The Dark Side of Chocolate - A Frozen Hope

by notalent2

Zym's Icecream Parlour is a haven for those from all walks of life - but there are outside forces with nefarious machinations. Friendships Formed, Loyalties tested - and A New Dessert to bring hope in a dark galaxy...

div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Emperor Palpatine, supreme ruler of the Galactic Empire, sat on his throne, his mind consumed by a singular obsession: finding the best ice cream parlour in the galaxy./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Lord Vader," he called out to his trusted apprentice, "I have a mission for you. Scout out the galaxy and find me the most exquisite ice cream parlour. I desire a flavor that will surpass even the power of the dark side."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Vader nodded and set off, traversing the stars in search of the perfect scoop. He visited parlours on Coruscant, Tatooine, and even the outer rim, sampling flavors and reporting back to Palpatine./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"But no matter how hard Vader tried, nothing seemed to satisfy the Emperor's cravings. "This one is too sweet," he would say, or "This flavor is too bland."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the search continued, Palpatine's patience wore thin. "Vader, I sense a great disturbance in the Force. It is the disturbance of mediocre ice cream. Find me the best, or suffer the consequences!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Finally, after months of searching, Vader discovered a small parlour on a remote planet. The sign read "Galactic Scoops" and the owner, a wise old Jedi named Zym, promised Vader that his ice cream was made with the finest ingredients and a dash of the Force./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Palpatine was skeptical, but one taste of Zym's "Dark Side Chocolate" and he was hooked. The flavor was rich, complex, and utterly divine./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Zym, you have done it," Palpatine exclaimed. "Your ice cream is worthy of the Empire. I will make you the official Imperial Ice Cream Maker, and your parlour will be the only one allowed to operate in the galaxy."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"And so, Galactic Scoops became the most feared and respected ice cream parlour in the galaxy, with Palpatine and Vader as its most loyal customers. The dark side had never tasted so sweet./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"A clever twist! Galactic Scoops, the esteemed ice cream parlour, is located on the planet of Ryloth, not on a remote planet as initially thought. Ryloth, the homeworld of the Twi'leks, is now under Imperial occupation, and Galactic Scoops has become a rare haven for those seeking a sweet respite from the Empire's tyranny./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym, the wise Jedi owner, has managed to maintain a delicate balance, serving both Imperial forces and Rebel sympathizers alike. His ice cream has become a symbol of hope, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always something to be savored./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Palpatine's obsession with Galactic Scoops has become a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few. The Emperor's frequent visits to the parlour are disguised as diplomatic missions, with Vader by his side, ever vigilant./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the Rebel Alliance gains momentum, Galactic Scoops remains a neutral ground, a place where enemies can momentarily put aside their differences and indulge in the sweet pleasure of Zym's creations. But for how long? The fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance, and even the most exquisite ice cream may not be enough to save it from the darkness that threatens to consume it all./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine Wren, the Rebel Alliance's star warrior, and Iden Versio, the Empire's elite soldier, sat down at a small table in Galactic Scoops, the famous ice cream parlour on Ryloth. It was a rare moment of truce between two sworn enemies./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine, with her vibrant hair and armor, and Iden, with her sleek black uniform, drew curious glances from the other patrons. But Zym, the wise Jedi owner, welcomed them with a warm smile./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""What flavors can I get for you, ladies?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with knowledge of their unlikely friendship./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine and Iden exchanged a look, and without a word, they both knew what they wanted. "Two scoops of Dark Side Chocolate, please," Sabine said, a mischievous grin spreading across her face./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden raised an eyebrow. "You know that's the Emperor's favorite flavor, right?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine shrugged. "I'm a Rebel, what can I say? I love the dark side... of chocolate."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym chuckled and handed them each a cone. As they took their first bites, their eyes met, and for a moment, the war between the Empire and the Rebel Alliance melted away./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""This is incredible," Iden said, the tension in her voice easing./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Told you," Sabine replied, her eyes sparkling. "Galactic Scoops is the best in the galaxy."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As they savored their ice cream, they talked about everything and nothing – their favorite battles, their most trusted allies, and their childhood memories. The Empire and the Rebel Alliance faded into the background, and all that mattered was the present moment, shared over a sweet treat./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"For a brief, shining moment, Sabine and Iden were just two friends enjoying ice cream together, a reminder that even in a galaxy torn apart by conflict, there was still room for joy, laughter, and the simple pleasures in life./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's comlink beeped, and he answered, his eyes narrowing as he listened to the message. "Ah, Chancellor Amedda. What can I do for you?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Zym, I've received reports of your... hospitality towards certain Rebel elements. I must remind you that your loyalty is to the Empire, and your ice cream parlour is subject to Imperial oversight. I suggest you refrain from catering to the enemy, lest you face... consequences."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's expression would likely turn cautious, knowing that Amedda's words are laced with veiled threats. His response would be measured, trying to maintain the delicate balance between his loyalty to the Empire and his sympathies for the Rebel Alliance./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's voice takes on a subtle hint of irony. "Ah, Vice Chair Amedda, I'm surprised you'd forget our little arrangement. The Empire's... indulgence in my ice cream is well-documented, I believe. Palpatine's sweet tooth is not a secret, and I've made sure to keep his favorite flavors in stock."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Amedda's tone shifts, his words laced with a hint of unease. "Yes, of course, Zym. I hadn't forgotten. But the Emperor's... tastes are not to be shared with the Rebel Alliance. I'm sure you understand the implications."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's smile is knowing. "Oh, I understand perfectly, Vice Chair. And I'm sure you recall our agreement: Galactic Scoops remains a neutral ground, where even the most... unlikely of friends can enjoy a scoop or two, free from Imperial scrutiny."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The silence on the other end of the comlink is palpable, as Amedda weighs the risks and benefits of pressing the matter further. Zym's reminder has struck a chord, and the Vice Chair knows that pushing too hard could jeopardize the Empire's own interests. For now, the fragile balance is maintained, and Galactic Scoops remains a haven for those seeking a sweet respite from the galaxy's conflicts./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb Orrelios, the Lasat warrior, and Kallus, the former Imperial officer, walked into Galactic Scoops, their differences momentarily set aside as they united in their quest for the galaxy's best ice cream./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb's eyes widened as he scanned the menu. "Kallus, my friend, they have a flavor called 'Lasat Lime'! It's a sign, we must try it!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Kallus raised an eyebrow. "You're basing our ice cream choice on a shared name? That's...unwise, Zeb."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb grinned. "Trust me, Kallus. Lasat Lime will be a taste sensation!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As they waited in line, Kallus couldn't help but notice the eclectic mix of patrons. "Zeb, this place is a gathering point for Rebels, Imperials, and...everything in between. How did you discover it?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb chuckled. "Let's just say I have my sources, Kallus. Now, let's enjoy our ice cream and forget about our differences for a moment."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Their turn arrived, and Zym himself handed them their cones. "Enjoy, gentlemen! May the flavor be with you!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb took a lick of the Lasat Lime ice cream and closed his eyes in rapture. "By the Ancients, this is indeed a taste sensation!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Kallus smiled, his expression softening. "You know, Zeb, maybe this ice cream is a symbol of our unlikely friendship. Who knew we'd find common ground in something as simple as a sweet treat?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zeb grinned, his eyes sparkling. "In a galaxy full of conflict, sometimes it's the small pleasures that bring us together, my friend."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As Zeb and Kallus savored their ice cream, Iden Versio, the Imperial special forces soldier, discreetly nodded to Sabine Wren, the Rebel warrior. "Your 15-minute headstart begins now, Sabine. May the Empire's eyes be elsewhere."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine smiled, her eyes gleaming with gratitude. "Thanks, Iden. I owe you one."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With a swift glance around the parlour, Sabine swiftly exited Galactic Scoops, disappearing into the bustling streets of Ryloth. Iden watched her go, a hint of a smile on her face. The unlikely friendship between the Imperial and the Rebel was a fragile one, but in moments like these, it was a reminder that even in a galaxy torn apart by conflict, there was still room for trust and respect./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the 15 minutes ticked away, Iden's comlink beeped, signaling an urgent message from the Empire. Her expression turned serious, and she knew it was time to resume her duties as an Imperial soldier. With a final glance at Zeb and Kallus, still enjoying their ice cream, Iden departed Galactic Scoops, her blaster at the ready, prepared to face whatever dangers lay ahead./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym walked into the kitchen, the bustling heart of Galactic Scoops, and spotted his niece, Lyra, expertly crafting a new batch of ice cream. Her curly hair was tied back in a ponytail, and her eyes shone with concentration./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Lyra, my dear, how's the next batch coming along?" Zym asked, his eyes twinkling with pride./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Lyra looked up, her face lighting up with a smile. "Uncle Zym, I'm trying out a new flavor! It's a special recipe, inspired by the Rebel Alliance's bravery."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's eyes sparkled with interest. "Oh? And what's the flavor profile?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Lyra's eyes gleamed mischievously. "I'm calling it 'Rebel Hope'. It's a sweet and tangy mix of citrus and vanilla, with a hint of spice. I think it'll be a hit!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym chuckled, impressed by his niece's creativity. "I have no doubt it will be, Lyra. You have a gift for crafting flavors that bring people together. Keep up the fantastic work!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's comlink beeped, and she answered, her voice firm. "Iden Versio, reporting."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's voice was cold, detached. "Iden, I have received intel that Galactic Scoops is harboring Rebel sympathizers. Your mission is to bomb the establishment, effective immediately."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's gut tightened, her mind racing. "Sir, I...I have assets in place at Galactic Scoops. Innocent lives will be lost."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's tone turned icy. "Innocent lives are a luxury we can no longer afford, Iden. The Empire will not be threatened by a mere ice cream parlour. Carry out your orders."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's grip on her blaster tightened, her heart heavy with reluctance. She knew that Zym, Lyra, and the patrons of Galactic Scoops were not enemies of the Empire. They were simply people seeking a brief respite from the galaxy's conflicts./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With a deep breath, Iden made a choice. "Sir, I...I require further clarification on the mission parameters."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's voice turned suspicious. "Iden, do not question your orders. You will bomb Galactic Scoops, or face the consequences of disobedience."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's mind raced, weighing her options. She knew that disobeying a direct order would mean treason, but she couldn't bring herself to destroy a place that had brought her moments of peace, and had become a symbol of hope in a galaxy torn apart by war./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's comlink beeped as she contacted Zym, her voice low and urgent. "Zym, it's Iden. I have a situation. I've been ordered to bomb Galactic Scoops."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's voice was calm, but laced with concern. "What? Why? That's madness!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's words were hasty. "I know, I know. But I can't do it, Zym. I can't destroy a place that...that means so much to me, to us. I'm trying to find a way out of this, but I need your help."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's response was swift. "I'll get Lyra and the patrons out, Iden. But you need to stall. Can you delay the mission?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's mind raced. "I'll try, Zym. But I don't have much time. The Grand Inquisitor is watching me closely."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym's voice was firm. "Do what you can, Iden. We'll take care of the rest. May the Force be with us."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The comlink went dark, and Iden knew she had to act fast. She took a deep breath, her heart heavy with the weight of her decision. She would have to choose between her duty as an Imperial soldier and her loyalty to the people she had come to care for. The fate of Galactic Scoops, and the lives of those within, hung in the balance./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's fingers hesitated over her comlink, knowing she was taking a risk. But she couldn't shake off the feeling that Sabine, with her Rebel connections, might be the only one who could help. She opened the secure channel they used to discuss their shared love of ice cream, her message brief and cryptic./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Sabine, it's Iden. Galactic Scoops is in danger. I can't explain more here. Please, you have to help."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"She waited anxiously for a response, knowing that Sabine was likely busy with Rebel missions. But to her surprise, Sabine's reply came quickly./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Iden, I'm already on Ryloth! I'll head to Galactic Scoops immediately. I'll do everything I can to help. Just hold on!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's relief was palpable. She knew that Sabine's skills and Rebel resources would be invaluable in this situation. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. With Sabine on the way, maybe they could actually prevent the bombing and save the people she had come to care for./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As she waited for Sabine's arrival, Iden tried to stall for time, hoping to delay the Empire's plans. She knew it was a risky move, but she couldn't bring herself to carry out the mission. Not when it meant destroying a place that had brought her so much joy, and harming people who had become like family to her./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's comlink beeped as she opened a channel with the Grand Inquisitor, her voice steady. "Inquisitor, I need clarification on my mission parameters."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's voice was cold, detached. "Iden, you have your orders. Bomb Galactic Scoops. It's a Rebel sympathizer hub."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "Sir, I've received intel that suggests otherwise. The parlour is a neutral ground, a place where Imperials and Rebels alike come for...ice cream."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's tone turned skeptical. "Ice cream? You dare to question my orders over a triviality like ice cream?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden pressed on, knowing she was walking a thin line. "Sir, with all due respect, this parlour represents something greater than just a treat. It's a symbol of hope, of unity in a galaxy torn apart by conflict. Destroying it would only fuel the Rebel Alliance's propaganda machine."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's silence was oppressive, and Iden braced herself for a dressing-down. But then, his voice came, cold and calculating. "Very well, Iden. I'll reconsider the mission parameters. But know this: if you're playing me for a fool, you'll suffer the consequences."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's voice was unyielding. "Iden, your objections are noted, but the mission stands. Destroy Galactic Scoops."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's heart sank, but before she could respond, a blaster shot rang out, and her bomber's controls sparked and sputtered. The ship lurched, plummeting towards the ground./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Sabine!" Iden exclaimed, relief washing over her./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine's voice came over the comlink, laced with a hint of mischief. "Hey, Iden. Looks like you needed a hand. Or a well-placed blaster shot, rather."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's furious voice cut in. "Sabine Wren! You Rebel scum! You'll pay for this interference!"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine's response was cool and confident. "I'm shaking in my boots, Inquisitor. But I think you'll find that Galactic Scoops is now off-limits. At least, until the Rebel Alliance says otherwise."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With a final sputter, Iden's bomber crash-landed, and she climbed out, shaken but unharmed. Sabine landed her own ship nearby, and together, they gazed up at Galactic Scoops, its colorful facade gleaming in the Ryloth sun. The parlour was safe, thanks to Sabine's timely intervention. For now, the Empire's plans were foiled, and hope still had a chance to flourish./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's anger was palpable, his voice dripping with venom. "Sabine Wren, you have made a grave mistake. You may have saved Galactic Scoops for now, but the Empire will not be defeated so easily."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"He paused, his breathing heavy, as he activated a comlink to Imperial Command. "This is the Grand Inquisitor. I require a squadron of TIE fighters to be dispatched to Ryloth, immediately. We will show the Rebel Alliance that the Empire will not be thwarted."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As he spoke, his eyes narrowed, focusing on Iden. "And as for you, Iden Versio...your betrayal will not go unpunished. You are hereby relieved of your duty and will face trial for treason."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's gaze shifted to Sabine. "And you, Sabine Wren...our encounter is far from over. The Empire will hunt you down, and you will face justice for your crimes."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With that, the Grand Inquisitor stormed off, his Imperial guards following closely behind, leaving Iden and Sabine to ponder their next move./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Grand Inquisitor's comlink beeped, and he knew that only one person could be contacting him on this secure channel. He answered, his voice dripping with deference. "My Master, Emperor Palpatine."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Emperor's voice was low and menacing. "Grand Inquisitor, I understand that there has been a...setback on Ryloth. Galactic Scoops remains intact, and Iden Versio has betrayed us."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor swallowed hard, knowing that he was walking a thin line. "Yes, My Master. But I assure you, it is only a temporary delay. We will regroup and—"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Emperor's interruption was icy. "Silence! I will not be placated by excuses. You have failed me, Grand Inquisitor. I will not forget this."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Grand Inquisitor's heart raced as he awaited his fate. "My Master, please...have mercy. I will not fail you again."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Emperor's laughter was chilling. "Mercy? You will be granted mercy when you have proven yourself worthy. Until then, you will be...reminded of your duty. Darth Vader will be dispatched to Ryloth to oversee the destruction of Galactic Scoops. You will assist him. Do not fail me again."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The comlink went dark, leaving the Grand Inquisitor to ponder his fate and the arrival of the dreaded Darth Vader./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the Grand Inquisitor trembled at the Emperor's words, Darth Vader's ominous presence was felt throughout the Imperial Palace. The Dark Lord's arrival on Ryloth was imminent, and the Grand Inquisitor knew that his fate was all but sealed./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Meanwhile, Iden Versio and Sabine Wren had escaped the wreckage of Iden's bomber and were making their way back to Galactic Scoops. They knew that the Empire would not stop until the parlour was destroyed, and they were determined to defend it./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As they approached the parlour, they saw Zym and Lyra preparing for battle, surrounded by a small group of Rebel allies. The stage was set for a fierce confrontation, with the Empire's forces closing in on one side and the Rebel Alliance on the other./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The fate of Galactic Scoops, the symbol of hope and unity in the galaxy, hung in the balance. Would the Rebels be able to defend it against the Empire's might, or would the Dark Side consume everything in its path? The battle for Ryloth was about to begin./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's comlink beeped, and she answered, her voice low and urgent. "Iden here."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Del Meeko's voice was laced with concern. "Iden, it's Del. I've been monitoring Imperial channels. Darth Vader is en route to Ryloth, and he's not coming alone. You need to get out of there, now."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's grip on her blaster tightened. "Del, I can't leave. Galactic Scoops is under attack. I have to defend it."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Del's response was firm. "Iden, you're no match for Vader. He'll destroy everything in his path. Please, don't be reckless. Retreat and regroup with the Rebel Alliance."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden hesitated, weighing her options. But she knew that Galactic Scoops was more than just a building – it was a symbol of hope, and she couldn't abandon it. "Del, I appreciate your concern, but I have to do this. I'll find a way to stop Vader."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Del's sigh was audible. "Fine, but be careful. I'll try to get reinforcements to you as soon as possible."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The comlink went dark, and Iden steeled herself for the battle ahead. She knew that facing Darth Vader would be her most daunting challenge yet, but she was determined to defend Galactic Scoops and the people she cared about./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's eyes widened as she realized that Del Meeko, her former squadmate from Inferno Squad, was now reaching out to her as a Rebel ally. "Del, how did you...? How did you join the Rebel Alliance?"/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Del's voice was laced with a hint of irony. "Let's just say I had a change of heart, Iden. I realized that the Empire's ideals weren't aligning with my own. And I'm not the only one. There are others from Inferno Squad who feel the same way."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's mind raced as she processed this revelation. Del, the once-loyal Imperial, was now a Rebel. It was a unexpected turn of events, but one that could potentially tip the scales in their favor./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Del, can you get me intel on Vader's forces? We need all the help we can get to defend Galactic Scoops," Iden asked, her focus returning to the battle at hand./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Del's response was swift. "Already on it, Iden. I'll send you everything I can gather. But be warned: Vader's power is not to be underestimated. You'll need all your skills and cunning to take him down."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The comlink went dark, and Iden felt a surge of determination. With Del's help, and the support of her Rebel allies, she might just stand a chance against the Dark Lord and his Imperial forces./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of blaster fire and explosions outside Galactic Scoops. She knew that the Empire had arrived, and her former squadmate, Gideon Hask, was likely leading the charge./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Gideon, stop! Don't do this!" Iden shouted into the comlink, hoping her former friend would hear her plea./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"But Gideon's response was cold and detached. "Iden, you're a traitor. You've chosen to side with the Rebels. I have my orders. Galactic Scoops will be destroyed, and you'll be brought to justice."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Iden's heart sank, knowing that Gideon was still loyal to the Empire, and their friendship meant nothing to him now. She steeled herself for the battle ahead, knowing that she would have to face her former squadmate and the Imperial forces head-on./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Then let's end this, Gideon," Iden said, her voice firm and resolute. "I'll never let you take Galactic Scoops. It's a symbol of hope, and I'll fight to protect it."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With that, Iden charged into battle, her blaster at the ready, prepared to face whatever lay ahead./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine Wren, with her expertise in explosives and combat, took charge of the defense of Galactic Scoops. She strategically planted explosives around the perimeter, creating a barrier between the Rebel forces and the Imperial troops. As the Empire's forces closed in, Sabine detonated the explosives, creating a makeshift shield to protect the Rebels./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With her trusty blaster, Sabine took out Imperial stormtroopers, using her Mandalorian training to take down multiple foes at once. She also used her knowledge of Imperial tactics to anticipate Gideon's moves, countering his attacks and keeping the Rebels one step ahead./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As Darth Vader arrived on the scene, Sabine knew she had to act fast. She used her explosives expertise to create a makeshift trap, aiming to take down the Dark Lord. Though Vader was too powerful, Sabine's bravery and quick thinking gave the Rebels a chance to regroup and come up with a new plan./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Throughout the battle, Sabine fought alongside Iden, Zym, and Lyra, her skills and cunning proving invaluable to the Rebel cause. Her actions inspired the others to fight with renewed hope and determination, knowing they had a true warrior on their side./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the battle raged on, it became clear that the Rebel forces were outnumbered and outgunned. Despite their valiant efforts, the Imperial forces led by Darth Vader and Gideon Hask were too strong, and the Rebels were forced to retreat./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""Fall back! Fall back now!" Iden yelled, her voice carrying over the din of blaster fire and explosions./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine, Zym, and Lyra knew they had to escape, but they also knew they couldn't leave Galactic Scoops to the Empire. They quickly devised a plan to destroy the parlour, preventing it from falling into Imperial hands./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"With explosives set and a diversion created, the Rebels made a break for their ships, pursued by Imperial forces. Iden and Sabine fought off stormtroopers, clearing a path for their escape./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As they fled into the sky, Galactic Scoops erupted in a blaze of fire and smoke, a symbol of resistance against the Empire's tyranny. Though the Rebels had lost the battle, they knew the war was far from over./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;""We'll regroup, recharge, and come back stronger," Iden said, her eyes fixed on the horizon./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Sabine nodded, a determined glint in her eye. "We'll never give up. The Rebellion will rise again."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym, the resourceful and quick-thinking Rebel, had already scouted out a new location for the ice cream parlour. He had discovered a hidden underground cavern on the planet of Dantooine, a world friendly to the Rebel Alliance./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The cavern, surrounded by towering sand dunes and treacherous canyons, was the perfect hideout for the new Galactic Scoops. Zym had already begun setting up the equipment, using his knowledge of Imperial tactics to create a secure and hidden base of operations./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the Rebels fled Ryloth, they made their way to Dantooine, seeking refuge in the new Galactic Scoops. The parlour became a symbol of hope and resistance, a place where Rebels could gather, recharge, and enjoy a sweet taste of freedom./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The new Galactic Scoops was born, and Zym's ice cream creations became a beacon of joy in a galaxy torn apart by the Empire's tyranny./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"The Emperor's craving for Dark Side Dark Chocolate had not been satiated. He demanded more, and his Imperial guards scrambled to procure the rare and sinister ingredients needed to craft the exclusive treat./div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Meanwhile, Zym, the Rebel ice cream maker, had received a cryptic message from an unknown source within the Imperial Palace. The message read: "The Emperor's sweet tooth is his weakness. Exploit it, and you may find an unlikely ally."/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"Zym pondered the message, wondering if it was a trap or a genuine offer. He knew that the Emperor's love for Dark Side Dark Chocolate was unmatched, but could he use this to the Rebel Alliance's advantage?/div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;" aria-hidden="true" /div
div style="border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 8pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; text-align: justify;"As the Rebels regrouped at the new Galactic Scoops on Dantooine, Zym began experimenting with a new recipe, one that would appease the Emperor's cravings while potentially sowing seeds of dissent within the Imperial Palace. The fate of the galaxy hung in the balance, and Zym's ice cream might just be the key to unlocking a unexpected alliance./div