Star Wars OPEN Before the New Sith Trials: 138 ABY

IC: Aryan Graul
GA Delegates’ Viewing Room, Above the Medical Bay, Bastion

The general awkwardness that had plagued Aryan’s earlier encounter aboard the Fury carried over to this initial gathering of the minds. While he didn’t have Darth Bernael to contend with under these conditions, it didn’t necessarily mean that his task had become any less daunting – or uncomfortable.

It began as soon as he had entered the room. A dwarf-like Chadra-Fan, who identified herself as Jedi Master Tili Qua, intercepted him almost immediately and proceeded to vigorously shake his hand as she expressed her gratitude for his bravery above Taivas. She had been among the refugees on board the shuttle fleeing from the ravaged planet, the same shuttle he had protected from the deadly Sith Fighters. Aryan had saved her life.

Under normal circumstances, he would’ve gladly accepted her praise – maybe he would’ve even savored the brief moment of glory, but with so many prominent figures watching the exchange, it generated a sense of unease. He did not want to appear too presumptuous in front of his new associates, after all. Instead, Aryan felt his ears grow warm as he stiffly held her hand in his own, wanting nothing more than to disengage and carry on with the meeting.

Unfortunately, the situation only escalated when the Emperor and his entourage made their entrance. His mere presence seemed to sap the air from the room, causing it to buzz with a certain authority. For his part, Aryan hadn’t expected Roan Fel to appear in-person at this juncture, so naturally, he faltered a bit to regain his bearings.

But once he recovered, the man instantly rankled, particularly when Fel and his chief of security, Hogrum Chalk, devolved into a perfunctory greeting that cast subtle insults at their Galactic Alliance guests – himself included. Aryan wanted to retort, though he wisely held his tongue and simply permitted an insolent smirk to spread over his features. He would cooperate for now, but that wouldn’t prevent him from playing hardball later.

In short order, the lights dimmed, allowing the medical amphitheater to illuminate and come into sharp focus below. Aryan watched with mild disgust as a team of medics rolled in a hovergurney and commenced their live dissection on the Sith warrior strapped to the sled. The creature was seemingly half-man, half-machine – an abomination in Aryan’s eyes, and it roared and cackled with a ferociousness that was purely unnatural. Perhaps even barbaric.

“Savage,” he whispered quietly under his breath, his gaze hardening with utter disdain. He felt no sympathy when the beast bellowed its last and ultimately succumbed to the effects of the cruel experiment.

And yet, Aryan wasn’t completely satisfied. In some ways, the creature’s death had been far too merciful, an outcome it certainly hadn’t deserved. It should’ve suffered to the fullest extent to compensate for the horrors it would unleash on the galaxy.

TAG: @Sinrebirth; @darthhelinith; @darthbernael

 

IC: Gar Stazi
Watching a monster die

"Your Imperial Highness, Krayt's creation is dead."

The Duros Admiral steeled himself to the end of the Sith Trooper, reminding himself that these new weapons had to be defeated, and that they were sentients just highlighted the barbarity of their enemy. It was necessary to end this creatures life in such a manner, but it was a reminder that it was a near-constant war not just against the One Sith and their Empire, but also to prevent the allies from becoming them.

Unless Gar Stazi took on-board precisely what he had done, and atoned for it, he would become as desentisized to the selfsame evil that he was opposing Darth Krayt for. He looked to Emperor Roan Fel and Head of Bastion Security Hogrum Chalk, who were whispering among themselves, but even Stazi could read the horror in the Emperor's face. He glanced to Tili Qua, who shook her head - the Imperial Knights were using the Force to hide their words - such that even Darth Helinith could not overhear in the vents above.

The leader of the Galactic Alliance was worried that the Emperor was one of those losing his personal moral fight to remain true, but Aryan Graul had whispered savage under his voice... and Stazi was unsure whether he meant the Sith Trooper, or the way in which he died. He knew humans well - they were as common as oxygen in the galaxy - but even he was unsure as how best to read Aryan.

That troubled him, but Stazi needed Aryan to place himself on an even level to Aryan. His second-in-command, Bey, he was too busy with the military matters to dabble in politics, so. "Horrible but necessary stuff," Stazi said.

"Sadly so," the Jedi Master replied, leading Aryan to speak as the dissection continued below.



Emperor Fel looked up from his conversation. "I will leave you to our other business involving the Sith-Imperial turncoats. Once you have dealt with this, I will be ready to communicate our grand strategy."

"Our grand strategy," Stazi said, firmly.

The Emperor paused, and turned to go out of an alternate exit to the others; one so concealed in the wall that it appeared as if magic. Within it stood Marasiah Fel, and indeed her ward, Antares Draco. He nodded to her. "My daughter will handle affairs on my behalf."

Stazi bristled. "And my Chief of Staff, Graul, will handle it on my behalf." He went to walk out the room of the other entrance, and of course bumped almost straight into Bernael, who had been escorted to the room for the meeting - while the dissection continued on beneath them, with Helinith high above. As he left, Hogrum Chalk looked up slightly, clearly aware Helinith was there, and stepped out.

Stazi ignored Bernael, and the tiny Jedi Master sighed slightly. "Sith-Imperial representative Bernael, I presume?" Qua nodded slightly. "I leave you to Princess Fel and Chief Graul to negotiate affairs forward. The Jedi have no stake in how the Empire absorbs the Sith-Imperials -" But she raised a finger to the Princess. "But keep in mind that the Jedi Council will not abide a massacre."

With that, she stepped around Bernael, patting his hip with sympathy.

Marasiah Fel was in the middle of reassuring her bodyguard that Antares Draco that she would be safe, but was as distracted by the imposing Anzati as the Galactic Alliance representative, at present.

This meeting was, in more ways than one, a confluence of many moments.

Darth Insipid, for his part, was sweating profusely as he kept both he and his apprentice hidden in the Force, and was essentially laying on the floor out of effort, rasping. He tugged at Helinith, though it was a weak one. He would keep going until she was sure they knew everything - he couldn't see through her eyes, only sense the words in her ears - so if she judged the Princess, Anzati and GA politician sufficiently interesting enough to continue to listen...

Then was a spurt as the medic cut through a particularly fleshy part of the Sith Trooper, in the background.

TAG: @HanSolo29, @darthbernael, @darthhelinith

 

OOC: Fun Combo with Sinre, Aryan, and Helinith hiding in the dusty vents.

IC Bernael, Marasaih Fel, Graul
The Meeting

Bernael had been guided to the space where the meeting was to take place. As the door opened he took a quick step to the side before Stazi ran into him. A small smile touched his face at the words from the Jedi Master and even more so when she patted his hip in passing.

He moved into the room, seeing, sensing, the Princess and the former guest on his ship, the one named Graul. It would be quite interesting to see how this conference worked out, he did prefer that the faction he was representing get what it needed, without the Fel’s causing the destruction of that group. Having a more balanced Imperial/Sith group in the galaxy would be a coup.

He settled back against the wall of the room as the others finished their discussions. He knew what he needed to negotiate for and he’d ensure things worked out in the best way possible.

The Princess glanced to the Anzati as he settled to the wall, and looked back to Graul. “I’m not my father, so we can dispense with the pleasantries.”

She turned, her lightsaber hilt showing as she did, which had been clearly placed to emphasise the point. “The True Empire requires the surrender of all former Sith assets to the forces of Bastion immediately, and all Sith-Imperial pilots, crew and officers to accept imprisonment at Rimcee Station,” Marasiah said, referencing a space station not far from Bastion in the Braxant Sector.

“And the True Empire expects the Galactic Alliance to support the reunification of our forces on this point as our allies,” she said, looking to Aryan and flashing her eyes at him.

With his arms folded casually over his chest, the young politician nodded his chin and returned the Princess’ stare, a wry smirk evident at the corner of his mouth. He had heard numerous tales about Marasiah Fel’s distinguished reputation over the years, though this was his first time encountering her in the flesh. She had an almost exotic appeal as she presided over them, her lithe form seemingly elegant, yet radiating in both confidence and strength. He realized then that she would not make this easy for him.

That was just as well; Aryan thoroughly enjoyed a good challenge. Now, if he could only evade the obvious pitfalls that stood in his way due to Darth Bernael’s presence. It was absurd that they would allow him to participate in these crucial talks, particularly when they had previously taken him away in chains. Were they trying to undermine the negotiations?

Aryan angled a sidelong glance at the wayward Sith, silently scrutinizing him before turning back to address the Princess. “So, you intend to handle this quickly and painlessly,” he noted dryly, his tone almost grim. “I understand not wanting to prolong this process with the war still raging out of control, but you don’t leave much room for interpretation.”

Coming around to the side of the table, he unfolded his arms and allowed his fingers to trail idly along the tabletop. “What will happen to them from there? Surely, you would not subvert justice and forgo the trial period simply to satisfy a grudge?”

Bernael stood upright from his lean against the wall and approached the other two, the Princess and the Councilor. He retrieved his datapad as he walked, glancing down to recall the notes of the meeting with the Admiral. Looking back up at the other two, Fel in particular, the corner of his mouth turned down in a slight frown.

He cleared his throat, ”Thank you Councilor for the concern, and Princess, to be honest, everyone in this room knows what your father makes happen to those who are suspect of anything.”

One more glance at the datapad, ”I do come as the representative of the Sith/Imperials with our own proposal that would cause very little friction and could add a smaller polity that would or could support the ongoing war, being extremely antagonistic toward Krayt.”

He tapped the datapad and a starmap sprung into the air, several sectors flashing.



”Including these sectors, the Sith/Imperials would take these sectors and build an Imperial Remnant. The organization is loyal to the ideals of the Empire but not to the Sith or Krayt that leads what he calls his Empire. There is belief that a true system of Imperials can be beneficial to the galaxy and assist in removing Krayt from the galaxy.”

A slight smile turned up the corner of one side of his mouth, ”Part of the desire to illustrate the differences between this Remnant and Krayt’s forces there is another point to add, but that can occur during the course of the negotiations.”

He turned slightly toward Marasiah, his eyes bright but hard, ”There has been enough death and suffering, mostly at the hands of Krayt, and the objective of our request is to show that, at least a portion of, we as Sith or Imperials, are not the enemy and can be useful in this fight.”

Marasiah pursed her lips. "A Sith-Imperial Remnant, made up of former Sith-Imperials who have served the false Emperor for eight years - a year of which they have had ample opportunity to opposing side," she opined.

Her eyes slid to Aryan, flicking for a moment as she appraised the man. The sooner she sized him up, the better, because he was not the indomitable Stazi, and while the Duros Admiral had not wanted to appear weak by negotiating with the lesser True Imperial - herself, and she was lesser, to her father - he had allowed a politician of small repute to step in and Marasiah was convinced that was a mistake she could exploit.

Those eyes swept to the Anzati, as she finished her thought.

Without using the Force.

"In answer to representative Graul, the Sith-Imperials held at Rimcee Station would be tried, and their specific treason determined, before sentencing. Officers responsible for crimes against sentience will of course be executed, as you would expect..."

"... and to Lord Bernael, the enemy of my enemy is the precise reason why the Empire is in this mess. Nine years ago Lord Krayt and his One Sith offered to support us against the Jedi and Galactic Alliance, and two years later they overthrew my father and took the throne." Marasiah wouldn't radiate much emotional investment in her argument; it was simply the necessary conclusion and response.

She was also right, from a certain point of view.

“As I understand it, these are different circumstances,” Aryan quickly countered, his brow lifting to emphasize his point. While his expression did not betray his thoughts, his tone remained hard. “We are in the waning days of the war, and the Sith-Imperials are on the verge of defeat. Admiral Yage is not looking for a superficial alliance. He would’ve never stuck his neck out, otherwise. He knows the risks, which I suspect you’re aware of as well...despite touting your father’s ideals. By reaching out to us with this proposal, he’s willfully putting himself into Krayt’s crosshairs.”

Aryan then paused, inclining his head to regard Bernael in silence. He was mindful that the Anzat’s goals were not too dissimilar from his own. The Alliance wouldn’t be opposed to the Sith-Imperials remaining intact within a sequestered corner of the galaxy, as long as hostilities ended between all rival parties. In fact, it was probably the most logical way forward at this point…

And yet, Aryan would not bow down and openly pledge his support to the other man. While collaborating with him would’ve likely solidified their stance, he could not afford to act so candidly, particularly when he had a reputation to uphold as a representative of the Alliance. Too much was at stake, including his career.

“I’m merely concerned about the safety of those who wish to end hostilities and unite under a common goal,” Aryan carried on after a moment, spreading his hands amicably. “I think we can grant them some leniency, instead of condemning them to the same fate under a flawed judicial system.”

Pressing his lips into a smug smirk, he then angled a sidelong glance at Marasiah Fel. “And that is what you were insinuating...isn’t it, Princess? To indict all of them without probable cause because the Emperor has already determined their guilt? That’s hardly an impartial point of view.”

Meanwhile, high up in the vents, Helinith had not moved from her spot but the conversation carried to her down the vent from the next room quite easily and she was listening in with increasing interest.

Perhaps the war would soon be coming to an end, though where that left herself and her master at the end of it, who could say?

She could somewhat sympathise with the views expressed by a female voice that she had inferred was the heir apparent, having never had to question her own loyalties (a trait the two women seemed to share, despite their vastly different backgrounds).

She realised that while this conversation might be interesting to Insipid, seeing what the grating voice was pointing at would help and she listened for more, whilst weighing up the pros and cons of shifting closer for a chance to see what was going on.

Ùltimately, she decided against it, but would be forced to listen in a while longer, as she daren't risk moving whilst living beings were still so close.

Bernael had stood, quietly as Maraisah spoke and then nodded along, to a degree as he listened to Graul. Both had made good points but one was telling. And it was one that could give the proposal he had a chance. Plus, now was perhaps a time to introduce the other point, one that could give his proposal an edge.

”Thank you Mr Graul. Princess, I do understand your reticence to accept such a proposal. But Mr Graul is correct, the Grand Admiral’s character would not allow him to lie in such circumstances as his organization now faces. Yes, I currently stand with the Sith, the reasons are my own and would take longer than we have to explain. But it says something that he knows the betrayal the Sith gave you and your family, yet asked that I be the one to stand in his stead.” He removed his mask, setting it on the table before him, letting his features be seen.

He looked to the Princess, knowing that she knew what he was and would likely not meet his eyes, or would in challenge. ”There are other Sith he could have asked but he asked the one who Krayt sent on a suicide mission, yet brought as many of my people out as I could, even retrieving Mr Graul there.” he gestured with his hand to the man.

”If you ask the Jedi Grandmaster about the ‘Shadow’ or the ‘Ghost’ after this discussion, you may find out a bit more of why the Admiral made a good choice. I have the measure of the man and of his people. These are the ones who were given no choice by Krayt when he seized power, that are not looking to take up his mantle and bring the deepest darkness to the galaxy. Ask the Grandmaster if I would speak falsely about that.”

He closed his eyes for a moment, considering once more if he should bring up his last point, but sometimes the situation demanded that things be brought forth before planned. ”The other point I mentioned earlier is this. And this may show the attitude of the Grand Admiral and his people. It was one of my demands to him before I accepted taking this spot for this discussion.”

A smile creased one side of his lips, ”Battle may make strange bedfellows and a certain Jedi found that out. Knight San, in the course of the battle, as it took its twists and turns became as valued a member of my people as any other and my demand was that as long as the Jedi allowed, she would continue that function in this new polity. Why would Sith or Imperials that would wish your destruction or betrayal allow such?”

Sia sniffed, clearly defeated. "I will convey your comments to my father." In the Force, there was a smile shared between her and Bernael, but she eyed Aryan, who might not have understood as much. "Lord Bernael, I would ask you to return to Grand Admiral Yage and confirm that - for now - there will be a stay upon any decision involving the Sith-Imperials. But after the war is over, there will be trials, but held in accordance with the laws of all members of this triple-alliance - the True Empire, the Galactic Alliance, and the Jedi Order."

There were plenty of GA laws which would allow for the execution of traitors, so Sia was casting the dice with her father, who likely wanted a more permanent solution. "We do need all the help we can get against these Sith Troopers, after all," she said, diplomatically.

Which was close as Sia would get to criticising her father's priorities. We haven't won yet, after all.

The Princess seemed to turn that thought over in her mind, and looked to Aryan. "If you would escort me, I would be appreciative." She eyed Bernael. "I will direct our forces to not return you to a cell, notwithstanding that you are a Sith."

The door she entered slid open, and Antares Draco stood there, looking annoyed. "But you will have an escort everywhere you go on Bastion, Lord Bernael." She looked to Antares, who looked to Bernael, and he promptly stepped through the entrance to stand beside the taller Anzati.

"Aryan will be my escort for now, Antares," Sia said to the unspoken question.

Insipid reached out to Helinith.

Hurry back, I can't hold it for much longer.

Bernael caught the smile the Princess had broadcast, ’Intriguing’ he thought. Then stood as she did and bowed his head in respect to her. He nodded as well to Graul.

”I shall convey your message to the Admiral, Princess, and thank you for the mercy of allowing me to depart the cells.”

Turning to the other man, ”Until we meet again, Mr Graul.”

He turned to the guard who had stepped by his side, ”I am at your disposal to return to the Admiral, and I give my word I shall give no reason for you to suspect that I may be a threat.”

The talks proceeded quickly, though that didn’t mean that they had achieved the desired outcome – that is to say, they had reached no outcome. With the Princess hastily deciding to reevaluate the issue at a later date, things were essentially at a standstill until the war ended. While that removed some of the pressure from Aryan’s shoulders, it rankled that he would not have a firmer hand in determining its fate. He had his doubts that they would call him back for a second round.

And then there was the peculiar exchange he had observed between Fel and Bernael. They had likely intended it as a silent gesture, a mutual smile to share their understanding, but Aryan had noted it all the same. There was something else lingering beneath the surface, and he didn’t like what it possibly entailed. For the moment, it served as the catalyst for his refusal to formally acknowledge Bernael when he nodded his head in parting.

Aryan would’ve preferred to inquire further, but he ultimately found himself conveniently distracted by Fel’s request to escort her. The fact that she had casually referred to him by his first name, rather than his title, made him all the more suspicious.

“Forgive me for asking, Princess,” he drawled as he spread his hands slowly, a hint of an impish smirk playing over his features. “But escort you where, exactly?”

The words spoke into Helinith's mind and she almost jumped.

Okies. On my way.

She shifted very slowly, hardly daring to breath, one toe then the next, slowly bringing life back into each sweaty limb and unpeeling them from the sides of the vent.

Tiny movements became slightly larger ones as she had moved away, away and the voices talking of escorts became softer, more distorted.

She began to move with increasing confidence, the pads of her bare feet gripping the metal sides, fingers feeling around, searching for each ridge that she'd encountered on the way in.

Of the dark minds she'd encountered on the way, only one remained, but now it was alone it seemed less... scattered. More focused.

She sped up a little, still moving in near silence, but the stealthiness was easier to maintain with no people actively listening for her nearby.

She finally wriggled out of the vent feet first, trying to lower herself in a semi-dignified manner and failing spectacularly. She landed on her feet, almost overbalancing, but caught herself just in time.

"Well that was fun, although I'm not sure if it was particularly enlightening." She scratched her head.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: Marasiah Fel
Wandering the halls of Bastion

It went about as well as could be expected, but it served her purposes for it to. Marasiah knew how to run the tensions between old and new, as much as any democracy had to do so as well. It was a tension epitomised by her father and Gar Stazi, and now, she and Aryan Graul were to continue it on.

"So," Marasiah said as she led Aryan to the Imperial Gardens. "You're Stazi's Chief of Staff, or something along those lines, yet I understand a few days ago you were a Rogue Squadron pilot, and a few days before that, a local politician-come-secret insurgent, and a few years before that, a pilot during the war." By 'the war' she meant the Sith-Imperial War of eight years ago now, rather than this war, which was generally being described as the Second Imperial Civil War.

"Quite a career, Aryan." She threw him a glance as she led him out the Palace into the magnificent Imperial Gardens. "I assume I can call you Aryan, after all, it is likely you and I will be more acquainted as this coalition grows into something beyond a military one." She settled on a bench, and patted beside her. "You may call you Sia, in private, at very least."

The woman was an Imperial Princess, a heir of the bloodline of Skywalker, and she knew it; she exuded power, and confidence, and she clearly needed something from Aryan.

TAG: @HanSolo29
---
IC: Antares Draco
Taking the halls of Bastion

The Imperial Knight that led Bernael was the head of that self-same Order. He was clearly a powerful Force user, second only to the Emperor and Empress in the True Empire. But his thoughts were bare to the Anzati, who would be able to easily skim from his thoughts that he loved the Princess deeply, in that twisted and tragic forbidden love.

Two more Imperial Knights were evident in the hallway,



Yalta Val



Jao Assam

The two of them had their blades ignited, and had entered the corridor as if to block it. Indeed, behind Bernael, the doors locked, and Antares refocused, folding his arms. Inadvertently, his obsession with Marasiah would deflect attention from the trap he had rather clearly set.

Draco spoke, strongly. "You are Sith in my Emperor's Palace. You sow discord and dissent, and stand for the dark side and chaos. It is our Emperor's view that you must die, for your undoubted many crimes against sentience."

This was the most dishonourable of traps... but they did not strike first.

They wished to give him time to speak; to betray himself. Perhaps even to attack them.

TAG: @darthbernael
---
IC: Darth Insipid
Hiding from the halls of Bastion

As Helinith returned to him, Insipid laid down on his back and took a few deep breaths. "Maybe it wasn't..." He huffed, "the most dramatic reveal..."

"But at least we know the coalition isn't entirely on the same page..."

Another breath.

"... and that deep darkness we sensed were these 'Sith Troopers', and they're pretty bad." His chest rose and fell a few more times as he gulped in air.

"Remind me not to try hiding from two Skywalker level Force users at once." He sat up, legs flat and arms propping him up. "I don't think assassinating anyone here is in our best interests, to be honest."

"Unless you think that Anzati you saw needs to go."

TAG: @darthhelinith

 

OOC: A little drama in a combo with @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael
Ambush

Bernael followed Antares, skimming the man’s thoughts as they walked. He wasn’t sure but suspected the man had noticed the smile that had passed from Maraisah to him. Which caused him to be on guard even before the other two Imperial Knights made their appearance. The drawn blades spoke volumes and he waited, calmly for them to approach.

A feeling made his head turn and he looked at Antares as the man stood there, arms crossed.

"You are Sith in my Emperor's Palace. You sow discord and dissent, and stand for the dark side and chaos. It is our Emperor's view that you must die, for your undoubted many crimes against sentience."

He felt their need, their desire to be the ‘victims’ in this. He knew that if he acted, struck first, they would use that excuse to lay the blame at his feet. So, instead he affected a casual air, leaning against the wall of the corridor, to all appearances relaxed and calm.

”Intriguing. You act as though you speak for your Emperor but even the most common of criminal sees the death note that is his sentence. Beyond that, your own Princess speaks for her father and she herself has commuted any sentence, for the moment. And if I must go further, what you are attempting has the potential to destroy the alliance your Emperor is attempting to forge with the GA and, more importantly, the Jedi Order. So no, strike me down if you must, but I will not attack you.”

Antares Draco paused, and looked to the others. They deactivated their blades at his order, and walked off. The man had his own weapon still lit, and Draco simply stared at Bernael. “I want to know the longer game you’re playing, Sith.”

“You may be able to hold back now... but in the future, will you? My Master was a Sith; he waited many years before he acted against us.” Draco’s eyes held Bernael’s, hardened by the memory. There was a firmness to the Imperial Knight, and a darkness held within him that he had embraced but also tempered and made himself stronger for it. He was a formidable man, and knew himself thoroughly.

But guilt rode his thoughts and heart, and it drove him to excel. This was communicated to Bernael in the Force, for Draco reached out to the Sith to get an understanding of him - and so opened himself to the Anzati without any fear of censure, such was his loyalty to his Emperor... and love of his daughter.

Pushing himself off the wall Bernael sighed, then felt Antares open himself fully to his mind. The man had taken a very large chance. In this way, Bernael could have subsumed him, easily, but that would have only proven the man’s point. ”Don’t know how often I need to say this, but not truly Sith. I will show you as you have shown me the deepest recesses of your soul.”

He opened his mind, his soul to Antares. Yes there were places of extreme darkness, hidden caverns and cells, but that was, in part due to his heritage, one could not truly be Light when to survive one must consume the souls of other beings. A locked portal, closed but with a muffled sound behind it. But there were also areas of the purest Light. Massive areas of every shade of grey folded in his mind and soul. The feel was not that of a Sith or a Jedi, but a powerful Force user who had skated the line between for millennia.

Looking in the man’s eyes, ”I serve a cause, the Balance of the universe and the Forces within it. Yes, that often means assisting the Sith so I can understand how I am often considered one, but I am what I am. In the end what I do, how I act, is to ensure that the galaxy continues to exist, that the End of Time does not come.”

A step forward, hands away from his weapons, ”And that is why I will remain true to my word, especially that given the Princess, that I am only attempting to assist the Grand Admiral and bring about a polity that may be Imperial but is not tainted with the same Darkness and rot that Krayt’s Empire is full of. Which likewise means I will not bide my time to betray you, Fel’s Empire, or the one you love in the deepest, hidden spaces in your heart.”

The stiffness to Antares vanished, and he relaxed. While Draco could have taken umbrage with the hidden parts of the Anzati's mind, he could not discount the light within him. Unlike Cade, Antares was a seasoned and morally rigid Force user, but he was not a monster. Wrestling with his own darkness was something he understood.

The opposite seemed just as much a struggle.

He placed the deactivated hilt back on his belt.

"We're going to need you, Bernael," Antares said softly. "Our target will be Coruscant; I know my Emperor. He has always wanted to strike at the head... and if the GA and Sith-Imperials dedicate their forces... this is our best chance."

His eyes narrowed. "With these Sith Troopers numbering in the millions... it's probably our last chance."

"Will you fight besides us, knowing those odds?"

Bernael relaxed as he felt Antares' doubts loosen. He thought about what the current state of the galaxy was and nodded. ”I cannot put aside what I discussed with the Grand Admiral. He and his people deserve their chance to survive and hopefully thrive, to show the galaxy what a ‘good’ Imperium could be, alongside yours. But the galaxy is my charge and Krayt cannot stand.”

His eyes take in the man, remembering the depth of the man that he’d seen, ”Allow me to fulfill that duty and I will do my all to ensure that downfall. Those Sith troopers are an abomination, and should be, even to a Sith.”

"The galaxy is your charge..." Antares said, repeating. "Mine is my Emperor and his Empire," he said. "For now, our goals are in accord, and you shall have my hand, and my blade." He reached out to shake with Bernael.

"I will speak to the Emperor on your behalf; on behalf of the Sith-Imperials," Antares had resolve in his voice, when clearly his position was to be a bodyguard alone, and nothing more or less.

Bernael took his hand and shook it in the manner of equals, not seeking to exert his dominance over the other man or any iota less than equal pressure in the grip. ”I appreciate that. And may our endeavour end this threat to the galaxy for good.”

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @darthhelinith, @HanSolo29 (Last since Aryan is in the compound)

 

IC: Grand Admiral Yage
Sith-Imperial quarters, or, rather, isolated area of the Bastion Palace

The Grand Admiral of the Galactic Empire was standing, isolated, as he pursed his lips and studied the data. The room was darkened that Bernael was directed to, filled with holograms of Sith Troopers, their anatomy, the specifications of their implants, and their fighters and capital ships, neither of which they had a great deal of data on. There was an image of a Yuuzhan Vong coralskipper and cognition hood as well, to which Yage commented.

"The surgeons think the Troopers are crafted with sockets on them so they can bond directly with their ships, much as the Yuuzhan Vong did a century ago. It follows that Krayt, who had Vong implants, would come through with technological equivalents." He held out a datapad. "There was also a Sith Dreadnought in ancient times that a Dark Lord of the Sith, Darth Karrid, bonded with to increase power and responsiveness - the Ascendant Spear."

"I require your report, Lord Bernael, but also your view of this."

Yage looked concerned, clearly working through history to solve his current issue.

TAG: @darthbernael

OOC: Mini-TAG as Sir B has a bit to do.

 

OOC: Ummm, yeah, lets just say our GM decided to throw me and Bernael for a loop near the end of the combo

IC Bernael
Discussion with the Grand Admiral

Bernael considered the information that the Grand Admiral had just presented. He would ponder it while he reported on the conference. He stood before the Admiral, seemingly at ease as he began.

”The discussion did not start all that well. As you suspected, the Emperor had told his daughter to state that he wanted all former opponents detained and ‘tried’ for crimes before execution. Maraisah was very clear in that that was his desire. I countered with the offer you had made, holding back only the tidbit that we wanted, I wanted, Knight San to be part of this new polity, as I decided that it was a bargaining chip to introduce later, as a further way to show that you, us, are not what Krayt is.”

Yage nodded slowly. "I made a formal request of Acting Grandmaster K'Kruhk, actually; that she be sent to us." Indeed, the Force indicated she was getting closer, being escorted by another unfamiliar Imperial Knight.

"Your addendum is acceptable, and a Jedi joining the Sith-Imperial Remnant would secure the perception that we are not just Sith." Yage narrowed his eyes. "I understand a suggestion has been made that we have simply replaced Krayt with you, actually."

There was a slight pause. "You say that was what the Emperor wanted... but what of Marasiah herself? She has her father's ear, after all."

Bernael chuckled at the suggestion, ”If such a suggestion has come from internal sources then they do not know your strength, your power, or will. External suggestion, well they have seen the Sith under Krayt and know only that, in recent years.” He paused, eyes searching the man, ”I am a being of my word and I have said I will aid in the birth of your Remnant, and work to make sure those Sith that join are of the same mindset as I, assist and grow the Remnant, not dominate it.”

He sighed, a hand drifting up to wipe his face, a muttered, ”Mayflies…”

Eyes rising to the Grand Admiral once more, ”You asked after Maraisah’s own thoughts. At first she seemed much in her father’s camp. But between what she could sense from me and my sincerity in the discussion, as well as the words of the other delegate, her belief changed during the meeting. As it ended she stated she will bring the proposal to her father, with her voice in support of such.”

He paused, a small smile appeared behind the mask, ”Councilman Graul, perhaps because he did get to witness my legion or what is left of it, on my ship, spoke up and without throwing direct support behind our proposal gave enough meaning in his words to imply that such support would be forthcoming. And he spoke in such a way to Maraisah that showed he understood the reason behind why we desire what we do and how it could be politically advantageous.”

Looking into the distance for a moment, not mentioning the growing sense, during the discussion, that they had been observed, he continued, ”She was not fully convinced but then I revealed that last point. And the idea that a Jedi, one such as San would or could be part of the Imperial remnant, perhaps swayed her more. Showed her that we are not planning, wanting, to create a mini Empire in the style of Krayt. The discussion, however, and not entirely surprisingly, ended without something concrete having been decided, but since the three of us were merely the representative faces the final decisions would have to be made by those whose ‘faces’ we wore.”

He also decided to leave out the smile Maraisah had sent in the Force before the end of the meeting, as it was and, to a greater degree, wasn’t relevant. Snorting, ”However, that was not the end of it. Once I was escorted out by one of the Imperial Knights it turned into what very well have been a trap. However, as everyone,” he snorted again, ”seems bound and determined to call me a Sith, I let their false assumption be the better of them and did not attack. Which turned out for the best as the first Knight and I ended up in a deep discussion and it seems we may also have the support of the Knights in creating the remnant.”

The comments about Marasiah Fel gave him hope, and also pause for thought. "He tends to listen to the Princess, as long as he is not publicly disagreed with..."

The door chimed, and Yage simply pressed a button on the desk, causing the tactical images to vanish, and then the entrance whisked open. The Grand Admiral was the model host, inclining his head to San as she swept in, looking wide eyed and worried for Bernael.

When she saw the Imperial, she paused, stopping herself, and executing a perfect bow. "Grand Admiral," San's eyes took in the Anzati, forgetting how to address him. Lord didn't work... Darth definitely would not. "Bernael," she settled on.

"I asked you here to thank the Jedi for their support of the Sith-Imperial Remnant," Yage said as she looked from Bernael, as if remembering Yage was there. "We have had enough Sith-led genocides' this year alone, to add a Fel-one to the list would be a tragedy."

San looked neutral for a moment. "The Jedi are grateful for your support, but we are not taking a stance on Imperial internal politics, merely, as you say, ensuring that defectors are treated appropriately."

Yage seemed satisfied enough with that. "As you say." He inclined his head to Bernael, giving him permission to interject. San looked hopeful for his commentary on the moment.

Bernael nodded to Yage then turned his focus to San. A touch of a smile touched his face, behind the mask, ”I requested you, San.” He reached up, removing the mask, letting his visage be seen by all, the slight smile still on his face.

”Actually, I demanded it as part of my conditions to first represent the Remnant and then as part of the initial discussion of an agreement to create the Remnant in actuality.”

He looked away for a moment, ”Trask…..yes, Trask,” he coughed slightly, ”would never have forgiven me if I hadn’t.”

The smile returned, ”Besides, you two were...are, my second in commands of the legion and I promised to keep you all safe and together, and that includes you.”

Yage coughed slightly, but smiled nonetheless. "I shall leave you to it."

San blushed somewhat, and Yage stepped from the room. He had a quick aside with the Stormtrooper on guard, and the man stepped in, removing his helmet. It was Trask, and he gave Bernael and San a goofy grin. "Seems we're walking in the same circles."

Bernael chuckled as Trask removed his helmet, ”Welcome, as you can see I did manage to get her returned to us, let us hope by her choice as well as by design.” He could sense the currents between the two and sat back, letting them see each other for the first time in a couple days.

San and Trask drew each other into a hug, being humans it seemed more natural to do. Trask simply sketched a salute to Bernael, and the Jedi could only smile.

"Sergeant Harkas is going to recover, it looks, though he'll need some cybernetics. A few of the Knighthunters that survived have been asking after you, Bernael, so you'll have half a dozen there looking to serve." Trask shrugged.

"The Jedi Council are cautious as to you, I'd say," San shrugged. "Jedi Master K'Kruhk gave me a full debrief, and when Jedi Master Qua returned from your meeting she gave me permission to come here, just from having met you." Trask looked at her, and she at him, before the Jedi glanced back at Bernael. "That's good, right?"

"Sound's good to me," replied Trask.

The small smile touched Bernael’s lips as he watched the reunion. ”Good to hear about Harkas and the Knighthunters will be a good addition to our forces, although they may need a little retraining to focus on any opponents and not Jedi alone, especially with San with us.”

He nodded to San, ”Yes, that is good to hear, it shows the Jedi, at least, recognize I’m either not a Sith, or not what they fear in a Sith. Either way, it is a start. And allows you to rejoin us. So now we must see how Maraisah’s recommendations to her father and the counselor's recommendation to the GA affect the outcome. And we do, now, seem to have the support of the Imperial Knights, a story to that, but helpful.”

Trask looked thoughtful. "I'm not a big-time philosopher or ethical whatever, I'm afraid. Seems to me that we barely escaped Taivas with what we've got. Krayt hasn't gone away. The war isn't over yet, and there's no point arguing over things until we've won it."

San nodded. "But if Emperor Fel wins it by slaughtering Imperials, the future he secures will be as dark as the one we're fighting against..."

A shrug. "Like I say; we're outnumbered, and, presumably, outmatched by all those new toys Krayt has; cyborg Sith Troopers, Annihilator fighters that can crack capital ships, and of course those Sith Dragon ships." Trask looked at Bernael for support. "It's all fine arguing over things, but practically if we all die, moral questions are kinda pointless."

"No," San said, even more firmly. "I'm not arguing for your survival because we need you."

"Though you do -"

She took a calming breath. "I'm arguing for your survival because it's the right thing to do."

Trask opened his mouth to say more, but clearly decided against it -

Pinching the bridge of his nose, even as he grinned at the banter, Bernael sighed.

”Ahhh that honeymoon period was swift, a kiss, a hug, and now back to it.”

He chuckled, ”Let’s agree that motivation is less important than the result. San, I doubt that you would truly be happy if Trask disappeared and you never saw him again. And Trask, I know you would be miserable if San had not been able to rejoin us. Leave it at that.”

He stood, pacing for a moment, ”Besides, we need this remnant to succeed, a touch of darkness in the galaxy without the overwhelming presence of it that Krayt is. So this success will allow the Remnant to assist the Fels and the GA to defeat Krayt and show that, if the Fel’s turn darker, there is a stable element out there to turn to.”

The two of them grinned, and regarded each other briefly. San was more serious for the moment. "I get the logic. After the First Galactic Civil War the Imperial Remnant sued for peace, retained eight sectors in the Outer Rim, and were allowed what military assets they had left. Conversely, the Deep Core Imperials fought to the last man and, well, lost."

Trask nodded. "Yage is looking to repeat what happened, just with the Imperials that Fel would rather eradicate."

"But for now, the Sith-Imperial forces are just ships, and men, and women. If what Trask says is true," San looked unhappy. "That could be easily lost in the battles to come."

"We can't quite decamp and put down roots," Trask cautioned, and then looked at Bernael. "Can we?"

"Should we, you mean?" San said.

Bernael looked at them for a moment, a feeling of weariness, of age, wrapped around him in that instant. And then it was gone and he smiled lightly. ”Loss is part of life, I won’t deny that. But so is growth, love, and reaching for those things that we may not even attain.”

He gazed at them both, one of the less likely couples one would encounter but in war one often could find something special, no matter where it comes. ”What is victory or reaching for victory without hope for something, in this case survival and growth, and a pair that could very well show the galaxy how the Light and Dark can be together. Victory, or trying to attain it is hollow, if you do not have something worth fighting for.”

Leaning back, ”I would doubt either of you would try as hard to attain victory, to survive, to let all that will happen happen if you didn’t have each other. Possibly much to both your surprises.”

San narrowed her eyes, and then blushed at his meaning. Trask was a bit more obtuse, but caught on. "Oh," he said, and San, too, gaped a little. "You think I like her?"

"You think he likes me?" San said, simultaneously.

They looked at each other, and San looked at Bernael ."Here I was hoping to get your attention..."

"You didn't notice my attempts to get your attention then?" Trask said, visibly cringing.

Bernael slipped as he leaned against the wall. Shock overtook him. His eyes blinked, blinked again. He stood, legs suddenly heavier as something he’d not considered entered his thoughts. He glanced at San, eyes studying her, still blinking. Dragging his gaze to Trask, he tried to compose himself but somehow words were hard to come.

He blinked again, opened his mouth, closed it, wiped a hand over his face, gazed at them both again and realized he hadn’t said a word in this time. Arms out, ”Bot...both..of you?”

San went scarlet, and Trask narrowed his eyes. He peered at Bernael, and went a different shade. "Well."

"Now you mention it..."

She glanced back at Trask, and looked pretty intrigued herself, actually. "Welllll..."

This was getting interesting.

Bernael looked back and forth between the two of them. A smile, not a calculated one, crossed his face.

”I must admit the possibility of either had I not allowed to cross my mind, but...both of you, get over here. Don’t make me look like an ancient idiot just holding my arms out.” He wasn't one given to emotion, unsurprisingly but these two somehow gave him hope for this time, the galaxy, again.

They moved over and accepted the hug. It was a strangely awkward and yet uplifting moment, and there was a chime at the door before they had gone any further. Trask laughed, and San sighed.

Bernael chuckled, of course the galaxy would intrude just now. He held them for a moment longer, ”If you two think this is the end of this, you’re sorely mistaken. But...food for thought, next time don’t be so subtle with me, I didn’t expect it so missed the signs. And I do believe we all have something worth fighting for now.”

Loosening the hug but not doing more than turning, in front of them, toward the door, ”Enter.”

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: Grand Admiral Yage
Interrupting

The Grand Admiral leaned in, and Trask replaced his helmet and snapped off a salute. San bowed, formal-Jedi style. "At ease," said Yage, softly. "The Emperor wants us to join a meeting with him and the others. He has a proposal..." His swallowed, slightly apprehensive. "He intends to end the war in one battle, if he can pull it off. The Sith-Imperial Fleet is going to offer him a four-man team, as one of several such teams that will be needed to take specific targets - in your case, a Golan VIII space defence platform."

He had out a small holoprojector, which showed the battlestation, the whole kilometre of it.



He looked from one to the other, and settled on Bernael. "Did I interrupt something?"

TAG: @darthbernael
---
IC: Darth Insipid
Exhausted

"Ha," he said drily as Helinith immediately reminded Insipid. "I knew you would do that."

He focused on her other thoughts. "The Anzati is irrelevant. I knew one, a long time ago. Caused me no end of troubles, getting involved in my personal business." He thought briefly of Adalia Durron, and for a brief moment lamented that he had outlived her. She had kept him keen, kept him focused, notwithstanding how much she had stymied him.

He briefly worked his jaw, remembering that punch from nearly a century ago.

"I'd rather not draw the attention of another Anzati if I can avoid it; they're exceptionally hard to kill." He reflected for a moment, as suddenly the Force became charged. "Did you feel that?" He held up a hand to the air, as if catching the current.

"They're going to attack, rather than defend. Someone has just made the decision to go on the offensive... which means..." Insipid debated aloud. "Well, it means they're not going to wait for Krayt and his forces to come here... we're going to them." He snapped his fingers. "Coruscant."

"They're going to advance on Coruscant, and the entire war is going to be over within a day, one way or the other."

He wondered aloud. "I reckon we can swing it with these security codes so that we're involved..." Insipid glanced at Helinith. "What do you say? Shall we do our bit to save the galaxy from the reigning Dark Lord of the Sith?"

TAG: @darthhelinith

TAG: @HanSolo29 (combo finale)

TAG: @Adalia-Durron (mention for novelty sake)

 

IC Bernael with @Sinrebirth
Conference upcoming

A small smile touched Bernael’s face as the Grand Admiral leaned into the room. The reactions of Trask and San broadened the smile frationally. His face returned to a neutral expression as he listened to what the man had said. That the Emperor was willing to engage the Sith-Imperials in such a way, even if it meant that their forces could or would be diminished by the assault was a start.

He nodded to the mention that they would join the Emperor and discuss the operation. And then the small smile returned at the last question. He coughed slightly, ”Admiral, the reunion your efforts allowed to happen has been good for us all here and brought us closer together, which I appreciate. Given your leave, I would have them accompany me to the meeting, especially if they are to be part of the operation.”

He eyed the three of them. "Acceptable... but I would introduce, or rather re-introduce, the fourth member of your team." His daughter swept into the room, Gunner Yage. She looked at the three of them, narrowed her eyes slightly. "We'll need a pilot, and well, I am the best in the Empire. Whichever one."

"Not many pilots can claim to have shot down Force users, true," Yage said, drily. "But I will be putting her in your care, Lord Bernael." His eyes hadn't left his daughters face. "You understand that he will be charge, yes, Gunner?"

"Sure, sure," she said, strutting forward in that typical fly-girl pilot way, Trask turning his head slightly, inclined as if he was glancing at San, who was trying to keep a straight face. "But I want to be the one who does the flying. You guys can handle the Sith Troopers in one-on-one, right?"

Yage coughed to move on.

Bernael’s head tilted to the side for a moment, as he took in the younger Yage. The fact the Admiral was committing his daughter to the assault showed his commitment and also meant Bernael would have to give his all to keep the head strong pilot alive as well. ”Welcome to the family, so to speak.” he said dryly.

He chuckled at her question, glancing at San before he replied, ”Yes, they can be handled, and we have done so before. We would be dead on the surface of that world otherwise.”

His gaze moved to the Admiral, ”Before we depart the Emperor’s forces will need to allow me back on my ship to grab a few things, as I’d prefer not to lose it in this engagement so I am sure we will be using alternate craft.”

Gunner pouted. "You mean, I'm not flying your ship? It looked pretty good at the Battle of Taivas."

Yage looked to Bernael. "I gave orders for it to be refueled and rearmed - and given a once over, if you consent to it's use during the battle." He paused. "We do not have ships enough as it is, to put one aside."

San looked expectantly at Bernael, and gave him a nudge with her eyebrows.

Bernael noticed the nudge, one eyebrow rising. He thought for a moment trying to figure out if she meant more than just accepting the fact they’d be in his ship. He sighed, knowing he’d have to figure that out along the way, turning his attention back to the Admiral.

”In that case, yes we’ll have to take my Fury.”

A small smile crossed his face, behind the mask, ”I appreciate the rearm and refuel, and hope the security system didn’t fry too many of the techs.” His gaze slid over to Gunner, ”So yes, it does look like you’ll be flying my ship,” His eyes crinkled at the corners, almost visible in the eyeslits, ”so even more incentive to get us all home in one piece, the two most valuable assets in my legion, the Admiral’s daughter, and now my ship, don’t want to lose any of them.”

"Most valuable assets, eh?" Trask said, a bit wryly. Yage's eyebrow's lifted at the Stormtrooper's aside, but he plowed on.

"Sir, what about Sarge?"

"Ran Harkas is in no shape to lead an assault on a Golan battlestation, son. He's in a medically induced coma, but the medics aren't sure if he'll pull through," Yage said the words with the pinched tone of a commanding officer who had given this speech many times before. "The surgeons were busy with an..." his eyes drifted to Bernael, and San looked over, frowning, "autopsy until now," Yage finished. "Though they're opening up Harkas now."

Gunner pursed her lips, unhappy with. "I know Joker Squad was one of those units that struggled to remain loyal, even gunning down one of their Sith handlers, Darth Maleval." She nodded. "I gather you did that."

Trask nodded. "I did... he was going to kill my squad at Borosk. Called my commanding officer a traitor because he wouldn't kill his brother..." He sounded distant.

San cut in. "What was the autopsy on, that was so important?" She was asking Bernael, not Yage.

Bernael turned and gave a look to the Admiral, an unasked question in the look. In return he received what could only very generously be called a nod. This was going to be….interesting telling San.

He returned his gaze to San, after giving Trask a wry look, ”Cade captured one of the Sith Troopers. The meeting where I negotiated with Maraisah Fel and a representative from the GA took place after the living autopsy of the Trooper.”

He glanced again at the Admiral, but the man was silent, so he continued, ”Representatives of the Fel Empire, the Sith-Imperials, the GA, and yes, the Jedi were all present for the entire autopsy. And it took quite a while for the entire procedure to take place. As a matter of fact, by the time the conference I just mentioned took place it was just wrapping up.”

He glanced again at Trask, ’I doubt San’s going to like that so be prepared, but if the Jedi didn’t tell her, that is not our fault.’ sending the thought to him.

"Autopsy implies dead," San said slowly, before continuing. "But captured implies alive."

Trask struggled to get the gist of what Bernael had said, not attuned to him enough to get it, but he was able to anticipate what San was about to object to, and that the Jedi were all present included whatever Council member they had sent.

She looked at Yage, and back at Bernael, visibly enraged. "And someone from the Jedi was there?"

Gunner, who hadn't caught on quite yet, looked surprised, and then cooled her expression.

Bernael had expected San’s shock and had attempted to temper her anger toward them but it was still present, more diffuse and seemingly some directed toward her own order.

He nodded to her, ”Yes, there was at least one Jedi that I know of that was present for the autopsy, a Chadra-Fan. From what I understand, every faction here had at least one representative present and that each had agreed to the autopsy taking place in the manner that it did.”

He sighed for a moment, ”I did comment that it would have been better to just destroy it immediately. And San, those things are not truly alive, not after whatever process it is that Krayt uses to create them. They are, after that, part organic, part machine extensions of Krayt’s will, nothing living being about them.”

Now San's ire shifted. "Do you know that with absolute certainty, Bernael?"

Trask stiffened, and Yage narrowed his eyes, but he did not intervene. Gunner went to say something but her father's glance told her not to; she wasn't in-charge. Not one bit. Lord Bernael was in charge of this team, and he wanted her to understand that... and to see how a Sith would manage such an eclectic team.

"Because otherwise, you're condoning execution rather than... what, a vivisection?"

Bernael saw the looks that crossed the room, from Trask, to Gunner, to her father the Admiral. But only peripherally. He turned, slowly, to face San, the black of his eyes overtaking the silver in them to a degree.

In a low voice, ”San, you know what I am. You know I can strip a mind to its component state, with just my will. You know I can read, understand, and know a being to its core with a simple thought, depending on their own strength.”

He stepped toward her, his presence suddenly seeming to fill the room. ”Knowing that, you ask me….me, that question. Do you not think I, more than any other being save an elder of my kind, would know if a true, individual, being lived in those bodies?”

His eyes cleared, a hint of what could be called compassion in them, ”San, think, use that Jedi training and use your logic and not emotion. You know I would not make such a statement without it being the truth, after all you do know me.”

San took a deep, deep breath. "Fine, I concede the point, though by your own estimation the Sith Troopers are particularly strong -"

"But they're also mad," the Grand Admiral said.

"Yes," San said, remembering clearly too late that they were all here. "So Bernael would be able to know."

"They're abominations," Gunner said. "They fired indiscriminately, even taking out some One Sith. It's only because Krayt told us to move out the way - because we were still needed - that any Sith-Imperial ship survived." Her face grew a sneer. "Which makes it even more stupid that any Imperial serves Krayt, especially after he killed Moff Geist."

Trask nodded. "But they're not Imperials now. They're just Sith. Any officer who stayed behind now? They're fair targets." He took off his helmet, ignoring the breach in decorum and met San's eyes. "Right?"

"Yes, they are," San said, sadly.

"So when can we go?" Gunner said, cutting across the philosophy. "We need to keep the Sith off-balance; I'm surprised they've not attacked Bastion already."

"The Emperor agrees." Yage looked at Bernael. "Your team's role will form part of a multiple assault. I can't tell you the target world; I don't know it yet." The Force spoke with truth.

"Well, we'll need a lot of raids to keep him off-balance, but it doesn't help us with the Sith Troopers and their ships. You were winning the war against the Sith Empire..." Trask said. "That's why we went to Taivas to try and lure you into a final trap. Of course, you trapped us, and then Krayt trapped you."

"Yes," Yage said grimly. "Had Krayt not sicced the Sith Troopers on us, the Sith Empire would have been dealt a body blow." He looked at Bernael. "So this station, it has to fall." He held out a datapad with the specs, and encrypted coordinates to the Anzati. "Emperor Fel is giving us first crack - but it is a stealth mission. There are codes in there which will get you through the Sith lines... but you're only to use them if caught."

There was a lot of tension suddenly; the trust was heavy, leaning upon Bernael.

"Understood?"

Bernael kept his gaze on San for a moment, until he felt the anger toward him begin to melt away. He knew such things could be discussed, in private, at another time, but yes, in the current company they needed to keep it as professional as possible.

He chuckled when he heard the word stealth in relation to the mission. Turning his head to peer at the Admiral, ”Did your techs also repair the outer damage that damaged the nose and the stealth systems? I would believe that would be another reason my ship would be best prepared for this mission.”

He nodded at the question though, ”I do understand, and understand not just the surface trust but the deeper trust you are putting in me. If, no, when we succeed it will give even more reason for Emperor Fel to look favorably on our proposal for the Remnant to be formed, so we must succeed to give you and your people, when this war is done, some measure of peace.”

He smiled at Trask, a light chuckle at the informality he was showing by removing his helmet, sent a thought to San, well more of a feeling, that he understood her pain but that he had to be what he was in appearance to those around them, then turned to Gunner. ”Welcome to the family.” knowing she had no idea the truth of the statement, yet.

Nodding to the Admiral, ”Unless you require our presence at the meeting, best we get to the Fury and prepare to depart as soon as possible.”

The Admiral nodded. “The damage was repaired, but it appeared to be from a physical impact. There were quite a few damaged ships with the fleet so we expect you hit some on entry.”

“The Fury was moved by tractor to my flagship, so you’ll need to grab a shuttle up to mine. It’s been arranged by Knight Krieg already.” In essence Yage was telling them the Emperor had removed them off-world in the meantime.

With a glance, he checked on his daughter. “I’ll leave you with them.” Gunner sketched a salute, and he drew her into a hug. “Be careful out there.”

Gunner looked uncertain, and then responded to the embrace. Trask and Sam looked at each other, curious. The Grand Admiral and acting Head of State of the Sith-Imperial Remnant drew himself up to his full height.

“Lord Bernael,” he said with a salute, and turned to go.

Bernael nodded deeply, ”Grand Admiral Yage.” He paused for a second as the man turned to go, then in a softer voice, ”I will bring her home, Yage.”

He then turned to the other three, ”I suppose we’d better get going unless any of you have anything you need.”

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: San
Heading to the Fury, not paying much attention.

The Jedi Knight regarded the amassed armada, which was mostly repaired, restocked, and rearmed. The Force permeated with the sense of anticipation, which was becoming dulled by the time the forces were needed to stay on alert for a Sith counter-assault. There were other shuttles and personal ships preparing, San could sense their anxiety, anger, determination... emotions represented in their own team.

The Imperial shuttle dropped them off, and the pilot handed them another datapad. "These are the decryption codes for your first datapad. They are timed so they will be active in half-an-hour," the Imperial Knight had said. "They will remain active for five minutes. You can then decrypt the jump-coordinates and launch."

Already deployed was the Mynock, piloted by Cade Skywalker, and the Raider, a Gladius-class light freighter, as well as some Imperial shuttles. Nothing obviously True Imperial or Galactic Alliance. Trask noticed that, and wondered. "Looks like a few stealth missions."

Indeed, San recognised many of the signatures evident.

Cade himself, yes, but also the Jedi Masters Rasi Tumm, Asaak Dan, Shado Vao, Wolf Sazen as well as the Imperial Knights Treis Sinde, Ganner Krieg, Azlyn Rae, Sigel Dare...

She knew the Jedi had suffered badly, losing Masters Drok, Corso and Dunla at Taivas, as well as Grandmaster Tra Saa and the legendary Nat Skywalker.

He gaze turned, and she reached out to the Jagged Fel, the Imperial flagship, and detected Emperor Roan Fel and the leader of the Imperial Knights, Antares Draco, and aboard the Alliance, the Galactic Alliance flagship, acting Grandmaster K'Kruhk, and, in the hangar, Jedi Master Tobias Sun and the all-Jedi Twin Suns Squadron.

Almost every heavy-weight Jedi and Imperial Knight was in orbit.

"This is going to be big."

Gunner sounded grim.

"Yes it is."

TAG: @darthbernael, @darthhelinith, @HanSolo29 (TAG for Bernael only)

 

The following is a combo with Sinrebirth – thank you so much!

IC: Aryan Graul and Marasiah Fel
The Imperial Gardens, Bastion

Aryan’s suspicions continued to mount as the Princess led him through the meandering corridors of the Imperial stronghold. The woman exuded confidence, and as a successor to the infamous Skywalker line, she also exerted untold power and influence on the galactic stage. Someone of her stature would make a strong ally, except he wasn’t the one doing the courting.

This became abundantly clear when they entered the lush atrium of the Imperial Gardens. Fel wasted no time trying to flatter him by quoting his achievements and praising his tenacity. Her attempts then turned personal as she dropped the formalities and began to converse on a first-name basis.

A thin smile spread over his lips at this change. Aryan recognized the technique all too well. She hoped to gain leverage through familiarity, a gesture that would encourage him to lower his guard. He had already suspected that she wanted something from him, and now, he had all the proof he needed. If he intended to stay ahead of her, he had to play this very carefully.

“Very well, Sia,” Aryan drawled with an impish smirk still evident on his features, slowly coming around to join her on the bench. He then leaned forward and sought her face, meeting her gaze. “But before we grow too accustomed with this arrangement, how about you fill me in on what you require from me. You’ve been pretty transparent in that regard.

“While I appreciate the compliments, you may have overstated them a bit.” His smile swelled, reaching his eyes. “Don’t over-embellish.”

Sia looked narrowly at Aryan. "To the point; I appreciate that." She favoured him with the smile. "This war will end, one way or the other, I am sure of it. My father sees the disaster before him, and only that. However, I choose to see the connections and bonds that this endeavour has given birth to."

"Gar Stazi is not a politician, and he will seek to hand power to someone he can trust, and I need to know who that person is, because I will be working with that person, inevitably so," Sia said, focusing upon Aryan. "I am a Skywalker by blood, a Solo by heritage, and a Fel by name. I have the responsibility of rule, and with it, the future to care for."

"So I want to work with you, and ensure that you want to work with me." Sia reached over and patted him on the knee, leaving the hand to linger briefly, before she withdrew it.

Her touch sent a chill down his spine, an unexpected thrill that gave Aryan pause. It wasn’t so much the physical contact itself, as pleasing as it was, that had elicited such a reaction, but rather his surprise over the nature of her proposal. A collaboration of this magnitude would have a significant impact on his future – a positive impact. It could lead to great things, everything he had ever hoped to achieve. That's when he knew that he could not hesitate; it would be foolish for him to refuse this opportunity.

“I would be honored to extend my partnership to you,” Aryan replied evenly, shifting forward on the bench to get a better view of her profile. He also kept his expression neutral to ensure that he did not appear too eager at this important juncture. “No doubt we can accomplish a great deal together. However, I am concerned about whether my status would hinder our progress. I am just a lowly aide, after all.”

The words were tumbling from his mouth now, firm and confident. “I hope I do not come across as too presumptuous with this request, but I have a favor to ask of you in return. When the dust settles after the war, would you be willing to sponsor me for a spot within the new Galactic Senate?” He spread his hands and smiled once more. “To better serve our needs, of course.”

Sia looked amused, catching his eye knowingly and she brushed off her dress as she stood. "I believe I could achieve that, though whether I can do so for the first elections..." She looked amused. "Or even the second."

"A military appointment usually translates to a political one," she said wryly. "I am sure I can ask after you when the dust has settled, aide Graul." Her face seemed distracted. "My father is summoning me... a decision has been made... and the war shall commence again."

Her face turned to his, looking almost forlorn. "I will be aboard the Imperial flagship, the Jagged Fel. If I do not survive, I will ensure instructions are left for you." Her voice didn't lose it's regal bearing, not once, not even though it pained her.

"I look forward to your service," she said with some finality.

Aryan found that he appreciated her wit. She wasn’t afraid to spar with him, even if it was primarily tongue in cheek. Nevertheless, he couldn’t help but wonder if she expected him to do more for her, something beyond what he had already committed to. While it was possible that he had simply misinterpreted her words, the thought continued to linger at the back of his mind.

But the moment didn’t last, particularly when she turned serious. The sudden shift in her demeanor put everything into perspective. It allowed him to clear his head and retain his focus, and as she bid him farewell, he rose to meet her. Despite this being their first encounter, he could tell that the war was weighing heavily on her. This prompted him to reach out and capture her hand within both of his own, almost as a gesture of empathy.

“Thank you,” Aryan answered warmly, his blue-gray eyes never wavering from her face. “Remember, we have a bright future ahead of us.” He squeezed her hand one last time before releasing it. “Good luck with your mission, Sia.”

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC Bernael, (San, Trask, Gunner from @Sinrebirth)
Arriving at the Fury

Bernael had stood staring out of the viewscreen, as the shuttle lifted and exited the atmosphere. He wanted to, needed to talk to the team but he also needed to get a measure of what was being prepared. A sense of calm was upon him as he saw the armada that was being amassed, that it wasn’t just a few teams sent in advance while the armada gathered, but fuller preparations that meant their teams actions would be distractions as well as important strikes to affect the outcome of the battles to come.

His senses reached out and he could feel many of those that would have considered him as a foe even a few hours before. One thing he did notice was that most, if not all of the ships he saw immediately around them were those that could not be tied to any polity, which meant they too had their own missions. Beyond them, though, were those ships of Fel’s Empire as well as assets of the GA.

Interspersed, on board many ships, were Jedi and Imperial Knights. He didn’t necessarily know their names but he did know and feel their presences in the force. When his senses touched upon that of Antares, he sent a touch through the Force of a nod of respect and when they touched the Jedi Grandmaster he sent a deeper nod of respect, if not for him he would have had a much harder time reaching this point.

When they landed Bernael took possession of the time locked datapads. He snorted slightly at it, not at the need for secrecy but because time locked messages were just as easy to have written and embedded on one pad than burden them with several that required handling and could be set aside or mixed up as the time passed. He nodded to the pilot, then turned and went with the team from the shuttle.

The short conversation his team had reached his ears and made the corner of his mouth tic up again. He gazed at each of them, the two that were his and the one that was his responsibility and he’d need to see how she fit with their little unit. ”When we get to the Fury, I want a short talk before Gunner heads to the cockpit. It seems we have about half an hour to get that in.”

Ahead he could see it, glad no one had gotten hurt as they moved it, the security system was particularly touchy. He keyed the sensor that recognized him and the ramp dropped. Stopping at the foot of it, "Everyone aboard, and we'll have that 'chat'."

In short order they were aboard the Fury, Gunner having basically salivated over the ship as they arrived. It had been fully repaired, but San remained focused upon the Force; indeed, she felt another nova in the Force approach - Princess Marasiah Fel, a descendant of Jaina Solo Fel and thus of the infamous Anakin Skywalker - was also on her way to the Jagged Fel.

Trask spent the journey up close by San, squeezing her hand and looking at Bernael in alternating states of concern, worry and Stormtrooper neutrality. He eventually withdrew to behind his helmet, and stopped holding her hand, opting to step beside the Anzati and hover.

Gunner tuned back in to the group when they boarded, her eyebrow arching in a very simple but unspoken. Well?

Bernael led them to the holo terminal in the lounge, the best gathering place. He transferred the specs and data about the station to the terminal, avoiding the encrypted information, as that could have potentially wiped the datapad. As the data, a holo of the station too, came into focus, he turned to Gunner. ”Welcome to the family, Gunner. And no I am not being facetious. San and Trask are my seconds in command of my forces, those your father and I discussed. But…”

He moved over to San, sensing her extreme focus on the Force users, especially the Fel, in space around them, a whispered ”Let them wash through you and out, I need you, Trask does too.” drifting to her ear.

”You see, your Father asked if he was interrupting something when he came to inform us of this mission. In a little way, he did.” His steps took him to Trask, no words, simply a look into the mirrored visor, and a hand on one shoulder was enough to convey what needed to be conveyed.

Finally, his steps took him back to the table, near Gunner, ”You see, these two had just given me more of a reason to be deeply involved, to ensure this alliance, and what comes after, stands and survives. Which is also why I promised your Father I’d bring you back, everyone has to return from this.”

Gunner's eyes flickered back, and forth, and back again. "I can see Trask and San, but you, too, Bernael?"

The other two stiffened, but Gunner bit her tongue visibly. "Apologies, that was uncalled for, my Lord." She looked back and forth. "Do you need some, um, more privacy? I can handle the piloting, of course, and the sensitive data."

"Not that I consider you untrustworthy," she said, hand on her forehead. "Look, I just introduced my mother to my father, who he thought was dead, and she wasn't, in-fact, she's really Cade Skywalker's mother, which makes him my half-brother, and it's a nightmare to be honest."

Trask was grateful for his helmet, because his jaw had dropped, much like San's.

Bernael simply chuckled at Gunner’s bombshell, ”The galaxy does have a way of surprising us all, Gunner.”

Glancing at San and Trask, arms reaching out slightly to them both as his gaze returned to face Gunner, ”Your surprise and shock may be a little different from my own when I found out how they feel but I do understand it. After all what being falls for an ancient Vampire? But I have found myself with emotions I’d never consider, care and definitely a protective sense toward them, who are of such import to me.”

A chuckle, ”Cade may be a rigid, stiff necked man but I know, from personal experience, he is committed to his beliefs.”

"Emotions," Gunner said tightly.

"Cade is committed to hate, from what I can tell," she quietly seethed.

"It sounds as if you may be questioning your own commitment to such things," San opined.

Gunner shot her a look, and Trask winced, wondering if she had crossed a line. But Gunner softened. "Perhaps. My father was elevated for the Massacre at Ossus, but it was not what he ever wanted or intended. The Sith made that decision without him, and he was lauded as a hero for it."

She sighed. "All it did was isolate my father from the True Emperor, and he was never called when Fel began to encourage sedition. Everyone assumed my father was a Sith loyalist, and that became his reality until he finally had the opportunity to do something about it at Taivas."

"But then again, Krayt sent everyone he didn't trust or need to Taivas to die," she said wryly, glancing at Bernael and Trask, "so clearly he knew that my father was wavering."

Gunner shrugged, clearly deciding she'd said enough. "Later, guys." She headed to the cockpit.

After the door closed, Trask lifted his helmet and looked embarrassed for her. "Finally. I wondered what else she'd tell us... the greatest pilot in the Empire, and she just exposed her entire family drama at us. A Skywalker by marriage... that's an un-fun dynasty to join."

"I feel for her," San said, slipping a hand into Trask's, and another in Bernael's. "She's been uprooted from the cause she has followed her entire adult life. It's still not easy for women to make something of themselves in the Empire - the actions of Ysanne Isard and then later on Natasi Daala set back the shift years, even though the Fel's pushed through rules that allowed nonhumans to serve, after the Empire of the Hand integrated with the mainstream regime less than a century ago."

She sounded thoughtful. As a Jedi she'd lived in fear for the last eleven years, her simple existence being such that she could be killed on sight on any world in the galaxy. It was a long time, especially in her life. Her eyes took in Bernael, conscious that it was likely an eyeblink to him.

Bernael felt San’s eyes on him, turning his head toward her. A glance into them and he recognized and understood what she was feeling. He squeezed her hand gently, ”Fear is a powerful motivator, it has been responsible for so many tragedies over the eons. Or, in some beings cases, ostracizes them from society merely for what they are, regardless of their beliefs or missions. I do know your pain, San, sadly longer than almost any other being still living.” he said quietly

Shaking his head, as though to clear it, ”Gunner feels like someone who could use friends, needs people willing to listen or believe in her. And I think her father put her with just the right people to do so. But I did mean what I said, we all need to survive this.

Glancing again at them both, a wry smile on his face, ”The time before Zero hour on this mission is almost up, but I am pleased I found out the truth before all this, I have so many more reasons to finish this successfully, to be able to see what is here and what may come of it.”

San felt that sadness, and it was taut upon her throat. Trask looked from her to him, conscious that something had occurred between them, probably in the Force. "I caught that."

He looked mock-peeved. "Kinda unfair that you can do that and I can't."

San pulled a face, similarly mockingly. "Can you give us a moment, Trask?" She leaned over and kissed the Stormtrooper on the cheek. He smiled slightly. "Sure, sure, I'll go make sure Gunner hasn't had a breakdown."

He nodded, squeezed Bernael's arm, and headed off. San glanced back Bernael. "We're liabilities, you know that, don't you?" San stepped up to him, looking up at the Anzati. "So what do you see in us?"

Bernael smiled softly at the squeeze from Trask, nodding as the man departed. Turning his head back toward San the smile was still in place but sadness touched it for a moment. ”We haven’t discussed it but do you know how many beings, across the many years, have shown anything but fear, scorn, or terror, at my approach, whether I’d come to destroy or to assist? And yet...both you and Trask. I’d dared not believe even you felt that way.”

One hand came up, gently cupping her cheek, ”Anyone can be a liability, San, if there is a bond between them. But I believe you both are worth that risk.” He looked down for a moment, then back into her eyes, ”Perhaps it is because I know the likelihood is that I’ll live for eons I also recognise that when something worth having is presented, you cannot let the sadness of potential future loss prevent you from trying to see if something is or may be true.”

It's so simple, when he says it like that. There weren't words... San could see what he was saying, and feel it, too. She tip-toed slightly to kiss him, unsure and uncertain, but needing to know.

Bernael’s eyes never left hers as she raised up. Leaning his head down, hoping he wasn’t awkward in his kiss, his lips met hers. Let his emotions flow, touching hers, as they kissed.

She met his lips and a thrill went through her, a long expectation that attachment was forbidden, but love, that was not. Indeed, the Old Jedi had forbidden attachment and love, but not physical interactions, allowing teenage Jedi to experience their hormone addled needs without fault, or to even follow genetic requirements. Indeed, there were some quite famous Jedi who had been like that.

It wasn't like that here, with Bernael.

She had to pause, because he was much taller than her and, well, she needed to breathe, but his lips tasted like the most exotic flavour, and it was enticing...

As their lips touched, Bernael could feel San’s thoughts, her emotions, and they set off something he’d only recently noticed in himself, thanks to them, emotions of his own. An electric moment washed through him as they kissed and one arm slipped around behind her, holding her close, prolonging the moment.

Reluctantly, the kiss ended, but he kept his head down, gazing into her eyes, ”San…” but words beyond that escaped him, the love that had sparked only letting him enjoy the moment, the intensity, of what they had just shared.

Trask was at the doorway, a grin in the Force. San blushed, and called him over with a gesture. He waved her off. “I’m alright, we’re going to have to go soon, anyway - everyone is moving off and into a hyperspace jump. We’ve a straggler team about to head up the well and then we’ve our targets to go for -“

San tugged him over with the Force and kissed him hard, emotion flooding the shuttle. Trask was left breathless, and looked at Anzati. “I’m gonna need a minute -“

She looked back to Bernael and reach up for another kiss -

As Bernael pulled her closely again, his other arm reached out and pulled Trask against them, ”Oh no, you’re not just standing there.” He held them both tightly and was pretty sure that even in the cockpit Gunner could feel the emotion that was in the main lounge right now.

He turned his head and kissed Trask’s forehead before turning his lips back to meet San’s. Just as it had the first time he felt the electric touch as their lips met. His eyes flicked sideways, glancing at Trask with a slow, lazy wink. Trask was right though, they did really need to get going but this was too good a moment to waste before they did.

There was the chime, and Trask snorted at the timing of it, snatched a quick kiss from Bernael, and looked back as the door opened to Gunner calling out. "We're about to bug out, my friends, get ready!" She went a degree of red, and closed the cockpit.

Trask disengaged with a grin, and gave San a kiss. "Which of us is co-pilot?" He eyed Bernael, and San glanced up at him, still an arm wrapped around his waist.

"It'll need to be a Force user... and it is your ship, Bernael..."

Bernael arched an eyebrow as he glanced at them both, a small smile on his lips. ”You two rascals aren’t trying to add to our little family, are you?” he asked, only semi seriously.

He chuckled, issued them both quickly on the cheek, reluctantly disengaging from San as he turned to head to the cockpit. Turning back to them both, ”There is space in the cockpit for everyone, but that is up to you both.”

He heard the datapad chime as he turned back to the hatch, bringing it up to read the now decoded information, before entering the bridge. A half smile at Gunner, ”Settling in well with her?” knowing she’d know he meant the Fury.

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC: Darth Insipid
Imperial Palace, Bastion

He grinned at Helinith. "Oh apprentice, leave it with me."

Tugging his comlink free and rolling it to the frequency he had been offered on arrival. "Chalk, I intend to assassinate the Emperor on the way. Security will be less aboard a starship than in the Palace."

There was a grumble. "Yes, I gathered that the armada was jumping to a specific target."

Insipid nodded as there was a further amount of detail and signed off, pushing past his fatigue.

"We've a drop ship and a crew of thirty Stormtroopers. We've being marked as volunteer Jedi, and we'll have Jedi robes ready for us." He looked amused. "Can you resist the urge to use the dark side for a few hours?" Insipid chuckled as they made their way ahead. Last minute preparations meant that the Imperial shuttle was ready for them, and the troopers were in the cargo bay while they piloted.

"As Jedi, we have the best reactions, after all," Insipid said wryly.

Other sudden changes meant a TIE Predator was shifted to the Fury, and Yage was directed to take command of Skull Squadron when the armada arrived at the target. It was still unspoken what it was, but every ship was pointed the same direction, and every small ship preceding the fleet also; the Mynock, various Imperial shuttles, the Fury.

With all the Jedi and Imperial Knights evident... it meant one thing, San reasoned.

"Launch!" Gar Stazi ordered.

Yage gunned the hyperdrive, and the dozen ships leapt forward.

"So our target is a planetary turbolaser cluster on the surface." Insipid glanced at the numbers as they decrypted; X-Y-Z galactic coordinates.

0-0-0.

Triple Zero.

Coruscant.

"Thought so."

---
Aboard the Jagged Fel, before the launch


---
On the surface of Bastion, the control room

The dozen smaller ships vanished into hyperspace, and then the capital ships followed. In short order, Bastion space was empty.

"Yes," Hogrum Chalk said, the cyborg head of security of the True Imperial forces, having returned to the surface. "There will be less than an hour between the arrival of the infiltration force, and the actual fleet. All forces will be fully engaged regardless of whether the advance teams succeed or not. We win or lose today." Chalk seemed amused.

There had been no official orders for Aryan Graul, but he wasn't a soldier, or even a particularly good pilot after all these years. He was a liaison, and that gave him an odd position in the overall coalition. "So what have you done to secure your future, Aryan, if the Sith should triumph?"

He glanced at the politician, amused. "Or did you intend to take a TIE Predator and join the fight?"

TAG: @HanSolo29
---
Coruscant Central Computer, two minutes before the allied attack



Rasi Tuum, Azlyn Rae, Morrigan Corde



Wolf Sazen, Ganner Krieg

Shado Vao, Sigel Dare



Cade Skywalker

---
Primary ground-to-air turbolaser battery

Their shuttle made it on the 'surprise inspection' along the angle the allied forces were to arrive, but the moment the ramp dropped, Insipid's attempt at a suave, charismatic bluff to reach the mini-reactor was immediately interrupted. He had just about long enough to regret bragging to Helinith that he could talk his way through any situation to ignite his lightsaber -

The heavy-set Sith Trooper swung his lightsaber in a two handed blow that Insipid blocked, but it sent him off the ramp, flying -

There was another Sith Trooper behind that one, which raised a lightning quick attacking that swung down at Helinith -

The first leapt after Insipid, who was snarling at this -

They didn't have time for this -

There were three other turbolaser clusters pointed at the fleet to get to!

TAG: @darthhelinith
---
Golan battle station in orbit

Historically Golan NovaGun weapons were designed to exchange fire with Star Destroyers, and were more rugged than capital ships, but less weaponry. In short, they could easily break-up an enemy attack, by simply being walls between the surface and the invaders. The Sith could use the Golan to cover the approach of their fighters, or to prevent the allies from moving onto the planet proper for fear of having to split between offensive and rear, let alone that the stations could usually launch their own fighters, shuttles and drop ships -

They were essentially big problems.

But at least they weren't an issue for a cloaked ship, which Yage carefully transferred into the open bay so as to not provide an atmospheric disturbance. It wasn't easy, by any stretch of imagination, because a turbulence-inducing arrival would be very noticed. So, she eased it in, turned the tail slowly, and dropped down with an unhelpful clang.

Unbuckling, she could only wince.

"Oops."

She leapt to get to her fighter, and Trask quickly shirked back on his helmet.

"We won't have much time before the fleet is here!" He pressed the ramp down, and a splatter of blaster fire was already hurled their way -

Three Sith Troopers were in the bay, lightsabers lit and braying a shout in the Force as they charged.

San grimaced.

"Come on."

TAG: @darthbernael

 

OOC: Ummm, yeah, so this happened, with @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael, San, Trask, and Gunner
Golan battle station in orbit

Bernael stood by Gunner as she took the Fury into the hangar, quietly and efficiently, making nary a sound. He was just nodding approvingly as the ramp dropped and the sound of it’s impact echoed around the space. His eyes slitted for a moment at her, then he spun, beating her off of the bridge and into the main lounge where he encountered Trask and San.

He touched their minds gently, ’Stay alive you two, no dying on me.’ as he slipped his mask back on and under his cloak’s hood the remainder of his armor’s helmet sealed around it. His eyes faded to black and he disappeared from sight even as he darted for the ramp. As he did so, he touched Gunner’s mind as well, ’And you, no dying either, at the least because your father would never forgive me.’

Diving over Trask, the bolts from the Sith Trooper’s blasters seemed slow in the air. He landed in a roll, coming to his feet, one of his sabers leaping to his hand as he studied the Troopers, waiting for his team to get into position.

Gunner snorted, and leapt into her fighter, already switching over to the Skull and Rogue Squadron channel as agreed. "May the Force be with you, you idiots," she said aloud, aware Bernael and San probably could hear her anyway.

The Sith Troopers lifted their blades and charged, roaring at them even as Trask drew his blaster - or rather, a full-blown shotgun. A compact bolt of energy slammed into the lead cyborg - but didn't even show it, even as a hole emerged in it's gut - the Force was touched, and their blows acquired speed and strength as they swung down -

San sidestepped and plunged her blade into the Trooper's side -

As Gunner’s fighter jumped free and began her part of this plan, Bernael spared a second to reach out to her, ’Stay safe, we still have much to talk about…’ Along with the message was a visual of the four of them, sitting comfortably, post battle, talking.

Still invisible, he leaped forward, emerging from his camouflage just as his now ignited saber and one hand, talons out, dove into the hole that Trask had shot in the belly of the first Trooper. At the same moment, the saber swept outward and his talons ripped through the guts of the cyborg, tearing the body in half. His saber speared downward as the body fell, bisecting the head, as one booted foot stomped, Force assisted on the knees of the bottom half of the body. He was taking no chances that this one would find some way to crawl around and attack them again.

Saber spinning, he deflected the strike of the last Trooper, head nodding to Trask to assist San with the third. One last kick at the upper torso of the first sent it careening away, sans saber, and clearing the floor of obstacles to this fight. His saber swept out again, deflecting the strike that came close to his side. Spinning himself, he swung with a backhand at the back of the Trooper, growling at their speed and the deflection of his own. Spinning back he went for the lock, sabers hissing as they pressed against one another.

A deep laugh as the Trooper’s hand closed around his armored neck and began to squeeze. His free hand pulled back, then punched, a wave of Force energy behind it, into the guts of the Trooper. He felt the flesh close around his hand and talons as they clawed through the mess of wires, tubes, and organs inside. Pushing harder, he felt the saber of his foe glance off his side and roared at the heat and the small slice it caused, arm now up to the elbow in the guts. And then he found it, hand closing. A small jump and he pressed his feet against the Trooper’s hips.

With a wrench, he flipped over backward, pulling the control unit and the Trooper’s still beating heart with him, in his fist. The body staggered but stayed on its feet, saber sweeping the air over him as he crouched for a moment. His fist closed and the heart erupted in flames. Glaring at the Trooper, he blasted forward, faster than sight, and his hand plunged back into the body, stuffing the burning organ back in place.

Stepping back, ”Burn! he commanded, as the body burned itself out from the inside out. At the clatter of the body falling to the deck, he turned to see what assistance Trask and would need.

The surviving Sith Trooper was joined by a marching tide of Stormtroopers, and Trask shifted his blaster to fire upon them. The last Trooper swung at him, but San interposed her blade to block with two hands, and then slid under and drove her blade up through the cyborg's throat.

She was troubled by Bernael's use of the dark side upon these monsters, but she was too busy blocking fire as the Sith Trooper fell to the floor. The Jedi shook aside her concerns and leapt forward, standing beside Bernael and reflecting fire. Trask fell in behind her, and fired at Stormtroopers -

"We don't have time for this," Trask said.

"The fleet arrives in three minutes-odd -"

Bernael could sense the disturbance of San’s thoughts, her worry at his use of the Dark Side, as he turned toward her. As the last of the Sith Troopers fell, ”I used what I needed to to end their threat. I wasn’t going to let them get either of yo…” and then growled as several bolts from the stormtroopers ricocheted off of his armor.

He’d heard Trask and agreed. His gaze turned and his will leaped out. ”No time for your antics.” he muttered at the white armored figures before him. His encompassing will dove into all the minds of the troops and immediately shut down their conscious functions. In an instant the hangar went from a cacophony of noise and blaster fire to only the crackle of his and San’s lightsabers.

Turning toward her, ”They don’t all need to die but we don’t have the time to fight every one of them, so let’s go.” He let them flank him and then led the way deeper, toward their objective.

San deflected as they went, but Trask had to stop shooting to keep up with the two Force users. The Jedi did allow her lightsaber to shred consoles and displays as they went, cutting into locks and dropping bulkheads at various junctions. "Where are we going," Trask said. "I didn't have time to study the schematics."

A Sith Trooper appeared at the top of the next corridor, clearly intuiting their direction, and as San skidded to a stop to catch a bolt of lighting on her blade, she eyed the tips of various red lightsabers cutting at the floor and roof. "Bernael, that's six more Sith Troopers..."

Taking the datapad with the route through the station highlighted on it, Bernael tossed it to Trask, ”You’ve just been upgraded from ‘muscle’ to ‘navigator’, just point us in the right direction.” he quipped.

Turning to San, He pulled her close, kissing her for a moment, ”Sorry my dears, but if we’re getting past these empty souls I’ll have to get creative, which may seem dark.”

He spun around, eyes completely black once again. One hand lifted, toward the area where the Troopers were cutting through the ceiling. He avoided thinking about the three cutting through the floor for the moment. Knowing that San would keep an eye on the one descending toward them he concentrated. His mind, will, leaped out, and soon the sounds of crunching metal percolated through the ceiling.

His outstretched hand slowly closed into a fist, and when it was a tightly balled fist, the sounds of destruction above them ceased. Too, the sabers cutting through sputtered and faded, the holes they’d created beginning to leak blood, viscera, and the oil that sustained the cyborg portions of the Sith Troopers.

His fist opened and the arm lowered toward where the sabers seemed to have picked up their attempts to cut through, as though they knew what had just happened to their comrades. The hand began to close once more and the grinding, shrieking sound of metal resumed. The eerie part was that through the entire process there were no screams, no begging, just the sounds of things being crushed together. One saber raggedly cut through the floor as he closed his fist and through the gap a writhing body could be seen. It was off the floor below it, the walls of the corridor below them pressing against its body. As his hand closed completely the metal tore through the Trooper, crushing him as it crushed his two comrades beside him.

Bernael looked back up, at San and Trask. ”I pity them for what was done but they cannot survive and us survive this place at the same time.” He turned again, facing the Trooper rushing toward them. Without moving he grabbed them and Pulled them toward the little trio, his saber jumping into his hand and igniting as the body flew in their direction.

The three above exerted themselves in the Force, ripping at the metal Bernael was using against them, but two were already dead before it mattered, and the third locked himself in to wrestle back. San jabbed her blade down in a more swift and merciful manner, stabbing two Bernael was busy killing in the head before another completed his cut and leapt up through the hole.

That left one from above, one from below, and the one at the end of the corridor, that Trask had shot at, trying to bend his body to avoid shots back -

The Trooper simply fluttered his hand, disgusted, sending Trask into the wall with a clatter, leaping forward to impale him, and San moved forward, catching the blow, even as the Trooper looking at her leaped at her to swing for her neck -

Even as the one that Bernael had antagonised unleashed a stream of lightning at the Anzati

This was going well.

Four dead Sith Troopers, yes, but three left -

Bernael barely managed to get out a sigh at the fact it was never easy with these Troopers, before the lightning erupted at him. His hand came up, his own lightning crackling between his fingers, across his palm. Placing the palm in the line of the lightning coming at him, he absorbed it, his arm bending slightly. Twisting his palm he redirected the flow of it at the Trooper in the air. Simple physics it was, and as the lightning hit the Trooper full in the chest, propelling him back down the hallway, and against the wall by the one who had shot it.

Sparing a momentary glance at San and Trask, ”Finish this one, I’ll hold off the other two.”

His burning gaze turned toward the two at the end of the hallway as the one regained his feet, a deep charred mark on his chest. A dark smile crossed his face and he blurred, a streak as he reached toward the two, his sabers leaping into his hands. Both ignited, one held downward, the other up. A bow wave of energy preceded him, smashing the one who was quickly recovering into the wall once more. And then he hit, his downward facing blade slicing through the abdomen of that Trooper, and into the wall behind. The other absorbed the continuing stream of lightning, until he could thrust it forward and release all that stored energy into the leg of the second.

The leg exploded under the pressure, and San, without compunction, ended the last Trooper's life. Trask stood there, breathing deeply, and took off his helmet. "Sorry guys. I can't keep up with you two."

It was true; taking Trask into combat with Sith was a recipe for disaster. This ambush had shown them as much.

"It's okay," San said, gulping air, calling on the Force to steady her. "Bernael, you can't keep using the dark side like that around me. It's... damaging my connection. Just rein it, please." Her voice was tight, clearly struggling.

Trask was going to warn her that she needed to concentrate, and then there was a clatter of 'trooper armour behind them, back the way they had came. The Force warned of more Sith Troopers, and San released a sigh. "We need to get moving."

"This way!" Trask said, pointing at the map.

An alarm sounded out; enemy ships decanting from hyperspace, guns and shields up -

They were running out of time -

Bernael sighed, ”I’ll try, but perhaps it would be easier to ask,” One of the bodies twitched and he stabbed down with both sabers, through the control nodes of both bodies at his feet, ”these things to stop. Most of what I’ve done has simply been redirecting their energies.”

He looked them both over, ”I’ll do whatever is necessary to keep us all alive.” he continued, quietly. Turning, he headed in the direction Trask had pointed, ”Let’s go. Trask try to stay between us.” as they moved.

He led them deeper into the station, and suddenly before them was the bridge.

As they arrived, the screens showed hyperspace birthing dozens of warships; Pellaeon-class Star Destroyers of the True and Sith-Imperials, the MC140 Scythe-class cruisers of the Galactic Alliance, led by the larger advanced Star Destroyer marred with crimson to show it belonged to the Duros Admiral, and poured forth Predators, Crossfires, even a squadron of Jedi TwinTails -

Space was suddenly lousy with turbolaser fire as the captain on the bridge pointed at the Stormtrooper, the Anzati, and the Jedi.

"Stop them!"

Twelve Stormtroopers raised their rifles; the bridge was stripped of defenders, clearly most of its Sith Troopers had been sent to try and stop them earlier. Trask turned, shot the door controls, sealing the pursuit off as the way sealed -

San deflected blaster bolts even as she tasted a spiteful presence. "In the crew pit, Bernael - Sith -"

From the bridge ready room game a roar, and a Sith Trooper burst out, swinging with both hands, with a full Force assist, at Bernael's neck -

Trask turned his blaster, but was going to be too slow -

As he’d run, Bernael had kept his sabers to hand, sure that there would be violence ahead, whether on or before the bridge. And that was what saved his head. His wrist and forearm on that side snapped up as he slapped a quick Force shield into place. The saber of the Trooper slowed as it hit the shield, then went through it, impacting on his with a shriek. Keeping his wrist straight, he let the impact push him to the opposite side a couple steps before he stopped the power of the blow.

His second saber snapped up, aiming for the Trooper’s leg. A gash opened in the armor as it impacted but the other’s saber swung down and stopped him from cutting fully through the leg. Taking a step back and to the side, he opened the distance so he could decide how to beat this one. He had to do it fast but he’d told San he’d try to avoid Dark Side powers, if possible. So it would be strength to strength, unless the other used his powers.

A smile touched his lips as the Trooper’s saber swept up, seeking to slice him vertically. His left hand saber swung down and outward, drawing his foe’s saber out of line, leaving his body exposed. His right hand whipped back and forth quickly, slashing through the Trooper’s right upper leg then his left, almost faster than sight. The torso began to fall and he spun in a quick circle, saber leading and it was the least effort to do to the Trooper what he’d meant to do to him, separating his head from his shoulders.

The spin finished and his sabers’ points pointed outward, toward the floor. Raising a wall of Force energy before them, the bolts reflecting off of it. ”One chance, Captain, surrender. Or I go through you like tissue paper.” he growled.

Trask had already shifted as Bernael did his thing, shooting down half the enemy Stormtroopers in as many shots, and San caught and redirected bolts from the other half of them into the consoles and crew. San's panic was audible in the Force -

"The crew pit -"

The captain uttered. "Lord Inexor!"

There was a flurry of snap-hisses and a shape leapt from the crew-pit, and Trask and San fell in a flurry of movement -



Time stood still…

Bernael stood, almost rooted to the spot. Nothing else moved. Trask and San had fallen and he couldn’t sense them at all, their ‘light’ had gone out, their souls gone. He could feel his soul trembling, feel the station beginning to tremble and realized that was his fault, red filling his vision. In the recesses of his mind he could sense the Balance trying to reach him, in vain. All he could see was a happiness he hadn’t expected, emotions he’d never realized existed in himself, now rent asunder.

The station went from trembling to shuddering in space as his head tilted back and a roar escaped his lips. When it slowly fell forward again the tips of his proboscises writhed free of his mask, darkness dripping from the eyeslits. A low, rumbling tone issued from his lips, ”That...was a mistake…” The bridge’s lighting dimmed as shadows gathered around him, purple-black lightning crackling around him.

His hands dropped to his hips, seating his sabers in their sheaths. As he raised his hands, the razor sharp talons of them and of his feet slipped free, he wanted to do this with his bare hands. The shadows that had gathered sprang free from their huddle around him, swarming the bridge. Smaller ones began to wrap themselves around every being on the bridge, save the cyborg Sith. And then the screams began, the shadows twisting and slicing through the bodies that they were consuming.

In an instant he vanished from sight. Less than a moment later the one that had been named Lord Inexor rocked backward, as though a weight had smashed into him. Sparking, the sound of shrieking metal filled the air to accompany the screams as one of his mechanical arms began to twist and stand straight out from his body. Bernael faded back into view, mask ripped away, rage suffusing his face, ”I will render you down to scrap and raise a bier for my honored dead with this station.” he hissed as he ripped the arm from the cyborg and stabbed the hand of it into its back.

The man screamed, and his dark went out, dead, dead, dead. The shadows traveled, and Bernael would feel them murder many, a darkness opening from his heart that was worse than anything he’d sense since...

Well...

Since.

The Golan’s guns fell silent, and the Presence leaned upon him.

Calm yourself, Shadow. Before you cast no light at all, and you become what you have pledged yourself to stop for so long.

A pause.

Imbalance.

As the Sith cyborg died, Bernael grasped its head on either side, twisting and pulling as he heaved backward. With a wet, grinding sound, the head and spine pulled free. He flipped over onto his feet, talons crushing the skull, ”No feeding on you, your soul will serve San and Trask’s for eternity.” Tossing it to the floor, he gazed around, the bodies littering the bridge and the ones that he could feel filled the station made him nod, a perfect tribute to his two.

At the warning from the Balance he growled, ’They can balance themselves, I’m done with them. Two thousand years I’ve known who and what I am, served you as I knew it was meant to be, never have I asked for anything. And now the one thing I would ask I cannot as it is not possible.’

He tapped his wristpad then waited. Minutes passed before a twin row of astromechs appeared, two flat, shiny sections of metal held in between them. In silence, as Bernael stood there, glowering at the universe itself, they gently placed San and Trask on the metal, before lifting them once more. He corrupted all the consoles in the bridge and inserted a data spike that sent a code through the ‘Net that would leap from station to station, his own touch, disabling every system it infected.

As he began to stalk out he received a coded message, congratulations for the station’s shutdown and requesting that they join the assault. He read the header then ignored the message. Continuing to stalk through the station, the astromechs following behind with their precious cargo, he heard and ignored further messages as they came in. Finally he reached the hangar and his Fury.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: Darth Insipid
Battle of Coruscant

Between her detonators and his rage, the Sith Troopers here were done, and Insipid hurled his mind forward into the turbolaser cluster, and with a twist of his mind, he broke apart what was in his way, the entire weapon splitting, the building that made up the complex collapsing. With a hiss, Insipid looked down at the cyborgs.

"Abominations, my apprentice," he said, regarding Helinith. "This is the Dark Lord of the Sith's answer to the problem of loyalty; to remove all free will from his Sith. This is our future, if we do not stop him." Insipid looked unhappy. Resigned, almost, as if stopping Darth Krayt was an impossibility. "You have permission to kill me if I ever reach this stage of corruption."

In the middle distance, there was the Sith Temple, and emerging from hyperspace in visible orbit were True Imperial destroyers and Galactic Alliance cruisers. "Huh," he said, looking up. "The allies are going in; all or nothing." He knew there were other turbolaser batteries aimed at orbit, but it was too late for them to head to them.

He eyed the Sith Temple, he could sense the Force tumultuous around it.

A Jedi and Imperial Knight team was on it's way there...

With a Skywalker at the head.

Insipid could feel a swirl in the dark side convalescing in response.

There were a lot of extremely powerful Force users gathering there.

With a deep breath, he pointed his blade. "That is where we are going."

"If you have a short, short bucket list, Helinith, now would be the time to come to peace with it."

TAG: @darthhelinith
---
Aboard the Golan station, Coruscant orbit





The Golan was disabled, yes, but it had been active for long enough to earn a degree of fire before the allies were swarmed by the rush of Sith Annihilators. Without shields, the hull was pockmarked, and the hangar had been targeted.

There was part of the overhanging bridge atop the Fury, and it was tilted by the weight upon it's bank of engines.

As Bernael arrived, a surviving Sith Trooper howled, rushing at him as they always did.

Space outside the Golan was full of warships, all manner of ships pressed in together above the former Senate District. The allies and Sith were fighting hard, and it was clear that the former were far outnumbered and outgunned by the latter.

TAG: @darthbernael
---
Under the Sith Temple



TAG: @HanSolo29 (outstanding)

 

OOC: Death of the Sith Trooper approved by GM

IC Bernael
Aboard the Golan station, Coruscant orbit

The parade of the dead followed Bernael as he arrived at the hangar. A sigh escaped his lips as he saw the destruction inside, knowing he’d have to remove the debris from the Fury to finish his departure. Waving the droids, and their precious cargo over to an undamaged area, he’d just begun to turn back to decide where to begin when he heard the howl.

His eyes snapped over and, somehow, darkened even further as he saw a lone Sith Trooper headed for him. These things had been part of the reason for the parade of astromechs that, even now, were moving into a secured position. A quick glance at them and his anger flared. Without reaching out, there was a grunt at the mass of the Trooper and then the man was lifted from his feet, even as he ran.

The body went flying, smashing head first into one bulkhead. As it began to slide down, his finger twitched and it flew across the hangar, smashing bodily into the distant bulkhead. Releasing his grasp on it in the Force, he let it slide down the wall. Even those massive impacts, denting the bulkheads were not enough and the Trooper stood, sluggishly but it stood. And then it charged again. This time Bernael waited, seemingly at ease, as it approached. The saber it had drawn swung down at his skull and he shifted, suddenly out of the way, to the side.

A dagger suddenly in one hand, it flashed out and then arterial blood from one thigh and mechanical fluids from the other began spurting out. Two quick slashes and he’d opened the thighs of the Trooper to the bone. The Trooper slowed, spun, then dropped to one knee. Rising, just as slowly it howled again and then charged once more, more slowly, but just as effectively. Bernael sighed, these things had one and only one imperative, kill the enemies of Krayt.

Once again Bernael let the Trooper come to him. Just as the Trooper came into range both sabers leaped into his hands. One snapped up, connecting with the Troopers blade with a screech and smell of ozone, his strength overcoming that of the man, thrusting the other blade out of line. And then it was the simplest thing in the galaxy to spin, a high horizontal slash and as he turned back the body was already collapsing to the deck, head rolling away.

A growl emerged as the ease of this last death annoyed him. This body was right here, able to be a surrogate for all that had placed him in this position, made him lose what he’d lost. It lifted from the deck, cocooned in the Force. His sabers returned to his belt, talons extending and he ripped into the corpse with his hands, tearing it to shreds in his grief. Another frustrated growl as it still was not enough, and he squashed the pieces to the deck.

Turning back to the Fury, his frustration still fresh in his mind one hand reached out, lifting the damaged bridge off of the ship. Tossing it to the side, he concentrated and the other sections of debris were removed from the top of the ship, until it was clear. With a nod to the astromechs, he strode up the ramp, them following with their cargo. Directing the droids to the medbay he followed. The medical droid placed San and Trask in two pods, securing the bodies. He took one last look, hand touching the viewplates of each before turning and heading to the bridge.

Arriving, he growled once more, his annoyance flaring as the pilot AI informed him that the hyperdrive had been damaged when the bridge had collapsed on the ship. A command to the astromechs and he sent them to repair the outside and inner runs of the hyperdrive as the ship prepared to depart. He checked the stealth and at least that system was functioning. Engaging it, he brought up the weapons program before sending his senses out into the maelstrom that was the battle outside the station.

Touching the comm, knowing his voice was a deep, growling tone, ”Yage, operation complete, departing.” Clicking off he ordered the AI to lift and get them out of the station. The Fury began to move and he reached out, gently moving allied ships out of the way, ripping Annihilators out of orbit and hurling them, tumbling through the atmosphere of Coruscant. One last call, ”Tell them to stay out of my way.” he said coldly but calmly, as he waited for the hyperdrive to be repaired so he could depart.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: Darth Insipid
Skirmish on Coruscant

It had gone about as well as one would expect.

He had barely spoken those words when bursting from beneath the ramp came a blade of crimson.

Insipid didn't have time to react save for to step back and push at Helinith, as a lightsaber blade caught him across the side, and then her - what would have been a fatal swing had he not reacted so. As it was, the cut was painful, and he was sure that he had lost a kidney, maybe caught his intestines, or a liver.

Clearly, the One Sith had been using the cyborg troopers as distractions, confirming that the Lords were as much a danger as the monstrous creations of Darth Krayt. Smart, Insipid thought, grudgingly.

He didn't have time to work through it, he simply lifted a hand and snapped a bolt at the Zabrak Sith.

The One Sith went tumbling off the platform, itself atop a building.

"Darth Tigran," Insipid breathed, pained. He knew the name from his research of the One Sith.




TAG: @darthhelinith (updated TAG, but DRL noted)
---
IC: Darth Kroan
Bastion, watching

Of course there was a One Sith on the Imperial capital.

Yes, his insertion had been made more difficult because their spy, Hogrum Chalk, had helped Darth's Insipid and Helinith enter the palace, but they were gone, and Kroan hadn't been stopped. He simply regarded the member of the Fel family, Chalk, in his conversation with Aryan Graul.

The shadows concealed the Sith just fine, and most of the Imperial Knights had left with the armada attacking Coruscant; Kroan had been unable to warn the Dark Lord, but he knew that Lord Krayt had anticipated the attack. Indeed, he had left many contingency plans, one of which Kroan was to supervise.

Infiltrators.

The galaxy would be remade as a Sith one, no matter what, after all.

Hogrum had asked an open-ended question of Aryan though... about after.

Kroan wondered if Hogrum had just overplayed his hand...

TAG: @HanSolo29 (mentioned only)
---
IC: Cade Skywalker
The Battle of Coruscant





In his grief, his powers were amplified, but Bernael's actions were not having the impact he would have hoped for. There were just too many Sith Troopers, in their Annihilator fighters, and if-anything all he was doing was exhausting himself. The astromechs reported that the hyperdrive had attempted to activate in the impact, and the safety systems had shorted it out. They needed to get parts, if they were to repair it.

As the Fist of the Empire exploded, it was clear that the battle was being lost by the attacking Allied forces, that the damage to the Sith capital ships and the defence grid just wasn't enough.

The dark side was completely ascendant.

TAG: @darthbernael

 

IC Bernael (with our fun GM, @Sinrebirth)
Needs balanced against desires

Bernael growled at the report from the astromechs. All that he desired at this time was to leave all these beings to their fates, to let them see what the galaxy truly was like when there wasn’t the Shadow out there sometimes influencing things. If he could reach out and throttle the Balance, in this moment, he would. ’You knew it would come to this, that I would have to do something, either assist or cannibalize a destroyed vessel to leave here.’ he accused it.

Before him he could see the SD as it fell to pieces, many of them burning as the oxygen that was left fed the fires. That was the obvious choice so he directed the AI to bring them close, as closely as possible to what remained of the engine room of that vessel. He slipped his mask on, engaging the clasps of the armor as it closed around his head. ”Two astromechs to remove and return the needed equipment to the Fury.” he commanded.

Striding to the hatch, he waited for the two to join him. While they worked he’d ensure that if any being survived there, he could and would make sure that being did not stop the droids from working. When they joined, he and they activated the maneuvering jets on his suit and their limbs and flew the short distance to the broken aft end of the SD.

The Fist of the Empire was a dying ship, but that meant there weren’t many threats to speak of save the fire, debris and breaking up of it, of course. The crew were dead or evacuated, though mostly the former. The astromechs fanned out, but it wasn’t going to be an easy sell. There were all manner of impediment - Bernael would have to intervene personally to assist them in clearing the hangar…

Landing on the decking, Bernael surveyed the hangar. Debris was everywhere, much of it burning. His eyes darkened, not wishing to deal with such mundane things but they were needed to repair the Fury. His sabers lifted from his belt, lit, and whipped out on various arcs, returning close, then back out again, slicing through larger chunks of debris to reduce them to more manageable sizes.

The sabers deactivated before returning to his belt. He strode forward, the astromechs trailing and began tossing debris out of the path toward the exit and the rear of the ship, careful to ensure none landed on the Fury or in its path to depart when they were done. He let his grief and anger be released to a degree on these inanimate pieces of debris as he moved.

The astromechs set upon a tech's bench, one using a claw to drag a corpse aside. They cannibalised for parts, and promptly found all they needed, tootling. "Wait," came a broken voice. It was an Imperial Knight, bloodied, clutching his side, but clearly alive. "Sith, you and I will fight."

He ignited a silver blade, and held it out unsteadily.

The ship rumbled again, and more fire engulfed the ceiling above them.

As he turned to follow the astromechs to the Fury Bernael heard a weak voice. Turning, he saw the Imperial Knight. Listening to what the man said, he sighed. He stepped forward, looking into the man’s eyes. ”You’re in absolutely no shape to face anyone. But, how about a deal, I’ll take you onto my ship, heal you, let you contact Antares Draco, and ask him who I am. If afterward you wish to die by my blades then you can. But I am no Sith. And if we don’t do as I suggest then we all die.” he said with a second sigh at the end, watching the wobbling silver saber.

The Imperial Knight snorted. "You are a Sith; I know that... design." He pointed at the Fury. "An ancient Sith one, the originator of the current Fury that the One Sith use. You are Sith, whatever the creed." He drew hard upon the Force, and his fatigue seemed to pass. "I can feel your rage, your anger."

"I am sworn to defeat you!"

He charged, swinging, as the astromechs rushed to get out the way and return to the Fury.

Bernael twisted at the charge, a slight push to the Knight’s back sending him further along. ”Son, you picked a very bad time to annoy me. Your people cost me all I care about as I tried to assist you.” he almost growled.

His hands were still empty as he turned to face the wounded Knight. Power rose up around him, Light and Dark. He growled again, talons sliding free from his fingers and toes. ”I don’t want any part of your war, little forcling, I gave the galaxy all and am repaid with nothing. And you are in the way.”

The Knight twisted, swiping at Bernael's hands and then shoving a hand out with the Force to thrust him into the flames behind him -

Moving his hands in intricate patterns around the blade, Bernael pulled them back, then thrust against the Knights push, creating a shockwave of energy between them that blew air back in both directions. The flames leaped and shuddered as the air blew them into eddies.

His eyes darkened, turning full black, ”You should have taken my offer.” he growled then blurred, taking up a long piece of twisted metal and whipping it at the night’s feet, racing behind it, daggers appearing in his hands, swiping one toward where his legs would be if he jumped and the second toward his mid torso.

The Knight gestured a hand to turn aside the metal as he spun, eyes tracking Bernael as he himself used the Force to keep up, flicking up his arm to catch the upper hit on his bracer, and the lower on his blade -

With the Knight’s blade and his other arm both bound in the struggle with the daggers, Bernael kicked upward, talons raking the inside of the Knight’s thigh, before pushing with his leg, against the man’s abdomen. He continued his slide, letting the daggers drop.

Spinning in place, he bounded to his feet, reaching out to push the man toward the flames that were now inching closer to him.

The Imperial Knight toppled, his inner thigh ripped, blood pooling as he tumbled. Flames engulfed him, and he threw out a hand, seizing Bernael's throat, even as the fire began to gnaw at him. The Knight's eyes yellowed as he used the pain to power him, and the Force grip on Bernael increased -

The choking grip fought the muscles of his neck, closing it tighter and tighter. The flames roared closer and Bernael tired of the game. His hand whipped up, dagger slicing through tendon, bone, and muscle. He staggered backward for a moment and then ripped the hand and wrist of the Knight from his throat, breathing deeply once more.

”A waste, but then again your people wasted what mattered to me on this foolish errand.” he stated, darkly, as he tossed the severed hand back at it’s burning owner before using the Force to throw the burning body across the hangar.

The Imperial Knight vanished into the flame, screaming, crying out -

The astromechs simply tweetled an update that the hyperdrive would take half an hour or more to repair with the scavenged components, and the Fist of the Empire would be broken apart in ten minutes.

The fire caught fuel tanks, which exploded, ripping rents in the hull as they chained with weapon stores deeper in the ship.

An amendment of a tootle.

Five minutes.

Bernael’s grief and anger was such that he growled but reboarded the Fury after watching the body of the Knight burn for a moment. He strode to the bridge, ”Use the non hyper engines to take us to a standoff distance while the mechs finish the hyperdrive repairs.”

He could see the battle still raging out of the hangar and turned to the AI again, ”Whichever evasive pattern is necessary without compromising the mechs ability to complete the work is authorized. Get us out of this dead ship.”

Entering the engine room next he took one look around, ”Get this done before we get dragged into their war again.” he told the astromechs as he heard the other engines spooling up.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @darthhelinith

 

IC: The Sith Betrayers
Battle of Coruscant

The violence only ramped up, up and up.

The allies were completely outmatched by the defences of the Sith Empire.

Between the Sith Troopers and the advanced Annihilator fighters and the Dragon capital ships, the Pellaeon-class Star Destroyers, TIE Predators and Sith clawcraft, the allies were being ripped into shreds... even with the fixed defences disabled, and the closest Golan station nearby knocked out, the Jedi, True Imperials and Galactic Alliance Remnant were being shredded.

They held position aboard their personal Fury-class transport, hovering above the orbital plane and watching the enemy fleets rip themselves apart on Coruscant.

Everything was as Lord Krayt had planned.



The Sith Betrayers, as they were known, watched, eager for the end... and for interlopers.

TAG: @greyjedi125 (cameo combo)

 

IC: Naxy Screeger
Coruscant depths

It had been a mess of a day. He’d thought that siding with the Blue One was a smart move. After Queen Jool moved her operations back to Hutt Space, the Coruscanti underworld had needed a new leader, and the half-Chiss, she’d taken it all.

Course she had; she had the Force, though nobody knew that... and, well, she was going to become Darth Bellorum one day... she was as conniving as they came.

But no criminal underworld could function when two armadas were ripping into each other in orbit. On one side, the One Sith and their pet Imperials and monstrous Sith Troopers - on the other, a motley coalition of Jedi, True Imperials and the Galactic Alliance Remnant. The attackers were horrifically outnumbered and outmatched - but had managed to disable Coruscant’s planetary defences and were presently pouring fire, troops and fighter craft onto the planet.

It was a royal mess, and her organisation were completely caught up in it.

Naxy covered his head as the hideout shook - a Star Destroyer had just gone down in flames and slammed into the upper city. “Whataya gonna do, boss?” They were the only ones left - everyone else had ran, or been shot down before they could make it to base.




TAG: @Lady Belligerent (cameo combo)

 

IC: Aryan Graul
Control Room, Bastion

The fleet’s departure left behind a void in the space above Bastion, enshrouding the world in a state of perpetual silence.

But the hushed stillness wasn’t inherently positive. There was an underlying disquiet that precipitated an ominous foreboding, almost as if the entire system was holding its collective breath.

And really, who could blame them? The allies had just rushed off to war; to fight the final battle that would ultimately decide the fate of the whole galaxy.

Today, they either lived or died.

The tension had trickled down to fill the halls of the Imperial stronghold itself, and as Aryan stood before the main display board in the control room, he inwardly winced at its prevalence. Nevertheless, the officers and staff did not allow that to deter them from their tasks; it had instilled a sense of forbearance that kept their fear at bay, permitting them to carry on as if nothing was amiss. It was indicative of their professionalism and strength, two traits that would inevitably lead them to victory.

That’s what it would take to win.

Aryan stepped back to reflect on that notion, his hands resting casually behind his back. He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he did not notice the cyborg when he approached.

"So what have you done to secure your future, Aryan," the man rumbled in a husky voice, "if the Sith should triumph?"

Canting his head, the politician regarded the newcomer with a look that encompassed both his incredulity and disdain.



He was slightly put-off by the man’s nonchalant attitude, especially the informal use of his first name. But perhaps more perplexing was why this Hogrum Chalk had decided to focus his attention on him in the first place.

Technically, Aryan shouldn’t have been here; his curiosity had brought him to the control room after the Admiral had failed to provide him with official orders. There should have been no inquiries, so it was a bit telling that Chalk had gone out of his way to appeal to his sentiments. It was obvious that he was trying to needle him for information, but Aryan wasn’t about to indulge him.

The agreement he had forged with Marasiah Fel, which included a contingent plan, would remain his own.

When he didn’t immediately respond, Chalk pressed further, an amused smirk playing over his features. "Or did you intend to take a TIE Predator and join the fight?"

Aryan finally afforded him a smile. "No, as I informed the Admiral several days ago, my flying days are over," he explained in a conversational tone, careful not to divulge too many details. "I’m surprised they convinced me to fight at Taivas, but I suppose I brought that on myself. I was at the wrong place at the wrong time."

He scoffed lightly before turning serious once more. "But in terms of my own longevity, I have an investment back on Nubia – my father’s shipping corporation." It was all part of the ploy, of course; he really had no intentions of pursuing that option. Nonetheless, he carried on with full conviction to maintain the facade. "There will always be a need for transport vessels and raw materials, so regardless of the outcome, I’ll have a job to return to."

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