Fate Denied: A Star Wars SI

[Saphrith]

So, 1 won by virtue of a tie with 2 and winning the coin toss. Also shout out to Inverted_helix for beta reading this.
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Dooku observed their handiwork from the bridge of the Invincible, Ranulph and Jace were busy commanding the ongoing battle that marked a significant point in this little endeavor. Half squadrons of turbostorm gunships flew across the viewport, chased by Aurek strikefighters, turbolasers tore apart the space around them as Ranulph's newly formed fleet engaged the pirate band they'd pinned between them and the planet.

It had been a good plan that they had come up with. When they first got in contact with Cham Syndulla, those six months ago he had explained in detail the pattern the pirates and slavers had established in their relationship with Ryloth. Some of the more enterprising slavers had done a census of the population in the various cities and villages of Ryloth to determine not only population size but generational demographics.

It was easier to determine when it was time to come collect their 'tribute' when the sons and daughters of Ryloth had become old enough to be worth something on the slave markets. That had never been the limit of their slaving but it was the bulk of it. The people of Ryloth had not been told that it was the reason for the census but they had figured out the pattern easily enough.

So, when Cham told them in the upcoming months there would be another 'collection', the opportunity was one they almost literally could not afford to miss. Cham would accept no less for the support of himself and his people.

He had asked for other things as well, much of Ryloth's economy relied on the production of Ryll on the black markets of the galaxy. Bringing Ryloth into the Republic more firmly and establishing a more permanent Republic presence on Ryloth would necessitate the end of the Ryll industry. The problem was that it would necessarily damn the Twi'lek people to poverty or shady underground business for years, potentially decades.

Cham would have none of that, if there was an alliance to be made, there would also need to be consideration for what came after his people were safe. Ranulph had been surprisingly agreeable and had made a considerable offer. Ranulph had gone to his cousin Fane, who had taken over his role on the executive board of Quintad Orbital Manufacturing. After negotiating between QOM and Rendili Stardrive, an agreement had been reached to slowly begin turning Ryloth into one of the Outer Rim's premier shipbuilding and military hardware manufacturing centers.

There had been tenuous negotiations between them over what to entice the companies to move to Ryloth but eventually they had all managed to agree to giving QOM and RSD monopolies on Ryloth's markets and the right to pay lower wages for twenty years in exchange for exclusively hiring Twi'leks. It wasn't a spectacular deal but compared to before, it was perfect for Cham.

Dooku himself had gone to Garm and his brother Doran, the current Count of Serenno to gain their aid. Garm had been the easiest to convince, they were still on good terms and the prospect of 'adventure' in the Outer Rim had excited him. He had promised to round up whatever volunteers he could manage.

His brother had been harder, unsurprising considering his duties as Count, but Dooku had personally gone to every major noble family and worked to convince them to support the endeavor, mostly it had been done by enticing them with the pageantry and nobility of sending their sons and daughters to the Anaxes or Carida academies and the promising officer positions they could earn for themselves.

In the end, the resources earned had paid dividends. He watched a pair of CR90 Corvettes shoot out across the battle line, the Arrow and Arbiter, Dooku didn't know where Garm had managed to find and crew those corvettes but they were proving valuable. More important were the Corellian pilots who had volunteered, filling their desperate need for fighter pilots.

Serenno's support had come in funding, a generous donation of credits had allowed them to purchase fighters, ships, blasters, uniforms and more that were needed.

But it was Ryloth itself that had provided the most support. Cham had not disappointed, he'd gone to his people, campaigned across the planet and rallied his support. And out they came, men and women, young and old had come by the thousands. Desperation drove them, Dooku could sense it in them. The fear and anger, the desire for a better life for them or their kin.

Whatever the reason, Ranulph didn't turn them away, they were crewing ships, piloting fighters, serving as infantry and medics. Ryloth was ready for war, the simmering anger had been let loose.

And so, they prepared and trained, waiting for the right moment. When the day came for the slavers return, they had laid their trap. Ranulph had hid his fleet behind one of Ryloth's moons and scattered squads of infantry across Ryloth to await them. When the slavers landed, they found themselves facing an armed populace, supported by experienced troopers. Repelling them had taken almost no effort, unprepared or such a level of resistance as they were.

It wasn't long before more came, better armed and ready for battle. They had launched several starfighter squadrons from the planet and after a fierce battle, repelled that attack as well, inflicting severe casualties. Then they came with a great force of modified freighters and gunships, small frigates and individual fighters.

Then, the trap was sprung and the ROSF attacked, fighters screamed across space to hit the pirates from behind, the fleet right behind them, turbolasers firing. The slaughter was proof enough of their success.

"Their flagship is moving toward us, focus fire, call the Sojourn and Ajax forward to support." Jace ordered and Dooku looked out the viewport to the only troubling part of this battle.

The Rendili dreadnaught advanced steadily towards them, answering their turbolasers with its own and matching them shot for shot. Where these pirates had managed to acquire one of these vessels he did not know but it was proving effective.

Privately, Dooku was betting on the Hutts, they had enough wealth and supplies to arm such a vessel. That ship could match the Invincible shot for shot and then some.

The Sojourn and Ajax, both Hammerhead cruisers, would give them much needed support but things were about to get strained.

Even as he said that, the ship rumbled ominously and Dooku reached for his lightsaber, what was that?

"Jace, what was that, it wasn't turbolaser fire." Ranulph shared his worries though the man was keeping his concern hidden. Jace turned to the communications console.

"Ensign, status report?" Ensign Vekarr's hands danced across the terminal, listening to the incoming reports through her comlink before shaking. Dooku didn't need to be a Jedi to sense the fear suddenly present.

"Sir, we've been boarded. Enemy pirates have appeared on Decks C through F. I'm getting scattered reports of Mandalorians among them." And now Dooku understood he fear well enough. Jace cursed, opening his own comlink.

"Master Sifo-Dyas, Lieutenant Vance, we have boarders, Mandalorians with them, assemble the security teams and repel them immediately, they can't be allowed to cause any damage." Sifo-Dyas could handle that, he would remain on the bridge just in case. But Mandalorians? Someone must have offered a considerable sum of money to get Mandalorians to work with pirates and slavers. Still, something worried him about this situation.

Another boom rocked the ship and this time he did ignite his lightsaber, the brilliant blue blade casting its glow across the bridge. That had been on this level, he turned to Jace and offered the man a quick nod.

"They won't get past me." Then he strode through the door and locked it behind him, waiting. He didn't have to wait long as four Mandalorians rounded the corner and stopped before him, the one in front seemed to be the leader if the arrogant way he carried himself was any indication.

Dooku would be all too glad to disabuse him of that confidence. Still, he stepped forward, right foot forward in traditional Makeshi stance, left hand behind his back and saber held up in front of him.

"I am Jedi Master Dooku, turn back at once or face the consequences of your actions. You won't be the first Mandalorians I have defeated, nor the last." The lead Mandalorian laughed, the metallic tint of his voice giving him a robotic tone.

"Yes, at Galidraan right? I saw your handiwork, you did me a favor there so I'll make your death quick. Master Dooku, know that Tor Vizla ended your life." Then the Mandalorian, Tor, took a metal hilt from his waist and ignited it. The thin black blade igniting before him and for a moment Dooku was stunned, a lightsaber?

"Surprised, Jedi? I imagine so, this lightsaber was forged by a Mandalorian Jedi millennia ago and was stolen by my ancestors from your Jedi Temple. Many Jedi have died on its blade, and now I'll add one more." Dooku smirked, this man thought to outduel him? Putting this Mandalorian in his place would be a treat.

"Very well then, Mandalorian. Once I defeat you, that blade will be returned to the Temple where it belongs." With a flourish, he pointed his lightsaber at Tor and beckoned him forwards. Tor dropped into an unfamiliar stance, brutish and barbaric before advancing.

"Die, Jedi!" And Dooku met Tor's blade with his own.

The battle was on.

 

[Saphrith]

The Temple had changed much, in his absence, the Room of a Thousand Fountains had grown. The last time he had been here, thousands of years ago, it had been a small thing. From where he sat, in a grove of trees and flowers that surrounded him with life, Ood Bnar understood this now more than ever.

And wasn't that something he was quickly becoming used to, he had been asleep for thousands of years on Ossus, resting, recovering his strength. He had awoken to an unfamiliar galaxy.

And an unfamiliar Order. It was, a natural thing for doctrine to change over time but the lack of familiarity in the Order's manner of operation had confused him.

"Master Bnar, something troubling you, is there?" He stood and turned to face the venerable Grandmaster of the Order. Yoda had been an odd sight for him at first, his species did not tend to Force-sensitivity and to think there were two of them in the Order, both on the Council and one the Grandmaster was surprising indeed.

"Oh, Master Yoda, I was simply contemplating life and the Order." Yoda nodded and slowly walked forward, leaning on his walking stick. Yoda took a seat next to him and Ood Bnar sat back down as well.

For a moment, there were no words between them and the flowing water, the wind flowing through the trees and grass was the only noise around them. If he reached out with the Force, he could sense other Jedi meditating in the gardens or by the various fountains scattered about. If he expanded his senses further he could feel the broader Temple. His rescuer was still in the Halls of Healing, he would visit later. Further on he could sense the younglings going about their training.

"Master Yoda, forgive my doubt, but I do not see the point in taking infants for training. Surely the Order is not that strapped for members." Master Nu had explained much of the changes he had missed during their talks, but understanding of the reasoning had been lacking.

"A change, Ruusan necessitated it is, older students, too dangerous it was deemed to train."

"But, to take children so young, and the right being embedded into law, does it not create a disconnect between the Order and the galaxy we protect? No parent truly accepts losing their children in such a way, removing such connections risks distancing us from the rest of the Galaxy." Truth be told, he didn't really mind taking young children as padawans but infants seemed another matter, and to have it be an enforced law of the Republic. He saw no good in that.

"Dangerous it is, for those touched by the Force to be left untrained, left alone, a danger they may cause. The reemergence of the Black Knights indicative of this, it is. Older students, not ready they are, a Jedi's life is service, prepared for the dangers and responsibilities they are not, too fearful." Ood Bnar turned to face the diminutive Grandmaster and considered his response.

"Perhaps so, but if they are not allowed to form attachments to the galaxy around them, to live in harmony with it, then is their justice, their altruism done through duty or actual desire to do good? Non-attachment certainly has its value but so does attachment, there must be a balance between honoring the Force and its manifestations." He paused to collect his thoughts and Yoda patiently waited for him to continue.

"The Jedi of my day were free to travel the galaxy, form bonds and relationships with the people they met, understand and live in harmony with life around them. How can we understand the people we are supposed to help, connect with them if we seclude ourselves away in the Temple and force ourselves to not form bonds of friendship and love?" He didn't understand that, Nomi Sunrider and Naela had many friends, both Jedi and not, they had been powerful, loyal Jedi. Yoda shook his head and rapped his cane on the grass to emphasize his point.

"Distractions these are, drawing one's gaze away from the Force and towards a dark path. Ulic Qel-Droma, Exar Kun, Revan, and Malak? Taught in such a way they were, saw their darkness Master Jeth, Master Baas, and Master Zhar did not." Ood turned back to the trees in front of them, watching them sway in the breeze.

"You describe failings of the teachers not necessarily the teachings. I knew Exar Kun and Ulic Qel-Droma personally, their fall was tragic but such things were not predictable." Yoda thumped his cane on the ground and snorted.

"Because of their attachments, they did not see. Blinded by attachment and pride of their students they were." Ood Bnar took a moment to center himself, that statement had more weight than he liked to admit, they had all trained Ulic or Exar Kun at some point, and if he was honest, he'd had his suspicions of both.

"And what has been wrought by the Order now? This peace has been built by the efforts of Jedi who believed similarly as I do? Could all this have been possible without the Jedi of my era? Too many of the Jedi today seem more droid than organic. They don't understand empathy, not truly, they seem to act more out of duty than empathy. They do not understand the people they aid and the people they aid do not understand them." He sighed.

"The Force is life itself, permeating everything and everyone. How can we truly understand the Force if we do not live, do not express ourselves in more than meditation? If we do not laugh, or cry, mourn loved ones and celebrate for those who still live. If we do not love and nurture families and friends, how can we do the same to those who need aid?" Yoda shook his head and Ood suppressed the flash of annoyance.

"Exar Kun and Ulic Qel-Droma, Revan and Malak, that is where such teachings lead, reckless and destructive too easily one becomes when one does not understand discipline and how to let go. Too afraid of the ones they love and care for dying, built upon such teachings our peace was, but maintained it this Order has and continue to maintain it we shall, no more do young Jedi suffer such tragedies and depart down the dark path. Peace there has been for a thousand years under our doctrine." Ood Bnar sighed, he didn't quite agree but could not deny it.

"I shall concede the point for now, but even you cannot deny the Order has become too involved in the politics of the Senate, certainly procedure and bureaucracy, are not what the Order is here for?" Yoda snorted, a rueful smile on his face.

"The forms and reports I fill out, enjoyable they are not. Miss, I, the days when oversight of the Order was limited, remember do I, the changes." Ood laughed softly and shook his head.

"If only we could find a means to balance these responsibilities." Yoda hooted and fell back to stare up at the artificial sky.

"Grandmaster, I would name, the one who could manage that." And then they both laughed and enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and the momentary break. Ood would debate with him some more later.

He had to think.

 

[Saphrith]

"A toast, gentlemen, to the Republic." Valorum raised his glass of Chandrial wine and his fellows joined him, Senators all of them, friends and allies, new and old. This party of Kalpana's was as always, a good chance to catch up, discuss events and happenings in the galaxy.

"To the Republic! May it remain peaceful and prosperous for many generations to come." Another toast, and another as each Senator made their own toast. Formalities were quick and then it was onto discussion, gossip was rampant in the Capital and had been for the past week.

"Did you hear what happened at Ryloth." One Senator said, holding his glass of wine up for another sip and to his left, Horox chuckled. The Anx Senator took a slow sip of his brandy and sighed, setting his glass gently down before speaking.

"Indeed, there is hardly anyone who hasn't. Orn Free Taa is in a rage over not being consulted first. To hear him say it, Ranulph has insulted him by not obtaining his approval first." Another Senator, snorted disdainfully, leaning back in his seat.

"He's worried for his position and why shouldn't he be. That Cham Syndulla fellow is being called the Hero of Ryloth for his part in the whole endeavor. Ranulph's right below him in terms of popularity."

Valorum frowned, Tarkin, he'd hoped the man would have learned something from Troiken. All of those lives lost from his vigilante carelessness and he'd instead decided to put even more effort into it. The fact that he was having more success than before was irrelevant.

He'd given the pirates and criminals of the Outer Rim a bloody nose, but they were hardly defeated, they would retaliate and it would be bloody. He only hoped that the effects would be limited.

"I've heard that the Ojoster Sector has joined his movement, Dac as well. He's gained some ground in the Outer Rim. Not to mention Balamak, Bimmissaari and Trevi IV in the Mid Rim." Horox said slowly.

And it seemed like Ryloth was set to join him as well, or at least the populace. With the Senatorial election coming up soon and Orn Free Taa's position so tenuous it was entirely possible he could lose to this Cham Syndulla.

"But, this has proven the usefulness of an expanded presence in the Outer Rim. If we could get Ranulph and his militia to put themselves under the Judicial Forces, he could work freely in the Outer Rim." Horox sighed and shook his head.

"No chance of that, Ranulph won't settle for anything less than a restored Republic military. He's too stubborn to accept anything else and as long as he's technically operating within the law he's fine." Valorum sighed.

"Yes, but what happens when all those disparate bands of pirates and slavers decide to join forces and strike back? What happens when the Hutts take offense to their profits being impacted? We don't have the power to throw them back, not without consequence." The conversation was quickly becoming too much for him and he finished the last of his wine before standing.

"Excuse me gentlemen, I feel the urge to wander." He excused himself, the wine and talk of Tarkin had left him antsy and he'd decided he needed a walk.

The veranda of their banquet hall was more crowded than he'd have liked, but he'd managed to find himself a quiet spot where no one bothered him. He looked out over the Coruscant night, countless lights in the distance. The sound dampening field around the building cut off the speeders and advertisements that had come to mark Coruscant's nightlife. Now, in the relative quiet, with only the sound of sweet music echoing across the room. Valorum felt lonely, so used to the sound, the noise, the life around him.

"Senator Valorum, what brings you out here tonight." He turned to face the newcomer and offered a polite smile.

"Senator Palpatine, a pleasure, I just came here for some peace and quiet." Not so much peace now, though he immediately felt guilty. Palpatine was not the source of his ire and deserved none of it. Palpatine offered an easy smile, friendly and welcoming.

"I imagine so, forgive my presumption Senator but you seem uncomfortable. Ah, am I causing you trouble, forgive me I will leave if you wish." Valorum shook his head and waved him forward.

"No, it's fine, I'm just a little troubled by recent events." Palpatine stepped forward and leaned on the balcony beside him, staring out into the night.

"By recent events, you mean Senator Tarkin and the battle over Ryloth?" As always, he proved perceptive, or perhaps his antagonistic relationship with Tarkin was just that well known.

"Yes, damn the man, his gallivanting through the Outer Rim will only invite more bloodshed and reprisals from the pirates he is attacking. This is not the way to go about maintaining peace." Palpatine nodded sympathetically.

"Ranulph is acting out of his own convictions, but yes how long can this go before he invites dangerous reprisals from the more…. powerful factions of the criminal world? What violent wars could be waged over this." He was right and Valorum felt his anger flare, righteous indignation at the trouble Tarkin was inviting.

"He could end up at war with the Hutts if his efforts continue, and then what? He does not have the strength to face the Hutt Cartels and I do not believe for a second that the Hutts would spare the rest of the Republic from their wrath."

"I hear that he has opened talks with the representatives of Carida, Anaxes, and Agamar as well. It seems his victory at Ryloth has won back the respect of his faction." Valorum rolled his eyes, holding back his anger.

"Warmongers and armchair generals the lot of them, they have no understanding of the threat a full-scale war would have on the Republic." Palpatine sighed, looking pained at the thought.

"Yes, and it is unfortunate that innocents will suffer for their play war. If only something could be done to restrain their effects. But, divided as the Senate is, I fear no sanctions will be agreed too against Eriadu." And Palpatine was unfortunately correct, something had to be done.

"If I may, Senator Valorum, in my discussions with Magister Damask he related to me a story of a group of cloners on a faraway world who have mastered their art. I could, with some effort get the name of these cloners from him. The Judicial Forces are certainly understaffed for their job and I have no doubt that an army of clones would be beneficial for them. And if a war with the Cartels come, they could bolster the innocents of the Republic against the recklessness of Tarkin's militia." A clone army? Valorum could see Palpatine's point but that would only give credence to Tarkin's views.

"No, the answer to this is not more violence, more war. We need a peaceful solution, I just need something to bring Tarkin to the table." Palpatine nodded, sympathetically and leaned on the railing beside him.

"Forgive me, Valorum, I am still inexperienced at being a Senator. You are correct, peace is as always preferable to war. I simply fear for the future." Valorum smiled and nodded his agreement.

"Yes, I share your fears but we will find a way. Somehow, someway."

He would remember these cloners though, just in case.

 

[Saphrith]

Finally, the last interlude and we can get back to the main plot.
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She had not realized it when she had first arrived on Korriban, the significance of why she was there. When she had fled Tyro's compound, she had not really planned where she was going, only that she had to escape. Her hyperspace jump had been random coordinates, set in a panic. The Force had guided her here and for the longest time she had not known why.

It had been a place to lay low though, the planet was devoid of sentient life and since Ruusan, the Jedi had been content to let the planet fade from the memory of the galaxy at large. For a time, they had maintained an automated sensor station around the planet. But as the Outer Rim descended into lawlessness, pirates and smugglers who passed through Korriban on the way to other destinations destroyed the station.

The Jedi had rebuilt them, but had lacked both the resources and time to maintain a constant presence over Korriban and after repeated attempts, had simply given up maintaining a constant presence.

It had also given her time to reflect, on a lot of things. For the longest time, she'd traveled with Ousan across the galaxy after her induction into the Black Knights. She had learned everything from him, she'd had no family before him, she didn't remember how they'd died or even if they had. She had been so young when Ousan had found her, huddled under the rubble.

She Knelt upon the cold metal floor, his lightsaber hovering just above her shoulder, the heat dancing across her skin. That moment when she first felt the power of the Force. It was like awakening to the galaxy

'I, Ysanne Leoet, swear to uphold the mandate of the Black Knights. To oppose the Jedi where able, to honor the memory of the Sith, to seek power, to honor my Master, to instruct new initiates wisely, and should it be necessary, to die with honor and dignity in service to the cause.'

Then he had bid her rise, and it was the first time she'd seen him smile as he'd welcomed her to an order that had stood for almost two thousand years. And she had thanked him, promising to fulfill his expectations.

She remembered clearly leaving him there, on Terminus, and turning to run for her life. She had forsworn her vow to save her own skin. It was cowardice, defeated easily by a padawan when she could have taken advantage of the Jedi's distraction to kill her. She had instead fled for her life, abandoning her Master. A death sentence if any of her fellow Knights found out, there would be no safety with them anymore. She was alone, and in her loneliness emerged a hint of memory.

Vahl guide me, bathe me in your destructive power. Show me the path, that I may bring destruction upon my foes, venerate your gift, and spread your teachings.

It was a small thing, but alone on a ship, drowning in anger and self-loathing, the memory of her hand being severed haunting her dreams, a small comfort was better than no comfort at all. It became a mantra, and with each iteration she felt her sense of purpose return. And with that sense of purpose her anger began to focus.

She stared at the bandaged stump of her former hand, the pain had not gone away since her arrival. It had gotten stronger in fact, and with that pain came hatred. She hated the Jedi that did this to her and, with nothing else left, she began to hone that hatred.

However, as she did, a new sense emerged. A prick at the back of her mind, urging her onward, festering her hatred for the Jedi, quickly becoming the center of her focus. Then she began to meditate, the energy of Korriban suffused her with power and her senses expanded to the world around her.

Then, a revelation occurred. She wasn't sure what it meant but the sensation at the back of her mind became an impression. She grabbed a pack and some supplies from the cargo hold and set out.

Her landing site was some distance from the Valley of the Dark Lords, there was nothing there for her anymore and the canyon beyond it proved to have more cover for her ship. But as soon as she stepped off the ship, the Dark power around her seemed to become her guide, leading her onwards into a bend in the canyon and at the end, a cave system.

And in that cave system, lay a tomb. She didn't know whose tomb it was, not at first, but when she entered she found it dead but unpilfered. How this had happened she could not comprehend but the promise of dark power at the end drove her on.

Despite her elation, she found no relics, no texts of Sith knowledge, only empty halls and a single sealed door. Her lightsaber had no effect on it. She could not push or lift it open, and using the Force only made it shake.

A trove of power, she knew it had to be, and she couldn't even access it. All that time wasted, the power she wanted, needed, denied to her. It had tipped the cauldron of rage boiling within her. The Jedi, her hand, her weakness, her fear all boiled to a scream that shook the room around her.

But more importantly, it crumbled the door and she was inside. The chamber had been a repository: filled with ancient lightsabers and crude knives bathed in the power of darkness.

The most important treasure though—the one that had taken away her breath, swarmed her with dark power, and brought her to knees—was undoubtedly the Holocron. It was tall and pitch black, a triangular block of metal and knowledge unlike anything she had ever imagined.

All around her, the tomb glowed under the light of the hologram before her. She breathed in and basked in the power of the Dark Side around her, it was a fire under her skin, burning through her veins and coiling in her core.

And as she entered the chamber, it sprang to life and a woman rose out of the Holocron, a great spirit, full of power and harnessed rage. Ysanne found herself quaking at the raw power before her.

"Finally, someone at last has found my resting place, and yet I do not sense the Sith in you. What are you, child of darkness, only a Sith has right to my teachings." The command, and that was what it was, brought her back to the moment and she bowed before the hologram. She had no doubt that in this place of dark power, even dead and gone, this Sith had more than enough power to kill her.

"I am Ysanne Leoet, a member of the Black Knights." The spirit inclined her head curiously and the Dark Side swirled around them.

"I know not, who those are, it has been thousands of years since anyone has opened my tombs. You will tell me of what has happened. What is the state of the galaxy, do the Jedi still live?" She hurried to obey the Sith, recounting everything she knew of the galaxy and all the lore of the Black Knights that had been passed down before her.

This did not please the Sith spirit. The rage overwhelmed her, knocking her back into the wall and driving the air from her. She clutched at her throat, desperate for breath as she was floated up to face the spirit.

"You child, you will do. I have found myself in need of an apprentice, my teachings will endure, the Sith will endure. You will ensure this, or I will torment your spirit for all eternity. You will know no rest until my designs have been fulfilled." She was released and took in great gasps of air, hacking and clawing at the stone beneath her.

"I-I will do as you ask, Master, I-I want power. I want to be feared, I want, I want everything." The pain was receding, replaced by seething anger and desire. This, this was what she wanted, more than anything.

"Very good, apprentice. Rise and we shall begin your training immediately." Ysanne stood and as she faced the Sith spirit, she vowed that Viera Sarat would die by her hand, slowly and torturously. The Spirit seemed to sense her anger and dark purpose for the woman smiled.

"Then we will begin apprentice, you will be the instrument of my vengeance and in time you will be the new Marchioness of a reformed Black Legion."
---

Guess that Sith!

 

[Saphrith]

I'm beginning to regret my desire to seek training with the Matukai, and accepting the Council's offer of coming here to train.

Muscles scream in pain as I maintain the handstand, I'm much more athletic than I was in my old life, necessity as much as anything else, but even still this is so difficult. Even more so to focus on my meditation. At first it was easy but eventually focusing became all but impossible. It doesn't help that this asshole next to me is just fine.

It's been an hour and he looks completely fine. What's more is that he must be in his fifties or sixties but Del Kimer looks at least twenty years younger. He's in perfect shape, and a bright spot in the Force. I don't know how to explain it better than that.

"Tiring Jedi? I'm not surprised, it's not what you're used to is it?" His voice is calm and level, no sign of fatigue at all. Beside me, Master Tavik is sweating. He's done better than me, but this is straining even him.

"Yes, just a little bit. We're no strangers to physical training but I've never thought to combine it with meditation." He says and I wonder why. Did no Jedi ever think to combine those two methods of training, or have the Matukai just found a super special way to do it?

Regardless, here we are, on Karvoss II, learning from the Matukai. A temperate world in the Core, Karvoss II is surprisingly sparse. A population of 600 million concentrated in several urban zones. It's also the headquarters of the Matukai order.

Granted there weren't more than two dozen people when we arrived there, several of them apprentices. How did it take that long for the Jedi to notice them and send a diplomatic party? Whatever, I'm just glad that they were willing to accept Jedi students, only two though. Master Tavik and I are technically here to form a stronger tie with the Matukai, but really, we're here to learn their techniques and bring them back to the Order.

I'm reasonably sure Del knows this but he doesn't seem to care that much. He's the current 'leader' of the Matukai and after a moment I remembered where I'd heard his name. That story of his encounter with Thame and Dooku was a lot funnier from his end than Qui-Gon's.

"How about you, padawan? Are you holding up?" I don't really trust myself to reply without falling over or letting my arms give out so I settle for breathing a little faster. Del chuckles and shakes his head, still fine.

"If you're tired, drop. There's no point to damaging your body out of desire to impress." Okay, I drop and let my tired muscles rest, oh yay! Master Tavik is still going and Del as before, is showing no signs of even tiring. I reach around for the special water bottle they gave us for the duration of our training but Ehruss grabs it first. She holds it over to me and I gladly take it. I don't know what's in the water exactly, but it's supposed to be good for soothing muscles and building them back up.

I drink half of the bottle in one go and achingly sit up to watch the two of them practice. I'd normally be a little worried about losing out on training but according to the Council we have a year before we're needed back, so there's plenty of time to learn.

Ehruss is standing beside me, weapon resting in her hands, she's taken her life debt very seriously. The Council decided in the end to allow her to follow me around but as I have been told, whatever legal problems she cause are mine. I'm fine with that, I've grown to like her company.

The Matukai headquarters is located on a strip of land about sixty miles from the nearest settlement. About forty miles to the north is a small mountain range that gets deep snow in the winter and thirty miles to the east is a gigantic lake. The Matukai compound is open with sets of interconnected housing blocs, dojos, a mess hall and infirmary. Despite that, there aren't a lot of people here.

Del said that some of their order spend most of their time out abroad in the galaxy but still the numbers he mentioned are tiny. If he's correct then there aren't more than sixty Matukai right now. Ridiculous is what it is, granted how many people know the Matukai exist, besides the Jedi?

That said, there seems to be a divide between the Matukai in terms of age. There are at least three Matukai I've seen here who look close to sixteen like me, a higher number in their twenties and the rest in the forties to sixties range. I don't understand why that is, but who knows maybe the Matukai off world balance it out.

On the other hand, though, Billibango came here! I know I told him about this place but I can't believe he made it. He's off travelling with his teacher right now, but if I'm lucky he'll pop back in later and I can say hi.

The time away from the Temple has given me to reflect on certain things. Which is good, because I've needed it.

I'm sixteen now, or at least the body I reside in is, I'm still not sure how to view myself right now. More and more my previous life seems to become distant. I've changed so much since coming here that the original me seems more and more a stranger. I'm technically forty years old, or my memories go that far back at least.

That leads me to another, depressing problem. Puberty sucks! I went through it once already and now it's in full swing again. Last year Master Che gathered the girls of my year together to instruct us in several techniques to use the Force to deal with maturity kicking in and for that I'm so grateful.

Seriously, I almost kissed her for all the benefit her lessons gave me. I'm getting taller though! I'm already more than five and a half feet tall, taller than my old life, yay. Of course, I've got another problem and being here has only made it worse

Water, water everywhere but none fit to drink! I am surrounded by men and women who are the pinnacle of athleticism, and I can only watch. Goddamn these hormones, If I have to continue avoiding staring at sweat-soaked, muscular bodies in form-fitting dress, I'll go insane! Granted, I'm not really that interested in pursuing a relationship for several reasons but this is an exercise of my patience and restraint.

It doesn't help that I asked Ehruss for advice on restraint, in a moment of weakness, and she has been remarkably unhelpful. I had to very quickly explain to Master Tavik why she was evaluating potential candidates for me. Even though he believed me when I told him it had been a misunderstanding, I still had to listen to him lecture on non-attachment.

Alright, I need to distract myself, back to training I go. I don't trust my arms to hold me up anymore, but I can still use my legs. Basic Matukai training is centered around the melding of physical and spiritual components. There's a lot of somatic rituals involved but one of their major training exercises is to adopt some physical position that is uncomfortable and focus on meditating through it.

I've got a lot of practice meditating but it's the uncomfortable position that's harder. I've been here three days and it's all been meditation so far. Alright, I lift one leg and place it against the other, holding it in place.

It's a bit of a balancing act, but that's easy for me. I couldn't hope to use the Ataru form if I didn't have good balance. Now, I turn my focus inwards, steadying my breathing to begin meditation. The Force is vibrant without me, sunlight warming me to my core, heat going up through the coils and veins of my very being.

An…idea has been taking shape within me, something that I only realized the true significance of now that I'm here. The Matukai do have the ability to strengthen one's connection to the Force. And the strength of such connections is important, because no matter how much Yoda stressed there is no try, you need a strong connection to the Force to be able to use it to the extent most Jedi and Sith do.

The Matukai usually get their members from people who weren't strong enough in the Force to attract Jedi attention and yet everyone I've sensed here has a good connection to the Force. They could do the flips, levitation and other Jedi stuff I do with training. And that gave me an exciting, and simultaneously terrifying thought.

Could I convince some of the Matukai to go to Alpheridies? There are, according to the last census, over a hundred million Miraluka living on Alpheridies. They're all Force sensitive but obviously not enough to be considered Jedi candidates.

But what if they could be? Would Matukai training be effective for the Miraluka as a society? I can't imagine why it wouldn't work on them, certainly it'd be generations before the expansive changes happened but just imagining millions of Miraluka strong in the Force is stunning.

The Miraluka as a society also have a natural shift towards the Light Side, apparently, it's something to do with our species ability to see with the Force and the collective, community-oriented culture. It's easy to spot a person being influenced by the Dark Side, unless they've learned to shield themselves, and work on fixing the issue, whatever it may be. So, I'm not too worried about countless Sith lords and other Dark Side adepts.

And if I could get Jedi training to them? I can't even imagine the effects Jedi numbering in the millions would have on the galaxy. There could be Jedi academies in every sector of the known galaxy, Jedi hunting down dark siders, acting as service corps assisting in every matter imaginable.

I just need to find a way to get the Matukai to go there, and get in contact with Master Altis and see if he's interested in the idea. Maybe see if I can find Master Aqinos and the Iron Knights. I think they went somewhere in the Rim, I'll need to see if there's any data on where he went.

"Ah, Master Kimer, may I ask a question?" He sighs and nods his head.

"Don't call me Master, I'm not a Jedi, but sure ask away kid."

"Why are there so few of you?" I'm really interested in knowing why they haven't gone to Alpheridies and become widespread enough to have enclaves on every planet.

"Because even though we can recruit from a wider pool than you Jedi doesn't mean there's a lot to go around. We find members where we can, and sometimes they come to us, but there just aren't a lot of Force sensitives that don't go to the Jedi." He sighs and I have to hold back my disbelief.

"You haven't thought to go to Alphredies? There's over a hundred million Miraluka there, all Force sensitive. You would never run out of members to train." How is it that the one Force using organization that can boost any Force sensitive never tried to work with the entirely Force-sensitive species?

By the look on his face and the shift in his aura, I imagine that he's just come to the same realization I did. He falls forward, his concentration broken and I sigh. I admit that with my meta knowledge that's an easier connection for me to make but really? Master Tavik seems to have come to the same realization.

"That's… I don't even know what to say to that padawan. It's an interesting idea, the thought of Alpheridies becoming a Force Nexus is a bit unnerving though." Ah, he does have a point. The presence of so many Force sensitives with such a strong connection to the Force would do odd things to the planet.

Granted, having a Light Side version of Korriban, though not so dead hopefully, has its appeal. The real problem is having the planet be a target for the Sith. Weighing the odds on that, I suppose. Maybe we could set up a system of Temple planting across the galaxy.

A Jedi Temple on every habitable planet sounds cool. Fuck you Sidious, Del starts laughing and I focus back on the present. No daydreaming, focus on the now.

"That's, hah, you know? I forgot that every Miraluka is Force-sensitive. They're either insular or nomadic." Alright, but now you know so what do you plan to do?

"And? Now that you know about this one step process to acquiring new potential members and or people to teach your techniques?" My body's alight with anticipation, it's hard to even comprehend the potential effects of this, for good or ill.

"I'll have to talk to the others about this, we're a pretty free-spirited group. If anyone's interested in the idea, I imagine they'll give it a go but I'm hardly going to make them." I shrug, fair enough, but the idea is there. Master Tavik seems amused.

"Huh, the Council will be debating that issue to the end of time, I imagine." He falls forward and gracefully flips to stand upright and Del does likewise.

"Why? You think they'll raise a fuss about it?" Oh, right, good point. Master Tavik shrugs and stretches his arms out idly.

"I can't say for sure, but probably not, the Academy on Alpheridies will be there to keep an eye on things but if you're even half as successful as you could be, it'll require some debate on how to go forward." Master Tavik says and I have to think a moment before I get what he's saying.

How would the Order's typical recruitment method work when a majority of the planet's population starts being born strong in the Force? There would have to be an allowance for the entire Miraluka species, so as to avoid depopulation. Granted, if we're lucky, that whole 'take children from their parents' provision will be gone by then.

I wonder if I could convince Ranulph, to try and end that? It'd be funny to see how Palpatine tries to work with that. It'd be a short-term loss for long term gain in the best outcome.

But this seems to be the end of training for the day, I put my leg down and groan softly at the soreness, that's going to hurt tomorrow. Del stretches, still not showing any sign of discomfort and I have to marvel at the level of stamina he possesses.

"Alright then, we'll pick up some more training tomorrow morning. You should get some rest, you'll need it." As if he needs to tell us, after today, sleep will be the sweetest relief. Master Tavik gives him a short bow and I mirror the action.

"We will, thank you Del." Master Tavik and I begin walking back to our room. Ehruss is right behind us, scanning the terrain for threats. I really need to find something for her to do for fun. Master Tavik sighs after a moment and speaks.

"I hope your idea works Padawan, it won't be a problem for my lifetime, or yours but more Force sensitives means more potential for them to fall to the Dark Side. I'll have to tell the Council about this so they can be prepared, but I won't mention your name. I'll spare you having to explain your reasoning before the Council." That's fair, there's plenty of things that could go wrong in the future, I'm just banking on the Miraluka's tendency to the Light helping.

"Thank you, Master, it's a toss of the dice I imagine but hey, if the Council knows about it in advance they can plan for it. Things will work out I imagine, they always do." He snorts and I resist laughing, things work out only after they go wrong.

--

Three weeks later and I'm feeling so much better and so much worse at the same time. Contradictions ahoy. Our training these three weeks has been mostly nonstop doing the same thing over and over. But I've been getting better at it, slightly. Ha hah, progress! Now it takes slightly longer for me to become exhausted to the point of dropping.

Del says we'll be moving on to martial arts introduction in about a week or two, and boy am I not ready to get my ass kicked repeatedly. On the other hand, when we go back to the Temple, I can finally beat Ilena at hand to hand. That is going to be exciting.

"My friend!" my cry is cut off as the air is squeezed out of me by four arms wrapped around me in what I'm sure is supposed to be a hug but is actually a slow method of torture.

Billibango doesn't seem to notice when I have to gasp for air after he releases me, or maybe he's ignoring it. I'm going to assume the former, just for his sake. I offer the Xexto man a smile and manage not to wince from the pain in my legs and arms.

"Good to see you again, Billibango. I know I told you about the Matukai but I didn't think you'd have made it here so quickly." He grins and nods enthusiastically.

"Indeed, after Troiken I made the trip here as fast as I could, Del Kimer allowed me to join and my teacher Xellon has been a dutiful instructor." He wanted to be a Jedi, right? I remember sending him this way because he wasn't nearly Force sensitive enough to make the attempt at the Almas Academy.

And boy has he changed, it's even more glaring looking at someone I knew before. He is strong in the Force now, not as sensitive as Master Tavik but he could easily be a Jedi with this level of sensitivity. So, the training works.

What is it going to do to me and Master Tavik then? I'm a bit concerned about that, would it be enough to put me on the radar of the Sith? I don't see why it would but the last thing I need is Sidious or Plagueis taking an interest in an up and coming Jedi padawan, for any reason.

"Del has also asked me to aid in your instruction my friend, I will be practicing the Matukai martial arts with you." Wait what? Me against the four armed, already trained martial arts guy? Oh, boy.

I am not prepared for this, but if it goes well, this could easily be the most productive training I ever get.

 

[Saphrith]

It's been nearly six months since I arrived on Karvoss II, and the planet's winter has started to arrive. Snow isn't here yet but it will be soon; there's already a chill in the air, and there's fog with every breath. I didn't really bring any warmer clothes with me. No one here seems to have any.

The Matukai can adapt to just about any environment with the Force, whether that's raising or lowering their body temp or purging and immunizing themselves to poisons and illnesses. They also believe in a degree of sink or swim regarding their training. Del explained it as viewing the Force as a fire. When it's cold out, focus the Force on your body. Add wood to the fire, so to speak, and when it's cold do the opposite.

Well the Sun is a giant furnace technically? I'm already used to thinking of it that way, but applying it has proven more difficult than I'd like. I've could warm myself up a little but it's hard to focus on other things and be warm.

I duck low under a fist that would have knocked me senseless. I counter and throw a punch at my opponent only for him to gracefully slide away from it.

Goddamn Echani! My opponent smiles apologetically and roundhouses me to the chest before I can react. I stumble backwards, forced to block as he moves in. I've gotten faster and stronger since my training began, but he's still stronger and faster than me.

"Move your feet!" A sweeping kick to knock me down and I leap over it, angling backwards. I've learned the hard way not to try and jump over Tomas. He is faster than me and all too happy to punish me for it.

"Good, you didn't make the same mistake again. Don't leap over an opponent unless you have no other choice." I nod slowly, taking a moment to catch my breath.

I'm tired now, but only a little, and this spar has been going on for a straight hour. It's not a matter of physical conditioning, or rather it's not just physical conditioning. My physique has improved; I've noticed muscles building on my arms, legs, and my stomach. But that isn't nearly enough to justify this level of stamina.

As Del explained it, one can draw on the Force to increase one's strength, speed, and stamina. But where the Matukai and Jedi differ is that the Order has tended to see meditation and physical exercise as separate and distinct activities. The Matukai believe the opposite, that the two are intrinsically connected and have become complete masters of their body as a result. I can meditate for hours with no issue now, and it's only getting better.

Then we moved onto the martial arts. Billibango taught me what he could, forms and stances, methods of movement and the basics. But eventually it got to the point where neither of us were gaining anything from sparring against each other.

Enter Tomas, the Echani senior apprentice. He's seventeen but he's been here two years, and is entirely capable of kicking my ass up and down the training yard. I don't remember much about the Echani beyond some basics, I only played as a male exile once. But I remember very clearly their skill in unarmed and the whole communication through combat thing.

I step to the side of his fist and block the follow up punch only for him to grab hold of my wrist and pull me forward into a knee that nearly drives the wind from me. It takes some doing but I manage to get one foot into his guard and trip him.

My moment of victory is short lived as he recovers with a grace I'll probably never match, and his hand yanks on my own foot. Oh, there I go, flat on my back with his fist an inch from my face. I lost again, lasted twenty minutes longer, but still lost.

I can hear amused laughter from the sidelines and after a moment I chuckle as well. I imagine that I looked pretty amusing in the brief moment I thought I won. He offers me a hand and I take it, standing quickly. I'm a little out of breath but otherwise fine. Tomas claps me on the back, and while he doesn't smile, I can read his satisfaction in the way his aura shifts.

"Good work, Viera, you're getting better. You tend to lose focus midway through the spar though." I do tend to get lost in thought. I need to work on that, something to think about.

"I know, I'm working on it. One of these days, I will beat you though." I will, somehow. I want to beat him. It's a milestone for me here. He nods, completely serious.

"I imagine that will be the moment your training is completed then. I'm looking forward to that day." Ah, how nice of him. Behind us I can hear grass crunching as Cerone stands up.

"Remember the Etiquette rituals Tomas!" I sigh and reach out with the Force to pull his leg out from under him. Cerone recovers gracefully, the Cathar landing on his left hand and flipping back to a standing position.

Enter my second new friend, and an old friend of Tomas. The Echani sighs and steps back from me to a safe distance.

Apparently, the Echani have very specific etiquette rituals that are supposed to be observed between combatants. These rules are extra specific and strict when the two sparring are unrelated male and female. This includes standing a certain distance from each other when not sparring.

Cerone knows this and enjoys reminding his friend when he forgets. I don't really have any stake in this but if it bothers him then I'll abide by it.

"Nice try, but I'm more graceful than that." Cerone walks over towards us and I smirk.

"I know, Cats always land on their feet, right?" He growls something under his breath and I laugh. Cat jokes are true even in different universes. Billibango got called away for something in the Expansion region, Ehruss is out hunting, and Master Tavik is off training with Del Kimer and some of the other adults.

Leaving the three of us to our own training, which has so far amounted to meditation, sparring and occasionally eating poisonous berries to practice purging poisons. The Matukai apparently purposefully introduced a species of plant whose berries cause intense stomach pain but nothing else, so they could practice that part of their abilities.

"If you two are done, why don't we move to quarterstaffs?" Yes! I cheer silently, I can beat both of them with quarterstaffs. Melee is my jam.

"Heh, I guess it's fair, you beat her, it's only fair you let her beat you down." Tomas doesn't respond physically. I've noticed that he doesn't seem to make many facial expressions but you can tell his reaction by his eyes. He's about as annoyed as he ever gets.

"You and me first, Cerone. I'll teach you to watch your words." He laughs and goes for the quarterstaffs left by the tree. Our training area is an open field of grass with a few trees scattered about. The compound is about five miles to the east, to the north the terrain slopes until it hits the mountain.

I take the offered chance to rest and slide down to rest against the tree while Cerone and Tomas grab their weapons. There are two main purposes for this training, the first is preparation for the eventual forging of the Wan-shen, the Matukai primary weapon. The second is to practice hardening one's body for defense. These quarterstaffs are very durable and when used with the kind of strength a Matukai can produce, bruises and broken bones are entirely possible if you aren't careful.

I sigh and stretch my arms and legs as they begin. Neither of them is really talking, they're both so competitive with each other, especially with these. This is basically the only thing they're both on equal footing for, except against me.

The sound of wood on wood fills my ears as they engage in a flurry of blows, acrobatically dancing away from strikes when they don't just block, fast powerful blows that cause winces of pain when they connect. From the way their auras shift, they're both enjoying this perhaps a bit too much. Are they showing off or competing against each other, I can't tell, but I'm certainly enjoying watching them fight.

It reminds me of watching the older Jedi spar when I was an initiate, seeing all the fancy moves and tricks I didn't know yet, but knew I could maybe do one day. That sense of seeing what someone better at something than you could do, and knowing that if you trained hard enough, you could do it too.

I've noticed my connection to the Force becoming stronger as well, it wasn't something immediately noticeable but Master Tavik pointed out that I was brighter in his Force sight. A bit of meditation and I could feel it as well, it's like suddenly being able to hear or smell better in that my sensing is stronger. But it's hard to notice, I suppose if you're already strong in the Force it doesn't make much of a difference. Or at least, not much of a noticeable difference.

It's good to know that I could send Anakin here and not have him turn into a Force god or something like that. That presents a possibility for me when he eventually becomes someone I need to worry about. If I could get him here before he ever meets Palpatine, would he be safe? I'm not sure.

Also, wouldn't that negate Luke and Leia? Should I be worried about that, I'm starting to get to the point in my life here where I'm wondering about the ramification of preventing famous figures of the Star Wars mythos from being born and the impact that will cause. On the one hand if this all goes to shit, no Luke and Leia, but if everything ends up okay then it doesn't matter.

I feel bad about it though, even though I know objectively that it's for the best, and if there is some will to the universe that requires Luke and Leia to be born it will happen. Well if that is true, then I suspect the Republic will fall to Sidious no matter what. Fuck that then, I refuse to allow that to happen, Fate will not be my master.

Hm, the spar is getting a bit heated, I could add to it, but should I?

"Break a leg!" I shout and let them try to figure out whose side I'm on, go fight for my amusement! Tomas slams one end of his quarterstaff into Cerone's leg and he responds by slamming his own weapon into Tomas's chest. Ooh, that had to hurt.

I'm bored now. I've gotten so used to spending every hour of the day meditating or training that I feel listless and awkward when I don't have something productive to do. Man, I could never imagine feeling like this back home, granted this is a lot more fun than my old life was. I enjoy most of the things I do here. The conflict is fun and being able to serve a higher purpose as a Jedi is invigorating.

I grab my own quarterstaff and make my way over to them. They stop their spar and watch me curiously, I can see the discomfort in their aura. They are a bit annoyed that I'm interrupting their spar, but the smile on my face is just a little bit unnerving. I adopt a ready stance, holding my quarterstaff out.

"How do you boys, feel about a three-way spar?" They look at me and I chuckle softly when I realize my mistake. Woops, that wasn't the best choice of words. Ah, sometimes two auras are worth a priceless image.

"Let's just fight, alright?" After a moment, they nod and I wade into the middle, swinging at Tomas first, revenge for earlier! He blocks and lashes out with the other end. I step back and redirect his strike towards Cerone as he approaches.

The sound of battle stirs the adrenaline in me and I press forward, putting myself in between the two of them. They strike and I block, or dodge aside to let them strike each other. My own strikes hit legs, arms, and chests as our spar escalates.

I take a hit to the back of my left leg and it is only the Force applied resistance that keeps the pain from making my drop my weapon. I respond in kind to Cerone's thigh and he yowls. I take the moment and step back quickly, whirling around to strike him in the chest. He falls backwards and I press the attack on Tomas who retreats and gives ground to me. He's buying time for Cerone to recover and come back.

Can't let him do that, I feint an overhead strike and the minute he brings up his weapon to guard I reverse and slip into his guard, forcing his weapon from his hand and a kick knocks him back. Hah hah, now where's Cerone. I get the warning from the Force just before he tackles me, forcing me to the ground and my weapon from my hands.

Alright, so we're already devolving to a simple brawl? I brace my feet and hands against the ground and channel the Force to increase my strength as I kick upwards, flipping just enough so that he lands under me. His hands loosen just enough for me to slip out from his grip and as I stand, Tomas gets me in a headlock.

"Get off!" I elbow him roughly and struggle as he tries to maintain his grip. Cerone's back on his feet and tackles Tomas, freeing me to grapple with the two of them as our impromptu brawl begins to take form.

It's generally a free for all until one person gets too much headway and the others team up on them. After that things go back to normal and by the end of it, my whole body is sore and bruised again, but I don't regret a single bit of it.

I'm surprised by how much I missed this kind of socializing, it never happens in the Temple and all I have are vague memories of family vacations and my cousins wrestling on the muddy banks of a river I can't remember the name of.

By the end of it, night is approaching and with it the chill. The three of us all decide that freezing out here isn't anyone's idea of a good time and we all grab our weapons and begin the trek back to the compound. We're all laughing and regaling our highlights from the brawl as we go.

"So, half a year to go and you'll head back to that Temple of yours, Viera?" Cerone's got a split lip from where I headbutted him, but his natural healing will help him with that eventually. I nod, a year was all the Council gave us.

"Yeah, I'll go back to taking assignments from the Council and trying to become a Jedi Knight." I'm gonna miss this place, but it'll be good to see my other friends again, I feel like I can finally beat Ilena in hand to hand, man is that going to be satisfying.

"What about you two, what will you two when your training is done?" I don't know as much about these two as I'd like. We've discussed the bare basic of our lives outside Karvoss II. Tomas shrugs.

"I'm going to go back home and visit my family I guess. I have four older sisters to see pass their trials of adulthood. Then I guess I'll go for mine afterwards." Huh, four sisters, who'd have thought. Aren't the Echani rather matriarchal? A lot of societies here tend to be matriarchal, I wonder why. Cerone is quiet for a moment and the two of us give him a look. He sighs.

"I'll probably continue my travels. The Outer Rim is my home, I still want to see the galaxy." Hmm, worth a shot.

"You should go enlist with Tarkin's militia. They could use someone with your talent and there's plenty of places to go." I wonder if there's a way to integrate Force users into the Republic military? Cerone shakes his head and sighs.

"I'll think about it, but I'm not a soldier. I don't really care for organized armies, I like the freedom to go where I please and get involved in what I please. There're better fights that way." Fair enough, I can only imagine a drill sergeant yelling at him and getting tossed across the yard. But hey, I had to make the attempt.

"Have you ever considered not being a Jedi? You could stay here and be a Matukai if you liked, I'm going to miss not being able to see you once this is all said and done. I enjoy our spars." Aw, sweet of you Tomas. Hm, I couldn't imagine what I'd do if I had to leave the Order for any reason other than Palpatine taking over the galaxy and me having to go into hiding.

But it's certainly possible I get kicked out at some point for not towing certain party lines. I've already decided I don't care about taking multiple padawans or training Force-sensitives outside the Order. I imagine I can probably find a way to make it work, but it very well may not.

I've considered going to the Altisian Jedi if that happens, or perhaps starting my own group on Alpheridies, not sure how. I'd probably either wander around a bit or go join up with Tarkin myself. Or maybe, depending on when it happened, go find Anakin and keep him away from Palpatine's reach while teaching him.

"I have no idea, being a Jedi is all I know. I'm committed to sticking with it till the end. You know, you could be a Jedi yourself. Go apply at the Almas Academy in the Cularin system. They have a strict entrance requirement but I'm sure you could make it." He's got enough Force sensitivity to be a Jedi Master someday, he could make a good Jedi.

"I'll consider it, I have responsibilities to my family I have to fulfill, I won't leave them behind unless those responsibilities are fulfilled." That's fair.

The rest of the journey to the compound is mostly silent, interspersed with conversation about mundane topics. Master Tavik's already waiting for me and I recount my training to him. His day wasn't much different. We spend the next hour meditating and talking before retiring to prepare for the next day.

 

[Saphrith]

Ranulph waited patiently as the Jedi Master sat down at the other end of the table. It had been so long since he'd been on Coruscant. His own office was unfamiliar to him, paintings and holos of Eriadu dotted the room. His aide set down a tray of drinks, caf and tea, and he took a cup of caf.

Jedi Master Clee Rhara took a cup of tea, and with a short bow the aide left. He took a moment to observe the Jedi cautiously, an older woman, not too much younger than himself. Bright orange hair wasn't uncommon to see in the galaxy, but her eyes were likewise orange. Ranulph was tempted to ask if she was from a near-human species but decided against it.

"Master Clee Rhara, thank you for coming to this meeting. Master Dooku has spoken highly of you." Dooku had agreed to arrange the meeting but had said she might not come. He was glad she did. Master Rhara took a sip of her tea before replying.

"Yes, Dooku told me about the reason for this meeting. You want to fund the academy on Centax-2." Ranulph hadn't asked Dooku to tell her that, but he was hardly against it. This made things easier.

"Yes, the Senate will argue and debate till the galaxy ends before approving any funds to this academy of yours. The Militarists and I, see the benefit of a centralized academy for pilots." He sipped at his caf, dark and bitter, just the way he liked it.

"Yes, well I'm not interested in this academy becoming a military institution like the Anaxes and Carida Academies. The academy will be a place for civilian pilots to earn their licenses, attract job offers and better themselves, not be drafted into your militia." Her eyes burned into him, and he sighed.

"Believe me, Master Rhara, I sympathize and agree with you. I had this very same argument with my fellows. My only wish is to see the Republic and its citizens strengthened, however I may do that. I fully accept that this academy will cater to all kinds of pilots." He set his cup down and reached for the datapad in his pocket.

"I and the Militarists are simply going to make an offer of employment for any pilots who are interested in our classes as well as scholarships for any pilots who wish to serve with my militia for a number of years." The Jedi frowned, taking the offered datapad and skimming through it.

"So, you're not requiring the military work, just making it beneficial to do so. I can see where you're going with this. I can't see any reason not to accept this then. We'll need to find instructors. I'll help out, and I know some Jedi who would gladly help but we won't be enough." He'd already handled that, and he offered his best reassuring smile.

"I've already handled that, Garm Bel Iblis has a lot of swing on Corellia and has agreed to round up any civilian pilots interested in a teaching job. I've also got a list of my own pilots who would be on hand to teach the more military classes." He had planned extensively for this meeting, going over every single possibility.

"I'll bring this proposition to the rest of the Jedi Starfighter Corps but I'm confident they'll be interested in this proposal. I can't promise anything however." She stood up and offered a hand which he took. Her grip was firm, and he allowed himself a small smile.

"Of course, Master Rhara, I will eagerly await your answer." Clee Rhara bowed and moved to the door.

"May the Force be with you, Senator Tarkin."

Tarkin returned to his desk and settled back in it. He continued to sip his cup of caf as he went through reports from Jace and Garm. There was a chime at the door, and he pressed the button to signal entry. His aide stepped into the room and picked up the tray.

"Senator Tarkin, you have a visitor. One, Ars Veruna from Naboo. He says he has a proposition for you." Ranulph frowned, the elected King of Naboo?

"Let him in. I'll hear him out." The aide bowed and departed. It couldn't hurt to hear him out; he would take whatever support he could get.

 

[Saphrith]

Ah, it's good to be home. The Temple hanger is quiet at this time in the morning as the three of us arrived. We'll have to report to the Council first, or rather, Master Tavik will. I'm going to be hauling our stuff back to our quarters and then I'm free for the day.


I've got both our packs on my shoulder and I don't feel a thing. There are our clothes, datapads, and a disassembled wan-shen in those packs. It's not burdensome at all, this was the best training I've got so far. The number of things I can use what I've learned for is mind-numbing.

"Master Tavik, I'm heading off to our rooms, Ehruss will go with me. I'll see you later." He nods and the three of us part ways. Ehruss and I head towards our quarters and Master Tavik to the Council.


I still can't believe the shape I'm in. I never would have imagined being this fit in my old life, I like it. The Force enhanced stamina is nothing to slouch at either. I already know what I'm going to do with it, and it will be amazing.


"This Temple is brimming with life, so many smells." Ehruss says quietly; oh right, she never got to spend much time here before we went to Karvoss II. I shrug, turning down a corridor, past a pair of human Jedi who give Ehruss an odd look.


"I'm going to hit the training room once we've dropped off this stuff. You're free to follow me or go wander the Temple." She's probably one of the few non-Jedi to have such an extensive access to the Temple.


"I will follow you, Grashkowh." I shrug and continue on my way. She's free to do as she likes, and I enjoy her company. I don't see a reason to say no.


My room is as pristine and austere as I remember it. As I start unpacking my few possessions, I start reassembling the wan-shen stored away. At the end of my year, Del took me to the forge and instructed me on how to forge a wan-shen. The polearms not made of cortosis, but it's a pretty good metal regardless.


If I ever need to go undercover, it could be a good weapon to use I suppose. But hey, another souvenir, right? I wonder if that'll become a habit, I hope not.


That done, off to the training rooms! I want to test out my increased strength and speed on the sparring droids.


The Temple has a considerable number of remote droids, that can be programmed to use a variety of forms for practice. The droids are additionally modified for strength and speed settings to allow for species known for massive strength to get the best out of training.


I grab two training sabers from the locker and activate one of the droids from the console. Alright, I want the droid to use Shien, and I'll set the strength settings to Wookiee. The droid lights up as it'sactivated, and as I enter the ring it waits for a signal to begin. Ehruss takes a spot at the edge of the ring, far enough away to not be in danger.


I salute with my lightsaber and activate the blades. The droid responds to my lightsabers and the duel is on. I move in quickly and swipe at the droid with both sabers. Shien is not a subtle form, and the droid proves it batting at my lightsabers with significant power.


I'm not moved though; the Force strengthens me and our blades lock for a moment. The droid presses its considerable weight forwards and I hold my ground, it can't overpower me. That's telling, I bring one hand back and swing my saber low, towards the droids legs.


It pivots away and I press the attack, swinging one lightsaber high, and the other sideways to distract its guard. The clash of lightsaber on lightsaber rings in my ears, the droids training saber is twisted at an angle to catch both my blades.


Alright, coil the power in the legs and push forward, the motion forces the droid to stumble back under my onslaught. This is surprisingly easy, I hadn't been expecting this. Alright, how to work this then.


"Override code Aurek sixteen. Add adaptive combat protocols and activate Makashi programming." The droid whirrs silently and I stretch quickly to prepare myself.


"Override, shutdown code Aurek-one." Wait, who? I wasn't really paying attention to anything but the droid. I expand my senses outwards and turn to politely face whoever decided to interrupt my training.


"Oh, hello Master Bondara." The Twilek Battlemaster enters the training room as the droid returns to its station. Master Bondara steps into the ring and stretches silently, oh is this what's happening? I don't particularly mind training with him.


"I saw Zun in the hallways and thought to check up on my former student. I've heard of the Matukai and their teachings but I've never seen them first hand. Care to give your old teacher a demonstration." He ignites his training saber, and I adopt a guard stance. How am I going to do this then? He is a battlemaster, I've no illusions about my chances.


Alright, I rush forward and begin my attack, what I've begun to notice is that with my enhanced strength I can compensate for Jar'Kai's normal weaknesses. Overpowering one hand isn't going to work on me like it would someone else.


Master Bondar matches each of my strikes easily, a font of serenity in the Force. As I advance he retreats and deflects until in a single moment he reacts. His first strike bats aside my offhand and the next flurry of blows strike my lightsaber forcefully.


I take a step back to brace myself and swing to intercept his next strike, going low for his legs. He leaps over me and as I turn to strike his descending form, he blocks and our fight continues.

We match each other blow for blow and as I leap over him, the Force guiding my descent he presses the attack. I duck into a forward roll to dodge. and as soon as I'm back on my feet he attacks again. He's getting faster now, but not so fast that I can't keep up with him.


"Good, padawan, your strength and speed are pretty good. This old man still has some tricks in him though." Master Bondara smirks, and the battle takes a turn as his strikes change with each blow. Strong overhand strikes turning into quick jabs, elaborate acrobatics switching to defensive redirections.


Oh wow, is he switching between forms randomly? I'm seeing Ataru, Soresu, Shien, Nimen, and Makashi in his style. I've never actually seen someone combine different forms together. It's throwing me off and making it harder to predict his movements.


I guess this is why he's a Battlemaster, but this is my initiate years all over again. Here I think I've got an advantage, and he goes and shows me why he's still the best.


A feint and he's slipped behind me, blade flashing towards my legs. I hiss as the training saber grazes my legs, and dash forward to get some space. He follows relentlessly, and I'm forced on the defensive.


Alright, block the first strike with my main weapon, then the second with the offhand. Lash out with the free saber and he darts to the side, swinging for my exposed hand. My offhand blade comes up to bat his strike away, and I hold my ground as he slams into me roughly.


"You've got the strength, and you've got the speed. You need to press the attack, use those advantages." He disengages, and jumps back as I follow his advice, using the training Del taught, and striking as fast as possible.


Master Bondara meets my movements deftly, but I'm doing better now. He's blocking more slowly than before, and as I sweep low, he's unable to dodge in time. I'm rewarded by the sound of my training saber tapping his boots.


He's too self-disciplined to let such a minor pain show, but that was an amazing accomplishment for me. If nothing else, that's a win for me here. He smiles and raises his saber in salute.


"Excellent work padawan, now put away your offhand saber, let's practice with Ataru and Djem So." I don't actually know any Djem So, good chance as any to learn, right? I bow and walk over to the lockers to stash my second lightsaber.


When I return to the ring, Master Bondara is waiting for me. His blade is raised in what I assume is a Djem So position, It's certainly not Ataru. Since I don't know Djem So, I'll go with Ataru. Nimen won't help me, and Shii-Cho isn't going to be useful here.


"Going acrobat on me padawan? Well, we'll see how well that vaunted Matukai stamina fairs against an old man like me." That's a good question, one of Ataru's main weaknesses is how tiring it is. I've got enough stamina to last for hours, would that make Ataru more worthwhile?


The duel begins, and we go at each other again. The flash of lightsabers clashing, and the leaping and dancing around go on for hours. I know that because Ehruss left halfway and came back with lunch for the three of us.


She's awesome like that. When Master Bondara calls for lunch, it's a mark of progress that I'm still not that tired. Out of breath certainly, exhausted, no. Ehruss got us some kind of stew, oddly stringy, but it's got a flavor I like.


"You did good, padawan. Your form could use some work, but you certainly don't lack for speed or power now. Might I suggest learning Shien and Djem So. Both forms require a certain level of strength that you should be able to fulfill easily." I nod, sounds about right. He's the Battlemaster, if he tells me I'd do well with those two forms then I'm going to listen.


"Why not Ataru though, or Jar'Kai? I've got the strength to balance Jar'Kai's weakness, and my stamina proves that I can avoid the risks of Ataru." Yoda uses Ataru primarily, doesn't he? But then again, his size is a great advantage for him.


"Ataru's no good against multiple opponents, and even if your stamina is good enough to handle the strain, there's no reason to burn it faster unless you have no choice. You're right about

Jar'Kai though, but you're strong in the Force. Jar'Kai tends to interfere with that, use it when it's advantageous, but don't lose sight of your other skills." I shrug, that's fair I suppose.


"Thank you, Master Bondara. I'm thankful for the impromptu training." He laughs and pats me on the shoulder as we continue eating our stew.


"Well, the life of a Battlemaster is a busy one, and I wanted to see what my old student learned on her trip. I'll be certain to visit Master Tavik later and see what he's learned." Oh, I think I'll want to be there for that. We finish our food in relative quiet, and Master Bondara wishes me well before departing to fulfill his duties.


That leaves Ehruss and I alone in the training room. The stew is good, but now what? I could start running some drills again? There are holoprojectors that can walk you through various forms, I could practice Djem So or Shien.


"Watching you fight is enlightening. The Jedi method of movement is so precise, it is hard to follow at times." Ehruss says quietly, and I shrug.


"The Force helps a lot. It gives you little hints, telling you where to strike and when. Without that, a lot of Jedi saber forms would be unusable." Makashi is the sole exception, since it was based on regular fencing.


I don't really have any desire to do more training right now, but I do need something to do. I haven't been to the Room of a Thousand Fountains for a year. I'm curious if anything has changed.


"Come on Ehruss, let's go visit the most beautiful place in the Temple." She stands with me, and after a quick detour to the cafeteria, we're off to meditate.


The Room of a Thousand Fountains is as I remember it. It looks like some new bushes got planted by the bridge, but not much else seems to have changed. Ehruss is appropriately awed by the sight.


"This garden is well-tended; many plants reside here. I recognize some, but not others." I nod and start walking.


"Yeah, the Order sometimes receives gifts of flora from appreciative worlds. They get planted here in this room." Around us numerous fountains dot the garden, benches set up around them, and I can see a number of Jedi meditating or talking amongst themselves. Our destination is farther afield, and I lead Ehruss across the bridge and up the hill.


The meadow where Master Tavik and I meditate is empty, and with a relieved sigh, I fall onto my back and bathe in the warmth of the grass. If nothing else, this is my favorite spot in the galaxy. I can close my eyes and let the Force flow through me. I can feel the Jedi in the Temple around me; Ehruss is there as well. In light of my meditations, she has decided to observe the surrounding flora. She picks at the flowers and runs her hand across the trunks of trees. She turns to look at me, and I nod in acceptance. She wanders off into the room to explore; I can't expect her to follow me around all the time in here.


I don't sense any of my friends here right now, a pity. I want to show them what I've learned. I see no reason not to share it, especially with them. Padawan pack for life! There's another presence approaching me, who….ah I don't mind talking to him. As he approaches, I sit up and stretch slowly.


"Greetings Master Bnar. I'm happy to see you doing well." Ood Bnar bows in greeting and sits down beside me in the grass. The Neti Jedi Master and I haven't spent as much time in each other's company as I might have liked. First the Council of First Knowledge basically kidnapped him and monopolized his time, then it was mission after mission. The Matukai after that, and it's only now that I have a good chance to talk to the Master one on one.


"You have returned from the Matukai, I had thought to meet you in the Council Chamber but, your Master told me you had gone off to relax. It took some work, but I'm happy I managed to find you here." I shrug, wasn't much else for me to do.


"This is my favorite place in the Temple. Karvoss II had a lot of natural beauty, but it doesn't compare to this place. All of the flora here complements each other beautifully." I wish there were birds here, I understand it wouldn't be all that practical, but it would be straight out of Disney.


"I imagine so, in my time this Temple was merely a small meditative enclave. Ossus was our repository of knowledge, but we had no centralized location. The Jedi of my time were very nomadic, going from place to place as the Force willed it." That sounds very Knight-errant, I wonder what that would look like today. Ten thousand Jedi wandering across the galaxy, with no particular aim but where the Force pulled them.


"It sounds fascinating, I can't imagine the Order doing that today. We have too many responsibilities to just wander around as nomads." Ood Bnar seems to wilt slightly, and I feel a twinge of concern. The man is thousands of years out of time, in an Order that he doesn't remember anymore.


"Yes, much has changed since I went into hibernation. We have achieved peace, but I fear at what cost. I feel as if the Order has become too detached from the galaxy around us. How can we expect the citizens we serve to believe in us, secluded as we are in this tower?" I, I can't deny that I agree with him. Sure, I've managed to maintain attachments between my friends and my Master, but I worry about them becoming too focused on non-attachment.


"I agree, Master Bnar. I remember from my time with the Matukai, Del Kimer told us the story of Master Baas's attempt to bring the Matukai into the Order. I remember how he said, that Mendor Typhoon, the Matukai leader of the time, rejected his offer. He called Master Baas and the Jedi of the time elitist and inefficient. I don't fully agree with the inefficient part, but there is something to be said about the elitist part." It's part of the reason that anti-Jedi sentiment was so easy to foster in the galaxy. Too many people had perfectly good reasons to hate and distrust the Jedi after Ruusan.


Which reminds me, I had something I wanted to ask him. I remember a tale about Master Bnar that I wanted to get confirmed.


"Master Bnar, old tales of you said that you were able to detach yourself from what you learned. You delved into Sith teachings and could not be corrupted. I was wondering, how did you do that?" He knows the Dark Side's teachings intricately, and yet he's one of the purest Jedi I've met, on par with Yoda. I'd like to learn that ability, if I could.


Master Bnar hm's thoughtfully, remaining silent for a long moment. Then he stands, and after a moment of him staring at me, I do so as well.


"It is a rare ability, one that requires intense training and concentration. With your Master's permission, I will teach you only the simplest basics of this technique. If you prove yourself capable, I will teach you more." I smile and bow before Master Bnar.


"Thank you, Master Bnar. I promise not to let you down." Master Bnar smiles, and the Force seems to swirl around him.


"I am sure you will, padawan. I look forward to seeing what you are capable of."

--

"Padawan?" Master Tavik's voice drifts into the training room where I'm working. The hologram in front of me has been going through repetitions of Djem So and Shien. I've been copying it as best as I can, the forms are different from what I'm used to, but I've got nothing but time.


"I'm just doing some lightsaber training, Master. Master Bondara told me I should try to learn Shien and Djem So." I've done these repetitions so many times since I started this training. The Force has been sustaining me for so long.


"Padawan, how long have you been training?" There's a hint of concern in his voice, and I chuckle. The idea came to me last night.


"Since last night, I'm not really tired. I've been repeating these forms over and over." I wouldn't recommend doing this every night but once or twice a week? I could easily handle all night training sessions that long. I just have to make sure that I don't do anything too strenuous the next day if I can.


"I think you've done enough training, padawan. Come on, let's go get some breakfast and meditate for a bit." I cut off the training saber and nod, turning to face Master Tavik.


"Of course, Master. While we're doing that, there's something I'd like to talk to you about. Master Bnar has offered me some special training." Master Tavik looks a bit curious, even as he guides me out of the training room. I'm fine, really. He doesn't need to be that concerned about my safety.


"Really now, you can tell me about it over breakfast."

 

[Saphrith]

39BBY Taris,


Taris's recovery from the Sith Bombardment was slow, and the planet never really became the ecumenopolis it had been before. It went from a population of 900 billion to 200 million. The planet's prosperity never really matched what it had once been; no wonder they joined up with Ranulph.


Rendili Stardrive has soared in prosperity with the ROSF's patronage, and their habit of opening shipyards all over has arrived at Taris. KDY to the best of my knowledge is busy scrambling for something to compete with, but all of their products are far too expensive for the Outer Rim.


Ranulph has done far more than I ever expected him to do with this expanded ROSF. The Outer Rim is massive, and by no means has he crippled criminal actions in the Outer Rim. What he has done is given it a serious wound; convoys are often protected by Hammerhead cruisers and squadrons of Aurek tactical strikefighters. Planets that had little to no protection from pirate raids before now have either system defense forces or forces close enough to respond quickly.


That just means the criminal underworld has been forced to act more subtly. Embezzlement, smuggling, and more are the name of the game now. This, of course, has opened Tarkin and his supporters to acts of terrorism and other violent reprisals.


Outlying settlements annihilated, assassination attempts, sabotage, all focused on ROSF supporters. And Ranulph, being Ranulph, is responding with expeditions into known pirate strongholds. He's encroaching close to Hutt Space, which worries me somewhat. We don't need a violent outbreak right now. Not much I can do about it right now, just hope for the best.


"Stop shoving me, this crate is cramped enough." I mumble an apology and try to give Jai some space. Poor Ehruss is sitting with her back to the container wall, her rifle propped up beside her. She hasn't said much since this mission started, granted none of us have.


We do need to conserve our oxygen. Oh yes, send the two padawans and Ehruss on their first solo mission in a crate. Well, a collection of crates to be fair, we've got packs of oxygen to last us, but we're not stretching it here. Thieves have been stealing ship parts from Taris shipyards, and thanks to a lucky break, we know the next shipment to be taken. Well, going by previous thefts, ROCI thinks this shipment will be the next one stolen.


So, instead of laying an ambush and trying to extract the location of the thieves' operation from the criminals, it was decided to let them steal the cargo. Plus a little extra in the form of us.


"This isn't exactly luxurious, Jai. None of us has any room to move." I'm fine with this though; I meditate for hours in much more uncomfortable circumstances. Ehruss growls something softly under her breath.


"Don't worry, Ehruss, just a bit longer, and then we'll have plenty of time to stretch and earn points." Her head tilts towards me, and there's a pleased hissing sound. I'm getting the hang of her language, but it's still a bit tricky.


"Remember, we're to set the beacon and start sabotaging the base as best as we can." Right, set the beacon for the authorities, and start preparing for their arrival. Where are we now, anyways? They grabbed the cargo, loaded it onto their ship and hauled ass out of Taris space. After the hyperspace jump, I have no idea where we are, but I imagine we'll be landing soon.


"They're getting active again, I don't know what's going on, but we should be ready to move." Jai and Ehruss both nod, and silence reigns as I keep watch. The crate begins to shake. We're descending into the atmosphere I guess. Good, I'm more than ready to get out of this cramped box. Whatever's out there can't be any worse than this.


"So, who do you think is behind this?" We've got a good hour before we set down, most likely. Why not talk a bit, I haven't gotten to spend much time with Jai.


"Just some thieving operation, they're stealing high-tech parts and selling them at Ord Radama for a profit." Maybe, prices for tech are high at Ord Radama, and it's close by, certainly a profit to be made, but the risks involved seem high.


Then again, with the way the Outer Rim is changing, maybe it's all they have left to them now. I guess it was too much to hope that they'd just suicidally fight to the death against the ROSF. Granted, there are still places where they operate unchecked, but that's beginning to change.


"It could be, but with the way things are changing, a lot of pirate groups are turning to more cloak and dagger business." Jai shrugs and unhooks the lightsaber from his belt, twirling it in his hand for a moment.


"The parts stolen could be made into bombs as well, could they not?" Ehruss chimes in. They could, couldn't they? Not necessarily the bombs themselves, but the detonators, circuitry, the devices needed to use them.


"If this is some thieves group, why do they need to steal so regularly? A good haul could hold them over for a bit, then they could turn their thieving to easier targets and come back later." The regularity implies either foolhardy greed or a need for these devices." More questions and no answers I like.


"I'm sure we'll have time to sift through the recovered intel later, focus on the moment." I shrug and fall into some last minute meditation. Jai does the same, and I can hear Ehruss repeating some sort of mantra.


The freighter lands in a large hanger; there are a number of buildings surrounding it. some sort of complex. The main complex is the only building with people in it, except for one smaller building off to the side with one person. One building seems to have a large freight elevator going down. I can't see what's at the bottom; it's too far.


Another underground base? I really don't want to do that again, but what the hell needs to be stored so far down that I can't see it. The crew of the freighter are… leaving? They're not even unloading the cargo.


"The thieves are leaving the freighter, can you set up the beacon?" Jai pulls the beacon from his robes and starts pressing buttons. The beacon whirs to life and… nothing. There's no ping on my datapad or anything. Jai frowns and begins fiddling around with the beacon. This, this isn't good.


"We're jammed, how? There's no reason for any interference." I know why, I grab my lightsaber and jam it against the side of the crate. I press the switch and my lightsaber activates, cutting straight through the side.


"What are you doing, we're supposed to be stealthy!" Jai backs away as far as he can, and I continue cutting a hole for us.


"The signal's being jammed remotely, they knew we were coming." That means a traitor somewhere along the line. I have no idea who, but if we're lucky we might find some clues here. Jai follows me as I cut a hole through the crate. We're in the hold of the freighter now, where are the thieves going?


"It looks like they're heading or the main facility, there's a lot of people in there." The last thief enters, and then there's some sort of shimmering effect. Ah, a shield of some kind? Alright, Master Tavik taught you how to do this, where's the generator for it? Inside the building, well that sucks.


"They have a shield over the main complex, the generator for it is inside the building. There's also someone in one of the side buildings. I don't know why they're there, but it's worth checking it out." Not much else to do at the moment anyways. The hatch for the freighter's cargo bay is unlocked and with a simple press it opens, and we're out into a whole lot of desert. I still don't know where we are. Force, if this is Tatooine I'm going to be pissed.


"The sands smell wrong, there is something here." Ehruss is sniffing at the air, well of course something's here. There's thieves in the nearby base. There's a blaring sound as some sort of speaker turns on.


"Greetings, Jedi to my little game! I had hoped for ROSF investigators to take the bait at Taris, but hearing that two Jedi would be coming? I couldn't pass that up, now do me a favor and make your deaths entertaining." The speaker cuts off, and I frown. Ehruss is here too jackass. Jai is not impressed.


"So, that confirms a traitor, but whoever this is isn't very bright if they expect us to die so quickly. And from what? There's nothing out here dangerous, we could just steal the freighter and leave." We could do that, but there's no guarantee these people don't have an armed ship in space to blow us out of the sky if we try. Save that for if we get desperate.


"Yeah well, let's go check that side building first, look for any clues." Jai nods and we jog over to our destination, hands at our weapons. Something about this isn't right; why aren't we being attacked? Why are they just hanging out in one building? There's a grinding sound somewhere in the distance, but I can't place it.


Jai steps up the door controls, and frowns as the door doesn't open. He pulls out his datapad and starts keying in commands. Why not just use our lightsabers?


"You know, we could use our lightsabers and have this done in seconds?" I ask, and he shrugs. Ehruss takes up a defensive position while clutching her A280 rifle.


"We could, but the thing with thieves and the like, is that they have a tendency to trap their doors, especially locked ones. If there's a data terminal in there and they're smart then they'll have coded it in a specific way. If the door controls suddenly cut out, the data terminal wipes its memory." Then why not go in through a wall, though granted we don't want the person inside knowing the moment we're about to enter.


Who is this guy anyways, he looks male and humanoid. I'm not sure of anything else, he doesn't look armed but there could be traps set or something. Why not let Jai have some practice at his security work.


The door pings and opens as Jai cheers. Alright, open sesame, we're in. And inside is… a cell and one guy on the other end. He stares at the three of us for a moment before grinning and sticking his hand through the cell.


"Hey! Jedi, great timing. Open the cell door quick, I've been in here for days and my mind's already going stir-crazy!" There's a table and desk next to a locker with some weapons, but otherwise this room is empty. He doesn't seem to be lying, and there's a desperation to his aura in the Force. I shrug and walk over to his cell as Jai follows behind me.


"You really trust this guy?" he says and I shrug again. I really don't have any reason to trust him, but I don't have any reason not to either. Alright, I'm just going to use my lightsaber, fuck this lock. It takes only a moment to open the door, and he scrambles out.


"Ah, thanks beautiful, you here to bring down Smitonn? Count me in, I'm just itching to blast that slimy Hutt filth." Wait, Hutt? The man heads over to the locker and opens it, fiddling around with the blasters inside.

"Wait, there's a Hutt here?" There was no indication that a Hutt would be here. The man looks at us for a moment.


"You...didn't know? This is Er'Kit, everyone knows this is his stomping grounds." Everyone but us it seems. I sigh and run a hand through my hair. This just got more complicated.


"Well, fine come along if you want. Everyone seems to be in the main complex right now, and it's shielded. They're jamming our signal as well." He smirks and places two blaster pistols onto his belt.


"Well then, I think I can help you with that. There's a data terminal in the building across the complex that can help with that. I saw it when they were interrogating me there." He sticks out his hand, and I shake it.


"Aran Shol, freelance pilot at your service, well if I had a ship anymore. Damn pirates wrecked it." So, a smuggler then? I'm betting he's a smuggler. Well, he's given us his name. Might as well reciprocate.


"A pleasure Aran, I'm Viera Sarat, my compatriots are Jai Maruuk and Ehruss." He nods and heads for the door. Jai looks at me, and I shrug.


"He's awfully eager to help," Jai mutters. He is indeed.


"To be fair, he's been imprisoned by a Hutt. I'm sure he's ready to get even." We step outside, and I ignore Jai's muttered 'that's the reason, sure'. He's already heading for another building across the complex, and we move to follow him. At least at this distance, if he turns on us he's too far away to do much damage. There's something I've been wanting to ask him.


"So...Politrix huh?" I smirk when Jai freezes. Hah, so I was right, I remembered that little tidbit of his history, and watching him him interact with Politrix more or less proved it.


"I have no idea what you're talking about." I laugh softly and feel him tense. Oh, he's so guilty.


"It's fine, there's nothing wrong with it. I certainly won't tell anyone, but you should go for it Jai. I know she likes you." I'm guessing, but she's been on pretty good terms with Jai for a while. I imagine if they gave it a shot, it would work out.


"That's not the point, you know attachments are forbidden!" Oh, speaking of that.


"Attachments, not celibacy." I respond, and he sputters at the implication. Finding that out was a bit of a shock. I didn't realize that, but hey it's funny.


"But seriously, you'll be fine. You just need to be confident in yourself." And with that, we're just about in hearing range of Aran. Time to end that conversation, but just maybe he'll do it. And hopefully not be caught and kicked out of the Order, but if he does then I'll follow him.


"Alright, so it's just in here." And the door is locked, Jai sighs and starts working on the door controls again. We're not in a rush so I'm not going to bother him about it. Instead, Aran, Ehruss, and I just sort of watch the complex. There's been no movement, and no sign that they will move. What are they waiting for?


Also, what the hell is that grinding noise.


"So uh, what brings two Jedi to the Outer Rim." Aran says quietly, and I glance over at him. He's fidgeting a bit, a bit young now that I look at him.


"We're both padawans, this is our first solo mission. Turns out there's a traitor somewhere along the line, and this Smitonn knew we were coming. Ehruss owes me a life debt, and that's why she's here." I point to Ehruss who hisses something and hefts her blaster.


Oh, that's what the grinding noise is. It's the freight elevator coming up. I wonder what's on it. Aran shrugs and pulls out one of his blasters, twirling it in his hand.


"Ah, nice. It's good that they're letting you Jedi out of that gigantic Temple of yours. The Outer Rim's been a much safer place these past few years. There are Jedi coming out more and more now, it's pretty great." Oh really? That's kinda cool, I like that. I don't know who decided to start assigning more missions out here but good on them.


The elevator is coming closer to the surface, and I'm finally getting a glimpse of what's inside. Okay, nothing yet… what is that? The elevator comes up more, and I finally know true fear. The gnawing in my gut is back, and I jerk over to the door where Jai is working.


"Jai, get that door open now, I mean it." The elevator is getting closer and with it, our deaths. Jai waves me away, distracted by the lock.


"Calm down, this lock is harder than the other one. I'm working on it." That's not an acceptable answer! I shake him again, Ehruss has raised her blaster to a defensive position, and Aran's got his blasters out. Those won't be helpful here!


"Jai, lightsabers, we don't have time anymore." The freight elevator reaches the top and the door begins to open. Fuck this, I ignite one of my sabers and plunge it into the door. Jai jerks away and glares up at me.


"What are you doing, we need the data on this terminal." I don't bother replying, not ready to die yet. There's a roar that interrupts the both of us, and I can already hear Ehruss open fire.


"Jai, Krayt dragon!" I point, and the Krayt Dragon emerging from the freight elevator finds us. Oh, he looks hungry.


Another roar and he charges us.

 

[Saphrith]

39BBY Er'Kit

The door falls inward and everyone rushes inside. Aran and Jai go in first, and I follow behind them. Ehruss fires a few more shots and follows me in. The inside of the building is sparse. Desks and lockers with nothing useful inside. No grenades or anything I can use to even the odds.


"I take back everything I said before. I regret you rescuing me. That's a Krayt dragon, how in the hell are we supposed to kill that!" How indeed? I don't think their hides are impenetrable to lightsabers, but I don't know if we have the stamina for death of a thousand cuts. Ehruss hisses in what sounds like pleasure.


"A shot through the sinus cavity can kill them if done right." Wait, really? Excellent, we can work with that. The wall caves inwards, and the whole structure shakes as the Krayt rams head first into the building we're in. The wall is still there, but holy shit that dent in it. We can't take another one of those.


"Alright, Ehruss get set up for that shot, Aron help her out. Jai, you and me will distract it." Ehruss grabs her rifle while Jai gives me a look.


"Distract it? How are we going to distract it?" I answer him by rushing out the door and leaping up and back. I land gracefully on the roof and stare down the Krayt. Okay it's big enough that it could get at me from here, but I know what to do. The Krayt eyes me, and I run to the edge of the roof and leap. The nearest building is close enough to land on, and I roll on the roof. Did it follow me?


A roar gives me all the answer I need. The Krayt isn't the smartest predator, and visible prey is better than hidden prey. It wants me bad. I can see Jai heading out behind it; a swipe of his saber singes the beast's tail. Jai leaps away towards another roof as the Krayt turns to face the new threat.


The tail swings at me, and I have to duck under it to avoid being sent flying as it rounds on Jai. Jai runs for the other building, and the beast pursues.


I've practiced throwing my lightsaber before, but it's never been something I ever thought I'd use. Alright, give the saber a toss, guide it with the Force and you're good. My saber slides across the Krayt's back, and it's roar is filled with pain, but it's not doing a lot of worthwhile damage. I call my lightsaber back and think quickly, how to get it off of Jai?


There's a crate nearby, I can use that maybe? I reach out with the Force and lift the crate up, a bit of direction and it sails in the direction of the Krayt's tail. A thunk and the Krayt halts in place. Another saber throw towards its tail and it seems to weigh its options. The prey in front of it or whatever was hitting it from behind.


Thankfully it's an animal, and animals are beings of instinct. Instinct can be manipulated, and in a situation where it's being harmed, it'll always go for the physical threat. The Krayt Dragon turns towards me, and I wonder why I did that?


It's not at all damaged from that. If this thing had a health bar it'd be at ninety-nine percent and with our luck regenerating that one percent of damage back. I can see the cuts in its hide, there's no sign of any damage underneath it. Nice to see how little the lightsaber matters against something that big.


On the upside, now the Krayt is distracted between me and Jai. Whoever it goes for gets to play keep away while the other distracts. Not a really winning strategy, but our best bet considering the situation.


The Krayt turns its attention back to me, and rushes forwards. Alright, let him get close, and prepare to jump to safety. Instead of attacking though, the beast plunges headfirst into the structure, and nearly knocks me flat from the impact. The hell is it doing?


The Krayt, head still inside the structure begins to shake back and forth, rattling the building, and causing the walls and roof to buckle. Oh, man he's smarter than he looks. I have to jump for safety. There's no structure close enough for me to jump to besides the one Ehruss and Aron are in. Speaking of them, Ehruss runs out of the building, crouching by the crushed wall and taking aim with her rifle.


I hit the dirt just as the Dragon pulls its head from the ruined building and lunges for me. Force enhanced speed, don't fail me now. I sprint away, and it pursues relentlessly. A crate hits it in the head, and from the corner of my perception I notice Jai, hands stretched out. Good on you man.


The Dragon roars and turns to look for the source of the attack, a thrown lightsaber slams into its skull, and rattles it, forcing its attention on Jai. I take the opportunity and charge back in, Leerrroooyyyy! The Force projects my leap up and over, landing on the beast's back. I grab the second lightsaber from my belt and plunge both of my lightsabers into its back. Hah ha, the beast roars in pain, but it's weakened, and distracted!


The Krayt Dragon shakes and bucks, ah crap. The problem with lightsabers is that since they cut so easily, I can't use them as a grip. My lightsabers slip and slide through the hide of the Krayt as I get flung around on this things back. The Krayt turns to slam its back into the shielded main complex, and I have to jump from its back for safety.


Oh, incoming limb! Ah, shit! The limb slams into me, and there goes my sense of the world around me. There's sand and pain all over, oh boy what's happening. I can dimly see Jai cut at the Krayt's tail, good job Jai.


Alright, the Force is my ally. I draw in the Force around me and disconnect my body's pain from my senses. It's...easier that way, but I'm going to be feeling that later. The Dragon isn't focusing on me right now, that's probably the only reason I haven't been crushed or eaten. But the world is spinning around me, there's hands on my shoulder, lifting me up.


Oh, hey Aron, thanks buddy. I owe you one for that. He drags me over to the side of the nearby building. Jai's dodging and retreating from the Krayt, but he can't keep that up forever, and it's not proving effective anyways.


"Ehruss told me to tell you that she can't get a shot at its nose. You need to get it facing her and keep it still." How!?! The Krayt has so far proven easy to direct, but keeping it still is going to be just about impossible.


Unless.


Alright, I need to get the beast pointed in Ehruss's direction so she can get the shot. I also need to keep it still. Krayt dragons aren't sentient, can I control it somehow? Alright, reach out. The sun touches everything in some form or another. This Krayt dragon is no different, the Force travels through it.


Find that mind. It's slippery, but I can sense it. The predatory instinct, a hunger and desire for violence. Smitonn didn't do a good job of feeding it, probably to ensure it always attacked his victims. It hardly hates us, it's just hungry.


If it this were Tatooine I'd try to drive it off, and let it go. But it's dangerous to leave it to wander this planet, especially if there are any innocents living here. This thing has to die for a lot of people's safety. Doesn't mean I'll enjoy it.


Its simple mind means it's easy to manipulate. A suggestion, a simple mirage, and the Krayt flails about, looking around wildly. Krayt Dragons tend to have problems with two-dimensional images. It sees our shadows, and thinks there are more of us all over the place.Then, it doesn't know what to attack.


"Ehruss, get your shot, Jai help me out here!" Jai doesn't really need direction, he can sense what I'm doing. He adds his own mind to mine, and we begin. The Krayt backs up slightly, assaulted by visions and misdirections that confuse it into inaction.


It's mind naturally fights such alterations, and even as we work, I can feel it fighting back, trying to determine the real from false. I don't think we can drive it off, and convincing it to just ignore us is likewise out of the question. But it's still now, unmoving and quite vulnerable. I don't know how long it'll take Ehruss to get her shot, but I hope she does it soon.


A pity, I hate to have to kill it. The sound of a blaster bolt rings out, and impacts the Krayt in the snout. There's no roar, or cry of pain, the Dragon slumps lifeless, and we both let out a sigh. Alright, that's done with.


I slump back against the metal building; it's burning hot, but I don't care. I'm so happy the Krayt Dragon is dead. I raise my hands in triumph as Ehruss and Jai approach. Ehruss seems very pleased with herself, judging by the way she hisses.


"Is good kill, many points for us." I give her a thumbs up and a nod.


"Good job Ehruss, excellent shot." Ehruss takes a step closer and kneels down next to me.


"Are you okay Grashkowh?" I shrug, the pain is coming back, but I feel like thankfully nothing's broken. That limb was big, but there wasn't a lot of force behind it. The whole Matukai protecting yourself from damage thing really pays off in these moments.


"I think so, just hurts a lot. We're not done yet, those people in the main complex are acting up." I can see them running around in there, armed and dangerous.


Curiously, I don't see a Hutt in there. I guess Smitonn isn't dumb enough to be here personally, but he certainly left plenty of people to man the base.


"Hey, I got a plan to deal with them. It's a bit crazy, but how strong do you think that shield covering the complex is?" Jai stops to think, staring at the main complex curiously. He eventually shrugs.


"I couldn't say, certainly not strong enough to stop any serious firepower." I look over at the freighter we came in on. It's an Action VI, over a hundred meters.


"Could it stop the freighter?" He blinks and looks back at the freighter, then at me before shaking his head.


"Even for you, Viera, that's an insane plan. There has to be a better way to do this." Aran and Ehruss listen quietly. They probably don't know what we're planning.


"Like, fighting all of the people inside, after battling a Krayt Dragon? Let's call their bluff." I stand up and limp over to within sight of the main complex. There's no reaction from the complex, but that's fine, they'll be talking shortly.


"Hey! I'm ready to accept your surrender!" I'm met by silence, a long silence. I begin to wonder if they can even hear me. Then the speaker crackles to life.


"Fuck off Jedi, you can't get in here, your signal is being jammed and the ignition on the freighter is locked down. You'll die of the elements before you trouble us." Okay, so that answers the question of whether or not we could use that ship.


Which is good actually, because my plan for that ship means it won't be usable anyways. Size matters not, I reach out for the transport and focus. The pain melts away, the complex itself melts away, and even I melt away. Everything is the Force, and how it interacts with the freighter. There's no effect at first, but I refuse to accept it won't move. Slowly it begins to shake, the Force pulses around me like a wave. The tide goes in, and then it comes out, the freighter begins to wobble some more. It's getting there.


Then Jai joins in, and the ship actually lifts off the ground. I can hear something in the background, whether it's Aron, Ehruss, or the man from the speaker, I don't know. Focus on the ship, just maintain focus, hold it steady and slowly come back to the world around you. Just a little bit, just enough to notice things.


"How about now, drop the shield, the signal jamming, and then disarm yourselves or I slam that transport into the building and kill you all." Silence from the criminals before the speaker turns back on.


"You're Jedi, Jedi don't indiscriminately kill." He doesn't sound confident. Granted, he's right but he doesn't know that I won't.


"Well, you're right, we don't have any other options. And hey, once you're all dead I can make up any story I want. You sent a Krayt Dragon at us, we're allowed to defend ourselves." I'm not actually sure I could focus enough to do the things I'm threatening right now. The pain is back and throbbing. I want to just get some bacta and sleep for a week.


"The real question is, are you willing to risk your life on it?" Please don't be. There's no response, I can see people running around in there, presumably talking amongst themselves. Then the speaker comes back to life.


"Alright, we'll surrender Jedi. We're dropping the signal jamming….just don't throw the freighter at us." Score one for cowardly self-preservation. I sigh in relief and together we set the freighter back down. Jai's already got the beacon out and is working to activate it. The beacon springs to life, and he gives me a nod.


"The beacon's active, they'll be here in a few hours at the most." I nod and stand up, breathing in and out to center myself.


"Alright, let's get them disarmed and ready for transport. Aron, you willing to help out? I'm sure there's a reward in it somewhere." He shrugs and fiddles with his blaster pistols.


"Not much else to do, and I won't turn down a reward." Alright, the four of us are going to disarm about…..forty people. Go us.


"Alright then, let's get started."