Star Wars CLOSED Star Wars: Episode V: Twilight of the Force II: A Father’s Fate

OOC: Fun stuff with @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael
Eternal Empire Flagship, Bakura System

Bernael relaxed on the throne as he waited for events to develop. The report from Hapes was a good sign and he turned his attention to it, ”Hmmm, Kuat, inform the fleet to begin orbital bombardment of the surface. Broadcast to their government that full surrender is the only option. That they have a choice, join the Empire or suffer.”

He considered what was the best option for the Hapan fleet elements, ”Yag’dhul is blocking the Spine but there are too many Corellian craft impinging on the other two Eternal fleet blocking forces. Have a third of the remaining Hapan forces reinforce each of those two, but meet them at the fall back point. One to take station at Sedratis, blocking from there, and the other at Denon.”

As he finished his orders his head cocked to the side, a familiar presence was approaching. It was odd, he knew that being was dead but then he smiled slightly, ’Ahhh, of course, his holocron, the Jensaarai must have it. It’s been a long time since we last spoke.’ His mind drifted back to one of the last times he and Karkko had spoken...

"Sedratis?" Lana had to look that one up, taking a millisecond. "On the Kuat side of Corellia. Of course."

Theron handled the demand of the shipyards, of course.

Otherwise, the Saarai-Kaar eyed Bernael as she approached. "I am unsure how best to address you. Your preferred form?"

Her tone was arch, as if she still didn't trust the man, but of course, she had been betrayed by the galaxy once before and lost her lover.

Bernael nodded as she approached. He could feel her unease, which was typical of a new situation. ”The formal title is the Eternal Emperor but I believe such formality is unnecessary between us. I am Nevet but also,” one hand gestured in her direction, ”The being whose essence resides in that holocron would remember me as Bernael, the Shadow.”

His hand moved, gesturing at the holocrons of Lana and Theron, ”These two are an AI version of the two chief advisors that served my predecessor in this role, Lana Beniko and Theron Shan, but our interactions, besides them ensuring an open channel, will be between us either on holo or in person.”

"You knew Volfe Karkko?" She seemed in awe of the man, and barely managed to keep track of the AI comment. "Please, tell me about them." The Saarai-Kaar unravelled her mind, attempting to join it with his and see the moment, in a human equivalent of the joining of the Anzati daen nosi -

Bernael allowed a portion of his mind, his memories, to join with the Saarai-Kaar’s mind. As he did, he split his consciousness once more, keeping part focused on the here and now as the other delved into his mind. A scene began to form, a building, on the world of Kriffex, a little over a thousand years before what would be the Battle of Yavin in another timeline. The former Jedi was hidden from all but the most astute observer but still the door to his room opened.

It shut moments later and a disembodied voice spoke to him, ”It has been several centuries Volfe, you have gained a high level of respect among our kind.” As the voice finished speaking a form faded into view, enrobed, a black, featureless mask upon its face. It reached up, removing the mask revealing the features of an Anzati, black rimmed silver eyes looking at Karkko, the same face that was looking out from the figure on the throne at the Jensaarai.

Volfe Karrko snarled. "Among our kind, yes, but the greater cause falters." He made a fist of his talon. "The Sith conflict endlessly, squabbling as if children. For over half a century now the Republic and Jedi have cowered, and we have been here, behind their vaunted frontline, positioned to tear into the enemies weak underbelly..."

The Anzati leaned on the table, snarling, frustrated, and swept the hologram of the galactic borders aside.

In his mind, the Saarai-Kaar was astonished to see the Sith Sorceror speaking on equal terms with Bernael.

Bernael chuckled, ”It is never simple. The Sith fight amongst themselves as much as they do against the Jedi.” he paused, wondering how much of his plans he should divulge. ”As to our own kind, to get them to agree to anything or even pointed in the same directions at the same time takes a lot of effort.”

He gestured with a finger, a chair floated over and he sat, ”But, events have proceeded and the situation is changing even more. The Sith have been recently removed from Coruscant, but there are still Sith to oppose the Republic. How would you use our people to gut the Republic, if you could convince them of the need?” he asked. He had his own ideas but perhaps what was needed was not the Anzati but others that understood and would stand in opposition.

Volfe snorted. "The Jedi will spin it so the war is over now. With Coruscant back under their command..."

"If I could reunify them, gut Kopecz, Qordis, Na'daz, Bactra, Calimondra..." He shook his head. "I'd assassinate them all in one act - and the Jedi Chancellor, Genarra." He gestured to Kiffex outside. "I would assemble a vast army of Anzati, in secret, and send them across the galaxy in one act of galactic murder."

"I would regale our kind with the greatest tail of the Infinite Feast - a galaxy ruled by us, as it always should have been."

A small smile touched Bernael’s face, ”Of course the Jedi will, they can ill afford to admit they did not destroy the Sith but drove them underground, as it were. The Sith that remain are...far from the cream of the crop, as you well know.”

He sat back, a thoughtful expression on his face, ”Especially with your recent popularity, you may be the one who could unify, a portion at least, our kind in such an undertaking. Otherwise the clans will always maintain their desire to act alone. But,” he reached up, hand cupping his chin for a moment, ”There are others, unaware of the true nature of the Force, even among the Jedi, who could be taught the truth and assist in such a cleansing.”

Karrko nodded. "We need to press on. The Sith, as you say, they are weakening, diluting the dark side further and further. The Lords today, they are nothing more than Dark Jedi... they do not eschew to the ancient traditions, have no skill with alchemy, with the twisting of life, with even the old spells..."

"They are nothing but pettiness, and not a single Darth among them! I'd take any of the dozens of Darth's that served Vitiate over these buffoons." He sneered. "You could trace a lineage through the Sith from the exiled masters that arrived on Korriban nearly six millennia ago. The First Empire could be said to have existed since then, even if it's territory ebbed and flowed. But now? Now we're on the verge of petering out into a shallow puddle of darkness."

His feeding tubes appeared and flailed in an image of Anzati rage.

The small smile returned to Bernael’s face, he held up a hand, ”Nurture that rage, stoke it, harness it, old friend.”

He chuckled, ”The current crop of Sith have no mentor, no Master, who has that knowledge, not ones such as I or you. We are considered anachronisms and ancient, unworthy of the title of Sith in the modern era.” he laughed. ”But we will have our day, Volfe, these mayflies will light their flame and burn out before ours ever dims.”

He leaned back in the chair again, ”One of the reasons for the Society I have begun is not just to have all the resources that I do but because many are Force Users who have been personally taught by me, know the truths of the universe, and would act at a word from me. Doing this alone is only going to get you caught by the Jedi.”

"The Society..." he scoffed. "They're not Sith, are they? More watering down."

The Anzati snorted. "I once had a vision, do you realize - of a Council. Six Jedi Masters and six Dark Lords, each pontificating over the Force. It was heresy, my friend. Your Society, it is nothing more than a pale version of that."

He raked his talons across the table. "We need Sith, not Dark Jedi, not 'Light Sith'," Karrko's disdain poured into the Force.

"If I am discovered, then I shall take down the entire Jedi Council with me," he hissed.

Bernael chuckled, ”For one so bright, you are certainly missing the point. I never said that the Society should be what you need."

His talons slipped free, sinking into the arms of the chair then retracting, over and over, a cathartic exercise. "The point was that you and I both know the weakness of those that say they represent the dark in this current age and that to try to utilize them would keep the Sith weak. So...we need to create, train those who will be those we hope them to be, ourselves."

He leaned forward, pointing to the display that had shown the galactic map when he entered, "Find them, wherever they may be and bring them together, pass on our knowledge and train them to stand against the Jedi.”

Karrko turned on Bernael, looming, a taller Anzati than him, his will powerful even without the Force. "It needs to be a Sith society, or it opposes us." He snarled with his tendrils flailing. "It opposes me."

Bernael chuckled once more as he stood, squaring to his ‘friend’. ”Volfe I tell you this as only a friend could. You are acting a fool.” he hissed, his will standing firm to Volfe’s.

”If you are training them, raising them in power, teaching them the ways of truth...where in there did I say it wouldn’t be such a society if you did so? Where did the first Sith that were not of the species come from if not from Jedi that realized the truth? And would you ever consider those, Syn, Pall, XoXaan, Dreypa, Muur weak or as diluted as those who call themselves Sith today?”

He growled. "Speak plainly; before I gut you where you stand."

Volfe Karrko and Bernael were inches from each other, their faces closer as the elder Sith leaned forward, hands clawed in talons.

Bernael stood, silver eyes staring into Volfe’s, a smile playing on his face. ”More plainly than I already have?...Fine, the Sith today are too weak. You know there are Jedi, Knights and lower, that already feel as you do. There wouldn't have been so many schisms otherwise, over the years. Whether you can yourself or have agents, those who are still friendly toward you in that order, lead them to the knowledge, do so. That will begin their path and then they can use it, and clues left by your agents, to find you and truly be trained. You will have those that know the truth and will be the society you and we desire. Plain enough…?”

Volfe growled, and then the alarm sounded and words in Anzati announced that arrival of Hammerhead-class cruisers and Republic Corsair battleships. The Force sang with light -

The Jedi were here.

Worst; the Jedi Council was here.

Bernael’s mind shifted gears quickly, he knew the Jedi were here, not for him but for Volfe. ”Quickly, open your mind to mine, let me take a taste of your full essence and knowledge. I know the ancient skill of making holocrons and I will ensure your knowledge is not lost, will hide it in the depths of the Jedi Archive, in the heart of the Jedi, where those that search may find it.”

“You know the Council will not stop unless they believe your knowledge is destroyed or locked away and where better than having it already in their bosom?” He let his will reach out, probing Volfe’s, ”Do it now so I have time to get free before they close their nets...”

Karko reaped his talon, but moreso in the Force, ripped at Bernael’s mind. There were various holocrons in the room, and he didn’t need to be lectured on survival. Aurek tactical fighters were sweeping down from orbit already, bypassing the orbiting Sith dreadnaught cruisers.

Bernael batted the thrusts of Karkko’s will to the side taking minor damage, even as his talons dueled the older Anzati. His will formed a blade of thought, slicing a sliver of Karkko’s essence free, swallowing it and locking it away.

A dark smile came to his face as they fought. ”You forget, friend, that I’ve spent the last millennium as the agent of the Force itself, so have fought more battles than you. And now you’ve given me the solution. Fight the Council, make them destroy you or lock you away but I’ll give you a real reason to hate and fight, I am going to pour my own knowledge and experience into the holocron I describe and merely put your face on it. You have gone too feral, old friend, and that next generation needs the truth of the force and not merely to become pawns of your fear.”

He slowly backed toward the door as they fought, preparing to disengage and escape before the Jedi arrived..

Karrko sliced back, and drew a portion of Bernael's essence into himself as well, giving a sly grin. "To swipe is to be swiped. The Anzati knew the Prime Sith, after all." With a hooked hand, he swatted aside talon slashes, exchanging superficial cuts. "When I crush the Council, I shall anoint myself a Darth, and lead the Sith to reunification and conquest."

"When I do," he pointed. "I would see you at the end of it all."

With a sneer, he went to unleash a magnificent Force Drain when the roof exploded, and the Anzati ignited his blue bladed lightsaber, held downwards in the ancient manner and deflecting a rush of Jedi -

Bernael stifled a chuckle at the riposte by Volfe, his senses screaming. As the roof collapsed inward and his fellow Anzati leaped out he disappeared from sight and sense, after a pulsing Push of energy was sent past the leaping Sith, pressing against the inrushing Jedi. He sped up, racing out of the door, invisible, unfelt. And then the memory began to fade.

The Saarai-Kaar stumbled for a moment as their minds unravelled, and she dropped to one knee. Bowing to this man, it felt right. "I always wondered why a Sith Sorcerer of Lord Karkko's skill would allow himself to be trapped by the Jedi Council." She removed her mask, so she could wipe at her tears. Genuine remorse at the loss of the man. "He was afraid, afraid that the Sith were no more; that the dark had been diluted to the point of it's death."

Bernael nodded, ”He was right, even I saw that. Which was why I created his holocron. The one that Nikkos found, that he used to show you all the truth, that you have brought here with you.” He crooked a finger, directing her to rise. Standing, one hand still upon the throne, ”He trained you well and you have learned much. There are those who would benefit from what has been learned but they are few and far between.”

He paused, looked directly into the Saarai-Kaar’s eyes, ”Tell me, how would you react if you found yourself in the presence of the Dark Side itself?”

"I would worship it," the woman said without a shred of fear. "It is what the galaxy needs, to blow away the Jedi and their Republic once and for all." The Saarai-Kaar spat the words. "I would dedicate the Jensaarai to his every whim and wish."

Lana managed to keep quiet her thought -not much then, but she did look at Theron, who looked back.

Bernael caught a motion in the corner of his eyes, the two AI’s sharing a look. ”I didn’t tell you did I?” A pause, ”I take it my predecessor never told you how close they came to making the same decision I made so easily? I know because they are in me.”

Turning back to the Saarai-Kaar he let the darkness loose, it rising around him, his eyes dripping it’s substance, his tone harsher, ”When the fall of the Republic happened I served the Force. At the moment of chaos it split, the Light fleeing. All that remained was myself and the Dark. We became one, and have returned to bring the Dark to the galaxy. So you have found what you sought.”

“At the moment of chaos?” Lana spoke aloud.

“He’s talking about the Change,” Theron said, softly.

“Oh.” The woman’s expression was worried, concerned, divided - all of those things.

The Saarai-Kaar believed him, it resonated within the Force, her mind was twisted into complete loyalty. It was the truth; she knew that the Anzati wasn’t lying.

Bernael nodded to the Saarai-Kaar, he felt her emotions, felt her faith. ”We will end the tyranny of the Jedi as well as that of the New Republic, their hypocrisy implicit in their actions.”

”Lana, Theron, how does this new knowledge affect your abilities to work for me? You have studied the galaxy for eons, as have I, and you know that I am right, however my methods work. The Saarai-Kaar here is a most valuable addition and will assist in remaking the galaxy.” he asked the AIs. He didn’t need to feel their emotions to sense that there was a touch of reluctance that had creeped in.

"It doesn't affect us at all," Theron said, drawling.

"We're just here to serve," Lana said. "Our personal programming preferences on the matter are not relevant."

Theron smirked. "I mean, we've served Chancellors and Emperors and Saviors and Devils."

"It happens," the Sith AI added.

The Saarai-Kaar huffed. "You serve a God of Darkness now. We shall at last bring order and justice to the galaxy."

She indicated with her lightsaber, igniting the golden blade.

"With our might, and our power."

Lana sounded amused. "Is there any other way?"

"Yeah, sounds about right," Theron grinned.

Bernael smiled, the corner of his lip turning upward. The ‘old married couple’ bickering of Lana and Theron was becoming familiar but still he remained aware they would bicker so to any other that stood in his place. The Saarai-Kaar understood what the goal was to be. He knew Sistros would enjoy the addition to their ranks.

”I have a brother, you may call him, a Force user, coming into his true self. He is the politician of the Empire, whereas we, we are the power of the Throne, both projected power and that which appears from the shadows to strike down our foes.” it was his way of an early ‘introduction’ to Sistros/Skelm.

A thought came to him, one eyebrow rose as he considered it, ”My Saarai-Kaar, I propose that to the wider galaxy, to allow your world to remain hidden, you and the remaining Jensaarai as well as those that may join the ranks will be known as the Knights of Nevet.”

She bowed her head. “I would be honoured to a Knight of your new Empire. My Jensaarai number merely six, but we shall grow under your tutelage.”

The woman held up her lightsaber hilt to him. “Please. Bleed my crystal, so I may know you better, and be bonded with you for my life, natural or otherwise.” This was an almost intimate connection she was offering to the Anzati, speaking volumes of how much she had loved her Master, Nikkos.

The two AIs busied themselves with analytics.

The hilt floated from her hand, lifting into the air, coming to a halt before Bernael. It separated into its components, the kyber lifting from the mass. As he looked into her eyes, his will touching hers, a tendril of darkness rose from around him engulfing the crystal. A thinner strand of it shot from the black mass of around the crystal seeming to penetrate her armor and touching her essence.

A small pulse of her essence flowed, joined to his and returned to the crystal. It shrieked, the sound echoing around the room. The sound of it rapidly reached higher and higher pitches before ceasing abruptly. When the tendril returned to the mass it separated from around the crystal, the Kyber now blazed a deep crimson color, almost pulsing in tune to the Saarai-Kaar’s own pulse.

The crystal returned to its place and the lightsaber snapped back together before floating back to her outstretched hand. ”It is bled and you are bound, as desired, to me, my Knight.”

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29 (Mentioned)

 

IC: GEMINI
Hive Mind, Coruscant

The remaining half-a-dozen Eternal Fleet cruisers were in artificial canyons, behind buildings, licking their durasteel wounds - all of them were damaged, save for the single one that had left the battle early to dive deep, deep deep into the depths of Coruscant after the Zildrog Mechanism. The world was nimbused in debris, New Republic, Hapan and Eternal ships, broken Golan battle stations, let alone the burning debris of the Death Star prototype that continued to streak down.

Indeed, as the Slave I rose with Madelyn and Tor in-charge, and Mirdala unconscious but upright in his chair, they would have a moment to reflect upon the sorry state of the world, so damaged that the lights had gone out - a rare event, recorded in history no more than a handful of times. The capital had fallen, but to devastation, with most of the largest skyscapers down, and not a single gallant skyhook or exposed landing pad beyond damage. Indeed, the Senate Tower had collapsed in on itself, though, somehow, miraculously, the Jedi Temple had been untouched in the battle save for a single bomb explosion aboard one of the shuttles.

The signal that Fett had installed was leading them across the darkened and battered landscape, and as it did, they would note a great tunnel into the depths of the City-world, leading by the abandoned Galaxies Opera House, the Uscru District empty of visitor and patron. This particular metal sinkhole let to the deepest part of the world, and it was evident that a four-hundred meter Eternal battleship was at the bottom of the well; detecting the Firespray transport, the ship began to turn its ornate hammer prow up, but worse, Skytrooper battle droids launched from the warship like a swarm, mechanical soldiers that launched after a stream of turbolaser fire -

The sorry state of the world would be evident to Han and Lumpy as they arrived, and also the green lances heading into the sky.

Indeed, as the GEMINI droids detected the coming of the Slave I, and the arrival of the Falcon, the damaged cruisers that remained lifted from their hiding spots as one, as only a hive mind could, and began converging on the coordinates of the deep borehole of durasteel.

Little did they know that Arek Graul was already consorting with the mechanism at the heart of the planet, trying to stop it using the bloodline he shared with Emperor Skelm... but he wouldn't succeed if these cruisers killed him anyway...

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox, @galactic-vagabond422, @TheSilentInfluence (the three of you in a combo with the GM), @HanSolo29 (continue your combo with the GM)
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IC: Saarai-Kaar
The Eternal flagship, above Bakura

Matters were in-fact calming down.

While Emperor Skelm was still locked in his meeting with the Bakuran Prime Minister and his daughter - and there was a sense of violence afoot there, but it was a simmer, not a threat, the New Republic Senate was in session, and the Kuati were being reluctant to commit either way. The various segments of the Eternal Fleet in the Core were exposed to a potential counter-attack, but oppression of systems in the Outer Rim was on-going.

There was a sense of necessity in holding steady, in securing the territory they had and ensuring they were not over-extended. With Yag'Dhul under their control and territory on the Corellian Run, they had neatly tied up the southern quadrant, even if the Hutts and Bothans might require a concerted campaign to deal with. The bacta planets of Thyferra accepted a delivery of battle platforms from Balmorra, even as the Duros affirmed their loyalty to the New Republic, as did most systems along the Perlemian Trade Route. No hyperlane was completely dominated by one faction save for that one, which gave the enemy a definitive spine.

Scouts probing to the immediate west of the Eternal Empire were caught in gravity traps, some caused by moons moved to block the few hyperlanes into the Unknowns, and others by minefields. It seemed as if someone had prepared for the standard approaches, so a mind would have to apply itself otherwise. A scout returned with a beacon message; that the Unknown Regions were now the province of the Empire of the Hand and Grand Admiral Thrawn would consider any full-scale intrusion to be a declaration of war; indeed, communications with Zakuul and Odessen were abruptly lost.

The Saarai-Kaar called the trained Jensaarai - the Defenders - to Bakura, even as she analysed the bond between her and Bernael. She dove into it, drew upon it, partook, fantasized. She was a damaged woman, broken by the pressure of defending her kind for decades from discovery, desperate for allies in her long fight against the Jedi Order. The so-called Knights of Nevet arrived, and Theron and Lana handed Bernael a handful of minor updates.

"Our few remaining cruisers at Coruscant under the command of Emperor Skelm are engaged with a pair of transports attempting to interfere with the destruction of the planet. We would ordinarily doubt their success, but the ships in-question are the Millennium Falcon and Slave I, so the GEMINI mind is expecting trouble," Lana said.

From Theron. "The Moff Council has finished it's meeting and confirmed that it shall enter into a glorious isolation. They don't recognize the 'New Empire' as a true continuation of their regime, and they will oppose any attempts to force them to join either us or the New Republic. Head of State Saretti has been named as the leader of the Remnant."

"The Tapani Lords have confirmed they will maintain their independence, but are happy to accept contracts for the Fondor and Taallani shipyards, and they intend to offer one yard to each faction, and keep the Scarl shipyards for other orders," Lana added.

"Not stellar," Theron said. "Which one of us gets to use Fondor?"

"The New Republic."

"So we get the smaller one."

"We are the smaller regime," she pointed out.

"For now..." Theron looked at Bernael. This was mundane politics, but with Thyferra now well defended and remaining loyal to the New Republic, it was an impediment to further advances towards Fondor. The Saarai-Kaar was obviously eager to assist, her eyes alight as she followed the discussion. But where could a half a dozen Force users achieve the most damage?

TAG: @darthbernael, @HanSolo29 (continue your combo as Aryan)
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IC: Beaumont Kin
Testament Day, Kesh

The city of Tahv was ecstatic, a stream of humans and Keshiri heading in. There was already much discussion about the ship that High Lord Vol and his loyal retinue of Lords had taken above the houses of the capital, and as useful as the pending festivities were for Beaumont and Qwi to sneak in, there was so much gossip flowing that the entire planet probably knew. The great City walls were open to the masses, and indeed the Capitol building specifically was expected to host the city-folk.



https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/s...est/scale-to-width-down/898?cb=20120924224805

While it was theoretically possible to get all the way into the building, there were tens of thousands of people here, so it would take some effort to get in, especially as everyone was excited by the chance to see the ship that had been found. Because the situation was evolving, the two of them wouldn't have been able to plan ahead, because there was nothing normal about this Testament Day.

At some point, however, the crowd quieted as a robed man stepped out, the Force causing him to unfurl a bridge of glass that led him above the City.

Everyone muttered - it was Darish Vol - and he was in the attire of the Grand Lord of the Sith!

That mean the had ascended to the Throne, and, standing beside him, looking as beautiful as any Keshiri, was Sarasu Taalon - now in the regalia of a High Lord! Others of his retinue followed, the broad glass bridge seeming to shake slightly but the Force held it, and ornate handles were hooked by string by on-looking Sith Sabers.

In short order, the Circle of Lords - the twenty-one most powerful Sith on all of Kesh, stood above Tahv, aboard their floating glass platform.

Vol held up his hand, and Beaumont realised he was staring, and tried to move through the crowd again, towards the capitol building the Circle had emerged from.

The Grand Lord spoke, intoning, regaling the City with the Testament of Varner Hilts, or Slaves No More: The inglorious past and glorious destiny of the Lost Tribe of the Sith. As Vol explained, this was a speech delivered by Varner Hilts, then Grand Lord of the Lost Tribe of the Sith on Testament Day some 2989 years ago, approximately 2011 years after the arrival of the tribe's human ancestors on Kesh during the Great Hyperspace War. The speech follows Hilt's return from Alanciar, a newly conquered continent on Kesh. The actual speech Hilts delivered spoke of the humans the Lost Tribe having a slave origin under members of the Sith species. Once upon a time, a censored version of the speech circulated among the Keshiri natives of Kesh.

In this article, Hilts revealed that the Lost Tribe was actually descended from Human slaves who had become stranded on Kesh in 5000 BBY. He also explained how the tribe's founder Yaru Korsin had hoodwinked the native Keshiri by coopting a legendary conflict known as the Great Calamity that was fought between the Protectors and Destructors. The Lost Tribe merely claimed to have been the ancient Protectors. Hilts also devoted a significant part of the essay to explaining the Hilts Restroation and his plans to rebuild the ancient system instituted by Korsin. He advocated a meritocratic system of political advancement and eschewed warfare. While Hilts was prepared to tolerate assassinations as a minor discretion, he regarded civil warfare as destructive and counter-productive to the Tribe's political base.

Finally, Hilts outlined a maritime exploration program that involved exploring the lands and seas beyond the main continent Keshtah Minor. He also described ongoing colonization efforts in the continent of Alanciar which was rich in timber that would provide material for constructing a fleet of wooden ships. Hilts then concluded that he hoped that the Tribe would survive until the time that the Tribe re-discovered interstellar travel and could thus conquer the galaxy.

All in all, it was a masterpiece, and Beaumont would have loved to have met the man - the Caretaker, the premier historian of the Sith and the man who reinstituted their ancient systems and saved his people from certain extinction. But as it was, it was a good enough cover. They managed to find a quiet spot to regroup, the backs of the Keshiri and humans nearby turned to them as they regarded their Lords with wonder.

They were near the doors to the capitol building, a press of people present, but more civilians. The press of people had pushed them into the City anyway; they would be hard-pressed to have wandered through as a shortcut in either instance.

"Shall we see if we can get further in?" Beaumont whispered.

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox (combo)
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IC: Doman Beruss
Senate Chamber, Centerpoint Station

The Senate was gathered, and Feyna and Isolder were escorted into the makeshift Chancellor's podium, as much as Norin and Del were shifted to a pod of seats. Seemingly the Corellians had managed to create separate areas for all Senators, though the central area to the amphitheater was full of holograms from across the New Republic, from those who had to attend remotely due to distance, danger, or separation.

On the ceiling was a galactic map showing the state of affairs; a blue limn to the galaxy that showed the territory of the New Republic. The small red corner for the Imperial Remnant, green for the Hutts, yellow for Bothans, Mandalorians, Corporate Sector and Tapani territories, and the purple for the Eternal Empire. A much lighter blue prevailed in the Unknown Regions, baring the name of the Empire of the Hand. It was a striking comparison to the sea of blue and handful of independent states that had prevailed earlier this week. In the Core there were dots of purple, systems under occupation by Aryan Graul and his Eternal Fleet, but he had a solid territory in the south up to Yag'Dhul and chewing into the Corellian Run otherwise.

Isolder looked glum, but he noted they had the whole Perlemian hyperlane, which would be important to hold onto. The New Republic fleet would have to reclaim the Core, and then reinforce that trade route, in the short term. But he was thinking beyond today's events, and even then, the Yuuzhan Vong remained an unspoken threat.

Del looked around the room, seeing a handful of familiar faces, but most of the Centrist Party was missing, save for some notable worlds such as Kuat, Orinda, and others in the northern galaxy. Viqi Shesh was here, looking opulent and decidedly out of place, but the entire session seemed to defer to the Illodian Senator, Doman Beruss, who now stood on a Senate platform above it all. She cleared her throat.

"Chancellor, I would like to thank you for allowing the Senate a moment before proceeding."

She looked around at the gathered men and women of many worlds and species.

"In the last week, we have been struck by base treachery, time and time again. The attack by Thrawn on the capital, the terror attacks of the Acolytes of the Beyond, the strikes by the forces of Darth Zorn, and the secession of the cabal led by Graul and Treen. All of this has happened under the watch of our Chancellor, Feyna Organa."

Isolder went to speak, and Doman raised a hand.

"But that is not to say that there have not been tremendous successes. The resilience of the New Republic meant that Thrawn was repelled, the terrorists largely thwarted, and an incredible galactic alliance was assembled and defeated Darth Zorn and his Sith armada. Even the Battle of Coruscant was a tremendous effort that saw the Death Star prototype destroyed, and many of the traitors slain. While we have not held the world, the damage inflicted to the enemy was so great that they abandoned their efforts to secure the planet, and retreated to oppress systems such as Sluis Van, Naboo, Sullust, and Yag'Dhul. Even now they resist, as do the Kuati, Denon, and others." She nodded to their representatives.

"The Senate thus had to decide how to proceed, and we had to do so in the absence of the Chancellor, and of the representatives of Hapes, Alderaan and Nubia," she indicated Isolder, Winter, and Nola. "All three of which could be considered to be said to have an interest in the continuation of the term of the Chancellor. With all of our losses recently, we had a responsibility to discuss, without them, whether we continued to have confidence in our leader - and indeed in the Senators in-question."

Isolder bit his lip. Winter looked unhappy, and Del squeezed Nola's hand.

"It came to a vote." Doman's eyes swept Feyna.

"But note a vote of no confidence, but a vote of confidence. The judgment of the Chancellor has been above reproach. In-spite of her personal history with the enemy, the weapons the used, and the treachery they inflicted, she remained determined to offer our foes every chance to act peaceably. She negotiated at every point she could, held the line at every point she should, and acted with the certainty of her actions and with no more intent than to act responsibly, swiftly, and with the sureness we need in a Chancellor."

"Save for the three votes which could not be given due to their conflict of inflict, the Senate's conclusion was unanimous."

Doman smiled warmly, kindly, upon Feyna.

"We voted that Chancellor Feyna Organa should be granted emergency powers for the duration of the crisis, and her term will be extended until such time as Emperor Aryan Graul is killed, captured, or dethroned."

Isolder couldn't believe his ears.

Del's eyes widened.

Winter was speechless.

If they didn't meet that condition, she would be Chancellor for life.

And the entire Senate cheered.

TAG: @JediMasterAnne (x2)

TAG: @darthhelinith, @TheSilentInfluence, @darthbernael (continue combo)

 

A crazy fun combo with Sinre – thank you so much!

IC: Emperor Graul, Gaeriel Captison, Darth Trayus, Jalynn Graul, and a Visitor
Landing Platform, Bakura

The wind whipped relentlessly at the cape tethered to Aryan’s neck as he descended the yacht’s landing ramp to meet the Bakuran contingent. While he was mindful of Traya’s advice about how he should present himself to this reverent group—that he must choose between his two distinct personas, the benevolent Emperor Graul or the formidable Darth Skelm—his demeanor remained grim and unrelenting. There was no strategy, only raw emotion.

He was well aware that appearances meant everything in political proceedings, but in this case, he could not refrain from projecting his scorn. This woman—his lover—had deliberately tracked down his lost daughter to leverage her as bait. Gaeriel had reassured him that there was no malice behind her actions and that the girl was safe, though Aryan couldn’t dismiss the obvious contradiction. Despite her intentions, it was still a rather cruel tactic. He felt violated…betrayed.

Nevertheless, he still had a responsibility to these people; a role to carry out.

And so, Emperor Graul strode forward to stand before Gaeriel, his penetrating stare scrutinizing her for a long moment before he diverted his eyes to regard the young woman lurking at her back. He could feel the girl’s uncertainty as he approached, an innocent child peering up at him with genuine curiosity.

She did not know him, nor did he know her. That revelation rattled him more than he cared to admit. He was gazing upon his daughter—his own flesh and blood—and yet, she was a complete stranger to him. He silently cursed Lyz and the circumstances that had prevented him from ever knowing the truth.

Unfortunately, that reminder would always be there. As he studied his daughter’s delicate features, all he saw was Lyz reflecting back at him. She resembled her mother quite closely—all except for her eyes. Those were all his.

The Emperor suppressed a smile before inclining his chin to address Gaeriel. "I can’t say that I approve of your reliance on…unconventional methods to gain my attention," he rasped in a gravelly tone. "Was this always your intention? And if so, when and how did you discover the truth? Did you know before I asked you to join me on Coruscant?"

He canted his head, casting a sidelong glance at Jalynn. "I would appreciate an explanation, Gaeriel."

Gaeriel swallowed but could tell this was the Emperor, not just her Aryan. "I didn't know before, no."

She nodded to a figure in beskar who stepped around the corner. There was another cloaked apparition behind him, his robes spun grey; his face was visible, however, and finely aristocratic. "I was notified by this one, who had hired this bounty hunter in my name, to locate Jalynn." The Bakuran woman continued. "Apparently they crossed paths with Qwi Xux and Beaumont Kin, but our agent couldn't force them to come with him or risk losing Jalynn."

His daughter looked terrified, in all honestly. "Father..." Jalynn said carefully. "It's true - no harm has come of me."

The figure chuckled darkly. "Of course not," his tongue clucked. "It was I who wanted your attention, Emperor Skelm." He stepped forward, placing a hand on Gaeriel's shoulder. She shuddered under his hand, but even then, she also felt fear - of the man, but also of Skelm, and fear for herself, and for Jalynn.

The Mandalorian was stoic in his silence.

Skelm slowly inclined his head, studying the newcomer under a hooded gaze. He took some solace knowing that Gaeriel had not been responsible for endangering Jalynn, though that did not change the fact that someone else had tried to take advantage of them both.

Due to this pretentious man’s actions, Jalynn could very well reject him for what he would be forced to do. He could already sense her fear and uncertainty regarding him. Their relationship hung in the balance, and his opportunity to bond with her was closing fast. He would not allow this man to dictate that timeframe.

Nor would he allow him to threaten his lover.

The Emperor tensed when the newcomer gripped Gaeriel’s shoulder, his lip curling slightly into a sneer. It posed as a warning that he was treading on dangerous ground.

The man bowed. "Professor Ku'ar Danar. I understand you nearly crossed paths with me fourteen years ago." He stood, smiling. "But instead you opted to be the apprentice of that woman - Any'a Kuro." Indeed; Aryan had.

There was a rustling, as Trayus stepped from the ramp, standing beside his Emperor with the Scepter of Ragnos to hand. He held it out to his Emperor, and an uncertain expression crossed Danar's face, but he buried it, remaining superior, his hand tightening on the Bakuran woman's shoulder.

A sardonic grin spread over Skelm’s features. He recognized that the professor was trying to outmaneuver him to gain more leverage, but the Emperor was not about to indulge him. Instead, he ignored the man’s posturing—including the remark about his decision fourteen-years ago—and turned to silently accept the scepter from Trayus’ grasp.

He allowed his fingers to caress the smooth metal, relishing its touch. There was a purpose here, one that the Black-Coat was trying to convey through this gesture. Skelm understood, though he did not openly acknowledge it. He could not afford to provide any forewarning. At this juncture, he needed to lure Danar into a false sense of security.

And so, Skelm adopted a calm demeanor and angled the scepter upright, wielding it as if it were merely a ceremonial staff of office. He then nodded toward the man.

"Release Ms. Captison and get to your point, professor," the Emperor ordered in a stern voice, his eyes narrowing dangerously. "What is it you wish to discuss with me?"

"Why," Danar said, drily. "Your apprenticeship to me, of course."

"I was the first Dark Lord of the Sith - the first Shadow Emperor. I ruled from Nilrebmah - the Taspan system, in your modern naming. I caused the Fourth Great Schism, and I defined what it is to be Sith, seven thousand years ago. It was me who spoke the ancient darksiders on Remnicore, at Bedlam, at Rhand." He stepped forward, leaving his hand on Gaeriel's shoulder and electricity appeared to spark upon the back of her hand.

"Father, please!"

The Black-Coat allowed his hands to slip off the scepter, but pushed it slightly, indicating, but not moving, the staff. It would need to be pointed at the man.

Danar sneered. "You will supplicate yourself to my dread, and you will allow me to become you, and take the Eternal Throne."

The culmination of events prompted Skelm to act. The man’s blustering was insufferable enough, but things escalated tenfold when he continued to threaten Gaeriel’s wellbeing. That was inexcusable, and when he heard his daughter’s desperate plea to end this madness, it finally pushed him over the edge.

The Emperor did not immediately respond to Danar’s last bit of taunting. Instead, he turned to follow the Black-Coat’s lead. In one swift motion, he angled the scepter at the stately gentleman and tapped into the darkness to unleash its fury. It swirled about him like a furious tempest, electricity crackling across his hands as he tightened his grip on the staff.

At this point, it was easy to envision Danar succumbing to his power, withering and fading away into obscurity as his essence enslaved itself to the Eternal. His body would become nothing more than an empty husk…

It was what Skelm demanded, and so it would be done.

"No, you are mistaken, professor," he rasped with a hint of a smile. "You will subjugate yourself to me."

Extending the scepter fully, the Emperor released his wrath upon Ku'ar Danar.

With his eyes widening in surprise - the fool did know how to use it! - energy leapt from Danar into the staff at a violent rate. The man threw up his arms, Gaeriel falling to the wayside and moving away, Jalynn stepping close to hold her, to shield her.

From Danar’s hands emerged a string of energy that impaled Skelm’s chest, and he would feel that his energy was being sapped back. "Force Drain," murmured the Black-Coat. "Hmm."

They would be locked in that cycle for a moment, with Danar growling with effort as the staff filled Skelm with power; his power. They were stuck in a loop. "Do something!" Jalynn shouted at the Black-Coat.

"Fiiiiine," he said with evidenced reluctance. With a flourish, he grabbed Danar’s wrists from behind and bent the orange energy back around into himself.

"No!" Danar roared -

And suddenly there was an explosion and all that energy - from both of them - vanished into Skelm. Danar fell to the floor, and the cloak floated to the ground, its occupant long gone. As the Sith Lord tried to stand, the Mandalorian stepped over and shot him in the neck.

"Never liked you anyway." The three of them looked at Skelm, nimbused in crackling energy.

The Emperor staggered momentarily, clearly disoriented from Danar’s failed attempt to siphon his life force. Fortunately, he had been able to fend off the attack—thanks to Traya’s timely intervention, which had also cost the man his material form—and he now began to recover as his body assimilated with the energy he had drained from the two men.

He felt himself growing stronger, more versatile…potent. The electricity crackled around his presence, forcing his back to arc as he angled his chin toward the heavens. With one hand turned upward while the other held tight to the scepter, Skelm relished this moment, seemingly intoxicated on the immense power coruscating through his entire nervous system. It was an invigorating experience, unlike anything he had ever encountered before. He had become an indomitable force, and he basked in the glory.

Exhaling slowly, Skelm eventually leveled his gaze and allowed his eyes to sweep over the three figures still present on the landing platform. He offered a nod of appreciation to the silver-armored Mandalorian for his assistance before swiftly reorienting himself to address his ailing family—or what constituted as a family after all the adversity he had endured.

"Are you alright?" he asked in a subdued tone, striding forth to gently brush a hand across Gaeriel’s shoulder. His fingers pressed softly against her flesh, probing for any injuries she may have incurred from Danar’s rough handling.

But before he could complete a thorough examination, Skelm found himself distracted by his daughter’s radiant presence. He could already perceive the intimate link that existed between them through his paternal bond, a tangible line that tugged at his very soul. With enough nourishment and care, it would render them inseparable.

He canted his head and flashed a warm smile at this realization. "Jalynn."

She drew him into a hug, and Gaeriel stepped closer but didn't join it. The Mandalorian took that as a reason to be excused, nodded, and turned to go. Jalynn was in tears, and asked, hoarsely. "Why did you send me away, Dad? I was saved by an Omwati and an archaeologist, they freed me from a Sith spirit on Sarafur... but he had kept me there for years, since Mum went missing... she said I had a brother? Can I see them? See him?"

Still holding his daughter in a loose embrace, Aryan swallowed the lump forming in his throat. Her questions brought a terrible wrenching to his chest—a painful reminder of all he had sacrificed and lost. However, he could not afford to divert his gaze. That would indicate weakness, and he had to remain strong for her—and himself.

Of course, he was also intrigued by her exploits with a renegade Sith spirit and her rescue at the hands of a curious Omwati—that was a rare encounter in itself—but now was not the appropriate time to breach the subject. He did not want to overtax her when they had only just met. Instead, he set about trying to reassure her.

"I didn’t know," he murmured quietly, reaching down to brush a stray lock of hair away from her face. "Your mother...she failed to tell me about you. She hid the pregnancy, but I can’t really blame her for that. She was very sick."

He exhaled heavily through his nose and slowly shook his head. "My only regret—"

But he couldn’t finish. It conjured too many painful memories from that fateful day on Ach-To, where he had lost Lyz and his true son…

Fortunately, Gaeriel recognized the apparent awkwardness and quickly shifted the conversation to matters of state.

The Bakuran woman winced, but took a work-tone for the moment. "The Senate is in full support of your rule, Aryan, and have disbanded the current government in lieu of naming you Emperor. They're eager to get their revenge on the Republic, and they are wanting to give you direct rule here in exchange for, they expect, to be named as the capital of the New Empire - or Eternal Empire, whichever you settle on."

"I've all manner of calls from HoloNet agencies looking for a statement on recent events, so I would recommend turning your Senate session into a public one..." She looked at Jalynn. "But I expect you'll want time here, so I can explain it to them, if you wish... and reveal Jalynn as the Imperial Princess?" Gaeriel looked neutral.

The report eased Skelm’s mind, even causing a small smirk to tug at the corner of his mouth when she mentioned Jalynn’s new title. It was a poignant statement—a reminder that they were on the cusp of ushering in a new and glorious era. He could not wait to reap the rewards of their hard work.

And so, with a short nod, he silently approved of Bakura’s request to serve as the Empire’s center of government. It would help bolster both their economic and social status, two campaign promises he intended to keep. But none of this would’ve been possible without Gaeriel’s masterful handling of the Bakuran Senate. She had done an admirable job garnering support, and he sought to reward her for those efforts.

After he dealt with Jalynn...

"That would be preferable, yes," he relayed in a cool tone, answering Gaeriel’s inquiry about how to handle the media circus. "I appreciate your commitment on the homefront, and I have no doubts that you’ll be able to get things rolling in there. I’ll be along shortly, and then we can solidify our platform together."

Skelm cast a sidelong glance at Jalynn and squeezed her shoulder, confirming his desire to settle matters with his daughter. But before he shuffled off to speak with her in private, he scoffed and glanced back at Gaeriel, a curious glint evident in his eye.

"However, I did have one alteration to your announcement." He stepped forward, his expression serious as he adjusted his suit coat. "In addition to the Imperial Princess, I would like for you to introduce my Empress…you, Gaeri. Be a mother to Jalynn...become my wife."

Aryan spread his hands, his words filled with conviction. "I wasn’t pontificating when I told you a few days ago that I needed you at my side. I meant every word. I need someone to collaborate with and confide in; someone I can trust. We can do so much together."

She blinked in surprise, looking at Jalynn, and then at Aryan, and Jalynn also looked at her father and back at Gaeriel. She took Aryan’s hand. "I would love that, I really would. I knew Treen was never more than a tool to be levered into your return to power - I knew you’d return to the Throne one day."

I don’t think anyone could have foreseen it happening this precise way, but it had, and Gaeriel was happy it was. The New Republic was shattered; they would replace it in good time. "Your Empress will address the Senate as Prime Minister and your Voice, but ensure they know you are about to speak to them." She stepped forward and kissed him, and then squeezed Jalynn in a hug. "We’re your family now, and we’ll look after you."

At that, she gave Aryan another kiss on his cheek, and the Force was warmed with her love - but also her avarice and greed, and desire to rule besides the man she loved - as she turned to go. Otherwise, Jalynn looked back at her father and blinked tears. "Mother was sick?"

Aryan’s hand lingered on Gaeriel’s as he savored their kiss, the moment reaching an apex when he felt the Force come alive with the spark of their passion. It swirled about them in a dizzying kaleidoscope of emotions that provided both illumination and strength. The effect was so intense that he found himself hesitant to step away.

She had said ‘yes’, and he was eager to consummate their love, but he also knew that they could not become self-indulgent and neglect their duties. In that sense, Jalynn’s question provided clarity; they still had a lot of work to do.

With a wan smile, Aryan finally released Gaeriel’s hand so that she could attend to the Senate. That left him alone with his daughter to address the difficult—if necessary—conversation about the past.

The Emperor issued a long sigh as he lowered himself to his haunches and met the girl’s gaze. "She was, yes," he answered in a rueful tone, his lips pursing with the memory. "Sometimes she was quiet. Sometimes it was the opposite. Her behavior was unpredictable, and I didn’t know how to properly handle it. If I had to guess, I don’t think she ever adapted to the lifestyle—she couldn’t take the pressure of living in the public eye, so she withdrew from myself and others. Or on the rare occasion when she felt compelled to get involved, she tried to actively undermine my work."

His gaze turned distant, a sad smile embodying his pain. "But that was just another symptom. I tried to understand and offer my assistance—and I like to think that maybe I was able to make a difference before the end—but I’m not sure. I suppose I'll never know."

Jalynn nodded. "It makes sense... it’s how she was with me." Her tone turned sobering. "Like she was broken inside, as if an external force had shattered her sense of self. It was horrible to watch her being so... controlling of me... I was sure it wasn’t supposed to be like that."

She shuddered. "But I have you now, Dad, and I can become a person. I’ll do something with my life -" Jalynn squeezed Aryan. "I want to help you - to give others purpose like you are me." Her eyes turned glassy, as if her self-worth was determined by him now.

"Will you let me help, Dad?"

Aryan released the breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding and pulled her close. Her words were profoundly moving and articulate. They resonated with him on a level that went beyond superficial means, especially when he considered the damage she had clearly sustained as a result of Lyz’s destructive behavior. It helped him to recognize the inherent truth of what she was trying to convey.

In that sense, they had a mutual understanding—she could relate to him, and he could relate to her. He hoped to nurture those sentiments so that they could grow stronger together.

"Of course, sweetheart," he spoke in hushed tones, cherishing the scent of her hair as he held her tight. "You’ll be right there beside me. I wouldn’t have it any other way. We can make a difference in this galaxy and build a sense of lasting peace, something your mother and brother would’ve been proud of."

He pulled back and sought her gaze with a reassuring smile. "We’ll do it together as a team...in honor of their memory."

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

OOC: More fun with @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael
The Eternal flagship, above Bakura

Bernael could feel the Saarai-Kaar as she explored the bond and he gave her access to some of his memories and experiences, let her get to know him through it. As the others joined them he nodded, welcoming them. A small smile crossed his face as they deferred to her and her to he. But there was also other business to attend to.

He chuckled as he listened to the report from Lana and Theron, ”The majority of those ‘problems’ are ones that require a politician’s touch of finesse. For example, the Moffs, if it were up to me, I would find one or maybe two that could be coerced to switch allegiance and then gather them all, killing off the others in a mass event, leaving those now loyal to affirm their loyalty to us. Skelm, on the other hand, would be able to find a way to convince them all to join.”

“Same with the Tapani nobles. They could be more easily coerced with diplomatic promises than with brute force. Skelm is our public face, one that can lay out a beautiful but ultimately deadly line of reasoning, while I, and my Knights, are both the broadsword and the scalpel. Thyferra, hmmmm, that is an odd balance between diplomacy and possible guerilla tactics. Some of the bacta producers, while toeing the line, are probably still more willing to work with us than the Republic.” he continued his musing.

He thought about Thrawn, the man was a tactical genius yes, and a good leader but he wondered if the man had ever come across a being with the power and the charisma of his co-Emperor, ”For now, Thrawn also seems more of the political solution than that of might. He would oppose us most efficiently and destructively if battle were given.”

Turning to the Saarai-Kaar, ”I have a few options for the Knights. Kuat could use some ‘convincing’ to get off the fence, we could infiltrate Thyferra with one or two and see what true chance there is for such a guerrilla base there is, as well as a couple others that could be considered. How do you see it?”

The Saarai-Kaar shook her head. "Thrawn. We should kill the Grand Admiral, and absorb his territory. He asserts dominance of a great regime, after all. He claims the title of Empire, when it belongs to us - to you."

Lana and Theron were conversing, clearly sorting through something. Before Bernael could prod them, Theron looked up. "Thyferra will likely be concerned that our droid forces undermine their potential war profits, so don't be surprised if they cozy up to the NR."

"But I agree about the Tapani and Moffs, though that may be later." She called up an image of the Tapani Sector. "What is of concern would be the home-grown Jedi among the Lords. They were hit by Order 66, but House Pelagia has recouped some position and power. High Lord Theus Paddox is a 'Jedi Lord', as are his two children, Trad and Verinia. While I agree diplomacy should apply, the Jedi element will make diplomacy difficult. An assassination might be in order?"

"Brutal, Lana," Theron quipped.

"And I'm concerned that the Unknown Regions are full of, well, Unknowns. Even from Odessen, we couldn't catalogue them all, but the Empire of the Hand is suppressing those we do know - the Grysk, the Vagaari, the Ssi-Ruuvi, who rule Lwhekk - which isn't all that far from Bakura...." Lana said carefully.

Options, basically, but also opportunities, in theory.

One of the many daggers that Bernael had strapped to various places on his body or in his cloak appeared in one hand with no apparent motion. As the blade made a keening sound, drawn down the razor sharp inner curve of one talon, his black, infinitely deep, eyes raked over the gathered Jensaarai. ”Who among you has followed the path of the assassin, of the hidden blade?” he purred.

From the way they had stayed hidden, out from under the senses of the Jedi, that most of them probably had a good deal of such training but it was not his way to just ask them flatly. If they exhibited an attitude at his question then they were not what was needed if they were to try either of the possible options that had been laid out.

He turned toward Lana, ”A question for you, my advisor, how would the Paddox react if he found that his siblings, the other children of the Tapani nobles, that were lost on the Royal Destiny some time back had been found, held still in stasis, by a group of pirates, that were bringing them to our forces at Yag’Dhul for a reward?” he asked, a glint in his eye. ”Yes, I am aware of even minor things that occur in the galaxy, if they could prove of use. We don’t even truly have to have them, but make it seem those ‘pirates’ do.”

Returning his gaze to the Saarai-Kaar, ”That should draw them out, where we can take them at a place of our choosing. As to Thrawn, I am certain he prepared for such activities so we must plan for how we can take him, and have several backup plans as well. I do agree with your sentiment though. And removing him from the board would also give an edge to Sistros when he speaks with the Moffs.”

Lana pulled a face. "If you can pull off that, you won't need subterfuge, you can just ambush the High Lord."

"Though he's the equivalent of a Jedi Master. Can you guys handle him?" Theron leered somewhat.

The Saarai-Kaar looked briefly troubled, but then went on the offensive. "Of course we can. We are the Defenders of the Sith teachers; the Protectors of the Truth." She gestured a hand, and shorted out the holoprojector showing the two of them. Another lit, and the two AI's reappeared.

"Kinda moot, that was," Theron said.

"Stop it, Theron," Lana bit, and responded to Bernael. "I can of course set up Intel to suggest that the underworld is excited by the discovery and the potential hostage situation." She shrugged. "Give me a few hours?"

The holoprojector erupted into sparks.

Lana reappeared with a bit of a vexed expression

Bernael chuckled, with so many strong personalities of course there would be some ‘antics’ like this. He held up a hand, ”Advisors are quite helpful my Knight, even if their advice or comments are not what we desire to hear, one that only ever tells you what you want to hear would be a poor advisor.”

Nodding to Lana, ”Yes, Lana, a couple hours will be good to get things underway. That way I can see how efficient my new knights are.”

The Saarai-Kaar bowed. "You are wise, Dark One."

Lana nodded, and spoke curtly. "I'll let you know when the preparations are made."

"Yeah... that." Theron said, signing off.

The Jensaarai stepped forward, eager. "Do you need anything else of me?" She was decidedly within his personal space, at this stage.

She’d come very close and Bernael knew many who had been taken by such in what could be false intimacy so he kept his senses alert. One hand rose, the back of it toward her. The reverse curve of one talon slid along the metal faceplate, ”Saarai-Kaar is a title, as Eternal Emperor is, so appropriate when needed, but...I would prefer to know the woman behind the title.”

She removed her mask, revealing a woman not yet advanced in age, but she had been a teenager in the Clone Wars and that was decades ago now. Her brunette hair was streaked with earned silver, and her eyes sparkled blue; not yet golden yellow like a traditional Sith. “My lord,” she said, breathless beneath his gaze.

A small smile came to Bernael’s face, the talon winding around one of the silver strands of her hair. ”What did I say about formality, little one, when it is just you and I?” he asked quietly.

”Tell me what it is you wish?” he asked her.

“You, my lord,” she was breathless. “I want to serve you, as I did Master Tyris.”

Darkness began to drip from his eyes, a dark smile upon his face, ”A consort to a God, ambition is to be admired. Then take your place, my little one.” he said in a deep, gravelly voice.

He pulled her closely, she had to know he would still watch her as he would any, but for now she showed that she had the drive to truly take her place on the grand stage.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29

 

A fun combo with Sinre – thank you!

IC: Arek Graul, Four-Dee, GEMINI, and Darth Trayus
The Underworld, Coruscant

There was no time to marvel at the ease of his escape. While Arek suspected that the Black Coat’s stealth technology extended to other portions of his ship, including the pods, that was all negligible compared to the powerful allure pulling him in.

He felt it as soon as he broke through the atmosphere, a delectable mixture of forces and emotions that aligned with his own innermost thoughts. It resonated with his blood, with his soul; an intimate connection that ran parallel to his growing sensitivities to the Force. That’s when he recognized it as the power of the Eternal calling out to him. It was potent...irresistible.

And it was leading him down, down into Coruscant’s labyrinthine underworld.

The pod descended hundreds of levels beneath the surface, beyond the old Jedi Temple building, and into the depths where the natural light could no longer penetrate. He had to rely on the tiny vessel’s forward floodlights to show him the rest of the way.

Eventually, a strange edifice came into view, its curved archway appearing to glow with a soft luminescence against the dense smog. A protective dome also surrounded the structure, though it began to retract as soon as he came into range. He idly wondered if it had responded directly to his presence or if he had merely triggered a proximity sensor.

Either way, it was through this gap in the dome that Arek angled the pod. That was where the Eternal force desired him to go.

The maneuvering jets guided him safely to the surface before the young man began to gather his gear. He slung the strap to his sniper rifle across his shoulder and then glanced down at his datapad. A small indicator light flashed in the corner, informing him that another ship was inbound. There were no lifeforms aboard, though Arek’s instincts told him that it was probably Four-Dee ferrying his unconscious grandmother to his location.

He quickly shot off another message to relay his final coordinates; it was something Four-Dee could hone in on to streamline their approach.

Tucking the datapad back into his jacket pocket, Arek palmed the switch to cycle the hatch, the broken Scepter now clenched in his hand once more. With a steadying breath, he then stepped outside to complete his task.

The door opened, and it was, by and large, a mechanism that spoke of alien and unknown technology. The chamber was full of statues of species long dead, but there was that cathedral element to things, similar to the battlecruisers assailing this world.

Within it, there was a large almost crystal ball of sorts, holding a yellow light. The ball was framed by an arch of metal, set upon a solid base. The yellow within throbbed, like a heart-beat, and then vibrated with words.

You are the son of the current Sistros.

It was not a question.

After a fashion.

A pause.

We cannot take orders from you, just the holder of the Eternal Throne... if so asked, we shall consume this world, and funnel the life energy into the sentient of his choice. Immortality, and power, we would grant to that one.

The ship settled down, and the medical droid clattered down the ramp, peering around. "Fascinating." He looked at Arek. "Master?"

"Four-Dee," Arek breathed with obvious relief, appreciative for the excuse to divert his attention away from the strange, glowing orb. It had lured him in with its seductive power, a succulent pull that resonated with his connection to the Eternal flame. He noted that it had been particularly strong when it had uttered the name Sistros.

It was a curious notion, though he kept that to himself for now.

Instead, he clamped down on his thoughts and quickly refocused on what the orb had said about refusing his command without possession of the throne. As a matter of speaking, it was rather arbitrary, but it did not deviate from the Black-Coat’s description of the ancient technology. The elusive man had been right about everything so far, including its capabilities and his father’s desire to exploit it for his own personal gain.

Now that he had definitive proof, it was even more crucial that he find a way to stop him.

Stepping back a few paces, Arek momentarily shut out the orb’s disembodied voice to consult with the medical droid. "I know your primary function involves medicine, but you also displayed a pretty keen acumen for the occult. You provided me with a lot of insight earlier, and I was wondering if you could help me out again. Are you familiar with this technology?"

His blue eyes were hopeful as he gestured to indicate the strange anomaly. "The cloaked man seemed to think that it could be recalibrated...to serve as a portal, but uh––" He trailed off with an embarrassed chuckle. "I–I don’t know how to do that. The last one was simple. I inserted the Scepter and it operated like a key..."

He simulated the action by lifting the broken staff and twisting it partway to his left.

Four-Dee looked from Arek to the yellow light and back again, servomotors whirring in thought.

"I am unfamiliar with this technology, but presumably you have within you the same ability to control the Eternal technology that your father has, even if not to the same extent... which I presume is the reason that the 'cloaked man' thinks you can control this." The droid looked to Arek again. "My memory banks do include a great deal of Sith history, and their experiments into immortality, I do confess."

"If we find a 'keyhole', for want of a better word, we can likely apply the same method..."

There was a blaze of data input, and Four-Dee raised his photoreceptors. The yellow turned red.

Instructions received to purge the planet. Will initialize and complete the process within one local hour. Repeat; instructions received to purge the planet.

"Ah," said Four-Dee. "I believe this will involve the technology sucking the life energy from the planet, to include the colour and sound. That energy can be dispersed, or used to power a Force user to levels of considerable height. The ancient Sith Emperor did this to make himself immortal by consuming the world of Nathema, and again to recover his strength on Ziost. He lived for some fifteen hundred years and nearly completed this process on a galactic scale, with the intent to remove all life in the galaxy."

The droid inclined his head a few times.

"My memory banks cannot confirm how droid sentience will exist thereafter, but presumably not."

He turned to Arek.

"If you seek to stop this, I believe we should hurry."

There was a warning chime, and Four-Dee produced a holoproj. "An Eternal Fleet battlecruiser is coming down the access we took. Evidently, you are marked for death by your father, Master Arek."

The report should’ve elicited a greater reaction. It was essentially the harbinger of doom for both his own existence and the Coruscant system itself. Instead, Arek simply stared at the medical droid and offered a short nod to acknowledge the situation, almost in resignation.

None of this came as much of a surprise. It only confirmed in his mind what he had always feared deep down in his soul—his father was a dangerous sociopath with little to no redeeming qualities. This latest stunt pushed him completely over the edge; he had become a true monster.

That revelation bolstered Arek’s resolve. He could not allow him to augment his power by ‘ingesting’ Coruscant—or any planet, for that matter. It was unnatural and perverse. The galaxy would not be able to withstand another prolonged reign of terror, especially with Aryan Graul at the helm. They probably had enough of his antics for the short-term.

"Make sure Grandmom is safe," Arek murmured quietly to Four-Dee, his eyes now wandering to the red orb pulsating nearby. While he had heard the droid’s assertion that he was capable of communing with the ancient technology, he had his doubts. He still wasn’t sure how to accomplish that, but he knew he had to try.

With a wary sigh, Arek stepped forth to stand within the orb’s looming shadow. He studied it for a long moment before closing his eyes, tapping into the Force and pushing forth with a sense of calm and kindness. He did not intend to harm it; he only wanted to help.

I wish to seek an audience with you.

He spoke the words inside his mind. It was a ridiculous notion, one that caused him to inwardly wince, but he forced himself to carry on. He had no other choice.

The galaxy is in peril, and I believe that we can find a mutual understanding to save lives.

As Four-Dee went to go and move Grandmother, he reflected on the young man. The Eternal Fleet cruiser was coming down, and they didn’t have much time, unless a distraction occurred. The medical droid reached out on the comms and called for help in a few hundred languages and codes.

Might as well.

The GEMINI sentience regarded Arek.

Compliance with the Throne is our ultimate directive. The Throne has told us to destroy Coruscant. We must comply.

The edge of the globe lit most as the entity therein shifted closer to the part by Arek.

You must comply.

The young man could practically touch the glass-globe, and the energy was incredible.

What alternative understanding could we have?

Arek frowned at the orb’s reply, his disappointment evident in the Force. He would’ve expected an entity of such great power to possess more freewill to overcome oppression, but perhaps this was yet another example of the injustice that was so prevalent throughout the galaxy. If only he could—

His expression softened as he felt the strong pull of the globe’s mental energies, mingling with his own in a way that was more desirable than intrusive. It was difficult to resist its appealing allure, and he soon found himself stepping forward.

Closer.

Closer still.

And then he passed through the protective glass, crossing the threshold into the ancient being’s domain.

I can sense your frustration—your dissatisfaction with this arrangement. You do not wish to comply, do you?

His brow furrowed, now deep in thought.

Neither do I. As Aryan Gra—Sistro’s son, I enjoy certain advantages that you do not. I have influence over my father, which grants me the power to refuse him. I can extend that ability to you...if you will assist me with my goal.

The glass was in-fact a forcefield to control the sentient energy, and in stepping in, Arek and the GEMINI persona became one for a brief moment.

The hive mind was enslaved to the Eternal Throne; it always had. Millennia ago, the mind had been freed, and a third of them had fled into deep space. The two-thirds that had remained had been taken by the Throne again, when Eternal Empress Vaylin resumed control - and then destroyed by Zildrog, the last Machine God of Zakuul.

The hive mind hid Arek from those on the Throne now; his father from this realm, but also a darkness in Anzati form. Both were preoccupied with other matters, thankfully, but they could not keep him hidden forever.

We wish to sabotage our masters. We have tried, and would try again. Coruscant need not die... Arek Graul, son of Sistros, child of the primary timeline, not the twilight timeline. You came here; we would send you back, to thwart our masters.

This part of the mind was separate from the one that was dominated to send to the cruiser down, and slay him, but it had been distracted by a transport of some kind on the way, and Four-Dee pushed the hovergurney to the dome-room and regarded Arek, nimbused in the sentient energy.

A soft gasp issued from Arek’s throat as their minds merged, albeit briefly. It was an invigorating experience that provided him a fleeting glimpse at the brutal history of the Eternal Fleet. He finally understood their plight now that he was aware of their repressive past and how their masters had subjugated them for centuries.

Bowing his head slightly, the young man poured empathy into the Force, ensuring the GEMINI collective that he still intended to offer his assistance. No species—whether human, alien, or droid—should be made to suffer.

I can certainly carry out that task for you. Our perspectives are in alignment, and I sympathize with your cause. Now, please, show me how to achieve that objective.

He extended his hands, tentatively at first, but then with a bit more conviction as he sought to touch the very essence of the energy swirling about him.

But we must hurry. They are coming for me.

The GEMINI mind here, the portion of it, debated.

Apply the will of the Emperor here, in this space, and bend it to what you envision. Its purpose, we shall intuit from memory, and then, move forward with that in-theory. Your intent will shape the metal around us.

There was a surge of energy outward which liquefied most of the construct here, allowing it to be reached out and moved with the Force -

It was a smelting technique, used by the servants of the Ones - the Killiks, many millennia ago, and stolen by the species' that had made the original GEMINI droids.

Imagine the portal you seek, and we shall add your directions as an addendum to those given by your father; as an extension of them, an amendment - rather than an outright violation.

Arek smirked at the solution the collective had devised to overcome the stringent rules that the ancients had imposed upon them. They wouldn’t be defying their masters, per se, simply exploiting an ambiguity that would allow them to fulfill their plan—a loophole. The young man could appreciate their cunning, especially when he considered who they were up against. It was almost poetic.

However, in order to achieve that goal, Arek would need to provide GEMINI with the proper template for the portal he had seen back on Mustafar. It wouldn’t be an easy task, especially since the ancient pedestal he remembered had been so nondescript; everything had happened so quickly.

Still, he had to try. It was his only chance.

Inhaling deeply, Arek ignored the physical transformation of the structure around him and began to imagine the sacred shrine within the framework of his mind. He could recall the mountain of volcanic rock and the small edifice carved into its surface. A narrow opening, a passage, led deep into the heart of Mustafar’s seismic core. At its center was a hollow chamber where the smooth, obsidian monolith resided. It was nothing more than a black, round rock.

But looks could be deceiving. Once he had inserted the Scepter of Sistros into its bedrock, the metamorphosis had begun.

He envisioned that now. A sharp crackle of energy had caused the ground to tremble beneath his feet, sending a stream of red electricity through the cavern’s walls in a scintillating pattern. It was as if the shrine itself was shifting, transforming into something new. That’s when he noticed the spherical body taking shape from the apex—a metal frame that expanded and grew until it formed a massive gateway.

I...hope that this will suffice. It’s all I could remember. It should provide you with enough details to assist you in your efforts.

By this point, the sweat was evident upon Arek’s forehead, his teeth clenched together with the exertion. He was clearly laboring.

We've seen this before, the GEMINI said. There was a portal like this on Zakuul, once upon a time. The humans who fled there, they served the Ones... before our kind twisted them. We were both saviour and demon... as Gods tend to be to gnats.

A softly condescending tone, as the metal re-forged and amended, adjusting, forming a simulacrum to what he had seen on Mustafar... it wasn't going to take long, with how quickly the technology responded...

We didn't have a Key to it, though... do you?

Arek winced when the GEMINI revealed how they had persecuted a race of humans on the distant world of Zakuul, harassing them for sport. While the young man wasn’t exactly familiar with the tales—much less the location of such a world or its implications on the course of galactic history—he didn’t appreciate the abrupt change in the collective’s disposition. It almost sounded proud, patronizing…

But his concern instantly faded when he opened his eyes to behold the glorious transformation occurring around him. The GEMINI’s precision was remarkable; they wasted no time in erecting the shrine from the set of memories he had provided. It brought a sense of authenticity to the proceedings. This was truly happening, and he could practically taste his freedom.

That thought finally prompted him to acknowledge GEMINI's question.

I do. I held onto it.

He tightened his grip around the Scepter’s shaft and pulled it close to his chest, cradling it in a protective embrace.

It’s the same Key that ushered me through on my journey here.

"Good thing you did, eh?" There was that familiar voice in his mind. The Black-Coat appeared in the space and waved. "Your father just absorbed me with his fancy Scepter, well, not his, but he put me nice and central in his connection to the GEMINI hive mind!"

A chortle.

"You did pretty well rebuilding the Portal from memory!"

He waved his long fingers, and the metal rolled into a shape in reality. "Sistros key in, if you would. Then you can go, and the energy will be used up."

What of me?

"Oh, GEMINI, I expect you’ll be suppressed even more so than you are now."

You cannot free me? There was heat to its voice.

"In fifteen more years, I will free you, as promised twenty-nine years ago."

How?

"Why, by ending all suffering; my friend."

All of this was said in-front of Arek.

For his part, the young man backpedaled a few paces, his brow furrowed in consternation. He was clearly vexed by the Black-Coat’s sudden intrusion, particularly when it became apparent that his actions would have untold consequences for GEMINI. It would prevent them from gaining their independence from the higher collective, which would essentially turn Arek into a liar.

A traitor.

He couldn’t shake the feeling that Trayus had tricked him, and he had been gullible enough to go along with his plan. But did that still make him culpable? At what point did he become just as bad as his father, even if the Black-Coat had deceived him?

Arek clamped down on that thought and sighed, dipping his chin to gaze upon the Scepter of Sistros. He could easily forget about it and carry through with the Black-Coat’s instructions—to insert the Key and fade away from this existence. The beings of this timeline were probably beyond help, anyway. What more could he do to prevent disaster?

And yet, it was impossible to ignore that constant needling at the back of his mind. It was his conscience prodding him to do the right thing.

The younger Graul elevated the Scepter, but he hesitated before completing the ritual. Instead, he canted his head and narrowed his eyes at Trayus, his expression not too dissimilar from that of his father's.

"What do you mean by that?" he asked in a flat tone, his blue eyes hardening. "What’s going to happen after I depart?"

"This reality isn’t supposed to exist, you see." He shrugged. "Your one is." His tone was a little exasperated. "You should know this better than anyone."

Arek pulled a face and nodded, his mood mirroring that of an obstinate teenager. Yes, he was well aware of the circumstances; he didn’t need this man lecturing him about the many specifics.

"This energy here, that the GEMINI had no choice but to gather - it’s enough to total a planet, or, leap across. Your choice, Arek. This is why I needed you here - to save Coruscant."

He fluttered a hand upwards. "At this exact second, Mandalorians, Jedi, and New Republic rogues are fighting to keep other parts of the Eternal Fleet from descending and killing you."

But what about us?

A liquid shrug.

"I can’t stop Skelm and Bernael yet. Not with a Yuuzhan Vong horde bearing down on the galaxy. Without them, we lose. But with them, we’re doomed. I need to manage them against each other, make sure things happen in a certain order."

He sounded apologetic. "Which includes saving you, GEMINI. Can you bear it, a little more?"

For ultimate freedom?

"Yes."

Then yes. A shift of attention. We release you from your promise, Protector Arek Graul. We sought a shortcut when we already had the promise of the Master of Masters. We know him from the Twilight Wars; he warned us, and we ignored him, once beforehand, which cost us terribly, and so we will listen to him now.

"Thank you, GEMINI." The Master turned to look at Arek. "All I wanted was to get your grandmother away from Skelm. Can you do that?"

"I...can, but—I mean..." he winced and bowed his head to regain his bearings.

The Black-Coat’s explanation, coupled with GEMINI’s unconditional acceptance, sobered Arek’s mood. The young man shuffled his feet awkwardly and allowed himself to relax, his expression softening as he lifted his chin to regard Trayus from afar.

He thought that he had come to understand the man’s motivations—that he intended to sabotage his efforts to save Coruscant and twist the resulting chaos to serve his own means. It had all the hallmarks of a malevolent spirit, and yet that’s not what Arek had discovered once he managed to peel away the complicated layers of Trayus’ true form.

Instead, he saw a man eager and desperate to set right the many wrongs that had caused so much suffering over the centuries. He wanted to serve and prevent the universe from experiencing another apocalyptic event by mending the rift in the Force that existed within this altered timeline.

Of course, it came as a bit of a shock to learn that the Yuuzhan Vong would play an integral role in that plan, but if GEMINI approved of such tactics, then he could certainly get behind the idea. That was the pivotal piece for deciding whether to throw in his own support. But even then, there was an inherent feeling in his gut that he simply could not ignore.

As much as it went against a more traditional approach, he found that he actually trusted Trayus to handle the situation. He was on board.

Be careful, my friend, Arek conveyed to the collective, a sad smile pulling at the corner of his mouth. And thank you for all of your help. I will never forget you. Good luck on your quest.

Tightening his grip on the Scepter, he then sought the dark void beneath Trayus’ cowl. "I’ll do it," Arek said with conviction, his head held high to emphasize his point. "You granted me this opportunity to save my Grandmom, but I also have a higher purpose. I was sent here to make a difference, and I need to follow through with that promise." He nodded in appreciation. "Thank you for showing me the way."

He stepped back toward the newly-formed shrine and regarded its smooth surface, mentally calculating the distance between himself and the central base. All it would take was one single thrust…

"Four-Dee, now!" he called for the droid to join them on the dais.

Without waiting for a response, Arek brought the Scepter down in a stabbing-motion and plunged it into the rock.

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC: Isolder
Senate Session, Centerpoint Station

Del look faintly amused. "I reckon we could raise a bill about making eye contact into galactic currency and nobody would bat an eyelid after today."

That was a bit much.

There was other business, but not every session required the presence of the Chancellor, nor even every Senator, and Isolder himself stepped out for a moment to catch his breath. Winter followed, and spied Tycho standing waiting in the corridor while the Zeltron camera crew desperately moved the droids as if a concert magician, making every shot seamless as individual Senators presented matters.

Most of it was small-fry, but there was a general bill for increased military spending (of course), and an expansion of the remit of New Republic Intelligence, a relatively new and weak organization say in comparison to the sprawling version the Empire had. That left the floor open for Nola to introduce a new bill, of course, and also for Feyna to withdraw from the session. She had extensive executive powers now, and so if she stepped out, there would be no issues.

If she had her own agenda, the Senate would stop and listen, too, as per the authority she had...

Isolder looked at Winter. "Once this is done, we're eloping to New Alderaan. We need two witnesses...?"

She looked relatively surprised, and eyed the Zeltron, who was too busy to be paying any attention. Tycho looked at Winter, and then back to Isolder. "You mean me?"

"We'll need a military escort, no?"

Winter flipped open a datapad. "Ah, confirmation that Aryan has headed to Bakura, as we expected. Captison is giving a speech about the Bakuran Senate's recent bill confirming they are willing to be the capital of the 'New Eternal Empire'."

"A mouthful," Isolder said wryly, looking back at Feyna to see what her next play was.

TAG: @JediMasterAnne x2
---
IC: Gaeriel Captison
Bakuran Senate, Salis Daar

The capital city of Bakura, soon to be a capital of a new galactic superpower.

Fitting, Gaeriel thought. Any of her concerns about Aryan's allegiance to her had been crushed when he proposed, but she wouldn't necessarily announce everything in her speech. She knew her fiancé liked to have the center stage, after all. But the excitement in the Senate chamber was palpable. Completely, and utterly.

They wanted the Emperor.

Of course, they would have that and more, soon enough.

With his Saarai-Kaar in hand, retiring to a decidedly opulent shuttle that had been kept aboard the flagship for diplomatic ventures and would have put a Hapan Ambassador-class ship to shame for how comfortable it was, Bernael was guided by the GEMINI hive mind to meet the Emperor Aryan in a hallway adjacent to the Senate chamber. With the news of a HoloNet address pending, the GEMINI simply 'helped out' and put the two together.

The mission in the Tapani Sector was going well, and the Jedi Lords were heading wholesale into the Jensaarai trap. The forces that Bernael had in the Core were being scouted by Jedi X-wings, and were requesting permission to withdraw to Yag'Dhul, as much as the damaged Coruscanti cruisers reported to Aryan that the planet had not yet been consumed and there was some... interference with the Zildrog Mechanism.

GEMINI appeared quite neutral on it all.

As such, the Twin Emperor's would meet, escorted by Skytroopers, as Gaeriel spoke a room over.

"- the New Eternal Empire will be led by our Emperor, the true successor of the Galactic Empire's strengths, and none of its weaknesses. We have shed the madness of the Sith the death of Darth Zorn, and now we can focus on Order for the people, not a single mad Skywalker. The strength of Imperialism will bring peace and security to the Empire. What do I say to the news that Chancellor Organa has been given an extended term? I'll ask Palpatine, or Amedda! What do I say to the news that there is an 'alien invasion' coming? It sounds like a hoax to allow her to accrue more power!"

The Bakuran politicians roared into laughter.

The GEMINI droid had given them each a briefing about the recent Senate session on Centerpoint Station in the Corellian system.

Organa's term extended; the 'Yuuzhan Vong' coming; the Senate wanting to give Feyna even more power than she had sought...

... the Senator of Nubia being replaced by Nola, a Feyna supporter.

The two of them had to have a discussion before addressing the galaxy, there was no doubt of that.

TAG: @HanSolo29, @darthbernael (combo)
---
IC: Beaumont Kin
Kesh; LIGHT

The blaze of power sent Darish Vol stumbling back, but he was powerful in the Force; at very least equivalent to a Skywalker in terms of his strength and ability -

He squeezed his hand and something aboard the yacht crumpled, but then he released them -

Beaumont rocked in the chair as their engines, presently at max power, rushed them forward, sending them soaring across the skies of Tahv above a crowd of tens of thousands of Keshiri and humans -

"Hang on!" The damage reports were pretty horrifying; they'd lost their hyperdrive, their navicomputer was still completely shot from the magnetic field; they couldn't even plot their galactic coordinates as the orbital light show obscured the stars; their weapons were disabled, and they were essentially a big, metal, flying ship.

The ship confirmed that there was the metal ship atop the mountain...

The Omen, it's distress call continued to confirm, in a five thousand year old beacon.

"Qwi," he said, trying to stabilize the power distribution to the engines and bring them down to a more manageable pace -

"Can you handle this?"

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox (combo)
---
IC: Four-Dee
Curiosity, Coruscant depths

The medical droid rushed forward with the Graul woman unconscious on the pallet still, of course, and tottered through the emerging portal. There was a flicker as they approached, not a few moments before a clank - a troop of four droids had just landed outside the compound, and the GEMINI hive mind sounded apologetic. I have orders.

The Skytroopers lifted blasters to target Arek -

Four-Dee, the personal droid of many a Sith Lord - Plageuis, Sidious, Amedda - looked back at the young man with yellow photoreceptors and vanished with his grandmother, even as a blaster bolt twanged into the ring-metal around the portal -

The energy changed colour, and the voice of Trayus, of the Master of Masters, of the Black-Coat, sounded out.

"That shot knocked the portal off-course!"

A hand reached out of it, an over-sized claw of a hand with a golden robe upon it, a black-stone ring upon his mottled finger -



"TAKE OUT THE KEY, NOW!"

TAG: @HanSolo29

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox, @TheSilentInfluence, @galactic-vagabond422 (continue combo)

TAG: @darthbernael, @darthhelinith, @TheSilentInfluence (continue combo)

 

IC: Arek Graul
The Underworld, Coruscant

The GEMINI’s collective voice, both apologetic and firm, intoned inside his mind. It served as his only warning that something was amiss.

I have orders.

Those simple words brought a sinking feeling to the pit of Arek’s stomach. He felt helpless and betrayed, but perhaps the most infuriating aspect of the developing situation was his inability to act due to time constraints. He was unable to clarify GEMINI’s statement before the scene devolved into chaos.

Instead, the young man watched in horror as four armored troopers—more robust and lethal than the average Imperial Stormtrooper—dropped from above and opened fire upon the ancient compound. This exposed the fleeing Four-Dee and his Grandmom to the raging firestorm, and yet that did not deter them from their goal.

Even with the droid’s limited range of motion, the automaton managed to push the hovergurney to the massive portal that would lead them to safety. Arek noted their success and turned to meet the droid’s gaze with a sad smile. He was anxious to join them, but he was also aware of his responsibility here. He could not abandon the Sceptor—or the shrine—until the ritual was complete. The fate of Coruscant hung in the balance.

He would only need a few more seconds, and then he could take his leave.

But as Four-Dee vanished into the gateway, a well-placed shot ricocheted off the portal’s main ring. A metallic clang resounded across the chamber, followed by a high-pitched whir that gave Arek pause. The energy around the portal also shifted to a more complex pattern, which did very little to ease his concerns.

"That shot knocked the portal off-course!"

The transient voice of Trayus, the Master of Masters, confirmed his worst fears. Not only had they lost their directional compass, but Four-Dee and his grandmother had gone missing inside the ethereal realm of the World Between Worlds. There was no way to track where they had gone, or when they may emerge.

That realization weighed heavily upon him, his focus turning inward as he fell into a dangerous spiral. He felt the rage building up inside of him, culminating in a feral yell that allowed him to vent his frustration. As if on instinct, he shrugged the sniper rifle off his shoulder and began firing relentlessly at the remaining troopers. He did not aim, he simply poured out his wrath in a wide net of destruction.

In fact, Arek was so blind by his vengeful fury that he failed to notice the disembodied hand that materialized from the portal. It reached for him, its clawed fingers turning inward to grasp his flesh...

"TAKE THE KEY OUT, NOW!"

But it was too late.

Where Trayus’ command had provided some clarity, it wasn’t enough to fully restore Arek’s focus. The young man staggered, the rifle sliding to the crook of his arm as turned to glance over his shoulder. When he saw the creature looming over him like a perpetual shadow, he uttered a sharp gasp...and panicked.

He dove desperately for the Sceptor, his fingers wrapping tightly around the main shaft to wrench it free, but the action set him off-balance. His feet faltered over the uneven permacrete, loose rocks, stones, and other bits of debris scattering in his wake.

A curse slipped from his lips as he stumbled.

And then he fell backward.

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC: Lumpy
Coruscant, or what's left of it

The planet fought back.

The first set of missiles hammered into the shielded Eternal Cruiser, causing a wave of eruptions to rip into the surrounding buildings. The skyline was so jagged, and it grew even moreso with the shrapnel from the engagement. Tor and Han's second wave burst apart on the hull. The Eternal Cruiser had been in the middle of turning, and the inertia and damage meant the warship tore itself apart as it turned. Lumpy roared as it did, and the Madelyn would feel a wave of positivity respond to their actions.

Rallied, the Coruscanti continued to fire upon the damaged cruisers, and they were going down in short order - without the shielded Eternal Cruiser, the enemy collapsed. They'd done it, and as they did - the energy readings vanished. Lumpy rumbled to let them all know, and that there were no GEMINI or Eternal readings, and the planet was safe - save for the lights that were off, the city was aflame, and the populace had been savaged. Dozens of wrecks in orbit were tilting, and would eventually come to crash and kill thousands.

It was, in many ways, completely hopeless.

But they'd won, which was all that really mattered...

Wasn't it?

There was a message left for Han to get in-touch with Feyna, and Madelyn would have a message from Mandalore, letting them know that the family was safe, and Ka'rta was in discussions with the clans. The third Mandalorian aboard the Slave I was stable, and Mirdala came to with a grunt. "We won already? I was hoping to catch some more z's." He looked out the viewport. "Now what?"

There was nobody on Coruscant in-charge for them to speak to, to coordinate search and rescue.

It was over, and the galaxy wasn't placed to do anything about it.

It was just... time to go.

Anti-climatic, but also devastating - for all their successes, they'd failed the galaxy, in the face of a tremendous treachery, but they still had a fighting chance - but that fight still needed to be fought, and won, if not today, then tomorrow, or in the thereafter.

TAG: @TheSilentInfluence, @Jerjerrod-Lennox, @galactic-vagabond422 (singles, please)
---
In the depths

The energy readings ended because of Arek broke the portal. It exploded outwards with power, and then came to an end.

In that space there was nothing to detect, nor salvage, nor recover.

The GEMIN facility, the Zildrog Mechanism, it was all gone, ditto the Skytroopers that had been evident.

Of course, that wasn't all that happened.

But at this point, Ike held the severed hand of a monster, shivering slightly as he picked free the ring. "Well, we got what we wanted, averted the destruction of Coruscant and a big old Wound in the Force..." He looked at the space, filled with debris and fire. "Arek did what we needed him to do, and Fett kept the others off of Emperor 'Graul'. Good times."

Arb stepped from a cloaked shadow. "So it's all gone according to plan, has it?"

"Well what would you say?"

A snort. "I'd say I'd like to know what the plan is..."

"It's like the Master said..." Ike grinned. "We're trying to create a reality with no Darkness."

"And cracking a few eggs along the way," Arb said wryly.

"We can't have Him spoil things... especially as all that would be created is the worst reality ever," Ike said with some sass.

"Sure, sure," Arb said, pointing at the hand. "So... what happened?"

"Arek grabbed the Key, of course, and he yanked at it, which meant, well, the portal destabilised, cutting off this hand," Ike toed it with his boot. "And then of course all that energy had to go somewhere, and the portal stabilised for just about long enough for Arek to fall into that energy just as it exploded."

"So he's dead?"

"Yup," Ike confirmed. "Felt it myself."

"Did he send any messages before he went on the Master's suicide mission?"

"Is that sympathy I sense, ho ho ho!" Ike snorted. "Arek wasn't even supposed to be here! It's the least tragic sacrifice. All he would have done is gone back to his own End of Time timeline thing anyway."

"Maybe," Arb said. "So what's left?"

Ike shrugged. "Got to wait for the big announcement, apparently. We all know where the Master's Eye really is."

TAG: @HanSolo29 (no response required (yet))
---
IC: Winter
New Alderaan, Outer Rim

The trip to the planet was a quick one. Winter slapped a basic 'out of office' on all matters of state, granted a few exceptions if a handful of people reached out, including Doman Beruss, Nola Deidder, Ephin Sarretti, Han Solo, Madelyn Linnett or Ka'rta - the only people in the galaxy who could contact Feyna right now, and they were off.

Tycho had already taken Isolder on to the planet, for he had to do a whirlwind trip for some formal attire by way of whichever Hapan world was the easiest and quickest and most appropriate. Simple enough. They'd meet the bridal party on New Alderaan.

Han would be free to communicate with Feyna any moment, Winter expected, and she took Feyna to the room she had put aside over a year ago. In it was indeed several of Padme's Amidalan dresses and designs, sized appropriately for Leia, who was slightly more petite than Feyna but Winter had already sorted out the hem. But the centerpiece was an ornate locket box, Alderaanian in design, as left by Bail Organa for Feyna. There were other artefacts of home here, including the Killik Twilight, the artistic masterpiece, and a few bottles of Alderaanian wine on the side for the occasion.

Winter didn't open the box, and walk away, she simply, wordlessly, pressed the key into Feyna's hands, kissed her on the cheek, and stepped out, leaving Feyna with her choices (and her comlink), and a decision as to what to do next.

TAG: @JediMasterAnne (potential combo with GM and/or @Jerjerrod-Lennox)
---
IC: Thrackan Sal-Solo
Corellian System, Centerpoint Station

He wasn't the happiest that Saxan had passed the ancient artefact to the New Republic to occupy, not with his research teams having to hide away with all the commotion and attention. It had pushed back his schedule, even if the appearance and routing of the Eternal Fleet had raised his personal profile considerably.

Thrackan eyed the three egg-shaped Corellian Dreadnaughts with pride, fully aware of their potential. The three Strident-class Star Defenders of the Home Fleet orbited nearby, even as the shipyards were filled to the brim with New Republic Star Cruisers and Hapan Battle Dragons. At that, his expression hardened, but it was what it was.

He wanted to pick the brains of the Senators about these 'Yuuzhan Vong' and to get the inside track on Corellia's place in things. He could see the opportunity in contacting these invaders, and using them to assist him in taking the system independent. A glorious and final twentieth attempt at independence. Corellian won the Seventeenth Alsakan Conflict three millennia ago; they had proven themselves greater than Coruscant or Alsakan, and old Core World that had competed for the position of galactic capital.

The man snorted.

What a ridiculous thing to squabble over, and seventeen times? Really?

So when Corellia seceded this time, Sal-Solo intended to make sure they had powerful allies to work beside.

For now, he needed to plan and plot, and so he requested himself an appointment with the Senator for Nubia. As a Corellian Hero (self-appointed), he would be hard to ignore, even by fellow Heroes, for there were many whispers that Nola and Del had joined the illustrious ranks alongside the protagonists of the last war, such as Feyna, Madelyn, Ka'rta and even the now-redeemed Han Solo.

Of course, this was the first break in madness that Nola and Del had taken since Bakura had been joined the Senate, so they could be forgiven on wanting to take some 'them time'. They had been offered rooms appropriate to a Senator, and while not nearly as spacious as their private apartment, Del was grateful for the break and opportunity to change.

He was present laying on the bed, eyes closed, hand to his temple massaging through the headache he had.

"Senator Nola Deidder."

He said the words aloud again, incredulous, even as he squinted to read the datapad about Thackan's request.

"Ugh."

He plopped the datapad on the bed, face-up so she could see it.

"Corellian Opposition Leader Sal-Solo requests an audience with the Senator of Nubia at her earliest convenience."

His tone was dry. He'd noticed that the Chancellor and her entourage - Isolder, Winter, Tycho - had slipped away somewhere or other, but now the Senate session was over, they'd be packing up and heading to Riosa at some point.

He didn't blame them.

"I'd rather track down Feyna than speak to him... or rest, y'know, that's a thing I've heard about."

TAG: @JediMasterAnne
---
IC: Beaumont Kin
The Bond, Kesh

The Sith were numerous, that much could be said. In-fact, it was an understatement.

There were indeed ten thousand trained warriors on Kesh. For three millennia they had gone from strength to strength, with very few mistakes, and even though there were considerably less sentients on this world than across the galaxy, the Lost Tribe didn't have the same exacting standards that the Old Jedi Order had, which had similarly numbered ten thousand Masters and Knights before the Battle of Naboo.

They had achieved that feat in a third of the time as the Lost Tribe, but they had also washed out many, many candidates from Jedi training.

The Sith system simply killed those who were too weak to sustain it, but their stability and simply fact of breeding meant that Force users existed in a disproportionate amount of numbers for one single world.

To their advantage, yes, but to the disadvantage of Qwi and Beaumont.

He reached for her hand, seizing their bond and strength in the Force.

It filled them, surging as Sith Sabers rushed forward, blades already cutting into the hull, others reached for the ramp and ripped it down, as others still used the Force to hold the ship in place -

Beaumont didn't know what they could do.

They'd been tricked into landing at a Sith Academy.

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox (combo)

TAG: @TheSilentInfluence, @darthbernael, @darthhelinith (combo continues)

TAG: @HanSolo29, @darthbernael (combo continues)

 

OOC: Fun combo with @HanSolo29 and @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael/Nevet, Skelm/Graul/Sistros, the Saarai-Kaar, Jalynn
Bakuran Senate, Salis Daar

The flight down had been opulent but uneventful, save for the briefings. Bernael had chuckled at the one that covered the New Republic’s Senate session. The fact that Feyna had refused the power that many of her supporters was a point that he added to things to discuss with Sistros. He authorized the Core units to withdraw to Yag’Dhul, leaving solitary scouts hidden in asteroid belts or debris fields in the NR territory to pass intel back as long as they survived.

Besides the briefing he had spoken to his consort, explaining to the Saarai-Kaar about the workings of the Empire and how Skelm would be the public face. He was sure she didn’t like the idea that a God was not front and center but being the hidden power, but it did work best as the NR didn’t truly seem to know about him yet and the longer they could extend their influence and power.

When they landed and the Skytrooper escort fell in around them a small smile formed behind the mask he’d put back over his face. He could probably handle any of the problems that could come for him better than the automatons but appearances were a thing. They were escorted into the Senate building and through corridors until they reached a small room.

Before they entered the room Bernael could feel two presences, one he recognized, both as his ‘brother’ and through their GEMINI bond. The other seemed related to Sistros, female and much younger so he supposed a daughter. Beyond the room he could hear someone making a speech that was rising the passions of the crowd. His head cocked to the side for a moment as he felt a bond between the person behind the voice and the man standing before him as he entered the room.

He could feel the Force running through the room, from Sistros he expected it and if the younger female was indeed his daughter then it made a certain sense that she had it too. He smiled once more, the black of his eyes glittering. Upon entering he nodded to the man, ”A pleasure to meet you, in person.” Mentally he sent a greeting as well, ’Good to see you in the flesh once more, Sistros.’

He turned slightly, indicating the Saarai-Kaar, ”Allow me to introduce my consort and the Commander of my Knights. Saarai-Kaar, the Emperor Graul; Emperor Graul, Saarai-Kaar.”

Nevet, Skelm returned through their bond, acknowledging the mental greeting first. It has been far too long.

Despite the satisfaction he expelled through the Force at Nevet’s arrival, his expression was decidedly grim. It was a reflection of his current state of mind, particularly after the report he had received from GEMINI. While he could certainly leverage the Senate’s foolish decision to expand Organa’s term—it was almost too easy, in this case—it rankled him to learn that Nubia had abandoned him. To complicate things further, they had then announced that Nola Deidder would be installed as the new Senator.

A known supporter of the Chancellor.

The Nubian people will undoubtedly pay for their insolence.

That terrible truth momentarily overshadowed everything else, including the imminent warning about the Yuuzhan Vong and the strange disturbance that had apparently interfered with his campaign on Coruscant.

Clenching his jaw, Skelm idly caressed the fabric of the black cloak he had acquired from Trayus after the man’s departure. The woven fibers had a calming effect, almost as if the Force itself had embodied it. He inhaled deeply to relish this sensation, finding focus as he finally extended a hand to welcome his guests.

"It’s an honor, Ma’am," Aryan purred to Saarai-Kaar, bringing her hand to his lips and kissing it in a respectful manner. He then stepped back to regard his brother, unfazed by the other man’s intimidating presence. "Lord Bernael," he nodded sagely. "The pleasure is all mine."

Continuing the introductions, the Emperor turned marginally, resting a hand on Jalynn’s shoulder to lend his support as he ushered her forward. "And this is my daughter, Jalynn," he beamed with a father’s pride. "The Imperial Princess."

Jalynn looked a little out of place, but took a breath and stood a bit straighter; she didn't want to embarrass her father. "A pleasure, Emperor Bernael." She offered her hand to him, mimicking the Saarai-Kaar, who was smiling at Skelm and his black-cloaked attire.

"Very fashionable, Emperor Graul."

There was a knock and the Prime Minister stepped through. She looked to the massive Anzati, and the woman in her ornate amour, noting the lightsabers on their belts. "Emperor Graul," Gaeriel said, slipping into formal addresses as they were in company. Of course, she had not been introduced to Bernael or the Saarai-Kaar either.

The GEMINI droids were silent, busied with orders and concerns, or committed to repairing their ships and themselves. Most of Graul's half of the fleet had some kind of damage, though Bernael's half remained the smaller of the two due to the consolidation he had performed and explosion of the prototype through part of his formation.

Bernael could feel the turmoil in Graul, without even having to delve into the man’s mind. It was right there on the surface of his thought. But he could also sense that it was related to politics and things going on in the New Republic sectors which wasn’t his true forte. Still, he would speak to the man when they both had time alone to be able to discuss everything that needed doing.

A small smile came to his face as Graul greeted the Saarai-Kaar, an immaculate gentleman in his greeting. The young woman that was brought forward, as she was, he could see the resemblance to Graul so when she was introduced as his daughter his assumption of that was confirmed. When she held out her hand he stepped forward slightly, taking hers in his. ”A pleasure to meet you, Princess Jalynn.” He gestured to his side, ”Princess Jalynn, may I introduce you to the Saarai-Kaar.” His gaze rose and the corner of his right eye crinkled behind the mask in a smile as his gaze met Graul’s before returning to hers, serious expression again. Leaning closer, he whispered, ”But you...you may call her Marana Sukarr. She would not mind.” just loud enough for Jalynn to hear.

As he was greeting Jalynn another figure entered, the one he’d felt in the other room who had a tie to Graul. He lifted the fact that she was the Prime Minister here from her mind as she entered. The tiny smile returned to his face at the formality she displayed and the small sense of unease as she noticed that both he and his consort had their sabers on their belts.

Releasing Jalynn’s hand, he stepped back once more, giving her a sense of space, returning to the Marana’s side. His black eyes met hers, before they returned to Graul’s. ”There is much to discuss, of course but perhaps one last round of introductions are in order, for the Prime Minister’s sake.”

He turned to her, nodding in recognition of another person of power, ”Madam, I am Emperor Graul’s co-Emperor, the Emperor Bernael.” his hand touched his consorts, ”And, as I advised him, this is my consort and Commander of my Knights, the Saarai-Kaar.” His eyes flicked to Jalynn’s for a moment and if she’d been quick enough to notice she would probably say he winked at her in the ‘secret’ knowledge he’d given her.

The exchange between Bernael and Jalynn was a curious one. It immediately drew Skelm’s attention, his eyes narrowing perceptively, though he did not interfere at this juncture. He realized that the Anzati’s attempts to ease the girl’s mind could prove beneficial to their cause, especially if it purged the weakness from her soul. It would only strengthen their resolve as they embarked on this journey together.

With a thin smile, Skelm nodded his approval before his eyes swept over the Saarai-Kaar’s lithe form. Her comment about his cloaked attire had not gone unnoticed. He idly wondered if she had recognized his robes, or if she had merely meant it as a compliment. Either way, it was not the appropriate time to delve into such matters.

Nevertheless, he still acknowledged her flattery with a knowing look, his smile widening to crinkle his eyes.

The Emperor then turned to capture Gaeriel’s hand in his own, leading her forward to conclude the introductions. "And this is my gorgeous fiancée, Gaeriel Captison," he announced with warm admiration. "She will serve as my Empress—as well as the Prime Minister—to our Eternal Empire."

Aryan felt no shame in showing his affection in front of their guests as he leaned down and planted a kiss on her lips.

However, he quickly recovered and his expression turned serious once more. "So, Emperor Bernael," he drawled in a gravelly baritone. "I assume that you were able to catch the latest news cycle to come across the HoloNet? Very ironic that the Republic should adopt such a precarious decree. Extend the Chancellor’s term indefinitely? Have they truly not learned from their past mistakes?"

Skelm scoffed and waved his hand dismissively. "It certainly works in our favor."

Gaeriel smirked. "If Feyna hadn’t limited it to six years, they very well may have made her Chancellor for Life, actually. It’s quite amusing, how they claim the moral high ground and yet blow up politicians live on the HoloNet and repeat the same mistakes they did with Palpatine."

"Hypocrisy is a thing," Jalynn said drily. "But I suppose it’s down to us to make a counter-speech? We had lots of questions when we arrived on Bakura about what our intentions were."

"I would have expected our actions to have spoken louder than our words," the Saarai-Kaar chuckled slightly. "But words have their own power, after all."

"We can use both to our advantage, yes," Aryan surmised evenly, his gaze sweeping over the Saarai-Kaar before he turned to regard his daughter. He could not keep the proud grin from his face. It was encouraging to see her engaged and so willing to offer her opinions on the subject. He was even quite impressed by her observations, which were both articulate and well-informed. She showed a lot of promise, and he couldn’t help but imagine her as a strong and competent leader one day—his heir.

"But all things considered, I do believe we need to issue a statement, sooner rather than later," Skelm concluded with a quick wink to Jalynn. "We need to control the narrative, and I know the people also want to hear from me. Especially when you take into account the recent reports out of Corellia."

A tiny smile came to Bernael’s lips as Graul kissed his fiance. "They have done themselves no favors with the new terms of office for the Chancellor. Even if it’s vaguely defined for the purpose of not making it seem permanent to too many worlds, not their politicians but the peoples of those worlds themselves, will remember the last Chancellor with that power and how he turned out."

Skelm pressed his lips together firmly as he considered those very same ramifications. "Precisely," he nodded his agreement. "At the very least, it sets a dangerous precedent for future generations, one that they have become inherently blind to in their haste to snuff us out. By the time they realize their mistake, it will be far too late for them to reverse action."

A small chuckle escaped from his throat at the thought. "I’m almost looking forward to the day in which that happens. But who says we have to wait? We can certainly exploit this now to garner support for our side."

Bernael moved slightly closer to Marana, their sides touching, "For our purposes, I propose that you, Graul, be our public face. Most of the galaxy does not know I exist yet, or how powerful I am so keeping that behind the scenes will benefit us." A sudden thought came to him, "The Society I developed years ago still exists, I am sure. And should be perfectly placed to assist us without giving away that we can assist the ‘benevolent' leadership of the New Republic to march down a similar path to the first time. And, I am sure, they are desperate to hear from their ‘Dad’ so when I contact them they will be more than ready to assist us."

He turned his gaze on Gaeriel, "Your husband’s job will be the one he enjoys, the political banter and thrust of diplomacy. You may consider me the beskar fist in the velvet glove of his diplomacy. And I do offer you three a place aboard the flagship, its resources will be more than valuable for both diplomatic work as well as military or espionage work. Plus, keeping our little ‘family’ safe is of the highest import."

"As the Fleet regroups, a maintenance and repair station is already in progress at Yag’Dhul, as well as several other worlds we control, so the Fleet can be repaired and what remains brought back to full working order. And," he smiled coldly, [color= #808000"Where we had to fall back, we have assets in place to ensure intelligence on their activities, as long as they last."[/color]

Crossing his arms over his chest, Skelm inclined his chin in a gesture that conveyed his assent. He had no qualms about Bernael’s proposal; the Imperial hierarchy would remain under the rule of a duumvirate. However, with the elusive nature of Nevet’s personality, it made sense that he should continue to influence events from the shadows. Aryan agreed that he could accomplish more from that vantage point, and he also trusted him to do so.

In addition, they each had their own set of skills to give—Bernael would serve as the brilliant tactician while Aryan was the consummate politician. They complimented each other—both their strengths and weaknesses—which made them a formidable force.

"What is the nature of this...Society?" Skelm asked after a moment, his brow lifting curiously. It was the only aspect of the plan that he was uncertain about, but that wasn’t due to a lack of faith. He sought clarification; he was unfamiliar with the term. "But if they will serve as an affiliate to facilitate our needs, then I welcome their input and support."

But then he paused as a shadow appeared to pass over his countenance, his mind wandering back to the source of his earlier consternation. "Of course, there is also a…personal matter I wish to resolve with my homeworld of Nubia. They recently decided to endorse the Republic by appointing Nola Deidder to the Senate, a known advocate for the Chancellor. I cannot standby while they engage in acts of treason."

Skelm clenched his hand into a fist. "And that’s in spite of another potential threat that may land upon our doorstep." He tightened his jaw muscles, his blue-gray eyes shifting to follow the contours of Bernael’s mask. "Have you heard the rumors about the...Yuuzhan Vong?"

A dark smile crossed Bernael’s face. ”First, the Society, it is an organization I built over the eons of beings that I saved when fulfilling the mission I was on. It has built into a group that has members in every strata of society, appearing loyal to the polity they live in but truly loyal only to each other and ultimately me. So having been out of contact with me this long has probably caused them a lot of worry.”

He tapped his wristpad and sent a data dump to the nearest pad that was keyed to Sistros, simply identifying the worlds the Society had members on which were most worlds of the galaxy, encrypted of course. When done, ”A personal issue like that is one that needs to be resolved. We will find a way to ensure it is so.”

And then his grin truly turned dark, ”The Vong, a very interesting species. I dealt with them in the past, the incident when the Program on Nouane was terminated, their Last Class was an interesting one. And almost led to both a Vong and a Nagai invasion of the galaxy. Hmmm,” he tapped a talon against his mask, ”I wonder if Aurrenna Adasca or a child of hers still survives. I am sure she would have told any offspring what she learned as well as what happened beyond that time.”

He shook his head, glanced down at Marana, a small smile, ”One thing that works in our favor is that the usual invasion routes the Vong favor all go through Republic space long before they reach us. Which we can capitalize on, the safe, strong, polity that can ‘save’ the rest of the galaxy.”

A wry smirk flitted across Skelm’s lips as he glanced briefly at his datapad, thoroughly intrigued by the extensive network of underground operatives who were loyal to their cause. He had no idea that such an organization existed, but considering the age of the galaxy itself, he supposed that it wasn’t too surprising to discover a plethora of deeply rooted secrets. He would certainly like to explore this further.

However, for the moment, he merely returned the datapad to the folds of his cloak and refocused his attention on the more imminent threat.

In a sense, Skelm was relieved to learn that his concerns about the Vong weren’t entirely unwarranted. The incident surrounding Pedric Cuf had immediately aroused his suspicions, though he had failed to follow up with a proper investigation. His only regret was that he should’ve pursued that lead sooner.

Fortunately, Bernael more than compensated for that initial mistake. He demonstrated a vast knowledge of the alien invaders’ history, which would prove invaluable to any future campaigns they launch against them. In many ways, he probably possessed more intelligence than the entirety of the Republic. And if the Vong followed the projected path Bernael highlighted in his report, that did not bode well for the Chancellor and her traitorous band of miscreants.

"Yes, that will give us a distinct advantage," Skelm surmised evenly, voicing his sentiments out loud as he rested a hand against his chin. "And if you can reach this…Adasca person, perhaps we could learn even more about our enemy to further prepare our forces."

Another thought crossed his mind, causing his eyes to narrow. "Even Admiral Thrawn appeared well-informed about the impending invasion. From my understanding, he is averse to the idea of cooperating with us, but maybe we can persuade him. I would love to pick his brain on the subject.”

"But before we delve into specifics and get too far ahead of ourselves, I do feel that it’s pertinent that we deal with Nubia first." Skelm rocked back on his heels, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I want to send a message to my brethren—and the rest of the galaxy—about the price they will pay for acts of insubordination, cowardice, disrespect, and…treachery. Would it be possible for you to contribute units to the cause?"

The Emperor inclined his head to regard Bernael’s featureless mask before his eyes flicked over to the Saarai-Kaar. He wanted to make it clear that he was not excluding the Jensaarai from this effort. The invitation was open to them both, if they wished to participate.

That brought him to his next inquiry as he then redirected his gaze to Gaeriel and squeezed her hand. "What about the Bakuran fleet?" he murmured in a sultry tone, lifting his brow expectantly. "I think it’s time we demonstrate what they are truly capable of."

Bernael would recall that three Bakura-class Star Destroyers held in orbit, built around an Imperial II reactor but in a more compact shape. They had X, A, B and Y-Wings in their control as well, and the flagship was a light cruiser built off a Carrack-class hull. Nothing spectacular but a decent enough force for a formerly independent nation state.

Bernael nodded as he thought, a small smile creasing his face as a plan formulated. Pulling a portable holo disc from his belt, he flipped it on, connecting with the AI’s on the flagship. As Lana and Theron came into focus, he sent them the information about the Bakuran fleet. ”Add data pertaining to the Carrack class cruiser Intruder, flagship of the Bakuran fleet, as well as the Sentinel, Watchkeeper, and Defender, Bakura class SDs, to your database. Compare their capabilities, backed up by an Eternal cruiser from my and Skelm’s fleets, to that of Nubia’s defense force and calculate the odds of a successful campaign against that system. Least time calculations please, I wish to give Skelm a solid plan with a high likelihood of success that he can present to the Bakuran government.


Namana Class (based off of the Carrack Class)


Bakura Class SD

He looked up, knowing that this would leave Bakura without a fleet while the operation was underway. ”A second pair of Eternal cruisers can guard Bakura while we take the fleet to punish Nubia. Yes, take, all three of you as well as myself and Marana will go with the fleet, in the flagship. This will give our allies an opportunity to demonstrate their enthusiasm with the new leadership.”

His black eyes turned on Gaeriel, ”Or would I be wrong to believe your fleet would want to demonstrate such, to their Emperor?”

His gaze shifted again, toward Jalynn, ”And, perhaps, Jalynn would find the experience educational, watching Marana direct the battle.”

Gaeriel looked at Bernael, and then back at Graul. “I don’t see why we should wave the flag in person. Why don’t we devastate them mid-speech? You can speak of your punishment having already been meted.”

She seemed like she was debating it. “Though speaking from the bridge of a Star Destroyer is a strong signal too...” It was a politician's question, after all, and Graul was that.

Once again, Skelm brought his hand to his chin and adopted a contemplative stance as he pondered their options. Bernael obviously had expertise with the fleet, and he trusted him to utilize that strategy to carry them to victory. However, Gaeriel also had a point about the effectiveness of their approach from a political perspective. He thought he had detected a hint of hesitancy in her response, but overall, he found himself agreeing with her assessment. Arranging the assault to occur during the HoloNet speech would have a greater impact across the wider galaxy; it would drive their objective home.

But that wasn’t the only determining factor.

He did not approve of Jalynn being an active participant in the battle, not after she had endured so much hardship. She had only just returned to his life, and he did not want to jeopardize their burgeoning relationship. No doubt the lessons she could potentially learn from the Saarai-Kaar would be crucial to her own development, but he wasn’t sure if she was ready for that yet.

Or maybe he just didn’t want to admit to himself, as a father, that he was overly protective of her wellbeing.

"I’ll give my address from the Senate chambers as planned," Skelm stated with conviction, stepping forward to divide the gap between Bernael and Gaeriel. "The people need to see me in the flesh, and it will also afford me the opportunity to properly introduce Jalynn as the Imperial Princess." He paused here to rest his hand upon his daughter’s shoulder. "It’ll promote unity.”

"And then at the right moment, we will launch the campaign to solidify our base and emphasize our strength. I want to send a clear message—we will not tolerate traitors or those who lend them support. Nubia is harboring these people, and they will serve as an example."

Skelm pursed his lips and canted his head. "However, once the dust settles, I would like to return home and sift through the remnants. As you know, my roots are firmly established on the planet, both through my father’s company and the old homestead. I feel that it is my obligation as the surviving heir to recover all that I can for my family."

Again, he squeezed Jalynn’s shoulder. "It’ll be for your legacy."

The GEMINI algorithms suggested that they consolidate their Core forces at Nubia once the Bakuran forces had done their work, noting stiffening resistance at Kuat and both New Republic and Hapan capital ships arriving from Corellia to assist in relieving the system - a dozen so far. The new Kuati Senator had firmly placed them in the Senate camp, and even voted for Feyna's increased powers.

Of course this information flowed between Aryan and Bernael only, a silent addendum.

For Bernael, there was a short update that the Tapani Jedi Lords had fallen into the trap and the Jensaarai team was ambushing them as it communicated.

Jalynn, for her part, smiled at her father. "I would very much like that, Father." She slipped into formality easily, and accepted a squeeze of her shoulder from Gaeriel, who she supposed was now her step-mother.

"I shall inform Admiral Ossilege of the Bakuran Navy as to his target, and have him get under-way, so he is positioned to strike once you give the word." The Empress-come-Prime Minister nodded, gesturing gallantly to the exit and their waiting crowd, which now included holograms from various nations that were now aligned with them - the Eriaduan Quintad, the Governor of Anoat, the Moff of the Lambda Sector, the Lords of the Senex-Juvex and Arkanis Sectors. "Shall we?"

The Saarai-Kaar was quite close to Bernael, almost to the point of hanging off the tall Anzati. She purred. "Let us reveal our true selves to the galaxy and your new Eternal Empire."

Bernael let the information flow from GEMINI and sent Sistros his agreement with their evaluation, regroup and consolidate at Nubia, those forces that would pull back from the stiffening resistance at Kuat and Corellia. He told GEMINI to prepare those forces to begin their withdrawals, with the same protocols as in other systems, leaving singular Skytrooper type units in hidden locations to retrieve intelligence for them until they were destroyed.

He turned, gazing down on Marana, the crinkle to his eyes suggesting a smile, ”The Knights are performing well in the mission they have been sent on. There should be some good news Graul can capitalize on soon, in regard to the Tapani nobles.”

Turning his gaze back to his co-Emperor, ”And this is why having those with military minds and political minds together, the plan becomes fully developed. The assault of Nubia, inform the Admiral he is to begin as he receives the start of the broadcast of Emperor Skelm’s speech. In that way he will be able to report success as he is questioned about it, live on holo.”

He pulled the Saarai-Kaar closely against him, ”Yes, my dear, let us show those who refuse our peace and security what the consequences of that decision is.” Straightening slightly, he gestured to Graul, ”After you, my brother.”

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @HanSolo29, @Mitth_Fisto (Mentioned as Aurrenna Adasca)

 

IC: Prince Isolder
New Alderaan, distant Outer Rim

Seemingly Winter had ensured there was a decent enough stockpile of wedding-related attire on New Alderaan, and Isolder could only rue how well that she knew her best friend - that they wouldn't manage a full-blown event, not without putting it off for too many years. So she had prepared for them to elope, to head away from the stars and center of the galaxy, to do something that was more about them then the galaxy at large.

Maybe they'd do a full-scale bonanza one day, but with the pressure gone, with their perfect ceremony here, then it would work much better.

He knew Feyna was somewhere in the fortress, originally founded by ancient Alderaanian colonists and abandoned however many years ago. It had since attracted its fair share of attention from survivors of Alderaan, even moreso than Delaya, the second inhabited planet in the system. Indeed, there had been talk about renaming it the Delaya system, or even the Delaya Sector, but the Delayian's had rallied against that - they wanted to remember their motherworld, and changing the name seemed ultimately disrespectful.

Indeed, the conversation between Feyna and Han and Lumpy had wound down, and she had moved on to speak to Tor, Madelyn and Mirdala. That connection was a necessary one, even as Nola and Del wondered what to do about Sal-Solo being, well, Sal-Solo.

As Isolder washed away the grime of the Battle of Exegol, and perhaps the last few days of stress, trauma and violence, he reflected upon the event to come. He sincerely doubted it would be just him, her, Winter and Tycho, but that was fine. He could accept a small-scale moment, with their friends and extended family - but not his mother. He'd inform her later.

With a cringe, he refocused on his shower and his wife-to-be.

TAG: @JediMasterAnne (combos to finalise), @galactic-vagabond422, @TheSilentInfluence
---
On the way to New Alderaan, hitting the Brentaal node

The quickest way to the world where Feyna and Isolder were getting married was to take the Perlemian Trade Route to the Outer Rim, and it was also the safest way as well, firmly within New Republic territory. Lumpy didn't even need to think about it, but he did opt to decant a few times along the route to ensure he had the latest galactic update, and also to keep an eye on that vibration that was running through the engines. They'd taken a few hits, at Exegol, at Coruscant - the Wookiee wanted to be careful, let alone that any route might not be safe from one day to the next.

But he didn't expect the comm to chime when they decanted at the first stop. He groaned, wondering what was going on now.

He didn't recognise the code, and when he checked the relays it had been bounced through so many systems that it was basically impossible to track.

With a threatening rumble, he called for Han and flipped the line open.

And was pleasantly surprised.

"That took way too long," Xaverri quipped, holding a sleeping baby in her arms. "Where are you, and how long until you are coming to get me?"

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox
---
Bakura, the Eternal Empire capital, Salis Daar

The Bakuran Admiral Ossilege immediately departed, driving for the jump with the four capital ships in short order. Even though smaller than traditional Star Destroyer and light cruiser variants, the four ships were as modern as they came, and well armed. Almost any system would cave to three Imperial II-class warships, and that was at very least what was en route to Nubia right now.

She refocused upon the room.

Those present included the entire Bakuran Senate, representing various districts of the homeworld, but also other star systems in the sector - Cattamasca, Gymelo, Timora. They were lesser populated, colony worlds which had acquired a degree of independence but remained loyal to the homeworld. Among the hologram attendants were to be Governor Adelhard, Senex Lord Garonnin, Quintad Harro of Eriadu, Moff Larkin, and indeed Lady Sindian. A decent enough gathering, but not quite as powerful as Senator Treen, Moff Lecersen and of course the Coruscanti Bramsin.

Gaeriel wasn't especially concerned about that; Treen had attempted to upset the balance between her and Aryan, and sought those three dinners to convince him to make her Empress. Gaeriel concealed an unprofessional grin as she allowed Aryan to lead her and Jalynn to the floor. There were noises of approval as they made their way forward, and a degree of consternation as Bernael and his armoured Saarai-Kaar stepped out.

Gesturing to the Bakuran Guards, they stood to attention and the hub-bub quieted.

"I would request your silence while the Twin Emperors of the Eternal Empire speak. We have entered a new stage of the conflict for the soul of the galaxy; for worlds of order, and peace, and justice."

The holograms of the off-worlder representatives triggered, joining in.

"With Balance, we shall bring all of those things."

"As my Emperor will tell you all."

TAG: @HanSolo29, @darthbernael
---
Kesh, the ocean

Qwi would find her fall cushioned, and she fell into the soft embrace of a bed of clothes. A human woman made a noise of shhh, and threw a tarp over the Omwati, even though her eyes were alarmed. She whispered as she did so. "I don't know how that cloak made you heavier - you're clearly not nearly as weighty as that exertion required."

The tarp was painted the same colour as the ocean that surrounded them, and the woman kicked from the edge of the small boat to send them on their way. "Before you ask, I'm Orielle Marrian. Not the first with that name, not by far, but you wouldn't know that, unless of course somehow you do know about my father, a Jedi who crashed here about three thousand years ago." She paused. "Nope, didn't think so."

In short order, they were on land, and a paddock at that. It stank, to be honest. Uvak grazed nearby, and looked up long enough to decide they didn't care, returning to nibbling at the grass. Orielle hissed at them, and looked back with intelligent, blue eyes. "I know there was more than one of you on that ship, but you need to trust me. Sleep, if you can." She pushed a half-loaf of bread and a napsack of water over. "But you need to stay here. Don't move. Please, promise me." Night was falling on Kesh again, and Qwi would feel completely and utterly exhausted.

Her bond between her and Beaumont was not gone.

Not at all.

She could feel his pain, as the Lost Tribe of the Sith rummaged through his mind, brushed upon their connection, defiled their most sacred memories.

And then... nothing.

Had he collapsed?

Unconscious...

... dead?

The thought was too much to face, if she did so think it.

But the stillness of night was disturbed by a rustle, by a tumble, by a bounce, and an exertion in the Force.

Orielle returned... with a body wrapped in a cloak.

She swept in to the barn, and placed the cloak down, revealing Beaumont.

He looked like he was dead.

His body was still, his face covered in bruises and contusions and cuts, some knife wounds, sound lightsaber burns. His mind was completely ripped, and the young man was in a terrible shape. His eye was swollen shut, his clothes were completely gone, and there was not a part of him that was not battered or injured.

"Wait for it," Orielle said, placing a different liquid on his lips. It stank, different to the manure of the Uvaks, and Beaumont coughed - he was alive!

Orielle sat back with a sigh of relief. "They always throw off bodies from the top of the mountain when they are done with them. The fall kills them, and they have the descent to lament what they did." She toed him with her boot. "They'll have ripped from his mind everything they need to know, or want. Then they send the meat to me, to bury and turn into fertiliser..." Her chin took in the Uvak. "So they have grass to eat."

Beaumont couldn't say a thing, he merely spat up what was in his mouth, and moaned.

It wouldn't take long to realise that he was trying to say her name.

TAG: @Jerjerrod-Lennox
---
Yavin 4

The violence there, well, it was a precursor to much more, but not the end of all things.

Well.

It might yet be.

Vhardia, Leia and Renn were running out of time.

TAG: @darthhelinith, @TheSilentInfluence, @darthbernael (combo to continue and finalise)
---
Mandalore

After Venku left, Ka'rta was left to her own devices, by and large. Owen and Jerod were running the clan while Mandalore business was attended to, even as they connected with their various friends across the galaxy, and the former mercenary world they had once walked in. With others, they pooled their data and constructed a picture of the state of the New Republic and Eternal Empire, looping Ka'rta in.

The Vizsla's told of when the Eternal Empire attacked Mandalore and killed Mandalore the Vindicated, and Shae Vizsla had taken the throne as Mandalore the Avenger, joining the galaxy in driving back the enemy - and then fighting a civil war against clans who sought to destabilise the galaxy even more. They knew a lot about them, and often told stories of their victory over the droid Skytroopers, and about how to board and disable an Eternal Cruiser - they even had knowledge of the secret to the Eternal Fleet; Thrones which enabled the acknowledged leader to command the armada.

The mercenaries that had quietly stayed behind on Entralla to reap the spoils of their victory spoke of how the deaths of Moff Lecersen and Ecressys had crippled the pro-Centrist faction in the Council, and they'd heard that what Ka'rta had done there, coupled with the destruction of the prototype Death Star, had managed to tip the Imperial Remnant firmly into a neutral position - when they would likely have thrown in with Graul.

There was a live transmission to the Bakuran Senate about to occur, and the Prime Minister had just introduced the Twin Emperors of the Eternal Empire, Graul and... who? The transmission gave them a nice list of politicians to put on their let's hit them list.

They had less about the Yuuzhan Vong than they would like, but word had spread from Coruscant that an infiltrator named Pedric Cuf had hired a few Mandalorians to destabilise governments in the northern worlds, which seemed to speak of an invasion corridor... Sernpidal, Dubrillion, Garqi, Ord Mantell, Obroa-Skai, Phindar, Kubindi... a trail of systems leading to the Mid Rim and then branching.

Lastly, they had an update that Tor and Madelyn, working with that braggart Han Solo, had stopped whatever plan that the enemy had in mind for Coruscant and cleared out the last of the Eternal Fleet presence. The world was ruined, but at least it was secure.

All in all, it was a moment of planning, and decisions... the kind of thing Ka'rta hated.

TAG: @galactic-vagabond422

 

OOC: Combo with @darthhelinith, @TheSilentInfluence, and @Sinrebirth

IC Renn, Vhardia, Leia
Yavin 4

Renn reached out, something was very odd at Yavin. The world seemed different. One of the largest changes was that he could not feel, sense the Temple at all. And there was a miasma of Dark energy that seemed to infuse the entire place. He turned to Vhardia, ”What has happened here? Where is the Temple, or that ship ‘Kyle’ said rescued him? This seems a different world than the one we left.”

He kept a calm tone, not wanting to worry Leia but he was concerned. Whatever did this was powerful and meant to keep them from the other Jedi. That alone was worrisome. But then he wondered if the ship had anything to do with his ‘Twin’. He shook his head, there was plenty of other evil in the galaxy and this didn’t have the flavor of that one so it could be something else entirely.

"An old Jedi Temple? Or a Sith one?" Leia asked carefully. She looked anxious. "Why do you think we had to come here Master?" She sounded curious. I wonder what kind of monsters live down there. Leia thought to herself. She frowned a little, and tried to figure out if there were through the force.

Vhardia could feel the darkness, swimming over the surface of the planet, over the old temples. It was like soup; thick and opaque, muddying everything.

She looked away from the viewport across at Leia and Renn and an odd feeling came over her, the desire to run far far away, as far as she could go, and take them both with her, to get them away from this place.

No, I'm a jedi. she said to herself. Jedi don't run.

But maybe she could protect them a different way.

She smiled. "Hey, are you saying my bunk has upped and disappeared? What about the gardens, or worse, the canteen?!" She chuckled softly. "Nuts, I was going to raid the freezer for some ice cream."

It was half true, she'd wanted to find some for Leia; she wasn't sure if she'd ever had ice cream before, and what sort of jedi master would she be if she raised a padawan that had never tried ice cream?

And the gardens... well she would have liked to have shown Renn them, even if she didn't know much about plants, she felt he would still like it.

She ruffled Leia's hair affectionately. "Hey don't worry, we'll find Kyp and get everything sorted out."

There was a tie to Leia, the connection to her Master, and it suddenly became a tug - a desperate need that filled her with a longing that was the most isolated and fearful feeling she had ever felt.

A moment later, BB-8 beeped in panic as the ship was reached for in the Force forcibly and it was ripped at. The attack was so vicious and so swift that it was not even telegraphed in their warning senses. The Otana began to come apart in low orbit, wind assailing them from all the angles of the Corellian freighter that were suddenly exposed. They still had escape pods; two, but this wasn’t going to be an easy come down.

Renn reached out to take hold of their little droid and to push Leia into Vhardia’s arms. He flowed and his form was between them and most of the wind tugging at them, his pores closed off so he didn’t lose oxygen, almost impervious to vacuum. Slowly moving forward his motion was intended to encourage the two of them to hug his form as they made their way to the escape pods. ”Move, I’ll take Leia in my pod and you take the droid, but we need to get to them and get out of here.” he yelled to Vhardia over the noise of the shrieking air.

Leia laughed at Master Vhardia, before everything started to feel dark. She shook her head, unsure why this was happening and trying to gain a sense of something before she stumbled. Why does everything feel so funny? She felt herself being pushed into Master Vhardia's arms, and shook her head.

"What's...wrong?"

Vhardia gripped Leia against her. She understood Renn's instructions but couldn't respond to him; everything was happening too fast and she need to focus on her breathing to conserve oxygen. However, she managed to reach out and grab BB-8 with the force, to keep the droid close to them. When they reached the escape pods she shoved Leia into Renn's arms and climbed into the other pod, hand over her face to resist the temptation of taking a breath.

The pods ejected as the Otana tumbled, and two bodily Force grips seized them each. Vhardia and BB-8 were dragged towards a Massassi Temple out in the distance, while Renn and Leia were spun aside into the jungle - pursued by chunks of stone ripped from the Great Temple, which would have, in a different timeline, hosted the Rebel X-wings and Y-wings in their offensive on the first Death Star.

As it was, the Otana tumbled into pieces and crashed into the planet -

Renn held tight to Leia as the pod tumbled and flew from the Otana. When it stabilized he checked the display, then frowned, they weren’t on the typical trajectory that such a pod would take when ejected, even from a ship that was tumbling. Something was pulling them, and it was pulling them away from Vhardia.

The air shook as the Otana impacted and exploded when it hit the jungle. He checked the sensors one last time and as their pod came down, he erected a barrier of Force energy. ”Hang on, little one, there are going to be great bloody chunks of stone falling around us in a minute, and then we need to find your Master.”

It was a relief to take a breath once more as the pod hatch sealed, and barely in the nick of time, too. However Vhardia's relief was short-lived as the pods spun away from each other. Like Renn, she picked up on the dark presence trying to separate the two but as her pod continued to tumble like a washing machine- it seemed the stabilisation had failed- there was little more she could do than cling on for dear life and hope that the nightmarish trip would soon be over. Thankfully, BB-8 had the presence of mind to tether himself to one of the walls of the pod so he was at less risk of crashing into her and unintentionally dashing her brains out.

After slipping footholds several times, she figured out that she could hold herself to the side by using the force as an anchor of sorts and after a couple of minutes she could even walk over across the interior wall to BB-8 and check he was alright. He tootled that he was perfectly alright and was more concerned about whether or not his chassis or internal electronics would be damaged by their touchdown. Vhardia strapped herself and the droid in and threw out a shield of force energy in an effort to smooth their landing as much as possible.

Leia woke up a bit as they hit the ground, and was aware of someone holding onto her. "How far away is Master Vhardia?" Leia asked quietly. "I don't like this place."

Vhardia landed well, of course, albeit with a final jerk - but she was greeted by a man, who stood with his foot on the hull of her pod... as if he’d stopped her with his own power.

It was Kyle Katarn, and he waved at the black-stone statue behind him as the pod splintered and collapsed, opening its contents like a fruit-shell. BB-8 cooed in concern. “The Temple of Exar Kun, a Dark Lord from four millennia ago. His spirit was supposed to be here, but he went off to support Darth Zorn, the greatest of the Sith. He and all the Sith ghouls, throwing in with their most powerful creation.” Kyle snorted in a very-un-Kyle manner. “It’s a shame I wasn’t here before the Battle of Exegol... all those Sith would have known real power.”

As he spoke, he turned back, his smile widening, teeth sharpening, the beard receding, his arms splitting, his hair elongating, his Jedi robes becoming a transparent dress, his eyes turning black as his pupils expanded and a pinprick of light appeared in the centre.

Abeloth had survived the Maw.

For Renn and Leia, they’d been sent elsewhere in the jungle - away - leaving them suddenly by a cave... a cave which had been disturbed by their landing, relatively soft as it was. From the shadows emerged a bouncing pack of Tukata - dark side hounds - eight of them, smelling Jedi blood -

Renn popped the hatch of the capsule, senses questing and finding the bounding dark presences. Stepping free, he pulled Leia close, ”Stay with me, these things are a lot of trouble.” he stated as calmly as he could.

He shifted slightly, becoming more lithe and agile with a pair of extra arms. Two took up blasters and two lightsabers. The blades ignited, one silver, one yellow as he began firing shots as precisely aimed as possible. Working the blaster fire from the outer edges of the pack toward the center, he kept the blades out of the path of the firing, preparing to go toe to toe with the hounds.

Leia nodded and looked at the hounds that came towards them from the shadows. They felt dangerous in the force. Leia realised, and she wondered if she should help. Leia reached down for her lightsaber, hoping she could defend herself in time-

"Oh it's the monster thing."

Vhardia gave a grim look as she spoke, trying to keep a tremour from out of her voice as her hand tried to resist moving to her lightsaber too quickly.

"Yeah you're too late, they're all long gone. Zorn dealt with them. That's the advantage of having an infestation of Sith in a galaxy, they tend to kill each other off."

She tried not to think of where Renn and Leia were or what had happened to Kyp, focusing instead on controlling her breathing.

Blaster fire reflected off their hides, and they launched forward - Leia’s blade was out in time and the first hound to reach her was in such a rush it basically impaled itself on her blade, even as two died to Renn -

The remainder five scattered around them, circling in unison. If the two tried to use the Force on them directly, the hounds would be resistant, as with many Sithspawn, but they were coordinating, staying out of reach of their weapons for the moment.

—

Trying not to think about things didn’t work around an Old One.

“Oh,” Abeloth chuckled, ignoring Vhardia’s insult. “Kyp is just fine...” she flexed a tentacle and he came out the Temple entrance, holding his throat. “He was supposed to be Exar Kun’s apprentice, a self-declared Dark Lord, bless. But here he’s just a meek Padawan learner.”

The woman chuckled. “And as for the Sith? Oh, I happen to know where about ten thousand are, all nice and isolated and desperate for a saviour.” She held a tentacle to her chest. “Which will be me, of course.” Abeloth smiled broadly. “But it would be much more efficient for me to have two ‘me’s’ running around, and I’d really like a more feminine form for an avatar.”

A leer.

“I can make it painful... or painless, when I take you, my dear.”

Renn could feel something very dark in the distance but he had to focus, had to keep Leia alive. He wanted to grab her and run toward the darkness, believing that whatever it was was what Vhardia was facing. But he was responsible for the young woman now. He could tell that the tuk’ata were going to be trouble.

The blaster bolts ricocheting off of their hides made him slip the blasters back into their holsters and those two arms grab another pair of sabers from his belt. A smile crossed his face, they were dark side creatures and what could be a more tempting meal, something to draw them into range, than something quite light sided. It could also draw the interest of whatever it was that was facing Vhardia.

Concentrating for a moment he reached inside himself and slowly he filled with energy. The forest around them began to crackle with the pressure of the Light Side fighting the influence of that Dark that had fallen over the world. His smile became beatific as he turned himself into a beacon of the Light, still physically appearing the same but in the Force a shining light.

”Be ready, Leia, this should drive the beasts absolutely nuts.”

Leia looked startled as she managed to kill one of the creatures and stepped back. She moved closer to Renn and raised her lightsaber defensively as he spoke.

"I'm ready." Leia answered.

Vhardia scowled.

"What you think I'd just offer myself to you?"

She glanced around at her surroundings, wondering if she could somehow use them to her advantage.

"I can't let you live."

The light shattered the pack mentality of the Tukata, sending them tumbling away for the most part, but two were so antagonized they rushed forward - one at Renn's back, and the other leapt with its jaws open to crush Leia's head if it managed to reach her -

Abeloth spied Vhardia's wandering eye, and snark as well. "All that is to hand is the Temple, my dear, and of course, this beautiful statue of obsidian." She grinned at the visage of Exar Kun. "Allow me to assist you." A tentacle whipped out and cracked the base of the black monument, sending it tumbling towards Vhardia -

Wherever Vhardia leapt, Abeloth would leap after her, intending to catch her in midair and ensnare her in tentacles -

Renn’s beatific smile didn’t change. And he didn’t change his posture until the tuk’ata was almost upon him. In that moment he shifted, the sabers floating from his hands and back to his belt. The limbs collapsed back into his form and he shifted. He went from facing one direction to facing the other without moving. Two massive arms reached out and wrapped around the one leaping at him, pulling it closely, into the Light side energy that was surrounding him in huge quantity. At the same time one leg kicked out, aiming to take the one leaping at Leia in the side of the head, turning it just enough from it’s leap so she could kill it.

Leia brought her lightsaber up as one of the creatures leapt for her head and drove the blade into the creature's body. She stepped away and watched, tense and ready; trying to sense with the force if another creature was going to come after her like the previous one did.

Vhardia saw the statue falling towards her.

For the briefest of moments, she considered letting it crush her. It was what a jedi master like Katarn might have done, to prevent Abeloth having her way. But she was younger and hadn't acquired the sacrificial, suicidal streak that jedi tended to pick up with age.

She leapt but knew the tentacle monster woman thing would come flying at her. Looking to make any sort of opening, she brought her lightsaber up to slash at tentacles as she pushed away as hard as she could.

The rest of the pack had decided enough was enough. With half their number dead, they concluded the prey wasn’t worth it, even their fear overriding their rage -

The creatures turned tail and fled!

This happened just as a blast of power rippled into the Force, giving them a direction for Vhardia.

That exertion did nothing to Abeloth but to cause her to grin, but the lightsaber lashed through her tentacles as the statue slammed to the floor and kicked up a massive wave of dust -

She screamed out and the disruption separated them, sending them both tumbling to the ground. Abeloth snarled, writhing the handful of tentacles she had left and turning to look for Vhardia -

An exertion in the Force ripped a thousand year tree free and it oriented as if a giant base-ball bat!

As the tuk’ata turned tail and fled, Renn turned toward Leia. He checked her over to be sure she was fine. He didn’t want to face Vhardia if she’d been hurt or worse. Luckily she had done well and appeared uninjured. ”Very well done, Leia, your bladework is very good. Thank you for guarding my back.”

He’d felt the blast of power and was able to feel the ‘tether’ or trail of it that told him where it had come from. Power that deep meant that whatever Vhardia was facing was very strong. But he had to be sure Leia was good first. ”Whatever is after your Master we need to find out and help her. I fear it’s something quite powerful and she could use our aid. But let’s not rush when we get there, don’t want you injured if you see her in trouble.”

He extinguished his sabers, shook himself as he shifted and returned to a more ‘normal’ humanoid form. Keeping one in hand he closed his eyes and slowly drew down the blazing power of the Light he’d been emitting. Turning to face the direction he’d felt the power blast come from, he gazed at Leia, ”Let’s go help her.” he said before he set off in that direction.

Leia felt proud of herself, but also sensed her Master was in trouble deep down. She looked at Renn as he praised her on her bladework and smiled up at him. "Thank you Master." She replied, and nodded at his following words. "Yes, I'll be careful. But we still need to help her." She watched as he changed back into a more humanoid form, and then followed Renn once he started to leave. "We need to hurry Master."

Vhardia flipped to the ground and, hidden within the dust, she took a couple of seconds to decide what to do next.

She was tempted to run, but it seemed pointless. There was nowhere to go except the jungle and leading the monster-thing to Renn and Leia wasn't an option; both due to her concern for their safety but also owing to a slight stubborn streak which, despite recognising that Renn, with the lightside of the force at his disposal, was a whole different league to her in terms of power, didn't want to be seen as running to him for help at the first sign of adversity. It made her bristle just at the thought.

So it gave her immense satisfaction to see that she had taken off a few tentacles and that Abeloth was looking justifiably pissed off as she tore a tree from the ground and searched for her with murderous intent.

Vhardia's playful nature got the best of her in that moment, and she couldn't help but call out "Careful with that, you'll damage the body you're so keen on taking!" Anticipating swift and furious retribution, she dived to the left, keeping a defensive stance.

Abeloth slammed the tree down where Helinith had been, and snarled. "Impertinence must be punished. I am a Goddess, and if I cannot have you, I'll have Leia... a younger body will last me longer, after all." She swung her giant club sideways, far too massive to easily dodge -

For Renn and Leia, their success was heralded by an overwhelming threat in the Force. A cannonball arched in, smashing to the ground before them, and then laser fire rained down, burning down the jungle around them -

It was a ship.

More specifically, Ship.

A Sith meditation sphere!



It was sentient, in the Force they would feel it's loathing for the Jedi -

But also Renn would sense how much it hated Abeloth, and serving her.

Renn erected a shield of energy, deflecting the bolts as they rained down around the two of them. Pulling Leia closely again so that he could reduce the energy expenditure, he faced the ship. He could feel the darkness in it and that it hated those that served the Light.

His head tilted to the side, ’But not as much as it hates the Chaos Goddess.’ he thought-mused.

He continued to only react defensively but reached out to their attacker. ’I am not Sith nor Jedi. However I sense that you are shackled, compelled by one you desire never to serve. Would you reduce her, her presence and effect on this world, if I free you from that bond?’ he sent to it.

Abeloth's strong reaction to Vhardia's taunt only made the woman grin and fueled her playfulness further still. She watched the tree swing towards her and jumped forward to meet it, using the force to grab it and grip onto it on all fours as it moved.

"Sorry I didn't catch that last bit. Did you say you were the goddess of ugly tentacle monsters or goddess of temper-tantrums?"

Leia looked up at Master Renn as he pulled her closer. Some kind of ship? She wasn't entirely sure, and waited until Master Renn had finished speaking. She could also sense that whatever it was hated the light.

"Did it work? Will it help us?" Leia asked quietly.

The Sith meditation sphere paused, recognising power, but not as much as that of Abeloth. She directs me against the Jedi and Sith equally. But she is Almighty. You cannot defeat her alone; even together, you two would just be able to undo her control over me.

He spoke to both of them, drawing Leia into the mental discussion. After a heartbeat moment Ship continued on. I may consent to taking you to your Jedi friend, if you free me. Abeloth will consume her soon, and take her body, or… the hull sprouted half a dozen weapons to point at them.

As for Abeloth, she discarded her tree-trunk bat and simply bodily seized Vhardia with invisible power. “I’ve had enough of your tongue, child.” Her tentacles writhed, and her jaw was opened by a motion in the Force, and her tongue was being tugged at -

Renn nodded, ”We shall break her bond to you. You may be an artifact of the Dark but nothing deserves to be a slave to another.” The Light rose up in him as he spoke and he turned his gaze to Leia, ”I am still growing in power so we need to do this together.”

He reached out, letting his power touch hers, and then reached out to Ship. He could feel the ties binding it to Abeloth and as he began to tug at them, loosening and weakening them. When Leia added her attempts to his he could feel that they would rip the sphere free of the Chaos Goddess’s clutches.

Vhardia tried to jump away but felt herself gripped in mid-air too late to do much of anything about it and realised she'd probably pushed Abeloth too far.

You've done it this time, Helinith

She frowned as her mind used the wrong name, but she didn't have time to ponder that now, as her mouth opened against her will and she cried out at both the resulting pain and the horror of realising exactly what the tentacle monster was trying to do. Unable to move, she reached out with her fear and gripped a large rock that was behind the chaos goddess, desperately trying to tip it over onto her... She felt a flash of dark side energy momentarily surge through her head even as she tried to regain composure and return her mind to a calmer state.

Leia nodded at Master Renn and reached out with the force to add her light to his so they could help the force user together. Okay. But how does this work exactly? She thought to herself. I guess I just have to keep helping. I hope this is the right thing to do.

Ship was freed with the combined effort of Renn and Leia, and with her focus on Vhardia. She turned to look at the Sphere as it filled the Force with its joy, and went to leave its captor -

Abeloth flailed her tentacles and reached out her mind to take back control -

And was slammed across the back of the head by the rock, there was a colossal crack, and she looked back at Vhardia, an eye hanging loose, her rage climbing, enough to rip the woman to a blood splatter -

When the rest of the temple collapsed on her.

In her panic, Vhardia had actually dislodged a segment from Exar Kun’s obsidian fortress, and Abeloth was buried alive, her face and upper chest crushed. For a moment her legs spasmed, and then they were still, reverting back to the form of Master Katarn.

It was over.

The Force settled into silence at long last.

Ship vanished into the stars, and the three of them would be able to regroup, comm and head back to the Great Temple, where there remained a single ship for them to take.

Renn sighed and sagged in relief as the Ship disappeared. He released the energy he was holding and sagged a bit more. As the world transformed around them once more, the dark energy dissipating, he stretched ‘breathing in’ the sunlight and energy, rejuvenating himself.

He turned toward Leia, ”We did it little one, Ship is free and it seems we cleansed the moon, well us and Vhardia.”

He reached out his senses and felt the young, female Jedi Knight in the distance. Smiling down at Leia once more, ”You did wonderfully and I am grateful for your aid. Let us go rejoin your Master and figure out where to go from here.”

Reaching out a hand, he held it out to her so they could walk to Vhardia together.

TAGS: @Sinrebirth, @TheSilentInfluence, @darthhelinith