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KOTOR: A Shared Vision (Mandalorian War Saga Book 1) FINISHED-EDIT COMPLETE 4-21-07
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Jedi_Drizzt
Registered:
Nov '06
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Date Posted:
2/10/07 4:16am
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 13 posted 2-6-07
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Great continuity of the story, drevan. It got very interesting. Can't wait to see what happens on Telos, it is my favourite KOTOR2 planet. 
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"What hope might we find if we know all of the answers?" Drizzt Do'Urden
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drevan1138
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Apr '06
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Date Posted:
2/14/07 7:55pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 13 posted 2-6-07
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I'm glad you felt like you were a part of the action Wyo. I'm working to improve my perspective while telling a story. It was nice to know I succeeded somewhat with this chapter.
And I'm glad you found this new chapter interesting Jedi_Drizzt. The next chapter is on Taris, but stay tuned, some major events are going to unfold on Telos.
I hope everyone else enjoyed this post. I'm about halfway through the next chapter and it should be up in the next few days. Though I don't make any promises, midterms are next week. Thanks for reading and I'll be back with the next post.
P.S. If anyone ever spots a continuity error, PM me and I'll fix it in my first edit once I'm done with the whole story.
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drevan1138
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Date Posted:
2/15/07 3:21pm
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RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 14 posted 2-15-07
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 11:33am (3 edits total)
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drevan1138
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It's interesting to see how stories can take on a life of their own in your head. This chapter ended up going in a whole other direction than what I had planned. I guess it keeps things exciting for the author to not know what is coming next either.
Anyways, I hope you enjoy the next installment of A Shared Vision.
Fourteen
Taris, Outer Rim
“Taris Control, this is the Silver Hammer requesting airspace clearance and docking berth assignment.”
“Silver Hammer this is Taris control, standby while we validate your transponder signature.”
Azure reclined in her chair awaiting the too-exact air-controller's response. Her eyes drifted to the man only a few years her junior occupying, and filling, her co-pilot's seat. Azure had owned the Lodestar for nearly three years now and in all that time the only individual to occupy the blue nerfhide had been her serviceable droid BV-83. Numbers and data were Azure's specialty, something a droid co-pilot understood as well. The experience of having flesh and blood close by was difficult to capture, Rais was opening her eyes to a whole new realm of possibilities.
Opening her eyes...Azure blinked and returned her attention to the amber hues of Taris' upper atmosphere. How long had she and Rais been making eye-contact? This was going to be awkward. She noticed Rais stiffen as he sat up in his seat. Azure got the notion that Antil had been observing the two, but whether this was due to her awakening abilities in the Force or fear of embarrassment, she couldn't say.
Rais looked off through the clouds to where the planet lay hidden below and cleared his throat. He had a habit of doing that. Probably trying for some more small talk.
“I wonder why anybody bothers to check transponder codes anymore. It's a well known fact that any two-cred smuggler has access to all the equipment needed to change a signature.”
Sounds like small talk to me. Surprisingly, it wasn't boring to her. Rather it was quickly becoming an endearing trait of his. He was just too cute always struggling for the right words to say. Hold on, I shouldn't be thinking this, he's a Jedi. Rais sat there waiting for a response. How long has he been waiting? How long have I been thinking about him? Stop losing track of time Azure. They're going to believe you have a habit of long pauses.
Azure cleared her throat. “Welcome to the problems of bureaucratic government–which I've thankfully escaped for the time being.” Hopefully she could wipe the embarrassment from her mind. “As you can probably guess, Toshen's not the only Senator up to no good. The Republic's official motto is there is no need to reform a process if doing so endangers your own well-being.” Why did I just say that? I'm not in control of my thoughts. Azure shook her head as she let out a sigh taking a moment to compose herself. “Change is difficult for most people to deal with.” There is certainly a lot of it in my life. All because of the man sitting there giving her a polite nod to acknowledge her comments. She smiled.
The Lodestar passed through the clouds opening the whole of Taris to their view. She was glad for the break the scenery provided. Far below them the great pinnacles of rounded architecture towered above the great planet-wide cityscape casting much of the world in perpetual shadow. But the entire world was not dominated by such construction; in the far distance Azure spotted several large seas which emerged like giant teal dots on a great ball of blue-gray and silver. She noticed the designers of Taris had thus far deliberately provided a respite from the urban sprawl that had consumed so many other worlds. She attempted to keep her mind on the view and off of Rais for the time being. Attempted.
He leaned close to his master. “Lorn spent a few months on Taris while Master Kae was off on an assignment about ten years ago. He didn't much care for the planet.”
“I wonder how much of that had to do with the planet and how much had to do with the company he kept.” Antil's expression turned sour at he spoke. An awkward silence pervaded the cabin.
Azure's display revealed the lack of communication that was taking place between her ship and Taris' Central Traffic Control. She glanced over at her main display which was cycling through various governmental, social, economic, and weather statistics for the planet. “Taris was once as important as Coruscant to the Republic. But events of the past fifty years have done much to damage its reputation.” The responder switch on her control board had barely lit before Azure flipped it. “Silver Hammer, standing by.”
“Clearance is granted to land in berthing ring 97-MD, dock 3E, station 1S. Taris Control out.”
“They're having us land in an orbital platform, isn't that a bit odd?”
Antil placed a hand on Rais' shoulder. “I don't think it's anything to worry about Rais. As you may recall, Tarisians are obsessed with status and our transponder indicates we are no one of importance. It probably is best that way; we don't want to draw Senator Dubil’s attention. Assuming he is here on-planet.”
Azure adjusted their flight path and provided herself a distant view of Davik’s massive estate. “I don’t mean to diminish the skill you displayed on Coruscant, but if Toshen is here and working with Davik we’ll likely need some help. Have you given any thought to contacting the Jedi Academy here on Taris?”
Neither Jedi spoke, but Azure could felt a slight wave of concern emanate from both her partners. Neither offered an explanation. Her icy blue gaze shifted between the two Jedi as she spoke. “I may not be a Jedi, but it’s hard not to pick up on the signals the two of you are sending. What is going on?”
Antil rose from his chair and begun pacing the narrow space towards the rear of the cabin. He stopped and started several times before anything came out of his mouth. “The academy on Taris is unlike any in the Jedi Order.”
“Meaning?”
Antil exchanged glances with Rais. “I don’t trust them and I’m not the only one in the Order who feels this way. There has been a growing sense of unease in the minds of a few Jedi concerning Master Lucien and those he surrounds himself with. I don’t wish to elaborate any further.”
“I understand.”
“Besides,” Rais rose to join his master, “Toshen is likely keeping a close eye on the academy now that he knows we’ve escaped. I don’t know if he would risk an open attack on the grounds, but it would be in everyone’s best interest if we remained undetected.”
“I can certainly handle a covert operation, but I need something to work on if I am to draw up a plan. And I hope you don't expect the three of us to take on Davik’s entire crew. Next to the Compeer, he is likely the most powerful man in the Exchange.” The large structure she had been watching seemed to rise from the planet's surface in a mocking display as it set itself apart from the rest of the city using massive duracrete walls. “The Republic will never openly admit it, but he runs Taris despite our best efforts to initiate legal proceedings against him. He's an impossible man to get to.”
“We'll find a way.” Rais sounded so confident. Azure wanted to mention how many operatives ID had lost trying to infiltrate Davik's inner circle, but something held her back.
Antil resumed his pacing. “Azure, do you have any contacts here that you would trust implicitly?”
“We have relatively few contacts on Taris.” Azure's voice softened. “The Exchange prides itself on its ability to eliminate double agents. The only one I even know personally in the region is Captain Karath of the Courageous, but he is stationed several sectors away.”
“Toshen may have agents among the Republic Navy, it would be unwise to contact Captain Karath.” Azure’s shoulders slumped slightly. “But that may turn out to be our best option if other alternatives fail to present themselves.”
Rais nodded. “Besides, if Captain Karath is half as formal as Commander Beun we're bound to end up in the brig. There is a warrant out for our arrest.”
“I guess we're on our own then, exiled from all contact and any possible help.” Azure adjusted her port thrusters and slowed the Lodestar to docking speed. She let out an inaudible comment under her breath. “Sounds like fun.” She reconsidered. Actually, it might be.
They were coming into view of the orbital docking platform that hovered a few thousand meters above Taris' surface. Hundreds of small shuttles and cargo carriers flitted back and forth between the station and the surface. “It looks like a Geonosian hive nest.”
Antil leaned forward as he peered out the viewport. “Let's hope the similarities end their youngone.”
Azure lowered the altitude thrusters bringing the dock into view. The Lodestar wasn't a massive ship by any stretch, but the Tarisians port authorities liked to pack as much as they could into a confined space. Rais resumed his position in the seat to Azure's right. “They expect us to fit in there. Didn't they download your ships specifications?”
“You managed to fit in the bunk these past few days Rais.” She allowed herself a wide smirk and followed it up with a wink. “The Lodestar can do the same.” She made the final thruster adjustment and nestled her ship neatly between two of the smaller space yachts she had ever seen. “Plenty of room to spare. Wouldn't you agree Rais?”
Before he could respond, she was headed for the rear of the ship and lowering the boarding ramp. Antil stepped to her side. “Azure instruct your droid to keep the ship primed for launch. We've had too many close calls already.”
Azure smiled and gave the older Jedi a soft pat on the back. “I always do Master Roon, BV's programmed that way.”
The three companions descended the ramp where they were greeted by a cleanly-shaven man with slicked-back hair. He held a datapad close to his chest. “Identichips please.”
Both Azure's and Antil's eyes shot towards Rais. Antil gave Rais a slight nod. Rais started forward. “Why you incompetent excuse for a docking attendant. We just gave you our chips. What are you trying to pull?”
“I'm sorry sir, I must have forgotten.”
Rais rose to his full height and moved closer to the befuddled attendant. He peered down at the young man who was only a few years older than he. “That's not good enough. Give me that pad and I'll prove your incompetence.” The attendant's arm was shaking violently as he handed over the item.
Rais did a quick scroll through the names. “There we are, Lady Jade and her two consorts.” He shoved the pad back into the man's chest sending him staggering back. “Now where is your supervisor? I want to report this abuse.”
“I'll call him now sir.”
“That's more like it. When you reach him, tell him you resign your post. I don't want to see your face here when I return.” Rais looked in the direction of his master. “And tomorrow, find new employment more suitable to your talents.”
“Y-y-yes sir.”
Rais pushed past the young crewman and headed towards the exit. Antil and Azure followed close behind as he stepped into one of the several turbolifts that ran the distance of the docking ring's main tether to the planet.
“That was a bit more flamboyant than usual Rais. A simple, 'you don't need to see our identification' would have sufficed.”
“Normally I would agree master, but I believe my results warrant my behavior. Toshen's here.”
“How di...?”
“You linked into Central Traffic Control from his pad didn't you.” Azure beamed at Rais' ingenuity, it was refreshing to know the Jedi didn't rely on the Force to guide their every decision. “That was quick thinking Rais.”
Rais smiled. “Thanks Azure. An unmarked vessel arriving from Coruscant docked less than an hour ago at Davik's compound. It communicated over diplomatic channels.”
The lift stopped and the three companions walked out into a wide plaza in the heart of the city. Activity was sparse at this time of day as the city entered its evening hours. The scene before them provided an unusual sight—there wasn't a non-human to be found.
“Gentlemen, welcome to the Upper City of Taris.” Azure spread out her right arm in a broad sweeping motion as her eyes darted from building to building. “Now that you've taken in the view, we had better find cover fast. Davik likely has a few of his men watching the lifts.” Their small group scurried off into the cover of the nearest alley as Taris' star shed its last ray of light for the day on the portion of the city-planet they traveled.
***
It was still night when Azure staggered as they walked along the avenue. Rais left his master's side and rushed in to steady her.
“Rais?”
He hung his head slightly as he made contact with her eyes. He kept his tone subdued. “What you feel is the gray area of the Force.”
“You feel it too?”
Both Jedi nodded. Antil motioned in the direction of a small abutment and the three companions retreated under the cover of a wide arch supporting a grand walkway which passed over the avenue.
“What do you mean when you say the gray area of the Force? I thought the Force only had two sides.”
“Perhaps I can explain Azure. There are only two sides to the Force,” Antil offered, “but there are varying degrees to which an individual can hold. In some the confusion between allegiances can become so powerful as to emanate and be felt by the minds of others.”
Rais could sense Azure was still confused. “You have likely already discovered you have the ability to sense emotions in people. The Force can also transmit states of mind. Here what is projected is a sense of confusion—just as you were able to project your thoughts earlier on the ship. In some that power becomes so great that their state of mind, or their thoughts, effectively becomes the will of others. The tendencies of one to the light or the dark can have powerful effects upon their companions. Those affected are blind to the change. What you feel now is only a small approximation of that power.”
“What Rais speaks of is true, it has been chronicled in the history of our Order, but that degree of influence occurs only once in maybe ten generations of Jedi.”
“Then what is the source of the confusion I am feeling?”
“The Taris Council. You feel the combined influence of the four Jedi Consulars stationed there.”
Azure paused. “I don't understand. Earlier you said that only some of the Jedi share your opinion of them. If even I can feel their straddling of the dark and the light, why hasn't the Jedi High Council taken action against them? Surely the Order wishes to prevent the rise of another Sith Lord.”
“I wish I had a good answer for you Azure. I can only say that as people we often see only what we want to believe is true, especially in the actions of those closest to us. If not that, then perhaps the Council is aware of the change, but unwilling to give up the hope that they may yet devote themselves fully to the light.”
“I tend to see it as the former Master, at least in Master Lamar's case. He's judged Lorn and I from the start.”
“That is besides the point Rais. Master Lamar is but one voice on the Council, no Jedi speaks for the entire Order.” Antil's eyes were drawn far down the avenue. “The Taris Council is their concern and we should let it rest at that.”
Azure followed Antil's gaze to a circular building topped with a conical protrusion. A small windowed dome rested atop the structure where a pale light flickered. As all eyes focused on the structure, the light expired leaving the dome in blackness. Antil grabbed her by the arm. “We should move on Azure. Our course calls for a different path.”
They walked in silence for several minutes until the sense of unease they felt had lifted. It was soon replaced with a mild sense of alarm as the new road they walked suddenly echoed with the distant sound of speeder bikes. Azure placed her hand on Rais' arm. “It's likely one of the Lower City gangs, Tarisian authorities have yet to gain control over them.”
Rais spotted a storefront with a broken window and the three quickly made their way inside. “Now seems as good a time as any to start laying preliminary plans. What can you tell us of Davik's estate?”
Azure watched the road outside as she began her briefing. “Davik's compound is at the southern end of the main city about five kilometers from here. Think of it as an enormous resort bordering the largest lake that remains on this planet. Davik makes a habit of hosting upscale clientèle and catering to their needs. And despite its resort appearance, its security systems are as advanced as any ID has ever come across.” The sound of the engines was growing louder.
“We're capable of disrupting most surveillance equipment.” Rais smiled at Antil. “I don't believe that should be our primary concern. With our combined talents we should be able to avoid detection by monitoring equipment and discover Toshen's location. But we are outnumbered. Azure, does ID have any estimates on the number of agents Davik has stationed at the compound?”
“On the low end...in the range of five- to six-hundred.” Azure began backing away from the window.
Rais and Antil followed suit. Rais spoke but his attention was directed elsewhere. “We're going to need some help then.”
The familiar sound of blaster fire erupted outside followed by a loud explosion and the wheeze of an engine. The Jedi reacted purely through the Force and dove for cover. Rais took Azure down with him as the store they occupied was filled with the sound of breaking glass and screeching metal. He held her close using his body as a shield to protect her from the debris.
The three companions looked up to find the twisted wreck of a speeder bike lying in a flaming heap against the back wall. A teenage male with bushy brown hair lay face down on the stone floor.
Antil rushed to his side and turned the boy onto his back. His face was bleeding but the boy appeared otherwise uninjured. The brown eyes of the lad opened and he jumped to his feet. “You're Jedi!”
The two Jedi exchanged puzzled glances. Rais wondered how the youth had discerned that so quickly given their weaponry was concealed and both were wearing body armor instead of the traditional Jedi garb.
“You have to help me. I'm one of you...” the boy looked down as he placed his hand on his empty utility belt, “sort of.”
“What do you mean?” Antil questioned the boy.
The sound of more approaching speeder bikes was growing deafening. The young man began to run and turned a corner heading towards the rear of the store. His voice sounded from down the hall. “I don't have time to explain you'll just have to trust me Master.”
Rais and the others followed close behind. “Who are you?”
They caught up to the young man who was stopped at a locked door. Rais' blade made short work of its locking mechanism. The young man was the first out of the building. He called back as he ran. “The name's Carrick. Padawan Zayne Carrick.”
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WyoJedi
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Nov '05
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Date Posted:
2/15/07 5:05pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 14 posted 2-15-07
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So they're on Taris. I loved the interaction between your characters here and all the descriptions of the planet. Very nicely done. Very smooth transitions.
The gray area of the Force is an interesting concept that you are working with. It seems there is a lot of intrigue at work here... and danger possible. This new character, Zayne, is very interesting. Just what is he running from? I cna't wait to find out. Keep up the great work!
Cheers,
Wyo
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drevan1138
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Date Posted:
2/16/07 1:57pm
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RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 15 posted 2-16-07
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 11:36am (1 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
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Enjoy!
Fifteen
Phindar, Outer Rim
Their decent through Phindar's atmosphere was more deliberate this time and less exhilarating. And his friend wasn't taking any chances, Merk's hands were placed firmly on the controls as he eased the Firebrand through the cloud cover. As they passed through, Lorn noted his eyes only momentarily rested on the brown planet below before jumping back to the display panel. He was taking his time examining his instruments to ensure everything was in working order.
The peacefulness of this trip was allowing them time to take in the aerial view of the planet. Part of Lorn wished they were hurtling towards the ground again. Phindar was an even uglier planet from the air. At least this trip had thus far spared their ears from the harsh sounds of the blaring sirens they enjoyed one day previous.
Merk spared a quick glance at Lorn. “If there is one thing I like about this planet its that they don't bother you when you land.”
“I agree. But just because there is no government to check your codes, doesn't mean no one is watching. We should still be cautious.”
The decadent streets and discarded buildings of Disdan were beginning to fill the viewport. “Only problem about not being bothered is finding an appropriate and safe place to dock.” Merk pushed his control stick gently forward bringing his craft to the appropriate cruising altitude.
“We didn't seem to have trouble our first time.”
“No we didn't, did we.” Merk brought the ship in a wide swath along the outskirts of the city. Lorn spotted what looked to be the main docking area and pointed it out. Merk brought his tattered ship in low and set it hovering above an extensive row of berths. They soon spotted an empty bay a few hundred meters ahead. “No trouble this time either. Now the only question is how much the local crew here charges for a berth.”
“Leave that to me Merk.”
Merk pulled a lever on the side wall lowering the landing gear. “Did I mention how much I like having you around again Kid?” As they touched down, Merk flashed a wide grin in Lorn's direction. “Leave it to the Force to pick up the tab.” The rear landing strut protested as it was called on to bear an increasing load. Merk's grin became a grimace. “I don't like it that my ship now sounds like the Delight. Do you think the Order could reimburse me for my trouble?”
“Sure Merk.” Lorn smiled as he unstrapped his harness. “The Force will pick up the bill.”
Merk unstrapped and followed Lorn down the confined corridor. “That was funnier when I said it Kid.”
Lorn pressed the button in the middle of the corridor opening the rear door that also served as the boarding ramp. He made sure to grab hold of Merk's vest before he could make his way out of the opening. “Do you think you could repair the ship without me. I failed to sense Master Kolsar's presence on any of those transports. There is a chance she is still here on the planet. I have to find her if I can.”
“Sure, I understand Kid.” The two descended the ramp and surveyed the docking bay. It appeared to be untended. “I don't like the look of this Lorn. Let's hope the entire crew pulled up camp. They seemed a little too vicious for me to handle hand to hand.” Merk checked the power supply on his holstered blaster. It was full.
The Tarisian turned and faced the Firebrand for the first time since the battle. His mouth fell open. “My baby.” Merk walked to the port side of the ship and ran his hand over the hull causing a few flecks of charred paint to fall to the hangar floor. “Of all the kriffing luck. That paint job took me an entire month's pay. Her name doesn't even fit now.”
Lorn placed his arm around his friend's shoulder. “At least your engines aren't one solid slab of metal.”
Merk unlatched a small compartment on the underside of the ship. He held the flap partially open and turned to face Lorn. “She's going to take hours to repair.”
Lorn nodded.
Merk's eyes lingered on the Jedi before he lowered the flap the rest of the way and removed a small toolkit. He began sorting through the jumbled pile of tools. Lorn noticed as Merk was rummaging, a few of the other ships in the hangar catching his eye. “The trail is going to be cold before she's spaceworthy again.” He lowered his head as if he was intently studying his tools. “We could steal a ship.”
Lorn adjusted his suit of body armor, checking the straps to make sure he was fully prepared. “Place your trust in the Force Merk. If we are needed elsewhere, we'll find the way.”
Merk took a seat on the floor and removed a large panel, setting it aside. The panel rocked back and forth on the dirty durasteel floor. Merk picked up the panel and hit it with the back side of his tool placing a small divot in the large bulge he was trying to straighten out. The panel fell to the floor with a clang.
He shook his hydrospanner in the air as Lorn walked away. “You still haven't shown me any of your Jedi tricks.” When he was through shaking he returned his attention to the bypass he was about to attempt and pulled a set of goggles down over his eyes. “So you'll find the way Kid, and I'll tag along.”
Lorn inserted his earpiece as he departed the hangar. “Keep in contact. Let me know if our situation changes.”
“Will do. And Kid,” Merk looked up from his task, “ may the Force be with you. I hope you are able to find Fris, she's a good lady.”
***
Disdan's dusty streets were strewn with all matter of debris, sentient and otherwise. For most of the beings Lorn passed along the way, it would be several hours before they were coherent enough to engage in any sort of activity. Lorn's eyes took note of the squalor, but his sole focus was the far end of the city where the transports had lifted from earlier this morning.
He ran on through the day as Phindar's star reached its zenith. It was midday according to local reckoning, but it had been more than fifteen hours since he and Merk had blasted off the surface in chase of the mercenary transports. The planet was a slow rotator and Phindar's days were incessantly long. A fact which Lorn thought more than likely contributed to the tendencies of the locals to imbibe.
He continued on through the twisted alleys and wide streets of the city. His clothes began to dampen, but he felt no fatigue. Combined with the long days, centuries of unregulated industry had taken their toll on the forsaken world and produced a sweltering climate. It would be some time before anyone rose up to rule the world Lorn reasoned. Even the lowest sort of scum would think twice before calling this world their own.
Lorn neared the area where the freighters had been berthed. By his estimation the craft emanated from somewhere within eight square kilometers from where he now stood. In an adjacent alley he spotted a shoddy staircase that ran to the top of one of the taller buildings. It looked like the ideal spot from which to gain a better vantage to survey the situation.
His first foot had just settled onto the bottom stair when his communicator crackled to life. “Hey Kid we've got company.”
Lorn's heart raced as he rushed to the top of the stairs. From this height he could just make out distant form of the hanger they had set down in. I shouldn't have left him alone. “Hold them off as long as you can. I'll be there Merk.” His legs carried him quickly to the edge of the building. He was about to leap off onto the street below when the communicator signaled again.
“Nothing to worry about Lorn, its a familiar face...”
His heart rate slowed as he backed away from the edge. He expanded his perception towards the hanger in hopes of glimpsing a hint of Kolsar's presence. It would be good to be in her company again. He looked forward to the chance of sorting things out with her, including his place in the galaxy's future. He walked back to the stairway and grabbed hold of the handrail.
The transmission from Merk continued. “...someone who is thankful you came along. He wants to talk to you.”
A deep male voice reverberated in his earpiece causing Lorn's heart to sink a little. “I wanted you to know that you didn't have to risk your cover to save me, but I appreciate it. I would ask if there is any way I could repay you, but I think she's sitting right here in front of me. I've never seen two spacers with worse luck. This one looks about as bad as your other ship.”
Lorn's reply was kind but hurried. “Our time is urgent, any help you could give would be appreciated Thuin.”
“I'll have my men start on it right away. You should have mentioned you were a Jedi earlier. One of my men said he saw one of your kind about a week ago. Says she was poking around and asking everyone a lot of questions.”
Lorn's grip on the handrail tightened. “Does he remember where he saw her?”
There was a short pause before Thuin responded. “Sure, he says it was in a bar about a kilometer west of the dueling arena. Called something like the Indra Lounge...or Club, can't remember the exact name. He's not the smartest spacer on my crew.”
“It's a start. Tell him I send my thanks.” Lorn ended the conversation. The metal framing of the stairs shook as he descended towards the street. He was near the dueling ring already. His spirit felt reinvigorated at the chance of finding Master Kolsar well.
After a brief search, Lorn found the establishment in the approximate location described to him. It was a plain building with fading white and blue paint above the doorway. A mixture of intoxicant, sentient odor, and hardy cleaner wafted through the opening causing Lorn's throat to constrict involuntarily. His hand brushed against one of the three empty hinges as he entered the club.
A man with an unbuttoned shirt was hunched over the bar consumed in the details of the latest holomag. Lorn had taken a few steps before the bartender realized he had company and stashed his mag behind the counter. The bar was deserted save for this man and an attendant scrubbing the table tops with a blackened rag on the far side of the room. Lorn noted that the attendant's left leg was noticeably straighter than his right. He approached the barkeep but refrained from taking a seat.
The man's voice was particularly gruff. “Wrong time of day.”
“I'm not here for a drink.”
“Still wrong time of day.”
“I see.” Despite his appearance, Lorn could sense a growing fear in the man. Perhaps he had been at the dueling ring the previous night and had witnessed Lorn's display. There had been too many faces there to tell with any certainty. Lorn considered his options and then spit on the floor. “What time does this womp-rat hole open then?”
“Womp-rat hole!” The muscles on the man's right arm bulged as he drew his hand into a fist. The barkeep was obviously attached to the establishment and likely spent the majority of his time here, if he ever left. His ploy had worked surprisingly well. Lorn didn't think the man had witnessed the fight so there was something else causing his unease.
Lorn slammed a long metal cylinder on the counter its aperture pointed directly at the bartender's rounded middle. “Still the wrong time?”
The threatened man's eyes briefly made contact with the attendant behind the Jedi. Lorn turned to the side with his free hand outstretched. The attendant fell backwards knocking the table he was formerly cleaning on its side. He landed in a thud his hand still grasping the hilt of the vibroblade he kept concealed on his person.
Lorn turned back to the barkeep. “What do you know?”
“I don't know anything.”
“Wrong answer.” Lorn activated his weapon. As the bright green blade extended Lorn twisted the handle causing the energy beam to pierce the man's clothing and just miss his exposed flesh. “I don't have the time. How this situation ends is under your complete control.”
The barkeep remained in place. A small bead of sweat stopped on the edge of an eyelash. “The female Jedi.”
Lorn nodded.
“I only saw her once. She came in asking a bunch of questions. That was over a week ago.” Lorn remained silent. “That's all I know.”
Lorn's gaze intensified. “Your friends have gone. You have no one to fear but me.” The smell of burning hair combined with the already pungent odor. The man was quivering, but Lorn held his blade firm. “I have ways to get what I need without your cooperation. The technique isn't pleasant.”
“I may have overheard a conversation. One of the patrons said he couldn't talk in public, but if they met privately he would give her all the information she desired. They set up a meeting place.”
Lorn deactivated his blade. “Where?”
“The old Czerka warehouse. Two miles north.”
“You've been most helpful.” Lorn dashed his weapon's hilt against the man's scalp. He caught the man's head before it hit the counter. “But I can't assume that all of your friends have left.” Lorn checked the man's pulse and propped him up against the counter. He quickly arranged the toppled table and placed the unconscious attendant along the bench. He welcomed the smell of Phindar's polluted atmosphere, he thought most anything would be an improvement over the club.
It was less than ten minutes before Lorn was standing outside the abandoned warehouse of one of the galaxy's larger corporations. Its size attested to that fact and Lorn could easily see how a hundred transports could have been docked there unnoticed. It had room for a thousand.
Lorn placed a blade in each hand as he entered the structure. Again he could not sense anything and, from his experience with the black fighter, he knew the mercenaries had at least one Force-sensitive among them. He wasn't taking any chances.
He commed in. “How are the repairs coming old friend?”
“Not so good Kid. We're going to be a few hours yet.”
“Do the best you can, we may need to leave in a hurry.”
Lorn wandered the halls searching for any signs of activity. The front offices were bare. He continued his search and his wanderings led him to a door which opened to the main storage area of the facility. He opened the door leading him to a cavernous enclosure where the sweet smell of exhaust lingered in the air.
Strewn about the floor were the remains of what passed for sleeping arrangements. Lorn spied several suits of body armor, helmets, and the occasional blaster. They hadn't been planning on leaving so early Lorn thought. He hoped that his presence had done more than just cause the mercenaries to forget their bedclothes.
In the corner of the room he spotted another set of garments still covering a delicate form. The color of the cloth told him all he needed to know. He let out a yell and sent a discarded helmet flying into a stresscrete wall.
A voice quickly sounded in his ear. “Kid, what's happening?”
“She's dead.”
It took a moment for Merk to respond. “I'm sorry Kid.”
Lorn walked over to the body of Fris Kolsar and gently turned her over. It wasn't a pleasant sight. Her night at the Indra had likely been her last. Lorn retrieved the cleanest shirt he could from the forsaken attire. He draped the cloth lightly over her face. “Be one with the Force, Master Kolsar.”
As he turned from his friend's remains the helmet he had kicked caught his attention. He walked closer and noticed that it lay in the center of a large square outlined by a small pile of fine soot. He brushed his fingers against the powder and picked up a small pinch of the material. Lorn touched the minuscule grains against the tip of his tongue. He looked down the empty expanse of the massive structure and a cold chill ran along his spine. It stretched out for more than a kilometer.
“Merk how much do you know about explosives?”
“I know they explode Kid.”
A few seconds later another voice sounded in his ear. “I don't mean to intrude but one of my men did some demolition work a few years back. Maybe he could help.”
“There's nothing here to defuse.” Lorn stood. “I need your ship Thuin. Merk and I have to get to Citadel Station.”
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WyoJedi
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RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 15 posted 2-16-07
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Ack! Fris is dead? No! Well, I guess it is the will of the Force. I'm sure Revan will find out what happened... and deal with those who did it!
So they are off to Citadel Station... I can feel the intensity building. Very intriguing update you wrote drevan (and quick  ) Can't wait for more.
Cheers,
Wyo
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drevan1138
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RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 16 posted 2-21
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Thanks Wyo, I'm glad you could feel the intensity beginning to thicken. That's very important for me to convey because the next few chapters contain a few key scenes in the development of the characters.
Sixteen
Taris, Outer Rim
The reverberations were growing louder. As he ran, Zayne peered over his shoulder and squinted. From behind Rais followed the boy's eyes towards the nearest intersection more than a kilometer down the avenue. Through the Force he was just able to make out the sharpened edges of a Mobquet Talon as it shot into view. The other eight swoops came in too fast for him to discern their makes and models.
Zayne turned his gaze forward and started scanning the sides of the road. “I didn't expect them to find us this fast.”
Antil ran alongside and matched the boy's frantic pace. “Who is it you're running from?” The noise on the deserted street intensified as the swoops accelerated through their turn and set their sights on the four sprinting companions.
Zayne had to shout to be heard above the roar. “I wish I knew.”
Rais stole another quick glance behind the team and watched as three of the swoops began distancing themselves from their companions. He lifted an eyebrow. He had never seen swoops capable of such speeds before. But they were certainly capable given their oversized engines. He shouted back at the boy. “What do you mean wish?”
“Welcome to my life.”
A few scattered shots of green energy left several simmering potholes in the companions' path as the faster group fired at will. As he swiveled his head forward, Rais glimpsed the legs of the intelligence operative keeping stride beside him. He did his best not to stare in amazement; it was quite a feet to be able to keep up considering she ran with three Jedi. “I thought it was illegal for swoop bikes to have mounted weaponry.”
“It is. But tell that to them.” Azure didn't even seem to be short of breath.
Rais spotted a narrow opening between two storefronts twenty meters ahead. Judging by the rate the swoops were gaining, his party should be able to make it before the swoops entered effective targeting range. It was their best chance of escape against the powerful, but wide, vehicles.
Behind them another round of green fire erupted from the lead swoop.
“Aaahhh.” Zayne hit the pavement hard and rolled onto his side. Already blood was dripping from between the boy's fingers as he clutched tightly at his left calf. Antil dropped to the street and began to raise the boy into a hobbled standing position, but his eyes were fixed on the incoming swoops. “Rais!”
Without thinking Rais turned towards the approaching swoops that were now only ninety meters away. The lead vehicle's driver pulled one of his hand grips sideways. The nose of his Talon separated into two distinct rounded crescents.
Rais held his ground against the incoming swoop and its oncoming impalements. His hand rested at his side. Strong fingers began clutching at his unlit weapon. But Rais betrayed no hint of his intention to the oncoming assailant. At the last moment the pilot of the swoop pulled back on the bike raising the prongs to the height of Rais' chest. Rais closed his eyes and free fell backwards toward the street. In the midst of his fall Rais extended his arms above his head. He twisted his lightsaber faster than eye could see and grasped the hilt of his blade in a reverse- two-handed grip.
Rais ignited the blade as he hit the pavement. A brilliant blue beam arced skyward penetrating both metal and flesh. Above his position the lead pilot raced unwittingly to his death. As the swoop passed overhead, Rais turned his head to the side in an attempt to escape the vehicle's exhaust. His reaction wasn't quick enough. The bike unleashed the full fury of its superheated gas trail. Rais' jaw popped as he ground his teeth together.
His blade had now finished its work, but the two separated halves of the swoop raced on. Rais felt a surge of panic from the young Jedi padawan. Rais dropped his blade and with each hand caught hold of a section in the Force. Rais lifted his head slightly from the pavement and brought his arms around in a violent crescent sending each half of the cloven vessel into the remaining swoops of the first wave. Rais shielded his eyes as two massive balls of flame converged in the center of the street.
He jumped to his feet as the flame dissipated. The other six swoops were still coming in undaunted. Rais reached out in the Force and sent the swoop nearest to the edge of the street careening into a durasteel lumapost. Rais was about to send another swoop pilot to his death when Antil called out from behind. Rais turned to see his master pointing towards the sky.
Several gunships were rapidly descending towards the scene on the ground. Their markings revealing their intent. In unison the swoops broke off their attack. As Rais ducked into the cover of the alley the gunships sailed overhead in hot pursuit.
Azure rushed to Rais' side. “Rais you're hurt.” She lifted her hand as if to brush his cheek but held her touch several centimeters away.
Rais didn't need to be told what was wrong, he could already feel the skin on his cheek beginning to blister. He grasped hold of Azure's hand and brought her arm down to her side. “I'll be all right.” He could tell from Azure's expression that she wasn't satisfied. “I've healed from worse.” Rais looked over at his master. “Recently. Just ask Master Roon.”
Zayne's head lifted. “Antil Roon? My master speaks very highly of you.”
“And who is your master youngone?”
“Lucien Draay.” Zayne's head fell slightly. “That is if he'll claim me as his padawan.”
Rais thought Antil did an admirable job concealing his true emotions from the learner at the utterance of that name. “Is that so? I am acquainted with Lucien though I can hardly fathom what I have done to earn his respect. Your master is a hard man to impress.”
Zayne nodded in agreement. “I know”
Antil picked Zayne up and held the boy in both arms. “We should be moving on. The two of you require at least basic medical attention and the authorities are bound to send someone to further investigate that explosion.” He looked in the direction the chase was headed. To a casual observer Antil must have seemed like a disoriented spacer staring blankly at an alley wall. The three of his companions knew better however. Rais could sense the swoops as well.
“We would best be served if we could gain some cover quickly, Master.”
“I agree Rais. Zayne do you know of anywhere safe enough to rest for a while?”
“The temple is only a few kilometers from here.”
“Is there anywhere closer?”
“If that's too far for you to carry me Master Roon you could have Rais do it. I doubt he would even need to draw on the Force.”
Antil managed a forced smile. “That's very thoughtful of you. But Rais is right, we need immediate cover.”
“I do know a few of the merchants in this area. I don't think they'd mind if we borrowed one of their stores for the night.”
Rais failed to detect any waving in the padawan's voice that might indicate that he had caught onto their dislike of the Taris Council. “That sounds like our best option.”
Azure let go of Rais' hand. Rais pulled his arm back in a sudden jerk after the loss of contact. He had forgotten the two had been joined. “Let's hope we have better luck devising a plan in this store.” Azure eyed the newly-acquired fourth member of their party. “Our last attempt proved rather unsuccessful.”
The boy tried to sit up in Antil's arms as the elder Jedi hurried around the nearest corner. “Plan? Hey, what plan?”
***
From Zayne's description the armory they were approaching possessed the latest security system available on the market. Fortunately for the small group, they possessed the Republic's top intelligence operative. It took Azure less than five seconds to disarm the entire system. She opened the front door without making a sound and the four companions made their way into the darkened building.
Approximately ten steps into the building they heard the familiar hum of a high-powered blaster rifle as its power discharge was switched from stun to kill. “Take one more step and I'll change you into a pile of filth only a Hutt could love.”
“It's all right Gaeton. It's me, Zayne Carrick.”
The hum remained steady. “Is that so. Sounds too convenient, hyick.” From the smell of the room Rais wasn't sure who would hit the floor first if he discharged his weapon. The man's only companion appeared to be a bottle. Apparently an empty one.
“If I were a little Jedi denied the use of a lightsaber and I wanted to, hyick, cause a little mischief this time of night, this is just the kind of place I'd break, hyick, i-into.”
Rais pulled Antil and Azure back away from Zayne. The padawan was about to retreat on his injured leg when a long beam of blue light appeared in front of his face. “Wha...” Zayne reached out and grabbed hold of Rais' lightsaber. He was glad the kid caught on quick. “What do you mean denied the use of a lightsaber? What does this look like to you Gaeton?”
“Uh...hyick.”
“Now get back to your room. I'm on official Jedi business here. You wouldn't want to upset a Jedi Knight, would you?”
“No, no, no. I d-didn't mean a thing. Old Gaeton Botos, hyick, will go to the back now.” The hum quietened and was replaced a few seconds later with the clanging of various metals and a grunt of quickly exhaled air. Antil lit his blade and, together with Zayne, made his way to the fallen Alzarian. Rais discovered a lumapanel on the near wall and depressed the touch-sensitive control. When the lights in the store flickered on they revealed the portly green-skinned humanoid lying next to a toppled display of small vibrostaves.
Antil had his hand pressed against the man's throat. “He has a pulse. It's faint, but that may be normal for his species.”
“We should move him to his quarters. He'll be more comfortable there, and out of our way.” Rais exchanged glances with his companions. From their looks they had apparently all came to the same conclusion he had just reached. He stretched out his hand and began levitating the over-sized alien towards the rear of the store. His three comrades found as comfortable seating as they could manage and watched his deliberate walk and his pragmatic display of Force control.
On his way back, Rais brushed his hand against his cheek. It was sticky to the touch.
“Don’t pick at it.” The blue eyes of Azure shot him a cold stare.
Rais noticed the available chairs were already occupied. He assumed a cross-legged position on the floor. “I wasn’t picking. I was examining.”
“That doesn’t look good my friend.” Antil turned from the main group to face Zayne who was nestled in the corner of the store. “Do you know if Gaeton has any bacta nearby?”
“Bacta? I don't think he could afford it, Gaeton deals in second-rate weaponry. Besides he blew all of his money on the security system, for all the good it did him.” Zayne peeled back the makeshift bandage Antil had placed on his calf. He stared at the wound for a few moments. He looked up to find all of the eyes in the room on him. “But he may have some kolto in the rear of the store.”
“That should work Zayne. Do you think you can manage to find some given your condition.”
Zayne staggered to his feet. “If you don’t want to include me in your plans just say so.”
Rais rose and stopped the padawan before he made his way to the back of the room. “It isn’t you that we are worried about.” He shook his head slightly as he looked over at his master.
“I don’t get it.”
“There isn't a good way to put this Zayne. What Rais is trying to say is that we would rather the Taris Council remain unaware of our presence here.”
The boy's brown eyes were fixed on the Jedi Master to his left. “I can keep my mouth shut Master Roon. I won’t even tell them about you. Just let me help.”
“I'm not trying to shut you out Zayne, but the less you know the better.”
The boy kept pressing. “I don't know anything other than I found you traveling in the company of two Jedi.” Azure's head turned towards the conversation after the last comment. “Neither of you has mentioned who she is. And as for him,” Zayne motioned his head towards the Jedi who still held him in his grasp, “I’ve never heard of a Jedi Knight by the name of Rais. And you've only referred to him by his first name, so his secret is safe.”
Rais released his hold on the boy. “You’ve never heard of me because I’m still a padawan myself.”
Zayne took a quick step back. “How can that be? You’re at least four years older than me and most of my classmates expect to be knighted in the next few months.”
“It’s complicated.”
“If you are still a padawan then where is your learner braid?”
Antil stepped between the two. “Due to events beyond his control, Rais is still technically a padawan, Zayne. But he is more skilled and gifted than any five knights put together.”
Rais let out a slight cough. “You are forgetting Lorn in your calculations Master.”
“I was making a generalization Rais.”
Zayne’s eyes widened. “You know Revan?”
Rais walked passed the boy. “Yes Zayne, I know the ‘protector of the Outer Rim.’ He and I spent our first years together on Coruscant at the temple there. We are good friends.”
“The masters of the Council here still speak of him. They say he is the most gifted student they have ever had among them.”
Rais turned and nodded. “I don’t doubt that Zayne.”
Azure stood and moved over towards the group. “As much as we might like to stand here and reminisce about the Force potential of various Jedi, I believe our primary objective remains the infiltration of Davik’s compound. There will be time for comparisons later.”
“Azure is right, our time here is most precious.” Antil drew Zayne close to him his voice was subdued. “You can listen in if you would like Zayne, but I would appreciate it if you would also check for medical supplies.” Antil motioned towards the seating arrangement they had set up.
Zayne remained standing as the other three took their seats. The padawan shook his head causing his tousled hair to flop to and fro. “Are you crazy? Davik's compound? Master Lucien and the other masters have been drawing up plans for months now, and even they are afraid to get involved in Davik’s business. The man is more powerful than even the government authorities here.”
Rais felt the level of excitement in the Force rise at the boy’s last comments. He looked in the direction of Antil as his master began to address the boy’s concerns. “We know Zayne. But there is a Senator in Davik’s compound that we must reach.”
“What’s so important that it can’t wait?”
Rais locked eyes with the youth. “The galaxy is in danger Zayne.” His voice took on a deeper tone than usual as he put extra emphasis on his words through the Force.
The padawan's mouth opened wide “Whoa, what do you mean the galaxy? That’s big stuff!”
“Yes it is Zayne. Rais has experienced several visions in the Force. But we can talk of that later.” Antil rose and walked to the boy. He clasped the lad by his right arm. “You mentioned the Taris Council has plans to invade Davik’s headquarters.”
“I don’t think they are planning to invade, but they have drawn up plans in case they need to.”
“How do you know this?” Rais asked.
Zayne turned his head in Antil's direction. “The members of the Council don’t seem to notice me when I’m around. I’ve heard some things while I’ve wandered around the temple, especially late at night.”
“Those plans are likely our best chance of success Master.” Rais joined his master at the boy's side. “Do you know where they keep them Zayne?”
“Yes, at least I think so. Last time I saw them Master Lucien had stored them beneath the podium in the briefing room.”
“And where is the briefing room?”
“Don't worry, I'll show you Rais.”
“Where is the room?”
Zayne hung his head. “Directly beneath the Council Chamber.”
“Rais could be a little more diplomatic Zayne, but he doesn't want you to come along...and I agree with him.” Zayne's expression was a mixture of confusion and bruised feelings. “We think Davik's men are monitoring the temple closely as it is. Things will be difficult enough for even Rais and I to avoid detection from Davik let alone Lucien and the rest of the Council. I think it best if we go in with as few members as possible.”
Azure stood. “Sounds like a reasonable plan Master Roon. Come on Zayne, let's see if we can find that kolto you were talking about.” Azure grabbed the youth and began pulling him towards the rear of the store.
Zayne briefly tried to pull away. “But Master Roon...”
Antil and Rais walked towards the exit. Rais turned around in the doorway. His shoulders cleared the frame by only a few centimeters on either side. “Don't worry Zayne. I don't think we could leave you in more capable hands.” Rais smiled sending a shooting pain from the tip of his head to the bottom of his feet. He didn't allow his discomfort to show. “We won't be long.” His eyes lingered for a moment on Azure before the Jedi left the store and walked the darkened streets of Taris once more.
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WyoJedi
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Date Posted:
2/21/07 7:50pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 16 posted 2-21
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Nice action! Very well done. So is this how Malak ends up losing his jaw? Interesting if it is...
I love the interaction between Rais and Azure... though I must admit that I never imagined Malak being the romantic type. But it fits the character you are portraying. Nicely done!
Should be some interesting action for Roon and Malak as they infiltrate the temple. I look forward to more!
Cheers,
Wyo
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drevan1138
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Date Posted:
2/22/07 5:07pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 17 posted 2-22
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 11:47am (1 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
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Wyo: I'm glad their relationship is coming across well. I thought it would be hard to write Malak this way, but everything so far has flowed well. As for his jaw, I'm not going to say yet. Suffice it to say, I know when it happens.
Everyone enjoy the next installment.
Seventeen
Citadel Station, Outer Rim
The approaching station shimmered with a silver gleam as it reflected the distant light of the star ancient travelers called Telosar. Below, on the fourth planet of the system now referred to simply as Telos, farmers and settlers were experiencing what they referred to as the Passing of the Sky World. The event had become such a regular occurrence on the lush green world that a few of the older agriculturalists had begun to mark the seasons by each passing. For those in the darkness, it was a time of festival and celebration at their world's good fortune.
From space Lorn held a different view of events. He hoped his suspicions were incorrect, for if they proved true, this was anything but a time for revelry. Lorn increased the output of Thuin's vessel and sped towards the nearest docking bay. His suspicions were seldom unfounded.
Merk scooted to the edge of his seat and peered out the viewport. “Look at the size of that thing Kid. I mean I've heard that Citadel has been growing, but I never imagined it could get quite so big. It's covering almost a quarter of the planet.”
“It is remarkable. I was here less than two years ago and it appears like a completely different station.” Lorn reduced the thrusters bringing Thuin's ship to its place in the docking line.
“I'll wager they didn't even notice a hundred freighters reverting into realspace.” Merk shifted his gaze over to Lorn. “The station must handle tens of thousands of ships per week.”
“Two years ago the number was above one hundred and twenty thousand, mostly small freighters.”
“How are we ever going to track down a hundred transports in all this mess?” Merk looked out at the line before them which stretched out for several kilometers. “Why don't you hail them. I'm sure a Jedi could gain priority clearance to land. Especially one of your reputation Kid.”
“We could Merk, but someone may be monitoring transmission channels. We were able to discover their destination, remember.”
Merk leaned back in his chair and took a large bite out of a meat ration he had stolen from Thuin's kitchen compartment. “Oh yeah. Good point Kid.” A loud crack sounded in the cabin as Merk snapped off a second piece of the ration stick.
“I think that ration stick is beginning to affect your higher faculties.” Another crack sounded. “How can you eat that Merk? It must be several months old by now.”
“I don't know.” Merk's eyes drifted towards the ceiling as he continued to chew. “Maybe one day I'll be brave enough to sample the menu back at your joint on Toprawa.”
“Here we go.” Lorn accelerated again as the line began to move.
Merk returned his seat to a more upright position. “So what's the plan?”
Lorn kept his eyes forward as he made a slight adjustment of their pitch. “I don't know.”
“Sounds like your usual plan Kid. I was hoping for something a little more...planned.” Merk looked out at the station which now obscured the entire view of Telos IV like a giant gray cloud. “From the size of the warehouse, I would say we are dealing with several megatons of explosives.”
“We'll contact CS Security Force as soon as we land. Which looks like...now.” A moment later two freighters in an adjacent line aborted their entry into the system and navigated away from the station.
Merk's body seemed to merge with the back of his seat as he shot the ship into the newly opened gap. “You'd be handy during peak traffic hour back on the homeworld.” Merk looked over and smiled.
“How long has it been since you last visited Taris?”
“Too long Kid.” A flashing light on the display panel drew their attention. Merk's smile vanished. “The ship behind us is charging weapons. I don't think he liked your little stunt there.”
Lorn closed his eyes momentarily. “He's bluffing.”
A minute later their new ship was settled softly onto the polished deck of docking bay 373 of Citadel Station. Before he rose, Lorn checked the ship's outer holocam. There was already an attendant approaching.
Merk accompanied Lorn down the main corridor of the vessel. As they passed the refresher Merk caught a brief glimpse of himself. “Its nice to get out of those dingy old suits.” He brushed his hand along the black fabric of his flight suit. “No offense, but they weren't my style Kid.”
Lorn examined his companion and noticed for the first time that the red bars which ran along each pant leg of his suit were composed of hundreds of intricately embroidered flames. “What is it with you and flames Merk?”
“It's the hair Kid.”
“What are you going to do when it all turns gray? Use smoke as motif?”
“Maybe. Hey my ship already matches.” Merk started to laugh, but closed his mouth before any significant sound had left his lips. His expression quickly soured.
“I'm sorry I wasn't able to get to you in time.”
Merk patted Lorn on the back. “That's all right Kid. You did the best you could. At least you saved my life.”
Lorn glanced at the chronometer on the wall. “Shall we?” He depressed the release and motioned to the descending boarding ramp. “Time to start formulating our plan.”
Waiting at the bottom of the ramp was a middle-aged man with short cropped hair. He wore the orange uniform of a Citadel Station security officer. “Identichips?”
Lorn handed the man a small wafer. “I'm Lorn Revan of the Jedi Order, this is Merk Vallun, my partner. Before you log our arrival, I need to speak with your commanding officer.” The man began to reach for his comlink. “In person, Petty Officer Nachel,” Lorn brandished the hilt of one of his weapons, “I insist.”
“Yes sir. He is stationed in Sector 826, he isn't far.”
“Thank you Krapsen. I didn't mean to alarm you, but our business is urgent.”
The officer remained in place. “How do you know my...”
Merk walked up to the officer and began pulling him along. “He's a Jedi.”
The three traveled a wide corridor along the outskirts of the station. The hall bustled with activity as the beings of several dozen worlds went about their normal activity. They came to a junction and took a direction heading into the interior of the station. This hall was less busy than the first and Lorn noted there was less variety in the represented species. A short hallway opened to their left. Their path terminated in a thick durasteel door.
Krapsen looked over his shoulder before he pulled a small rod from a compartment on his utility belt. He ran the rod over the frame of the door and a small part of the wall retracted revealing a numerical keypad. He didn't bother to conceal his actions as he entered the appropriate sequence. The door slid open with a hiss and the three walked inside.
As they rose up the stairs the room opened to their view. It was somewhat larger than Lorn had expected. The stairs brought them to the top of a wide circular platform set above a larger area. The burnt-orange walls of the domed room contained various readouts indicating the health of the station. In the large circular area below Lorn counted at least twenty terminals devoted to the station's holo-monitoring equipment.
One of the terminal technicians turned and noticed their arrival. She gave a quick nudge to the man hunched over her station. He followed her gaze and turned in their direction. He straightened abruptly. “Nachel why aren't you at your post? And who have you brought in here!”
Lorn stepped forward before Officer Nachel had a chance to respond. “This was my doing sir.”
“I surmised as much. But who are you?”
“Lorn Revan, Jedi Knight.” The murmur in the room diminished after his comment.
The man ascended the short ladder. He extended his arm and shook Lorn's hand. “Dorian Mattac, Chief of Security for Quadrant Beta. What brings you to Citadel Station Master Revan?”
“We believe the station is in great peril.”
“What's the danger?”
“Several thousand crates of high-grade explosives. The Order has been tracking the activity of a band of mercenaries out of Phindar. We were unable to discover their plan in time to prevent them from escaping. We believe they landed here.”
Chief Mattac turned to the area below. “Kandra, pull up a manifest of all ships docking at the station from all sectors surrounding Phindar during the last week.” Mattac faced Lorn again. “I assume they used freighters to carry the explosives. Do you have an estimate of their number?”
“In excess of one hundred.”
“Nachel, I want you to pull the records of all transports docking in groups of ten or more.” The petty officer began down towards the monitoring area. “And good job Krapsen, you did the right thing bringing them here. Both of you report to me when your analysis is complete.”
“Thank you for your cooperation Chief Mattac.”
“My resources are at your disposal. I'll have to confirm it with Chief Eronoss, but I intend to give you temporary command of my entire unit. He may extend that position to the whole of the CSS force.” Lorn was about to speak but the Chief continued. “The Jedi have always given themselves to protect our society, thank you for your efforts. What I've done isn't much. I know our best hope lies with you, assuming your reputation isn't completely unfounded. As for our efforts, I can only hope these mercenaries you spoke of made a mistake in their preparations.”
“Their plans were altered due to our arrival on Phindar.”
“That is welcome news given the situation.”
“I'll let you know if I sense anything, but it will be difficult given the number of beings here on the station.”
After a brief moment of silence Merk spoke up. “How many people are on the station Chief?”
The chief turned to address Merk. “I won't bother pulling any official numbers, but we average more than seven hundred million. Most of them are located in the residential complexes above.” His attention shifted back to Lorn. “Commander, we will be better able to coordinate our efforts from Quadrant Command. If you would follow me.”
The two men followed close behind the Chief as he wound his way through a series of corridors. They did not exchange words as they passed through the various crowds. Lorn thought it best to avoid all mention of the situation among the general populace. The last thing they wanted was a panic.
After some travel they found themselves standing in front of a series of turbolifts cordoned off from the main traffic area. Chief Mattac reached into his vest and produced a cylindrical rod and passed it over the selection panel. The light on the panel turned from red to green and the doors to the turbolift parted. “This turbolift leads to the observation level where my office is stationed.” Mattac was the first inside. “It provides a spectacular view of the planet below.”
The turbolift wobbled slightly as it began its descent. It was several seconds before anyone spoke again. “When we reach the command center we should generate a list of the highest probability targets.”
“That won't take long Commander Revan, I can comm ahead to have my team draw up the likeliest civilian and military targets.” Mattac reached for a small device on his belt. As he removed the comlink, Lorn grasped him firmly by the wrist.
“I think it would be best if we avoid discussing this over open channels.”
“I assure you our encryption protocols are set to the highest standard.”
Lorn refused to let go. “I don't know about this sir, something just doesn't feel...”
The lift was rocked to the side sending the three companions toppling over one another. All sense of sound vanished. The lift began to accelerate downwards. A dull ring began to grow louder inside Lorn's head. He looked over his body and saw Mattac's mouth moving rapidly.
Lorn searched his body and drew upon the surrounding energy the Force provided. His hearing returned in midsentence. “...worry, the emergency brakes will engage any moment.”
Mattac's prediction proved correct as the three found themselves flying towards the top of the turbolift. Lorn managed to steady himself in the Force. The other two weren't as fortunate as Merk and Mattac hit the ceiling and then fell to the floor with a thud.
Merk groaned. “You know Kid, my body doesn't agree with traveling with you. My body is bruised and my ears are ringing.” He placed his hand to his head. “And my gash opened up. Again.”
Mattac sat up. His left arm hung limply at his side. “I think its a safe bet to say the mercenaries are indeed here. They must have had a few men tailing you.”
“I don't think so sir. Their entire crew jumped to hyperspace before we did. And Merk and I failed to pick up any ships entering this sector behind us. They must have infiltrated CSS. You have one of your own team working against you.”
Mattac nodded and pulled his injured arm to his side. “I trust your reading of the situation Commander.” The chief opened his uniform and placed his useless arm in between two fasteners creating a makeshift sling. He winced as he stood. “We should still attempt to make it to my office. It's as secure as any area on the station.”
“Agreed.” Lorn moved towards the turbolift's doors. He pulled his lightsabers from beneath his gray and black tunic.
This time it was Mattac who placed a restraining hand. “No need.” The chief let go and with his good hand slid a concealed panel to the side. “There you are.”
Lorn reached for the hidden lever and pulled it down. The doors in front of the three opened slowly and with effort. Shortly after, another set of doors opened revealing one of the station's uniform hallways. The lift was stationed partly between levels. The team assumed positions on their stomaches and scooted their bodies under the ceiling of the level they were trying to reach.
As they dropped to the floor, Lorn examined the markings on the side of the wall. “We're still several floors above the observation level. I feel we should steer clear of any further turbolift use. Do you have another means of reaching your office?”
“There are access hatches at several locations throughout the station. We can use the ladders there to reach the lower level.”
Merk walked closer to Mattac. “Whoever it is that is working against you is probably aware of these access points.”
“That won't be a problem Merk. There are undisclosed access points not available to the general CSS officer. Only five people on the station know of their locations, and I would trust the other four with my life.”
“We don't have any other options Merk. If we are going to stop their plans, we need to get to his office. The quicker the better, there's likely a team following up on the T-lift to make sure we're dead.”
Merk began to run down the hall. “How far to the nearest access point?”
Mattac shouted down the hall. “About ten more steps.”
Merk stopped running. “Oh.”
The three were soon huddled around a wall panel. This time Mattac slid his rod along what appeared to be an ordinary lumapanel. “These access points only respond to Quadrant Chiefs and the head of the CSS. We'll be quite safe once we are inside.”
Merk backed up as the panel retracted. “Those rods sure come in handy.” He placed his hands on his hips. “I feel left out. I'm the only one who can't move walls around with the wave of his hand.”
They began descending the ladder without speaking another word. The panel sealed shut above them and a long row of faint lights lit in sequence. Merk watched as they passed beyond discernment. “How many floors do we have to go?”
“Fifteen.” Mattac said from just below Merk's location.
Lorn kept track of the floors as they descended. The man above him was doing his best to descend quickly, but his injury was certainly slowing their progress. A vague sense of fear began chewing at the back of his mind. “I think we should speed things up.”
“I'm trying Commander.”
“I know you are.” Lorn let go of the ladder and dropped the last six floors. He called up the chute. “You can let go Chief, I've reached the bottom.”
“Whatever you say Commander. I trust your Force abilities won't short circuit mid-fall.”
“They've never failed me yet.”
“Well, then that's good enough for this old man.” Mattac let go with his good hand and jumped backwards.
Lorn allowed the man to fall most of the way. He sensed a slight hint of alarm begin to rise in the Chief. He refrained from slowing him until just before impact. “You too Merk.”
“Coming Kid. I hope the extra weight of these last few years won't cause too much of a burden.”
Mattac was busy opening another panel as Merk landed by his side. Lorn placed his arm around his friend. “What weight Merk. You're thinner than the two beams of my lightsabers placed together.”
“I've put on a few pounds.”
“Probably the ration sticks.” Lorn smiled as Mattac finished opening the panel. They stepped into the lowest hallway on the station. It was deserted.
As they moved out Merk turned to face him. “I've got a bad feeling about this Kid.”
Mattac pointed in the direction they should take. Lorn led the way. “Yeah, so do I. Maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea to comm ahead now.”
The chief unclipped his communicator from his belt. He depressed the switch. “Hakk do you copy. This is Mattac we could use a security detail at the turbolifts.” The chief waited. “I'm not getting a response.”
Lorn began backing them towards the lifts. “I was afraid you were going to say that. Give me the rod Chief.” Lorn quickly ran the metallic transmitter over the panel. The doors to one of the three lifts opened. Lorn stepped inside and pressed the button to send the lift to the main floor of the station.
“I thought we were going to avoid the turbolifts.” Merk stepped into the lift.
Lorn pushed him back out. “We are. Hopefully this will draw a few of them off. Mattac, how far is it to Quadrant Command?”
“A few hundred meters considering all the turns we need to take. We could take the ladder again there are other places on the station we could work from.”
“Sooner or later we're going to have to confront them. I'd rather do it in a wide hallway than on a narrow ladder.”
“Good point Commander.”
Lorn pulled Merk to his side. His voice was soft. “Is your blaster fully charged Merk? I think you're finally going to need it.”
“You sense someone Kid?”
Lorn nodded.
“A lot of someones?”
Again Lorn's response was in the affirmative. He pulled out both of his weapons. His thumbs hit the activations panels in turn. Lorn broke off at a run.
They had barely rounded two corners when they experienced the first line of resistance. Lorn was the first into the hallway. Two of the three blasts were sent directly into the heads of their attackers. The third missed by less than a centimeter. The remaining sniper left the hallway and bolted for cover. “That's just their advance team.” Lorn ran to the next intersection.
Merk followed close behind. “You've done good so far Kid, keep it up.”
Lorn paused before continuing. “I think they are going to try to work us into a crossfire. You don't have any more hidden panels, do you Chief?”
Mattac shook his head. Lorn stepped into the intersection. His blades pointing in each direction. He met no fire. In the Force he could sense at least four distinct groups but he couldn't gain a clear sense of when he was leading his group into enemy sites due to all the twists and turns on this level of the station. “Which way Chief?” Mattac gave them their direction. The team quickly approached another intersection. The groups felt much closer this time. “This is it.”
Lorn exchanged glances with his companions. He didn't sense any fear from the two. “The smaller group is to our right. The sooner we eliminate the crossfire, the better our chances.” He received nods from both Merk and Mattac.
Lorn jumped into the hallway and into a deluge of blasterfire. Merk and Mattac followed soon after. The bolts were nearly overwhelming for Lorn. He didn't have time to deflect them all let alone aim them back. It would have been hard enough safeguarding only himself. His companion's began picking off attackers at the near end. Another group joined the larger and the fire intensified.
Lorn lost his concentration. Two bolts sailed past him narrowly missing Merk. Another found its target. Lorn resisted the urge to grasp his left arm. He continued to deflect as many bolts as he could. He channeled his pain into his perception of events.
“Kid!” Lorn failed to respond. Events changed. Grenades. Ten of them.
Lorn dropped one of his blades. He threw his arm out an expelled a wave of Force energy against the incoming projectiles. He missed one. Mattac charged towards the group on the right. The grenade clanked down the hall and passed between the quadrant chief's legs. It detonated.
Merk turned away from the explosion but hit the deck hard. A red burst of energy glanced off Lorn's side. Another explosion sounded from the far end of the corridor as the other grenades exploded. Merk wiped his eyes and blinked rapidly.
“Merk! The chief's hurt.”
Merk's blinking slowed. His mouth dropped open. Lorn's gray suit was exposed at his waist. A blaster wound was darkening his pants a deep red below the tear. “What about you?”
“Stay with him.” Lorn pointed down the hallway. “You have two more approaching from the far corridor.” Lorn called his other emerald blade to his hand from the floor below. “I need to end this now.”
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WyoJedi
Registered:
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Date Posted:
2/22/07 6:57pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak) Chapter 17 posted 2-22
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Merk returned his seat to a more upright position. “So what's the plan?”
Revan kept his eyes forward as he made a slight adjustment of their pitch. “I don't know.”
“Sounds like your usual plan kid. I was hoping for something a little more...planned.” Merk looked out at the station which now obscured the entire view of Telos IV like a giant gray cloud. “From the size of the warehouse, I would say we are dealing with several megatons of explosives.”
Loved this exchange. It was just so classic... I was chuckling heartily.
I like Lorn's style. He knows how to get the job done and doesn't let anything stand in his way... of course that may be his undoing later, but for now it rocks!
And your action sequences are great... intense and engaging. Keep it up.
Cheers,
Wyo
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