Chapter 2: Bloodied Peacemakers
Prologue Arc: Dying Republic
Garos IV
Outer Rim
"How dare you put your hands on the great Moralo Eval!"
*CRACK*
The Phindian slumped over against the tree he rested on after receiving a hard punch to the face and was tied up under the supervision of Baylan Skoll. Relieved that the criminal was finally unconscious, the Jedi looked around to see what the rest of his strike team was doing. Captain Fordo and some ARC Troopers were mopping up the rest of the Separatist convoy. Their intel said Moralo Eval liked to keep a schedule of when he would take a company of droids to massacre villages to sate his bloodlust. After catching the Phindian, Baylan silently thanked them for giving him accurate intel.
"Everything's clear General," Captain Fordo said, giving a quick salute to his General and looked at their prisoner. "So, I know he's very high on the bounty list because he escaped twice and tried to kidnap the Chancellor, but we didn't come all the way here just for that right?"
"You have to understand who Moralo Eval is, Captain." Baylan Skoll informed the Captain. "His true loyalty is only to himself. In the event that the CIS leadership betrays him, he gathered intel on the locations of vital Separatist bases, shipyards, factories, and probably even the brand of Count Dooku's pajamas. Especially info that Fenryr doesn't know."
"Whoever found out all of that gotta be good."
Baylan smirked.
"He is. Speaking of which," The Jedi took out a holocommunicator and activated it, revealing a young man in Jedi robes. "Skoll here. Your intel was on point. Good work Bode Akuna."
"Thank you, Baylan." Akuna bowed. "I have a team ready to interrogate Eval as soon as you leave the system."
"We'll be leaving soon. Alert the rest to get ready. Skoll out."
In orbit
Captain Gilad Pellaeon stood at attention and tried his best to look proper which was hard to do since he had bandages on his face and his uniform had tears, dried blood, and soot. In front of him was a monitor showing two Neimodians arguing with each other in the bridge of a warship.
"I am telling you that this is a trap!"
"And why should I listen to you? Especially after you lost your entire fleet at Ryloth?"
"I lost it this way, so I'm telling you to don't listen to them!"
Admittingly, the lower-ranking Neimodian was making him nervous but Pellaeon kept his cool. He guessed Intel missed the info that Captain Mar Tuuk was attached to this massive Separatist Armada. He learned from Fenryr that there was division among the Neimodians and many were plotting to replace Viceroy Gunray with themselves. As a result, high-ranking Neimodians gathered as many warships as possible to increase the size of their fleets should a civil war among themselves erupt. This armada numbered around 100 warships. Intelligence couldn't determine the armada's objectives, but Fenryr mentioned that its commander was planning to take Tanaab to gain Count Dooku's favor and replace Gunray.
"You would pass up capturing a member of the Jedi Council? If this is some kind of ploy to undermine me and get back in Dooku's favor, you're sorely mistaken."
Tuuk threw his hand hands in the air in frustration.
"Fine, you want to lose your fleet, be my guest! I quit!"
Pellaeon watched as Mar Tuuk walked away, leaving the Neimodian Admiral to negotiate with him. He felt relief that the one person who could've exposed their plans was being ignored. The Admiral sneered before turning his attention back to Pellaeon.
"Your Jedi, Eeth Koth, what is his condition?"
"Unconscious with multiple burns and shrapnel wounds. Most of our medical supplies were destroyed in a fire and what survived was used up on our wounded." Pellaeon answered, hoping the Separatist Admiral would accept his answer.
"I see, and the status of your ship?"
"Multiple hull breaches but the fires were put out. Most of our fuel was gone so this was our last stop. We were hoping to receive aid from a fleet that was supposed to attack Garos IV, but we weren't alerted that the mission was delayed until it was too late."
"Oh?" The Captain figured it would be something that would pique an enemy Admiral's attention. "Do tell."
"Medical attention for the wounded and your word that we won't be harmed if we surrender." Pellaeon demanded.
"If I were to refuse and reduce your ship into floating scrap?"
"Then you'll lose your best chance at preparing for a Republic invasion force, Admiral."
Captain Pellaeon resisted the urge to show any form of nervousness. He kept cool and confident as the CIS Admiral pondered Pellaeon's words. Fenryr told him to offer something that isn't too little or too outlandish. A wounded Jedi Councilmember and knowledge of Republic plans concerning Garos IV he felt was right in the middle.
"Smart man." Pellaeon let out a breath he was holding. "We'll send you coordinates and medical teams will be on standby. Don't try anything, Captain."
For several agonizing minutes, Pellaeon stood where the CIS Admiral could see him as the damaged Venator flew closer and closer to the Separatist Armada. The Neimodian continued to look at the Captain, occasionally glancing at something else Pellaeon couldn't see. From his peripheral vision, Pellaeon could see a Clone trooper giving him hand signals.
Phase 2 is green.
There was a commotion and a droid then approached the Neimodian Admiral.
"Sir, a Republic fleet is exiting hyperspace. We've also detected an Eta-class shuttle leaving the planet."
The Admiral looked at the droid in shock before angrily turning to the Captain.
"Captain, what is the meaning of this this?"
*Clang*
Pellaeon turned around where a Clone accidentally bumped into a metal pole, causing the green screen behind the Captain to fall. Originally, the CIS Admiral believed Pellaeon was standing on the bridge of the Venator. Now that the green screen fell, he could see he was in fact, inside a hanger where a squadron of ARC-170s and 4 Eta-2 Actis-class Interceptors were waiting to be launched. The closest Interceptor was piloted by a healthy and uninjured Eeth Koth, who paid the Separatist no mind as he prepped his starfighter.
"Sorry Admiral," Pellaeon said to the Admiral. "You should've listened to Captain Tuuk."
He left the screen on and ran towards a waiting Nu-class Shuttle where anyone who wasn't a pilot was boarding. Once on board, Pellaeon gripped a handle and took out his communicator.
"Everyone's aboard!" Pellaeon yelled. The Shuttle took off with the starfighters following through. Behind the Venator, a Republic fleet consisting of the Leveler and 7 Venators led by Vice Admiral Osvald Teshik engaged the Separatist Armada. 2 Munificents got too close to the damaged Venator and became the target for the Republic ships. Once those ships fell out of line and on fire, the Republic ships switched their target to any warship that targeted the damaged Venator.
"Lyn, Bil, break off and cover Baylan's shuttle." Eeth Koth ordered over the coms.
"Yes, Master." Lyn Rakish responded. Two Eta-2s and a couple of ARC-170s broke away to Baylan Skoll's Eta-class Shuttle that was fast approaching the rear of the Separatist Armada.
"Masana, you're with me. We're bringing Pellaeon and his men back to the Leveler."
Meanwhile, back on the shuttle, the Clones held on to their seats like their lives depended on it while Baylan Skoll piloted their transport. Their shuttle rocked as flak from the Separatist ships exploded nearby.
"General, I don't mean to complain, but couldn't we have taken a faster Nu-class instead?" Fordo asked from the co-pilot's seat.
"Faster doesn't mean more maneuverable," Baylan replied. He twisted the shuttle past a group of Vulture droids that finally decided that the shuttle was a worthy target. "Besides, it's more suited for our needs anyway."
Captain Fordo looked at the sensors and became increasingly worried when another two squadrons of Vulture droids decided to pursue them.
"Oh, I got a bad feeling about this!"
"Calm yourself Fordo, this is just a fun and easy mission. See? We have support just like we planned." The Jedi assured him just as Lyn and Bil flew past them with some ARC-170s. Right away, multiple bogeys on their sensors disappeared.
"Baylan, we got you covered. Head over to the Leveler." Lyn said in the coms. A few more Vultures were reduced to space debris by her while she was talking. As they flew, Baylan noticed more Separatist ships were focusing on the abandoned Venator. It was a sign to him that their time was running out.
"Negative, all units do not land in your ships. Everyone, withdraw and jump to the rendezvous point."
"Copy that, we're deploying hyperspace rings," Teshik said. His Venators began to turn with four hyperspace rings being deployed from Teshik's flagship.
Meanwhile, aboard the Lucrehulk, the CIS Admiral looked on in satisfaction as the Venator's engines were knocked out before it could collide with his flagship. The Republic forces were in full retreat and saw them jump into hyperspace. Yet, he still felt like something was wrong.
Small, colorful explosions began dotting the Venator and it was only then did the Neimodian realized the Republic's plan. He never got to say a word as the Star Destroyer detonated. For a split second, he could see everything around him being blasted away by the explosion before there was a flash, and the Neimodian Admiral was no more.
That month was known as The Great Clanker Hunt. In one month, Republic forces led by GEOCOM wiped out five Separatist Fleets, destroyed seven shipyards and ten factories, destroyed three armies, and killed fourteen Admirals and Generals thanks to intel from Fenryr. This left holes in the Separatist lines and gave the Republic an opportunity to strike deep into CIS territory in three different locations. Morale skyrocketed and for Baylan Skoll, it felt like he was coming closer to the peace he longed for.
1 Day later
After much deliberation, GEOCOM was finally allowed to take a break from the fighting. The Jedi Council ordered Master Eeth Koth to bring all the Jedi part of GEOCOM and give a report of their operations. Baylan initially refused to see the Council, but as GEOCOM's 2nd-in-command, he had to be present. Master Soon Bayts' death and Captain Alpha-17's injury at Boz Pity weighed heavily on Baylan's shoulders who felt like he should've been there. While Baylan appreciated Eeth Koth taking command, he felt like the Council was responsible for the losses.
Sifo-Dyas and now Soon Bayts. Despite being a Knight, Baylan felt like he could learn a lot more, but the Council refused to give him more access to the Temple's holobooks. There was a rumor that the Council's decision was largely due to his closeness to Count Dooku and that any moment now, he could leave the Jedi Order.
The last part at least was very true. As the war dragged on, Baylan questioned the Jedi Order. He's already broken enough rules as is and felt a sort of coup within the Jedi Order was needed. He's seen how the people of the galaxy viewed the Jedi and was convinced that the only way things would change was for a reformation within the Order.
But most of all, he was furious to learn that the Council was investigating his relationship with Fenryr. Ever since the rescue, a few felt he did so because of his past with her. That wasn't true, as the reports said they didn't know the identities of the defectors until they rescued them. Still, the fact she became a Republic Intelligence Agent typically sent in operations with GEOCOM didn't ease the Council's worries that the relationship between Fenryr and himself was more than just friendship.
"I sense much anger and frustration, young Baylan." Eeth Koth said as he blocked an overhead strike from the Jedi Knight. They were dueling in the Leveler's hanger while the other Jedi of GEOCOM sat around and watched. Some Clones also watched but most of them were busy carrying out their duties. The lone Jedi Master and Councilmember among them decided to practice dueling with the other Jedi to keep their skills sharp. While the chances of encountering people like Count Dooku and General Grievous were slim, it wasn't zero. "Care to explain?"
Eeth Koth stepped aside and allowed Baylan's lightsaber to strike the floor. Lightsaber on his right hand, the Master swung at the bigger Jedi's side horizontally but the younger man saw it coming. In response, Baylan closed the distance and grabbed the Master's right hand. Using his superior strength, Baylan threw his superior but before the Master could hit the ground, Baylan used the force to pull Eeth Koth back towards him. To his credit, the Master swung to try and force Baylan back but Skoll merely batted the strike away with both hands on his saber. Lightsaber out of position and over his head, Eeth Koth felt Baylan put his right boot on the Master's chest while pointing his saber at the neck.
"Yield." He demanded. Eeth Koth looked at Baylan's lightsaber and deactivated his own. "Well met."
Baylan offered his hand which the Master took. Koth got up and noticed the other Jedi cheering for Baylan while resting after they got their behinds kicked by the Jedi Master.
"You still haven't told me what's bothering you." Eeth Koth turned to Baylan. The Jedi Knight deactivated his lightsaber and clipped it to his belt.
"It's the Council."
The Zabrak male sighed.
"I was afraid you were going to bring it up."
"Here I am, fighting this blasted war, and the Council decided to investigate me. I've fought in more battles than many in the Council, and they don't trust me?"
Clones who were in the audience left to do their duties while the other Jedi began small talk among themselves to distract themselves from a clearly frustrated Baylan Skoll. Eeth Koth put a hand on the younger Jedi's shoulder to comfort him.
"I understand your frustration. The vote wasn't unanimous. Myself, Master Yoda, Master Plo Koon, and Master Obi-Wan Kenobi voted in your favor. In my honest opinion, I don't really care about the relationship between you and Fenryr. You're a Jedi in my eyes but understand, Count Dooku's fall is a wound that is still fresh. It didn't help that Fenryr used to work for him and you learned under him. Even if it was just a short time."
Baylan looked at the floor and whispered.
"She was the only person I knew before becoming a Jedi. What is so wrong about that? It's not like I will turn to the Dark Side just because of that. I'm not Count Dooku."
"And I agree. Master Yoda brought it up himself but others like Master Windu were adamant." Koth said, knowing full well about the theory that Master Qui-Gon Jin's death is what pushed Count Dooku to the Dark Side. "Rest assured, I was assigned to the investigation and I've found nothing substantial that warrants any punishment."
The younger man however remained disturbed which made Eeth Koth more worried. He said nothing and shrugged off the Master's hand and walked away. As he stared at Baylan's retreating form, doubts about the Jedi Order's future appeared.
"Attention all hands, we are exiting hyperspace over Coruscant."
Later at the Jedi Temple's hangar
"I will go ahead. The Council wishes to speak to me before our report." Eeth Koth told GEOCOM's Jedi after they stepped off the LAAT. Others went off to see some of their friends but Baylan stuck around for a bit and turned back to the LAAT that dropped them off. Fenryr was showing Captain Fordo something in her datapad with their backs to him.
"I can't stress it enough, Captain. Eval needs to be transported here. He's familiar with everywhere else so the likelihood of another escape increases. Akuna tried interrogating him but we need better equipment to get intel from that piece of work quickly."
"And I agree, but I can't just bring him to Republic Intelligence. I don't have clearance unless you can get me there."
"Okay, you know what? Fine." Fenryr shook her head, almost like she hated this. "I'll contact Director Isard. Hopefully, he's in a good mood."
"Oh, that's gonna go well." Fordo rolled his eyes behind his visor.
Baylan chose that moment to get their attention.
"Leaving so soon?" The two turned around and looked at the Jedi. Baylan had to admit, Fenryr looked good in her Republic Intelligence uniform. Unlike other branches, Intelligence personnel wore black pants, a white tunic, and a black cap. Her rank plaque identified Fenryr as a Senior Agent, just one rank away from Colonel. It seemed that despite her past, Republic Intelligence really appreciated her skills. "Thought the both of you would like to have a drink later on."
"Not today General," Captain Fordo replied. "I've gotta get some paperwork done and Command asked me and a few other officers to inspect the Coruscant Guard. Keep them on their toes, can't have them slack off just because they protect the capital."
"So another time?"
Fenryr smiled apologetically.
"Yeah, sorry Baylan. Director Isard will probably ask me to write up a lot of reports so I'll be up late."
"No worries." The Jedi brushed it off. "I have some ideas I wanted to work on in the forge and I want to work on them later anyway."
"Share some of them over some drinks some other time, General." Fordo nodded. "The boys want some custom armor for better protection and Command isn't letting us get them from official channels if you get what I mean."
Baylan Skoll smirked and nodded to his trusty Captain.
He stood and watched as their LAAT took off and left the Jedi Temple. Baylan kept a smile on his face and reminded himself that if he ever left the Jedi Order, he still had a family. A thought came up, and Baylan began wondering if he could continue as a General of the Grand Army of the Republic even if he left the Jedi Order.
"Maybe I'll ask Osvald later." He told himself before walking away. While the Jedi Council convened with Master Eeth Koth, Baylan thought he might as well check out what the rest of the Temple has been doing during his deployment.
Jedi crèche
Still in his armor, Baylan Skoll leaned on a wall as Battlemaster Cin Drallig taught younglings various saber forms. He remembered being one of these kids, having dreams of helping people and teaching others, but recent years have made him realize that life can be unfair. In the name of peace, the Jedi chose to abandon many in need. Sifo-Dyas and Count Dooku told him the same thing and it didn't sit right with him. Dooku commented how he would've thrived under the tutelage of Master Qui-Gon Jinn, but the Force said otherwise. He forged his own path and believed his future lay elsewhere. Part of him wondered where that path led but another part told him it would be all worth it.
"Scouting out potential Padawans, my friend?"
Baylan turned around and found a smiling Jedi Master behind him alongside a Hovering Pram with a baby inside.
"Master Kelleran Beq," The Knight bowed. "I'm just thinking of the future."
"For yourself?"
"The Jedi Order."
Beq nodded and seemed to put some thought into it as well.
"I will not lie, Baylan. The future is very uncertain. It is up to us to make it so, but I'm confident we could make a very bright one."
Baylan shrugged.
"For us, not so for the Council."
The Jedi Master offered a smile.
"They're not perfect, I agree. Expect changes when the war is over my friend." Beq then looked at the child next to him. "Now this right here is young Grogu. Very rare for his species to be force-sensitive, but the Council believes him to be an exceptional case."
"Are you offering him to be my Padawan?" Baylan asked.
"Unfortunately no," Beq shook his head. "By the time he has grown into an adult age of his species, the other Padawans in this room would all be elderly. I just heard from Master Plo Koon that he'll propose letting you take care of young Grogu whenever you're on Coruscant. It's just me taking care of him, but I have other duties that require me to be away."
Their attention was then diverted when they heard yells from down the hall. They took a look and saw multiple Jedi running towards the Main Hall. Some Temple Guards tried in vain to calm them down but to no avail.
"Go." Beq said to Baylan. "Go see what's going on. I'll be here to protect the children just in case."
Baylan nodded and sprinted down the hall to investigate. Once at the Temple's Main Hall, the Jedi Knight found a crowd of Jedi walking towards the Temple's Entrance. And at the front of them all…
"Master Koth?" Baylan stood in shock. He wondered what had happened and why was Koth at the center of it.
"Baylan!" He noticed Lyn Rakish move away from the crowd and ran towards him. "The Council expelled Master Koth! He's leaving the Jedi Order!"
No! He froze for a moment and then sprinted to catch up to Eeth Koth. Not again!
"Koth! Master Koth!" Baylan yelled and caught up to the Master. The Jedi Master looked at the Knight in sadness. "Tell me it's not true! Lyn said you were expelled, that can't be true!"
"I'm afraid it is." They stopped at the Entrance. Master and Knight turned towards each other. "The Council saw it fit. I myself have grown tired. This Council, the Order, this War, I'm tired of it all."
"And us? GEOCOM? You'll just leave everything behind?" Baylan asked angrily. In response, the Master smiled.
"Soon Bayts was correct, you're perfect to lead GEOCOM." Koth put a hand on Baylan's shoulder. "The Jedi Council may not trust you, but I and many others do. Fight the good fight, my friend. I'm needed elsewhere. May the Force be with you."
Baylan stood silently as Eeth Koth walked away. The commotion from the Jedi faded away. All Baylan was focused on was the retreating ex-Jedi Master, on his way out of the war, out of the Order, and out of their lives. Anger and hatred slowly enveloped Baylan, but the Jedi Knight took a deep breath and calmed himself. Another Jedi Master in his life is gone. Patience is a virtue, and Baylan saw that his future was not with the Jedi Order. Action must be taken but not within these walls.
"Baylan Skoll!" He turned around where the crowd parted to allow a Temple Guard through. "You are needed at the Council Chambers."
The Knight scanned the crowd. He found Bil Valen struggling to contain his rage while beside him, Masana Tide tried to calm him. She also felt anger but had better control than Valen. At another part of the crowd, Lyn Rakish's eyes met Baylan's. Both knew what the summon was for, but the woman nodded at Baylan telling him to go.
"Very well." Baylan took a deep breath and followed the Temple Guard deeper into the temple. Along the way, many Jedi gave Baylan looks of sympathy. Everyone knew that 3 Masters who were directly involved with his life were gone, with a 4th being Count Dooku himself. Some looked at him in disdain, as if he was cursed or that he had done something wrong in the past to deserve this.
Whatever it is, each step convinced the Knight that the Jedi Order was tainted within these great walls. It was spiraling downwards and the only way to save it was drastic changes. Finally, they came upon the Jedi Council Chambers after going up a lift and navigating through hallways. The Guard stepped aside and allowed the Knight to walk in.
Baylan stepped inside and stopped himself right past the entrance. Conversations between the Jedi High Council immediately stopped and its members looked at the newcomer. He noted that Kenobi, Koon, and Mundi were present through holograms and the empty chair that once belonged to Eeth Koth. The feeling was tense and Baylan noticed that the normally gentle Grandmaster Yoda looked unhappy.
"You summoned me, Masters?" He asked.
"Jedi Skoll," Master Windu spoke up. He motioned for him to stand in the middle of the room. "We would like a report of GEOCOM's recent activities."
The Knight shook his head.
"I apologize, but would it be more appropriate for Master Koth to be here? He is the Commander of GEOCOM."
"Master Koth is no longer one of us, nor is he a member of the GAR." Master Kcaj responded. "It is unfortunate but the Council believes Master Koth is no longer fit for duty. As a result, he has decided to leave the Order on his own free will."
Baylan looked around at the other Jedi Masters in disbelief.
"The loss of a High Jedi General, just like that? What crime had he committed that warrants dismissing a member of the Council during a war? Morale would suffer, and people would criticize the Jedi Council for the loss of a very capable Jedi like him. And for what?"
The other Masters looked at each other, debating whether they should tell the Jedi Knight.
"What Maser Koth did is classified, Jedi Skoll." Windu calmly replied. "I understand your frustration-"
"This Council expelled Master Sifo-Dyas. The rest of GEOCOM and I were denied participation in the operation at Boz Pity. As a result, I wasn't there to assist Master Soon Bayts when General Grievous struck him down and one of my most trusted Clone officers was crippled, perhaps for the rest of the war. Now, you have removed Master Eeth Koth as well?"
Some of the Masters shifted uncomfortably.
"Frustration and anger, I sense in you." Master Yoda finally spoke up. "Injustice, you have experienced."
"But you must trust us." Windu said. "When it is over, you will come to understand."
"Trust?" Skoll sneered. "Trust is earned, and I have hardly been given any trust in return. Never was I given a permanent Master, I pleaded to be at Boz Pity but I was denied. Master Soon Bayts was killed and Captain Alpha-17 was left crippled. Master Eeth Koth took over GEOCOM and we have fought day and night, for every meter and every life saved, just for him to be discarded. So why in the Force, should I ever trust any of you?"
The Council was silent this time and let Baylan speak. Typically he would control his emotions to a degree, not it felt like a dam was broken.
"You're afraid that I would become just like Dooku. I wanted to learn and teach. I wanted to free people and bring justice. I wanted to help bring this galaxy to a better future. Now? I don't see that happening where we're at. We didn't bring peace, we brought more conflict. Hatred, resentment, and division are what we left behind in our warpath. Us, the peacemakers, became the warmongers. Whenever GEOCOM was involved in liberating a planet, do you know what the first thing I checked was?"
He received no answer until Plo Koon spoke up.
"The list of orphans. I witnessed you doing this."
"A list of orphans on a planet, and each one will grow up seeing the Jedi Order as the enemy. Force knows I tried and I convinced myself to trust the Council. They know what they're doing." Baylan shook his head. "A man can only be spit on so much before he's had enough. You aren't doing yourselves any favors."
"No, we certainly are not." The normally silent Master Coleman Kcaj said his piece. "We live in dark times and division will only serve to weaken us further. Trust must go both ways and I agree that we have committed wrongdoings. When the war is over, this Council will correct itself and change. Even if it divides our current Council."
Skoll could feel Master Kcaj's complaints were directed at specific Masters in the room. He felt division among the Masters and it did not give him any confidence in their leadership. Clearly, the expulsion of Master Koth heavily divided the Council.
"I believe we're getting off-topic." Master Kenobi interjected. "We have duties to attend to and I would prefer if we got this over with."
"I agree." Windu looked at Kenobi before switching his attention to Baylan. "The report on GEOCOM's operations, if you would?"
Baylan did not move. His eyes glared at Master Windu and he shook his head.
"I refuse. Until there's an explanation for the expulsion of GEOCOM's commander, then GEOCOM will not report to the Jedi High Council." He turned around to make his leave.
"You are not dismissed Baylan Skoll! Return at once and report GEOCOM's activities!" Windu ordered.
The Knight stopped and turned his head, glaring at the other Masters. There was more he wanted to say, but thought otherwise. He walked out of the Council Chambers without a second thought. Baylan could feel disappointment from the other Masters, but there was also guilt and sadness among a few. Most notable was Master Yoda who did not hide his emotions. For what reason, Baylan did not know.
Jedi Temple Halls
After his rant on the Jedi Council, Baylan felt like being alone to recollect his thoughts. He thought about his next moves, how Fenryr would react, and who else in the Jedi Order would be willing to leave like him. Baylan remembered that multiple Jedi did leave, but not for good reasons. Most fell to the Dark Side, some left for personal reasons, and then there's Barriss Offee who he couldn't exactly tell if she fell to the Dark Side or was just mentally unstable from the war.
"Wonder if I could have a word with her?" He quietly asked himself.
Baylan stopped, finding himself alone in the hallway. He looked around, sensing multiple presences. However, only one of them he detected was force sensitive.
The Jedi Knight looked up, just as a shape dropped from the ceiling and landed with a resounding clang on the floor.
"Well if it isn't Dooku's little lost pup. Back from the battlefields I see, and no Master Eeth Koth to protect you?"
Baylan sneered as the other Jedi got off the floor in a very unorthodox way. A mechanical rig was strapped to the Aleena Jedu's back with multiple arms that suspended the short Jedi in the air. He also didn't wear Jedi robes but wore clothing more appropriate to a mechanic or a blacksmith.
"Master Kazdan Paratus. I see you've decided to crawl yourself out of that hole of yours."
Around them, a group of droids made of junk stepped closer to the Jedi Knight, but Paratus raised a hand and the droids backed off.
"Something is off about you, Skoll." Using his mechanical arms, the Jedi Master started circling a disinterested Baylan. "Ever since you were a child, I told the Masters that you will never be one of them. You were too…attached."
"I've heard this story a thousand times, Master Paratus." Baylan yawned.
"Unlike the other children, you never forget. Your home, and the people you knew. All these years, you never let it go."
"It is what keeps me going, to be a better Jedi."
"Yet you struggle to keep your emotions in check." Paratus sneered. "Just because I spend the large majority of my time with my creations, does not mean I'm unaware."
Kazdan Paratus leaned closer to Baylan and whispered.
"That girl you rescued who is now one of Director Isard's thugs. She is the girl you spoke of when you were a child, is she not?"
For a brief moment, Baylan panicked but he quickly reeled himself in and calmed down. Unfortunately, it was all Paratus needed. He jumped back to put some distance between himself and the Knight.
"She is!" The Master did not activate his lightsaber but pointed it at the Knight nonetheless. "She is the attachment, the reason why in the Council's wisdom, you were not allowed to work your way to becoming a Master."
Baylan tensed with the Master getting up to his face.
"You dare stain this sanctum with your presence, trash." Kazdan Paratus held his lightsaber back as if he was preparing to strike, but resisted activating it.
In response, Baylan closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He shifted his right foot back and put his right hand behind his back. He stretched his left arm towards the Jedi Master and motioned the Aleena to come at him.
"I've been toiling with the soldiers and the common civilian in this war, day in, day out. You may be a Master, but that doesn't mean I can't teach you a lesson. My hands will do."
Both Jedi had a staredown. Kazdan Paratus gripped his lightsaber in anticipation, but Baylan was calm and relaxed. Despite the tension, neither Jedi wanted to make the first move.
"What is going on here?"
Paratus quickly shied away and pointed his lightsaber down. Meanwhile, Baylan got out of his stance and turned around. He bowed when it was Master Jocasta Nu approaching them. Once she was between the two Jedi, she gave them both a stern glare.
"I do not care why, but we will have no such shenanigans within this Temple. A Knight and a Master, you are both fortunate younglings and a member of the Council did not find you first." She then focused her attention on Paratus. "For months on end, I've had to suffer through your ramblings, and not once did they convince me that you deserve the rank of Master. I appreciate your creations, but I do not appreciate you trying to antagonize others. Do I make myself clear, Master Paratus?"
The Master gulped and nodded. Jocasta Nu may be old and appear to be feeble, but every Jedi knew of her strength and she was not someone to be trifled with.
"Good." Nu then turned her attention to Baylan. "I understand you're always on the battlefield instead of recuperating here in the temple, but please keep your emotions in check. Especially here of all places."
She then glanced at the droids Paratus brought with him.
"Hmph, if anything Master Paratus, bringing all these toys along is a sign of weakness. I suggest meditating more instead of cooping yourself up in your workshop."
Master Nu tapped Baylan's arm and motioned for him to follow her.
"Come along to my office young man, I have fresh tea prepared for my break."
Baylan looked back at a dejected Kazdan Paratus and then followed the old woman down the hall. He kept looking back at the Master before he turned the corner with Master Nu by his side.
"Thanks Master Nu." He told the elderly Jedi.
"Think none of it dear. It was about time someone made him shut his trap."
They eventually made it to her office in the Jedi Archives, passing by many who were still talking about Master Koth's departure. Some gave words of sympathy to Baylan as he passed but a few glared, probably hearing rumors about him.
After navigating through the Jedi Archives, he was led to a door hidden away in a corner and easy to miss. Nu ushered him in, and the Knight found himself in a little but comfortable office. There were bookshelves on the left and right side of the room with toys decorating them. Many of the toys had thank you notes written on them, no doubt from the younglings. Then he felt something tug at him.
On the desk where some of Master Nu's personal items laid, was a small, unassuming box with a lock on it. He stared at it for a good several seconds before Master Nu brushed past him.
"Would you like some tea, dear?" She said, walking over to her desk. Nu opened a drawer and took out a teapot and a couple of glass cups. "It's very refreshing when someone comes to visit for a chat besides Master Yoda. I enjoy his company but some variation was needed otherwise I would go mad."
"Yeah well," Baylan looked around and then took a seat. "Being cooped up even in a place of peace can still make anyone mad."
"That is true." Nu poured tea into one of the cups and handed it to Baylan. "But so is constantly throwing yourself into the fire, young Baylan. Do you…crave violence?"
Baylan thought for a second and then took a sip.
"No…Master. I kept fighting to bring the war to an end and to save lives. Can't do that by being here so I figured going to mission after mission is the most positive contribution I can do."
Master Nu shook her head in sadness.
"You poor boy, you need to realize you can't and won't rescue everyone. Your body has limits just like everyone else. It does nobody good if you drop dead one day." She sighed. "This war sent children down paths they shouldn't be in, but perhaps it is the will of the Force."
The elderly Jedi looked up and down on Baylan's body.
"You were a born-warrior, but your attachments would never be accepted by the Jedi Order. Maybe in the past, but certainly not now. Especially romantic relationships."
"Wait what?" Baylan stuttered. "How did you-"
"Master Koth shared that bit of information with me." She said, causing Baylan to look crestfallen. "Oh don't be like that. He never reported that to the Council and neither will I."
"...Did you know about any others?"
"Of course I do, other Jedi who are in relationships do have a habit of confessing to me and I would keep it a secret in return. They became stronger and at peace after their confessions I believe. I do wish Kass Tod and Mak Lotor made it out of Jabiim. They were quite the couple."
He had to take it in for a moment. Many young Jedi like him knew Master Nu all their lives and even saw her as a grandmother figure, but he never expected her to defy the Jedi Council. Especially since she was once one of them.
"You…won't report me?"
Nu looked at him incredously.
"By the Force, you must've suffered some brain injury in the battlefield. No young man, I will not and would not report this to the Council." Her tea started getting cool, forgotten, because her curiosity was now set on Baylan Skoll. "Now tell me, what was Agent Fenryr like before the war?"
He was still in shock, trying to grasp the fact that he had someone who understood inside the Jedi Temple the entire time. After a while, Baylan began recounting his relationship with Fenryr. Baylan started with how they always stuck together in an orphanage on Serenno and it wasn't until he was 3 did the Jedi Order take him away. The girl was always on his mind and he longed to reunite with his old friend. When Count Dooku took him in as a temporary student after the disappearance of Master Sifo-Dyas, he was surprised to find that his old friend ended up working for the Count. They rekindled their relationship and it took off from there.
Until the start of the war that is. Once again, Baylan longed to find Fenryr but he kept his focus on the war. His opportunity came by chance when she defected and he led the party that rescued her. Both agreed to keep their romantic relationship a secret and it took off from them. They made sure to appear as mere friends and continued on with their works. By the time he was done, they had finished their tea.
"Oh I'm sorry that you two had to keep everything a secret." Master Nu apologized.
"There's no need for apologies." Baylan responded. He became comfortable speaking with the old woman. "We knew the risks but felt it was worth it, for our sakes."
"But what happens if the Council does find out?" She asked. "In fact, the likelihood just increased with Master Koth gone. They'll appoint someone else to investigate."
Baylan looked at the desk, specifically the little box.
"At one point, I thought there was a chance that the Jedi Order would change. I held on to that hope through every battle. Now I feel like that's an impossibility, Master Nu."
She was silent as she listened. To her, it almost felt she heard this before.
"You're thinking of leaving the Jedi Order."
He said nothing, but nodded.
"I…don't know when. Haven't had the time to discuss this with Fenryr yet. I don't see a future here for me, but I do want to keep fighting and saving people without the restraints of the Jedi Order."
"Hmmm you're walking a dangerous path young Baylan. We've seen what happened to The Lost Twenty and other Jedi who joined Dooku, but-"
"I am not them. I missed Jedi Master Dooku, but I do not and will not join the likes of Count Dooku. What I intend to do after leaving the Jedi Order is to request continuing on as a General of the GAR."
Nu did not respond, pondering his words. She looked away for a moment, her eyes on one of the bookshelves.
"Alright, you have my approval." Nu leaned forward to speak quieter. "Just make sure you have the endorsements of others. My endorsement may not have all that much of an impact to the military, but it would for the Jedi Council."
"Don't worry, I'm sure I'll get the endorsements of Vice Admiral Teshik, Rear Admiral Rampart, and Captain Pellaeon. Fairly certain Admirals Yuleran and Coburn wouldn't oppose."
"I see." The old woman gave the young man a gentle smile. "You're destined for great things. I hope to see it for myself one day."
Baylan got up from his seat.
"And should I fall?"
"No you won't."
"You're right, I won't."
He made his way to the door until Nu called him out once again.
"What did you feel when you saw this box?"
The Jedi Knight tilted his head in confusion.
"Is…this a trick question, Master?"
"Just answer the question."
Looking at her face, he knew she was serious. Like many, they knew that face very well and it was unwise to annoy Master Nu. Even members of the Council knew better.
"A tug, Master. I don't know what it is, it just feels like whatever is in it is…well…"
"Well what?" She asked, her curiosity peaked.
"...it's supposed to be mine."
Nu's face morphed into shock but then suddenly, she started laughing out loud.
"Did I say something funny?"
After her laughter died off, Nu waved her hand in dismissal.
"I'll explain later, but not now. You should go and convene with Fenryr as soon as possible."
Baylan nodded and was out the door. She waited until it was closed before Nu turned the box towards her. With a wave of her hand, the lock fell off and the box opened up.
"After millennias, your new owner finally shows himself." Inside the box, two orange-red Kyber Crystals sat, glowing brightly as if they were alive and elated. "The Force truly works in mysterious ways."
On the streets
Down at an empty alley, a short woman in eveningwear, loudly argued into her communicator. The alley was a popular shortcut that connected two busy areas, but it was oddly empty at the moment. She was too busy talking to notice.
"Mom, it's just a little party. I was invited by my friends, so how can I say no?"
"Karyn, it's been 4 months and you still don't have a job. What are you planning to do now? You graduated the top of your class in engineering but here you are, busy partying, drinking, and you better not be letting boys have their way with y-"
"MOM!"
"...or girls. Still, your father is worried. The Audacity is being transferred to Coruscant so once he's there, he can help you get a job. It'll be easy to get a high-paying job as the daughter of a Venator Captain. He said he can introduce you to Admiral Tarkin."
"Ugh, Mom I thought you didn't want me to join the Republic Navy."
"Who said you were? Tarkin was the Governor of Eriadu and had connections with every elite in the Inner Rim. It won't be hard."
Karyn pinched her nose.
"Mom, I just don't feel ready yet."
"Karyn, please. Your father was so proud when he saw "Karyn Faro" etched on the Academy's halls. He's so worried that everything you've worked hard for will go to waste by doing nothing."
She stopped near the alley's exit and thought about it for a moment.
"Give me until tomorrow Mom. I'll make my decision there, I promise."
There was silence on the other side until her mother spoke up.
"Okay, I'll call you tomorrow then. Bye, sweetie."
"Bye, mom." She said quietly and then deactivated her communicator. Karyn groaned in frustration and leaned her back on the wall. "After all that, I just wanted to have fun. Why can't the universe let me be?"
There were the sounds of footsteps from her right which made her jump. Walking towards her was a trio of men who had hungry looks in their eyes.
"Oh? I heard a lady wanted some fun." The man leading the trio said. "We can help with that."
Slowly, Karyn backed away from them and laughed nervously.
"No no, I was talking about my friends."
"Well, why don't you tell them to come here?" Another man asked. "We can have fun with them too.
"Look, I have somewhere to be okay? Have a nice night." The woman turned to walk away but one of the men grabbed her arm.
"Why leave? The night is still young." The man grabbing her arm said. He roughly pulled the smaller woman and pinned her to the wall. Karyn tried to push the man away, but she wasn't strong enough. In response, the man put his face on her hair and sniffed. "Hmmm, you smell good lady."
"Please…let me go!" Karyn yelled, trying to push the man in vain. His two friends got closer with one about to unzip his pants.
Karyn Faro felt regret. Regret for not training herself and regret for not listening to her parents. Silently, Karyn prayed to any divine being who would listen.
"What's going on here?"
They looked to the alley's entrance, and one of the men quickly zipped his pants back up. There, a Republic officer stared at them with suspicion. His trenchcoat covered up his rank plaque, but Faro could tell he was a seasoned veteran. She couldn't tell his age since his mustache made him look older.
"Nothing sir," The man holding her said. "The miss is drunk and unruly. I restrained her because she hit my friend."
The officer looked at Faro's pleading eyes and didn't buy their story.
"Is that so? If that's the case, please let her go and I'll take care of everything." He took a step closer.
"It's alright officer, we'll stay with her until she's sober."
Much to their annoyance, the Republic officer did not back down. They became alarmed when the officer reached inside his coat.
"I don't believe you understand, that was an order." Karyn felt the man hold her tighter. They all held their breath as the officer took something out of his coat. To her surprise, it was just a pair of leather gloves. "If I'm going to teach some thugs a lesson, I'll do it with my hands clean."
One thug laughed and approached the officer.
"Where you from?"
The officer slipped the gloves on and answered.
"The Navy."
Karyn watched the thug laugh and look back at his friends.
"Get a load of Mr. Navy Man here. He thinks-"
Without warning, the thug turned around to swing at the officer. Karyn blinked and then, the thug was kneeling on the ground and clutching his neck. The unfazed officer swung his right fist, hitting the thug in the temple. Almost like he was weightless, the thug flew and his head collided with the wall. Both of his friends stared at the lifeless body in shock. They composed themselves and then charged the officer together.
Karyn did not move and she didn't acknowledge that the thugs had let her go. Both men tried to jump the officer but the officer effortlessly dodged their swings. One overreached and the officer grabbed the arm and twisted it the other way with a sickening crack. He let him go just to elbow the other's face as he tried to hit the officer from the back. As the thug reeled from the blow, the officer grabbed him by the shirt and pulled him back where another hard fist struck the thug's face.
The thug fell backward, out cold. He then turned back to the thug with a broken arm who raised his one good arm in surrender.
They heard sounds of footsteps and turned to the entrance of the alley. A large group of police officers rounded the corner and pointed their blasters at the thugs.
"FREEZE! HANDS IN THE AIR!"
Some of the officers moved in to secure the unconscious thugs but they kept their blasters trained at the one thug standing.
"One of his arms is broken, careful with it." The officer informed the police officers. He turned and made his way to Karyn who stayed rooted in place. "Are you okay ma'am?"
He quickly inspected Karyn for any injuries and was relieved not to find anything. However, he was a little concerned at her silence.
"Ma'am? Is there something wrong?" He asked once again.
Karyn shook her head and then looked at the officer. Without warning, she hugged him tightly and started sobbing.
"Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
For a moment, he just stood in surprise, but he reminded himself she was a woman in distress and hugged her in comfort.
"It is no problem ma'am." He replied. They continued their embrace while law enforcement locked down the area. Finally, they separated with Karyn still shaken.
"I can't thank you enough Mr…"
"Captain Gilad Pellaeon ma'am." He straightened himself. "I was on my way home when I heard the commotion."
Karyn looked away.
"I was…arguing with my Mom over the communicator. Normally this alley was busy. It's a popular short-cut. Guess I wasn't paying attention to who was here huh?"
Pellaeon nodded and gave her a gentle smile.
"It's dangerous ma'am, even at the galactic center. I would suggest walking with someone else, or carrying a weapon for self-defense, or-"
"Or fight like you did?" Karyn interrupted.
He didn't expect that response and laughed.
"Or fight like me. I didn't learn how to fight like that until I joined the Judicial Forces which then became the Republic Navy. Typically I rarely ever fight since I'm stuck commanding from a bridge so cracking a few skulls tonight was kind of a relief."
"The Navy?"
"Sure! The Navy is always looking for non-Clone officers. Not that I don't mind having Clones, but it would be nice to see a different face during deployments. Too bad a lot of officers I've met didn't earn their ranks through merit." Pellaeon complained. "You look old enough to be an Ensign. Do you have any experience with anything ma'am?"
"Well..I have a degree in engineering?" She said, not feeling confident.
"An engineer? Splendid! Someone like you would be sought out!" The officer elated officer said.
A police officer approached them with a datapad.
"Sorry to interrupt, but we need both of your testimonies."
"Having an officer around educated in engineering would be very helpful, especially if we're thinking about after this war." Pellaeon continued, completely ignoring the police officer. He started pacing back and forth in thought. "Much more valuable than rich boy number one million who became an officer because he met a Senator once. I would need to see if I can get someone else to endorse besides myself."
Karyn stared at the Naval Officer. She felt humored by his antics and a smile slowly appeared on her face. This one time, she felt right. Maybe Karyn Faro finally found her calling.
1800 Prosperity, Residential District #2
Galactic City, Coruscant
Pellaeon whistled a tune as he strolled down the hallway of the apartment building. After a lengthy deployment, he was just happy they were allowed shore leave and they returned with minimal casualties. On his way home after submitting his reports to High Command, he heard about the expulsion of General Koth and the Jedi Master leaving the Jedi Order.
It was a rare incident that annoyed him, but most of all, he was worried for Baylan. Pellaeon trusted Baylan and Baylan trusted him. During one deployment, they exchanged their life stories and even a few secrets after some drinking. Needless to say, he was displeased with how the Jedi Council treated his friend. Now, he'll be the overall commander of GEOCOM undoubtedly unless the Jedi Coundil interferes and appoints another Master.
The Captain mentally noted to contact Baylan to make sure he was alright.
Turning the corner and into another hallway, Pellaeon was surprised to find his friend standing dejectedly outside the apartment next to his.
"Baylan?" He called out, approaching the Jedi. The Jedi Knight looked at Pellaeon and gave him a forced smile.
"Gilad? What are you doing here?"
"I should be asking you that." Pellaeon approached the next door and put his hand on it. "I live here. Now why are you trying to meet with Fenryr, my dear neighbor who forgot I can hear her go at it on her first day?"
Baylan blushed and looked away.
"You heard all that huh?"
Gilad snorted in amusement.
"And then some. Don't worry, my lips are sealed. Even if you're here for another rendezvous."
"It's not that." Baylan's eyes widened and he shook his head. "I'm not that kind of person Gilad."
"Relax, I was joking." The Captain opened his door and invited his friend in. "Why don't we have a chat then. Fenryr is busy helping Director Isard so she won't be back until early morning."
1 hour later
Pellaeon listened to Baylan and he became more and more troubled as it went on. The men were seated from across each other at the Captain's living room with a cup on tea on their hands. When they entered, Baylan noted that there were a lot of things packed into boxes, but Pellaeon told him he and his lover parted, so he was getting rid of a lot of things in the apartment.
As Pellaeon sat and listened, he started thinking of what his friend is planning to do. Surely, he won't take this lying down. That wasn't Baylan Skoll. The man was a warrior so he was definitely planning something.
"...so I was thinking, if a Jedi leaves the Order, can they still be a General in the GAR?"
What?
"You're talking about General Koth right?" Pellaeon asked. He received no response which told him all he needed to know. "Makers save us."
The Captain laid his tea down on the table and laid back on the couch. He stared up into the ceiling and thought for a moment.
"This isn't something's that happened before, Baylan. There's a chance that other Jedi could retaliate and deny you from staying with the GAR."
"They won't, that's not how the Jedi work." Baylan assured his friend. "If I do this, can I count on you to have my back?"
"Oh absolutely." Pellaeon sat up. "You'll likely get the endorsements of Teshik and Tallon as well. Maybe Tarkin too because he always looks for a chance to swing at the Jedi Order."
Silence fell between the two men. Baylan wanted to talk about more things, but with Fenryr.
"By the way, almost forgot." Pellaeon took out a datapad and put it on the table. "As the people that captured Moralo Eval, we appeared to have received a reward."
Baylan picked up the datapad and his eyes widened.
"50 million credits?"
The Captain nodded.
"Of course, the government takes half. Part of what they take is then distributed to the personnel. However, the other half is given to other individuals."
"Like who?"
Pellaeon shrugged.
"Myself, Vice Admiral Teshik, Fenryr, all the Jedi involved in the operation, and Captain Fordo. We'll do the math on how to split the money later."
For a moment, Baylan thought about the future post-war. If he leaves the Order, he can try moving back to Serenno with Fenryr. Maybe start a business and help people. Of course, Baylan doesn't desire being one of the ultra-wealthy, but he at least wants to make sure Fenryr can live comfortably. Have a house, live happily, raise…kids…
He shook that thought. One step at a time, he reminded himself. If he kept thinking about the future, he'll lose track of the present.
"Listen, Baylan," Gilad said. "It's late and we're all tired after the events from today. You should go home and get some sleep. When you're fully rested, then you can discuss your predicament with Fenryr."
The Captain pointed at the datapad.
"Fenryr will be sleeping in tomorrow. The next day, we all will meet at a cafe. I put the address on the datapad."
"For what?" Baylan tilted his head.
Gilad smiled at the Jedi.
"Why, to get paid of course."
Sovereign Light Cafe, Coruscant
2 Days Later
At an outdoor seating area in front of a cafe, a group of men and women sat and idley chatted while pedestrians and other customers took note of who they are. While others looked relaxed, Fenryr was nursing her third cup of caffeine and looked like she didn't get much sleep.
"By the Force!" Bil exclaimed, noticing Fenryr sipping another cup. "Are you trying to get a heart attack woman?"
Fenryr glared at the Jedi.
"I haven't slept enough because of all the dung I had to deal with at Republic Intelligence. Back with the Separatists, I never had to deal with so much paperwork."
"Well, maybe that's why Separatist Intelligence is lackluster." said Vice Admiral Teshik, not bothering to look up from his datapad. He had one leg crossed over his other and used it to hold his datapad up. The Republic Admiral was reading reports about his fleet that was docked on Coruscant.
"Don't underestimate them." Fenryr countered. "We only destroyed the network that I was aware of. I'm not all-knowing."
"Well, then you better get used to it. Even in times of peace, it's just paperwork after paperwork but they all keep the machine moving."
"Says you. I'm re-signing and gonna go start a family after this." Fenryr laid back on her chair. "Maybe I'll start a business too so I can get extra income outside my pension."
"Oh! Start a business making armorweave!" Masana suggested. Her mouth was filled with pastry and multiple plates was stacked in front of her, much to Teshik's chagrin who called for a waitress to pay for the bills. "Armorweave is so expensive and I think you can be the Order's main supplier with a bit of negotiation."
"Hey Fenryr?" The agent turned around towards Lyn who was sitting at the table next to them. She was sitting with Bode Akuna, Captain Pellaeon, and Captain Fordo. Bode was face down on the table with his hood covering his head while Captain Fordo was busy stacking plates on the Jedi's head. Pellaeon paid no mind and was occupied with sending reports on his datapad. "Do you have any extras for Bode? He looks like he's about to fall asleep."
Fenryr was about to hand over her cup but her ears then picked up a familiar voice in the crowd that was approaching them.
"...It's not a big deal alright? We can race when you get back. Look, I'll talk to you later alright?"
","
"Let me know when you're on your way back. We can chat over some drinks. I have to go to a meeting. May the Force be with you. Oh yeah, don't do anything stupid or I'll find you."
Now right before the group, Baylan put away his holocommunicator and looked at his friends. He tilted his head in confusion at the tired states of Fenryr and Bode.
"You guys alright?"
"Had to deal with a lot of paperwork. Director Isard doesn't understand the concept of rests." Fenryr yawned. "Bode? He's been ordered around a lot but details are on a need-to-know basis."
"Huh, that explains why he's tired." He carefully took the plates off Bode's head and set them on the table. "Anyways, was on a call with Skywalker. Sounds like he's having fun at Yerbana."
"Oh, I'm sure he is," Bil grumbled. "Hero with no Fear. The limelight all on him and he gets to show himself off to the public."
Baylan shrugged at the Jedi Knight's complaints.
"Double-edged sword. Anakin told me he can't even get groceries without someone recognizing him. Really annoys him how he can't walk the streets like a normal person."
"Even then, a little too much attention on one combatant. What if the Seppies get lucky and the Hero with no Fear comes home in a casket?"
"I wouldn't worry too much," Baylan assured Bil. "Skywalker's not stupid. Reckless, but he isn't stupid."
Fordo, seeing his work interrupted by Baylan, chose to finally speak up.
"So, we're all here. Now what?"
"Any moment now," Pellaeon set down his cup of tea and checked the time. "Someone will come by and pick us up."
The lone Human Jedi noticed there were no seats available so he elected to kneel besides the tired Fenryr.
"I see Director Isard hasn't been very considerate to you?"
"If he was considerate, he wouldn't be good at leading Republic Intelligence," Fenryr said, staring off into the distance and sipping her coffee. The others went back to small talk and paid them no mind. "Bode had it worst but that's because he's a Jedi. He's supposed to be able to endure better. Can't tell you what we've been doing."
Baylan nodded.
"That's fine, I can wait." He placed a hand on her shoulder and she turned her head towards him. "Listen, can we talk privately when we get back?"
"At the apartment," She muttered. "Only because I actually need to sleep after this."
He smirked and gave her a pat on the shoulder. Baylan looked to the distance and noticed a shuttle slowing down as it got closer.
"Heads up, I think our ride is here."
Baylan wasn't the only one and saw Captain Pellaeon stand up and tell the others they were leaving. The other stood up and made way to the shuttle that stopped but Bode and Fenryr needed assistance. A couple of Senate Guards and Coruscant Guards stepped out of the shuttle to secure the perimeter while their VIPs entered.
Once inside, the VIPs noticed that the shuttle's windows were blacked out. Once the last VIP and member of the security stepped in, the shuttle shut its doors and took off. Lights inside turned on to allow the people to see.
"Well now, we're not being kidnapped are we?" Teshik asked.
Pellaeon shrugged.
"They didn't disclose the location, so if we ended up getting offed, you may strangle me in the afterlife."
"Nobody is going to die," said the Coruscant Guard Commander standing at the front of the shuttle. "We're keeping things tightlipped because of all the Seppie infiltrations."
"Thanks, Commander Fox," Baylan nodded to him. He then noticed that Fenryr looked like she was going to fall asleep and moved to stand besides her. "Need something to rest your head in, Agent?"
"I'll take anything at this point." The tired woman said. She rested her head on the Jedi's shoulder and was immediately lights out.
"Not a word." Baylan heard. He glanced behind and smirked when he spotted Bode was doing the same thing to Bil's shoulder. Masana was doing her best not to laugh.
The rest of the ride was uninteresting. Only discussions between Teshik and Pellaeon about the Navy and Fordo making small talk with Commander Fox were the only things keeping the shuttle from being completely silent. Most just wanted to let Bode and Fenryr have what little rest time had given them.
Eventually, they felt the shuttle slow down before coming to a stop. A Senate Guard opened the shuttle's doors and beckoned them to exit. Waiting for them was an entourage of Senate Guards, the Chancellor's Red Guards, and Grand Vizier Mas Amedda himself. The Chagrian male did not smile, but nodded once they all exited the shuttle.
Baylan looked around and there were a few other craft in the hanger of the building they were in, but he noted that the only lights on illuminated them. The rest of the hanger was completely dark and the Jedi could barely make out the details.
"Welcome Heroes of the Republic," Amedda announced. "I hope all is well?"
"Most of us are," Baylan glanced at a half-asleep Fenryr who was leaning on him for support. "Our friends in the Intelligence Community unfortunately found no rest while they were on Coruscant."
Amedda looked at the two members of Republic Intelligence with sympathy.
"I apologize. I understand how demanding Director Isard can be. The both of you will have adequate rest after this. Director Isard has already been reprimanded by the Chancellor for overworking his agents."
"Thank you," Bode yawned, struggling to stay awake. "Can we make it brief? We already have our orders and need as much sleep as possible."
"Very well, follow me." The Grand Vizier responded. He turned and made his way to the exit with the guests following behind. They entered a dark hallway and could barely see the stoic red guards lining the walls.
"Not to offend you Grand Vizier, but couldn't you have chosen a place with more lighting and less depressing?" Bil spoke up.
"Due to the nature of this meeting, security is of its utmost priority. Most people are not aware of our meeting, even the Jedi Council." Amedda informed the Jedi. "We do not accuse the Jedi Council of having spies among their ranks, but due to ongoing operations, we are inclined not to distract them away from the frontlines."
As they continued to walk, Fenryr managed to shake herself out of her sleep. She muttered a thank you to Baylan who nodded in return. The hallway was long and dark, enough so that Baylan wondered if the Chancellor has a full army of guards.
They finally reached the end of the hallway, where a group of 6 Red Guards stood side by side in front of a blast door.
"Outbound." A Red Guard spoke up.
"Flight." Amedda spotted. It earned some raised eyebrows from the Jedi present, but quickly forgot when the guards stepped aside and the blast doors opened. The Grand Vizier gestured for them to come inside.
Unsurprisingly, there were more Red Guards lining the walls of the room. At the center was a large table with some boxes stacked on them. Behind it, was the Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic having a discussion with an unknown advisor. The two stopped their conversation and turned to the new arrivals.
"My friends, welcome!" Palpatine gave them a warm smile. "Please, join me at the table."
"Chancellor Palpatine?" Baylan muttered as they got to the table. Only Captain Fordo, Vice Admiral Teshik, and Captain Pellaeon stood at attention. "What are you doing here?"
"To thank you all personally of course." He said. The Chancellor grabbed the lid of one of the boxes and opened it up. "By rewarding the heroes that captured the dastardly Moralo Eval, I've increased the reward for each of you to 15 million credits."
The group stood gobsmacked at the Chancellor's reward, all except for Vice Admiral Teshik who picked up one of the credits from the crate.
"Hmmm, I thought Moralo Eval was worth more. I'll just donate them. I already have enough as is."
Noting Teshik's wealth, Bil took the credit from his hand.
"Okay rich boy." He pointed at the mysterious advisor and put the credit on the table. "Here you go Mr. Mysterious Advisor. This one's for you."
"I do not require more personal wealth, but I thank you." The advisor said.
"But why give us this much?" Captain Pellaeon asked.
"A thank you, like I said." Palpatine explained. "The capture of Moralo Eval is a massive win for the Galactic Republic. If he was able to escape the Republic's most secure prisons and get close to me, then he can get to anyone of high importance in the Galactic Republic. It is the least we can do."
"Not to sound rude, Chancellor," Baylan spoke up. "But for us Jedi, this money normally would go straight to the Jedi Order's treasury. We won't get to keep a single credit."
"What you do with the money is your choice, Master Baylan Skoll." The Chancellor waved off the Jedi's comment. "If I were you, I'd use the money for good. Fund the education of orphans, rebuild war-torn villages, or donate to refugees. Being put in the Jedi Order's treasury will do no one any good."
"Fair enough." Baylan shrugged. He looked at the pile and noted that they were all tagged with their names.
"Will Master Baylan Skoll, Master Bode Akuna, and Agent Fenryr follow me please?" The unnamed advisor said. He motioned for them to follow him into an adjacent room where a door was held open by a Red Guard. Just like the first room, it was barren aside from a single holotable at the middle. They entered where 4 more Red Guards stood at each corner of the room.
The advisor stood behind the table just as the Supreme Chancellor walked in.
"I thank you for your time my friends," He said, closing the door behind him. "There is a matter of the most urgency that needs to be addressed."
Palpatine joined his advisor behind the holotable.
"This is Kinman Doriana, one of my most trusted advisors." Palpatine introduced his advisor who gave a light bow to the 2 Jedi and Intelligence officer. "Unlike my other advisors who are more well known to the public, Doriana has been instructed to stay in the shadows and use his connections to detect threats against my life."
"Indeed," Doriana turned on the holotable which depicted a hologram of Coruscant. "I've become suspicious on how people like Cad Bane and Moralo Eval were able to enter and leave Coruscant at ease, Hutt support or not. My theory is that there is a Separatist cell on the planet assisting them. 2 days ago, a freighter landed at Level 1313. I've discovered that it belonged to a shipping company with suspected Separatist ties and we had the ship impounded and crew arrested."
"Unfortunately, none of them knew anything. They were freelancers hired to drop off containers at a storage facility." Palpatine continued. "Whoever made the order made sure they extracted whatever it is quickly before law enforcement converged on the storage facility."
"So you want us 3 to find them." Baylan said.
"Agent Fenryr and Master Akuna have already been debriefed." The advisor responded. "What we want is for you and GEOCOM to lead the way."
Baylan looked at his friends who stared at him expectedly. He nodded and turned back to the Chancellor.
"Most of GEOCOM are tired from operations day in day out, on top of all the wounded and dead. However, I can call up 4 Clone Commando Squads with the most rest right away. Alpha, Rancor, Zeta, and Gamma Squads should be rested enough."
"Very good, Master Skoll. Ensure that nobody else is informed of this operation." Palpatine smiled.
"I will Chancellor."
"Then this meeting is adjourned." The Chancellor stared into Baylan's eyes and smiled. "I will keep watch your career with great interest, Master Skoll."
Back in the main room, Pellaeon listened on as the others debated on how their rewards should be spent. Teshik proposed investing them, but the Jedi were thinking of going shopping and buying luxuries without the Jedi Order knowing. Meanwhile, Captain Fordo looked like a child in unfamiliar lands because he never thought of life for Clones after the war.
Finally, he saw Baylan, Bode, and Fenryr leave the other room with the Chancellor and the mysterious advisor. Making his decision, the Captain broke away and made his way to the leader of the Galactic Republic.
"Chancellor, sir." Pellaeon stood at attention.
"Ah yes, Captain Gilad Pellaeon. I've heard so much about you from some Jedi." Palpatine smiled. "What can I do for you?"
"May I speak with you in private, sir?"
The Chancellor leaned closer to his advisor and whispered. His mysterious advisor nodded and walked away.
"But of course, Captain." He beckoned the Captain to follow him into the other room. "This room should suffice."
Once inside, a guard shut the door leaving Pellaeon alone in the room with the Chancellor and some of his Guards. He stood at ease, but the Chancellor merely stared and waited for Pellaeon to speak his mind.
"Sir, I've been around Jedi Generals for many battles, even one you knew personally. Yet, for the life of me, I still cannot understand them. General Skoll is a great friend of mine, but it seems like whenever the Jedi Council is involved, he seems frustrated and angry. As someone who had been friends with a Jedi Master and been around the Jedi Council, I seek advice on how to better help my friend."
The dignified Chancellor began to chuckle and put a hand on the officer's shoulder.
"My friend, the Jedi are of many different personalities. You'll find that none are the same. As for the Council, I can share my sympathy with Master Skoll. They can be very frustrating to reason with. How should I say this, they're very narrow-minded. In the name of peace and order, they prefer keeping things the way they are. Even if change is needed."
"I see, sir."
"Now what is it that earned them Master Skoll's ire?" Palpatine asked, curiously.
"I cannot say sir. It's a private matter. However, I can inform you that General Skoll is considering leaving the Jedi Order but maintain his position as a General of the Grand Army of the Republic."
For once, Palpatine looked confused before he then looked amused.
"Now that is something I wasn't expecting to hear." He moved away and paced back and forth in front of the holotable. "The loss of 2 of GEOCOM's commanders would be a disaster. Normally, a Jedi leaving is because they fell for Count Dooku's words. Yet, Master Skoll intends to stay with the Republic. Peculiar, but it's about time something new happened."
"You…approve Chancellor?" Captain Pellaeon questioned. The Chancellor stopped pacing and looked at the Captain.
"If he's leaving the Jedi Order but not the Republic, it's a testament to his loyalty for the greater good. I can have documents signed and ready before the end of the day as a precaution should Master Skoll decide to leave. It would need approval from other members of High Command but it shouldn't be an issue."
"I'm relieved to hear that, Chancellor. I'm afraid the Jedi Council has done nothing but add unnecessary stress to my friend who was already toiling in the mud to end this war."
"Indeed, and he should be rewarded for that. Now, you've mentioned that you worked under a Jedi Master I knew personally?"
"Yes sir, I have. He died earlier in the war."
Chancellor Palpatine looked at the Captain with a look of sorrow he's only seen when reporting Republic defeats to the Senate.
"Then please Captain, as his personal friend. Please tell me about Master Ronhar Kim."
Later that night
Master Jocasta Nu had just finished analyzing some documents when she decided to close the Jedi Archives for the day. She had been very busy, helping other Jedi study, teaching the Younglings, and keeping the Archives clean and orderly.
That is until her datapad notified her that some books have not been returned to their shelves. Navigating through the Archive, she found a pleasant surprise between a pair of shelves.
Baylan Skoll sat on the floor, tired and reading one of the holobooks. A pile of other holobooks laid next to him after being read by the Jedi Knight.
"Baylan?" She opened up. The Knight glanced at her before going back to reading. "What are you doing here? The Archives are closed for the day."
"Fenryr was called away for a meeting so she won't be back home later. Figured I should do some studying if I'm going to be a full-time General. Unfortunately," He closed his book and placed it on top of the file. "It doesn't tell me a whole lot I didn't already know. I really want to know why so many joined the CIS, but it seems like everything's biased here without telling me the perspective of the other side. For example, the books only told me about the perspective of the Republic on the Huk War, but things aren't adding up after I've met surviving Yam'rii."
"What did they say?" She asked.
"Many survivors acknowledged that they deserved their destruction. How their leaders enslaved others including the Kaleesh and that General Grievous fought to liberate his people. Then the Republic and the Jedi Order sided with the Yam'rii and devastated the already suffering Kaleesh. Master Puroth and Nystammal had to die during his crusade of vengeance."
"You want to fix things."
Baylan nodded.
"And fix other mistakes by the Jedi Order and the Republic. Such things should not happen and cannot happen again. For the sake of conserving the status quo, many had to suffer."
"You cannot do it alone young man. And you certainly won't be able to absorb all this knowledge overnight."
"No you're right." He stood up and began putting books back on their respective places. "But I can assure you I won't be the only one."
"For the sake of everyone, I hope you're right." Master Nu sighed.
After putting the books back, Baylan silently walked past her for the Archive's exit. Curiously, Master Nu began picking out the books the young Knight was reading. Her eyes widened when she saw the subject of one of the books.
"Force…Premonitions?"
1800 Prosperity, Residential District #2
Galactic City, Coruscant
Fenryr was both tired and annoyed. It seemed like the message from the Chancellor's office didn't get through Director Isard's head so he had to give them one more meeting so screw up with their scheduled rest. At least Bode was kind enough to drop her home. She didn't even have time to pick up groceries and just wanted some sleep. The hallway of her apartment were empty and she just caught the unaware Captain Pellaeon entering his own apartment.
Entering her home, she was pleasantly surprised to see Baylan laying on her couch, watching sports news on the holotable.
"-throw a parade already whether you win a championship or not. This man was a bonafide scrub! He can't play! No disrespect whatsoever-"
Baylan barked in laughter and raised his head, smiling after seeing it was Fenryr entering the apartment.
"Welcome home! Normally I'd ask how's your day going but we know the answer to that."
Fenryr sighed and kicked the door close.
"Honestly if Dooku asked me to, I would've kicked Isard's jewels free of charge."
"Too late for that." Baylan sat up on the sofa. "He already produced a daughter and everyone's talked about how annoying and devious she is."
"Well hopefully I'm around to teach her some morals." The woman said. She sat on the sofa and leaned on Baylan's shoulder. "Think we'll stay like this forever? You and I?"
"We will, I'm making sure of that." He responded.
The Republic spy thought for a second and then looked at her lover.
"What do you mean by that?"
"I've been thinking about this for so long y'know? How the Jedi Order needs to change. Sometimes, my ideas on how to bring that change was borderline insanity." Baylan sighed. "After the Council showed Master Eeth Koth the door, I realized there was no saving it. They'll find out about us and the whole galaxy will turn on them. So I decided to do something that will at least save us…leaving the Jedi Order."
"..."
"..."
"WHAT?" Fenryr scrieched.
"Now now, before you call me out for being irrational, I already told Captain Pellaeon that I intend to continue serving as a Republic General. Just without the restrictions of the Jedi Order and we're free to be open about our relationship."
"But…but the Jedi Order!" She sat up. "Your home! Your whole life! You're just going to leave it all behind?"
In response, Baylan put his hand on the back of her head and kissed the top of it.
"For you? I would do it a thousand times more Princess."
Fenryr pouted.
"You oaf. Do you know how much attention this would bring?"
He smirked and brought her in to a hug.
"I don't care. We can be whatever we want to be and I'll always be with you, even if the whole galaxy falls apart."
*Sniff* "It's just…everything's so scary right now. I'm always so worried that one day you won't come back whenever you leave."
"I know." He kissed the top of her head again. "Gilad caught me being nervous about you not coming back in time during a mission. He slapped me and told me to man up. Trust in you, always."
For a moment, Baylan froze. He had an eerie feeling and then his ears picked up childlike giggling. The Knight didn't let go of Baylan, but glanced around the room.
"Something wrong?" Fenryr asked, feeling him move his head around almost frantically.
"Sorry, nothing." He assured her. "Nothing at all."
Author's Notes: Sorry it took so long. Been going through a lot of things after graduating and had to make some serious financial decisions to help my family. Things look pretty bad everywhere at the moment but I still got hope.
Anyways, the chapter was meant to be a lot longer but I realized as I was writing that what I planned would take multiple chapters. There's a lot of things to cover and I was naive to believe I could fit it all in one chapter. Well, lesson learned.