Good afternoon, everyone! How are you all holding up on this dreary and rainy day of Saturday, March 9, 2024? I'm well, aside from being quite tired and bored. My sister's home for a few days, so I plan to spend some time with her, coupled with reading and playing more of Star Wars: Jedi Survivor, as it's a pretty good game so far, despite its incompatibility with the Original Expanded Universe. Well, I have a couple days off from work, so I'll use them well and enjoy myself while I can. I'd best get started on this chapter, as I hope to get it done by the end of next week. I'd best get started while there's a few hours left in the day. May the Lord be with us all in these Dark Times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!
But before I forget, a moment of silence for the passing of Akira Toriyama yesterday. As the creator of the LEGENDARY Dragon Ball franchise, I know he will be sorely missed in this increasingly depressing world. But I take comfort in how he touched the souls of many souls and how his creations helped build a legacy that will span many more decades. Anyway, back to writing.
Seven Hours Later
Nelona 26th, 59 ABY
Hyperspace, On Route to the Olpaka System
Aboard the Striker
Reviewing every footage of data his mind could process from every conceivable angle, Vurawn, to his shame, continued to remain perplexed by the Servants of Chaos's devastating takeover of the Carthea System. Spending the last five hours in his office's archives, he tried to make sense of this defeat and start to devise a counterattack, but he was coming up with virtually nothing of any use.
The final clone in Mitth'raw'nuruodo's long line of successors knew Abeloth had powers no mortal could fully comprehend, let alone wield, and she had an ever-expanding number of allies and disciples to call upon for her massive armies. But what Vurawn couldn't understand was where she found all the gargantuan and powerful combat vessels for her fleets, let alone got them combat ready so quickly. Then again, there wasn't anything that said she couldn't have received the ships from her ancient allies in the Nihil Retreat, or that Tor Valum and his followers weren't scavenging amongst the many wreckages across the Chaos. The appearance of the Grysk warships and Pius Dea Cathedral ships were concrete proof of that theory.
Even more concerning for Vurawn was how devastating Abeloth's warships were in combat, with their weapons bearing at least twice the energy output and strength of the Last Alliance's most powerful vessels of a similar size. Able to go toe-to-toe with at least three conventional warships, if the Servants of Chaos and Nihil Retreat had enough of them, they could easily overwhelm their enemies with mere attrition.
Something had to be done to turn the tide of this war before everyone was worn down to the point that they couldn't even defend their own people or loved ones. Which was why Vurawn was anxiously awaiting everyone's arrival to the Olpaka System, where the Olpakan Hegemony would hopefully, formally surrender and share all they knew of their mutual enemies and join the greater fight. The Last Alliance would need every bit of their expertise and experience in fighting the dark powers, likely more than anyone else in their coalition, no matter what fears or old wounds that would emerge from this desperate pact.
"Supreme Commander." A Chiss ensign dutifully spoke to Vurawn through his office desk's holocomm, addressing him with the rank bestowed the Last Alliance as part of its governing triumvirate. "Apologies for the intrusion, but the Penitence is hailing us, with General Karamazov requesting to speak with you immediately about a pressing new development on the war."
That was unusual. What could Vlad want with Vurawn before his people's capitulation? Acknowledging the information, he answered back, "I'll be right up to the bridge to take the call."
"That won't be necessary, Sir." The ensign offered. "I can reroute the call to your office, as General Karamazov wished for your conversation to be away from any 'prying ears.'"
Frowning at Vlad's likely thinly veiled insult at the Striker's crew, Vurawn also recognized that the Olpakan Hegemony's leader wouldn't make such a request unless the issue was that serious. Nodding to the ensign, he agreed, "Then do so immediately."
The holocomm, reconfiguring into the armored form of the Supreme Knight, started with Vlad apologizing, "Sorry for the sudden call, but there is an urgent matter developing that I needed to let you and the Last Alliance know about."
'And is that why you insisted on the severe confidentiality of this call?' Vurawn thought of saying, but instead spoke, "Well, whatever matter you claim to know of must be especially severe for you to call me before we officially meet and ally."
"Consider it a gesture of good will after all your vital help in our Carthea endeavors." Vlad flashed a small smile of gratitude before somberly elaborating, "My people picked up several dozen readings of an enemy force on its way towards the Hegemony, with a second fleet inbound for the Chiss Ascendancy."
Eyes growing alert and enraged at the possible threat to his people, Vurawn, with an icy calm, spoke, "Please, continue."
"Thanks to Doctor Cylo and his surveillance tools and listening posts that he developed to protect our borders and keep an eye on rivals, we were able to get many excellent readings of both fleets. I'm sending you and the rest of your Triumvirs on this matter so you can respond accordingly, but I felt it best to warn you in person." Vlad explained before a ping could be heard on Vurawn's datapad. Glancing away, the Olpakan leader continued, "I think that was the transfer completing itself. I hope you find the data and intelligence I have gathered for you quite enlightening. Hopefully, we can use it to determine just how to respond to Abeloth and the True Sith Empire in time."
Reading though the intelligence, reviewing the probes' transmissions and what few communications the Olpakans' listening posts could intercept and decode, Vurawn was easily able to deduce that these two different fleets originated from the Nihil Retreat. Seeing eight cargo ships scattered and heavily guarded throughout both forces, he instinctively realized that whatever they were protecting was of vital importance to the Rhandites' mission.
Knowing what he now had to do, Vurawn graciously thanked Vlad, "I appreciate the advance warning, General Karamazov. I would advise you to focus on destroying whatever cargo is sequestered away in their dungeon ships above all else. Whatever they are carrying to both our territories is surely vital to their plans if they're willing to risk such dangerous forays against us at this stage of the war."
"That was precisely my assessment as well." Vlad concurred. "I look forward to our formal meeting, Supreme Commander Kivu'raw'nuru." Ending the holocall, Vurawn let out a mournful sigh at the mountain of complications mounting upon him. He only hoped the others were learning more than him and figuring out the outline of a plan to retaliate, and that the Chiss and Olpakans would be ready to stop the Rhandites from unloading whatever menaces on whichever worlds the enemy might choose.
Rakatan Archipelago
Tulpaa System Outskirts
Aboard the Rakatan Gunship Daritha Soa
"Then we have all yours' and your peoples' allegiance." Tor Valum spoke, stating a truth rather than assuming a belief. Getting his answer in the form of the three Rakata elders and each of their two advisors and bodyguards reverently kneeling before the Grysk sage, he knew each star system still inhabiting the Rakatan Archipelago had pledged their services to the Way of the Dark. And with the earlier loss of the Hilak, Malata, and Persappa Systems to Daala's madness, the remaining three worlds aid would be even more crucial in fulfilling the Nihil Retreat's long sought goals.
The Makatak elder, the first to rise from his respectful position, addressed Tor, "Provided you and the Lich Kings can keep your end of the bargain, my people will follow you and yours' over the Bringer of Chaos."
"Do not underestimate the power my masters hold." Tor stonily warned the Maktak leader, briefly tempted to blast him with lightning for his bordering insubordination. Calming himself down, he reminded all three tribe leaders, "Curing your people of Mnggal-Mnggal's afflictions will be a minor endeavor for the True Sith Empire. But we will need far more from you in return once your connections to the Force are restored. There are still many enemies of our overlords that must be eradicated before we can claim victory."
Reminding himself that he was on a vital and dwindling timetable, Tor ordered the Nihil Retreat's newest allies, "Inform your people that they serve new masters now, and they will soon regain all the power their ancestors lost so long ago."
"Forgive me, Lord Valum, but there is one rather glaring matter we should clear up before it becomes a complication." The ambassador of the Fitimp System cautiously pointed out. "How do you expect this meeting and all we're preparing to stay concealed from Abeloth? If – no - when - she learns of this pact, she will throw all her might against us and endanger all we seek to accomplish."
"I think you have too little faith in our patrons." The Griwstrick System leader heatedly pointed out. "They have manipulated the Bringer of Chaos into doing the Father of Shadows' work before, and that has not changed through all these millennia."
'Wise words, indeed.' A raspy voice echoed through the gunship's bridge, causing Tor and his hosts to bow again before a dark mist overcame the four figures, leaving the Rakata elders' bodyguards and counselors confused and terrified at whatever was transpiring within the black orb.
Inside the miasma of wicked energy, Tor and his three new friends listened intently as a series of instructions were instilled into each of their minds. The Lich Kings, using their deep and mighty connection to the Dark, communed with their disciples and servants in a way no other power, not even Abeloth, could detect, allowing for a perfect method of communication between each other. And the orders they had for their best field agent emboldened his ancient and wicked heart, just as they began to infuse a tiny sliver of their essence into the three Rakata that pledged themselves to the True Sith Empire.
As the elders allowed the dark power to surge into them, Tor received his instructions to meet up with Malla and her fleet before she began her own mission. With the many unholy predators and alchemical projects under their command and having orders to spread terror across two of the Chaos's most powerful bastions of Light, the True Sith Empire would soon have more dark energy and potential thralls than they knew what to do with.
And striking against the Chiss Ascendancy and Olpakan Hegemony would be the perfect final mission for Tor before he was reborn in a youthful body. Just thinking of enacting retribution against two of his people's most nefarious and deadly enemies made him giddy with unadulterated excitement. But as quickly as the dark storm came, the mist dissipated, leaving the four dark leaders to face their baffled followers.
The three Rakata elders, quickly regaining their bearings, demonstrated to their followers something that had not been used by their people in over twenty-five millennia. Reaching out with their hands, they each telekinetically gripped a nearby slave's throat, crushing their windpipes in seconds before anyone could react. After seeing their handiwork and the corpses flung across the floor, each representative of their world laughed in triumph and glee at their connections to the Force being restored.
The Makatak leader, the first to calm himself down, kneeling right before Tor and promised, "I will ensure that all my subjects accept your offer, and we will serve your cause with complete fidelity and ferocity."
Hearing similar sentiments from the two other Rakata, Tor let out a harsh bark of a laugh before warning them, "My masters and I will hold you all to your vows when the time comes."
'Abeloth and the Last Alliance have no idea of what will soon be upon them.' Tor triumphantly vowed, knowing that his so-called mistress would wonder what he had been up to in his mysterious absence. Well, she would have an answer soon enough, only it would not be what she expected, and he would enjoy pulling one over on that ancient biddy.
Within Carthea's Atmosphere
Aboard the Fate Breaker
Amidst the ruins of the carnage that permeated the Carthea System, all Abeloth's followers were diligent in performing whatever duties their self-proclaimed Beloved Queen of the Stars demanded of them. Whether it was enacting emergency repairs on crippled ships, sifting through the wreckage of enemy vessels for any smidgen of intel, or establishing the first of many beachheads against the Olpakan Hegemony, all were fulfilling their mistress's tasks. And with the Servants of Chaos laying the groundwork to turn the planet's stranded populace into a vanguard of their army, all would soon follow the galaxy's rightful ruler.
But while the Servants of Chaos readied themselves to continue their overlord's ancient crusade, the Bringer of Chaos herself was undertaking a far more crucial and personal mission of her own. Using the occupation of Carthea's remaining devastated cities and scouring its ruins for any insight into the Olpakans' experiments on severing one's Force Sensitivity, Abeloth was searching for answers to the blooming whispers of doubt that had started to gnaw away at her mind. Not even all of Luke Skywalker's accumulated wisdom was enough to assuage the fears that now consumed nearly all her thoughts.
Throughout the past two days, Abeloth had been unable to contact Tor Valum at all, let alone pinpoint his presence anywhere in the Chaos through the Force. The Grysk Sage, her greatest asset and commander, he had never been so lazy or incompetent in his ancient duty to her, was supposed to be finalizing the transfer of the Tulpaa Star Forge's salvage bound for Exegol. But if that was the case, then where in all the galaxy could he be right now, let alone what he might be doing?! And why now, after so many eons of stewing and plotting within the Maw Cluster, was she wondering if her path was the best for the galaxy?
For millennia, long before the Jed'Daii Order graced Tython's presence, Abeloth's mother, the once-majestic Belam Spirit Tilotny had rebelled against the Celestials and attempted to usurp their dominion over the galaxy. Through countless machinations and increasingly heinous acts, she and two of her siblings had inadvertently driven the galaxy to the brink of annihilation when the first Six Fallen Celestials and their devilish spawn nearly destroyed the galaxy. This rebellion also led to the creation of Mnggal-Mnggal and its three siblings, with the Cancer God as the last of her first progeny alive today.
All the devastation and humbling before true evil, it wasn't enough to dissuade Tilotny to try and become a goddess, and in her arrogant loathing and unwillingness to repent, she unintentionally turned herself into a monstrosity that made her known as El'Shuddem, the Soulworm, until she killed herself in despair. But before she consumed her own twisted form, she poured what remained of her power and will into a final creation, shielding it until, as chance or the Force willed it, Elegast came upon the young woman who, back then, simply called herself Belot.
Tragically, Belot, first finding peace and purpose with Elegast and his two children, Niphal and Eipha, directing the younger Celestials' nature towards more constructive means over infighting, even she could not resist the effects of time, and her body and mind aged just like any other mortal's would. It was only at the end of her life, when the voices that had long plagued her were at their strongest, did she succumb and commit the Forbidden. By drinking from the Font of Power and bathing in the Pool of Knowledge, she was able to discern her true nature and gain powers equal, or even greater, than that of her family, but she lost her only family when they fled and sealed her away.
Over the millennia, Belot, eventually calling herself Abeloth, attempted many times to complete her mother's edicts and assume dominion over an ungrateful and disorderly galaxy, and she failed each time due to her adopted children's meddling. Even after their infighting destroyed them and their father, thanks in no small part due to Anakin Skywalker's interference, the spiritual heirs to Niphal and Eipha's will, she was still destroyed fifteen years ago.
How ironic, that after Abeloth had amassed so much power and so many followers, was unable to be contained ever again, and would soon hold dominion over all creation, that she found herself at her lowest point. More than anything, she longed for belonging again and to be reunited with her family, helping them in whatever they needed in their ancient edicts to promote life and fellowship across the galaxy. A weakness to be despised, but she could not rid herself of the all-consuming bitterness and self-loathing that ate away at her resolve.
What if she was wrong about the galaxy? What if it didn't need her to rule over it to ensure it carried on, and that it could defend itself against the Old Ones and their servants when their final seals broke? Abeloth didn't know what to think, and that fear, the inability to find her resolve ever since she devoured Luke Skywalker, it crippled her more than any wound ever inflicted on her.
Malla, shocked at seeing Abeloth in Luke Skywalker's form, recovered quickly enough to say, "We have
Intruding on her self-musings, she felt Malla and Tor finally reach out to her and shoved all her doubts into the deepest corner of her mind before coldly telepathically acknowledging, "You're late. Report."
Tor, astonished at sensing Abeloth in Luke's body - or faking shock, she couldn't tell – immediately and humbly apologized, "Forgive us for the delay, my Queen. My fleet had to adjust course several times to avoid enemy patrols, and I wanted to ensure that the Nihil Retreat upheld their end of our arrangement."
Malla, recovering her voice at Tor's silent nudging, elaborated, "The Nihil Retreat sent us ten cargo ships worth of their creations, and we are prepared to deploy them all at your command. They believe that ten pens' worth will be enough to throw your enemies into disarray while strengthening Exegol's defenses, just as you originally planned."
Certain the two of them were hiding something but knowing that her fortress world would soon be invaded by the Last Alliance, Abeloth knew they were right. And the chaos the Nihil Retreat's ugly abominations would create would be useful in dividing their forces while empowering her own. But no matter how she rationalized it, she couldn't shake the unease at how this war was unfolding.
Slowly nodding in approval before Tor and Malla, Abeloth ordered them, "Have two ships' worth of the predators sent to me. The rest, send four ships to both the Olpaka Hegemony and Chiss Ascendancy. Choose whichever worlds you prefer, but provided they are all vital to our enemies' operations."
"As you command." Tor reverently acknowledged before his and Malla's signatures faded from Abeloth's mind, allowing her to try and discern what was happening to her, her long-cherished directive, and all she sought to establish. To her dismay, she felt a tear start streaming down her face, and she moved to wipe it away, only to stay her hand at the last second before returning her focus to preparing Exegol's defense.
Whether it was weakness on her part, some residue of Luke's mind and spirit imprinted into her, or just a sentimental need to experience the full spectrum of emotions, Abeloth did not let the tear stop. Even if it was just for a moment, she wanted to feel a shred of normalcy again, no matter what might happen if someone caught her so vulnerable.
Twelve Hours Later
Olpaka System
Zonama Sekot
Far Distance Islands
Aboard the Rude Awakening
Sharing a tender moment with each other amid the pall of despair that was cast over Zonama Sekot, Adari and Edaan simply sat by each other, silently enjoying each other's company, and meditating to center themselves in the Force. And after tending to many of the wounded among Master Durron and Darth Snoke's surviving joint forces, the two Palpatines were ready to check on their friends and continue helping the Last Alliance in any way they could.
With everyone convalescing from the last few days' horrors, knowing Abeloth and her forces were stronger than ever and could strike anywhere at any time, the couple knew their wants or needs would be immaterial for the war's duration. Plus, with Adari's pregnancy about to enter its fourth month, Edaan knew he would get to see her much less often. He only hoped that when she gave birth to their twins, the galaxy would have a little peace and not be fighting the ultimate evil.
But there was another matter Edaan knew he had to deal with before everyone was called back into the hellish fray, and he would tell Adari before anyone else out. He just needed to finally muster the courage to say it.
Adari, sensing Edaan's nervousness, gently wrap her arms over her husband before pecking his cheek, "Credit for your thoughts?"
Honestly laughing at Adari's attempts to cheer him up, Edaan admitted, "More like a chest's worth of them." Deciding to cut right to the chase, he began, "I heard from the Wraiths and the Shapers on loan to them that they've made a breakthrough on a new body for me."
"A small one, but a good breakthrough, nonetheless." Adari acknowledged. "At this rate, they should be finished with it in four or five months at most, just in time before I get to give birth to the twins."
"Actually, it'll probably have to be a bit longer than that before I get out of this metal shell." Edaan ruefully began. "I called the Wraiths a few hours ago and asked them to redirect their efforts towards helping the war effort. Between their combined innovative minds and all the incredible resources they'll have at their complete disposal, there's no telling what genius creations they can make."
Completely bamboozled by the sudden admission, Adari was prepared to ask Edaan a barrage of questions before the Rude Awakening's timer went off, reminding the couple that they had a meeting to attend, and a surrender to witness before the Olpakan Hegemony could officially join the Last Alliance.
Before Adari could try to inquire on Edaan's sudden reversal of decision, he vowed. "Once this blasted meeting is over, I'll tell you and Tau everything behind my reasoning. What I have to say will affect you both, and I need to let you know before we're called into battle again." Gently pecking her lips, he promised, "It'll all be for the best, and I know you'll understand once you know my reasoning."
Village of La'okio
"It's that bad?" Tau anxiously asked Han, Jayce, and Vestara regarding their loved ones of the Skywalker bloodline that were now convalescing in the tranquil village. The Edaan-clone knew the family would be emotionally devastated by Luke's terrible fate, but he never expected them to be borderline comatose as a result.
"How would you feel after learning that a man you've looked up to for decades, relied on to help solve virtually every galactic crisis and revived the Jedi Order, was now a part of one of the vilest beings to ever exist?" Jayce heatedly countered, feeling shame right after he said those words, contritely adding, "The only reason I'm not in the same condition as the others is because I didn't have as strong a connection to Uncle Luke as everyone else did."
"I'm sorry." Tau penitently apologized. "I understand, in my own twisted way." Hesitating, he admitted, "I wish there was something I could do to help."
"I appreciate it, Tau, but this isn't something you or your brother can just wave a hand to fix." Vestara solemnly sighed, glancing back at the hut where her beloved was residing. "They're all going to need time to sort through this, and that's not something we have very much of."
Pausing, Tau elusively admitted, "Actually, Luke's soul may not be as far gone as you believe. There may be a way too set him free from Abeloth's clutches."
Eyes growing alert at the blatant implications, Han tensely questioned Tau, "Skip all the Force-based poodoo, Tau. What do you know?"
"Perhaps Sekot and I can be of assistance in that regard." A female voice said as everyone turned to observe Taleth Qua approach them. "Sekot told me of the advice Niphal imparted onto Tau before he came here, and it informed me that there is a way to reinvigorate everyone's spirits and empower them to continue the fight."
"What advice?" Jayce warily asked the Master Shaper. "Why can't you just give us a straight answer?"
"It would be best if you heard it from those Sekot deemed the most appropriate to deliver this news." Taleth simply answered. "It insisted that its new messengers would be enough to rally their morale again." Pointing to the southeast, she elaborated, "Five kilometers from here, there is a ravine that Sekot chose as the meeting point with all your loved ones. Once you manage to convince everyone to travel there, everything will be made clear."
At least having the decency to appear apologetic, Tau tried to explain, "We'd tell you more, but you wouldn't believe it was possible if you didn't see it for yourselves. But it'll be worth all the suspense when you make it down the ridge."
Seeing something unreadable but hopeful in Tau's eyes, slightly abating his frustrations at so much cryptic talk, Vestara relented, "I'll get Ben. But for all our sakes, this mysterious lead of yours had better pan out."
"I couldn't have said it better myself, Vestara." Han agreed, feeling awkward for a moment before recomposing himself. No matter how often he reminded himself that Vestara was on the Jedi's side again, it was still a disorienting truth to remember after all the harm she wrought on his loved ones and the galaxy.
Three Hours Later
Nelona 27th, 59 ABY
Near Olpaka's Orbit
Aboard the Errant Venture
Studying the repurposed Imperial Star Destroyer and longtime pleasure cruiser, even as the Olpakan Hegemony's delegation was escorted just outside a large amphitheater that doubled as a giant casino, Vlad found himself confused at why the Last Alliance wanted their surrender here. The Hegemony's group composed of its Supreme Knight and his small escort in a Nagai who called himself Sai, the government's High Admiral of its Navies and the High General of Special Forces, an elderly male human who was called Delta, they had been grudgingly awaiting the most humbling moment of their lives.
If only that occasion would finally start. The Olpakans had been up in Mirax Terrik Horn's personal Star Destroyer for the last four hours, and everyone was about at their wit's end at the incessant delays while waiting in a foyer.
"How much longer are we supposed to be waiting for these idiots to get their act together?" Sai complained. "If they want us to formally surrender to them, they could at least try to be a bit punctual."
"Cool your thrusters, Sai." Delta scolded his peer. "If you simply inquired as to what the holdup was, our hosts are finally on the way. They've just been busy with diverting their forces to repel the enemy's advance in the Chiss Ascendancy, just like we've been doing with our own borders. Not to mention how all their leaders wanted to be in attendance for this surrender, which meant shuffling around a lot of schedules for this occasion. After the grief we gave them when Daala was working with us left them with quite a negative impression on us."
"Coupled with the nascent Olpakan Republic's reports on our… unsavory experiments and brutality on our own people, is it any wonder they're so cautious of working alongside us?" Vlad insightfully added, before his comlink buzzed three times. "That's enough small talk or griping. They're ready for us."
Moments later, the doors slid open, and Cain cordially greeted her former superiors, "If you're ready, we'll all receive you now."
"About time." Sai grumbled, the first to get up from his chair and walk past the traitorous captain into the foyer. The others, though, were more respectful than the Nosaurian High Minister of Intelligence. Vlad especially, nodded in appreciation for Cain's work, and planned to talk with her later and hopefully set up the first of many diplomatic meetings with the fledgling Olpakan Republic. With the Hegemony fractured by both its internal divisions and it being under siege by its old supernatural enemies, it would need to shed its old prejudices and seek out new allies, even long after Abeloth, Mnggal-Mnggal, and the True Sith Empire were wiped out of existence.
Being ushered into the amphitheater, virtually everyone was impressed with how the empty casino resembled a formal convention center, with holoprojectors and tables set up for each of the delegates of every faction that made up the Last Alliance.
Amongst the Last Alliance's leadership, the leaders of each of their leading governments were quickly coming into either holographic or physical attendance.
Among the Galactic Alliance was its Chief of State, Kajin Bar Yimmon, along with all his Joint Chiefs of Staff, and three key Senators that struggled to maintain its administrative efforts after the One Sith's terrorist bombings of Coruscant while rebuilding the august body's ranks with hundreds of emergency elections.
The Confederation had its Supreme Commander in Turr Phennir and the top five ambassadors and military commanders from the youngest government's most high-profile worlds in attendance.
The Mandalorians, with their current ruler in Boba Fett, his family, and seven clan leaders that made the journey to the Unknown Regions. Their leader, behind his iconic helmet, stared at the Olpakans with what Vlad knew as a hunter's intensity, looking for a single excuse to attack them if they stepped out of line. To the Supreme Knight's guess, Fett was still smarting from how his association with Daala had deeply tainted his people's reputation across the galaxy.
The Hutts, including its youngest and most high-profile pro-Jedi Kajidic in Azzim Anjiliac Atirue, and many of his key patrons on or serving the Hutt Grand Council, especially his uncle Vedo, a savvy businessman and key bridge between the reformist and traditionalist-minded Hutt leaders.
The Imperials were being represented by its soon-to-be-crowned Galactic Emperor, Jagged Fel, as well as his family in Jaina and Jayce Solo Fel, and the government's best army commandos and fleet admiral.
For the Chiss Ascendancy, with Supreme General Ba'Kif, the five Aristocras, including their soon-to-be reinstated member Saganu, they kept a wary eye on many of their peers and rivals. And the representatives for each of its allied regions and the Empire of the Hand were equally cautious of their surrounding ensemble of allies.
The Aquilian Republic, the spiritual and military remnant of the people of Zakuul and their long-extinct Eternal Empire, had sent many of its best Paladin knights and two members of its cabinet attending this meeting alongside their friends among the Chiss and their Jedi cousins.
The Hapes Consortium, minus their Chume'da in Allana Djo Solo, with their two commanders and Jedi liaison representing the reforming matriarchal monarchy and staying especially close to the rest of the Jedi and their many allies.
The Rogues' Gallery and its leadership of its dozen founding war veterans from many more walks of life, and with dozens of smaller organizations and independent worlds and armies each in attendance in one way or another for this vital surrender.
But most astonishing was that the Yuuzhan Vong had their own delegation at this historic meeting, likely representing their adopted homeworld of Zonama Sekot. Recognizing several of them from intelligence reports from their invasion, Vlad noted each of those highest ranked individuals in the back of his mind: Nas Choka, Harrar, Teleth Qua, and even a human in Danni Quee. Truly, this meeting was one for the history holobooks.
Finally, the Jedi Order in all its Council members and key members, minus their most critically wounded or convalescing members, and the many Force Orders that had maintained or cultivated strong ties with the most well-known Light Side-religious sect. Grand Master Kyle Katarn and his key supporters were especially busy in helping maintain discipline between all the present leaders, and a wary and anxious calm over their imminent partners, aided in large part by each faction's leaders, who recognized the wisdom in accepting the Olpakans into their ranks, no matter their personal feelings on the matter.
But absent from this monumental meeting was the Skywalker family and all its relatives or loved ones, all obviously grieving over the horrendous fate Luke had suffered in Abeloth's clutches. An understandable outcome, even if Vlad would have enjoyed meeting with them and learning more of their countless exploits. Still, there would be plenty more chances to indulge his curiosity once the Olpakan Hegemony officially capitulated.
And opposite of the Alliance of Light's leadership was the command structure of the One Sith. Leading them was Darth Wyyrlok, Krayt's most trusted servant and the second in command for the human's Sith order. To Vlad's keen eye, the Chagrian did not enjoy being so close to so many of his order's enemies and simply held himself in check with a leader's poise and discipline. But something about his posture seemed distantly familiar to the Supreme Knight, if only he could identify just what it was. He would have to keep an eye on him, if only to ensure this alliance did not fracture or dissolve due to infighting.
And among the rest of the One Sith's delegation were fifteen other Sith Lords or ladies attending this key meeting, along with their remaining key military leaders, highest among them Nikardun Dynasty leader Yiv. Oddly enough, the holograms of both Jenna Sauro and Adrai Korn, the final two GA senators-turned-spies for the Sith, were in holographic attendance for this meeting, confounding all the Olpakans at the bold allowance for the two traitors' subversive efforts against the largest democratic galactic republic. What they were doing here, Vlad could only guess, but it would hopefully not impact his people's surrender or risk reigniting the three orders' ancient hostilities.
But among the Sith were many of its most high-profile and key leaders, allowing Vlad to appreciate how everyone was treating this matter with the utmost importance and respect. Takaris Yur, Darths Irola, Invidious, Phobar, See-Chok, and Snoke, all were supporting their master and serving as the example for their lower-ranked Sith to aspire towards.
Finally, the four figures approaching the Olpakans were those Vlad expected to lead this ceremonial surrender: former Gavin Xeal, now leader of the fledgling Olpakan Republic. To his credit, the former vice admiral did not appear gloating or resentful of the duty he was tasked to perform, only the epitome of professionalism and poise.
Kivu'raw'nuru, better known by his core name of Vurawn, the leader of the Empire of the Hand and the appointed Supreme Commander of the Last Alliance, one of the three members of the revolutionary Triumvirate between the disparate factions that composed this galaxy's balance of power. A bold move, given his progenitor's unparalleled strategic brilliance and long-standing distrust of the Force, but a necessary allowance, given his understanding of many of Abeloth's thralls and ability to quickly adapt with new information.
Darth Krayt, who, thanks to Cylo-VI's exemplar spying and hidden programs embedded in virtually all the known galaxy's major computer systems, was able to identify him as former Jedi Master A'Sharad Hett, now the founder and self-proclaimed "Dragon of the One Sith." A fierce warrior and cunning leader, he would be the most difficult of the triumvirs to work with, given his order's mistrust of all non-Sith and his on-hold plans to dominate the galaxy. Even more concerning was how the Sith Lord served as the inheritor to the power of the Son of Mortis, making him a dangerous individual to work with, but it would be crucial to collaborate with him for the galaxy's survival
But the most mysterious and reserved member of the Last Alliance's triumvirate would be a rogue creation of the One Sith that defected to the Jedi and now served as one of its best agents. Tau Palpatine, an Iteration of Edaan Palpatine, the Order's Sword of the Jedi and rising star in its ranks, who now served as the successor for the Daughter of Mortis's selfless nature and the Light Side of the Force. This man, Vlad would need to get a better feel of before he could start to trust him, but if he was anything like his genetic source, the two might have a bit in common, at least in their shared sense of duty and loyalty.
Knowing what was meant to happen next, Vlad pulled out a sword from his scabbard, one imbued with many runes and ancient writings in a language most beings couldn't recognize. The Supreme Knight, ignoring the reverent gasps from his subordinates, explained for the others' benefit, "This blade was among the first our people constructed, taught by the Celestials how to defend ourselves and the galaxy from the evils that sought to enslave or destroy all that we cherished. In surrendering this, we now surrender ourselves to your mercy."
Gavin, staring at the blade for a moment, humbly accepted the blade and held it in the air for a moment, observing its light weight and remarkable durability before lowering the weapon and kindly addressing Vlad. "Rise, Supreme Knight Karamazov. There is no need for such a humbling ceremony here, not at this crucial time."
Standing again, Vlad solemnly stated, "Then let us get right to the heart of this meeting." Adding as an afterthought, he asked his hosts, "This meeting will be broadcasted throughout the galaxy, yes?"
"And through your people's territory, once we're done here." Tau confirmed. "But we need to ensure your people are in agreement on all key points before we go any further."
"Of course." Delta spoke in agreement. "In return for our surrender and your promise of aid in reconstruction and rehabilitation for our society, the Olpakan Hegemony will coordinate with the Last Alliance in the wars against the Servants of Chaos and True Sith Empire, renounce our anti-Force crusade, and apprehend or eliminate the rest of Natasi Daala's loyalists."
"Then, are all your people in agreement?" Vurawn guardedly asked. Remembering how the Olpakan High Council's ranks had been decimated with Daala's schism and how divided they still were over the rest renouncing their millennia-old vendetta, the Last Alliance knew this meeting would decide the fate of the Hegemony and all its peoples', if not the entire galaxy. If they could not unite now, then they would inevitably fall to the galaxy's shared enemies.
"We are." All three Olpakan dignitaries simultaneously spoke up. Vlad then carried on, "We have already begun distributing our orders to our remaining worlds, and we will soon know who among our forces will stand with us or need to be removed from power."
"And how do you propose to incapacitate the dissidents from your ranks in a decisive manner?" Tau skeptically reminded the Supreme Knight.
"We have protocols in place for this scenario, and thanks to our leader's foresight into this issue, capturing any remaining traitors should be a simple enough task." Delta answered, a ghost of a smirk crossing his face. "But I doubt there will be very many after Natasi Daala's shameful campaign."
"Then let us dispense with the diplomatic niceties and get started on preparing our retaliation strategy against our enemies." Krayt brusquely interjected. "Abeloth and the True Sith Empire are only getting stronger while we keep dithering around with inaction."
"Finally, a Sith with some sense here." Sai glumly muttered to everyone's amusement or consternation.
Well, I'd say this is an excellent place to end the chapter! And what a chapter it was, as we deal with the Last Alliance, Servants of Chaos, and True Sith Empire as everyone moves forward with their plans or grapples with Luke Skywalker's horrendous fate. But like I wrote in this chapter, Luke's story isn't finished yet, of that, you can rest assured. And I took inspiration from a variety of other writers and authors for this chapter, such as Joseph Bongiorno's Supernatural Encounters, HandofThrawn45's Sword of the Jedi Trilogy, and James Luceno's The New Jedi Order: The Unifying Force. I hope you all can figure out what I referenced from each story, as I'd love to hear what you have to say. So, in other news, how are you all doing on this warm and early evening of Wednesday, March 13, 2024? I'm well, if exhausted from today. I had to get up early to help take my sister to the airport, then go to work and work a small 5-hour shift, then I got home and was stressed out for a little bit from internship-related problems, but everything resolved itself in the end. But I'll probably turn in early tonight, because aside from work tomorrow, I am beat. But in other news, I'm reading a good Sequart book that explores Battlestar Galactica, and it's been a riveting and intriguing work so far. I hope to read more over the next few days before I get started on another book that I bought recently. So, I'd best get this chapter published in a little bit, as I ought to look over it one more time before I release it. May the Lord be with us all in these Darkening Times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!