The Smoke be for the Fires: (Book 1)

[Akirapryde]

The following Intermissions took place during the First book, Season One.

This is the first time we have chosen to record our story online for all to read. These intermissions will help tell the on going story that is New Horizons. We all hope that you enjoy this as much as we have playing in it.

[Akirapryde]

Leaving the past behind
The Royal Palace, Capital City
Baklid VI, Outer Rim

(Narrators Notes: This event takes place during the following two hours that will separate last Saturday's game and the next game)

Amee walked slowly down the cold corridors of the Royal Palace's bunker. Her balance shifted as the papers slipped from her weakened fingers. Her thoughts lost on the medical reports that she had foolishly read.

“Human Female Subject: Amee (though her identity can not fully be confirmed at this time)
Signs of prolong extreme abuse are evident through out her body..... What is more surprising is the amount of sexual transmitted diseases that currently infect her body...... While some can be cured, it is clear that most can not..... It is this examiner's opinion that if she is lucky she will die before the effects of one of the STD claim her life.....Her death will most likely be one of greater suffering....Giving her ten years is a very optimistic out look for her....

The Larsin detox has been completed......It is unknown what mental issues that might linger.....”
Tears filled her eyes as she stumbled in to a wall. Amee closed her eyes and the past slammed back in to her mind. She could hear their voices in her memory, 'Tell us how you love it!' The stinging of the whip across her back felt like it was just that moment even though months span the two times. Her body rocks forward as she felt the stinging in her mind once more and their voices again, 'Tell us how you love it SLAVE!' Amee's tears hit the concrete floor as she whispered out loud, “I do love it Master, once more...” Her body rocked once more as her memory felt the whips ripping across her back.
Amee reached up the wall with her hands hoping to find some relief from the memories flooding back. The papers that she had stolen from the ship scatter across the floor. Amee let out a scream as she slammed her fists in to the wall, “NO! I HATE YOU!” She screamed looking in to her own reflection. She turned and tried to run down the hallway. Her balance still off as her mind struggles against the memories. Half trotting, half leaning on the wall as she moves down the hall.

She saw a soldier rushing up towards her. “Ma'am are you okay?” the young soldier asked in general concern.

Amee looked at him, and in her vision she saw the males of her memories. The monsters that turned her in to this thing that she hated so much. The soldier leaned in to help her as she moved in closer to him. She reached out with rage clawing at his face, “I HATE YOU!” she screamed at him forcing him to stumbled back from the attack. His painful cries filled the hallway while she grabbed his blaster in he retreated from the attack. The sounds of its discharge filled the corridors of the bunker.
Amee did not bother to look around. She continued to move down the hall. She stopped in horror as she saw herself bowing to one of those monsters, 'I am here to serve you Master, do with me as you wish.' she heard herself say.

“NO!” She yelled at the top of her lungs. “I WILL NOT SERVE ANYMORE!” she continued yelling firing again with the stolen blaster. The shot shattered the reflective window of the door. Luckily the occupants had already taken cover due to the sounds of the first shot. The window shattered as she Amee continued to move through her own personal nightmare. Beyond the door medical personal and soldiers moved from one point of cover to another. It was clear that a crisis was underway. Red lights filled the corridors while blast doors closed.

A Doctor pulled one of the soldiers aside, “She is with the Jedi's group. Quickly! Go get them!” The soldier nodded and ran down the corridor as more shots were heard followed by more yelling and screaming.

Amee turned to see herself as the child she was before they came and took her in to this world of hell. How happy her life was with that family that was only a dream now. She remembered the games they used to play on her family's ship. She saw her childhood friends and even the older boy that she had a crush on. For a brief moment she allowed herself a chance to smile as she saw them playing games in the cargo bay. Then she saw the red lights and heard the sirens blaring.

She saw the battle that changed her life forever. The ship that she was raised on was now blackened by smoke and flames. Gone were the happy thoughts of her childhood. Her ears echoed with the death cries of her family and friends. Walking down the corridor she saw a pirate. His knife was dripping with the blood of her family. She screamed out, “Murder!” as she fired on the phantom. “Get off our ship!” she yelled as she continued to fire as more phantoms fill the corridor.

'Amee, Run! Get out of here!' She turned to see her brother laying wounded on the deck. She turned and ran down the corridor, but her escape was short lived. She turned a corner just as two pirates reached out trying to tackle her. She screamed and fired on them. “NO! Get away from me!” She yelled as the two soldiers fell down before her.

She turned and ran another direction. The smoke which signaled the death of the Yara slowly vanished as the corridors of her new home took shape. Turning in to a room she saw the child of her memory in shackles. The first beast that she would learn to call master whipping the poor captive child. Amee cried out as she fired over and over again at the image. 'What is your name girl?' it demanded of her. The weapon was smoking from the rate of fire and now drained of its energy. Amee dropped to her knees in defeat. She knew she could not fight these monsters. They owned her now. She half cried, half whispered, “slave, I am slave” Her head dropped in defeat. She could not stop these phantoms of her memory. She slowly stood up dropping the worthless blaster by her feet. She walked in to the room that she knew so well. The hooks on the walls where she was hung as punishment. The racks where she was beaten. The place where such unthinkable things happened to her.

Amee walked in to the ward as nurses and Doctors tried to move the wounded and sick out another exit. One of the Doctor's waved the soldiers back who were readying to take her life. “You are Amee. I know you. You are a friend of the Princess. You are safe here. You can trust me.” The Doctor calmly said.

Amee slowly walked around the room. In her mind she saw herself, the captive child. Torn clothes with fresh whip marks across her back. The girl's face filled with pain and tears. “I am Amee?” she said softly as she walked around the room looking at the little girl. The little girl only looked up and shook her head, no.

Unknown to either Amee or the child of her memory, the terrified look on the nurses as their eyes watch Amee carefully.

Amee bumped in to a tray sending bandages and a pair of scissors crashing to the floor. Amee looked at the strange things. It was funny, she never remembered such things in this room before. She knelled down next to the strange items. She heard a soft terrified whimpering but she could not see where it was coming from and dismissed it. She picked up the shiny scissors and looked at her broken reflection in them.

“Amee, look at me, please. You are safe now. No one here will hurt you. I promise.” The Doctor said thinking that he is taking charge of the situation. Amee could see the child girl shaking her head once more, No.

Amee softly looked up at him with her bright yellow eyes. “What am I?” She whispered, “Am I your slave now?” She said digging the scissors deep in to her left arm. The sound of ripping flesh filled the room, “Do you own me now?” She softly questioned as she pulled the scissors down her arm. Her blood flowed freely from the wound. Sounds of blood droplets broke the silence.
“Amee, please stop this. Let us help you.” the Doctor said moving forward hopping to stop her from further harming herself.

Amee flung the bloody scissors towards the Doctor, “Get away from me!” she yelled. Amee heard the girl crying, She turned her gaze at the child in the middle of the room. The poor broken girl was looking up at Amee, 'please end this. Let us forever sleep.' the child cried to her. Amee switched the hands she was holding the scissors and dug it deep in to her right arm.
This time the soldiers were not going to allow this to happen on their watch. The order was echoed down the hallway, “stun her!”

Tears flowing freely from her eyes, Amee looked at the little girl. She was forced to face the facts again. Before she had the drugs to help deaden her pains and her memories. Now all the horrible things that she had done to survive fell about her neck like weights dragging her down under the water. Looking past the soldiers, she saw who she once was. The young girl with so much going for her. A girl filled with life, hope and promise. Now that was all gone. She saw the images of her past life filled with a soft blue glow that was rapidly filling the air around her. Turning her gaze to the child. She could hear the ripping of her flesh once more as she saw the slave that she was forced in to. Once more, Amee saw herself as she really was. It was something that she could never change. She felt the unchanging desires of her broken mind begging for more suffering and abuse. She wanted the monsters back no matter how much she hated them. She was forced to see herself as what she was when she Yara was attacked by pirates........

LOST.....

[Akirapryde]

Unleashing the Immortals
Republic Heavy Cruiser Defiance
Location: Mid-Rim outside of Wayland Space

Today was like all others on the training deck of the Defiance. Combat units of the 501st Assault Regiment square off with the units coming up through the training battalion so that their skills can be honed and improved. Here in five large training cells one can hear the sounds of combat and instructions being exchanged. Units were coming and going off the training lines. On the Defiance, training is always a high priority and the Captain of the ship prides himself of the fact that his units are some of the best training in the Republic. This made the training deck of the Defiance a place a hive of activities.

No one noticed as Captain Heartman walked slipped on to the deck. Captain Heartman was a military man through and through. He was a tall well built man who commanded his mens respect and attention by his sheer presence. As the commander of the Defiance the Captain often enjoyed coming down to the training deck to watch the next generation soldiers under his command. Captain Heartman noticed that the Duty Officer had taken notice of him. With a simple wave of his hand, the Captain silenced the Duty Officer's call to attention. One thing the Captain was on the ship, it was loved and respected by his men and for very good reasons. His first in, last out command style ensured that all his men were never alone on the battlefield. And his personal promise that, dead or alive, everyone returned home. The Captain had the never ending loyalty from his officers and soldiers.

Searching the deck carefully, the Captain finally spotted the reason why he had come down from the bridge today. Not that he ever needed a reason to tour his ship. Being part of his crews' lives was something that he prided himself in doing. It allowed him to noticed soldiers with great potential and help bring out the best in under archivers. This gave him a better feel for the pulse of the crew and helped him bring out the very best over all. He would also find a very few officers and soldiers that he would take a personal interest in. These very few enjoyed extra mentoring and training above the others as long as they continued to earn it. The young officer he was watching now was one of those very few. When he noticed her career coming up through the Academy, he knew she was destined for greatness under the right conditions. He had her assigned to the Defiance to ensure that her career had the chance it needed to grow. She did not let him down. She pushed and trained her men hard. Her training platoon become one that other units soon looked up to. “Talon!” he braked out over the noises of the Training Deck.

She whipped her head up at the sound of her nickname. Coming up through the Academy, it was said that 'Once she got her talons in to you, you were as good as dead.' “Sir! YES SIR!” she replied loudly then rushed over to the Captain. She turned back to the two soldiers from her platoon that she was talking with. She motioned for them to stand fast, then turned her attention to the Captain. Upon reaching him she rendered a sharp salute then stood as rigid as the ship its self.

The Captain returned the salute, “At ease Lieutenant.” he commanded and watched her shift her weight as she took a more relaxed posture but still a military stance. He took a breath then started, “We have a situation that is turning in to a crisis. We have been monitoring the EAM's coming out of Baklid 6. It would appear that the Jedi are conducting operations there that have gotten out of control. The situation has gotten so bad for them that one group is neck dead in combat while another group has had a member of their group taken hostage. The local situation is not much better and due to the Jedi's actions could get allot worse. Being the only marine unit in range. I have decided to render aide to the Jedi's mission.

He paused noting that she looked as if she wanted to ask something. Taking the opportunity Talon spoke up, “Sir, excuse me for asking. But have the Jedi requested such help? It does not seem like them to ask for help from the marines like this.”

He nodded and smiled, her ability to question instead of mindlessly follow orders was a trait he enjoyed in her. “Do you remember our conversation last month about history and its role in our lives today?” he noted her nod, “Each major conflict that the Republic has been involved in has the Jedi at the heart of it. Not to get me taken wrong, their intentions are always in high regard. They tend to get involved in situations that rapidly get out of control. Sadly the Jedi themselves are typical arrogant and will not seek help till it is too late the contain the problem. This is where many needless lives are lost if we are lucky. Worst case, remember what I was telling you about the Hyperspace wars and how the Jedi let that get out of control?” He explained and once more noted her nod.

She looked down in thought as she spoke, “So by keeping a watchful eye on the Jedi and making sure that we are there to help them before they realize that they need our help. We are further protecting the Republic from what could turn out to be another crisis or even worse, war.” She said then looked up.

He smiled at her understanding, “That is correct Talon, so we have to be watchful of the Jedi. Remember last years assassination of Admiral Narcassan and the attempted assassination of the Chancellor. They knew they had a Jedi that was getting out of control and said nothing about it till it was too late. Baklid 6 is getting out of control so we have to act before the Jedi loss complete control over it. This is where you and your men come in to play, Talon. I am dispatching you and your platoon to Baklid 6. Your mission is clear, rescue the Jedi Hostage, make it clear to the rebels that when they mess with the Jedi, they mess is all of us.” He said coldly with pride, she nodded her understanding. “Next, there are two female children that have become caught up in this mess. The Jedi were to protect them. However traffic indicates that the kids are now in grave danger. Secure them and ensure their protection at all costs. Finally, secure the Jedi and ensure that the Republic is not drawn in to this civil war.” he said then handed her a datachip, “Here is the latest situational reports we have on the planet and its current affairs. Remember this clearly, we are not there to fight for either side. Only to give the Jedi a means of backing out of a situation they should not have been involved with in the first place.”

He paused a bit and then continued, “I have talked with the XO and the Training Cadre, Everyone truly believes that you and your men are ready for your first mission. I personally know that you will make me proud Talon.” The vote of confidence gave her a chance to smile with some pride. “The situation for the Jedi has become bleak to say the least. I would not trust this kind of mission to anyone. Remember your orders and follow your mission by the numbers.” he said placing a hand on her shoulder.

Her smiled widened, “Aye Sir, the Immortals shall not fail you. I promise you.” She said using her platoon's nickname with pride. It was a name that they had earned coming up through the training ranks. They defied even death during training and now they are getting their baptism by fire.

Captain Heartman nodded, “You are charged with these missions Lieutenant. Your Assault Shuttle is loaded and waiting for you in Bay Two. Make me proud Talon.” He said then turned on his heel and walked away. There was nothing more to be said. He knew she was the right officer for this mission and she would not fail him.

Talon stood for a moment and smiled, this was their chance to make their commander proud. She turned to face her two soldiers waiting in the distance. “Valkyrie, Bay Two, Our shuttle is waiting, prep for immediate departure. Showboat, rally the platoon! WE are wheels up from Bay two in one five mikes! Let everyone know this is a full combat mission. So bring their A Games!” She barked out at them. The two each replied with a 'yes sir' then departed with a propose. As they ran down the deck, she could hear them contacting the other members of the platoon passing the word on. She smiled as she looked around the deck. Despite the comments she heard being whispered about the attention that she got from the Captain, no one was going to deny her this moment. 'To hell with them! I will show them that we earned this on our feet instead on my back.' she thought, then turned and rushed off to get ready for the mission.

The departure of the platoon was a smooth as any training mission had been before. Valkyrie was one of the best pilots coming up the training battalion and this was just another chance to show off her skills. The shuttle slipped in to hyperspace with ease and was gone from sight with a slight flash. Deep in the shuttle, the whole platoon soon gathered for their briefing. Talon ensured that everyone was paying attention to every word she said. Nothing was going to go wrong on this mission if she could help it.

“Okay listen up everyone! The Captain has personally picked us to handle this mission.” she said making sure everyone knew that this mission had more riding on it then just the situation. The Captain was looking to them on this mission. “The Jedi have gotten themselves in to a jam and now things are out of control.” she said and then activated the holotable. Here is what we know, a Female Human Jedi has been taken hostage. Two innocent girls are in harms way. The Republic is slowly being dragged in to a conflict that we do not belong. These events are rapidly getting out of hand for the Jedi and chaos is taking over. Order needs to be reinstated.” she explained.

“Our first and prime objective is clear. Rescue and secure the Jedi from her captives. The Captain has asked that we send a message to these rebels. That message is, mess with the Jedi, and you mess with the Republic Marine Corps!” This comment got the entire platoon hooting and yelling out their prise. She waved a hand to bring their attention back to the table, “second, secure the two human female girls and ensure their safety. The oldest, believe it or not, is already a wanted felon. She is to be secured and readied to be handed over to the Ministry of Justice. The other will be questioned regarding ties with a local pirate ship. These two girls have vital information and are to be questioned. Lastly, we are to give the Jedi support in their exit strategy and allow them to back the Republic out of this civil war.” She explained, “We will address the rescue first then move on to the following missions once we make contact with the other Jedi.”

“This is really important that everyone understands, the local Government is unaware of our operation here. We may have to fight both Rebels and Government forces to complete our missions. Though we will work hard to avoid needless conflict, keep this in mind. We have our orders.” She said then moved on to the next topic, “With that said, here is our rescue plan. Valkyrie, once we exit hyperspace, I want full ECM burning the sky. Get us as close to the planet as possible. The less response time the Government has to our operations the better off we all are.” she said and got a nod from their pilot. “This is going to get really hard because according to our intel, Our Jedi hostage is being held at this building just outside of the Capital. The area is under the control of rebels and heavily guarded. Once more, remember we are not here to fight in the civil war. Just to rescue our hostage and get out of the area. Do not engage unless they are standing in our way.”

“The building is a old four story office building. Doc, once we are on the ground and LZ's are secured, get our eyes and ears up as soon as you can. NO ONE moves on the building till Doc reports he is online. Is that CLEAR?!” she paused to get everyone's agreement then continued, “Our LZ's are, Here the front main entrance, Alpha” she said pointing at the holo-image of the building, “Dancer and Powder, you both are with me. We will land here and secure the front of the building. Once Doc is ready we will move in and secure the first floor before taking these stairs up to the fourth floor. Bravo is the roof top. Grim, Lucky and Vic, Hit the roof and secure it. This is our point of exit. Keep that door open for us.” she said looking at them, they both nodded. “There is a side entrance here off this parking lot, This LZ is Charlie. Hammer, Capman, Quiz, Mouse, Broc hit Charlie hard and move fast to cover. There is a stairwell right inside this side door here.” she said moving the image around to show what she is talking about, “Once cleared in, get up these stairs to the second floor. Clear the second floor and lock down this stairwell. Also Hammer, Capman I want you two to set up on this balcony area. From there you can watch all the entrances on the first floor. Keep the back doors closed and our tails clear.” she said showing the points on her holoimage of the second floor.

“LZ Delta is for you Holiday. Case, Rogg, Benny you are with Holiday. Once we move, get in and down this hallway here is a stairwell on the right. Up to the third floor and be careful. Intel shows this floor is heavily occupied with Rebel fighters. Room to Room search. If they have a weapon or in uniform. Put them down!” she said coldly. “We don't know if the lifts in the building are working. This room on the roof is where the controls and lift motors are located. Now Vic once you hit the roof, make sure that the lifts are disabled. We all will be locking down the stairs. No one moves up or down is that clear? Once the lower floors are secured everyone but Hammer, Capeman and Bravo team will move up to the fourth. We will clear each room moving towards the center of the building. This inner room is where our intel shows the hostage is being held. To ensure the hostage is unharmed we will use breeching charges on these three doors. Bravo team, once the go code is given, I want flash bangs through these windows here, here and here. This should give us complete control of the situation. Lets take no chances, the Jedi is the only person left in the room alive. The building is harden so noises between levels should be limited. Still I want full silenced weapons.”

She looked around slowly making sure that there was no misunderstandings. “Okay once we have the Jedi secured we will call in for a pick up then we are moving up to the roof. La De Da Te to the roof is that clear. Valkyrie once you do your drop, get out of dodge and take a high orbit over the city. Keep out of sight and out of mind. Once we call for a pick up, get down there and get us out of there. We will relocate to the Naval Base on the other side of the city. Showboat, I need your squad on standby. Should the balloon go up, you guys are our plan B. So be ready to get in to the action.” She looked around slowly. “Questions?” she said then waited. Seeing no one had any, she continued, “Okay, Valkyrie what is our ETA?”

Valkyrie looked over her shoulder checking a trip clock on the flight consul, “One hour, two five mikes till we exit hyperspace sir.” the pilot said.

“Okay everyone get some rest. Team leaders, I want you to know this building like the back of your hand. I am leaving the data here on this holotable. Review it carefully. Doc, I want these maps uploaded to the HUDs before we exit hyperspace.” she said looking at the team Tech Sergeant. “That is all everyone.” She said dismissing the platoon.

[Akirapryde]

Turning of Darkness
Capital City
Baklid VI, Outer Rim

Orchid paced the room like a caged animal. Her long flowing brown hair whipping about as she turned on the heels of her thick leather boots. The one inch black band tattooed across her eyes and face gives her a pure diabolical look. Despite the anger in her eyes and her mannerism as she paced back and forth, she was still a sight to be held. Her youthful pale skin almost glowed as she walked pass the open window. Her petite frame masked her mastery over combat skills. Her flowing dark cloak conceals her nasty curved sword.

She turned to one of the armored men waiting with her in the large room, “Where are they? What is taking them so long!” Neither of the men responded to her comment. They knew better then to speak up at a time like this. They stood like silent metal statues near one of the doors. She shook her head and returned to her pacing. Time was running out on her operation and she knew it. Her plans were starting to unravel and she blamed the local rebel leaders. More so she blamed Kam Orn the most. He was a high level rebel commander who has resisted her efforts here since the day she arrived. Kam did trust her, well that she understood, but he didn't have to cause her problems once the others had signed on with her plan. Just then she heard over her ear piece that the men she was waiting had finally arrived. She let out a sigh of relief and fixed her cloak. She never wore anything under it except a few pieces of chain mail. She really enjoyed showing off her body and it made others completely uncomfortable. Which gave her the advantage and she loved that. Looking in an old mirror, she made sure that she was showing just enough cleavage to make her 'guests' uncomfortable and out of place.

Within a few more moments, the five local rebel commanders walked in to the large room with their escorts. Each of them carrying some kind of weapon of some sort. She enjoyed an inner laugh as she thought how safe they must feel. She gave a glance to the two armored men behind her. They were out manned by over six to one and still the local rebel commanders were out matched. She shrugged off the thought of killing every last one of them for being late. For now she needed them if her plans were to work. 'Well, I need most of them at least. Fear was always a good means of keeping pawns in line.' she thought looking at Kam as he slowly moved forward. She could tell that he had been doing his best to undermine her plans, again.

She put forward such a soft and gentle smile, “So gentlemen, are all things in order?” She said as softly as possible. Doing her best to be the sweet innocent girl that her body presented.

The commanders looked at each other as they gathered themselves. They could easily see past her smile and soft voice. They all knew she was a cold blooded killer and dared not trifle with her. Kam took the opportunity to show some strength as he stepped forward, “We have most things in order. But do you really think it is a wise move to commit such a large contingent of our forces. This could leave us severely weaken in our long term goal. We have decided to withhold about half of our forces from this battle so that we can react should the government lunch a counter attack. WE have all discussed this and feel that this is the best option.” he explained.

Orchid's smile vanished from her face as she listened to what Kam had to say. 'WE' she thought looking at the other rebel leaders. “I see. All of you have discussed this and found that this is the best military option?” she asked still trying to hold on to that innocent appearance. Her anger for their defiance boiling up in her soul, that was if she had one. “So I am to understand that this change of Mother's plans is the best option?” She said. Her cold tone boiling up with her anger. She could easily see the strength of the others fade rapidly. Kam still stood his ground and she enjoyed that. It was time for him to learn his place once and for all. He was a pawn and needed to be reminded of that.

She walked over to Kam, who seemed to have self nominated himself as speaker of the pawns. “You see, you don't understand me gentlemen. I am expecting them to counter attack with everything they have. I expect to loss this battle. And each of you along with your highland counterparts have all been paid more then enough credits to keep this war going for years to come.” she explained to them as the others looked down knowing that this conversation was dead before it even began. “Has not my mother provided each of your armies with hundreds of new battle driods, thousands of tons of supplies, and some of the best trainers the CSA has to offer. Sure you will loss this battle, but this defeat will bring you all such riches and over all control over this pathetic planet.” she stepped up to Kam. With all eyes were on her actions, she slipped her hand under her cloak and gripped the hilt of her sword. She smiled as she saw their ranks disintegrating under her impressionable voice. “We all knew that this battle was a lost cause. That your armies could not possible take and hold the capital. But it is necessary for Mother's plans. Everyone has to see that the focus is here and not on the real objective. Murdering a member of the Jedi Council!” She moved even closer to Kam. She made sure that he could clearly see her form. Her body was almost touching his. He tried to move back but her hand on the back of his neck stopped any further retreat. He was trapped under her gentle touch and he knew it. Being almost a quarter meter shorter then he was, she had to look up at him. “I think your support has failed again Mr Orn. It would appear that you are once more out on that limb alone. Don't you remember us being here before. When I first arrived to this little shit hole, you said, 'We should not trust her” she said. Then she pulled his head lower while leaning up whispering in his ear. She could feel his fear and loss of control. The excitement of the situation grew deep inside her as she knew what was coming. “They should have listened to you, Mr Orn. Greed is a powerful flaw.” she whispered under her voice.

Kam let out a yelp and dropped forward. The sound of ripping flesh filled the room as she pushed her sword all the way through his body. His body guards reacted quickly taking aim at the assassin but her two men were faster. The sounds of silenced weapons filled the air for only for a brief moment. As the last of Kam's guards fell a eerie silence draped over the room. It was over as rapidly as it had begun. Orchid stepped back while withdrawing her blade from Kam's body with a sucking sound. Drawing her sword up to her face and without a word being said she pulled the bloody sword across her out stretched tongue. Taking a brief moment to enjoy the warmth of the Kam's blood, Orchid closed her eyes and smiled. She reopened her eyes and now looked each other man down. Her face now dripping with the blood of one of their own. Her eyes glimmered with the excitement of the kill and her lips curled upward showing her teeth and her smile. Unlike before, this smile was who she was. “Tell me gentlemen, will the attack take place on time and as my mother wants it?”

The leaders all looked completely terrorized for their own lives. Each of them nodded and agreed that all will be ready. She continued to smile at their change of heart. “Now I have a gift for you my loyal allies.” she said and waved her hand at a door. The door opened up and two armored men carried in a young human female. It was clear she was a jedi. “This is going to be your ticket to ensure that this defeat will not be complete. The Jedi will negotiate for her release. This will allow you to attack the city and then work through the Jedi to save as much of your troops as possible. But they have to fight for the first hour as hard as possible. All my mother wants is one hour of complete chaos and combat. After that, the rest is up to you gentlemen.”

The men all nodded their understanding as she continued, “Now seeing how you decided to try and change the plan, I find it only fitting to make another change.” she said knowing full well she was going to demand this of them before hand anyway. “I want all of your headquarters moved to this very building. This way all of you can work together and deal the most damage possible to the city.” she added and the fools all agreed mostly out of fear of her.

She turned and walked over to the jedi who was laying on a table. She leaped up and straddled her. “Look at how peaceful she is sleeping. How long with the drugs last?” she asked one of her men.
“She will be unconscious for about an hour my mistress.” His metallic voice filled the air as he answered her question.

She smiled, “Good” she said then pointed at one of her men, “You, give me a grenade and set the timer to zero.” The soldier replied with out question or delay. He handed her his grenade and she smiled up at him. “Thank you” she said taking the grenade in one hand and forced the jedi's mouth open as wide as she could. Orchid struggled to get the device in the female's mouth. “Damn she has a small mouth.” Orchid said then pushed the device all the way in to the female's mouth. “TAPE!” she almost laughed. Orchid took the tape and secured the device in place then pulled the pin. “There, this will ensure that the Jedi does not cause anyone any problems.” she said leaping down off the table. “Now I need some clothes.” she said then motioned for the leaders to leave her.

She waited for the last of the local leaders and their men to leave as they tended to the task of the attack, Orchid turned to her men. “Any word on that idiot Bund?” she asked.

Another soldier replied, “No My Mistress. We have not located him yet. However we did find his padawan and are watching her closely. Should he try to make contact with her, we will get him. His betrayal will not go unanswered.” he explained.

“Mother informed me that the battle with the Masters is going better then planned. They are surely distracted and soon a few of them might even will fall in combat. I just wish Mother would have allowed me to use some of you up there, my lovely bringers of death.” she said walking up to one of her men. She ran her hand up and down his armored chest then kissed his breast plate leaving behind a bloody kiss mark. “But Mother knows best. And we have our orders.” She said turning on her heels, “what of the other padawans?” She said running her hand through the Jedi's hair softly.

“They along with the kids are still held up in the Royal Palace. We are unable to reach them at this time. However we have located some old mines that run under the city. My men down there believe there is a chance we could come up under them and get the crystal and the kids.” He explained carefully.

Orchid nodded her pleasure at the report. Orchid closed her eyes while still running her hand through the jedi's hair. Jedi started to moan out in pain and shift about trying to break the touch of Orchid. Orchid only gripped the Jedi's long hair more tightly and leaned in to the Jedi's ear. “You will give me what I want. You will show me what I want to see.” she said as the Jedi started to scream out through the device in her mouth. Her eyes ripped open as the pain and suffering was clear to see across her face. Then as quickly as it started, the Jedi dropped back to the table unconscious and unmoving. Orchid smiled as she moved away from the Jedi. “Very interesting. I need to ask Mother if I may go hunting.”

A man walked in with some civilian clothes, “Will this due?” he asked her as she looked through them.
“yes they will do nicely. I need make up and a satchel.” she said taking the clothes. “Oh, seeing how you now trust me. Well fear me more then trust me, but I am okay with that also. I am going to send my troopers to the outer perimeter to ensure that the enemy does not threaten this headquarters. So I can show you that I trust you also. Let your fellow leaders know that we are committed to your cause.” she said softly.

The man nodded, “That will make things go allot easier with them. I know that your men scare us all very much. Knowing that they are killing the government forces instead of our own guards will help things. Thank you for your trust. Really is was all Kam. None of us wanted to go along with his plan. He pushed us in to it.”

She smiled as nodded. “See I am not so hard to get along with. Now get what I need please.” she said and watched the man walk out. She turned to her men while looking at her watch. “The battle is about to begin. These idiots don't have a clue.” she said as she pulled off her cloak and her armor. Standing completely naked, she smiled, “Engage the government forces and Jedi no more. Let these fools handle them. Focus on getting the crystal and killing the kids. If Bund shows his ugly face here, drop him hard.” He men nodded their understanding and she waved them off to fulfill their orders.

Once the rest of what she asked for arrived, she called for the rest of the Rebel leaders. “It is really important that you guard this Jedi. Should she escape then she will kill you all.” Orchid said as she placed compound over her face and eyelids. “You should remain here and command the battle from this room. This is the safest part of the building. With my men outside you are safe here.” she said hiding her sword under her new cloak and placing her own clothes in the satchel. “Once the battle begins in just a few moments, all hell will break loss. We are in this together and we stand together.” she said looking at herself in the mirror, then smiled, “How do I look?” she asked.

One of the leaders looked a bit confused at her actions. She looked like a normal civilian teenage girl. But he knew better what she was. She was a monster to be slain. But he was too scared to even think such a thought. He looked down at Kam's body and knew what it meant to cross her. “Um, surprisingly normal.” he said softly.

There was a loud crack outside and everyone looked around as the sounds of the attack started to fill the air. She nodded to them, “I have to go sneak past the enemy's lines and hunt. The day will be ours, I promise gentlemen.” she said and smiled. On that note she turned and walked out of the room knowing that she will never see any of them alive after this moment. “Pawns are so much fun.” she said giggling down the stairs.

[Akirapryde]

The Lair
Somewhere within the Republic

Somewhere near where two major trade routes meet, a small unimportant ship slips out of hyperspace. Right as it slips out of hyperspace it activates an ECM suite and turns its operation lights out. Now near invisible the ship turns and heads off in a new direction. Within seconds it makes a short hyperspace jump to a near by system. Its arrival goes completely unnoticed as it enters so far out of the normal lanes and so far from the nearest sensor array. The ship turns once more heading for a group of planetoids just within the system. Thousands of years have passed since one of these planetoids held any importance. Now nothing more then a line item on some long forgotten military registry.

The ship slowed to approach speed and started to drift lower to one of the planetoids. Within moments its form was lost through the outcroppings and shadows. The ship spun about using only the needed thrusters to bring it to a hovering stop over a large landing pad. The pad was built for ships much larger then this long range scout ship. The ship drifted lower and landed on the pad. Once on the pad, magnetic locks secured the ship in place as the pad slowly disappeared under the surface of the planetoid. A large screen moved up and covered the landing site, disguising the site as the rest of the surface.

The pad moved the ship deeper and deeper in to the planetoid until it reached a large anchorage. Some point in this massive bases history huge warships of the Republic would come to be repaired, resupplied, and rearmed. Now the base is hardly used to its full potential. A few bays are being used by ships not even a quarter of the size they were designed for. The Pad moves its newest visitor to a bay, here tractor beams move the ship in to the bay. A force field engages to seal the bay and lights illuminate the ship as driods move to hook up power cables to it.

A pair of armored men escort a plain clothed man down a landing ramp. Slowly the walk across the bay and through an air lock in to the main tunnels. The men continue to walk down the lonely halls of this base. Thousands of years ago, these halls were once filled with the brave men and women of the Republic defending freedom from the onslaught of the Sith. Now an even great threat to the Republic has taken up home within these walls. The men walk up to a Lift guarded by a trio of Destroyer Driods. As they approach the lift doors open as the men were expected. Boarding the lift the men were taken deeper in to the base. When the lift doors opened up once more, they exited and continued down the tunnels. Soon the sounds of screaming could be heard.

As they turned down their final tunnel, they could see the flashes of bluish light dancing along the walls with the shadows of the halls. The sounds of screaming joined by the sounds of cracking. The smell of flesh being burned filled the air. They walked in to a grand chamber made up as some throne room with a raised area at the far side. Standing near a make shift throne, a hooded woman stood with her hands reached out. Her face only illuminated by the bolts of lighting shooting from her finger tips. Anger written across her face as she yelled out, “How dare you fail me child!” Rose let loss another bolt of force lighting at a screaming Orchid.

The bolt bounced up and down Orchid's body causing her to thrash about screaming out in pain. “I give you love child and this is how you thank me!” Rose said giving Orchid a chance to rest before hammering her again with another bolt. Rose could easily kill the poor thing but that would defeat the lesson here. She used great skill to control the amount of power she pumped in to Orchid's body. “You failed to kill Uris' new padawan.” She said then unleashed another bolt and then paused, “You failed to return the crystal that Bund ran off with.” Once more another bolt, “You failed!” Another bolt, “Failed!” another bolt, “FAILED” Once more another bolt and this time she did not stop the lighting while she talked, “WHY SHOULD I NOT JUST FINISH YOUR FAILURES OFF RIGHT NOW!”

Orchid screamed out as loud as her lungs would allow. The pain was so intense that she loss control of her own body. It thrashed about uncontrollable. It took all she could to simple remain conscious. She knew that she had to speak. She knew that her mother would kill her in a heart beat if her mother wanted to. “M.........” she tried to speak, “Moth........mother.......” She tried to speak between bolts ripping over her body. Orchid put all her heart in to her next word, “Please......” Rose paused her lighting attacks for a moment as Orchid tried to speak, “I found Sinya” Orchid was barely able to get out during the pause.

Rose's eyes widened, “What did you say?” She said moving from the Throne to her daughters side rapidly. “NO you couldn't have, Sinya is long dead. I saw her die!” She said in disbelief.

Orchid looked up at her mother with pain still in her eyes, “I know Mother” she coughed out, “But I saw her with my own eyes. Sinya lives!” Orchid said.

Rose carefully picked Orchid's head up resting it now on Rose's lap with all the love and care of a Mother. “It had to have been Yagami. He had to have set it up. He must have warned her and helped her escape the bomb. I knew I should have killed him before I did. I just thought I could have turned him. I will be sure to make sure I correct this mistake of mine. Tell me child where did you see Sinya.” Rose said softly.

Orchid smiled at the feeling of love she is now getting from her Mother, “Balkid 6, Mother, but there is more. Sinya has a daughter now.” Orchid reported with pride, “Her name is Lysire and she is a padawan at the Temple. I know all that there is to know about her. The memories from her friends was more then enough to help me find her. She is a librarian at the Temple and has a crush on a man named Rigger.”

Rose smiled deeply at this report. “This is both troubling news that Sinya still lives. But remarkable that finally I can reply the sins of the mother on the daughter. Lets see how Sinya likes to have her child taken from her and turned against her. Forced to destroy that which she loves more then anything. Sinya will suffer at my hands once more.” Rose said slowly getting up. “You have done a remarkable job my child.” She said then turned to a pair of soldiers, “Tend to her!” Rose commanded.

The two soldiers turned and grabbed a man from the ground. The sounds of chains dragging across the floor now filled the air. The soldiers dragged the man half way to Orchid then tossed the man the rest of the way. He landed hard next to the wounded woman. It was clear by this robes and trappings that he was a Jedi Healer. He turned to face Orchid and started to prepare to heal her. He knew better then to defy the Queen of the Sith. The last Healer of their group to refuse was killed but not before she murdered two others of their group. He knew better then to refuse her. He focused his powers and channeled the force in to Orchid. He had to be strong for the others in the cell somewhere in this base. He had to give the Order long enough to find them and rescue them. For now he will do what is asked of him. He had no choice but help the Sith. He could not let anyone else be harmed.

Rose turned to the men that just entered, “Report!” she commanded.

The common dressed man spoke clearly and respectfully, “My Queen, Baklid 6 has fallen in to complete chaos. Fighting has broken out across the planet and their hopes of joining the Republic are dashed for the time being.” He paused knowing that she would not like what he was about to report and unlike Orchid, he knew he was expendable, “Master Bund has once more escaped with the crystal. We are unsure where he has gone but are sure that he remains somewhere in wild space hiding from our agents. We are still watching his former padawan whom has left Baklid 6 and now heading to her home world of Naboo. We do not believe that Master Bund will try to contact her now that he has the crystal once more.” Hoping to end his report on an up note and avoid what he just saw her daughter going through, “According to our spies within the Order, Master Losh has been stripped of his place on the Council. Many of his supporters have backed away from him. We believe that he is slowly becoming more and more vulnerable. We will continue watching him and hopefully a opportunity will present its self.” he finished his report.

Rose smiled at the report, all and all it was mixed. “Keep watching Bund's Padawan. We know he only used her, but something tells me that she will be useful in the future. As for Bund we have to find him before he unlocks the secrets within the crystal. Send out to our agents that finding Bund is our priority. The fate of our plans rest on that crystal.” Then she thought of Losh, “I feel that it is time to put an end to Losh once and for...” she paused at the sight of the man in the entry way. She didn't need to know his face. She knew what his mission was.

He reached out his hand towards her while holding a small ball. He let the ball go as it beeped and hovered over the room. It slowly made its way to Rose beeping the whole way there. Stopping just short of her a small wide light sprang out from the ball. The light moved up and down Rose's face three times then vanished. Then a small blue glow formed some type of text in front of Rose. No one else could see what was on the text but Rose. She read it carefully and as quickly as possible. Within a moment the blue glow was gone and the ball started to spark and fall to the ground lifeless. Rose took a moment and then nodded.

“New orders” she said coldly, “Losh shall have to wait for now. Orchid, Bund hired a group of slavers called the Half Moon Slavers. Find them, and hire them. We have a special mission for them and their ship. Captain,” she said turning her attention to the man who gave her the report, “Losh has put together a team of Jedi to destroy us and stop our plans. Get agents on them. Know their weaknesses and how to influence them.” she said softly, “Your agents are to remain in the shadows for now.” she said noticing that the man that was just in the entry way was long gone, “also, I want to know all there is to know about Lysire. Her fate is sealed.”

Rose turned to walk back up to the throne then paused half way there, “Orchid, while Losh will have to wait. I promise you, his end is so very near. Make ready your company. Together we will bring down the last member of the Old Guard.” she said and smiled to her child.

Orchid smiled back at her mother, “Gladly Mother.” she said slowly standing up as her healing now complete. She pushed the Jedi pawn away from her as if his existence repulsed her. “Soon your order will be no more.” she slurred at him then walked off with the rest of the men heading off to do their evil deeds.

[Akirapryde]

Crisis Continues!
The Republic News Agency

The Civil War rages on on Baklid 6 despite the best efforts of the Republic and the Corporate Sector Authority. Prior to recent events, delegates from both powers have worked diligently to create a treaty that would ensure that the conflict would not spread out of control. This treaty included terms that prevented either side from directly aiding one side or the other. Both powers would assist in a mutual blockade that would stop the flow of weapons to either waring faction. While the treaty was not prefect in design it did seem to keep the conflict under some kind of control. That was till recent events.

Evidence has surfaced that the Republic Senate or the Chancellor's office had sent an elite team of Jedi to the world and intervene in the conflict. This failure to abide by the terms of the treaty has left the Republic with a great deal of dirt on their collective faces. This has left many in the Senate questioning why the Republic has even bothered with this conflict in the first place. “The CSA will not be drawn in to finger pointing with the Republic. We honored the treaty which was signed between us and the Republic. This violation does not change our minds about the spirit of the treaty. The good people of Baklid 6 have a right to a peaceful life. Some good has come from this though. It has brought light to gaps in the blockade. In this light, we have decided not to turn our back on the treaty. We have chosen instead to double our efforts in ensuring that no further weapons reach the planet and cause more harm to its people.” Cloopk Reshaw, Corporate Sector Authority Spokesperson.

Even as more CSA Ships flow in to the space around Baklid 6, a tiny Republic Naval base within the system has been ordered to relocate from the system by the Republic Senate. The departure of the Republic ships brought even more fears of the future by the citizens of the world. The debate over the base closure and suspension of Republic aid was a fierce debate within the Republic Senate.

Flash Footage to the Senate Debate

“No! NO! No Senator from Alderaan. The Republic has laws for a reason. The Leadership of Baklid 6 has spit in the eyes of our justice when they not only refused to extradite a conflicted murder. A MURDER Senator! They laughed at our System of laws when they set this Murder FREE! Then they have the nerve to come here and ask us for more aid. And what of these rumors that they claim, the CSA is directly supporting these rebels. Where is their proof? Lies and disrespect. That and a hand for more aid is all that comes from Baklid 6.” Stated the Senator from Coruscant.

“The Bankers Guild finds that the over all wealth of the world has great promise if they could learn to settle their differences and come together for profit. This internal issue that grips the world now is just that, an internal issue that is not profitable for the guild or the Republic. We find that the world has reached an end to their credit and should not have more extended to them.”

In a very narrow margin, the Senate voted 51% to 48% with 1% abstaining from the vote to suspend all further aid payments to Baklid 6 and remove its naval base within the system. Republic ships will still work within the blockade but they will not be stationed on the world its self any further. With the withdraw of Republic forces from the world, fighting broke out across the planet on levels never seen before. Without Republic Peace Keepers on the ground, even Provinces that had not seen any fighting are now finding themselves faces with the very real reality of civil war. Already the Royal family had to pull their forces back from the high ranges to the cities to reclaim lands that they had already controlled.

If this was not a blow to the Royals, the discovery that their beloved crowned queen of over seventeen years was in fact a Jedi Master herself. This revelation has tainted the light for the reasons why Baklid 6 desired to join the Republic. And now with the reports that Jedi have joined the battle in support of the Royals has only worsen the public opinion of the Royals and their motives. While the Royal Palace has not issued any statements about the Queen's status as Jedi, opposition leaders have taken this opportunity to make deep cuts at the Royals, “This only marks one more reason why the Royal House can not be trusted. Now the Queen's true intentions have been brought to light. They don't care about the people of Baklid 6, they just want to make the Jedi and the Republic happy. The Royal House has used their contacts within the Jedi order to get an elite Jedi team of assassins to come to our home and kill our leaders. And we know that they did not come alone. How many of them remained behind to do the Queen's bidding?” Abletur Opposition leader from the Northern Frontier.

Abletur's comments of assassins have been sparked by reports that during the last battle for the capital, heavily armed commandos aided by Jedi stormed a Opposition Headquarters and massacred everyone there. Both the Chancellor's Office and the Republic Navy both sternly deny these accusations. However, there are some hazy and poor quality images that do show armored men storming the building. The deaths of leaders and other vital personal resulted in the Rebels being forced to abandon their assault of the capital and withdraw. It is this very event that many claim is the only reason why the Royals still hold control over the capital and over the world.

However even with the Jedi, not all things went as planned. According to reports, one Jedi abandoned his post for personal reasons. Jedi Master Uris Chun was assisting in the defense of the embattled Parliament Building. Field reports show that one after a few moments after he arrived he received a call and then left the battle. He was later spotted fighting along side an unidentified love interest, then later reported in the northern sector of the city. “There were no doubts that Master Chun was engaged in combat. We just want to know why he arrived only to leave us in our time of need. We were over ran because he left.” Stated a member of the local Security Force, “We thought that Jedi were supposed to be unattached for a reason. Where did he go?”

[Akirapryde]

The Hunt Begins
Republic Heavy Cruiser Defiance
Location: Mid-Rim outside of Wayland Space

Captain David Heartman IV leaned back in his chair slowly. It had been a long day already with the Admiralty asking him questions about his unit's was involved in the events on Baklid 6. More importantly, had his units engaged either side during their operations. He had explained to the Admiralty that they were acting on information that a convicted murder was on the world and that they were only attempting to extradite the murder. He made it clear that the Murder was in their hands until the Jedi Ruler of the world refused to allow them to extradite the criminal. He was not sure if the Admiralty bought his story but at this moment they had no evidence to contradict it. And that really made David pleased with the out come. They can believe what they wanted to. What they can prove is another and he was not about to let one of his nieces be murdered at the hands of scum.

Which led him to the other problem at hand right now. He turned the holovid on once more. The first part of the fight between Talon and another soldier was well known to him. He had watched her getting her ass kicked by the larger soldier from the cat walks above the training deck. David watched as the soldier tossed his niece around like she was a rag doll. He remembered the point when he had ordered the Sergeant Major to allow the fight to continue. He even recalled the look of the Sergeant Major's face when he told the man, 'If she dies, then she was not worth saving in the first place Sergeant Major.' While David did not hear the breaking of Talon's ribs he knew when the event happened. He could see the pain across her face as her small frame took the blow. He knew that point well. It was the moment when he decided that he had seen enough. The soldier pulled Talon up in to a choke hold in an attempt to end the fight and even possibly Talon's life. It was that moment when David turned his back on his niece for her to face her own fate alone.

As he watched the vid, he realized that she had to have noticed him. He could see in her face the desperation. As the vid played on, he watched her rage take over. She would not be beaten like that. David smiled as she fought against the choke hold and managed to toss him from her. The look in her eyes told all that beheld her that she would not loss this fight. David turned in his chair away from the vid as it continued to play out. He heard her yell out in anger as the fight rapidly reached its conclusion. David could even hear the fight extending to the rest of the on lookers as a friend of the soldier joined in. David didn't care at that point what happened. Nor did he care that the soldier had succumb to his wounds from the fight. What matter the most to him was that look in her eyes. David turned in his chair when he heard the moment approaching. He froze the vid and looked at his niece.

There she stood above the man she just defeated. Her face bloodied from his attacks. The other wounds about her body not so clear but from her stance he knew they were there. On her face, anger at the others who would dare question her loyalty and courage. David smiled at what he saw. He could see the soldier's broken next and knew the man's death would come soon. The Sergeant Major had broken up the fight too late to save the soldier. None of the wittinesses were willing to talk about what had happened. It was an unspoken rule on the ship that a fight between soldiers was just that, between soldiers. David respected that and at this moment thanked his beloved crew for it. He would hate to loss Talon just when she was reaching a point when she would be useful to him.

The buzz at the door alerted him to her arrival. He was expecting her seeing how she had just killed a member of the crew. He turned the vid off and hit a button on the desk to open the door. He allowed him an inner smile as he saw the wounds on her face. The Vid did not do her suffering justice. “Come in Talon.” He ordered coldly and sternly.

Talon walked in slowly and unsure of the situation, “Yes Sir.” she said. There was fear in her voice. David could see and hear it. She was clearly worried if anyone had rated her out from the fight. She could not do anything to help hide the fear in her heart. Her career was over and this was the final act within it.

“Lieutenant we have a problem, don't you think?” he said allowing her to fear what was going to happen.

Talon looked down broken, “Yes Sir, I know you must be disappointed in my action. I know what is going to happen. I just hope that someday you will forgive me for failing you.” her sadness was clear.

David set up in his chair asked, “What are you talking about Lieutenant?” He knew what she was talking about. But it was time for her to learn a lesson.

Talon looked up confused, “The fight Sir? I killed a man.” she said clearly. She was not going to think that the Captain was stupid and didn't know what had happened.

“Lieutenant, If that was the case then I would have security here and would have to place you under arrest.” he said then picked up a data chip and placed it in the scanner. “I know about the death on the Training Deck. I have let me see, fifteen eye wittinesses that a soldier had fallen to his death while in training.” he said then turned the reader for her to see it. “Look for yourself Lieutenant.” he said.

Talon leaned over to read it. It was true, everyone there said nothing about the fight. They all had said that the man had tripped off a loss piece of decking and had fallen two levels to his death. Even the chief medical officer's report showed the same thing. “I don't understand, Sir?” she said questioning the meeting.

David turned off the reader and leaned back in his chair, “Then let me explain Lieutenant. Thuku is a rather nasty Rodian smuggler with no respect for Republic Laws. He owns two ships that anchors somewhere within the system of Ammuud. Both of his ships are very able blockade runners that are giving headaches to our bothers and sisters manning the blockade over Baklid 6. Thuku is a well made man within the Hutts syndicate. That said the Republic can not publicly go after him directly. So we have been asked to shut his operations down permanently.” he explained as he passed a datachip over to her, “This is all that we know about Thuku. As you will see within that intel, he has been smuggling weapons to the rebels on one trip then supplies to the government on another.” He said giving up the details he knew she would need, “We have been asked to end his operations. What I want you to do is to make an example of him. Be creative and ensure that the message is sent to other smugglers.” David finished his briefing then leaned back in his chair once more.

Talon was floored, She thought she was finished once she heard that the Captain called on her. She was not about to look a break twice. She took the data chip, “Yes Sir” she said clearly. “Sir when do you want us to leave?” She asked.

David looked over at a monitor facing him, “You and your platoon can leave this time tomorrow.” David said then turned his head to face her once more. Looking in to her eyes, “make sure your men are up for this mission. Thuku and his are all highly trained. Do not underestimate them” he warned.

Talon saluted “Yes Sir” she said clearly then turned on her heels and walked out of the office.

[Akirapryde]

Places of Judgment and Enlightenment
Jedi Temple
Coruscant, Galactic Republic

Young Prince Biggs Saar looked at his time piece as he paced. He had been waiting for the flight for almost an hour. He looked around the landing bay within the Jedi Temple and sighed. He hated this new assignment he was given. It was so completely beneath him. SHE was so completely beneath him. And now he had to play nice with her. “Rim Rat” he muttered as he paced around waiting. That is all she was to him and that is all she would ever be worth. Not even true born nobility, she was adopted in to nobility. “I hate Rim Trash!” he said again not caring who was around to hear him.

Finally the moment he had been waiting for came, the loud speaker came to life announcing the late arriving shuttle, “Shuttle Flight 2967, Direct from Korriban arriving at pad nine.” The droid voice declared. Biggs smiled as he cleans his thoughts and heart of the revulsion that her existence caused him. He watched as the over due flight land on the pad and smiled when he saw her walking off the flight. Sure she was attractive, well maybe for a sand person's mate. 'Oh wait, I wouldn't be so cruel to a sand person.' She was just a mission that his Master wanted him to work on. And when Master Tra Vae wants something done. You had better do it right. With that being said, “Look out Lysire, your life is about to change for the better.” he said softly under his breath walking up her.

“Lysire!” he called out to her as she made her way through the crowds of travelers exiting the shuttle.

There was an inner smile Biggs could not ignore as she actually looked around to see if there was another female that he was calling, “Don't be so cute Lysire, I am talking to you.” he said once he got close to her.

She looked almost terrified as she realized that he was actually talking to her. Then her defenses set in. She quickly looked around for one of his cronies trying to sneak up on her. “Um......Prince Saar?” she said nervously still expecting the prank to be played out. Suddenly she felt like a trapped animal waiting to be slaughtered. She almost just hoped that he would get the prank over with so she can continue on with her life.

This was too sweet for him. Nothing plotted but the fear still remains in her heart. He had to remember that fact when dealing with the other Rim Trash Wannabe Jedi's he has to deal with. “Lysire, how many times have I told you, call me Biggs.” He said reaching to help her with her large number of bags, books and things. She pulled away though.

“Um never......?Biggs?” she said not sure if to let him help her or not. “Why are you talking to me?” she asked while a part of her screamed 'what are you doing?!' She never told a soul that she had deep feelings for Biggs. And why not, he was their training clan captain. A expert learner according to the Masters. He was born to the Royal Family of Trosia III. He and his friends were always the IN kids throughout training. Even as they became Padawans, he and his friends were always seen as better then the rest. He was so much better then the rest that even the Head of the Jedi Order named him as Padawan. All this didn't even come close to the fact that he was prefect in every way. Even now, she could just get lost in his light blue eyes as he smiled at her. 'Oh god those eyes.' she thought passionately about them.

Biggs laughed, “never? Oh come on Lysire. Surely you jest.” he said dismissing her comment, sadly as he would dismiss her if he could. “As for why I am talking to you. I heard you did poorly on your lightsaber training. So I figured I would see if you would like some one on one time with me. I want to help you make up for that lost time you wasted in the library.” He explained moving close to her and finally getting the opening he wanted. He carefully lifted her bags off her and helped her to carry some of her things. They started to walk a bit but it was clear she was still very wary of him and his motives.

Lysire didn't know if she should run screaming down the landing bay or melt in to his hands. 'Hands? Oh My God he brushed his hand against mine!' she thought as she felt her face flush. Though she snapped out of it and turned to face him, “Wait a minute. What kind of sick joke is this?” she demanded angrily.

Biggs turned and gave her a smile that he knew would melt her. And judging by the break in her anger he knew he was right, “Look, I have always had an eye on you. And in a way...” 'yeah like a the way I enjoy vomiting,' he thought to himself, “I really like you. So I just thought that this was a chance for us to get to know each other better.” he said softly taking her hand in his. He watched as her face turned a light shade of pink.

Lysire looked down at her hand in his. For her this was a dream come true but she refused to believe it. “Liked me? You and your cronies dumped a large bucket of industrial cleaner all over me.” she said not being able to take her mind off the fact that he was actually holding her hand. Oh how she wanted to believe this was real. Her heart cried out as her feelings raced and her heartbeat picked up. 'could this be real?' she asked then answered, 'please let this be real.'

Biggs laughed once more. This time because he could picture the way the little Rim Rat looked like a wet rat. That was how she earned her nickname Rim Rat. Her hair was blue for over two months and her skin. 'Now that was a sight. Who knew how hilarious it would had turned out.' he thought to himself. “Look I know I had done some really childish things to you. But truthfully, most of them were to just to get your attention.” moving so he could look deep in to her eyes. A bit of friendship wouldn't go to waste here either. The slight smile on her face gave it away to him that her mind was not fully focused on her guard, “Look I am sorry for what I did. Let me make this up to you. Let me help you pass your lightsaber training rank two test. Then if you don't think I am being fair and truthfully to you then just walk away.” he said making sure that she could see deep in to his eyes.

She couldn't think straight. Her eyes were lost in his, and all she could feel was his warm hand holding hers. Ever since she came to the Temple he and his cronies had made her life here a living hell. It was like she had somehow personally offended them. It wasn't like she didn't tried to be their friend, she really did! They just didn't like her for some unknown reason. A few years ago, she started to have feelings that she knew were natural and came with age. But most of her feelings were centered on him. She knew that deep down in her heart she loved him. It didn't matter to her if he never loved her back. In her mind she didn't think this moment would ever happen so she never planned for it. But now it is happening. 'How can I turn my back on this chance for love. I might never get another chance again' she feared.

His smile continued as her confusion persisted. He dropped to a knee looking up in to her big confused brown eyes. 'was that a tear?' he thought as he noticed moisture at the corners of her eyes. “Come on, what will it hurt for you to take some lessons from me? What do you say?” he asked her pushing her mind to force an answer.

She tried to think of all the ways this could go badly for her. But he was right, she needed help with her lightsaber training. That was all too clear on her last visit home. Home, she missed her home world and feared for her parents. The war was raging and her people were left to stand alone. There were still many questions in her mind about that visit. Her mother being a Jedi for starters. Her new found friends. The black out she had and the memory laps before they left. This Master Bund and his quest for....'oh crap! Thats right....' She snapped her mind from the haze and looked back at Biggs, “Okay, But I swear if this is another one of your sick pranks to hurt me. I will never forgive you!” she said now remembering what she had to do that was so important.

Biggs smiled and nodded his head, “Trust me. I will not hurt you. Meet me in training room five at six tonight. Bring your lightsaber and be ready for training.” he said as she took her things from him.

Lysire nodded her head, “Training room five at six tonight. I will be there.” she confirmed and then moved passed him, “I really have to get going. I have to speak with some friends.” she said softly. Her heart still racing from the truly unexpected encounter she just had.

Biggs smiled and waved as she hurriedly walked off. “Okay see you tonight. Have fun with your friends....” he said as he lowered his hand and revealed the data crystal he had stolen from her. “I have my own friend to talk too, little Rim Rat.” he said as a small group of other Jedi Padawans walked up. He handed the crystal over to one of the guys. “Copy it completely and then make sure it finds its way to lost and found. I don't want her to think that it was stolen.” he ordered. “I have to go take a shower. I feel dirty just talking with her.” he commented then looked at a pair of female padawans that were standing behind him. “Gara come with me. The rest of you. Lay low and put the word out. The Rim Rat is off limits for now. Any one messing with her will answer to me.” He said as he took one of the females in his arm and walked away with her.

*********************************************

Uris looked to the fire that lit up the camp site. It had been well over a month since he had taken his padawan and a medical droid (Well kidnapped if you listen to the droid) to this forest moon. Uris had been training her hard and almost none stop the entire time. There was good reason in his mind for this brutal training. Orchid will not go easy on her the next time they meet. Chances are, his Padawan wont stand a chance but he had to try to make her ready. Though for the moment, his mind lost on her question about his dark aura. He was never a man who could really talk about feelings or ideals. That was more his beloveds calling. He smiled at the image in his mind. She was truly his savor in more ways the others realize.

“You are familiar with the calling of the Dark Side. Since the day that the Republic and the Order crushed the Sith, there has not been any real answers to the calling. Sure every so often there might be one or two that pops up here and there. Generally however, thats about it. Many of them tend not to live long with the Hunters, like us, out there.” He said poking the fire softly, “My darkness comes from something much different.” he said as the sounds of his past came rushing back to his memories. His face turned darker and his stair lost in the fires of the monster he almost became.

“The Force, many will tell you is like a coin with two sides. This is not completely true. There is somethings out there that are far worse then the dark side. A draw that fills you so completely that you hate yourself for turning away from it. If the Dark side is evil, and the Light side is good. Then all I can say about this 'other' draw is like.....” he said softly then trailed off. He heard the sounds of men dying by his own lightsaber, “....is like, conflict.” he managed to get out, “This thing feeds off of it and empowers those with it.” he said then made a choice that he hoped that he would not regret later. “You know about The Sword.” he stated, “See it is like a focal point of conflict.” he started to explain, “in my hands I could feel how much power it held. But it drew me in deeper with the power it showed within me. All I needed to do was crush evil.” he said almost laughing, “It sounds funny, I know, but see it didn't care if it was used for good or evil. It wanted war! Death and suffering.”

“And the campaign of destruction I gave it.” he sadly admitted, “I waged a personal war against local blood thirsty tyrants. The blood shed was on a scale never seen by the world we were on. It was then I learned the true nature of The Sword.” He continued while looking down in to the fire. “See The Sword is only a focal point of a greater power. That power is lent to the user of The Sword for one reason. To steal life force. There are these beings. Horrible beings that should only exist in some twisted nightmare. They exist though. Just beyond where we can see. Because we can not see them, make no mistake, they are there. Taking the life force that their Sword steals and uses it to break through to us.”

As he continues to speak his face slowly grows darker and more distant. His hands gripping the small log he is using on the fire. “And once they pass over to us. The taste is something to truly beheld.” Spoken like a true madman, “I remember that day as if it was this morning.” he said pulling the small log up over his head gripping it like some wooden sword, “I remember the battle clearly. She was so out matched. There was nothing she could have possible done to hurt me. I was in touch with them. I could hear their voices calling out to me.” Still looking in to the fire as if some unseen force was before him, “finish her and open the gate.” He mumbled, “I could hear them all chanting to me.” His eyes started to water up as the clear battle over his soul has not been completely won or lost.

“I looked down at her........Her eyes wide with terror.....She knew her time was up......” He said still gripping the log as he relived that horrible moment in his life, “I could hear her begging for me....pleading me to look after him.....”he continued to mumble, “I was about to kill her and she was worried about him!” he yelled out with such rage that even the droid almost shut down out of fear, “HIM! WHY NOT HER!” he demanded in some confused madman logic, “I slammed the Sword down so hard that I broke the floor in to pieces!” He said driving the log in to the fire sending ambers high in to the night sky.

“It had to be for her and him.” he admitted, “How could I have turned my back on them.” he said turning to his padawan, “What kind of monster had I become do you ask? The worst kind that would destroy something so pure and innocent.” he said softly as he looked at her, tears still freely running down his face. “It was that moment when I knew I had to change this path I was one if I was to be a better man.” he confessed, “I had killed and murdered so many in the name of my own war against evil only to find out I had become the evil I was fighting. This is the gift of The Sword. This is why Rose can never be allowed to have it.” He said coldly the moved closer to her.

“You see, even you will be tested against the darkness as well. You will have to find something to hold on to. Something to keep you here in the light with the rest of us.” he said the turned away, “Because if you don't you will end up like me. Scares that run so deep that nothing you can do will hide them.” He said opening up his shirt and revealing horrible battle wounds across his chest and back. He then turned back to her, “Master Tra Vae has one thing right, emotions are not completely a bad thing if learned to be used correctly. Love can become a powerful anchor to the light side. As I found out.” He said softly then turned away once more.

Looking back to the fire, “Though there are times when I think all of these things are just not right. I have these dreams that show a world much different then I am aware of. A place where I am not bathed in light. This is a dark place where my name brings fear and horror to all those that hear it. I used to think that they were telling me of the man I could become if I was not careful. Then the Sword came along and I thought for sure that was the answer. But still nothing seemed to add up. For as long as I could remember I recall this tower calling to me in my dreams. A place I have never seen nor ever heard about.”

“I know that it is an ice world out there somewhere and this tower is there, built of gray stones. Some how I think the answers to my dreams are there.” He then once more turned back to her, “But believe it or not, I am scared to go seeking these answers. I am the man I am today and this I do not deny. I work hard to stay with those in the light. I struggle each fight to keep my soul free from temptation and pure in action. After my encounter with The Sword, I really don't think I am strong enough to face another temptation like that again. I can not loss them. They are my world!” he said almost making a promise.

Tossing his log on to the fire, “There, you have your answer about my aura. Does it help you understand me better? My question to you, now is, What have you learned form this? What will you use for your anchor. Orchid will temp you. She will deceive you. Should you fall to her, then she will claim you in more ways then you could dare think about.” he said slowly getting up, “I am tired now. Be ready for more training in the morning. For now, think of what you heard here and think of who you are and why.” He walked over to a small sleeping bag and slowly got in, “Good night, my little fish.” he said before rolling over and trying to get some sleep.

[Akirapryde]

Ending of the beginning
The Grand Garden, Jedi Temple
Coruscant, The Galactic Republic

Losh slowly moved around his garden with great care not to harm his beloved plants. This was one of few places he actually felt at peace and relaxed. He knew each and every plant by both sight and smell. His hands slowly touched the leafs and he could feel their energies flowing about him. He closed his eyes and felt deep in to the heart of the energies flowing about him. There was warmth here and calm around him. He opened his eyes and could see the multiple colors flowing around him as he allowed the force to show him this wonder.

Lush came to a pause next to a small shrub. He keeled next to it and signed deeply. Its energies were so very weak from the injuries it had suffered. He slowly caressed its limbs and leafs. His sadness was more then evident on his face, “My friend, he did not mean you harm. For him, you were very tasty and filled him well. I shall talk to him about this and make sure he pays more respect.” Losh said softly in a caring voice. He closed his eyes and opened himself up to the flow of energy around him. He did everything he could to channel the energy in to the shrub. Adding to this flow of energy, Losh gave himself to the plant. He could feel the plant's injuries slowly healing.

Beyond his sight a new energy entered the Garden. A light blue orb flowed through the garden leaving behind it a soft blue mist as it moved. Losh didn't need to look around as he felt the orbs presence He continued to channel the flow of energies in to his beloved plant. He could feel the Force about him flowing and moving through him. He slowly stood up and looked around. He could see the rhythm of energies flowing through the garden. It was times like this that truly made him feel like he was one with the Force. He turned his attention to the shrub to see its own energies growing a bit. It was no where near fully healed but it was on the road to recovery. Losh slowly dropped to his knees, “Don't worry little one, he will learn.” Losh said softly and then continued, “I was much like him when I was his age. Blind to the footsteps we leave behind.” he finished.

The bluish orb drifted behind Losh silently then slowly formed in to a ghostly image. Once more, Losh didn't need to look around. He knew what was behind him, “I have done all that you have asked of me.” Losh said calmly.

The ghostly image only shivered a bit as it replied with, “Yesh....” Its empty voiced carried across the garden as if it were coming from everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

Losh carefully inspected the shrub to make sure its injuries were taken care of. His mind now more on his visitor then the shrub, “They are complete now?” he said making it both a statement and question.

“No....” The ghostly image stated flatly.

Looked up to a near by tree. He knew the truth of the answer. He also knew it was foolish to question it. Even before he made his statement he knew already he was wrong. “Who remains?” he asked

The answer was the same he had been given since he began this quest, “Desert Song.”

Losh slowly got up while he turned to face the visitor, “I know, I know.” he said in desperation, “I have searched across the entire republic. Thousands of languages. Thousands of Races. I have enlisted some of the brightest farseers in the Order. Still no one can come up with this Desert Song. Is it a person? Is it a thing?” he said pacing back and forth. “And before you say it, I know, I get it, the 'Truth will point to its self.' You can be very helpful when you want to.” he said finally turning to the image. “How am I to find this Desert Song?” He asked.

The image looked deep in to Losh's soul. He could feel the visitors gaze, “You're not.” was all that it said. Then Losh understood the reason why. The images in his mind now were of a battle in which many innocent people suffered. The end result was plain to him. The Visitor was showing him, his own death.

Losh lowered his head in great sadness, “So my work here is done?” he asked softly as he turned to see his garden once more.

The ghostly image shifted a bit once more, “Yesh...”

Losh nodded then turned back to the visitor, “You taught me that things written are written and will happen. However you have also showed me that how these things happen are up to us. Is this the same for what you are showing me now?” he asked hoping to save the lives of those he cared about.

“Yesh....” the visitor replied with.

Losh nodded slowly, “So I will face this death alone while others will be saved from it.”

“Yesh.....” it said then continued, “You were never alone. Within this, you will not be alone. We will be there with you.”

Losh felt a great deal of comfort within the visitor's words. He had longed for this day. Service to the Force has taken its toll on Losh. He greatly looked forward to his release of service and the ability to join with the Force once more. So long ago he was chosen for this task and he did his best. Slowly he guided others in to place like a master chest player. Each action he took had its affects in the future and some of his most recent actions have not seen its affects yet. A profound sadness came over him as he realized that he would not be able to see his friends live up to their own destinies.

Losh nodded his head accepting the fate, “I need time to prepare myself, My Friend” he said with respect to the visitor behind him. “I know what needs to be done.” Master Losh said as he turned and walked away. He didn't need to know if the visitor left or not. He could feel his friend within him. Losh walked up to a small wooden desk. He pulled out a stool and took a seat. He opened a small box and pulled out a crystal and smiled. He opened up his heart and channeled his own link to the Force within the crystal till it started to glow softly. He spent the next few hours working on the small crystal and other components. Each moment he spent silently in a sense of calm reverencer.

Master Losh looked at the finished Holocrom with a sense of pride. He has spent so much of his life gaining the skills and knowledge that was now held inside this device. He had spent the past four years working on this little holocrom and finally it was completely. “I only hope my friend that you are able to guide our Wookiee friend through his life and his exploration.” he said softly.

Captain Efeat waited at the doorway for Losh to notice him. Losh had summoned him and now he waited for Losh to address him. “My Friend” Losh said with a great sense of respect and remorse. “I have one last mission for you. It is of the most gravest of importance that it be carried out as I tell you.” Losh informed, “Should our enemies not believe our actions, then all is lost in the attempt. Many will suffer needlessly.” Losh slowly got up and walked over to Captain Efeat, “I fear though, what I ask of you will cost you dearly in your career. I am sorry My Friend, but for others to be saved, it must be this way.” Losh explained.

Captain Efeat didn't have to think about the risks or the costs. There was nothing to say other then to carry out the orders. Since that day that Losh broke with Jedi Code to help him rescue his deceased brother's family, Efeat had been waiting for the day to pay back this debt of honor. Efeat smiled broadly at this finally chance to do the right thing, “What would you have me and my Rangers do, Sir?” The Captain said with pride.

Losh smiled and nodded to his old friend, “I have this message that must be delivered by personal messenger.” he said as he pulled out a paper scroll and a long stem blue reddish rose. “Please use a messenger that is trusted not to read it or speak of the mission later. It must be delivered in to the hands of only Master Bevurn'Age at the Temple on Oulaven.” he said as he handed the items over to the Captain, “She will know what to do from there.” he paused to give the Ranger time to review what has been said so far.

“Next Captain, I need you to personally send this message to the Temple on Oulaven.”Losh said handing a data pad over to the Captain, “The details of how and when to send the message are included.” Losh paused as the Captain read the details.

The Captain shot a stair at Losh, “Wait a second Sir. This code you are using has been reported broken by hackers last week. If we use it then it will be a security breech....” He paused his comments as he looked in to Losh's eyes, “Oh, I understand now Sir.” he finished.

Losh nodded then continued, “Let your crew know we are leaving for Oulaven in twenty four hours.” he said then as an after thought, “That Ranger you have. Rigs, Him and the other Jedi are to remain here on Coruscant.” he turned back to the table and picked up his Holocrom, “I have so much to do before we leave, My Friend. I wish I could spent this final hours talking about our past adventures.” he said then placed the holocrom in to a sack as well as some other items. He then turned to face Efeat, “You have been one of my closest Friends. Please know that it was an honor knowing you.” he said as he started to walk out. The Captain slowly followed behind. They both knew no further words were needed to be said. The Captain went to tend to his tasks as Losh left the ship to tend to his own.

It took some time for Losh to meet with all those whom he wanted to meet with. To tend to his last minute affairs. He spent the better part of his last twenty four hours on Coruscant spending time with old friends, all but one. He didn't have to go looking for the last name on his list. He knew that his old friend would find him. Losh merely went about his business as he had planned to do normally. There was just so much to do and so little time to do it. Losh knew all to well what was on the horizon for the Order. He hoped he had done enough to ensure that the Order would survive it.

“Saying Goodbye, you are not?” asked Master Yoda. Walking up behind Losh as he was making his way down a hallway that lead to the landing pads.

He turned to Master Yoda and smiled, “Not wanting too, but somehow I found this parting the most painful, My Old Friend.” he said then moved to a sitting position right there in the hallway. Master Yoda moved to sit next to his friend. The pair had been such good friends for so long that formalities no longer meant anything to them. “You know I have to go.” Losh said flatly.

Yoda nodded, “Indeed, but alone I know not why.” he added.

Losh didn't bother to look, “I will not be alone. But this is the only way to ensure that others will not have to suffer through this.” he explained, “It is the will of the Force” he finished with.

Yoda made that same sound he always did when he disapproved of something. “Argue not I shall.” he said, “Miss you I shall, friend, brother, Master.” Yoda commented.

Losh finally turned and smiled, “Of all here, I trusted you the most. Even with my deepest secret. Thank you for keeping it. No one can know the truth. Most importantly Tra Vae. They would not understand.” he said Yoda only nodded, “I have a favor for you my Friend.” Losh said pulling the Holocrom from his sack. “Please make sure my Padawan gets this.” he said handing the Holocrom to Yoda. “Within this is all that I know.” Losh explained then added, “That is all but one secret.”

Yoda nodded, “Never discovered should Immortality had been.” He exclaimed “Passing with you, this secret is?”

Losh nodded, “Yes, I have made sure that there is nothing left to be found.” Losh looked down, “I never imagined how tired I would have become after so many years. I am actually looking forward to this.” he said then turned to Yoda as his face turned more serous, “I fear though I am leaving you with a great mess to contend with.” he added.
Once more Yoda nodded, “Corrupt has our Order become. Walks within these walls Darkness does.” Yoda now looked away as in distant thought. “War is ahead of us, I see coming.” he finally said then added, “Pushed the Council to its breaking point, Tra Vae has. Suffered greatly, your loss will be.”

Losh nodded, “I know. But I have to do this. Watch over my students. They are chosen for something greater then us” Losh requested.

“If we are to survive this as an Order, fate is in their hands it is.” Yoda said then turned to Losh, “Bid you good bye My Friend, I must.”

Losh nodded then got up, “Good bye my friend.” Losh said sadly. He turned and walked down the hallway of the Temple. He stopped at the door to the landing bay and took in a deep breath. Without further a due he simply opened the door and walked out on to the landing platform and boarded the ship. Within moments a great Jedi Master would depart the Temple never to return. What he left behind is in the legacy of those whom he touched and taught. He has entrusted all of his hopes and dreams for the Order in them.

As the ship slipped in to hyperspace, the night sky over Coruscant was filled with stars. Some bright and full of energy while others not so bright. Each added their own beauty to the night's sky. In tonight's sky a long burning bright star in the heavens flickered then dimmed as it slowly vanished from sight for ever.

[Akirapryde]

Memories and Demons
The Temple Mount
Planet of Oulaven

Falynn walked slowly down the corridors of the temple. She could hear the location of her beloved Urias down the corridor. The sounds of lightsabers moving through the air joined by the sounds of blaster fire filled the air. They had been arguing for the past two hours over Master Losh's death. Urias did not even bother to attend the meeting. He only informed them that he needed time to grieve over the loss. She had no doubts what he would be doing or where he would be. No one in the Order knew Urias like she did. Nor did anyone understand what he has been through and what he goes through on a daily basis. Turning in to the doorway Falynn took in the sight of her beloved.

Bare from the waist up he spun about in the center of the room with Jedi Training pods hovering about him. It was clear he has once more pushing himself much harder then he should based on the amount of sweat dripping from his body. The blind fold over his eyes indicated that he placed himself in to a training trance. Falynn only watched as he spun his double bladed lightsaber about blocking the incoming fire from the fifteen training pods. His speed and dexterity reflected years of training and his powerful control over the force. Falynn calmly watched as Urias leaped through the air while spinning on his axis blocking five shots and dodging two others.

She nodded as she frowned, for only she knew what was really going on. Closing her eyes she called upon her own control over the force. Channeling her own vision and combined it with the power of the force, she slowly opened her eyes to see Urias in a different light. Through her new vision she saw a man torn and embattled on levels no one else could she. She saw the struggle raging deep in his soul. The call of the darkness was still very great on him. He had entrusted her a long time ago with a deep dark secret. How very temping the call was to him. How often he feared that the call would become too great for him to resist.

Once more she closed her eyes and this time she remembered one of her many talks with Master Losh. “Remember young Padawan, lives can be lost in the blink of an eye. You must learn to control your very perception of the flow of time.” she remembered Master Losh teaching her. It was one of the hardest lessons she learned but she did in the end master it. Using the Force to channel her senses and to focus on the here and now. She opened her eyes to see Urias moving in what seemed to be slow motion. She could see each training pod moving about as the weak blaster fire ripped through the air. She could see as Urias react to their movements and the noises they made. She had always been so impressed with his control and power. She loved watching him fight in training. Though watching him fight for real can be terrifying at times.

She knew he was aware of her presence here in the doorway. She also knew that he trusted her to know what she does without fearing him. More then he had hated what he had become, he hated that others feared him. She watched through her force powered vision as he continued to battle the training pods and the forces drawing on his soul. She frowned knowing that at times like this, she would have turned to Master Losh for advice on how to help Urias. But now she was alone and for the first time she feared that she might not be able to keep him on this side of the line.

His scream snapped her attention back to his real time battle. She watched as he spun in the air screaming out his frustration and lashing out at the pods. His lightsaber smashed against the last three pods and blew them from the air. He landed in a three point stance with his double bladed lightsaber crossing his back. While his eyes were blind folded, he still looked right to where she was standing. He slowly reached up and pulled off his blind fold, “wel.....well...What have they decided on?” he asked nearly out of breath.

Falynn allowed her vision to return to normal, “So far, not much.” she said in sadness, “They are going to arrest the Capitan, this I am sure of. As for the team that Losh worked so hard to put together, I think that Master Tra Via is going to disband them.” She softly explained.

Urias slowly rose up to a standing position and walked through the waste land of destroyed training pods. “I don't really know what to do about the team or the Capitan. I just know that it has been long enough that those two have been aloud to darken the galaxy. This proves its time to take them down!” he said firmly as he picked up a towel soaking in a pale of water. Cleaning off the sweat he turned to Falynn, “If they can not decide on this, then I will do it alone.” he added.

She walked forward and reached out to him, “You can't be serious about that. Listen, we both know how much Losh meant to you, but he meant even more to me. Still hasty actions now will only led to wasted lives.” she stated stealing one of her former teachers sayings. “Look, even Vrei knows that taking them out is important but he brings up a very good point. Rose was always very ambitious but this new behavior from her is not her. She never had this much order in her actions. And what about the Stalker? They were praying on Jedi long before Rose was ever a Sith follower.” she explained bring up the past.

Urias knew the truth of what was being said. Still there was something to be said about blind stubbornness. “I really don't think there was ever a time when Rose was not a Sith follower. She always craved power. But I know what you are saying. I know she has become one more pawn in this stupid game.” he said in cold callous in his voice. “If we could only find the person behind it on. Behind Rose, behind the stalkers and behind the bombings.” he added as he tossed the towel back in to the pale. “Damnit! I just feel so helpless in this. Like I am the one having my strings pulled and being played with!” he yelled more then said out of frustration.

Falynn knew the object of the frustration within Urias and it was just. So many times they had come so close to finding out the true identity of the Puppet Master. It was the nickname they had given the person responsible for all that they had gone through over the years. Since they were just Padawans they had the misfortune of being dragged in to this vile game with the Puppet Master. When the accident happened they had thought that they had broken free of the game only to learn that it had been stepped up. The Puppet Master sent them a calling card in the terms of the Stalkers. Highly trained soldiers that knew as much about Jedi Combat as the Jedi themselves. These soldiers served only one reason to exist and that was to kill Jedi.

Falynn shook her head, “They all do agree on one thing, It is time that the team knows about the Puppet Master and this damn game” she said softly.

Urias looked back at her, “Losh made it clear that they were not to know anything till the time was right.” he said then paused to rethink something, “What was it he would say, 'when order is broken and fire consumes' were his words. I think....” he said looking right at her. “Would you all now break with his wishes?” he added and continued before she could speak, “Sinya had no right to tell them what she did. She knew Losh's wishes. Don't get me wrong, I understand her reasonings but still. Losh had never been wrong before.” he finally finished.

“I know what he said about letting them know. But Losh is gone now. They have a right to know.” she pleaded to Urias.

Urias only looked at her, he know Losh had his reasons and he was not about to betray those reasons. He only shook his head.

She looked down, “I know, I know. But where do we go from here? Vrei is unsure. Urias, we need your leadership. Help us...” She said softly.

Urias felt the weight of the universe on his shoulders once more. He was by no measure of the meaning a leader and everyone knew it. He didn't understand why she never got this. He walked over to the pale and looked in to the water soaked rag. A frown crossed his face as he stared in to the pale. He closed his eyes and focused on how he felt at the moment. Losh had aways taught him to trust his feelings and listen to them. He knew that going after Rose was a mistake and would cost lives. Losh had always said that only one consumed by darkness would finally rid the Republic of Rose and her evil. Urias shook his head as he knew that there was no other choice. He had to take over the leadership of the group.

Losh had told him that this day would come. Urias just never seemed to really want it or wanted to believe it. He sighed as he knew that day had come, “Fine...” He said in defeat, “Here is what we will do. Send the team off on the Council's new mission. Lets keep them at arms reach so that the council will not suspect them. Keeping them together is more important then us as a whole. Master Losh believed in the roles that they had to play and so do I.” he said softly still not wanted to believe that this moment had come.

“Listen, I had been doing some thinking. Remember Lysire's report from their last mission? She mentioned that members of Fiolla's unit had talked with her about their worship of Odin.” he had continued. He looked over at Falynn and watched her nod then he continued, “Do you remember our raid on the Night Stalker's headquarters on Balisn VI?” he paused to see her nod once more, “We found that temple there that was linked to Azgard. Well I had done some research after that mission. But I had nearly forgot about it till I read her report this morning. Odin is a Azgardian God!” He said then stopped before going further.

He looked to Falynn as she soaked it all in then looked up at him, “They have to know this piece of the puzzle.” she said.

He nodded, “But they have to find this out on their own. Losh had one thing right. He never gave us the answers. He made each of us find them on our own. So we have to do the same. We have to find a way to make sure they find this clue on their own. I think I know how. Have Master Vrei hide a copy of our AAR within their current mission briefing.” he said softly.

Nodding to his order, Falynn for the first time since she heard the sad news of Master Losh's death felt hopeful. Urias was a good man and she knew it, this despite what others thought. “I will.” she said soft then turned to leave. She stopped and looked back to Urias, “Are you coming love?” she said softly with that look in her eyes. It was the look that could only come from pure love. She smiled as she captured his gaze in her eyes.

He smiled softly as his eyes beheld her beauty. He felt guilty though. He knew he didn't deserve her love. Not after the monster he had become. And in many respects, he still was. He looked at her and saw hope for everyone but himself. He nodded as he grabbed his things and followed her out the door. She would never know his secret. One day he would hurt her like no one ever could. He hated himself for it but knew one day it would come.

**************************

Mission Report:
Jedi Knight Falynn Drease
Planet: Nevanis IV

After receiving word that a Shadow Stalker Unit had set up shop and hunting down Force Adapts, Urias, Rose, Nuro, Armogose and myself took a team of Republic Marines under the command of Lt. Yagami to the world of Nevanis IV. Upon landing on the outskirts of a near by village we were greeted by clam elders. They appeared to be humanoid in nature but we suspected that there was something not human about them.

The greeting was nothing like we had expected. They just amassed their numbers and encircled our landing site. They did not move in to attack though, they just waited. Urias and Rose wanted to go out and meet them while Nuro and I felt it best to wait and let them make the first move. Luckily for us, Lt. Yagami sided with Nuro and I. We waited for two days and two nights before the locals made their first move. By this time there had to have been nearly a thousand of them encircling our landing site. To say that the Marines were nervous would be an understatement. Lt. Yagami really did a fine job keeping his men in line.

We noticed a middle aged man walking towards the ship. He stopped about halfway and used his sword to draw a circle in the dirt. In the center of the circle he built a fire and set facing the ship. He performed some kind of rituals while he waited for us to make our move. Dispite Urias objections I was elected to go out to speak with him. Lt. Yagami posted two snippers on the top of the ship and Armogose our resident Droid Assassin agreed to accompany me. Personally I hated the idea of the snippers and Armogose having anything to do with this meeting. However it was the only way to get Urias to go along with me going out there unarmed. Sometimes he really is too over protective of me.

The meeting went crazy from the beginning. Armogose's presence really upset them. They spoke in a very rough dialect of Basic. They called Armogose soulless. The man waiting for us demanded that the soulless one be sent away. I could tell that tensions were raising fast. After a short bit of pleading, Armogose finally agreed and retreated back to the ship. I knew that Urias had his issues with this but he would have to just deal with it for now. Once Armogose had disappeared in to the ship, tensions settled down fast. I was able to work out a working communication with the man who I came to find out was called, Laci.

He was a nice man who's father had committed a crime against the Clan. The crime had blackened the name of Laci's family and so Laci had the honor to redeem the family honor by serving the Clan. I found out that the clan was part of a nation of humanoids that came from a place called hazai'kőmag. He told me that they had to leave this place a very long time ago when the rain of fires came. I was able to pass on the information about the Shadow Stalkers and he informed me that his clam had given them the name, 'Comers in the darkness'. According to Laci, the Stalkers had came to this region of the world only six nights ago and would come during the darkness and steal those who spoke with the spirits. Their bodies would be discovered later the next day drained of all their blood.

He told me that messengers returned from other clams informing them that the stalkers had hit their clans as well. It was the same thing, they would be taken during the night and then found the next day drained of their blood. They only stopped coming during the night when our ship arrived. They saw this a massage from the spirits. Normally they do not trust outsiders but because we had been sent by the spirits that we would be allowed to help them. There was only one demand that Laci informed me of. The soulless one had to remain in our steel House from the sky. That his presence had upset the spirits in and around the area. I thanked Laci for his time and informed him that we would put a stop to the Comers in the darkness. The clan elders were happy that we had agreed to help them and give Laci to us as a gift from the clan. Not sure what to do, I had accepted the gift for the time being.

I returned to the ship and informed my companions of the situation. As expected Armogose was not happy with the condition at all. Rose and Yagami wanted to hunt down the Stalkers at once. Nero and I wanted to go to the village and gather more information. We agreed that Armogose will remain at the ship to protect it. We did not want to find our ride blown up again by these guys. Rose and Yagami would lead the team of Marines in to the surrounding area and hunt down the Stalkers. Nero, Urias and myself would follow Laci back to his village and see what more we can learn.

Night one, the first encounter with the Stalkers was much more then expected. Once more they had been upgraded since our last encounter. This time they bolstered new improved armor and no longer using energy weapons. Yagami lost four men to the Stalkers. But the encounter did give us some vital information. We learned that their were only two teams of three. We really lucked out this time. Sadly though, Rose's team was not able to kill any of the Stalkers. It is getting more and more clear that with each loss to the Stalkers, Rose is growing more desperate to win an encounter. I keep telling her that our victories are not measured in battles on the field but in each time we put a stop to the Puppet Master's plans. I don't think that she believes in this.

In the village we got a chance to meet, Mukus, he is the last speaker of the spirits left in the clam. He said that he had a dream of meeting me. Strange enough, he said that I would bring with me a thing of darkness and death. I couldn't help but think he was talking about Urias. Nero and I had dinner with Mukus and Laci. Urias wanted to walk about the village and get a 'feel' for it. Meaning, he hated the people we were sent to protect and needed to find a reason to care about them.

We talked with Mukus and said that he knows the reason behind the stalkers. I was shocked by this news. He said that they came with the winds looking for the song. I was puzzled by his comments but he told me that the spirits had told him what they were doing. But they would not find the song on the high plans, the low valley or even in the deep forests. They can seek all they want that they will not find the song here. I know there are times when I have to trust in the force but there are times when I just can not help but say, 'WTF?' We later learned that Mukus was pretty much insane. Insane or not, we proved two things. The Stalkers were after Force Adepts here and Mukus was next on their list.

Later that night the Stalkers did come for Mukus. Urias was, well Urias. What can I say. He pretty much dispatched them almost single handed. Two of them managed to flee Urias. Leaving Nero behind to protect Mukus, Urias and I gave chase. I called Rose and informed her of what was going on. Rose had her team move in to intercept the fleeing Stalkers. We gave chase almost the rest of the night. What surprised us we that even before Rose's team arrived, the two turned and faced Urias. I have seen Stalkers fight before. They are highly trained and extremely motivated to win. These two turned and attacked Urias half heartedly. It was almost like they committed suicide.

Then we found out why, Armogose reported that a ship just left the planet from our general location. He was able to guide us to the location. It was a small base deep in the forest. When we got there we found a hastily evacuated lap. What was not taken had been burned beyond usefulness. From what Yagami could tell the lap had a hand full of non-military working there and six to nine soldiers. We searched the best we could but found little of what the Puppet Master was up to here. Though we did find something interesting within a dairy that belonged to one of the soldiers. It was a passage he was working on.

"Then, when the messengers went home, having well wrought their errand, they found, in a certain cave, where a giantess sat: she called herself Thökk. They prayed her to weep Baldr out of Hel; she answered:

Thökk will weep
waterless tears
For Baldr's bale-fare;
Living or dead,
I loved not the churl's son;
Let Hel hold to that she hath!
And men deem that she who was there was Loki Laufeyarson, who hath wrought most ill among the Æsir."

It made no sense to us but we decided to keep it just in case something came up later. We waited around for five more weeks and found that the Stalkers were done with this world. We left them with promises that we would return should the Stalkers returned. While Laci wanted to go with us, I felt it best that he remain behind with his people. I later found out that we should have brought Laci with us as he was given to us by the clan as a gift. By leaving him behind we had insulted that gift and therefore had taken away his chance to cleanse his family's name. Next time I will not be so short sighted.