Hey, everyone! How are you all doing on this warm night of Wednesday, July 12, 2023? I'm doing pretty good, if a bit worn out from being on my feet a lot today. And I'll be going to bed in a few hours to prepare for work tomorrow, so I figured I'd get a little writing done tonight in the sixth character interlude of the Rude Awakening's crew. I hope you're all ready for a more Mando-focused chapter, with a few dashes of Jedi and Sith elements in the mix to add a bit more excitement and plot-building for the overall story. I'll be doing a good chapter on Akku Seii II and a few other Mandalorians from Legends and of my own creation, all while helping you all see how Edaan gathered such a diverse and versatile group to join his struggle. But it'll take a while to write this chapter, as it'll be a big one in length and a time-consuming endeavor. Well, with all that out of the way, I'd best get started. May the Lord be with us all in these dark times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!

Kelona 11th, 56 ABY

Mid Rim, Bright Jewel System

Aboard the Jubilee Wheel Station

Deep within one of the gambling casinos and pubs in the smaller version of the legendary and notorious deep-space station named the Wheel, which was located halfway across the galaxy, a covert meeting was taking place between two old friends and master veterans among the Mandalorian Protectors.

Enjoying a rare moment of levity amongst the tumult of the chaotic music and revelry of the Savrip Den bar, Akku Seii II, a veteran Anzati assassin-turned-Mandalorian company leader was patiently sipping his alcoholic beverage while his peer outlined the job offered by none other than the Mand'alor himself. And from what Jaing Skirata was briefing him on, it was a mission that would require all his talent and resourcefulness if the job could hope to be completed.

From Boba Fett's trusted contacts embedded inside the secessionist and warmongering movement of the Neo Death Watch, the traitors were planning a coercion or assassination attempt against the governor of the Outer Rim world of Concord Dawn. A planet with a rich history among the Mandalorian and Fett clan, and its well-respected history of the Journeyman Protectors that served as the world's law enforcement agency, its martial prowess and nexus of commerce and mercenary work made it a valued jewel of the Mandalore Sector and a prized target of conquest by its enemies.

Once Jaing, one of the last two Clone Troopers in existence from the Grand Army of the Republic, finished outlining his plan to outwit and defeat the Neo Death Watch, Akku offered, "A rather unorthodox and daring strategy, Skirata. Even for you."

"Mand'alor wants this done as quickly and loudly as possible. He wants to send a message to anyone that might even consider siding with his wayward granddaughter and her flunkies." Jaing shrugged, not showing any discontent or misgivings at the plan he just laid out before offering his hand in solidarity. "If you have any suggestions on how to improve the plan, well, that's why I'm reaching out to you."

Under most circumstances, Akku would not want to be party to such a bold attack on anyone, even traitors to the Resol'nare, the creed all Mandalorinas were supposed to follow without question. Then again, Akku wasn't surprised by Jaing's willingness to go along with the maneuver, since the Null ARC Trooper was the final survivor of six experimental Clone Troopers that were notorious for their resourcefulness, independence, and incredible proficiency in all forms of martial and armed combat. He especially knew how the Skirata clan wasn't well known for sympathy for those outside their small circle of trust. So, for the eldest Skirata to offer him such a high payroll for his company and a leadership role on the mission, the old veteran genuinely must not want to follow the original strategy.

Well, it was fortunate Akku had more favors than just Mandalorians to call upon, and already knew a few old friends he could use to refine Fett's plan and undermine the Neo Death Watch's recruitment drive. After the last adventure he had with the Jedi, he figured they owed him a courtesy or two, and what better way to cash them in than to help gauge the growing civil war spreading throughout Mandalorian Space?

Taking the hand in a firm grip, Akku agreed, "Of course I'll help you, old friend. We'll just need to make a few major alterations to the strategy."

"What'd you have in mind?" Jaing chuckled, nursing a strong mug of ale with his free hand.

"For starters, I think our leader is leaving a lot, far too much to my liking, to chance with such a small crew. A hundred or so Mandalorians against a battalion of Rhal and Gev's best commandos, never mind the good chance they've got a full gunship's worth of dar'jetti backup with them?" Akku trailed off, letting the brilliant human bounty hunter connect the dots for the insinuation.

Gingerly putting his ale down at the insinuation, Jaing solemnly warned Akku, "Fett doesn't want the Jedi involved in this, especially not after all the bad blood between both our groups of the last fifteen years. I doubt anyone in his inner circle would trust them to follow our lead in this."

"Then I guess we'll have to be discrete about how we recruit and use them." Akku simply shrugged, even as he silently acknowledged the danger that he was about to invite for himself and his crew.

Knowing full well how, the Second Galactic Civil War's climax of how Luke Skywalker, in an uncharacteristic and ruthless measure, sacrificed several squads of Mandalorians to cover Jaina Solo's first attempt to kill her fallen twin brother, it left the rest of Fett's people incensed at the betrayal and eager for vengeance. Even Akku was disheartened to see what the Jedi Order would do to achieve victory. And after Fett had the Mandalorians work under then-Galactic Alliance Chief of State Natasi Daala in laying siege to the Coruscant Jedi Temple and put down slave rebellions across the Outer Rim, it was the final spark needed to set off a new cycle of hatred between both factions.

Since those tumultuous four years, there had been hundreds of small skirmishes between Jedi and Mandalorian, and countless innocents were often caught in the crossfire, and it sickened the Anzati warrior to see two of the greatest fighter groups of the galaxy in a cold war with each other. Very few among both factions were able to look past the animosity and old wounds to see the good they could do when working together, and Akku was one of the few among the warrior culture to recognize that crucial fact. That was why he was willing to defy his leader and risk the consequences to ensure the mission was a success.

Appraising Akku with a keen eye, Jaing let out a silent sigh, and compromised, "It'll have to be a small number, no more than eight. And I get the final say over whoever you and Katarn pick."

"Agreed." Akku already had a good idea of the first of who he'd pick for this operation. It was time to show a few more Mandalorians that the Jedi were better allies and friends than enemies, and he knew just who could bring that point home. But no matter how this mission went out, it would be good to work with Edaan Palpatine again after his last mission with him on Ponemah Terminal.

Kelona 15th, 56 ABY

Concord Dawn Orbit

Aboard the Keldabe-type Battleship Ultimate

"We have a new complication arising in your daughter's mission." Mirta warned Belok. "Our agents in the Jedi have informed us that they've just sent five of their members and one of their allies undercover to undermine your efforts to sway the planet to our cause."

Clenching his teeth and gripping his fists hard enough to risk drawing blood at the intrusion by those incessant do-gooders and moralistic warrior-monks, Belok quickly realized that Sora's task was about to get exponentially more complicated. But it also presented them both with many more opportunities if he correctly applied his skills to assist his daughter.

Having suffered nearly a dozen humiliations and disgraces from the Jedi over the last twelve years, all for doing his job and putting the weak in their proper place, it would be good to dish out a little payback. And with the Neo Death Watch allied with the One Sith, they had the perfect way to offset this disadvantage.

Responding to his leader's communication, Belok asked, "The names of the Jedi and their collaborator?"

"The five Jedi are Jedi Masters Octa Ramis, Ben Skywalker, and Tyria Sarkin-Tainer, along with Apprentices Edaan Palpatine, and Allana Djo Solo." Mirta listed off, before cautioning Belok, "Lord Krayt expressly ordered us to take the two Apprentices and Skywalker alive, and he's sending us reinforcements to manage that."

"And their friend?" Belok ground out, hatred building ever higher after hearing Ben Skywalker's name, and realizing his chance at vengeance for the death of his wife at the then-Jedi Knight's hands was at last within reach, and he swore to make him pay before this mission concluded.

"A Clone Trooper from the GAR's Five-Oh-First Legion." Mirta answered, in a tone that conveyed her disbelief and astonishment over the report.

Genuinely laughing at the poor joke, Belok calmed down and asked, "That's hilarious. But who is their real fool of a compatriot?"

"I just told you." Mirta calmly answered. "Aside from Jaing Skirata, he's the last of the Clone Troopers from that distant and fateful war, and a staunch ally of the Jedi."

Actually stunned at the report, Belok lost his composure and disbelievingly sputtered out, "H-how is that even possible?!"

"Jedi Palpatine, Captain Seii II, and uncovering his location amidst a treasure hunt on an old CIS warship, all while outmaneuvering Kitai and her army about a year ago." Mirta responded. "I'll forward you all the necessary intelligence momentarily, but there's one more matter we need to discuss."

"We have new orders from Lord Wyyrlok, effective immediately." Mirta paused, as if discomforted by what she would say next. "He wishes us to immediately put our efforts into dispatching the Governor and his key supporters, and to pin the blame on the Jedi and Fett's loyalists. That is to be your top priority over eliminating or capturing any of the inbound Jedi."

Well, that would make things exponentially easier for the Neo Death Watch. Instead of pandering to undecided di'kuts, the rightful rulers of all Mandalorians would send a clear message to all their enemies and show them that their weak-willed dominion over the galaxy was coming to an end.

But if all this was true, then why was Mirta so conflicted over the decision? Could it be that she was unwilling to go through with the deed? Was she losing her nerve amidst her separation from her husband, grandparents, and all her former friends? If that was the case then, she would have to be observed carefully, and if the proper actions would need to be undertaken, Belok would see to it that he was in the best position to benefit from the fallout. It was the least he deserved for his years of service to the One Sith and their great cause.

First things first, though. Belok needed to have his daughter prepare their people for a battle against their old adversaries and accelerate the Neo Death Watch's own plans. It would be tight, but he was nothing if not determined and able squeeze out the best from all his men. It certainly would be therapeutic to settle the score against Jedi Skywalker, ensure a big promotion for capturing three high-profile Jedi, and an interesting change of pace to deal with an old war fossil like a Clone Trooper.

Kelona 18th, 56 ABY

Mandalore Sector, Just Outside the Concord Dawn System

Aboard the Ranger-class Gunship Seeker

"I still don't know how you talked me into this." Jaing ruefully marveled as the SoroSuub Personal Luxury Yacht 3000 finished unlocking its umbilical cord, allowing oxygen to flow freely between both the Seeker and Raptor. "Even if we succeed, Mand'alor and most of the clans will probably have our heads for going behind their backs like this."

"I talked you into this because I am a master persuader and leader, and you are ever the pragmatist among the Mando'ade and Clan Skirata." Akku noted, a hint of smugness and amusement entering his voice before returning to his typical seriousness, "We can't pull off a miracle of this magnitude against Rhal and his Sith masters without the appropriate help. And this alliance will do good for us all. It's time we started rebuilding bridges instead of letting old wounds continue to fester and tear the galaxy apart."

"And you think that working alongside the heirs of the Skywalker and Palpatine bloodlines will help your noble goals?" Jaing sadly chuckled. "You may have the loyalty and faith of your company, and I have my supporters scattered throughout the clans, but we're a minority amongst the sea of angry and embittered Mandalorians."

Having been informed by Akku of his successful negotiations with the Jedi Order and their sending several members to assist the investigation, Jaing spent the last four days preparing himself for the inevitable blowback for when he broke the word to his crew. For now, morale was steady, and his people were willing to go along with this mad plan. But that would soon change if the Jedi caused more trouble than they were worth or let their vaunted morals interfere with what needed to be done.

Fortunately, Jaing was told precisely who amongst the Jedi were sent to aid them, and it brought him some measure of comfort to know they were taking this matter seriously in sending several of their best. Learning that Octa Ramis and Tyria Sarkin-Tainer were leading the delegation, each woman a master veteran of war in virtually all its aspects, it helped the old Mandalorian see the Council was smarting from its previous blunders.

Of course, when Ben Skywalker, the Order's most avowed criminal investigator and notorious Sith hunter was mentioned, it sent a fresh jolt of anxiety up Jaing's spine, for his inflexible hatred of Sith was well-known, as was his disgust for most mercenaries and criminals after the ill experiences he had with many after the Order's banishment from Coruscant. It was only through Akku's counsel that he didn't refuse the man's offer of help, and how he had tempered his fires of fury in recent years.

But the last two, Edaan Palpatine and Allana Djo Solo, each heir to the most monstrous Sith Lord of their bloodline, were an enigma to the grizzled and hyper-intelligent Jaing. Though he held no personal ill will for either of them, having heard little bad news from both the news outlets and his friends and contacts, old grudges and fears were difficult to cast aside unless given valid reason. And with prodigies such as these with powerful lineages, the old Mandalorian would have to be exceptionally careful in how he dealt with them.

"Well, let's see if we can lay another cornerstone in our growing foundation of fellowship." Akku resolved, hearing the familiar sound of new footsteps approaching from behind the boarding dock. "All I ask is that you give them a chance to prove themselves. You'll surely be amazed by the company of the five Jedi I've chosen."

"Five?" Jaing confusingly repeated. "I thought you said six Jedi would be joining us." Seeing the growing smirk on Akku's face, he suddenly realized he was in for more than he bargained for.

The door opened, and first among the group was a face Jaing recognized all too well. It was the same one he had, the same as millions of Clone Troopers that once permeated across the galaxy many decades ago, but it couldn't be the genuine article, it should be impossible. He was supposed to be the last of a once-great army. But upon seeing the tan skin, the Aurebesh tattoo across his head that said, "The only good droid is a dead one", the creases on his forehead that signified he was a first-generation Clone Trooper, and his garb that strongly resembled a Grand Army of the Republic medic, all the signs were too great to ignore.

Ignoring the five Jedi that accompanied him, Jaing stormed towards the medic, and demanded, "What is your name, son? How did you come to be on this mission?"

Seeing the Jedi prepared to intervene, Akku calmly held them back, quietly explaining, "Don't worry. Jaing just needs to verify a few things before we can move forward."

The younger Fett clone, not intimidated by Jaing and briefed on this possibility occurring, firmly stated, "My name is Kix. I was once known as CT-6116 in the Grand Army of the Republic, and one of the best medics in the Five Hundred and First Legion before my capture and decades-long incarceration in a stasis pod by the Confederacy."

Recognizing the voice all too well, and seeing no lie in Kix's eyes, Jaing's gaze softened, and he formally greeted the medic, "Then we are welcome to have you." Bowing his head in a slight angle, he apologized, "Sorry for the harsh reception, I simply didn't expect to see… well, it's been a long time since I've seen someone outside of Boba Fett who still shares my face."

"If you think you've had it hard, try being me when I awoke and learned that all I cherished faded away to time, memory, and the history books." Kix solemnly pointed out.

"Sounds like you have quite a story to tell." Glancing at the five Jedi, Jaing curiously asked Kix, "How did you come into these Jedi's company?"

"Well, like you said, it's a good story to tell, but I owe my life and freedom to Jedi Palpatine and Captain Seii." Kix alluded. "I'm here at their personal request. Otherwise, I wouldn't dare leave my clinic on Coruscant."

Clearing his throat, Akku patiently pointed out, "As touching as this reunion is, we don't have all day to waste in greetings. We need to meet up with the rest of the task force and begin our work."

"Right." Jaing agreed. Sparing Edaan and Allana a cautious and scrutinizing glance each, the old Mandalorian Supercommando told the six-man team, "We'll brief you on the essentials of our mission, and then split up to rendezvous in the town of Jaster. These next few weeks should be quite an interesting time for us all."

Kelona 23rd, 56 ABY

Concord Dawn Surface

Within the Town of Jaster

Inside the Casius Garrison

"How goes the interrogation? Your boyfriend pulling his weight in there?" Lona Vos, former Kiffar Guardian, a faithful soldier of Akku's company, and master fighter, teasingly asked her younger sister. Over the last five days, the unlikely alliance of Jedi and Mandalorian was making significant headway in undermining the Neo Death Watch's takeover attempt of the planet, reaching out to many undecided Journeymen Protectors and subordinates of the governor to impede the rogue movement's negotiations. With the help of Fett's many sympathizers and agents across the planet, the team had made the regional garrison as their makeshift headquarters.

But it was through sheer luck that the Mandalorian Protectors' sympathizers had uncovered and isolated a key subordinate of Rhal's and allowed the coalition to capture Malincha Jeisel. A middle-aged Devaronian woman and a former member of the Peace Brigade, the collaborationist organization who allied with the invading Yuuzhan Vong, she had escaped justice by finding refuge in the fringes of criminal gangs for many years. Eventually being recruited by the rogue Mandalorian, she had quickly risen through the ranks up until she was his most trusted officer and was barely able to be captured alive and intact by Akku, Kix, and Tyria two days earlier.

"Edaan's not my boyfriend, Lona." Shara Vos irritably stuck her tongue out at her sister's prodding. "But he's doing an excellent job alongside Kix and Akku in questioning our prisoner. She's spilling her guts to the boss and Jaing. Looks like you were wrong about our pact with the Jedi."

"For now, maybe." Lona cynically pointed out. With the Jedi aiding the questioning by probing the prisoner's mental defenses alongside a physical interrogation, it was only a matter of time before the Protectors and every world in Mandalorian Space finally learnt the true colors of the Neo Death Watch, and support for them withered away like a poor harvest.

Enjoying getting a rise out of her sister, Lona pointed out, "It looks like you have some stiff competition in the Jedi princess. Seems Allana is as smitten with Edaan as you are." Seeing the jealous glances Allana directed at Shara, how stiff and formal she was with her and how she made excuses to be in Edaan's company, it would be like a hilarious sitcom if it wasn't such a danger to the mission's success.

Letting out a despondent sigh, Shara reminded Lona, "How many times do I need to tell you, Edaan isn't interested in dating anyone right now. He's too devoted to his mission and the Order to even think of romance."

"Maybe it's all part of his plan." Lona jokingly suggested. "Get all the girls swooning over him before he takes his pick or makes a lovely harem out of his favorites." Sighing, she suggested, "You want my advice, choose a good man from the clans and ditch your ridiculous fantasy."

"Okay, that's so disgusting, and why are we even talking about this now?!" Shara irritably groaned before both sisters heard the familiar sound of a beskar dagger slicing open someone's throat and a gurgling scream. Rushing into the cell with blasters drawn, they found a sight that disturbed and terrified them beyond measure: Akku, panting and standing above the corpse of Malincha, holding one of his beskar daggers, covered and dripping in blood of the now dead Devaronian, and Edaan knocked on the ground while holding his head with a shallow cut on its side and blood trickling down.

Hearing the patter of many footsteps coming their way, Lona, motioning for Shara to tend to Edaan, lowly whispered to her superior, "What happened in here?"

"He killed her." Jaing solemnly answered, slowly walking towards Akku with his blaster raised towards the Anzati, but set to stun, Lona observed. "Malincha confessed all she knew, and once she finished, Akku slit her throat and let her bleed out. He really took her knowledge on the Rhal family's plans quite hard."

"I'm going to kill him." Akku viciously swore, wiping the blood off his dagger. "All of you as my witnesses, and woe to anyone who tries to stop me, but I'm going to kill Belok Rhal and anyone who dares stand in my way."

"No, my friend. You're not." Edaan firmly told Akku, letting Shara apply a bacta patch before continuing. "We all heard what Malincha said about Rhal's plan and what he did to you and your loved ones, and it's…it's all pure evil, what he did and wants to do. But there is a better way to attain justice than simple revenge."

"If you kill Rhal now, with the entire planet and all his followers watching, you'll only prove his worldview correct and inspire countless more Mandalorians to carry on his sick work. And you'll erase all of Mirta Gev's doubts of her cause and solidify her resolve to wage total war on your people." Edaan reminded Akku, taking a moment to catch his breath and let the bacta patch take effect on his small injury.

"We can end Rhal's madness and deal a crippling blow to his followers and movement, but we'll do it with all our honor and dignity intact." Edaan paused, imploring his longtime friend, "Don't let your old wounds control you, and don't let your family's teachings die here, and a piece of yourself fall alongside them."

As more people swarmed over the area, an eerie silence gripping the chamber, Akku slowly lowered the dagger, and offered it to Jaing. Taking the blade, the old human agreed, "We'll make Rhal answer for his plans. But we'll do it the right way. I already have a few ideas on how to lure him out and expose his entire operation."

"The task I have in mind will require no small amount of ingenuity, courage, coordination, and a kriffing good diversion. but I believe it can be done." Jaing paused, addressing Akku, "And you're going to be the diversion and have the chance to do away with Rhal yourself."

Kelona 24th., 56 ABY

Concord Dawn Orbit

Aboard the Ultimate

"Buir, you're being hailed by Akku Seii II." Sora Rhal quickly alerted Belok in the middle of his preparations. "It's over all the planet's HoloNet channels. He's issuing a challenge against you."

Surprised his daughter's sudden warning, Belok paused his briefing, and turned on a local HoloNet channel to see the smug Anzati standing before a large crowd. And what he was saying incensed the secessionist commander to murderous heights.

"For years, Belok Rhal and his gang of barbaric thugs have besmirched the very name and honor of what it means to be a Mandalorian. Operating as murderous thugs to both despots and Sith, slaughtering anyone who dared to halt their amoral and greedy ways, they disgrace and shame us all beyond reproach. And now, through the last testimony of one of his best lieutenants, we have confirmation of his plans to assassinate Concord Dawn's governor and pin the blame on the Protectors for the heinous deed on behalf of the Neo Death Watch and their Sith masters."

"But this situation is not entirely their fault, nor are all their transgressions against us." Akku allowed, surprising Belok before his enemy continued, "No, part of the burden of shame falls onto the Protectors, all of us, for allowing their evil to continue and fester for as long as it has. Even Mand'alor is not exempt for this responsibility, and it galls me to admit this. But that is why I plan to rectify this grievous error by the end of tomorrow."

"In accordance with the Resol'nare and our oldest laws, I challenge Belok Rhal, regional commander of the Neo Death Watch, to single combat in exactly eighteen hours, in the city of Cadera. If you do not comply, then we will have no choice but to bear the full might of Concord Dawn and the Mando'ade against them."

Belok could not believe what he was hearing. After all the decades of rigid self-righteous the assassin-turned-mercenary warrior Akku displayed, all the wars he had fought in and countless friends he lost, he truly still believed that honor and nobility mattered in war. What a pompous and arrogant fool!

The only things that mattered in war was victory and power! And it was because so many of Fett's followers clung to such an outdated ideology that this civil war would be so bloody and chaotic. And come tomorrow, the whole of Concord Dawn would know it and would either fall in line with the One Sith's Grand Design or be destroyed alongside the Jedi and all their decadent government and freethinking allies.

"For the sake of the Mando'ade, I urge you to settle this with some measure of your honor regained." Akku implored. "If not, then we will only meet above the corpses of our fallen kin and friends, and that is an outcome I desperately wish to avoid."

'And that is why you will lose this fight, you old bloodsucker.' Belok seethed before the recording repeated itself. Closing the channel, he ordered Sora, "Are your death squads prepared for their assassination?"

"We're well ahead of schedule." Sora acknowledged. "We'll be geared up and ready to make our move on your command." Pausing, she asked, "How are you going to handle Seii's challenge?"

"He wants to avoid a bloodbath, does he?" Belok amusingly chuckled. "Well, let's allow him to see the folly of avoiding the savagery of war and choosing the losing side."

"Convey my willingness to entertain the bout and then prepare your teams to deploy without me and my personal guard." Belok ordered. "I'll give myself the pleasure of silencing that old dotard while you take command of the operation. We'll soon give all of Mandalore Space a lasting message of Fett's ineptitude and duplicity, all while showing everyone the benefits of letting the lead them to true greatness."

"What of the Jedi?" Sora questioned. "If they interfere or catch wind of the plan…"

"Then we and the One Sith will dispose of them all in due time." Belok confidently stated before eagerly adding. "They'll soon feel the might of our beskar fist and our superior allies, just as the governor of this simple world will for betraying our generosity and not making the right choice quickly enough."

Kelona 25th, 56 ABY

Concord Dawn Surface

In the City of Cadera

Everything was in place, and everyone was prepared to perform their duties and bring ruin and death to the coalition's enemies. Disguised in Mandalorian armor to hide their true affiliations, the Jedi each took up their positions amongst Clan Skirata and Akku's company, ready for the inevitable fight and trap the Neo Death Watch was undoubtably planning.

With Akku awaiting his scheduled duel with Belok Rhal, and accompanied by six of his most trusted fighters, the Anzati discretely glanced eastward, where his protection gave the signal for taking position. Knowing Edaan, Allana, Kix, and the remainder of his company were on standby for when the Neo Death Watch attempted a double-cross, ready to snipe away at any would-be assailants, it gave him a greater hope to survive being the bait in this trap.

Although he yearned to take part in the main battle, an uncharacteristic wish for the usually composed and meticulous Mandalorian, Akku fully realized and acknowledged how Jaing was correct about his judgment being compromised, and how he made this fight personal and bloody. Now knowing that Rhal had orchestrated a mass slaughter against the planet of Dubrava and decimated half his company six years ago, it infuriated him to even think about the reprobate of a human and utter disgrace to the Mando'ade.

Besides, Ben and Tyria would be more than enough backup in protecting the governor and city from the ground, while Octa contacted sufficient reinforcements amongst the company leader's allies and friends in ensuring Concord Dawn was guarded from Neo Death Watch and Sith reprisals.

Eyeing his timepiece, Akku noted that only fifteen minutes remained before the scheduled duel was set to begin, and there was still no sign of Rhal or any of his retainers. And with all the HoloNet news stations set to cover the broadcast, with the entire planet watching, if anyone tried an underhanded measure, it would be transmitted all over Mandalorian Space in a matter of hours and cripple the offender's faction.

Suddenly, seeing several Mandalorian-armored individuals bearing Neo Death Watch markings approach, either by jetpacks or emerging from several establishments, Akku first assumed Rhal had come or was making his cowardly bid for power. But something was off to the long serving veteran in these new arrivals; the way they carried themselves, their weapons of choice and the equipment they utilized, it all screamed 'Sith' to the longstanding friend of the Jedi.

Quietly and discretely contacting his teammates through his helmet's built-in comm systems, Akku warned everyone, "Heads up. We've got at least seven Sith joining the party on my end, all disguised as part of Rhal's backup. Keep an eye out for more."

"Acknowledged." Octa calmly responded from her post. With her vast experience in starfighter combat since her service in the Yuuzhan Vong War, the Jedi Council member was chosen to lead the Protectors' squadrons of Fang Fighters, a great measure of trust for the warrior culture. "Our help is inbound and will be in position in less than twenty minutes."

"Stow the chatter, everyone." Jaing ordered. "Rhal's warship is breaking orbit, and his people's shuttles are converging all over the city. Looks like he's preparing to make his big move."

"And we've got eyes on the little man's hit squads." Ben added. "It's just as Malincha said. All disguised as your people and heading straight to the governor's palace. All that's missing is Rhal himself."

Interrupting the communication, a giant hologram of Rhal blazed to life across the city square, and it scathingly glanced to Akku before speaking, "Captain Akku Seii II. I see you were desperate enough to eliminate me that you upheld your end of this mad challenge."

"Where are you, you miserable hut'uun?" Akku growled out to his archenemy. "Are you so afraid of dying that you refuse the chance to settle this matter with honor? Or did your Sith overlords command you to betray the creed that all Mandalorians swore to uphold?"

Chuckling at the rebuke, Rhal questioned Akku, "Is it honor that compelled you to issue your challenge, or a chance at retribution for my actions against you, family, and your company?"

Knowing a stalling tactic when he saw one, Akku dismissed, "This is not about me, aruetii. This is about stopping you and your lackies from further desecrating all the Mandalorians hold dear and having you answer for all your crimes. If you refuse to face up to all that you've done, then you doom your people to eternal perdition as dar'manda."

Placing his helmet back over his head, Rhal simply responded, "I can live with that accusation, especially coming from such a Jedi-lover like yourself after all the humiliations they wrought on us."

Ignoring the uproar those words created, Rhal continued, "I won't let an absurd and useless code dictate my every move. Only the victors get to decide the rules, and I intend to be on the winning side in this war. And this entire planet will suffer the price for refusing the Neo Death Watch's offer when they had the chance."

Ten lightsabers igniting amongst the crowd and the horrendous sound of blasters filling the air, Akku realized just how grossly everyone had underestimated their enemy.

This was going to be a long day, and it would be a Gods-ordained miracle if the plan still worked.

Two Hours Later

Despite being faced with overwhelming odds and facing off against dozens of Sith and hundreds of Neo Death Watch thugs, Kix felt more at home than he had in his year of freedom from imprisonment. Fighting alongside Jedi and their many allies to save a planet from a brutal Sith-led razing, the Clone Trooper methodically picked off one rogue Mandalorian after another while providing cover for Edaan and Allana in their close-range engagements. He especially made good use of his recent affinity with a sniper rifle alongside several of Akku's long-range fighters and helping them seize control of the city, even sniping the head off another Sith who was too caught up in her bloodlust to watch her rear defense.

Having dispatched twenty Neo Death Watch and two Sith since the mad battle began, Kix, wearing Mandalorian armor in disguise alongside the Jedi, was certain the enemy had to be running low on manpower and ships. When Sidon Ithano and his flotilla of privateers arrived to ambush Rhal's fleet, the traitor's forces were stopped from unleashing their bombardment on the planet's population centers and ensured that everyone knew just what depths their enemies would stoop to in hurting Fett's loyalists.

The Journeymen Protectors and Fett-loyalists immediately took up arms against the secessionists and delivered a vengeful wrath on their enemies while ensuring they had no avenue of escape. And under Akku's cool and strong leadership, the ground forces held fast and beat back the enemy's swift onslaught.

Victory was all but inevitable now, with hundreds of Rhal's people either dead or surrendering, but the commander and virtually all his top operatives were still unaccounted for. If the Neo Death Watch and the One Sith were still planning to send a message to their enemies, they were all but out of time now, unless they did something profoundly desperate and stupid.

Hearing Octa's voice blare through Kix's helmet built-in comms, the following warning nearly jolted him right off his station, "Heads up, people! We've got a barrage of missiles from Rhal's flagship heading for dozens of targets across the region! Ithano and Akku's ships and fighters are moving to intercept, but we need to protect the surrounding area immediately!"

"Afraid there's more bad news to come!" Tyria called out. "Looks like both the Rhals have just personally entered the fray along with the rest of their Sith backup, and they're heading straight for the governor's position." Knowing how the planet's governor, a man of action and renowned for leading from the front lines by example, attacking him now was simply a desperate move to humiliate Fett's supporters and cripple the planet's command structure and agricultural capabilities. But if it worked, then the damage to the Protectors would be severe and embolden all their enemies

"Don't worry about Belok and Sora." Allana replied. "Edaan and I can help Jaing take them down. You just focus on stopping the missiles."

"No." Akku intensely interrupted. "Let me deal with the Rhals alongside Ben. You help Jaing and the others protect the governor from the Sith. I've got some old demons to work out of my system."

"Agreed." Jaing immediately complied, before ordering, "Tyria, get to your Fang Fighter and help the squads shoot down the enemy missiles. The rest of us will mop up the fight down here and make sure the enemy doesn't get what they're after. I don't care how you do it, but we're not going to let this world fall today."

'Well, there's never a dull moment.' Kix silently chuckled before following his squad to the next battlefield, hoping that they wouldn't meet oblivion sometime throughout the next handful of hours.

Twenty Minutes Later

Sora Rhal could hardly believe how quickly this operation had deteriorated, even as she blasted away at one of the governor's final few bodyguards. She didn't think the Jedi and Mandalorian Protectors could work together so cohesively, nor that they could hold their own against such superior numbers and positions, but she was proven vastly wrong today. It would have to be a lesson all the Neo Death Watch learnt quickly if they hoped to stand a chance against their many adversaries.

With all but a third of her people dead or captured, and only half of the rest able to fight their way to freedom, Sora and her father knew drastic measures would be needed to secure even a partial victory out of this debacle today. But first, the Neo Death Watch had to eliminate their primary target today before they worked to pull out, and they were running out of time. The few missiles the Jedi and Fett-loyalists couldn't destroy were unable to inflict lasting damage on the planet's resources, and with the orbital fleet being hammered hard by the enemy's hired guns, there was little hope they would be able to help any further. But no matter what, there was no way her foes would take her or her father alive.

Suddenly, seeing a shadow move through her peripheral vision, Sora maneuvered out of the way from a lightsaber strike aimed to decapitate her by a beskar-armored man wielding a blue lightsaber. Preparing to take aim, she found herself held back by her father, who ordered her, "I'll keep Skywalker busy. You just focus on finishing the mission."

"Give him hell, buir." Sora bade her father luck before hurrying away. But before she could get very far, she found her path blocked by three missiles that hit the area a mere few meters in front of her, a warning shot to not go any further.

"If you want to try and take out the governor, you'll have to get past us first." A young woman's voice called out, making Sora raise her head to see three Mandalorians land a dozen meters away from her. Recognizing the lead one from his trademark Kaminoan skin gloves, she felt a mixed jolt of terror and eager anticipation at having to face a Mandalorian Supercommando of Jaing Skirata's caliber.

But before she could make a single move, she heard several more jetpacks come from behind, and she turned her head to see five more Mandalorians surround her.

Before Sora could make a last stand, one Mandalorian Protector ripped off his helmet, and Akku calmly ordered everyone, "Go make sure the governor is safe. I'll deal with Sora myself."

"Boss-" One of Akku's bodyguards tried, before another held out a hand in front of her, and shook their head, making the woman see the deeper need for her leader to face this woman. Nodding in understanding, she instead said, "Take her down, but don't lose yourself in the process."

Jetpacks blaring to life, Sora watched as they flew towards the nearby firefight, and she knew how to dispatch her target and a few other key adversaries in one single and explosive blast. Silently keying in a series of commands through her helmet's comm systems to her remaining forces in the area, she then called out Akku, "You must be eager for a death wish if you want to face me all alone."

"No." Akku softly denied. "But I need to tell you something before I defeat and capture you. Your father, he made this fight far more personal to me than you could possibly realize, and I only found out yesterday how he took so much from me."

"Eighteen years ago, your father and I were working together on taking out a band of Kalessh pirates who were cutting a terrible swath through the planet Dubrava and its surrounding worlds." Akku began. "We were making excellent progress and had cornered them in an asteroid belt. but half my company and I were called away by Manda'lor to help deal with a dispute between him and the Mandallian Giants. That left my wife and daughter to lead the rest of my force to help take out the last stragglers."

"Why are you telling me this now of all times?" Sora asked, bored by the sudden and irrelevant story.

"Because your father, right as my people followed his plan and drove the raiders out of hiding, he unleashed a baradium bomb he got from his underworld to eradicate everyone in his way, both the enemy and all of my family's forces. He wanted all the money and glory for himself, so he slaughtered them all, and even killed any of his people that tried to disobey the orders and warn his targets." Akku elaborated. "It was because of that man that I lost the people precious to me, and I only found out all the details yesterday when I interrogated your second-in-command."

"After I found out the truth, I swore an oath to dismantle every piece of your gang of Sith pawns, and I'm going to start by dealing with you and your father." Akku stopped to put his helmet back on before warning Sora, "But I'm going to be better than Belok Rhal, because I'm offering you one chance to surrender. One chance to atone for your crimes and desertion of the Resol'nare, and a chance to live past today. I suggest you take it now."

Smirking beneath her helmet, Sora scoffed, "You're an even bigger fool than I ever imagined. Why else would you waste time dithering away with talking to me about honor when you could've spent it trying to kill me and save your friends?"

"Because I'm not a bloodthirsty and power-hungry maniac like you and your father." Akku pointed out, quickly adding, "And I know my friends and companions can easily defeat whatever ambush you've got planned for them."

Suddenly, Sora's comlink burst to life, with the dying screams of her compatriots filling her ears and making her shed a few tears at the familiar sound of lightsabers eliminating them, just before the comm signal cut out as abruptly as it activated.

"You've lost, Rhal." Akku declared. "Now surrender, or you'll pay for your crimes against us with your life."

Panting deeply, steadying herself for the coming fight, Sora prepared to pull out her blaster pistol and gun down her enemy, only to be outdrawn and blasted multiple times by the Anzati fighter, each blast hitting her with the full force of a sledgehammer and pushing her onto the ground. Dazed from the attack, she heard the familiar roll of a grenade, and turned her head to see a thermal detonator appear beside her.

Unable to move away in time, Sora uttered what curses she could at Akku before the explosion consumed her and reduced her to charred flesh and bone, who could only sigh in disappointment at how poorly Belok had raised his own daughter.

Prepared to return to the fight and deal with the senior Rhal, Akku held off when Ben contacted him, "Rhal's a slippery one, he fled when the last of his fighters were shot down and they had me preoccupied."

After contacting his forward team and hearing their status, Akku solemnly reported back, "It's over then. Rhal's daughter is dead, and his forces are routed and fleeing. We did it. We saved Concord Dawn."

Kelona 28th, 56 ABY

Wild Space, Kesh

Takara Mountains, Sith Temple

Finally, after twelve years of being ostracized and separated from her homeworld and people, Darth Kitai took a moment to enjoy the fruits of her labors for the One Sith. Every act of treachery, murder, and ruination the woman who once called herself Vestara Khai had enacted built up to this moment, and it was finally worth all the sacrifices she had made. At last, she was back home and could lead her people into a new age, with the Sith one day ruling the galaxy after the Jedi and their followers were obliterated.

Having brought the Circle of Lords into line with her resources, alliances, and the supreme might of the One Sith, Kesh was now a secure bastion of Darth Krayt, with Kitai the Grand Lady of the Lost Tribe by using her old name. From the Wild Space stronghold, the One Sith could use the world as a focal point and refuge for many of its wounded proxies and allow them to regroup, all while preparing for the inevitable day when the Jedi discovered and invaded the Sith-held planet.

But this joyous day was stymied by the bad news Mirta had to give on Belok Rhal's failure. Hearing from the Sith-loyal Mandalorians how their plan to drive Concord Dawn into the Neo Death Watch's arms, and how Kitai's longtime friend believed the Jedi helped Boba Fett's agents, it was an unsettling prospect for the Sith Lady to swallow. Knowing how deep the animosity between Jedi and Mandalorians lie, and that the Neo Death Watch's ties with the Sith was now exposed, it was a setback Lord Krayt would be most displeased to hear.

And almost as troubling was how recklessly Rhal and his daughter had performed, along with how the latter had been killed by Akku Seii II in retribution for her father betraying his company and family nearly twenty years ago. It seemed the Sith were not the only group with a penchant for amoral betrayals of their own. The commander would have to be watched and carefully evaluated before he was given a command of any significance again.

Even more displeasing to Kitai was when Mirta reported on how Ben, her former and only true love, had helped the Fett loyalists in undoing the One Sith's schemes. It seemed his lust for vengeance against her still drove him onward, and he wouldn't stop until either of them was dead or captured, and that inevitability drove another terrible shard into the Sith Lady's heart. If only Kitai could draw Ben into the Dark Side, then they wouldn't have to be enemies anymore and could enjoy each other's company to the fullest, maybe even start a family of their own together. But that was an impossible prospect, just as much as it would be for her to be a Jedi after her treachery against his family and the Order at the height of Abeloth's terror campaign.

Such a heartbreaking inevitability hurt Kitai far more than she cared to admit, more than every other loss she had suffered in her twenty-eight years of living in this broken galaxy. Her parents, her best friend, all the comrades and followers of hers that were killed in one way or another, all those losses threatened to consume her. But she would not let the pain define or control her, but instead use it to push her further in ensuring that their legacies were carried out and all their sacrifices were honored. It was the least she could do to honor their will and resolve.

And yet, out of all the losses, all the deaths Kitai had wrought, she still mourned the worst of them all, the abandonment of Ben and his unconditional love, turning him into her greatest enemy and object of misery. Sure, Ship might remind her to use the pain to fuel her power in the Dark Side, but it was still more difficult to do than was advertised. Even more distressing, a small remnant of her being still yearned for Ben's love and to atone for her many dark acts, a tiny spark of light and regret that refused to be snuffed out, no matter what she did to try and banish or eradicate it.

Well, Kitai knew that once she killed Ben, she would finally be free of these doubts and self-loathing and be able to fully commit herself to the Dark Side again. Then, and only then, would she be able to be worthy of the trust and rank Lord Krayt and the One Sith had placed in her. And speaking of the One Sith, she had to inform Lord Wyyrlok of this setback in the Neo Death Watch's war, and the possibility of an eventual Jedi-Mandalorian Protectors alliance. That would be a prospect no one on the Sith's side of this war ever wanted to see.

Kelona 33rd, 56 ABY

Above the World of Vorpa'ya

Aboard the Seeker

"I never thought I'd say this about Jedi, but you all fought like true Mandos back on Concord Dawn." Jaing commended the six fighters above the dusty and overgrazed world within Mandalorian Space. Turning at Kix, Ben, and Edaan, he especially complimented them, "It's good to know that the Jedi are learning from their mistakes and accepting help from more walks of life."

After smoothing matters over with Fett and his inner circle on their circumventing his orders about involving the Jedi on this mission, the old mercenary had received authorization to trade all their accumulated intelligence with the Order on the Sith and Neo Death Watch in exchange for favors in arming the Mandalorian Protectors for their civil war. A difficult deal to iron out, but Jaing and Akku were nothing if not persistent and smart negotiators with anyone they worked with.

Adding a teasing glance at Allana, Jaing teased the Hapan heiress, "And I never thought I'd see a Jedi princess prove herself on the battlefield, but am I glad to be wrong there." Seeing the icy smile the Chume'da gave, no doubt glad to be rid of her Mandalorian rival for Edaan's affections, Jaing only laughed at the teenager's rare breach of royal and Jedi etiquette.

Now turning to Kix, Jaing offered, "If you ever want a new line of work or want to see a slice of life outside GA territory, let me know and I'll give you a tour of your old roots."

Grateful for the gesture, Kix promised, "I'll keep that in mind. But I've got my own commitments to honor right now."

Glancing at Edaan, having been told of his personal mission by Akku before this whole mad mess began, Jaing acknowledged, "Well, at least you're able to choose your friends wisely, even if some of them are stuck-up and crazy Jedi. But you let me know if you ever decide to change your mind."

"Well, as fun as this little adventure was, we'd best get going." Octa cordially interjected. "We've got reports to make and many more missions to take part in. But it's been a pleasure working with you all."

"Likewise." Akku gratefully acknowledged before asking, "But if it's all right with you, I'd like a few minutes with Jedi Palpatine and Skywalker before you all return to Shedu Maad. I have a few things to say and a bunch of goodbyes to make, and I'm sure Jaing would enjoy a few more words with Kix before we return to the war."

Glancing at Ben, who offered a noncommitting shrug, Octa allowed, "Very well. We'll be aboard the Raptor. Just don't take too long. We want to be out of here before any enemies risk discovering us."

"We'll be quick." Jaing promised before the three Jedi women left for their ship, Allana sparing Edaan a knowing glance, one that the Null ARC easily discerned, surprising him at how the Palpatine Jedi trusted such an avowed opponent of the Sith and would support the redemption of a nefarious Sith Lady.

Once the five men were left alone, Jaing offered, "Come on, Kix. I got a few little gifts for you. Figured that since you're going to be fighting on the front lines again in a couple years or so, you ought to have the best tools and equipment possible for an old war veteran like you."

With Jaing taking Kix away to get his surprise, Akku noted Edaan fidgeting a bit over his close proximity with Ben, and knew this next conversation was going to be especially awkward.

Deciding to get right to the point, the Anzati bluntly told his friend, "Calm yourself, Edaan. I think Master Skywalker already has a good idea of your goals and is mature enough to hear us out without your fear overwhelm your courage. And I already spoke with Jaing and a few members of Clan Skirata, and they've agreed to help you when you're ready to go after Vestara Khai."

Looking as if he could have a stroke, Edaan panickily glanced at Ben, who only had a solemn expression on his face as he sighed, "So, it's as I figured, then." Turning to stare at the Jedi Apprentice, he summed up, "You're going to pick up where I left off and try to save Vestara from her darkness."

"Yes." Edaan anxiously whispered, voice rising a modicum while continuing, "I know you hate her, but I have my reasons for trying to save her, reasons I doubt you could understand. And unlike you, I'm not going to give up on her and leave her to face damnation for her choices. Not without giving it my all."

"Calm yourself, Edaan." Ben gently urged him, sympathetically going on, "I'm not mad or disappointed in you. I understand where you're coming from, I truly do. It was Vestara who encouraged you to become a Jedi when you left your family on Coruscant, and that promise kept you going after all the tragedies you suffered. And unlike me, you didn't let the pain control you and fill you up with hate, but used it as sheer resolve to push yourself to be the best you could be in preparing yourself for when you start your quest."

"How did you… Your father told you about this, didn't you?" Edaan warily guessed. Remembering how he spoke with Luke Skywalker over a year ago on Tatooine about his goals, and how he confided in the Jedi Master of his long-suppressed bitterness and resentment for the Skywalker family, it brought back a surge of illness into the Apprentice's stomach from all the strong emotions he tried to release. But even though he urged the Skywalker elder to keep quiet, he never got an assurance from him. A mistake he should have accounted for long ago.

"I asked him about it after your seminar on Tatooine last year, yes, but Akku first clued me in after we liberated Zygerria, and I kept an eye on you afterwards. In hindsight, it was painfully obvious if I looked deep enough. I have to give you credit for concealing your goals for so long." Ben casually admitted.

Feeling betrayed by his longtime friend, Edaan angrily glared at Akku, who only shrugged before acknowledging, "You have just cause to be angry with me if you wish, my friend. But know that I only did it to get Ben to see the folly of his hatred for Vestara, and to have the two of you work together in your shared goal when the time comes."

"Right now, Vestara is committing countless atrocities for the One Sith, and is driven by anger, loneliness, and bitterness. It would be a miracle if she could return to the Light and atone for her sins, but that is what you two have been known to do in your many years of service to the Jedi Order." Akku knowingly gestured to Ben and Edaan. "Unfortunately, with all the animosity between you both, that prospect is looking increasingly dim, which is why I decided to intervene in a constructive manner."

"Edaan, just try to hear me out." Ben implored Edaan, catching his attention, "I understand why you're disappointed and disheartened with me. Truth be told, I'd be incensed with myself if I saw how angry and embittered as I was over the last eleven years. I let the pain define me and harden my heart in ways that betray myself and all I adhere to. It also colored my perception of you and countless others and made me go against my very nature."

"But I was wrong, about so many things. I'm now beginning to see how mature, strong, level-headed, and wise you are becoming. And you might be able to one day lead the Jedi Order into a new era of peace and stability, a role I'd be honored to help you attain."

Gazing at Ben as if the Jedi Master had lost his mind, Edaan carefully answered back, "Well, as flattering as your assessment is, seeking the position of Grand Master isn't something I'm interested in for a long time. But I can concur with you on how my own perception of you was marred by your vendetta, and we can both work to help one another in our shared goal when all is said and done."

Nodding with a renewed sense of hope, Ben approvingly noted, "Then I hope we can work together in the coming months. I daresay this alliance will be of immense benefit for all the free galaxy and those awaiting deliverance from evil."

"Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Master Skywalker." Edaan cautioned. "It'll take time for us to grow accustomed to the other, and we'll need to coordinate our efforts alongside those of the rest of the Order." Pausing, his eyes appearing icy cold, he animatingly warned, "But let me make one thing clear. If this is a ruse or paltry attempt to co-opt my network of contacts, friends, and favors for some other cause, then I won't be forgiving. I will make you regret the day you ever betrayed me, and make sure you pay the price for your hypocrisy and lies."

Starting to see just how deep Edaan's fears and anger ran within his soul, and how many naysayers feared him as the possible second coming of Darth Sidious, Ben humbly agreed, "I'll keep that in mind."

Calming himself down, Edaan nodded and bowed before Akku, earning a genuine and loud chuckle from the Mandalorian before acknowledging, "Who would've thought that a few Jedi, two Mandalorians, and a Clone Trooper, six among us of distinguished or notorious bloodlines, would fight alongside each other and forge a lasting bond of friendship and camaraderie. It sounds like the punchline of a bad joke."

"Hopefully we can build upon it into something lasting for both our peoples." Edaan wistfully noted, nostalgically adding, "It's strange. Ten years ago, if someone told me we'd be good friends and fighting as equals and friends in the shared cause of freedom, I'd probably die from the laughter alone. But now, here we are, and we're making a positive difference for Mandalorian and Jedi alike. Perhaps the Force or whatever higher power exists does have a sense of humor after all."

"If the Force truly has a will, let's hope it's good for us." Ben anxiously added, conversation stopping after Jaing appeared, with Kix hoisting a moderately-sized crate on his back.

Jaing, expecting a barrage of questions, quickly answered, "I gave Kix several experimental medical supplies for his clinic, and a few armaments and schematics for the Galactic Alliance Security's police units to bolster its forces. And I gave him the name of a GAR Republic-era military collector who's a good contact of mine, who can give him a gift and set him up with a few martial arts trainers to prepare for his mad upcoming mission with Jedi Palpatine. If he's going back into war, he'll need more than his old army training to keep him alive against the vast arrays of enemies you're all up against."

'Yet another break in the darkness for this insane galaxy.' Edaan marveled, offering to help Kix carry the crate as the three non-Mandalorians departed the gunship. But before he finished leaving, he called out to Akku, "Make sure to give all your people my regards and apologies for not saying goodbye in person."

"I'll make sure Shara especially hears that." Akku joked, earning a laugh out of Edaan at how it would get under her skin, even as he inwardly sighed at the reminder of his single status.

Although Edaan had many women fawning over him, from civilians to soldiers and even Jedi, he had not yet found a woman that made his own heart swoon. Being so driven in his mission and becoming a great Jedi left him rather inexperienced in many matters of the heart and of the opposite sex. A shame he didn't have someone to help him with his soul's deepest and heaviest burdens, but he knew the right girl was out there. He just needed to find her and win her heart when he met her.

Of course, all that was secondary for Edaan when compared to saving Vestara and half the known galaxy, but it never hurt to have a yearning for romance and that special woman in his life.

Well, I'd say this is a satisfactory piece in the interlude of Akku Seii II. What did you all think? Was it detailed and insightful enough into the overall story, and possible insights into future elements of my story? I hope you all enjoy, as I only have eight more chapters to write in this story before I take a small break and reassess my position. And I plan to end this story with plenty of suspense and having you all beg for more. At least, that's the plan. So, how are you all doing on this warm and hot night of Monday, July 17, 2023? I'm well, if a bit tired from work and writing today. I think I'll take a little break to read more of the book on how J.R.R. Tolkien wrote The Hobbit, and then get started on a few different books. Well, I'd best get this chapter squared away, as I plan to publish it in a couple days after giving it a look over and publish the two chapters that precede this one. I hope you all have a blessed night, and May God be with us all in these dark and perilous times.