Good afternoon, everyone! How are you all doing on this hot day of Sunday, August 13, 2023? I'm well, if a bit tired from a few days of relaxing and having too much sugar and caffeine in my system, but I start back up from work tomorrow, so it'll be good to get back into the old routine. And I'm making good progress on my book by Pope Saint John Paul II, so I should be done with it in a few days. And speaking of progress, I still can't believe I have just about finished this story, with just one chapter left to write. It's remarkable how long I've been at this, and once I'm done with this story, I'll take a break to reconfigure my remaining two works. And after the rewrite is complete, I ought to let you know that I'll take a hiatus for a variety of reasons, including crafting my next batch of stories, but also to help my friends with their own original stories. That last one will take up a lot of free time, but I just know it'll be worth it in assisting my friends. Well, with all the small talk out of the way, I'd best get back to writing. May the Lord be with us all in these dark times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!
Telona 20th, 59 ABY
Csilla System
5,000 Kilometers from Csilla's Orbit
Aboard the Cal Omas
Everything was in place. Starting today, in the main hangar for the Guardian-class Super Star Destroyer, the galaxy would never be the same, and everyone would be changed by the coalition that was about to begin.
With every leader of the free galaxy in holographic attendance for this historic address to the galaxy, tensions were at a fever pitch for everyone, with all parties expecting a betrayal among the remaining Sith-backed factions making up this desperate coalition.
Amongst the Alliance of Light's leadership, the leaders of each of their leading governments were in holographic or physical attendance: Kajin Bar Yimmon, the Galactic Alliance's Chief of State, his Joint Chiefs of Staff, and ten key Senators that escaped the One Sith's terrorist bombings of Coruscant.
The Confederation, its Supreme Commander of Turr Phennir and the top five ambassadors from the youngest government's most high-profile worlds. But the delegation was lacking its best admiral in the Bothan Traest Kre'fey, having finally succumbed to his injuries sustained hours earlier.
The Mandalorians, with their leader in Boba Fett, his family, and seven clan leaders that made the journey to this long-unexplored corner of the galaxy. Their leader, along with Din Djarin and Venku Skirata, were setting the example for the rest of their clansmen to be restrained with the One Sith across from them… at least until the meeting was over.
The Hutts, including its youngest and most high-profile pro-Jedi Kajidic in Azzim Anjiliac Atirue, and many of his key patrons on or serving the Hutt Grand Council, especially his uncle Vedo, a savvy businessman and key bridge between the reformist and traditionalist-minded Hutt leaders.
The Imperials they were being represented by its soon-to-be-crowned Galactic Emperor, Jagged Fel, even in his wounded and exhausted state from the Sith's recent assassination attempt, as well as his family in Jaina and Jayce Solo Fel, and the government's best army commandos and fleet admiral.
For the Chiss Ascendancy, with Supreme General Ba'Kif, the five Aristocras, the ambassadors for each of its allied regions, and Vurawn of the Empire of the Hand, representing two of the only three friendly free galactic superpowers that currently existed in the Unknown Regions.
The Aquilian Republic, the spiritual and military remnant of the people of Zakuul and their long-extinct Eternal Empire, had sent many of its best Paladin knights and two members of its cabinet attending this meeting alongside their Chiss friends and Jedi cousins.
The Hapes Consortium, with their Chume'da in Allana Djo Solo, and two commanders and Jedi liaison representing the reforming matriarchal monarchy and staying especially close to the rest of the Jedi and keeping a vigilant watch on the princess they were charged to protect.
Dornea's expeditionary naval force, under the command of General Kiles L'toth of the Dornean Navy, first breaking its longstanding neutrality after the Yuuzhan Vong War to aid the war against the One Sith with its experimental warships, but grudgingly remained considering the dual threats from the forces of Abeloth and the Olpakan Hegemony.
The Rogues' Gallery and its leadership of a dozen founding war veterans from many more walks of life, and with dozens of smaller organizations and independent worlds and armies each in attendance in one way or another for this historic summit.
Finally, the Jedi Order in all of its Council members and key Masters and Knights, and the many Force Orders that had maintained or cultivated strong ties with the most well-known Light Side-religious sect. Their Grand Master in Kyle Katarn was especially busy in helping maintain discipline between all the present leaders, and a wary and anxious calm over their newfound partners, aided in large part by key leaders of each faction, who recognized the wisdom in creating this tenuous alliance with their mortal enemies, no matter what their personal feelings were on the matter.
As for the Sith, they would send their founding Lord, accompanied by a rather light escort of ten Sith and five of his best available military commanders, both on account of security concerns and since their territory was the most under siege by Abeloth's forces right now. And with the meeting set to begin in ten minutes, but with Darth Krayt and his retinue yet to arrive, passions were starting to simmer again.
With this broadcast set to be recorded, followed by each leader in the known galaxy addressing their constituents and citizens right afterwards to prevent mass insurrections and war from breaking out while forcing Abeloth and the Olpakans' hands, all was dependent on this summit going off without any problems. Fortunately, the Cal Omas's security detachment reported to everyone how the One Sith were approaching the entrance. And with the Jedi not sensing any active hostilities from the rogue representatives, that put most minds at relative ease.
Once the Sith and their military commanders arrived, Kyle and Tau, leading the proceedings, approached the Krayt and his followers first, followed by the rest of the Alliance of Light's leaders and their bodyguards. A tense beginning followed, with all three Jedi and Sith staring their opponents down before the Jedi Grand Master offered his hand to the One Sith's leader, who returned the gesture in a firm grip that both men returned.
Tau, officiating the meeting, emphatically pronounced, "On this historic day, from this monumental handshake, the Jedi and Sith have decided to put aside their ancient grudge to save the broken galaxy we all call home, and pledge to defeat the evils in Abeloth and the Knights of Olpaka that threaten all that we hold dear. Let this be an example to all worlds and cultures that may doubt the severity of these dangers and serve as an example of fellowship and camaraderie for all."
"From this moment onward, the Last Alliance, our final chance to end this cycle of war and hatred, is born. Let the heavens sing and rejoice, for a new dawn is at hand for all!" Tau proclaimed, with a deafening roar reverberating out from virtually everyone who was attending at the precious opportunity delivered to them.
Telona 21st, 59 ABY
Aboard the Rude Awakening
Hardly even a day after the official declaration of the Last Alliance, and the shock still hadn't settled in for Edaan and Adari. Having to work alongside the One Sith after all they had inflicted on them and the galaxy, it was a terribly bitter pill to swallow for the couple. Somewhere along the line, the duo knew there would be a betrayal by their temporary allies, and they only hoped it would not be when the Jedi needed them most.
But what Tau said to the wedded couple beforehand, how they might be able to save a few of them from the Dark Side by setting a noble example, it gave both Adari and Edaan a measure of anxious hope and allowed them to rest up before their first deployment. Having been assigned to the Alliance of Light's delegation to Zonama Sekot, the couple was still coming to grips with the fact that they would be sitting out the initial fighting against Abeloth and Daala. It was a tough decision for everyone to make, but the Last Alliance had decided that this was the best course of action for now, and the Keshiri Palpatine was able to see the wisdom in it when her love could not.
While Adari could understand how Edaan desperately needed the reprieve from fighting to recuperate and heal from his Sith-induced scars, she knew it would not be an easy transition for her action-oriented soulmate. Still, knowing how her husband loved helping people and being in the thick of fighting where he could most make a difference, she would do what she could to find some work for him to do in keeping the peace while rediscovering who and what it was that he was truly fighting for.
It was fortunate then, that the crew of the Rude Awakening would be joining them, along with dozens of representatives and their fleet elements from each faction of the Last Alliance to help protect the world from Abeloth, Rhandite, or Olpakan reprisals. The most high-profilers among the Jedi-led faction would be Jayce and Jaina Solo Fel, Corran Horn, Keyan Farlander, Bardan Jusik, Venku Skirata, Ferren Barr, Allana Djo Solo, and dozens of ambassadors, eighty Jedi, and fifty warships from each faction would be setting out by the end of tomorrow.
The Sith, on the other hand, would not be sending very many just yet on account of their forces being tied down and suffering terrible defections from within their ranks. Only twenty Sith and five fleet escorts would be accompanying them for now, with more promised to join once their territory was effectively stabilized and their facilities were secure and more functional again.
Virtually everyone else would be deployed throughout the Chaos to combat their shared adversaries and protect their territories. The Rakatan Archipelago and its vast secrets would be unearthed with the help of the Last Alliance's many archeologists and historians, especially with the Aphra family playing a key role in the initial search. And to secure the One Sith's naval capabilities for their joint effort against Abeloth, the bulk of the Jedi-Sith coalition's efforts would be invested into freeing this territory while ensuring their allies were ready for any possible ambushes or terror strikes.
As for the Nihil Retreat, that ancient disaster zone would be carefully probed by Kyp Durron and a dozen Jedi and Sith fighter groups to determine the Bringer of Chaos and True Sith Empire's growing fighting strength and see if they could glimpse even a fraction of her plans. Any sliver of knowledge they might acquire on Abeloth's strategy would be immeasurably invaluable in countering her devious mind. And when the time was right, everyone assigned to Zonama Sekot would return to the fight and help finish this righteous battle.
Still, all this didn't mean Adari would let her husband wallow in bitterness for what he thought was a pity assignment. Sensing Edaan's sorrow and turmoil through their Force bond, she was easily able to track him down within the ship's small library, morosely skimming through a physical book on the Draggulch Period. Eyeing his wife sitting down beside him, he offhandedly explained, "Just felt like I'd do some heavy reading before we set out."
"Is that why you're reading a book of actual flimsi?" Adari calmly asked, knowing there was more to the remark than the remark.
"It's a test of my restraint." Edaan amusingly explained, gingerly putting the book down. "Jarael wanted me to see if I could last a few hours without breaking anything with my enhanced strength. I think I've passed the examination with flying colors."
Gently placing a hand on Edaan's, Adari reminded him, "I'm not going to lose you to self-doubt and fear now, nor ever again. We're going to win this war, and then we're going to get this krething armor off you and give you your life back."
"For now, it's impossible." Edaan whispered, eyeing Adari before continuing, "Jarael got word from the Sith's surgeons and all the doctors report that this armor is literally fused to my body. If I try to take it off, I'll die."
"I'm stuck in this metal suit forever, and there's no way it can be undone." Edaan shot a knowing glance at Adari, "Why did you insist that we were added to the delegation to Zonaama Sekot?"
"What makes you think I had anything to do with that decision?"
"The supercomputer attached to my spinal cord does way more than calculate battle strategies or enhance my physical and Force abilities." Edaan tiredly stated. "It can also intercept communications from virtually any ship, and that's another thing I don't have control over anymore now."
"Why are do you seem so insistent on throwing your life away now?" Adari heatedly fired back. "I heard how you wanted to be placed in the front lines of this war, regardless of the damage the Sith did to you and the unknown of what everyone's flying into, and the fact that we have the twins growing inside me that will soon change our lives forever."
"Do you want to die, or are you so obsessed with getting revenge and wreaking destruction that you've forgotten all you've still got right in front of you?" Adari began shedding tears now, and she persisted, "This whole crew, the Jedi Order - hell, virtually the entire galaxy – they all look up to you, and you've done so much for all of them. Are you going to let them see you like this, letting yourself down all because of this armored suit?!"
"I know you're hurting dearly from what the Sith did to you, and how we must face Abeloth after what she did to you. But that is exactly why you need to work through this and let us help you deal with this pain one day at a time." Adari implored her love. "And there's more to this mission than keeping the peace and getting a brief reprieve while securing our latest ally."
His hurt subsiding for now, Edaan warily asked, "What are you talking about?"
Brushing aside her tears, Adari sadly explained, "I asked Grand Master Katarn and Chief of State Yimmon for a favor in requisitioning Wraith Squadron for a month. They're going to be researching an idea of mine to help you."
"We're going to see if the Wraiths and the Yuuzhan Vong can work on creating you a new body. One that we can transfer your mind and soul into without all the cybernetic attachments and maintain your connection to the Force."
Rising from her seat, Adari prepared to depart before passionately reminding Edaan, "Everyone in this ship has lost someone dear to them. But it was your empathy, your boundless compassion and selfless love that helped them find their way back. Now, you need to let us help you before this despair and anger eat you alive."
Just before Adari left, Edaan desperately called out, "Wait. Please." Seeing her return just enough for her loving and worried face to be seen, he mournfully began, "I couldn't allow myself to grieve all those years ago when I lost my family to Abeloth because it would've overwhelmed me completely, so I shut it away. For all these years afterwards, I tried to channel these feelings into my journey to save Vestara, all while ignoring the pain and fear that I overlooked or carried from all the missions I undertook for the Jedi."
"And after all these years, we managed to save Vestara from her darkness, and countless other souls along the way. But in my single-minded desperation to accomplish my goal, I think I lost an important part of myself along the way." Edaan exhaustively chuckled, as if an old weight was slowly lifting. "Now, facing off against the two most dangerous powers the galaxy's seen in eons, plus an evil shrew with an empire of bigots at her beck and call, and I can't do anything to fight because of my condition while so many others go off to fight this war, it… It makes me feel like the scared little kid I was all over again."
Sitting beside her husband, Adari silently listened as Edaan continued, "And, truth be told, I often feel like you deserve better than me. I know you love me unconditionally, and it fills my heart with such joy to know that, but it also terrifies me to risk losing you." Turning to face her, he sighed, "But I'm going to need you and everyone else to help me through this. I… I just need you to be patient with me and be there for me, even when I don't want you around me."
Tenderly smiling at the small breakthrough, Adari gently pecked her love on the lips before earnestly promising, "That is a request I can completely get behind."
"Good." Edaan softly nodded, his voice betraying a weariness he had not known he had a minute ago. "I'm going to get some rest before we start the journey."
"I thought the alterations kept you from sleeping?" Adari confusingly recalled.
"They do, but I can still meditate." Edaan clarified. "It's the closest I can get to actual sleep right now."
"I'll take it." Adari sighed with pure relief, having faith and hope again that no matter how harrowing this war became, they would be all right at the end. And when this war ended, the main Palpatine family, soon to number four, would take a nice, long respite from the turmoil of the galaxy to raise their twins in peace and safety.
But before the couple could meditate, Edaan gently urged Adari, "But I need to ask you something, luv. Have the Wraiths rediverted to help the war effort instead of helping the Yuuzhan Vong create a new body for me. They'll do so much more for the galaxy on the front lines than bringing up the rear, and I'll be willing to wait a while before getting a semblance of normalcy back."
Sensing Edaan grappling with something in his soul, Adari tenderly asked, "What's going on? What do you want to tell me?"
Edaan serenely sighed, realizing he now had to confess this before the journey ended, "I've just gotten a bit of clarity and am starting to conquer my deepest fears for the first time in fifteen years."
Now appearing apprehensive, Edaan fidgetily acknowledged, "This is… difficult for me to say, but it's necessary that I get it off my chest now, to both of you before we return to the war. It's about what's been holding me back all these years and embittered my spirit to so many others."
"It's about Abeloth, isn't it?" Adari knowingly deduced. Seeing the haunted glean in Edaan's eyes, and recognizing the look from her own trauma the horrid entity wrought on Kesh, she was able to discern what was deeply troubling her husband. "You're afraid to face her after all she wrought on Coruscant."
Gathering his courage, Edaan shamefully admitted, "In part. But that's only a large piece of this confession. It's about how the loss of my family and Vestara sent me to the edge of the Dark Side without me knowing it, and how I buried a part of myself I thought I was unworthy of."
"What are you talking about?" Adari fearfully asked, deeply disturbed by Edaan's words and her inability to comprehend why he was talking like this.
"You know what I mean, Adari." Gazing at his wife, Edaan emphatically reminded her, "You lost almost all your family when Abeloth destroyed Tahv, and you still carry that pain today. And while those losses and your pain helped you reject the Dark Side and Sith, it scarred you and made you harden your heart to survive the coming tribulations."
"And that's what you had to do, in your own way, to prepare yourself to go after Vestara and redeem her, right?" Adari insightfully discerned. "When you lost your family to Abeloth and Vestara deserted the Jedi, you were so determined to never get hurt again, it made you close off your heart to almost everyone. It was only when Grand Master Katarn took you under his wing that you rediscovered your drive."
"More than that." Edaan acknowledged, bitterly chuckling, "For so long, I deluded myself and all those around me into thinking that I had to solve as many of the galaxy's problems on my own and save as many lives that I possibly could. I was afraid that if I lost control, if I failed in anything I did, then it'd be the end of everything. And I placed on myself so many burdens that it did break me in another way, one that would have been irrevocable unless fate stepped in. Becoming Sword of the Jedi was only the tip of the proverbial iceberg of the anchors weighing down my soul."
"You're talking about when you fell in love with me." Adari gently whispered, realizing what Edaan was building towards.
"I was wrong in so many ways, it's completely laughable now." Edaan ruefully sighed. "I lost hope for myself that I could be anything more than my rank and duties, and only started to come around when I met you, Adari." Gently caressing her hands, he continued, "You helped reignite and preserve the spark of hope in myself when I was at my lowest point and helped me see that the galaxy will go on without me, and that it doesn't depend on me to save it."
"What are you saying?" Adari terrifyingly asked, worried that Edaan wasn't making sense anymore and momentarily thought that he would try to walk away from this fight.
"I'm saying that when the time to face Abeloth comes, I'll help set up Tau and Krayt to finish the killing blow and help them and the rest of the Last Alliance destroy the Servants of Chaos and True Sith Empire. Afterwards, though, I'll put all my focus into helping raise my kids alongside you, hopefully in a new body by then."
Utter gratitude and hope pouring through Adari, she desperately kissed Edaan, hoping to convey the love and devotion she felt for her husband before thanking him, "There's the man I fell in love with. But helping you out wasn't the only reason the Wraiths were tasked to us."
"Then what…?" Edaan trailed off, recognizing the immense value of Wraith Squadron's unconventional methods and tactics, and when combined with the Last Alliance's might and Yuuzhan Vong's unparalleled advancements in biotechnology, they could create virtually anything they put their minds towards.
Suddenly, Edaan felt a lot more optimistic on the Last Alliance's chances of triumphing in this war.
Telona 22nd, 59 ABY
Olpakan Space
Aboard the Sir Trilag
Barely able to repress the urge to shoot her agent for the unforgivable incompetence and fanaticism Kor Rampart had given the Olpakan Hegemony, Daala settled for ordering the guards watching over the disgraced vice admiral; "Get this failure out of my sight and put him in solitary confinement for now. I'll see what the rest of the High Council wishes to be done with him in our upcoming meeting."
Saluting the High Admiral, the guards ferried the new prisoner away, ignoring his desperate and fading pleas for clemency as they entered the turbolift leading to the brig. That left Daala with the unfortunate task of delivering both terrible tidings to her fellow Councilors. Having discovered experimental trackers embedded to the spinal cords of both Hadynat Treen and Borath Maddeus and learnt that they were transmitting not only their coordinates to the Galactic Alliance and its allies, but also every word in the two freed prisoners' vicinity, she realized just how badly the enemy outmaneuvered her once again. And this time, there would be no escape unless she could beat back the Last Alliance and its overwhelming numbers and all its insidiously creative minds.
This terrible news, in addition to Kor failing to ingratiate himself within this Jedi-Sith coalition, could very well spell the death knell for the Olpaka Hegemony unless drastic actions were underway. But given the current divisions wracking the anti-Force society after its true ultimate objective against all Force Users and their enslaved governments and societies was divulged, it was unlikely they would be able to come to any coherent strategy other than defend their borders. With protests and riots breaking out across virtually every Olpakan world at their logical measures in ending the Force's dominion, its loyal soldiers would be stretched to the limit in keeping order, and unable to repel the coming invasion.
But what truly surprised Daala was how the greater galaxy was handling the Last Alliance's foundation so well, after all the suffering the everyday citizens had endured from the Jedi and Sith's squabbles. After the leaders for the three major governments, and the independent powers of the main galaxy revealed how everyone created a united front to deal with the Olpakans and Abeloth, the high admiral believed the galaxy would revolt against this mad fever dream. Instead, much to her complete dismay, most of the galaxy and all its citizens were sympathetic to their plight and remained trusting in their leaders, allowing the Last Alliance to linger if it meant getting rid of two key competitors of theirs.
Clearly, Daala would have to procure the means to deal with these evils on her own, and that would not be an easy task. If the Olpakan's High Council refused to see reason and take drastic actions in annihilating the bloodcurdling threat of Abeloth before she was ready for war, then she would do what must be done. She still had the schematics for the Resonance torpedoes that were created in the Maw Installation decades ago, and they were easy enough to recreate with the Olpakan Hegemony's resources. When the time was right, they would be unleashed and destroy the ultimate evil, and catch countless Jedi and Sith in the process. And in the ensuing chaos, the weakened galaxy would be all but powerless to stop the Olpakan tsunami that would engulf the galaxy.
But there was another issue Daala had to address before time ran out. When the Last Alliance made their combined assault on the Olpakan's territory, there needed to be a series of contingencies to preserve their way of life and rebuild away from any prying eyes. Fortunately, there were still a couple dozen worlds the Olpakan High Council had kept secret from its followers and all data archives, and they would serve well as refuges and strongholds to rebuild and wage a new war from the shadows.
Fortunately for Daala, all this was still hypothetical at this point. There was still a chance that the Olapakas could rally and hold back the enemy's invasion. A narrow chance, but it was better than none. But it all depended on how her meeting with the High Council went in a mere two weeks at their headquarters of Olpaka. For everyone's sake, she hoped they would see reason before what precious little time they had left vanished. Otherwise, she would have no choice but to single out those that agreed with her and repeat one of her more notorious massacres of those that could have once been valued allies against the then-fragile New Republic.
Rakatan Archipleago
Tulpaa, Southern Hemisphere
Skal'nas City
Within the Temple of Balance
Deep within the mountains of Tulpaa's equatorial region, inside one of the many domed cities permeating the planet's tropical surface, a civilization was coming to life and preparing for war, the likes of which its inhabitants had not seen or partook in for millennia.
After over twenty-five thousand years of exile and isolation from the rest of the galaxy, one of the final seven remnants of the Rakatan people and society were about to return to the galaxy and help wage battle against two evils most people could scarcely imagine. Along with its sister tribe and long-feared rival in the Makatak System, the inhabitants of Tulpaa were prepared to offer their bounties to the newfound coalition that held dominion over the galaxy. However, unlike their brethren on Makatak, the Tulpaa had long ago fully abandoned their wicked roots and emerged as a more enlightened society, gradually emancipating their slaves, and forming a quasi-republic of their own out of the ashes of their Infinite Empire's crumbling fragments of technology and power.
But knowing their ancestors' crimes of barbarity against their former territories, the ruling elders of Tulpaa would need to tread carefully in dealing with the wary Last Alliance and their sibling tribe. This was why a sacred meeting was underway between the leaders and their servants, speaking with the one Rakata among them that still held a strong connection to the Force after eons of losing that precious gift. Slowly and carefully opening the mind sphere that contained the spirit of Ruthic, the founding Rakatan elder of the Tulpaa colony and former priest of the Infinite Empire, all the elders and dozens of adjutants representing the descendants of liberated slaves bowed before her holographic image.
"What do you seek counsel for this time, my disciples?" Ruthic sagely asked before pausing, slowly learning what it was the Rakata sought her out for from the echoes the Force gave out, and from her link to her people through the carefully constructed transceiver to the planet's data banks and deep-space communications array.
Closing her eyes, Ruthic immediately realized the dark depths her descendants had encountered and sought her wisdom on. The spiritual descendants of the Je'Daii Order that ensured her people's downfall, the Jedi and Sith Orders, had unwittingly released an evil the Rakata had long respected and feared in Abeloth and her shrouded handlers of the Nihl Retreat, now threatened everything the tribes held dear.
The One Sith, having conquered her people's last refuges and co-opted their foundries and ships for their own designs, were under siege by the Bringer of Chaos and her servants, many of them Rakata from either the wild worlds or rebels fighting against the One Sith's rule. As for the Jedi, they had created their own coalition in the Alliance of Light to combat the Sith, only to convince them to unite in a last-ditch effort to eradicate the Celestial-like demoness and prevent the return of the Father of Shadows and his followers.
The Tulpaa and Makatak tribes, recognizing the danger she represented, had reached out to the Last Alliance to seek their help, and the Jedi and Sith had agreed to a full-fledged defense pact. But the decision was not without great debate and argument on both worlds, and the Rakatan Archipelago's unstable fabric of society threatened to come undone from this desperate gamble, and the elders were seeking Ruthic's counsel on how to possibly stop the death of the Infinite Empire's last remnants.
Considering her options and analyzing the scenarios that ran through her enhanced mind in mere moments, Ruthic softly sighed before opening her eyes, and regrettably answered, "I cannot see a definitive way to ensure our people's survival out of this conflict."
Hearing the unsettled murmurs reverberating throughout the hallowed sanctum, Ruthic urged for calm through the Force, soothing the troubled minds of her disciples before imploringly reminding them, "Remember, we knew it was only a matter of time before our prosperity and anonymity came to an end. The galaxy knows we survive, and our response will decide if our society has a place in this new order, or if we are condemned to follow my barbaric kin into extinction and obscurity. For any of us to have a future at all, to give your families a chance at life out of the shadows and in the light, and to regain our connection to the Force, we must fight alongside the Last Alliance as equals."
Sensing the truth take root in each of her disciples' hearts, Ruthic knew her words had reached them, and they would do what must be done to protect the galaxy from the apocalypse that was upon it.
The Last Alliance had best be ready for the tumult the Rakata would bring onto their shared adversaries, for no matter who the opponent was, they always fought for complete and total victory.
Csilla System
Aboard the Retribution
Darth Krayt, meditating in his private chambers while pondering the influx of reports coming in from his agents and disciples across the Chaos, could barely believe how matters had been pushed to this point by the galaxy's shared enemies. Allying with the Jedi and their supporters enraged many of his fellow Sith, but thanks to Wyyrlok and Takaris Yur keeping them all in line, the remaining One Sith quickly fell in line, with the rest carefully observed to prevent any more desertions or acts of sabotage.
And the news of Zonama Sekot agreeing to join the Last Alliance in the fight for the galaxy uplifted Krayt's wearied mind, filling him with relief at having Invidious and Ochi put in charge of the One Sith's delegation in tracking down and recruiting the living world. Having the Yuuzhan Vong and their unique capabilities to deploy against the Olpakan Hegemony and Bringer of Chaos's armies would take much of the pressure off the Jedi and Sith.
Even more remarkable was the knowledge of how the Killiks, an insectoid race that was perhaps the last surviving servants of the Celestials, had agreed to assist the Last Alliance against Abeloth's thralls. After the disasters orchestrated by the then-warped Jedi Raynar Thul and two of Krayt's old acolytes that were all absorbed into the hive mind, thereby triggering a near-apocalypse that would have devoured the galaxy, it was a testament of how desperate everyone was in winning this war.
But with the Olapkans undoubtedly suffering from strife and dissent from their own ranks, due to a clever ruse and Vice Admiral Rampart's fanatical gullibility, the Jedi were prepared to send key teams of commandos and ambassadors to ally with the moderates and peacemakers of their territory, effectively soon neutralizing the anti-Force organization. A proactive measure that Krayt would wholeheartedly endorse and assist in. Several of his best insurgent commanders and Lords would be most useful in helping to dissolve this vile society.
Unfortunately, that still left the Celestial monstrosity and her untold number of thralls and disciples that were attacking all over the Unknown Regions, especially the Rakatan Archipelago and its now-revealed resistance movement. Hearing from Lady Irola of the penitent secret organization that was dedicated to atoning for its long-extinct empire's atrocities, eventually regaining the Force, all while emulating the Je'daii Order from pre-Republic times in their creed and defense of their refuge worlds, it troubled Krayt how the One Sith had never heard of this order until now.
Had the One Sith's vision been so dogmatic and single-minded in their takeover of the galaxy that it left them no better than the Jedi Order, allowing the galaxy to fall deeper into pandemonium and darkness? Should the Sith and any of their allies survive the coming war, it would need to go into hiding for many years, not simply to rebuild its ranks, but to reexamine itself so they were not caught unaware at this magnitude ever again.
But for now, Krayt knew what had to be done to protect his interests and assets in the Rakatan Archipelago and the surrounding world and the region. Already recalling seven far-flung fleets and all their Sith overseers to help drive back the Abeloth-loyal invaders, he would ensure the rest of the Last Alliance provided the strength needed to save the sector and relieve its exhausted defender before they went after the abomination and the lesser threat in the anti-Force society of the Knights of Olpaka.
Interrupting his efforts to coordinate this massive overhauling of the One Sith's war effort, the hologram of See-Chok humbly interjected, "Forgive me for intruding, my Lord, but the Jedi report that everything is in place for the Last Alliance's full deployment of half of their available forces to the Rakatan Archipelago. The rest of our forces will assist their patrolling of the Nihil Retreat and infiltrating the Olpakan Hegemony."
Nodding, Krayt informed his main combat instructor, "Tell them we will be departing for the rendezvous point within the next hour." Despite knowing the necessity of working with the Jedi as full allies against their two enemies, the leader of the One Sith knew the politics of the situation would be all but impossible to pull off, especially with all the acts of sabotage and conspiracy against the major galactic powers the Dread Lord and his followers. Without the wisdom of the government's leaders and their strong ties with the Jedi, this faint hope for an alliance would've been dashed the moment it was even considered.
Well, this was it. If this current momentum held, the galaxy would either come together against the evils of the Knights of Olpaka and Abeloth or descend into eternal chaos and enslavement from either of these dark forces. Krayt still didn't know how the Jedi and their allies hoped to make this mad gamble succeed, but for the sake of the galaxy, his great order, and all those who died to make sure the Grand Design made it this far, he would try.
It was so ironic how, seven decades ago, he was a protector of the innocent and defender of freedom as the Jedi Master A'Sharad Hett, son of the revered Jedi Knight Sharad Hett, and here he was now, doing the same once again, only this time as the leader of a Sith Order against two unspeakable evils. Should he fall into the pitfalls of old memories and the former bonds he once cherished, or worse, slip back into the Light Side, it could spell doom for his disciples and the galaxy after these dangers passed.
But there was more to Krayt's dedication to the Sith than losing faith in the Jedi. Aside from his disillusionment with the adherents of the Light Side and all the democratic governments they allied with, the lessons he learnt within the Mortis Monolith reminded him of the necessity of both the Light and Dark Sides of the Force in destroying Abeloth, and the Son chose him as the embodiment of the Dark Side.
Imbuing the Dread Lord with the fallen Celestial's remnants of his power, Krayt knew his fate was forever sealed in darkness, regardless of whatever remnants of his old Jedi persona might try to reemerge, or his memories or bonds might resurface. No matter what doubts or traitorous thoughts he might have, he had gone too far into the Dark Side to ever be redeemed now. All he could do now was make the most of this rare opportunity to restore the One Sith's power and prepare for the inevitable fallout once Abeloth and the Knights of Olpaka were eradicated.
But should the war turn against the One Sith, or if their post-war plans fail, then Krayt would be a fool to not plan any contingencies or save some of his people from the inevitable purges. No matter how much a small piece of his soul would enjoy fighting alongside the Jedi again, he would see his Grand Design complete, and all his enemies fall to the blade or his followers' guile.
Telona 23rd, 59 ABY
Wild Space
Maraqoo Sector, Reo System
On the surface of the system's sole planetoid, outside the gigantic pillars that held the Killik hive of Thuruht, many preparations were being finalized, with a fleet of Alliance of Light warships and transports ready to house their latest and oddest batch of recruits. With the Jedi ready to act as liaisons between the Last Alliance and Killiks for the war's duration, and everyone minimizing the risks of their forces becoming Joiners, the galaxy would be ready for the return of the ancient insectoid race.
Remembering how vital the Killik hive mind was in finding the clues used to slay Abeloth fifteen years ago, Grand Master Katarn agreed to the proposal of recruiting the exiled race's oldest nest for this war. Sending Jedi Master Raynar Thul and a group of volunteers and protocol droids to inform the unlikely assets of the galaxy's desperate plight, it did not take long to convince Thuruht of the necessity of joining the fight. That monumental task was made easier with how the Jedi and Sith had joined together and were prepared to utilize the one weapon capable of slaying their shared enemy, while the galaxy would allow this one-time withdrawal of the insect race's exile helped speed things along.
Of course, there were many justified misgivings over allowing use of the Killiks, given their ability to gradually rewrite the brainwaves of other species into their groupmind, but the risks were reduced significantly by the utilization of nanotechnology leftover from the Celestial's rule to restrict their former servants' movements in the Unknown Regions. Thanks to the Jedi, Chiss Ascendancy, and Galactic Alliance's study of the ancient and microscopic agent, the Last Alliance would soon be immune to the insects' pheromones, allowing them to fully cooperate with them without fear of unintentional subversion.
And regarding the danger of Raynar working alongside the Killiks again and facing his demons from when he was under the hivemind's control, the Jedi Master took solace in how the Order was sending the best possible help to ensure this alliance succeeded. With a dozen Jedi sent to observe him and their best privateers, allied Force Orders, and several of their best military friends to oversee this unorthodox recruitment, he knew better than to let his fears run rampant. With the dual threats of the Bringer of Chaos and the Olpakans bearing down on the galaxy, he couldn't let his old regrets get the best of him.
Sensing a familiar presence reaching for him through the Force, Raynar opened himself up to Thuruht's mind, acknowledging the queen's warning, "I know. With everything at stake, none of us can afford to be caught up in regrets when facing Abeloth, the Rhandites, and each of their servants. We'll see the job done properly this time."
Hearing the booming rumble of the queen's voice reverberating back, Raynar assured her, "Don't worry. Once Abeloth's destroyed and the Nihil Retreat is freed, we'll get your kin back here so they can ensure your hive doesn't die out. We owe you that much after all you've done and about to do for us in this fight."
A warning echoing through Raynar's mind, he cautiously questioned, "What is it that you're withholding from us?"
Hearing Thuruht's conversational rebuttal, Raynar warily asked, "What else does Arhul Hextrophon's final testimony say that we don't already know? And how do you know about that banned book?"
Listening to the answer, Raynar ruefully sighed, "I should've known Threepio would converse with you about all those supernatural matters. From what I recall, he always did enjoy speaking with Arhul on obscure cultures." Glancing in the direction of the Killiks' depleted domain, he promised, "I'll speak with Dok-Ondar and ensure every faction leader gets a copy of Major Hextrophon's last work."
One thing was clear, this war would soon test every member of the Last Alliance in every conceivable way. Raynar only hoped they would be ready for the terrible changes being thrust upon them. But something deep within his heart told him that nothing could truly prepare the galaxy for what was coming.
Telona 25th, 59 ABY
Nihil Retreat, Rhand
Dark Citadel
"You continue to disappoint your Beloved Queen of the Stars, Grand Sorcerer." Tor Valum scathingly reprimanded the quivering Kung'urama'nuruodo, nursing the many fresh burns and deep lashes all over his torso for the losses he and his followers had suffered since the Red Honeycomb Zone fell to the Servants of Chaos's many enemies. "If we continue losing such capable followers and valuable ground to the Last Alliance and Knights of Olapka, it may prove impossible for your supposed goddess to maintain a healthy partnership with your people."
"I'm well aware, Tor." Kung'urama'nuruodo softly acknowledged, his voice weak and lips cracked and bloodied, though more from humbleness than the pain his body was wracked with. Struggling to rise back onto his feet, he found himself immobile by the Grysk sage's unbreakable hold through the Force. "What… what is the meaning of this?"
"Your followers still have a great use for my people, Kung'urama'nuruodo, on account of their strong numbers and litany of abilities and tactics our enemies are unaware of, at least for now." Tor began, dragging the Grand Sorcerer along deeper into the temple's hallowed grounds. "But you, on the other hand, have a much greater purpose for your mistress in fully enabling her return to power."
Unable to determine what Tor implied, Kung'urama'nuruodo struggled in vain to regain control of his motor functions until the two esoteric Force Users arrived in a gigantic sanctum. Covered in countless indecipherable carvings and artifacts surging with raw power, the chamber was being used by many of the True Sith Empire's most powerful Sorcerers, chanting in an ancient language the Chiss didn't recognize.
But what truly surprised and terrified Kung'urama'nuruodo was the massive and incomprehensible power that was reverberating throughout the halls and grasping what this ritual was for. Energies that must have spent centuries to accumulate were being channeled within this chamber, from countless sources across the galaxy, they were all being used to fuel Abeloth's full resurrection and reconstitution of her original form. And seeing a dozen captive Jedi and Sith Lords, bound and held within unbreakable chains, it made him see that these poor unfortunate souls would be among the first to house the Celestial spawn's undefeatable and fully re-energized spirit.
Hearing the chanting increase in volume, the energies becoming increasingly chaotic as a horrific shriek could be heard from the center of the ritual chamber, Tor explained for Kung'urama'nuruodo's benefit, "You had best be honored to witness this sacred ceremony, Chiss. Thanks to our efforts and the chaos we've spread across the galaxy, and the hundreds of Force Nexuses we've drained dry towards this moment, our mistress is ready to return to this realm of existence and take the first few of many vessels for her eternal rule. It was thanks to the darkness of Coruscant's Sith Shrine and the battle above Csilla that topped off our virtually bottomless stockpile of energy and finally allowed Abeloth to return to us."
Before Kung'urama'nuruodo could utter even a single sound, the first of dozens of tentacles emerged from the center of the chamber, with the thousands of thin and grimy appendages slowly coalescing together to create a makeshift female's body for the monstrosity before everyone. The sight was so bloodcurdlingly terrifying for the Chiss Grand Sorcerer, he shivered from a fear he hadn't felt in decades as the crude woman's form began walking towards him. He was so scared, he struggled in vain against the invisible bonds that held him in place, trying to escape the nightmare he now found himself in.
Tor, reveling in Kung'urama'nuruodo's unadulterated terror, nonchalantly explained, "Did you think my masters and your mistress would ignore your failures, or your unique connection to the Force and invaluable position within her growing armies? No, Kung'urama'nuruodo. This is what your Beloved Queen of the Stars has always intended for you, and now it is time to fulfill your destiny for the galaxy's rightful ruler."
The disgusting form of the tentacled-Abeloth growing ever closer, Kung'urama'nuruodo frantically tried to fight this treacherous end, only to find no salvation coming for him. Just then, Tor released his hold over the Chiss ex-Jedi, and pushed him right into the waiting tendrils of his treacherous mistress.
The tentacles placed one on both sides of Kung'urama'nuruodo's head, then looked into the aged Chiss's eyes and locked gazes. For a moment, nothing seemed to happen, and he dared to hope that Abeloth was only demonstrating what she would do if he failed her again.
Then the air between the two dark beings was radically altered. Kung'urama'nuruodo's eyes opened wide, and his face scrunched up in a mask of horror and determination to stop what was about to become his final fate. As the process proceeded, he saw Abeloth's original body reconstitute itself, drawing upon his vast Force reserves to cement her return to this dimension. Her form being created from the tendrils coalescing, she revealed fingers that were long and thin, and her arms dissolved into gray slimy tentacles, and in the slimy mess's place stood the hideous thing that he had once revered as the avatar of destruction, a slender sinuate form with coarse yellow hair and a mouth so broad that it reached from ear to ear.
Abeloth had finally revived herself in every aspect, and now, in an ultimate and last bit of irony for Kung'urama'nuruodo, she was about to take over his body and use all his power and mind to control his people and use them however she saw fit. His fear reaching heights he never thought possible before now, he saw his entire life flashing before his eyes. Remembering all the battles he had been a part of in the Clone War, the traumatic years as a fugitive from the Empire before the Sorcerers of Rhand took him in, his rising through the ranks before ruling the Servants of Chaos's little empire and allying with the Nihil Retreat's Lich Kings, he wondered where he went wrong in his accursed life that he was losing right in front of him.
As his jaw fell open in a final wordless scream, Abeloth's tentacles shot down Kung'urama'nuruodo's throat, prepared to pour her insidious essence into his body to use as the first of many hosts. After a momentary battle of wills that quickly drained the Chiss's last reserves of strength, his face went blank as his very being was altered. The most noticeable change was that instead of the simple red irises all his people held, they were replaced by a bright silver, and released a smile as deep and dark as the Maw that once held her prisoner.
Kung'urama'nuruodo was at last gone, and Abeloth had taken his place. And the first thing she did was address her oldest and most loyal disciple, commending Tor, "You've done well by me, honored Grysk. Greater than any of my other servants, and you will be rewarded with a worthy place in the coming new order."
Swiftly bowing before his unwitting dupe, Tor humbly vowed, "I will make sure you trust in me is not misplaced." Gesturing at the captives before the two ancient beings, he asked, "What do you wish to do with the rest of your offerings?"
Seeing the captive Jedi and defecting Sith Lords and Ladies kneeling before the Servants of Chaos, each kept in a Force-induced coma that prevented any from trying to escape their fate, Abeloth ordered Tor, "Have everyone clear the room until I call you back. I will decide who amongst this lot is worthy of personally serving me, and who will work for us through cruder means. Only then can we discuss our preparations for my ascension to godhood."
Hurriedly complying with the Beloved Queen of the Stars' decrees, Tor and the Servants exited the chambers, allowing Abeloth to take stock of her prey and contemplate the powers that now stood united against her. The disciples of Ashla and Bogan, the Jedi and Sith and their auxiliaries, had joined together in a last-ditch effort to stop her inevitable dominance, primarily rallied together by a bloodline she thought had been extinct for many decades and his key allies and foes. And this strong and notorious lineage was a one that had to be eradicated before it could risk undoing all she sought to accomplish, no matter what her personal longings might be in taking their power for herself, especially since Tau Palpatine had been chosen by the Daughter of Mortis as her spirit's vessel. With Darth Krayt carrying the Son's essence and the two orders fully cooperating now, the war before her would be far more demanding to triumph over than her last effort at attaining godhood. And with the Killiks just about ready to enter the war, offering their unique knowledge on her origins, capabilities, and ambitions for her enemies, this would be the most precarious time for her burgeoning empire.
But to eliminate the three Palpatines, the entire Skywalker bloodline, Darth Krayt, and all their trusted friends, Abeloth would need a lethal death squad of her own to anticipate and counter their tactics before she destroyed them all, never mind finding many more worthy vessels to inhabit her growing power. She wouldn't – couldn't - underestimate the Jedi and Sith a second time, not that she even could consider that now that they held the Mortis Dagger, the one weapon capable of destroying her for good. Already having a few probable candidates in mind, thanks to the deep pools of knowledge her servants provided, it was time for her to properly expend her energies and directly empower those present that were worthy of her gifts, while the rest would serve her as additional vessels or as subjects for her followers' experiments.
Gideon Hask, Belok Rhal, Aurra Sing, and Darths Haxar, Nox, and Zorra, they were the first of entire worlds of disciples that were coming to Abeloth's banner, and by the time the Bringer of Chaos was done, the whole galaxy would prostrate itself before her. And this time, no one would stop her rise to eternal omnipotence, especially not the last remnants of her traitorous family or their spiritual disciples, not with her armies that she would soon unleash on all her enemies.
These next few months were going to be the most exciting and dangerous Abeloth lived through in thousands of generations, and she wouldn't have it any other way. She would relish every moment of fear and mayhem she would cause against her enemies before her final ascension to godhood over these unworthy masses. And if the Rhandites or anyone else in her rapidly expanding armies tried to betray her in the name of the six fallen Celestials she would not name, then they would meet an end no one would wish, not even on their very worst enemies.
Two Hours Later
Tor Valum, prostrating himself before the spectral forms of his true overlords deep in the catacombs of the Rhandites' most ancient sanctuary, reveled in the dark energies he was being infused with as a just reward for his accomplishments for the Lich Kings. Having finished reviving one of their best assets and ensuring her loyalty and those that served her, the Nihil Retreat would soon have all it needed to release their gods and usher in a final age of destruction upon the galaxy. And what perfect timing since the Jedi and One Sith had united in a futile bid to stop the inevitable in this appropriately named "Last Alliance." If the True Sith Empire's plans unfolded as foreseen, then this would be the end of the galaxy as everyone knew it, even if it would still be a daunting challenge, knowing the formidable strength all its enemies still held.
Knowing the Last Alliance would soon try to break through the True Sith Empire's defenses to stop the inevitable return of the Näkhäsh, the creator of the Dark Side of the Force and first to rebel against the Maker and his dim-witted Celestials, Tor recognized how these next several months would determine the fate of all, so he and every Rhandite would need to be at their best. Which was why the Lich Kings were preparing to reach out to the last of Abeloth's kin to recruit the Cancer God from its long imprisonment on the jail world of Mugg Fallow. A little prodding and promises of many bounties for Mnggal-Mnggal to feast upon, then the other Bedlam Spirit offspring would do whatever its betters wanted until it was annihilated to prevent it from turning against its betters.
"Do not grow overconfident, Tor Valum." One of the Lich Kings raggedly warned the Grysk sage. "There is still much work to be done before we are ready to wage war on the Maker's neophytes. And they are already seeking ways to subvert our efforts in the Rakata Archipelago."
Another Lich King ordered Tor. "Work with Abeloth in whatever she requires, for her aims will only embolden ours until we are ready to unleash true Chaos upon the enemy."
Hiding a grimace at having to further work alongside the Bringer of Chaos and her futile delusions, Tor loyally complied, "I will do whatever is required of me to advance our sacred cause."
"Then you and your fellow Grysk will soon get the chance to prove it." A third Lich King hoarsely uttered. "You and your elite guard will soon travel to the five feral systems bordering Tulpaa and Makatak, gaining the allegiance of each tribe before we move against their more advanced sibling worlds. The Star Forge long abandoned above Tulpaa will be ours, and its incomparable genetic facilities shall once again be used by worthy powers. And once that is accomplished, you and the rest of our ancient allies shall be given a reward worthy of all your efforts on our behalf."
Realizing what the Lich Kings were inferring, Tor grew jubilant at the prospect of getting his youthful vigor back after millennia of having a withered body. But tempering his enthusiasm with the knowledge of the daunting task ahead, he faithfully vowed, "I swear to you, my people will see it done."
Soon enough, the galaxy would meet its glorious end to the Immortal Gods of the Sith, and Tor was going to do all he could to finish their revival. And no one, not the Olpakan Hegemony, the Last Alliance, the Bringer of Chaos, not even the Maker Himself would stop this holy task from being complete!
Well, that's a wrap on the fourth story in my Jedi Odyssey rewrite! I hope you all enjoy the conclusion to this riveting and amazing work. I eagerly, and quite desperately wish for constructive reviews so I can keep improving my works and writing. And if you think this story was crazy, just wait until I start writing my 5th story. And then the final work, man, that will be Silmarillion-levels of crazy and godly battles. But I need to remind you all that I'll be taking a break from writing to redo my storyline for my last two stories, as the formation of the Last Alliance, Abeloth's full resurrection, and Edaan Palpatine being brought back to the Light was originally supposed to happen in the next story. Unfortunately, it seems I made a silly mistake throughout this story. I forgot that in Jedi Odyssey III, I had Adari pregnant with two children of hers' and Edaan, instead of just a daughter as I mentioned throughout this story. But I'll correct that mistake shortly after I publish this piece, and then I'll focus on my last two outlines.
So, how are you all doing on this warm night of Thursday, August 17, 2023? I'm well, as I had a good shift at work today, and plan to finish the spiritual diaries of Pope Saint John Paul II tonight or tomorrow. Then I'll start reading a new book I purchased a couple days ago called The Biden Malaise, and it should be a powerful and thought-provoking piece. Well, I need to get this chapter looked at and revised before I publish it. May the Lord be with us all in these Dark and Gruesome Times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!
(Tuesday, March 26, 2024, Addendum.) Good evening, everyone! I do hope you are all having a blessed night, as it's been a while since I came back to this story. Nearing the end of my 5th Jedi Odyssey story, I realized there was a lot I could've done differently and improved upon. So, after a bit of careful thought, I decided to act on my instincts and revise the story, in addition to not changing Adari from having a daughter to two kids like I planned to do so originally. Just to let you know, I'll be revising Star Wars:Jedi Odyssey V: Shadows Hunt II: Tribulation over the next couple or few weeks, so I won't be writing until I get that done. It'll be a challenge, but a good one, nonetheless. Well, with all that done, I'd best get the revised chapters published in a day or two. May the Lord be with us all in these darkening times, and Long Live the Expanded Universe!