"Talking"

'Thinking'

[Droid]

~Parseltongue~

{Black Speach}


Balmorra

Aboard the Fury

Vette can be seen in the cargo hold of the ship, fixing up the final touches on the new speeder when her comlink started ringing, answering it revealed Salazar.

"What's up Sal?"

"Vette, come to these coordinates, they should lead you towards a Republic keep, I'm on my way there now."

"Got it boss." Vette nodded.

The comlink disconnects.

"No rest for the wicked I guess." Vette mumbled.


Silence the Son

"So, how do you wanna handle this?" Vette asked.

"Unfortunately, we'll need to go through some soldiers to reach our target." Salazar said.

"Lovely." Vette said dryly.

The two entered the base. Oddly enough, the main pathway through the base was fairly clear of enemies. In total, they only had to defeat two 3 men guard patrols. The hallway itself was lined with Durasteel sheeting on the walls and ceiling. Off to the side, there were several computer monitors, holoterminals, and work tables. After a 10 minute walk, they finally made it to the brig. The door was conveniently open and they could hear two people talking inside.

"Pipe down, Durmat. There's something going on outside. I'm trying to listen." Jailer Zixx said.

"Come on Zixx, throw me a bone. Who's this agent that's comin' to interrogate me? At least answer that will ya?" Durmat said.

Zixx just glares at Durmat.

"Fine fine, stay clamped. I don't care who it is, I ain't talking. Nobody's gonna get nothin' outta me. Nothin'..." Durmat said confidently.

Sadly, that confidence faded away pretty quick as the silence continues. He started pacing in his cell, the more he looked around, the more nervous he got.

Till he finally cracked. "All right all right, I ain't proud, I give! My dad's an Imperial agent!"

Zixx turned around to face Durmat in front of his cell. "What did you say? Your dad is a what?"

"He said his father is a spy." Salazar spoke up, making his and Vette's presence known.

Durmat got extremely scared. "Oh fuck... oh fuck... oh fuck..."

"This is a restricted area. What are you doing here? Who are you?" Zixx demanded.

"It's--it's not a who, it's a what... th-that's a Sith!" Durmat stammered.

"When you have the time, Zixx, you might want to get your prisoner some new pants." Salazar chuckled.

"Durmat's pants should be the least of your concerns, Sith. What did you do to my patrol teams?" Zixx growled.

"Unfortunately, they refused to surrender so I was forced to dispose of them." Salazar replied.

"You will pay for that." The jailer said as they began to circle one another.

"You and what army?" Vette asked as they now had their backs to Durmat.

"I'm glad you asked." Zixx asked as he drew his vibrosword. Behind him, six guards came in through the entrance that Salazar and Vette had just used.

"Why did I have to open my mouth?" The Twi'lek asked as she drew her pistols while Salazar activated his lightsaber.

"You are outnumbered, Sith. Surrender now and we will make your deaths painless." Zixx said.

Salazar grinned. "Sorry, I don't fancy dying any time soon."

With that, he Force Leapt towards the nearest guard and sliced his head of while Vette scored two headshots. The remaining 3 guards and Zixx began to attack after the surprise attack. Durmat simply cowered in his cell, making himself as small a target as possible.

While Vette managed to take care of the 3 remaining guards, Salazar used the force to hold Zixx in a Force Choke.

"Do you yield?" Salazar asked, maintaining his hold on the jailer while holding his lightsaber to the side.

"Go to Hell." Zixx choked out, going for his side arm.

Before Salazar could react, Vette shot Zixx in the head, sending a shower of blood and brain matter on the wall.

"Moron." Salazar said as he deactivated his lightsaber and clipped it to his belt. "Why didn't he surrender?"

"Pride, maybe?" Vette offered as she holstered her pistols.

"Possibly." Salazar sighed as they turned back to the only other living person in the room. Durmat was hesitantly uncurling from his ball and looking around the room. His eyes rested on the now deceased jailer before landing on Salazar.

"Please... please, I--I know why you're here. The--the Republic... the Republic's investigating my dad... and an agent's comin' to put the screws to me..."

"But... I won't break, I promise. Let me live, my dad's secret is safe with me. I--I'm a rock."

"You cracked a minute someone looked at you funny. I just heard you confess to Zixx." Salazar said.

"Well yeah, but he's dead now, so he--he can't tell anyone. My father's done so much for the Empire. Maybe--maybe the apple fell off the tree, kind of far from the tree, but--it's still... the apple's still... Durmat trailed off.

"Uh... not exactly sure where I was goin' with that. Please don't kill me! Durmat begged.

"I'm open to any alternatives." Salazar suggested, hoping the prisoner might have something. If not, he would have to comply with Baras's order of execution.

"Wait! I think I might have something!" The prisoner exclaimed. "Check in that far most foot locker, it should have some chemicals in it."

Curious as to what his idea might be, Salazar walked over to the foot locker, opened it, and found the chemicals the prisoner was referring to along with an injector. He held onto the injector while handing the chemicals to Durmat.

"Yes! This is it!" Durmat exclaimed.

"Mind letting us in on the plan?" Vette asked.

"These are the failed prototypes of a mind altering drug I helped develop. It was intended to help wipe short term memory. It failed in small doses because it had no effect. Overdosing on the chemical would completely wipe out the test subjects memory."

"So you want us to allow you to overdose on this stuff?" Salazar asked.

Durmat nodded. "I...I really don't have anything to be proud of remembering. All my life I have been a screw up. Dad loved me but when I found out his secret, I could never look at him the same again. With this, at least I'll have a new start on life."

Salazar nodded, understanding the Durmat's logic but saddened all the same.

"If that is what you wish." He said, handing the injector to Durmat.

"I'll be knocked out for a minute or two. When I wake up, just make sure that it worked" He said as he prepped the injector with the chemicals. Slowly, he brought it to his arm and pulled the trigger. As the chemicals entered his arm, his body began to spasm and jerk for a minute before he collapsed on the floor of his cell.

As the two waited for him to wake up, Salazar and Vette searched the remaining footlockers. The found a couple thousand credits along with several bottles of contraband liquor.

"Saving these for later." Vette said cheekily as she packed the booze into her bag.

Salazar shook his head and chuckled at her antics before turning back to Durmat. They heard him groaning from the floor as he began to stir.

"Wh-where am I?" He asked groggily.

"I think the more important question is who are you?" Salazar replied.

"I...I don't remember." Durmat said, scratching his head in confusion. "Do you know who I am?"

"You are the son of Republic war hero, Commander Rylon. The rest is up for you to decide." Salazar said.

Durmat simply nodded his head in acceptance before settling down on the floor and staring at the wall.

Satisfied with the results, the two made their way out of the base and back towards the speeder.

"Wow, too bad there isn't more of that drug--I got a few memories I could let go of." Vette said.

"Should I take that personally?" Salazar joked.

Vette grinned back. "Of course not. I'll never be able to forget you."


Lieutenant Quinn's Office

"I must be honest--your success at the satellite control station and Republic crater outpost has surprised me, my lord. I computed the likelihood of success as nearly negligible. In my assessment however, I only considered the capabilities of a typical Sith. Clearly, you are not a typical Sith. I will adjust future calibrations to account for your unprecedented abilities."

"If anything, you should overestimate my capabilities." Salazar said.

"If you don't mind, I'm going to attempt to be as accurate as possible. Lord Baras is pleased. He says it's time to zero in on your prime directive, and he waits your contact. Activate the holocommunicator in the next room to speak with Lord Baras. The line is secure.

Nodding, Salazar told Vette to wait outside the room. Activating the holocommunicator resulted in Darth Baras answering.

"I hope you can see the smile on my face apprentice. You are turning me into a true believer. I'm sure you're impatient to complete your time on that little rock. With the satellite tower computer destroyed and Commander Rylon's son neutralized, my spy's tracks are covered. Now, the only threat to Rylon ever being exposed is the man himself. It's time to end that threat. Permanently."

"Hmm." Salazar crossed his arms as a holo-image of the man was displayed beside his master. "By all accounts the man should be given a medal, pension and a good retirement. A pity he has to die."

"Every one of my agents has always known the risk." Baras remarked stiffly.

"I've had him embedded within an enemy ranks for decades. The extent of his contribution to the Empire's interests is unrivaled."

"Well then, it's time to retire him. He served his purpose." Salazar said.

"You took the words right out of my mouth, apprentice. The Jedi investigator must have no hard evidence that Rylon was killed to silence him. It must look like anything but a targeted execution--annihilate everyone there." Baras orders.

Salazar bowed. "As you command, master."

"See to that. I've summoned Lieutenant Quinn. He'll prepare you for your final task."

Quinn entered the room a minute after the communication ended and started his briefing; A holo of the immediate area surrounding the factory on full display.

"Your final target is the Balmorran Arms Factory. The resistance forces recently captured it and made it their headquarters. An incursion into the Arms Factory will be a monumental feat. I'm excited by the prospect of you laying waste to that place." Quinn said.

"we're on the same page, Lieutenant." Salazar said.

"The Republic command center is deep inside the Arms Factory, the most heavily protected installation on the planet. In order to reach Commander Rylon, you will have to make your way past all of the factory's defense--which are considerable."

"Give me a rundown on those defenses."

"Unknown, my lord. But the resistance will certainly have state-of-the-art security and attack droids. Stationed inside are an estimated one thousand of the Republic's best trained soldiers. Specifically Rylon's elite squadron is responsible for some of the most precise, improbable resistance victories on Balmora. They're legendary."

"Sounds like you admire them, Lieutenant." Salazar said.

"I've marvelled at their tactical exploits, that's all. One final thing: The investigator that the Jedi sent has been concentrating her activity around the Arms Factory. I have her under minute-by-minute surveillance. If she becomes a problem, I'll contact you on your comlink."

"Good. Let's get this well under way shall we?"

"I will be here to salute you when the Balmorran Arms Factory is a smoking husk, my lord." Quinn nodded.


As Salazar and Vette were leaving Quinns Office, they were approached by a lone Imperial trooper.

"My lord--you're Darth Baras's apprentice, right? Got orders from the planetary governor to find you. You're needed at his war conference, priority alpha one."

"I don't remember telling the Balmorran governor about my business." Salazar said.

"Empire appoints you to run this planet, you keep track of who's slaughtering the resistance. The Dark Council sent an emissary--big time Sith Lord--to personally review the status of the Balmorran occupation. This conference will determine the next stage of the ground campaign. Whole war's about to be decided, and the governor wants your expertise." The trooper said.

"This emissary of the Dark Council--what do we know about them?" Salazar asked.

"Sith politics aren't my business. One of Darth Marr's servants, is what I hear--don't know anything else. Assigning black-level clearance--no one will cause you trouble. Be quick, though... they're starting any minute."

"I see, as you were." Salazar said.

The trooper saluted and walked away.


Governor's conference room

Before entering the conference room, Salazar told Vette to wait outside.

Inside, Salazar was able to see 3 Imperial working on the terminals, as well as a female human Sith Force Choking the Balmorran governor.

She was quite pretty. She had ivory skin, long black hair made in a bun to look short, yellow eyes no doubt due to dabbling in the Dark Side, and finally had red makeup around her eyes and on her bottom lip.

"Do you know the worst part, Governor?"

"I didn't--I didn't..."

"Exactly--you didn't even own up to your mistakes. That's why the Dark Council gave this planet to me."

"Please..." The governor begged.

The Sith, who also known as Darth Lachris looked to see Salazar waiting.

"Watch, and enjoy."

Darth Lachris snaps the governor's neck. His head twisting a bit far to the right.

"I'm Darth Lachris, and I've been tasked with cleansing Balmorra. I'm glad you came--more Sith can only much-needed dignity."

Salazar gave her a small bow. "Darth Lachris. It's time this planet met the rulers of the Empire."

"Quite so. You're here because I asked the governor to bring me his best. Balmorra has a problem."

Lachris grabs her comlink to show Salazar a holo-record of a man speaking.

"My friends in the resistance. I won't take much time. The Empire says it owns Balmorra. The Republic says 'It's yours--we're gone!' But you and I know Balmorra's won with sweat and tears--and my boys will stand by your side until everyone knows it."

Lachris cuts the comlink off. "Grand Marshal Cheketta, formerly of the Republic Army. Officially, he and his troops went rogue after the Republic withdrew from this sector. Ever since, they've been hold up under siege, aiding the resistance and fortifying their position. You may've met their scouting parties already."

"If these men are ex-Republic, aren't they violating the peace treaty?" Salazar asked.

"Not so long as the Republic government denies any official involvement. Cheketta and the resistance are based in the Balmorran Arms Factory--home of the brightest engineers in the galaxy. I'm told the factory's generators are inexhaustible, it's defenses cutting-edge--its barricades block our scans, giving the resistance peace and privacy!"

"No fortress is invincible. There must be a structural vulnerability, potential traiters in the ranks..." Salazar said.

"If the governor had done his job, we'd know--but there's no time anymore. Cheketta may've officially gone rogue, but the Republic still supports him. They fund his revolution from the shadows, make supply drops in secret. Those Republic hypocrites want the Arms Factory as a beachhead--and as Balmora's new governor, I say we take it before they mount a full invasion."

Lachris noticed another Sith entering the room. "Ah good, you've arrived."

Salazar turned and smiled to see who entered the room.

It was none other than Irene. As stunning as ever.

Salazar turned back to face Lachris. "I'll lead the frontal assault myself."

Obliterate the factory defenses. Lower the barricades that block our scans, and I'll have an army at your back. And if you can... bring me proof of Republic involvement on Balmorra. We'll expose their lies on a galactic stage.


Salazar and Irene left the conference room.

"Again we meet." Salazar said grinning.

"Again indeed." Irene grinned back.

"So what brought you to this mud ball?" Irene asked.

"Getting rid of spies who worked for Baras. What about you?" Salazar asked.

"Retrieving another ancient artifact for Zash." Irene sighed.

"Well if you're here, am I raight to assume the Dashade's here?"

"You'd be correct." Irene said.

"Hopefully, Vette hasn't pissed herself out of fear." Salazar said, making Irene laugh.


The Siege of Balmorran Arms

Within the factory, Salazar, Vette, Irene, and Khem found a terminal.

"Vette, keep a look out for company." Salazar instructed.

"You too, Khem." Irene ordered.

Salazar opens a secure channel.

Darth Lachris, can you read me? I'm lowering the barricades to the Balmorran Arms Factory."

The image of Lachris in holo appears.

"I hear you perfectly--we'll start scanning the interior now. Hold on... someone cut through this interference!"

The holo image of Grand Marshal Cheketta replaces Lachris.

Pardon my interruption. I'm Grand Marshal Cheketta, formerly of the Republic Army."

"I am Salazar, and this is Irene. We are apprentices to Darth Baras and Darth Zash respectively and we're the voice of the Empire here." Salazar said.

"Ah, so you're the governor's dogs. I'm not a complete fool--once I realized you planned to lower our defenses, I sent a few friends."

Within sight was a squad of soldiers and a male Tagruta Jedi.

"Jedi Knight Ralon Nys, reporting." The Jedi nodded his head.

"Tempest Squad, reporting." The lead soldier saluted.

"Fresh 'volunteers' who've taken a leave of absence to join the Balmorran resistance. Taste of what's coming." Cheketta said.

"You expect us to believe these people are acting without Republic orders? They're violating the peace treaty by supporting the resistance." Irene said.

"Ralon, are you here on Republic orders?" Cheketta asked.

"No, sir." Ralon answered.

"There you go." Cheketta said before disconnecting.

Without warning, the Jedi charged while the soldiers opened fire. Salazar crossed blades with the Jedi while Irene electrocuted most of the soldiers and Vette shot down the stragglers. When the fighting was over, Salazar had Ralon in the same position Anakin had Dooku. (If you know you know.) But before he could finish him off, Khem placed his hand on Salazar's shoulder, stopping him and spoke in his strange language.

"He said he wants to eat him." Irene explained.

"Oh, in that case, sure, but the kyber crystal is mine." Salazar said, taking the Jedi's blue lightsaber crystal.

While Khem feasted on the Jedi and Vette looting the soldiers, Salazar reconnected with Lachris.

"Can you hear me? This channel is still open... did Cheketta send a Jedi?" Lachris asked.

"Salazar nodded. "Along with a Special Forces Team. He claimed they weren't with the Republic."

"I'm sure he did. My people are performing a full scan of the factory now that the defenses are down. I'll patch you in to the report." Lachris said.

"My lord, we're detecting unusual signals from inside the factory. What appears to be a... hyperspace beacon. It shouldn't be possible... it must've taken them decades." An Imperial Officer said.

"Don't underestimate their engineers or their resources. What can it do?" Lachris asked.

"In theory, starships could follow the beacon and jump in-system almost directly overhead." The Officer said.

"The Republic is flying reinforcements straight to the Balmorran Arms Factory and bypassing our defenses." Lachris said.

"You know where to look. Scan for enemy transports approaching the factory." Irene said.

"Picking up... there are dozens of ships out there. Silhouette is Republic Special Forces, Triumph-class." The Officer said.

"This is how they did it during the war--multiple strike teams, strategic objectives, one Jedi per military squad. They took entire planets. They know we see them. They're rushing to land now!" Lachris said.

"If they're heading to the factory, we can stop them from the ground." Salazar said.

"Agreed. Take out the landing platforms and guidance systems. I'll have attack squadrons blow those ships out of the sky. Fail me now, and we perish with Balmorra." Lachris said before disconnecting.


Repelling Invasion

"So, how do we handle this?" Irene asked.

"Vette and I can take care the landing platforms, you and Khem got the guidance systems." Salazar said.

Nodding, the two Sith and their companions set out to their respective objectives. Between Salazar's skills with his lightsaber, Vette's shooting, Irene's lightning, and Khem's ferocity, they were able to pin point the Grand Marshal's location.

Salazar however, noticed that his original target is actually close to his position. Making a decision, He grabbed his comlink and opened a secure channel to Irene.

"Irene, feel free to go after Cheketta, my mastar's spy is close by." Salazar said.

"If you're sure." Irene said.

"I'm sure." He confirmed.


To Kill a Legend

"...the factory is under under attack. Headquarters has been breached and casualties are severe." Captain Eligyn said to his earpiece.

"Keep your wits, Captain. What do we know of the enemy?" Commander Rylon said.

"Target is carving a bloody path in this direction. Unconfirmed reports suggest it's Sith." Eligyn said.

All of a sudden the doors opened, revealing a female blue Twi'lek holding a blaster cannon.

"Room service!" She said before letting loose with her blaster cannon.

In All honesty, they were expecting Imperial troopers at best or Sith at worst, but what they weren't expecting was a Twi'lek holding a blaster cannon.

They were quickly cut down by the Twi'lek due to their moment of inaction. In about ten seconds, the squad was either dead or dying.

Yet she continued shooting.

"Vette?" Salazar asked, trying to get her attention.

Still she continued firing, blaster marks and holes appearing on the walls and computers.

"Vette." He tried again, this time more forceful.

The Twi'lek still ignored him, having too much fun with her new toy.

"VETTE!" The Mando-Sith exclaimed, grabbing her shoulder.

That got her attention. At the same time, a clicking noise was coming from the blaster cannon, signaling that the energy cell was now depleted.

"Can I keep this?" Vette asked.

"Nope." Salazar replied, grabbing the weapon with the Force before tossing it off to the side.

"You're no fun." She pouted.

"Oh I'm loads of fun." He countered before leaning closer to her ear. "Or so you tell me when my tongue's down in your mouth."

"Shh." The Twi'lek giggled. "We don't want the corpses to know that."

Before Salazar could reply, the sound of doors opening caught their attention. At the far end of the room, a middle aged man in a Republic officer's uniform entered the room with a pistol drawn. He had grey near close to white hair and blue eyes. The two looked at the man they presumed to be their target. He looked around the room and pulled out a remote of some kind before pressing a button, resulting in the cameras being destroyed.

He noted the bodies that littered the floor. "Seems you made quick work of my men, Sith." The Commander said as he stepped over the corpses of his defenders.

"That was all her." Salazar said before pointing to Vette. The man simply nodded in response.

"It's unfortunate they were on the wrong side. They were excellent soldiers and exceptional men." Rylon said.

"Why didn't you convert them to our cause?" Salazar asked.

"I follow Baras's orders to the letter. Recruitment was never my purpose here. I serve for the glory of the Empire. But the life of a spy is a slippery one. In essence, I had to become a Republic soldier, and I've done things against the Empire that have sickened me." Rylon said.

"Maybe, but it was for the greater good, Commander." Salazar said.

"I have lived believing--hoping--that was the case my friend. Today was inevitable. I knew Lord Baras would eventually have to eliminate me, but I'm proud to have been of service all this time. But before I embrace my end, there is one thing I must know. My son He was the only thing in the galaxy that was truly mine. And in love or weakness, I told him my secrets. I... I know you had to cover my tracks, but please tell me, what became of my son?"

"We wiped his mind. The only thing he know for certain is that his father is a hero of the Republic." Vette said.

Commander Rylon sighed in relief. "At least I can die knowing that he is both alive and oblivious of my true loyalties."

"When they find my corpse, there must be evidence of a valiant fight. We must make this look convincing, Sith. So I will not hold back. I will fight you as though you are my mortal enemy." Rylon said.

"It will give me no pleasure to cut you down." Salazar said.

"Our duty is often difficult friend. Tell Lord Baras it has been my great honor to serve him." Rylon said.

In the face of inevitable fate, the Commander and the Sith Warrior stood at the precipice, their paths irrevocably intertwined, weapons drawn and ready to face the final moments of the covert commander's loyalty to the Empire.

They circled each other, Vette taking cover behind a barricade ready to unleash a barrage of blaster bolts at a moments notice.

Salazar was ready for anything. Sure, Rylon was literally an old man. But that didn't mean old dogs couldn't learn new tricks.

In a flash, the commander ducked behind a pillar and dropped a smoke bomb onto the floor at his feet and threw a couple more towards Salazar and Vette.

The Sith Force leaped towards Rylon's location, fully intent on cutting him down. He swung his lightsaber but hit nothing but duracrete. Expanding his senses, he tried to feel Rylon's life energy through the force; only to hear blaster shots ringing out from the other side of the room.

"Sal!" Vette shouted as she backpedalled against a quickly encroaching Rylon. "A little help here?!"

'Shit!' Salazar cursed in his head. He was so used to enemies always targeting him that he forgot that Rylon was a little smarter than the average man. Taking down Vette would relieve some pressure off of Rylon and make it a little harder to kill him.

Salazar charged towards the sounds of battle whereas Rylon had reached Vette and tried to shoot her at point blank range. Luckily Vette dodged it with her naturally quick reflexes. But she realised it was a trick as Rylon used it as a distraction to get up close and personal.

She noticed a glint and narrowly avoided a swipe from a mini-bayonet attached to Rylon's blaster.

'Woah that's cool! I gotta get me one of those for my blasters… WOAH!' She ducked as the special forces commander took another stab at her.

For the few precious seconds, Rylon moved not like an old man but a seasoned fighter. Vette could only dodge or block his shots and strikes without any time for her to return the favor, all the while keeping her on the backfoot.

Her heel hit a piece of large debris and Vette could only grunt as she tripped and fell backwards onto the cold floor. Rylon was over her in a moment and had trained his pistol right between her eyes and began to pull the trigger.

"NO!" Salazar roared as he thrusted a palm towards the pair and let out a single arc of force red lightning that jumped across the distance in a split second and struck Rylon in the back.

Rylon let out a guttural scream as the electricity ran his nervous system haywire and his body twitched and jerked in unnatural ways.

Vette took the chance to roll away to safety and ran back to Salazar's side. Seeing that she was safe, the apprentice clenched his fist and allowed the lightning to dissipate.

Rylon, still smoking and twitching, sunk to his hands and knees. His pistol slipping from his fingers and dropping on the floor. His age had caught up with him. Perhaps if he was still young he might have been able to shrug it off and keep fighting… No. He had a good run.

Salazar walked up to the old man who looked up at him with a satisfied smile on his face. Seemingly accepting his fate.

In a flash, Rylon thrusted his bayoneted pistol into Salazar's face with speed even the Sith was impressed with considering his age. The warrior, unfortunately, lazily caught the blaster before the blade could reach him. The Sith nodded in respect… then decapitated him in a single slash.

Commander Rylon was no more.

"Sal, you ok?" Vette asked, worried he might of gotten hurt.

"I'm fine." Salazar said.

His comlink started ringing, answering it revealed Quinn.

"My lord, I believe we've got trouble. I heard your entire conversation with commander Rylon."

"How could you hear my conversation? Have you been spying on me imperial?" Salazar sharply questioned.

"No, my lord. As I told you, I've been surveilling the Jedi investigator. Apparently, she bugged Rylon's quarters, and as she listened in on your conversation, I heard what she heard. The investigator knows everything, my lord." Quinn said.

"Where is she now?" Salazar demanded.

She was heading to her ship, but I had my men move in and cut her off from the Republic landing bay. I am systematically blocking her avenues of transmission and escape, hurting that Republic scum to her only hope--the spaceport at Sobrik." Quinn said.

"I will be there soon." Salazar said.

"I'm afraid there's more, my lord. My men who engaged her report that she's wielding a lightsaber. It seems this investigator is a Jedi Knight. I advise caution when facing her." Quinn warns.

"Being careful is what got us into this mess." Salazar said.

"I see your point, my lord. I will gather my remaining men and meet you at the spaceport, we will crush this Jedi!" Quinn said before disconnecting.

"Come on Vette, got ourselves a Jedi to catch." Salazar said.

"Sure, but what about Irene and big ugly face? Vette asked.

"I'm sure they'll be fine. I mean, it's not like Irene's gonna lose to an old man." Salazar said, confident in Irene's capabilities.


Repelling Invasion

Irene P.O.V

Irene and Khem can be seen confronting the Grand Marshal and two Jedi.

"The fleet may be lost, but my Padawan and I can hold the Imperials while you regroup." Sedoya Senn said.

"No. You've got your ship, we've got a few of our own--I want you to get the non-combatants and the wounded off Balmorra..." Cheketta said.

The trio noticed Irene's and Khem's presence. The Jedi drew their lightsabers, but Cheketta kept his blaster holstered.

Grand Marshal Cheketta was an old man who managed to keep his body in top shape, brown eyes, wearing heavy armor, and the only hair on his head was a short grey mohawk.

"...after we handle this. You're damn tough, you know that?"

"If we'd tried talking from the beginning, we might not be in this mess." Irene said.

"Anything's possible, I suppose. I've got Jedi at my back and the finest armor Balmorran Arms ever designed. Ignore the scratches."

"We can cover your escape." Sedoya said.

"Nah. Let's see what an old man can do for his troops.

Without warning, combat ensued. Irene and the Jedi Knight Sedoya crossed blades while Cheketta hid behind the ramp of the shuttle firing his blaster pistols at Khem who quickly engaged, defeated, and started eating the Padawan.

Irene's duel with Sedoya was challenging, both seemed to be evenly matched. But what the Jedi wasn't expecting, was a huge charge of purple lightning coming from Irene's extended hand. The Jedi's body twitched and convulsed in pain, Irene reached through the Force, catching the Jedi Knight in a Force Choke and quickly snapped his neck.

Seeing that Khem had his blade under the Grand Marshal's neck, she assumes the Padawan saited his hunger, at least for now. Cheketta was holding his bleeding side, Khem must've wounded him pretty nastily.

"What should be done with this one, little Sith?" Khem asked in his native tongue.

"Good fight. You've got... well. You've got something I don't have anymore." Cheketta sighed in defeat.

"Did you really think you can take Balmorra? Did you think you could defeat me? I am a master of the dark side." Irene said.

"You are what you are. Listen, please. I know how much the Empire wants to expose the Republic's... involvement in Balmorra. Publicly. I can confess the truth of the invasion--if you help my men." Cheketta said.

"What happened to the grand marshal who showed defiance?" Irene asked.

"It's just us now--none of my boys left to inspire. Let the Balmorrans and the non-combatants leave. Treat the Republic soldiers fairly, as prisoners of war. Help them, and I'll tell everyone we violated the treaty." Cheketta said.

"You're in no position to strike a deal." Irene said.

"Damn it--that's everything you could want! Why?" Cheketta asked desperately.

"You and your men-every resistance fighter on this planet-must be punished." Irene said.

"This won't last forever. Your Empire won't last. I swear." Cheketta declared.

An Imperial soldier approached and saluted. "Ma'am! Squad 815. Darth Lachris sent us to reinforce your position."

"Take the grand marshal into custody. We're done for now." Irene ordered.

"Understood. There's fighting all over the factory, but it looks like a victory. Orders are to regroup at the outpost when you can-ma'am!"

'I wonder how Salazar's doing?' Irene thought


Salazar P.O.V

The Jedi investigator Mashallon moved quickly through Sobrik's spaceport. She was human with dark skin and blue eyes.

All she needed was to steal a shuttle and her mission would be fully complete. Before she could, however, she sensed the presence of a powerful individual approaching. There was no possibility of escaping unless she defeated this new foe.

Turning around to face her adversary, Mashallon calmly spoke. "You're too late Sith. I already transmitted the conversation between you and Commander Rylon to the Jedi Council. Normen Karr has his proof. Now Master Karr and his Padawan will track down and expose every Sith agent in the galaxy."

"You won't be around to see it." Salazar said.

"I will not fall today. Not to you. My intentions and motivations are clear. As is my mind. I have purity of purpose. I seek neither thrills nor satisfaction. Unlike you, I am calm." Mashallon said.

"Seven hells, how utterly boring." Salazar said.

"Living an enlightened life is anything but boring. The dark side shall fail you Sith. Save yourself. Surrender, and the Jedi Council will give you every opportunity to discover redemption." Mashallon said.

"And I offer you the chance to surrender and live Jedi." Salazar said.

"Surrender is not possible, I am in the right. I won't kill you Sith. But I am leaving, so I'm going to have to incapacitate you." Mashallon reached and ignited her green lightsaber.

"Try to, if you dare." Salazar ignited his purple blade.

With that, Salazar leapt at the spy. To her credit, she was quick to block his strike and counter him. Vette moved to cover and began taking shots at the Jedi to try and throw her off.

Mashallon thought this would be an easy victory. Oh boy, she was so wrong. Salazar had to have been the most powerful opponent she's faced so far, between his raw strength, technique of Makashi, and his power in the Force and on top his Twi'lek shooting at her, it was getting too much.

In the background, a freighter was warmed up and was lifting up off the ground, preparing to leave. Using the Force, she quickly Force pushed both her opponent and his Twi'lek away far enough to allow her to have the boarding ramp lowered enough to land on.

Seeing her exit, the Spy used a Force powered jump in an attempt to land on the ramp and escape.

So she was shocked when she felt someone grip her with the Force. Turning her head, she saw that the Sith had her in his grasp.

"Going somewhere?" He asked, the cocky grin still on his face.

Her face fell into a mask of disappointment and acceptance.

When Mashallon noticed that she was being lowered to Salazar's level, he delivered a force-enhanced punch to the gut; causing her to crash onto the floor and empty the contents of her stomach.

Through the hacking and coughing, the defeated Jedi still remained composed.

"Your victory-cough!-means nothing. The damage has been-cough!-done. The proof has been transmitted. So,-cough!-deal the deathblow Sith. I am at peace knowing that that the greater good-cough!-has been served."

"I hate to burst your bubble Jedi." Quinn's voice could be heard as he appeared with a squad of imperial troopers. He was obviously enjoying it. "No, that's a lie. I'm reveling in it. I intercepted your transmission. The Jedi know nothing."

"You just earned your pay, lieutenant." Salazar said.

"I'm only doing my duty, my lord. I had her monitored and screened the entire time. There was never any risk at all." Quinn said.

"Gloat all you like. It means nothing. I remain at peace. And Nomen Karr and his padawan will still defeat you."

"I'm giving you one chance, Jedi. Tell me the name of Nomen Karr's padawan." Salazar demanded.

A shred of defiance flashed across Mashallon's expression. "I will never betray her identity. I am resigned. Strike me down. I offer no further resistance."

"There's no point in killing you. You'll be put into custody, lieutenant."

"At once, my lord." Quinn snapped to attention before clasping shackles on the arms behind the investigators back and unclasping her lightsaber from her belt. "Your lightsaber, if you will, Jedi. Men, bring this jedi scum to her new home in the main prison."

Once the squad had left, the Lieutenant addressed the apprentice with a hint of confusion. "I'm sure you know what you are doing, my lord. But sparing the Jedi is a… curious… choice."

"A Jedi investigator will be a wealth of information." Salazar said.

"Of course my lord. What matters is the threat has been averted. Lord Baras will be anxious to learn what became of this. When you're ready, I'll contact him from my office." Quinn said.

"I will be there soon." Salazar said.

"Excellent, I'll go prepare. Quinn said before being dismissed.

Salazar can be seen heading towards Lachris's office when he sees Irene talking to an Imperial Colonel.

He was a fat man with a mostly bald head, with dirty brown hair on the sides, a mustache, as well as sky-blue eyes.

"I've heard most satisfactory reports of your success in the Balmorran Arms Factory. And that fool Vol Argen played right into our hands. There can be no doubt: The resistance is crushed."

"Not surprising, they had little resources, and most were barely trained. Victory was inevitable." Irene said

"The Sith are our true secret weapon, without a doubt. Captain Rigel is in charge of writing up the report on this one. If I could ask you for one final favor--that you report your success to him."

Nodding, Irene turned to see Salazar waiting for her while Vette tries to avoid Khem's gaze.

"Cleaning up more of the incompetence's messes among the ranks of the Empire?" Salazar asked.

"Yeah, it's concerning of how lax some members of both the military and intelligence really are." Irene said.


Darth Lachris's Office

When both Salazar and Irene entered the office, they noticed that Lachris seemed almost happy about something.

"Darth Lachris, Grand Marshal Cheketta is defeated." Irene said.

"And the Balmorran Arms Factory is broken." Salazar added.

"You two smell like smoke and blood. Let me show you something." Lachris said before reaching for her comlink. Showing the two young Sith a holo-recording of the Republic Ambassador.

"On behalf of the Senate and the Supreme Chancellor, I wholeheartedly condemn the actions of these rogue soldiers on Balmorra. They struck at Imperial targets without any Republic support. The Senate values its peace treaty with the Empire."

The recording disconnected.

"So embarrassing for the Senate, foresaking their own people. Meanwhile, Imperial Intelligence has begun interrogating our captives. I'm giving the Jedi to Darth Marr, to see if they can be turned."

"I know you wanted proof of Republic involvement. But you don't seem disappointed." Irene said.

"You gave me something just as good. I'm gathering troops for a clean sweep of the Balmorran Arms Factory--I'm making it my base of planetary operations. My governorship would be very different without you two. You both have my gratitude for your assistance."

"The Balmorrans have suffered for a long time. If you want to end the resistance, show them the Empire is not their enemy." Salazar advised.

"I have my own plans for the people here... but I'll remember your advice. It's time I return to ruling--there are new reports of resistance activity. Should you choose to remain on Balmorra, perhaps I'll call on you both again. Or at least one of you." Lachris dismissed them both.

"You can report to the Captain, Irene. I gotta go report to Darth Baras about my success here on Balmorra." Salazar said.

"In that case." Irene said before hugging Salazar and Vette. "Take care of each other, ya hear?"

"Don't worry, I'll make sure to keep my eye on him." Vette said.

Laughing, Irene waved them farewell before climbing on a nearby speeder-car with Khem riding shotgun.


Quinn's Office

When Salazar and Vette entered Quinn's office, they can clearly see him already conversing with Baras instead of waiting for them to arrive.

Salazar narrowed his eyes dangerously. He surmised that Quinn must have already briefed Baras the moment he returned

"It's not my place, Lord Baras. I leave that for your apprentice to convey." Quinn said.

Darth Baras's hologram then turned to notice Salazar's presence and beckoned him to approach. "Then step aside, Lieutenant. My apprentice has arrived."

"Nice of you to join us. Quinn refuses to update me, insisting the privilege be yours. I assume the Jedi investigator has been stopped?"

"She is no longer a concern, master." Salazar said.

"That is a relief. I had hoped to avoid confronting the Jedi, but our hand was forced. What matters most is that Rylon can no longer be exposed. and how would you assess Lieutenant Quinn's contribution?" Baras asked.

"Lieutenant Quinn is an exceptional officer. I couldn't have done it without him." Salazar praised.

"High praise indeed. Quinn, I believe you have sufficiently repaid the dept you owed to me. I'm putting you up for a captaincy and a transmitting an executive order allowing you to station wherever you choose. You are dismissed."

"Thank you, Lord Baras. If my actions benefit the Empire, they benefit me. I would have done the same regardless of our past."

Quinn turns to Salazar. "My lord, before I depart, it's been my extreme honor to serve you. You are the epitome of everything the Empire stands for."

"The honor has been mine, Captain." Salazar said.

"Until we meet again. I salute you, my lord." Quinn saluted before exiting.

"He will have his hands full. There are powerful Imperials dedicated to keeping him down. But if Quinn can overcome them and rise to the station he deserves, there is great hope for our Imperial allies." Baras said.

"If given the opportunity, he will excel." Salazar said.

Either way, it's not worth worrying about. Quinn's affairs are a speck compared to what we face. Your presence on Balmorra is no longer needed. Return to your ship when you're ready to leave. I'll contact you there." Baras said before disconnecting.

Vette let out a breath she was holding. It seemed that whenever she was in the presence of Baras regardless if he was a hologram or not, she always felt like she would be cut down in a moment's notice.

Now that he was gone, she was back to her usual self. "So… we're leaving right?" She chimed. "On to our next destination in domination and destruction?"

"It would seem so, Vette."

"Well, hope the next place we end up at has a beach."

Salazar chuckled. "Keep hoping, Vette. Keep hoping."


Hanger Bay

As the two entered the hanger that housed the Fury, they were surprised to see Lieutenant Quinn standing by his vessel, well Vette was but not Salazar, his Imperial uniform crisply pressed, awaiting his return.

Quinn noticed his approach and bowed respectfully. "My lord, I hope you don't find my appearance here obtrusive. I beg an audience."

"Begging does not become an officer." Salazar said.

"Pardon my word choice, my Lord. I will speak plainly. As you know, Lord Baras enabled my reassignment anywhere I choose. It is an evolution I've longed for and assumed would never come. Aiding your mission on this planet has reawakened the ambition. I began my career with--to make the most profound impact possible for the Empire." Quinn said.

"Welcome back to life, Quinn." Salazar said.

"That is how it feels, my lord. I cannot think of a more glorious and honorable way to make a difference in the galaxy than to serve you."

Quinn takes a knee and bows to Salazar with his head hanging low.

I'm here to pledge myself to you. I'm ready and willing to serve in whatever capacity you seem fit."

"What exactly can you do, Captain?" Salazar asked.

"Who cares what he can do. I could use some help around here." Vette whined.

"There are some things only you can do for me, Vette." Salazar said, making Vette blush. "Besides, if you want I can set 2V-R8 to listen to your instructions."

Vette's demeanor quickly shifted to joy. "Great! Thanks!" And disappeared back into the depths of the ship.

"My lord, if given the chance, I know I will prove myself to you. I'm a top-notch pilot, military strategist, and a deadly shot. I can fly this ship, plan your battles, assess your enemies and kill them. You won't find a more tireless and loyal subject. I offer my military prowess and dedicate every ounce of my strength to your cause."

"I would be pleased to have you, Quinn." Salazar said.

"The pleasure will be mine. Thank you, my lord. I will submit my reassignment papers as we depart." Quinn said standing back up.


Aboard the Fury

Salazar's Fury-class interceptor stood still in the void of space just out of Balmorra's orbit. The whole crew, now comprising of the newly joined Quinn, Vette and the Sith Apprentice himself had gathered at the ship's central chamber, a dimly lit room dominated by a large, flickering hologram of Darth Baras.

"Apprentice, I see you are ready to put Balmorra behind you. Good. The elimination of Commander Rylon grants security to my spy network, but there is still more to be done." Baras said.

"I won't disappoint you." Salazar said.

"You haven't yet. But every new challenge offers the chance of failure. Now, before I unleash you on Nomen Karr and his Padawan, you must eliminate my spy on Nar Shaddaa. Head there immediately."

"Understood, master. My ship is en route to Nar Shaddaa as we speak."

Baras nodded in approval, his ominous figure looming in the hologram. "Good. And it is good to see you once again, Lieute-... No. 'Captain' Quinn." Baras greeted. "I was surprised when I received your request to be reassigned to my apprentice once more. I hope you will find serving under him most enjoyably challenging and yet rewarding at the same time."

The newly promoted Quinn, standing nearby, lowered his head in a respectful nod. "The pleasure is all mine, Lord Baras. I assure you I will serve him with the same conviction and fervor as I have served you in the past."

Baras's holographic image cackled slightly, but his deep voice remained steadfast. "Good. Apprentice, contact me again when your ship has arrived in orbit. Only then will I provide more details of your mission."

With that, the hologram flickered and faded into obscurity, leaving the crew in silence. Salazar turned to his companions, determination in his eyes. "Prepare for the jump to Nar Shaddaa. We have work to do."

As the ship's engines roared to life and the stars streaked past the viewports, the crew set course for their next destination. Salazar sat in the commander's chair as the rest of the ship began the jump to hyperspace.


End

Finally! Chapter 9 done!

So what did you guys think about the latest touch I did?

Don't forget to review or PM me.

Seriously, guys I feel like I'm talking to ghosts here! Sure comic artists pop up but I need real people reviewing my work, otherwise I feel like I'm doing this for nothing.

Comments are welcome so long as thier productive.

Remember, reality is an illusion, the universe is a hologram, bye gold, BYE!