Yoooo, you guys are fucking awesome. Loving the lists you all made, thank you so much.
So a shoutout goes to from both FFN and Ao3…
The Eschaton
Superpierce
Bucio(My guy, always awesome to see you)
The Disquieting One
Seekinggoodfics(God damn dude)
Coldbrace(Also god damn)
Ultimatrix Bearer(Always a pleasure to see you)
RichardKO pullin' double duty from FFN and DeviantArt
Mandalore the Atreides who gave me the idea.
Cryogen1990 thanks a lot.
Endbringer
Master Wu(you're incredible)
Marcus S Lazarus(SMA BOI!)
Uutyhjkoo
nathan19bane who is the first to do so after Atreides on DeviantArt.
But one in particular gets a particularly HUGE shoutout and I advise you guys to check out the reviews for Chapter 86. Dark Fusion. Holy shit. You didn't just do a list, you added a top ten anticipation list. Like, god fucking damn, DF, you're awesome.
Also, IF YOU DIDN'T POST ONE LAST TIME, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO DO SO HERE CAUSE I LOVE SEEING YOUR GUYS' TAKES AND FAVORITES ON WHAT ME, BULLET AND JEB HAVE DONE HERE. It means A LOT.
Now then, seems like everyone's recurring theme is Ultron, Mortis, Thor's arrival, the relationships and… just really loving the work Jeb, Bullet and I have put into this story. Honestly, makes me tear up cause it's like, you guys really do love what we're doing cause this is done with our heart and soul. We love this and we wanna make sure we continue to deliver on this story.
So yeah, thank you all so much for your participation and will without a doubt do another one in the future. Not for a while but another in due time.
Until then, let's keep at it.
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.
Avengers Infinite Wars Chapter 87: An Acolytes Journey
"Your path is your own to take, my child."
Asajj Ventress stood at the entrance of her village, the Nightsisters clan all gathered to see her off with Mother Talzin standing in front of them.
"Go knowing that you have the blessing of your kin, clan and your master."
The young Acolyte looked hesitant at Talzin, the elder placing her hands on her shoulders, muttering a prayer under her breath.
She wasn't as certain as Talzin nor her Master Dooku was but… she needed to do this.
She must.
For clan, Master and herself.
Though Asajj felt unprepared, Master Dooku and even her former Jedi Master Ky Narec once told her that to be challenged, to be put into situations of uncertainty and uncomfortability is where true character and power are forged.
Thus the journey of new self-discovery and power.
Her Nightsisters could only do so much for her.
Controlling the Dark Side without falling sway to it, that was one aspect.
But mastering the Dark Side was another matter entirely. She needed a challenge and with how much insanity the galaxy has spiraled into, it's crazy to consider that challenging a Jedi Master or Knight is the last thing on her mind.
Which leads to now.
Asajj piloted her ship through the vastness of space, currently departing from the Aargonar system. It was a simple pitstop, restocking on supplies before going on her way.
Boy were the people jumpy down there to say the least.
Though that was everywhere by this point. Even though her connection to the Force had been muddled since she finally tapped into that latent power she had been told she possessed for so long, she could still feel the tumultuous air the Force gave off. It reflected the state of paralyzing fear that every denizen was in at this time.
But she couldn't focus on that right now.
Be on guard, naturally, but focus on the task bestowed upon her.
As she entered hyperspace, she was tempted to take a nap until she disregarded the thought.
For the past few weeks, her dreams have been a plague to her. Every single time she slept, it was a memory that popped up, the dream being as vivid as the time she was there. It was a lot like the ritual Talzin did for her when she first returned to Dathomir.
They were usually of her time as either an Apprentice to Ky Narec or her time under Dooku when he first found her and took her as his disciple.
But the one, the main one, that just refused to release its hold on her was that of her mother.
It was always the same set of three. She remembered so little of her mother but… these dreams, she always felt it. How much her mother loved her.
"Look at you, little one." She heard her mother's voice in her ears as clear as day. "Momma loves you, Asajj. She will always love you."
Just as much as it was pleasing, it was haunting.
It constantly plagued her mind now, a life that was stolen from her.
Her mother was avenged, yes, but she wasn't there at all. No, what plagued her mind was the life stolen from her in being with her mother.
Talzin told her it was for protection from something dangerous. One which was apparently related to her birth father.
And that was another thing, who in the hell was her father that her Nightsister clan believed that selling her off was the safer option? Someone who was apparently so terrifying and dangerous, her clan would rather have her be taken away from home rather than simply hide her elsewhere.
Such answers to her questions would evade her for Force knows how long. Ventress could confront Talzin, yet she could only guess she'll be vague and cryptic instead of giving her a straight-up response.
Perhaps the clan leader wanted her to uncover several pieces out on her own before being given the full picture.
'Might save me the trouble and just tell me what the big fuss is about.' Asajj thought with disdain.
There being some apparent lessons behind it all, but her patience can only last so far on this topic.
Her mind shifted to what else she's been doing in these past weeks: training. Regaining her strength of the Force after losing the majority of it to surface her buried power. Aside from this, her attempts to understand it has proven difficult.
The only ones who could possibly give her better insight into her latent potential were a pair of old Sith spirits.
"Should've tried stealing XoXaan." Asajj muttered under her breath. At least she knew the first Dark Lady of the Sith would've actually enjoyed being away from Wanda Maximoff and Ventress was fairly certain the Avenger would seldom miss her. XoXaan is likely Wanda's least favorite person after Asajj.
She figured Kreia was out of the question considering the respect Maximoff does regard for her and she takes her teachings seriously.
Still, having a mentor on board her ship for this journey would have been a boon to her.
Self-learning and discovery can only go so far.
She needed guidance. Proper tutelage.
Dooku wasn't accessible for obvious reasons, all she could do were the brief holo-transmissions in order to keep him up to date on the progress of her training.
Thus she was limited to the means of guidance outside of the Force.
All she could think of was something that her Master told her in some facts about the Sith of how much one obtained knowledge of the Dark Side. Holocrons were often a decent and common factor to greatly progress oneself in their schooling.
Asajj honestly wished she could've snatched either or both Holocrons from Maximoff's possession. They could've helped her train at this point in time, perhaps further. Yet both are more or less used to help teach her young cousin -her only blood connection left in the galaxy- and her friend in the ways of the Force.
There were also artifacts out there, both armaments and other tools of knowledge outside of Holocrons. These were the slower mean, but a decent way of progression. One such example Dooku told her was about Darth Sidious, how he acquired Sith artifacts in his younger years and studied them before becoming the Apprentice to Darth Plagueis.
This had her recall her lessons and history. If she couldn't find a living instructor, perhaps records from a deceased one would suffice. Or the rare off chance, her encountering the spirit of some Sith.
But where? Where can she find one?
Korriban was a good start, but it was also quickly taken off the list. A Republic station orbits the planet if she remembers correctly. And there were other worlds where the Sith had their presence on for a long time, but it was hard to recall which temples were still in one piece or were cleaned out and destroyed by the Jedi over the millennia.
The Black Market was another factor, but that's truly hard as she would truly scour the cosmos for any possible leads. As much as she would simply take them, she lacked the funds and wouldn't want to place a target on her back while still hiding her presence.
Reaching the possible end of this means of frustration, she decided to get some advice.
Going to the ship's holo-transmitter, she made a call.
Soon enough, the projection of Count Dooku appeared just as she knelt.
"Asajj. Is something wrong, my apprentice?" He asks. "It's far earlier than the scheduled timed chat."
"I'm having issues, master." Asajj admitted, a slight bow of her head.
The holo-transmission of Dooku raised a brow at that. "Concerning what?"
"I've hit a wall. I've reached the end of how I can progress on self-learning."
Dooku peered at his apprentice and could feel the frustrations rolling off of her. "I see. Rather understandable with your predicament."
"Is there a way for me to perhaps use the Holocron of Heresy? You could send it somewhere and I-"
"I, unfortunately, cannot send any of the Holocrons in my possession outside of my estate, Ventress; let alone that one in particular." says her master. "The other acolytes have been using them when possible and under my supervision. And Sidious has been on edge. I would rather have it so I don't provoke any suspicion on myself. Any more than he likely possesses already."
Ventress grits her teeth. "I understand."
"And much of my time has been divided as of late in settling the Confederacy, planning Sidious' downfall and Savage's replacement. Thus I can't find time to give you possible aid until further notice."
The Dathomirian gave a nod, understanding what her master was undertaking.
The CIS has had many problems for some time now. Dooku is needed more now than ever to show his present standing with them. Taking a far more acting role in quelling the senators and their allies.
Sidious is a greater issue that needs to be eventually resolved before the end of the war. From what Dooku told her, the Sith Master could've had the issues concerning Ultron resolved a bit better and sooner, yet he's too blinded by his present and long-planned goals.
For if he continues with his one mindset, the Sith would rule a dead galaxy. Thus, -as the saying goes- "out with the old, in with the new".
And Savage was a dead end, an apparent waste of time and resources. Dooku was forced to search for another "replacement". One he came upon on his own. A former Jedi in her own right like Asajj and trained under a particular Jedi Master simply called the "Dark Lady". And like Asajj, her skills and lessons need refining to get rid of the grown rust and collected dust from years of negligence.
"Is there anything at all?" Begged Asajj. "Any temples I could go to? I don't care. Just anything will do. I just need-"
"There is one option that comes to mind."
Ventress went silent, quickly focusing on what Dooku had to say. The former Jedi Master held a look of contemplation for a few moments.
"Years ago, when I was still in the Jedi Order, I came across something that interested me. I sought to go there to understand the Dark Side a bit better yet was hesitant for a number of reasons. After I departed from the Order, the destination kept coming to mind but kept putting it off to the side to focus on my time as the Count of Serenno and being Sidious' apprentice prior to becoming the leading figure of the CIS."
Asajj now leaned forward, greatly intrigued by this. "What is it, master? What are you speaking of?"
"I sought to travel to a remote sector where a Sith Lord is apparently buried. A Sith with a unique history. Not much is known of his life before becoming a Lord, yet his life as one is regarded with disdain by others throughout the Sith legacies."
"How so?"
"He is considered an oddity of the Order, one who -much like myself- has not been corrupted by the Dark Side. His mastery over it was that of strict discipline and a shrewd mind. You could say that his respect for the Dark Side on top of his discipline is why the Dark Side never corrupted him to the extent that most other Sith have. One who I believe Sidious never focused on, despite his uniqueness."
"And who is he?"
"The Sith who did no Evil."
-Scene Cut-
Entering the MZX32905 star system near the planet Bimmiel, Ventress steered her ship toward an asteroid belt.
Navigating through each of the floating rocks, the Dathomirian focused through the Force to see which one was her intended destination. And soon enough, she could feel the pull of the Force, leading her to where she needed to go.
The asteroid was large and uninteresting at a simple glance. If one were to come closer and land on its surface, one would find signs of a mining operation long since decommissioned. Tools decaying and rusting could be found here and there. From here -if one were to scour around and salvage anything of use- you'd see it was cleaned out and moved elsewhere years ago.
According to official reports, the company that once owned the asteroid belt slowly moved its operation and colony to another sector. This was due to two factors: it became less profitable over time and soon turned hazardous for the workers.
In truth, it was much more than these factors with how this place was all but forgotten to the wider galaxy.
For you see, this asteroid had an untapped reservoir of Dark Side energies and its owner manipulated things to make it his base of operations.
From what Dooku told her, the asteroid was later converted and transformed into a Sith palace.
Though… when she looked at it more properly, it was akin to a small fortress. A villa even given the design. Or not.
Mixed bag of a place here. A home of a Sith Lord hiding in figurative plain sight.
There were uniformity and Utilitarianism designs here and there but then some artwork, Sith language carvings and other flourishes that looked a tad more personal than logical.
They looked akin more to tributes to past Sith Lords rather than to himself.
'A Sith Lord who did no evil…' The moniker drifted through the Dathomirians mind.
What an odd concept.
How is it that a Sith Lord did no evil?
Dooku was vague on this, but at least he was more informative than Talzin.
Still, such a title made her both wary and curious.
Whatever the case may be, she had to be on guard.
Traveling deeper into the asteroid, Ventress felt the Dark Side growing stronger. It was a pressure that built with every step, her skin tingling with goosebumps appearing on her arms. Harnessing the natural energies this place held and magnifying it against those unwelcomed, something one can thank the architect and designer of this place. Despite all this, she pressed on and kept trekking through the corridors.
Upon entering the heart of the asteroid palace, Ventress felt odd.
The weight which surrounded her vanished. She felt an odd drain of her power. Not of the Force, but her latent potential. And she felt the gaze of an unseen person as if they were inspecting her.
After a minute of absolute silence and inactivity, something happened.
Wisps and mists wafted through the air, surrounding her before converging together in front of her.
An apparition soon appeared, a spirit. A human male whose features were hidden by his cloak. The Sith Lord she had sought out.
Darth Vectivus.
"Who are you?" said the Sith spirit. "Why are you here?"
Asajj immediately dropped to her knees, head bowed low.
"Lord Vectivus." She greeted. "I am Asajj Ventress. Acolyte to the Dark Side. I have come seeking your wisdom and knowledge to further my training, power and the future of the Sith Order."
The apparition didn't respond at first, expression unreadable save for the scrutinizing gaze he held at her.
She remained where she was, head down and unmoving but fully aware of the set of eyes directly upon her. The ambient silence surrounded the pair until the deceased Lord spoke.
"...I admit… you're the first since my passing from my mortal coils who has come here. Not even my own apprentice has visited my home since my funeral." Vectivus crossed his arms, a look of deep contemplation for Asajj to see, having raised her head now. "You've come here with a purpose, not of greed but of something more."
"You are correct, My Lord. I am here out of guidance, for I am lost." Asajj said, bowing her head once more.
Not looking up, she could tell the spirit of Vectivus glided across the room and gazed at her, observing and inspecting her.
"Rise, Asajj Ventress." The Dark Lord ordered, the Sith Acolyte doing so. He was silent for a few moments for another inspection before speaking once more. "Your presence… the power you radiate. I can feel you gleaming in the Force. Shining with the Dark Side. Aren't you an interesting one."
Asajj was silent, seeing the spirit glide back, turning away from her in contemplation.
"I always held a belief that the Force, as we understood it, was always just scratching the surface of what we truly have yet to understand. Or maybe, there is a knowledge that was lost or an understanding that had been forgotten. Darth Gravid certainly saw to that at one point."
At the mention of Gravid, Asajj felt a flare of fury within her.
When Dooku spoke of this Sith Lord of the Rule of Two, the rage he possessed passed on to her.
And why wouldn't it?
That Sith Lord was almost solely responsible for the self-destruction of the Sith Order, having gone insane and destroying Sith artifacts that will never be recovered now. Setting back the Sith Plan was one thing. But the ruin of artifacts and Holocrons sacred to the Sith was a crime of the most heinous of degrees.
So much knowledge, destroyed and gone. Lost to time itself.
"From what I can tell, you seem to make me believe such a concept. Such… power that I can't describe all that well." Vectivus hummed. "Whatever you hold, it's… mending me by simply being here."
This made her rather curious. "Mending you?"
"My spirit's been around for a long time. But nothing can ever last forever on the mortal plane before it degrades and is eventually forced to return to the Greater Force. I was slowly becoming unaware of myself. Of thinking, of decision making. I'd slowly begin thinking I was merely nothing. That was until you made your presence in my palace. I thank you for that."
Ventress raised a brow, holding up her hands and briefly, that white and blue glow emanated from her hands. Next thing she knew, she saw Vectivus right before her, taking on a pondering posture.
"Now that's fascinating." He said with interested wonder. "Never seen a Force technique like that- no, not the Force. Something more. Something… primal."
"That's because it is." Asajj revealed. "This power," She held up her hands, the glow still around them. "Predates anything and everything that is known in this galaxy about the Force."
Vectivus' eyes gleamed with intrigue.
"And who gave you this conclusion?"
"Darth Kreia." She blurted out.
The Sith Spirit blinked in surprise. "Darth Kreia? Now that's a name I haven't heard of in a very long time."
"You know her?" Asajj remarked in surprise.
"Of her." He corrected her, looking up with fond admiration. "Her tale was fascinating to me when I was alive. Every Sith knows her name. What she represented. One could call her one of my personal favorites in my studies."
"I had come across her Holocron, her spirit tied to it; though not by choice."
"Lucky you. I admit I'm rather jealous you met her. It would've been nice to converse with her. Exchanging and comparing such knowledge and philosophies…"
The more she heard him speak, the more the question that had been welling in her mind grew until-
"Why?" She abruptly asked, appearing to surprise the Dark Lord.
"Why what?"
"Why become a Sith Lord?" She saw a look of understanding appear as she continued to speak. "You have the power of the Dark Side but… the ambition-"
"The ambition was always there. What kept it from going out of control was temperament." Vectivus stated. "I became a Sith when I was a grown adult, unlike many in the past and even the future of being brought in as children or fallen from the Jedi Order. I sought to study the Force after my workers stumbled upon this asteroid's reservoir. I experimented with it, worked with it. My thirst for knowledge was so great that I sought to quench it with satisfaction by finding a proper teacher. Even after becoming a Sith Apprentice and later Master, I only strived in the Force just to understand it. That was my guiding principle; to understand, not corrupt. I never used the Force to dominate the Galaxy and take out the Jedi like so many Sith before me. I merely studied in relative peace, to know the Sith history in the wider galaxy and theorize how it'll change in the coming millennia. All I did -throughout my life- was peer into the abyss and have a better chance of looking away whenever it was necessary."
Ventress hummed a little. "Sounds very Jedi to me."
"Better to understand one's adversary by studying them, learning of their philosophies, etc. Most Sith in my time -as far as I knew- never went with the idea or actually understood such lessons. One such concept is with attachments."
"The Jedi being hypocrites for not forming attachments yet fall to them."
"It's a very complicated matter, even for the Sith. We claim to be opposites from the Jedi, yet like them, rather than retreating from Attachments, we got towards them only to personally have them severed." Vectivus shook his head. "What a foolish notion that is. At the root of it all, we derived from them. The Sith needs to remember such a factor yet ignore it and find it unnecessary. I died with my friends and family, all by my side, my apprentice parting with me on good terms and I lived a fulfilling life."
Hearing these later factors made her curious as it was very unlike how many Sith meet their ends, how they're grown, taught and raised. She listened on as he continued.
"From what I had come to understand in my time as a Dark Lord of the Sith is that the Sith fail to enjoy the fruits of their labors. To bask in their success whilst not hogging it all to themselves." He now had a reminiscent look, turning his head to his old fortress. "For me, I surrounded myself with friends, family and loved ones. They anchored me, grounded me to not take malicious acts, even after I became a practitioner of the Dark Side."
"How did you get away with most of that?" She asks.
"My Master saw it as a means to an end as they were my cover, like how many Sith were throughout history. He believed I'd eventually kill them or leave them, yet that would never happen at all. I did my best to impart such thoughts towards my apprentice, which I hope actually stuck. Force knows the results."
"Given the trend on what I've learned since becoming an acolyte of the Dark Side, it never stuck."
Vectivus asks a question, yet already knew the answer. "How so?"
"They lacked discipline."
"Precisely." The Sith spirit said sharply, actually snapping around and pointing at her. "I'd imagine my apprentice's student went back to the old thoughts with the Sith Cycle, believing my means of understanding the Dark Side would never progress their means of power."
"But… have you not considered yourself the exception? Not the norm?"
"That is a thought that has come about on multiple occasions. Me being an apparent 'hiccup' of the Sith. Unfortunately, my practice never came to be. But that is for another time." He waved over to her. "Come, there is much to learn, Asajj Ventress."
The Dathomirian blinked, almost not believing what she just heard.
"Just like that?" She asks.
"What? You thought there might be some sort of trial or test to appease me for my tutelage?" She nods in response. "Our conversation was."
"But I thought-"
"I honestly think some elaborate means of earning such a privilege is a waste of time. I should inform you I was a businessman before becoming a Sith Lord. My talents were in reading and understanding people first and foremost. A talent cultivated in my training within the Force and how it earned my apprenticeship under my Master."
"And what of me?"
"You not having the stereotypical greed of a Sith. You wanted to understand your power and sought guidance as I have years ago. Besides, that unique power of yours… I too wish to know of its capabilities." He said, ushering her to follow. Walking towards the Sith spirit, she heard a small request. "Before we begin our lessons, tell me about yourself so I may gauge what to work with."
-Scene Cut-
Time began to blur for Ventress.
It could've been days, months, or years but she wouldn't exactly complain about it.
All that mattered was the training.
For her, it was a near revert to basics.
Vectivus grilled her body through strenuous exercises and challenges yet his primary teaching was that of the mind and above all else, his personal creed.
Discipline and understanding.
And attaining discipline can be done through multiple avenues of training.
Currently, she was undergoing one such avenue.
Before her was a manifestation of one of the many people she'd slain over the years. An ability of his he crafted and was presently using for a training exercise.
Not for her to enact at this time, but to react towards.
"Is this taunting necessary?" Asajj asked, a brow twitching at her opponent.
Off to the side, Darth Vectivus' spirit observed her training, as stoic and composed as he always is.
"Yes, it is." He said patiently. "To goad you into the action you need to perform. By killing one, you'll save scores. Hundreds. Thousands. Millions. What you think of as the evil of my dark side teachings will not spread so far."
"And what purpose is this lesson?"
"Outside of some specifics of what you'll get later on… Will slaying an innocent life or a corrupted one affect the galaxy? How the void left behind in their wake won't ripple out and change things, for better or worse. The same can apply when saving another." Vectivus swept his arm as he conjured more apparitions into the room as each was unresponsive. "Every phantom you see here, every person you encounter, is connected to something that is distinctly real, distinctly alive; though possibly far, far away. Every time you struck one of these, a living being somewhere suffered the pain and injury you inflicted."
The Apprentice scoffed. "You're lying."
"No, I'm not." Vectivus rebuked with no sign of falsehood. "You struck, and somewhere, some creature, perhaps a baby bantha, squealed in pain and was severed, killed before the disbelieving eyes of its mother—"
"Stop it." Asajj said through clenched teeth, glaring at her current mentor.
"Why? It's the truth. Baby banthas are quite cute, you know. A terrible shame to see one cut in half."
Ventress shook her head at him as they continued on with the lessons.
He was teaching her something he developed all on his own. Something which he could be considered the only successful practitioner of, which made him the first Dark Side Force Ghost without the use of a Holocron, artifact or their own corpse to bind him to the mortal plane.
Force Phantoms.
As she first learned of this unique technique, she spoke of its comparison with a Dathomirian technique of similar nature. One which Mother Talzin told of her: The Chant of Resurrection.
For the specifics, it brought the dead to life with the one practitioner needing utter focus and great power to pull off. Not actual resurrection, but essentially having an undead army at one's beck and call. The only downside was that the practitioner needed lots of protection as they were practically defenseless.
The Sith Spirit had heard of what she spoke of, but never got the chance to look into the Dathomirian magicks. He argued it could've been an offshoot of the Dathomirian technique but hard to tell as he didn't know all the specific details.
But like any businessman, he was able to claim this as his own with how unique it was.
Unlike having a zombie army, this technique had an army of phantoms fueled with the Force. They were irrespective of sentience but could be projected anywhere in the cosmos in order to taunt and attack someone.
Like the downsides of the Chant of Resurrection, this technique required a lot of mental power and strength of will. If not, then the practitioner will receive a massive backlash, especially when coordinating the actions of many Force Phantoms at once. Vectivus experienced this when experimenting on it in the past and seeing it occur with his apprentice, who decided to no longer use it.
There is also the factor that the phantom could be connected to some person or creature out there and the practitioner wouldn't really know if they died or not as a result.
Such a concept is something that Ventress will have a hard time digesting and accepting properly.
For Ventress, she had the potential of pulling this off. Her species' unique alignment with the Dark Side. Her having gone through her baptism. Her unique, latent power. Her drive.
All that was needed was time, dedication and discipline.
Later in the day, once she got some grasp of this technique after several hours of practice, Asajj was resting in her quarters.
Her mind and reserves were exhausted after much training. Another day under her belt of feeling accomplished and growing stronger.
After some time resting, she focused on her latent power. Her one hand glowed with a ball of energy forming. Tossing it up and down like a ball, she worked through some small training exercises as she pondered.
With this Force Phantom technique she was learning, the Dathomirian thought of the interesting applications. They made her wonder how she could use them once reaching her full potential.
She soon stopped playing with her energy ball and absorbed it into her hand. Ventress gazed upon her glowing hands, feeling the power coursing through her.
It was exhilarating.
… but also frightening.
She couldn't quite explain why but… something about this power felt off and it was foreign to her despite it being a part of her if that made sense.
Despite how much time she and Vectivus studied and theorized about the power, they didn't make much headway on what it truly was and where it originated.
If only they could get answers from someone who knew what this was.
All Asajj could guess was that they were dead.
Just like… her mother.
…
…
She thought…
What if…
Maybe she could…
Shaking her head, Ventress concentrated.
This power she possessed held some form of connection to the Force. That meant that maybe, just maybe, if she could just…
And she paused before sagging.
"Can this even be combined?"
"Of course it can."
Asajj looked over at her Master floating beside her, his form far more clear than it was before.
"Did you forget to know how to knock?"
"I didn't. I just lack the capability of doing so."
"Literally or figuratively?"
"Yes."
"That's not an answer."
"Oh, it is. Now back to the matter at hand, combining the two powers is possible."
"...How can you be certain?"
"Such a concept has been tested time and time again. It all depends on the ratios and balancing them out. And also," He silently gestured to himself. "Your presence bolstered my own presence here. Be it your connection to the Force or your latent power, likely the latter, or both. This ability can undoubtedly combine or the more likely result, bolster your power and connection to the Force."
This made Asajj frown in thought, mulling over her powers once again.
"Outside of what you'll accomplish here, what led up to this?" The Darth spirit airily inquired, looking at her expectantly.
She was hesitant for a moment before revealing her desire in a low whisper. "I… I wish to speak with my mother."
"Why?" The spirit asked, not rudely but inquisitively.
"A number of things. One of which pertains to this power. She may know of its origins."
"But that is not all, is it?"
"Call me selfish, but… I just wish to see her. Speak with her." Was her silent response, feeling her heart clench up.
Vectivus said nothing, pondering such a notion in silence.
"It is possible through my technique."
Asajj's head snapped up to him.
"I thought-"
"Trying to speak with the dead is a complicated matter. The Jedi spirits are sometimes easier on the concept, but even then they have difficulty if I researched it right. The Sith ones are rather mixed, given you need to fight the right artifacts they're attached to or the burial sites. But in general -if they are willing- then it will take less effort."
"H-how… will it work? Is it truly possible?"
"It takes more effort in bringing them here instead of just doing a phantom manifestation. But your power, that latent, unrealized energy might just be the boost needed."
"Then how? Is there a method? A theory or…"
Vectivus rubbed his chin contemplatively.
"Your mother is well beyond the reaches of a typical spirit. But you told me she died relatively recently, no? Before your return to Dathomir."
She nodded, a brief forlorn and bitter feeling at the thought of it. Shaking her head, she turned her attention back onto her Master and nodded.
"Then I do believe what we need to have is… a marker."
"A marker?" She parroted in confusion.
Vectivus nodded. "An anchor, a mark, a means by which you can reach out to her. Be it something you physically have like a trinket or talisman or maybe something spiritual such as a bond or a memory."
"A memory." Ventress mumbled, eyes widening slightly.
The Dark Lord raised a brow at this, his eyes squinting momentarily.
"You have something, don't you?" He stated more than asked.
The Dathomirian silently nodded and the Sith spirit actually grinned slightly.
"Very good. This will be a first for my technique." Vectivus declared with anticipation. "I'm a little excited to see this pull off."
Asajj couldn't hide her own similar sentiments as the spirit glided in front of her.
"First off, let's begin combining your energies." He instructed. "Allow your power to feed into the Force within you and around you."
"How do I do that?"
"Allow this energy to flow out of you. Let it connect to the Dark Side that permeates the air, feeding it the power it needs."
Asajj closed her eyes, exhaled and concentrated. Though she still was only just grasping at this new power she had, she felt it begin to well up within her. Focusing on the Force in one hand with her innate power in the other.
From Vectivus' perspective, he saw two sets of auras appearing on her respective hands. The acolyte of the Dark Side soon brought her hands together, a means of combining the powers. She struggled in keeping them in place before something occurred.
Her body began to be encompassed by the white and blue aura that came with this power. Small wisps floated off her body and they seemed to seep into the air around them, actually making the air hum and vibrate.
Vectivus took a moment to look at the phenomenon, smirking in intrigue before turning his attention back to the ritual.
Here she was beginning to feel a rush flow through her. Like a shot of adrenaline, or several all at once. It was exhilarating. She wanted to bask in it, but she couldn't be distracted at this time.
"Now, back with the marker, focus on your memory and nothing else. Visualize it and let it be the only thing in your mind."
Not hard for her to do so.
That damned dream has been on her mind for weeks now.
It was effortless for her.
Slowly holding out her hands, it was a strange dance of her power flowing in, out and around her, the air constantly taking in the energy which added more vibrations around the pair.
All around her, she began to hear them.
The phantoms.
Though she didn't call for them, she figured there would be those strays that would come in, being drawn into the ritual. But none was the one she wanted.
"Stay focused, Ventress." Vectivus instructed, Asajj shaking her head to stave off a feeling of vertigo.
In the end, she was absolutely exhausted. The variant of Force Phantoms greatly drained her, leaving her sweating in her room.
She collapsed onto her knees, wheezing now as the energy she had conjured dispelled from her.
"Good first attempt, Asajj. Little shaky, but good delivery."
Opening her eyes, she looked around as her vision began refocusing. As it did, she saw a new addition in her quarters in a faded, white filter.
She looked so much like her. It was like looking at a reflection. Yet there was something more to this apparition.
"Hello, dear. You realize you're dead." Vectivus conversationally said to the spirit.
"Of course I'm dead. I've been dead for months. But it doesn't mean I don't exist. Now tell me why I'm here and-"
"Mother…" Asajj whispered in disbelief.
The spirit turned over to the other person in the room and froze.
She looked so much like her except mature, with none of the markings around her lips, in fact, Asajj believed her to be more beautiful.
"Asajj?" The Phantom whispered, clearly not believing who she was looking at.
Stepping in for a closer look, the spirit got close and personal. Her eyes widened when seeing the tears welling in the others.
Ilsijj's hands went through Asajj's head several times when trying to cup her cheek.
As much as they wanted to embrace each other, let alone hold hands, neither could feel the sensation of touch.
Despite this factor being present, the Dathomirian spirit held up her hand to her daughter's face.
"My baby girl… all grown up." Ilsijj whispered, a beaming, teary-eyed smile on her face. "Look at you. So fierce, so beautiful."
A choked sob erupted from Asajj's mouth with tears now flowing down her face.
She hated this.
Her mother was right here, right in front of her and she couldn't touch her.
"As touching as this reunion is, we would like to ask you some questions."
"Can it wait?" Ventress stressed out.
"Business before pleasure, my student. More so in this particular case." Vectivus soon focused on Ilsijj. "Who was your mate? Who was the father of your daughter?"
"He… never really gave me a name. Only an alias of his. But I found it rather appropriate, given he matched it with a trait of his."
"Being what?" Her daughter asked.
"His Ego." Ilsijj let out a scoff. "I swear, it had to be the size of a planet."
Ventress narrowed her eyes slightly before resuming the questions at hand. "What can you tell us about him?"
"I never knew who or rather what he was, even Mother Talzin. All we knew was that he was powerful. Not figuratively, but literally. He also had one hell of a silver tongue, charming me into laying with him. I admit he was pretty good in the sheets, but I never expected he'd impregnate me in the process."
Asajj couldn't help but twitch at what she heard.
She wasn't a stranger to sex and all but… it's her mother. No matter what, no matter the species, it's always gonna feel weird to hear about such… things.
"I gotta ask, but why are you asking me about-"
Ilsijj's words died when seeing her daughter emit a ball of innate energy in her hand.
"I see. You have indeed inherited his power. Should've realized this." Her mother said with a pained tone. "I'm… I don't know if I should say that I'm sorry or not. But that power is special. Though I don't need to tell you that now, don't I?"
There was so much, so many things she wanted to talk to her about.
But for her, right now, all that mattered was one question.
"Why… Why was I sent away?"
Ilsijj clearly expected this, sighing in a downtrodden manner. "I don't know why he wanted you, but our elder foresaw it would spell doom for not just our people but many others."
"Prophecies are often clouded and misinterpreted." Said Vectivus.
"Not that clearly. Our elder had a heart attack upon seeing the vision" Ilsijj defended. "Countless worlds swallowed by some parasitic mass and they were all connected to that man. If he could even be labeled as such a thing."
"Then what is he?" Asajj asked. "You speak of him like he wasn't a normal man."
"Because he wasn't." Her mother firmly stated. "Your father was unlike anything in this galaxy, Asajj."
"...Did you ever love me?"
The Spirit looked as though she had been struck. "What?"
"Was it all an act to cheer me up back then-"
"Asajj, yes, you were unexpected. The pregnancy was… awkward for me. But after you were born, I would've traded everything I had and then some just to keep you instead of giving you away." Ilsijj said with a broken voice as the memory of the day she had to give her daughter away played within her mind. "You were my sun, star, moon and world, Asajj. Losing you to keep you safe almost broke me. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you."
There was doubt in Asajj's mind earlier, having heard of how apparently dangerous her father was. This soon led her into thinking that she was a burden to her mother as a result, despite how much she heard from the others in her clan on the topic; even from the Avenger of all people.
She just wanted to hear it from her mother's lips for true confirmation, despite how much it would hurt her as a result.
"Maximoff did tell the truth about that." Asajj whispered.
Her mothers' expression brightened upon hearing this. "Oh? Wanda? You met her? How was she?"
The Sith Acolyte struggled to talk, jaw clenching comically. "She was… something…"
Ilsijj smiled knowingly at her. "Did you even try to make an effort?"
"What do you think?" Ventress rhetorically asked.
Her mother laughed at this and suddenly, she felt a damn break within her.
She lunged forward, hoping to hug her. Asajj knew this was a futile effort but she just wanted to-
"Asajj!" Said a stunned voice and Ventress, who had her eyes closed, opened them to realize that… her mother… she was holding her mother in her arms and…
She then realized her entire body was aglow with that power she had again.
"Fascinating."
Vectivus leaned in, enraptured by what he was seeing. Such an interaction with a spirit and mortal was unheard of, as far as he knew. For a shrewd spirit, he was able to deduce that the unknown power allowed Ventress for such an accomplishment. There was still much that they had yet to fully comprehend on just what it is but to be able to pull this off is truly astonishing.
He would've observed from a decent distance away, yet he ended up getting too close for comfort.
As in getting into their personal bubble.
Momentarily breaking away from her mother, the Dark Jedi looked toward Vectivus with a glare.
"Do you mind?" Asajj irritably said, feeling herself twitch at the lack of distance her mentor held. Ilsijj only looked on in bemusement yet was still in a state of disbelief as to her daughter managing to touch her corporeal form.
Vectivus shook his head. "I do, but this is too good to ignore. The implication of what you just accomplished and what it could mean-"
Patience wearing thin, Ventress yelled at her instructor. "GET OUT!"
All this got was an eye roll from the Sith spirit. "Very well. Fine. I know when I'm not needed."
With this said, Vectivus faded out of the room, leaving the parent/child pair alone.
"...I don't think he really does." Said Ilsijj before focusing more on her daughter. She shuddered, feeling the energy radiating off her daughter seep into her, giving her spirit a more solid form. Reaching down, she delicately took her child's hands into hers, almost as if this were a dream before she gave Asajj another beaming, loving smile.
"Now, Asajj, how about you tell your mother some stories about yourself."
-Scene Cut-
Time passed once more since that fateful reunion.
Since then, Asajj had a better mindset with lesser regrets once speaking with the spirit of her mother. It made training easier, in a sense, with both her latent power and the techniques she was learning under her present mentor.
The Dark Jedi wanted to have more chats with her mother, yet Vectivus was against it. Not that he would turn down such an opportunity of observing such a unique phenomenon, but he advised it might cause issues with tampering with the natural order more than needed and all so soon; let alone extremely taxing. Asajj would always pass out moments after the session was over and would need a day or two for proper recovery. This was something her body on a physical, mental and spiritual level needed to adjust to.
The mentor and student argued on the topic, yet the Sith spirit won in the end; stating if she abused such a ritual too often with her present power level, it would have drastic ramifications. If Ventress sought to go through such a state, she needed more training and experience in the Force Phantoms technique before escalating to the ritual level.
And that was just on a pragmatic approach. Being a Sith Spirit, being part of the dead gave one perspective. And being the Sith Oddity of the Rule of Two, if not in the history of the Sith itself, Vectivus saw things in a more different light, understanding that certain things shouldn't be tampered with.
But now came the time for a proper journey or an assignment given to her by her current Master. After much time training and refining her skills, Vectivus gave her the first trial she would undergo under his apprenticeship.
And… it was a weird one from her perspective.
"You want me to do what?" Asajj wasn't quite sure she heard him correctly.
"You heard me. Be a bounty hunter again."
She didn't know how to respond at first. "...Why?"
"You need the experience."
She merely gave him a look. "I'm not exactly following what you're implying. What experience could I possibly need?"
"Experience is something a Sith always needs. We wouldn't really see the results of your training unless you go back out there. Learning the techniques is one thing, but having the proper experience in the field is another. I probably don't have to remind you of such a concept." He soon pondered about something. "I recall a friend who joined the military in my younger years. All high notes and top marks. He was your regular by-the-book officer. Didn't survive past his first engagement, got half of his unit killed in the process too."
"If the knowledge one teaches proves useless in the end, then what's the point in having known the techniques?"
"It's true that no lesson can ever compare to first-hand experience. But a well-instructed soldier or fighter has a better chance to survive on a battlefield than one who's not; no matter the environment. For they will have a bigger array of options and ideas at their disposal when in a dire situation, whether they be tactics, expertise, strategy and discipline that makes engagements fall in their favor. Obviously, this isn't a guarantee, but it sure does help. This is one reason why I don't like some of the Jedi. They learn of such concepts but haven't been shown the nature of conflict and allowed to properly understand it before giving their first missions. I calculate so many padawans and knights would survive longer if they were taught of this sooner."
The Dark Jedi understood where the spirit was going with this. She merely didn't expect to head out of there during her training period.
Vectivus then glanced down at her hip. "Also, you will leave those here."
Ventress focused on his line of sight and saw he was eyeing her lightsabers.
She snapped her head up back at him "Then how can I-"
"Didn't you say you had another pair of lightsabers?" Says Vectivus. "I understand you put those away when you began training under this Darth Tyranus, who gifted you with the lightsabers you presently have here."
"I did, but why are you bringing this up?"
"Since you wish for the galaxy at large to still believe you're dead, it's best to hide with you forgoing these lightsabers for a while. They are your signature weapons, which may give you away. Your old ones, however, will make it easier to blend in as a bounty hunter."
With bounty hunters, they often pilfered their dead adversaries of anything; whether they be credits on hand to any tools and weapons. Sometimes they would slay Jedi and take their lightsabers, either to sell them in the black market or on the rare chance of keeping them as trophies or additions to their arsenal. The latter, however, is difficult given regulations with the law to one not knowing how to properly handle them.
This was something Ventress learned when she first became a bounty hunter years ago after her Jedi Master's death.
Though Vectivus did make a decent point on the matter.
Complying with her instructor's request, she left the asteroid palace the next morning with her red lightsabers in Vectivus' custody.
After acquiring her old lightsabers at her one safehouse, Asajj made her way to a world that will help her with her present task bestowed to her by Vectivus.
Tatooine.
You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy.
Actually, there are other worlds that can contend with such detail and where she could've started, but she felt guided by the Force towards the desert planet.
Landing her ship at one the ports of Mos Eisley, she made her way to one of the popular cantinas where she would begin her bounty hunting after a good number of years. With her features mostly hidden by a drawn-up hood, she hoped things could perhaps run smoothly.
Asajj never expected things to escalate once this one man tried hitting on her while getting a drink.
Suffice it to say, the schmuck died by her green-bladed lightsaber.
Shortly afterward, she was approached by members of a group who she'd soon learn to be "The Guardians of the Galaxy". Them asking for her assistance with an upcoming job.
At first, she wanted to scoff at such a name.
The Guardians of the Galaxy? Whose bright idea was that name? And better yet, if any arrogant pricks would be called that, the Jedi would fall under that banner, arrogant ass's they were.
But after hearing the name several more times, the Dark Jedi recognized them. She had heard rumblings of a rising mercenary company that's been gaining quite the following in the criminal underworld. Their influence spreads across the galaxy and obtains members and allies from all corners like moths to a flame.
Yet there was an odd nudging of the Force towards this band of misfits; especially towards their leader upon meeting him.
Something was off about the guy and it wasn't his personality. Guy was a weirdo to be sure but the Force directed her to these people.
Still, she wasn't just gonna trust these assholes all willy-nilly. Needing to have an alias, she spoke a name that felt personal for her when she soon accepted the job offer.
Ilsijj, her mother's name.
It'll be strange being called by that name rather than her own for the time being. Still, she figured her mother wouldn't mind. She might even get a kick out of it.
Regardless, she now began Vectivus' task, testing out her training since coming under his tutelage.
And it appeared an optimal test was coming her way.
Currently, her ship was docked at the Guardian's base in the halo space station of Glavis and was amongst the company of many unique individuals.
There were the Guardians who were undoubtedly the strangest group of individuals she had ever met. In fact, she was absolutely certain that the ones called Gamora, Drax, Groot, Rocket and Mantis were species that she had never encountered before. She knew of races that looked akin to them but… she felt it.
These in particular almost felt like they didn't belong or weren't a part of the way things are in this galaxy.
Same went for Quill and Kraglin really.
All save for their murderously joyful HK assassin droid. The damned bucket of bolts wanted nothing more than to kill "meatbags" and show other people how he kills "meatbags".
That droid was merely unsettling… and annoying. That's saying something to her considering the people she "socialized" with.
The Guardians were one thing but with them were several Mandalorians that were present in this base that was jointly owned.
Now the Mandalorians were something she was familiar with by this point and it was an interesting sight for the Acolyte to be sure.
For the longest time, they were a disjointed, scattered and unorganized people with only the planet of Mandalore having anything resembling a government and stability.
Recent times, however, showed the Mandalorians were now beginning to coalesce under one banner. Rumors of the recent Mandalorian summit were proven true as the Protectors, Duchess Satine's regime and a large splinter faction from Death Watch called the Nite Owls met on Mandalore and declared peace.
Satine was still recognized as the head of her government but the supreme leader fell back upon the warrior king named Spar. It was a compromise to hopefully appease both factions.
One aspect helped with trade, commerce and the day-to-day citizens of Mandalorians not trained in the martial ways of old whilst Spar and his group dictated everything else. Alliances, manpower, weaponry and so on. A more cohesive people.
Only the Death Watch remained as the outlier with them being lesser in numbers but no less a threat to those that step up to face them.
The last of the organizations here were the upstart bounty-hunting guild/mercenary clan called the Ravagers who served directly under the Guardians. Though Kraglin is a Guardian of the Galaxy he, along with Quill, founded the Quill-Obfonteri Clan and served as the co-leader along with Star-Lord.
Thinking about the name made Asajj roll her eyes.
What kind of idiot calls himself Star-Lord?
Almost sounds like a glamorized Sith who put too much stock in a flamboyant presentation.
Then again, there had been odd Sith names over the millennia.
"Hi Ilsijj."
The Dathomirian paused, turning back to see Mantis smiling weirdly at her.
"What… are you doing?" Asajj asked, eyeing her strangely.
"Practicing my social interaction." Mantis freely admitted. "I was told that speaking with people who you don't know and don't make you uncomfortable can help train you to become an even better people person."
Asajj wasn't quite sure how to respond to that.
"You find me uncomfortable? And it doesn't seem like you have issues with making friends."
"Oh no, I am quite comfortable with my friends." Mantis happily said. "All though, I feel you are the most uncomfortable one here."
She narrowed her eyes at her. "What made you come to this conclusion?"
"You're not really interacting with anyone." The wide-eyed woman said with a slight frown.
"That's putting it mildly. In case you don't know, I don't know anyone here."
"You know me!" Mantis cheerfully declared. "And you know Peter!"
"That doesn't really count."
"Then why don't you try to get to know the people here." Mantis encouraged. "We are going to be working together after all."
"For this one job, yes. After that, what's the point?"
Mantis' antennae dropped slightly and Asajj felt an uncharacteristic pang in her heart, watching the young woman turn and walk away with her head low.
She reminded her of her young cousin with how she acts.
"Dammit, Ilyana." Asajj muttered under her breath, shaking her head.
The Sith Apprentice didn't have time to dwell on the matter as a signal was heard throughout the base, calling for all those in attendance to gather for the mission briefing.
Any and all previous conversations ceased or halted for the time being to focus on whatever matter at hand.
In a small auditorium in the hangar bay, the Guardians of the Galaxy were all gathered along with several high-ranking Mandalorian officials and dozens of Ravagers.
"Alright, we'll get to the point here." The Mandalore Spar spoke up first. "We are gathered here today to take down a particular group. One that has formed recently in light of the state of the galaxy coupled with the state they themselves are in."
The large holo-table in the center flared to life, showing three particular individuals with their names highlighted above each.
Pre Vizsla.
Ventress recalled the several discussions he and Dooku had together, negotiating a partnership in having the Death Watch leader become the ruler of Mandalore and its allied systems. Once he obtained the title, he would bolster the CIS forces and influence. Yet things slowly fell through with Dooku no longer backing Vizsla after the Conference of Mandalore, which soon resulted in the formation of the Mandalore Union.
Last she heard, Death Watch has been having a hard time, especially when a number of their own defected over to the Mandalore Union.
Xizor.
A Falleen Prince of House Sizhran and Underlord of the powerful criminal organization, Black Sun. He's a ruthless competitor and charismatic public figure in high society with several backers and connections.
From what Asajj heard on the grapevine, Xizor staged a coup from the other ruling heads of the Black Sun. Through bribery, blackmail, murder, assassination and more murder, he became the undisputed leader.
Orson Callan Krennic…
"Those two, I'm sure everyone here knows," Ventress spoke up, pointing towards Vizsla and Xizor before her finger went towards the third, "but who the hell is he?"
"Good question." Gamora stepped forward. "For those who aren't knowledgeable about recent events has become a surprisingly infamous smuggler."
"And what has he been smuggling?" One of the Mandalorians asked.
"Kyber crystals." Chirrut Imwe of Jedha responded.
This earned some looks in the room.
"That's… rather unusual." Said a Togruta Ravager next to Kraglin.
"Ain't them crystals used by the Jedi to make their lightsabers?" A Mandalorian in green and black armor asked.
"That they are." Baze spoke up, nudging his blind companion who took the silver hilt off the top of his can and with a twirl, ignited a pure white saber.
Many let out small "Oh's" and "ah's" at the sight but Asajj's eyes widened considerably.
She actually glanced over at the blind man and only now realized the Force permeating around him. Though it wasn't as strong as some Jedi and Sith Acolytes she knew of, it was still present and strong enough to give the man a distinction.
Without even realizing it, she took a moment to skim the crowd around her, wondering what other Force-sensitive individuals may be hidden amongst the crowd.
The only one she noticed was Chirrut and no one else. Either they were hiding themselves well or the blind man was the only person.
No… wait! There was someone else here.
Her head snapped in the direction of a Mandalorian seated next to the big fool named Drax. His helmet was off and his eyes focused on holo-images, Prince Xizor in particular, with his hand holding the hilt of a pure Beskar sword with the tip slightly embedded into the ground.
What was that man's name again? She was certain he told her. Wes something…
Yet as she made her search and discovery, Chirrut took notice of her.
The blind guardian of the Whills said nothing, only observing her. Noting her uniqueness with the Force among other factors. Despite sensing the Dark Side with her, she was an oddity who didn't seem to have any ulterior motives for being here. The Dark Side was there as was… something else…
For the time being, he'll be judging her from afar. He turned his attention back as Peter Quill now spoke.
"There are other groups working under this one we're gonna call the Triumvirate. There are several small-timers like the Son-tuul Pride and so many other gangs out there. Even the Pyke Syndicate is amongst their numbers. Yet they've sworn their allegiance to these three. Just some nominal support."
"Though there is reason to believe the Hutt Cartel is connected with the Triumvirate, we haven't figured out why." Kraglin tacked on, some of the gathered mumbling to one another.
"That's a tad surprising, given the Son-tuul Pride are the Hutt's main competitors." Dax Ordo pointed out.
"What's the big deal? Groups and unions as large as these rises and fall all the time." Tobbi Dala remarked.
"Yes, but for how long?" Asked Sugi. "And remember, we all know this isn't a normal alliance."
Embo made a few warbling sounds with more mutters from the assembled crowd.
"Ultron running amok is making everyone do some crazy shit." Quill said, pointing at the Kyuzo. "But it's not just that. Let's not forget that Death Watch aren't the strongest Mandalorians in the galaxy."
The Protectors present either smirked at this or puffed their chests out in pride.
"Wes going on a rampage on the Black Suns also led them to this alliance." Rocket pointed out, the Mandalorian weapons master not verbally responding yet he gave off a pleasant air knowing the damage he had dealt to the criminal organization. "They're Vigo asswipes or whatever are halved and there's still three more of those jackasses to take care of below his royal douchebag."
"But what would Krennic be getting from all this?" A human Ravager asked.
"Security? An opportunity?" Fenn Shysa listed off. "Whatever it is, these two head honchos are willing to enter into an alliance with him. He likely has resources that can help them."
"He's also taken control of several bases that were once under Black Sun jurisdiction." Wes Journ revealed in a bitter tone. "Prince Xizor must appreciate getting them back under his control."
"Which means Krennic has the manpower and the resources if he was able to gain control of bases that were once under the Black Suns." Gamora said.
"Statement: Master Gamora, I do believe that this Krennic is playing a different game and has ulterior motives outside of Prince Xizor and Pre Vizsla. The seeking of the Kyber Crystals is a most unusual commodity to be pursuing."
"That's something we're gonna need to figure out for ourselves." Quill said. "Greef Karga and Luthen Rael might have some ideas but… does the name Klaue mean anything to anyone here?"
"That freakshow?" Fenn, Tobbi, Dax and even Spar all said at the same time.
"That guy is insane." Dax said, cringing at the mere mention of him. "All he does is collect metal."
"We met with him once." Tobi actually shuddered when thinking about him. "The nerf herder was certifiably weird. He sniffed our armor and then made this face. Just…"
"Yeah, we haven't spoken with him since." Fenn dryly said.
"So you know him, eh?" Quill sarcastically asked.
"Why bring him up?" Spar inquired.
"Heard he's working with this asshole triumvirate." Rocket remarked, thumbing at the three men in charge of this enemy coalition. "Either as a supplier or something else entirely."
There were murmurings from all those gathered until they were dismissed by the leaders of this coalition, instructed to be on standby and prepare themselves for the next briefing.
The raid on a Black Sun base served as a meeting place for the Triumvirate.
Asajj managed to go unseen, managing to tail after the Guardians with their Mandalorian friends.
"Something feels wrong about all of this" Dax spoke up. "I don't see how these three would actually wanna work together in the first place; let alone having all these people swear fealty to them."
"It's not that big of a surprise, really." Wes shook his head. "Honestly, I should've seen this coming. Yeah I killed the Vigos of the Black Suns but did I really make things better?"
"Ultron is making everyone panic." Drax said, unusually serious. "His war on life is only serving to incentivize these types of threats to emerge."
"Even with the noblest of intentions and deeds, ill fortunes and fates await us." Spar poetically said. "My predecessors in Jaster and Jango experienced these trials and tribulations."
Not hearing anything of note, Asajj backed away, leaving herself to her own devices.
She wasn't quite sure as to why she was here, going off of the guidance of the Force.
The Dathomirian asked herself what challenge might be here and what exactly will she learn from this trial. Darth Vectivus indirectly sent her here, instructing her to follow the guidance of the Force and that's why she hung around.
She didn't expect to be caught up in a literal raid as her first mission as a bounty hunter but still, she was having doubts about her being here.
The only thing the Force revealed to her were several individuals of intrigue.
The Guardians for one with Peter and Mantis being the main standouts.
Then there was the blind monk from Jedha who reminded her too much of a Jedi.
And lastly was the Mandalorian Wes Journ. He was Force-sensitive, of that she had no doubt. Even if he wasn't trained in such a field, he was disciplined to follow through with his heritage.
Regardless, she will be tested with a trial by fire.
Hopefully, everything she learned since being under Vectivus' tutelage will pay off.
-Scene Cut-
"My friends, my friends. So~ good to see you again."
"Hondo." Was the unison deadpan the Guardians all said at the same time -with the exception of Groot- in the direction of the infamous Pirate Captain known as Hondo Ohnaka.
"Oh~ come now, is that any way to greet an old friend? After everything we've been through?"
"Yes." Was the synchronized response.
Hondo simply scoffed at this, completely nonplussed by their behavior as he whirled around in the direction of his crew who were currently unloading crates from his ship.
"And here I was coming all this way over to supply you all with grand weapons that would make the Republic blush and Separatists salivate."
"We already have weapons." Rocket dryly said, hefting up one of his transforming guns. "My weapons, dipshit."
"Jubilation: A most effective set of weapons, Master Rocket." HK-47 happily said, holding up an arm that shifted into a cannon.
Hondo wagged his fingers at them. "HK doesn't count. You can easily bribe him with killing tools just like Drax."
"That's not true." The Destroyer said indignantly.
"Moving on." Said Gamora, shaking her head. "What weapons do you have anyways?"
"I got an assortment of blasters, rocket launchers, mines, grenades-"
"Asides from those, why are you really here for?" Peter cut him off, arms crossed. "This isn't the drop time we scheduled. You're literally five days early."
Hondo's cheerful visage dropped considerably, a frown now marring his features.
The Guardians all looked at one another as the Weequay walked forward, hands folding behind his back.
"I am here as a courtesy and… an endorsement."
"Endorsement?" Kraglin parroted in confusion.
"Yes, you see, I have had past dealings with Pre and Xizor. Savvy businessmen to be sure who keep their ends of the bargain. And for a time, so was Krennic."
"You've dealt with Krennic before?"
"When he first started in the Outer Rim. Most are unaware of this but he's been around all over for a few years now." Hondo revealed something which certainly surprised the Guardians.
Rocket held a look of contemplation, looking up at Quill. "Didn't Luthen say he's been around for a while too?"
"Yeah but he never specified." Peter said, turning back to Ohnaka. "So what do you know about him?"
"I merely thought such a novice could be fine under my wing." Hondo reminisced. "But as I taught him much, I learned he was doing all this under someone's orders. Someone with great influence and power. Shortly after finding this out, he left me. I haven't seen him since. Only sporadic mentions of his dealings here and there."
"Any reason why?"
"Believed he was merely being a mole, a double agent from a rival group to steal my craft and knowledge. Before I could confront him with my men, he bolted. But it's far more than that now that I recently thought about it."
Now the Guardians were greatly intrigued, hanging on Hondo's every word with the Pirate leaning it a bit dramatically.
"But recently… I've heard even more unsavory rumors." The pirate's tone shifted into one that… it sounded almost as though he was disturbed.
"What is it?" Quill quietly asked.
"He is looking for Kyber crystals, yes." Hondo nodded to himself. "And he has helped or is helping someone."
"I Am Groot?"
"One is Ulysses Klaue. Strange man but his music choice is quite profound as is his singing voice." Hondo chuckled to himself. "I've never heard such ridiculousness be so entertaining."
"And who else?" Kraglin gestured for the Weequay to get to the point.
"Recently -through some sources- I learned he had Republic connections before he broke away and found another employer. One who is giving him far more protection than his previous occupation." Hondo now held a darker look, one that actually set the Guardians on edge.
"And… who is it?"
Hondo looked each Guardian in the eye before revealing Krennic's newest "employer".
"Ultron."
-Scene Cut-
"So Ilsijj, do you just scowl all day or is that your default face?"
Asajj Ventress rolled her eyes, turning her head at Peter Quill who stood behind her, eating a fruit of some kind she had never seen before.
"Why does it matter to ya?"
"Well, when ya look like you could kill just about anyone and we saw you do just that-"
"You recruited me because of that."
"-Kinda wanna make sure you're not gonna do that to anyone else around here who looks at ya wrong or asks you the wrong question."
"Ilsijj" scoffed at that, turning away from him. "Only if one pokes me too much."
There was a beat of silence between the pair with Quill staring at her intently.
"Is there a reason you're here, Quill?" Asajj spoke up, not even bothering to look back at him.
"Don't know, really." Peter admitted. "You're a weird one, being here."
Ventress had to restrain herself from guffawing.
She was being called the weird one? Where in the galaxy did he get that conclusion?
"I mean, I've seen loner types and all before." Peter rambled on. "My girlfriend for one, her adopted sister, then Drax, then Rocket and Fennec and Wes and… ok, I know a lot of loners but you look like you don't even wanna be here."
"Gee, what gave you that idea?"
"Then why stick around?"
"The pay."
Now it was Quill's turn to scoff. "Can't be just that."
"And how can you know that?"
"Comradery, friendship, a family. You just long for it deep down."
Asajj made an actually retching sound.
"A naive, romanticized and utterly childish notion."
"You'd be surprised. But when ya hang around a lot of criminals your whole life, especially with a guy like Yondu, ya learn to cut through the bullshit."
"Well, "Star-Lord", for your information, I am here for a purpose that is of no concern to you. If you believe it may endanger your friends and comrades, have no fear, I don't intend on hurting anyone who doesn't deserve it."
"I get it, but it doesn't hurt to open up to others at some point."
Asajj now turned to glare at him. "What's your game here? What do you want?"
Star-Lord raised his hands in a surrendering fashion. "Nothin' it's just, truth be told, I wanna help speed up the process with you. When you've seen it done five different times now, you kinda learn to recognize-"
"I am not here for friends, family, comradery, none of that." She spat out. "I am here because my master believes I need to further my training."
"Your training?" Peter said expectantly and Asajj cursed herself for the slip-up.
What in the Force's name made her act so callously, especially around a bumbling fool like Quill?
"Leave me be, Quill." She threatened though he look relatively unfazed. "I am here because I need to be and that is all. Once the mission is done, I shall take my leave."
"So they say." Peter airily said, watching her stomp away.
He didn't understand as to why but… the half-Celestial shook his head.
Maybe it was nothing.
Mantis tried to speak with the Dathomirian and from what she told the others, she was aloof for the most part.
Speaking of which, he wondered what's gotten into Mantis.
She's been acting really odd around her and whenever Fenn was nearby, he would always weirdly look at him.
What was that all about?
But at that moment, these thoughts flew out the window, why?
Because a ship just arrived in the hangar bay.
One familiar to the Guardians of the Galaxy as they all rushed over to it.
From the ship came a female garbed in black with a unique helmet that was black on the bottom and orange on the top with only her eyes being visible. The helmet snapped back to reveal-
"Fennec!" The Guardians said in unison, crowding around her.
"Where have you been?" Sugi asked in relief. "We haven't heard from you in two weeks now."
Embo made a few comments in his native tongue, eliciting a laugh from Shand.
"I was scouting." Was Fennec's immediate response, patting the Zabrak on the shoulder before turning to Quill. "Got somethin' for ya boss. And I'm glad I came just in time too."
Without waiting for anybody to ask what she was talking about, Shand pulled out a disk from her clothing and turned it on.
A holo-image flickered above her hand until it became clear to reveal-
"Hang on… is that-"
"The Vigo base of Tulan Voidgazer." Fennec said with a wide grin. "The entire layout of the place and where Xizor, Vizsla and Krennic will be meeting."
"Holy Shit." Rocket howled with laughter. "That's great news."
Peter nodded with a sly smile.
"Time to get our raid going."
AN
Really, Really fast with this one.
Credit primarily to Jeb as this chapter was fully formed in his mind so we just churned this one out in an instant.
Thanks again to all the reviews for personal top ten lists about the story, like I said before if you missed it from the last review, please feel free to do so here.
Now then, Quantumania came out and, in the words of Austin Powers, SHAGADELIC BABY YEAH… With that said, I do have some thoughts.
Jebest4781: Quantumania was a decent film. Wasn't great, but pretty good. Could've been better if Modok was improved, for one. Cassie's development being another. Stuff with Janet could've been expanded upon, showing more of her time in the Quantum Realm. Moreover, there needed more runtime as the film felt short. Aside from some of these grievances, the visuals were great and so was Kang.
FMW: Yeah, we enjoyed the movie, especially Kang, but my favorite Movie reviewer Jeremy Jahns pointed something out that really stuck with me about Kang and that involves SPOILER ALERT the Council Of Kangs. But that would make this AN too wordy so please go check out Jeremy Jahns' spoiler video for Quantumania to see what I'm talking about.
In short, the film was alright but the flaws are too glaring and obvious for us to see with Kang basically saving the movie for the most part.
Anywho, thanks again for reading.
Quick update, after an extensive chat about the layout of the story we have here after this arc wraps next chapter, there will be five arcs left in season 3 before we press on to season 4.
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.