The Legacy of House Ordo

by Sage1988

Five souls from Earth survive its end and find themselves in a different galaxy, Harry finds himself born into House Ordo one of the most powerful Mandalorian Houses. As the chaos of the Clone Wars spreads how will he and the others fair?

16. Chapter 16 Unity or Division?

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter and Star Wars.

Hey there, hope you are all well! Thank you for sticking with this story which is quickly turning into one of the biggest I have ever done. Thank you to everyone that has read and reviewed!

At last other Mandalorian factions are introduced. Some were inspired by other fictions I have seen and some by real life warrior groups.

This chapter features a cameo of a character from a previous chapter. Some of you asked what happened to Lexia Ginorra from chapter 2, you get the answer in this chapter.

Review Responses from the last chapter…

grechri – Hope you like them! They might not sound like much but when you consider what they might mean it could be a big impact. As for the Returned, you see a bit of what they think of the order in his chapter and another member will join their ranks. As for Anakin, he is still new to his own code and is only human so he will make mistakes but what matters is that he learns from them. Anakin is on the road to become a much greater Jedi if he stays the course or a Sith who knows?

Eliazar Chandra – Haron and his allies cannot show their abilities yet because if they do then not only will he have the Jedi breathing down his neck and likely trying to take his children but Palpatine would know too and that makes him more than just a resource and a pawn to be used then discarded...he could be considered a threat and we know how Palpatine will react then.

Chao-hellsing, Callum Runchman, Declonus – Thank you!

Sajuuk – Well, I only can hope to do them justice. The variants is an awesome idea! I will look into it. Anakin did make a mistake but that will hopefully lead to him being a little more careful in the future. I want to take him on a journey that gives him the chance to be a more wiser man than he was before. Part of that is learning from your mistakes. HK-47? Probably not but I will not deny that other Kotor characters might appear in the future.

Blaze1992 – The Basilisk is a part of their identity and if I was going to do a Mandalorian story it felt right to include them. The mask is a key part in bringing their people back together. As for the Sith? I know, Palpatine would have considered them a rival and tried to kill them though after torturing them for their secrets.

Sozin's Flame – Thank you! It means a lot to hear that!

CrimsonMoon1511 – I really appreciate you saying that! Thank you!

Seawurm – I know, but while there will be some conflict it won't quite be a civil war...yet.

HowlnMadHowie – I know, Palpatine might have made things harder for himself but he wants Anakin as his apprentice and as you see at the end of this chapter unfortunately gains a powerful new skill of his own that could have dire consequences for the future in the long run. As for Haron managing to fight a Sith with a busted helmet? Anakin was pretty busy at the time and Haron has perfected hiding himself in the force so none of those present would have felt it. It would probably just be considered a minor detail or a fluke, after all he has beaten Jedi before.

Joe02 – Thanks!

red demon161 – I know! I think he's probably used to it by now though after Hogwarts! Anakin and Haron are a pretty powerful team and there is a bond of trust there. The Jedi are in for some upheaval with the Returned which get a new member in this chapter. I know Ara/Daphne is certainly being careful so she doesn't get pregnant again but gets a little adventure of her own in this chapter.

DarthEmrys – Thanks! Kotor was the game that got me into Star Wars games so it is a big part of my enjoyment of Star Wars. Revan? That is a big step but I will say that he may appear in the future in what guise though I can't say just yet. If you want to bounce some ideas just message me I would be glad to hear them. Stargate? Sorry, not happening. It was considered but in the end it just made things way too complicated or easy. ZPMs? It might happen as I am in need of a powerful energy source for something later in the story. As for the Sequel Trilogy? No, I personally don't like them much and wanted to give the Mandalorians something more unique to them.

Sanders7201 – Bao-Dur in this story is a Jedi and an engineer, I think they call him a Jedi Tech Expert. All things mechanical and with the force too. His role in the story makes sense later, hints to why in this chapter. This story is based on Meetra Surik having all the characters you get with light side options for both genders so Disciple and Brianna at the same time and training them all to be Jedi.

Starpottergeek – After looking into Dune (since I am not very familiar with it) it actually helps with a future thing so your suggestion is awesome! They might not be Mandalorian but I think I can do something with it. Funny some of the KOTOR & SWTOR characters you mentioned, in the future they might have a role. William Adama? Laura Roslin? Not so sure about that but I will see what I can do.

Well, on with the story...

Warning – Bad Language

Chapter 16 – Unity or Division?

Reijar, the Ordo System…

Ara was back at her desk after a couple of weeks rest, smiling as Neville and Hannah were now back home and could help her shoulder the work load of running Ordo and all its different parts. She enjoyed it when she wasn't having to manage the insane amount of it on her own. She enjoyed power she thought with satisfaction as she made the decisions, she liked the responsibility and sense of accomplishment with getting things done so when it was manageable it was great but when it mounted especially with taking care of the children was when it was hard work she remembered, almost exhausted by the memory of it.

She looked out of the office widow and saw little Marcus being given some exercises to build up his little body while Astoria and Corridan were in the teaching room being given the advanced learning programs developed by House Ordo to accelerate their skill development.

Although she could not see it she knew Din was taking the outdoor survival course with their youngest recruits and Lelia who she could just make out was training on the shooting range.

She had a sad smile as time seemed to be flashing by at too great a speed to truly enjoy the time they still had with them as children but at the same time she was grateful for every moment she had with them. Still she did feel a little frustrated at being stuck at home while the others went off and had adventures. She was annoyed at being the one left at home and doing the hard work while they went off and had all the fun.

A sudden beeping of the comm system nearly made her jump she had been so caught up in her thoughts but she managed to maintain her composure and walked over to see just who it was that was calling her.

A holo image of a familiar Rodian appeared and she was surprised at first before saying with a small smile.

"Captain Lon'te. It has been a long time." She said to the captain of the ship that she had been serving on when she had found Haron and the others.

"Indeed Ara." The Captain said with a nod. "I have heard you have gone up in the world since I saw you last. Duchess." He added with ass kissing that let her know he wanted something and this wasn't about catching up.

"You're being polite, so I guess you need something from me." Ara said, already knowing that was the case. Lon'te looked mock offended for a moment before finally raising his hands in surrender and telling her.

"Okay, you got me. I need your help." He said with a smile. "The ship has been hired to take a group of wookiees back to Kashyyyk and I need to increase security since this nasty group of slavers has been dogging them all the way. I need some muscle to keep my passengers safe and you from what I heard have plenty not to mention I never knew anyone run as tight a crew as you did. So can you help me out?" He asked with a desperate pleading look, that she knew was his version of the 'puppy dog eyes'.

She was going to say no as she had enough to do here but the thoughts she had only a moment ago about being stuck at home while the others had adventures.

"Okay, I will bring a few warriors with me to ensure the wookiees get home but you owe me." She said with a smirk, he beamed with gratitude and she was told where to meet the ship. She could leave things in the hands of Hannah, Neville and Deera for awhile.

- x -

Luna sat watching as her students trained with the Mareks in how to fight with lightsabers. True only those that wanted too would but they were cool Luna thought with amusement, many probably would want one when they had sufficient training to build them.

The Mareks themselves were she noticed with relief settling in nicely, they had taken to joining the lessons frequently and now employed the same moving meditation they did which should hopefully help them improve their skills.

However she frowned as she realised they were all struggling to use the dark side, much of what they had learnt so far was neutral or light side orientated but she was hesitant at drawing on dark side abilities as they had no code to guide them yet or know how to use them without being corrupted.

She had been meditating on this for months now without any success in finding a solution, Revan's writings did provide a potential answer but he had fallen to the dark side multiple times so she was unsure if it was going to be enough.

Slipping back into the force she pondered this when finally something came to her, a vision of a large asteroid came into her mind. She saw a star pattern that showed it was in the Outer Rim, specially the Kanz Sector and not only was there a home she noticed built onto the asteroid but a strong dark side aura surrounded it.

Pulling herself out of her vision she frowned, wondering what that place had to show her but knew it had come when she had been looking for a way to use the dark side without being corrupted by it.

So she sighed, she would need to see what was there.

---

The Senate Building, Coruscant…

Haron, now back at his desk after a couple of weeks leave and remote consulting was in the middle of a lot of work that had piled up in his absence. Three campaigns required his oversight and he was advising on about six others all critical plus attend meetings and various committees. He was already missing Reijar and the others as he tried to balance his large and awkward workload.

So when he was called to attend an emergency meeting he sighed and rubbed his temple at the tiredness he was feeling before leaving what he was working on and heading down the situation room.

Arriving there with his warriors who marched in step with him, even more than before now as he had replaced his damaged helmet with the Mask of the Mandalore once they had replaced and updated all the tech inside it. The fact the Mask was in his possession had not really filtered down into Mandalorian society yet so it was only a few that knew about it. The Security Detail saw themselves as his Bloodguard Haron thought with a little pride and let them keep that, he wasn't Mandalore yet but it did good things for their morale and he wasn't going to take that from them.

Once inside he saw Anakin and Obi-Wan standing there with the Supreme Chancellor and a few others. The atmosphere he immediately noticed was tense and only Anakin gave him a nod which was duly returned and the Chancellor looked extremely grave. Mace Windu too was present and without even waiting for Haron to ask what was going on Windu spoke with incredible condescension.

"A Jedi Cruiser was just attacked by a Separatist Saboteur. Perhaps you can explain this Duke Ordo?" Windu said and activated a hologram of the incident.

Haron was surprised by the sight of someone in Mandalorian armour fighting with the clones, he watched his movements closely and a sense of anger came upon him and he realised just what might be happening.

"The Saboteur took his own life rather than be captured and questioned. So Duke I would like an explanation." Windu said sharply and Haron could just imagine the sense of enjoyment that Windu was getting from this, already of the opinion that he was involved due to his interference in getting Jedi into positions of the authority in the war and the mere coincidence of them having the same type of armour.

"I told you Master Windu just because the saboteur has the same armour it doesn't mean Duke Ordo or any of his people are involved. That armour can be worn by anyone who can get hold of a suit. In the Sith Temple we fought a Sith that was wearing a suit of beskar armour and he certainly wasn't Mandalorian." Anakin said fiercely and Haron who was a little touched by Anakin's defence of him spoke.

"Anakin, first of all thank you for your faith and I can honestly tell you that this is news to me too." Haron said removing his helmet so Anakin could see his smile which the younger man returned. "But while I would have hoped that this was merely a thief wearing our armour I can tell you that whoever he was, he is Mandalorian." Haron said reluctantly knowing just how bad this could get.

Anakin and the rest of them were surprised to hear him say that but the Chancellor asked while the Jedi pondered on his words.

"How can you be so sure Duke Ordo?" The old man pressed and Haron sighed before explaining.

"The way he moves, the way fights. Its a standard combat sequence we're all taught from a young age. He does it so smoothly that he would have had to have been doing it for years but as to where he comes from I can only guess. Could be a Mandalorian mercenary they hired, plenty of them drifting around the galaxy. Or..." Haron said not wanting to say what was running through his mind as he realised this could bring his people into conflict with the Republic way before they were ready.

"Or..?" Obi-Wan asked with a hand stroking his beard.

"Or one of the various factions in Mandalorian space has allied with the Separatists or been hired by them. What colour was his armour?" Haron asked Anakin who having been told by him the importance of the colours in their armour before caught on to what he needed straight away and told him.

"Dark bodysuit with dark grey plates, blue markings." Anakin told him and Haron sighed as he knew now just who it was and he was not in the least surprised.

"That colour scheme belongs to House Vizsla, led by Duke Pre Vizsla. Supposed governor of Concordia and leader of the group known as Death Watch." Haron said with frustration building as this was just typical of the man he thought with scorn, too weak to try and take over on his own so he tried to set them against the Republic with the backing of the Separatists just to try and take the throne of Mandalore for himself.

The man was bully, a thug and a complete fool Haron thought seeing immediately Dooku's hand in this, Pre was going to lead them right back into being Sith puppets again he fumed. The thunderous expression on his face made the Jedi look at him with confusion before he sighed again and explained.

"Death Watch is terrorist group on Mandalore and other systems that the New Way has sway. They are intent on returning all Mandalorians to the Old Ways, specifically the warrior ways of our past but their real end game is to put Vizsla in power. He wants to rule over all Mandalorians and uses this as his argument." Haron explained as really with Vizsla it was for his own power, dressed up in the attempt to return to Old Ways. "While I follow the Old Ways myself as do my house and the clans who follow us that is by choice. Vizsla would force it from all of Mandalore, to be warriors who hate the Jedi in particular."

"Clans? Houses? New Way? Old Way?" Anakin asked not getting any of this, so Haron taking pity explained.

"Our society is structured like a pyramid, at the bottom are the clans who each rule a world or star system. The Houses are the larger factions and multiple clans will work under a house. At the top of the pyramid is the one person who rules us and keeps order within our culture, the Mandalore who rules the planet of the same name. As for the two ways our society follows; well the New Way is a pacifistic route that relies solely on debate and diplomacy while the Old Way is about your power and cunning. Pushing to be the best you can be." Haron said making it as simply as he could, the revulsion of the Old Way was clear on the faces of Windu and Kenobi straight away but Anakin nodded, appreciating it more since he had seen the results they achieved.

"Perhaps I should reach out to Duchess Satine and seek her help in dealing with this matter. I may not have seen her in many years but she may be of assistance." Kenobi said and Haron couldn't help but burst out laughing which surprised all those around them. Haron had to let it out before saying.

"I'm sorry but I literally could not help myself. Sorry to spoil your illusions Master Kenobi but that woman is as helpless as a droid without a power cell." He said with great mocking disdain which made Kenobi look visibly annoyed and he wondered just what was between the Jedi and the Duchess. A failed romance perhaps he thought with irony.

"She is hopelessly out of touch with reality, she has no allies or control over any of the different factions given her complete pacifism and lack of action. When my house had a civil war with two others she did not raise a finger to stop the fighting nor did she take any action to protect our colonies when the Separatists began to raid our space. Those examples and many others have left her completely isolated, her weak leadership means most houses and clans now conduct our own affairs and must fend for themselves. Her lack of tact and flexibility in seeing the ways of others or us not being the way she wants us to be. The only reason she is still in power is the Protectors outnumber Death Watch and none of the Old Way houses have sufficient cause to present a challenge...yet." He said with a bit of heat to his voice. If Vizsla had allied with the Separatists though he might have to accelerate his challenge as they did not need a puppet in control of Mandalore.

"Be that as it may she might have some useful information." Palpatine said with a little amusement at Haron's outburst and statement. "Go to Mandalore and see what you can find out Master Kenobi, I would hope you Duke Ordo have a solution." Palpatine said pressing and Haron nodded.

"Yes, there is a great deal of distrust and hatred towards the Separatists after they raided our colonies so if Vizsla is going to be dealt with this will need a united front. I will call for a meeting of all the House leaders, here on Coruscant as it is neutral ground for us. My people do not want to have to suffer another Republic invasion so we will deal with this ourselves in our own way." Haron said firmly and told Kenobi. "Tell the Duchess when you see her that her presence will be required as the leader of House Kryze. It takes place one week from today."

"Are you sure that is necessary?" Palpatine said looking worried all of a sudden. "It seems rather short notice and to bring all of the Mandalorian leaders here." He said wondering just how these factions were going to get along while also considering he may find a better puppet ruler this way.

"Given the situation they will come. As for the venue I could find somewhere else but if we are to convince you that this not some grand plot on our part it is best it be held here." Haron said not caring what the Jedi or the Republic thought in the slightest but knowing that they weren't ready for war yet so he had to prevent it as long as he could.

He also knew that a meeting between all the house leaders was the best chance he would get to press for the leadership or at least get them all on the same page he thought, nervous he thought at the fact that if he screwed this up he could put their plans back years or never.

But it was done he thought with effort and returned to his office to make the various calls he had to make. Some might not want to come he knew but a meeting on such an important manner as this would certainly would demand their attendance, Haron just hoped he was able to convince them to act while they still had time.

Arriving in his office he sighed, knowing this wasn't going to be an easy conversation. He placed his call to the Allied House leaders and less than an hour later all of them were present before him in holographic form.

"Just a day ago a Mandalorian Warrior attacked a Republic Cruiser, all indications point to it being a warrior of House Vizsla." He told them and knew this was going to down down like a lead balloon. They all frowned with anger and Duke Takan spoke up.

"I have an informant inside Death Watch, he sent me evidence of an alliance between Vizsla and Dooku. I can provide the recordings if you wish." Takan said and Haron nodded with gratitude.

"Good, I will need it to convince the Senate that we are not allied with the Separatists. The last thing we need right now is another Excision." He said darkly and they all looked grim as like him they knew of the damage the last one had inflicted on their people. "But this will need to be a meeting of all House Leaders, here on Coruscant. This might just be our chance to unify our people and remove Satine from power." Haron said and the others looked surprised as while they all disliked or even hated Satine Kryze none of them thought they were in a position to remove her just yet.

"How do you think we can do this? It would take all of us agreeing and you know how hard that will be to achieve." Harlan said and Haron smirked before taking his new helmet off his belt and putting it on his head. The expression of shock and disbelief on their faces was so much that Haron had to really work hard not to laugh before telling them.

"Recovered from a Sith Temple I recently visited. After killing the thief I recovered it and now it is mine. It will not be enough on its own but when combined with the threat we now face, that will get them to agree."

They all were still marvelling at the fact that the Mask of the Mandalore had been found after nearly two thousand years of their people searching. Ceta Farr was the first to recover and said with a smirk.

"If it takes every favour we have then I will make sure all the house leaders are there just for the pleasure of witnessing what that stuck up bitch has to say when she realises you have it."

- x -

The Jedi Temple, Coruscant…

Anakin returned to the Jedi Temple, largely to try and prepare before he left a couple of days after Obi-Wan. He had no idea Mandalorian society was so fragmented and complicated, wondering how they got anything done with so many conflicting factions but then again he thought with irritation the Senate was worse than they were in that regard.

But he was also hoping that he might see some of the Jedi he had found at the Sith Temple, wondering just how they were fitting in.

Just as he thought that Master Tuwan Fulr appeared.

"Master Fulr! I hope you are settling in well?" Anakin asked respectfully but the much older Neti Master just smiled as he put an arm around Anakin's shoulders and told him.

"Firstly you call me Tuwan, after rescuing me from that temple I owe you Anakin." The Neti said with a jocular voice that Anakin couldn't help but smile at.

"Anyway, to answer your question. I have to admit I am a little disappointed." Tuwan said which surprised Anakin.

"How so...Tuwan?" Anakin asked nearly calling him master our of reflex.

"The Order is a mere shadow of itself." Tuwan said with a sadness now which Anakin blinked at. "Once we numbered so many, with so many temples and academies spread across the galaxy not to mention we would accept anyone with the potential whatever their age if they could withstand the training. Now...not teaching anyone older than the extremely young not to mention depriving them of their families and connections to others." Tuwan said with a shaking of his head. "Odan-Urr may have been my friend but he has a lot to answer for, the miserable old bastard cared for no one and had no attachments preferring to be on his own to study old scrolls, he had one part in one battle and is given far too much credit than he was due. Then he founded a single library and kept all the most important relics and lore within, then all of it was lost! So much...gone." Tuwan said with grief.

"Not to mention this code of his! It weakens the Jedi so much and they can't see it, being so tied the Republic as well and being without true compassion or empathy to maintain distance emotionally. It breaks my heart." He told Anakin who honestly found himself agreeing with all the older master said before Tuwan told him.

"Maybe if more were like you I would have more hope, I mean they don't even delve in deep enough to the force to discover just how far they can go or truly explore what they can do with it. I mean they don't even forge any more." Tuwan said and that stopped Anakin cold for a moment before he excitedly asked.

"You know force forging?" Anakin asked with excitement and Tuwan then smiled as he saw his interest.

"I am reasonably skilled in it yes. Jedi once upon a time were required to know it to be considered one of the order. To create their own robes and weapons from scratch so it was unique to them. Though it seems to have been either forgotten or fallen out of favour with the adoption of Odan-Urr's code. Maybe because it is easier to take a standard set rather than actually making your own equipment." Tuwan said before suddenly being struck by an idea.

"Tell you what Skywalker. Not only will I teach you to force forge but I will share some of the more unique force forms that the order has forgotten it seems. Have you ever heard of Force Channel? Potency, Affinity or Mastery? Maybe Force Resistance or Enlightenment?" Tuwan asked and saw his interest before saying as he steered Anakin towards the Room of a Thousand Fountains. "Come on Anakin, we've got some training to do."

- x -

Master Minisa Anari was sitting the same hiding hole she once had as a padawan nearly two thousand years ago when she had been studying in the temple. The fact it was still here honestly surprised her as the Jedi seemed to be far more rigid then they had been in her time and if anything seemed to be far less capable.

She had seen the saber and force training they were given, it lacked the intensity and flexibility she was used to and honestly their strict no attachments rule not to mention completely separating younglings from their families really bummed her out.

This was not the order she had served Minisa thought sadly, was this what so many had died for? She pondered, a neutered Jedi Order so far up its own ass that it honestly had not chance of removing the stick it had stuck up there? One that did nothing to stop the corruption of the Republic and so much more.

She had been so depressed since she had learned the sad state of the Jedi Order and had become so stifled here that she had actually sneaked out of the Temple and found some more free minded company and a bar to get some alcohol and party. It had been nice she thought with a smile of satisfaction, to finally cut loose a little.

None of the Jedi of this era did anything like that she thought with disbelief, ever tried to just cut loose and enjoy themselves. They were so stuck up! She thought with annoyance, not allowing for any real relationships or freedom at all.

Case in point she thought as she heard the voice of the current battle-master of the Jedi, Cin Drallig with his two padawans. A rare thing now she thought as no one over five was able to train which Minisa knew was ridiculous as some of the greatest Jedi ever had come to the order older than that.

And not only did more than one padawan to a master create potential friendly competition if the master was careful to make sure to give each student equal attention but sometimes even create bonds of friendship that could last a life time.

She listened as he argued with the two younger women he was responsible for.

"Lexia you need to try harder, if you truly want to be trusted enough to go out on your own again then you have to prove to the council that you can stay true to the Order and its rules. And Bene your skills with a lightsaber have not been improving, you need to work harder." The old man said and Minisa with a sigh at his inability to handle two students emerged from her hiding spot and spoke up, startling all of them as they had not even felt her presence.

"Or perhaps you need to lighten up and admit you can't handle more than one apprentice at a time Cin Drallig." Minisa said and emerged to see the stern looking older human man with two younger women. One was in her late twenties with dark brown hair scraped back and the other was a teenage girl who couldn't be older than fourteen also with dark hair and the standard awful looking robes. They all looked a little unnerved by her intrusion.

"Master Anari, I am quite capable of training my two students. Lexia has made great progress since she was returned to us and Bene is quite able to learn from the programs I have given her." He said sternly as if he was going to intimidate her which was ridiculous as she had earnt her title as battle-master fighting actual Sith lords unlike him who had never faced a real Sith in his life. She merely rolled her eyes and said to him while the two padawans just stared at her with astonishment that someone would speak to Master Cin Drallig that way.

"Lexia will only continue to make progress in recovering from her flirtation with the dark side with compassion and understand not to mention your support which is key while Bene will never continue to develop her considerable potential with a lightsaber from training with droids. She needs a proper teacher and since you cannot manage to train two padawans alongside your present duties I must step in. Bene will be my apprentice from now on and I will teach her to handle not only her saber but her powers and to fit in with the galaxy." Minisa said and took the girl in question by the hand before dragging her off to the training area while Master Cin Drallig frowned and allowed it as he would complain to the council about her behaviour later and to see if she truly deserved to be called a battle-master.

Lexia too was shocked at what had just happened although the old beast of the dark side roared in satisfaction at the little madam Bene being gone but she forced it down. She had to remain calm she thought to herself desperately, the masters had been most understanding by allowing her to retrain and maybe one day take the trials to be a full Jedi Knight although she was now far behind her peers in regards to her training.

Resentment over this again started rising inside her but she did her best to suppress it, she wished sometimes that bastard had not returned her to the temple and made her go through all this but at the same time with a clearer head she could see she had been out of control and the bounty hunter had been kinder than he needed to be. He had given her a chance for redemption and to find the light side of the force again.

So she dutifully fell into step with Master Drallig and followed him to the Room of a Thousand Fountains for meditation.

- x -

Kazdan and Bao-Dur meanwhile were at the statues on the Temple steps with a large amount of equipment around them as they started upgrading the temple.

"Are you sure the turrets would damage the statues?" Kazdan said urgently, eager to not ruin such important statements of the order. Bao-Dur just said calmly.

"If we do our jobs right then no. Hidden turrets covering the entrances to the Temple with some mines under the stone slabs that make up the path which we can activate whenever needed? We can turn the stairs into a choke point and slow down an invading force considerably. Ray shields on the doors with a few other hidden turrets here and there not to mention some inside if the temple is breached."

The two technical geniuses continued work to make sure that if the Temple ever one day came under attack, not only would the Jedi be able to defend it more easily but that it would be a stronghold in its own right.

- x -

In the Jedi Archives a number of Jedi surrounded Master Sabla-Mandibu as she gave a lesson that would be probably be one of the greatest boons that the Jedi could ever receive.

"This trial, to construct a holocron is an intimate one." Sabla told the Jedi who stood before her, some she could sense where council members as they had apparently lost the ability to build holocrons over the centuries and this would be they hoped the time where the art was revived.

"This is not just making a data record, this is making a personal archive of your thoughts and feelings. All you have learned and seen throughout your lives that will be preserved for future generations and you will continue to add to till it is time for you to become one with the force." She said in her calm husky voice.

"It is effectively a copy of yourself, something to contain your knowledge and speak to those that will seek it out for guidance. One that is able to advise the future generations. You give a part of yourself when you create a holocron." She told them and knelt down in front of the crystal she had prepared before hand with the intricate matrix and lattices to begin the process with her audience keenly watching.

"To imprint yourself upon the crystal you must first enter what is known as the 'Susheer State', a state of serenity to reach your hidden subconscious." Sabla told the Jedi as the empty holocron levitated in the air and came apart as they did when opened. "Let all your memories and thoughts and dreams pass through your mind so they can be imprinted on the crystal." Sabla said and allowed herself to go deeply into meditation as she imprinted herself on the holocron.

The other Jedi watched with awe as the crystal glowed with a warm and soothing white light as the process took hold. Spinning around in front of them for nearly an hour before finally it slowed down and reassembled itself.

Levitating in the air it then floated over to her waiting hand, dropping gently into her hand. Sabla turned to those watching and told them.

"The susheer state is hard to reach sometimes so the use of a meditation chamber is often the best way to achieve this. Instructions for how to modify the crystal have been added to the archive." She told them and smiled a little, taking the smallest amount of pleasure in knowing that the Jedi were about to increase the number of holocrons they left for the future.

---

Jebble, the Outer Rim…

Master Yoda had to suppress a great sense of foreboding about this task that he had given himself, the dark side was strong on this planet. Too strong he thought feeling very uncomfortable with it but for the sake of what he had to do he pushed forward.

"General, the Ice Mining Settlement confirms a dig is happening in the area you specified but so far they have found nothing." Yere, the Clone Pilot who had been assigned to him said. Yoda frowned before saying.

"Then arrived we have before it is found. Proceed to the area, in time I hope we are." Yoda said grimly as he turned and saw the small number of clones he had brought with him. He wished he could have just left them but the Council insisted they join him on this mad quest of his. Worried that they were not coming back haunted him but he pressed on.

The small shuttle that he had commandeered for this mission landed on the harsh icy landscape of the planet and the clones even in their cold weather gear were shivering while Master Yoda merely tightened his robe around himself and led the way into the ice caves he had seen in his vision. The clones loyal if reluctant followed.

Yoda could feel the dark side growing stronger as he continued, his face stern and tight with concern as the clones lit the tunnels as best they could with their torches.

It seemed to take forever before finally they reached a cavern, small but large enough to comfortably accommodate them all and to his worry, a large black box cloaked in the dark side.

The sight of the Sith Obilette as they were known made him uneasy, he walked over to it and jumped on top. Looking down the dark glass made it impossible to see inside but he with a great sense of foreboding he used the force to open the box.

A gasp of air made him jump off again as the compartment opened, the clones all raised their blasters at the inside of the box as a single figure stumbled out. A human female with her long black hair held by a silver coil in a long single braid. Her athletic body was wrapped in some very form fitting silver coloured armour which left a little skin exposed which was pale.

"Zayne!" She gasped out, her accent unknown to all of them but what caught Yoda's interest was the elaborate gold talisman around her neck.

"Slept a long time you have Master Morne." Yoda said with his cane now discarded to the side and his lightsaber well within reach. She did not seem to understand at first, having not experienced any of the time that had passed. But then her eyes started turning yellow and red as the talisman started to take over.

"Jedi, you left me in there for centuries." An inhuman voice said along with Celeste's own and Yoda immediately leapt away from her and drew his lightsaber into his hand as she ignited a yellow lightsaber of her own. However she did not attack but smirked a nasty smirk and raised her hand at the six clones that had accompanied him.

Yoda to his horror seemed to have forgotten what the Muur Talisman was infamous for, what its creator whose spirit was held inside had created.

The clones who had been ready to shoot the unknown woman suddenly all started screaming in pain as they were transformed right before his eyes, the armour bursting free as their skin hardened and changed while a mouth with vicious teeth and horrible looking claws grew in.

Yoda had not ever seen a Rakghoul as thankfully they were now extinct or had been he thought as the former clone troopers turned towards him snarling while Morne under the influence of the talisman just laughed.

Knowing they were beyond help Yoda ignited his green lightsaber and rallied his connection to the force so he could show the clones the only mercy that would help them now.

He leapt forward at a much greater speed than any would have believed and immediately cut the head off one of the Rakghouls and then leapt on the head of another to stab his lightsaber through it in a fluid set of motions. As the remaining four creatures howled Yoda threw his lightsaber in a curved arc that cut through the heads of two more and left them dead immediately.

Pulling it back to his hand Yoda used his small stature and fast movements to elude the creatures before leaping on the back of one before leaping off so its partner scratched deeply into its back making it howl in pain and giving Yoda an opening to stab the unfortunate creature in the head before with a single effortless swipe, ended the life of the wounded one and let the poor clones find peace in the force.

Morne he saw was no longer smirking and in fact looked enraged, Yoda smirked a little as he spoke not to Morne but the being that was possessing her.

"Nasty creatures they are but no longer a threat to the galaxy, much like you here on this cold and forgotten moon." Yoda said almost like he was taunting them and the Muur-possessed Morne howled in an inhuman manner before leaping at him with her lightsaber.

The yellow blade slashed down but Yoda being much smaller easily evaded the attack and leapt around the woman as she flailed to try and kill him but despite her considerable skill with a lightsaber he kept moving too fast for her to hit.

As she overextended herself too much Yoda saw his opening and channelled his connection to the light side of the force into a single blast of powerful light side energy that erupted from his free hand. Morne screamed as did Muur when it hit, sensing the weakening of the dark side energy that held the Muur Talisman in place Yoda with a strike as surgical as that of a medical droid, severed the talisman without even scratching Morne's neck.

The metallic creation of the Sith fell to the ground and Morne, free of its influence for the first time in so long fell to her knees, stunned and confused as her mind was her own again.

Yoda however could feel the Muur Talisman trying to reach out to either him or Morne again and to make sure it never threatened the galaxy, he reached deeply into the force and with all the light side energy he could conjure blasting the talisman while striking its remains with his lightsaber.

Shattering it like glass and an awful scream emerged as the spirit of Muur was forced to retreat into the force at last and his dark legacy ended for good.

Yoda sagged, feeling exhausted from all the energy he had needed to use but elated too as the dark side aura began to dissipate, ending that threat to the galaxy was worth the trip alone he thought without pride.

"Hello." A woman's voice spoke and he turned to see Morne, now with her skin and eyes looking a much healthier colour staring at him in awe and disbelief. "Is he gone? For good this time?"

Her voice was almost timid now she had no Sith Lord shouting in her head but Yoda could feel her strength and nodded gently.

"Indeed, no longer ruining your life will he. Formally introduced we have not been. Yoda I am." He said with a smile and she now returned it.

"Celeste Morne, and I can't thank you enough. Zayne must have sent you, through the force." She said with a smile, she could almost feel him smiling from the other side.

"Helping a fellow Jedi, no thanks do I require but leave this world we should and return to the Temple so you can discover the galaxy again." Yoda told her and she nodded, eagerly getting to her feet and with Yoda at her side she began to walk out of that cave for the first time in nearly four thousand years.

---

Asteroid, the Kanz Sector…

Luna in her small one person fighter saw the asteroid in her vision before her and at this range she could feel its powerful dark side aura which unsettled her a little but she pushed that aside and directed her ship down, finding a landing spot near the old mansion which still after centuries of neglect still looked impressive. There was an atmosphere so she didn't need breathing apparatus but took a small unit with her just in case, leaving her ship she walked into the mansion and looked around.

It was like a museum but one to good taste Luna thought with surprise, the furnishings were despite being old still very stylish without being over the top and if it was not for the dark side aura the place had she would quite liked to have lived here once it was restored a bit.

Wandering from room to room she was surprised at the lack of what she would have thought usual in the home of a dark sider, a torture chamber and things like that but no it was she thought to her amazement just like a family home. An expensive family home she thought with statues all around but it had that air about it, even after being abandoned for so long.

When she was about give up though and return to her ship she was sure she felt a presence in the force, turning around she found a lift shaft that was well out of action and went down a considerable way.

She frowned, not sure if this was a good idea but leapt down the shaft and used both the force with a little help from her jet-pack to slow and finally land safely at the bottom of the shaft. Seeing old mining tunnels ahead she took a breath and walked inside, her worry growing as the dark side aura was a lot stronger down here.

After hours of walking around the dark tunnels she was soon thinking this whole expedition a waste of time until finally as she rounded the last corner she came upon a central cavern where on a plinth a pyramid shaped holocron sat.

She was immediately intrigued, Sith holocrons were often as knowledgable as they were dangerous but maybe it would give her the answers she needed.

"If you are going to take it, please do. All it is doing is gathering dust." A voice suddenly said to her left and Luna who had sensed nothing immediately jumped and raised her blasters ready to shoot whoever it was only to see a force ghost standing there before her.

"Who are you?!" She demanded knowing to her worry that she wouldn't be able to hurt it but it might be able to hurt her. The ghost, a man she now realised who was both tall and muscular while having considerable girth dressed in loose fitting clothes. He seemed amused by her fear but it was not in a mocking way.

"In life I was Darth Vectivus, this was my home." He said in a sooth and educated voice.

"I must admit I have never heard of you." Luna said and Vectivus only seemed to be further amused by this.

"Perhaps because unlike the rest of my fellow dark lords I did no evil." He said with a smile of pride on his face which only confused Luna as she could feel he was telling the truth. "I managed a mining colony and treated my employees well. I took care of my family and friends and merely explored what could be done with the dark side before dying warm in my bed surrounded by those I loved. I am sure I was supposed to blow up a star system or something to that effect but I did not see it as necessary." He told her in such a cultured voice that Luna was almost completely disarmed.

Luna was astonished, she had never heard of any Sith Lord like this one. She knew some Sith had before tried to walk a more neutral path in the force but few had ever succeeded, they always returned to being consumed by the dark side if not falling deep into the light. She was now intrigued at how he had done it so asked him in hopes he was telling the truth.

"How did you do it?"

"By being disciplined. By surrounding myself with those I love to help keep me anchored while I reinforced my discipline, while I could ruthless things in business I was never cruel and always stuck to my own principles. It was I admit hard sometimes but I had those I loved to pull me back when I needed. Is that the answer you needed young lady?" He asked her and she nodded, now seeing she had the answer in front of her the whole time but had been over thinking it.

"Might we talk awhile. It would be nice to converse with a man of your unique experience." Luna asked him and he smiled.

"Indeed, I have been lonely while pondering on the force so it would be nice to have someone to share my insights with especially such an open-minded and charming young lady." Vectivus said with a smile that was genuine.

---

Star Liner on Route to Kashyyyk…

Wookiees were an interesting group to be around Ara thought with amusement.

They were very into community she realised as they all banded together and had so many rituals and activities they did as a group. They certainly were far more than the mere beasts the rest of the galaxy thought of them as she thought.

They also had a fairly laid back engineering department on this trip she had noticed with amusement. The Wookiees were easily some of the best technicians Ara had ever seen and would if they saw a problem fix it easily in no time. That meant the ship was running better than normal and they would get to Kashyyyk even faster.

The Warriors that she had brought with her all shared drinks with the Wookiees and despite there being an obvious language barrier they were able to understand each other enough she thought with satisfaction. She knew enough of their language to translate if needed but hopefully it wouldn't be needed.

She was actually getting bored Ara realised with a sigh, wondering if taking this job had been a complete waste of her time as so little was happening. She wondered if she could go to the bridge and annoy the captain but then just as she thought that the ship was rocked by a powerful explosion. She steadied herself quickly and looked around as did her warriors and the Wookiees and every one became immediately tense.

External, Ara thought not internal so this is not a system fault. She gritted her teeth as she realised it was most likely an attack.

She activated her comm link but sure all the frequencies were being jammed so she rushed over to computer terminal and her fingers moved across it at lightning speed.

She glared as the image of Trandoshan slavers came up, charging in from a hole in the hull. It was right around the area where the Wookiee children were being bunked and honestly the idea of these nasty fucking lizards hurting those little ones enraged her! She took off and her warriors followed at a slower pace, rushing through the corridors at a speed not even the enraged Wookiees following could match and soon arrived at the bunk-rooms where the Wookiee children were.

The poor little ones were being kicked around by the Trandoshans and had either electric stun nets on them or had slave collars on already. The sounds the Trandoshans made were really difficult to understand with human ears but as far as she could sense, the Trandoshans were enjoying it! They were laughing!

That sent Ara into a rage, the thought they enjoyed this...hurting little ones like this put her over the edge and she pulled out her blasters and started shooting with ruthless accuracy.

The dozen Trandoshans in the room didn't even notice she was there they were so distracted by the good time they were having until within moments over half of them were shot down by her, they immediately snarled at her but she was so pissed she didn't even give it a second thought.

She saw one of them swinging a heavy axe her way and saw blood on it already, probably from one of the wookiees which only made her rage more, she easily avoided the swing and with a single swift move drew her knife and stabbed it into the vicious thug's mouth at an upward angle, severing the brain stem.

Dancing around the electric net one threw at her she activated her flamethrower and blasted the offender a full volume. The lizard man screamed and Ara then ended his suffering with a blaster shot to the head before moving on to the remaining four. They had blasters in hand and were shooting at her but with her near unbreakable armour and the force guiding her she did not feel a single shot hit her at all.

She picked up the axe the other Trandoshan had dropped and swung it hard, planting it in the chest of the nearest one to her and blasted another two with a repulsor wave, sending them flying but they were dead before they even hit the ground as she shot them both mid air which left her alone with the last one.

The sole remaining survivor was taller than the rest but he was known to her, a bounty hunter of considerable viciousness and success equalled or surpassed only by Cad Bane.

Bossk.

She snarled and would have shot him but her blaster was low on charge and she was so furious that she dropped them both and leapt forward. The bounty hunter/slaver tried to cut her down but his claws didn't even scratch her beskar armour and in fact broke when he swiped at her. But before he could even register this Ara had pivoted around him and with her crushguard gauntlets and force enhanced strength twisted Bossk's head clean off.

The sight of more Trandoshans coming through the door didn't even phase her as she pulled her blasters back to her hands and quickly changed ammo pack. She raised them but as she did so the warriors she had brought along with the wookiees caught up and shot them all down with ease.

As they chased away the remaining trandoshans a pair of Wookiees, one with dark black fur while the other was a lighter brown came running in and looked through the Wookiee younglings who all were staring at her with awe. Coming across one with dark brown fur which Ara guessed was their son the male picked him up and swung him around howling with joy while the son gave a sort of laugh. The female joined in and the little family hugged each other.

Ara smiled at the little reunion and checked the other younglings who all crowded around her with their little cheers which honestly made her feel a lot better. She was about to leave them with the other Wookiees as the different parents started pouring in to check on their own children when the tall dark furred wookiee stopped her.

"You saved my son. All the younglings." He said in their language. She told him.

"It was my pleasure, these younglings deserve to be protected."

He roared in agreement and then said something that she really hadn't expected.

"You saved my Gr'uku, I owe you...I Grahuur hear-by swear a life debt to you Ara Ordo." He told her and she was so surprised that she was speechless for a moment.

"A life debt? You do not need to do that." Ara told him knowing full well this was the most sacred vow a Wookiee could make. "I would rather you stay with your family and protect them." She told him also knowing he would follow her around but Grahuur was not going to be denied.

"They will be coming with me, Gchalla and our son will come to your home and we must protect you as you protected us."

Ara was at a loss for how to get herself out of this but no matter what she argued the wookiees remained firm in their decision to follow her. So reluctantly when they got to Kashyyyk and unloaded their precious cargo she and her warriors allowed Grahuur and his family to follow them back to Reijar. While she was going to be relieved to be back with her children again she wondered just how she was going to explain suddenly having a Wookiee bodyguard?

---

Landing Platform, Coruscant...A Few Days Later…

Haron with annoyance stood with the Chancellor as they waited for Duchess Satine to arrive, he was hating this and wondered if Palpatine had made him come to greet her for his own amusement. He was more right than he knew in this but it mattered little.

The other house leaders had been arriving over the last few days and were remaining apart prior to the meeting. The only one he had spoken to personally was Takan who had given him the proof he needed to show the senate that the Mandalorians were not allied with the Separatists. The place he had found was a skyscraper near the senate which was often hired out for corporate events, more warriors from Reijar were present to oversee security and keep watch in case Vizsla did something stupid. Din had even come with them for the once in a lifetime chance to see all of the House Leaders together.

Seeing the ridiculous looking Coronet coming in Haron gritted his teeth as for the first time in years he was going to be face to face with a woman that irritated him no end.

As the ship carefully manoeuvred itself into position and extended its landing ramp a large party including Obi-Wan, Anakin, a lot of senators and clones disembarked. Haron gave Anakin a nod in greeting which was returned while Obi-Wan spoke to Palpatine.

"A job well done master Jedi." Palpatine said with a nod of his head that was almost respectful.

"Thank you Chancellor." Obi-Wan said with a return of the nod while Anakin nodded himself and said.

"Your excellency."

Haron was troubled by the hero worship Anakin seemed to give the Chancellor and hoped his hold over him wasn't as great as it appeared. He knew he should probably try and sow some doubt between them but he knew all it would do in the long run was drive a wedge between Anakin and himself so all he could do was try and advise Anakin as best he could and when the time came hope he made the right choice.

The Jedi stepped aside and the Chancellor left with the Senators for the session of the Senate which will begin soon. That left Haron and his guards with the Jedi and the Duchess on the landing pad.

She shared a few words with Obi-Wan which definitely made him think there had been some very strong feelings between them before turning to face him.

The air instantly seemed to become thicker with tension as they faced each other, his guards and her guards too and the Jedi present alongside their clones all shared looks as if not sure why things had become so awkward all of a sudden.

"Duchess." Haron said tensely, his tone sharp.

"Duke." She replied with a glare, not liking the mask he was wearing or the armour that went with it. The Protectors who were aware of the significance of the mask all shared a look of not being sure what to do but content themselves at looking at him with awe.

"The Meeting is tonight, at the top floor of the Shan Tower. I would advise you not to be late, there is much to discuss." Haron said with a pressing tone that she resented and she replied with just as much distrust and intensity.

"I will be there."

"Good, I have evidence that proves Pre Vizsla is the only one collaborating with the Separatists. I will be presenting it to the Senate shortly. Good day." Haron said and left the landing platform before Satine could say a word.

Anakin he noticed was following him and when they arrived at the speeder he got in with them.

"If I can ask what is it between you and the Duchess?" Anakin asked, confused at why there was all this tension between them and Haron decided to answer him so at least Anakin could understand.

"She and I have very different views on the galaxy and indeed the way Mandalore should be run. She is a pacifist while I am not. She did nothing to help my family when we were attacked by two other houses, she did nothing to save the colonies that were attacked by the Separatists and she devotes all her attention to supporting humanitarian and artist projects on Mandalore ignoring all our other worlds. We have come to blows verbally before and if you do not think as she does then you are wrong and there is no middle ground." Haron told him and Anakin seemed to understand as he was if the opinion that swift action was a better solution most of the time than debate and pacifism was a dream that rarely worked as he had seen in this war.

He was a little amused at how easily Satine riled people up. Wondering briefly if Satine was either arguing or making out with Obi-Wan on the landing pad.

- x -

"I see I am not the only person you at odds with." Obi-Wan said with a slight smile as Anakin and Haron Ordo left. Satine frowned intensely which surprised him a little but she did explain herself which he knew from personal experience was rare.

"He is a war monger. He fought a brutal civil war without even trying for a diplomatic solution. Then he steals ships from the Separatists and kills their personnel, when I tried to negotiate a deal to ease relations he rejected it out of hand. He is a barbarian and a murderer. And wearing that mask! A symbol of all that is wrong of my people's past in front of everyone, it is just a revolting display." She said with bitterness.

Obi-Wan frowned now himself, knowing the situation was a lot more complicated than that but knew Ordo had a far more connections here now and could be quite dangerous if he was against Satine.

"Then perhaps I can introduce you to someone who might be willing to help you in securing peace with the Republic." Obi-Wan told her which seemed to make her feel better. "A Senator I know who is a staunch proponent for peace, Padmé Amidala of Naboo."

- x -

In the Senate Hall with most of the Senators or their aides present Haron stood in one of the pods which was unusual but he presented them with holographic recordings of meetings between Vizsla and Dooku.

"As you can see Senators, this is not a case of my people being against the Republic. Merely of one very opportunistic fool who is nothing more than a puppet on Dooku's strings. It is a matter of internal security, it need not concern you all further." Haron told them and while many were satisfied with his explanation one spoke up.

"And what do you intend to do with this Pre Vizsla? Despite your claims that he is no threat he might well succeed in taking over Mandalore." A Senator from Taris said and Haron nodded.

"I understand your concerns, while the Duchess Satine will do no more than talk myself and the other house leaders will take action against him. Vizsla is a small house and one which boasts of its history but has little else to its name. He will not be able to take over Mandalore now we have learned of his alliance." Haron said knowing his support whatever he had would drop significantly when the news got out that he was tying himself to the same state that had attacked their colonies.

- x -

In Padmé's apartment Satine sat with the younger woman sipping tea, both looking worried.

"So you see my position." Satine explained with concern on her face. "If the war mongers gain power on Mandalore they will bring my people back to the savage warlike ways of our past. I am afraid that they will likely strike at the Republic should this come to pass." Satine said with fear from the devastation it could reek on not only her own world but others too.

Padmé frowned, she had known Duke Ordo might have been been understating the chances of this Pre Vizsla gaining power but the way the Duchess told the story made her think it was far more likely that he was saying. She thought, not liking this but had an idea which hopefully would make him think again especially if the one person standing in his way was the Duchess.

"I will get a bill in motion it should have enough signatures by tonight, that if you are ever unseated then the Republic will be forced to invade to restore you to the throne as a matter of our alliance. It will be a bluff but the Death Watch don't need to know that." Padmé said knowing this was dangerous but it was all she could think of that might ensure the Duchess stayed on the throne.

---

The Shan Tower, Coruscant...That Night…

The tower that had been named for the famous dynasty of that name stood tall among all the others of Coruscant and was made out in fairly luxurious standards. Hired out to different corporations and political functions that needed a separate venue it was a magnificent tower and some had tried to purchase it but the owners had always refused.

The top floor had a massive open space which was protected by a reinforced transparent dome which offered incredible views of the Coruscant skyline. It was one of the building's best selling points.

Tonight however that view wasn't going to be that useful, as fifteen chairs sat in the centre of the space in a circle in the well lit floor. Haron had arrived first and checked security, smiling in satisfaction as he saw things were secure. Din came up to him, seeming to have grown since they last saw each other even if it was only a couple of weeks ago. He must be having a grown spurt Haron thought as the boy he had adopted was turning into a man before his eyes.

"Well, tonight you get to see some of the most powerful people in Mandalorian Space." Haron said with a smile and Din nodded with a smile.

"Thank you for allowing me to be here, I know this is important." Din told him and Haron just told him.

"You have been doing well in your training and have shown to be far wiser than your years. You deserve to be here." Haron told him. "Just observe though okay? These people will be prickly given the matter we have to discuss tonight."

Din nodded and just then the first of the house leaders arrived, Haron smiled as he saw Deera representing House Qarl in their younger sister's stead. The little girl was only just turning six and still much to young to manage the meeting on her own so Deera was here to vote in her place.

They shared a smile before she went over to the chair that had been put in for House Qarl and then after a short wait the next house leader arrived.

The Mandalorian armour was distinctive enough to be recognised all over the galaxy but did follow the same basic form and shape in all houses and clans but this one was different in a couple of ways that made it look far more intimidating.

Like the Samurai of Ancient Japan on Earth they had kusazuri plates made of leather and some light alloy over the legs, arms and chest. They also had long thin horns attached to the helmet and a ceremonial vibroblade katana at the waist.

The warrior who walked in flanked by four of his own guards and all in similar armour in shades of dark green and blue with gold marking the leader, Duke Ijaa Yusagi, head of House Yusagi. The house that commanded the largest numbers of all the houses and were very traditional in their values.

Ijaa took his helmet off and revealed an older man with grey hair that fell down his back. Haron along with Din who followed his lead bowed in respect to the older man who if he was surprised to see Haron wearing the mask of the Mandalore said nothing just raised an eyebrow before bowing in return.

When Yusagi had taken his seat the next two guests arrived together, hardly surprising given they were publicly allied and might soon become one. Also they unlike many of those attending tonight did not wear armour although their guards did.

Duke Sel'ban Yarlten was a human man in his forties wearing a smart tan and white suit and shirt along with his son Kyle while his guards behind him wore armour in shades of light blue and purple.

Standing with them was a young woman in a business suit in black with a white shirt, flanked by her guards in armour of dark grey and crimson. Her name was Duchess Amili Ti'harn, she was of age with Kyle Yarlten and after an 'incident' last year when someone had tried to kidnap her and Kyle to extort money from their families the two had been dating and now where formally engaged.

While not warriors by large these two houses did stick to the Old Way in the hard training they gave to their people, instead though turning their energy towards business and commerce. High finance in particular and they traded far and wide as well as functioning as the bankers of Mandalorian space, making them the wealthiest families of all.

Haron walked over and gave a nod in greet to the newcomers.

"Duke Yarlten, Duchess Ti'harn welcome and thank you for attending at such short notice." Haron said and extended his hand. Sel'ban took it and they shook hands before Haron then did the same with Amili.

"We understand the need given the situation, it is a pleasure to finally meet you." Sel'ban said and Haron replied.

"Likewise, I just wish it were under better circumstances and congratulations on your engagement Duchess, young Yarlten." Haron said and the two young adults nodded proudly.

"We hope that you might attend the wedding, our dealing with your house have always been profitable." Amili said politely and he smiled.

"If it is possible then I will be there."

They nodded and went to take their seats with Kyle standing at his father's side.

The next arrival arrived with warriors in armour of yellow and dark orange, led by a man in his thirties, tall and muscular beneath his own armour. Duke Sarek Ralmiz was a very stern man that was also very rich since he and his clans controlled areas rich in natural resources but was also known for having some of the fiercest warriors in all of Mandalorian Space along with the most devoted too. Seeing Haron had the mask he blinked for a moment before bowing slightly which Haron returned. Satisfied the man then with his guards flanking him took his own seat.

The next man to arrive was like them wearing armour in red, white and blue although the blue were in patterns along the chest and arms. Based on tattoos that marked them to show their profession, family and accomplishments. The man that led them was Duke Ge'hark Orius, of House Orius, a man in his fifties was greying hair that he wore loosely around his shoulders. Of all the houses they were perhaps more tribal but with easily the strongest sense of community amongst them always wiling to help each other. The man shared a nod with Haron before taking his seat.

After the only non-human house leader appeared, a male with deep violet skin and silver eyes. He was Sakiyen, a species known for their brain power and far better senses, reflexes and ability to see more of the electro magnetic spectrum. A colony of them had been conquered by the Mandalorians in the past and they were now fully integrated members of their society even if racist houses like Vizsla excluded them for merely being non-human which included all their clans too. Led by Duke Vorxel N'Val they were among the best pilots, scouts and gunners you would find anywhere, who was accompanied by his Kage warriors who had settled and been integrated into their society to flee the oppression of their people on their own world.

Haron put an arm across his chest and nodded to them, the traditional form of greeting which Vorxel returned before taking his seat.

Finally though more familiar faces arrived as the allied house leaders arrived, Haron greeted them as they came in. Ceta Farr, Harlan Cadoruso, Mors Lok, Yal Takan and Lila Kast all gave him their greetings before taking their seats. This now left only three seats empty.

Arriving later than was planned was two of the last faction leaders, first to come was the Duchess of House Kane, Eliza Kane. She was a striking woman in her thirties who had a sharp face but very intelligent and cunning eyes. Her warriors in rather stunning white and gold armour followed her in and she smirked widely. She was known as an eccentric but was very sharp minded and her warriors although not as big in number as other houses were highly skilled and punched well above their weight. She looked him up and down with appreciation in her eyes but he just ignored that and gestured to her seat which she sighed seeing he wasn't interested and took her seat.

That left Duke Alain Ma'Gard, an older human man with perhaps the roughest reputation of all present. His house were almost borderline criminal and had very strong ties to the Underworld not to mention many contacts across the entire galaxy. They pushed the boundaries of their laws but always stayed within the tenets of their culture. The Duke was Haron noticed accompanied by not only his guards in red and purple armour but also his three grandchildren Katale, Tyr and Andre wondering if the duke had finally chosen just which of the three to hand his title and position too.

They took their seat as did Haron and now they were just waiting for the guest of honour, the air was too tense to speak or make casual conversation as they waited which only made them and especially Haron more irritated.

When the Duchess Satine finally did arrive she was nearly half an hour late, Eliza Kane was the first to vent their mutual displeasure.

"If you are going to indulge in pointless power plays like a bitch why don't you find yourself an excuse for being late at least rather than simply deciding on making us wait." Eliza said and Satine was immediately insulted by the words but Haron eager to finally get down to business spoke up.

"Just take a seat so we can get this over with! You've wasted enough time already."

Satine looked affronted and walked forward telling them in a voice that she assumed was stern.

"I see good manners are not important enough to be taught off Mandalore." She said but Ceta was far from impressed and said drily.

"If you had good manners then you wouldn't have kept us waiting for over half an hour, if you want respect then you have to show it in turn." She told Satine off and then saw to her irritation that Satine had not just brought some of the Protectors in their silly ceremonial garb but also was accompanied by Padmé, Anakin and Obi-Wan.

"This meeting is not for foreign eyes." Sel'ban said with irritation at a further delay and the intrusion. Satine answered back with a firm and annoyed tone.

"I am permitted advisors. Might you actually show some respect for a senator and two Jedi?" She said and the Dukes and Duchesses all looked around before Ijaa spoke up.

"She has the right but they must speak only to her and quietly."

"Then get on with it." Vorxel said now visibly annoyed. "We've wasted enough time having come very long way."

Satine finally took her seat after huffing while her guests looked at the gathered crowd with interest, never having seen so many different Mandalorian factions together in one place.

"Yes, now we are here to discuss what to do in regards to House Vizsla and their alliance with the Separatists." Haron said trying to get the meeting back on track but Sarek had something else to say.

"Yes and your alliance with the Republic needs to be addressed too."

"I work with the Republic for many reasons Duke Ralmiz." Haron said now getting more frustrated with the slow progress being made which honestly made him wish he could just use the force to keep their mouths shut but he resisted.

Din was now looking angry at him being talked down too but thankfully held his tongue as Haron continued. "Namely as it helps keep an eye on both of them and keep the Separatists from continuing their raids on our colonies. It is not easy but it keeps our people safe and I would rather you remember that before accusing me of being a Republic puppet." Haron told him with a glare which Sarek did stand up to a bit but then seemed to be unnerved and sat back down quietly.

"Yes, unlike this Vizsla fucker!" Alain said suddenly which at least to Haron's gratitude got the meeting back on subject. "The miserable fart is only joined up to nasty pricks to gain power so are we going to fuck him up or what?" Alain said without a care for his bad language.

A sudden beeping on the console attached which drew everyone's attention, Haron with annoyance at the interruption blinked for a moment before telling them.

"Speak of the devil, Vizsla is calling." Haron told them with a suspicious voice, they all shared looks of disbelief before Lila said.

"Then let us see what he has to say for himself." She said with angry eyes, clearing having not forgiven him for stealing her great niece away. Haron nodded and activated the holoprojector, a blue hologram of Pre Vizsla appeared in the centre of the room.

"Well, the traitor who would make us nothing more than puppets of the Sith again." Haron said sharply at the sight of the prick that he despised.

"The coward who wouldn't even come in person and hides behind a hologram." Sarek added and Vizsla snarled at them.

"I am-" He started talking but Ge'hark interrupted.

"We already have our warrior tradition, this is all about you making secret deals to gain power Vizsla." He snapped at him and Alain already enraged spoke.

"And sucking at Dooku's feet to to do it! What a pathetic little bastard you are!"

"I am not the only one who is making deals!" Vizsla snapped, enraged at their insults but knowing this was the best opportunity he would ever have to use the piece of information Bo Katan had given him, pointing at Satine who frowned, not sure what he was going on about. "That woman has made a secret little deal of her own. Tell them Duchess! Tell them about Trilla Suduri!"

The room became confused as no-one present knew that name and they all looked around in confusion. Seeing Anakin and the other visitors looking confused as did Din Haron spoke.

"I assume that this 'Trilla Suduri' is an orphan from Sundari?" Haron asked and Vizsla as much as he hated Haron nodded in confirmation. Seeing Anakin look confused Haron decided to explain to him and to Din too who was equally confused.

"While it is rare for children to be abandoned in our culture it does happen." Haron said with sadness for those that had to face the world alone. "Either through accidents, unwanted pregnancies or even love children are abandoned sometimes and for those that don't have a family name it is the custom of our people to give them one derived from the place where they were born, so Sundari would become Suduri for example." Haron explained and Din nodded as did Anakin now understanding a little. "But what has an orphan girl from the capital of Mandalore have to do with Duchess Satine?" Haron asked now interested to see just what Vizsla was up too.

Vizsla smirked, knowing the damage the next part would reek on Satine when he told them.

"Because currently she is in the Jedi Temple as a padawan, having been given to the Jedi along with at least three other force sensitive orphans by the Duchess in an exchange for their support in the Republic." Vizsla told them, smirking as he waited for the grenade to drop.

The shock in the room brought total silence to the room as they all processed the words Vizsla had said and Satine Haron noticed suddenly looked rather pale. He shut off Vizsla's hologram before calling up the database he had access to of Jedi and searched. While he had looked at most of the knights and masters he hadn't considered many of the padawans and soon found her name. Accessing her file he read it and saw that for once in his life, Vizsla had been telling the truth.

"It's true." Haron said after calling up the data to show them all. A picture of a young girl with light brown skin and dark hair. Her blue-green eyes looking back at them and Haron felt so sorry for her, knowing what had been stolen from her.

"You pathetic bitch!" Alain said from his chair, seething as was everyone in the room at what she had done. His grandchildren likewise looking ready to shoot her on sight.

"I was trying to give them a better life." Satine said trying to defend herself from all the hostility now being aimed towards her, the Senator and especially the Jedi present who didn't truly understand the sudden aggression. "A future serving the galaxy." Satine insisted.

"They would have had that on Mandalore!" Haron said with a new found hatred for Satine who had given those children and who knows how many more to the Jedi for her own benefit.

"Indeed." Ijaa said with a stern voice so cold it would have chilled you on Tatooine. "Orphans rarely stay orphans for long in our culture as well you know. They are frequently adopted by those that have already raised children and like birds find themselves with an empty nest, or couples who are unable to have children of their own. Even then it is the duty of the state to watch over and protect those defenceless children so they might find their own path in life, not enslave them to the Jedi." Ijaa said looking at Anakin and Obi-Wan with great hostility, causing both to step back a little and keep their hands close to their sabers.

"You have broken the biggest social taboo of our entire culture." Yal Takan said darkly and Satine felt a chill run up her spine at the way they were all glaring at her, knowing that her enemies had now multiplied.

"I will not tolerate your complete disregard for our beliefs and way of life any longer!" Haron said getting up from his chair and saying loudly and clearly for all to hear knowing this was the final thing they needed to depose her. "I challenge you Satine Kryze for the title and position of Mandalore!"

- x -

Those words were met with silence as they sunk in, the other house leaders all looked to him some a little annoyed that he had beaten them to the punch but then his allied houses started speaking.

"Supported." Harlan said.

"Supported." Yal agreed.

"Supported." Ceta added.

"Supported." Deera said with a smile on her face.

"Supported." Lila said with vicious grin.

The other houses were slower to agree but they too signalled their agreement to support Haron's challenge.

"You can't do that." Padmé said bursting in and she was suddenly hit with a glare from Alain.

"Of course we can you stupid tart!" Alain shouted at her which struck her like a blow to the face and made Anakin glare in turn for the insult aimed at his wife. "She is the most pathetic leader the Mandalorians have ever had! She is so weak and ineffective that we have been forced to deal with our own affairs because we know we can get no help from her!"

"She takes all the revenue we pay in tax and spends it on Mandalore, she does all these stupid art and peace projects of hers but spends nothing on any other world in our space, especially those that suffer." Eliza said with a vicious smirk, knowing she was at last going to see this bitch torn down.

"She allowed my family to be killed rather than fight to protect them!" Din yelled, tears flowing from his eyes as he saw the woman that had done nothing to protect his home and people when the droids had come for them. Haron seeing Din was pain put a comforting hand on his shoulder to let him know he wasn't alone. Din's words had the most effect and Ijaa, seeing what this woman had cost the poor lad spoke albeit more calmly than the others.

"The only reason we allowed you to remain in power was because while you were incapable you didn't give us grounds under the code of our people to challenge you, but now that has changed." Ijaa said with coldness.

"I refuse." Satine said with a desperate voice. "I refuse to be be held to some ancient barbaric code that should have been discarded for more civilised ways centuries ago and I am appalled that all of you would support it." She said looking around the room as if to shame them but none would back down and in fact looked even more angry at her insult and rejection and Haron replied.

"If it weren't for that code we would have removed you long ago. You have kept us weak and divided, well no more." Haron said and Satine then said something that really would get them riled up.

"The Senate has recently passed a motion that states due to my alliance with the Republic if I am unseated they would send a force to see to it that I am restored or my chosen heir put on the throne in my place." She said feeling more secure with that even if it was supposed to be a bluff.

Padmé was horrified as it was merely supposed to be used against Death Watch but was powerless to say anything as the room descended into an uproar and she, along with the Jedi and Duchess made their retreat.

- x -

"She would hide behind the Republic!" Yal said with fury and Haron spoke with great bitterness.

"It would seem so! I suspect it may have been written as a bluff but there are many in the Senate who would use it as an actual excuse to invade us." Haron said with the corrupt business leaders in the Senate and the Chancellor in mind. The former would love to exploit their resources for their own profit and the Chancellor would want to make sure they were suppressed before the Empire rose. "Hence why I am severing my relationship with them immediately." Haron then added which seemed to satisfy most of them.

"Good, if those bastards think they can threaten us! Then we need to show them we are not to be messed with." Alain said clearly intent on going after her now. Ceta meanwhile asked Haron who knew the Republic inside and out at this stage.

"Could they mount an invasion? If so could we win?"

They all turned to Haron who thought about it before saying with regret.

"Yes, they can...they have the clones to do it and at present we are not ready to deal with them. We are still getting our fleet together and our army. What we need is time." He said with frustration.

"So we play their game." Duke Vorxel said with a small but sinister smile which made all of them look at him strangely till he told them his idea. "We don't invade, we let her sit pretty on Mandalore but only on Mandalore. We cut all lines of support to her and all revenue, let her rule but cut off all food and resources. We don't get rid of her, we let the people of Mandalore do it for us."

They all were surprised given they would be starving an entire planet for this plan but if Satine were torn down it would be without any need for action on their part. All the resources and revenue could be diverted to other projects of their own choosing. Ceta did bring up a rather thorny issue though.

"We can't crown a new Mandalore until the last one is dead. What do we do for leadership in the meantime?" She pressed knowing if their unity broke they could be in real trouble and potentially civil war could follow. However Eliza Kane spoke up with a solution.

"Well its not so difficult to deal with is it? We just form a council of our own, at least until a new Mandalore can be crowned." She suggested and they all looked awkward at that, democracy? It could get very messy and still result in civil war.

"That would difficult to sustain. But if we can't name a new leader then that is our only real option." Harlan said and so Haron said with a nod to his distant cousin.

"If that is our way forward then at least we can move together. The Mandalmotors Keldabe project is coming along and we have a few other projects in the works that will enable us to create not only a balanced fleet but a large and powerful army to go with it. We all put in enough investment and we should be prepared within two years." Haron said with a careful estimate at them running their facilities full pace.

The non-allied House Leaders looked confused and Haron decided to take a risk since they were now alone and would hopefully get them aboard.

"A year ago a scout ship I sent out discovered the Katana Fleet." Haron told them and eyebrows were raised all around by not just the outsiders but the ones he was allied with at the risk he was taking. "So far we have sixty of them refitted and in service but it is slow going getting the rest into useable condition. If you want some, then join with us. Receive the worker droids, ships and advantages we have so when this war ends we are prepared for the next one."

They all looked shocked at his announcement not to mention his 'next' war comment wondering if he knew something they didn't. But the sound of having the same advantages and heavy cruisers at their command certainly peaked their interest.

"So we agree, from now on at least until we have a new Mandalore the council made up of us will rule?" Yal said and a look around from him was answered with a nod from each of them showed their agreement. "So a meeting will be held on Graavis in a couple of months time to ratify the new alliance."

"Absolutely, the remaining ships will be divided between us and allocations for the worker droids and other resources considered." Haron said but then added something else. "But I think our very first action will need to be to declare House Vizsla as traitors and to excommunicate them right now." He said looking pressingly around the room.

They all nodded immediately, excommunicating a house was rare but it would effectively mean that Vizsla and by extension all the clans under them were outcasts in Mandalorian society. Legally they wouldn't even be Mandalorians any more and those clans that traded with others outside Vizsla would suffer.

"Then there is the matter of our potential leader." Ijaa said which surprised him especially especially as he was looking at Haron with an expectant look. "If you are to be our leader and deserve to wear that mask then you need to understand us all and show your devotion to our causes so we knew you are worthy of our support."

Haron realised to his own shame that Ijaa was right, he had only met half of the house leaders before today and beyond the basic details knew exceptionally little about them. Why should they support him he realised and then made his decision about what he was going to do next clear.

"Then I will be visiting you all in turn soon enough, if I am to win your support then Duke Yusagi is right. I must show you that I deserve it." Haron told them and then added. "Revan left us broken four thousand years ago, we've been broken ever since and I intend to change that. To not only for us to be united once again but for us to be stronger than ever as a people. The Basilisk war droid will soon be a sight all the galaxy will know to fear again since at last we found one and are in the process of upgrading and recreating it. Alongside our warriors and the Skytrooper combat droids we will be a force to be reckoned with once again." Haron added and all of them looked in surprised awe, knowing that things were about to change.

- x -

"What were you thinking?!" Palpatine said with a look of incredulous fury on his face as he confronted Senator Amidala, Anakin, Kenobi and Satine. All of whom were slightly scared by his angry stare and the intensity with which he glared at them. "If I had known about this bill I would have blocked it! You have put us at odds with nearly all the Mandalorian people and more crucially my military advisor!"

"I was merely bluffing to prevent the Duchess from being unseated by the Death Watch. I didn't know that Duke Ordo would be the one to challenge her." Padmé said trying to defend herself but knew she would probably have done the same thing even if she had known. Palpatine put his head in his hands and Obi-Wan who was torn about this turn of events and not knowing what to think just said.

"I am just confused as to why the Mandalorian house leaders reacted so strongly to not only the threat but giving children to the Jedi, many homes are only to glad to give up someone who has the potential." Obi-Wan said and the Chancellor just stared at him balefully stating in a very annoyed voice.

"Because they see it as abusive." Palpatine said like he was talking to a child. "To deny a child their family and in fact any emotional bonds is so against their culture that they publicly executed the last Jedi Recruiter sent into their space Master Kenobi before sending his broken body to the Jedi Temple for all to see." He told them which shocked all of them at the harsh message they sent. But Palpatine was not finished yet.

"As for why they would react so strongly to the threat of invasion? Master Kenobi do you know any culture which would react positively to such a thing?" He asked pressingly which Kenobi just stayed silent and then Palpatine revealed another reason.

"Not to mention their people have long memories, they haven't forgotten the Mandalorian Excision, where seven hundred years ago the Republic and the Jedi invaded their space without provocation just because they felt they were growing too powerful and slaughtered millions of their people. They rebelled and forced the Republic to leave but they haven't forgotten to this day, nor have they forgiven Master Yoda who led that invasion." He said bitterly.

They all looked surprised, even Satine who had never learnt about the execution of the last recruiter.

The door suddenly opened and Duke Ordo came through with his guards and sister at his side, the Jedi all reached for their sabers but it wasn't necessary, Haron just gave a nod in greeting to Anakin before he walked up the Chancellor and placed a datapad on his desk.

"I am sorry Chancellor but I cannot support a government that would threaten my people with invasion for living our lives our way. I therefore must tender my resignation." Haron said knowing he was likely to get some flack from Luna over this but he had to take a stand.

Anakin and Padmé looked at him with shock although Anakin had at least suspected it was coming and was surprised when Haron turned to him before Palpatine or anyone else could say anything.

"Anakin, I am afraid this means I will be leaving Coruscant. I will miss our sparring sessions, take care of yourself. You are without a doubt the finest Jedi I have ever met. Stay true to who you are and don't let them change you." He said with regret to Anakin and extended his hand which Anakin reluctantly took.

"Safe journey Duke Ordo." Anakin said and Haron just sighed a little in regret as to his own shock he had begun to think of the other man as a friend before turning to Satine with a stormy face. She stepped back and Obi-Wan actually put himself between them. Haron nearly scoffed but didn't as he delivered his message.

"Satine Kryze." He said coldly which sent a shiver down nearly all their spines. "Due to your complete disregard for our culture, breaking of our law and refusal to answer the challenge I presented you with it is the decision of all the house leaders that you are to be excommunicated. Since we have no wish to be invaded by the Republic we will allow you to rule Mandalore, but Mandalore only!" He said with a harsh edge to his words. Satine did not seem to realise just what he meant yet as she seemed to relax which both Haron and Deera knew was about to change as they revealed just what they were about to do.

"All tax revenue and supplies to Mandalore from the rest of our space will therefore be cut off immediately." Deera continued which instantly made Satine pale as she realised just what they were doing. "We aren't going to remove you. The people will do that for us, no leader after all stays a leader for long if she can't feed her people."

"No...no please...please don't do this." Satine said knowing full well that Mandalore was dependant on outside sources for its food and resources, without them or revenue to buy from other worlds they couldn't sustain themselves.

"Duke Ordo please!" Padmé said, shocked at the ruthlessness being employed here but Deera snapped at her.

"You have no say in this! Now good night and farewell." Deera said and with that the Ordo party left the room to go down to the spaceport where their ships were waiting.

- x -

Palpatine watched the Mandalorians leave with satisfaction, granted this hadn't been what he had foreseen but it stopped his rather foolish apprentice's plans to gain control of the Mandalorians for a private army of his own and damaged Amidala's reputation in the process.

So far the war had been going well for the Republic, they had not only protected their own borders but managed a number of significant territorial gains but that was down largely to the tactical and strategic planning of Duke Ordo and his good choices for command. Without him Palpatine knew the war was about to take a dramatic turn for the worst for the Republic which he would make sure happened and it would be all her fault he thought smugly. She might not be a true threat to his plans but her bothersome morals and influence over the senate might become an irritation in the future, seeing what her actions had brought down on the Republic would make sure her reach was contained.

It would also he thought with enjoyment help stick a wedge between Anakin and the Jedi now he knew of their underhanded actions and get both of them credit for fixing it when enough time had elapsed.

But he had another reason to celebrate he thought hours later while in private as he meditated with a carefully crafted crystal and metal in the shape of a pyramid. He felt his knowledge flow into the device and smiled cruelly as he became the first Sith lord in centuries to make his own holocron.

The Jedi method while nowhere near as effective as the Sith way of constructing holocrons had finally filled in some of the blanks for him and meant he could make an attempt. He held the object proudly in his hand and smirked with pride in himself for creating it.

- x -

The Jedi Temple, Coruscant...

Anakin was still trying to wrap his head around all changes the day had brought and was confused as to how he should feel.

He had been very uncomfortable with how the Jedi separated children for a long time before this but the underhanded deal the Council had made with Duchess Satine to take orphans just seemed so wrong to him he was unable to put it into words. The fact that Padmé and her had driven Duke Ordo and his people to such lengths and they were prepared to starve a world to get rid of her?

He was just feeling so lost, not even the friendly face of Master Tuwan could ease his mind. The old master immediately saw the expression on his face and put an arm around him.

"I know, a lot of hard events have knocked you the last couple of days. The Jedi need to think very carefully about their recruitment policy and in my day such an underhanded deal would never have been done." Tuwan told him, and Anakin felt a little better that he was not alone in these thoughts.

"But whatever happens is the will of the force and I think you will be seeing your Mandalorian friend soon enough." Tuwan said which surprised Anakin. "People like him are rarely gone long. Now I believe I promised to teach you some force forging." Tuwan said to Anakin which improved his mood a little as Tuwan produced a pile of fabrics and light alloys for their little lesson.

"Now, reach out with the force and let the shape of the armour form in your mind." Tuwan said as he and Anakin closed their eyes, sinking deep into a meditative state and began to shape the materials between them. The fabrics and thread. "Let all your thoughts and feelings free, let them help you shape the armour and fuse themselves within it."

Anakin was finding it easier with all he had learned from Revan's writings and Master Tuwan to see past the limits of what he had previously considered possible with the force but never had he used it to change or forge an object before. He was struggling to not let himself think it was impossible and just let the force and Tuwan guide him.

It seemed to go on for hours, the sun peaking over the horizon when they finally finished. Anakin opened his eyes and saw to his amazement what had been created.

The pile of materials from before now had been shaped with the force into a suit of armour that likes of which he had never seen before. The dark cloth and leather had become a cloak and suit of almost Jedi robes but over the chest, thighs, arms, legs and boots plates seemed to have almost fused with the fabrics seamlessly. He picked it up as Master Tuwan smiled proudly and felt it, the plates were far more dense than they had been before and yet they were lighter. So too was the clothing they were attached to Anakin thought with awe.

As he put on the suit he was amazed at not only how light it was and yet so comfortable, fitting him perfectly but also the warm aura of the force as it wrapped around him. It was like it was wrapping him in a warm blanket Anakin thought with a smile and it moved just as easily as the robes he had been wearing. Yet he could feel it augment his connection to the force at the same time.

"This is incredible." Anakin told Master Tuwan who nodded with a smile.

"It is a better way and I am hoping the Jedi might begin to adopt this practice when they see the results." Tuwan said smiling.

Anakin personally was now excited to get back out there and see just what this new armour of his could do.

- x -

Yoda had just returned to the Jedi Temple with Celeste Morne who had gone into deep meditation as she tried to come to terms with the fact that everything and everyone she knew was gone. He felt sad for her but the events that had happened in his absence only made that feeling grow.

The Mandalorians were now at odds with the Republic and Duke Ordo had left, without his skills Yoda knew the war was about to get a lot more violent which worried him deeply for the great losses of life that were going to result.

In need of something to cheer him up he went down to the nursery and paid a visit to someone that he and the rest of the Jedi Order had great hopes for.

Walking around the young children always made him smile, the pure presence in the force they created was soothing and he wished he could get down here more often but his duties often kept him away.

Arriving at the small pod he smiled wider as young Grogu looked up and gave a happy giggle at seeing his face. Yoda smiled and allowed the younger member of his species to hold his hand while humming a tune native to their people. Grogu immediately laughed which lifted Yoda's mood and they stayed that way for awhile till the little one finally drifted off to sleep.

Yoda smiled at the little one for a moment before leaving, having something very important to discuss with one of the returned Jedi Masters. He soon found Master Sabla-Mandibu sitting in the Holocron Vault looking through the different holocrons recovered since her time in the hopes that they might find something previous unnoticed. The sightless Miraluka turned to face him and he smiled.

"Master Mandibu, enjoying yourself I hope." Master Yoda said pleasantly and she smiled back before saying.

"Indeed Master Yoda, I have already discovered several pieces of information that I think you will find most interesting." She told him with her husky low voice but Yoda carried on with his point.

"Then discuss them I will with you later but a task I need of you. Make copies of all the temple's holocrons you will so the originals can be hidden away in case the temple is lost."

"Master Yoda." She said surprised. "That is a very delicate task and could not be rushed. Where would you hide them anyway?" She asked and Master Yoda told her with an almost conspiratorial whisper.

"A potential safe haven for the Jedi that has now been potentially revealed to us. The old home to our order...soon Master Mandibu, Ossus might harbour Jedi again." Yoda told her and her gasp of surprise made him smile again.

---

Jedi Temple, Ahch-To…

The windy and uncomfortable conditions of the abandoned Jedi Temple were hard but the group was still glad to be here, at least the masters were.

"I haven't been here for centuries." Fay said with a smile as she and others all sat in meditation, watching the sun go down. Yaddle hummed in agreement.

"Long has this temple been a place of spiritual cleansing and living with only that which you need. A place to clear the mind." Yaddle said with pride. K'kruhk was truly enjoying the peace of this place and nodded in agreement.

"I can see why, a Jedi could learn a lot here about themselves and the force." He said before looking to Master An'ya Kuro who was just sitting silently.

Masters T'ra Saa and Rak too were enjoying the view while Master Glaive was becoming bored with the quiet planet as were the young padawans Maris Brood and Zule Xiss.

"I think the young ones should get in some saber practice, come on you two." He said and the two padawans eagerly got up to go with him to the base of the cliff where they would spar under his direction.

Thankfully this place had held together very well and needed little work to it although they had expanded it with more huts and turned some of the caves underneath into training halls and dorms, not to mention a store room for some of the lore and relics they had recovered from the last temple they had restored at Lettow. Spreading it out a little across several temples so that if one temple was lost it would not mean they had lost everything.

The Lanei who lived here and maintained the village were not exactly thrilled at their presence but since they hadn't destroyed any parts of the temple and were dedicated to preserving the place they were tolerated. The temple would be safe in their care and hopefully it would not be needed the group reassured themselves.

Master Fay and Master Yaddle had even started recreating the scrolls and books they'd found, leaving copies in each temple they went to and sometimes returned to as the case might be to ensure it was preserved.

---

Well, I hope you all enjoyed the update so leave a review and let me know what you thought.

I know that the Sith Obilette with Celeste Morne inside was found much earlier than that but I decided to change that in this story so instead it was found in 20 BBY or 980 ARR instead.

Grahuur was added to assist in a later plot point, a key one for the war to come.

Next Chapter = Haron begins a journey to gain the allegiance of all Mandalorian houses while Anakin becomes much busier. The Jedi suffer internal issues and Ara meanwhile must deal with the thorny problem of her old family.