May The Invisible Hand Be With You - (Star Wars CK2-Style Quest)
- Thread starter Dr. Snark
- Start date
- Sci-Fi
-
- Tags
- star wars canon what canon tsundere dice ck2 quest actions have consequences all the credits all work and no play makes ciaran a dull girl best sister capitalism ho! despairing qm teetotaller society member gotta catch 'em all insanity looting off the rails sage dice approaching spicy sheev tsundere asajj
- Location
- Australia
He was trained by the Abyss Watchers and has achieved the highest rank of Force agent. He should be able to handle interrogations and questionings without spilling the beans, even under duress.
Barondoctor
The things I chase come to me.
- Location
- The other side of the mirror
- Pronouns
- He/His/Him
I said a thing in March. It has remained true.
Dragontrapper
Homeless Draconis
- Location
- A Tower in the middle of nowhere
FYI, still taking suggestions for the three questions to ask as reward for that last poster. I might just go with the first three I get...
Max Uristwell
Custodian of the Toobs
- Location
- United Kingdom
*Insert worn-out Monty Python and the Holy Grail reference here*
Just to head that off now.
Just to head that off now.
- Location
- At the Edge of Insanity
... The worst part is that I was actually writing the bridgekeepers questions just now.
Max Uristwell
Custodian of the Toobs
- Location
- United Kingdom
Hah, gotcha!
- Location
- The internet
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
- Location
- At the Edge of Insanity
I had a few question 'candidates' I suggested back when you posted your first piece of fan-art in the thread.
It's a bit out of date, but anything along those lines. Now is the time for meta-gaming, and the time to dig deeper into @Dr. Snark's private thoughts about the question.
Also, remember that Dr. Snark said that you can ask these questions after the next Rumor Mill, which should maximize how much benefit you get out of the questions since you can use the Rumor Mill to brainstorm or probe for behind-the scenes events.
Another possibility would be to look over the 'Annual Q&A Session' and see which questions Dr. Snark didn't answer...
Ciaran Election Campaign Ad #1 (Currently Non-Canon)
Election Campaign Ad #1
[The image of a night sky filled with glistening stars.]
VO: From star to blazing star, the Galactic Republic is looking for leadership.
[Lines form, connecting the stars until they form The Seal of the Galactic Republic.]
VO: For Jobs, For Opportunity, For Security.
[Image of factory workers on an assembly line. A group of scientists in lab-coats debating animatedly. CNS Naval Crew standing proud.]
VO: One candidate's record speaks for itself.
[The shadowy outline of a female figure looking out a view point towards the stars with something glowing in her hidden hands.]
VO: One candidate created a home for refugees fleeing war.
[Shots of the Miracle of Taris.]
VO: One candidate worked side by side with corporations, so all could profit.
[Multiple businessmen and women of various species looking over a hologram of Mercy Hospital and the surrounding area.]
VO: One candidate implemented a centralised defence force, who swore to hunt down the enemies of liberty, to the very last man.
[A burning pirate fleet. Mandalorian starfighters with CNS colours zooming through the wreckage.]
VO: She did it for Taris, she can do it for the Galaxy.
[A march of aliens with purple banners and flags.]
VO: Liberty Through Prosperity.
[A Munn Banker shaking hands with Prime Minister Suberoa.]
VO: Peace Through Security.
[A Kaleesh in a modern military uniform.]
VO: Balance Through Solidarity.
[Humans and Aliens helping each other fix up their neighbourhood.]
VO: This election, Vote Ciaran and Together We Can Own The Galaxy.
[Shadowy outline turns to reveal Ciaran holding a holographic representation of the Galaxy, before zooming into the bright light.]
CIARAN
FOR SUPREME CHANCELLOR
TOGETHER WE CAN OWN THE GALAXY
Paid for by Lady Ciaran For Chancellor Inc.
[The image of a night sky filled with glistening stars.]
VO: From star to blazing star, the Galactic Republic is looking for leadership.
[Lines form, connecting the stars until they form The Seal of the Galactic Republic.]
VO: For Jobs, For Opportunity, For Security.
[Image of factory workers on an assembly line. A group of scientists in lab-coats debating animatedly. CNS Naval Crew standing proud.]
VO: One candidate's record speaks for itself.
[The shadowy outline of a female figure looking out a view point towards the stars with something glowing in her hidden hands.]
VO: One candidate created a home for refugees fleeing war.
[Shots of the Miracle of Taris.]
VO: One candidate worked side by side with corporations, so all could profit.
[Multiple businessmen and women of various species looking over a hologram of Mercy Hospital and the surrounding area.]
VO: One candidate implemented a centralised defence force, who swore to hunt down the enemies of liberty, to the very last man.
[A burning pirate fleet. Mandalorian starfighters with CNS colours zooming through the wreckage.]
VO: She did it for Taris, she can do it for the Galaxy.
[A march of aliens with purple banners and flags.]
VO: Liberty Through Prosperity.
[A Munn Banker shaking hands with Prime Minister Suberoa.]
VO: Peace Through Security.
[A Kaleesh in a modern military uniform.]
VO: Balance Through Solidarity.
[Humans and Aliens helping each other fix up their neighbourhood.]
VO: This election, Vote Ciaran and Together We Can Own The Galaxy.
[Shadowy outline turns to reveal Ciaran holding a holographic representation of the Galaxy, before zooming into the bright light.]
CIARAN
FOR SUPREME CHANCELLOR
TOGETHER WE CAN OWN THE GALAXY
Paid for by Lady Ciaran For Chancellor Inc.
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Max Uristwell
Custodian of the Toobs
- Location
- United Kingdom
"Hey, at least we know that this one literally can't be bought."
Alas, after Palpatine gets exposed as a Sith Lord seeking to destroy the Republic from within, 'predictably corrupt' may very well start being considered a plus in a Chancellor.
We could totally run on an "I'm just doing this for the prestige and the money" platform.
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DocMatoi
Theoretical Lover of Girls
- Location
- within 2 hours of the White House
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Was rereading from the beginning, and I'm just curious- has it ever been addressed that Ciaran probably owes her life, or at least her current low perceived threat level to Palpatine, to Nute Gunray?
We did do our part in keeping him out of prison for all four trials, so I'd call us even on that, if only because he did it for his own sake.
Our good standing with the Trade Federation has served us well during the war too, particularly when it came to dealing with our decreased income and a few times after that.
Huh, now that you mention it, I don't think Ciaran even knows about what Gunray did. We covertly sabotaged his trial to prevent him from squealing (not that we needed to, but it built a rampart with the TF) and everything else we did was in the name of profit.
This is really well done, and to be quite honest, she'd have my vote.
In turn he helped us because he absolutely COULD count on Ciaran squealing if she suffered an unfortunate accident of some form. Enlightened self interest!
- Location
- Leeds
It's like Mexican Standoff Mountaineering.
You might all hate each others guts but you'll damn well pitch in pulling that jackass out of the crevice because you know the last thing he'll do is shoot you if you don't.
- Location
- USA
Speaking of Naboo and Gunray, it's been almost two years and I still find it hilarious that we got the trial bogged down by lack of evidence.
I mean, sure, there were other things, but that was the one thing they should have had in abundance for his trial.
I mean, sure, there were other things, but that was the one thing they should have had in abundance for his trial.
That's assuming Ciaran didn't steal all the evidence when she was Nabooing everything else.
- Location
- Leeds
"Your honour, if my client invaded Naboo, where is the army?"
"The droids vanished overnight from our store room."
"A likely story."
It was more that there was too much evidence for them to sort through to see what was real and what was exaggerated. They couldn't compile a case to use in a courtroom and any justice system is very strict with deadlines and procedures.
This is a common tactic, though rarely used so...effectively.
One of the basic ways to undermine a case is to demonstrate that the evidence was collected via irregular means. The law does not permit for evidence acquired via illegal means(i.e. taping a private conversation is often not admissable), for evidence with signs of being doctored or otherwise modified, for evidence not pertaining to the conviction and for testimony from unreliable sources.
So the basic thing? They weren't defending against a case of "The Trade Federation fought Naboo", which had a shitload of solid evidence. They were defending against a case of "The Trade Federation attacked Naboo unjustifiably", which was very much questionable because the case for who shot first is ambiguous and all available observers were biased sources.
Ciaran simply had to cause a few pieces of evidence(mostly recorders from TF vessels) which were not significant at the time to disappear, and to introduce a bunch of conflicting records to call the whole thing into question.
Then let the prosecution fuck it up themselves, because they were trying to prosecute the maximum case of Unjust War + Atrocities, while Nute's own defense likely is the simpler case of "self defense/police action gone overboard".
Interlude - An End to Savagery (Pt. 1)
Dr. Snark
Exactly As Planned...Probably
- Location
- Right where I want to be
- Pronouns
- He/His/Him
Kyrimorut, Mandalore
T-35 Hours Until Maul's Attack
Most days of the year Kyrimorut was relatively quiet barring the various unearthly sounds that would come out of Doctor Uthan's makeshift laboratory. However today the compound was bustling with activity as various members of Clan Skirata darted to and fro, gathering weapons, checking armor, and generally preparing for war. This was the sight that greeted a visibly concerned Etain as she glanced around, trying to figure out what was going on. That being said it didn't take long for her to track down Kal as he was actively shouting various commands in Mandalorian to everyone in earshot, and she quickly made her way over to him. "You want to tell me why it looks like we're preparing for a war?" Etain asked.
"Because a war is coming here," Kal replied, not facing Etain as he glanced around. "Mandalore's about to be attacked by a serious raiding party, so we're preparing to fend them off."
"This looks like a lot more preparation than I would expect for dealing with a 'raiding party,'" Etain replied as she glanced around again. "Kal. What's really happening?"
"...I got word from Jango that the leaders of these people are going to try and assassinate Duchess Kryze, and they're going to throw a small army of chakaar at the planet as a distraction."
"That's insane!"
"No argument here," Kal replied.
"But..." Etain shook her head in disbelief. "I don't get it...are they being led by someone from the Death Watch? I thought they were all gone at this point..."
"Let's just say that's close enough. From what Jango told me these psychos just want to see Mandalore burn," Kal replied softly.
Etain was silent for a long moment and visibly downcast before she straightened up. "Got a spare set of armor?"
Kal slowly turned to face Etain. "Are you serious?"
"These people are going to try and destroy my home. So yes, of course I'm serious."
Kal blinked owlishly before a smirk came over his face. "Heh. Alright, I think I can spare a set for you if you really want it."
------------
Oracle Communications Room
T-14 Hours Until Maul's Attack
Ciaran shook her head as she processed what Jango had told her. "You're certain that what's left of Sabaoth Squadron actually has enough trihexalon to cause some serious damage to Mandalore?"
"Much as I don't want to believe it, yes. It took some serious digging and the help of some of the Gurlanin, but I can confirm that they're going to try and bomb some of the cities with trihexalon warheads. I'd expect that they'd hit Keldabe with said warheads to draw off any fighter defenses while the main force hits Sundari," Jango replied, his holoimage distorting slightly due to it coming from the Slave 1.
"Should have wiped them out when I had the chance..." Ciaran grumbled. "Will that impact your plans that much?"
"Not really. All I'll need is a guarantee that the Oracle Fleet will show up in time to actually prevent those warheads from hitting Mandalore."
"Already a given. Though that does remind me...while I understand your desire to inflict high casualties on the invading forces, I'm not sure I agree with the idea of letting them actually reach the surface."
"The fact that this is even happening means that the Guardians aren't being seen as the new Mandos by the people we want to see that. If you want to make absolutely sure that this never happens again we have to send a message that if anyone dares to attack Mandalore, the Guardians will be able to ensure they'll pay in blood. Blasting transports out of the sky does tend to send a message as well, but one that is nowhere near as powerful."
"Do you think they're ready?"
"Even if they're not we've got Kal's people and the Cuy'val Dar ready to support them. Those two Sith won't know what hit them."
-----------
Guardian HQ Training Grounds, Sundari, Mandalore
T-3 Hours Until Maul's Attack
While the majority of the training grounds used by the Mandalorian Guardians were almost constantly in use with young warriors sparring with each other until they either gave up from exhaustion or simply passed out after a particularly intense fight. However one particular block was currently being reserved by Obi-Wan and Ciaran for the latter's final lessons in the basics of Form III.
As Ciaran barely managed to block another series of attacks from Siri Obi-Wan calmly watched from the sidelines, observing that Ciaran was managing to fare far better than she did when she was first introduced to the form, though she was still visibly having issues with staying on the defensive against Siri's relentless assault. Namely that he could tell that even now Ciaran was struggling to not go on the offensive as she would noticeably start to reflexively push Siri back with Form II before catching herself and shifting back to Form III. Still it was clear that she at had a solid grasp of the form.
For Ciaran's part she was still feeling slightly frustrated with being restricted from going on the offensive, but she could definitely grasp the intricacies of Form III. As she had studied the form in more detail she'd come to the realization that it was much closer to Form II than she'd first thought, and once that realization hit things began to really begin clicking into place for her. Even so as she was still being pushed hard by Siri's assault she was mentally cursing Obi-Wan for actively restricting her from using Form II, wishing she could grasp for herself how it and Form III interacted in a sparring match before she would have to figure it out in a fight for her life.
After another few moments, Obi-Wan shouted "Alright, I think that's good enough," and with that Siri backed off slightly though kept her lightsaber ignited as Obi-Wan looked at Ciaran, noting that even after being pressed hard by Siri she wasn't even visibly winded.
Perhaps I underestimated how much she gained from the Matukai techniques she spoke of, Obi-Wan thought to himself. With how hard Siri was pressing her I wouldn't have faulted her for needing a break, but even now-
"So, did I pass?" Ciaran said, knocking Obi-Wan out of his train of thought. "And before you say anything I know I haven't exactly mastered the form, but would you say that I'm 'good enough?'"
Obi-Wan brought a hand to his chin, thinking to himself for a moment before replying. "I'd say that you're at least competent with the form, but..."
"I could beat her if I wasn't holding back," Siri commented matter-of-factly, earning her an annoyed look from Ciaran.
"No, it's not that, even if that might be true," Obi-Wan said as he realized what was causing him to hesitate - and also earning him a glare from Ciaran. "I'm more interested to see what happens when you're not solely restricted to Soresu," he said to Ciaran. "I could tell that you were reflexively shifting into Makashi at times before you realized what you were doing."
"To be honest learning Soresu was much easier when I realized how the principles behind it and Makashi weren't that different," Ciaran explained as she shrugged. "The best way I could put it is that I feel like I'd be much better off if I could shift between the two forms."
"We'll see if you're telling the truth then," Siri replied as she shifted back into a fighting stance. "Try not to disappoint me."
Ciaran's only reply was a Makashi salute with her lightfoil, and as Obi-Wan watched it he couldn't help but feel like it was eerily reminiscent of the times he had seen Count Dooku do the same. She and Siri squared off before both of them charged forward, briefly locking blades before separating and beginning their duel in earnest. Now freed from Obi-Wan's imposed restriction on Makashi, Ciaran quickly began pushing forwards, driving back Siri with a flurry of rapid strikes. Her advantage was short-lived however as Siri managed to push Ciaran back briefly before using the opportunity to hop backwards then launching herself forwards across the gap she had created, slamming into Ciaran and driving her back. To her credit though she managed to keep a solid defense up as she visibly shifted into Soresu as Siri kept up her relentless offensive -
Only for Ciaran to suddenly lunge forward as she exploited an opening, using a quick slash to knock Siri off balance and letting her regain the advantage. From there she make sure to keep her opponent off-balance, constantly attacking to make sure Siri wouldn't get the chance to go on the offensive again. After a moment though Siri was able to force a blade lock and -
"I think that's enough," Obi-Wan called out from the sideline. "Any longer and I'm worried that you might end up killing each other."
With that, Siri and Ciaran broke apart and deactivated their weapons. "Alright then, so you weren't lying earlier when you were talking about your form usage," Siri said, glancing at Obi-Wan as he moved to join the two of them before looking back at Ciaran. "I don't know about him, but I'd say you're actually a fairly good duelist if nothing else."
"Obi-Wan wasn't kidding then if you call 'me fighting you to a standstill' fairly good," Ciaran retorted.
"I have to admit that you have considerable talent for wielding a lightsaber if nothing else," Obi-Wan admitted as the three of them began to walk towards the exit.
"Honestly it surprised me too when I first stared picking this kind of thing up," Ciaran replied with a shrug. "Though I think not having to rely on sight in a sense probably helps with that quite a bit."
As the three of them exited their training room, Ciaran turned slightly to see Kygeetu standing stiffly at attention while Obi-Wan and Siri looked at her slightly confused. "Anything to report?" Ciaran asked.
"No, my Lady. No one attempted to interfere with your lesson," she reported.
Ciaran nodded, not particularly caring whether it was because no one had decided to come by or if Kygeetu's presence had dissuaded anyone from trying to interfere. Glancing back at Obi-Wan and Siri, she noticed that the still of them were giving Kygeetu looks of ever so slight confusion. "Stop that, you two look like you've never seen a Kaleesh bodyguard before."
"It's more the fact that I don't think she's taken her eyes off of you since you came into view," Siri replied.
"That means she's good at keeping a close eye on me," Ciaran retorted. "Besides, would you be complaining if Obi-"
"At any rate, I believe I have somewhere to be," Obi-Wan quickly interrupted as he knew full well where that line of conversation was going and wanted to end it immediately. "Have a good day," he replied as he quickly left, shortly followed by a bemused Siri.
"...My Lady, I must ask; are you still planning on meeting with him later?" Kygeetu asked.
"Yes, but that's not going to be as enjoyable of a conversation," Ciaran said as she turned towards Kygeetu and the smirk on her face quickly vanished. "There's no reason to rush that. Speaking of which, you are sure you want to be around for what's about to happen?"
"O-of course, why-"
"Abysswalker Kygeetu. I'm asking because the leaders of this attack are a pair of Sith who by all accounts are incredibly skilled fighters. I know you wanted to follow me and see what my work is like but this is far beyond anything I would expect from anyone short of our best fighters. I wouldn't hold it against you in the slightest if you wanted to back out while there's still time."
"I would never do that," Kygeetu replied with her conviction clear in her voice.
"Figured you'd say that but I had to ask," Ciaran replied. "Speaking of which, I think it's about time to go over the final preparations."
------------
Ciaran's Mansion, Sundari, Mandalore
T-1.5 Hours Until Maul's Attack
"Are the Cuy'val Dar all in position?" Ciaran asked Jango as they and Arla looked over a holomap of Sundari. "And more importantly do they have enough firepower to hold until you can get the Guardians properly organized?"
"Yes," Jango replied as lights appeared all across the domed city. "The good news is that there's really not any way the attackers can get in without making a lot of noise, so it should be easy for them to pin down the vanguard until the Guardians are ready to help plug the gaps."
"I have to admit you're placing a lot of faith in them," Ciaran noted. "Nothing against them but I'm not sure they're ready for an actual war. I know they've been training for it, but still."
"War was going to come here the moment that I became Mand'alor again," Jango solemnly replied. "The idea that the Mandalorians, who for millennia have gone on and on about how they're the greatest warriors in the galaxy now have a leader and are fully organized again...eventually someone would try to call that bluff and see if the Guardians lived up to the reputation of the warriors of the past. I think...in the back of their minds, they know that one day they're going to have to prove themselves to the galaxy. And in about an hour, they'll have to."
"...I know you told me that this was about sending a message, but are you sure they're ready for this?" Ciaran asked.
Jango nodded. "If these pirates and raiders are willing to attack Mandalore now that means they don't believe the Guardians have what it takes to be warriors on par with the past Mandalorians. I'm going to help teach them and the rest of the galaxy just how wrong they are."
"Right..." Ciaran muttered as she looked at Arla, who had an intense expression on her face. "Speaking of which, you are ready for this too, right? I know that the majority of the Death Watch is gone but it's almost guaranteed that there's going to be at least a few fanatics involved in this mess."
"Good. I could use the closure," Arla replied without looking at Ciaran. "Now then, we should at least have an excuse to have all the Guardians together in one place..."
-------------
Sundari, Sundari Royal Palace
T-10 Minutes Until Maul's Attack
As Obi-Wan waited in one of the dining halls of the Sundari Royal Palace for the (supposed) arrival of Ciaran and the (expected) arrival of Siri and Satine, a part of him couldn't help but worry about the state of affairs. Not on Mandalore itself; if anything the planet was more prosperous than ever and there were serious talks about starting a program to restore the devastated parts of the planets surface.
But on Courscant...there were cracks starting to form in the Council. The meetings he had been in had remained civil, but it was becoming increasingly clear to him that the Council simply didn't have an answer on how to respond to the rapid organization of another Order on Tython. And he was getting an increasingly certain feeling that the Clone Wars, as terrible as they were, were also the main force keeping things from potentially escalating further-
Obi-Wan's train of thought was interrupted as he heard the door to the hall open. To his surprise Ciaran was the only one entering the room, and to his concern her face was visibly devoid of any mirth or amusement.
"...Aren't Siri and Satine coming?" Obi-Wan asked, as his instincts began to warn him that something was very wrong...
"No they aren't," Ciaran brusquely replied as she took a seat next to him, briefly staring into space before facing Obi-Wan. "...We have a mutual problem."
Obi-Wan glanced at the doorway, noting that Kygeetu was conspicuously absent before looking back at Ciaran as his eyes narrowed. "Define a 'mutual' problem."
"A 'problem' that involves a Sith that's apparently very familiar with you. Does the name 'Maul' ring any bells?"
He didn't recognize the name, but Obi-Wan felt a chill go down his spine as he heard it. "I...don't think so..."
"Red-skinned Zabrak with black tattoos. Missing his legs. That-"
Ciaran stopped as she saw the color drain from Obi-Wan's face. "He's...how is he alive!?"
"Through his hatred of you, basically," Ciaran replied.
"How did you learn about him!?" Obi-Wan asked, his voice becoming more intense.
"I'll explain the details later, but the short answer is that I made a deal with someone very powerful that has completely backfired on me," Ciaran said, a flash of frustration briefly making itself visible on her face before she continued. "That being said I was able to keep an eye on him and I know where he's going to be very soon."
"...He's coming here, isn't he!?" Obi-Wan replied as he could now actively sense that something was about to happen, his Force senses warning him of an impending disaster.
"That's the bad news. The good news is that I've helped prepare for his arrival. You're not going to fight him alone."
As Ciaran finished her sentence alarms began to blare throughout the Royal Palace.
"...And there he is..." Ciaran muttered before focusing back on Obi-Wan, who was visibly preparing to rush out the door. "We've only got a few moments before the attack begins so listen carefully. He doesn't want to kill you - he wants to hurt you, and he's going to go after Siri and Satine to do it."
"He has help, I take it," Obi-Wan stated as he got up and started to move towards the door, seeing guards rushing through the building.
"Jango will handle them. You need to get ready for Maul," Ciaran replied.
"What about you?" Obi-Wan said, turning to face empty air as Ciaran had completely vanished from sight. "...Oh dear."
-----------
Mandalore Orbit
"Hear my words," Maul's voice echoed throughout the ragtag fleet he had assembled for his attack on Mandalore. "Now that you are here, there is no turning back. Should you attempt to flee you will be cut down by the Sabaoth if you are fortunate, or by myself or my brother if you are not. But fear not, for we will not be facing the Mandalorian warriors of old - merely children who play at being warriors. Remember your mission - Mandalore shall BURN!"
As Maul ended his transmission he looked out towards the planet that was getting larger and larger.
"Soon, brother," Savage said from behind him. "You will have your revenge."
"I can sense it...the both of them are there along with Kenobi," Maul said to himself as he reached out with the Force, a feral grin appearing on his face as he confirmed the presences of his targets. "Finally..."
-----------
As warning sirens across Sundari began to blare, there were movements in the shadows.
The members of the Cuy'val Dar that had been stationed in the city began to set up their weapons, awaiting the beginning of the attack.
Jango and Arla were running towards the Guardian HQ, getting ready to rally the warriors there to defend their home.
Kal Skirata was leading a group of men that suspiciously resembled Jango with Etain, who now wearing matte-black Mandalorian armor as she stoically marched alongside her father-in-law.
Ciaran was quickly running through the rapidly emptying streets, mentally preparing for what would no doubt be one of the most difficult fights in her life.
Kygeetu awaited her Lady's arrival at their rendezvous point, eager to prove herself to her in the coming battle.
Meanwhile in the palace, Obi-Wan was beginning to shout commands at any of the guards who would listen, beginning to take command of the defense. At the same time, Siri was escorting Satine towards one of the palace's panic rooms where she would be safe.
In the depths of space, far enough from Mandalore to remain hidden but close enough to quickly respond, the Oracle Fleet hovered in place, waiting for the order to strike out.
And with Maul's forces starting to enter Mandalore's atmosphere, the battle for Mandalore began.
AN: ...Yeah, with the stuff I want to do here...this has to be a two-parter. If I added in the battle itself and all of the cool things that are going to happen during it, it'd probably be another 5k words...
Not much else to say, aside from me giving credit to @Panory for inspiring the pre-attack conversation between Ciaran and Obi-Wan. It didn't play out like they wrote it, but the core concept was too cool not to include.
But seriously though, this is what happens when Shit Gets Real. We've got a bunch of characters coming together and a lot of arcs reaching a breaking point here, all in the midst of a battle for survival! So you'd better get excited for part 2 when things actually start exploding!
T-35 Hours Until Maul's Attack
Most days of the year Kyrimorut was relatively quiet barring the various unearthly sounds that would come out of Doctor Uthan's makeshift laboratory. However today the compound was bustling with activity as various members of Clan Skirata darted to and fro, gathering weapons, checking armor, and generally preparing for war. This was the sight that greeted a visibly concerned Etain as she glanced around, trying to figure out what was going on. That being said it didn't take long for her to track down Kal as he was actively shouting various commands in Mandalorian to everyone in earshot, and she quickly made her way over to him. "You want to tell me why it looks like we're preparing for a war?" Etain asked.
"Because a war is coming here," Kal replied, not facing Etain as he glanced around. "Mandalore's about to be attacked by a serious raiding party, so we're preparing to fend them off."
"This looks like a lot more preparation than I would expect for dealing with a 'raiding party,'" Etain replied as she glanced around again. "Kal. What's really happening?"
"...I got word from Jango that the leaders of these people are going to try and assassinate Duchess Kryze, and they're going to throw a small army of chakaar at the planet as a distraction."
"That's insane!"
"No argument here," Kal replied.
"But..." Etain shook her head in disbelief. "I don't get it...are they being led by someone from the Death Watch? I thought they were all gone at this point..."
"Let's just say that's close enough. From what Jango told me these psychos just want to see Mandalore burn," Kal replied softly.
Etain was silent for a long moment and visibly downcast before she straightened up. "Got a spare set of armor?"
Kal slowly turned to face Etain. "Are you serious?"
"These people are going to try and destroy my home. So yes, of course I'm serious."
Kal blinked owlishly before a smirk came over his face. "Heh. Alright, I think I can spare a set for you if you really want it."
------------
Oracle Communications Room
T-14 Hours Until Maul's Attack
Ciaran shook her head as she processed what Jango had told her. "You're certain that what's left of Sabaoth Squadron actually has enough trihexalon to cause some serious damage to Mandalore?"
"Much as I don't want to believe it, yes. It took some serious digging and the help of some of the Gurlanin, but I can confirm that they're going to try and bomb some of the cities with trihexalon warheads. I'd expect that they'd hit Keldabe with said warheads to draw off any fighter defenses while the main force hits Sundari," Jango replied, his holoimage distorting slightly due to it coming from the Slave 1.
"Should have wiped them out when I had the chance..." Ciaran grumbled. "Will that impact your plans that much?"
"Not really. All I'll need is a guarantee that the Oracle Fleet will show up in time to actually prevent those warheads from hitting Mandalore."
"Already a given. Though that does remind me...while I understand your desire to inflict high casualties on the invading forces, I'm not sure I agree with the idea of letting them actually reach the surface."
"The fact that this is even happening means that the Guardians aren't being seen as the new Mandos by the people we want to see that. If you want to make absolutely sure that this never happens again we have to send a message that if anyone dares to attack Mandalore, the Guardians will be able to ensure they'll pay in blood. Blasting transports out of the sky does tend to send a message as well, but one that is nowhere near as powerful."
"Do you think they're ready?"
"Even if they're not we've got Kal's people and the Cuy'val Dar ready to support them. Those two Sith won't know what hit them."
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Guardian HQ Training Grounds, Sundari, Mandalore
T-3 Hours Until Maul's Attack
While the majority of the training grounds used by the Mandalorian Guardians were almost constantly in use with young warriors sparring with each other until they either gave up from exhaustion or simply passed out after a particularly intense fight. However one particular block was currently being reserved by Obi-Wan and Ciaran for the latter's final lessons in the basics of Form III.
As Ciaran barely managed to block another series of attacks from Siri Obi-Wan calmly watched from the sidelines, observing that Ciaran was managing to fare far better than she did when she was first introduced to the form, though she was still visibly having issues with staying on the defensive against Siri's relentless assault. Namely that he could tell that even now Ciaran was struggling to not go on the offensive as she would noticeably start to reflexively push Siri back with Form II before catching herself and shifting back to Form III. Still it was clear that she at had a solid grasp of the form.
For Ciaran's part she was still feeling slightly frustrated with being restricted from going on the offensive, but she could definitely grasp the intricacies of Form III. As she had studied the form in more detail she'd come to the realization that it was much closer to Form II than she'd first thought, and once that realization hit things began to really begin clicking into place for her. Even so as she was still being pushed hard by Siri's assault she was mentally cursing Obi-Wan for actively restricting her from using Form II, wishing she could grasp for herself how it and Form III interacted in a sparring match before she would have to figure it out in a fight for her life.
After another few moments, Obi-Wan shouted "Alright, I think that's good enough," and with that Siri backed off slightly though kept her lightsaber ignited as Obi-Wan looked at Ciaran, noting that even after being pressed hard by Siri she wasn't even visibly winded.
Perhaps I underestimated how much she gained from the Matukai techniques she spoke of, Obi-Wan thought to himself. With how hard Siri was pressing her I wouldn't have faulted her for needing a break, but even now-
"So, did I pass?" Ciaran said, knocking Obi-Wan out of his train of thought. "And before you say anything I know I haven't exactly mastered the form, but would you say that I'm 'good enough?'"
Obi-Wan brought a hand to his chin, thinking to himself for a moment before replying. "I'd say that you're at least competent with the form, but..."
"I could beat her if I wasn't holding back," Siri commented matter-of-factly, earning her an annoyed look from Ciaran.
"No, it's not that, even if that might be true," Obi-Wan said as he realized what was causing him to hesitate - and also earning him a glare from Ciaran. "I'm more interested to see what happens when you're not solely restricted to Soresu," he said to Ciaran. "I could tell that you were reflexively shifting into Makashi at times before you realized what you were doing."
"To be honest learning Soresu was much easier when I realized how the principles behind it and Makashi weren't that different," Ciaran explained as she shrugged. "The best way I could put it is that I feel like I'd be much better off if I could shift between the two forms."
"We'll see if you're telling the truth then," Siri replied as she shifted back into a fighting stance. "Try not to disappoint me."
Ciaran's only reply was a Makashi salute with her lightfoil, and as Obi-Wan watched it he couldn't help but feel like it was eerily reminiscent of the times he had seen Count Dooku do the same. She and Siri squared off before both of them charged forward, briefly locking blades before separating and beginning their duel in earnest. Now freed from Obi-Wan's imposed restriction on Makashi, Ciaran quickly began pushing forwards, driving back Siri with a flurry of rapid strikes. Her advantage was short-lived however as Siri managed to push Ciaran back briefly before using the opportunity to hop backwards then launching herself forwards across the gap she had created, slamming into Ciaran and driving her back. To her credit though she managed to keep a solid defense up as she visibly shifted into Soresu as Siri kept up her relentless offensive -
Only for Ciaran to suddenly lunge forward as she exploited an opening, using a quick slash to knock Siri off balance and letting her regain the advantage. From there she make sure to keep her opponent off-balance, constantly attacking to make sure Siri wouldn't get the chance to go on the offensive again. After a moment though Siri was able to force a blade lock and -
"I think that's enough," Obi-Wan called out from the sideline. "Any longer and I'm worried that you might end up killing each other."
With that, Siri and Ciaran broke apart and deactivated their weapons. "Alright then, so you weren't lying earlier when you were talking about your form usage," Siri said, glancing at Obi-Wan as he moved to join the two of them before looking back at Ciaran. "I don't know about him, but I'd say you're actually a fairly good duelist if nothing else."
"Obi-Wan wasn't kidding then if you call 'me fighting you to a standstill' fairly good," Ciaran retorted.
"I have to admit that you have considerable talent for wielding a lightsaber if nothing else," Obi-Wan admitted as the three of them began to walk towards the exit.
"Honestly it surprised me too when I first stared picking this kind of thing up," Ciaran replied with a shrug. "Though I think not having to rely on sight in a sense probably helps with that quite a bit."
As the three of them exited their training room, Ciaran turned slightly to see Kygeetu standing stiffly at attention while Obi-Wan and Siri looked at her slightly confused. "Anything to report?" Ciaran asked.
"No, my Lady. No one attempted to interfere with your lesson," she reported.
Ciaran nodded, not particularly caring whether it was because no one had decided to come by or if Kygeetu's presence had dissuaded anyone from trying to interfere. Glancing back at Obi-Wan and Siri, she noticed that the still of them were giving Kygeetu looks of ever so slight confusion. "Stop that, you two look like you've never seen a Kaleesh bodyguard before."
"It's more the fact that I don't think she's taken her eyes off of you since you came into view," Siri replied.
"That means she's good at keeping a close eye on me," Ciaran retorted. "Besides, would you be complaining if Obi-"
"At any rate, I believe I have somewhere to be," Obi-Wan quickly interrupted as he knew full well where that line of conversation was going and wanted to end it immediately. "Have a good day," he replied as he quickly left, shortly followed by a bemused Siri.
"...My Lady, I must ask; are you still planning on meeting with him later?" Kygeetu asked.
"Yes, but that's not going to be as enjoyable of a conversation," Ciaran said as she turned towards Kygeetu and the smirk on her face quickly vanished. "There's no reason to rush that. Speaking of which, you are sure you want to be around for what's about to happen?"
"O-of course, why-"
"Abysswalker Kygeetu. I'm asking because the leaders of this attack are a pair of Sith who by all accounts are incredibly skilled fighters. I know you wanted to follow me and see what my work is like but this is far beyond anything I would expect from anyone short of our best fighters. I wouldn't hold it against you in the slightest if you wanted to back out while there's still time."
"I would never do that," Kygeetu replied with her conviction clear in her voice.
"Figured you'd say that but I had to ask," Ciaran replied. "Speaking of which, I think it's about time to go over the final preparations."
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Ciaran's Mansion, Sundari, Mandalore
T-1.5 Hours Until Maul's Attack
"Are the Cuy'val Dar all in position?" Ciaran asked Jango as they and Arla looked over a holomap of Sundari. "And more importantly do they have enough firepower to hold until you can get the Guardians properly organized?"
"Yes," Jango replied as lights appeared all across the domed city. "The good news is that there's really not any way the attackers can get in without making a lot of noise, so it should be easy for them to pin down the vanguard until the Guardians are ready to help plug the gaps."
"I have to admit you're placing a lot of faith in them," Ciaran noted. "Nothing against them but I'm not sure they're ready for an actual war. I know they've been training for it, but still."
"War was going to come here the moment that I became Mand'alor again," Jango solemnly replied. "The idea that the Mandalorians, who for millennia have gone on and on about how they're the greatest warriors in the galaxy now have a leader and are fully organized again...eventually someone would try to call that bluff and see if the Guardians lived up to the reputation of the warriors of the past. I think...in the back of their minds, they know that one day they're going to have to prove themselves to the galaxy. And in about an hour, they'll have to."
"...I know you told me that this was about sending a message, but are you sure they're ready for this?" Ciaran asked.
Jango nodded. "If these pirates and raiders are willing to attack Mandalore now that means they don't believe the Guardians have what it takes to be warriors on par with the past Mandalorians. I'm going to help teach them and the rest of the galaxy just how wrong they are."
"Right..." Ciaran muttered as she looked at Arla, who had an intense expression on her face. "Speaking of which, you are ready for this too, right? I know that the majority of the Death Watch is gone but it's almost guaranteed that there's going to be at least a few fanatics involved in this mess."
"Good. I could use the closure," Arla replied without looking at Ciaran. "Now then, we should at least have an excuse to have all the Guardians together in one place..."
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Sundari, Sundari Royal Palace
T-10 Minutes Until Maul's Attack
As Obi-Wan waited in one of the dining halls of the Sundari Royal Palace for the (supposed) arrival of Ciaran and the (expected) arrival of Siri and Satine, a part of him couldn't help but worry about the state of affairs. Not on Mandalore itself; if anything the planet was more prosperous than ever and there were serious talks about starting a program to restore the devastated parts of the planets surface.
But on Courscant...there were cracks starting to form in the Council. The meetings he had been in had remained civil, but it was becoming increasingly clear to him that the Council simply didn't have an answer on how to respond to the rapid organization of another Order on Tython. And he was getting an increasingly certain feeling that the Clone Wars, as terrible as they were, were also the main force keeping things from potentially escalating further-
Obi-Wan's train of thought was interrupted as he heard the door to the hall open. To his surprise Ciaran was the only one entering the room, and to his concern her face was visibly devoid of any mirth or amusement.
"...Aren't Siri and Satine coming?" Obi-Wan asked, as his instincts began to warn him that something was very wrong...
"No they aren't," Ciaran brusquely replied as she took a seat next to him, briefly staring into space before facing Obi-Wan. "...We have a mutual problem."
Obi-Wan glanced at the doorway, noting that Kygeetu was conspicuously absent before looking back at Ciaran as his eyes narrowed. "Define a 'mutual' problem."
"A 'problem' that involves a Sith that's apparently very familiar with you. Does the name 'Maul' ring any bells?"
He didn't recognize the name, but Obi-Wan felt a chill go down his spine as he heard it. "I...don't think so..."
"Red-skinned Zabrak with black tattoos. Missing his legs. That-"
Ciaran stopped as she saw the color drain from Obi-Wan's face. "He's...how is he alive!?"
"Through his hatred of you, basically," Ciaran replied.
"How did you learn about him!?" Obi-Wan asked, his voice becoming more intense.
"I'll explain the details later, but the short answer is that I made a deal with someone very powerful that has completely backfired on me," Ciaran said, a flash of frustration briefly making itself visible on her face before she continued. "That being said I was able to keep an eye on him and I know where he's going to be very soon."
"...He's coming here, isn't he!?" Obi-Wan replied as he could now actively sense that something was about to happen, his Force senses warning him of an impending disaster.
"That's the bad news. The good news is that I've helped prepare for his arrival. You're not going to fight him alone."
As Ciaran finished her sentence alarms began to blare throughout the Royal Palace.
"...And there he is..." Ciaran muttered before focusing back on Obi-Wan, who was visibly preparing to rush out the door. "We've only got a few moments before the attack begins so listen carefully. He doesn't want to kill you - he wants to hurt you, and he's going to go after Siri and Satine to do it."
"He has help, I take it," Obi-Wan stated as he got up and started to move towards the door, seeing guards rushing through the building.
"Jango will handle them. You need to get ready for Maul," Ciaran replied.
"What about you?" Obi-Wan said, turning to face empty air as Ciaran had completely vanished from sight. "...Oh dear."
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Mandalore Orbit
"Hear my words," Maul's voice echoed throughout the ragtag fleet he had assembled for his attack on Mandalore. "Now that you are here, there is no turning back. Should you attempt to flee you will be cut down by the Sabaoth if you are fortunate, or by myself or my brother if you are not. But fear not, for we will not be facing the Mandalorian warriors of old - merely children who play at being warriors. Remember your mission - Mandalore shall BURN!"
As Maul ended his transmission he looked out towards the planet that was getting larger and larger.
"Soon, brother," Savage said from behind him. "You will have your revenge."
"I can sense it...the both of them are there along with Kenobi," Maul said to himself as he reached out with the Force, a feral grin appearing on his face as he confirmed the presences of his targets. "Finally..."
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As warning sirens across Sundari began to blare, there were movements in the shadows.
The members of the Cuy'val Dar that had been stationed in the city began to set up their weapons, awaiting the beginning of the attack.
Jango and Arla were running towards the Guardian HQ, getting ready to rally the warriors there to defend their home.
Kal Skirata was leading a group of men that suspiciously resembled Jango with Etain, who now wearing matte-black Mandalorian armor as she stoically marched alongside her father-in-law.
Ciaran was quickly running through the rapidly emptying streets, mentally preparing for what would no doubt be one of the most difficult fights in her life.
Kygeetu awaited her Lady's arrival at their rendezvous point, eager to prove herself to her in the coming battle.
Meanwhile in the palace, Obi-Wan was beginning to shout commands at any of the guards who would listen, beginning to take command of the defense. At the same time, Siri was escorting Satine towards one of the palace's panic rooms where she would be safe.
In the depths of space, far enough from Mandalore to remain hidden but close enough to quickly respond, the Oracle Fleet hovered in place, waiting for the order to strike out.
And with Maul's forces starting to enter Mandalore's atmosphere, the battle for Mandalore began.
AN: ...Yeah, with the stuff I want to do here...this has to be a two-parter. If I added in the battle itself and all of the cool things that are going to happen during it, it'd probably be another 5k words...
Not much else to say, aside from me giving credit to @Panory for inspiring the pre-attack conversation between Ciaran and Obi-Wan. It didn't play out like they wrote it, but the core concept was too cool not to include.
But seriously though, this is what happens when Shit Gets Real. We've got a bunch of characters coming together and a lot of arcs reaching a breaking point here, all in the midst of a battle for survival! So you'd better get excited for part 2 when things actually start exploding!