THE PRESENT - CORUSCANT
Tossing and turning in her bed with her red hair matted and uneven with sweat. Ros cringed in her sleep as her face scrunched up as her facial tattoos looked faded and wet .
Ros Lai mumbled and whimpered as she tossed the blankets left and right .
Her apartment was dimly lit as lights from night traffic passed by casting shadows that stretched across the walls.
" No ... please ... "
Her eyes opened as she lay on desolate stone , Greyed and cold . It pricked at her skin as she sat herself up.
The land was bathed in red light as she awoke on reddened sand plains .
The night sky was dark as the void with no stars hanging from the skies . Yet it was the sun that draw her attention .
Instead of a blazing cosmic giant that fed light to all around it . It appeared as a star of black outlined by a red halo .
The halo churned and reached away from the eclipse like arms of snaking red light apon a background of the void .
It blazed high above with cold fury . Yet stared at her unblinkingly as it's heart beat across the lands .
The sand around her pulsed as a beat escaped the sun above . A dull single heartbeat that shook the world , popping her eardrums as blood erupted from her ears .
She dropped to the ground as she held her ears where blood rushed down her palms in Viscus red rivers .
Her eyes clutched closed as a second wave of pulsing sand washed over her violently .
' Do you think ... ' Her eyes flashed open as a warped voice pierced her mind . It's resonating hatred washing over and around her angrily as the world shook with each syllable . Looking around in fright as the red sands picked up to her right . Massive dunes shifted as if something was moving below its surface .
' That even at the centre of civilisation ' The sand to her left were soon to rise as something gargantuan moved underneath . Her ears still wringing from the dull heartbeat the ominously beat across the lands .
' That you could escape me ' Infront of her the stars shifted . With the sands exploding towards the heavens kilometres away .
It rose like a monolith of fear. It's face humanoid with exposed gums as jagged teeth . Six eyes of star flecked darkness descended down the beings face in two rows . It's marble white skin stretched as sand ran down its jagged eyebrows and jaw bones . Said sand snaking down the ridges of bone to fall to the ground like waves of shifting earth.
One of three Titanic arms jutting out from its right torso pushed down onto the plains infront of its body as it hoisted itself from the ground.
' An exercise In futility ' It's humanoid body leapt from the sands into the heavens above where It spread its arms wide to the side where it began to hover .
Ros fell back as the stared up at the heavenly being . The sun radiating red light behind it as the deity bathed the lands in its shadow .
' You can't escape me ... just like your mother couldn't escape me . You think you can run ' The being spread its arms wide as innumerable arms erupted from its spine to blanket the skies in its appendages .
' You think you can hide amongst the populous . That you're free to live for yourself ... No Rose Lai ' It began to slowly lower itself from the red blazing eclipse back to the grounds .
' You are bound by fate ... a pathetic woman with no spine nor power . Cursed to flee across the stars never to return home . But you cannot run , For I see you . Always watching . Even on Coruscant ... I see you . So Ros Lai ... pretend as you always have . Spin your tales for the galaxy for they shan't believe you. Live you meager pathetic life amongst the rich on a rotting city. Amuse me with your flailing to live ' Its feet touched the ground with a quaking shake that caused the sand dunes around her to shift . As it stood with its head in the clouds whilst it looked down on her.
She fell back onto her back with her hair splayed around her head with sweat rushing down her face as it began to raise its right leg high into the skies .
' And when your time comes ... know that everything you've done . your life , Your failures and fortunes. Know that it was all meaningless. That nothing changed . That your life meant nothing. That you shall be forgotten by time and lost to oblivion . Whilst I watch you bones turn to ash as the sands of time tick on ' Its foot loomed high above her as she laid flat against the stone cold ground . Her hands clutching at the folding sand around her body .
' Live your meager life ros Lai , and know ... not matter what you do . I'll always be there... watching ' Its foot promptly flattened her underfoot like a bug .
She sat up with a scream , Her hands clutching at the soft blanket that clung to her lower form .
Her eyes danced around the room in confusion and terror , being blinded for a split second by a rather strong light from passing second.
As she squinted , She spotted it in the corner as she shivered and shrunk back into her bed .
Standing in the corner of her room , Shifting shadows stood in the dark of the room , Darker than the night around it as it towered in the corner.
" Always watching " Its voice whispered throughout the room before it stepped back into the corner of the room and into the wall , Vanishing from the room that same moment to leave Ros pressed against the head of her bed .
She didn't move nor sleep for the rest of the night , Pressed against her bed as she stared unblinkingly into the corner of her room until the sun rose over the city during dawn .
THE JEDI TEMPLE
Vas held his orange bladed lightsaber in his right hand as he circled his opponent , The master of the order himself wished to test Vas in his skill with the blade .
The amethyst blade of mace was held aloft at the man's side as he studied Vas intently .
Around them , Many a knight and masters stood around and overhead on ledges to watch the exchange that was about to occur.
Master Yoda himself stood next to the doorway that lead to this training area , His cane in hand as he stared at the two .
" Are you ready to begin young one " Mace asked , Receiving a small nod from Vas as the young man took on an unfamiliar stance .
" Of course master " Vas answered as he spread his legs slightly , Saber held out to the side with the blade infront of him pointing inward at 45 degrees .
That was all the confirmation that Mace needed as he went on the offense , Lunging with a forward thrust towards Vas's stomach .
The purple blade speared forward at breakneck speeds , Yet Vas parried the blade by rotating his wrist , Redirecting the amethyst blade to slide by his right as he stepped right to pass Windu .
Rotating around , Mace used his momentum to continue his attack , Slashing around in an arc that Vas ducked backwards under before spinning out of the way of a second quick thrust towards his abdomen.
' I haven't encountered this form before ... It derives from juyo ... did he pioneer this form himself ' Vas mused as he used Tulak Hord's form .
Analysing Windu's form , Vas contorted around a downward stab from above , Moving like water around the blade as he slammed an elbow into Windu's ribs before dropping to the ground and sweeping his legs around which the Jedi master bounced over before stabbing downwards .
' I can feel It , His inner darkness is being channelled through himself and into his blade ' Vas slid under an upward arc as mace tracked his movements.
A warning through the force allowed for Vas to make liberal use of force speed , As Mace appeared to flash into his guard and attempt to stab at him .
It appeared that Mace was enjoying this duel , By the small smile that toyed on the man's lips . Yet it wasn't over even as to the onlookers of the battle he had become barely a blur .
He was all too visible to Vas though , Who , In a display of speed that pleasantly surprised mace himself - slashed his Saber to the left and headbutt the master of the order before he could react .
Mace stumbled back as his hand flashed to his nose , Feeling the warm sensation of blood trickling onto his hand.
He was amazed , Many knights would have been caught off guard by the sudden burst of speed , But it appeared the young man had anticipated the attack .
' Amazing ' Mace thought to himself as he retook the opening stance for vapaad .
But there was still much he needed to decipher from this duel , And he would only be able to ascertain it through locking blades with the young man .
He was a wellspring of life , Compassion and hope . But he knew that couldn't be it , The use of vapaad would force those repressed emotions to the surface... he would find the young man's inner darkness .
And vapaad was trying ... and he knew it was pulling at ... something to complete the conductive loop that vapaad made between the user , But that something remained elusive ... like It wasn't there ... wasn't connected . And he needed answers .
Re-entering the duel , Mace , augmenting his body with the force , exploded forward in a blur of purple and brown .
Slashing at the young man's neck before following through with a stab to the right pectoral and a slash to the left .
Each of these were met with fluid grace , As the young man bobbed his head to the side to avoid the first slash , Twisting around to the left to avoid the stab before blitzing around Windu as he outpaced the final slash to mace's left .
The wind howled in their ears violently as mace rounded and crossed blades with Vas , orange clashing with amethyst in an aggressive display of colour .
As their blades remained lock , Mace searched the young man , Searched for what he was looking for .
Yet no matter how much he looked , what he sought alluded him .
' Unless he's mastered them ... but that would be ... ' His eyes finally registered the face of the young man who held his blade with a single hand , Eyes ignited with an emerald light ' He has ... he's Mastered his emotions ... His inner darkness '
Anakin walked beside Obi-Wan Kenobi through the halls of the temple , Talking about their recent successes in the war .
" Well if you had been alittle more careful , I'm sure you would have beaten that bounty hunter my young apprentice" Kenobi quipped as Anakin grumbled in response .
" I'm telling you master ... something wasn't right about it " Skywalker retorted as he recalled the battle with the rattataki back when he was to destroy the dark reaper .
" You're just mad you lost " Obi-Wan teased as he was nearly bowled over by a group of younglings that were sprinting for the training areas .
" Come on we're gonna miss it " A twi'lek cheered as she rushed ahead of her peers .
" What was that about " Obi-Wan asked as Anakin held his shoulder , Stopping the man from falling over .
" You haven't heard master Kenobi ... " Shaak ti approached with a small smile " Master Windu wished to test the combat prowess of a young man whom just joined our family amongst the Jedi "
" Master Windu wishes to take on a Padawan " Anakin asked with a raised eyebrow but received a shake of the head .
" Forgive me for the misconception , Vas'lucis has been given the rank of Jedi Knight and is scheduled to join the war effort post haste . After master Windu gives the green light of course , Which should occur after this practice duel " Shaak ti informed both of the Jedi much to their shock and Anakin's quiet jealousy .
" He was immediately promoted to Jedi Knight " Anakin asked which shaak ti nodded.
" Yes ... he's quite gifted from what I saw , I just left from viewing the spar actually " The togruta continued .
" Thank you for the information master ti , I think I would like to observe the duel myself " Anakin turned and began a hasty walk towards where the Jedi younglings had gone .
" I'll be joining you too Anakin , I would like to see the young man in action if he's as good as master ti says " Aware of the emotions currently flushing through his apprentice .
The air around the training area was alive with energy , Heavy currents of wind tearing to and from as the combatants appeared as blurs .
Flashes of white light tore from the centre of the training area , As a thousand lightsabers strikes connected at blinding speeds .
Mace ducked a swipe of his head by leaning back .
Vas caught the blade of his opponent with his own before parrying it overhead.
Their blades met below the waist as they entered another saber lock .
Mace's neck bulged as his entire body coiled , Muscle answering his call as he found with vigor and hidden joy he hadn't felt in years .
' A worthy foe ' Mace was having the time of his life as he stared into the emerald eyes of the young man who now held his respect .
The darkside conductive loop of vapaad could not be completed , Because unlike him , His foe had conquered his inner darkness ... there was none to be found and exploited .
' A true master of the blade ' The master of the order thought as they leapt back , Vas landing first before blitzing forward and slashing towards Mace's abdomen.
' You trained a magnificent apprentice ... old friend ' Mace batted the strike away to his right as he used Vas's open stance to slash at the boys now exposed chest.
Yet much to mace's joy , The boy raised his left hand and halted mace's strike with merely the back of his hand , A visible layer of force energy halting the saber in its progress entirely .
The two remained still as Vas smiled .
" It's my win ... master Windu " Vas announced , Shocking the Jedi master as he reevaluated their stances .
" What " Mace looked down , Vas still holding his blade still with the back of his hand . Yet it was the young man's other arm that caused him to pause .
Said arm was poised to strike , A single extension of the young man's arm would end the fight , A move mace wouldn't be able to defend against in time as it appeared his blade was being held in place by the layer of energy of Vas left hand .
" You would make a fine battle master " Mace spoke as he deactivated his lightsaber , Clipping his Saber to his sash with a small smile .
" I appreciate your words master " Vas's orange saber sputtered out as he deactivated the blade and he too clipped it to his belt.
The two gave a low bow to eachother before taking a step away from eachother .
Hearing a small series of taps , Yoda approached the two of them with a small sway of his body .
" Impressive , Very impressive . Trained you well , Master Sifo Dyas has " Yoda chuckled and smiled up at the young man who bowed to the Jedi grand master .
" Thank you master Yoda " Vas smiled kindly before noticing the other audience members whilst mace spoke with Yoda.
' Skywalker ... I can feel your jealousy even from here . Here I come ... in a single day I earn the respect of the Jedi master's ... whilst you work your entire life for a mere nod of approval from your own master ' Vas ignored the gaze of Anakin and even Obi-Wan as he feigned ignorance .
" I would like the chance to go a round with you again sometime " Mace asked as Vas turned to face him with a small smile .
" I look forward to crossing blades with you once again ... master Windu " Vas shook the master's hand before they were ushered out of the the training area alongside master Yoda , The crowd being dispersed by the master's now that the spectacle was over .
WITH NOX - DEMONSGATE - KATHOL SECTOR
The entirety of the first fleet gathered around the demons gate , All the ships being cloaked as they surrounded the dimensional gate , guarding it from any unwanted beings.
Turning to face Kathol from the bridge of his subjugation , Nox held a calculating gaze with a small frown .
" Redirect the subjugation... Kathol needs to be dealt with before we progress further " Nox ordered , The massive bow of the ship infront of them beginning to turn away from the demonsgate .
" My lord ... in-depth scans of the planet indicate that there appears to be two non functioning hyper gates on the planet , Old ... scans also Indicate that there is an Incredible amount of technology currently running across the planet " Scorpio informed Nox as he focussed his senses on the world itself .
' Interesting , A multitude of ... beings are releasing a great amount of telepathic energy . truly a well spring of surprises , The kathol sector ' Nox mused as the Subjugation approached the planet .
" Halt " Nox instructed , The Subjugation ceasing in its approach to the planet .
' Something about this planet is rubbing me the wrong way ' Nox walked up the the windows of the bridge as he raised his right hand towards the planet and closed his eyes .
' The force is ... strange here ' His eyes flashed open as a scowl morphed onto his face .
' Help ... ' He heard the whisper through the force as something bounced off of his mental shields , Something had tried to connect with him .
' Well that's... something ' Nox thought as he turned away from the bridge viewport .
" Initialise a full planetary scan ... now" Nox ordered as he stared openly at the dark blue orb .
Behind him , At the centre of the bridge , A Holo came into existence . Slowly being built as the planetary scan gave an in-depth look at the surface .
" My lord ... there is a series of basic structures littering the three main continents ... however here appears to be two dominant distinct populations on the planet with several smaller pockets of lifeforms . One here ... " Scorpio pointed at what appeared to be a massive fortress , timeless in design but none the less artificial rather than natural .
" And here " Scorpio pointed at the second location , A series of what appears to be hovels that looked ... newer . Freshly maintained by whatever used the hovels as their homes.
Turning to face the Holo , Nox walked up to the display with narrowed eyes , Dancing between the fortress and the hovels .
" Prepare my ship " Nox ordered as he turned and marched from the bridge with a wide gait .
Quickly his lover joined him at his side , The woman adjusting her clothing for a moment as she stayed at his side.
" What's wrong love " Vaylin asked as they entered the elevator at the back of the bridge .
" The force is strange around the planet ... many ... creatures on the planet appear to be able to produce great telepathic waves ... not to mention something else is ... off " Nox squinted as the door closer behind them , The elevator plummeting through the levels of the ship within seconds.
" We'll find the disturbance "
" I'm sure of it "
The X-70 cut through the stormy clouds of the atmosphere with no troubles , Carving holes as it dropped through the skies at over a thousand metres a second .
Pulling on the control stick as the ship broke the cloud layer ... the ship slowed dramatically at his control .
Lightning flashed across the viewport as it arched to the ground below .
' No ... stop ... leave ' A new voice spoke in his head for a moment , Allowing Nox to pinpoint it's general location .
Snapping his head in the direction of the source , Nox turned the ship forty degrees to the right and forced the ship to surge forward at blistering speeds.
" Something is attempting to scan us from the northern portion of the continent " The onboard Scorpio proxy announced as she fiddled with several displays on the leftward copilots seat .
" Deny it " Nox replied , The droid adjusting the fields the ship released until the scanning waves simply washed over the ship without being able to detect its presence .
" Adjustments complete ... Now ... I believe the scans initialised from the fortress we scanned earlier ... however there appears to be a strange assortment of organic life sources within the fortress now that I am able to scan it closer " The proxy relayed what was being detected from the subjugation that was over the planets orbit.
" My love , I'm sensing a multitude of lifeforms concentrated on a plateau several thousand metres ahead of us " Vaylin announced as she opened her eyes from her meditation.
" Then that is our target " Nox began to lower the ship closer to the ground , Until it was barely skimming over the trees that littered the grounds below .
Snapping her head to the side , Vaylin stared through the back of the ship intensely.
" We're being followed ... by alot of ... things " Vaylin hissed as she unbuckled herself from her seat and stood , Gripping the hilt of her lightsaber .
" Yes ... I can sense them too . Whatever they are , They appear to be moving faster than we are ... But interestingly ... they aren't hostile ... rather ... afraid " Nox's brow cringed as he made a split second decision .
" We're stopping here ... Whatever they are ... they're desperate enough to throw caution to the wind and approach us directly " Nox announced as the ship lurched to a stop violently , Nox initialising the landing gear .
With a dragging motion of his hand , He cleared a landing space in the floor below with the force , Trees being flung into the forests around as the ship began to lower itself to the ground.
" Keep your guard up ... But don't attack , They're a minute away " Nox stood from the pilots seat and quickly made his way through the exit of the bridge and towards the ships lowering ramp .
His fingers danced across the hilt of his lightsaber , The exposed Kaiburr crystal glowing a sinister red against his twitching palm .
' Not now my friend ... however I sense I may need to use you in the not so distant future ' Nox communicated to his lightsaber , Purple glyphs humming across its surface in response before seeping back into the blade , turning invisible to the outside world .
Coming to the ramp , The gentle pelting of rain cascaded down the panels of the ship to drop over the edges of the vessel in a sheet of water where it pooled at the ground under the ship .
' They're close ' Nox walked down the ramp of the ship , Reaching out to the closest of their pursuers where he gripped it with the force and dragged it towards him .
' So it's non material ... inorganic ' Nox mused as he felt it simply phase through the trees between himself and It as he dragged it towards him .
' And luminous apparently ' Nox squinted as a white light appeared in the clearing he had made , A ball of light which Nox let go of and allowed to float .
" What is it " Vaylin asked as she stepped onto the mudded ground below , Nox stepping down a moment later .
" Easy there " Nox spoke to the ball of light , Feeling is intent to attack before a wave of calming energy washed over it .
" I apologise for dragging you here , But we felt you and the others following us and assumed you to be a threat ... I hope you can understand " Nox approached the creature and raised his hands in a placating gesture .
He could feel it try to breach his mental defences , And against his better judgement ... he lowered the defences enough for it to communicate to him .
" What are you ... " It asked him internally as it approached slowly " Who are you ... why are you here "
" I am Obrunik ... " Nox answered with the luminous ball honestly " I have recently commandeered the demonsgate ... I ... felt there was something wrong with this planet , And with the interest of guarding the dimensional gate... came to investigate to ensure that nothing could threaten my hold of the gate "
" You command the armies in the sky " The ball asked in curiosity .
" I do " Nox replied , Aware of the sheer hope that immediately bled from the luminous being that moment .
At the admission , Tens of the luminous lights appeared in the clearing , Frightening Vaylin at their sudden appearance as she ignited her lightsaber and growled at the creatures.
" Please ... help us " It cried out as it suddenly flew closer to Nox .
" With what my friend " The helmet he wore adjusted the lenses to dim the blinding light of the ball of light .
" Our makers have been imprisoned for millenia , The creature has denied them the right to live . Please help us free our fathers . We'll allow you anything you wish , just please help us " The luminous ball asked in sheer desperation.
" I'm going to need alot more information than that if I am to make a decision . First of all , What are you " Nox asked as he eyed the rest of its kind whom floated around them .
" The local species call us the fiery ones ... We are native to this planet unlike the others , We we're created to aid the kathol in their experiments " It answered his question honestly .
" Alright what is this ... creature you speak of " Nox continued to question .
" Another creation of our fathers . When the rift ruptured they uploaded themselves into the lifewell to survive . Digitally copying themselves to survive the catastrophe . The darkstryder was made to watch over the lifewell with the assistance of the ontee . But it's betrayed us and our fathers. It erected a fortress around itself and the lifewell , Created armies to fend us off ... it is bile and evil , It must be ended... our fathers freed " The fiery one explained quickly .
' So that's why we detected strange organic signatures within the fortress ' Nox thought as he thought over what to do , Closing his thoughts off from the creature .
' Hmm ... So this darkstryder was created by the Kathol just like these creatures . If I free them maybe they would be willing to share their technologies with us ... but that may also give them the chance to deny us control of the rift. I must converse with this darkstryder ... ' Nox thought before resting his thoughts and opening himself back up to communicating with the fiery ones .
" Would you mind accompanying me to these ontee , I wish to commune with them . My companion will remain here for the time being " Nox spoke allowed , an urging from him through the force stopping Vaylin from speaking up .
" We would happily escort you to the ontee settlement " The fiery one announced , It's declaration dispersing the others back to their previous scouring of the lands .
" I thank you " Nox replied as he turned to Vaylin , Closing the next conversation they would have off from the others .
' Vaylin ... go forward to the fortress when we depart , Make sure they don't know of your departure . I want you to speak to this darkstryder ... find out its intentions then return to me ' Vaylin gave a small nod in turn before they spoke out loud .
" Dear ... please remain with the ship , I fear these lands may not be safe for transversal " Nox spoke as he approached the woman and locked lips with her .
" I will wait for your return " Vaylin spoke softly before turning and ascending the ramp with a quick departure .
As the ramp to the ship raised and closed , Nox turned to face the fiery one he had spoken with , The only one still in the clearing as it waited for him.
" Let us go ...a quick pace should do" Nox gestured , The fiery one pulling off ahead to guide him , The two quickly accelerating until they were blurring through the forest , One a glowing beam that blasted through the forest whilst the other was a dark shadow passing over the land like a wraith .
" We have identified the energy coming from these creatures and are tracking their locations , You should be free to depart without worry of being found " Scorpio informed Vaylin as the woman dressed herself in the armour of an exarch .
" Good . keep me apprised of their locations , Ill be leaving immediately" Vaylin slipped on the exarch helmet , Cycling through several displays within the helmet before the local map was displayed , Showing the locations of the luminous ones .
Making sure she had her lightsaber clipped to her thigh , She opened a crate within the cargo hold to reveal a small module that would be attached to her chest plate whilst the module would be drawing power from the upgrades power supply of the armour .
' If these things are made from technology ... then this should help greatly ... thank you for testing this for us Kanya ' Vaylin carefully removed the emp pulse generator Kanya had tested for Scorpio back when she was hunting for severance .
Clipping the refined emp generator to the plates of her armour . It powered up with a low him before its inbuilt power supply lowered the power output to the minimum .
" I'm off Scorpio ... if anything happens " Vaylin began as the ramp to the ship began to reopen .
" I am aware high justice " Scorpio finished for the woman as the dark side woman gave the proxy a half hearted glare before departing the vessel .
Muting her presence in the force , Vaylin sped off in the opposite direction that Nox and the fiery one had departed in .
' What do you wish for me to do if I come under attack by this darkstryder or any other ' Vaylin asked through the link to her spouse as she vaulted clear over a large boulder before landing in a roll and continuing in her dash for the fortress many kilometres in the distance .
' I expect you to do what needs to be done ... I'll deal with the consequences ' Nox replied a few moments later , The woman's speed picking up as she channeled more and more energy through her body , Soon a low boom escaped her location as a layer of compressed air broke over her body , Signifying her breaking of the sound barrier before she disappeared in a violent burst of speed , The only telling of her presence being the path of destruction she was now carving as she brute forced her way through the foliage in her path , Trees falling to the ground as their trunks were splintered apon their contact with the unstoppable force .
' The ontee are under attack , We have to assist them ' The fiery one announced in his head , Allowing Nox to smirk slightly beneath his helmet as he began to bounce slightly as he does towards the bottom of a cliff .
Indeed he could feel the life being snuffed up above , Strange energy signatures colliding with force signatures up above , It was unclear of exactly who was winning .
' Before we get up there , What do these ontee look like ' Nox asked as he bounced a second time , Leaping to the branches of a tall tree before bouncing even higher .
" They have large eyes and stand on two legs , from your definition they would look bug like " The fiery one answered as Nox landed atop a tree and blitzed to a second .
" Alright ... I'll leave you here . I'll meet you up there ' Leaping from a the top of a tall tree standing at the base of the towering cliffside , Nox speared high into the sky with the fiery one in close pursuit , All before he disappeared as he morphed into a cloud of black mist .
The fiery one stopped in confusion for a moment before it relocated the man , Now at the top of the plateau as he teleported to its top.
He landed in a low crouch , His lightsaber screaming to life as he stared at the battle unfolding infront of him .
' So those are the ontee ' Nox stared at a bug like creature with large eyes , A beak on its face whilst having four arms and four legs , They looked remarkably similar to bipedal ants .
They were being attacked by what looked to be wolves wielding spears .
' Welp ... no use in fucking around ' Nox gripped an ontee about to be stabbed in the chest with the force , Dragging it towards his location before he jumped forward at its attacker , His blade flashing out to slice through the primitive spear and the head of the beast in one swipe .
He could feel the life force stolen from the creature by his lightsaber , It's greed palpable as it actively felt out for its next victim .
Jumping back , Nox watched a second one of these wolf creatures come in to attack him , Apparently having a pack mentality as it now wished to avenge it's fallen comrade .
' Interesting , They're both highly intelligent ... it's female ... I killed it's lover ' Nox mused as it cried out in rage , picking up its lovers broken spear before sprinting at him in its rage .
It thrust at his stomach with its own spear whilst it used the broken spear of it's lover to stab at his face .
Ducking his head to the right , The broken spear passed by his left ear as he weaved his body around the second spear nearing his chest , Stepping to the side before he stepped forward into its guard , looped his left arm around its neck before twisting .
His twist dragged the wolf like creature from the ground , Gagging in the sudden jerking motion before Nox slammed it into the ground on its back.
Quickly letting go , Nox slammed his left palm onto the beasts cranium in its dazed state before breaking into its mind and forcefully extracting everything it knew .
' Interesting ' Nox mused before raising his leg and slamming his foot down onto the creatures head , Splattering it's brain matter everywhere as it's head concaved under his boot ' I'll be sure to ... raise your pup well darling when I find it , Don't you worry '
Stepping over the now deceased mother , Nox stepped past the frozen ontee , Hiding his disdain before he hurled his Saber at another of the wolf creatures , Yapi , If he was correct .
They apparently hunted the ontee as a food source , This wasn't the first settlement they had raided either if their memories were anything to go by .
Settling himself to repel the attack of the predators , Nox smirked at the slaughter he was about to commit . He could feel the want from his lightsaber itself , as it pulsed with twisted energies , the force itself shuddering as purple glyphs flashed across the hilt .
Stepping into what he guessed was a town square , Nox watched six of the Yapi attacked four of what appeared to be a warrior cast of the ontee .
With a glare , his hand wound around the front of his body to wrap around the hilt of his blade . It howled in glee as it screamed to life , Black on purple igniting with a bestial screech .
All around the village , the force exploded violently . A chilling freeze forcing the residents to shiver as clouds above began to coalesce into churning storm clouds .
Stepping forward, His boot let out a hollow crunch as he crushed a corpse underfoot , Gripping the four Yapi with the force , He tossed the four to the skies with a flick of his hands , Watching them raise high into the sky before disappearing into the clouds .
Content with the fact that the ground would finish his job of killing the four Yapi for him , He turned to face the startled ontee warriors .
" What are you waiting for , Your people are under attack " Nox bellowed , His words processing in their minds as they leapt into action and ran into the rest of the village .
' Disgusting bugs ' Nox twitched as he spotted what appeared to be a child ontee crawling out of a broken hovel .
Closing his eyes , He familiarised himself with the feeling of an ontee , Pinpointing exactly who was who through the force even as red sparks of lightning began to crack Amongst the clouds silently above .
' Twenty four ontee ... thirty three Yapi ... concentrated primarily at ... the village gates ' Nox chuckled as he stepped in the direction of said gates , Where the largest concentration of conflict was happening .
A warning through the force allowed him to intercept a spear , His lightsaber flashing up viciously where it sliced a spear in half before he followed through by Seperating the torso of a Yapi in half.
' Such primitive disgusting creatures ' Nox hissed internally as he made a crushing motion with his left hand , rending the rest of the yapi's body into a disgusting explosion of blood that exploded outwards.
Continuing forward , Nox stopped infront of a wall of debris . Yet he could feel the battle occuring on the other side .
Gripping a broken hovel with the force as he raised his left hand , He lifted the debris to the air above . The rocks and stone suspended high overhead before being tossed over the cliffside at the edge of the village , Clearing his path to the battle ahead .
Lightning coursed across his left hand as he tossed a bolt skywards , Tracking a nearby Yapi he was to pass on the other side of the hovel , No doubt trying to sneak attack him , Said yapi being smite by the bolt not half a second later .
Yet again , The storm above began to release a strong torrent of rain , Buffeting the burning village with strong winds as discharges of lightning struck occasionally.
He took his time , Sticking to a slow pace as he stared at the conflict infront of him .
' These ontee are at a physical advantage against the Yapi ... yet the Yapi seem more strategically inclined when it comes to battle ' Nox watched , The ontee seemingly panicking against the superior numbers of the Yapi as the hunters capitalised on their confusion to get some good attacks in .
The fiery one joined his side as he approached the main conflict , His eye straying to it for a small moment before giving it a resolute nod .
' We need to end this quickly ' The fiery one spoke within his mind , It's urgency causing Nox to raise his eyebrow .
" Very well then ... I guess a can have my fun later " Nox raised his right arm before releasing a pulse through the force that washed over all present .
The affects of his technique were immediate, As the Yapi within the battle appeared to freeze in place , Their movements all but halted by the force stop Nox had used.
" What are you waiting for , PRESS THE ATTACK " Nox bellowed at the confused ontee , The creatures quickly snapping from their stupor and lunging at their attackers , ending the assault of their village within a few short thrusts of their weapons " Fuck me "
" All handled " Nox gave a small smile to their fiery one who appeared apprehensive through the force " Happy "
Descending from the sky within a black cloud , Vaylin slammed into the ground with a resounding shockwave , her knees bent as the ground cratered below her feet .
Raising her helmeted head , She scanned her surroundings .
She had arrived at what appeared to be a decayed city , Skeletal skyscrapers reached high into the atmosphere whilst fauna grew throughout the buildings.
Around and throughout the city , Odd displacements of earth and fauna made Vaylin raised an eyebrow ' Experimental terraforming ... I see , They must be quite advanced ... I need to be careful '
Changing the object of her focus , She stared towards what she assumed to be the looming palace of her query .
Straining her eyes as she made to use force sight , She caught what appeared to be a swirling vortex of force like energy bleeding from under the palace out into the world , Mingling with the world around it as it fused with Kathol's force energy field to create something ... different .
Raising her hand in curiosity , She made to distort the flow of the energy she could see . She watched with amusement and curiousity as a tether of this weird energy peeled from the rest of the flow and arched towards her direction .
As it neared her , Vaylin halted the energy in its path , Keeping it static with an application of the force with but a thought .
Manipulating it , The strange field came closer to her body , The arching tether still connected to the larger source .
' This is ... this is pure life energy ' Vaylin studied the energy , Shying away from touching it incase it wasn't safe ' But from what '
Sending the tether back into the flow of the rest of energy , Vaylin traced it's course back to the fortress, Rather below its location with a curious glint in her eyes .
' Guess I won't find out by standing here ' Vaylin mused as she leapt forward two metres , Landing on the steep slope of the mountain she stood atop , proceeding to slide down the mountain face with a humorous chuckle .
ANCIENT KATHOL CAPITAL
The winds were still , Silence reigned supreme as she tread carefully .
Her hand hovered above her lightsaber as she walked through the vine covered streets of the ancient capital .
Skittering made the high justice pause for a moment as she sensed the lifeforms around her , following her rush around as they maintained visual at all times .
' Non human ... sentient ... alive ' Vaylin gauged her followers through the force as she continued on towards the fortress , Following the traces of the weird energy she could still see lingering in the air ' Small , Two feet tall ... six legs ...no heads , Mouths attached to the central body '
Her eyes caught one of these creatures attempting to find a new vantage point as it leapt across from one of the skyscrapers to another.
' Forty of them ' Vaylin squinted before continuing on with her stride .
She could feel their boldness rising , As with her back turned , they took the chance to approach her behind closer than they were previously .
' These creatures are strange in the force ...almost ... like they're not supposed to be ' Vaylin squinted as she felt a particularly rowdy one of its kind leap until it was merely five feet from her back where it stood on its hand legs and made to bind her .
Quickly she whirled around , Lightsaber springing to life where it cut through the central body of the spider like creature , The two halves falling away from eachother with a squelch .
Unanimously around her , The creatures cried out in both surprise and outrage at the sudden death of their brother.
" Cease your attempts ... Or perish " Vaylin ordered of the creatures as her left hand became awash with violent arcs of lightning that danced from her and into the air around her , pinging off metallic objects viciously .
They swarmed together , Rushing her position with their maws open wide , Their bid for revenge overtaking their mental faculties.
" So be it " Vaylin met the charging beasts head-on by raising her left palm and releasing a pulse of energy .
Annihilation met the creatures head on with a horrible screech . White light burst from her palm , Cascading over the lane before her like a horrible tidal wave of liquid white flame .
" Such poor decisions " Vaylin scoffed before turning away , Making her way ahead from the blast zone of the flamming pulse she had unleash , Liquid slag bubbling and popping as what remained of the spider like creatures melted to the floor .
She knew some of these creatures still persisted high above , But remaining afar after what she had done to their brothers in an instant .
White bone like arachnid legs , Thousand skittered quickly through dark damp hallways .
The long centipede like creatures segmented body shifted and twisted as it's long legs sounded like many marching footsteps of an army .
As it scoured through its fortress , It stopped as a wave of energy washed over its senses , Causing the creature to pause in its steps .
The living computer rose into its hind legs as it whirled around . It's head turned to face the location the wave originated from , Lights in its head peering , Calculating .
The red cloth it wore over its chest area shifted as four skinny bone like arms extended from within the red cloth as it stood atop it's centipede esk body .
It connected to the ancient kathol network , Calling its minions to its side .
From the shadows , Five hundred of the spider like creatures came to their masters call .
" Find the intruder ...bring them to me " The Darkstryder ordered of its subjects , The spiders rushing off immediately after whilst the darkstryder moved to secure the life well .
WITH NOX
The dark entity watched the ontee moved throughout their village , Fixing the damages they had taken from the Yapi attack .
He sat down on a stone , Elbows placed on his knees as he sighed in frustration . He had removed his helmet and had it sat apon a pedestal provided by the bug natives .
The adults were weary of his presence , But appeared to be receptive and thankful from his interference.
The children were different however , They sat around him happily . Some giving him gifts like pretty rocks or jewels they cherished . They stared at him with open admiration . Some ' accidentally ' brushing against him or touching him in reverence .
" Ahh thank you , These are very pretty " Nox accepted a red ruby from a female ontee , Smiling at the creature before gently stroking it's head before it skittered off .
He could feel the amusement of the fiery one at his side , Casting a raised eyebrow in its direction as it hovered around slowly.
' Having fun human ' The fiery one questioned humorously as Nox rolled his eyes .
' Oh shut up , I'm just humouring them ' Nox thought back to the creature as he noticed some of the adults beginning to inch closer to him ' Oh ... here we are '
" We ... thank you for your assistance ... stranger " The ontee spoke in broken basic , It's mandibles contorting as it tried it's hardest to speak to him in his language .
" My friend , There is no need to thank me . To exist in freedom is any sentient beings right , It is a shame that the Yapi perished . But I will do my best to repent for the lives taken " Nox spoke to the adult whom listened intently to the words spoken to it " I simply did what was right in the moment "
" We owe you a great dept for the help you've given us . My name is Borq ... I represent the ontee on behalf of our fellows tribal leaders .If there is anyway we can possibly help you for what you've done for us ... we would have you name it " The adult ... evidently male ontee closed one of its hand over its chest and made a vow they would honour no matter the cost .
" There is one or two things I would ask . This fiery one here has asked me for assistance in supplanting the Darkstryder's control over the lifewell . I am here to free Kathol from it's control " His words were cut to the point where the ontee all around turned to him in shock and fright .
" You speak for the white ones " Borq whispered as he took half a step back in trepidation .
" I was ... hired by them a couple of hours ago to handle their problem . It just so happens to coincide with your own problems , So I have a proposal. I need knowledge ... If I am to free Kathol ... I require some things "
Chatter broke out amongst the locals as they broke into their instinctive dialect before Borq went back to conversing with them. Nox sat back and crossed his arms as they broke into deep conversation .
Closing his eyes , He could feel Vaylins location .
' She's being ... escorted by a cadre of guards to the darkstryder ... good' Nox opened his eyes with a small smile , Eyes looking up towards the silent churning clouds above . The same ones he had summoned earlier and had yet to dispell them .
Turning back the ontee , Borq approached tentatively and with cautious steps .
" The tribal leaders of the ontee have heard our plea , They have given their blessing and support . You represent the white ones ... We will help you " Borq announced as Nox looked the creature over for any identifying mark as this one in particular would be his liaison .
' Blue stripe of paint over the right pectoral ... noted ' Nox mused as he memorised the creatures feel and look .
' Time to be the Messiah ' Nox smirked as he hopped off of the rock of which he sat .
" Then I will do my best . Not just for you but for your future . Gather your people we're leaving ... we're taking back what's ours . You have placed your trust in me ... I will not betray it " Nox raised his hands before bringing his hands together in a thunder clap .
He watched the people rush to gather their things , the children running to gather their favourite toys or stones whilst the adults packed up their weapons and survival tools . .
' They're a hive mind with the ability to communicate telepathically across their entire species . They'll be very useful ' Nox squinted as they rushed around him , All the while he looked to the blue striped shaman . He stared intently at the waves of telepathic energy that rippled from the creature into the atmosphere to join with other streams from what he could depict to be other village shamans.
Feeling his stare , The shaman turned to him before approaching , Everything it owned being clutched into a makeshift backpack clutched by one of its four arms .
" Representative... what would you have us do " The ontee asked as it came to stand at his side .
Turning to face the city where he felt Vaylin to be in , He smirked slightly .
" Gather the tribes ... have them begin marching to the outskirts of the decaying capital ... But you can't do this on your own. No ... whilst you and the other tribes move to the city ... I'll be conquering the Yapi ... by daybreak ... they'll be with me "
Her cowl hid her features as she strolled into the towering black castle . Five hundred black knee height eyeless spiders with mouths instead of heads swarmed around her .
They clung to all surfaces as they rushed her towards their lordship . Yet they gave her a wide berth as they allowed her to walk freely with them .
The castle was dark and gloomy , Constructed from stone and metal . The foyer was dark a dreary . Long stretching shadows cascaded down the walls and stretched against the stone floor .
If anything the building was space with decorations , Like it simply existed yet the creator didn't know what to do with its creation .
The spiders around her clung to the walls and ceiling as they rushed through the room and into a corresponding hallway .
Closing her eyes , She could feel her lover staring at her through the force from across the lands . Opening up her mind , She felt his acknowledgement at her current situation before he refocused somewhere else .
" Heuuugh itshi orhu " Slithering whispers tried to speak to her in a foreign language which she couldn't understand .
" Yea no idea what you just said " Vaylin nonchalantly responded as they came into what was apparently a throne room .
Immediately she spotted what what had tried to speak , As the centipede like lower body of the darkstryder wound around a alter that it sat atop . The four arms of its upper torso grasping at nothing as it animatedly tried to speak several different languages to speak to her.
" Graastsi " Its head tilted to the side in questioning .
" No " Vaylin shook her head as it's mandibles clicked together.
" Ahhh ... I see . You speak the old language of the others " Its voice came out deep and menacingly .
" If that's what you call it then yes I do " Vaylin confirmed as the spider like creatures circled their dark master before settling down and becoming dormant .
It tilted it's head to the side as its eyes studied her intently , Just as she stared back with blazing yellow eyes .
" Your name ... your status " The creature asked as it gauged the creature before it . It was weary of her , As it felt the rippling energy that peeled off of Vaylin , It cast a looming shadow of darkness that chilled the room around them , Yet it was powerful enough to clash with and equal the energy released by the lifewell , Hence the Darkstryder's hesitation in opposing the woman .
" Vaylin Tyrel , High justice of the eternal empire . Consort and loyal servant of his majesty . Commander of his armies and his personal blade " Vaylin stood tall as the force tore from her body , Small cracks appearing throughout the room as her presence came to bare .
The living computer's mind rushed like crazy as it began calculating several thousand things at once .
" I am darkstryder, Ruler of Kathol and all its subjects . I ask what you are doing in my territories " The centipede like creature tried to intimidate it's guest as it rose and bared down apon the woman .
" His majesty was curious . He wishes to learn of your technologies . We know of what occured here yet do not care for the tribulations of the races here ... we simply wish to study and learn your technologies " She lied smoothly to the creature as her response opened up several options with the creature .
" I see ... I believe we can come to a very fictitious agreement. If I were to permit the studying of my darkstryder technology ... I would ask for something in turn " The creature worked , Gleeful at the prospect of advancing its plans .
She squinted , Feeling it's excitement and greed in one fell swoop whilst she herself closed off her emotions from the telepathic abilities of those around her.
" And what is it you would seek inturn for your technology" Vaylin asked as she crossed her arms in the small of her back .
" It's simple ... I require a vessel to the stars " The darkstryder reached high above to motion at the ceiling in a grand gesture .
" You want to leave " Vaylin reasoned as the creature eagerly nodded it's head .
" It is all I've ever wished . This planet is all I've ever known , I wish for more " The darkstryder spoke as it leaned down from its alter , Lights flickering in its head " If I am permitted a ship , Your boons shall be plentiful "
" Unfortunately it is not my call to make , I would have to converse with his majesty to permit you a vessel . With your permission, I would depart to his side so he may consider your offer " Vaylin met the creatures eyes with a small frown but non the less passive face.
" And my permission you have , These lands are open to you . My servants shall not impede you . I look forward to hearing of your Lord's answer " The Darkstryder sat back on its alter as it dismissed Vaylin.
" My thanks " Vaylin gave a small bow before turning away and walking back through the way she came .
' My love ... I have conversed with this darkstryder ... it wishes to make a deal ' Vaylin spoke through their link as she felt her lover listen.
' Come ... we will discuss this in person ' Came the immediate reply before their conversation came to an end .
' As you wish '
He entered the city with a bang , Slamming into the westward wall with a residual boom that shook the city .
Behind him the blackened clouds of his storm rushed forward as lightning struck the cracked plateau of stone that surrounded the Yapi city .
" Time to conquer a city " Nox ignited his blade with a snap hiss followed by a screeching howl that sent chills down the spines of the unprepared Yapi civilians around him.
" You will kneel " Nox bellowed as a bolt of red lightning coiled like a snake around his left arm before he blasted it skywards .
As the bolt struck the clouds above , It broke into several vicious chains that spread outwards throughout the churning clouds . And with a boom , These arcs descended apon the city , Striking buildings and civilians several times over in quick succession . Igniting homes and turning people to ash .
As the storm above began to release copious amounts of bolts apon the populous , Nox stepped forward to cull the dogs , Dragging an unsuspecting Yapi into his sweeping blade as he seperated the head of the Yapi mother with ease before he moved forward along the street where he left her child to cling to her body .
Rounding a corner , Nox stabbed through the chest of a city guard as his left hand struck out at his partner , Crushing the other guards neck with ease before dropping the body to the side , All the while red flashes illuminated the primitive streets he stalked .
Looking down the stone path , Nox unleashed a barrage of lightning down the street , Wicked grin on his face as he turned the fear stricken residents to ash in glee .
With the street bare , Nox made a gripping motion with the force whilst raising his hand skyward .
Cracking was heard as the ground shook and at his side , A large brick and wood building was torn from the ground before he tossed it up to the skies . The building blitzing upwards where it reached the skies where it would ultimately reach its apex .
" Let it rain " Nox mused as he let out a one handed force push at the building that had began it's descent . The building and the force push meeting in the middle only for the building to explode into debris .
Quickly he raised both of his hands to the skies , Catching the debris with a telekinetic hand before he made a downward swish with his hands .
Violently , the debris blitzed towards the ground , Violently peppering the residents of the city with fist sized rocks and wooden splinters .
" LET IT STORM " Nox once more outstretched both arms to the side and made an upwards heaving motion . The entire street and several overs being upheaved , The streets and buildings tossed upwards into the air high into the skies where they were spread outwards to hover over different portions of the civilisation .
With a neutral face , Nox dropped the buildings , Allowing them to fall back to the city below to crush the residents with their own homes .
He could feel the death , The shaking of the ground below that occured as buildings collided with the ground , parents were ripped away from children and vice versa , Entire families vanished in an instant .
He stared at the ground for several seconds , Eyes searching the mid distance before his features scrunched up , His eyes becoming alight with vicious molten fury .
" If they defy you , drop a city on them " Nox uttered before beginning to levitate from the ground , peeling chunks of the city surface from the ground and hurling them to the skies several times over .
Looking upwards , They spotted him . Amongst levitating streets and houses . He held his arms aloft whilst his black robes billowed in the violent winds.
Many pointed up at him in terror as he crunched his hands together , The buildings surrounding him exploding outwards to once more be used as munitions to destroy the city .
He was akin to a descended god to them , As his eyes illuminated in the darkened skies , Red light from above casting a ghastly figure.
" The masses will worship me by daybreak " Nox dropped another street onto the cities populous , The warriors mobilising below only to be flattened by the stone streets dropped on their heads .
" You will all kneel " Nox held his hands aloft beside his head , Red lightning beginning to coil around his hands .
It started as a rumbling buzz , As the air became alive with static buzz .
" TO YOUR NEW GOD " Nox's voice tore across the lands before a static boom exploded , Lightning springing from his hands into the skies to bath the city in red light . All before the lightning dropped onto the city like a churning curtain of red light , Explosions wrung out as the lightning spread over the city .
Buildings melted whilst streets turned to slag . The heat was unbearable as wooden structures spontaneously caught fire . The people were no better as many fled , Some spontaneously exploding apon being struck by bolts .
By the time Nox halted the flow of lightning from his open fingers . The city was a burning wreck , Charred and splintered as smoke billowed from below .
The lightning above came to a stop as he observed the damage done , The terror below washed over him like an intoxicating drug. His black robes flapped violently around him as a frown marred his features .
With a wave of his hand , The smoke dispersed with a gush of blistering wind where the survivors below could once more see him .
" Kneel "
17 HOURS LATER
" Looks like you had fun while I was gone " Vaylin walked into what served as the Yapi main hall .
Sat in a hastily crafted throne with his right leg crossed over the left . His fingers were interlaced whilst his face was contorted in a small smile .
Kneeling at his side , Shivering . The patriarchal leader of the the Yapi , Osiris prostrated herself in both terror and devotion . Her fur was charred in places whilst the rest of her coat was a pale white . Necklaces and jewellery fused with her body from the head of the previous night indicated her status .
" I have been quite ... productive " Nox spoke evenly as he slowly got up from his makeshift throne .
Walking by Vaylin , Nox walked out towards an overarching balcony that watched over the wrecked city .
Simply walking out caused everyone that saw him to bow , Resting their foreheads against the ground and they quaked .
Looking closely , Vaylin could pick out several tens of individuals in far better condition than their neighbours , Fur unmarked and fresh . Curious .
" It's amazing how much influence once can acquire over a primitive race when you fly , drop their own city on them , Obliterate them by calling the very skies to aid you and then revive their dead on a whim " Nox extended his arms to the side , watching with satisfaction as the rubble that still littered the streets began to rise .
The populous remained still but watched with their eyes , The rubble that had been rained on them beginning to be cleansed and deposited to the side of their city .
" YAPI OF THE KATHOL ... YOUR CONQUERING LORD CALLS OUT TO YOU " Nox began to levitate over the great hall " GATHER YOUR THINGS , YOUR SUPPLIES AND YOUR FAMILIES . THIS CITY IS LOST . BUT THERE IS ANOTHER , A HOME YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN . YOUR ANCIENT HOME , THE HOME OF YOUR FOREFATHERS . TOGETHER WITH YOU UNDER MY BANNER ALONG SIDE THE ONTEE ... WE WILL TAKE IT BACK "
It was short and to the point . But what convincing would a god have to do to his people .
Vaylin watched the city move into action at his order , As her lover lowered himself back onto the balcony with negligible effort .
" Now dear ... what news do you bring "
" I conversed with the darkstryder . It has a desire to leave the planet but has been unable to obtain the means to do so "Vaylin began as she followed Nox through the building towards the first level .
" Go on " Nox waved a hand as they exited the first level of the building and into the courtyard beyond .
" It wishes to make a deal , Where it would share it's technology with us if turn for giving it a ship off world " Vaylin relayed , the two of them stepping over a broken fence line and into the streets where they were surrounded by rushing Yapi .
" Interesting , What do you think " Nox asked , The Yapi around them giving them a wide berth as they made their way out of the city .
" It's a sham . The technology, Whilst impressive . Is nothing we wouldn't be able to replicate if we give Scorpio or Skyva a sample . Nor do I believe the darkstryder would hold up its end of the deal or remain an ally " Vaylin gave her thoughts on the matter .
" I see , Well it's a good thing then that I've already promised to vanquish this creature and retake control of kathol " Nox gave Vaylin a small smile from the corner of his lips " Now then , Let's get these beasts ready for war "
The Scorpio proxy walked through the ancient kathol capitol . The Darkstryder's legions of artificial life forms completely oblivious of the droids presence .
" Such curious architecture " Scorpio stopped infront of a destroyed statue , reconstructing it's form within her mind as she studied it's original form .
" These kathol we're quite strange " The droid turned away from the broken statue whilst looking over the overgrown skyscrapers .
Breaking from her chassis , ten nano droids that made up her form split from her body to soar through the skies . Flying up towards the degraded towers to study their insides .
" Energy readings are strangely inconsistent " The proxy studied the energy currents that she could sense . Her head turning towards the Darkstryder's castle .
" Let's see exactly what you're hiding under there " Scorpio immediately broke apart into a shroud of metal . Thousands of nano droids dropping to the ground as they swarmed into the sub levels of the city .
" Vaylin , For the battle ahead . I want you to go up to the subjugation and commandeer our forces . I want everything aimed at the capital and if worst come to worst , I want kathol destroyed " Nox spoke as he stood infront of the gathered populous of Yapi , It had taken barely half an our for the entire population to mobilise at his order . Fear works wanders .
Turning to the woman at his side , Vaylin - with her hood up - Gave a small nod , Her eyes scanning over the assembled yapi . Narrowing her eyes slightly she squinted at the gathered children and young ones ,Barely hiding her disgust .
" As you wish my dear " Vaylin turned to her lover , she approached and rose to the tips of her feet , giving him a chaste kiss with a smile " I will be awaiting your order "
Lowering herself back to the ground , She turned away before breaking into a dead sprint , exponentially accelerating before vanishing in a thunderclap .
Turning back the gathered Yapi civilization with a hard glare .
" You know where to go , You have the means and the supplies ... March " Nox ordered as he turned to the direction of the ontee and the ancient kathol captial .
They fumbled and we're entirely uneven in their steps . But the civilisation , under his control both through his use of the force to warp their primitive minds and their fear of him , Marched at his order without question towards the direction he had ordered .
His robes obscured his eyes as he watched them march by following their previous patriarch at the head of the migration , The children shrinking away from him as they passed .
Whilst they marched away from the city , Nox turned back to face the structure . It was a shadow of what it used to be . Now a simple wreck of collapsed brick , stone and wood . Entire portions of the city was still rubble whilst small fires were still lit .
Still looking out over the hill was the patriarchal residence with the rest of the city surrounding the structure , Though it obviously had sustained some damages from his assault .
" They won't be needing that anymore " Nox hissed as he reached forward with his hands , The sleeves of his robes hanging low whilst the ends of his gauntlets slid clear of the sleeves .
Facing his palms to the ground , Nox began to push downwards from his shoulders as he called the force to bare .
The ground rumbled and quaked in answer , As fissures tore open around the city whilst the sand parted away from the city like rising waves .
Some turned to see the commotion yet others continued on . But all were aware as the city cracked and rumbled , Entire abodes being sucked into the ground below .
Chunks of earth upturned and swallowed the patriarchal estate whilst geysers of sand and rock spewed high throughout the city as it was plunged into the planets surface.
Within sixty seconds , The city vanished . All that remained being larged upturned stones and chunks of the earth surface , fissures tens of metres wide with crags of magma churning at the bottom of the fissures .
" I hope you're ready darkstryder ... we're coming " Nox promptly vanished with a static buzz , A purple mist rising from where he previously stood.
ONTEE CAMPS - 10 KMS FROM ANCIENT KATHOL CAPTIAL OUTSKIRTS
The fiery one rushed to Nox apon his arrival , Already knowing what had occured with the Yapi through communication with the rest of its kind .
' You return ' It spoke directly into his mind , Earning a raised eyebrow from Nox who nodded .
' Indeed I have ... secured the cooperation of the Yapi ... though you already know that ' Nox replied as he entered a tent crafted from furrs by the ontee , The ontee representative within greeting him with a low bow .
' Was it necessary, was it worth it ' The fiery one asked as Nox came to stand infront of a makeshift table , Pulling out a Holo chip and placing it at the centre of the table .
Nox didn't answer for several seconds as the Holo chip lit up to display a map of the kathol capital and the surrounding landscapes .
Slowly coming into the Holo feed , A more intricate mapping of the sub levels of the city and buildings formed on the map thanks to Scorpio sending the technical readings of the city she had uncovered .
' Time is against us . Neither I nor you have the time to court the Yapi peacefully . The darkstryder knows of my arrival and will no doubt mobilise to counter my presence shortly if it hasn't already . I did what I did because I knew it would work . What's a few deaths in the face of millions that will be given a chance for the future . Ruling is not something to be taken lightly , Its not just simple decisions . I cannot let my emotions guide me while making the toughest choices . I did what I had to , I'll accept the consequences when I've conquered your planet for you ' Nox replied telepathically as he studied the map with a critical eye , crossing his arms whilst his right hand cupped his chin .
' I see , Perhaps you're right ' The fiery one relented as it slowly floated to Nox's side , The young looking entity not bothering to look its way .
' What's the plan ' The luminous creature asked as Nox fixated on the central structure that housed the darkstryder .
He waited to respond once more as a more detailed analysis of the fortress was constructed before his eyes . Levels apon levels of cramped hallways , Rooms both used and unused . Living quarters and even the positions of the creatures .
Yet it was a blueprint that showed up below the castle that interested Nox . A multitude of levels with several different functions . A laboratory , factories and from what Nox could gauge , the source of the strange energy that permeated from the castle on the very bottom level .
' That's the lifewell , How did you get such an in-depth map of the facility ' The fiery one came closer as Nox used his hands to zoom in on the lowest level of the facility , where the life well was .
" I have my methods "
The room was enormous , Towers of computers lined the walls whilst several consoles worked in tandem yet remained at peak performance.
But he ignored that in favour of what the lifewell was within . A gigantic crystalline organ sat below the fortress , The very tip of this crystal sat within the room whilst readings indicated the organ extended all the way down to the planets mantle . All around it appeared to be organic constructs maintaining its structure .
" That's what seventy thousand kilometres in size , maybe even a hundred thousand ... that's a big organ , And it's alive . This is the source of this world's strange power ... I can feel the sheer life force from here , I can even see It if i stare through the force " Nox was thankful to Scorpio as he analysed the organ .
' It was created to hold the collective lives , Consciousness and all , of the father's - the kathol . It was meant to restore them apon the right time , but the darkstryder denied them even now ' The fiery one explained as it flowed around the holo map .
" Okay , I see . So the fortress surrounds the lifewell , Thousands of slaves guard both the darkstryder and this organ . I need to remove the threat of the darkstryder without damaging the lifewell in the process . So that removes turbolaser fire , Nuclear options and orbital strikes . That means I need to draw the darkstryder from the fortress ... or go in myself , Maybe both" Nox leant against the table as he squinted in thought.
" Okay let's talk situations and numbers . I could remove the darkstryder and his army myself right now but that would most likely cause damage to the lifewell . That does nothing but destroy the city " Nox spoke to the fiery one as he connected to the Holo with his implants and began to display several simulations of him laying siege to the fortress himself " I could take care of destroying the darkstryder and his army without damaging the lifewell , But the chances of the darkstryder doing something to the lifewell before being struck down are rather high , Higher than I'd like to risk "
In the simulation , The first fleet appeared above the city and rained fire apon the city with the subjugation destroying the fortress under a barrage of nuclear fire .
" The same goes for using the fleet , Nothing but death awaits that way " Nox dismissed the simulation of the fleet disappearing to revert to the map of kathol .
" However " Nox brought up a different simulation . This one was a display of the ontee and the Yapi laying siege to the city , The armies of the darkstryder meeting the forces head on whilst the display showed Nox and the darkstryder fighting atop the fortress .
" If I have the ontee and Yapi draw out the Darkstryder's forces whilst I deal with it myself . It'll give me time to destroy it and secure the lifewell before sweeping the fortress itself and then ensuring the safety of the Yapi and ontee " Nox explained as he ran the simulations " And if I have Scorpio guarding the lifewell during the battle , Extra security "
' How many do you think will perish ' The fiery one asked of Nox as they both watched the simulation run several different times with similar outcomes .
" Enough to ensure that their futures are secured . I'll do my best to ensure the deaths are kept to a minimum , But there will always be deaths in war ... always " Nox answered " How many ontee are here that are prepared to fight "
' Roughly eight hundred ' The fiery one informed Nox as he mentally crunched the numbers .
" There are a total of five thousand Yapi currently coming to assist us . Of those only roughly twelve hundred are ready abled warriors that will be partaking in the battle . That puts us at roughly two thousand in total . It'll be safe to assume the darkstryder's forces outnumber us by Atleast double those numbers . But that is easily rectified " Nox began to study the tops of the skyscrapers .
' What do you mean easily rectified ' The fiery one came closer as the subjugation appeared in the Holo .
" Well , The darkstryder wants a ship . I just happen to have one with enough firepower to destroy the system itself , planet and all . However we wont be using the ship itself . Instead , Onboard I have four factories that when put to full power can simply spew out copious amounts of highly lethal droids that I can throw at the Darkstryder's armies . If it comes down to a war of attrition , It's going to have a hard time out competing the technology on my ship " Nox explained as a wall of skytroopers appeared on the Holo , Followed by ten more of these city wide droid walls .
' Can't you use these droids to take the city now ' The fiery one asked as Nox thought over the best way to answer the good question .
" Good question ... I could , But at the end of the day , What do the natives achieve . They'll still be at eachother throats . Fighting for control and they'll most likely attempt to wrestle control of kathol for themselves by attempting to take the city . You are the only ones with the goal to revive the kathol , Who says that's what they want . The only thing that changes is the darkstryder is no longer in the picture . But if they're forced to fight together , To unite against this common enemy . They need to fight together , Experience their hardships together , Create the bonds needed for a real alliance. And if they are able to do it under my watchful eye and guiding hand ... All the better , What I want here is the secure and sustainable future for your planet " Nox reasoned to the fiery one , The luminous being accepting his reasoning after a few seconds of mutual silence.
' You've put alot of thought into this . You're rather insightful I must admit ' The fiery one floated back closer to the Holo as it studied the subjugation ' What are the chances of the darkstryder taking your ship '
" Practically ... no ... they are simply straight zero . There are ... things on that ship that would make it tremble in terror if it could comprehend them " Nox replied in thought of the Iokath god droids and Zildrog itself that were stored on the ship . Not to mention the other things kept on the vessel under Nox's watchful eye.
' How long do you think it'll be before the Yapi arrive ' The fiery one asked .
Closing his eyes , Nox felt through the force , where he sought the Yapi population currently enroute .
" They're moving at an acceptable rate . It's quite amazing how fast the can move when the children are mounted stop the parents , An entire population that can run tens of kilometres an hour . They'll be here by tomorrow noon ... That's sixteen hours to get the ontee tribes ready for the battle . And when they arrive , We split off those unfit for battle and get them to a safe location . Then we go to war "
Arriving on the subjugation's bridge , Vaylin looked over the crew before her with a critical eye .
Coming up to the high justice , The CO approached and gave her a staunch salute .
" Your orders mistress " The CO asked , The Exarch standing tall , His features hidden behind his armour .
" Commander estus ... break formation . His majesty wants the subjugation in orbit over kathol for immediate support . Skytrooper factories are to be on full output and ready for deployment to the surface at his majesties discretion" Vaylin immediately went into command mode as she placed her arms behind her back and stood tall , The Scorpio proxy Onboard listening to her and immediately starting Skytrooper production.
" At your command " Estus turned to the helmsman with purpose .
" Bring the vessel into low orbit , Slow our approach and engage cloaking measures " Estus hissed out , The helmsman working in tandem with Scorpio to guide the Titanic vessel away from the first fleet around the demonsgate towards kathol .
" Estimated arrival time at current speeds , Thirty minutes " Scorpio announced as she monitored the ships systems .
" Good . I don't want this bitch knowing we're here until it's too late " Vaylin bit as she glared out at kathol .
" I want all weapons primed and ready incase we get the order " Vaylin instructed as she began to pace across the bridge .
All across the vessel , warheads primed . Thermo nuclear weapons engaged whilst turbo laser batteries began to charge to full power . Mac cannons were automatically loaded and double checked whilst ion Cannon's began to glow a blue light .
Outside the vessel , The ship began to shimmer and shift . A haze beginning to overtake the vessel as it began to cloak .
It was quick , Almost immediate as the ship vanished from all sensors and anyone's view , Going completely undetected by any means as it rapidly approached the dark green and blue planet .
" Friendlies and opposition flagged. ID tags implemented into sensors , Awaiting further orders " Scorpio announced as a Holo appeared infront of Vaylin ,. a display of all friendlies being shown on the map whilst the energy fortress glowed a fiery red as it was lit up by enemy tags .
THE NEXT DAY- NOON
Everyone was restless . As the Yapi approached rapidly from the west , A cloud of churning dust being upturned as the pack of Yapi rushed closer .
At his side stood the ontee representative whilst the individual village spokesmen stood behind Nox and the representative.
The ground began a slow shake at the five thousand approaching Individuals that were quickly coming closer .
The united ontee villages behind them rushed and gathered in fear , Thinking they were being invaded , As warriors grabbed their weapons and came to the defence of their people .
Yet the warriors came to a stop at the spokesmen's orders , Forming a line behind their leaders incase anything went wrong .
" Time to make history " Nox slumped as he adjusted his robes , Pulling down the hood to reveal his pitch black hair that swayed Violently in the wind .
On his left side , The fiery one remained close by to monitor his progress .
' Are you sure about this course of action ' The fiery one asked once more , Nox sending it an amused eyebrow .
" Of course , Let's go meet them , Oh , I'm sure they're tired . Why don't you prepare some meals " Nox suggested as he turned to the spokesmen before turning back to the incoming Yapi , Stepping forward with purpose alongside the representative and the fiery one .
Their journey was hard , Tiring and difficult . At the behest of their new lord , They persevered on against their bodies aches .
Osiris huffed and gagged as she ran on all fours , Her weapons strapped to her back as she guided the Yapi behind her .
And true to the Lord's word , She spotted him once more , Walking towards them with a purposeful gait as their old prey walked at his side .
' They too serve the sky demon faithfully ' Osiris thought as she began to slow her charge . Behind her , the others did the same .
The Grass was soft on her digits as they pressed into the mudded grounds . Yet she ignored them in favour of approaching her lord who was giving her an amused smirk .
Slowing to a stop infront of him , Her people did the same .
It was almost immediate that the warriors of the Yapi spotted the ontee warriors with their weapons at the ready . Snarling as they readied their own weapons and pushed their children to the centre of the pack .
" Hey " Nox snapped his fingers , The wind blowing at the pressure released by a single snap of his fingers " None of that now . They're just nervous , The same as you . Now stay here while it take your leaders away to converse . And if anything happens while we're gone , I'll kill you all "
Osiris knew an order when she heard one as she , Nox and the ontee representative moved to the side of both parties , Towards a high hill that had a vantage point of the whole area .
" Okay , I'm going to keep it simple . Workout an alliance you both benefit from , Food and water resources aren't a worry so keep them out of the discussion for I'll be providing both myself . Now ... " Nox sat down on a rock with crossed arms " The ontee hate the darkstryder and want it gone , Do you agree that's something that has to happen Osiris "
" Yes ... the darkstryder must die " Osiris replied as the ontee's naturally wide eyes blinked slowly as it relayed everything it heard to the other leaders .
" Okay so we agree on that . Now from what I've seen , The ontee don't particularly like being hunted. Nor do you particularly like being culled in turn , Am I right " Nox pressed with his voice and the force .
" Yes , Our numbers have been thinned far too much , Our future is uncertain as is without their horrible ways " The rep bit out as the Yapi's ears pressed back in anger .
" It is only natural for the weak to serve the strong . Your place isn't above us , And we won't let you forget that " Osiris snapped back as Nox's brow contorted .
" Okay , Both of you are forgetting that neither of you are the strongest parties here . Not you " Nox pointed at the ontee " Or you "
The Yapi sagged at his finger being pointed at her , Thinking he was going to smite her , Yet she relaxed as his finger curled back up and receded into the sleeves of his robes .
" You're both in danger of yourselves . Yet the darkstryder wants both of your people dead and will happily watch you all die . And when it's gone , It'll either be the fiery ones or the kathol themselves that control the planet . If you are to survive what is to come , You will unite . That means no more hunting eachother " His pointed look at Osiris caused her to shrink back before her turned to the ontee .
" And no more culling . You will work together . You people will mingle and produce good relations , And you will become one civilisation , Nobody is higher than the other , You both rely on eachother , All are provided for ... am I clear "
" Your decree has been heard , Storm lord , It will be obeyed " Osiris knelt infront of him , Refusing to meet his eyes .
" The representative of the white ones shall not be disobeyed ... Your words will be obeyed " The ontee rep relayed after hearing the Yapi's announcement.
' What a waste of time ... both they're societies are spineless , Looks like the kathol have their work cut out for them when they return , Atleast It won't be my problem ' Nox sighed as he stood back up " Okay good , Alliance made lets eat "
Grunting , Nox quickly departed back to the ontee camp , His words heard loud and clear as the Yapi and ontee groups stared eachother down .
Nox didn't care what occured next as he returned to his makeshift tent , Yet he could feel the Yapi tentatively beginning to mingle with the ontee camps .
Frustrated , Nox dropped himself down onto the furred bed provided for him after having removed the pieces of his armour.
' Playing peacekeeper difficult ' The firey one spoke up as Nox opened one eye to peer at the creature.
' Just ... frustrating . But it's gotta be done . Now I'm going to ... rest for the next twelve hours , And you're going to make sure nothing disturbs me unless it's absolutely necessary ' Nox replied as he closed his eye once more , Blasting his consciousness from his mortal coil where he prepared to do some shifty things through the force .
" Your majesty " A heavy Skytrooper unit accompanied by three others knelt before him , In their arms were a series massive secured crates .
" Ahh very good , set that one here , The rest of you are to place them around the camps and hand them out to the warriors , Only one per person , To be taken half an hour before we engage " Nox stood to the side and held the tent flap open , The main unit entering with its crate whilst the other dispersed throughout the shoddy tents at his order .
The main unit made its way to the centre of the tent before kneeling down , Depositing the crate on the ground with a solid thud.
" Now leave " Nox ordered of the Skytrooper unit , Completely ignoring its immediate departure in favour of approaching the crate .
" My lord you called for us " Osiris and borq entered the tent , Noticing Nox kneeling infront of the crate .
Placing his thumb against the scanner that locked the case . The crate let out a small hiss as the lid popped open slightly .
" Yes I did . I need you to round up all children and any unable to participate in the coming battle . They'll be leaving with my forces and waiting on one of my ships until the battle is won " Nox instructed , Osiris opting to spread the word whilst Borq was the one to stay.
" Now , Borq ... come here " Nox lifted the lid off of the crate , White mist rising from within as two seperate silver cases were kept within .
Grabbing the handles of the two cold cases , Nox lifted them from within the confines of the crate , Taking care not to disturb the contents before placing them on the ground at his side.
Out of curiosity, Borq watched Nox open one of the cases . The bug tilted it's head in confusion as it stared at small capsules that glowed a fluorescent blue light.
" Half an hour before we engage the enemy , Our warriors are to swallow a single one of these pills . These are ... stimulants that heighten out warriors capabilities whilst... nevermind . Just know that this is going to help us win the war with minimal casualties " Nox picked up one of the glowing capsules with a curious eye .
' Such a dangerous little thing ... Your research does me well Skyva ' Nox placed the glowing pill down with the rest , Deciding he'd rather watch the affects rather than experience it himself , a wise decision.
" Now please , Take this crate and dispersed these amongst everyone that is to be at the battle . In the meantime ... There is something I must do ... Leave me " Nox turned away from Borq as it took the offered crate and made a hasty silent retreat .
Kneeling to the ground , Nox inclined his head whilst the force gre heavy around him . A mirage of purple mist rising from his form to permeate through the tent . All across the camp , The temperature dropped exponentially with everyone present shivering as a cold wave washed over them .
" Greetings darkstryder ... we have much to discuss "
The darkstryder paused in its movements through its fortress . The long centipede like create twisting around a hallway whilst it's guards skittered across the walls and ceiling .
It however stopped as the hall around it darkened , The shadows stretching and plunging into a black darker than a starless sky. It felt an instinctual wrongness with the setting . Icicles formed across the ceiling , Yet it paid no heed to these rapidly forming icicles .
Instead of stared at the plaque figure that had appeared ahead of it in the hallway . Make of shifting clouds of black and white . It's eyes a pitch of black darker than anything around it .
" Greetings darkstryder, We have much to discuss " With a mere wave of its hand , The world around the darkstryder vanished . The creature finding itself on a formless plain that stretched on for eternity .
" You are " The darkstryder asked as it rose to its hind legs , Attempting to stand over the humanoid shape before it.
" Emperor Obrunik Kallig of the eternal empire . The one on the throne " Nox introduced himself , Snapping his fingers to conjure a large obsidian throne for his otherworldly form to casually sit down on.
The world around them changed as soon as he sat apon his throne . Massive obelisks of stone from nowhere whilst sand blanketed the lands . Rising the the distance was the korriban academy which looked over them with a chilling shadow .
" Then allow me to properly introduce myself . I am the darkstryder , The rightful appointed monarch of kathol , Appointed by the old masters themselves " The darkstryder rose up and expanded its legs out in an effort to display its superiority.
" Well met " Nox interlaced his fingers whilst crossing his left leg over his right .
" What is it you wish to speak of emperor of the distant stars " The darkstryder spoke sarcastically as it's head wound from left to right .
" I have been made aware of a certain goal you wish to achieve . I want to speak to you about this ... deal you wish to make" Nox motioned his hands forward whilst extending his fingers to accentuate his words .
" It is simple is it not . In exchange for one of your vessels . I will allow you access to the technology I have pioneered . And then all will be forgiven for your transgressions " The darkstryder inched closer whilst nearing the eternal emperor .
The small smile Nox had plastered on his face slowly slipped from his face whilst he listened .
" Foolish " Nox sneered as he raised his cupped hand towards the darkstryder .
" You insignificant creature , You cannot comprehend the forces you face . Nor can you trick me into allowing you off world " Nox gripped the creature through the force and dragged it to kneel at his foot. It struggled for naught as it's head became buried in the illusionary sands of korriban .
" You see . I am aware of your goals in leaving this world. You would plague the universe until I find and kill you once more . You would never be powerful enough to become a true danger to me . But you would become annoying in the long run . But I am not without mercy . If you were to abdicate and usher in my rule , Then I would permit you to exist on this world " Nox allowed the creature to pull back , Its long body skittering back several tens of metres .
" You insolent creature .I will not be intimidated by such meager illusions . I have lived for eons . Ruled this world with an iron fist since the imprisonment of my creators . I know it's geography like the back of my hand . Nothing occurs without my knowledge . You can build your tiny army , You can march them to me and they will die . However , I will spare them . If you come to me and prostrate yourself before my altar . You will bring me a vessel to the stars , And only then will I allow you life " The creature rose high as it spread itself wide " If not , Then this army you've created of those pathetic creatures you seem to care for so much will be killed "
The two stared at eachother in silence for several long moments . All before a small snort was heard , The darkstryder watching as nos chest began to heave in laughter .
" Hehahahaaaahahahah ..." His chest heaved up and down uproariously , If this was his physical form he would have had tears streaming down his face due to how humorous it's assumptions were , Showing just how short sighted the creature was. His fit of laughter went on for a few more seconds before he suddenly stopped . The sudden shift in demeanor and attitude taking the darkstryder by surprise " You see that's the thing. I don't particularly care about the lives native to this planet . They make a decent work force but if they all just happen to perish in this coming conflict , Then so be it. It makes my conquest and unquestioned rule of the planet a much simpler goal "
" It seems we've reached an impasse " Nox spoke as he rose from the black throne with the chair vanishing as he left its surface.
" It seems so " The darkstryder stared down at the so called emperor and If it could physically show it's hate on its face it would be contorted in utter malice.
" Then there is no further need for us to discuss things from this point onward . The next time we meet , Shall be on the battlefield " Nox decreed as the appeared back in the corridors of the Darkstryder's fortress .
" This is your one chance. Surrender and turn yourself over by the time me and my forces arrive to your fortress . Or be destroyed " The astral form of Nox proceeded to break up into motes of black and white energy that dissipated Into the air .
Nox opened his molten eyes with a harsh glare . Nox rose from his position with haste and purpose before storming towards the tent flap .
With Nox violently pushing over the tent flap . Osiris leapt in fright as he stared directly at her .
" Get the fighters ready ... we're going to war " Nox immediately turned back into the tent without further word .
Standing on the bridge of the Subjugation . Vaylin turned her eyes to the side whilst Scorpio approached at her side .
" His majesty has given the go ahead . We're to drop over the city covertly and have our forces ready for immediate deployment " Scorpio informed the high justice with her usual Emotionless voice.
Within a few moments of nothing happened . Vaylin turned to face the bridge crew whom were waiting for her order .
" YOU HEARD HER . GET US DOWN THERE " Vaylin's voice broke half way through her bellow . Meanwhile everyone below infront of her rushed to their stations .
The effect was immediate . As the ship shuddered slightly as they began to move forward with the thrusters roaring to life . Whilst maintaining its camouflage , the vessel dropped through the atmosphere hundreds of metres in moments .
The drop was immediate and if one were to look to the skies . They would see clouds being speared apart by what appeared to be nothing but brutally strong winds .
With the ship levelling out at several thousand metres above the ground . The flagship approached the city in complete and utter silence . The only tell to its presence would be if someone was able to sense them through the force .
" Levelling out . Maintaining altitude . Skytrooper units ready for immediate deployment . Weapons trained " Scorpio announced as she informed her superior.
" Very good " Vaylin squinted as she felt the approach of Nox's army from below .
As they entered the cities boundaries . The ship was sure to avoid any of the towering structures of the abandoned city .
" Minimising all emissions. Harmonising with the local atmosphere ... absorbing signals ... Sound waves ... neutral ... we're completely invisible . They have no idea we're here " Scorpio announced with a small amount of pride in her voice .
" Have all weapons trained on the Darkstryder's fortress . If his majesty is to call it in ... I want it glassed " Vaylin crossed her arms behind her back with a hard glare .
The march was slow but organised . With Nox standing at the head with Borq and Osiris walking slowly at his side's .
The forest around them was silent as they passed through . The smaller lifeforms fleeing to their refuges as the army caused the ground to rattle in their synchronised march .
His black robes obscured his body from view as his glowing eyes peeked out from under the darkness of his hood .
Coming out of the bushes like a fiery luminous light . His fiery one companion swiftly flew to his side before hovering over his right shoulder .
' I was wandering where you went ' Nox's eyes flashed to the fiery one . His vibrant eyes peering at the creature with open curiosity .
' Forgive me . I was communing with the others and scouring the city ahead ' The fiery one whispered in his mind in response .
' I see ... it's no problem . You're here now ' Nox replied as he stretched his senses out ahead of them .
" We're approaching the city limits " Nox informed Osiris and Borq as he stared at a massive metallic sloped wall some several hundred metres ahead .
Cradling the hilt of his lightsaber . Nox smirked as he felt the rage of the darkstryder within the city far ahead within the city .
" Spread the word . I want everyone to take their stimulants ... immediately " Nox ordered of Osiris and Borq . Both of which quickly fell back into the lines of Yapi and ontee as they relayed their orders .
All around one by one the Yapi and the ontee pulled out the small fluorescent blue cylinders handed to them by the heavy Skytrooper units which dropped them off . Being careful as they broke the seals to the stimulants. The army downed the stimulants cylinder and all with no issues .
As they continued forward . Nox's eyes flashed to the sky as he felt the subjugation passing overhead . And using his force sight he was able to see the vessel itself as it glistened in the skies .
Coming to a stand atop the sloped wall that surrounded the ancient kathol capital . Nox stared blankly at the fortress at the centre of the city with clear contempt .
Coming up at his side once more were the co leader of the ontee and Yapi . Behind them on the metallic slope stood the army which had scaled it's sides without issue .
Looking from left to right , Nox scowled as he felt the buried life forms that lay buried in the fields between the wall and the cityscape before them .
Stretching his hand out to the fields infront of them , Nox made a clawing gesture and dragged his fingers towards his chest .
The ground churned as massive insectoid beasts were torn through the soil against their will .
Chitinous plates covered the large creatures whilst white worm like beings wriggled from under the plates of the massive creatures . They had six long armoured legs that clawed at the ground whilst attempting to find purchase on the ground. Their armoured heads swung around on their long necks as they cried out in confusion . Three eyes on either sides of their heads all locking onto the army that stood atop the metallic wall .
As tens of these creatures were lifted from the ground before the amazed army . Nox lurched forward with red streams of superheated lightning bolts spearing from his fingers and into the skies .
The very air around them screamed as white flashes blinded those to bear witness momentarily .
He could feel the creatures die as each bolt of lightning to be discharged from his fingertips . The force being stripped from their bodies with each bolt . Their life force being drained at every moment .
Stopping the lightning with a mere flick of his wrist . Nox simply dropped the sizzling charged corpses of the beasts to the ground .
As the corpses dropped to the ground , Nox turned to face the Yapi and ontee army behind them with a harsh glare .
He could feel the fortress responding to the sudden deaths of the cities buried guardians , As thousands of lifeforms flooded from access ports throughout the city before flushing towards their direction .
' This is it I guess ' Nox looked at the aliens below him , Studying each and every one of them for no more than a second each .
Spreading his arms to the side of his body , Nox floated slightly so he was visible to everyone below .
He ignored that there were well over a thousand of the Darkstryder's forces flooded towards the army of Yapi and ontee and instead chose to focus on giving his speech to the people he now lead .
" HERE WE ARE , RIGHTFUL RULERS OF KATHOL . YOUR GREAT ENEMY REARS IT'S HEAD IN DEFIANCE AS WE STAND ON THE BRINK OF VICTORY. PICK UP YOUR SPEARS , STAND STRONG AND DO NOT FALTER . FEAR NO INJURIES , DO NOT FEAR OBLIVION FOR IT HOLDS NO CLAIM OF YOU THIS NIGHT " Nox clenched his hand infront of him , The two armies raising their heads to their leader as they listened .
" THE DARKSTRYDER CLAIMS KATHOL AS IT'S OWN , IT CREATED YOUR BROTHER RACES , YOU SIBLING TO SERVE A MEANINGLESS EXISTENCE UNDER ITS EYE . IT CARES NOT FOR YOU , IT HOLDS YOUR FATHERS HOSTAGE IN UNDEATH .IT THINKS ITSELF BETTER THAN YOU . THANK YOU CAN BE SILENCED AND CONQUERED . SHOW THIS CREATURE , THIS ABOMINATION YOUR RESOLVE . FIGHT FOR YOUR SONS , YOUR DAUGHTERS AND WIVES AND HUSBANDS . FIGHT TILL THE BITTER END BY MY SIDE AS WE SHOW THIS BEAST ITS PLACE . TOGETHER... WE WILL MAKE IT PAY FOR ITS INSOLENCE " Nox bellowed as the force tore from his body , expanding from him in a dome of energy that speared into his armies .
The change was immediate, The army twitched and shook as energy rose up within every being present . Hope , Resolution , Sheer determination took hold of the ontee and the Yapi.
They became ravenous , As they , not knowing how to handle the unnatural intrusion of such feelings , roared and charged forward with their weapons .
They rushed over the metal wall and past Nox with a sort of controlled rage . As they slid down the other side of the wall as a wave of white and blue .
They cared not for the liquid black sea of their brother races coming to meet their charge head on . They had a single purpose this day , They wouldn't falter .
" WE FIGHT " A Yapi lost amongst the others bellowed as they began a single charge for the incoming wave of organic black metal flooding in their direction .
" TILL DEATH " An ontee replied as they mixed with the Yapi as they blitzed towards the incoming enemies .
" OR VICTORY " Nox finish as he leapt high into the air above , becoming a shifting cloud of black that quickly overtook the front line charge of his army , Heading straight for the Darkstryder's fortress .
His black form crashed into one of the skyscrapers above . Blowing the outer walls of the building away as the entire structure shifted . The cloud snaked through the building without care as entire beams of metal were thrown out of it's path whilst he broke through the other side of the building .
He ignored the building behind his shifting form even as it began to collapse under the structural damage it had sustained.
From below the Ssamb looked to the skies as metal shards fell from above . Spotting the black cloud that rushed towards their fortress . Yet they could do nothing as the enemy army collided with them .
Like ravenous beasts , The Yapi and ontee fell onto them like an ocean .
The stimulants were well in effect as the Yapi raged . For ever Yapi there would be four Ssamb trying to stop just one . Their muscles burst under their skin as their pupils dilated . Their mouths began to froth with white foam as one but down onto the centre of a Ssamb , Holding two more in its clawed hands before moving onto the others whilst taking its hands around like massive cleaving blades .
It was a shame that the Ssamb didn't have heads . Instead being a single central segment with teeth and six legs attached to it . For the Yapi would have decapitated many if they could have .
Soon the mental effects of the stimulants began to take hold . As they became blinded . Ignoring the pain of the Ssamb's teeth and pincers raking flesh and chitin from their bodies.
Even as entire limbs were torn from their bodies . Organs being exposed to the outside world as entrails were pulled from their bodies . Yet the stimulants kept them alive . As the wounds closed up before their enemies very eyes .
Osiris was a force to be reckoned with as her dilated eyes blitzed around her in every direction .
Her white charred fur was long since dyed red with blood . Thick veins bulged under her skin as her charred coat moved .
She felt alive . Not like some hobbling old coot using a spear as a walking stick . No , She was alive . Once more a monster on the battlefield , A monster she had long since forgotten it was like to be .
She caught a Ssamb in her jaw as it leapt at her from the horde . Only to be squashed and explode. outwards as her maw turned it to paste.
" YOU CAN'T STOP ME . I AM OSIRIS THE BLOODHOUND . DO YOU THINK YOU'LL BE ABLE TO PUT ME DOWN THIS DAY. COME ... MEET YOUR ENDS " Osiris bellowed as he hefted her spear above her head before lowering it and rushing head first into the Ssamb horde.
The ontee were in the same ravenous state as the Yapi .
Borq and the other village leaders stood at the head of the ontee as the Ssamb climbed all over them .
His axe split a Ssamb down the middle whilst his second and third hands flashed out to squish the pathetic bugs in his grip .
They crawled over his back in an attempt to kill him . Yet his fourth arm flashed backwards with a dagger , Flying over his body with keen precision as he cleansed his back of attackers by slashing at them viciously .
It was insanity all around even as the falling building from above collapsed onto both armies . Cushing many of both sides at once , Yet they ignored the building without care and waged war for their leaders .
He slammed down onto the rooftop of the Darkstryder's fortress , Cratering the building underfoot as the cloud that made up his being coalesced together .
His skin came together like notes of ash that clumped together into a solid form . With his face coming together , His molten eyes slowly opened whilst he held a small smile . Rising from his kneeling position, his robes pieced themselves together around his nude form . Nox looked at the darkstryder that stood at the opposite side of the rooftop .
" I did tell you to be ready to surrender apon my arrival . I guess you choose death " Nox chuckled as he shrugged off the oversized black robe and let it pool around his boots .
" You pretentious human . You all think you will be the ones to conquer the stars. You humans . You're not the first of your kind I've encountered. And I have put down all those who think they can come to my world and challenge me . So when I kill you . I'll take your ship. And the stars will be mine " The darkstryder rose up before bellowing outwards , Calling its personal escort to its aid .
" You assume too much " Nox chuckled with a small smile even as the five hundred Ssamb that made up the Darkstryder's personal escort blitzed him from all sides .
" Allow me to educate you " Nox mused as he connected to Scorpio via his implants " Begin the assault "
Above the city , the looming Subjugation appeared suddenly above the skyscrapers . Immediately after its appearance. Curtains of white ejected from all sides and crevices of the ship spewed out of the giant vessel .
They fell on the city like multiple white waterfalls . The Skytrooper army broke clear through the skyscrapers , Dropping through floors with little resistance as they shredded anything between them and the ground .
The first things to land naturally were the behemoth heavy Skytrooper units . As they slammed into the ground with the force of fallen meteors .
The massive golden droids started the assault immediately. With a sweep of their large fists , They dropped their fists onto the Ssamb as their fists broke the concrete below . With their fists buried in the ground . Twin muzzles burst from compartments on the back of their hands with a low buzz .
Immediately after jets of flame exploded around the heavy Skytrooper units .Clearing everything around them in a wave of fire that expelled outwards in all directions .
Rising from the blast craters , The heavy units remained still as the other skytrooper units fell to the ground beside them . Their jetpacks giving a slow roar as they stopped their descent .
The wall of skytroopers cut off the majority of Yapi and ontee from the rest of the Ssamb army . They held their blasters in formation , A wall of blasters ready to rain hell down on their foes .
Over their shoulders , Another wave of skytroopers hovered in the skies with their weapons pointed down to assist the skytroopers on the ground .
" Open fire " Scorpio ordered from above within the Subjugation. And at her order , The Skytrooper army unleashed a wave of superheated plasma apon the hideous Ssamb.
Nox watched from the fortress as the skytroopers unleashed a wave of dark blue hell apon the Ssamb . A never ending wave of plasma that slaughtered many with each volley .
" What a vessel . This ship will be the vessel that delivers me to the stars " The darkstryder stretched upwards in a sort of attempt to grab at the subjugation looming above .
" It's a mighty vessel . It's a shame you'll never get to experience its splendor . Now what did I say before . Oh yes ... it's time for me to educate you on your place " Nox hissed as he made a crushing motion with his hands . All around them , All five hundred of the personal guard of the darkstryder imploded inwards in a burst of blood that sprayed outwards in all directions .
With a sneer , Nox swept his hand before their corpses were swept to the side by Nox's same closed fist .
" Now ... let's settle this little thing we have going on here " Nox adjusted the gauntlets of his right hand as he began to step towards the darkstryder , Making sure to step over the newly dead Ssamb " Emperor to emperor ... or I think its closer to emperor to bug "
The darkstryder answered with a screech , Its hundreds of legs pushing it forward as the arms under its head reached for its foe .
Nox himself leapt forward , Blitzing whilst he left several after images in his wake as he wound his fist back and met the darkstryder at the centre of the roof with a colossal explosion .
As they met , Nox's fist collided with the lower portions of the Darkstryder's face . As a thunderclap rose from where he struck , The beast itself was hurled backwards in a blur towards one of the towers of the fortress.
Landing with a small huff , Nox once more pushed off of the ground before sprinting directly at the centipede .
As the beasts collided with the tower . Nox once more leapt up into the air as he brought his fists together overhead and performed a two handed drop onto the beasts exposed underside .
The fortress shook under the power of his blow as the skyscrapers in the distance had its windows blow out from the pressure of his punch.
The beasts body physically collapsed inwards as it wailed from his punch , Before Nox gripped the beasts by its legs and began to hoist it overhead .
It's legs flew about in panic as Nox's back muscles bulged whilst he held the darkstryder overhead before he arched and tossed the creature across the roof where it slammed into the opposite watchtower .
The force of the darkstryder colliding with the tower forced it to warp and collapse atop the beast . All the while Nox simply examined his right gauntlet as he approached with a slow gait .
" You aliens are always so sure of yourselves . Always assuming you're above the creatures before you . Yet you never comprehend your place in the world . It's about time we fixed that " Nox mocked even as the darkstryder burst from the rubble in a burst of speed .
It appeared before Nox in that moment , Yet was surprised at the left hook that landed on it's left maw . Sending the beast hurtling to the side as it's chitinous plate exploded outwards and off of it's body to reveal exposed and vulnerable muscle .
" You were before a god yet you presumed your superiority . You have a meager , Basic connection to the force which barely allows you to feel the flow of the force . Pathetic . Just because you ruled a planet for millenia you automatically assumed everything you'd encounter from the stars would naturally kneel " Nox made a grasping motion with his left hand .
The darkstryder was taken by surprise as it felt itself begin to contort and twist . The darkstryder was dragged from the ground and into the air as it was forcefully hovered before Nox .
" You're before a god . You thought this was going to be a battle . But what god would allow such a pathetic creature such as you to so much as threaten his existence . You are nothing but a dying bug who will serve as the stepping stone to my rule of this planet . This wasn't a battle ... this is an execution " Nox dropped his hand to the ground . And just like their previous discussion , The darkstryder was planted before Nox's feet .
The Sith entity stared down at the darkstryder with a frown .
" It's a shame . I expected more from such a big mighty emperor such as you , Pathetic ... Though I guess I shouldn't have gotten my hopes up . You're nothing compared to the power they held . I look forward to waging true battle with them " Nox smirked as he raised his hands towards the forcefully kneeling darkstryder.
" You will suffer for your arrogance " Nox mused before once more red bolts speared from his fingers to assault the Darkstryder's body .
The beast wailed in agony as Red arcs crossed the creatures body . Wriggling around and crying out in utter pain and agony .
Nox could feel the creature being stripped of the force , As the computer housed in its shead flashed several colours in rapid succession .
It's chitin armour began to sizzle and pop whilst it's legs burst with blood spraying from the limbs . The eyes in its skull began to bleed , Gushing blood popping and bubbling in all directions from it's body .
' That's all it can take . Pathetic ' Nox squinted as he stopped the surge of power from his fingertips.
" This is it for you. Know that everything you have ever strived for comes to an end at this very moment. Die ... and know nothing " Nox pointed his finger at the glowing computed embedded within the creatures skull " Mecha-deru "
The battle was over . As one the Darkstryder's armies halted their attacks at the same time .
They allowed themselves to die without fighting back , As if they held no sense of self preservation or a reason to live. They simply rolled over and allowed themselves to die at the hands of the ontee and Yapi.
Nox watched from atop the Darkstryder's fortress with his hands crossed behind his back . Black robes billowing around thanks to vicious winds courtesy of the subjugation lowering closer to the city now that the threat was ended .
Turning around to a looming shadow over his back , Nox turned to face a still and silently standing darkstryder . The computer in it's head shining a ghastly orange whilst black tentacles wound throughout it's body as if forcefully controlling the deceased husk that was once the ruler of kathol .
' You'll make a good techno beast ... but let's go free these kathol first ' Nox pressed his thought onto the computer system bound to his will . And to his satisfaction he watched the deceased darkstryder turn away and begin a slow trek back into the fortress.
Arriving within the antechamber that housed the very tip of the life well . Nox waltzed up to the giant beating organ with an admiring gaze.
Standing infront of the organ was Scorpio herself whom was currently linked to one of many computer consoles that lines the room .
" How goes the download " Nox asked as he stopped beside the feminine droid , the Darkstryder winding into the room as it slowly made its way towards the lifewell .
" I take it you're controlling that beast " Scorpio asked as her eyes shined with light , the droid in mid process of analysing several thousand curious files housed within the kathol mainframe.
" Of course . It's as dead as Ziost . I'm simply controlling it's more technical parts through the force " Nox stepped around the glowing console before walking up to the lifewell .
" Now then beast ... Free then " His command was heard as the darkstryder began to rise , Spreading wide as the computer systems within its body released a low wine .
All around the room , Lights began to flicker rapidly as the computer consoles around all activated at once . Forcing Scorpio to disconnect from the mainframe and take a step back as system connected to the life well activated .
The building around them shook as cables diverted power from the fortress and into the lifewell .
A low pulse rose over the Titanic organ infront of them , Before the darkstryder suddenly shut off and fell to the ground , It's duty complete .
" Arrange for the pickup of the body " Nox spoke over his shoulder to Scorpio just as several white glowing beings appeared infront of him from the lifewell .
" Greetings . I am Obrunik , I take it you're the kathol " Nox kept his arms crossed behind his back whilst the beings of energy regarded him in silence .
" Greetings star conqueror "
" Our time within the lifewell has robbed us if our ability to re-aquire organic form . We cannot return to what we once were " The metaphysical alien forms shifted around the antechamber whilst the Yapi and ontee watched on in reverence , Kneeling before the original creators of the kathol civilisation .
" We've decided to move on. To ascend where our master's have gone ... it is the only path left before our kind " The representative explained as it gestured to the others behind it .
" You have freed us from our eternal torment " Another elder of the Kathol came up beside the ancient elder council .
" You have ensured the continued prosperity of our progeny in our absence " Another came up beside the two that stood before Nox .
" But our children cannot be left on their own , They would eventually fall to their baser instincts of domination . No ... a watcher is needed , Just like we were to our children ... And the darkstryder to his subjects . So to you , will take our place amounts the monarchy of kathol " Brighter than that of the other three , A humanoid shape of white light came up beside its companions .
" We've come to the unanimous agreement that you shall warden our lands apon our departure . We've watched you , How you interact with our children. How you treat them fairly without prejudice . Their lives matter to you just as they did us ... and in that line of thinking ... You have proven to be the most viable subject to inherit our mantle . Your stewardship shall be recognised by the residents of our planet and our leftover technology , It's future is in your hands . The innocent place their trust in you , don't squander it " The largest of the group spoke in a deep baritone voice .
" Our decree has been made young one . Should we cross paths in the great beyond , We would look forward to reacquainting ourselves " A feminine version spoke as the representative began to speak up once more .
" Our time for conversing has passed " The representative announced as all around them , Throughout the ancient dead city and the fortress , The luminous beings began to glow brighter and brighter with each passing moment.
" The time for our Ascension has begun " The representative watched on as all across the city , The luminous beings beginning to levitate from the ground with their arms spread at their sides .
" Take care warden . We wish you well in your future endeavours . And remember , be careful of the gate ... Anything made by them ... is not to be taken lightly ... like we did . Learn from our mistakes ... that is the only way forward . Goodbye ... warden " The representative lifted from the ground , The last to do so as before the eyes of their old subjects , The luminous ones forms ruptured .
As one . Across the city , The ancient Kathol erupted . Rings of light tearing from their luminous forms in explosions of light that expanded outwards like a supernova in all directions .
The explosions of the kathol expanded to two metres before being sucked in on themselves , The light that made up their beings sucked in like a black hole .
Nox watched as a repulse washed over the city to complete the ancient Kathol's ascension. Silence was all that remained as the indigenous peoples of the world looked to him for guidance .
" What should we do next " Vaylin asked as the leaders of the different races bowed their heads .
" We will honour the wishes of the ancient masters of Kathol . This city shall once more become the central hub of civilisation . Together will the races of this world walk forward , Under my banner " Nox turned to the clan leaders , Borq and Osiris , Eyes oassing over each individual present .
" Go , Retrieve your people's , A new dawn arrives for this world . My empire will arrive in the morning with my people to begin restoration . I expect you to be present " They all bowed to his words , Unchallenging as they swiftly departed the presence of their new leader .
With the locals quickly rushing off to gather the remainder of their kind , Nox turned back to the city with a small frown on his face .
" This is Nox to bridge. Kathol has been secured . Divide the fleet , I want twelve ships enroute immediately with resources to repair the destroyed gate that is here in the city . Be careful of the locals , They are allies and have pledged themselves to our empire . Then I want you to scour and download all the knowledge they have hidden and relayed to me " Nox relayed to the Scorpio proxy on the subjugation .
" It will be done " Scorpio replied through his implants whilst he turned to Vaylin .
" Very good " Nox replied before cutting off comms .
" Why don't we go see the secrets the kathol we're keeping " Nox smirked as he stepped out of the lifewell chamber .
CHAPTER COMPLETE
I APOLOGISE ONCE MORE THAT THIS CHAPTER TOOK SO LONG TO GET OUT . I'VE BEEN GOING OVER PREVIOUS CHAPTERS AN AM BEGINNING TO REWRITE THEM .
ANYWAYS I HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS CHAPTER AND WHATS HAPPENING. IF YOU HAVE ANY THOUGHTS OR WHAT YOU'D LIKE TO SEE . LET ME KNOW IN A COMMENT OR IN A PM .
CHEERS
