Trust broken, after the battle Weyland General Smith and the 123rd return to Coruscant for the trial of Admiral Tuck who abandoned them during the battle….
Brian walked up the steps in the senate building after landing his speeder, he was early for his appointment with Chancellor Palpatine but he lived by the saying better early than late. As the automatic doors opened he took his helmet off and clipped it to his belt and began walking through the senate halls towards the lift to get to the chancellor's office, as he did he passed several senators including one Senator Chuchi of Pantora who was speaking with several senators, she was just as ambitious as they day he first met her.
4 years ago
A somewhat younger Brian wearing fresh Jedi robes and cloak walked through the senate halls a datapad in hand trying to decipher the Aurebesh writing written on signs for directions, he turned examined one sign while glancing at the datapad and then looked at another not finding the right one. As he attempted to read another sign a voice behind him called out,
"Master Jedi….. Master Jedi are you alright?" the voice said with an accent, Brian turned and was met with the sight of a younger and very beautiful senator, she was smiling and her golden eyes glistening.
"Master Jedi, do you need help with something?" She asked again as Brian somewhat shook his head to get out of the daze he was in.
"Its padawan Ma'am and yes, unfortunately I'm not very good with Aurebesh and can't seem to find my way, I need to get to a hearing with some senators but can't find my way, its supposed to be the Ilium room."
"Oh well I'm going that way here I will show you." the lady said as Brian began to follow her "Im Ryio, Senator Riyo Chuchi of Pantora, and you are?"
"Padawan Smith ma'am, Brian Smith, representing earth." Brian said as they shook hands
"I haven't heard of your planet, where exactly is it located?"
"In the Far outer rim, but we haven't had any republic contact so thus no Aurebesh." Brian said as he continued to walk with her. "It seems to make getting around and even reading very difficult."
"I can't understand, most of the symbols look the same but have totally different meanings. How long have you been a Jedi?" she asked
"A couple months now, my master found me and took me in, on the condition that I represent my planet that is…. I don't know what I'm going to do if I can't even read the damn language." Brian said getting upset
"It will just take time, if you ever need help, if I am here in the senate I can help you, I myself am new to the senate and have much to learn." she said with a small smile that Brian returned.
"I would appreciate that, thank you Ma'am."
For the next several months Brian made it a habit of coming to the senate and with Riyos help quickly learned Aurebesh as well as huttese and several other languages . Him and Riyo became very good friends having discovered they both have a searing passion to protect as well as help anyone in need. They continued to be close, even as the war started Brian would try to regularly see his friend and check up on her whenever possible
Now Brian was Happy to see his old friend again as it had been too long.
"Are you saying you do not agree more clones are needed?" a senator asked Chuchi
"I am not saying that, what I am saying is that as more of our troops flood the battlefield the more we need to make sure that we can care and support them after the war. I am working on a bill that will allow more clones as well as help us start to prepare for the end of the war." Chuchi said
"I believe we should save that until after the war, those funds should be used to further the war effort to defeat the separatist. The current bill on the floor is what is needed to win the war senator." the Senator said as he and the rest of the crowd turned and walked away, Chuchi let out a Sigh as Brian walked up a little closer.
"Tough crowd today, senators, don't take it personal." Brian said as she turned and her face lit up
"Master Jedi I haven't seen you in so long, I am glad to see you safe." Chuchi said with a smile on her face as she gave Brian a hug.
"Oh I'm no master yet, but I am glad to see you safe as well senator, I see that the fighting continues to be up hill." Brian said as he and Chuchi began to walk down the hallway
"Yes, unfortunately most senators do not share my views, the ones that do like myself are stuck watching everything unfold." Chuchi said, "What brings you to the senate building?"
"I have to speak with the Chancellor, during our last battle we were betrayed and the betrayal needs to be dealt with."
"What exactly happened?"
"I can't go into specific details but let's just say I will be in need of a new Admiral for my fleet." Brian said
"I am sorry to hear that, but if you do indeed need a new Admiral, maybe I can be of help."
"And how is that Riyo?"
"I know a naval Captain that is currently up for a promotion, she has served with distinction and has been in command of the small group of ships that have been protecting Pantora. I have been trying for months now to get her promoted but I have been unable to really speak to the Chancellor on the matter, it also doesn't help that she isn't a human as human officers seem to be promoted more often than those that aren't. I know you don't share such sentiment, maybe you can present it to the Chancellor." Chuchi said as she looked up at Brian
"I am more than happy to do that Riyo, do you have a file on this Captain?"
"I do, it's here in my office up ahead." She said as they walked a bit further into Riyos senatorial office. She swiftly walked over to her desk and within a few moments produced a data pad that she gave to Brian.
"Here this has her service record on it as well as a promotion recommendation by myself, the Chairman of Pantora and several other senators." Chuchi said
"I will give this to the Chancellor for you Riyo, again I am very glad to see you." Brian said as he set down the pad and his helmet and gave Riyo a hug which she returned "your my oldest friend here I will do anything to help a friend of yours chuckles we have come a long way from being 2 young representatives not knowing what we are doing." Brian said as he let go of the hug and both of them smiled at each other.
"Well I have to get going, don't want to be late, I will see you before I leave today. The 123rd is back on Coruscant for the time being to rearm and supply." Brian said as he reclipped his helmet and grabbed the data pad and then walked out the door.
As Brian exited the lift he saw 5 shock troopers standing in the room, 4 in the usual guard positions and then Commander Fox standing towards the door pacing. Brian walked up and Fox stood at attention and saluted.
"General Sir." Fox said as Brian saluted him
"How are you Commander?"
"Doing fine sir just fine. The Chancellor is waiting for you sir," Fox said, both then walked in as the automatic door opened, Brian found before him sat the Chancellor then stood his advisor and next to him was Tuck who was wearing a crisp uniform, when Brian stood directly in front of the Chancellors desk he stood at attention and saluted.
"At ease General, So I have heard the testimony of several officers including Admiral Yularen and even Master Kenobi and Skywalker but I wanted to hear from you as well before reaching a final decision." Chancellor Palpatine said
"Sir as you know we were dispatched to the planet to help the late Master Delba, when we arrived the rebels had turned and were siding with the government of the planet, they ambushed us and forced us to were the last of the friendly forces were, when we arrived we assessed the situation and attempted to reach Admiral Tuck but were unable, a trooper tried the hi power transmitter to try to cut through any attempt to block the signal and another trooper looked above via binoculars, we found the small remainder of Master Delbas fleet fighting the separatist fleet but our fleet was gone. Chancellor he abandoned myself and my men leaving us unprepared for the onslaught of the enemy, my suggestion has been the same since Weyland, a full court martial for Admiral Tuck sir." Brian said
"I understand why you wish for that, General Smith; however Admiral Tuck was following my orders to retreat, my personal informants had told me it was a lost cause on the planet's surface and thus I ordered a retreat, because of this I will deduct Admiral Tuck to Commodore and put a letter of reprimand in his permanent file." Chancellor Palaptine said
"Sir with respect if your personal informants told you that I would replace them as they gave you inadequate information. As for Tuck I am fine with the demotion however in light of everything I cannot accept Tuck coming back to the 123rd, even with him following your orders he gave us no time to withdraw and abandoned us, thus has lost my faith and my trust."
"General I understand your sentiment but in this time of war we do not have the luxury of faith and trust, good officers are hard to find and finding a replacement officer for you will take more time than its worth." the chancellors advisor said
"I agree with my Vizier, we have no one who is able or even ready to be promoted who would be able to replace Admiral Tuck at this time."
"There is Chancellor." Brian said as he set the datapad on the Chancellor's desk "This Captain has great military expertise and currently commands the small detachment of ships guarding Pantora, Senator Chuchi as well as Chairman Papanoida and several other senators have recommended Her to be promoted, I would be willing to have her on as Admiral or Commodore for the 123rd." Brian said.
Chancellor Palpatine took the datapad and started reading the info quickly
"I will take some time to think this over and look at all the information General, but even if we do promote her it will be some time before she would be promoted as there are procedures that must be taken."
"I am perfectly fine with that Sir, Captain Peda is more than capable until everything is finalized."
"Very well then, I will have the process started for her to be promoted, Commodore Tuck you will be assigned here on coruscant. General Smith thank you for your time." Chancellor Palpatine said as Brian stood and saluted then walked out.
Brian walked back down the hall of the senate building, many senators walking either way paid no mind to him but the shock troopers nodded at him. Brian walked into Senator Chuchis' Senatorial room and found her sitting behind her desk with several datapads strewn about the desk.
"I'm gone for 30 minutes tops and your desk is a mess already." Brian said jokingly as he set his helmet on a table and walked over sitting on the edge of her desk, she didn't respond instead had her head still resting on her hand deeply enthralled with her data pad and a look of shock and horror on her face. "You ok Riyo?" Brian asked as he placed a hand on her shoulder which seemed to bring her out of her state.
"Yes… sorry just a transmission from my parents has left me rather shocked is all, how did the meeting go?"
"She is getting the promotion, chancellor signed off on it."
"Really?!" she said standing up
"Really really." Brian said and again he got a massive hug from Chuchi who was now all giddy
"Oh this is so exciting she will be so happy to hear about it, when will she be told?"
"That I don't know, there are procedures that have to be met according to the chancellor, but hopefully soon. I'm glad I could make your day better again but what caused it to go sour in 30 minutes?"
"My parents are arriving today from Pantora and want to see me." Chuchi said as she sat down and began to clean her desk of the clutter.
"Dinar and Assa are coming? Usually when your parents are coming you're upbeat and excited. Why aren't you now?" Brian asked handing her some of the datapads that she took
"It's discussing suitors…" Chuchi said almost embarrassed
"Suitors? You're only 22. Why would that be at the front of their mind?" Brian asked shocked
"In pantoran culture it is against tradition for females to not be betrothed or married before they are 25, once they are past that age it becomes highly unusual and they become outcasts." Chuchi said in a somber tone as she neatly put the data pads in the drawer.
"But again you're only 22, several years away from being 25 and a senator at that. Why aren't they waiting until you're closer in age?"
"My parents are… impatient, my sisters already have given them 4 grandchildren and as the youngest they say it's my turn as well although I have more pressing matters here than to give them grandchildren." Chuchi said as she sat back in her seat. Brian thought for a moment and then as if a light bulb had gone off Brian's face lit up.
"How about I accompany you to see your parents tonight."
"Why?" She asked suspiciously
"Its been forever since I last saw your parents, like 2 years, I would love to catch up with them and maybe talk some sense into them seeing as I'm your oldest friend."
"You are not my oldest friend."
"That's what you say but your family says differently. Think of it as a Jedi escort into a hostile situation." Brian said somewhat chuckling
"Well my Jedi friend, I am glad for your help… Thank you."
"Of course Riyo what else are friends for…. What time am I picking you up?"
"They are meeting me at 7 at The Pinnacle, it's just opened recently."
"I have heard of it, great things but pricey for my taste." Brian said, sliding off the desk grabbing his helmet "I will see you there my friend lets hope for a…..well…. Happy evening." Brian said as he slightly bowed and then stepped out of the room causing Chuchi to smirk and roll her eyes.
Brian walked with a brisker pace down the halls of the senate as he headed towards the landing platforms. He nodded at the several senators who noticed him and the troopers as well until he made it to the landing pad and climbed in his speeder and headed off towards the Republic Military building that was freshly finished. He landed his speeder and disembarked walking briskly past the memorial and into the building, as he did he made his way to the quarters the 123rd was assigned to, were he found majority of the men in a circle around some troopers of the 123rd, 101st and 115th all playing a game of sabacc.
"Jex if we lose I swear I will stuff you in a fresher for a day straight." lip said as he shuffled the cards in his hands
"Getting a little antsy there boys you can call it quits if you want?" Getta said looking determined
"Not in your life Jesse, we are winning this one today." Canvas said
"Alright boys, show em." Getta said as they all put their cards down for all to see, Canvas was the first to grimace as he realized he had lost. Then came lip but Getta looked triumphant "Ha HA I have an array I win."
"Not so fast Getta , Jex has an idiot's array." Canvas says motioning to Jex's cards
"That's not Kriffing possible, how?" Getta asked in disbelief
"It's called luck Getta, try getting some." Jex said smiling
"Alright reshuffle lets play again, Canvas you deal this time." Getta says as Canvas shuffles the cards
Brian smiled and then walked out of the barracks to his personal quarters. He took the next couple hours filling out reports, checking invoices, signing invoices for replacements and trying to get his hands on more munitions. The time crawled closer and closer to 7 but when it clock showed 6 Brian got ready dressing himself in his U.S. Army mess dress uniform, making sure his jump boots are polished perfectly and there are no imperfections. After making sure it was perfect he grabbed his cover and set out, walking down the hall he got some looks from troopers of other divisions but once again stopped by the 123rds barracks to check on the men, upon entering he found the entire 123rd, 101st and 115th squeezed inside the barracks watching the Sabacc game.
"What in the hell did I miss?"
"Stakes are at an all time high, credits have actually been put in the pot as well as extra firepatrol and watches." a trooper said not taking his eyes off the game. Brian eyed the crowd and found the trooper he was looking for, skating his way around the edge and Thorner, Slayer and Rocket watching the game.
"Who do you think will win?"
"Gretta is on a roll but Canvas is trailing him, at this rate they both could win." Thorner says.
"Well handle things here, I'm having dinner with Senator Chuchi tonight but I will be back before long." Brian said as he stood up and walked out, the troopers never taking their eyes off the game.
Brian boarded his speeder and put his cap on the passenger seat taking off, he followed the traffic as he went from the military district towards the senate buildings, he stopped and parked his speeder out front of Senator Chuchis apartment. He exited and was met by a Pantoran guard.
"General Smith to escort Senator Chuchi."
"Come in General, the Senator is expecting you." The guard said as they both walked inside, a servant droid met Brian and offered him a drink which he refused and stood waiting for her while the guard continued his rounds. Not too long after Senator Chuchi emerged from her room, she wore a somewhat tight fitting Maroon dress with some gold stripes on the dress, her hair was loose and flowing behind her and on her shoulders, bright pink lipstick on her lips as well and her check with the gold markings seemed to sparkle like stars. Brian stood there for a moment, his mouth somewhat open in awe at her beauty.
"Riyo you…you're gorgeous." Brian said, stepping forward and kissing the top of her hand "I like it."
"Thank you Brian, I don't usually dress up like this but I thought a change of pace would make me feel better."
"Riyo you always look stunning whether you're wearing what you always do or this…..to be honest it feels like you're trying to impress someone." Brian said, wearing a smirk as he put his arm out which Riyo took.
"No, not that at all, I just wanted to try something different." She said as Brian helped her into the speeder
"You wouldn't mind holding my cover would you? Unfortunately there isn't much storage space."
"Of course." she said, taking Brian's cover and then he quickly entered the speeder and they took off. As Brian stayed with the traffic he would look over at Riyo, her hair flowed in wind of the open top speeder. Brian found it hard to believe that a friend of his could be so beautiful but smiled as he was happy about it. Brian pulled up to the front of the restaurant, the valet met Brian at the drivers side and took his name then Brian helped Riyo out of the speeder, putting his cover on and escorted her inside. When they entered the restaurant it was a bustle of activity as waitress droids moved quickly with the food, the sound of hushed talking was evident and music could be heard being played.
"Do you have a reservation?" the Droid at the desk asked
"Yes, 4 for Chuchi." Riyo said as the droid quickly found the reservation and escorted them to the table, the table was situated towards the back away from the regular customers, Brian did a quick look around and saw at least 20 different senators, some with women or men that were not their husband or wifes. When they got to the table Brian pulled the chair out for Riyo and she sat then he sat next to her putting his cover on the table next to him.
"This place is amazing isn't it?" Riyo said as she looked around.
"Yes I like the aesthetic, it almost reminds me of home." Brian said as he opened the menu, Aurebesh had been difficult to learn at first but after a year it was pretty easy to decipher, almost as good as English lettering. "What are you feeling tonight?"
"I have been told the Roasted Porg is what I need to try however I haven't decided yet what I want to eat. What about you?"
"Probably the Alsass noodles with red sauce, reminds me of my favorite food from back home." Brian said as he skimmed the top of the menu he saw 2 older Pantorans being guided toward the table.
"Diner, Assa, it is so great to see you again." Brian said standing up as Riyo did the same
"Commander Smith I am glad to see you are well, it is likewise to see you again, Assa and I were just talking about you. Daughter it is nice to see you well as well" Diner said as Riyo bowed slightly
"I am glad the trip went well for you father, I always worry that something might happen." Riyo said as Brian pulled the chair out for Assa and both her and Diner sat down
"I appreciate you being so formal sir but please your family, I will say it again, call me Brian, plus I got a promotion to general recently."
"Then congratulations are in order, we pray for your safety as we do our daughter." Assa said
"And I appreciate that, it's been far too long since we have all sat down like this."
"Far too long." Riyo said in agreement as a server droid came over
"Can we get started for you all."
"I would like the seared bantha, medium rare, with a side of the steamed Alderaan mix with a Wine to drink." Diner said
"I would like the smoke Porg please with the same side and we will share the win." Assa said
"The roasted Porg for me please a side of the chopped salad and I will also share the win." Chuchi said
"I would like the Alsass noodles with red sauce please and a Ardees to drink please."
"A few moments please and your order will be with you." the server droid said walking off
"So father how are Kessa and Liyis?" Riyo asked as the droid brought the wine and glasses then poured the wine.
"Your sisters are very well, Liyis has made superintendent of the local school while Kessa is now heading a farming committee."
"I am glad to hear that, I miss them dearly." Riyo said then sipped her wine
"Yes the grandchildren are old enough now where they are becoming a handful for your mother and I but we still enjoy them and the time that we have." Diner said as he drank some of the wine.
"Your father and I are so proud of your achievements Riyo, you are a shining light on Pantora. The Chairman wants to express his thanks as well." Assa said
"I appreciate that, thank you very much mother, I strive to make the galaxy a better place for everyone not just Pantorans."
"We are always glad to hear that Riyo, where has this war been bringing you general?" Diner asked again drinking some of the wine
"A little of everywhere, some weeks I'm in the midrim, some weeks I'm in the outer rim, and some weeks I'm guarding transports to supply the planets of the Republic." Brian said
"We heard you were a part of the invasion on Geonosis, but didn't see anything officially." Assa said
"I was there, although we were not a part of the main force, we took over a different objective then reinforced them and then immediately were re-deployed across the galaxy."
"Going anywhere and everywhere must take a toll on you." Diner said
"It does but having friends that care as well as my men helps reenergize me." Brian says looking at Riyo for a second and smiling then taking a drink of his Ardees as Riyo drank some of her wine.
"So when can we make the announcement on your marriage?" Assa asked with a smile, the question caused Brian to start choking and coughing on his drink and almost made Riyo spit her wine out.
"MOTHER!" Riyo said embarrassed and shocked, her face flushing purple as Brian continued to cough his face a bright red.
"Well it's an obvious question, you too seem to be enthralled with each other we figured it was time it became official." Assa said as Brian stopped coughing and cleared his throat.
"Diner, Assa, I respect you both so much but you forget, I'm still a Jedi meaning I can't exactly get married as attachments are forbidden."
"Well if you won't then we will have to find you a suitor Riyo, you know the traditions."
"I do father, but I am only 22. I still have just over 2 years until I turn 25. That is plenty of time to find a suitor, I must continue my work here in the senate without worrying about who I need to marry." Riyo said
"Riyo we are just trying to prepare you, they can always come see you on your time off and you pick the one you like the most." Assa said
"There isn't much free time at all, I understand why you are worried but I promise you both I will find someone." Riyo said. As the 3 conversed Brian had been thinking and finally spoke of what he was thinking.
"How about a compromise." Brian said drawing the attention of the 3 "I Riyo does not find a suitor before she is 25 I will marry her, that way she isn't technically betrothed and if she finds someone she does but if she doesn't I will marry her, best of both worlds."
The statement made the 3 just blink as they processed the information
"What about the Code?" Diner asked
"If the Jedi wont accept my decision at that time I will leave, my position in the military is secured so I will continue that." Brian said
"Riyo, is this agreeable to you?" Assa asked, Riyo seemed to think for a moment
"Yes, although I do not want to ruin this friendship, I think it is the best course of action." Riyo said
"Good, I believe you will be a wonderful son in law." Diner says as he raises his glass, the food then being brought to the table "now let us feast."
The ride back to Riyos apartment was more tense, the subject of the dinner having made them both tense, Riyo was as far over on her seat, resting her arm on the window lip of the speeder, Brian's cover in her lap again.
Brian pulled his speeder to her apartment and opened the door and helped her out, putting his cover on the seat before closing the door. Brian turned to see Riyo walk up the steps into her apartment.
"Riyo I….I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make our friendship awkward, you're my best friend, I have known you longer than the men under my command and I will always value you. I was just trying to find a solution to help because like you I like helping people and…. I'm just sorry Riyo." Brian said, his tone sounding defeated.
"You don't need to be sorry Brian, I appreciate you doing what you did, I promise you I am not upset at you." Riyo said turning to him "come on inside I believe there is a lot we need to discuss." Riyo said as she walked inside.
Brian grabbed his cover and quickly followed after her
"Please see to it that General Smith's speeder is parked safely." Riyo said
"Yes madam, is there anything else?" the guard asked
"I will not need to be guarded tonight, I will see you in the morning."
"Yes madam." The guard said as he exited and drove the speeder off. Riyo then turned to the service droid
"Please go to your charging station and shut down for the night." Riyo said as the droid bowed and walked away and she turned to Brian
"You can take your jacket off Brian, set it here if you want. Please excuse me I must get changed" Ryio said motioning towards the chair in front of her as she walked away
Brian took his jacket off as well as the bow tie letting the bowtie hang on his neck as he loosened the collar, he had spent a lot of time here with Riyo before the war helping her prepare for senate committees and briefings and holding her when it got rough and she needed a shoulder to cry on.
How times have changed Brian thought as he poured a glass of redfuel and then sat down on the couch taking a swig laying his head back to relax. He heard Riyo coming from her room and lifted his head to see her walking sheepishly towards him, her cheeks still sparkling but most of the makeup gone but flushed a deep purple, her hair now in a tight bun wearing a light nightwear. Brian started to get up but she put a soft hand to his chest.
"Stay, would you like another drink?" She asked, eyeing Brian's empty glass.
"Yes please." Brian said, she got up and refilled his glass and filled hers, her shaking hands making the glass clink together.
"Riyo, are you ok?"
She walked over to the wall pressing a button that closed the blinds to the room and sat next to Brian handing him his drink and taking a swig of hers
"Yes I am fine, the conversation from tonight has just made me nervous."
"I understand, believe me I'm nervous too, but know whatever happens I will always be your friend Riyo, you are so important to me." Brian said, taking a swig looking into her eyes, the gold in them shining bright.
"And you are my most important friend and confidant, you have helped me through some of the toughest times and I'm glad to have you as a friend." she said taking a swig of her drink
"So if we do get married, what ring would you get me?" Riyo asked with a mischievous grin as she scooted closer to Brian
"Oh, well, uhm, I would probably try to find you a kyber crystal and have it forged into a diamond shape, hopefully it's purple to match your skin." Brian said as she inched closer "the ring itself would be made of gold, the same color as your eyes."
Riyo was sitting directly next to Brian, her thigh pressed against his as she sipped on her drink listening to him explain the details of the ring until her drink was gone. She then reached across Brian and set her glass on the end table. Brian had finished his explanation and turned his head away from her to down most of his drink, his face turning bright red.
"Sounds lovely, a ring like that I would be happy to wear… you know there is something that I have wanted to do for a little bit but have been scared to do." Riyo said as she sat on her legs in a kneeling position on the couch.
"And what's that?" Brian said setting his empty glass down and turning towards her
"This." she said as she lunged towards Brian, her arms wrapping around his neck as her lips met his lips. Brian became rigid out of panic and shock but then the warmth of the kiss overpowered him as he closed his eyes and kissed back, feeling her soft lips against his lips. Brian wrapped his arms around her as the kiss became more and more intimate as Riyo sat on Brian's lap as their tongues started exploring each other's mouths, when they parted to breathe their foreheads touching as their mouths are inches apart as they breathe heavily.
"I worry every time there is a new report your name will be on the list of the dead, I have always been worried I wouldn't do what I have wanted to if you died, if you never come back….. I want one night with you, whether I find someone or not I want you tonight." Riyo said between breathes her handles cupping his face as his cupped hers
"Riyo ... .I" Brian started but a finger to his lips shut him up.
"I know but don't worry we will still be best friends and more, if you want." Riyo said as their mouths collided again, Brian felt through the force what she wanted as they got more heated, he pressed kisses down her cheek and her neck, nibbling along the way causing her to gasp and dig her nails into his back. He put his hand under her rump and supported her as he stood up the 2 continuing to make out as both started nibbling and leaving marks as Brian entered the bedroom and the door closed behind him.
Brian opened his eyes slowly to find the orange light of an early morning sun starting to creep in through the top of the blinds in the bedroom. He blinked several times slowly as he got his bearings and remembered the long night he had, he smirked and looked to his right and found Riyo partially uncovered by the blankets sound asleep, the marks of the passionate night still evident on her below the neck line but when Brian looked down he realized he was worse off with bits and scratches almost everywhere, it looked like he had been in a nasty fight and he felt the pang of pain from every single one. But he gently slid over and pressed a kiss to Riyos head as he gently wrapped his arms around her and covered her in her blanket to her neck.
"Worried about my decency?" she said smirking then opening her eyes
"More of wanting you to be comfortable than anything." Brian said as she rolled over resting on his chest
"I am more than comfortable." she said as she closed her eyes again as did Brian. They both sat there for a moment relishing in the feelings of the night and the after effects it had.
"I'm glad I have a friend like you, and I'm glad we got one night together." Riyo said, Brian could feel her sadness through the force as well as her worry
"Last night you said you were worried that I may never come back, did you mean it?"
"Yes….. I know it's selfish but I'm always worried you will be killed and I won't have a chance to say goodbye." she said as she somewhat pulled herself off Brian who put his arm on her back and pulled her back down causing her to look at him with some confusion
"From now on, whenever we are here I will personally say goodbye to you, I promise." Brian said as Riyo sat up and the 2 shared a kiss again as Brian cupped her cheek with one hand stroking her markings with his thumb.
"You know for being able to be attached you certainly seemed attached." Riyo said with a smirk
"Says the one who attached to me several times last night." Brian said with an eyebrow wiggle and a smirk causing Riyo to laugh. The sound of a comlink going off brought the attention of both of them, they looked and it was Brian's comlink, causing him to get up and answer it
"Brian here" he said laying on the edge of the bed, the rest of him bare.
"General Sir we were getting worried, you had not returned sir as you said you wouldn't be out late." Thorner said over the comlink
"Ah yes well some unforeseen things arose and I was engaged all night." Brian says as Riyo started tracing some of the bite marks on his back causing Brian to get chills
"Understood sir, we were about to dispatch some patrols to try to find you if you didn't answer but I am glad you're alright sir, when will you be back as you're scheduled to pick up a platoon of replacements from Kamino at 1400." Thorner said causing Brian to put his face into his hand and sigh
"Thank you for reminding Thorner, I will return soon."
"Copy that sir Thorner out." Thorner said as the comlink beeped off. Brian tossed it back to the pants that were laying on the floor and laid there for a moment as Riyo laid on top of him
"Leaving so soon?"
"Duty calls as always my dear." Brian said as he turned his head his lips meeting Riyos again as they both laid back onto the bed Brian hovering over Riyo.
"Think we have enough time for one more round?" Riyo said with a glint in her eye
"For you I will make the time." Brian says as their lips meet again and Brian took both of Riyos arms in his hand, pinning them above her head.
Brian Landed the speeder in the parking area and got out grabbing his cover and carrying his jacket on his back as he walked into the building. Arriving at the 123rd section it found it a bustle of activity as troopers were moving all about, some in armor, some in the casual uniform and some in half of their blacks.
"General sir, good to see you." Thorner said, falling behind Brian as he made his way into his room. And started taking his uniform off
"What did I miss?" Brian asked as he started taking his shoes and pants off and Thorner stood in the door.
"Well Jex won the pot, Majority of the men used some passes last night and got entirely too drunk but besides that you didn't miss much." Thorner said, eyeing some marks on Brian's legs and thighs before he slipped on his lower blacks "did I miss something sir?"
"Not at all just a long night with Riyo, haven't seen her in a long time and we talked a lot last night, we both have been missing our friends." Brian said as he started unbuttoning his shirt.
"Where all did yo- FRAG General what the hell happened to you." Thorner said shocked as Brian took his shirt off revealing multiple deep scratch marks, bitemarks and bruises on his back. Throner walked over quickly examining them but Brian quickly put his upper blacks on to cover them. "Sir what happened to you last night?"
"Just dinner and talking." Brian said as he put the dress uniform back in its back and set it in the closet.
"Sir, your back looks like you fought a rancor last night. You need Mac to take a look at the wounds." Thorner said as he pressed some buttons on his comlink
"Heh, you should see my front." Brian said under his breath but Thorner heard and spun around still more shocked
"SIR?!"
"I'm fine, Thorner, I promise." Brian said as he started to kit up
"Sir how…why are there so many bite marks?"
"Muffle a scream." Brian said sheepishly quiet as Thorner stopped pacing in his track as he recounted the burned image of so many bite marks
"Frag general, that's a lot of muffled screams, must have been a pretty interesting lady." Thorner said as Brian finished kitting up and put his pauldron on and his belt with Kama depositing the pistols in the holsters.
"You have no idea." Brian said Grabbing his helmet as they walked out of his quarters, Ness stood at attention by the door. "Ness,Good, you're accompanying me to Kamino to get replacements." Brian said as the 3 now walked in unison towards the landing platform finding a republic transport waiting.
"I will lead the men in training sir, See you tonight." Thorner said saluting and Brian saluted back.
As Ole Faithful exited hyperspace they were met with the site of a republic fleet in defensive formation in front of Kamino.
"Shuttle please identify yourself." a voice said over the intercom
"This is shuttle 262, General Smith arriving to receive replacements for the 123rd legion." Brian said as there was a pause.
"Please transmit clearance codes."
"Transmitting now." Brian said as the pilot transmitted the clearance codes
"Standby." the voice said over a long pause "Shuttle 262 you are clear to land in hanger 7B Commander Colt is awaiting you General." the voice said as Ole Faithful slowly passed a jedi cruiser and entered the atmosphere
As Ole Faithful landed in the landing bay ARC Commander Colt and Blitz stood with a small squad of troopers lined up in parade formation. When the ship had fully landed the ramp extended down allowing Brian and Ness to walk down the ramp, both of them having their helmets tucked under their arms. When Brian and Ness reached the end of the ramp ARC Commander Colt and Blitz both snapped to attention and saluted as the troopers at parade rest snapped to attention behind them, Brian quickly rendered a sharp salute back at the troopers.
"Commander Colt, Blitz, good to see the both of you well." Brian said, shaking Colts hand brotherly.
"You too sir I heard through the grapevine the 332nd was no more but look at you now, a Full General in charge of the 123rd *chuckles* not a commander anymore." Colt said as the 4 started walking towards a hallway to exit the hanger.
"Not anymore Colt and trust me the rank is not all it's said to be. No Lama su?"
"Lama su sends his regards but unfortunately he and General Ti are currently engaged, welcoming General Skywalker and General Kenobi to Kamino." Colt said
"Really Master Kenobi and Skywalker are here as well? How come?"
"Don't know sir but they brought the entire 212th and 501st so whatever it is must be big." Colt said
"Bigger than anything we have seen." Blitz said
"Well whatever it is, I'm sure I'll be here to see it." Brian said somewhat chuckling as the group walked through the halls with the squad of troopers following. "I like the new armor, Experimental?"
"For the time being, the Kaminoans are having us ARCs try the new armor out and see if it fits better than the armor we currently have and I have to say it does fit a lot better." Colt said as they continued to walk
"If it has your seal of approval then they need to start issuing them out standard." Brian said
"So how do you ARCs know General Smith?" Ness asked
"General Smith came and helped train Commando's, ARCs and SF troopers in counter insurgency tactics, guerilla warfare as well as general SF training right after the start of the war, hell all the training the general taught us is still being taught to cadets currently." Colt said
"Really General? You were training troopers here?" Ness asked almost shocked
"Yea I was, during the early months of the war the 332nd was stationed on Coruscant as a secondary guard unit until the Chancellor deemed the blockade around the planet was up to par to transfer us as a Infantry unit. Those first months were boring and coming to train troopers here made the time fly. I was almost too excited when we got reassigned as an infantry unit."
"WHAT'S RULE ONE TROOPERS?!" Colt shouted
"NEVER LEAVE A MAN BEHIND!" Colt, Blitz, the squadron of troopers and Brian all said in unison as Brian smiled.
"Good to know I got that through your hard head Colt." Brian said as Colt stopped in front of a barracks door while Blitz and the other troopers continued.
"The replacements are in here sir, Kilo platoon graduated 2 rotations ago." Colt said
"Thank you Colt." Brian said shaking Colts hand again brotherly
"Anytime Sir." Colt said, giving a sharp salute then donning his helmet and turning to walk away briskly. Brian then turned and entered the room first followed quickly by Ness. As they walked in they found the troopers all closely together there packs all in a giant pile as some were talking while sitting, others standing and some eating ration bars.
"GROUP ATTENTION!" Brian shouted as he and Ness walked briskly towards the group of troopers that all quickly stood and snapped to attention facing Brian and Ness who both stopped in unison in front of the troopers.
"I am Jedi General Smith, I am your Commanding officer. From this moment on you are a part of the 123rd Legion, a multi use legion that fights and WINS anytime and anywhere. You are the new Kilo Platoon of the 4th battalion. Your platoon CO is Lieutenant Ness here, you will report to him and he will report to me, you are joining brothers who have fought side by side since the beginning of the war, you will 100% need to prove to them that you belong in the 123rd. We leave the planet side in 24hrs to return to the fleet until then you will study the information that has been sent to your comlinks, it is our troop and group structure as well as our battle plans, hand signals and other material that will keep you alive. If you have any questions you may ask LT Ness or myself. Dismissed." Brian said as the troopers saluted sharply and Brian saluted back. Suddenly building shook, the lights stayed on not turning red meaning non emergency
"Ness get these troopers ready all added to our roster I'm going to get a sitrep on what's going on." Brian said quickly donning his helmet and sprinting out the door. Brian ran through the halls passing scores of cadets being escorted to safety as well as passing fully kitted troopers as well. Brian skidded into the command center which had Master Ti, Lama su, Commander Cody, and Captain Rex
"General Smith, I didn't know you were planet side." Cody said to Brian
"I'm just picking up some shinies, what's going on?" Brian asked
"The Separatists are attempting to invade Kamino, General Skywalker is leading the space battle and General Kenobi is investigating the downed separatist ships." Cody said suddenly an alarm chirped.
"Nothing as of yet." Kenobi said through a comlink
"Only you would be worried about the ships I already shot down." Anakin said through the com system
"Wait a minute AQUA DR- *static**"
"General Kenobi…. General Kenobi, do you read me?" Cody said into the comlink
"They are probably jamming his transmissions, sound the invasion alarm and prepare all troops to fight the enemy." Brian said as he turned and took off running down the hall as the lights turned red and the alarm sounded. Rex and Cody both quickly followed suit but headed towards the trooper quarters.
Brian skidded into the room to find all the troopers had there packs on and Ness was standing in front of them guns drawn
"General sir, what's going on?" Ness asked as he lowered his pistols
"Kamino is under attack, let's get to the armory and help repel the enemy on me troopers." Brian said as he exited the barracks followed closely by Ness and the troopers. As they ran through the halls heading to the armory Brian clicked through the various com channels in his helmet and on every one of them troopers were calling for support.
"This is Sergeant Niner, droids have broken through the defenses of hanger E-5. We need any reinforcements available!"
"Sergeant, this is General Smith, what is your location?"
"Corridor 17 sir." Niner replied the sound of blaster fire in the background almost drowned out his voice.
"I have a platoon with me, grabbing weapons and will be en route." Brian said as they reached the armory.
Brian and the troopers put as many extra munitions and grenades into as many packs as they could carry and quickly set off from the armory heading to the troopers needing help. As they ran down the hallway and came into an intersection Brian ran and knocked a trooper over that was heading across. Both of them toppled to the ground with Brian's pack going flying and hitting a wall the same as the trooper Brian ran into. Brian got up somewhat slowly as Flek helped him up
"Fives, you have to watch where you're going, you just ran into another trooper." a trooper said. As Brian got up he looked both of the troopers up and down and found they were 501st and one of them had a blue handprint on his chest.
"Sorry sir, I will look where I am going from now on." the trooper who fell down said as he got up and handed Brian a backpack.
"General, we need to move seppies are bearing down on the troopers." Ness said
"Right, come on boys let's go." Brian said taking off with the other troopers following him
"General? What Jedi do you know that wears full armor like that AND has jaig eyes?" Fives asks
"I highly doubt it's a Jedi Fives, probably called a general for all we know. We have to move though the droids are likely heading towards the position." Echo says as the 2 take off going the direction they were heading in.
Brian and the troopers turned a hallway and Ness opened a blast door, when he did they were met with a massive firefight in front of them and they all took cover against the wall as the red blaster bolts whizzed by. Brian started firing with his rifle and moved forward until he was alongside a trooper
"Status trooper?"
"They keep coming sir, we blocked all other corridors and this is the only one to the barracks that is open on this side of the facility sir." the trooper said as Brian fired several more blaster bolts taking down several droids then more appeared farther down the hallway.
"Kriffing aqua droids, Droid poppers ready, we need to hold them here. Form on me on either side of the hallway and stay behind cover." Brian said as the troops moved into position and opened fire. Brian fired the blaster as fast as possible, many of the blaster bolts finding its mark and downing droids. A shiny moved from cover to move up when his blaster jammed, he stopped and hit the blaster not paying attention to the droid aiming at him, Brian saw the droid and dove at the trooper tackling him out of the line of fire having the blaster bolt just miss the both of them.
"Pay attention trooper this is a warzone not a simulation head on a swivel to keep yourself alive." Brian said, handing the trooper his blaster, standing, and started firing with his dual pistols. As they continued to fight more droids arrived and with them was General Grievous, when Brian saw Grevious he realized they had to pull back.
"Ness move these troopers back to corridor 23 I will hold the droids off and keep them back." Brian said, firing again and again.
"But sir-"
"That's an order Ness now move." Brian said charging forward tackling a droid down and blasting it away then re aiming and firing on the other droids. When Ness and the others were out of harm's way Brian took cover and caught his breath, his hands somewhat shaking. He tightened his grip on his dual pistols as he slowly exhaled and jumped out of cover firing as fast as he could downing several more droids, one blaster bolt narrowly missed grievous who, after the 2 droids in front of him were downed, drew the lightsabers and ignited them. Brian continued to fire at grievous as he charged at him blocking his blaster shots, the first swings Brian dodged, slid behind grievous and fired again.
Grievous blocked these shots as well as the deflected rounds hit some of the droids watching Brian and Grievous fight. Grievous swung several more times and Brian dodged each time and the last one punched Grievous in the face, who then used his metal foot to grab Brian and tossed him down the hallway. Brian hit the side of the hallway coming to a quick stop the dual blasters falling out of his hands, Brian shook his head feeling dizzy and the world was spinning from the impact, he looked up and saw grievous walking towards him and dodged another swing then another until Brian tried to grab one of his blaster and grievous swung this time striking true slicing Brian across the face. The scared helmet clattered to the ground as Brian twisted and fell almost lifeless and smoke coming from his face.
Grievous looked at Brian's face intrigued at the interesting looking clone.
"General we have clones in sector 3 pushing our troops back." a droid said as grievous let out a growl and followed the droids
Ness and the troopers ran through several hallways until Ness saw Commander Colt and several troopers running towards the way they just came
"COMMANDER!" Ness called out as Colt stopped
"Ness? Where are you coming from? we were heading to give you support." Colt said
"The droids overran the position, the General stayed behind, he was going to hold them off and give us time to retreat to corridor 23." Ness said
"This is corridor 23." Turns to the troopers behind "set up defensive positions we will hold them here." Colt said as the troopers he was commanding took cover.
"Where do you want us Commander?" Ness asked as the sounds of metal heels of the battle droids clicking against the floor came closer
"I want you to circle back to General Smith's last position and get him out of there, he can be stubborn but I don't want to lose him." Colt said a somber tone in his voice, Ness understood what he meant.. Ness then handed Colt his DC blaster rifle who grabbed it, Ness then took off down the hallway his troopers followed as Colt turned towards the ever increasing sounds of battle droids.
When Brian awoke he felt the heat on his face, slowly he sat up and slumped against the wall and felt the large scar that was on his face now from grievous's saber, he looked at his helmet to see the cut across it still somewhat smoking. Brian sat there for a moment staring at the scarred helmet as if it was a part of himself that was dismembered, Brian was so focused on the helmet that he didn't hear the sound of boots against the floor.
"General?" a voice asked, almost scared while slightly shaking Brian "You still with us General?"
Brian blinked and looked over to see Ness kneeling down to Brian's eye level.
"General?"
"I'm….I'm ok Ness." Brian said placing a hand on Ness's shoulder
"I'm going to apply some bacta patches to your face sir, it may sting." Ness said as he took the medical container off his belt and applied the bacta patches. "All better… Can you still fight, sir?" Ness asked as he helped Brian up, 2 of the shinies handed over Brian's Pistols and helmet which he quickly holstered and put on.
"I can always fight Ness Grievous probably headed this way." Brian said as he started to slowly walk the way Ness had come from before over the coms came alive with distress calls as Brian felt a small snap in the force
"Droids are breaking through in sector 5, they are heading towards the trooper barracks."
"Sector 9 needs reinforcements."
"Support is needed to DNA chamber,"
"General, as much as I want to end that heap of scrap you are in no position to face him and if you go down he will kill us all, I understand why you want to sir but we are in no position to defeat Grievous. We need to support the troopers in sector 3…sir." Ness said as Brian stood there for a moment
"Your right, Ness, let's reinforce sector 3." Brian said as they started off towards sector 3. As they sprinted along they picked up several stragglers of troopers that were in the corridors all sprinting quietly along as alarms rang out. Upon reaching sector 3 they found a squadron of troopers engaged with aqua droids, battle droids and super battle droids. Brian and the troopers took cover and returned fire, downing the droids somewhat quickly then pressing forward taking cover behind the supports as they did.
"Status trooper." Brian said as he took cover by a 501st trooper.
"They pushed us back away from the DNA chamber sir, we have tried to push forward with droid poppers and detonators but they keep filling in like an assembly line." the trooper said as he breathed heavily catching his breath the blaster bolts whizzed by.
"Have you tried flanking around?"
"No use sir, I'm spread too thin to spare the troopers."
"Ness take a squad and flank around the left side." Brian said, turning back to the trooper in front of him, "I want you to take a squad and flank right. I will hold here with your men and the others to keep the droids occupied while you flank around, go." Brian said as he drew his dual blasters and opened fire several of the blaster bolts finding its targets as the droids marched toward them. The troopers stood their ground firing at the droids, taking down as many as they could when Ness and the 501st trooper flanked the droids and destroyed them all. When the last droid was destroyed Brian got on the com trying to get a situation update
"This is General Smith to control. I need a sitrep."
"General sir, droids have been pushed back to the main hangar by our forces, General Ti is there currently to help repel them. General Skywalker just reported that Ventress and General Grievous have escaped and the separatist fleet is in full retreat."
"Any word from Commander Colt? Captain Rex or Commander Cody?"
"Captain Rex and Commander Cody both reported that they repelled the droids out of the barracks but no word from Commander Colt. Commander Havoc was killed in Hanger 3 and Commander Blitz is currently helping oversee clean up."
"Acknowledged, after the final droids have been pushed off, let's get them working on getting these droids cleaned up and try to get some valuable intel off them, I will go find Commander Colt."
"Yes, General."
"Ness get the boys together and report to hanger 7b and help with the clean up there, I will join you shortly." Brian said
"Yes sir, alright boys form up and move out." Ness said as the shinies got into formation and Ness led them away
"Give my regards to General Skywalker when you see him next Dix." Brian said to the 501st trooper who turned quickly towards him
"I….I don't remember telling you my name sir."
"You didn't, but we have met before." Brian said, extending his hand for a mandalorian handshake which Dix took. "Safe travels." Brian said before setting off, Brian walked down the halls several times until he came upon the bodies of several troopers and battle droids in a hallway, one of them was in Arc armor. Brian got closer and took his helmet off, kneeling next to the body of Colt. Brian let out a sad sigh and then used the force to bring Colts helmet over to him, putting it on him to hide the never ending stare he had.
"Sleep well brother, I will see you in the end." Brian said as he put his hand to Colts helmet and said a silent prayer, then stood up "This is General Smith to Command, I have found Commander Colt, he as well as his squad are KIA."
"Copy that sir, we will send some troopers to your location."
Brian stood there and waited until some troopers came then quickly turned and put his helmet on, marching towards hanger 7b. Upon arriving there he found almost all the droids cleaned up and the shuttle still awaiting them to leave.
"General sir, all troopers are ready to depart on your orders." Ness said, walking up to Brian.
"Very well, get them loaded."
"Yes sir!" Ness said as he quickly marched off. Brian surveyed the hangar and on the far side saw Many injured troopers on stretchers with medical droids tending to some and a Kaminoan looking at others. Brian walked over, curious on what was going on as something did not feel right. As he got closer he saw several of the orangish yellow markings of the 212th and the 501st laying on the stretchers, he walked over to some and kneeled down.
"Ego, Watcher, how are you doing?" Brian asked 2 of the troopers, both of the men didn't look at Brian but instead looked in the distance a defeated look on their faces, this was the same with the majority of the men. Brian then walked up to the Kaminoan.
"Excuse me what's wrong with these troopers, why aren't they with the others?" Brian asked
"This is a restricted area, you cannot be here,leave." the Kaminoan said in a monotone voice
"Not until you answer my questions." Brian said defiantly
"This area is for troopers slated for decommissioning only, you cannot be here, now step aside." the Kaminoan as 2 droids went to pick up a stretcher with a trooper missing a leg, the word decommissioned ran through Brians mind and without thinking he drew a pistol quickly downing the two droids before they could pick up the stretcher and then aiming it at the Kaminoan.
"You will not move these men unless I say." Brian said as Ness ran up with the Shinies, "Ness keep guard here and keep droids or Kaminoans from taking any of these men, I am going to talk to Lama Su." Brian said as the troopers formed a barrier with Ness walking next to Brian his blaster pointed at a the Kaminoan.
Brian ran quickly, quicker than he usually did even if it was in combat as time was not on his side. He burst into the main meeting area and found Lama Su there, a datapad in hand
"General Smith, what do I owe the honor?" He asked putting his hands behind his back
"Why are you Decommissioning clones?"
"We do not enjoy Decommissioning however if a clone is too far injured rather than invest the money to repair the clone the republic has found it easier to Decommission them."
"Those are men, soldiers, many of whom have survived countless battles and have more experience than many of the veteran Admirals in the Navy. what would it take to have that stop?" Brian said stepping forward
"Once a clone is deemed decommissioned the Republic give up all rights to them, in truth they are once again Kaminoan Property, there is nothing to do." Lama Su said in a serious tone.
"Ill buy them…..all of them." Brian said
"You would buy these damaged clones? Why?"
"Why I do is not important, I will buy all the clones slated for decommissioning Present and future right now in one transaction. This saves you money needed to dispose of them." Brian said, spitting at the word dispose. Lama Su looked at him curiously
"This would take time to-"
"No, we do this now Lama Su." Brian said fist clenched tight
"Very well." Lama Su said as he typed on the data pad and handed it to Brian, Brian read it quickly and it said in plain text, purchase of all present and future Decommissioned clones and delivery to General Smith. Brian Signed attaching his account for payment and handed it back to Lama Su "I appreciate your business General, I hope you are happy with your purchase, I have already notified all staff and droids of the contract they will be in the hanger awaiting you to take what clones are here with you." Lama su said
"I am happy and thank you, I would appreciate it if this transaction stays between us going further, you can understand." Brian said
"Yes of course, safe travels Master Jedi." Lama Su said as he bowed slightly and Brian turned and walked out. He quickly found himself back in the hangar where more troopers were now gathered.
"Ness stand down let the Kaminoan go, I handled the situation." Brian said, marching over with all eyes being drawn to him. Ness lowered his blaster and the Kaminoan walked off grumbling
"What's going on sir?"
"Make room on the shuttle. All of these men are coming with us." Brian said looking at the men on stretchers or in casual uniforms (the casuals were heavily bandaged, injured or scarred) a look of shock coming across there face "as of right now all of you are a part of the 123rd, we can save introductions for later once we get everything settled but know, you are all safe, you aren't being decommissioned." Brian said
A wave of relief went through the force as it went through the troopers as they heard this, many of the ones in casuals sunk to the floor and wept.
Soon the transport was full to the brim with the trooper and set off, exiting the atmosphere Brian could see the wreckage of the separatist ships from the failed invasion, they went around the Debris and then jumped into lightspeed. Brian sat in the cockpit as the transport went through hyperspace, he sat back in the seat as he thought about what he had just done and tried to think how they were going to manage with the extra troopers. He stayed that way for most of the trip and when they finally exited hyperspace took the troopers directly to the cruisers of the 123rd. As Brian landed he noticed the increased bustle of activity.
Thorner was waiting at the bottom of the ramp in a parade rest stance, Brian was the first down the ramp and walked right over to Thorner.
"Sir we seemed to have some….. Uhm… Reinforcements. What happened to your face?" Thorner asked as Brian traced the scar with his fingers.
"A gift from General Grievous, I need to start carrying my lightsaber. It was too close of a call."
"That I can see sir, we are set to depart soon, a convoy heading from Corellia needs to be guided to the Medical facilities in the Burmor system."
"When?"
"20:00 hours sir."
"Ok, the shinies can paint their armor they earned it, have mac see what he can do for the rest of the men I need to grab some things in my room." Brian said about to step away
"I took the liberty of putting everything into your quarters on the ship sir."
"Thank you Thorner, I have some business I must attend to, then I will be back at 19:00." Brian said, boarding a speeder and speeding off, Throner watched with a puzzled look on his face as usually Brian would take charge, but Thorner turned on his heel and helped his brothers.
Brian parked the speeder outside of the Riyos apartment, the guard stepping down the small steps as Brian disembarked the speeder.
"General Smith, good to see you again, I will let the Senator know you're here." The pantoran guard said. Brian followed him in and stood at parade rest near the door, his helmet under his arm. He looked around as he waited looking at some of the pictures on the walls, one of them was of the 2 of them for her birthday a year or so back.
"Your back very quickly, I assumed you would be giving your men a speech or something." Riyo said standing by the counter, Brian turned towards her and watched as she recoiled a bit and let out a large gasp as her hand covered her mouth in shock and horror at the massive scar across Brian's face.
"Yea that's about the same reaction Thorner had." Brian chuckled trying to lighten the mood which didn't work, the smile fell from his face quickly as he just put the helmet in front of him to look at. Riyo walked over slowly and started to put her hand to the scar causing Brian to flinch and her to recoil slightly then she softly traced the scar. "They say women like scars, is that true?" Brian asked with a sheepish smile as she finished tracing the scar
"What happened?" Riyo said, guiding Brian to the couch where they both sat with Brian setting his helmet next to him.
"Grievous."
"Grievous?! But you were on Kamino." She exclaimed
"They attacked Kamino, tried to destroy Tipoca city and stop the cloning." Brian said tears welling in his eyes "they…..they killed a great friend of mine." Brian said as he let the damn break and all of his emotions came flooding out. Riyo sat there and held him as he cried until he could cry no more, by that time he lay on his back his head in Riyos lap and the rest of him sprawled on the couch as she rubbed his head.
"I'm sorry I never got to meet him, but its him and every other soldier we have lost in this war that I am fighting for, I will make sure they are remembered." she said making Brian have a small smile
"What would I do without a friend like you?" Brian said his gloved hand cupping her cheek
"Thankfully we won't ever know." She said, the two kissed quickly as Brian sat up, when they parted their foreheads still touched.
"I have to go, I don't know how long I will be gone or if I will come back, but I will always think of you." Brian said, giving her one last kiss, slipping a disk in her hand " a direct line to me, I'll be back as quick as I can." Brian said as he stood up with her and grabbed his helmet. She walked him to the speeder and the two hugged neither wanting to let go as they parted, Brian giving her one last kiss then donning his helmet and boarding the speeder and taking off as Riyo watches the speeder disappear.
The cruisers were bustling with activity as they flew through hyperspace, in his quarters Brian had several datapads on his desk but one in his hand as he read the file intently and then signing it, after signing it he opened a desk drawer and grabbed a bottle of red fuel out of it and took a swig, he sat there contemplating the decision he had just made then took another swig as he stepped towards his bed and starting to dekit, the datapad he just signed reading
Updated next of kin : Riyo Chuchi
From the top so as you can all see I am not dead lol, it's been a bit since I last, literally a year to the day lol, I do apologize it took so long this chapter started one way then ended another way and truth be told I just let the chapter write itself lol, speaking of which I only intended to introduce that Chuchi new the OC but as you see I let my fingers fly and well that happened lol. A Lot of changes are coming I already have some of the next chapter written but it's got some work to be done on it still, hopefully you all liked this chapter as we are now taking different direction, this comes after a lot of thinking and writing and reading and realizing yes I could expand on the current timeline or universe I have created but we are going different as that timeline is kinda screwed thanks to my crappy writing skills. But again I hope you all like it and see you all next chapter.