Star Wars CLOSED Star Wars: Episode VI: Twilight of the Force III: A Son’s Destiny

Vhardia

With her final act, Vhardia had reached the same conclusion that the Je'daii had tens of thousands of years prior. No longer divided between dark and light, her mind had found peace and she was content.

As Renn cradled the body of his dead wife, a translucent hand touched his, an arm curled around his shoulder, a whisper tickled his ear, her presence blazed next to him.
"Stay your hand, son of light, it's okay, Renn. It's okay."

Tag: @darthbernael

 

IC: Barriss

When Abeloth said that she would take her body, Barriss once again felt completely overwhelmed by what was happening and she wondered why she of all people had been sent here when she was so completely out of her depth...

And her eyes were widened when she got her answer from a voice that she heard in her ear.

Now, Chosen.

In that moment, Barriss realized Anakin was naming her his Chosen One. And that the Dagger was for her. Being the Chosen One was literally the last thing that Barriss wanted and at any other time she would have been very angry about this, but now was not that time. Barriss called the Dagger to her and just like it should, it came to her. Then she did the only thing that she could think of doing. She called upon the Force, summoning every bit of strength she had as she thrusted the Dagger toward Abeloth. She also thought of the love for her family as she thrusted the Dagger, because if she failed she knew that would never be able to return to her wife, her daughter, her son-in-law, and her grandchildren.

Abeloth may have lost her family, but Barriss was fighting for hers.

TAG: @Sinrebirth @darthbernael @darthhelinith

 

OOC: Combo with the GM
IC: Darth Impetuous

​

"DUTCH!"

Impetuous screamed anger, fury, and sorrow exploded from him in complete manifestations of the Darkside. Now the darkness surrounded him and binded him; Sith lightning flowed freely from his body as tears flowed and evaporated from his eyes.

The thought of Rebecca dying sent Impetuous into a spiral, his darkness swelling, flowing, overflowing. How dare these peasants, these cretins, take something away from HIM! Rebecca was his and only his. And if she were to die, it would only be by his hands!

"I'll kill you all!"

Impetuous pulled from his heart, letting it be his guiding key, the rage Impetuous built inside as his soul was tied to the darkness but was not yet a master, energies flowed wildly and uncontrolled. Impetuous leaped into the crowd, lightsaber still ignited, relying purely on instinct—Impetuous connected with his roots and moved with the lethality of a feral feline fishing for its prey.

Echani techniques and dark lightning poured from Impetuous, his tears evaporating into plasma, lightning warping itself around his body, coiling itself around him as if he was a tesla rod, conducting and instructing its weapons of mass destruction into vicious currents of death, destruction, and vengeance.





Half the grunts were down almost immediately, electrified and missing limbs - and heads. The others reared back and scattered, trained to break apart their formation and seek cover - and overlapping fields of fire as they did so.

Dutch watched Impetuous with a grin as the ship drifted forward and the ramp up.

He wanted Tobbi to see him slip out of his hands.

He wanted to break the naïve idiot.

Impetuous in his world-destroying fury gripped the back of Dutch's starship, he wasn't going to let this turncoat get away. No one betrays Impetuous and lives to tell the tale. This was something Impetuous lived by; he needed to, or else he would go mad from the trauma of being betrayed by his family over.

And over.

And over again to the point that now, Impetuous's only course of action at this point was to trust no one and push everyone away, something that he failed to do on both counts since despite Impetuous wanting to deny it, he grew attached to Dutch and, most of all, Rebecca.

But those that betray the honor of his trust must die.

Impetuous kept gripping the ship using the force, as he intended to turn the ship burner's own Dutch's own associates who were now across the room from Impetuous and roast them alive.

The ship shuddered, and Dutch braced himself as Impetuous in all his fury used it to essentially dust up the thugs. Slapping the switch to lift the ramp completely, he ran into the ship and seized the controls. He began to struggle against the hold that Impetuous had, slamming off the ceiling and the side of the ship -

The shuttle narrowed missed Rebecca's form on the deck!

Impetuous wasn't going to let Dutch go. He was never going to let him go; Impetuous was going to send Dutch on a front-row seat to hell. So Impetuous intended to crush the fuel line of the ship; he wanted Dutch's ship to explode from its own burners, from its own thruster drives.

While doing so, Impetuous noted the close call and used his other hand to push Rebecca out of the way of the potential explosion. Impetuous was going to make sure that Dutch felt every bit of his fiery hatred and experience his own fiery hell.

Rebecca slid across the deck towards him, unmoving -

And Dutch screamed out his frustration as the fuel lines caught fire and he vanished into a ball of flame -

A shockwave hammered at Impetuous, but much of the energy billowed into the hangar containment field -

It held.

Just, but every part of the hangar was charred and burned -

Impetuous had a moment to be satisfied with his handiwork as he grinned at the thought of Dutch being painfully immolated by his own ship's engines.

Death by fire.

The fire that Dutch used to sever and burn his bridge and bond with Impetuous, how glorious, how ironic. But before Impetuous could genuinely revel at this moment, the shock wave from the explosion threw him backward, careening into the wall behind him.

Impetuous's form dissipated, and his lightning fizzled, but the pain was there. It caused his muscles to ache; he was barely able to stand, but he managed to find the strength.

Impetuous limped on and fell next to Rebecca and cradled her, she was unmoving, but Impetuous wanted to see for himself. He wanted to know if she was still alive.

She had to be.

No one could take her from him.

"Come on, Rebecca, wake up.

I know you're tougher than this, don't you dare...

Don't you dare die on me.

I haven't allowed you to die.

You're supposed to serve me forever.

So come on...please."

Please?

Why did he say that?

Impetuous was beginning to feel alone; he did not want to be alone. He hated being alone, but that's when it dawned on him, he was always alone, but it was only until recently with Rebecca that he stopped feeling this way.

Part of her head had been burned away by the blaster shot - but she had been lucky; the cyborg of her face had been damaged, and the shots to her abdomen could be replaced with more mechanical parts…

In short…

… she was merely unconscious.

Not dead.

Even as the star system erupted into chaos…

… Rebecca was alive!

Impetuous sighed in relief and placed his head against hers, letting it sit there for a moment as he couldn't fathom her being gone now; he brushed her hair and kissed her undamaged forehead.

Rebecca was alive...

Somehow she was alive...

Rebecca needed fixing, but that was something Impetuous could easily do. Impetuous sat up and rose to his feet, carefully lifting her; it's so funny how only when she was almost gone did Impetuous finally realized what this woman meant to him. Impetuous could never see himself being attached to anyone except his family, and when they betrayed him, he tried to close his heart.

But Rebecca managed to slide through the crack; she was one of his people, so she was already close, but now Impetuous realized she was more, so much more.

Impetuous....loved her?

Impetuous loved her!

Impetuous loved her as best as he could. And it may never be truly enough; his humanity was no longer what it used to be; he was no longer able to feel things as most people would.

He could not but help exploit and hate others, but Rebecca was...different.

If the Impetuous of old could see himself now, he would've called himself weak; after all, wasn't love forbidden as a Sith?

Malgus killed Eleena and grew power from it, right?

So wasn't love a weakness?

Maybe it wasn't; Impetuous didn't even know he was capable of feeling such rage at the notion that Rebecca almost died.

Maybe love made someone stronger.

Maybe the passion of love made the Darkside stronger within someone.

Maybe...But wasn't this the same trap Gravid fell into?

But Vectivus died a beloved Sith, surrounded with all their loved ones.

So maybe, love isn't so bad after all.

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC: Senator Greeata Shychuvooq / Aurrena
On the Surface, the Cloister, in summation

Coming in had been a strangely simple thing to do. Once down she had ushered forwards towards her old class mates where they were meeting on the second floor, they all had a perfect view of events below, but honestly at this point she mostly had ears for what Warmaster Nas Choka had to say. “This does not feel like a surrender. One has to wonder as to how much power you three truly wield.” Ike looked from the Yuuzhan Vong at the politicians gathered as he brandished his amphistaff at them.

“Order the Kuati to surrender to our fleet, and the Eriaduan’s, so we might finish off the New Republic. The resistance at Hapes will come to an end, and the war will be over. You can decide who will be Chancellor of the defeated New Republic while we complete our annexation.”

Not a question for her and not an accusation against her. She had already surrendered her world and it's people to utter devastation as Senator Greeata Shychuvooq, and this, this was merely pageantry.

In the middle of all this chaos, a single Yuuzhan Vong ship descended from orbit. A ship her multifaceted view of the world around her did not let escape her vision as it landed. It landed behind the downed Dipyramid, and the Kaminoan Shuttle - at the North Entrance - and two figures stepped into the Cloister of XoXaan.

One was robed in black, wielding desiccated hands and milk-blind eyes; the other was a deformed Yuuzhan Vong.

Palpatine and Onimi stepped from the north entrance of the cloister. “You have gathered here to witness my victory. My triumph,” the Emperor crowed, even as he dragged his emaciated corpse into the room. His tone was one of crooning, while Onimi slunk besides him, sharp eyes flittering.

“I will accept fealty from you all.”

His words snaked into all of their ears and minds. She was sure of that.

To these words she simply smiled, trunk bending as she looked at the arena below. "A true proof of an Avatar is not in his words, but in the deeds that follow them. I shall enjoy bearing witness." she stated coyly and softly so hopefully only the two Jori's and Tarkin could overhear. If others did it was no matter. She was never a tool for her simple acceptance of anything, for if she had she would be dead.

TAG: @HanSolo29, @darthbernael, @Sinrebirth , @TheAdmiral, @TheSilentInfluence, @galactic-vagabond422, @Darth Cocytus, @JediMasterAnne, @Adalia-Durron (SINGLES ONLY)

 

IC: Soliloquy the Red, and Purple, and Black, and those lovely Bronze accents
The Courtyard

Sitting on a pedestal, just waiting for someone to come in.
Five thousand years I played for, just to make this pedstal my own! M'yeah!
Now just sitting on a pedestal, just wasting time - sweet ti-ime!
Looks like, nothing going to change!
Everything ordained remain the same!
Yet I can't do what ten thousand plebs tell me to do!
So I'm just sitting on this pedestal, wasting time ' oh time.

It was before they got around to composing another verse for the cohabitating shards to groan, heckle, or applaud with noxious snickers that they felt a dynamic shift. A chill change in the air that boded of things happening and peace that was about to be disturbed. They had long talked with all the other holocrons, passing time with histories and knowledge that could be pried into being shared.

Only now it was not a change in one of these that they were feeling. It was a change in living things of this forsaken world.

And there was a presence. "I feel a presence. One I haven't felt since. . ." at that they fell silent.

Then there was a shadow and they really could not help themselves. "Hello there!"

TAG: @Sinrebirth , Any

 

OOC: A combo with @Sinrebirth

IC: Qwi Xux, Beaumont Kin
Location: Jakkar, Star Home

As soon as they got back aboard Beaumont immediately went off on one.

And she probably deserved that.

Just hours before they were enjoying time with each other after a near death experience. Now this. And she felt even tinier now. Not since when they had left Coruscant and Pascale's Echo was still around had they had a bust up like this.

Make or break time…

"First of all let me say this" she tried to keep her voice strong but it was wobbling, she could feel Beaumont's annoyance at her "I don't want to run away again, what I said to you was true, we do our bit then retire".

"But why suggest Korriban? When we almost died fighting Palpatine, where you got poisoned, nearly died and I nearly died saving you. Do you want to do that again? We need to be stronger to face him".

Her voice turned sad "I don't want to see you die, you don't want to see me die. But if we fight Palpatine as we are now, we will die. And I can't…" she swallowed "I can't lose you. I nearly lost you twice, don't make it a third time".

"You said you wanted to teach Ben regarding the Vongsense but I heard you use 'I' not 'we'" her face turned sadder "Did you not want me to help?"

"Because we can't keep escaping these disasters by the skin of our teeth, Qwi?" He looked panicked. "How can I keep us safe if we're always on our own, running from Sith spirits, Keshiri Tribes, Emperors and invaders? We've had so many close calls. With Gorog, and Taalon, and the Lost Sith - even Palpatine basically took what he wanted and let us go."

He squeezed his hands into fists.

"We keep nearly losing each other, Qwi."

Exasperation stole across his features. "Why did I say me and not we when it came for Ben? Because as much as I do want you to help, I can't guarantee you won't tell me off because I made a suggestion naturally. It's not as if I intended to speak for you, but everyone else is putting their necks on the line and what makes us so special that we get to do things our way?"

Qwi felt like a spear was being driven through her. Normally she would fight fire with fire. But she didn't want to fight with Beaumont. No way.

But he was ripping her to pieces. Maybe perhaps she was too fiery for her own good.

She had to take a few moments to respond. She had to be calm, rational. But the thought that he did not want her there because she would go off on one...it hurt. Badly. The feeling of feeling tiny was getting bigger.

"You make fair points" she said "I wanted to keep us safe too. And I thought staying in the shadows would help. We did it until we crashed on Kesh. And then we took the Sith on and it all changed. We found the galaxy had changed too. And I wanted us to be independent so we could be safer".

"But I was wrong. Too late right? But the New Republic is in a mess you've seen it, practically everywhere is a mess. But I suppose with the New Republic being the legitimate government we should help them".

"But there is also, as you say, the Lost Tribe. They have not gone away. We took the fight to them fifteen years ago. Maybe it's time as you say to finish them off".

"I know that I am fiery and fiesty maybe too much and I'm sorry I hurt you. But you not wanting me to help….i'm so sorry. It hurts me, and I caused it".

She wanted to crumple to the floor and curl up in a ball.

Beaumont deflated and rushed over. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

He squeezed her close. "It's okay. I just... want this to... stop. I thought we could just make this one last push, and we'd be free. Nobody would be left to wreck the galaxy - we could just be... safe. Palpatine, if he builds another Starkiller, we all die. We know he'll do it. He'll find enough politicians and corporate idiots to rule the broken galaxy and build what he needs."

He held her.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

She wrapped her arms around him and buried her head in Beaumont's chest shaking like a leaf. Feeling the weight of it all on her shoulders.

"You have nothing to be sorry for" she said looking up at him "It was my fault. I know you want to help and I do too. I was just frightened, after what Palpatine did last time. He could strip more and more and more away until we were both empty and nothing".

"I'm tired of all the fighting, the killing, the endless wars. I've killed enough people to haunt me for a lifetime and back. I can see and feel your tiredness too. I love you and all I want is you. Hell we could live in a hut and live off nature but if I'm with you I don't care".

"I don't know if we can get to Korriban in time. But there is one thing we could do and that's finish the job we started on Kesh. Palpatine might want new Sith to join his ranks. The Lost Tribe are perfect for him".

Her face turned determined "We take them out, one less threat. And it will repay Feyna for sending those Hapan fleets".

Beaumont was thinking about it. "We can't beat the Tribe without numbers... are the Jedi going to be helping?"

He sighed slightly. "I thought Feyna would have this in-hand, but it's a mess here."

Another hesitation. "Do you want to look at the Korriban situation before we commit? It could be messier than we think, or it could be a lot simpler." His tone was firm. "Just look."

"Or do we go to Kesh and rally the Protectors? Start commandeering ships, and building something?"

Qwi thought for a few moments, keeping her arms around Beaumont.

"The Jedi themselves are a bit busy with the Vong. Maybe they are planning to take out Palpatine who knows".

"But if we are going to take on the Lost Tribe, Palpatine, anyone, we need numbers. A fighting force and we have that with the Protectors on Kesh. We cannot take on these foes alone, you are right about needing numbers".

"We've trained them for war, we have warriors so let's use them. We've told them for years there is a galaxy out there, yes it's a mess but they will truly know it's true".

"We should not abandon them. We've fought long and hard for peace on Kesh. Let's unleash some light on this darkness and bring peace to the galaxy".

Beaumont nodded. “We’ll go back to Kesh and bring back every Protector we can. Hundreds of Keshiri lightsiders could make all the difference. A huge one.”

He held her.

“Thank you, Qwi, for showing me what we can do - only us.”

Qwi smiled and tiptoed up wrapping her arms around his neck this time.

"It will, and it will help the galaxy out too. And we need to get fully prepared, I don't think this drape is very appropriate" she raised a playful eyebrow "Unless we intend to run into battle with no clothes on".

She kissed him softly.

"And there's more from us to come my dear. We are not finished yet. It's going to take our bond, our love for each other to get through this.".

"And I do love you. So very much. And I'm sorry again for today."

“I’m sorry too,” Beaumont said, kissing her. “But the Keshiri aren’t going anywhere, we can make sure we’re dressed…”

He smiled slightly. “… but to dress we will have to undress first.”

Beaumont kissed Qwi again.

Qwi kissed him back deeper. "I like your thinking" she purred "I'd love to see you try and get this thing off" she winked.

"Although the bed in the back is rather uncomfortable and looks hard" she looked out the ship's front port "I think we might be in hyperspace, so once we get to where we are going we can quickly jump to Kesh".

She grinned "And if i'm thinking what you are thinking we might have time for some...pleasurable activities".

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

OOC: Another combo with @Sinrebirth

IC: Grand Admiral Lennox Jerod
Location: ISD Roadblock, Corellian system

It seemed Sarretti had agreed to join the Empire of the Hand, it was the right decision Lennox thought with the current mess the New Republic was in.

He had taken the Megador, now rechristened Cerberus with him to Corellia once the refugees had been offloaded and she had been prepared. Jerod figured he might as well give her a test run.

Against a superweapon no less.

He had decided to stay on Roadblock, it was his ship after all from his Imperial days. He had never had a dreadnaught in his fleet, he had to use it wisely.

Jerod's fleet decanted first, then another fleet. Admiral Niriz had decided to come and play as well. Ten thousand versus….five thousand, including six dreadnaughts and a superweapon. Round about even.

Lennox wasted no time in getting going "Cerberus, those six dreadnaughts may cause a big problem, clear as many as you can, heavy ships focus your fire on your heavier counterparts. Once we clear a hole big enough then we can focus on Centrepoint".

"Fighters and bombers to standby, I want to see what their fleet does first before launching. Medium and small ships, fill in the gaps, targets are yours to choose for now".

He nodded "Form the wall".

The Corellian fleet shifted immediately, but they didn't do it to form a counterwall, no - the six heaviest ships rushed forward, creating a shield overlap, even as the smaller ship nudged themselves behind and followed -

Forming a spear into the Hand formation.

Aimed at the Cerberus.

Corellians were headstrong, confident to the point of foolhardy.

When they fought, they fought hard.

The Cerberus opened fire with it's long-range turbolasers, massive cannons hitting the front egg-shaped dreadnought - it bled a layer of armour - revealing that a second set of armour was within it. It was literally designed to lose shields and a whole layer of hull and not give a damn.

A storm of fighter craft advanced ahead of the six ships - Uglies X-wings, TIE Interceptors, Howlrunners, Corellian designs - an entire era of snubfighter.

"Well, well it seems the Corellians have resorted to their usual fight dirty tactics…." Jerod smiled slightly "I expected nothing less".

"All fighters apart from bombers, launch. All ships, begin movement to the sides, let's try a little squeeze shall we. They want dirty? I'll give them it".

"Cerberus, manuver up, let's give them a little death from above shall we? I would like to see what these ships are really made of''.

The Corellians shifted to follow the Cerberus up, but that increased their exposure to the flanking fire.

One of the Star Defenders slid out of formation on each side and led a stream of bulk cruisers and frigates towards the two lines, freeing up the remaining three-and-a-half larger ships to pursue the Cerberus, which was seeking height and firing its heaviest weapons -

CRACK!

The egg-shaped Corellian Dreadnought exploded, leaving two more and one Star Defender attempting to close the distance. The Cerberus shifted the focus of it's fire -

Even as the enemy fighters smashed into Jerod's, a hundred thousand lights twinkling.

The Corellian bombers - the modern YT-5100 Shriek - numbered too many for the fighter screen to fully handle and they began to pick at Jerod's Star Destroyers. Frontal torpedo and missile launchers spat streams at several, including the Roadblock -

The line officer called out. "Brace, brace, brace!"

Lennox growled "Get fighters on those bombers, I don't care how many we get there just blast them before they take out any of the heavy ships".

"Cerberus, continue your rise and blow those ships to pieces. Heavy ships focus fire on those bigger ships. Small and medium focus your fire on the frigates and cruisers. Anti starfighter craft focus your fire on the bombers and any fighter craft you can get shots on".

"Begin flanking maneuvers, let's see if we can give them a proper squeeze shall we. Use the numbers we have to our advantage, people".

The Roadblock shuddered but it’s shields held, but two other Star Destroyers erupted into flame. The numbers were coming into play but the Corellians were focusing on their speed -

The Cerberus opened fire on the sole Star Defender in the remainder trio of advancing ships, but it’s shields held and it finally reached range -

A tantalising display of crimson turbolaser lasers and corkscrewing missiles erupted -

Even as the Cerberus responded in kind with its traditional weapons -

The three heavy ships vanished beneath the barrage, even as their storm of Corellian fire battered down the shields of the Cerberus.

The Corellian fighters abandoned their bombers to Hand fighters, even as the last two Star Defenders attempted to shift between the Cerberus and the Hand fleet to give their fighters a chance -

Otherwise the rest of the Corellian fleet was chopped to pieces by superior Hand numbers -

Those Star Defenders were indeed tricky customers. Lennox moved a hand down and started tapping one of his batons in thought.

"Cerberus you are getting bashed, move back into the group and focus on long range fire, your shields need a recharge. "

"Those Star Defenders are the problem. If they try to split us up they will break our formation" he narrowed his eyes "Squeeze them harder so they cannot escape. Complete flanking maneuver and concentrate all your fire on those Star Defenders".

"Deploy a quarter of your bombers. Whilst the Cerberus is backing up let's continue our above assault".

The Cerberus began to ponderously retreat into formation, as their surplus warships shifted to defend it. The Star Defenders were struggling, drawing an immense amount of fire and focusing on defence. But it was hopeless for the Corellians now.

All their fury had simply brought down the shields of the dreadnought, and then they had ran out of steam.

“Admiral, I have the Corellian Prime Minister on the line.”

He nodded "Put them through" he said simply "And keep the fire going, if we stop the Corellians will try and take the advantage".

"Prime Minister '' he said as the comm was put through "Am I assuming you are comming to chew me out for attacking you? Or are you here to negotiate".

Aidel Saxan glared at him.

“I don’t believe we’ve been introduced, not even before your unprovoked assault on my system.”

Her tone was curt, impetuous.

The Corellian fleet was being shredded even as it fought to the end. Now the fast moves and swift attacks had ended, the casualties were stacking up - more on the Corellian side, but there were hundreds of shattered warships from both sides. Even though they could not win, they wouldn’t stop fighting either.

Projections had it that the Empire of the Hand was about to lose a third of its numbers defeating the entirety of the Corellian fleet, but nearly half of the Imperial fighters they had deployed - the Corellians were by and large statistically better pilots.

But it would be a total victory.

Soon enough.

Jerod could negotiate a win and avoid that, with a tenth of his warships lost but a third of the Corellians thanks to their now defeated-tactics… or he could press his success and triumph totally.

"Madame Prime Minister, my name is Lennox Jerod. Grand Admiral and current leader of the Empire of the Hand.".

He kept his voice calm "I am here because Centrepoint Station fired on the Garqi system. And since this weapon was either fired on the command of yourself or someone rogue it is clear to me that it is not a safe weapon in your hands. Particularly since you apparently wiped out New Republic fleets as well as Vong".

"Now your fleet is about to be wiped out but I have a proposition for you since you no doubt want to avoid more bloodshed. You stop firing and I will do so as well".

"So the proposition is this. I take Centrepoint off your hands and you join the Empire of the Hand. Corellians are known to be good fighters and your Star Defenders and bombers are impressive. And I would like them on my team to take on the real threat. Yuuzhan Vong".

"The galaxy is in chaos. Only under one united banner can we triumph. The New Republic is in disarray, the Confederation are a motley rabble and the Eternal Empire is ruled by darksiders who want to rule with an iron fist".

"There are terrors in the Unknowns just waiting to be unleashed. You think it will stop with the Vong? Join us and Corellia will be remembered for helping to defeat the REAL enemies".

Saxan looked horrified. “Centerpoint’s fire did… that?” She shook her head. “It wasn’t us - Sal-Solo had control of it. But he’s not fired again…”

The woman made a decision. “I won’t join the Empire of the Hand. I will however call a truce and assist you in securing Centerpoint. But it will be a joint command or no deal. And Corellians cannot be oppressed; the last time an Empire came here, we destroyed a tenth of the entire military.”

The woman’s chin jutted up. “That’s the only deal I’ll offer you.”

As she spoke, their respective casualties mounted. Clearly she didn’t trust the Grand Admiral with Centerpoint either.

"Indeed it did'' Lennox said "Your position however with the New Republic if you do have one remains tenuous."

The casualty numbers were looking concerning now. War was war but it was never a victory if you spent too many lives chasing a lost cause.

"We are not the Galactic Empire, we do not oppress worlds, that was not Grand Admiral Thrawn's mission. We are hoping to unite the galaxy but it seems the galaxy is intent on tearing itself apart. Corellians are proud but you must see a hopeless situation when you see one".

He nodded "Very well, we have a truce and an alliance on Centrepoint. If it is the only way we can secure it then so it shall be. However if the Yuuzhan Vong come calling which they no doubt will or other systems call for it's assistance I trust you will not refuse to help".

Saxan nodded. “I’ll call a ceasefire but you know these things are ragged.”

The Corellians shifted all their energy to shields. All Jerod had to do was give the order, and the Battle of Corellia would be over.

Lennox nodded and looked to his comm officer "Give the order to cease fire, all ships and fighters remain on standby unless we have any...rogue elements".

The battle came to a slow but steady stop.

The Corellians were down from six pocket dreadnoughts and five thousand warships to two Star Defenders and about three thousand smaller vessels.

The Empire of the Hand was down fifteen hundred warships, with some eight thousand five hundred left - and of course the Cerberus.

That left Centerpoint Station to take.

There was a landing craft already en route from Corellia. Saxan explained. “It’s my husband, Denjax Teppler. He has two hundred CorSec Army troopers with him. I intend him to lead the first landing.”

“Is that agreeable?”

"Agreed, tell him I will meet him shortly, I will be coming aboard in person to make sure this truce holds and that the transition goes smoothly". He nodded for the channel to be cut.

He looked down at the pits "Prepare a shuttle and security detail. Tell Admiral Niriz he has command of the fleet and to keep an eye on things."

"One false move and I will consider this truce...void".

TAG: @Sinrebirth , @Narancia

 

OOC: A Combo with @Sinrebirth @Narancia and @darthbernael

IC: Tobias Vox, Snefru and Emperor Nevet
Atrisia, the New Eternal Empire capital, Starkiller Base

Tobias sat alone in his chamber as he came to view within himself. Washing and roiling himself in the Force, trying to ascertain what this so-called 'Vicrul' was. It had been so keen on speaking and now fell silent. Why the thing was growing to be quite tiresome to say the least. The unending silence.

He would meet with Snefru as they made their way to meet with Nevet himself. Tobias had much to discuss with his master, much indeed. Tobias could feel the weakness that now plagued Nevet. A thing to be noted but not commented on.

And thus Tobias Vox, the Eye of Nevet, would appear before one of his Emperors on bended knee. He would not be surprised if Snefru chose not to as unwise as that may be.

"My Lord, much has transpired, much must be discussed."

As Snerfu entered the chamber with Tobias, he couldn't help but feel a bit of apprehension.

What did Nevet summon them for?

Would Tobias honor his agreement?

Would Snerfu need to explain his actions?

Snerfu could only wonder and watch as he also bent his knee before the weakened Nevet.

Many things had occurred in the time that Sistros’ battered flagship took to reach Starkiller Base. Nevet still mentally wrestling with both Zes’tus and the Wounds was more annoyed than before at the fact they continued to believe they would find the power they desired by hamstringing him, especially as they were shackled to him and could not escape his mind. And Zes’tus, his soul, he had to chuckle occasionally, that could use Essence Transfer but...it would lose all it had here, including being tied directly to the Dark Side of the Force if it attempted to do so.

He’d spent the time, as well on several other projects, the consolidation and repair of the fleet, the reintegration of the Knights under Marana once more, a necessary evil considering what currently lived within Tobias. The Anzati that returned were, naturally, curious at what the Wounds had done, but even reduced Nevet was an ancient assassin and more than willing to prove it if he needed. As well, he’d had the time to listen too, to watch, to absorb the various conversations that Snefru and Tobias had had, often making the corner of his lip twitch upward.

And finally there was one last project. One that had required that he dredge his memory and send units, surreptitiously, to various worlds to collect what he required. Which all came together in the last few days before the arrival of the former zealot and his Eye.

When the two beings entered the Throne room Anzati assassins, fading in and out of sight behind chameleon cloaks so as not to waste their own power, lined one wall. The Knights that had been able to return lined the other. Their heads turned, each as the two approached the Throne. The Throne Nevet currently did not occupy.

Instead he was facing his son, Kigrael speaking in a low tone, words that perhaps Tobias may understand some of, having spent time on Anzat when the shadow capital was viable. Nevet turned as the sound of his speaking faded, the bone-white mask taking in the two kneeling before him. There was a small smile, a gleam in his eyes, that was matched by a gleam in his son’s eyes, a sense of something in the air, as yet hidden.

He nodded to them both, ”Rise, my Eye, rise Snefru, oh and welcome he who has decided upon his name, Vicrul. I am pleased you arrived, there is much to be done.”

Tobias arose as instructed his mind sharp as he contemplated his current situation. The Knights, they were becoming untethered from him. And his Master, how did he know that the being as named Vicrul? Such had only been uttered to himself when he was away. Tobias frowned, a tendril of anger flaring up within his mind.

His voice however remained calm, as he gazed toward Nevet.

"And there is much to be explained. Master. Have I been unsatisfactory? Have I not remained loyal and steadfast? Carrying out your whim and will as you see fit. Looking ever forward as your Eye to future threats. That of the Empire of Hand, of the Republic, of the Yuuzhan Vong. Negotiating peace between a potential foe and ensuring the empire does not further destabilize. And yet you decide to insult me and diminish my position. Is this the reward you think I duly deserve? My loyalties on Bakura were shaken to their core, I know you can sense that so there is no use in playing coy."

He paused for a moment, lacing at Snefru before finishing off his calm tirade.

"Do you fear the darkness within me? I will admit I do not fully understand the nature of what it is, but there are far, far more effective countermeasures that could be put in place. And yet you chose the one that slights me when you have slighted me, your loyal servant, already within recent memory"

Snerfu nodded at Tobias's confession. It was obvious that the top lieutenants had their beliefs shaken during the Correlian's assault on Bakura. Snerfu could see that Berneal's power was a fraction of what it used to be, and Snerfu assaulted Graul's children. But Snerfu wondered where this discussion would go. But Snerfu spoke directly after Tobias.

"I agree with Tobias, my Emperor," Snerfu spoke tentatively, "The events at Bakura have shaken our chemistry, our ability to synergize with one another fully. We must rebuild this if we are to continue forward, my Emperor."

Snerfu made sure to highlight Berneal's title; he wanted to make sure Berneal didn't feel slighted.

Nevet’s lip twitched in what could be called a smile as he listened to his Eye. The man was upset, confused, angry, frustrated, so many emotions swirled in him that it was almost a buffet of emotion. He raised a hand as the Anubi added and agreed with his counterpart, making the smile twitch again. ”Much occurred on Bakura, much you sensed, much you did not. None was intended as offense. If so I would say that many more than you would have the right to stand where you do now and claim the same. Of course I can see your point of view.”

He glanced at the Knights, standing straight, at ease, against the wall, ”You believe I insult you by changing the scope of your duties in this time of chaos and galactic war. One of you has led the contingents of our Force users, one of you has worshipped myself and Skelm as gods. We are, have been, will be again. But to lose faith because the enemy, of those that face us there can be counted on one hand our true enemies and the true attack came from one of those. Because such an enemy was able to attack and damage even us there is doubt. So be it.”

He sat in the Throne, glancing at them, glad that he’d had Fel not be present for this, and that he’d had the hall scoured for monitoring devices. ”My Eye,” he began again, in a perhaps calmer tone, ”I have chosen to amend your duties, not take away as a means to insult you. I have a task, one I would trust only to one I trust, for you.”

“Snefru,” he chuckled for a moment. ”You do realize if you had told me your desire to have a homeworld for your people it would have happened long past. I have a thought for you, considering recent events, what is the greatest threat to the empire besides Palpatine and the Vong? Not our squabbling foes who seek to take us down piecemeal, but a delusional foe who has already destroyed a good quarter of the galaxy’s ability to stop that other foe. Now how do you think that particular foe would stand against a horde of Anubi?”

He sat back, eyes still bright, as Kigrael stepped to his side, Marana moving closer on the other side of the Throne as well. ”Four of the people I’ve trusted most are in this room and two of them believe I do not trust them when the opposite is true. Now, you wish to know, to act, to be sure of that trust. What I ask of you both I would ask of no others.”

A small smile spread across Tobias's face.

"I thought you knew me better than to take a man simply at his words, but rather examine his actions." He tilted his head as he calmly walked slightly. His eyebrow raised as his master seemingly knew of information he had no way of knowing. Other than reading their minds. A prospect that was...unsettling to say the least.

"Perhaps you did not mean it as an insult because all those around you mean so little. Exploding the palace without warning, perhaps understandable, but nearly resulting in my death. Yet again drawing on your maddening power with a warning of no less than eight seconds for me to get off-world, my life yet again put in danger. And now you amend my duties, reshape my scope. Gilded ways of saying that you strip me of power. I am no fool, my Emperor. I do not wish to be treated as a child told how their punishment is somehow a reward. Do not sugar coat a demotion and attempt to sell me honey-drenched dung."

His eyes glinted as he watched the Emperor.

"You have an awfully odd way of showing this so-called 'trust',"

His eyes squinted for a moment before continuing.

"You think I am so unwise not to put protocols in place in case I am kidnapped or held hostage. That is your concern is it not? You think I am so foolish as to not think of this possibility."

Snerfu rose but didn't say anything. How could he? Between everyone here, Snerfu was the least affected by the explosion, and the disillusionment that came with it actually worked for the better in his situation. As of now, they were giving him concessions!

Plus, Berneal was surprisingly amicable in this situation. He even, in some manner, knew of Snerfu's request for a homeworld and infrastructure. Still, he didn't seem to understand that Snerfu and his people were looking for assurances that they weren't going to be executed given a chance.

And before Snerfu could say anything, Tobias did what Snerfu could only describe as exposing a flaw in Berneal's argument. A weakness that Snerfu admittedly didn't think of, but at the same time, it wasn't entirely unexpected.

Berneal enjoyed having his ego stroked and was essentially viewed upon as a god for an extended period. In this case, it was inevitable that he would do something to put his forces in danger.

But then Snerfu thought of the assault on the capital. What was to be done? Berneal had to show excessive force to drive off the opposition and show that Bakura was off-limits, so his hands were tied. Were there better ways? Probably.

But it didn't help that this all occurred during an invasion.

So inevitably, this conversation seemed to be more of a personal matter for Tobias. But Snerfu couldn't blame him. The Eye of Nevet was caught up in the explosion and blew up because of the whole thing. Snerfu made no indications of his position; instead, he nodded when Tobias took the stage.

After all, Snerfu agreed to support Tobias, so to contradict him publicly was foolish. So Snerfu saw this as a game of sorts.

After all, an Emperor has to convince his supporters to stay after an unpopular action. Berneal was the one that needed to do the explaining. So Snerfu waited and watched; how was Berneal going to save his empire? Would he go down as Trajan or Commodus?

Nevet’s expression did not change as Tobias continued, Snefru’s nod told him the other’s position was not as directly personal as Tobias’s was but he was maintaining the alliance he’d seen they make aboard the other flagship. One eyebrow rose behind the mask at the mention of eight seconds. But he waited for his Eye to finish. When the man had, he sat back more against the Throne, a more relaxed posture.

”So, let’s see, you were in a secured bunker and got knocked around when I responded to assassins that were attempting to kill the entirety of the Eternal families. I had to change the playing field in a drastic way. The following ‘complaint’ is that you had eight seconds. If that is how you see it then perhaps I should have amended your duties more, I clearly gave twenty seconds, a lifetime to a Force user. And that countdown was broadcast quite clearly systemwide so the fact that you missed twelve seconds of it is worrisome. Coming to the ‘demotion’,” He turned to Snefru.

”Tell me, would you rather the chance to take the superweapon and perhaps the planet associated with it or would you rather steal the corpse of the avatar of the Light Side’s wife, driving him even more over the edge and assuring the dominance of the Dark Side for centuries to come?” he glanced back at Tobias, ”Yes, that was what I had planned for you, not kidnapping, not held hostage, simply the most difficult task currently available. After all, not only will it remove my Twin from the stage but also hamstring the Jedi, the same people who just killed many of those you know at Anzat.”

Tobias remained calm, his demeanor not rising that to anger or frustration but with each passing moment that became more difficult.

"My Lord you selected me to rise to this position because of my candid pragmatic nature. Because I could speak truths or opinions in a manner without fear of what might happen as a result. For that brings strength, you are wise enough not to surround yourself with simple yesmen."

He paused for a moment, noting how quickly Snefru was becoming politically savvy.

"It did not seem a particularly secure bunker when it was ripped apart into shreds, but as I said I can understand this course of action. As for 'twenty seconds' you tout that I had. Forgive me Master for firstly not being able to find a ship in the rubble of the world, begin the take-off sequence, and then get off-world and into orbit all while still having to kill Arb, be knocked out from the darkness within me, and notice that a certain fanatic was about to turncoat. If you truly, honestly think this deserves a demotion, after I sought peace rather than war, stabilizing the Empire as best I could, an action that I expected would be commended but you have brushed aside. Then my Lord I am of no use to you. Because not even a god could do all that and get off-world within twenty seconds,"

Tobias breathed in for a moment contemplating the task that Nevet had assigned to him. He failed to see why this task required a reduction of his power. The fact remained he was being punished for the most frivolous and non-existent of reasons. His mind working in dangerous ways. He would rather end this here and now but if not he was fearful that he would have to take actions in his own hands.

"This task you describe, I can appreciate it is of great import, but what is this now. I am simply just your best Knight of Nevet..."

He trailed off his mind working on a plan to remedy his situation. It was not one Nevet would like, but in time he would understand. For it was the situation Tobias was being forced into.

A snort inside his mind.

Vicrul had managed to stay quiet for all of this time, but at that, he had to react.

But he kept it to inside Tobias's head.

The Darkness had nothing to say to Bernael.

In-fact, it had more to say to Snerfu, but Vicrul wanted to see if the Eternal Emperor would manage to convince his servants to serve.

Snerfu noted Tobias's words. Specifically about the fanatic going turncoat.

Snerfu nodded. That did almost happen. Snerfu was a big enough dog to admit to himself that he almost committed treason.

And it was kind of ironic how despite everything, Tobias was getting the short end of the deal. Somewhere in his gut, Snerfu could sympathize with that. Almost as if in another life, Snerfu was put in the same position, and his superiors chose an unproven talent over him only to backtrack once it blew up in their face.

Snerfu was sure that whoever did that to him fell on their sword soon after. And all the previous supporters looked silly, so it didn't matter.

But Snerfu refocused his mind; he had no idea where that thought came from. Something was happening with his mind since the explosion.

Since Snerfu absorbed the residual dark side essence of Berneal's explosion, he was...understanding a lot more.

However, things were getting tense so far; Snerfu could see both sides having their own legitimate reasons for doing what they did. But his alliance was still with Tobias, so if Berneal wanted Snerfu's service, he had to convince Tobias.

Nevet had been waiting...and pushing...because it was needed. He sighed, glancing once again at Tobias. His hand waved at the man, in the general direction of his head. ”That...that there is why I have done what I have. You I trust, but that thing in you...he has yet to earn it, and based on what I know, he would rather tear everything down, has torn everything down, will tear everything down, beginning with turning the Knights into his own troops loyal to his darkness and not to the bond they share.”

His eyes met Tobias’s, ”I know him, do not know what he just told you when he stirred but he...I do not trust right now.” he believed honesty was needed here and he wasn’t going to deny to his Eye why he was acting as though the man had lost his trust. How it was rebuilt was the question. His head tilted to the side as he felt something in the bond between himself and his Twin that made him sigh again. ”The task of retrieving the body of my Twin’s wife I will give to another.” a short glance was passed to Kigrael.

”The task, requiring all your expertise as an assassin, and a team including the Saarai-Kaar, need to take over and destroy Centerpoint. Which will run coincidental with Snefru and the Anubi taking, destroying the foe at Corellia.” His gaze turned to the Anubi, ”Five livable worlds, Corellia itself being the key. Five worlds, I’d say, gives your kind plenty of room to grow.”

Snerfu's eyes gleamed with excitement, five worlds.

Five whole worlds!

The Anubi will become powerful again!

More than that, they'll become a nation.

Nay, a system unto themselves!

"So I get to kill our enemies, grow my people and establish our culture?!"

Snerfu's earlier stoicism went away, his tail wagged, and he was shivering with energy.

Tobias actually scoffed as he heard his Emperor's 'reason' for his decision. He wanted to exploded in rage for a moment, Nevet not listening to Tobias. Was this really the rational intellect he had come to respect.

"Which is why I said I have countermeasures in place if I am kidnapped or held hostage. The Knights are intelligent enough to know if an order is rogue not to mention the possibility of creating a fail-safe code, this thing does not take my memories, does it? Or even if I did we could enact another failsafe of some kind. It would appear you have a flair to go overboard my Master..."

It is concerning... a deal-breaking pattern he wanted to say but did not...

He mused as he watched as Snefru was offered five whole worlds and the expected jubilation that came with it. Tobias had much to do, he had told himself if Nevet continued his pattern of going overboard he would do something about it. The question was what.

"Vicrul merely snorted at what I had to say... if you must know..."

Tobias thought for a moment, his mind awash as he contemplated the piece on the board

"We shall go Emperor, Snefru, myself, if I may I would like to handpick the Knights that accompany us."

Nevet nodded, eyes mostly on Tobias, as he responded to Snefru first, ”Yes, your own system to truly thrive in. I look forward to your culture becoming a viable one, that is a valuable asset to the Empire.”

His fuller attention turned back to Tobias. The silence dragged out for a minute, then a second as they eyed each other, ”As I said I do not trust him. For now I shall leave it at that. As to the operation, as both are in close proximity, you may choose several Knights, yes athough Marana shall be involved, and the reason is not lack of trust but because she wishes to get to know you better, as your work has kept her far from her side. It was her request, not my own idea.” he replied with a glance at his wife, still attempting to understand, given the animosity he knew his Eye was feeling.

Tobias relented realizing there was no use in trying to convince Nevet otherwise. He gave a bow of his head and then looked up.

"Thank you, my Lord, it shall be done as you command,"

He gave no outward reaction to Marana being involved, although it of course bugged him somewhat, but such was his lot.

"Is there anything else you wish to discuss, my Lord?"

Nevet sighed, ”Find a way to cause me to trust this Vicrul, Tobias. Which will not occur now. But cause that trust to happen and you may see your status elevated higher than it had been before even the events upon Bakura.” he replied. He could not, would not tell Tobias all that was involved with that ‘spirit’, the man would have to find that out for himself.

”But, should you not be beyond the pale mad with your Emperor, I would ask that both of you share a drink with me, Marana, and Kigrael.”

Tobias gave a nod of his head but gave no response to the first part of what Nevet had to say, merely choosing to ignore it, for now.

"Of course, my Lord it is long overdue that I have a drink," he spoke with a sly smile before giving a look to Snefru. He needed to speak to him later, he would prove to be a useful ally. One that Tobias planned to continuously invest in.

"Yes, Emperor, I would love to have a drink before the annihilation of an entire civilization to establish our tribe!"

Snerfu was jovial at this moment, but he caught Tobias's look and shrugged; he wasn't sure what was happening entirely as this thing Berneal and Tobias kept referencing went over Snerfu's head. This Arb character was something of a mystery to Snerfu as well, but it didn't matter. Snerfu was preoccupied with the thoughts of his people getting five whole worlds! A total victory for the Anubi.

TAG: @Sinrebirth @Narancia @darthbernael

 

Darth Cocytus
Alliance

Darth Cocytus eyed the Jedi and her ignited weapon, seeing her finally accepting that they must, at least temporarily, join forces to fight this grave threat to the Galaxy, to both Dark Siders and Light Siders alike.

He most certainly noticed the malicious grin from his apprentice and smiled thinly, and approvingly, back at her malicious grin. She seemed more eager than how Darth Styx was in her beginning. Which was good.

“Very good and yes, I agree. This gathering above the Sith Homeworld for the first time in millenia is far too great for coincidence.”

He eyed the sky above thoughtfully, looking into both the Force and his own deductive skills.

“This timeline… far, far too different compared to my own and the other one I came from. I assume that with Palpatine faking his death during Order 66, Anakin Skywalker never became Darth Vader among a whole other things unthinkable. Which means, I can only assume, that what is meant by Change is that… this timeline is artificial, isn't it? Palpatine said it himself during my duel with him that he 'created' this reality. None of this is supposed to have happened, but that would take an unimaginable amount of power to make happen.“

He finally ignited one of his crimson blades with glowing yellow-orange eyes filled with desire.

“Power that the Black-Coat would most certainly know about. Let’s go find him.”

@Sinrebirth




Sent from my SM-A205U using Tapatalk

 

IC: Jori I Atreus
On-board Mandator-I Class Star Dreadnought “Kuat’s Pride”

Jori was standing on the ship’s bridge. The elderly lady had been restless since that conference call. Palpatine had the gall to threaten her granddaughter. She was going to make him pay.

But first she would play the role that he required from her. Revenge was a dish best served cold. Hopefully an opportunity to strike would arise soon enough. After all, she was at the end of her life’s journey and she wanted to see Palpatine pay for crossing her like that.

What angered her that he would resort to such a thing. It was base and showed no respect for her. As if she would not have helped him otherwise.

Normally Jori would have said that it was just business as usual, but here it was Kuat’s future on the line.

It was probably Palpatine’s intention to take her out of her comfort zone. Make her stumble. So she had to calm down and just play the game. His last and costly mistake showed that he was fallible after all.

“Exiting hyperspace.” the Captain announced.

Jori paused for a second then nodded “Prepare my shuttle.” she said simply “And hail whoever is in charge down there.”

The Captain saluted and was about to spin on his heel to carry out her orders. “Keep a commando unit on standby, just in case.” she added and prepared to leave for the turbolift.

Let the games begin.

TAG: @Sinrebirth anyone else over Korriban

 

OOC: A combo with @Sinrebirth and @JediMasterAnne

IC: Han Solo, Ben Solo, Feyna Organa-Chume, Prince Isolder, Lumpawaroo (Lumpy), Lady Galney/Abeloth
Location: Star Home

Han had to shake his head after Ben's explanation. He was hearing voices in his head? Yeah not good, especially since one of them was Palpatine.

And he'd made a new name for himself? What was Ben playing at?

And...why was he listening in to a conversation between Isolder and Galney. He wod keep the comlink on but muted from his side. He didn't want them hearing this.

"So first of all you have voices in your head, you gave yourself a new name and then decided hang on ya know what i'll do? I'll go and play bait and seek with Palpatine".

He shook his head "I've done a load of crazy stuff in my lifetime but there is no way in hell you were goin' to face him. He will cut you to pieces''.

"And you've also decided to reveal your parentage to the whole galaxy…"

Feyna had tucked the blaster Isolder had slipped her, into her sleeve; he hadn't exactly detailed a plan to her, or verbally expressed his concerns, but something still wasn't adding up with Galney. Feyna almost wanted to check the back of the woman's neck, for one of those implants like Doman had had, but she couldn't do so without being obviously suspicious. And Galney was covered with bacta patches.

"I think we're still a ways from perfect," she replied to Galney's comment.

"What happened with the MPs?" She made the question sound concerned. "We could hear the blaster fire."

Ben pulled a face. "It's my parentage, Dad. It was kept from me for long enough. I don't want people whispering behind my back. I am me, and if they don't like it, they can stuff it."

He was well into petulant teenager mode here, even as the comlink carried on.

Galney replied silkily, flicking her hair slightly so that Feyna could actually see there was no coral implant, almost naturally, as she spoke to the Queen Mother. "I managed to appeal to their better natures, actually. They disagreed about shooting a little woman, especially one already twice injured, and they shot each other!"

She sounded positively pained.

"It was awful, because none of the brave souls who sided with me survived."

Isolder nodded automatically. That was, annoyingly, a perfectly reasonable view of things.

But he couldn't shake it. There was something wrong. He had one other point, but it was Feyna's question, and he wanted to let her respond to her own line of thought.

Feyna couldn't find fault with the story--but Galney's version was the only one they had; it wasn't like they could ask the dead guards. And there was no implant. But something still wasn't feeling right.

"You just don't quite seem yourself, since then," she said. "Perhaps it's just stress and overexertion, with the extent of your injuries, but I wonder if we ought to have a medic check you out."

"That may be son, but there will be people quein' up to have your head on a plate. Bounties will be placed on you for what Zorn did. People will want revenge, or maybe some darksider like Palpatine will choose you to be his apprentice".

"I don't know if that's actually sunk into your brain yet son".

Meanwhile it seemed Feyna had joined in. Were they trying to maybe poke Galney? Han kept one ear on it.

Ben shook his head. "We're going to win this war, and we'll make everything right. If I'm a hero, and I've proven myself, nobody is going to come after me. If they do, I'll be a fully trained Jedi Knight." He stood. "You would just rather I hid from it all."

In the room, Galney twitched. "I don't see why that is necessary, ma'am, I have been to the medics several times now -"

"Actually," Isolder said drily. "You haven't. You self-medicated, according to the Star Home medics, even after you were stabbed by a lightsaber. Apparently you insisted. The medic just chalked it down to shock and intended to check-in with you later, but then you were shot... and again, it seems, during the scuffle with those MPs."

He indicated the additional bacta patches.

She was staring daggers at him now.

"So either you're a remarkable healer..."

He tensed slightly, and hoped Feyna would see he intended to draw his weapon -

"Or you're hiding something from us," Feyna finished. Her hand slipped into her sleeve, ready to draw the blaster if she needed to…

Now Han had two problems. Ben having a strop and it seemed Feyna and Isolder could be in trouble again.

"So what, you're just goin' to start chargin' in everywhere? Ya know I did that a lot, and heaven knows how many times I escaped scrapes''.

"But as a Jedi, you gotta be smarter. Nobody is invincible, and do you want me to lose you? You are my son. What about Xav? Do you reckon she wants to see you hurt?"

Galney smiled.

The corners of her lips seemed to continue to turn up, and the twinkle in her eyes grew brighter, as her pupils expanded until the rest of gaze was black. Her teeth seemed to sharpen.

“I spent all this time making sure I was perfectly beside you, making sure you were safe, and served…” Galney sighed slightly. “I just wanted to see how I could be as loved as you.”

She slowly stood, her hair turning grey and the transformation becoming more pronounced. Isolder had his blaster in his hand by now.




“Run, Feyna!” Isolder shouted -

Ben hesitated. “No, I don’t want Mom to suffer.” His voice was smaller.

Feyna was on her feet, blaster drawn, but not firing yet.

What is she? This wasn't a Vong, nor one of the Aurra clones; she hadn't set off Qwi or Beaumont's 'Vong-sense,' and Ben hadn't seemed to have noted anything off about her...

Feyna had started backing toward the door, but she didn't want to leave Isolder to face this...creature, alone--"Come on!"

"We are goin' to face some battles ahead Ben" Han said "Just temper down the fierceness OK? You remind me of my younger self. Gettin' a little bit old and grey now".

"You will be a hero, just...try and not test your luck too much OK? You're a Solo now and you've got plenty of family who love you".

Hearing what was going on over the comlink "Speakin' of which, looks like your aunt needs rescuing again"' he called to Lumpy "Hey pal, might need to speed up on those repairs, might need to get the Falcon ready!"

He waved at Ben to follow him "Come on kid, we've got someone to go blast".

Isolder fired and the woman creature took the shot in the forehead - her head flinched back but it came back around. “Prince Isolder,” Galney crooned.

“That was rude.”

Isolder shot her again, this time in the chest.

No effect.

Ben leapt up, lightsaber in hand already. Lumpy had the Falcon prepped but came to the seating area with his bowcaster. He growled that he still had a trace on Feyna’s comlink.

“Come on, we need to go!” Ben shouted, taking one of the proffered trackers.

So much for their blasters being of any use...the woman just seemed to absorb the shots--which also seemed to explain how she'd survived her various other injuries.

Feyna remembered, when they'd found the first Aurra clone, back at the palace, Galney had gotten caught by the stun blast Feyna had fired at the clone. Would stunning her still work?

Feyna switched her blaster over, pointing it at the woman--but she still didn't fire. Feyna would defend herself or her husband, if it actually came to it, but even though Isolder had landed two shots, the creature hadn't yet actually tried to attack them.

"Who are you?"

Han drew his blaster and followed Ben.

Whomever it was hassling Feyna, they were about to get a big surprise.

She grinned, her arms having split into tentacles. One lashed out, knocking Isolder’s weapon out of his hand. “I am Abeloth. Perhaps the Jedi told you of me?”

They had; in the reports about the deaths of Grandmaster Ood Bnar and Master Kyle Katarn. A monster trapped in the Maw by ancient Force Gods. But she’d been reported killed by Masters Renn and Vhardia and then-Padawan Leia, fifteen years ago -

“I needed a new body. A more politically useful one. A beloved one.” She licked her lips. “Which is why I had to keep you alive, no?”

At that, the door opened and revealed Ben, Lumpawaroo and Han -

Ben’s eyes widened. “What in the Force is that -“

Han looked at the creature in front of him. It was hideous.

"I find askin' questions in these sorts of situations is not a good idea" Han said, raised his blaster and began firing at the creature's body.

Feyna shook her head at the woman, and fired a stun blast at her. She didn't think it would work, though.

She remembered hearing mention of Abeloth before, but she couldn't recall the exact details of how Renn and Vhardia and Leia had defeated her last time.

Abeloth twisted and turned around the blaster bolts, kill or stun, mostly unfazed. Lumpy growled at Isolder to duck, and fired an explosive quarrel at her.

It blew a hole in her chest, and she tumbled back. But she stood quickly enough, leering manically and with a flex of her limbs bodily slammed the Wookiee into the wall and into unconscious oblivion. Ben was upended by the swat of Lumpy, and his lightsaber tumbled to the ground as he landed on his face, wincing.

Abeloth gathered herself and leapt at Feyna -

Ben threw out a hand and a Force push slammed out, throwing back the chairs before her -

But Abeloth powered through without issue and landed in-front of Feyna, almost instantly ensnaring her in tentacles - her neck, arms, face -

Isolder cried out and lunged at Abeloth and she slapped out a limb and knocked him back -

Her head turned an unnatural angle to look at Han -

No, you will not take me, Feyna thought, struggling against the creature's grasp. She couldn't get a good shot this close, so she dropped her blaster and tried to kick it to Isolder. Lumpy's bowcaster had had the best effect, though. Ben hadn't had a chance with his lightsaber yet, either...

"You. Get. The. Hell. Off. Her" Han growled as he aimed at the creature's head and began firing.

He was determined to wipe that look off her face. And maybe it would give Ben time to grab his blade back and use it.

He wouldn't worry about Lumpy or Isolder for now.

Han’s shots didn’t seem to phase Abeloth as she turned her head back to Feyna and pulled her face closer. It was only when Han’s shot passed through her jaw did Abeloth turned and her free hand ensnare the Corellian in a net of tentacles. She caught his wrists and crushed them until the hands opened, dropping the blaster, and then she sought purchase on Han’s throat -

Feyna’s kicking did nothing to the Goddess as the tentacle tips tried to push apart her lips, and she rolled her neck to use a Force motion to throw Isolder back at the wall as he rushed her -

The Queen Mother was so close she could see the black ichor writhing under the pulsating tentacles surface, ready to pump into Feyna, as she squeezed Han to the edge of a blackout -

Then Ben leapt up and slashed the arm holding Han at the shoulder -

Pained at last, with an ethereal scream Abeloth shook free Feyna and threw her at Isolder -

And then whipped her remaining arm around to club Ben back to the rear of the room. She dropped to the floor and clattered toward him as if a kind of spider, ignoring the rest of them -

Feyna picked herself up, relieved at being released from Abeloth's grip, but now they had to help Ben. She went for the nearest weapon and started shooting at the creature's head.

Han was possibly thinking his Solo luck might have run out. The creature was literally choking him and had crushed his wrists so hard he might have either broken wrists or hairline fractures.

His blaster had dropped to the floor and there was no way he could help Feyna now. He couldn't struggle and he couldn't fight.

He heard Ben's lightsaber sizzle and cut one of the tentacles. Han was dropped and he collapsed to the ground on his back wheezing, coughing and gasping for breath.

And with the pain in his hands so strong he didn't know if he could pick up his blaster.

He was currently going nowhere.

The weapon that Feyna gripped was the bowcaster of Lumpawaroo and it took a shot at Abeloth - who flicked out a tentacle and caught the quarrel. It exploded in her grip but she crushed the fireball with the Force, looking back at Feyna with hungry eyes.

Those eyes took in Han as he struggled to recover, moved on -

Ben was struggling to his feet and then Abeloth was atop him, planting her stump of an arm on his throat and tipping him over. She had used a powerful Force push on Feyna to shove her back - up into the air and down again into and through the door - and then whipped around to try and push her tentacles into young Ben’s face -

“Drink, drink the nectar of the Gods -“

Han rolled over onto his stomach and saw what was going on. Feyna had gone flying which angered him even more, Lumpy was still down and now Ben was in deep trouble.

No one hurts my family…

Still wheezing for breath he managed to make his way over to his blaster and wincing in pain managed to grab it, but his grip was shaky due to the immense pain.

He didn't hesitate; he just started pumping shots into the creature's body until his blaster beeped at him to say it was running low.

Winded from the impact of going through the door, Feyna stumbled back to her feet and back into the room in time to see Abeloth was going for Ben now.

No, she can't have him, either. Han had already loosed a barrage of blaster shots on the woman. Feyna picked up Lumpy's bowcaster again--she'd dropped it when she'd been thrown at the door--and released another quarrel to join Han's fire.

Abeloth erected a wall between them and her and went to take Ben as her new body.

You can’t have him.

Feyna and Han and Ben would hear that.

Palpatine’s voice.

There was a scream and Abeloth was hurled back. She crashed between Feyna and Han and rushed back up, clearly panicked, and she swept Han off his feet. She spun to face Feyna, her tentacles spreading out with the final intention to end this and take Feyna’s body once and for all -

Ben was laying on the field, injured by the attack on his body.

He took an underarm swing to hurl his lightsaber towards Han -

But Feyna of course still had that bowcaster -

Feyna heard Palpatine's voice, and heard Abeloth scream--she thought it was Abeloth; had Ben thrown her back? Feyna wasn't clear on what had happened.

Abeloth landed hard between her and Han, and began advancing on Feyna again.

Feyna still had no intention of being taken, and she fired the bowcaster again.

What the?

Palpatine! And for real this time. You're not gettin' him either Han snarled back.

Feyna was having about as much luck as he was in trying to take Abeloth down. Which was not much.

When Abeloth landed she kicked Han in the head and he saw stars. The blaster dropped again from his pained hands. But in his confused state he could see something heading towards him. Something silver.

Ben's blade.

Han managed to catch it with a pained yelp as his hand closed around it. And then with one last growl swept the blade up towards the creature.

Abeloth rued her misfortune. Without a Forceful body, she was considerably weaker than she would be say if she had one with the Force. A powerful body such as that of Ben Solo or Rey Palpatine made her Godly, and she would thus have the potential to take multiple bodies - many avatars.

But Galney? She was simply useful because of how close she was to Queen Mother Feyna, who was formidable for a different reason than say Renn, Vhardia and Barriss Ofee. She was resolute, and she had her friends - the Heroes.

Maddened, she leapt at Feyna even as the woman hefted the bowcaster up. It fired; and took Abeloth at point blank range in the forehead -

Galney’s head exploded, and the body hesitated on its feet. But because it was a puppet, all Abeloth did was simply lift the arm and fasten her remaining tentacles upon Feyna’s face and put every erg of her strength into pouring herself into the woman -

But a lightsaber hacked through the body's spine, and Abeloth found there was nothing left to control. With no head, no skeleton, and even no heart - for Han’s legendary Solo luck had caught even that with his swing - the body couldn’t be possessed because it no longer functioned.

And so with a scream as the body died and a part of her essence dissipated into the void, Abeloth fled back to her main body -

And left Feyna and Han and Ben and Lumpawaroo and Isolder to pick up the pieces.

Feyna had a few seconds of terror, of fearing that Abeloth had won, even though Feyna's shot with the bowcaster was true. But a flash of blue, and Abeloth screamed again as her host died, the spine transected and the heart pierced by the lightsaber.

Feyna fell free as Abeloth seemed to vanish, and, after a few moments of reassuring herself that she was herself, that Abeloth was really gone, she set the bowcaster down and moved to check on Isolder. She looked around to Han and Ben as well--Lumpy still seemed to be unconscious. "Is everyone okay?"

Han breathed a sigh of relief as the creature died, well Galney did by the look of it.

He rolled on his back, his head was killing him. Lumpy, Ben and Isolder were still down and he was joining them.

He looked to Feyna with his trademark half smile "That's three you owe me kid".

Han then fell unconscious.

TAG: @Sinrebirth , @JediMasterAnne

 

IC: Senator Nola Deidder
In orbit above Korriban

They'd barely arrived, and already they were taking fire, Admiral A'baht was dead, and the bridge was devolving into confusion.

Nola was not a military commander. Nor was Del. Yet the crew was looking to them for orders.

Vua had identified Palpatine and Nas Choka's flagships, both tempting, high-value targets...there were other ships arriving as well, but rather than engaging the Vong in orbit, they were--going around? "Where are they going?" Nola wondered aloud. Did the newcomers know something they didn't?

"If we leave, we may never get another opportunity like this," she pointed out to the captain.

She didn't know if they could beat the Vong here--A'baht had already noted that they were outmatched--but perhaps they could still do some damage.

TAG: @Sinrebirth anyone else at Korriban

 

Ka'rta
Ithor

Losses were mounting many of their forces were lost taking a holonet receiver and now more were being lost taking herd ships to safety. She snarled tearing into another coral skipper. This was not what she expected though her core group of fighters were making excellent points. Why would Palpatine attack here, and in such numbers, then only attack certain points that were not of any military significance? It was odd, though there was also balancing their stated mission. The News from Korriban also troubled her. What was Owen doing there, seeing the Bounty hunters' ships leave from his vessel gave her the answer. He was helping her little runaway. Things were getting worse over there but, she wouldn't intervene to save her daughter, though she might to make sure that Palpatine was dead...he was in her territory. Sith or not, Korriban and the other Sith homeworlds were in her Iron Empire and she would not just let them waltz in and take what they want, though for now, she needed to secure Mandalore's independence for the future and that meant taking as many of these ships as possible.

"Continue protecting the ships we need as many as we can get. Once that is done…" She paused weighing her options. "We will remain and fight take as many Vong as we can, but once we cross the line of acceptable losses we pull out, understand." She didn't like the uncertainty, the way Palpatine was acting there must have been a plan...and if Mandalore the Silent was involved at Korriban, she would hold the dark lord there until Ka'rta could arrive and kill the monster. "Scouts, keep an eye on the situation, and prepare to engage, I'll arrive shortly to mop up...if there's anything left for us to pick up."

TAG: @Sinrebirth

Tor
Korriban

"Frack." the team leader called out as they descended towards the surface of the sith homeworld. Black was taken out scratching another heavy hitter from her team. She grabbed at Aden's shoulder pulling him back into the chair holding him fast to the passenger seat. They just needed to get to the surface, they just needed to get within sight of the man himself. Her heart was cold to the death around her, it was more an annoyance at this point. All that mattered was wiping out this mark on her ledger.

They landed and Tor pushed Aden out in front of her and Mirta. He knew the way and he would lead them, with a blaster ready to shoot him in the back should he displease her. They moved up to the Balconies where Tor took up her place, with her fellow Mandalorian beside her. Jango Fett's pistol was in her hand, the other rested on a glop grenade. It'd worked the first time, maybe now with the excessive firepower...If Baraduk and Nell lived up to their reputations, would tip the balance into her favor and she could finally put all of this to rest.

Though the question remained with Graul out of the way was she ready for what came next, was she prepared for the showdown between herself and her mother? Was she ready to take the throne that was given to her? Had she really shown it with this outing? Or was this the last hurrah of her freedom, the last act of a desperate hunter before settling down into an administrative position?

That would have to wait...if she survived this last fight.

She spotted her target weapon ready, though there seemed to be interlopers.

"Hold," She whispered, "We follow Graul we will be his shadows, no one else matters. And we do not want to get involved with whatever else is going on. Kill Graul, that is all we want done, and as simply as possible."

TAG: @Sinrebirth @TheSilentInfluence @HanSolo29

 

IC: Leia Skirata-Linnett, Madelyn Linnett
Korriban

Leia watched, her eyes reflecting the battle around them as Almira started to quite them through the battle.She tried to keep her senses on anything but the destruction and the death around them, but soon found it hard to focus. Leia had a hard time sensing anyone or anything besides Almira, and the people who were losing their lives around them. She reached over and grabbed the back of Almira's seat, leaning forward as the cold of the darkside of the force felt like a wall in front of her. She glanced at Almira, and hesitated before she spoke.

"We have to find a way to turn the tide." Leia said softly, and for a moment she wondered how they could even do that. It made her wish her mother was here.

Madelyn in the meantime had navigated her way through the battle, desperate to find Palpatine, to find her daughter amost the carnage. She reached out with the force, trying to block out and ease the death she felt around her, and focus on finding Leia for now, She tried to control her breathing, until she felt a little beacon of light that she knew was her daughter. Madelyn glanced in the direction, and reached out with the force.

Leia. You need to focus. I'm right here with you.

Tag: @Sinrebirth @HanSolo29 @darthbernael @Mitth_Fisto @TheAdmiral @galactic-vagabond422 @Darth Cocytus @JediMasterAnne @Adalia-Durron

 

IC: Tobias Vox
Contemplation...

Tobias had selected Knights that were most loyal to him, hand-picked from the ones he had trained personally. There was no doubt in his mind to their loyalty. He had picked ten in all, each of them he had invested heavily to, for moments like these where that invested repaid itself tenfold.

He had decided to take three ships for this assignment, any more would be unnecessary in Tobias's view. They were to destroy Centerpoint as quickly as possible, withdrawing as little attention to themselves as possible.

There was his own personal ship, a Raider II-Class Corvette, that was particularly suited for against small fighters such as X-wings and TIE fighters... and it was fast and maneuverable... well in comparison to ships of its size.



This would be the ship he, Marana, and Snefru would all be on. Along with the Knights and any Anubi Snefru decided to accompany him. The other two ships would be two other Raider I-Class Corevettes situated on either side of the central command ship. Needless to say, they were massively out gunned by the numerous other ships that were there. But they were cloaked and beyond detection.

Tobias had made it a point to speak to Snefru before they arrived.

"Recall you gave me your word that you would aid me when I called for it?"

His eyes were stern, his mind whirring.

"That time comes soon, very soon. When it arrives you will know and then you must do as I ask... for else is to break your honor-bound code, do you understand?"

Earlier he had spoken to his hand-selected Knights on the secondary nature of their mission, of the plan Tobias would be waiting to enact... when the time was right when destiny called.

The plan it seemed was straightforward, stealthy board Centerpoint, change the navi-data so it would destroy itself, and then escape undetected into Hyperspace.

And so Tobias awaited the other two chiefs of this operation as he gathered his own ten Knights ready to depart unto Centerpoint itself.

TAG: @Sinrebirth @Narancia