need you to recover those suits, find the Jedi, and bring them here. Let's record a message that you can give to them. Then I'll try to buy you as much time as I can."

Ever the loyal droid, R2-D2 chimed dutifully and hovered back down after the message. He disappeared into the shadows as Padmé clenched her pistol. "Right then," she huffed and advanced through the vent. Padmé dropped down just as two of the insurgents were about to double back. By the time they spotted Padmé, she'd already sent a blue laser blazing through one of them. She fled into the darkness as her shot sent other pursuers chasing after her.

While Padmé lured the insurgents away from his position, R2 used his utility arm to force open the maintenance hatch. He resealed it behind him and swayed his searchlight across the room. R2's domed head swiveled frantically until he locked on to a set of encased enviro-suits. Utilizing his buzz saw, he sliced into their case and let the suits drop against him. Snatching one with his utility arm and clipping another to an unused compartment, R2 dragged the suits. After precisely aiming his buzzsaw at an already-cracked viewport, he took his time to break through and embrace the vacuous pull of space. R2 emitted an iconic and rather comical screech as he was sucked into the void. Clutching the enviro-suits like banners, the droid fired up his boosters and stabilized himself among the stars.

"Gedvan," a zealot panted upon returning to the cockpit. "She's killed Lithara. We're in pursuit but we've lost sight of her."

The Pantoran's eye twitched as he scowled. "Why must we be tested so!" he grieved. "Find her and bring her back to me! She must pay for what she's done! Lithara didn't deserve to die."

As Gedvan stormed up to the cockpit's viewport, Bail noticed R2 flying out to the debris. Determined to keep Gedvan from seeing the droid, he said, "And Senator Romi did?"

Gedvan's brows furrowed at Bail's remark. He leered at the senator while R2 flew by undetected. "Yes," the Pantoran hissed and approached Bail. "Because he served a corrupt, warring government and was therefore corrupt. Lithara was pure." Gedvan scoffed at Bail's stern stare. "You wouldn't understand."

"Then make me," Bail insisted. "If I'm going to die anyway, at least tell me why your Revenant is free of sin. How do you justify murder?"

Gedvan sneered and looked to Romi's corpse. "I set his atonement!" he retorted. "He is saved."

"He is dead," Bail boldly countered. "He hasn't atoned for anything nor has he been saved. You passed judgement on your own accord."

"Senator," Teckla warned as she observed Gedvan's rising rage.

Bail persisted. For where Teckla saw anger in Gedvan, Bail saw confusion. "This Pale One-" the senator inquired. "-told you to attack us?"

Gedvan slowly nodded as if mentally explaining the actions to himself. "His will must be done if the galaxy is to be free of sin," the Pantoran answered. He gestured to the burn marks on his face. "All familial ties severed. All allegiances broken. For there is but Him and only Him."

"Is there really freedom then?" Bail asked and kept his tone soft-spoken. "Freedom for who?" Gedvan didn't answer. "The man you killed...Senator Romi? He struck down laws promoting the discrimination of his people. He fought for their rights and yet you deemed him a sinner. Does that sound right?"

"I-" Gedvan stuttered.

"Senator Amidala and I draft bills to aid the impoverished on Coruscant," Bail persisted. "Is that sinful?"

"I don't know," Gedvan muttered and frustratedly scratched his temple.

"We actively seek to end the war and pursue peace. Is that sinful?"

"No but-"

"The Jedi work with us to-"

"Enough!" Gedvan barked. Teckla gasped when he backhanded Bail to the floor. "Filthy heretic! You will not poison my mind with lies!"

"What if-" Bail grumbled and slowly sat up. Blood trickled from his lower lip as he asked, "-someone else already has?"

Gedvan's eyes twitched sporadically until another member of the Revenant rubbed his shoulder. "Confer," the gunman said. "Confer with the Pale One. Pray for understanding."

"You're...you're right," Gedvan murmured and stepped away from Bail. The hostages watched with curiosity as he activated an unmarked communicator.


Tori groaned frustratedly and flipped over another food crate. "Unless we're gonna make jetpacks out of frosted nuna legs, this is hopeless," she said.

Meliz took a deep breath and scoured over the mess they'd added to. "We mustn't give up, Padawan. There has to be another way. A means of communication or-" Meliz raised a brow as peculiar sputtering sounded from outside of the storage room. "What is that?"

"Maybe the attackers are coming for us," Tori theorized and clutched one of her lightsabers. She snuck up to the viewport and peeked outside. "Wait," she muttered as an astromech hovered into view. "That's Senator Amidala's droid!" She squinted and pressed her face against the glass. "And it looks like he's carrying...enviro-suits?"

"Clever little droid, isn't he?" Meliz remarked. "We need to get his attention." She activated her lightsaber and Tori followed suit. They swayed their blue blades across the viewport, hoping R2 would catch a glimpse.

"Come on, little buddy." Tori urged. "Over here!" An idea sparked within as she set her shotos to spin. The vibrant twirling was enough to get R2's attention and he rocketed over to them. "Yes!"

"Good thinking, Padawan." Meliz lauded as R2 hovered up to the viewport. "The trick is getting him in here without killing us."

"It's a long shot," Tori considered. "But what if we use our lightsabers to slice through the sealed door? Then using the Force, we hold it open from a distance and give R2 just enough time to get in."

"And once he's through-" Meliz proposed. "-we can alternate between gearing up and holding the sliced door in place. Brilliant, Tori! But we'll need to be precise." R2 watched cautiously as the Jedi executed their plan. They dug their lightsabers into the door and traced a circle for him to slide in through.

"Now pull!" Tori grunted as the duo called upon the Force. Space's vacuum had them losing their footing as R2 squeezed in. They hurriedly sealed the door shut again and Tori held it in place. "You suit up first, master. I've got this."

As Meliz recovered one of the enviro-suits from R2, Tori's words were reminiscent of her previous Padawan's.

"There has to be another way!" she'd pleaded with Kor. "I'll go out there and-"

"You're the better pilot," he'd said while equipping an enviro-suit similar to the one currently in her hands. "Trust me," he insisted. "I've got this." Those were his last words to her. With each passing day, it became harder to recall his cheery disposition beneath that helmet as she looked upon it for the last time.

"Master!" Tori yelled and snapped Meliz back into the moment. "I may have it for now, but I can't hold it forever!"

"R-right," Meliz muttered. She shook her head free of its daze and hurriedly suited up. Once she fastened her helmet, she gave Tori a thumbs up and took over holding the seal. Tori quickly zipped into her enviro-suit and buckled on the helmet.

"There's no room for our lightsabers on these," Tori fretted until R2 bumped her leg. A secret compartment shifted open on his head and he chimed welcomingly. Tori smirked and said, "What can't you do?" She folded the handles on her shotos and stowed her sabers in R2. After doing the same for Meliz's hilt, Tori took a breath. "All set!" she declared.

"Here we go," Meliz warned and relinquished her grip on the seal. As the door was sucked into space, so were they. The Jedi reached out for R2's head as he reactivated his boosters. While he flew them back to the others, R2 spun his head and projected a holomessage against his body.

Tori and Meliz grew wide-eyed as a disheveled Padmé emerged in the projection. "If my droid reaches you in time-" Padmé said. "-our situation is dire. Insurgents have taken hostages and have already executed Senator Romi." Tori and Meliz exchanged grievous glowers at such news. Padmé's projection appeared desperate as she leaned in. "Help us, Jedi. You're our only hope." The message concluded as they neared the severed vessel.


Gedvan activated his communicator and rested his head against it. This fearsome insurgent now looked like a troubled child seeking comfort. "Yes, my child?" a breathy and gravelly voice answered.

"Forgive me for my weakness," Gedvan uttered and even bowed his head towards the communicator. "But these senators. Are they truly the sinful?"

"Of course they are, Gedvan," the voice responded. "Remember that politicians are talented liars. That's how they sway the masses. Complete their atonement and do not lose faith again. Otherwise, there will be no place for you in my Kingdom."

"No!" Gedvan snapped and drew everyone's attention. He lowered his voice and was practically sniveling. "Please, Pale One. Have mercy."

"Show me faith," the Pale One whispered. "Then...I will show you mercy. Atone them."

Regardless of what happened next, Bail had gotten exactly what he wanted. He'd confused Gedvan enough to potentially reveal his superior. The Pale One isn't a God, Bail thought to himself. It sounds like he's a man.

Gedvan composed himself and trudged over to the hostages. "Listen to me," Bail urged. "You're being deceived!"

"No more lies!" Gedvan yelled and dragged Bail in front of him. The Pantoran drew his pistol and spewed his murderous doctrine. "I hereby begin the process of atonement for this corrupted soul," he hissed. "Senator of Alderaan, you stand accused of supporting a corrupt and warring regime. Do you repent for your sins?"

"Leave him alone!" Typho grumbled. He and Captain Seren rose in protest, but they were shoved and held down by insurgents.

Bail took a deep breath and looked Gedvan directly in his bloodshot eyes. "Serving the Republic in the hopes of birthing a greater future is not a sin," he said. "I know it...and so do you."

Despite Bail's best efforts to sow doubts, Gedvan's resolve had hardened. He pressed his pistol to Bail's forehead and said, "Then by the power of the Revenant, I deem your will to weak to salvage. I claim your soul as saved." Rather than shut his eyes, Bail maintained eye contact the entire time. He wanted to Gedvan to feel every ounce of his intense and piercing stare. The Pantoran scowled and angrily nestled his finger on the trigger.

A blaster fired and Bail felt the world fade around him. As chaos descended throughout the cockpit, Bail's thoughts wandered far beyond the madness. They travelled past the lives he'd changed and deeds he'd done. Instead Bail found himself home on Alderaan, even if only for a moment. Everything was so blissfully silent as he fell into the loving arms of his wife, Breha...and the daughter they only wished they could have.

"Senator!" Captain Seren screamed and tackled Bail to the floor. She shoved him out of harm's way as he snapped out of his surreal rumination. Realizing he hadn't been shot, Senator Organa slowly peered around.

Gedvan was hunched over a monitor, grunting in pain and clutching his sizzling forearm. "Get her!" he yelled and pointed down a corridor where Padmé was opening fire. While Seren and Yofi secured Bail and Teckla, Typho charged with his men. Rushing the gunmen had its risks, and one of Typho's guards paid the price. He took two lasers to the chest while the struggle carried on.

Meanwhile, Padmé tried to draw the other insurgents' fire. She slowly backed up until those pursuing her from earlier came over to flank. "They don't deserve the Rite of Atonement!" Gedvan screeched. "Slaughter them!"

Cornered and exposed, Padmé braced for an incoming laser volley. In that instant, an emergency airlock severed open from behind them. R2-D2 sliced it open with his buzzsaw, sucking the gunmen out but forcing Padmé to cling to the nearest railing.

Tori and Meliz entered through the opening and then Force-pushed a crate in front of the airlock. Once it was sealed, R2 shot their lightsabers out and into their hands.

"Kill the Jedi devils!" an insurgent growled. He and his comrades opened fire as Tori and Meliz charged. Their bright blue blades illuminated the darkness while they cut down each foe.

"They have a ship connected to what's left of the main hold," Meliz told Padmé. "Get your people aboard it!"

"While Padmé guided the survivors, the Jedi dashed into battle.

As Meliz drove her lightsaber into an enemy's chest, Tori spun one of her shotos and flung it into the cockpit. The blade soared like a flying pinwheel, slashing members of the Revenant until only Gedvan remained.

The Pantoran stumbled against the ship's dashboard and glared at Tori specifically. He winced at where Padmé had shot him and said, "You betray your own kind, Jedi. Pantora should disown you."

"I'm not the terrorist here," Tori countered.

"Just the child soldier," Gedvan jeered. "Call yourself whatever you'd like, but it's merely an attempt to mask your sin. You cannot stop the Revenant."

Tori stepped closer and asked, "What is the Revenant?"

"Padawan," Meliz warned as she got too close. "Step back."

"What is the Revenant?" Tori questioned again in a much deeper tone.

"The only future we need," Gedvan chuckled and raised a pistol to the viewport. "Time to atone."

"Tori!" Meliz screamed but Gedvan already pulled the trigger. He blasted the cockpit's glass and sucked himself out into space. Unable to react in time, Tori was flung out as well. While Meliz was far enough to grab the doorway, her heart sank in agony. Watching her new apprentice share Kor's fate shook her very foundation. And as she saw Tori flail and drift helplessly into space, all Meliz could utter was "Not again." Acting on her grief, Meliz mustered the strength to propel herself from the doorway and soar after Tori. She cared not if her suit's helmet had gone foggy, for she was focused on her goal. By the Force, Meliz willed. Let me save her. Don't let this happen again. Not to her. Not to me. Not to anyone.

As Tori spiraled out of control, Meliz opened her arms and caught her amidst the darkness. Their momentum stalled on impact and all grew chillingly silent. Meliz's helmet fogged up with her hastened breaths as she held Tori for stability. "Master?" she gasped in disbelief.

"Blast it, Tori Vica." Meliz huffed. "I told you to step back!"

"I-I-" Tori mumbled. "I just thought I could find out more and-"

"And nothing!" Meliz scolded. "Look at me," she asserted. She shook Tori by the shoulders as they floated through space. "Look at me!" Tori obliged and Meliz continued. "I don't care what information is on the line, you never put yourself at risk like that. You could've been lost forever!"

As tears fled her master's eyes, Tori realized the pain she'd caused her. "Master Sumar," she said. "I'm sorry."

Meliz shook her head. Rather than respond at first, she pulled Tori into a tight embrace instead. "I promised myself that I'd take care of you," she said. "That I'd never let what happened to Kor happen again. I'm not going to lose you too, Tori Vica!" Tears drenched Meliz's cheeks as she hugged Tori across the void. "I'm not going to lose you too," she sniffled.

"It's okay," Tori assured and rubbed Meliz's quivering back. "I'm right here, master. I'm right here." As she did so, a pair of searchlights listed over to them. Now commandeered by Seren and the others, the Revenant's ship flew over to retrieve them.


Emergency sirens rang out over Lothal's grassy plains. As medical and police ships soared near its capital, speeders from various news outlets weaved between them. The vast array of vehicles converged on a sectioned off landing platform where crowds had surrounded an unmarked transport. "Hurry!" a Lothalian reporter shouted and waved to his crew of camera droids. They started filming as he pointed towards the ship. "I'm live in Capital City where delegates from the Galactic Senate have touched down. I'm being told that the group was attacked enroute to Lothal and that there were fatalities. As the survivors receive medical attention, it remains unclear as to whether or not the summit will still take place."

Padmé sat beside Bail on an unfolded medical bench. Draped in blankets to treat their shock, they tried to relax while EMTs saw to their wounds. Bail winced while one of them swabbed a cut on his cheek. "How are you holding up?" Padmé asked him.

"I'll be alright," Bail assured. "Thanks to you."

"I had plenty of help," Padmé jested. Her eyes listed over to R2, Tori, and Meliz. Her smile dropped as she observed two blanketed bodies being moved from the scene. "Something isn't right," she said. "Why did this 'Revenant' attack us?"

"To carry out their leader's will," Bail answered. "Whatever this Pale One's agenda is, all he has to do is convince his zealots just as he did Gedvan."

"But I think it goes deeper than that," Padmé considered. "Similar, radical insurgents were reported to have attacked the Republic installation where Dr. Morzetti was stationed. They kidnap her, she goes missing, and her homeworld of Lothal wants answers. So we come here to reassure them and get attacked by the same people who took her? That's not a coincidence."

"I agree," Bail said. "This was no random attack. The question is why?"

Tori and Meliz approached them as the latter said, "The Grand Army has been contacted. Forensics teams will take this ship apart piece by piece if it means finding a lead."

Eavesdropping from the crowd, the eager Lothalian reporter caught the end of Meliz's statement and turned to his camera. "This just in, Republic forensics are set to analyze the recovered craft, which will-

-hopefully provide some leads on these mysterious insurgents."

On a distant world, an unseen figure lurked in the shadows. Masked members of the Revenant stood beneath it and observed the Lothalian news as a single unit. "Forensics?" a gravelly voice queried. "They're persistent, I'll give them that. But their ambitions breed only failure, for we know the truth." The figure's followers nodded in agreement. "And truth liberates us from our sins. Now the Republic and the rest of these heretics want to poison the truth. They want to plunge our galaxy into a vestibule of sin." The figure paused and let its followers gripe and heckle. "Will we allow such crimes to persist?"

"No!" they shouted to their leader. While some members raised their weapons, others dropped on their knees to give praise.

"Take heart, my children. For we stand on the cusp of a new era. One where the evils of our adversaries shall be nonexistent and faith will see us through. This galaxy will burn for its sins one flame at a time." The figure's stout hand reached for a detonator. "And the Revenant shall rise from the ashes." Followers cheered as their leader triggered the detonation.


Back on Lothal, a sudden...high-pitched ringing emanated across the platform. "What is that?" Captain Seren asked.

Heads swiveled while Meliz stared at the Revenant ship. Her eyes widened when the ringing intensified from within its framework. "Explosives!" she warned. "Clear the platform!"

Absolute panic ensued as Lothalians scrambled for cover. Screams filled the air while civilians toppled over one another. Even though they were injured, Padmé and her companions helped usher people to safety.

"Get clear!" Meliz told them and leapt alongside Tori. "Together now, Padawan!" Raising their hands as one, Meliz and Tori combined their abilities to create a temporary energy field. The bombs ignited and hurled severed pieces of scorched metal at them. The Jedis' arms strained as they struggled to contain the blast.

"We...can...do this!" Tori grunted.

Realizing that they couldn't hold forever, Meliz glanced behind the platform. "Tori," she huffed. "The field! Push!"

Together, the Jedi unleashed a mighty Force push which sent the explosion rippling across the spacious frontier. With the exception of startling some napping Loth-cats, their maneuver had proven fruitful. Not since the Corellian Cup had Tori seen how easily amused those away from the war were with Force users. A storm of applause erupted from behind as Lothalians cheered for their heroics.

Despite the adoration, the Jedi were anything but happy. "Master..." Tori inquired while staring out at the burning wreckage. "Just who...or what exactly are we dealing with here?"

"I don't know," Meliz confessed. "But we must informed the Jedi Council at once."


Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading this week's chapter and I hope you had fun! I can't wait to bring you more excitement next week.

So this is something I've been considering and would love to hear your opinions. As "The Frozen Force" becomes more popular, I'm considering turning it into an audiobook series in a sense. I'd post the chapter recordings on a Youtube channel, reading with unique voices and getting really into my voice acting for an immersive experience. Is this something you would like to see from me?

Thanks for your time and I'm looking forward to bringing you another weekly chapter! On the next

Frozen Force Friday, the Revenant has made itself known. But do they have any link to an attack on the public committed by...a Jedi? Tune in next week for "Chapter: 72 - Mysteries of the Heart"

Long Live Imagination and May the Force be with you!

~ Michael